第23课：教会作为基督的身体中的作用

的希腊字ekklesia，意思是“教会”，是用两种方式在新约。 这是最经常被用来描述地方议会的信徒。

[这是绝大多数的用途。 只有少数不适合这一类。]

它也可用于集体观念来形容这个年龄段的所有信徒 。 这个单词的第二个使用的一个常用语是“ 基督的身体。”基督的身体是在本福音，教会时代所有的信徒组成。

[比照“基督的身体”弗1:22-23，5:23。 虽然我们相信在普世教会，我们也相信，在当地教会的首要地位。 根据NT的模式，每一个信徒应积极参与当地教会。 有没有这样的事情“自由浮动”基督教。 所有部委应根据当地教会的主持下进行。]

在这一课中，我们将学习基督的身体，在以下几个方面：

1。 基督的身体的时候

2。 [范围或程度上] 基督的身体

3。 基督的身体的装备

一基督的身体的时候：它是有限的教会时代 。

解释圣经的方法之一，认为以色列的旧约国家和新约教会之间没有显著差异。

[这就是所谓的“公约”的神学。 他们强调了公约的情侣（工程，宽限期），但OT以色列和新台币教会之间没有真正的区别 。 我们相信，在时代论的神学，这使得两者之间的明确区分。 ]

然而，根据这一方针，以色列视为“ 教会在旧约”和“ 新以色列”圣经教会，一贯的意见，从以色列单独的教会。

答：教会是独立的 ，因为它的起源来自以色列。

1。 以色列的起源

以色列国开始，当主单挑亚伯兰（后来改名为亚伯拉罕）和他的后裔，以保佑他们。 神对亚伯兰的呼叫建立以色列的种族身份。

[因种族，我们的意思是民族的。 也就是说，犹太人是一个种族群体。 许多犹太不仅仅是一个宗教;这是他们的种族]。

耶和华说，亚伯兰，“离开贵国，贵国人民和你父亲的家庭去的土地，我会告诉你 。 我必使你成为一个伟大的的民族，我会保佑你的。“创世记12:1 2

主后来组织成一个民族的亚伯拉罕的后裔。 这发生在西奈山通过摩西与法“赋予的地方。 正是这一法律，建立了以色列的政治身份。

[犹太人在山成为以色列人的民族。 西奈半岛。 该法是喜欢他们的宪法-它管辖几乎生活的各个方面 。 有没有“政教”分离。 罪对国家的越轨行为。 此外，“以色列”在“圣经”通常是指民族，国家以色列。]

2。 教会的起源

二十二课中了解到， 五旬节教会开始。 与以色列不同的是，教会是既不是种族，也不是政治性质，它跨越了所有种族和政治的界限。[比照加拉太3:28]

B.教会是从以 ​​色列，因为其目标 [即，它的目标，目的不同。]

1。 以色列的目标

神对以色列的目标主要是国家和政治 。

你会为我作祭司的国度，一个神圣的民族。 出埃及记19:6（亦见申命记7:6和26:19。）

2。 教会的目标

上帝教会的目标主要是个人和精神。

而是强调国家认同，教会被描述为一组的人与天上的公民。

但是，我们的公民是在天堂 。 腓3:20

[当心一种叫“基督教重建派”。 他们寻求强加给文官政府旧约的道德准则 。 不是说gov't不能使用重建。 但以色列的法律适用于以色列作为一个国家。 此外，该法是一个单位。 你不能拉你喜欢的，忘记其余的部分。 ]

C.教会是从以 ​​色列，因为它的命运截然不同。

1。 以色列的命运

以色列是注定要成为各国在千年王国的头。 国家之间的优势地位的这一立场将是亚伯拉罕和大卫所作的承诺的履行。

作为世世代代永远的约我和你和你的后裔后，我将建立我的约，是你的上帝和神之后，你的后裔 。 整个迦南，你现在所在的外来的土地，我会给你和你的后裔后作为一个永恒的占有;我要作他们的神。 创世记17:7 8

耶和华向你昭示，主必亲自建立一个为你的房子：当你的日子已经结束了，你休息你的父亲，我会提高您成功，您的后代，将来自你自己的身体 ，我将建立他的王国。 你的房子和你的王国将永垂不朽在我面前;永远将建立你的宝座。 2塞缪尔7:11 12 16

2。 教会的命运

教会将参加在千禧年国度，但比以色列将执行不同的功能。 教会是注定要与基督作为他的合作摄政统治王国。

[教会将有一个以上的旧约信徒的位置 。 教会圣人规则/在工厂与基督的统治 。 旧约信徒不会做到这一点。]

他得胜的，我会坐下来与我，我的宝座上，正如我克服和坐在他的宝座上与我的父亲的权利 。 -启示录3:21

注意：当“圣经”是指“上帝的王国”，“天国”等，它是指基督的未来，尘世的统治，而不是基督信徒心中的现行规则。

二。 基督的身体的范围：它是通用的。

基督的身体，有时也被称为普遍的或无形的教会。 少数神学家否认现实的普遍的或无形的教会，相信每一个在新约教会的引用是指本地组装。 虽然这是事实，ekklesia在新约中的大多数用途是指当地的教堂，有几个不能仅限于本地装配的单词出现。

[或在一般的教会，作为一个机构。 ]

神放置在他的脚下的一切事物，并任命他是高于一切教会，这是他的身体，丰满的人罢了，一切以各种方式对他的头部。 以弗所书1:22 23（见歌罗西书1:18，24。）

答：它是普遍的，因为它的组成。

正如以前学过的的，在这个年龄段的所有信徒与基督团结，因为精神的洗礼[林前 12:13 ]。 这意味着，教会，基督的身体，是每一个信徒组成。 新约圣经使用许多图像来描述基督信徒之间的关系。 这些描述也证明了普遍范围的身体。

1。 教会是一个身体 ，基督是头 。

而且，他的身体，教会的头。 歌罗西书1:18

2。 教会是一个建筑 ，其中基督是基石 。

[]使徒和先知的基础上建立与基督耶稣自己作为行政的基石， 。 在他的整个建设结合在一起，并上升到成为主的圣殿。 以弗所书2:20 21

3。 教会是新娘 ，其中基督是新郎 。

对于羔羊的婚礼来了，和他的新娘自己准备。 启示录19:7

4。 教会是一个羊群 ，其中基督是牧羊人 。

您的关怀下，是上帝的羊群的牧羊人，作为监督员 。 。 。 正在羊群的例子 。 行政牧羊人出现时，您会收到永不消逝的荣耀冠冕。 1彼得5:2 4

5。 教会是分支机构 ，其中基督是葡萄树 。

我是葡萄树，你们是枝子。 如果一个人在我和我在他的遗体，他将承担多少水果，除了我之外，你可以做什么。 约翰15时05分

B.它是普遍的，因为它的目标。

教会的目标是在大委员会 。

于是耶稣前来，对他们说：“在天上和地上的所有的权柄都赐给我了。 所以你们要去，使所有国家的弟子，他们在父亲的姓名和子和圣灵施洗，教训他们遵守我所吩咐你们的一切。 和肯定，我常与你们同在，年龄的。“马修 28:18 20

该委员会给出了三个教会的目标：

1。 启迪保存（“教学，”20节）

2。 福音丢失的（“弟子，”第19节）

3， 扩大在世界各地（“所有国家，”第19节）

注：虽然这些都是普遍的目标，他们通过当地教会进行。 本主题将处理更充分地在未来的教训。

三。 装备基督的身体：它是为部配备。

答：教会是装备部，因为它的消息。

作为神的启示全部收件人，新约教会的需要，以满足其所有目标。

圣经都是神的呼出，是有用的教学，责备，纠正和培训正气，使上帝的人可能是彻底地为每一个良好的工作配备 。 -提摩太后书3:16-17

[不像以前的特许，在教会时代的信徒整个的启示。 更多信息意味着更多的责任。]

B.教会是装备部，因为其成员 。

上帝在他的主权已形成身体的信徒，其中每一个有个人能力 。 因此，基督的身体的每个成员其他成员的补充，使身体有效地发挥作用。

正如我们每个人都有许多委员一具尸体，这些成员并不都具有相同的功能，在基督里，我们许多形成一体，和每个成员属于所有其他。 罗马书12:4 5

每个人应该使用任何礼物，他已收到为他人服务，忠实地管理各种形式的神的恩典 。 如果有人说话，作为一个讲神的话，他应该做的。 如果有人服务，他应该做的神提供的强度，使神在所有的事情可能是通过耶稣基督的称赞 。 他是永永远远的荣耀和权力 。 阿门。 1彼得4:10 11

注：重要的是要记住，这些不同的成员函数是合法的，只有通过当地教会的背景下。

学习生活

1。 有些神学家声称，教会在旧约开始。 出现这样的情况吗？

为什么或为什么不呢？

在新约圣经（使徒2），直到五旬节教会没有开始。

2。 许多基督教领袖最近主张，教会有责任积极参与政治的想法。 政治行动教会的目标之一吗？

应在参与政治进程的教堂吗？

不，不是教堂。 教会的领导可以而且应该告知他们的人民，并呼吁他们是活跃的，但作为一个组织的教会有不同的目标/目的不是政治运动。

如果个别的基督徒？

是的，凭借其公民 基督徒应该成为好公民。 他们应该投票，被通知，大堂，等

我为什么在这里？ 我在这里把荣耀归给神通过他的话语部。

教会的目的

耶稣基督的教会受到不利影响的文化中，它的存在的价值。 因此，许多地方教会勉强类似于教会基督，建立在新约的使徒的格局。 虽然大多数信徒都是一个地方教会的一部分，很少有人了解其真正的性质。 很多人认为教会作为一个福利机构，娱乐中心，或社会俱乐部。 神的人之间的这种混乱，这也难怪世界认为教会无关。 只要信徒在这样一个混乱的状态，他们不能正确地回答这个问题，“我为什么在这里？”信徒的生活中的目的是密不可分教会的目的。 因此，基督徒必须接受一个教会的圣经哲学。 这个教会的教义（或教会学）的研究将提出这样一个理念，开始新约教会的目的。

第22课：教会在历史的地方

神对人类的整个历史上曾透露关于自己的信息。 此信息包含在“圣经”。 在当今时代，神是教会宣布他的启示，人的手段。 教训二十到二十四将审查教会的目的，开始此基础课，侧重于：

1。 历史的本质

2。 历史的发展

3。 当代历史

一，历史的本质

A.历史有一个明确的计划 。

有人教，历史是产品的机会 ，那就是，事情就发生没有解释或理由。 这种想法往往会导致悲观的无意义感。

[为什么这是真的吗 ？ 没有什么能真正使任何区别。 如果一切仅仅是偶然和随机的情况下，那么就不会有任何没有实际意义。 这将导致一个非常令人失望，沮丧的态度。 ]

然而，“圣经”，提出了一个历史的非常不同的看法。

记得以前的事，不久前，我的上帝，没有任何其他的，我的上帝，有没有像我这样的。 让我知道从一开始就结束，从远古时代，是什么还在后面。 我说：我的目的会的立场，我将尽我请。 从东，我召唤的猛禽，一个人从遥远的土地，以满足我的目的。 我曾经说过，我会带来什么，我有计划，那将怎么办 。 以赛亚书46:9 11

从这段话中，我们看到：

1. 历史已经建立在神的心意。

[上帝知道所有的事情一次。 有没有“未来”与神-他是永恒的。 因此，尚未发生的事件，相信这样做完全一样的神已计划它们发生。 ]

2. 历史是神的计划 outworking。

[事件发生，因为他们是神的计划的一部分 。 一切都发生这种情况，最平凡，微小的细节，是该计划的一部分 。 比照 弗1:11]

B.历史有一个终极目标 ：基督的国度。

也就是说，历史最终将/与基督千年统治的结束 。 这是历史正朝着这目标。]

一些宗教团体认为，历史是周期性的。 也就是说，他们认为相同的历史模式，重复自己，在无休止的循环。 这种思想否认有一个在人类历史上达到的目标。 然而，历史的圣经的看法是线性的。 这两种观点可以可视化如下：

1。 历史事件正在朝着既定的目标计划和有序。

而他知道他的将之谜，根据他的美意，在基督里，他purposed要付诸实施，当时 ​​代将达到其履行带来一个头下，在天堂和地球上所有的东西放在一起， 甚至基督。 以弗所书1:9 10

2。 历史的目标是基督的王国。

当基督来的第一次，他宣布了一个王国的消息。 他提出，作为自己实现完美的先知，祭司和国王，旧约弥赛亚预言。 该消息被拒绝的犹太人在神的计划。 即使在他的阿森松，弟子仍有望基督设置他的王国（徒1:6）。 基督将这样做时，他又来了。

