----------------------- Page 1----------------------A Bible S tudy on But God demonstrates His own l ove toward us, in that while

we were still sinners, Chr ist died for us. Romans 5:8 INTRODUCTION TO ROMANS LESSON 1. PAUL DECLARES THE GOSPEL OF GOD The book of Romans in the New Testament is a letter from Romans 1:1-15 the apostle Paul to believers living in Rome about 58 A.D. It 1Paul, a servant of Jesus 9For God is my witness, whom completely explains the amazing life of Jesus Christwhat Christ, called to be an apostle, I serve in the with my spirit

separated to the gospel of God gospel of His Son, that with out He has already done for us and what He wants to do in us. 2which He promised before ceasing I make mention of yo u Paul shows us how God sees usas desperately in need through His prophets in the always in my prayers, 10maof a Savior. As sinners, we were all condemned to death and Holy Scriptures, 3concerning king request if, by some eternal separation from God. But in this letter we see Gods His Son Jesus Christ our means, now at last I may find Lord, who was born of the a way of God to wonderful, awesome love for us. He sent His own Son to take in the 11 seed of David according to the come to you. For I long to see the death penalty for our sins so that we might be free to live flesh, 4and declared to be the you, that I may impart to y ou in marvelous fellowship with Him now and for eternity. Isnt Son of God with power, some spiritual gift, so that y ou that the best news you could ever hear? according to the Spirit of holimay be established 12that is, Jesus, who is alive from the dead, wants to share His life ness, by the resurrection from that I may be encouraged tothe dead, 5through whom we gether with you by the mutua l with all who trust in Him and to make them like Himself. And have received grace and aposfaith both of you and me. will

this is the testimony: that God has given us eternal life, and tleship for obedience to the 13Now I do not want you to b e this life is in His Son (1 John 5:11). Jesus said, And you faith among all nations for His unaware, brethren, tha t I 6 shall know the truth, and the truth shall set you free (John name, among whom you also often planned to come to you are the called of Jesus Christ; (but was hindered until now) , 8:32). Pauls letter to the Romans is a message of truth about 7to all who are in Rome, be- that I might have so me fruit freedom. Ask God to reveal Jesus to your heart as a living loved of God, called to be among you also, just as amon g Person, the eyes of your understanding being enlightened; saints: Grace to you and peace the other Gentiles. 14I am a that you may know what is the hope of His calling, . . . and from God our Father and the debtor both to Greeks and to Lord Jesus Christ. barbarians,both to wise and to what is the exceeding greatness of His power toward us who 8First, I thank my God unwise. 15So, as much as is in believe (Ephesians 1:18, 19a). through Jesus Christ for you me, I am ready to preach the Hundreds of books have been written to analyze Pauls letall, that your faith is spoken of gospel to you who are in Rome ter to the Romans. But dont come to this letter to analyze it. throughout the whole world. also. Babies dont analyze their mothers milk; they drink it for What Is the Gospel? nourishment and life. Come to this letter again and again to The word gospel means good news. Paul loved to tell drink deeply of it, to digest it, to know the Lord intimately, until people the good news he had received from God: that Jesus Himself is formed in you (Galatians 4:19). Christ died for our sins according s, and that ird day according to the Scriptures (1 Corinthians 15:3b, 4). Paul 2003 by V. R. Benson will explain why this is such good news and what it means for The Bible text used is from the New King James Version 1979, 1980, 1 1982, Thomas Nelson, Inc., Publishers. Used by permission. ----------------------- Page 2----------------------He was buried, and that He to the Scripture the th

V.R.Benson rose again

you. You will be amazed by Gods grace and love for you that fifty days after the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the and the freedom Jesus gives over sin and self. Thanks be dead, when His disciples were filled with the Holy Spirit and to God for His indescribable gift! (2 Corinthians 9:15). spoke to the crowds which were in Jerusalem for the feast Something to Do of Pentecost, there were in the crowd visitors from Rome, Fill out doubt some of these visitors who believed on the Lord Jesus more about the gospel of God and about Jesus. (You may that day went back to Rome with the joy of Christ in their check your answers with the answers given on page 111.) hearts. Later, when all Jews were commanded by Claudius 1. God promised His gospel through His ____________ to leave Rome, a precious couple named Aquila and his wife in the Holy _______________ (verse 2). Priscilla went to live in Corinth as tentmakers (Acts 18:2, 3). 2. The gospel of God is about His Son _______________ When Paul, also a tentmaker, arrived in Corinth toward the _____________ our Lord (3). end of his third missionary journey, he stayed with them and 3. Jesus Christ was born of the seed of ______________ doubtless heard even more about the believers in Rome. according to the _________ (3). Paul probably wrote this letter while he was staying i n [Jesus was born with a human body. The prophets foretold that Corinth. Believers in Rome were about to face unbelievable Messiah would descend from King David (Jeremiah 23:5).] persecution and martyrdom (being killed for their faith in 4. Jesus Christ was declared to be the __________ of Jesus). The truths of this letter would strengthen their faith. _________ with ______________, according to the Spirit of ___________, by the ________________ from the dead (4). Paul, a Bondservant of Jesus Christ Paul n [Jesus was divine. He was God with us (Matthew 1:23). His resurrection proved it. God would not allow His Holy One to see corRome in many ways. As a Jew he had the highest of creruption (Psalm 16:10), so He raised Him from the dead.] dentials and training. He had also been born a Roman citi5. Through Jesus Christ Paul had received ___________ zen, with all of its privileges. He had a tremendously fruitful and apostleship for ______________________ to the faith ministry. But he doesnt refer to any of these; he calls himamong all ______________ for His name (5). self a bondservant of Jesus Christ, called to be an apostle (a person sent on a mission, having the authority of the one could have introduced himself to the believers i both Jews and those converted to Judaism (Acts 2:10). No in the blanks from the verses on page 1 to find

The Believers in Rome who sent him). A bondservant is one who gives total alleThough Paul had not yet visited Rome, he had heard of giance to his master. Paul had not always been a servant of the believers there because their faith was spoken of throughJesus Christ. In fact, he had once opposed Him with all his out the whole world (the Roman Empire). He knew Jesus might in his misguided zeal for God. Christ had called them (verse 6), that they were loved Now Paul is about to share with the believers in Rome and God and called to be saints or holy ones (verse 7). We know with us today the key to living a life transformed by the res2 3 urrection power of the Lord Jesus. Paul himself is an examLESSON 2. THE GOSPEL REVEALS THE ple, a living proof, of the truth of his message. RIGHTEOUSNESS OF GOD Paul (his Roman name) was once Saul (his Hebrew Romans 1:16-17 name) from Tarsus. In his religious zeal, he consented to the 16For I am not ashamed of Greek. 17For in death of Stephen, the first Christian martyr, who was stoned

by

it the righ

the gospel of Christ, for it is teousness of God is revealed to death (Acts 7:54-59), setting off a great persecution of the power of God to salvation from faith to faith; as it is Christians in Jerusalem. As for Saul, he made havoc of the for everyone who believes, for written, The just shall live by church, entering every house, and dragging off men and the Jew first and also for the faith. women, committing them to prison (Acts 8:3). Christians scattered far and wide, preaching the Word. Then Saul, still God Offers Us His Own Righteousness breathing threats and murder against the disciples of the The good news about the righteousness of God is that it is Lord, went to the high priest and asked letters from him to a gift from God to those who trust in Jesus Christ. The righthe synagogues of Damascus, so that if he found any who teousness of God is revealed from faith to faith. It is first were of the Way, whether men or women, he might bring received by faithbelieving that God has declared me righthem bound to Jerusalem. And as he journeyed he came teous because of what Jesus did for me and has given me a near Damascus, and suddenly a light shone around him new nature. It is then lived out by faithtrusting Jesus to from heaven. Then he fell to the ground, and heard a voice empower me to live a holy life by His Spirit living in me. saying to him, Saul, Saul, why are you persecuting Me? And he said, Who are You, Lord? And the Lord said, I am Salvation Is For Everyone Who Believes Jesus, whom you are persecuting. It is hard for you to kick Salvation means deliverance. In the next lesson we shall

against the goads [pricks of conscience] (Acts 9:1-5). see just how desperately we need deliverance from sin and Later, when Paul testified about this experience, He told from Gods wrath on those who sin (John 3:36). more of what Jesus had said. But rise and stand on your This message of salvation came to the Jews first, because feet; for I have appeared to you for this purpose, to make it was Gods purpose that salvation should come through the you a minister and a witness both of the things which you Jews (John 4:22). Then it was to be spread throughout the have seen and of the things which I will yet reveal to you. I world through them. God had promised Abraham, the father will deliver you from the Jewish people, as well as from the of the Jewish people, In you all the families of earth Gentiles, to whom I now send you, to open their eyes and shall be blessed (Genesis 12:3b). Abraham would become to turn them from darkness to light, and from the power of the spiritual father of all who have faith in Jesus (Romans 4). Satan to God, that they may receive forgiveness of sins and Something to Do an inheritance among those who are sanctified by faith in Me (Acts 26:16-18). Memorize Romans 1:16 and 17. These are key verses. 4 5 ----------------------- Page 3-----------------------

the

LESSON 3. GODS WRATH IS REVEALED Gods Wrath Is Against Sin FROM HEAVEN God is holy. When Adam and Eve, the first couple, sinned Romans 1:18-32 blessed forever. Amen. 26For by disobeying God, they had to be thrust out of the beautiful 18For the wrath of God is this reason God gave them up garden God had created for them. They were separate d revealed from heaven against to vile passions. For even from God (spiritual death), and their bodies immediately beall ungodliness and unrightheir women exchanged the teousness of men, who sup- natural use for what is came subject to physical death. press the truth in unrightagainst nature. 27Likewise Gods wrath is against any attitude and action that does 19 eousness, because what may not meet His high also the men, leaving the natand holy standard of what is right. We be known of God is manifest ural use of the woman, need to see how terrible sin is. in them, for God has shown it burned in their lust for one to them. 20For since the cre- another, men with men comUngodly Pagans Are Without Excuse ation of the world His invisimitting what is shameful, and ble attributes are clearly receiving in themselves the

