レッスン33：教会と王国

なぜ私はここにいる？ 私はイエスキリストの治世に参加するために、ここです。 キリストがいつの日か彼の敵を征服することを知っていることに加えて、私はまた私が彼の王国に参加することを知っている。 キリストは完璧と永遠の王国を確立し、すべての教会時代の信者はそれで彼と支配するのです。

神の普遍的な王国と彼の仲裁の王国：これ以上進む前に、我々は2つの聖書の王国との間の違いを明確にする必要があります。 普遍的な王国は、すべて彼の創造上の神の絶対的な主権です。 仲裁の王国は、 仲介者を介して特定の個人（または代理人）の彼の個人的なルールです。 この後者の王国は、旧約聖書に始まり、歴史の究極の目標（レッスン2 20を参照）です。 それは、信者が一日キリストと共同の統治それらの王ということは、この王国になります。

[仲介プロキシは仲立ちまたは代表です。 仲裁の王国は、仲介者を通して神のルールにこの世の、政治的、王国です。 神の普遍的な王国は宇宙以上の神のルールということです。]

仲裁の王国はこのような"天の王国、""神の王国、"または単に"王国。"一般的になど、さまざまな名で知られている、コンテキストは、著者が持っている（ユニバーサルまたは仲裁の）これらの二つの王国のどちらを決定します。心インチ このレッスンでは、"王国"は仲裁の王国を指す。

[スコフィールドリファレンス聖書は神の王国と天の御国を区別していますが、二つは同義と同義で使われています。 最もdispensationalistsは、2つの間に区別をしない。]

一つは、救いや教会と王国を混同しないでください。 人々はしばしば同じ意味でこれらの単語を使用していますが、王国は異なる考え方です。

[すなわち、意味"ジョーは、王国に入っている""ジョーが保存されてしまった。" 一つ救いの時点で、何らかの意味で王国に入ることを教える通路がいくつかあります。 しかし、私たちは、王国と救い、別のアイデアを保つのが最善だということがわかります。 王国では、物理的な現実になります。 教会は、すべての王国の約束を満たしていない。]

このレッスンでは、仲裁の王国の自然、歴史、そしてそれに教会の関係を探求する。

[我々はこのレッスンでは単語"王国"を使用するとき、我々はない、神の普遍的主権や救い、仲裁の王国について話していることに注意してください。]

I.王国の自然

（1）神に選ばれた支配者 、（2）被験者の領域を支配すること、そして君臨の（3）実際の行為：聖書は神の王国は三つの要素が含まれていることを示しています。 すべての3つが存在しない限り、何王国がありません。 彼が言うとき、ダビデはこの出力を負いません。

まだ主、イスラエルの神は、イスラエルの永遠の王であることが私の家族全員から私を選んだ。 彼はリーダーとしてユダを選んだ、とユダの家から彼は私の家族を選んだ、と私の父の息子から彼が私のすべてのイスラエルの王にするため喜んでいた。 すべての私の息子との主は多くの-彼はイスラエルの主の王国の王座に座って私の息子ソロモンを選択した私に与えている。 1歴28:4 5

彼は救世主の将来の治世の書いたときに預言者ダニエルはまたこれらの3つの要素を強調した。

夜は私の視力では私は見た、とそこには私の前に天の雲と来て、男の息子のようだった。 彼は上帝に近づき、彼の存在に導かれた。 彼は権威、栄光と主権を与えられた;すべての民族、国家やあらゆる言語の人は彼を崇拝した。 彼の支配は、離れて通過することはありません永遠の支配であり、そして彼の王国が破壊されることはありませんです。 ダニエル7時13分14

[この定義によれば、現在彼の王国にわたって支配してイエスキリストですか。 第一部は、彼はその頭として教会を支配していることを言うかもしれない、または彼が信者の心を支配するが、これは王国アイデアイエスと教えられた使徒たちと調和していないことを。 彼らは文字通り、この世の王国ではなく、目に見えない、精神的なものを教えた。]

II。 神の王国の歴史

聖書を通して、神は常に人間の代表者を通じて支配している。 以下は、神が使われているかこのような方法で使用される男性の一部です。

A. モーゼス

これは彼らが"あなた定規と裁判官作った？"の言葉、彼はブッシュの中で彼に現われた天使を通して、神ご自身によって彼らの支配者と配達に送られたと拒否していた同じモーゼスです。 7時35行為

モーセは神の代表だった。 神は彼を通してイスラエルを支配した。

B. サウルとダビデ

ので、サムエルは彼の兄弟の存在下で、そしてその日から、主の御霊の油と油を注が[デビッド]の角を取った電源でデイビッドに出くわしました。 サミュエルは、ラマに行きました。 今主の霊はサウルから出発し、そして彼を苦しめ主から悪霊いた。 サムエル16：13 14

サウルは神の代表的な王だった。 しかし、彼の不従順から、神は彼の支配する権利（第一サムエル午前15時23分）と、それと一緒に行った聖霊の油注ぎ特別奪った" 油注ぎ神政を 。"[日塗油神政の考え。]この時点で、我々は二つの事実に注意する必要があります：（1）現時点では塗油神政はDavidに与えられたこと、それはソール（。ダビデは詩篇51:11によるとその後の人生で同じ運命を恐れていた）から取られた。 （2）神は、彼は彼の人々を支配するに経由するデビッドと王朝を始めた。 その時から、神の王国上のすべての王は、ダビデのラインからでなければならなかった。

C. ソロモン

[神]によると[デビッド]："ソロモンは、あなたの息子は、私は彼が私の息子になることを選択したために、私の家と私のコートを構築するものである、と私は彼の父となる。 この時点で行われているとして、彼は、私のコマンドおよび法律を実施する際に揺るぎないされている場合、私は永遠に彼の王国を確立します。"1クロニクル28:6 7

D. キリスト

前述したように、デビッドからすべての仲裁の王はDavidic降下する必要がありました。 これは、キリスト（イザヤ書11、マタイ1章、とルーク3）が含まれています。

1。 キリストの王国が予告されました。

ためにイスラエルの反乱から、神は一時的に国家との彼の王国の配置を終了した。[これはバビロン捕囚と紀元前586年に発生した。]しかし、預言者、その時点から、神はいつの日か永遠のファッションで彼の王国を復元することを予告。

前者支配はあなたの状態に復元されます。王政は、エルサレムの娘に来る。 ミカ午前4時08分

彼は上と永遠にその時から、正義と正義とのそれを確立し、支持し、ダビデの王位に、彼の王国上支配するのです。 イザヤ9時07分

デビッドが持っている王国の同じ種類が復元されること[注意。 Davidの王国は、精神的な一人？ いいえ、それはこの世の、リテラルだった、などがそうキリストのようになります。]

2。 キリストの王国が提供されていました。

キリストと洗礼者ヨハネの両方は、王国のメッセージを説教。 キリストは約束された王、 救世主として地球に来た。 しかし、ユダヤ人は彼の申し出を拒否し、残酷な神を殺害した。

洗礼者ヨハネが説教：

"悔い改めは、天の御国のために近いです。" -マタイ3時02分

キリストは、同様に宣言：

"悔い改めは、天国が近づいているからである。"マタイ4:17（また、マタイ4：23とルーク11：19 20を参照。）

弟子たちは、説教するように言われました。

"天の王国は近いです。"マタイ10：07

注：イスラエルの王国のオファーが本物の申し出だった。 しかし、神の計画はイスラエルの拒絶反応と、キリストの死が含まれています。 このように、キリストは二つの理由で地球に来た：まず、彼はユダヤ人に王国を提供するようになった。 第二に、彼は将来の王国への関与を可能にするようになりました。 男性が王として彼を知ることができるように自身が十字架につけられるようにすることで、彼は救いの道を提供した。

[ユダヤ人が彼らの救世主としてのイエスを受け入れたとどうなるかに関して、いくつかの議論がある。 いくつかは、ミレニアムがすぐそこ始めているということだ。 それは、イスラエルがこの時点で彼らの救世主としてイエスキリストを受け入れていないため、議論の余地がある点です。]

3。 キリストの王国は延期されました。

神の王国は延期された。 それが存在し、今日ではありません。 彼の復活の後、キリストは彼の来る王国（使徒1:3）について、その他の命令を弟子たちに与えた。 弟子たちは彼がすぐにイスラエルに王国を回復し、支配し始めるだろうと想定。 キリストは、しかし、そうでなければ教えた。

そう彼らは一緒に会ったとき、彼らは彼に尋ねた、"？主よ、あなたがイスラエルに王国を回復しようとこの時点でいる"彼は彼らに言った："それは時間や日付を知っているあなたのためではない父が彼によって設定されている自分の権威は。"午前1時06分7使徒

[これは、弟子たちは、リテラル、地上の王国を期待していたことを示す良いテキストです。 王国は霊的な ​​もの（すなわち、救い）であった場合、王国が有効になっているはずので、彼らは、この質問をしていないだろう。]

4。 キリストの王国は一日が確立されます。

再臨で、キリストは彼の地上の統治を確立します。 それは、エルサレムを中心にリテラル、物理的な王国になります。

神の小羊との御座は、市内になり、その家来たちは彼を配信されます。 ヨハネの黙示録午前22時03分 （さらにイザヤ書9時07分、ダニエル7時13分14、ルーク1：31 33を参照してください。）

III。 教会と王国

旧約聖書の神権政治 、 千年王国、そして永遠の王国：神の仲裁の王国は、実際には3つの段階があります。 としてレッスン三十二で述べたように、艱難は、キリストの再臨と絶頂に達する。 その時点で、キリストは全く彼の敵を破壊する、一時的にバインド悪魔、そして彼の千年王国を（"ミレニアム"1000年を意味する）を設定。 ミレニアムの後、サタンは、彼の一時的な束縛から解放最後の反乱を導く、敗北を喫すると、永遠の罰（黙示録20時01分10）に非難される。 神はその後グレートホワイトスローンジャッジメント（ヨハネの黙示録20：11 15）で、すべての年齢の保存されていないを判断される、現在の天と地を破壊し、（2ピーター3時10分13、ヨハネの黙示録午後9時01分）新しいものを作成し、そして彼を確立する永遠の王国（黙示録21時02分FF）。

A.教会の時代の信者は、王国の市民です。

のために彼は暗闇の支配から私たちを救出し、彼が愛する息子の王国に私たちをもたらした。 コロサイ人への手紙1時13分

私たちの国籍は天にあります。 ピリピ人への午前3​​時20分

一つは、"位置"真実の面でこれらの詩を解釈する必要があります。 位置真実は信者が持っていないにもかかわらず、経験しないことを説明します。 従って、我々はまだこの罪 - 暗い世界に住んでいる、そしてキリストの王国がまだ確立されていないにもかかわらず、我々は、罪の力から解放され、位置的にキリストの王国の市民です。

B.教会の時代の信者は、王国に支配するのです。

克服する彼に、私は私が克服し、彼の王座に私の父に座って同じように、私の王位で私と一緒に座って権利を与える。 ヨハネの黙示録3時21（また、黙示録の午前20時06を参照してください。）

この節では、キリストは教会時代の信者に話している。 単語"overcomersは、"キリストへの信仰（5 1ヨハネ5:4）でサタンを克服した人々を指します。 したがって、すべての教会の時代の信者は、 王室の一部となります。 我々は、永遠の王国のキリストとの統治のCOなります。

[これは、教会時代の聖人の真です。 OTの信者は、ミレニアムのいかなる部分を持たなくなります。]

それをライブに学習

1。 生命の試験がたくさんあり​​ます。 ジョブズ、家族、省、そして病気はしばしば困難を引き起こす。 どのようにこのレッスンで学習した材料は、人生の試練ワンホテル方法に影響を与える可能性があります？

それは、（ROM午前8時18分、ヘブル11:10 13-16、24-26）最後に私たちを待っているかを知る、私たちはそれらを介してそれらをより良い/辛抱に対処するために役立つはずです。 我々はこの生命より生命へ多くがあることを知っている。 歴史の中と宇宙の万物は、その所定の端に移動している。 私たちの試験では、歴史のための神の計画にその役割を果たす。 我々は、物語の終わりを知っている。 我々は勝利チームにしている。 私たちの試験では、実際にはかなり一時的なものです。 我々は彼らの自由になると真の幸福を楽しむために永遠を持っている。

2。 どのようにこれらの事実の知識は1つが、彼はこの地上に住んでいる間の短い時間を表示する方法に影響を与える可能性があります？

永遠と比較すると、それは比較的軽微です。 私たちの永遠の運命は、しかしながら、この生活の中で決定されます。 喜びの楽しい時間は、私たちのための店でです。 また、我々はこれがあるすべてであるかのように、今や"嬉のために行く"する必要はありません。 我々は後になるまで、いくつかの楽しい事を延期/オフ置くことができます。 私たちは、永遠の光の中で生活するはずである。

教会の運命の紹介

なぜ私はここにいる？ 私はイエスキリストの治世に参加するために、ここです。

レッスンでは二十四を通じて二十二は、我々は、教会の目的は彼の言葉の省を通して神を賛美することであることを学びました。 レッスンでは二十五は三十一を通じて、我々は、教会の目的は、教化、伝道、そして拡大とこれら3つのそれぞれが様々な活動を追求することで実現できることであることを学びました。 これらの中で教育、礼拝、交わり、個人と企業の伝道、そして物理的及び組織的な展開です。

教会論（教会の教義）上でこの最後のセクションでは、我々は教会の運命を説明します。 なぜ私はここにいる？ 私はイエスキリストの治世に参加するために、ここです。 この神権に住んでいる信者として、私は午前ことを知っている"優勝チーム。"私は艱難の中に神の裁きに直面しません。 その代わり、私は熱心に彼の敵に対するキリストの勝利の一部であることと、すべて永遠に彼と共に支配することを楽しみにしてできます。

レッスン32：教会とトリビュレーション

何が将来起こるになるだろう、と教会はそれにどのような役割を果たすのでしょうか？ 聖書は、比類のない判断を伴う七年間について語っている。 それは、サタンによって権限を与えられた一人の男は、、全世界の、政治的、宗教的、軍事的リソースを制御するために発生する時間になります。 それは、神が地球とその住民に彼の怒りを解き放つ時間となります。 この期間は、 トリビュレーションと呼ばれています。 このレッスンでは、我々は艱難が一体どんなものになるのか、それが行われるときに学習します。