C.历史有一个单一的目的 ：神的荣耀。

有的认为线性认为是没有圣经的历史。 他们偏离圣经的看法，当涉及到的目的。 所有的历史伪劣解释遭受同样的漏洞，他们有一个人对一切事物的中心目的。 圣经的历史，始终是其目的为中心的神。 神学家称此 doxological的历史观点（从希腊字 DOXA，意思是“荣耀” ）。 这是信仰，上帝在历史工程，使他的性格，他的生物，所以，他将得到他们的好评。

1。 宇宙是上帝带来荣耀。

从他身上，并通过他和他的所有的东西。 他永远的荣耀！ 阿门。 罗马书11时36

2。 男人的所有活动都带来荣耀归给神。

所以，不管你吃或喝，无论你做什么，做神的荣耀。 1哥林多前书“10:31

3。 救恩的工作是把荣耀归给神。

他注定我们要通过通过耶稣基督他的儿子按照他很高兴，并会赞美他荣耀的恩典。 弗1:5（以弗所书1:11-12。）

注：有人可能认为，神得荣耀的愿望是自私的，因此，不当。 然而，上帝，不像我们，这样的赞美是无限值得 。 因为他是值得的，上帝的正义要求，他寻求他自己的荣耀。

[请记住，正义的要求，良好的予以奖励。 由于没有寻求更高的事情，神寻求自己的荣耀。 ]

一个响亮的声音，他们唱道：“值得一提的是羔羊，被杀害，获得权力和财富的智慧和力量，荣誉和荣耀和赞美！”启示录 5:12

[是什么“神的荣耀”？ 基本上，它是上帝的属性的总和 。 由于没有较高的比神自己，上帝可以寻求高于他自己的荣耀 。 为他寻求别的将是错误的。]

二。 历史的发展

神用不同的方式来完成他的计划。 这些不同的方式被称为“ 特许 ”。免除是一个管理安排 。 圣经字包含管理或管理的理念。

[管家是一个经理，像约瑟在波提乏的房子。 免除神如何处理与人在不同阶段的描述 。 例如，上帝与亚当和夏娃处理不同于他与亚伯拉罕，神处理大卫王不同于他与我们一样。 有不同的要求和不同的祝福你正在谈论什么省却的。]

一个领导安排的特点是一则寓言说明，基督在路加福音12点42分48告诉：[读课文]

•这是双方之间的安排。

•管家的责任 。

•管家追究责任 。

• 变化可作出的安排。

A.神的启示和特许之间的关系

1。 上帝的旨意已经逐步显露。

在过去的上帝发言通过多次先知，并以各种方式向我们的祖先。 希伯来书1:1

神对人类的意志（他的字）是一次没有透露。 相反，他发现整个历史上少一点。 这一事实帐户为神所赋予人的责任在整个时间的多样性。 例如，以色列民族不同的崇拜比亚当和夏娃一样，信徒今天崇拜不同于以色列。

[Dispensationalism真的是基于渐进启示的想法 。 神所启示的亚当和夏娃非常小，因而其责任的知识和水平水平比现在不同。 每个豁免的特点是新的/额外的启示 。

2。 神的发现将包含两个永恒的原则和临时计划。

例如，死刑的原则是“教”出来的，在人类历史的早期，并在以后的特许反复（创世记9:6与罗马书13:4）。 因此，这是一个持续的原则。 另一方面，动物牺牲的目的是暂时的。

法律是唯一的好东西，未来不是现实本身的影子 。 出于这个原因，它永远不能由同一牺牲不断重复年复一年，那些临近崇拜完美。 如果可能的话，，他们会不会停止提供？ 崇拜者已经清洗一次，所有，不再觉得为他们的罪孽罪名成立 。 希伯来书10:1 2

[因此，一个想法或从一个豁免的原则，如死刑（创9:6）或文官政府的需要，发扬到未来特许。 这是为什么旧约是有价值的今天，甚至芹苴它并不直接适用于我们。 其他原则，饮食规律一样，是暂时的，为某一群人。]

2. 各种特许

Dispensationalists一般看到在“圣经” 七个显著神新的启示， 变更或增加人的责任为基础的独特的特许。 由于在每个福音的启示是在先前的启示基础上，特许之间的关系可作如下显示：

三。 当代历史

保罗称为当代的“ 宽限期 ”（以弗所书3:2）的年龄。 它也被称为“ 教会时代。”

[教会是上帝的今天的计划 。 所有部委应 ​​围绕着教会。 教会信徒的生活是息息相关的。 教会应该是一个非常重要的一部分，你的生活 。 此外，事实上，这是年龄的宽限期，并不意味着没有风度，在此之前可用。 但CF约翰1:17。

答：“教会”的含义

1。 一般来说，“教会”一词所指的“ 身体 ”或“ 大会叫出来 。”

2。 从技术上讲，新约信徒在这个年龄段的应用字。

A. 它可以指所有信徒（ 普世教会）。

您可能会听到它被称为“天主教”教会（一点点的“C” ）。 这是罗马天主教。 “天主教”字仅仅意味着“普遍的。” 这是怎么回事的一些教义和口供。 普世教会也被称为基督或无形教会的身体。 ]

我们所有的洗礼为一体的犹太人或希腊人，奴隶或自由，我们是否都给予一个精神喝一个精神 。 林前12:13

我们将研究课二十三普世教会。

B. 它可以指一个地方的信徒大会（ 地方教会）。

在哥林多神的教会，那些在基督耶稣里成圣，并呼吁圣洁，连同所有那些无处不在，我们的主耶稣基督他们的主与我们的名称。 哥林多前书1:2

我们会研究在当地教会二十四课。

[这很有趣地注意到，一些人否认普世教会的存在 。 他们说，教会在NT的所有引用参考到一个特定的地方教会，或当地教会通用或作为一个机构（例如，“美国家庭” ）。 这种观点被称为为“仅本地”。 这种观点的一个问题是，有几个参考和/或引用表明，所有信徒的“基督的身体”的一部分，因而普世教会的影响。 另一个问题是，如果你不是一个地方教会的成员，你是不是基督的身体的一部分 。]

B.教会

教会的教诲，把它的概念是这个年龄所特有的。

1。 在旧约教会没有透露 。

保罗表示，教会是未知的旧约先知的一个概念，但后来发现通过新约使徒解释。 因为它是前所未知的，保罗称这是一个谜 。

在读这篇文章，那么，你将能够理解基督的奥秘，这是没有其他几代人，上帝的圣使徒和先知的精神，因为它现在已经透露的我的见解。 这个谜，借着福音，外邦人的继承人和以色列一起，成员一起一体，共享者在基督耶稣里的承诺。 以弗所书3:4 6

需要注意的是一个“谜”在NT是不是幽灵般的或神秘的东西 。 这只不过是一些尚未透露。 上帝没有透露的想法，犹太人和外邦人将同一组织在OT（教会）的一部分。 ]

重要的是要注意教会是来自以色列的不同。 这是创建一个新的实体，宣布一个新的消息，福音。

那些看到OT以色列和教会新台币之间很少或根本没有区别赞同什么是所谓的“公约”的神学 。 我们赞同“时代论”的神学。 ]

2。 五旬节教会开始。

“但在几天之内，你将圣灵的洗礼。” - 徒1:5

据林前12:13，一个被圣灵受洗成为教会的成员。 圣灵洗礼的初始实例了五旬节（使徒行传2:1-4）。

事实上，教会开始在这个时候强调，教会不是以色列的真理。 基督发起的教堂，它是这个年龄所特有的，它具有独特的目标，概述在马太福音28:19 20和使徒行传1:8。

C.教会的目的

我们已经了解到，在历史的目的是荣耀神。 教会的目的是相同的。

各地各代对他在教会和在基督耶稣的荣耀，永永远远 ！ 阿门。 以弗所书3:21

如何教会荣耀神？

1。 教会荣耀上帝真理的守护者。

如果我推迟了，你就会知道人们应该如何进行自己在神的家，这是活着的上帝，教会，真理的柱石和基础。 提摩太前书3:15

教堂的警卫通过仔细论述神的话语和一致的谎言暴露真相。

[老]必须牢牢把握值得信赖的消息，因为它已被教导，使他能够鼓励别人健全的教义，并反驳那些反对的人。 提多书1:9

2。 教会荣耀上帝履行其使命， 真相传递给后代。

我在场的许多目击者说，你听说过的事托付给可靠 ​​的人，他 ​​们也将有资格教别人。 提摩太后书2:2

观察的思想在这节经文的进展：

履行这一使命的要求，这一原则是所有教会事工的焦点。

宣讲的话语;在季节和季节进行准备;正确的，训斥，并鼓励以极大的耐心和细心的指令。 对于时间会当男人不会把稳健主义。 提摩太后书4:2 3

重温与回顾

在这一课中，我们了解到：

1， 历史有一个明确的计划，最终目标（基督的国度），和一个单一的目的（神的荣耀）。

2， 神已经通过各种特许完成他的计划。免除是一个管理安排中，上帝揭示了他的意志的人，然后负责服从启示。

三，本免除被称为教会时代 ，教会既具有普遍性和地方的方面。 五旬节开始。 其目的是为了荣耀上帝通过他的话语部。

学习生活

1。 [条例草案“Gothard，其中包括一个受欢迎的研讨会老师 ]往往需要旧约教义，并直接适用于他们的新约教会。 他提倡遵守旧约的饮食规律和教导，服从上帝保证了良好的健康，根据上帝对摩西的承诺。 其中这些旧约的法律，并承诺书面吗？

旧约以色列

段落，如10:9 15日和2哥林多前书12:7对上述问题的10棚的行为做什么光？

徒10:9 - 15 -旧约饮食规律不再有效。

2哥林多前书12:7 - 10 -保罗必须有一个不听话的信徒，如果OT健康和繁荣的承诺仍然有效 。

如何dispensationalism帮助人们正确地解释旧约经文？

1。 它有助于了解某些事情神一些人需要一段时间，他可能不需要其他人在其他时间 。 2。 它可以帮助我们分开的原则适用于我们今天从OT。 3。 通过承认的旧约之间的差异，并允许一个永恒的原则和临时方案，以便更容易区分

2。 阵营鼓吹的一位发言者从诗篇126:5 6讲道，题为：“教会的使命。”根本性的错误，他在他的这段话的解释？

直到新约教会没有透露。 OT了直接说教会无关。

3。 在您的社区的教会传福音的远征计划。 为了吸引人潮，客人包括一个摇滚乐队和魔术师。 此外，一个新的车是被授予的人带来了游客人数最多的。 当被问及作为牧师的回复，上面的方法是否恰当，“我们的目的是为了获得尽可能多的人的福音。 这些方法都不错，因为他们包的座位！“是什么牧师的声明表明关于他的教会的看法？

他认为，教会的目的是赢得灵魂（“救世神学”的宗旨） 。 ，但是，教会的目的是荣耀神（“doxological”的宗旨） 。 胜出的灵魂，是一个教会的目标（即由教会履行其带来荣耀归给神的目的的方法之一）。 但必须是有限的，思考什么和不兑现或荣耀神传福音。 因此，我们只在一种方式，是神为中心的神履行的传福音 。

如何在这场运动中所采用的方法并不能反映教会的真正目的？

1。 他们不荣耀神（记住，手段，以及最后，必须为一些树碑立传，以他与神的命令字一致。） 相反，问题应该是，“我们正在做的美观，并接受神吗？” 2。 其主要目的是不包的座位。 其主要目的是服从和荣耀神。

Lesson 21: The Practical Benefits of Union with Christ, Part 2

In Lesson Twenty, we studied three of the practical benefits of union with Christ, each of these the result of the Holy Spirit's work in the life of the believer. [They were perseverance (the believer will continue in the faith), assurance (the believer is confident that he is saved), and sanctification (the believer progressively grows in godliness).] The Holy Spirit is the source of all practical benefits of union with Christ. The purpose of this lesson is to introduce you to the Bible's teaching on the nature and work of the Holy Spirit and to examine some additional benefits the believer experiences as a result of His ministry. In this lesson, we will study:

1。 The nature of the Holy Spirit [ie what the Holy Spirit is like]

2。 The work of the Holy Spirit [ ie what the Holy Spirit does]

I. The Nature of the Holy Spirit

There are many misconceptions as to the nature of the Holy Spirit. Because of the teachings of some cults and Eastern religions, some have concluded that the Holy Spirit is simply a force or another word for the power of God.

[It's not just cults and pagan religions who have done this. Some so-called Christian denominations deny the trinity (eg, United Pentecostals). They teach modalism, that is, that God manifests Himself in 3 different ways. This is wrong. Unitarians began by denying the trinity, and are now more or less agnostics.]

The Bible, however, presents two very clear truths about the Holy Spirit's nature:

A. The Holy Spirit is a person .

1。 The Holy Spirit possesses the components of personality.

Lesson One identified three distinct components of personality: thinking (mind), acting (will), and feeling (emotion). The Bible indicates that the Holy Spirit possesses all three.