Anyone can know of Gods power and character by t he seen, being understood by the penalty of their error which things He created, even if they have no Bible. Nevertheless things that are made, even was due. 28And even as they He did not leave Himself without witness, in that He did His eternal power and Goddid not like to retain God in good, gave us rain from heaven and fruitful seasons, filling head, so that they are without their knowledge, God gave excuse, 21because, although them over to a debased mind, our hearts with food and gladness (Acts 14:17). they knew God, they did not to do those things which are Even those who dont have Gods law show the work of glorify Him as God, nor were not fitting; 29being filled with the law written in their hearts, their conscience also bearthankful, but became futile in all unrighteousness, sexual ing witness, and between themselves their thoughts accustheir thoughts, and their foolimmorality, wickedness, covish hearts were darkened. etousness, maliciousness; full ing or else excusing them (Romans 2:15b). 22Professing to be wise, they of envy, murder, strife, deceit, Those who do not want to know God suppress the truth became fools, 23and changed evil-mindedness; they are about Him. They do not want to change. They did n ot the glory of the incorruptible whisperers, 30backbiters, hareceive the love of the truth, that they might be saved. And God into an image made like ters of God, violent, proud, corruptible manand birds boasters, inventors of evil for this reason God will send them strong delusion, that and four-footed beasts and things, disobedient to parthey should believe the lie, that they all may be condemned creeping things. 24Therefore ents, 31undiscerning, untrustwho did not believe the truth but had pleasure in unrighGod also gave them up to unworthy, unloving, unforgivteousness (2 Thessalonians 2:10b-12). cleanness, in the lusts of their ing, unmerciful; 32who, knowhearts, to dishonor their boding the righteous judgment of One of the ways God judges sin is to let sinners go their ies among themselves, 25who God, that those who practice own way and experience the natural consequences of their exchanged the truth of God such things are deserving of foolish choices. They soon forgot His works; they did not for the lie, and worshiped and death, not only do the same served the creature rather but also approve of those who wait for His counsel . . . . And He gave them their request, than the Creator, who is practice them. but sent leanness into their soul (Psalm 106:13, 15). 6 7 Something to Do LESSON 4. GODS JUDGMENT IS JUST Fill in the blanks to see the downward spiral of sinful man: Romans 2:1-16 truth, but obey un1. Although they knew God, they did not _____________ 1Therefore you are inexcusarighteousnessindignation

ble, O man, whoever you are and wrath, 9tribulation and Him as God, nor were _________________ (verse 21). who judge, for in whatever anguish, on every soul of ma n [The first step away from God into darkness is to be unthankful.] you judge another you con- who does evil, of the Jew fi rst demn yourself; for you who and also of the Gree k; 10but 2. Professing to be _______, they became _______ (22). judge practice the same glory, honor, and pe ace to 3. They changed the ___________ of the incorruptible things. 2But we know that the everyone who works wha t is God into an ___________ made like corruptible man (23). judgment of God is according good, to the Jew first and a lso to no 4. God gave them up to _________________ in the lusts practice such things. 3And do partiality with God. 12 For as of their hearts, to _______________ their bodies (24). you think this, O man, you many as have sinned without 5. They exchanged the _________ of God for the _____, who judge those practicing law will also perish without and worshiped and served the _________________ rather such things, and doing the law, and as many a s have same, that you will escape the sinned in the law w ill be than the ______________ (25). judgment of God? 4Or do you judged by the law 13( for not 6. God gave them up to __________ _______________. despise the riches of His goodthe hearers of the law are j ust Even their ___________ exchanged the natural use for what ness, forbearance, and long- in the sight of God, but the suffering, not knowing that doers of the law will be jus tiis against nature (26). Also the _________, leaving the natthe goodness of God leads you fied; 14for when Gentiles, w ho ural use of woman, burned in their lust for one another (27). to repentance? 5But in accordo not have the law, by natu re [You shall not lie with a male as with a woman. It is an abomidance with your hardness and do the things contained in the truth against those who to the Greek. 11For there is

your impenitent heart you are ot havnation (Leviticus 18:22).] treasuring em7. As they did not like to keep wrath in the day of wrath and up for yourself

law,

these,

although

ing the law, are a law to th God in their knowledge, selves, 15who show the work

of God gave them over to a _____________ mind, to do those revelation of the 6 righteous the law written in their hea rts, judgment of God, who will ring things which are not fitting (28). render to each one according them8. Knowing the righteous ___________________ of to his deeds: 7eternal life to that those their conscience witness, and also between bea

God, selves their thoughts accusing

who practice such things are deserving of those who by patient continuor else excusing them) 16in not only do these things but also doing good seek for day when God will judge the by

the ______________, they ance in

glory, honor, and immortalisecrets of men Jesus _________________ of those who practice them (32). ty; 8but to those who are selfChrist, according to my [Truly, these times of ignorance God overlooked, but now comseeking and do not obey the gospel. mands all men everywhere to repent, because He has appointed a Religious Sinners Will Also Be Judged day on which He will judge the world in righteousness by the Man [Jesus] whom He has ordained. He has given assurance of this to In this lesson we see that some people know that Gods all by raising Him from the dead (Acts 17:30, 31).] judgment is against the wicked, but they feel righteous when 8 9 ----------------------- Page 4-----------------------

sins of others seem much worse than their own. They do not believe in Him whom He sent (John 6:28b, 29b). True faith in Jesus realize that they are guilty of many of the same things and results in doing good works which glorify God (Matthew 5:16).] are just as sinful in Gods eyes. It is only because God is so 3. There is no ___________________ with God (11). longsuffering that they have not already been destroyed. [God has no favorites (Galatians 2:6). But he who does wrong The goodness of God leads people to repentto agree will be repaid for what he has done, and there is no partiality with God about their sin and turn from it. Those who do not (Colossians 3:25). Do not be deceived, God is not m

ocked; for repent are despising the goodness of God. They have hard whatever a man sows, that he will also reap (Galatians 6:7).] and unrepenting hearts, because they hear the Word of God 4. God will judge the secrets of men by _____________ but dont do it. But be doers of the word, and not hearers _____________ (16). only, deceiving yourselves (James 1:22). [For the Father judges no one, but has committed all judgment Jesus said, Not everyone who says to Me, Lord, Lord, to the Son (John 5:22).] shall enter the kingdom of heaven, but he who does the will of My Father in heaven. Now everyone who hears these We Will All Be Judged by Jesus Christ sayings of Mine, and does not do them, will be like a foolOur relationship with Jesus is a matter of life and death, ish man who built his house on the sand: and the rain debecause He is the One who will judge us. The hour is comscended, the floods came, and the winds blew and beat on ing in which all who are in the graves will hear His voice and that house; and it fell. And great was its fall (Matthew 7:21, come forththose who have done good, to the resurrection 26, 27). . . .If anyone loves Me, he will keep My word (John of life, and those who have done evil, to the resurrection of 14:23a). Those who truly love Jesus will obey Him. condemnation (John 5:28b, 29). For we must all appear before may Something to Do receive the things done in the body, according to what he Fill in the blanks with some principles of Gods judgment: has done, whether good or bad (2 Corinthians 5:10). 1. The judgment of God is according to __________ (2). There is no way to be good enough to meet the high stan[God will judge by the facts. The eyes of the LORD are in every dards of Gods perfection. We all deserve Gods wrath (spirplace, keeping watch on the evil and the good (Proverbs 15:3).] itual death forever). But there is a way to be raised to life and 2. In the day of the righteous judgment of God, He will judged as righteous: Believe that Jesus died for you and rerender to each one according to his ___________ (6). Wrath ceive His life. He who believes in the Son has everlasting will come on every soul of man who does ________ (9), but life; and he who does not believe the Son shall not see life, glory, honor, and peace to everyone who works what is but the wrath of God abides on him (John 3:36). He who __________ (10). hears My word and believes in Him who sent Me has ever[Jesus was once asked, What shall we do, that we may work the lasting life, and shall not come into judgment [condemnaworks of God? He answered, This is the work of God, that you tion], but has passed from death into life (John 5:24b). 10 11 LESSON 5. SPECIAL PRIVILEGES DO NOT SAVE US speak as a man.) 6Certainly t say, sinner? 8And why no the judgment seat of Christ, that each one

not! For then how will God Let us do evil that good may Romans 2:17-29 uncircumcision be counted as judge the world? 7For if the come? as we are slander17Indeed you are called a circumcision? 27And will not truth of God has increased ously reported and as some Jew, and rest on the law, and the physically uncircumcised, through my lie to His glory, affirm that we say. Their co nmake your boast in God, 18and if he fulfills the law, judge you why am I also still judged as a demnation is just. know His will, and approve who, even with your written the things that are excellent, code and circumcision, are a being instructed out of the transgressor of the law? 28For Something to Do law, 19and are confident that he is not a Jew who is one outFill in the blanks to learn what special privileges the Jews you yourself are a guide to the wardly, nor is circumcision as Gods people claimed to have: blind, a light to those who are that which is outward in the 1. You are called a _________ (verse 17). in darkness, 20an instructor of flesh; 29but he is a Jew who is the foolish, a teacher of babes, one inwardly, and circumci[The word Jew comes from Judah, meaning Praise. having the form of knowledge sion is that of the heart, in the was one of the twelve tribes of Israel. God chose the Jews to be a and truth in the law. 21You, Spirit, and not in the letter; praise to Him. Jesus was born of this tribe, the tribe of Israels kin gs.] therefore, who teach another, whose praise is not from men 2. You rest on the ________ (17). do you not teach yourself? but from God. You who preach that a man [Gods law was given to Moses after he led the children of Israel should not steal, do you steal? Romans 3:1-8 out of Egypt to their promised land. The lives of Jewish people were 22You who say, Do not com1What advantage then has centered around the laws God had given them.] mit adultery, do you commit the Jew, or what is the profit adultery? You who abhor of circumcision? 2Much in 3. You make your boast in _________ (17). idols, do you rob temples? every way! Chiefly because to [The Jewish people were proud of the fact that the one true God 23You who make your boast in them were committed the orawas their God, who had chosen them to be His people.] the law, do you dishonor God cles of God. 3For what if some 4. You know His _________ (18). through breaking the law? did not believe? Will their un24For The name of God is belief make the faithfulness of 5. You approve the things that are ______________ (18). blasphemed among the GenGod without effect? 4Cer6. You have been ________________ out of the law (18). tiles because of you, as it is tainly not! Indeed, let God be [They knew the Word of God in the Old Testament thoroughly.] written. true but every man a liar. As 25For circumcision is indeed it is written: That You may 7. You are confident that you yourself are a ___________ profitable if you keep the law; be justified in Your words,

Judah

to the blind, a _____________ to those who are in darkness, but if you are a breaker of the and may overcome when You an _________________ of the foolish, a _____________ of law, your circumcision has beare judged. 5But if our babes (19, 20). come uncircumcision. 26Thereunrighteousness demonstrates fore, if an uncircumcised man the righteousness of God, [The Jews of Pauls day felt they were superior in every way over keeps the righteous require- what shall we say? Is God all others because God had entrusted His Word to t hem. Do you ments of the law, will not his unjust who inflicts wrath? (I consider yourself also to be privileged in similar ways?] 12 13 ----------------------- Page 5----------------------he may gain God Paul has questions for those who claim to know God well: takes away his life? (Job 27:8). But the God, who hope The Danger of Hypocrisy of the hypocrite, though much, i

f in

hypocrites knows

1. You who preach that a man should not steal, do you heart store up wrath (Job 36:13a). Ask ____________? (21). your heart, to show you your own heart. 2. You who say, Do not commit adultery, do you A Truly Spiritual Person ______________ _________________? (22).