I.トリビュレーションの自然

艱難の期間は7年間続いた世界的な判断の時間になります。 それは、教会の携挙は、次の判断の七つの封印（下表参照）の最初の破壊で始まり、二番目の彼は全くハルマゲドンの戦いで彼の敵を破壊するその時点で、キリストの到来で終了し、彼の王国を確立する。

A.トリビュレーションは、 神の怒りの解き放つ連続して参加する。

ヨハネの黙示録16の最後のボールの判断から注ぐの黙示録6の最初のシールの判断（トリビュレーションを締結れる）の開口部から、神は彼の怒りを注ぐことになります。 トリビュレーションの判断の連続は、以下のように視覚化できます。

いくつかは、トリビュレーションの唯一の後半は、神の怒りを伴うと考えている[これは、いわゆるミッドtrib位置です。]。 しかし、艱難を開始する最初の二つのシールは、、明らかに全体の期間は、神の怒りのほとばしりによって特徴付けられることを示している。

子羊が七つの封印の最初に開いたように私は見た。 それから私は、4つの生き物の一つが、雷のような声で言うのを聞いた、"来て！"私は見た、そしてそこに私の前に白い馬がいた！ そのライダーは、弓を開催し、彼は冠を与えられ、征服者が征服に曲がって、彼は外に乗った。 ラムは、第2シールを開けたときに。 。 。 別の馬は、燃えるような赤のいずれかが出てきた。 そのライダーは、地上から平和を取ると男性はお互いを殺すために力を与えられた。 ヨハネの黙示録6：01 4

反キリスト - B.トリビュレーションには、一つのキー悪魔のリーダーの卓越性を伴います。

トリビュレーション中に、サタンは反キリスト、偽預言者、そして背教の教会に力を与えるだろう。 これらの3つのうち、反キリストは彼の管理されている他の二つとの主要な図になります。 反キリスト（ヨハネ第一2：22）も、バビロン（イザヤ14：04）、邪悪な王子（エゼキエル21時25分）、リトルホーン（ダニエル7：08）、無法状態の人間の王と呼ばれている（テサロニケ第二2:3）、および獣（黙示録11時07分）。

1. 反キリストの能力

反キリストは、他のすべての人間の指導者を上回るため、 普遍的な以下のように引き付ける。

A. 彼は有能な政治家（ダニエル8:23-25​​）となります。

B. 彼は軍の天才（黙示録13時04）になります。

C. 彼は、礼拝（ヨハネの黙示録午前13時04、8）の価値があるとみなされます。

2。 反キリストのキャリア

反キリストは、最初はあまり知られていない政治指導者、"リトルホーン"（ダニエル午前7時08分）として表示されます。 しかし、短い時間の中で彼は世界で最も偉大な独裁者となる。 彼のキャリアの高いポイントは次のとおりです。

A. 彼が彼女は神殿を再建し、いけにえの礼拝（ダニエル9時27分）を更新できるように、イスラエルとの条約を作るときにトリビュレーションが開始されます。

B. トリビュレーション（3 1 / 2年後）の中間点で、彼はイスラエルとの協定を破るだろう、需要の自己崇拝 （ダニエル9時27分、2テサロニケ2:4）、主の二人の証人を（ヨハネの黙示録11：01 14 殺す ）、積極的に迫害イスラエル（黙示録午前12時01分6）に始まり、そして背教の教会を破壊する、その彼はもはやニーズ（黙示録17時16分）。

C. トリビュレーションの終了時に、キリストが返されます、彼の敵を破壊し、 火の池 （ヨハネの黙示録19時11 21）に反キリストと偽預言者をキャスト。

C.トリビュレーションは、多くの人々の救いになります。

神は壊滅的な大災害を送信することにより、地球の住民を処罰し、反キリストと彼の部隊が彼らの最悪を行うようにすることによって、彼の罰は自分自身（ゼカリヤ13時01分とヨハネの黙示録7：09 17）に多くのユダヤ人と異邦人をもたらすための手段となりますが、 。

II。 トリビュレーションの時間

A.トリビュレーションは、教会の携挙の後に行われます。

[多くの福音主義者たちはこの時点までに言ったすべてに同意する。 試練の正確なタイミングは、議論のポイントです。 最近"プレ怒り"歓喜の理論では人気を得ています。 この理論は、神が彼の怒りを（したがって、"事前の怒り"）を注ぐ開始する前にキリスト教徒が、艱難の最初の部分を通過することを示唆している。 我々はそのような位置にエラーがあると考えています。]

それは直前にそれまで（"raptured"）に巻き込まれるので、教会は、艱難のない部分が発生しません。 聖書によると、キリストが天から降りてくると両方死んで生きて教会の時代の信者たちは、雲の中に彼に会うために" 追いつく "。 彼らは艱難の中に残っている場所を彼はその後、天にそれらを取るでしょう。

主ご自身が天使のかしらの声と神のラッパコールを使用して、大声でコマンドを使用して、天から落ちてくるでしょう、そしてキリストにある死者は最初に上昇します。 その後、まだ生きていると残っている我々は、空気中の主を満たすために雲で彼らと一緒に捕捉されます。 そして私たちは主の永遠になる。 1テサロニケ4時16分17

"キリストの"[死者は教会時代の聖人ではなく、OT信者を参照してください。 "キリストに"になることは、保存することです。

単語"有頂天"はどこにも聖書で使用されていません。 それは、"追いつくために。"のラテン語訳に由来する]

通路の数は、ラプチャーが艱難の前に行われることを意味する。 信者が神の怒りの対象としないことを以下の文章は明らかに状態。 トリビュレーションは、神の怒りのほとばしりを含むので、信者はそれを通過しません。

と彼が来る怒りから私たちを救出死者イエス、の中からよみがえら人天から彼の息子を待つ。 テサロニケ一時10分

神は怒りを被ることが私たちの主イエスキリストを通して救いを受け取るために私達を任命しなかった。 1テサロニケ5時09

注：1テサロニケ5：01 11のコンテキストが終わりの時の話している。 したがって、参照されている怒りは地獄ですが、艱難の間に発生する怒りではありません。

あなたが辛抱強く耐えるために私のコマンドを保持しているので、私はまた地上に住む人々をテストするために全世界に来ることを行っている試験の時間から続けます。 ヨハネの黙示録3時10分

二つのことは、フィラデルフィアの教会にこの約束について注意する必要があります。

1。 それはすべて新約聖書の教会に適用されます。

耳を持つ彼は、彼は御霊が諸教会に言うことを聞くことができます。 ヨハネの黙示録3時13

2。 それはすべての教会が艱難を避けることを約束。

黙示録3:10の"あなたから続ける"翻訳ギリシャ語の言葉は艱難ではなく、艱難の間に信者の継続的な保護から教会の時代の聖人を分離するいずれかのアクションを示している。

B.トリビュレーションは彼の王国を確立するために地上にキリストが戻る前に行われます。

キリストの王国は、キリストが個人的に王として君臨し、すべての創造は、彼のルールに送信する時間となります。 これは、トリビュレーションの直後に発生します。

国家は国民に対して上昇、および王国に対して王国になります。 大地震、様々な場所に飢饉と疫病、そして恐ろしいイベントと天からの大いなるしるしがあるでしょう。 このために書かれているすべての履行の罰の時間です。 どのように恐ろしいそれが妊婦および授乳中の母親のためのそれらの日になります！ この人に対する土地と怒りに多大な苦痛があるでしょう。 太陽、月と星の兆しがあるでしょう。 地球上に、国は、轟音と海の投げで苦悩と当惑になります。 男性は恐怖からかすかな、天体のために、世界に来て何の心配は動揺するだろう。 そうであっても、あなたがこれらの事が起こって参照するとき、あなたは神の王国が近いことを知っている。 ルーク午後9時10分11、22 23、25-26、31

トリビュレーションでは、後者は彼の敵を破壊するために、すべての教会の時代の聖人と地上にキリストの到来で絶頂に達する。

私は私がそのライダー忠実と真と呼ばれる白い馬、になる前に天が開いていると立っているのを見た。 正義と彼裁判官とは、戦争になります。 天の軍勢が白い馬に乗って、白ときれいな亜麻布、服を着た、彼に従っていた。 それから私は、獣を見て、地球と自分の軍隊の王は、馬と彼の軍隊でのライダーとの戦いをするために集まった。 しかし、獣は捕獲、そして彼に代わってしるしを実行していた彼と偽預言されました。 。 。 。 彼ら二人は、硫黄を燃やして炎のような湖に生きて投げていた。 それらの残りの部分は、馬に騎手の口から出てきた剣で殺され、すべての鳥は自分の肉体に自分自身を腹いっぱいのいた。 ヨハネの黙示録19：11、14、19から21

[はセカンドカミングと歓喜を混同しないでください。 彼らは7年で区切られた二つの異なるイベントです。 ]

以下に、より重要な終了時のイベントのいくつかを示すタイムラインは（ロランマッキューン、THDが開発）です。

復習＆レビュー

このレッスンでは、我々は学んだ。

（1） トリビュレーションは、神の怒りが解き放たれる時に、将来、七年間の期間である、反キリストは、電源に上昇する、と群衆が保存されます。

（2） トリビュレーションは、教会の携挙の後と再臨のキリストの王国の設立前に行われます。

それをライブに学習

1。 ローカルキリスト教の本屋にいる間、あなたは聖書の預言についての新しい本に注目してください。 それを購入したら、家に持ち帰ると、それを読み始める。 著者は、艱難の前半は、神の怒りを必要としないので、ラプチャーはビュレーションの真ん中ごろに行われると述べている。 なぜ、この位置が間違っている？

トリビュレーションのすべては神の怒りのほとばしりだけでなく、最後の半分を伴います。 後半は（時々聖書の"大きな試練"と呼ばれる）しかし、より深刻になります。 信者がこの怒りから保存されているので、彼らは試練のない部分を通過します。

2。 あなたのキリスト教の友人は彼が艱難を通過されることを懸念している。 あなたは、彼の不安を緩和するために彼に何を伝えることができます？

神は、信者が艱難（1テサロニケ1:10、午前5時09分、とRev 3:10）を通過しないことを約束している。

レッスン31：スチュワードシップ＆教会の展開

地元の教会が教化と伝道に従事するとして、環境省の成長、または拡張は 、行われます。 このような成長は、教会の物理的及び人的資源の管理が必要です。 このような管理のための別の単語は"。 責務 "であるこのレッスンでは、我々は検討する。

1。 管理の基礎

2。 スチュワードのプロフィール

3。 スチュワードシップの例

4。 スチュワードシップの重要性

I.スチュワードシップの基礎

スチュワードシップは、2つの基本原則に基づいています。

A.神は万物の創造主と所有者です。

神が宇宙を創造したので、彼はそれとそれのすべてを所有している。 これは岩、​​木々、そして動物の唯一の真であるだけでなく、人間の。

地球は主の、そしてそれのすべてを、世界、そしてそれに住んでいる人すべてです、彼は海があるときは、これを設立し、海域によってそれを確立するため。 詩篇24:1 2

B.の人類は、真に自分のものをしません。

人々が話すとき、"所有物"と、彼らは実際に不正確に話している。 人が"所有"しているすべてのものは、誰かのために放置されます。 人が"所有する"ことはすべて、神によって彼に貸与されています。

誰がために他の誰よりあなたが違うのでしょうか？ あなたは受けていないことは何がありますか？ そうでないかのように、あなたがそれを受信した場合、なぜあなたが自慢か？ 1コリント午前4時07分

II。 スチュワードのプロフィール

A.スチュワードは別のことで信頼を （責任）が与えられます。

スチュワードは、聖書の時代に一般的であった。 スチュワードは、他人の事務を監督することが期待された。 単語"スチュワード"は文字通り"一人を意味する

家計を管理します 。"スチュワードシップは、これはマネージャーのケアへの委託を受けていることです。 管理のための良い同義語は投与である。 新約聖書は、多くの場合、スチュワードに信者を比較します。 神は、信者の達成するためのタスクと、それらを達成するために必要なリソースを与えている。 キリストは多くのたとえ話では、この真実を示した。

その後、マスターが適切な時点で、彼らの食糧手当を与えるために家来を担当して置く忠実で賢いマネージャーは、誰ですか？ ルーク12：42

B.スチュワードは、（監督）その信頼を管理することです。

信者は、指定されたタスクを達成するために神によってそれらに委託するすべてのリソースを使用することです。

それは、マスターは、彼が戻ったときにそうすることが見つかったそのサーバントの方が良いだろう。 私はあなたに真実を伝える、彼はすべての彼の所有物を担当して彼を配置します。 ルーク12時43分44

[言い換えれば、信者は、管理/管理/神が彼らに託されているすべてを監督するためです。 例えば、ジョセフ。]

C.スチュワードは彼のタスクのパフォーマンスに対する説明責任を負うことになります。

時間は、[をキリストの裁きの座で]来ている神が彼の事務を管理されている方法のための会計処理を要求される時。 以上の権限 、 責任が増大 ：この会計は、以下の原則に基づいて行われます。

ずっと与えられているすべての人から、多くが望まれる;、多くの委託を受けたものから、はるかには求められます。 ルーク12時48分

D.スチュワードのリソース

多くの信者は間違って彼らは神に自分のリソースの一部を与えなければならないと思います。 しかし、真の責務は、 すべて 1つは神に属しているという認識に基づいています。

1。 信者は自分の時間のスチュワードです。

我々は時間を使ってどのように私たちの優先事項を反映しています。 毎日のあらゆる秒は賢明に使用する必要があります。

日が邪悪であるためには、あらゆる機会を最大限に活用する、などの愚かなだけのような賢明ではない生活をさらに豊かにする、その後、非常に注意してください。 エペソ人への手紙5時15分16

[これは明らかに我々がリラックスし、休憩時間を過ごすことができないことを意味し、単なる怠けるしていません。 しかし、我々はそのような時間の使い方について説明責任であることを意味している。 我々は単に、例えば、ビデオゲームをプレイする、3-4ビデオを見、有益な何もしない時間の大きな塊を" ​​無駄"ではないはず"アウトvegging、"など私たちは"時間を償還する"ことです。]

2。 信者は、彼らの才能のスチュワードです。

すべての信者は、神が彼の目的を達成するために使用したいの能力を持っています。 神はすべての信者が彼の地元の教会の省を高めるために彼の才能を使うと想定されています。

We have different gifts, according to the grace given us. If a man's gift is prophesying, let him use it in proportion to his faith. If it is serving, let him serve; if it is teaching, let him teach; if it is encouraging, let him encourage; if it is contributing to the needs of others, let him give generously; if it is leadership, let him govern diligently; if it is showing mercy, let him do it cheerfully. Romans 12:6 8

Each one should use whatever gift he has received to serve others, faithfully administering God's grace in its various forms. 1 Peter 4:10

[How has God "wired" you? Where are your talents, abilities, gifts? This is where God wants you to serve in the church.]