And he who searches our hearts knows the mind of the Spirit. – Romans 8:27

All these are the work of one and the same Spirit, and he gives them to each one, just as he determines. 1 Corinthians 12:11

And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God. Ephesians 4:30

[Remember that the components of personality are intellect, emotion and will.]

2。 The Holy Spirit is referred to with masculine personal pronouns.

The Holy Spirit is called “he,” not “it.”

But when he, the Spirit of truth, comes, he will guide you into all truth. John 16:13

[In the KJV, the Holy Spirit is occasionally referred to as “it” (cf Rom 8:16). But this is because the Greek word pneuma is a neuter word, which means a pronoun modifying it must also be neuter, hence, “it.” Newer versions render the word “he.” ]

B. The Holy Spirit is God .

1。 The Holy Spirit is closely associated with God.

Certain passages associate the Holy Spirit with God the Father and God the Son.

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

May the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with you all. 2 Corinthians 13:14 (See also 1 Peter 1:2.)

[In these verses the Holy Spirit is put on equal footing/status with God and Jesus.]

2。 The Holy Spirit possesses the attributes of God.

Among these attributes are omnipresence (Psalm 139:7), omnipotence (Luke 1:35), and eternality (Hebrews 9:14).

3。 The Holy Spirit is equated with God.

圣经有时使用的字眼是“上帝”和“圣灵”互换。

彼得说，“你们撒谎圣灵。 。 。 。 你有没有人，但上帝撒谎。“使徒行传 5:3 4

二。 圣灵的工作

答：在旧约中的圣灵工作

The doctrine of the Holy Spirit is not as fully developed in the Old Testament as in the New. This is due to the fact that the Old Testament emphasized the unity of God in order to counteract the tendency of the people to worship many gods (polytheism). [“poly” means “many.” There are a few indications of the Triunity of God in the OT; the NT is where this doctrine is fully expounded.] This does not mean, however, that there are no references to the Holy Spirit's work in the Old Testament.

1。 The Holy Spirit was active in Creation .

Now the earth was formless and empty, darkness was over the surface of the deep, and the Spirit of God was hovering over the waters Genesis 1:2

2。 The Holy Spirit gave prophecies and Scripture .

For prophecy never had its origin in the will of man, but men spoke from God as they were carried along by the Holy Spirit. 2 Peter 1:21

3。 The Holy Spirit enabled men to perform specific tasks.

The Old Testament frequently refers to the Spirit of God “coming” upon the leaders of Israel to enhance their ability to govern the nation. Since Israel was to be under God's rule (a theocracy), theologians call this the “ theocratic

anointing .”

So Samuel took the horn of oil and anointed him in the presence of his brothers, and from that day on the Spirit of the LORD came upon David in power. 1 Samuel 16:13

[Note that David was already saved and indwelt (permanently reside within) by the Holy Spirit at this point. This was a special anointing of God for a certain job – to be king.

The Holy Spirit also enabled men to perform other tasks (Exodus 31:1-5).

4。 The Holy Spirit was active in the salvation of men .

Old Testament revelation of the Holy Spirit's work in salvation is sparse. Furthermore, the Old Testament often uses different words to describe salvation than those found in the New Testament. Nevertheless, the Bible indicates that the Holy Spirit was instrumental in the salvation of Old Testament believers in many of the same ways in which He is involved in our salvation today. He regenerated (John 3:3 10) [this context is still part of the OT dispensation] , indwelt (Numbers 27:18), and guided (Psalm 143:10) the Old Testament believer.

Note: Some falsely conclude from David's words in Psalm 51:11 (“Do not take your Holy Spirit from me.”) that the Holy Spirit did not permanently indwell the Old Testament believer. However, David's concern is the loss of the Holy Spirit's theocratic anointing, not the loss of His permanent indwelling.

[Some teach that the Holy Spirit came upon and then left OT believers rather than indwell them permanently as the NT teaches. We believe that He both regenerated and indwelt like He does today. It would be nearly impossible to explain the spirituality of the OT believer without regeneration and indwelling.]

B. The work of the Holy Spirit in the life of Christ

1。 Jesus was conceived by the Holy Spirit.

“How will this be,” Mary asked the angel, “since I am a virgin?” The angel answered, “The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you.” Luke 1:34 35

2。 Jesus was anointed by the Holy Spirit.

The Holy Spirit “came upon” Jesus at His baptism. This was the culmination of the Old Testament theocratic anointing, enabling Him to function as the perfect prophet, priest, and king.

As soon as Jesus was baptized, he went up out of the water. At that moment heaven was opened, and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove and lighting on him. Matthew3:16

3。 Jesus ministered by the power of the Holy Spirit.

But if I drive out demons by the Spirit of God, then the kingdom of God has come upon you. – Matthew 12:28

C. The work of the Holy Spirit in the world

1。 The Holy Spirit applies common grace .

The Holy Spirit limits the progress of sin in the world (2 Thessalonians 2:6-7) and extends God's goodness to all men (Matthew 5:45).

[Remember what "common grace" is? It's the fact that God does not allow man to be as sinful as he could be. God restrains sin and allows people do some measure of civic or cultural "good," although this "good" is not meritorious. It's common because it extends to all men in common.]

2。 The Holy Spirit convicts of sin .

When he comes, he will convict the world of guilt in regard to sin and righteousness and judgment. John 16:8

Note: This passage is the climax to a series of statements made by Christ concerning the work of the Holy Spirit through the apostles to produce Scripture. Thus, conviction occurs through the Word of God.

[Note that we tie a subjective, "feeling" type of thing to the Word of God. Conviction should lead to repentance of sin and a changed life, ie, sanctification. So sanctification/spiritual growth is tied directly to access to the Word of God.

Also, conviction is specifically tied to sin and salvation. The Holy Spirit does not convict about decisions in general. Ie, we should not say that God convicted us about going to a certain college or marrying a certain person. Eg, “I really felt convicted that God wanted me to buy this car.”]

D. The work of the Holy Spirit in the life of the New Testament believer

Below are some additional benefits the Holy Spirit applies to the believer as a result of his union with Christ.

[These are the "practical benefits" mentioned in the title of the lesson.]

1。 The Holy Spirit indwells believers.

Believers have a personal and permanent relationship with God through the Holy Spirit's indwelling. The Holy Spirit's indwelling occurs at the moment of salvation and continues throughout the believer's life.

You, however, are controlled not by the sinful nature but by the Spirit, if the Spirit of God lives in you. And if anyone does not have the Spirit of Christ, he does not belong to Christ. Romans 8:9

[God resides in the believer. Should we expect to "feel" the indwelling presence of the Holy Spirit? No. How then do we know that He's there? By faith. We believe what God said.]

2。 The Holy Spirit illumines the believer's mind.

The Holy Spirit teaches the believer the significance of Scripture. This means that He convinces us of our need to obey the Scriptures (see Lesson Six).

But you have an anointing from the Holy One, and all of you know the truth. As for you, the anointing you received from him remains in you, and you do not need anyone to teach you. But as his anointing teaches you about all things and as that anointing is real, not counterfeit just as it has taught you, remain in him. 1 John 2:20, 27

[We differentiate between the "meaning" and the "significance" of a text. Anyone who can use the language can get the meaning of a text. But only those who are saved can appreciate the significance of a text. Significance has to do with the application of the meaning. The Holy Spirit illuminates our minds to the significance of God's word.]

Note: The above reference does not imply that one does not need to study the Bible for himself (2 Timothy 2:15) or be taught biblical truth by others (1 Timothy 3:2). The “anointing” mentioned above is a reference to the Holy Spirit's work of illumination.

[The anointing is not some extra kick or jolt of power for soul-winning or preaching. It is the ability to understand and apply the Scripture to your life.]

3。 The Holy Spirit enables believers to serve the church.

The Holy Spirit gives at least one spiritual gift to each believer for the purpose of ministry in the local church (1 Corinthians 12).

[There are lots of people today who want to exercise their gifts for the building up of the universal body of Christ. They kind of "free float" without any connection to a church, which is wrong. One is to exercise his gifts in the context of an organized group of believers, ie, a church.]

学习生活

1。 A friend of yours tells you that ever since he trusted Christ he has been praying to receive the Holy Spirit. What should you tell him?

If he has trusted Christ, he already has the Holy Spirit (Rom 8:9). One receives the Holy Spirit at the moment of salvation. One need not pray to receive him. If one does not have the Holy Spirit, he is not saved.

2。 “Church is a human organization. I don't need to be taught by men I have the Holy Spirit to teach me.” What is wrong with such thinking?

1。 The church is not essentially a human organization. Christ called it “my church.” 2. Christians are commanded to be a part of a local church and serve there. 3。 As part of a church, one should be willing to be taught by others. Pastors are set over the flock to teach them. 4。 It's this kind of thinking that leads to heresies and cults. It's a blatantly inaccurate statement in light of such verses as 1 Timothy 3:2

The Holy Spirit does teach us, but He uses the Word of God and the teaching of others as the means whereby He does so. Furthermore, the Holy Spirit's job is to convince us of the significance of Scripture, not the meaning. It is our job to ascertain the meaning of Scripture via our personal Bible study and the teaching of others.

3。 Some people teach that David's prayer in Psalm 51:11 (“Do not cast me from your presence or take your Holy Spirit from me.”) is proof that one can lose his salvation. What is wrong with such an interpretation of this verse?

大卫是不说失去圣灵的留置，但失去圣灵的政教合一的恩膏。 他要求上帝不要做给他看，他到他的前任，扫罗（撒上16:1，13-14）。

4。 一位牧师正带领他的会众，到一些有争议的做法。 When the deacons question some of his decisions, he responds by quoting 1 Chronicles 16:22 (“Do not touch my anointed ones.”). Does this verse teach that the pastor has a special anointing from God?

no, it refers to the king in the theocratic kingdom, not the church. Here is where it is necessary to make a clear distinction between Israel and the church..

Why were men in the Old Testament anointed by the Holy Spirit?

to enable them to lead the theocracy. Those serving in the offices of prophet, priest, or king were anointed.

Who was the last person to receive the theocratic anointing?

Christ

Lesson 20: The Practical Benefits of Union with Christ, Part 1

Union with Christ not only has many positional benefits but several practical benefits as well. [What do we mean by "positional"? A change in status/standing. What were these benefits? Justification (being declared righteous), Adoption (being taken into God's family) and Eternal Security (once saved, always saved.)] Because of his union with Christ, the believer experiences a number of benefits in daily life.

In this lesson, we will study three of the practical benefits of union with Christ:

1。 The benefit of perseverance

2。 The benefit of assurance

3。 The benefit of sanctification

I. The Benefit of Perseverance

Perseverance means that a believer will continue to live as one who is saved. Genuine believers will persevere, or remain committed, in two key areas. These areas serve as two tests of genuine salvation.

A. The doctrinal test: Genuine believers remain committed to the Word of God.

By this gospel you are saved, if you hold firmly to the word I preached to you. Otherwise, you have believed in vain. 1 Corinthians 15:2

But now He has reconciled you . 。 。 if you continue in [the] faith, established and firm, not moved from the hope held out in the gospel. Colossians 1:22 23

Both of these passages stress the need for continual commitment to the gospel. The phrases, “the word” and “the faith,” however, broaden the commitment to include all basic Christian doctrine. A true believer will not reject the gospel nor the major doctrines of the Christian faith (such as the deity of Christ and the inerrancy of Scripture). If one does so, he demonstrates that he is not genuinely saved.

[Is there room for doctrinal disagreement? Yes, up to a point. Can a person not believe exactly like me and still be saved? 可以。 Also cf. 1 John 2:19]]

B. The moral test: Genuine believers remain committed to growth in godliness.

We know that we have come to know him if we obey his commands. The man who says, “I know him,” but does not do what he commands is a liar, and the truth is not in him. 1 John 2:3 4

Because a genuine believer is a new creation (2 Corinthians 5:17), he will change the direction of his life. He will have a desire to grow in the knowledge of God and obey Him. If there is no desire to grow and obey, it may be due to the fact that he is not really saved.

Note: It is possible for genuine believers to temporarily rebel . However, such rebellion is in deed only (rejection of God's Word is impossible for a true believer). [It is possible for believers to misunderstand or be misled. Thus true believers may be a part of an errant denomination, movement, or group.] Three principles should be noted, however. First, believers who do not grow are the exception rather than the rule . Second, believers who rebel in these areas have no biblical basis for assurance of their salvation (1 John 2:3 4). [That is, such a person has no firm basis on which to be sure they are saved. If there is no evidence of salvation, there is no assurance of it.] Finally, believers who rebel in these areas should anticipate God's discipline rather than His blessing. Such discipline may be very severe. For example, the members of the Church at Corinth rebelled by disrespecting the Lord's Supper. As a result, God severely disciplined them.