The true Jew who brings praise to God has cut sin out of 3. You who abhor idols, do you _____ __________? (22) [The some his life by the power of Christs death on the cross. Abraham Jews would not have anything to do with idols, but

was circumcised (his flesh cut) as a sign of Gods covenant would use things taken from idol temples for personal pleasure.] with himan outward sign of what God wants to do in our 4. You who make your boast in the law, do you dishonor hearts. In Him you were also circumcised with the circumGod through ______________ the law? (23). cision made without hands, by putting off the body of the Gods people do not live up to Gods standards, sins of the flesh, by the circumcision of Christ (Colossians they dishonor Gods name. This happened when King David 2:11). Moses had told Gods people, And the LORD your God committed adultery and gave . . . great occasion to the will circumcise your heart and the heart of your de scenenemies of the LORD to blaspheme (2 Samuel 12:14a). dants, to love the LORD your God with all your hea rt and When

It is a terrible thing to bring disgrace on the name of God. with all your soul, that you may live (Deuteronomy 30:6). Yet today many people who call themselves Christians are bringing shame to Gods name by their sinful lifestyle. Paul Answers Jewish Objections Jesus had a lot to say to hypocrites, Hypocrites! Well did How can it be that even Jews are sinners needing salvaIsaiah prophesy about you, saying: These people draw tion! Some might say, What advantage is it to be a Jew, near to Me with their mouth, and honor Me with their lips, then? Paul says there are many advantages, and the chief but their heart is far from Me. And in vain they worship Me, one is that they were entrusted with the Scriptures. Some teaching as doctrines the commandments of men (Matmight ask, Will the unbelief of Jews cause God not to be thew 15:7-9). Even worse, hypocrites prevent others from faithful to His promises to them? Paul says, Certainly not. coming to God, or when they do win someone to their way God is always faithful to His Word even when peop le are of thinking, Jesus said, you make him twice as much a son unfaithful. The last objection could be, If God is glorified by of hell as yourselves (Matthew 23:15b). salvation apart from works, is God just to judge sin? Why Those who seem to be righteous to others but are not right dont we sin all the more so that good can come from it? with God in their hearts are in great danger. Jesus said to Scoffers who didnt understand Gods grace were slandering them, Serpents, brood of vipers! How can you escape the Paul by reporting that this was what Paul taught. It is right to condemnation of hell? (Matthew 23:33). For what is the condemn such thinking. It is the thinking of sinful man. 14 15 LESSON 6. NO ONE IS RIGHTEOUS BEFORE GOD from the Old Testament. These charges are from God: 14 1. There is _________ righteous, no, not _______ (10). Romans 3:9-20 lips; Whose mouth is full 9What then? Are we better of cursing and bitterness. [No one can meet the perfect standard of Gods holiness except than they? Not at all. For we 15Their feet are swift to shed God Himself, who came to earth as a man, Jesus Christ the righhave previously charged both blood; 16destruction and misteous (1 John 2:1b).] Jews and Greeks that they are ery are in their ways; 17and the all under sin. 10As it is written: way of peace they have not 2. There is _________ who understands (11). There is none righteous, no, known. 18There is no fear of [But the natural man does not receive the things of the Spirit of not one; 11there is none who God before their eyes. 19Now God, for they are foolishness to him; nor can he know them, understands; there is none we know that whatever the because they are spiritually discerned (1 Corinthians 2:14).] who seeks after God. 12They law says, it says to those who

have all gone out of the way; are under the law, that every 3. There is _________ who seeks after God (11). they have together become mouth may be stopped, and [Man hides from God. God must seek man. For the Son of Man unprofitable; there is none all the world may become has come to seek and to save that which was lost (Luke 19:10).] who does good, no, not one. guilty before God. 20Therefore 13Their throat is an open by the deeds of the law no 4. They have _______ gone out of the way (12). tomb; with their tongues they flesh will be justified in His [Man wants to go his own way. All we like sheep have gone have practiced deceit; The sight, for by the law is the astray; we have turned, every one, to his own way (Isaiah 53:6a).] poison of asps is under their knowledge of sin. 5. They have together become _______________ (12). The Whole World Stands Guilty Before God [Sin makes a man of no use to God. When salt loses its flavor, it is then good for nothing but to be thrown out . . . (Matthew 5:13b). ] Paul has used the approach of an attorney in a court of law to bring charges that all mankind is guilty of sin before a 6. There is none who does ______________, no, not holy God. Even unbelievers who dont know the law of God ________ (12). have a conscience and deserve Gods wrath, because they [No one is good but One, that is, God . . . (Matthew 19:17b).] have not glorified the Creator nor have they been thankful 7. Their ____________ is an open tomb (13). (Lesson 3). [Apart from God, man is spiritually dead (Ephesians 2:1), so Religious people who know the law of God have not words of destruction easily come from his mouth.] obeyed it (Lesson 4). Jews who are circumcised as a sign of 8. With their tongues they have practiced ________ (13). their covenant relationship with God and are proud of out[The words of his mouth are wickedness and deceit; he has ward conformity to Gods laws are also guilty before God ceased to be wise and to do good (Psalm 36:3).] because their hearts are far from Him (Lesson 5). 9. The ____________ of asps is under their lips (13). Something to Do [But no man can tame the tongue. It ly evil, full of Fill in the blanks to find the 14 charges which Paul quoted deadly poison (James 3:8).] 16 17 ----------------------- Page 6----------------------10. Whose mouth is full of ___________________ and Gods Charges Against Mans Character ____________________ (14). is an unru

The first six charges against the character of unrighteous [Cursing includes speaking unkindly. Blessing includes speaking persons are listed in Psalm 14:1-3. The fool has said in his well of someone. Out of the same mouth proceed blessing and heart, There is no God. They are corrupt, they have done cursing. My brethren, these things ought not to be so (James abominable works, there is none who does good. The LORD 3:10). Looking diligently lest anyone fall short of the grace of God; looks down from heaven upon the children of men, to see lest any root of bitterness springing up cause trouble, and by this if there are any who understand, who seek God. They have many become defiled (Hebrews 12:15).] all turned aside, they have together become corrupt; there 11. Their feet are swift to ________ ___________ (15). is none who does good, no, not one. [What a picture of our world today! Hatred is the source of murder. Whoever hates his brother is a murderer, and you know that Gods Charges Against Mans Speech no murderer has eternal life abiding in him (1 John 3:15).] The next four charges have to do with mans mouth. For 12. Destruction and __________ are in their ways (16). there is no faithfulness in their mouth; their inward part is [Because you say, I am rich, have become wealthy, and have destruction; their throat is an open tomb; they flatter with need of nothingand do not know that you are wretched, misertheir tongue (Psalm 5:9). They sharpen their tongues like able, poor, blind, and naked (Revelation 3:17).] a serpent; the poison of asps is under their lips (Ps alm 13. And the way of _________ they have not known (17). 140:3). His mouth is full of cursing and deceit and oppres[But the wicked are like the troubled sea, when it cannot rest, sion; under his tongue is trouble and iniquity (Psalm whose waters cast up mire and dirt. There is no peace, says my 10:7). Why does our speech reveal our heart? Jesus said, God, for the wicked (Isaiah 57:20, 21).] For out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaks 14. There is no ________ of God before their eyes (18). (Matthew 12:34b). Later He said, But those things which [The fear of the LORD is to hate evil; pride and arrogance . . . and proceed out of the mouth come from the heart, and t hey the perverse mouth I hate. The fear of the LORD is a fountain of life, defile a man (Matthew 15:18). to avoid the snares of death (Proverbs 8:13 and 14:27).] Gods Charges Against Mans Ways Gods Charges Against Mankind The next three charges have to do with mans feethis Paul is merely repeating the charges which had already ways. Their feet run to evil, and they make haste to shed been brought by God Himself (in the Old Testament). The innocent blood; their thoughts are thoughts of iniquity; heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked; wasting and destruction are in their paths. The way of who can know it? I, the LORD, search the heart, I test the peace they have not known, and there is no justice in their mind, even to give every man according to his ways, and

ways; they have made themselves crooked paths; whoever according to the fruit of his doings (Jeremiah 17:9, 10). takes that way shall not know peace (Isaiah 59:7, 8). 18 19 Gods Final Charge LESSON 7. GODS SOLUTION TO SAVE SINNERS: The last charge gives the cause of such profound unrighTHE GIFT OF RIGHTEOUSNESS BY FAITH teousnesspride. There is no fear of God before his eyes. Romans 3:21-31 strate at the present time His For he flatters himself in his own eyes (Psalm 36:1b, 2a). 21But now the righteousness righteousness, that He might of God apart from the law is be just and the justifier of the who has faith in Je

The Whole World Stands Guilty as Charged revealed, being witnessed by one sus.

the Law and the Prophets, 27Where is boasting then? It is God has searched all hearts. He has brought the charges. 22even the righteousness of excluded. By what law? Of His Word and His law (holy standards) have shown us our God which is through faith in works? No, but by the law of sin. Not even by obeying Gods laws as much as possible Jesus Christ to all and on all faith. 28Therefore we con can a man be counted righteous in Gods sight. For whowho believe. For there is no clude that a man is justif ied difference; 23for all have by faith apart from the deeds ever shall keep the whole law, and yet stumble in one point, sinned and fall short of the of the law. 29Or is He the God he is guilty of all (James 2:10). glory of God, 24being justified of the Jews only? Is He not Now we see the verdict: GUILTY. God finds the whole freely by His grace through also the God of the Gentiles? world guilty on all counts. Mankind is brought to silence. the redemption that is in Yes, of the Gentiles a lso, There is no defense before the great and awesome God. Christ Jesus, 25whom God set 30since there is one God who forth ed The word guilty in Romans 3:19 literally means under His blood, through faith, to by faith and the uncircumsentence. Mankind is under sentence of death. Adam had demonstrate His righ- cised through faith. 31Do w e been told the consequences of going his own way in rebelteousness, because in His forthen make void the law to be a propitiation by will justify the circumcis

lion

against bearance

Gods simple God had

command. And the LORD God passed through faith? Certainly not!