3。 Believers are stewards of their treasures .

The New Testament strongly emphasizes the proper use of possessions by believers. Many passages warn about their improper use.

But godliness with contentment is great gain. For we brought nothing into the world, and we can take nothing out of it. But if we have food and clothing, we will be content with that. People who want to get rich fall into temptation and a trap and into many foolish and harmful desires that plunge men into ruin and destruction. For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil. Some people, eager for money, have wandered from the faith and pierced themselves with many griefs. 1 Timothy 6:6 10

James 5:1 6 identifies several of the sins associated with the love of money:

A. Placing one's trust in that which is temporal (5:1 3)

b. Hoarding wealth rather than using it for good (5:3)

C. Using dishonest means to gain wealth (5:4)

D. Living in luxury (5:5)

E. Practicing self indulgence (5:5)

[Notice that a luxurious, self-indulgent life-style is wrong for the Christian. Why do you think we say this? Because from God's perspective, there are more important uses of money than luxury and comfort. The hard part is determining the proper standard of living. Most people increase their standard as their income increases (if it does). Instead, one should determine what he needs and use the extra to support various ministries, programs, charities, etc. Few actually do this.]

4。 Believers are stewards of a message .

Paul considered the message that he preached to be his greatest responsibility.

I have become [the church's] servant by the commission God gave me to present to you the word of God in its fullness. Colossians 1:25

2 Timothy 2:1 2 indicates that the stewardship of this trust is the task of every generation of believers.

III。 An Example of Stewardship

この神権のスチュワードのための神の要件のひとつは、地元の教会の支援です。 1コリント16時01分4と第2コリント8および9で、ポールはパレスチナの教会のための飢餓救済のために取られていたの提供について説明します。 これらの通路は、私たちに与えに関する重要な指示を与える。

A.与えるの時間

オファリングは、 日曜日に収集することでした。

毎週の最初の日に、お客様一人一人が彼の収入と維持にお金の和を取っておく必要があります。 1コリント16時02分

この事実の重要性は2倍です。省庁に与えられた第一に、お金は日曜日に組み立てられた地元の教会 、を通じて行われることになっていた。 第二に、与えることは、教会が組み立てている間に行う必要があったので、それは礼拝の一部として表示する必要があります。

B.与えるの場所

上述したように、製品は、資金の管理を担当していた地元の教会、に取られることになっていた。 それはポールによって収集された資金を管理する地元の教会だった。 ポールは、 現実と認識の両方、それらの資金の賢明な利用を確保するために苦心しました。 In other words, Paul was careful to work under the authority of local churches to avoid the perception or accusation of misusing funds.

そして我々は[タイタス]福音に彼のサービスのすべての教会で賞賛され兄と一緒に送っている。 詳細は何ですか、彼は我々は、主ご自身を尊重し、助けるために私たちの熱意を示すために、管理提供を、運ぶように私たちに同行するために教会が選ばれた。 我々はこのリベラルな贈り物を管理する方法のいずれかの批判を避けるためにします。 我々だけでなく、主の目にも、男性の目には、正しいことを行うには痛みを取っているため。 2コリント8時18 21

[parachurch団体を支援について非常に注意が必要です。 厳密に言えば、彼らは聖書に（神のプログラムは教会ではなく、parachurchである）に基づいていない、と彼らは、最近のテレビ伝道者のスキャンダルで明らかなように、賢く受け取るお金を使用することはできません。]

C.与えることの態度

1。 与えるスチュワードは自発的です。

与える新約聖書は法律の問題ではありません。 むしろ、それは我々が持っているとしていることすべてが神に属していることを認識し、心臓から流れる。

それぞれの男はしぶしぶまたは強制の下ではなく、与えるために彼の心に決めているもの与える必要があります。 2コリント9時07

[興味深い注記："明るい"のためのギリシャ語は、ルートのように"hilarion、"から来ている"陽気な。" ]

2。 与えるスチュワードシップは、 特権です。

彼はマケドニア人は非常に貧弱であることを知っていたので、パウロは、もともとパレスチナの教会のために提供するために与えるためにマケドニアの教会を要求していない。 しかし、彼らは必要性を聞いたとき、彼らが含まれるようにポールに嘆願。 偉大で自分自身を必要とするにもかかわらず、彼らが特権であることに与えると考えられる。

And now, brothers, we want you to know about the grace that God has given the Macedonian churches. Out of the most severe trial, their overflowing joy and their extreme poverty welled up in rich generosity. For I testify that they gave as much as they were able, and even beyond their ability. Entirely on their own, they urgently pleaded with us for the privilege of sharing in this service to the saints. 2 Corinthians 8:1-4

3。 Stewardship giving should be done cheerfully .

Each man should give what he has decided in his heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. 2 Corinthians 9:7

D. The amount of giving

1。 Stewards should give according to their income .

God wants believers to worship Him with the wealth and talents that they currently possess, no matter how great or small. The widow with her small copper coins (Mark 12:41 44) is a prime example of giving that pleases the Lord.

On the first day of every week, each one of you should set aside a sum of money in keeping with his income. 1 Corinthians 16:2

For if the willingness is there, the gift is acceptable according to what one has, not according to what he does not have. 2 Corinthians 8:12

2。 Stewards should give as much as possible .

The New Testament does not teach that a specific percentage of one's income is to be given to the Lord. The Old Testament tithe (ten percent) can only serve as a starting point. The sacrificial Macedonians are once again an excellent example:

For I testify that they gave as much as they were able, and even beyond their ability. 2 Corinthians 8:3

[Actually, the Law required that OT believers give considerably more than just 10% (they were required to give almost 25%). Besides what was required, they gave their sacrifices and often free-will offerings too. Nevertheless, 10% is a good place for the believer to start. One should give at least that much.]

IV。 The Importance of Stewardship

Stewardship is important for at least two reasons:

A. Stewardship brings glory to God.

1。 Stewardship is an act of faithfulness .

Now it is required that those who have been given a trust must prove faithful. 1 Corinthians 4:2

2。 Stewardship is an expression of Christ likeness .

Paul urged the Corinthians to give liberally in order to imitate the supreme act of giving, the self-sacrifice of Christ.

For you know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that though he was rich, yet for your sakes he became poor, so that you through his poverty might become rich. 2 Corinthians 8:9

B. Stewardship accomplishes the work of the ministry.

God has determined to accomplish His will in this dispensation by entrusting His work to believers. Apart from the commitment of God's people to be faithful stewards, the work of the ministry cannot take place.

1。 Stewardship of time and talents provides human resources for the ministry.

Believers must be willing to dedicate their lives to the work of the ministry. This is one of the many reasons why God has saved us.

For we are God's workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do. Ephesians 2:10

2。 Stewardship of treasures provides physical resources for the ministry.

The New Testament gives specific directions concerning the use of the financial resources of the church. They should be used:

A. To meet the needs of pastors and their families

Don't you know that those who work in the temple get their food from the temple, and those who serve at the altar share in what is offered on the altar? In the same way, the Lord has commanded that those who preach the gospel should receive their living from the gospel. 1 Corinthians 9:13 14

[The Bible also says that those who labor in the Word are worthy of "double honor," very likely a reference to their pay.]

B. To meet the needs of missionaries

For even when I was in Thessalonica, you sent me aid again and again when I was in need. Not that I am looking for a gift, but I am looking for what may be credited to your account. I have received full payment and even more; I am amply supplied, now that I have received from Epaphroditus the gifts you sent. They are a fragrant offering, an acceptable sacrifice, pleasing to God. Philippians 4:16 18

C. To meet the needs of others , especially other believers

Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, especially to those who belong to the family of believers. Galatians 6:10

Recap & Review

In this lesson, we have learned:

1. Stewardship is based upon the fact that God is the Creator and Owner of all things.

2. A steward is one who is responsible to manage a trust given by another. Believers are responsible to properly manage the time, talents, treasures, and message they have been given by God.

3. Believers should voluntarily and cheerfully give as much as they are able to their local church each Sunday.

4. Stewardship brings glory to God and accomplishes the work of the ministry.

Learning to Live It

1。 A man in your church has a job that pays extremely well. He can easily afford to drive a Mercedes and live in a $1,000,000 home. Would it be right for him to have such a car and home? 理由は？

いいえ、彼はそれらを、彼らは必要としないぜいたく品です。 As Christians we should not live in posh luxury. Instead, we should provide for what we need and then for the needs of the ministry and the needs of others.

2。 A church in town makes a big deal over the number of missionaries it supports. The pastoral staff, however, is struggling to make ends meet and the church facilities are in desperate need of repair. Yet, the church continues to take on new missionaries. What scriptural responsibilities has this church overlooked?

its responsibility to meet the needs of its pastors and to make its building presentable; Only after meeting these obligations should this church consider taking on more missionaries. Perhaps if they did this, the pastor would work harder or better, and better facilities would help the church grow, so the church could support even more missionaries. A solid mission program is based on a solid home church.

Lesson 30: Structure and Expansion of the Church

So far, we have learned that the first two objectives of the church are the edification of the saved and the evangelization of the lost. Whereas edification produces evangelism, evangelism requires expansion .

The following lessons do not use the word “expansion” to describe numerical growth; that is accomplished through evangelism. Expansion refers to the development of new ministries within the church and the organization needed to carry them out. Sunday Schools, junior churches, choirs, Vacation Bible Schools, and youth groups are examples of ministries which may be started to meet congregational needs. Although not found in Scripture, these ministries are legitimate in that they help local churches accomplish the objectives of edification and evangelism.

[We must strive to make sure that everything we are doing fits into the overall purpose and goals of the church. Whatever doesn't fit should be eliminated. Also, there's a difference between extra-biblical things and unbiblical things. Eg, Sunday school is extra-biblical, ie, there is no direct biblical support for it. Infant baptism is unbiblical, ie, it goes against the Bible.]

We can learn several principles of expansion from the early church:

1。 Expansion requires fidelity . [loyalty, faithfulness]

2。 Expansion requires planning .

3。 Expansion requires creativity .

4。 Expansion requires cooperation .

5。 Expansion requires accountability .

I. Expansion Requires Fidelity.

The early church expanded in a way that was true to the Word of God.

A. The early church was true to the commands of the Word of God.

When the church began on the Day of Pentecost, there were no New Testament Scriptures in existence to govern their ministry. The early believers sought to consistently apply the teachings of Christ concerning the church. Then, as God provided more revelation through the apostles, they faithfully applied those truths as well.

1。 They proclaimed a God given message .

The early church understood that a pure message was essential. The truths of Scripture, with the person and work of Christ as the focal point, was the message of the early church. Deviation from this was not tolerated.

But even if we or an angel from heaven should preach a gospel other than the one we preached to you, let him be eternally condemned! Galatians 1:8

2。 They practiced God given methods .

Some methods used by the early church are universal , that is, they apply to all churches of every era. These methods are standard, not only because the early church practiced them (in the book of Acts), but also because they are commanded in the Epistles . For example, the church is to authoritatively proclaim the truth (2 Timothy 4:2), organize converts into local assemblies (see Lesson Twenty Nine), and discipline its members (1 Corinthians 5).

[It is sometimes difficult to tell whether a certain practice was universal or temporary. A passage may be descriptive or normative. For example, we say that tongues was a temporary sign-gift. Others claim speaking in tongues was normal and that the church should do it today.]

B. The early church was true to the principles of the Word of God.

There were times when the early church encountered situations that were not directly addressed in Scripture. If there was no specific command concerning a particular issue, they dealt with it in a manner consistent with the truth that they already knew. For example, a controversy arose in Acts 6 concerning the care of widows. The apostles had no biblical instructions concerning this issue at that time. Thus, they began with what they did know (their own responsibilities) and devised a plan which was true to Scripture and met the need at hand.

[This is exactly how many ministries start: someone senses a need and fills it by applying biblical principles.]

II。 Expansion Requires Planning.

Lesson Twenty Four pointed out that the organizational expansion of the early church did not just happen. Rather, it was the result of careful planning. For example, a controversy arose in Acts 15 concerning saved Gentiles. The problem had to do with the inclusion of Gentiles into the church along with Jews. Should the Gentiles be required to obey the Law of Moses? Did they have to be circumcised? After much debate, the issue was resolved, and a letter was written to the Gentile churches explaining the resolution.

Another example is found in Acts 16:6-10, where Paul's plans to go to Asia and Bithynia were changed by the Holy Spirit. Paul apparently had a planned itinerary for each of his missionary journeys.

A church properly expands as a result of careful planning, not haphazardly.

[Unless you're involved in planning an event, you probably don't realize how much work goes into it. Even a morning service is planned out for ahead of time. The point is that we should plan and organize, not "do ministry" haphazardly.]

III。 拡張は、創造性が必要です。

The ministry of a church must respond to changes in society . In other words, a church must apply the unchanging Word of God to an ever changing culture. This means that as new needs and issues arise, local churches need to respond with relevant and timely applications of eternal truth. Such creative expansion prepares the way for further edification and evangelism, as the following two examples show.

[Principles stay the same; methods may change. Evangelism is a universal command. How we do it may vary depending on time, place, culture, etc. This is why we should not be method-oriented.]

The distribution of the letter explaining the decisions of the Jerusalem Council had the following effect:

As they traveled from town to town, they delivered the decisions reached by the apostles and elders in Jerusalem for the people to obey. So the churches were strengthened in the faith and grew daily in numbers. Acts 16:4 5

The selection of the first deacons in Acts 6 had the same effect:

So the word of God spread. The number of disciples in Jerusalem increased rapidly, and a large number of priests became obedient to the faith. Acts 6:7

[The problem here is determining how and if culture/society should change how we do things. Some churches adapt their services totally to the popular culture. They include rock or country music, skits, humor, short, needs-centered messages, etc. As separatists, we want to speak to modern man without advocating what we see as sinful elements of culture.]

IV。 Expansion Requires Cooperation.

Churches often make the mistake of isolating themselves, even from other congregations of like faith and practice. Isolationism is detrimental to the body of Christ. Pastors and their congregations need the encouragement and assistance of like minded churches.