That is why many among you are weak and sick, and a number of you have [died]. 1 Corinthians 11:30 (See also 1 John 5:16.)

二。 The Benefit of Assurance

Another practical benefit of being united with Christ is assurance of salvation. Assurance of salvation is the confidence the believer has that he is genuinely saved. [That is, one does not continually doubt it, worry about it, and wonder if he really is saved. He's confident that he is. Assurance is often confused with eternal security. They are like two sides of the same coin. Assurance is the believer's confidence that he is saved. Eternal security is the fact that God keeps the believer saved.] There are three things which God uses to give assurance of salvation. All three of them must be present in the believer's life in order for him to have a biblical basis for believing that he is saved.

[Explain difference between assurance (a subjective confidence that you are really saved) and eternal security (the fact that one cannot lose his salvation).]

A. The genuine believer believes the promises of God to save and keep him.

For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life. 约翰福音3:16

I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish; no one can snatch them out of my hand. My Father, who has given them to me, is greater than all; no one can snatch them out of my Father's hand. – John 10:28-29

[God has promised to save people and to keep them saved. What would have to be true if God did not keep believers saved? 1。 He's not powerful enough; 2. He lied.]

B. The genuine believer will persevere in faith and good works.

Christian assurance is inseparably linked to perseverance. If one who claims to be a Christian does not continue in his commitment to correct doctrine and a life of obedience, he has no biblical basis for believing that he is saved.

[If one is not persevering in faith and good works, can he be confident that he is saved? No, he has no basis to think that he is saved.

What are some evidences (“vital signs”) of salvation? Several are found in 1 John:

1. Walking in the light, ie, living a godly life (1:5-7)

2. Obeying Christ's commands (2:3-6)

3. Love for other believers (3:14-17)

4. Orthodox doctrine (correct belief) (4:6)

Those who display such evidences of salvation in their lives have good reason to have confidence that they are truly saved. Those lacking such evidences have no reason to think that they are saved.]

C. The genuine believer receives the Holy Spirit's inner testimony .

The Spirit himself testifies with our spirit that we are God's children. Romans 8:16

Using the Word of God , the Holy Spirit convinces the believer that he is a child of God. He convinces him of the truthfulness of those verses which promise that God will save and keep those who accept Him as Lord and Savior.

[Note that the inner testimony applies specifically to one's assurance of being saved. It does not apply to other things, like what one should do or where to go, etc. ]

三。 The Benefit of Sanctification

Sanctification is the setting apart of the believer by God. It has both a positional and a practical aspect. The positional aspect is the fact that God has set apart all believers from the world and to Himself. [This occurs at the moment of salvation. It is not a sensory/emotional experience.] The practical aspect deals with the continual, progressive change that takes place as the believer matures spiritually.

[Practical sanctification is also known as progressive sanctification. The believer's life should be characterized by continual, progressive growth in godliness. There will be setbacks, but the general tendency will be toward growth.]

A. Sanctification is the work of the Holy Spirit .

God chose you to be saved through the sanctifying work of the Spirit. – 2 Thessalonians 2:13

The Holy Spirit changes believers through their knowledge of Scripture (John 17:17). Thus, if one is to live a sanctified (holy) life, he must study the Bible, the tool the Holy Spirit uses to help him grow.

[Growth as a Christian is directly tied to Bible study/reading/meditation. The more familiar you become with the Bible, the more biblical you start thinking, and the more biblically you start living. Thus, you can't grow much apart from access to God's Word, both written and proclaimed (preached).]

B. Sanctification involves the believer's active obedience .

Some people view the Christian life as a series of mystical experiences in which the Holy Spirit “ moves ” them. According to this school of thought, the believer is always passive , waiting for the Spirit to move him to pray, witness, etc. [Eg, some Pentecostal groups just wait for God to "say something" in their meetings.] Though sanctification is the work of the Spirit, God never commands the believer to wait for some “moving.” He simply commands him to live obediently.

Let us purify ourselves from everything that contaminates body and spirit, perfecting holiness out of reverence for God. 2 Corinthians 7:1

[Thus, we take an active roll in growth. We don't just wait for it to happen. It takes discipline: Bible study, prayer, rejection of sin, acceptance of responsibilities, etc.]

C. Sanctification involves a change in direction .

Before one comes to Christ, he is a slave to sin. After God saves him, however, his direction in life changes. From that moment on, he separates from wickedness and embraces godliness.

1。 The believer separates from wickedness.

Do not be yoked together with unbelievers. For what do righteousness and wickedness have in common? Or what fellowship can light have with darkness? What harmony is there between Christ and [Satan]? What does a believer have in common with an unbeliever? 2 Corinthians 6:14 15

The “yoke” in this passage refers to a union between two or more people. A believer has no business uniting with an unbeliever.

[The context of the above verse deals with false teachers. Hence the command applies to contact/interaction/participation with those who hold wrong doctrine. Paul's not saying we can't be friends or associates with unbelievers.

比照 also Eph 5:6-8, 11. Separation has been a key factor in Fundamentalism. Back in the 40's-50's a group of Evangelicals decided to reject separation in favor of inclusion. These people are called "New Evangelicals." Many of them would agree substantially with us doctrinally, but are out of order when it comes to practice.]

2。 The believer embraces godliness.

Since, then, you have been raised with Christ, set your hearts on things above, where Christ is seated at the right hand of God. – Colossians 3:1

D. Sanctification is the natural result of saving faith .

Some people [Eg, Charles Ryrie, Zane Hodges ] teach that a person may trust Christ as Savior at a point in time without an accompanying commitment to obey Him. Such a commitment may come at a later point in time. According to this view, the Christian life is centered around two spiritual “high points”: the time of salvation and the time of dedication . [This allows for two classes of Christians: Those who are not dedicated/committed and those who are.] This separation of dedication from salvation is unbiblical, for the Bible indicates that:

1。 Saving faith itself is an act of obedience .

He will punish those who do not know God and do not obey the gospel of our Lord Jesus. 2 Thessalonians 1:8

[Cf. also John 3:36 -- "obey" is parallel/synonymous with "believe." Belief is obeying the gospel.]

2。 Saving faith is described as obedient faith.

What good is it, my brothers, if a man claims to have faith but has no deeds? Can such faith save him? Suppose a brother or sister is without clothes and daily food. If one of you says to him, “Go, I wish you well; keep warm and well fed,” but does nothing about his physical needs, what good is it? In the same way, faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead. James 2:14 17

The question James is asking in this passage is: Can a nonworking faith save? His conclusion is: No! Such a faith is dead. Like empty words, it accomplishes nothing. Commitment to obey Christ cannot be separated from true faith.

[It's necessary to reemphasize that a non-committed Christian is not allowed for in the NT. Discipleship/dedication is assumed to be the normal state of affairs. Commitment is not just for "super" Christians. There is no special category for those who claim to be saved yet have no fruit to indicate they are saved. Those who have no evidence have no assurance, and they may have exactly what James is talking about: "dead" faith (ie, no faith).]

Note: There are times in the believer's life when he makes important decisions to dedicate himself more fully to his Savior. In fact, the Christian life is really a day by day, moment by moment process of dedicating oneself to Christ. What is unbiblical is the idea that dedication to Christ is an option for the believer. Faith without dedication is a faith that does not save.

学习生活

1。 A friend of yours claims that no one can know for sure that he is saved. 这是真的吗？

约翰一书5:11-14。 Also, the NT authors all knew they were saved and wrote to people as if they could know that they were saved. Further, if one did not know for sure himself that he was saved, why would he ever witness to someone else? Thus there would be no evangelism.

How does God assure His children?

through His promises to keep the believer saved, the believer's perseverance, and the inner testimony of the Holy Spirit

If this person has good reason to doubt his salvation, what might you conclude?

He may not be saved, or he may have been taught wrong doctrine, or he is mistaken. Never falsely assure someone who may not be saved. No evidence = no assurance.

2。 While talking to a Christian friend about his backslidden condition (he no longer attends church, he doesn't read his Bible, etc.), he replies, “I'm waiting for God to show me what He wants me to do.” What is wrong with your friend's thinking?

God has already shown him what He wants him to do in His Word. He simply has to start doing that which God has already told him to do. He should not wait for God to “move” him or show him in some special way to obey.

Lesson 19: The Positional Benefits of Union with Christ

Upon being united with Christ through faith and repentance, the believer immediately receives several benefits.

[Remember that union with Christ is another way of referring to salvation. Union with Christ highlights the idea that the benefits of Christ's life and death have been imputed to the believer. Since the relationship between Christ and the believer could be described as a "union," the phrase "union with Christ" is an appropriate synonym for "salvation."]

The benefits of union with Christ, which we will study in the following three lessons, can be divided into two types:

1。 The positional benefits

2。 The practical benefits

Positional benefits are those blessings which the believer possesses but does not experience . That is, God brings about a change in the believer's position or status without the believer sensing or perceiving such [ie, feelings/emotions. The change is real but non-perceptible] . For instance, the Bible states that believers have been adopted by God into His family. A believer does not feel this adoption take place. Nonetheless, he has been legally adopted by God and is now His child.

["Position" has to do with one's standing before God. One's position before salvation is that of being alienated, an enemy, under the wrath of God, etc. At salvation, that position changes. One is forgiven, justified, adopted into God's family, etc. So positional benefits are those benefits one receives because of a change in status/standing. One does not feel or notice or empirically sense this change.]

This lesson will focus on three of the positional benefits of union with Christ:

1. Justification

2. Adoption

3. Eternal Security

[Justification and adoption are things that happen to us; at salvation, we are justified and adopted. They are changes in status/standing/position. Eternal security is a bit different. It is more like a result of salvation than a position, but it is a benefit that results from our new position.]

I. Justification

Justification is the act of God whereby He declares a sinner to be legally righteous and treats him as such. Justification does not mean “to be made righteous” but “to be declared legally righteous.” When one is saved, he does not become righteous; he is still a sinner. Rather, God declares him legally righteous because of his union with Christ.

A. Justification is a work of God .

It is God who justifies. Romans 8:33

B. Justification is by faith .

Know that a man is not justified by observing the law, but by faith in Jesus Christ. Galatians 2:16

["Ideas have consequences." This idea was the cause of the Reformation. Martin Luther was convinced that a man was justified by faith in Christ rather than by obeying the RC church. This is also what sets us apart from all works-oriented religions. They believe man is justified by works. We believe man is justified by grace through faith.]

C. Justification is a result of the believer's union with Christ.

At the moment of salvation, Christ's righteousness is imputed to the believer. Consequently, when God looks at him, He does not see his sinfulness; rather, He sees Christ's righteousness. As a result, God is able to declare him righteous.

God made [Christ Jesus] who had no sin to be sin for us, so that in Him we might become the righteousness of God. 2 Corinthians 5:21

Through the obedience of the one man the many will be made righteous. – Romans 5:19

[So the only righteous we have is that which is given to us at the moment of salvation. The righteousness that we have is Christ's righteousness. Think of it as a bank transaction. Forgiveness takes away your debt and justification gives you a positive balance.]

D. Justification produces a peaceful relationship with God.

Therefore, since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ. Romans 5:1

[Before salvation, the opposite was true; we were enemies of God. This is also called reconciliation – the restoration of a positive relationship.]

二。 Adoption

Adoption is the legal placement of someone into a family as a son . At the moment of salvation, God places you into His family and gives you all the rights and privileges of a son; God is your legal Father.

[Like justification, adoption is a legal or judicial concept. Whose family is one in before salvation? Satan's. This is contra the liberal idea of the "universal Fatherhood of God and the universal brotherhood of man." Eg, the song "Let There Be Peace on Earth" -- ". . . with God as our Father, brothers all are we." Hogwash.]

A. Adoption is the work of God .

In love [God] predestined us to be adopted as His sons through Jesus Christ, in accordance with his pleasure and will. Ephesians 1:4 5

B. Adoption is by faith .

You are all sons of God through faith in Christ Jesus. Galatians 3:26

C. Adoption is a result of the believer's union with Christ.

You are all sons of God through faith in Christ Jesus, for all of you who were baptized into Christ have clothed yourselves with Christ. Galatians 3:26 27

Note: To be baptized or immersed into Christ is another way of describing union with Him.

[How is baptism comparable to our relationship with Christ? In baptism/immersion, one is engulfed, totally covered by the water. When one accepts Christ, he is totally committed to Him, it's a total, radical life change that "covers" every aspect of life.]

D. Adoption has practical results.

1。 The leading of the Holy Spirit

Because those who are led by the Spirit of God are sons of God. Romans 8:14

One of the results of being an adopted son of God is the Holy Spirit's leading. Using the Word of God , the Holy Spirit leads or guides the child of God.