over the sins that were previOn the contrary, we establish commanded the man, saying, Of every tree of the garden ously committed, 26to demonthe law. you may freely eat; but of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil you shall not eat, for in the day that you eat of it Something to Do you shall surely die (Genesis 2:16, 17). For the wages of Fill in the blanks to find Gods way to be righteous: sin is death (Romans 6:23a). 1. The righteousness of God is revealed apart from the Paul wants us to know our guilt before God and to know _______ (21). It is through faith in ________ __________, the absolute impossibility of being right with God on our own. to ______ and on all who ____________ (22). He wants us to see our desperate need for a Savior. He 2. Those who believe are justified [declared righteous] rightly paints a dark picture of mankind so that the brilliant freely by His grace through the _____________________ light of the next chapters will shine more gloriously. He that is in Christ Jesus (24). God set forth Jesus o be a wants us to grasp Gods plan of rescue like a drowning man _____________________ [see page 24] by His _________, gasps for air. How desperate is our situation! Butas we through faith, to demonstrate His _________________(25). shall see in Lesson 7how glorious is Gods remedy! 3. God wanted to demonstrate His righteousness, that He 20 21 ----------------------- Page 7----------------------might be ________ and the _____________ of the one who righteous on all counts and freed from all penalties. What has faith in ____________ (26). wonderful news! How can this be? We learned in Romans 4. Where is boasting then? It is _______________ (27). 2:13 that the doers of the law will be justified (acquitted [We cannot boast about something we receive as a free gift and or declared righteous). But no one can do all that Gods law have not earned. Not by works of righteousness which we have demands. Yet SomeoneJesusdid! And He did it for us! done, but according to His mercy He saved us (Titus 3:5a).] God Himself became flesh and lived among men (John 5. We conclude that a man is justified [declared righ1:1, 14) as a Son who lived a life in perfect obedience to His teous] by ____________ apart from the _________ of the Father in heaven. Speaking of the Messiah (Christ) who law (28). This is called the law of _____________ (27). would come, Isaiah the prophet said, My righteous Servant shall justify many, for He shall bear their iniquities (Isaiah Gods Way of Righteousness 53:11b). Yes, He had done no violence, nor was any deceit

We have seen that the Old Testament is a witness to the in His mouth. Yet it pleased the LORD to bruise Him; He has fact that mankind is guilty on all charges. The inescapable put Him to grief (Isaiah 53:9b, 10a). consequence is a sentence of death. Now Paul will prove God sent Jesus to take our sin upon Himself and pay the that the Old Testament is also a witness to another truth: the death penalty for us. In exchange He wants to give us His righteousness of God can be received apart from the law by righteousness. For He made Him who knew no sin to be faith in Jesus Christ. The witness for the prosecution (Gods sin for us, that we might become the righteousness of God Word) is also the witness for the defense! in Him (2 Corinthians 5:21). What an amazing exchange! What an awesome thing God did for sinners when Jesus This righteousnessGods righteousnessis available as died on the cross! God revealed that He is a righteous God, a GIFT to all who trust in Jesus as their substitute. You can who hates sin and cannot excuse it. Yet at the same time He bejustified (acquitted and declared righteous) freely (without revealed that He is a faithful God, who keeps His promises, doing anything to deserve it) because of His grace (wha t and a loving, merciful God, who has compassion on sinners. God does for you that you cannot do for yourself). What Justification Means Faithjust believing that what God says is trueis the The way your heart receives a free gift from God. For by grace word justification is a legal term meaning acquit-

you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourted, regarded as innocent, or declared righteous. In the selves; it is the gift of God, not of works, lest anyone should Greek languagethe language in which the New Testament boast (Ephesians 2:8, 9). was originally writtenthis word has the same root as the What a wonderful salvation! There is no other way to be word righteous. There is a way in which Godthe Righsaved. Nor is there salvation in any other, for there is no Judge, who declares man guilty on all counts and other name under heaven given among men by which we sentenced to deathcan also declare man acquitted or must be saved (Acts 4:12). Jesus said, For if you do not teous 22 23 believe that I am He, you will die in your sins (John 8:24b). LESSON 8. ABRAHAM IS AN EXAMPLE OF BEING DECLARED RIGHTEOUS BY FAITH What Redemption Means Romans 4:1-25 cumcised? Not Redemption means to buy back or to pay the ransom while circum-

1What then shall we say that cised, but while uncircumin full. When Adam yielded to the temptation of Satan, manAbraham our father has cised. 11And he received

the

kind came under the power of sin and death. Jesus paid the found according to the flesh? sign of circumcision, a seal of ransomthe just penalty required by Godto set man free 2For if Abraham was justified the righteousness of the fait h by works, he has something of which he had while still uncirfrom sin and death. The Son of Man did not come to be which to boast, but not before cumcised, that he might be the served, but to serve, and to give His life a ransom for God. 3For what does the father of all those who believe, many (Matthew 20:28b). For there is one God and one Scripture say? Abraham bethough they are uncircumMediator between God and men, the Man Christ Jesus, who lieved God, and it was ac- cised, that righteousness counted to him for righteousmight be imputed to the m gave Himself a ransom for all (1 Timothy 2:5, 6a). ness. 4Now to him who also, 12and the father of cirIn Him we have redemption through His blood, the forworks, the wages are not cumcision to those who not giveness of sins (Ephesians 1:7a). Will you right now thank counted as grace but as debt. only are of the circumcisio n, Him for paying this costly price for your salvation? He is wor5But to him who does not but who also walk in the steps work but believes on Him who of the faith which our f ather thy of our praise through all eternity, for You were slain, and justifies the ungodly, his faith Abraham had while still unhave redeemed us to God by Your blood out of every tribe is accounted for righ- circumcised. and tongue and people and nation (Revelation 5:9b). teousness, 6just as David also 13For the promise

that

he

describes the blessedness of would be the heir of the world What Propitiation Means the man to whom God im- was not to Abraham or to his The word propitiation means the satisfying of Gods holy putes righteousness apart seed through the law, but from works: 7Blessed are law by meeting its just demands. The blood of those whose lawless deeds are are for us. It is the blood that makes atonement forgiven, and whose sins are of is (Leviticus 17:11b). When Jesus shed His blood covered; 8blessed is the man to through the righteousness of Jesus did that faith. 14For if those who for the soul the law are for the sins made void and heirs, faith

the promise

of the world, the law was satisfied. The penalty for sin (death) whom the Lord shall not made of no effect, 15becau se impute sin. the law brings about wrath;

was paid in full. The same word is used for the mercy seat 9Does this blessedness then for where there is no law in the temple of God, where blood was sprinkled and where come upon the circumcised there is no transgression. the presence of a holy God dwelt among His people. In this only, or upon the uncircum- 16Therefore it is of faith that is love, not that we loved God, but that he loved us and sent cised also? For we say that it might be according to faith was accounted to Abragrace, so that the promise

His Son to be the propitiation for our sins (1 John ham for righteousness. 10How might be And He Himself is the propitiation for our sins, and then was it accounted? While not only ours only but also for the whole world (1 John 2:2). he was circumcised, or uncirthe law, 24 25 ----------------------- Page 8-----------------------

4:10). sure to all the seed, not for to those who are of but also to those who

are of the faith of Abraham, Sarahs womb. 20He did not Paul reminded the believers in Rome of Gods promise to who is the father of us all waver at the promise of God childless Abraham, Look now toward heaven, and count 17(as it is written, I have through unbelief, but was the stars if you are able to number them. And He said to made you a father of many strengthened in faith, giving nations) in the presence of glory to God, 21and being him, So shall your descendants be. And he believed in the Him whom he believed, even fully convinced that what He LORD, and He accounted it to him for righteousness (GenGod, who gives life to the had promised He was also esis 15:5b, 6). It would be many years before Abraham saw dead and calls those things able to perform. 22And thereGods promise fulfilled with even one child, but Abrah am which do not exist as though fore it was accounted to him they did; 18who, contrary to for righteousness. 23Now it knew God and trusted Him. His faith was strong. hope, in hope believed, so was not written for his sake Abraham believed God and was justified (declared righthat he became the father of alone that it was imputed to teous) by God 14 years before he was circumcised and 430 many nations, according to him, 24but also for us. It shall years before Gods law was given to Moses. Although Gods what was spoken, So shall be imputed to us who believe your descendants be. 19And in Him who raised up Jesus promise seemed impossible, Abraham believed God. Abranot being weak in faith, he our Lord from the dead, hams obedience to God was a result of the faith which had

did

consider his own 25who was delivered up bealready been accounted to him for righteousness. body, already dead (since he cause of our offenses, and was about a hundred years was raised because of our Those Who Believe God old), and the deadness of justification. Are the True Children of Abraham Two Old Testament Examples of Justification Earlier Paul had written in another letter, Therefore know Paul presents witnesses from the Old Testament Scripthat only those who are of faith are sons of Abraham. So tures to prove that God justifies people by faith and forgives then those who are of faith are blessed with belie ving sin. Abraham was declared righteous by God just because Abraham (Galatians 3:7, 9). he believed God. David said, Blessed is he whose transgression is forgiven, whose sin is covered. Blessed is the Something to Do man to whom the LORD does not impute iniquity (Psalm Answer these questions from Romans chapter 4: 32:1, 2a). Do you know the blessing of your sins forgiven? 1. Whose faith is counted as righteousness? To him who How Abraham Was Justified does not _________ but ______________ on Him who justifies the ________________ (verse 5). Was Abraham declared righteous because of the things he did? Was He declared righteous because he was circum2. When was Abrahams faith accounted for righteouscised? (Circumcision was the sign of a covenant between ness? While he was _________________________ (10). God and Abraham.) Paul explains that the answer is No. [It was before he performed any religious rite.] Abraham was not declared righteous because he earned it, 3. What was the sign of circumcision [cutting of the flesh]? like earning wages, but by receiving a gift from God. It was a ________ of the righteousness of the __________ 26 27 which he had before he was circumcised (11). LESSON 9. THE BLESSINGS OF JUSTIFICATION [A seal is a sign given to show that something is true.] Romans 5:1-11 scarcely for a righteous man 4. Why did Abraham receive this seal of righteousness? 1Therefore, having been juswill one die; yet perhaps for a That he might be the ________________ of all those who tified by faith, we have peace good man ld _________________, though they are uncircumcised, that with God through our Lord even dare God Jesus Christ, 2through whom demonstrates love ________________________ might be imputed [credited] someone wou