The Jerusalem Council in Acts 15 is a good example of cooperation between local assemblies. Several congregations were represented at the Council. Together, they discussed various options and decided on a biblical solution to the problem.

Churches of like faith and practice can and should cooperate in a variety of ways, such as:

A. Missions support

B. Educational institutions

C. Ordination councils [explain what an ordination is all about.]

D. Church planting

Many opportunities exist for cooperative efforts. Such cooperation is especially beneficial when churches work together on projects that are beyond their individual means.

[For example, churches may cooperate for evangelistic meetings or service projects. But these churches would be of similar faith and practice. We are against ecumenism, which is the cooperation of churches not of like faith and/or practice.]

V. Expansion Requires Accountability.

Accountability is a crucial aspect of biblical ministry and functions on two levels:

A. Accountability within the local church

As mentioned previously, expansion adds to the administrative structure of a local church. Leaders within that structure (such as Sunday School teachers, youth leaders, etc.) are accountable to the local church.

1。 Leaders are accountable for what they teach .

If a leader willfully begins teaching something that is contrary to the church's published doctrinal statement, he should immediately be asked to resign.

2。 Leaders are accountable for what they do .

If a leader willfully begins doing something that is contrary to the church's published standards of conduct for leadership, he should immediately be asked to resign.

[Most churches have a higher set of standards for leaders.]

B. Accountability between local churches

Accountability is a valuable benefit of cooperation between churches. Every ministry occasionally needs to have its weaknesses identified and priorities clarified through interaction with other churches.

Note: Because every church is independent, accountability between churches is voluntary .

[Often such accountability takes the form of an association or fellowship organization. These often become more of a liability than a benefit. Part of the problem with various parachurch organizations is that they have no or little accountability outside the organization. This is one reason we insist that ministry should be done under the auspices of a church.]

Learning to Live It

1。 A friend of yours comes to a youth activity and afterwards comments, “Why do you have youth activities? You can't find them in the Bible.” How should you respond?

True, you can't find youth activities in the Bible. Other things not mentioned in the Bible: Sunday schools, carpet, electricity, light bulbs, pianos, pulpits, auditoriums, etc. Though extrabiblical, they are acceptable because they help youth ministries accomplish the objectives of the church. Thus, something is not wrong just because the Bible doesn't mention it.

2。 After visiting a church for a few Sundays with your family, you realize that the pastor has very little knowledge of the Bible and cannot adequately communicate what he does know. There is little doubt that this man does not belong in the ministry. Who was responsible for placing this man in the pastorate?

The man himself; one or several local churches; perhaps a mentor, teacher, parent, etc.

How could this error have been avoided?

the convening of an ordination council to examine his fitness for the ministry

Lesson 29: The Church and Corporate Mission

We learned in Lesson Twenty Eight that the second objective of the local church is evangelism. The Great Commission describes this objective as “disciple making.” [“Make disciples” is the main verb in the great commission.] Evangelism takes place on two levels: personal witness and corporate mission . These should not be viewed as separate activities, for the former [personal] is necessary to accomplish the latter [corporate] .

Corporate mission is evangelism pursued through the united efforts of the members of a local church, using their combined resources.

[So when we talk about "corporate mission," we mean evangelism that a congregation as a unit pursues.]

In this lesson, we will examine:

1。 The goal of corporate mission

2。 The extent of corporate mission

3。 The priority of corporate mission

I. The Goal of Corporate Mission

The corporate mission of a local church includes the work of personal witness, but it includes such witness into a larger goal or “bigger picture.”

A. The corporate mission of the church is to reproduce congregations .

Whereas personal witness seeks to produce converts , corporate mission seeks to produce congregations by organizing such converts into local churches. The bulk of the New Testament (from Acts to Jude) deals primarily with the starting and strengthening of local churches.

ポールの最初の二つの布教の旅は、教会の再現となりました。

1。 Paul's first missionary journey

During Paul's first missionary journey (Acts 13 14), he and Barnabas followed a clear plan: after being commissioned by their home church in Antioch of Syria, they established a new church in Antioch of Pisidia, from which they evangelized neighboring cities, establishing other churches.

[This is the same pattern we desire to see in mission work today. A primary mission of the church is to establish more churches. Lots of churches support many different "mission" works: hospitals, schools, food services, etc. But the primary mission work should be starting more churches.]

2。 Paul's second missionary journey

Paul followed the same pattern during his next missionary journey (Acts 15:36-18:22).

On this occasion, Paul established the “mother church” in Ephesus, which commissioned Epaphras (Colossians 1:7) to establish churches in these other cities.

In both of these cases, Paul or a fellow worker communicated the gospel , organized congregations , taught them doctrine , helped them appoint pastors , and checked back on their progress . 最終結果は、常に独立した地元の教会だった。

[This is the same pattern which should be followed by modern missionaries. A true missionary is a church-planter.]

B. The corporate mission of the church is to reproduce in kind .

1。 Churches should reproduce doctrinally .

パウロの書簡にもカジュアルな読書は、彼が始めた教会で確立された健全な教義を見て決定されたことがわかります。 ティモシー、エフェソスの教会にポールの代表者に、彼はこう宣言した。

What you heard from me, keep as the pattern of sound teaching, with faith and love in Christ Jesus. Guard the good deposit that was entrusted to you. – 2 Timothy 1:13-14

[If we sent out some people to start another church, we would want it to teach the same doctrine that we believe.]

2。 Churches should reproduce philosophically .

Paul was not only concerned about reproducing a doctrinal system in the churches that he established, but also about making sure those churches followed his application of doctrine.

Although I hope to come to you soon, I am writing you these instructions so that, if I am delayed, you will know how people ought to conduct themselves in God's household, which is the church of the living God, the pillar and foundation of the truth. 1 Timothy 3:14 15

[Even in churches that share the same doctrine, there may be much difference in philosophy of ministry. We would plant a church that goes about its business in the same way we do and emphasizes the same things we do. The same doctrine doesn't always result in the same philosophy.]

II。 The Extent of Corporate Mission

The corporate mission of the church should be marked by extension . 彼の昇天の前にキリストの最後の録音メッセージがあった。

But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth. Acts 1:8

[By "extension" we mean that the church is responsible to extend the message of the gospel and the ministry of the church to the local community, to neighboring communities, and world-wide.]

これを可視化することができる。

The principle of extension means that:

A. Corporate mission takes place within the community.

ほとんどの人が単語聞くときに"ミッションを、"彼らは通常、外国の土に行われる省庁考える。 教会の使命は、しかし、自分のコミュニティの集会の複製を含む、コミュニティは複数の会衆を維持するのに十分な大きさの提供。

[It's very likely that within Jerusalem and other cities in the times of the apostles, there were many "house" churches which met in peoples' homes. Thus, there were probably many such churches in large cities. Churches should support "home" missions within their own communities.]

Reproduction of congregations tends to promote service . The early church multiplied via many small house churches due to the lack of facilities large enough to house all of the believers in a particular community. 大規模な施設は、現在利用可能であるが、それはサービスを促進するために、教会のサイズを制限するのが賢明かもしれない。 As a church grows, it may reach the point where it starts producing

spectators rather than servants . その時点で、新しい会衆はそのメンバーの間でサービスのためのより多くの機会を提供するために開始する必要があります。

[Studies have shown that no matter how big a church gets, a maximum of about 150-200 people are actively involved in the ministry of the church. Thus, once the church gets far above that number, people become more spectators than involved in service. Some feel that 300-400 is as large as a church should get before spinning off another church.]

B. Corporate mission takes place beyond the community.

エルサレムに設立された教会は、独自のコミュニティを超えて大臣に期待されていた。 Its goal was to reproduce itself worldwide . パウロが教会を開始し、それが独自に機能することができる点にそれを強化するたびに、彼は他の地域での教会を開始するために残しました。

Our hope is that, as your faith continues to grow, our area of activity among you will greatly expand, so that we can preach the gospel in the regions beyond you. 2 Corinthians 10:15 16

[Church planting is God's plan for reaching the world. Part of the problem with many evangelistic efforts is that they win converts but do not channel them into good churches, or any churches. The biblical pattern is winning someone to Christ and seeing them baptized and added to the membership of a church.]

III。 The Priority of Corporate Mission

A. Corporate mission should be a priority for the congregation .

The Great Commission was given to the church. This is seen from the fact that Acts 1:8 links the Great Commission to the Day of Pentecost, the birth of the church.

1。 Corporate mission is not an option for the local church.

“Make disciples” (Matthew 28:19) is a command, not a suggestion. Reproduction of churches is the primary way in which a local church obeys this command. Therefore, there should never be a missionless church or a churchless mission.

2。 Corporate mission cannot be separated from the other objectives of the Great Commission.

Evangelistic outreach should not be a local church's only concern. The objectives of the Great Commission are interrelated. Their relationship is seen in the following diagram:

B. Corporate mission should be a priority for the individual believer .

Because the Great Commission was given to local churches and the New Testament expects all believers to minister through local churches, the corporate mission of the church should be a priority in the life of every believer. When individuals become Christians, they are not to be independent in their outreach. They are part of a community of believers whose goal is to reproduce congregations.

Recap & Review

In this lesson, we have learned:

1. The goal of corporate mission is to reproduce congregations similar in doctrine and philosophy.

2. The extent of corporate mission includes the reproducing of congregations both within and beyond one's community.

3. Corporate mission should be a priority for the congregation as a whole and for the individual believer.

Learning to Live It

1。 Many worthy and needy causes receive money from churches: hospitals, schools, famine relief, etc. Should a local church support any of these causes? 理由は？

normally not; because they usually are not trying to accomplish the same objectives as the local church. If one can win souls and channel them into churches or start churches thru these means, then OK. In some countries, the above means are the only ways available to have any gospel influence at all. But none of these are ends in themselves. Obviously, a church can support whatever it deems worthy of support. But Biblically speaking, those ministries whose primary goal is evangelizing the lost and starting churches are central.

The church is not commissioned to feed the hungry, educate the ignorant, or cure the ill. It is commissioned to preach the gospel and start churches.

Under what circumstances could such causes be worthy of local church support?

if they are accomplishing the objectives of the local church and are submissive to the leadership of the church

2。 A comment frequently made from the pulpit is that there are enough churches here in America and that we must, therefore, spend all our missions money on foreign missions. Is this a valid comment? 理由は？

no; Corporate mission starts at home (ie, within one's own community). Home missions is legit. Also, who says there are enough churches in America? There are many communities without a solid church. Further, more American churches means more missions support.

3。 A rapidly-growing church in your area has decided to build a multi-million dollar addition to their current facility in order to make room for more people. What might be a better option, and why?

to start a sister church in the area with several families who now attend the big church; to give more opportunities for service and it extends the ministry of the big church.

Lesson 28: The Church and Personal Witness

As we've learned, the primary objective of the local church is the edification of believers. The second objective of the local church is evangelism . Evangelism takes place on two levels: personal witness and corporate mission. This lesson deals with personal witness.

[Personal witness is what you do on your own when at home, school, work, etc. Corporate witness is what the church does as a group, like visitation or evangelistic services. ]

Evangelism is the effort to see people saved , baptized , and become active members of a local church. Evangelism should be a natural result of edification. The more a believer is edified, the more effective he should be in his personal witness.

[Note the extended definition of evangelism. It's not just winning people to Christ or getting a profession of faith from someone. ]

In this lesson, we will examine:

1。 The role of the local church in personal witness

2。 The method of personal witness

3。 The message of personal witness

4。 The results of personal witness

[A very good book on personal evangelism is Tell the Truth by Will Metzger. ]

I. The Role of the Local Church in Personal Witness

Many people view evangelism as a personal activity that has no connection to the local church. The Bible, however, indicates that all ministry in this dispensation is inseparable from the local church.

[This dispensation is the church age. "Para-church" organizations are those that are not part of the ministry of a particular local church. They attempt to minister either to all Christians or to a group of churches. Eg colleges. Because the church is God's organization for this age, all ministry should be done in conjunction with/under the auspices of a church or group of churches.]

A. The local church is the source of personal witness.

1。 The local church has been given the authority to witness.

Just prior to His Ascension, Christ indicated that the authority to evangelize would be given when the baptism of the Holy Spirit took place.

But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses. Acts 1:8

This occurred on the Day of Pentecost (Acts 2), the day upon which the church was established.

2。 The local church provides the witnesses .

The local church is the training ground for evangelism (Acts 2:46-47). Those who are saved join a local church, where they learn to become effective witnesses.

B. The local church is the means of personal witness.

An individual's personal witness is enhanced by the preparation and support provided by his local church.

1。 The local church provides specialized training .

Witnessing is a learned activity . It is the educational ministry of the local church which prepares believers to witness more effectively.

It was [Christ] who gave some to be . 。 。 牧師や教師は、奉仕の働きのために神の民を準備する。 エペソ人への手紙4時11分12

2。 The local church provides personal accountability .

Personal witness involves communicating the truth of the gospel with one's words (doctrine) and actions (lifestyle). The local church has been given the responsibility to assure that its members remain pure in both of these areas so that their personal witness will accurately and genuinely communicate the gospel (Matthew 18:15-17 and 1 Corinthians 5).

3。 The local church provides encouragement .

そして私たちが愛と善行に向かって上の1つ別のを促進させることができる方法を考えてみましょう。 Let us not give up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but let us encourage one another and all the more as you see the Day approaching Hebrews 10:24 25

Church members should encourage one another to tell others about Christ.

4。 The local church provides strength through prayer .

Finally, brothers, pray for us that the message of the Lord may spread rapidly and be honored, just as it was with you. 2 Thessalonians 3:1

Devote yourselves to prayer, being watchful and thankful. And pray for us, too, that God may open a door for our message, so that we may proclaim the mystery of Christ, for which I am in chains. Pray that I may proclaim it clearly, as I should. – Colossians 4:2-4

Church members should pray for each other's personal witness and that those to whom they witness get saved.

C. The local church is the end of personal witness.

Personal witness which only produces professions of faith is incomplete. The Great Commission calls for evangelism which not only produces converts, but which also sees them baptized and united in membership with a local church.

Those who accepted his message were baptized, and about three thousand were added to their number that day. – Acts 2:41

[Evangelism does not end when a person makes a profession of faith. Ie getting saved does not end the evangelism process. ]

II。 The Method of Personal Witness

A. Personal witness should be relational .

By this we mean that personal evangelism should focus on building relationships prior to presenting the gospel. An unbeliever is much more likely to seriously think about the gospel if it is explained by a friend he knows and trusts than by a stranger.