[To be led by the Holy Spirit is not some sort of mystical sensation, hunch, or feeling that you ought to do something. Practically speaking, it is merely submitting to the Word of God. To be led is to be controlled, and being controlled is simple obedience. Note also that the Spirit of God will never lead someone contrary to the Word of God (contra being "slain in the Spirit"). If you want the Holy Spirit's leading in your life, you've got to get the Bible in your life.]

2. Loving discipline by God the Father

And you have forgotten that word of encouragement that addresses you as sons: “My son, do not make light of the Lord's discipline, and do not lose heart when he rebukes you, because the Lord disciplines those he loves, and he punishes everyone he accepts as a son.” Endure hardship as discipline; God is treating you as sons. For what son is not disciplined by his father? Hebrews 12:5 7

God does not punish believers as He does unbelievers. Rather, He disciplines believers out of love, desiring to do what is best for them. His goal for us is not necessarily happiness and prosperity , but Christ-likeness . He disciplines us with that goal in mind.

[What if one is disobedient and receives no chastening/discipline? Cf Heb 12:8. It's an evidence that one is not part of the family. Contra the health and wealth gospel.]

三。 Eternal Security

Eternal security refers to the fact that all true believers are kept saved by God. A true believer cannot lose his salvation.

[Don't confuse eternal security with assurance of salvation.]

Being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus. Philippians 1:6

A. Eternal security is a work of God .

I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish; no one can snatch them out of my hand. My Father, who has given them to me, is greater than all; no one can snatch them out of my Father's hand. John 10:28 29

B. Eternal security is a result of the believer's union with Christ.

Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus. Romans 8:1

Note: To be “in Christ” is another way of describing union with Him.

C. Eternal security is God's will for all believers.

And this is the will of him who sent me, that I shall lose none of all that he has given me. John 6:39

[What are some of the things that would have to be true if eternal security were not true? 1。 God was unwilling to keep us saved; 2. God was unable to keep us saved; 3. God was wrong when he elected us; 4. God has to throw us out of his family; 5. God has to take back the righteousness He imputed to us; etc, etc, etc. Obviously, it is impossible to undo salvation.]

Recap & Review

In this lesson, we have learned:

1. Justification is a positional benefit of union with Christ. Justification is the act of God whereby He declares a sinner to be legally righteous and treats him as such.

2. Adoption is a positional benefit of union with Christ. Adoption is the act of God whereby He legally places the believer into His family, giving him all the rights and privileges of a son.

3. Eternal security is a positional benefit of union with Christ. Eternal security is the work of God whereby He keeps saved those whom He has already saved.

学习生活

11

1。 During a conversation at school, a Catholic friend says to you that a person is made righteous by following Christ and the teachings of the church. Are sinners ever made righteous?

No, sinners are not “made” righteous; they don't suddenly become sinless. They are “declared” righteous because of the imputation of Christ's righteousness to them.

Can sinners follow Christ?

no (They are unable and unwilling.)

Is one justified by following the teachings of a church?

no, unless that church teaches the gospel. (One is justified by faith in Christ alone.)

2。 During a conversation with a friend, you find out that he claims to be a Christian but does not believe in eternal security. In fact, he says that he was saved, lost his salvation, and then was saved again. What should you say to him?

A Christian cannot lose his salvation because God says so in His Word (John 6:39, 10:28-29, and Philippians 1:6). Furthermore, to claim one can lose his salvation is either to call God a liar (He doesn't do what He promises.) or to imply that He is not omnipotent (He is unable to do that which He has promised to do.). Further, I would question the validity of any salvation that could be lost. The friend has not truly understood the person and work of Christ or the positional changes that occur at salvation, and may not really be saved.

What are those who believe one can lose his salvation really trusting in? Their own power/good works/ability. If so, are they really trusting Christ? No. Of course, they could just be mistaken because they were taught wrong. That is, they really are saved, but have not been taught correctly on this matter.

Lesson 18: The Divine Conditions for Union with Christ

We learned in Lesson Seventeen that there are two human conditions for union with Christ, repentance and faith. This lesson will show that every aspect of man's union with Christ is the outworking of God's sovereign plan . Because unsaved man is totally depraved, he is unable and unwilling to pursue a relationship with God. His sinful nature will not allow him to do so. God must initiate salvation by giving man the ability to repent and trust Christ. This lesson will focus on the following divine conditions for union with Christ:

1. Election

2. Regeneration

I. Election

[Election is one of those doctrines that many don't really understand. Some are almost afraid of it--they don't even want to discuss it. Election is often associated with Calvinism because it is one of the outstanding aspects of Calvinism. Election is a clearly-taught doctrine of Scripture. One should not misunderstand or fear it.]

Election refers to the fact that God chooses those who will be saved.

A. The biblical description of election

1。 Election is unconditional .

“Unconditional election” means that God did not choose us based upon anything we have done or will do.

A. Election is not based upon works .

。 。 。 in order that God's purpose in election might stand: not by works but by him who calls . 。 。 。 Romans 9:11 12

B. Election is not based upon future events .

Some people teach that God looks into the future and chooses those who will some day choose Him. However, this idea contradicts several biblical teachings:

1) The fact of God's sovereignty (See Lessons Two and Three.)

[If God were in control of events/history, he would not have to look into the future to see what was going to happen. He would know the future because he planned it all out. Election is based on the fact that God has planned future events, not that He merely knows them.]

2. The fact of man's complete sinfulness (See Lesson Twelve.)

[Man is totally depraved and would not choose God if given the chance. God must choose man.]

2. The fact that faith and repentance are gifts from God (See Lesson Seventeen.)

[Man does not "work up" the ability to repent and trust Christ. God must give him this ability. God initiates the process and carries it through.]

4) The meaning of the word “ elect ”

The Greek words translated “elect” or “choose” refer to one's free choice of a course of action apart from any outside influence. If God chooses us because He knows that we will someday choose Him, then He has not chosen freely . In fact, He has not chosen at all. He has only agreed with our choice of Him . This is contrary to the meaning of the words “elect” and “choose.”

2。 Election is God's free choice of individuals .

The object of God's election is not a plan or a group; rather, it is individuals.

From the beginning God chose you to be saved through the sanctifying work of the Spirit and through belief in the truth. 2 Thessalonians 2:13

For he chose us in him. – Ephesians 1:4

3。 Election is the result of God's purpose and pleasure .

For [God] says to Moses, “I will have mercy on whom I have mercy, and I will have compassion on whom I have compassion.” It does not, therefore, depend on man's desire or effort, but on God's mercy. Romans 9:15 16

In love he predestined us to be adopted as his sons through Jesus Christ, in accordance with his pleasure and will. Ephesians 1:5

In him we were also chosen, having been predestined according to the plan of him who works out everything in conformity with the purpose of his will. Ephesians 1:11

4。 Election defined

Based upon the Bible's teaching on election, we can define it this way: Election is the work of God before time in which He freely chose those who will receive the gift of eternal life. This choice is based solely upon God's purpose and pleasure and is completely independent of man's will.

Note: Election is an aspect of predestination . Whereas predestination refers to God's planning of all events, election refers to God's choosing of those whom He will save.

B. Objections to election

Following are various objections which are sometimes raised against the idea of unconditional election:

[The following are reasons why people react so strongly against the idea of God freely choosing some to be saved. See if students can come up with these reasons before stating them. ]

1。 Unconditional election is unfair .

If God chooses to save some and not others, is He not being unfair and partial? This question is based upon the mistaken idea that we somehow deserve to be saved. Partiality and unfairness come into play only when one does not receive what he deserves. God would be unfair if everyone deserved eternal life and He granted it to only a few. Since no one deserves or seeks it, and since God “owns” eternal life, He may freely give it to whomever He wishes. Some may ask, “Why hasn't God chosen to save everyone ?” Instead, we should ask, “Why has the perfect, holy, and pure God chosen to love and forgive any of our wicked, evil, and rebellious race?”

[It's a good thing God isn't fair with us, otherwise, we'd all be going to hell. The fact that God chooses to save some is pure grace. He can do whatever he wants. Eg, if I decide to give some of you $10.00 and not others, that's my prerogative. I don't have to give anyone anything. The fact that I do is purely my decision. Same with salvation. ]

2。 Unconditional election contradicts man's free will .

People sometimes reject unconditional election because they believe that man's will is absolutely free. However, the Bible teaches that man's will is not completely free. It is controlled by sin . Man's “free” will is not free to choose God or salvation but only those things which are contrary to God and His salvation.

[Because of depravity, man will choose evil every time. Also, to say that man does not have an absolutely free will is not to say that man is merely a robot following some divinely written program. We do make real, spontaneous choices, but our choices are also part of God's plan. From our perspective, our choices seem to be free, but in reality it is certain that we will make the choices we do. God renders our free choices certain. ]

3。 Unconditional election contradicts passages concerning God's will .

[God] wants all men to be saved and to come to a knowledge of the truth. 1 Timothy 2:4

[God] is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance. 彼得后书3:9

Some assume from these two verses that it is God's will that everyone be saved. However, if God willed that every man be saved, then that is what would happen. We know from other Scripture, however, that this [that everyone is saved] is not the case. Therefore, we would have to conclude that God planned the salvation of all mankind, but His plan is consistently thwarted. However, this [that God's plan is thwarted] clearly contradicts the doctrine of God's sovereignty.

How then should we interpret these verses? They are a description of God's general desire rather than His specific will . God desires all men to be saved and gives them the opportunity to be so. However, because no man chooses to be saved on his own, God graciously gives some the ability to receive eternal life.

4。 Unconditional election contradicts passages concerning God's foreknowledge .

。 。 。 chosen according to the foreknowledge of God the Father. 1 Peter 1:2

On the surface, this verse seems to teach that God does elect some because He knows beforehand that they will trust Him. However, the true meaning of “foreknowledge” teaches otherwise.

Foreknowledge does not just mean to know something ahead of time. As mentioned in Lesson Two, God's knowledge is active , not passive. He does not gain knowledge by watching events occur. Rather, He knows events because He is the author of them.

[Read Acts 2:23—foreknowledge here is obviously more than knowing ahead of time; it's choosing ahead of time. We've seen previously that "to foreknow" is equal to "to choose." God's knowing-ahead-of-time is active. He knows because he planned the events--He determined that they would happen. Is it possible for God to look into the future to see that something would happen? No. That would mean that God learns things. He does not.

Also, foreknowledge is a relational term. God foreknows people, not events or things.]

5。 Unconditional election makes God responsible for man's condemnation .

There are some who believe that God elects some to be saved and the rest to be eternally condemned. This view is known as “ double predestination .” According to the Bible, however, man is responsible for his own damnation. The Bible nowhere blames man's condemnation on God. God does not elect men to hell. He does, however, leave them to their own choice. Thus, men condemn themselves .

[God chooses some and leaves the rest. Also cf John 3:18 -- unsaved man is "condemned already" because of unbelief, not because God has elected him to damnation.]

6。 Unconditional election makes evangelism meaningless.

Some suggest that unconditional election makes such practices as witnessing and evangelistic preaching unnecessary because God saves men without our help. While it is true that God will accomplish His plan to save the elect, such a position misunderstands two important points: 1) God commands us to evangelize and holds us responsible to obey; 2) God has chosen to use men to communicate His message. Our labor is the tool which God uses to bring men to Christ and accomplish His purposes. God has chosen both the results and the means of His plan.

[One can be a 5 point Calvinist and still be zealously evangelistic. Spurgeon, for example, was a Calvinist. The belief in predestination and election in no way weakens one's desire to win the lost. Read JI Packer's Evangelism and the Sovereignty of God . ]

二。 再生

Regeneration refers to the fact that God gives spiritual life to those who will be saved.

A. The meaning of regeneration

Regeneration is the work of God in which He makes the spiritually dead sinner spiritually alive . It is the impartation of spiritual life to the spiritually dead. God grants spiritual life which enables men to repent and trust Christ.

但因为他为我们伟大的爱，上帝，谁是丰富的怜悯，使我们与基督甚至当我们死在越轨活着。 Ephesians 2:4-5

[There is some disagreement as to whether regeneration logically precedes repentance and faith, or is the result of it. The above paragraph indicates that regeneration is necessary prior to conversion--it gives one the ability to repent and believe. In reality, salvation is one immediate/instantaneous act. There is a logical order, but not a chronological one.]

B. The Agent of regeneration

The Holy Spirit is the One who makes the dead sinner spiritually alive.

He saved us through the washing of rebirth and renewal by the Holy Spirit. – Titus 3:5

C. The means of regeneration

The Holy Spirit uses the Word of God as the only means of producing spiritual life.

For you have been born again, not of perishable seed, but of imperishable, through the living and enduring word of God. 1 Peter 1:23

[So the order is election (before time), regeneration, conversion. ]

Recap & Review

In this lesson, we have learned:

1. Election is a divine condition for union with Christ. Election is the work of God before time in which He freely chooses those who will receive the gift of eternal life.