not

to die. 8But His own

also we have access by faith toward us, in that whil e we to them also (11). into this grace in which we were still sinners, Christ die d 5. What did Abraham believe about God? He gives life to stand, and rejoice in hope of for us. 9Much more then, havthe ________ and calls those things which do not ________ the glory of God. 3And not ing now been justified by His only that, but we also glory in blood, we shall be saved from as though they did (17b). tribulations, knowing that wrath through Him. 10For if [And you He made alive, who were dead in trespasses and sins tribulation produces perseverwhen we were enemies w e 4 (Ephesians 2:1). Do you believe that God has done this for you?] ance; and perseverance, charwere reconciled God

to

acter; and character, hope. through the death of His Son, 6. How did Abraham show himself strengthened in faith? 5Now hope does not disap- much more, having been recBy giving ___________ to God (20). point, because the love of God onciled, we shall be saved by 7. Of what wasAbraham fully convinced? That what [God] has been poured out in our His life. 11And not only that, had promised He was also able to _______________ (21). hearts by the Holy Spirit who but we also rejoice in God was given to us. through our Lord J esus [Are you fully convinced that the blood of Jesus cleanses you 6For when we were still withChrist, through whom we have from all sin and that you have eternal life through Him as He promout strength, in due time Christ now received the reconc iliaised? If so, be strengthened in faith and give Him glory. I know died for the ungodly. 7For tion. whom I have believed and am persuaded that He is able to keep what I have committed to Him until that Day (2 Timothy 1:12b).] Something to Do 8. Who else will have righteousness credited to them? It Fill in the blanks to find out the many blessings we have shall be imputed to us who _________________ in Him who when we are justified (declared righteous) by faith in Jesus. ___________ up Jesus our Lord from the _________ (24). Are you delighting in each of these blessings? 9. Why was Jesus crucified and raised from the dead? He 1. We have ____________ with _________ through our was delivered up because of our __________ [against God], Lord Jesus Christ (verse 1). and was raised because of our ___________________ (25).

2. Through Jesus we have _____________ by faith into [Jesus died to take the penalty for our sins and to remove our sins this grace in which we stand (2). from us. His resurrection showed that God had accepted the sacri[Because of what Jesus has done for us, we have favor with God fice and declared us righteous in Him. And He died for all, that and can approach Him for anything He has promised. Let us therethose who live should live no longer for themselves, but for Him fore come boldly to the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy who died for them and rose again (2 Corinthians 5:15).] and find grace to help in time of need (Hebrews 4:16).] 28 29 ----------------------- Page 9----------------------3. We rejoice in hope of the ____________ of God (2). LESSON 10. A PICTURE OF TWO ADAMS [We see Gods glory as the Holy Spirit reveals Him to us in Gods Romans 5:12-21 tification. 17For if by the one Word and as we allow Jesus to live in us. Christ in you, the hope 12Therefore, just as through mans offense death reign ed of glory (Colossians 1:27b). One day we will see Him face to face one man sin entered the through the one, much m ore and be like Him (1 John 3:2).] world, and death through sin, those who receive abundance and thus death spread to all of grace and of the gift of 4. We also glory in ___________________, knowing that men, because all sinned righteousness will reign in life tribulation produces ___________________; and persever13(For until the law sin was in through the One, Jesus ance, ________________; and character, _________(3, 4). the world, but sin is not im- Christ.) 18Therefore, as puted when there is no law. through one mans ense [My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into various trials, 14 off

Nevertheless death reigned judgment came to all men, knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience (James from Adam to Moses, even resulting in condemnation, 1:2, 3). Tribulation is like a threshing instrument which separates the over those who had not sinned even so through one Mans grain from the husks. By Gods grace, tribulation can purify our lives. according to the likeness of righteous act the free gift If we truly want to be like Christ, this brings us great joy.] the transgression of Adam, came to all men, resu lting in 5. Hope does not ____________________, because the

who is a type of Him who was justification of life. 19For as by __________ of God has been poured out in our hearts by to come. 15But the free gift is one mans disobedience many not like the offense. For if by were made sinners, so also by

the _________ _____________ who was given to us (5). the one mans offense many one Mans obedience many [The Holy Spirit floods us with the knowledge that God loves us died, much more the grace of will be made right eous. and fills us with love for Him and others. The proof of Gods love is God and the gift by the grace 20Moreover the law ent ered that Christ gave His life for us while we were still sinners (verse 8).] of the one Man, Jesus Christ, that the offense migh t aabounded to many. 16And the bound. sin 6. Much more then, having now been justified [declared gift is not like that which abounded, But where

grace abounde d righteous] by His blood, we shall be saved from __________ came through the one who much more, 21so that as sin through Him (9). sinned. For the judgment reigned in death, even so [For God did not appoint us to wrath, but to obtain salv ation which came from one offense grace might reign thro ugh through our Lord Jesus Christ, who died for us, that whether we resulted in condemnation, but righteousness to eterna l life wake or sleep, we should live together with Him (1 Thessalonians the free gift which came from through Jesus Christ our many offenses resulted in jusLord. 5:9, 10).] 7. Having been reconciled [restored to friendship with Something to Do God], we shall be ____________ by His _________ (10). Find out the differences between the first Adam (created [We are also saved (delivered) from the power of sin in our lives by God in the beginning) and the last Adam (Jesus Christ): by the resurrected life of Jesus living in us and His intervening for us in heaven. Therefore He is also able to save to the uttermost The First Adam those who come to God through Him, since He always lives o 1. Through one man ________ entered the world, and make intercession for them (Hebrews 7:25).] death through sin, and thus ___________ spread to ______ 30 31 men, because all _____________ (verse 12).

came to _____ men, resulting in justification of ______ (18b). 2. By one mans offense death _______________ (17a). [The righteous act of Jesus dying in our place satisfied the penal3. Through one mans offense ________________ came ty demanded by Gods law, so He is justified (has good reason) to to _____ men, resulting in _____________________ (18a). declare us righteous and give us life. Even so in Christ all shall be [Condemnation means to be declared guilty. He who does not made alive. The last Adam [Jesus] became a life-giving spirit (1 Corbelieve is condemned already, because he has not believed in the inthians 15:22b, 45b).] name of the only begotten Son of God (John 3:18b).] 10. So also by one Mans ____________________ many 4. For as by one mans __________________ many were will be made ___________________ (19b). made ______________ (19a). [He humbled Himself and became obedient to the point of death, [When Adam sinned, all of his descendants (who were within him) even the death of the cross (Philippians 2:8b). Because Jesus was became sinners. We are born with a nature that sins.] obedient, all who are united with Him are declared righteous. His powerful life in them also makes them righteous (to be like Jesus). ] 5. Sin reigned in ___________ (21a). [For as in Adam all die (1 Corinthians 15:22a).] You Need to Be Born Again The Last Adam, Jesus Christ You were born with the sinful tendencies of Adam which 6. The grace of God and the _______ by the grace of the lead to death. The human heart is desperately wicked (Jereone Man, Jesus Christ, abounded to __________ (15b). miah 17:9) and cannot be repaired. You need to be born [Grace is what God does for us that we cannot do for ourselves. again with a new heart. God promised, I will give you a new The gift of life is available to all who receive it by faith in Jesus.] heart and put a new spirit within you (Ezekiel 36:26a). 7. The ________ gift which came from [because of] many Jesus did not inherit Adams sinful nature, because Go d offenses resulted in _____________________ (16b). was His Father, not Adam. Only the sinless Son of God could [Offenses against God could be taken care of only by a free gift. begin a new line of people who, by faith in Him, inherit the Jesus paid the penalty for our sins (death); therefore God c ould righteous characteristics of their Father in heaven. declare those who trust in Him not guilty. Justification means being But as many as received Him, to them He gave the right declared righteous and right with God. What a wonderful gift!] to become children of God, even to those who believe in His 8. Those who receive abundance of ___________ and of name (John 1:12). Have you been born a child of God by the gift of righteousness will _____________ in life (17b).

believing that Jesus died in your place and by receiving Him? [Grace and truth came by Jesus Christ (John 1:17b). Jesus is If not, receive Him right now. Then thank God for the gift of full of grace, and those who have His life in them can have plenty of grace for victory in life. God resists the proud, but gives grace to new life in Jesus! Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a the humble (James 4:6b). Now thanks be to God who always newcreation;old things have passed away;behold,all things leads us in triumph in Christ (2 Corinthians 2:14a).] have become new (2 Corinthians 5:17). 9. Through one Mans _______________ act the free gift In future lessons you will learn how to live this new life. 32 33 ----------------------- Page 10----------------------LESSON 11. HOW TO BE FREED FROM SIN Baptism (which literally means immersion) in water is an Romans 6:1-14 8Now if we died with Christ, outward witness to what actually happens inside those who 1What shall we say then? we believe that we shall also trust in Jesus Christ. By faith a true Christian knows he has Shall we continue in sin that live with Him, 9knowing that been united with Christ in His death, burial, and resurrection. grace may abound? 2Certainly Christ, having been raised not! How shall we who died to from the dead, dies no more. Going under the water shows that in Christ the believers old sin live any longer in it? 3Or Death no longer has dominion sinful life has died and been buried. Coming up fro m the do you not know that as many over Him. 10For the death that water shows that the believer is united with Christ in His resof us as were baptized into He died, He died to sin once urrected new life and is alive with a new life to serve God Christ Jesus were baptized for all; but the life that He and to be fruitful. into His death? 4Therefore we lives, He lives to God. were buried with Him 11Likewise you also, reckon I have been crucified with Christ; it is no longer I who through baptism into death, yourselves to be dead indeed live, but Christ lives in me; and the life which I now live in that just as Christ was raised to sin, but alive to God in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and from the dead by the glory of Christ Jesus our Lord. gave Himself for me (Galatians 2:20). the Father, even so we also 12Therefore do not let sin reign should walk in newness of life. in your mortal body, that you In Lesson 2 we learned that the righteousness of God is 5For if we have been united should obey it in its lusts. revealed from faith to faith. First we are freed from the guilt together in the likeness of His 13And do not present your and penalty of sin when we believe that Christ died in our death, certainly we also shall members as instruments of place. God can declare us not guilty and declare us righbe in the likeness of His resurunrighteousness to sin, but rection, 6knowing this, that present yourselves to God as teous by crediting Christs righteousness to our account.