[The vast majority of those who visit a church or eventually get saved do so because they have a friend who talked to them. Thus it is important to work within the web/network of friends we have. ]

1。 Personal witness should be accompanied by an exemplary life .

One's life has to support one's message. One cannot expect an unbeliever to accept the Christian message from someone who does not act like a Christian. Peter stressed this important concept in his instructions to Christian wives with unsaved husbands.

Wives, in the same way be submissive to your husbands so that, if any of them do not believe the word, they may be won over without words by the behavior of their wives, when they see the purity and reverence of your lives. 1 Peter 3:1 2

[In some respects, we win a person to what we display in our own lives. That is, a person will formulate a view of Christians and Christianity by what he sees from an example of someone claiming to be a Christian-- you. Cf also Matt 5:14-16; 1 Pet 2:11-12.]

2。 Personal witness should treat people as people .

Many method oriented evangelistic programs depersonalize those being witnessed to. One must remember that those to whom he is witnessing are not just objects. They are created in the image of God and should be treated with respect. This means that the evangelist will seek to show genuine interest in the unsaved and witness to them from that context. Both Christ and Paul evangelized this way (John 4:4 42 and 1 Thessalonians 2:8 12).

B. Personal witness should be message centered .

Though relationships with unbelievers are necessary, such relationships alone do not constitute evangelism. One must confront the unbeliever with the gospel message.

[Few if any ever get saved just by looking at a Christian's exemplary lifestyle.]

1。 Personal witness should value the message more than the method.

When I came to you, brothers, I did not come with eloquence or superior wisdom as I proclaimed to you the testimony about God. For I resolved to know nothing while I was with you except Jesus Christ and him crucified. My message and my preaching were not with wise and persuasive words, but with a demonstration of the Spirit's power, so that your faith might not rest on men's wisdom, but on God's power. 1 Corinthians 2:1 2, 4 5

While the Bible presents no single method of evangelism, it does present a single message. Methods change; the content of the message does not. Whatever the method, it must be consistent with God's character.

[Beware of any evangelism that stresses a step-by-step method. We don't want to get locked in to any certain technique. Also, not all methods are equally good or appropriate. Remember, evangelism is a major goal, but not the highest goal. To glorify/honor/please God is the most important. Thus we must evangelize in a God-honoring way.]

2。 Personal witness should avoid methods that detract from the message.

Methods which appeal primarily to the emotions or are characterized by high-pressure “sales techniques” often cause people to make uninformed, hasty decisions. True saving faith can take place only if one understands the content of the gospel.

Consequently, faith comes from hearing the message, and the message is heard through the word of Christ. Romans 10:17

[This obviously takes some time. Evangelism usually does not take place in 5 or 10 minutes.]

III。 The Message of Personal Witness

It is extremely important that one understands the gospel message before he tries to explain it to someone else.

A. The focus of personal witness

1。 Personal witness should not be man centered .

The tendency of many evangelistic methods is to make the gospel appealing in order to get more decisions. In so doing, however, the message is often corrupted. The following are common emphases of a man centered approach to evangelism:

A. Man centered witness views God primarily as a friend. This tends to minimize His authority.

B. Man centered witness views the lost from the standpoint of their needs. That is, one starts a gospel presentation by addressing an unsaved person's felt needs, such as love, acceptance, etc. This tends to minimize his sinfulness.

C. Man centered witness views Christ primarily as the Savior. This tends to minimize His lordship; He is viewed as existing for mankind's benefit.

D. Man centered witness stresses the idea that man seeks God, not vice versa. This tends to minimize God's grace and sovereignty.

2。 Personal witness should be God centered .

In contrast to the characteristics of a man centered approach, the following are emphases of a God centered approach to evangelism:

A. God centered witness views God primarily as the Creator and sovereign Lord.

When Paul evangelized in Athens, he began by explaining these very truths.

The God who made the world and everything in it is the Lord of heaven and earth and does not live in temples built by hands. And he is not served by human hands, as if he needed anything, because he himself gives all men life and breath and everything else. Acts 17:24 25

B. God centered witness views the lost as totally sinful.

As it is written: “There is no one righteous, not even one; there is no one who understands, no one who seeks God.” – Romans 3:10-11

C. God centered witness emphasizes the lordship of Christ.

On the Day of Pentecost, Peter concluded his sermon by highlighting this truth.

Therefore let all Israel be assured of this: God has made this Jesus, whom you crucified, both Lord and Christ. Acts 2:36

That if you confess with your mouth, “Jesus is Lord,” and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. -ローマ10：09

D. God centered witness stresses the need for repentance.

私は、彼らが悔い改め神に回すと私たちの主イエスへの信仰を持っている必要があることをユダヤ人とギリシャ人の両方に宣言した。 Acts 20:21

B. The content of personal witness

One's presentation of the gospel should be built around the following truths:

1。 The character of God

A. He is our Creator; we are responsible to Him.

B. He is sovereign; He may do with us as He pleases.

C. He is holy; He will not overlook sin.

D. He is gracious and loving; He has provided a way for man to be forgiven of sin.

For more information on these truths, see Part One, Section One of this curriculum.

[It's important to start with God, because people need to know that their primary problem is a hostile relationship with God. ]

2。 The character of man

A. Man became sinful by rebelling against God.

B. Man is incapable of doing anything to please God; he is totally sinful.

C. Man stands condemned before God; this condemnation results in both physical and spiritual death.

For more information on these truths, see Part One, Section Three of this curriculum.

3。 The person and work of Christ

A. Christ is the God man; because He is God, He is perfect; because He is a man, He can save mankind.

B. Christ lived a perfect life; He satisfied God's demands for mankind.

C. Christ died a substitutionary death; He was punished for man's sin.

D. Christ rose from the dead; He is Lord of the universe and can grant forgiveness to mankind.

For more information on these truths, see Part One, Section Four of this curriculum.

4。 The proper response to the message: repentance and faith

A. Man must acknowledge his complete sinfulness; he is unable to please God.

B. Man must repent of his sin; he must change his mind about his sinful way of life and turn from it.

C. Man must believe that Christ paid the penalty for his sin; he must acknowledge that Christ died in his place, was buried, and rose again.

D. Man must submit to the lordship of Christ; he must recognize that there is a cost to being a believer in Christ.

For more information on these truths, see Part One, Section Five of this curriculum.

[Note that the correct response is not simply a profession of faith. Repentance and commitment are also necessary. ]

IV。 The Results of Personal Witness

A. God is responsible for the results of personal witness.

The abuses often associated with method centered evangelism are usually due to a misunderstanding of who is responsible for the results of evangelism. If someone's salvation is solely in the hands of the evangelist, then one can understand the tendency of some toward high pressure methods. However, the Bible makes it clear that God is the One who is ultimately responsible for the salvation of the lost.

What, after all, is Apollos? And what is Paul? Only servants, through whom you came to believe as the Lord has assigned to each his task. I planted the seed, Apollos watered it, but God made it grow. So neither he who plants nor he who waters is anything, but only God, who makes things grow. 1 Corinthians 3:5 7

B. A genuine profession of faith will result in a changed life .

1。 The initial response

A true believer will demonstrate his commitment to Christ in three ways:

a. Baptism by immersion

B. Local church membership

C. Spiritual growth

These do not guarantee the genuineness of one's salvation, but their absence does call one's conversion into question.

2。 The continuing evidence

Lesson Twenty Seven pointed out that the book of 1 John was written to describe the marks of a genuine believer. 彼らは以下のとおりです。

A. Belief in fundamental doctrines (deity of Christ, inerrancy of Scripture, etc.)

B. A righteous lifestyle

c. Love for other Christians

[If this evidence does not exist, one can have no confidence that he is saved.]

Recap & Review

In this lesson, we have learned:

1. The local church is the source, means, and end of personal witness.

2. Personal witness should be relational and message-centered.

3. The focus of personal witness should be God-centered, not man-centered. One's presentation of the gospel should include the character of God, the character of man, the person and work of Christ, and the proper response.

4. God is the One responsible for the results of personal witness. A true profession of faith will result in a changed life.

Learning to Live It

1。 A popular “how to” book on evangelism states that when you visit someone whom you want to lead to Christ, you should begin by complimenting him on his home, children, etc. Why do you suppose the book suggests that you do this?

in order to make him more receptive to the gospel. Note the emphasis on method–”first do this, then this, then this, ….”

Is such an approach message centered or method centered?

method-centered

Is it man-centered or God-centered?

man-centered. Remember that methods change but the content does not. We should not be tied to a certain method/system of evangelism.

2。 This same book says that it is the evangelist's responsibility to make sure that everyone who hears the gospel is brought to a point of decision; the hearer must either say yes or no to the gospel. If he says no, the evangelist must press him to change his mind. According to this method, who is responsible for the results?

the evangelist

Does an unbeliever need to decide to reject the gospel? 理由は？

no; he already has been rejecting it. John 3:18 states that an unbeliever is “condemned already.”

Lesson 27: The Horizontal Expression of Edification – Fellowship

We have learned that the primary task of the local church is to educate its membership. The truths a believer is taught are expressed toward God ( worship ) and toward fellow believers ( fellowship ). Technically, the word “fellowship” is also used to describe the believer's relationship with God. The major emphasis of this lesson, however, will be the believer's relationship with other believers.

The New Testament word for fellowship means “to share something in common with someone else.” It is a word that stresses unity and refers to three relationships that the believer has:

1。 Believers have fellowship with God .

2。 Believers have fellowship in the faith .

3。 Believers have fellowship with one another .

I. Believers Have Fellowship with God.

A. Fellowship with God is synonymous with salvation .

People often use the phrase “fellowship with God” to describe the quality of their relationship with God. Obedient, faithful believers are said to be “in fellowship,” whereas backslidden believers are “out of fellowship.” However, this is an improper use of the phrase. Paul clearly viewed “fellowship with God” as a description of salvation.

He will keep you strong to the end, so that you will be blameless on the day of our Lord Jesus Christ. God, who has called you into fellowship with his Son Jesus Christ our Lord, is faithful. 1 Corinthians 1:8 9

B. Fellowship with God is evidenced by conformity to His character .

Spiritual growth is not optional for the believer; it is the natural result of salvation. First John was written to give some of the tests of salvation. 彼らは以下のとおりです。

1。 The test of righteousness

The true believer will strive to be righteous as God is righteous.

If you know that he is righteous, you know that everyone who does what is right has been born of him. 1 John 2:29

[The idea here is doing right as a way of life, not sinless perfection. ]

2。 The test of sound doctrine

The true believer will embrace the truth as revealed by the God who is the Truth.

We know also that the Son of God has come and has given us understanding, so that we may know him who is true. And we are in him who is true even in his Son Jesus Christ. He is the true God and eternal life. 1 John 5:20

3。 The test of love for other believers

The true believer will love other believers because God is love.

Dear friends, let us love one another, for love comes from God. Everyone who loves has been born of God and knows God. Whoever does not love does not know God, because God is love. 1 John 4:7-8

II。 Believers Have Fellowship in the Faith.

Unity among believers is based upon belief in a common set of doctrines–”the faith” (Jude 3). Apart from such, fellowship is impossible.

[Common doctrine is the proper basis of unity. Since we believe this, we will never cooperate with those who disagree with us about major doctrinal matters. Those who stress ecumenism (the unity of various faiths in a common goal) downplay doctrine and seek to build unity thru other means, such as experience (eg, tongues).]

A. Believers share the responsibility to proclaim the Word of God.

God has commissioned the local church to proclaim the Word of God. One way this can be done is through the support of missionaries. Paul was joyful over the support he received from the Philippian Church.

In all my prayers for all of you, I always pray with joy because of your partnership in the gospel from the first day until now. Philippians 1:4 5

Support of missionaries, however, does not fulfill the believer's responsibility to proclaim the Word of God; there must also be personal involvement. To Philemon, Paul wrote:

I pray that you may be active in sharing your faith. Philemon 6

B. Believers share the responsibility to defend the Word of God.

Fellowship in the Word of God involves more than proclaiming it; there must also be a commitment to maintaining purity of doctrine. This can be done in two ways:

1。 Believers must not cooperate with those who teach error.

If anyone comes to you and does not bring this teaching, do not take him into your house or welcome him. Anyone who welcomes him shares in his wicked work. 2 John 10 11

[“This teaching” here refers to apostolic doctrine regarding Christ. ]

Do not be yoked together with unbelievers. For what do righteousness and wickedness have in common? Or what fellowship can light have with darkness? 2 Corinthians 6:14

2。 Believers must refute error.

[A pastor] must hold firmly to the trustworthy message as it has been taught, so that he can encourage others by sound doctrine and refute those who oppose it. Titus 1:9

All believers, not just pastors, should expose false teaching.

[Cf also Titus 2:15. Refute means to challenge, expose or speak out against something. Some people accuse fundamentalists of being too negative and critical. This criticism is a reaction to the fundamentalist's desire to refute and expose error. Refuting error is necessarily negative, although it does not have to be done in a negative or caustic way.]

III。 Believers Have Fellowship with One Another.

Fellowship, or unity among the members of a church, is one of the distinguishing marks of genuine believers.

But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship with one another. 1 John 1:7

The Bible places great emphasis on this unity. It is described by a word that is translated “one another” or “each other.” This word appears over 100 times in the New Testament. Since unity is so important, believers should encourage and support it.

[Not unity at any cost. Unity is a good goal, but not the highest one. Unity should primarily be focussed on the local church. It's good to have fellowship with many other Christians not from your church, but it is especially important to be in fellowship with those in your church.]

A. Believers strengthen their unity with one another through proper attitudes .

1。 Believers should avoid the following attitudes toward one another:

a. Pride

Pride is the tendency to think more highly of oneself than one ought to (Romans 12:3).

Live in harmony with one another. Do not be proud, but be willing to associate with people of low position. Do not be conceited. Romans 12:16

[Cf also Prov 13:10 “Only by pride comes contention.” ]

b. Criticism

The Bible forbids a judgmental, condemning attitude toward other believers.

Therefore let us stop passing judgment on one another. Romans 14:13

c. Envy

Envy is the improper desire to possess that which rightfully belongs to another.

Let us not become conceited, provoking and envying each other. Galatians 5:26

2。 Believers should develop the following attitudes toward one another:

a. Humility

The opposite of pride, humility was despised by the society in which the first century church ministered, as it often is by our culture. God, however, greatly values humility.