2. Regeneration is a divine condition for union with Christ. Regeneration is the work of God in which He makes the spiritually dead sinner spiritually alive.

学习生活

The statements below represent two unbiblical positions regarding the doctrine of election.

1。 “Because God controls everything and chooses those whom He will save, I do not need to witness. God will save His elect in His own time. He certainly does not need me to help Him.” What is wrong with this statement?

God commands us to witness. Furthermore, our witness is the means God has chosen to reach the lost. God saves the elect through the witnessing activities of other Christians. He has chosen to use people to lead other people to Christ.

How might this position affect a church's ministry?

It might kill any evangelistic outreach or missionary work.

2。 “Yes, I believe in election, but God chooses those whom He knows will choose Him. He looks down the tunnel of time and sees that I am going to believe in Him. Because He foreknows this, He elects me to be saved.” What is wrong with this statement?

It reflects an incorrect understanding of foreknowledge. Foreknowledge is active. God chooses unconditionally, ie not based on what we will or won't do. Furthermore, the above idea results in us doing the choosing rather than God doing it. God is not sovereign in this scenario. Finally, it makes God dependent on us rather than vice versa. It makes man, not God, in charge.

Lesson 17: The Human Conditions for Union with Christ

As stated in the Introduction to this section, the only way one can receive the benefits of Christ's death is by being united with Christ. “Union with Christ” is one way of describing the relationship that exists between Christ and the believer begun at the moment of salvation. Union with Christ does not just happen. Certain things must take place before one is united with Christ. The conditions for union with Christ, which we will study in this lesson and the next, can be divided into two types:

1。 The human conditions for union with Christ

[That is, what is required that I must to do be saved.]

2。 The divine conditions for union with Christ

[That is, what is required from God for me to be saved.]

The human conditions for union with Christ are those aspects of salvation in which man participates with God. While the Bible teaches that these aspects are initiated and empowered by God, man plays an active and necessary role. This lesson will focus on the following human conditions for union with Christ:

1. Repentance

2. Faith

[It is very important that both of these be emphasized. Without both of these there is no true salvation. Many people who make professions of faith never really got saved at all because they did not couple faith with repentance. Both are necessary.]

I. Repentance

A. The meaning of repentance

1。 Wrong views of repentance

A. Repentance is not simply sorrow for sin.

When Judas, who had betrayed him, saw that Jesus was condemned, he was seized with remorse. Matthew 27:3

[Judas was sorry about what he had done, and he even admitted his guilt, yet there was no true repentance. Sorrow for sin is part of it, but not all of it.]

B. Repentance is not penance .

Penance is a Roman Catholic idea involving: 1) confession to a priest; 2) the priest's pronouncement of absolution [restoration to good standing] ; and 3) an assignment of works to do or prayers to say. Penance assumes that Christ's work was not sufficient and teaches that salvation involves the sinner's good works . Penance is completely unbiblical.

[You may have heard of Catholics doing all sorts of things, like crawling on their knees up long flights of stairs, whipping themselves, repeating long prayers over and over--these are all examples of penance. A priest tells the person that he has to do this stuff in order to pay for his sin.]

2。 The biblical view of repentance

The biblical word translated “repentance” literally means to “ change one's mind .” Repentance is a change of mind regarding God and sin . It is the change of mind away from sin and to God. This change of mind involves more than one's opinion. It involves a rejection of sin and a commitment to God.

[Think of repentance as making a 180 degree turn. You were going one way, but after repentance you're going the exact opposite way. It's a change of mind and will. ]

A. Repentance involves a change of mind regarding sin .

1) It requires a knowledge of one's sin.

For I know my transgressions, and my sin is always before me. – Psalm 51:3

2) It requires a genuine sorrow for one's sin.

Godly sorrow brings repentance that leads to salvation. 2 Corinthians 7:10

3) It requires the rejection of one's sin.

。 。 。 repentance from acts that lead to death. Hebrews 6:1

[The emphasis is on the word “from.” Repentance is turning from sin to God. ]

4) It requires a desire to seek God’s pardon for one's sin.

Have mercy on me, O God, according to your unfailing love; according to your great compassion blot out my transgressions. Wash away all my iniquity and cleanse me from my sin. Psalm 51:1-2

Some people [ie Hodges, Ryrie, Dallas Sem.] teach that repentance is simply a change of mind regarding Christ . However, any definition of repentance which leaves out the idea of a conscious and active rejection of sin is inadequate.

B. Repentance involves a change of mind regarding God .

I have declared to both Jews and Greeks that they must turn to God in repentance. Acts 20:21

Prior to salvation, man embraces sin and rejects God. Repentance is that act which reverses man's allegiance. In repentance, one decides to reject sin and embrace God.

[Add this: c. Repentance results in changed behavior.

Acts 26:20 “but declared first to those in Damascus and in Jerusalem, and throughout all the region of Judea, and then to the Gentiles, that they should repent, turn to God, and do works befitting repentance .]

B. The origin of repentance

1。 Repentance does not originate in man .

Unsaved men are completely rebellious and have no desire for God. They are unable and unwilling to change their minds regarding sin and God.

The sinful mind is hostile to God. It does not submit to God's law, nor can it do so. Romans 8:7

2。 Repentance originates with God .

Repentance is a gift of God. Because the totally depraved sinner is incapable of repenting, God must give him the ability to do so.

God exalted him to his own right hand as Prince and Savior that he might give repentance and forgiveness of sins to Israel. Acts 5:31

“So then, God has granted even the Gentiles repentance unto life.” Acts 11:18

。 。 。 in the hope that God will grant them repentance leading them to a knowledge of the truth. 2 Timothy 2:25

二。 Faith

The Bible describes several different kinds of faith. The faith necessary for salvation is commonly referred to as “saving faith.”

A. The meaning of saving faith

1。 Saving faith requires knowledge . [intellectual content]

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

What must one believe in order to be saved?

The gospel message includes the fact of man's condition (sin), God's remedy for that condition (the person and work of Christ), and the response God requires in order for that remedy to be applied to the sinner (faith and repentance). In order for a man to be saved, he must understand that he is a sinner who has fallen short of the standard of perfection demanded by a holy God and is, therefore, deserving of sin's penalty, namely, death; that the God-man, Jesus Christ, has met the standard by means of His sinless life and has paid the penalty by means of His sacrificial death; and that by responding in faith and repentance he can be justified in God's sight as a result of Christ's work (both His sinless life and sacrificial death) being imputed to him.

2。 Saving faith requires assent .

But the one who received the seed that fell on good soil is the man who hears the word and understands it. – Matthew 13:23

One must not only know certain facts in order to be saved, but he must also realize that they apply to him. In the parable of the sower, the only one of the four who exercised saving faith was the one who not only comprehended the facts (“hears the word”) but also perceived their significance (“understands it”). It is not enough for one to acknowledge that he needs a Savior, nor is it enough for one to acknowledge that Christ was the Savior. Saving faith involves the acknowledgement that Christ must become my Savior.

[This is what we mean by "assent:" One must apply the facts to his own life.]

3。 Saving faith requires commitment . [an exercise of the will]

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. – Romans 10:9

Saving faith involves a commitment to follow Christ in obedience. It is a commitment to Christ as both Sin bearer ( Savior ) and Master

( Lord ).

[The aspect of trust or reliance would come under this. When you trust Christ as your savior, you are committing yourself to him, putting your full faith and confidence in Jesus as your savior. Concepts such as loyalty and commitment to Christ are consistent with saving faith.

These are three aspects of faith, but they are not three separate steps. When one hears, understands, and responds by putting his confidence/trust in Christ, he has exercised faith. ]

B. The object of saving faith

In order to be saved, one must have faith in both the person and work of Jesus Christ .

Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved. Acts 16:31

This righteousness from God comes through faith in Jesus Christ to all who believe. Romans 3:22

[If a person says "I believe in Jesus," is he necessarily saved? No. Cf Matt 7:21-23. There are certain things one must believe about Jesus. So faith involves believing in Jesus and believing certain things about Jesus.]

C. The origin of saving faith

1。 Saving faith does not originate in man .

Man cannot produce saving faith. He neither seeks it nor initiates it.

A. Saving faith does not come from knowing historical facts .

The king is familiar with these things, and I can speak freely to him. I am convinced that none of this has escaped his notice, because it was not done in a corner. Acts 26:26

In this passage, Paul acknowledges that King Agrippa knows much about the gospel message. Because Christ's death was a well known fact, and His message was being openly proclaimed, the king could not claim ignorance. However, King Agrippa did not trust Christ. While faith must be based upon factual information, the knowledge of such information alone does not produce saving faith.

[This is why we don't emphasize all the evidences of the Christian faith. People do not ultimately get saved because the are persuaded that the facts of the Bible are true. Neither do people reject Christianity because they are skeptical about the Bible's truthfulness. Saving faith originates in God, not man. ]

B. Saving faith does not come from human logic .

For since in the wisdom of God the world through its wisdom did not know him, God was pleased through the foolishness of what was preached to save those who believe. 1 Corinthians 1:21

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 2:4 5

While faith is logical, human logic alone cannot produce faith.

[Some men have come up with detailed, complex methods of "proving" the existence of God, the truth of the Bible, etc. We don't use them because, while our faith is reasonable, it does not rest upon logic alone.]

2。 Saving faith originates with God .

Saving faith involves a knowledge of the facts of the gospel and the use of logic to understand such facts. However, neither historical facts nor human logic produce saving faith. Like repentance, saving faith is a gift of God. God graciously gives the rebellious sinner the faith to believe.

On arriving there, [Paul and Barnabas] 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. Acts 14:27

For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God. Ephesians 2:8

The structure of the Greek sentence in Ephesians 2:8 indicates that the word translated “gift” refers to the whole process of salvation. Faith is certainly one of the elements in that process. From these texts it is clear that faith is something God must give.

Note: Repentance and faith are simultaneous, that is, they happen at the same time. You cannot have one without the other. They are inseparable.

I have declared to both Jews and Greeks that they must turn to God in repentance and have faith in our Lord Jesus. Acts 20:21

Repentance and faith are the two aspects of the one act commonly referred to as conversion .

[In the study of repentance and faith, two things God requires of us to be saved, we see that God is responsible for both of them. Man cannot/will not repent or believe on his own. Both are gifts from God.

Some say that salvation is purely belief in Christ without any mention of repentance. This definition of salvation comes short. Repentance is part of the equation. One must turn from sin to God. ]

学习生活

1。 While on vacation, your family attends a church where the pastor preaches a salvation message. In his sermon he says, “You must trust Christ and repent.” He then defines repentance by saying, “Repentance is a change of mind regarding Jesus Christ. You must stop rejecting Him. Turn to Him today and reject Him no longer.” What is missing from this pastor's definition of repentance?

any mention of sorrow for one's sin or a desire to turn away from it. What that pastor is really doing is redefining repentance.

Can a person truly be saved if his repentance does not include admitting and rejecting his sin?

No, he has not really repented

2。 You and a Christian friend begin to witness to a fellow teenager. In the course of the conversation, your friend launches into a logical defense of the Bible in an attempt to convince this unsaved teen to believe in Christ. Will this kind of logic cause him to believe? 为什么或为什么不呢？

no; Belief is not dependent upon a logical understanding of the facts or being convinced that they are true. One is not saved by being convinced of the facts.

He is not in a state of neutrality; rather, he is predisposed against God. He is unable and unwilling to positively respond (1 Cor 2:14). He will always misinterpret such facts.

What is the more biblical approach to take when witnessing?

Use the Bible, the only means whereby one can be saved (Rom 10:17). Present the gospel clearly, accurately and biblically. Let God do the work necessary to bring a person to faith.

Lesson 16: The Work of Christ and the Christian Life

We have learned that Jesus Christ is the unique God man and that His work is sufficient for man's salvation. Having discussed the work of Christ both before and within time, we will now study the practical results of His work for the believer.

I. Christ's Work Before Time and the Christian Life

In the previous lesson, we learned that Christ's work began before the creation of time. Christ was active in planning the events of history, including the salvation of believers, in eternity past.

A. Because of Christ's work before time, we are saved .

1。 The requirements for salvation were planned for before time.

For you know that it was not with perishable things such as silver or gold that you were redeemed . 。 。 but with the precious blood of Christ, a lamb without blemish or defect. He was chosen before the creation of the world, but was revealed in these last times for your sake. 1 Peter 1:18 20 (See also Revelation 13:8.)

This man was handed over to you by God's set purpose and foreknowledge; and you, with the help of wicked men, put him to death by nailing him to the cross. Acts 2:23

Indeed Herod and Pontius Pilate met together with the Gentiles and the people of Israel in this city to conspire against your holy servant Jesus, whom you anointed. They did what your power and will had decided beforehand should happen. Acts 4:27 28

These passages indicate that the work of Christ within time was the result of His work before time. The ultimate cause for the events which brought about our salvation is the plan of God.