our

old

include s with Him, that the body of sin your members as instruments freedom from the power of sin. Romans 6:1-14 helps us know might be done away with, that of righteousness to God. 14For what to do about sin while we still live in a physical body in we should no longer be slaves sin shall not have dominion of sin. 7For he who has died has over you, for you are not a sinful world. These verses help us to know that we can live been freed from sin. under law but under grace. righteously by the power of Christs resurrected life working in us, making us more and more like Him. We need not be Our Identification with Jesus Christ dominated by sins which controlled us in the past. In Lesson 10 we learned that in Jesus we gained much more than what we lost in Adam. As condemnation came to Something to Do Fill in the blanks from Romans 6 to learn what Paul wants the entire human race through one manAdam, salvation came to the human race through one ManJesus Christ. us to KNOW, to RECKON, and to PRESENT (yield): Those who draw physical life from Adam are in bondage Paul tells us to truly KNOW to sin. Those who draw spiritual life from Jesus Christ are 1. that our old man was ________________ with freed from the bondage to sin. They are freed to live for God. that the body of sin might be done away with [meaning not 34 35

man Now

was crucified we see that

being alive from the dead, and salvation (deliverance) also

Him,

able to operate], that we should no longer be ___________ LESSON 12. BELIEVERS ARE SLAVES OF of sin (verse 6). He who has died has been ____________ RIGHTEOUSNESS from sin (7). Romans 6:15-23 2. that Christ, having been _____________ from the 15What then? Shall we sin beslaves of uncleanness, and of dead, dies no more (9). He died to sin ___________ for all; cause we are not under law but lawlessness leading to more under grace? Certainly not! lawlessness, so now pre sent but the life that He lives, He lives to __________ (10). 16Do you not know that to your members as slaves of [When Christ died to sin, those who are united with Him died to whom you present yourselves righteousness for holine ss. sin as well. And as Christ lives to God, they also live to God.] slaves to obey, you are that 20For when you were slaves of ones slaves whom you obey, sin, you were free in regard to Paul tells us to RECKON (count on, believe as true) whether of sin to death, or of righteousness. 21What

fruit obedience to righteousness? did you have then in the 3. yourselves to be _________ indeed to ________, but 17But God be thanked that things of which you are now __________ to ________ in Christ Jesus our Lord (11). though you were slaves of sin, ashamed? For the end of those [We can be alive to God only by being in Jesus, who is alive to yet you obeyed from the heart things is death. 22But now havGod. For you died, and your life is hidden with Christ in God that form of doctrine to which ing been set free from sin, and (Colossians 3:3). Because you died, you dont have to obey what you were delivered. 18And havhaving become slaves of G od, ing been set free from sin, you you have your fruit to holiyour body wants. If One died for all, then all died; and He died for became slaves of righteousness, and the end, everlasting all, that those who live should live no longer for themselves, but for ness. 19I speak in human terms life. 23For the wages of sin is Him who died for them and rose again (2 Corinthians 5:14b, 15).] because of the weakness of death, but the gift of God is your flesh. For just as you prer Paul tells us to PRESENT (yield, put at Gods disposal) sented your members as Lord. 4. yourselves to God as being ______________ from the Which Master Do You Serve? ____________ (13b). Before God declared us righteous in Christ, we served sin. 5. your members [eyes, ears, mouth, hands, feet, etc.] as Sin is a hard taskmaster, making us do things that lead to ________________ of _________________ to God (13b). misery and death. How wonderful it is to serve ous[We are NOT to allow our bodies to sin as we used to do. Now we ness! Now that we have been freed from sin, we can yield give all the parts of our body to God for doing what is right. What a ourselves to obey the righteous things God wants us to do. wonderful, awesome partnership with God! He wants to live in us, Do you know who your master is? No one can serve two make us like Christ, and do His work through us, just like He was masters; for either he will hate the one and love the other, able to do through Jesus when He was on earth. As you do this, He or else he will be loyal to the one and despise the other promises that sin will not have dominion over you (verse 14).] (Matthew 6:24a). In this the children of God and the chilKNOWING and BELIEVING and YIELDING leads to dren of the devil are manifest: Whoever does not practice GODS DOING in us and through us what we cannot do. righteousness is not of God, nor is he who does not love eternal life in Christ Jesus ou

righte

36 37 ----------------------- Page 11----------------------his brother (1 John 3:10). Jesus clearly described the difLESSON 13. FREEDOM FROM BONDAGE ference between the two masters: The thief does not come TO GODS LAW except to steal, and to kill, and to destroy. I have come that Romans 7:1-13 the Spirit and not in the oldthey may have life, and that they may have it more abun1Or do you not know, brethness of the letter. dantly. I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd gives ren (for I speak to those who 7What shall we say then? Is His life for the sheep (John 10:10, 11). Satan, the deceiver know the law), that the law has the law sin? Certainly not! On and thief, tries to make sin look desirable but comes to desdominion over a man as long the contrary, I would not have troy us. Jesus, the good Shepherd, came to give us abunas he lives? 2For the woman known sin except through the who has a husband is bound law. have dant life and to care for us. He even died for us. For I would not

by the law to her husband as known covetousness u nless You are a slave of the master you obey. One master, sin, long as he lives. But if the husthe law had said, You shall pays wagesdeath. The other master, God, offers to give band dies, she is released from not covet. 8But sin, taki ng you what you cannot earneternal life in Jesus. And this the law of her husband. 3So opportunity by the commandis eternal life, that they may know You, the only true God, then if, while her husband ment, produced in me all and Jesus Christ whom You have sent (John 17:3). lives, she marries another manner of evil desire. For man, n was There Is Fruitfulness in Christ adulteress; but if her husband dead. 9I was alive once withou t Jesus says, I am the vine, you are the branches. He who dies, she is free from that law, the law, but when omso that she is no adulteress, abides in Me, and I in him, bears much fruit; for without Me though she has married mandment came, ed the c she will be called an apart from the law si

sin

reviv

and I died. 10And comyou can do nothing (John 15:5). Those who are in union another man. 4Therefore, my s

the

mandment, which wa to with Christ will bear the fruit of becoming like Him. But the brethren, you also have bring life, I found to b ring fruit occaness, of become dead to the law the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindthrough the body of Christ, death. 11For sin, taking

goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control that you may be married to sion by the commandment, (Galatians 5:22, 23a). What Christ does in you and through another, even to Him who was deceived me, and by it killed 12 you will last for eternity. raised from the dead, that we y, should bear fruit to God. 5For holy Both Sin and Righteousness Multiply when we were in the flesh, the and just and good. Being a slave of sin and using your body for lawlessness passions of sins which were 13Has then what is good (going your own way) leads only to more lawlessness. aroused by the law were at become death to me? CertainBut when God sets you free from sin (salvation), you bework in our members to bear ly not! But sin, that it might fruit to death. 6But now we appear sin, was produc ing come a slave of righteousness with new desires urging you have been delivered from the death in me through wh at is to do what is right. This leads to more and more holiness law, having died to what we good, so that sin thro ugh the (sanctification). For it is God who works in you both to will were held by, so that we commandment might become and to do for His good pleasure (Philippians 2:13). should serve in the newness of exceedingly sinful. 38 39 The Illustration of Marriage Life is found in a Person, not in obeying laws. Jesus is Life. Paul explains the believers relationship to Gods law by He said, I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes comparing it to marriage, which God intended to be lifelong. to the Father except through Me (John 14:6b). Jesus said me. and Therefore the law is hol the commandment

Paul says that the law of God is like a husband. We are tied to those who would not believe in Him, You search the to that husband as long as he is alive. Scriptures, for in them you think you have eternal life; and Gods law has not died. Forever, O LORD, Your word is these are they which testify of Me. But you are not willing to settled in heaven (Psalm 119:89). Jesus said, Do not think come to Me that you may have life (John 5:39, 40). Jesus that I came to destroy the Law or the Prophets. I did not said, He who believes in Me, though he may die, he shall come to destroy but to fulfill. . . . Till heaven and earth pass live. And whoever lives and believes in Me shall never die. away, one jot or one tittle will by no means pass from the Do you believe this? (John 11:25b, 26). law till all be fulfilled (Matthew 5:17, 18). The word of God The Law Sentenced You to Death stands forever (Isaiah 40:8b). Paul turns the illustration around to show that we can die The law says, A person shall be put to death for his own and no longer be obligated to the law. We are then free to sin (Deuteronomy 24:16b). The soul who sins shall die start a new relationship. Isnt that interesting? It is our sinful (Ezekiel 18:4b).The wages of sin is death (Romans 6:23a). self which must die. How wonderful that Jesus Christ, who fulfilled all the law with His righteous life, died in our place The Purpose of the Law and gives us a new life, to be lived by faith in Him! If we are 1. The law was made for sinners (to restrain sin). Knowin Christ (by trusting in Him as our Savior), we died with ing this: that the law is not made for a righteous person, but Christ when He died. We are then free from bondage to the for the lawless and insubordinate [disobedient], for the unlaw. Having risen from the dead with Christ, we are free to godly and for sinners (1 Timothy 1:9a). So He declared to live a new life, married (united) with Christ forever. This you His covenant which He commanded you to perform, union produces the fruit of righteousness. There is no life, no that is, the Ten Commandments (Deuteronomy 4:13a). salvation, no holy living apart from union with Jesus Christ. 2. The law tells us what sin is. For by the la w is the knowledge of sin (Romans 3:20b). For example, Paul knew The Law Cannot Make You Righteous that coveting was a sin because it was one of the Ten ComThe law cannot give life or the power to obey Gods law. mandments (Exodus 20). If we did not know Gods comFor if there had been a law given which could have given mands, we would not know how sinful we are (Romans 7:13). life, truly righteousness would have been by the law (Gala3. The law pronounces us guilty before God. Now we tians 3:21b). For the law made nothing perfect; on the other know that whatever the law says, it says to those who are hand, there is the bringing in of a better hope, through under the law, that every mouth may be stopped, and all the which we draw near to God (Hebrews 7:19). world may become guilty before God (Romans 3:19). The