All of you, clothe yourselves with humility toward one another, because, “God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble.” 1 Peter 5:5

b. Deference [to defer, to let another have his way]

The believer should possess an attitude which willingly yields his own rights and interests to the desires and needs of others.

利己的な野心や根拠のない過大評価から何もしないが、謙虚に優れ自身よりも他人の気持ちを思いやる。 Each of you should look not only to your own interests, but also to the interests of others. Philippians 2:3-4

c. Patience

Patience is the willingness to bear with the shortcomings and quirks of others.

Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love. Ephesians 4:2

B. Believers strengthen their unity with one another through proper speech .

Words have great potential to be harmful or helpful. Accordingly, the New Testament greatly emphasizes the constructive use of speech.

Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen. Ephesians 4:29

[Cf also James 3:5-8 ]

1。 Believers should avoid the following kinds of speech toward one another:

a. Lying

Lying is deliberately misrepresenting the truth either in whole or in part.

Do not lie to each other, since you have taken off your old self with its practices. Colossians 3:9

[Notice the "whole or in part" bit. Half of the truth is a whole lie. Misrepresentation is lying.]

b. Slander

Slander is speech that is intended to injure . The word literally means “to talk down.” What is said may or may not be true; however, it is the motive and/or effect that is the issue. In other words, why are you saying it and what harm might it cause? A good rule to follow when discussing someone else's problems is: Don't say it unless you and your listener are part of the problem or part of the solution .

Brothers, do not slander one another. James 4:11

c. Complaining

Complaining is a cancer that grows rapidly and has the potential of destroying a local church. Believers should practice constructive criticism rather than complaining. The difference between the two can be determined by asking the following questions: Is my comment addressed to the right person , is it being said with the right spirit , and does it include a biblical suggestion for change?

Don't grumble against each other, brothers, or you will be judged. James 5:9

[If a person has a problem with something, he should deal with it the right way: go to the source. Most often, people just complain without approaching the person who can do something about it.]

2。 Believers should develop the following kinds of speech toward one another:

a. Truth

The opposite of lying, truth is correctly representing the facts.

Therefore each of you must put off falsehood and speak truthfully to his neighbor, for we are all members of one body. Ephesians 4:25

b. Encouragement

Biblical encouragement is more than a pat on the back along with a promise that everything will be all right. In the Church at Thessalonica, there was a problem that caused the congregation great concern. Paul addressed the problem by explaining to them appropriate doctrine . He then added:

Therefore encourage each other with these words. 1 Thessalonians 4:18

Therefore, encouragement is speech that provides comfort by focusing on the teachings of the Word of God.

c. Counsel

Paul challenged the members of the Church at Rome to counsel one another. Such counsel is biblical instruction intended to correct

sinful behavior .

I myself am convinced, my brothers, that you yourselves are full of goodness, complete in knowledge and competent to [counsel] one another. Romans 15:14

[Counseling should be of the kind that points out the problem and then gives the biblical remedy for it ("nouthetic"). All Christians should be capable of giving good counsel.]

C. Believers strengthen their unity with one another through proper actions .

1。 Believers should avoid the following kinds of actions toward one another:

a. Partiality

A nineteenth century preacher once said that the gospel is the “great leveler,” meaning that there are no class distinctions within the church. The church is made up of one group of people:

sinners saved by grace .

My brothers, as believers in our glorious Lord Jesus Christ, don't show favoritism. – James 2:1

b. Retaliation

While few church members would consider hitting someone who offends them, some may retaliate in more subtle ways. Such retaliation can be anything from gossip to the “cold shoulder.”

Make sure that nobody pays back wrong for wrong, but always try to be kind to each other and to everyone else. 1 Thessalonians 5:15

c. Hostility

Believers should not be unfriendly or antagonistic toward one another.

If you keep on biting and devouring each other, watch out or you will be destroyed by each other. Galatians 5:15

2。 Believers should develop the following kinds of actions toward one another:

a. Service

God expects every believer to use the abilities He has given him to serve other believers within his local church.

You, my brothers, were called to be free. But do not use your freedom to indulge the sinful nature; rather, serve one another in love. Galatians 5:13

b. Benevolence

Benevolence may be defined as acts of kindness , or doing good to others. Believers should continually practice benevolence toward all men, especially toward other believers.

Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, especially to those who belong to the family of believers. Galatians 6:10

c. Hospitality

Believers should use their homes and possessions as means of being a blessing to others.

Offer hospitality to one another without grumbling. 1 Peter 4:9

Note: There are occasions when believers must break fellowship with other believers.

[Note that this is with believers. Each of these is grounds for church discipline. Those who practice these things are the most dangerous and troublesome people in the church because they destroy fellowship/unity.]

これらは、次のとおりです。

1. Doctrinal deviation

Avoid godless chatter, because those who indulge in it will become more and more ungodly. Their teaching will spread like gangrene. Among them are Hymenaeus and Philetus, who have wandered away from the truth. – 2 Timothy 2:16-18

[There is room for some doctrinal differences, but not on the major tenets of the faith. Teaching wrong doctrine is especially dangerous. ]

2. Divisive spirit

I urge you, brothers, to watch out for those who cause divisions and put obstacles in your way that are contrary to the teaching you have learned. Keep away from them. – Romans 16:17

Warn a divisive person once, and then warn him a second time. After that, have nothing to do with him. – Titus 3:10

[Cf Prov 6:16-19. The Lord hates those who sow discord among the brethren.]

3. Disorderly conduct

Keep away from every brother who is idle and does not live according to the teaching you received from us. – 2 Thessalonians 3:6

If anyone does not obey our instruction in this letter, take special note of him. Do not associate with him, in order that he may feel ashamed. – 2 Thessalonians 3:14

[Note that the discipline/dis-fellowshipping of an individual is to bring him to repentance. If he will not repent, one should treat him as an unsaved person and avoid him. Note also that this is why church membership is so important—if one is not a member, the church has no right to discipline the person.]

Recap & Review

In this lesson, we have learned:

1. Believers have fellowship with God. Fellowship with God is synonymous with salvation and is evidenced by conformity to God's character.

2. Believers have fellowship in the faith. As such, they share the responsibility to both proclaim and defend the Word of God.

3. Believers have fellowship with one another. Such fellowship is dependent upon proper attitudes, speech, and actions.

Learning to Live It

1。 A nationally-known evangelist comes to town to conduct a crusade and asks your church to participate. This evangelist is known for including Catholics, liberal Protestants, and charismatics in his crusades. Should your church participate? 理由は？

no; to do so would be wrong for two reasons: 1) You would be associating in spiritual matters with unbelievers (contra 2 Cor 6:14-7:1) and 2) You would be associating with disobedient believers (contra 2 Thes 3:6, 14). We are not to cooperate with those who deny the faith. Instead, we should rebuke and expose those who cooperate in such ways with unbelievers. (Eg “Evangelicals and Catholics Together,” Billy Graham)

2。 You often hear a friend of yours making the following statements:

• “I don't mean to gossip, but have you ever noticed that

he . 。 。 ？"

• “Is it just me or does so and so . 。 。 ？"

• “Well, I think that she . 。 。 and I'm not the only one who thinks so.”

• “Why don't they . 。 。 ？"

• “When are they . 。 。 ？"

What is wrong with such comments?

They are not constructive, edifying, etc.; rather, they are gossipy, critical, adversarial, accusatory, etc.

How should you respond when your friend begins to make such comments?

Cut him off before he gets started. Tell him to address his comments to someone who can resolve the problem. Rebuke him for his wrong attitudes and actions.

Lesson 26: The Vertical Expression of Edification

In the previous lesson, we learned that the primary activity of the local church is the education of its members and that education is the foundation of their edification. Edification is expressed in two ways: toward God ( worship ) and toward other believers ( fellowship ). This lesson will deal with worship.

[The relationship with God is sometimes called "vertical" while that with other believers is sometimes called "horizontal."]

Many years ago, the English word “worship” was spelled worthship .” Originally, the word was associated with the concept of worthiness. It referred to the act of displaying the worth or value of a person or object. Worship is any activity whereby believers display the worth or value of God .

[Note that it's not just what goes on at church during the "worship" service. One can worship God in many ways and at many times. So were not just talking about a church service.]

In this lesson, we will study the following aspects of worship:

1。 The object of worship [who we worship]

2。 The means of worship [how we worship]

3。 The outgrowth of worship [the result of worship]

4. Improper worship [wrong ways to worship]

I. The Object of Worship

The sole object of the believer's worship is God .

Do not worship any other god, for the LORD, whose name is Jealous, is a jealous God. – Exodus 34:14

Jesus answered, “It is written: 'Worship the Lord your God and serve him only.'” – Luke 4:8

A. True worship is based upon the character of God.

Because of His character, God alone is worthy of worship.

[The character of God is who he is. Psm 150:2 “Praise him for his surpassing greatness.”]

Then I looked and heard the voice of many angels, numbering thousands upon thousands, and ten thousand times ten thousand. They encircled the throne and the living creatures and the elders. In a loud voice they sang: “Worthy is the Lamb, who was slain, to receive power and wealth and wisdom and strength and honor and glory and praise!” Revelation 5:11 12

The first section of this curriculum described several of God's attributes which make Him worthy of our worship.

1。 God is to be worshiped because He is great .

David praised the LORD in the presence of the whole assembly, saying, “Praise be to you, O LORD, God of our father Israel, from everlasting to everlasting. Yours, O LORD, is the greatness and the power and the glory and the majesty and the splendor, for everything in heaven and earth is yours. Yours, O LORD, is the kingdom; you are exalted as head over all. Wealth and honor come from you; you are the ruler of all things. In your hands are strength and power to exalt and give strength to all. Now, our God, we give you thanks, and praise your glorious name.” – 1 Chronicles 29:10-13

[Verses like this tell us of the awesome majesty of God. This is why we need to be reverent and serious about God and worship. We don't play fast and loose with God, God's name, God's church, etc. ]

2。 God is to be worshiped because He is good .

Enter his gates with thanksgiving and his courts with praise; give thanks to him and praise his name. For the LORD is good and his love endures forever; his faithfulness continues through all generations. – Psalm 100:4-5

When a believer reflects upon God's character, it should cause him to worship God all the more.

[Remember that God's attributes/characteristics can be separated into these two categories: greatness (power) and goodness (moral perfections). We worship God because of Who He is.]

B. True worship is a response to the works of God.

[That is, we worship God because of what He has done/does. Psm 150:2 “Praise him for his acts of power.” ]

1。 God is to be worshiped because He is the Creator and Sustainer .

“You are worthy, our Lord and God, to receive glory and honor and power, for you created all things, and by your will they were created and have their being.” – Revelation 4:11

2。 God is to be worshiped because He is the Savior .

You were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your body. – 1 Corinthians 6:20

When a believer reflects upon God's work, it should cause him to worship God all the more.

C. True worship is inseparably linked to the Word of God .

People often think of worship merely as an emotional experience. While worship does affect one's emotions, it primarily depends upon the believer's knowledge of the Word of God. Apart from understanding the content of the Bible, true worship is impossible, for it is only in the Bible that the character and works of God are thoroughly explained.

Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom, and as you sing psalms, hymns and spiritual songs with gratitude in your hearts to God. And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him. Colossians 3:16 17

II。 The Means of Worship

[That is, how we worship. These are the ways we worship God. These activities emphasize or highlight God's character and thus display His worth/value.]

A. The believer worships God by confessing his sin .

Confession is the believer's acknowledgment of his sinfulness and God's holiness.

Then Joshua said to Achan, “My son, give glory to the LORD, the God of Israel, and give him the praise. Tell me what you have done; do not hide it from me.” Achan replied, “It is true! I have sinned against the LORD, the God of Israel.” – Joshua 7:19-20

Besides displaying God's holiness, confession of sin also displays God's grace.

If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness. 1 John 1:9

B. The believer worships God by living a godly life .

Believers should always be reflecting the character of God in the way they live.

In the same way, let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven. Matthew 5:18

[Cf also 1 Pet 2:12 Live such good lives among the pagans that, though they accuse you of doing wrong, they may see your good deeds and glorify God on the day he visits us. ]

C. The believer worships God by praying .

A significant part of the believer's prayer life should include praising God.

This, then, is how you should pray: “Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name.” Matthew 6:9

[“Hallowed” mean “to be made holy.” Thus, “may your name be recognized as being holy.” ]

Prayer is the believer's way of communicating with God. Besides praise, prayer includes confession, thanksgiving, and petition. Every aspect of prayer ultimately depends upon the believer's understanding of God's character. For example, confession of sin recognizes that God is both holy and gracious; praise recognizes God's greatness; thanksgiving recognizes God's goodness; and petition recognizes God's omnipotence and sovereignty.

D. The believer worships God by singing .

Singing has always been an important part of worship. The Bible contains a book of songs (the Psalms) which ascribe glory to God.

It is good to praise the LORD and make music to your name, O Most High, to proclaim your love in the morning and your faithfulness at night, to the music of the ten stringed lyre and the melody of the harp. Psalm 92:1 3

Shout for joy to the LORD, all the earth. Worship the LORD with gladness; come before him with joyful songs. Know that the LORD is God. It is he who made us, and we are his; we are his people, the sheep of his pasture. Psalm 100:1 3

III。 The Outgrowth of Worship

The natural result of worship is service . One of the Greek words for worship in the New Testament is often translated “service.” It was Paul's favorite word for worship because it emphasized its practical nature.

Therefore, I urge you, brothers, in view of God's mercy, to offer your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God this is your spiritual act of worship. Romans 12:1

IV。 Improper Worship

God is interested in the form worship takes. There are many forms of worship that God finds unacceptable. Sincerity and fervor do not “sanctify” an incorrect form of worship.

[It's amazing what passes for worship these days. Worship practices should be strictly limited by biblical principle. That is, what the Bible presents as worship should be our guide. Don't add or subtract from that standard.

From the Westminster Confession of Faith: The acceptable way of worshiping the true God is instituted by himself, and so limited by his own revealed will, that he may not be worshiped according to the imaginations and devices of men, or the suggestions of Satan, under any visible representation, or any other way not prescribed in the Holy Scripture.]

A. Idolatrous worship

[Aaron] took what they handed him and made it into an idol cast in the shape of a calf, fashioning it with a tool. Then they said, “These are your gods, O Israel, who brought you up out of Egypt.” – Exodus 32:4

Some people use statues, pictures, etc. as aids in their worship. Such a practice is forbidden in Scripture.