2。 The recipients of salvation were chosen before time.

For those God foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the likeness of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brothers. And those he predestined, he also called; those he called, he also justified; those he justified, he also glorified. Romans 8:29 30

Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us in the heavenly realms with every spiritual blessing in Christ. For he chose us in him before the creation of the world to be holy and blameless in his sight. In love he predestined us to be adopted as his sons through Jesus Christ, in accordance with his pleasure and will. Ephesians 1:3 5

[Note that our choice of Christ within time is the result of God's choice of us before time. ]

In him we were also chosen, having been predestined according to the plan of him who works out everything in conformity with the purpose of his will. Ephesians 1:11

Note that God chose people, not facts. That is, these verses refer to who God foreknew, not what He foreknew. They refer to a relationship prior to time.

[It is important to understand the idea of God's "foreknowledge" at this point. 这是什么？ Is it just knowing something before it takes place? That's what some people think it is--advanced knowledge. But it's more than that. Read Acts 2:23, Romans 11:2. These verses show that foreknowledge is a choice before hand that a certain thing will happen. Thus in Romans 8:29, "foreknew" carries the idea of selection/choice before hand, not just advanced knowledge. God did not choose us based on what He saw we would do on our own (an Arminian idea).]

B. Because of Christ's work before time, we can approach the future with confidence .

The triune God determined future events before the beginning of time. We can thus be confident that whatever happens is part of God's wise design.

[God has from eternity past planned what is going to happen, so history is not mere chance, random happenings. There is a definite goal toward which history is progressing. God, who is loving, kind, and wise, is directing history to His desired ends. Thus we may look forward with confidence, knowing that God is in control and that all things will end up as they should be.

The problem comes for us when we see bad/evil things happen, like crime or natural disasters--how could God allow/do such a thing? While it's impossible to know why God does certain things, we can be sure it's all part of God's program/plan and that God is still in control.]

Note: The events of human history, including the events of our individual lives, are the fulfillment within time of that which God determined in eternity past. The believer's assurance of life in eternity future is possible only because of God's work in eternity past . One is eternally secure because the process of salvation began before time and extends eternally. Thus, the doctrine of eternal security is based upon the doctrine of election .

二。 Christ's Work Within Time and the Christian Life

A. Because of Christ's work within time, we understand more fully the character of God .

At the sixth hour darkness came over the whole land until the ninth hour. And at the ninth hour Jesus cried out in a loud voice, “. 。 。 My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?” Mark 15:33 34

The death of Christ on the cross displayed the character of God. The cross helped solve the tension between the justice of God and the love of God. His justice required a perfect sacrifice for sin. His love moved Him to become that sacrifice on our behalf. In addition to the attributes of justice and love, the cross also displayed the holiness of God. On that fateful day when the innocent, spotless Lamb of God took our sin upon Himself, the Father was unable to look upon His Son. His holiness prevented Him from looking upon sin.

Your eyes are too pure to look on evil. – Habakkuk 1:13

B. Because of Christ's work within time, we understand more fully the true meaning of love .

For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. 约翰福音3:16

Greater love has no one than this, that he lay down his life for his friends. John 15:13

This is how we know what love is: Jesus Christ laid down his life for us. 1 John 3:16

At the cross, God revealed the true meaning of love by giving Himself for our salvation.

[We've got to get rid of this romantic, emotional, worldly idea of love. Love is a choice to do what is best for the other person, to sacrifice your self, your desires, your possessions, etc., for the good of another. This means: 1. You don't have to wait until you feel something to love someone; 2. You can love someone you don't even like very much; 3. Much of what passes for love really is not true love.]

C. Because of Christ's work within time, we have a right relationship with God.

1。 Our slavery to sin is finished, and we are now slaves to righteousness . We call the act of being purchased out of the slave market of sin redemption .

Don't you know that when you offer yourselves to someone to obey him as slaves, you are slaves to the one whom you obey whether you are slaves to sin, which leads to death, or to obedience, which leads to righteousness? But thanks be to God that, though you used to be slaves to sin, you wholeheartedly obeyed the form of teaching to which you were entrusted. You have been set free from sin and have become slaves to righteousness. Romans 6:16 18

[The above verse has only two options: slave to sin or slave to righteousness. No one is truly free. Everyone is a slave. ]

2。 Our separation from God is finished, and we are now reconciled to God. We call the act of being restored to a friendly relationship with God reconciliation .

For if, when we were God's enemies, we were reconciled to him through the death of his Son, how much more, having been reconciled, shall we be saved through his life! Not only is this so, but we also rejoice in God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have now received reconciliation. Romans 5:10 11

The work of Christ removed the separation between God and man caused by sin. Christ has restored for us that which sin had destroyed: fellowship between God and man. We are no longer God's enemies.

3。 Our liability to God's wrath is finished, and we are now able to please God. We call the act of appeasing God's wrath propitiation .

God presented [Christ] as the one who would turn aside his wrath, taking away sin through faith in his blood. Romans 3:25 [NIV footnote]

Jesus appeased God's wrath toward sin by His death on the cross. Although previously unable to do anything pleasing to God (Isaiah 64:6), Christians are now able to do things which are acceptable to Him.

[Liability to wrath or punishment is called guilt. We are truly guilty for our sin. At salvation, God removes our guilt, and thus we are no longer liable/blameworthy to suffer the penalty of sin or be exposed to God's wrath.]

4。 Our condemnation by God is finished, and we are now declared righteous . We call the act of being declared righteous justification .

Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus. Romans 8:1

Therefore, since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ. Romans 5:1

God has declared all unbelievers guilty and, therefore, under condemnation. However, He has declared believers righteous.

[Justification is a positional thing – it describes our relationship with God. We are declared to be righteous, just like a judge declares someone not guilty. This does not mean that we will live perfectly righteous lives, but that our standing with God is righteous.

The opposite of each one of the above things is true of the unbeliever. The unsaved are enslaved to sin, separated from God, under God's wrath and condemned. Each one of those relationships changes when one gets saved.]

Note: The new life that we experience upon salvation is the outworking of the new position we enjoy in Christ. This is similar to the fact that, in the mind of God, the work of Christ was completed before time began, even though its outworking occurred within time. So too, what is considered as being completed in God's mind is worked out in our daily experience .

Jesus said, “It is finished.” With that, he bowed his head and gave up his spirit. John 19:30

Continue to work out your salvation with fear and trembling, for it is God who works in you to will and to act according to his good purpose. Philippians 2:12 13

[Positionally, our salvation is a completed thing. We are saved. Experientially, we continue to “work out” our salvation on a daily basis. ]

D. Because of Christ's work within time, we eagerly expect His return.

While we wait for the blessed hope–the glorious appearing of our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ. – Titus 2:13

The hope of Christ's future return to receive His own is based upon His Resurrection and Ascension . Because Christianity is based upon belief in a living Savior, Christians worldwide wait for the “blessed hope” of the Lord's return.

Recap & Review

In this lesson, we have learned:

1. Because of Christ's work before time, we are saved and can approach the future with confidence.

2. Because of Christ's work within time, we understand more fully the character of God and the true meaning of love, have a right relationship with God, and eagerly expect His return.

学习生活

1。 Your cousin, who enjoys discussing biblical issues, gets into a discussion with you at a family gathering. In the midst of the conversation, you realize that he does not believe in eternal security based upon his belief that eternal life begins at death. At what point in time does eternal life begin for the believer?

at the moment of salvation

What are some Scripture passages which support your conclusion?

John 3:36 and 5:24–”has eternal life” is in the present tense, ie, it's happening now.

Is a believer's salvation within time the true beginning of the process?

没有

If not, when did the process of our salvation begin?

with God's choice in eternity past

Therefore, on what doctrine is eternal security based?

election

2。 A best-selling song declared: “Learning to love yourself is the greatest love of all.” Is this lyric true?

no, in fact, the whole self-love/esteem thing is unbiblical. We love ourselves too much.

What are some Scripture passages which define the true nature of love?

John 3:16, Romans 5:8, 1 John 3:16 and 4:9-10

Lesson 15: The Work of Christ

As stated in Lesson Fourteen, what we do is a reflection of who we are. Having learned who Christ is (His person), we can now proceed to study what He has done (His work). This lesson will discuss:

1。 The work of Christ before time

2。 The work of Christ within time

[When did time start? With creation. Before that was eternity past. Time will end with the creation of the new heaven and earth after the Millennium (2 Pet 3:10-13; Rev 21:1). Before creation and in the eternal state there was/will be no time as we know it. ]

I. The Work of Christ Before Time

In Lesson Thirteen, we learned that many people mistakenly believe that Christ came into existence at the birth of Jesus. As a result, they believe that His work is limited to the time following His birth. However, the Bible teaches that the triune God was active prior to Creation. Because Christ is God, He was active prior to the beginning of time.

A. Christ was active in planning the events of history .

“Have you not heard? Long ago I ordained it. In days of old I planned it; now I have brought it to pass.” – Isaiah 37:26

All the days ordained for me were written in your book before one of them came to be. – Psalm 139:16

[Everything that happens is part of God's plan for the universe. Things happen because God determined that they would. If this is true, what are some consequences? Nothing happens by pure chance. There is a purpose for everything. God is in control of everything. There is not such thing as random or chance occurances.]

B. Christ was active in planning the salvation of believers .

For he chose us in him before the creation of the world to be holy and blameless in his sight. In love he predestined us to be adopted as his sons through Jesus Christ, in accordance with his pleasure and will. Ephesians 1:4-5

[The words “in him” or “in Christ” describe salvation. Holy Spirit baptism places us “in him” at the moment of salvation. ]

In [Christ] we were also chosen, having been predestined according to the plan of him who works out everything in conformity with the purpose of his will. Ephesians 1:11

It is interesting to note that God's plan for history included Christ's sacrifice of Himself. Therefore, Christ was involved in planning His own death.

。 。 。 the Lamb that was slain from the creation of the world. Revelation 13:8

[Is the salvation of an individual purely his own decision? No. Why not? God planned it. One is saved as a result of the out-working of the plan of God. God saves who he has chosen to save.]

Note: Although the above verses specify God the Father as the One doing the planning, both God the Son and God the Holy Spirit played an active role in these events as well.

二。 The Work of Christ Within Time

Not only was Christ active prior to the creation of time, but He has also been active since then.

A. Christ's work in the past

1。 Christ created the universe.

Through [Christ] all things were made; without him nothing was made that has been made. John 1:3

For by [Christ] all things were created: things in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or powers or rulers or authorities; all things were created by him and for him. 歌罗西书1:16

2。 Christ revealed God. ["Reveal" means "to make known."]

No one has ever seen God, but God the One and Only, who is at the Father's side, has made him known. John 1:18

Jesus answered: ” . 。 。 Anyone who has seen me has seen the Father.” John 14:9

Note: As the God man, Jesus Christ made God known as no other prophet could (such as Moses, Elijah, and others in the Old Testament). He perfectly fulfilled the Old Testament office of prophet .

In the past God spoke to our forefathers through the prophets at many times and in various ways, but in these last days he has spoken to us by his Son. Hebrews 1:1 2

3。 Christ made salvation possible.

A. Jesus Christ satisfied the required penalties of God's Law.

1) Jesus Christ died as our perfect substitute .

The Bible states that “all have sinned” (Romans 3:23) and that “the wages of sin is death” (Romans 6:23). Because all men are sinners, they all deserve death. Jesus Christ died in our place.

[This is what we call the vicarious or substitutionary atonement. Our relationship with God is made right through the sacrificial death of Christ on our behalf. The death of Christ satisfied God's wrath against sin. Christ paid the penalty in our place.]

Surely he took up our infirmities and carried our sorrows, yet we considered him stricken by God, smitten by him, and afflicted. But he was pierced for our transgressions, he was crushed for our iniquities; the punishment that brought us peace was upon him, and by his wounds we are healed. We all, like sheep, have gone astray, each of us has turned to his own way; and the LORD has laid on him the iniquity of us all. Isaiah 53:4 6

He is the atoning sacrifice for our sins, and not only for ours but also for the sins of the whole world. 1 John 2:2

2) Jesus Christ's perfect sacrifice removes the guilt of the believer.

Because of his sin, every person stands guilty before God. The substitutionary death of Christ is the means by which God removes the guilt of every believer.

[Christ's death is the basis of our forgiveness. God did not just wipe away our debt. He didn't just cancel the punishment due the crime. Had he done so, he would not have been just/fair. Someone had to pay the price/penalty for sin. Jesus did. Because Jesus died for us, we don't have to. Jesus paid the debt, he suffered the consequences for us.]

But now he has appeared once for all at the end of the ages to do away with sin by the sacrifice of himself. – Hebrews 9:26

B. Jesus Christ satisfied the positive demands of God's Law.

1) Jesus Christ lived a life of perfect obedience .