40 41 ----------------------- Page 12----------------------commandments kill us because the penalty for breaking His body. For we are members of His body, of His flesh and them is death. of His bones. This is a great mystery, but I speak concern4. The law prepared the way for Christ. What purpose ing Christ and the church (Ephesians 5:30, 32). then does the law serve? It was added because of transJesus nourishes and cherishes His bride, the Church, as gressions, till the Seed should come to whom the promise His own body (Ephesians 5:29). Because we are so united was made (Galatians 3:19a). The Seed was Christ (Galawith Christ (like parts of His body and like a bride married to tians 3:16). The law prepared the people for the coming of a her husband), we are to be holy and let Him nouri sh and Savior. The Word of God prepares people for Jesus today by cleanse us continually. Christ also loved the church an d showing them their need for a Savior. gave Himself for it, that He might sanctify and cleanse it with 5. The law was to bring us to Christ. But before faith the washing of water by the word, that He might present it came, we were kept under guard by the law, kept for the to Himself a glorious church, . . . holy and without blemish faith which would afterward be revealed. Therefore the law (Ephesians 5:25b-27). But he who is joined to the Lord is was our tutor to bring us to Christ, that we might be justified one spirit with Him (1 Corinthians 6:17). by faith. But after faith has come, we are no longer under a tutor (Galatians 3:23-25). Christ Sets You Free from the Laws Demands And you, being dead in your trespasses and the uncirThe Law of God Is Holy and Good cumcision of your flesh, He has made alive together with Some may say, If knowing the law makes us sin (rebel) Him, having forgiven you all trespasses, having wiped out even more, is it because the law is not good? Paul says, Of the handwriting of requirements that was against us, which course not! (Romans 7:13). Your word is very pure; therewas contrary to us. And He has taken it out of the way, havfore Your servant loves it (Psalm 119:140). The law of the ing nailed it to the cross (Colossians 2:13, 14). It was as if LORD is perfect (Psalm 19:7a). The law is good; it is we who a list of all of the laws of God we had broken was nailed to were not good, and the law could not make us good. God had the cross of Jesus marked Paid in Full. What freedom! This to give us new life by Jesus Christ. And that you put on the does not mean that we are now free to sin. No! Our new life new man which was created according to God, in righin Christ wants to please and honor God. For I through the teousness and true holiness (Ephesians 4:24). law died to the law that I might live to God (Galatians 2:19). We now have the holy life of Jesus in us to empower us to

Union with Christ live a holy life. Or do you not know that your body is the When God created Adam and Eve, they were one flesh. temple of the Holy Spirit who is in you, whom you have from And Adam said: This is now bone of my bones and flesh God, and you are not your own? For you were bought at a of my flesh (Genesis 2:23a). Marriage is an illustration of price; therefore glorify God in your body and in your spirit, how close a believer is to Christas close as being a part of which are Gods (1 Corinthians 6:19, 20). 42 43 LESSON 14. THE STRUGGLE BETWEEN between the flesh (human wisdom and effort which is indeTWO NATURES pendent of God) and the Spirit of God now living within him (wanting out 14 to to do what God wants) causes him to cry

Romans 7:14-25 what I will not to do, it is no God for deliverance. For we know that the law longer I who do it, but sin that is spiritual, but I am carnal, dwells in me. 21I find then a Paul found that his flesh was no more able to please God sold under sin. 15For what I law, that evil is present with after he was saved than before he was saved. He concludes am doing, I do not under- me, the one who wills to do that there is no good at all in his flesh. This is a wonderful stand. For what I will to do, good. 22For I delight in the law revelation, because now Paul calls out for help. There is only that I do not practice; but of God according to the what I hate, that I do. 16If, inward man. 23But I see anone Person who can help. Paul knew that deliverance is then, I do what I will not to other law in my members, found in Jesus Christ and gratefully cried out, I thank God do, I agree with the law that it warring against the law of my through Jesus Christ our Lord! In the next lessons you will is good. 17But now, it is no mind, and bringing me into see that we can be delivered from the struggle with the flesh longer I who do it, but sin that captivity to the law of sin dwells in me. 18For I know which is in my members. by walking in the Spirit of Christ, who lives in us. that in me (that is, in my flesh) 24O wretched man that I Believers in the region of Galatia had a similar problem. nothing good dwells; for to am! Who will deliver me from They had received Christ by faith, but then they tried to perwill is present with me, but this body of death? 25I thank fect themselves in their own strengthin the flesh. Paul, how to perform what is good I God through Jesus Christ who knew this problem so well, had written to them, O fooldo not find. 19For the good our Lord! So then, with the that I will to do, I do not do; mind I myself serve the law of ish Galatians! . . . Did you receive the Spirit by the works of but the evil I will not to do, God, but with the flesh the the law, or by the hearing of faith? Are you so foolish? that I practice. 20Now if I do law of sin. Having begun in the Spirit, are you now being made perfect

by the flesh? (Galatians 3:1-3). Those who have received The Total Helplessness of Self new life by faith in Jesus can live the Christian life only by How wonderful it is to be dead to sin and dead to the laws faith in Jesus. The just [the person justified, or declared righdemands! Instead, we are alive to God and declared righteous, by God] shall live by faith (Galatians 3:11b). teous through faith in Jesus Christ. We have seen what JeThe Power of Christ Within Us sus has done for us. Now Paul is showing us a problem that needs to be dealt with before we can live holy lives to God. After we come to Christ by faith for salvation from the guilt Paul is describing the dilemma of everyone who delights in and penalty of sin, we must continue to come to Christ by the law of God. He knows Gods law is good. He wants to do faith for sanctification, living a holy life with power over the what is right, and he tries his very best to do it. But everyone pull of sin. Jesus means Jehovah is salvation. But of who sets out to try to live the Christian life in his own strength Him you are in Christ Jesus, who became for us wisdom comes to the same conclusion Paul did. The mighty struggle from Godand righteousness and sanctification a nd 45 44 ----------------------- Page 13----------------------redemptionthat, as it is written, He who glories, let him You are a new creation in Christ. If you try in your own glory in the LORD (1 Corinthians 1:30, 31). A Person strength to follow rules (rather than letting the life of Christ Jesus Himselfis our sanctification. In our own strength, we live in you), you are no longer free. In fact, those who cannot live the Christian life. Only Christ in us can live a holy attempt to win Gods favor by keeping the law are estranged life. As we live by faith in Him and yield ourselves to Him, He from Christ (Galatians 5:2-4). Stand fast therefore in th e gives us the desire to do Gods will and the power to live a liberty by which Christ has made us free, and do not be holy life. I have been crucified with Christ; it is no longer I entangled again with a yoke of bondage. For we through who live, but Christ lives in me; and the life which I now live the Spirit eagerly wait for the hope [certainty] of righteousin the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me ness by faith (Galatians 5:1, 5). and gave Himself for me (Galatians 2:20). Paul cautions: For you, brethren, have been called to liberty; only do not use liberty as an opportunity for the flesh, The Flesh and the Spirit but through love serve one another (Galatians 5:13). Paul

As long as we live under the law, trying to meet the obligamakes it clear that no one can say they have liberty (which tions of the law, we will have a problem. Paul explains it this comes by relying on Christ and walking in the Spirit) as an way: For it is written that Abraham had two sons: the one excuse for doing whatever they want (walking in the flesh). by a bondwoman, the other by a freewoman. But he who Put on the new man which was created according to God, was of the bondwoman was born according to the flesh [by in righteousness and true holiness (Ephesians 4:24b). human ideas, by Abrahams going his own way], and he of The flesh (what our old self apart from God wanted) will the freewoman through promise [born supernaturally, as always be opposed to the Spirit (what Godand our new Gods idea and provision] (Galatians 4:22, 23). The old godly naturewants). The solution to this struggle between man (our old life) is like the child who was born according the flesh and the Spirit is this: Walk in the Spirit, and you to the flesha slave to sin and in bondage to the law. The shall not fulfill the lust of the flesh. For the fles h lusts new man (our new life) is born supernaturally by the Spirit against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh; and of God, like the child which God promised, to live in freedom these are contrary to one another, so that you do not do the by Gods grace. things that you wish. But if you are led by the Spirit, you are Since the old man and the new man can only fight each not under the law (Galatians 5:16b-18). Keep yielding to other, let us do what the Bible says: But now you must also the Spirit of God. put off all these: anger, wrath, malice, blasphemy, filthy lanJesus had some good advice for His disciples: Watch and guage out of your mouth. Do not lie to one another, since pray, lest you enter into temptation. The spirit indeed is you have put off the old man with his deeds, and have put willing but the flesh is weak (Matthew 26:41). on the new man who is renewed in knowledge according to We will learn more about walking in the Spirit in the next the image of Him who created him (Colossians 3:8-10). lessons. 46 47 LESSON 15. LIFE IN THE SPIRIT OF JESUS CHRIST Two Powerful Laws Romans 8:1-4 In Lesson 14 Paul saw in himself a powerful tendency to do 1 wrong even when he didnt want to. Now he calls this downThere is therefore now no that it was weak through the condemnation to those who flesh, God did by sending His ward pull the law of sin and death. This downward are in Christ Jesus, who do own Son in the likeness of sinwhich makes us sin (resulting in death) is as powerful as the not walk according to the ful flesh, on account of sin: He law of gravity in the physical world. We cannot overcome it by

pull

flesh,

but according to the condemned sin in the flesh, our own strength. But another powerful law can overcome it. Spirit. 2For the law of the 4that the righteous requireThose who are in Christ Jesus are not under condemnation Spirit of life in Christ Jesus ment of the law might be fulhas made me free from the filled in us who do not walk because they have been justified (declared righteous) by law of sin and death. 3For according to the flesh but acfaith in Jesus sinless life, death, burial, and resurrection on what the law could not do in cording to the Spirit. their behalf. The flesh (which obeys the law of sin) is present as long as we live in our mortal bodies. But when we walk in Something to Do the Spirit, having glorious fellowship with our Lord and being A. Fill in the blanks: sensitive to His leading, the flesh is not in control because a 1. There is therefore now no ____________________ to more powerful law is at workthe law of the Spirit of life in those who are in ____________ ___________ (verse 1). Christ Jesus. This law is like the thrust of power in jet en2. For the ______ of the Spirit of _______ in Christ Jesus gines which defies the law of gravity and lifts a huge, heavy has made me ________ from the ______ of ______ and airplane into the air for long flights even across oceans. The death (2). law of gravity is still in force, but it cannot pull the plane down 3. For what the ______ could not do in that it was _______ while it is operating under a stronger power. through the ___________, God did by sending His own Son in the likeness of sinful ________, on account of ______ (3). Life Is in Jesus Christ [Gods law is holy and wonderful, but it is powerless to make a perIn Him was life (John 1:4a). Jesus told us, I am . . . the son righteous, because the flesh is weak. Jesus came in the likeness life (John 14:6b). Whoever has Jesus living in him has life. of man (Philippians 2:7), yet He was without sin (Hebrews 4:15).] He who has the Son has life (1 John 5:12a). 4. When Jesus died for us, God __________________ sin The life which is in Christ Jesus is so powerful that those in the flesh (3b). Jesus rose from the dead, and we rose with who walk in the Spirit of that life can live free from the downHim, that the righteous _____________________ of the law ward pull of sin and death. Romans chapter 8 is rich with truth might be _______________ in us who do not walk according about life in Christ and how to live the Christian life by faith. to the __________ but according to the ___________ (4). Life in Christ is worth giving up every fleshly desire. He who B. Memorize Romans 8:1-4. loses his life for My sake will find it (Matthew 10:39b). 48 49 ----------------------- Page 14----------------------Life in Jesus Is Like Living Water Life in Jesus Is an Intimate Union Life in Christ is meant to be a continual fountain that re-