[For example, Catholics use lots of statues, Greek Orthodox use icons (pictures, engravings). It is likely that the Israelites were doing the same sort of thing: attempting to worship the true God thru this calf. Cf verse 5: "Tomorrow shall be a feast unto the LORD." Aaron was employing an illegitimate means of worshipping the true God. ]

You shall not make for yourself an idol in the form of anything in heaven above or on the earth beneath or in the waters below. You shall not bow down to them or worship them; for I, the LORD your God, am a jealous God. – Exodus 20:4-5

God is spirit, and his worshipers must worship in spirit and in truth. – John 4:24

[Note that worship must be "in truth." It doesn't matter how sincere worship is if it's not the right form or the right way.]

B. Disobedient worship

God does not accept worship that is not in keeping with the teaching of Scripture.

[The priests] confronted [Uzziah] and said, “It is not right for you, Uzziah, to burn incense to the LORD. That is for the priests, the descendants of Aaron, who have been consecrated to burn incense. Leave the sanctuary, for you have been unfaithful; and you will not be honored by the LORD God.” – 2 Chronicles 26:18

[This is an example of a king who attempted to do something good --burn incense to God-- which was unacceptable to God. The king had no right to burn incense; it was the priest's job. This tells us that even if one is trying to do a good thing, if he disobeys God's word in the process, it's wrong. How would this idea affect something like baptism? communion? evangelism? God does care about how we approach and serve him. We can't just do as we please. ]

C. Rebellious worship

God does not accept worship from rebellious people.

When you spread out your hands in prayer, I will hide my eyes from you; even if you offer many prayers, I will not listen. Your hands are full of blood; wash and make yourselves clean. Take your evil deeds out of my sight! Stop doing wrong, learn to do right! – Isaiah 1:15-17

[He's not talking here about sinful people, but about rebels. No Christian is perfect. If you are rebelling against God, it does no good to attend church, pray, give money, etc. "Worship" from rebellious people is worse than worthless; God hates it. CF。 Isa 1.11, 13-14: Your New Moons and festivals "my soul hates."]

D. Disorderly worship

God does not accept worship that is chaotic.

Everything should be done in a fitting and orderly way. – 1 Corinthians 14:40

[Organization and decorum should characterize a worship service. Many are anything but that. Eg, the "laughing revival," much of Charismaticism, even some fundamental churches lack orderliness. This is important because we serve a God of order. ]

Note: The context of the preceding verse finds Paul reprimanding the Corinthian Church for their improper worship practices.

Learning to Live It

1。 A friend of yours often talks about worshiping God. Yet, he has clear areas of disobedience to the Word of God in his life. What impact does disobedience have upon one's ability to truly worship?

It greatly hinders one's ability to worship. God does not accept the worship of disobedient or rebellious people. One may as well not bother.

あなたは彼に何を伝えればよいですか？

He needs to get right with God before worrying about worship. He's being a hypocrite. Furthermore, part of worship is living a godly life.

2。 You hear of a church where during the service some of the people mumble incoherently, some get up and dance around, and others lay on the floor laughing uncontrollably. Could this be called true worship? 理由は？

no; True worship is orderly, not chaotic (1 Cor 14:40).

なぜ私はここにいる？ 私は、神を崇拝する神の子供たちにサービスを提供し、失われたに到達するために、ここです。

教会の目的への導入

我々は、このボディがローカルアセンブリから構成され、これらの地方議会の目的は彼の言葉の省によって神に栄光をもたらすことであるとされていること、信者はキリストの身体の一部であることを二十四を通じて教訓に2 20を学びました。

教会の目的を決定して、我々は今その目的に対処するために、それらを達成する方法については移動することができます。 言い換えれば、"なぜ"の質問に答えたこと、私たちは"何を""どのように"質問に答える準備が整いました。 What should a local church be doing and how should it be doing it? 教化、伝道、そして拡大：大宣教命令は、教会のための3つの目的を与えることによって"何"という問いに答えます。 新約聖書の書簡は、これらの目的のそれぞれを満たす方法の詳細な説明を与えることによって"どのように"質問に答える。 教会の教義上でこの第二節では、地元の教会の目標に焦点を当てます。

レッスン25：教化の基礎 - 教育

前のレッスンでは、我々は地元の教会の3つの目的は、そのメンバー（ 教化 ）、失われた（ 福音 ）の救い、そしてその物理的及び人的資源の成長と管理（ 拡張 ）の精神的な成長であることを学びました。 これらの3つのうち、啓発が主です。 場所を取るために教化するために、地元の教会が追求すべき3つの活動があります。 これらは、 教育 、 礼拝 、 交わりです。

[Follow the flow: The purpose of the church is to glorify God through the ministry of the Word. We accomplish this purpose by means of edification, evangelism, and expansion. 教化は、教育、礼拝と交わりを通して生成されます。]

他の二つは、それの表現である一方、これらの[教育]の最初は、教化の基礎となるものです。 教育は教化の基礎であるという事実は、牧師の教育省があることをポールの声明の中で見られている

to prepare God's people for works of service, so that the body of Christ may be built up [edified] until we all reach unity in the faith and in the knowledge of the Son of God and become mature, attaining to the whole measure of the fullness of Christ. エペソ人への手紙4時12分13

このレッスンでは、我々は地元の教会で教育の次の側面を検討する。

1。 その性質 [それががどんなものか]

2。 その目標 [または目的]

3。 Its means [how it's purposes are to be fulfilled]

4。 その生徒たち [誰が教育を受けることになる]

I.地方教会における教育の自然[すなわち、どのようなED。 のようなものです]

地元の教会の教育省は、後継世代に聖書の教義の内容と実務の両方を教えて行います。

[つまり、教育の目的は、聖書によれば（コンテンツ）と何それについて、どのように（実際に）何をするべきかを教えることです。]

A.教育は、地元の教会の最優先事項です。

信者の教化は、地元の教会の主目的であり、教育は教化の基礎なので、一つは教育が地元の教会の最も重要な活動であると結論する必要があります。

[もちろん、一つ一つまで、教会の目的を達成することはできませんが、彼らが何であるかについて教育され、言い換えれば、それら、等を果たすためにどのように、教育は他のすべての前に置く必要があります。 CF 1ティム午前2時02分。]

地元の教会のB.教育は、 聖書の中心でなければなりません。

1。 聖書中心の教育は、 包括的です。

他人を無視して唯一の聖書の選択された教えを目指した地元の教会では、アンバランスとの教義上の誤りに対して脆弱です。

のために私はあなたに神の全体の意志を宣言するために躊躇していない。 夜08時27行為

2。 聖書中心の教育は、 神学です。

教育は、事実の暗記だけではありません。 事実の知識は貴重ですが、聖書中心の教育は、聖書トリビアバフを生成するためのものではありません。 むしろ、それは聖書の真理を相互に関連付けて適切に適用できる信者を生み出すことを目的としています。

聖書の真実の[相関は、体系的神学の目標です。 それは、聖書の全体的な教育がさま​​ざまなトピックに関するされているものを見分けることを目指しています。 ]

地元の教会でのC.教育は、 実用的でなければなりません。

多くは教義が非現実的であると信じています。 しかし、ポールはちょうど反対のことを信じていた。

すべて聖書は、神が神の人は徹底的にすべての良い仕事のために装備されるように、霊感と教育のために有用であり、戒め、正しくし、義の訓練です。 2テモテ3:16 17

一つ信じるもの一つが何に影響するため、教義には非常に重要です。 正しい教義はより頻繁以上の練習を訂正するリードではない。

[誰かがかつて、"アイデアが結果を持っている"と述べた。 これは本当です。 ほとんどのアクションは、信念に由来している。 右/正しく行動するためには、人は正しく理解しておく必要があります。 不適切な信念は、不適切な慣行につながる。 例：舌/癒し/健康と - 富、など]

II。 地元の教会での教育の目標

地元の教会でのA.教育は神学的な安定性を生み出すように設計されています。

エペソ人への手紙4時13分に、ポールは教育教会の啓発につながる教育者として牧師を説明します。 次の詩で、彼は安定性でその教化の結果を示しています。

その後、我々はもはや幼児できなくなります、波によって前後に投げ、そして教育のあらゆる風と狡猾さと彼らのうそをつく陰謀の男性のずる賢さであちこち吹き。 Ephesians 4:14

あなたが正しい教義を理解している場合[、あなたは誤った教義を見つけることができなければ、とはるかに少ない、それを受け入れる可能性が高いでしょう。 私たちは、聖書の識別、それは本当に聖書であるかどうかを判断するためのアイデアを評価する能力を開発する必要があります。 ]

地元の教会のB.教育は、 変換された思考を生成するように設計されています。

あなたの心の態度で新しい行われる;あなたは、その偽りの欲望によって破壊されている古い自己を、延期する、生命のあなたの前の道に関しては、教えられたと、新しい自己を置くために、するために作成真の正義とホーリネスの神のようになります。 エペソ人への手紙4時22 24

信者が正しく神の言葉を教えているときに、彼の思考が変換される[ROM 12:1-2]。 その結果、彼は差別心を持つことになります。 "差別"は何かについての評価または査定を行うことを意味します。 単語は私達の社会で否定的な意味合いを持っているが、適切な差別​​は、精神的な成長のマークです。 それは神の言葉に照らしてすべてのものを評価する能力です。

精神的な人間はすべてのものについての判断を行います。 1コリント2：15

[私たちはこの種の差別と呼んでいる？ A Bible-soaked logic or a biblical mindset. それは、聖書の原則に基づいて評価し、意思決定、です。]

地元の教会でのC.教育は、 信者を装備するように設計されています。

教育/学習プロセスは、それ自体が目的であることを意図されていません。 それは信者が主に仕えるために準備されるという意味になるはず。

It was he who gave some to be . 。 。 牧師や教師は、奉仕の働きのために神の民を準備する。 エペソ人への手紙4時11分12

III。 地元の教会での教育の手段

地元の教会でのA.教育は、 正式な命令を介して実行されます。

1。 正式な命令は聖書の真実の権威あるプレゼンテーションを行います。

初期の教会の教えは、権威だった。 つまり、使徒たちの説教は、強力な直接、と妥協した。 説教のこのスタイルは、我々の社会で不評です。 しかし、神の言葉は、正式にそうすることが不人気の場合でも、説教されている必要があります。

[Titus 2:15 – “Encourage and rebuke with all authority.”]

2。 正式な命令は、 アセンブリ内で行われます。

以前に学習したように、単語"教会"は、"アセンブリ"または意味する"会衆を。"教会は他のもののうち、説教神のことばを聞くために組み立てる。

週の最初の日に私たちはパンを破るために一緒に来た。 彼は翌日残すことを目的とするため、ポールは深夜まで話に保持さ、、人々に話し、。 -行為20：07

[これは、教会のすべてについての主要なものの一つです。 教会の説教/教育の側面が非常に重要なので、それはあなたが牧師が正しく聖書を教える教会に出席することが重要です。]

地元の教会のB.教育は、 非公式命令によって実現されます。

1。 非公式の命令は、 個人的な関係を介して行われます。

ローカル教会のメンバーが定期的に組み立てることであることを理由の一部は、関係を開発することです。 Believers learn from one another by exhortation and example .

[忠告は言葉である（説教、クラス、証言、など）、例では（他の人が見るとあなたの行動によって影響を受けている）非言語的である。 ]

そして私たちが愛と善行に向かって上の1つ別のを促進させることができる方法を考えてみましょう。 私たちはいくつかがおこなう癖を持っているとして、一緒に出会いをあきらめるわけにはいきませんが、私たちはお互いとする日が近づいて見るようにすべての続きを奨励することができます。 Hebrews 10:24 25

[ほとんどの私たちのは、例によって多くを学ぶ。 大人があなたの例ですと、あなたはより若いものに例であることに注意してください。]

2。 非公式の命令は、 家族[または家族]を介して行われます の関係。

私は今日あなたに与えることこれらの戒めは、あなたの心になるためです。 あなたの子供にそれらを印象づける。 自宅で座って、あなたが起きたとき、あなたが横になる時、道に沿って歩くとするとき。際に、それらについての講演 申命記6時06 7

父親は、あなたの子供をイライラさせるのではなく、主の訓練や命令でそれらを起動します。 エペソ人への手紙6：04

地元の教会の教育省は、このタスクを達成するために両親を装備しています。

[強力な家族が強力な教会の基礎となります。 したがって、強い家族を促進するために、教会の最善の利益になります。]

IV。 地元の教会での教育の学生

A. すべてのローカル教会のメンバーは学生です。

新約聖書の信者のための同義語の1つは、 学習者を意味する"弟子"です。 学習は、したがって、すべての信者の追求でなければなりません。

新生児のように、それによってあなたはあなたの救いの中で育つことができるように、純粋な精神的なミルクを切望する。 1ピーター2時02分

["すべては"代を含みます。 あなたは教会で聖書の真実を学ぶことを真剣にする必要があります。 あなたが他の科目についての無関心/無関心かもしれないが、それは聖書の命令に来るときには熱心な、真剣な学生である必要があります。 ]

生徒のためのB.の提案

1。 忠実に教会に出席。

2。 聖書を毎日読み、勉強する。

3。 説教中にメモを取る。

4。 あなたが他の人と学習しているかを話し合う。

5。 聖書に、音の文学を読んでください。

6。 教育の機会を活用してください。

7。 このような聖書学院のクラスのような他の聖書に、音学習の機会、に参加してください。

それをライブに学ぶ

1。 仲間の若者のグループのメンバーは、私は自分で勉強しない"と言う。 私の青年リーダーが、彼 ​​は私が必要とするすべてを与えるような素晴らしい先生です。"これは健全な態度ですか？ なし

何がそのような態度の危険性のあるでしょうか？

青少年リーダーの葉場合はどうなりますか？ 若者のリーダーが間違っている場合はどうなりますか？ あなたは彼/彼女にエラーに従ってください。 あなたの"餌"に他の誰かに依存になる。 あなたは自分自身を"フィード"することはできません。

あなたは彼に何を伝えればよいですか？

彼はになるために必要があること、"セルフフィーダー。"彼はリーダー時に過度に依存すべきではない。

2。 あなたは仲間の若者のグループのメンバーは自分のクラスはすぐに、より"実用的"な問題に移動するために、教義上の調査を終えるだろう望んでいることを聞く。 どのような偽の結論は、彼が行っている？

その教義実用的でない場合、または重要でないということ

What might you tell him about the relationship between doctrine and practice?