Some assume that Christ's perfect life means only that He did not do anything wrong. However, Christ was perfect not only because He did not do anything wrong, but also because He did everything right, thereby fulfilling all the righteous requirements of God's Law. We say that Jesus died for us, but often forget that He lived for us too!

Although [Christ] was a son, he learned obedience from what he suffered and, once made perfect, he became the source of eternal salvation for all who obey him. Hebrews 5:8 9

[Cf also Matt 5.17]

2) Jesus Christ's perfect life is imputed to the believer.

[What does "impute" mean? To charge to one's account. Thus, the perfect law-keeping of Christ is charged to us. So by the sacrificial death of Christ we are forgiven, and by the perfect life of Christ we are given a righteous/meritorious standing. It's not enough just to be forgiven; you have to have a righteous/holy standing. ]

When one becomes a Christian, God imputes to him the righteous life of Jesus Christ. Christ's righteousness is credited to his account.

对于刚刚通过的不服从一个人的许多人成为罪人，通过服从一个人的许多将成为义也 。 Romans 5:19 (See also 2 Corinthians 5:21.)

4。 Jesus Christ rose from the dead .

Christ's resurrection separates Him from all other religious leaders. The founders of all other religions are dead. Christ, however, rose from the dead on the third day, just as He said He would.

The angel said to the women, “Do not be afraid, for I know that you are looking for Jesus, who was crucified. He is not here; he has risen, just as he said.” Matthew 28:5 6

[How important is the resurrection? What would happen to Christianity without it? 1 Cor. 15 -- without the rez. the whole thing would be one big lie, worthless and meaningless.]

B. Christ's work in the present

1。 Jesus Christ preserves the universe.

[Christ] is before all things, and in him all things hold together. – Colossians 1:17

[God's power holds the universe together. ]

2。 Jesus Christ intercedes for believers.

Christ speaks to the Father in behalf of believers.

[An intercessor is a go-between, a mediator (1 Tim 2:5), one who speaks to someone for someone else. John 14:6--no one comes to God but through Christ.]

Christ Jesus, who died more than that, who was raised to life is at the right hand of God and is also interceding for us. Romans 8:34

Note: As the God man, Jesus Christ can intercede for us as no other human priest could (such as Aaron, Eli, and others in the Old Testament). Jesus Christ perfectly fulfills the Old Testament office of priest .

[The Bible uses the term "advocate" to describe Jesus as our intercessor. Like a lawyer, He pleads our case before God.]

C. Christ's work in the future

God is the king of His creation in spite of the attempts of Satan and mankind to dethrone Him. Jesus Christ will one day return to establish His kingdom and reign as the supreme king.

I saw heaven standing open and there before me was a white horse, whose rider is called Faithful and True. With justice he judges and makes war. His eyes are like blazing fire, and on his head are many crowns. He has a name written on him that no one knows but he himself. He is dressed in a robe dipped in blood, and his name is the Word of God. The armies of heaven were following him, riding on white horses and dressed in fine linen, white and clean. Out of his mouth comes a sharp sword with which to strike down the nations. “He will rule them with an iron scepter.” He treads

the winepress of the fury of the wrath of God Almighty. On his robe and on his thigh he has this name written:

KING OF KINGS AND LORD OF LORDS. Revelation 19:11 16

Note: As the God man, Jesus Christ will rule as no other human king could (such as Saul, David, and others in the Old Testament). Jesus Christ will perfectly fulfill the Old Testament office of king .

[When will this happen? 7 Years after the rapture, the millennium will begin--1000 years of the literal rule of Christ on the earth. Jesus will be here, in person, ruling the earth from a throne in Jerusalem.]

Recap & Review

In this lesson, we have learned:

1. Christ was active before time. He planned the events of history and the salvation of believers.

2. Christ has been, is, and will be active within time. He created the universe, revealed God, made salvation possible, and rose from the dead. He preserves the universe and intercedes for believers. He will one day return to establish His kingdom.

学习生活

1。 While talking to you about Christ's death on the cross, a friend asks, “How old was Jesus when He died?” You tell him, “About thirty.” He then asks, “Why did He wait until He was thirty?” How should you respond?

There needed to be enough time for Christ to meet the positive demands of God's Law by living a life of perfect obedience.

2。 After you explain to an unsaved friend that salvation is a free gift that one cannot earn, he refuses to accept Christ on the grounds that it seems too easy. What misconception does your friend have?

1。 that salvation is cheap It was not. Jesus paid for it with His life. 2。 That salvation is not a major step in one's life. Salvation is a total change of life, a major decision.

What distinction would be helpful in clearing it up?

Free does not necessarily mean cheap. Salvation is free, but it cost God dearly. Also tell him about the changes salvation brings. It's costly to be a Christian.

第14课：基督及基督徒的生活的人

Our previous lesson focused on the unique person we call the God man, Jesus Christ. 我们了解到，基督拥有两个性质。 He is fully God and fully man at the same time. One might wonder how such a complex doctrine has any practical value.

这节课将指出神人学说的实用价值。 Because He is God, Christ is to be exalted above all others. As a man, He has experienced the cares and difficulties of everyday life. 神和人，他是能够提供所有需要的是我们的拯救。

一，基督的神和基督徒生活

A. Because Christ is God, He demands and deserves our worship .

Our English word “worship” comes from the Old English word “ worthship .” We worship God by recognizing His worth or value. 作为上帝，基督是无限的价值，因此，值得我们崇拜。

[一个良好的“崇拜”的同义词是“尊重”或“荣誉”或“崇敬”。 为什么我们呼吁教会服务“崇拜”？ Because during it we seek to honor/pay respect to/reverence God. 请注意，我们敬拜上帝。 而不是去教堂服务得到的东西，我们应该去敬拜神。

什么样的气氛是最好的崇拜呢 ？ 高档棒？ Laid back? No. Reverential, serious, orderly, biblical.

我们应该兑现/价值基督，因为他是上帝的儿子 。 ]

1。 我们崇拜基督， 因为他是谁。

天使，神曾经说，“你是我儿子，我今天已经成为你的父亲”？ 或者再次，“我将是他的父亲，他将是我的儿子”呢？ 再次，当神的世界带入他的长子，他说，“让所有上帝的使者都要拜他。”希伯来书1:5 6

2。 We are to worship Christ because of what He has done .

你是值得的，我们的上帝和上帝，接受荣耀，尊贵，权柄，为您创建的所有东西 。 -启示录4:11

B.因为基督是上帝，他的要求，值得我们服从 。

于是耶稣前来，对他们说：“在天上和地上的所有的权柄都赐给我了。 所以你们要去，使所有国家的弟子，他们在父亲的姓名和子和圣灵施洗，教训他们遵守我所吩咐你们的一切。“马修 28:18 20

我们了解到在以前的教训，上帝是主权 （即，他拥有所有权力）。 Thus, He demands obedience from all men (including the unsaved). 信徒的服从，但是，应该从心脏的欲望，以请神所居住的生活显示自己的价值（歌罗西书1:10）的流动。

有趣的是，在约翰福音3:36，相信福音是等同于服从福音。 你的生活方式和行为显示多少神对你意味着什么。 ]

C. Because Christ is God, He demands and deserves our devotion .

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. 罗马书12:1

[什么是奉献？ It's our commitment to Him, or desire to put Him and His will first in our lives. Worship and devotion are very closely tied ideas--almost synonymous.]

二。 The Humanity of Jesus and the Christian Life

答：因为耶稣是一个人，他​​同情与我们联系。

[Empathy means "feeling with." We empathize with someone when we feel his/her pain or truly understand his/her trouble, etc.]

如上所述，耶稣是完全的人。 因此，他明白我们的斗争，谁曾知道日常生活的疼痛。 他是能够与我们的同情，作为一个经历了生活中的试验第一手。

因为我们不大祭司谁是不能同情我们的弱点，但我们有一个人一直以各种方式诱惑，正如我们没有犯罪。 Hebrews 4:15

B.因为耶稣是一个人，他​​dignifies人体。

[“尊严”是指“给价值”的东西。 ]

整个世纪以来，许多邪教（甚至一些善意的基督徒）贬值人体。 有些人视为天生邪恶的身体，因此，不到人的精神价值。 然而，“圣经”的地方后，人的身体非常重要的。 这尤其体现在基督自己拿了人体。

The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. 约翰福音1:14

[An old philosopher (Plato) popularized the idea that body is low/sinful while the spirit is high/good. 这发展成的想法（诺斯替主义），所有材料的对象是邪恶的，而心灵或精神是好的。 柏拉图说，“身体是灵魂的监狱里。”因此，诺斯替教的崇高思想和淡化的物质，包括人体。 今天，它正好相反：我们发扬身体或图像和淡化内在的人。 正确的理念是灵魂/精神和身体是珍贵和圣洁。 ]

三。 耶稣基督的独特性和基督徒生活

What we do is a reflection of who we are . 因此，什么基督做是基于他是谁。

答：因为耶稣基督是神和人，我们可以知道神。

[“认识神”是要保存。 “知道”这个词表示了密切的个人关系。 见太7:21-23]

1。 Because Jesus is a man, He could live a human life and die a human death.

由于孩子们的血肉，他也分享了他们的人性，使他的死亡，他可能会破坏他的死亡，也就是谁拥有权力，魔鬼和自由那些他们的生活在奴役他们的恐惧举行死亡。 。 。 。 出于这个原因，他像他的兄弟们，要以各种方式 。 。 。 他可能为人民的罪恶赎罪。 -希伯来书2:14-17

[If Jesus was not truly a man, his suffering a death would be meaningless. His humanity made his suffering and death possible. We should not downplay the importance of Jesus' humanity.

2。 Because Christ is God:

A. He was able to satisfy the positive demands of the Law by living a sinless life.

For what the law was powerless to do in that it was weakened by the sinful nature, God did by sending his own Son in the likeness of sinful man to be a sin offering. And so he condemned sin in sinful man, in order that the righteous requirements of the law might be fully met in us, who do not live according to the sinful nature but according to the Spirit. Romans 8:3 4

B. He was able to satisfy the required penalties of the Law by dying a sacrificial death.

Christ redeemed us from the curse of the law by becoming a curse for us. Galatians 3:13

[事实上，基督是神造的痛苦和死亡的有效的 。 定期人类死亡不为别人做什么。 But the death of Jesus is beneficial for others. He was able to die for me. No one else could do that. Cf also 2 Cor 5:21.

我们说，基督是主动和被动听话的 。 也就是说，他（积极）服从旧约法律的完美，从而实现它，并允许一个完美的生活的好处，要归罪于我们。 另一方面，他（被动）为罪的处罚-我们，从而使人们有可能，我们就不会这样做-死亡 。 他服从和他的处罚是归咎于信徒的帐户。 ]

B. Because Christ is both God and man, we can trust God.

At the conclusion of Section Three (the doctrine of man), we were left with a dilemma: the Scriptures reveal a God who is totally sovereign but who, as part of His plan, allowed evil to enter the universe. 很多人质疑在邪恶的存在，神的性格。 如果上帝是至高无上的，他当然可以阻止邪恶。 然而，他没有选择这样做，因此，他一定不会好。 Jesus Christ was God's answer to this accusation. By entering the corridors of time in the person of Jesus Christ, God Himself suffered the consequences of evil to a far greater degree than any one of us ever have or ever will. 因此，即使邪恶的存在，我们仍然可以相信上帝的善良。

[In other words, God solved the problem of evil through the death of Christ. 赎罪摧毁邪恶并救赎的力量，成为可能。

Can we know why God allowed/planned the entrance of evil in the first place? 号

将邪恶永远不会完全根除？ Yes, in the eternal state there will be no evil. 最终，神权将每一个错误，并奖励每一个良好的工作。 正义将得到伸张。 Rewards and punishments will be justly handed out.]

学习生活

1。 你有一个朋友，人的信仰行业去年在营地，但没有任何证据证明它。 有一天，你问他对他的精神状况，以及他回答，“我相信耶稣是神的儿子。”你有没有理由怀疑他的职业的现实？ 为什么或为什么不呢？

是因为他的行为不符合他的职业。 请记住，上帝要求我们的敬拜，奉献，服从。 如果这一切都不是显而易见的，这是显而易见的，人是不是真的保存。

Is it possible for one to be saved and show absolutely no evidence of it? no

2。 最近的争论已经出现在一些著名的基督教领袖，关于基督的血。 According to some, Christ's blood was not human blood but special, divine blood. Is this accurate?

记得我们在上面，耶稣是完全的人说。 He had normal blood flowing in his veins.

If Christ's blood was not human blood, what does this imply about His humanity?

他不是完全的人。 If he wasn't fully human, then he couldn't die for the sins of mankind. 他还不能同情与我们联系。