彼らは切り離せない- Doctrineは練習が決定です。 Incorrect practice is the result of incorrect belief. 心（信念が）意志（行動）を指示します。 彼は練習についてであるとして彼は、教義についてはそれほど心配する必要があります。

Lesson 24: The Role of the Church as a Local Assembly

In Lesson Twenty-Three, we learned that the body of Christ is made up of all believers in this dispensation, the church age, and was established to bring glory to God through the ministry of His Word. This “invisible” body is visible through local assemblies. Of the 114 occurrences of the Greek word ekklesia in the New Testament, 99 refer to the local church. These assemblies are organizations designed to carry out the objectives of the body of Christ. Apart from the local church, these objectives cannot be accomplished properly . This lesson will focus on the organization of the local church, which includes:

[This lesson has to do with the local church, not the universal. ]

1. Administrative responsibilities

2。 Leadership offices

3。 Specific ordinances

4. Membership requirements

5。 Biblical limitations

I. The Local Church is an Organization with Administrative Responsibilities.

The church of the first century is often viewed as being free from administrative details. This, however, was not the case.

A. The early church engaged in ministry planning .

Meetings were a necessary part of the ministry of first century churches. The book of Acts indicates that administrative meetings were held to address the following issues:

1。 Acts 6 – The problem of service to widows

2。 Acts 11 – The question of whether or not to accept Gentiles into the church

3。 Acts 13 – The commissioning of the first missionaries

4。 Acts 15 – The question of what requirements should be placed on Gentile converts

B. The early church developed procedures for implementing its plans.

The early church not only discussed what needed to be done, but also determined how to accomplish, or implement, its plans. For example, when they met to address the problem of service to the widows in the church, they solved the problem by creating the office of deacon .

So the Twelve gathered all the disciples together and said, “It would not be right for us to neglect the ministry of the word of God in order to wait on tables. Brothers, choose seven men from among you who are known to be full of the Spirit and wisdom. We will turn this responsibility over to them. Acts 6:2 3 (See also Acts 15:22 30.)

C. The early church engaged in evaluation . [Ie, checking to see how everything is working and trying to make it work better.]

At the close of Paul's first missionary journey (Acts 13 14), he and Barnabas returned to the Church at Antioch [the commissioning church, Acts 13:1-3] and presented the details of their ministry among the Gentiles.

On arriving there, they gathered the church together and reported all that God had done through them and how he had opened the door of faith to the Gentiles. 午後02時27分行為

The meeting of the Jerusalem Council recorded in Acts 15 was designed to further evaluate the information presented to the Church at Antioch.

The whole assembly became silent as they listened to Barnabas and Paul telling about the miraculous signs and wonders God had done among the Gentiles through them. Acts 15:12

[Thus we should evaluate ourselves and our ministries periodically to see if we are hitting what we are aiming at.]

II。 The Local Church is an Organization with Leadership Offices.

A. The office of pastor

1。 The titles of the office

The office of pastor is described with a variety of titles, each emphasizing a different aspect of the one office.

A. He is called the pastor . [comes from "shepherd"]

This title refers to the pastor's responsibility to care for the spiritual needs of the congregation, a responsibility he fulfills primarily through the preaching and teaching of the Word of God.

B. He is called the overseer . [Gk episkopos = bishop = the boss]

This title refers to the administrative oversight that the pastor is to exercise. He is to set the agenda for the church's ministry and lead the church in accomplishing its objectives.

[God holds the pastor especially responsible for what goes on at the church he pastors. Oversight means management. The pastor is in charge, not the deacons, the secretary, etc. That does not mean that he is free to be a tyrant, tho.]

C. He is called the elder . [Gk = presbuteros]

This title refers to the wisdom and experience of the pastor and the respect that the office should be given.

[We ought to respect the pastor. That's one of the reasons we don't call him by his first name. 1 Thes 5:12-13 tell us to avoid young, inexperienced pastors. ]

Paul's address to the pastors at Ephesus contains all three ideas.

From Miletus, Paul sent to Ephesus for the elders of the church. When they arrived, he said to them, “. 。 。 Keep watch over yourselves and all the flock of which the Holy Spirit has made you overseers. Be shepherds of the church of God, which he bought with his own blood. Acts 20:17-28 (See also 1 Peter 5:1-2.)

[The three terms, pastor, elder, and overseer, are synonymous, referring to the same office. The episcopal form of church government sets up a bishop over local pastors. ]

2。 The qualifications for the office

The qualifications for the pastor are listed in 1 Timothy 3. This list gives both personal and professional qualifications.

[Personal -- inner qualities, characteristics, "character." Professional -- abilities pertaining to the duties of pastor.]

Now the overseer must be above reproach, the husband of but one wife, temperate, self controlled, respectable, hospitable, able to teach, not given to drunkenness, not violent but gentle, not quarrelsome, not a lover of money. He must manage his own family well and see that his children obey him with proper respect. (If anyone does not know how to manage his own family, how can he take care of God's church?) He must not be a recent convert, or he may become conceited and fall under the same judgment as the devil. He must also have a good reputation with outsiders, so that he will not fall into disgrace and into the devil's trap. 1 Timothy 3:2 7

[Note that there's nothing here about being funny, a dynamic speaker, a "people person," etc. Those qualities are nice but not primary and really not necessary.]

3。 The responsibilities of the office

A. The pastor is responsible to teach and preach the Word of God.

Until I come, devote yourself to the public reading of Scripture, to preaching and to teaching. 1 Timothy 4:13

[The public reading was important because many couldn't read and most did not own a copy of the Bible. Often the pastor was the most educated person in the community. ]

Preach the Word; be prepared in season and out of season; correct, rebuke and encourage with great patience and careful instruction. 2 Timothy 4:2

[This is the primary task of the preacher. This is so because the rest of his duties depend on this one.]

B. The pastor is responsible to equip the congregation for ministry.

It was [Christ] who gave some to be . 。 。 pastors and teachers, to prepare God's people for works of service, so that the body of Christ may be built up. エペソ人への手紙4時11分12

C. The pastor is responsible to govern the congregation.

Now we ask you, brothers, to respect those who work hard among you, who [govern] you in the Lord and who admonish you. 1 Thessalonians 5:12

The elders who direct the affairs of the church well are worthy of double honor. 1 Timothy 5:17

[Because of these responsibilities, the pastor has a great deal of authority. He's the one in charge. The deacons don't run the church; the pastor(s) does.]

B. The office of deacon

1。 The title of the office

The word “deacon” simply means servant . The Scriptures use the word in a general sense for anyone who serves another and in a specific sense for the local church office of deacon.

2。 The qualifications for the office

1 Timothy 3 lists qualifications for the office of deacon similar to those given for the office of pastor.

Deacons, likewise, are to be men worthy of respect, sincere, not indulging in much wine, and not pursuing dishonest gain. They must keep hold of the deep truths of the faith with a clear conscience. They must first be tested; and then if there is nothing against them, let them serve as deacons. A deacon must be the husband of but one wife and must manage his children and his household well. 1 Timothy 3:8 10, 12

Note: The personal qualifications listed in 1 Timothy 3 are not special qualities found only in pastors and deacons. They are marks of mature believers. Therefore, all believers should be striving after them.

3。 The responsibilities of the office

Unlike the office of pastor, the Bible does not clearly spell out the responsibilities of the deacon. Therefore, they must be derived from the title of the office and the example of the first deacons. In Acts 6, the first deacons were selected to minister to the congregation in order to free the pastoral staff to focus on more important matters.

We will turn this responsibility over to them and will give our attention to prayer and the ministry of the word. Acts 6:3 4

[Biblically, deacons are not in a position of authority; however, authority may be delegated to them. The primary task of deacons is to serve.]

III。 The Local Church is an Organization with Specific Ordinances.

A. The nature of an ordinance

1。 An ordinance is not a sacrament .

Sacraments are intended to provide saving grace. However, if grace was linked to any work or ritual, it would cease to be grace. [Cf Rom 11:6]

[An ordinance is a rite or ritual that the church is responsible to administrate. Such ordinances are important and meaningful, but they have no saving value. The word “sacrament” suggests a means of grace or a work that saves. Since we are not saved by works, we avoid sacramental language.]

2。 An ordinance is a symbol .

When Christ gave the ordinances, He intended them to serve as reminders of the spiritual truths which they portray.

For I received from the Lord what I also passed on to you: The Lord Jesus, on the night he was betrayed, took bread, and when he had given thanks, he broke it and said, “This is my body, which is for you; do this in remembrance of me.” In the same way, after supper he took the cup, saying, “this cup is the new covenant in my blood; do this, whenever you drink it, in remembrance of me.” 1 Corinthians 11:23 25

[A symbol is representative, designed to bring to memory the thing represented. ]

B. The ordinances of the local church

1。 The ordinance of baptism

A. The method of baptism is immersion .

The Greek word which is translated “baptize” literally means “to immerse” or “to submerge.” Every instance of baptism in Scripture is by immersion.

Then both Philip and the eunuch went down into the water and Philip baptized him. When they came up out of the water, . 。 。 。 Acts 8:38 39

[So when a baby is "baptized" by sprinkling, he is really not baptized.]

B. The purpose of baptism is identification .

Baptism is to be carried out in the “name” of the triune God. The significance of the “name” is that of identification. The one being baptized is visibly picturing his identification with the triune God through Christ.

Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. Matthew 28:19

[Baptism publicly identifies one as a follower of Christ. It says of the one baptized, "I am a disciple of Christ."]

2。 The ordinance of the Lord's Supper

A. It is a reminder of the cross work of Christ.

[By "cross work," we mean all that Christ accomplished by his death on the cross for us.]

For whenever you eat this bread and drink this cup, you proclaim the Lord's death until he comes. 1 Corinthians 11:26

B. It is a time of self examination .

A man ought to examine himself before he eats of the bread and drinks of the cup. 1 Corinthians 11:28

C. The authority for the ordinances

The authority for the carrying out of the ordinances lies with the local church .

[That is, not just anybody can legitimately go out and start baptizing people or serving the Lord's Supper. Eg, baptisms at camp, Lord's supper of potato chips and pop, serving communion in a hospital, etc. are not valid. They have to be done in the right way and in the context of the church.]

1。 The command to observe the ordinances was given to the apostles (Matthew 26:26-29 and 28:16-20).

The apostles were given the task of laying the foundation of the church (Ephesians 2:20).

2。 The ordinances were practiced in the context of the local church.

Those who accepted his message were baptized, and about three thousand were added to their number that day. They devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching and to the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer. Acts 2:41-42

[Christ ? apostles ? church ]

3。 The early church was responsible to correct improper observance of the ordinances (1 Corinthians 11:17 34).

IV。 The Local Church is an Organization with Membership Requirements.

The early church believed in the importance of church membership. The New Testament knows nothing of believers who are not members of a local church. The book of Acts speaks of believers being added to the church through baptism. Even more clearly, there are examples of people being removed from the church by action of the local assembly (Matthew 18:15 17 and 1 Corinthians 5). One cannot be removed from a church unless he is a member of that church.

Requirements for church membership include the following:

A. Church members are saved .

Only those who are saved may become members of a local church. This was the practice of the church from the beginning.

And the Lord added to their number daily those who were being saved. Acts 2:47

B. Church members are baptized by immersion .

On the Day of Pentecost, three thousand people responded in faith to the message preached by Peter. All three thousand were baptized shortly thereafter.

Those who accepted his message were baptized, and about three thousand were added to their number that day. Acts 2:41

Therefore, church membership and believer's baptism should not be separated. One becomes a member of a local church through baptism.

[The biblical pattern is always being saved, then baptized and added to the church. Believers who refuse baptism are out of order. ]

C. Church members are living obediently .

The early church practiced church discipline. Those members who persisted in sin were to be dismissed from the assembly. Thus, in order to remain a member of a local church, one must live obediently.

It is actually reported that there is sexual immorality among you, and of a kind that does not occur even among pagans: A man has his father's wife. And you are proud! Shouldn't you rather have been filled with grief and have put out of your fellowship the man who did this? “Expel the wicked man from among you.” – 1 Corinthians 5:1-2, 13

V. The Local Church is an Organization with Biblical Limitations.

Local churches are engaged in a great variety of activities. Some are appropriate and some are not. What limitations can be applied to help identify appropriate activities for the church? An understanding of why the church exists and what it is to do will help determine how it should minister.

A. The local church is limited to the objectives of the Great Commission .

Lesson Twenty Three identified the objectives of the church as presented in the Great Commission. 彼らは以下のとおりです。

1。 啓発

Edification is the process of building up the believer's life on the foundation of Jesus Christ.

2。 伝道

Evangelism is the effort to see people saved, baptized, and become active members of a local church.

[Evangelism does not stop short at one's profession of faith. It extends to baptism and spiritual growth. The church should strive to win people to Christ, baptize them, and encourage them to grow as Christians. ]

3。 拡張

Expansion is the growth and management of the church's physical and human resources. This is necessary for ongoing edification and evangelism.

Note: All the activities of the local church must be consistent with these objectives. Any activity, however beneficial, which is not consistent with these objectives should be avoided.

B. The local church is limited by the purpose of the body of Christ.

We learned in Lesson Twenty Two that the purpose of the body of Christ is to glorify God through the ministry of His Word. The application of this purpose will limit the activities of the church in two ways.

1。 The activities of the church must reflect the character of God.

To “glorify” God means to demonstrate or make known His character. When this purpose is consciously pursued, the methods of church ministry will be evaluated in light of God's holy character. Consequently, church is no place for frivolous or worldly activities.

[The church building may be used for lots of different events. But when it comes to the worship service, it should be characterized by holiness and reverence and awe. ]

2。 The activities of the church will center around the Word of God .

Every function of the church must provide either a means to proclaim the Word or a means to obey the Word.

それをライブに学習

1。 A friend of yours tells you that there are three churches that he really likes and that he has decided to attend one on Sunday morning, the second on Sunday evening, and the third on Wednesday evening. How does your friend view the concept of church membership?

not very seriously. If he sees it as optional, he misunderstands.

What might you tell your friend to convince him that he needs to be faithful to one church?

The New Testament underscores the need to become a member of a local church, and membership implies commitment.

2。 One Sunday afternoon, your little brother wonders why the family has to go to the business meeting at church that night. What “words of wisdom” might you give him?

Business meetings are a necessary part of local church ministry and help a church function more effectively and efficiently. All members should attend. All members should be concerned about how the church is spending money, what they plan to do, who they support, etc. You could say that those 4 meetings in Acts discussed earlier were business meetings. NOTE: Even teens who are members should stay for business meetings.