Having the life of Jesus in us, and our life in Him, is a close freshes and cleanses the believers life. Jesus once said to union like a marriage. It is a love relationship. We receive a sinful woman at a well, But whoever drinks of the water His love, and we give Him our love. He talks with us through that I shall give him will never thirst. But the water that I shall His Word and reveals new things about Himself. As we talk give him will become in him a fountain of water springing with Him in prayer throughout the day, we confess our sins up into everlasting life (John 4:14). and needs and tell Him our concerns. We share our joys and In the Old Testament God was grieved when His people our sorrows. We let Him live His life in our bodies, prompting rejected Him. For My people have committed two evils: us what to say and do. Our bodies become a temple to they have forsaken Me, the fountain of living waters, and honor Him. Even when we wake in the night, we can have hewn themselves cisternsbroken cisterns that can hold sweet communion with Him. For He Himself has said, I will no water (Jeremiah 2:13). Isnt this a picture of many peonever leave you nor forsake you (Hebrews 13:5b). ple today? Instead of living in a vital relationship with God, they try to find meaning and love in their own way. These Life in Jesus Christ Changes You man-made ways have no life; they hold no water. As we walk in intimate union with Jesus, we are changed to become like Him. God is restoring us to His image. Our Life In Jesus Is Far Above Life in the World growing love for Him replaces any lingering love for self or Those who are born from above have new life in Christ for the worlds attractions. Dont struggle against the flesh and identify with Him in His death and resurrection. They can it will just grow stronger. Jesus has already ed you identify with His ascension to the right hand of the Father as new lifethe life of God Himself. Walk in the and well. While still living in our bodies, we can live in heavenly you shall not fulfill the lust of the flesh (Galatians 5:16b). places with Christ Jesus in our spirit. Even when we were As you actively cooperate with Gods grace (given dead in trespasses, [God] made us alive together with Christ humble) and walk in obedience to His Spirit, of the (by grace you have been saved), and raised us up together, flesh are put away by His power. Gods Spirit transforms you and made us sit together in the heavenly places in Christ Jeas you look into the face of your wonderful Bridesus (Ephesians 2:5, 6). God has blessed us with every spirgroom. But we all, with unveiled face [with opened underitual blessing in the heavenly places in Christ (Ephesians standing], beholding as in a mirror the glory of the Lord, are 1:3b). From an airplane or the top of a high mountain, things being transformed into the same image from glory to glory, below seem small and insignificant. When your spirit lives in just as by the Spirit of the Lord (2 Corinthians 3:18). Rest the heavenlies with Christ Jesus, the problems and trials of

provid Spirit,

to

the

things

Savior-

in Him, rejoice in Him, enjoy rich fellowship im! Let earth seem strangely small. You see from Gods viewpoint. Him work awesome changes in you. 50 51 LESSON 16.

with

THE HOLY SPIRITS POWER [We can never please God by going our own way. It pleases God OVER THE FLESH when we trust Him. But without faith it is impossible to please Him,

for he who comes to God must believe that He is, and that He is a Romans 8:5-13 rewarder of those who diligently seek Him (Hebrews 11:6).] 5For those who live accord10And if Christ is in you, the ing to the flesh set their minds body is dead because of sin, Evidence of Life in the Spirit on the things of the flesh, but but the Spirit is life because of those who live according to righteousness. 11But if the Are you in the flesh or in the Spirit? God says you are the Spirit, the things of the Spirit of Him who raised in the Spirit if the Spirit of God dwells in you (Romans 8:9). Spirit. 6For to be carnally Jesus from the dead dwells in If anyone does not have the Spirit of Christ, he is not His minded is death, but to be you, He who raised Christ spiritually minded is life and from the dead will also give (Romans 8:9). This is a very serious word from God. If the peace. 7Because the carnal life to your mortal bodies Spirit of Christ is not in you, you are not a Christian. mind is enmity against God; through His Spirit who dwells Gods Word says, For to be carnally minded is death for it is not subject to the law in you. (Romans 8:6a). For if you live according to the flesh you of God, nor indeed can be. 8So 12Therefore, brethren, we will die (Romans 8:13a). Please believe Gods Word. Do then, those who are in the are debtorsnot to the flesh, flesh cannot please God. 9But to live according to the flesh. not be deceived. Some may say to the carnally minded, to you are not in the flesh but in 13For if you live according to those who make a practice of walking in the flesh, You will the Spirit, if indeed the Spirit the flesh you will die; but if by not surely die. This is what Satan said to Eve in the garden of God dwells in you. Now if the Spirit you put to death the of Eden (Genesis 3:4b). Paul said, But I fear, lest someanyone does not have the deeds of the body, you will Spirit of Christ, he is not His. live. how, as the serpent deceived Eve by his craftiness, so your minds may be corrupted from the simplicity that is in Christ Something to Do (2 Corinthians 11:3). Do not put up with a different gospel! Fill in the blanks to see the contrast between those who Remember, There is therefore now no condemnation to live in the flesh (go their own way) and those who live in the those who are in Christ Jesus (Romans 8:1). But for those Spirit (yield to Gods way): who are not in Christ Jesus, there is condemnation. He who

1. Those who live believes in Him

according to the is not condemned;

flesh set their but he who does

not __________ on the things of the _________, but those who believe is condemned already, because he has not believed live according to the Spirit, the things of the _________ (5). in the name of the only begotten Son of God (John 3:18). 2. To be carnally minded is ___________, but to be spirThe purpose of Jesus coming was to take away sins and itually minded is _________ and ___________ (6). to live in us so that we would have His power not to sin. Any3. The carnal mind is ___________ against God; for it is one who has the sinless life of Jesus living in him will not be not __________ to the law of God, nor indeed _____ be (7). able to continue a lifestyle of sin. And you know that He Those who are in the flesh cannot ___________ God (8). was manifested to take away our sins, and in Him there is 52 53 ----------------------- Page 15----------------------no sin. Whoever abides in Him does not sin. . . . In this the with Him and loving Him, honestly sharing your uggles children of God and the children of the devil are manifest: and joys, and honoring Him in what you think, say, and do. Whoever does not practice righteousness is not of God, He who says he abides in Him ought himself also to walk nor is he who does not love his brother (1 John 3:5, 6, 10). just as He walked (1 John 2:6). Jesus is not y an The apostle John wrote these words so that Christians example to imitate. He is our life. would not sin. But he also knew that Christians are not perThe Carnal Mind fect, so he tells us what to do: And if anyone sins, we have an Advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous Carnal in the New Testament is the str

merel

same

word

often

(1 John 2:1b). If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just translated fleshly. It describes those who are driven by the to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighpassions of their old nature. Sometimes the word fl esh teousness (1 John 1:9). After we confess our sins and are refers to the human body, which is not evil. Jesus Himself cleansed, we can continue walking in the light of Gods preswas God made flesh (John 1:1, 14)given a human body ence. But if we walk in the light as He is in the light, we to live among people in this worldyet He was sinless. have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus Sometimes immature Christians live in carnal ways, not Christ His Son cleanses us from all sin (1 John 1:7). knowing about or believing in the deliverance and freedom from sin which they have in Christ. Paul knew this when he Walking According to the Spirit

wrote to believers in Corinth. For where there are envy, God had promised His people that He would put His Spirit strife, and divisions among you, are you not carna l and in them to help them to walk in His ways. I will put My Spirit behaving like mere men? (1 Corinthians 3:3b). The carnal within you and cause you to walk in My statutes, and you mind is too proud to submit to God or to depend upon His will keep My judgments and do them (Ezekiel 36:27). grace. A true Christian should set his mind on being spirituWalking in the Spirit means to live by the life of God in you. al by the power of God. He does not make it a practice to It means to walk in your new life (Romans 6:4). It means walk in the flesh. If he acts in carnal ways at times, the Spirit walking by faith in the Son of God, who loves you, and has within him will convict him. He will confess it to God, receive given His life for you (Galatians 2:20). It means allowing God cleansing, and walk again in fellowship with God. He will to make changes in your life as He brings things to your depend on Gods power within him to bring forth the fruits of attention and you depend on His power working within you. righteousness (see page 38). This is how the carnal deeds Walking in the Spirit means having fellowship with God of the body are put to death by the Spirit (Romans 8:13). throughout the day. It means asking Him questions, following His directions, rejoicing in hope, believing His promises. The Spiritual Mind It is becoming continually aware of the presence of Christ livThe spiritual mind is the complete opposite of the carnal ing in you. It is a growing companionship with God, agreeing mind. It is the mind of Christdependent on God, l oving 54 55 God others, serving God, and thankful in everything. LESSON 17. BEING MATURE CHILDREN OF GOD This kind of mind is life and peace, not discord and death. But we have the mind of Christ (1 Corinthians 2:16b). Romans 8:14-18 dren of God, 17and if children, Paul , if through 14For as many as are led by then heirsheirs of God and describes the mind of Christ: Let nothing be done the Spirit of God, these are joint heirs with Christ selfish ambition or conceit, sons of God. 15For you did not but in lowliness of indeed we suffer with and

Him, mind let each esteem others better than himself. Let each receive the spirit of bondage that we may also be glorifie d of you look out not only for his own interests, but also for again to fear, but you together. received the Spirit of adop18For I t the the interests of others (Philippians 2:3, 4). Do these verses consider tha

tion by whom we cry out, sufferings of this present tim e describe you? The spiritual mind is not proud, but humble. Abba, Father. 16The Spirit are not worthy to be omThis mind is obedient to Gods will and submits to the death Himself bears witness with pared with the glory w hich of the cross like Jesus did. Those who are in Christ can say our spirit that we are chil- shall be revealed in us. with Paul, Knowing this, that our old man was crucified Something to Do with Him, that the body of sin might be done away with, that Find four ways we can know we are children of God: we should no longer be slaves of sin (Romans 6:6). 1. f We saw in Lesson 3 that the first step toward a depraved mind is God, these are sons of God (verse 14). to be unthankful. The spiritual mind is a thankful As many as are ________ by the ____________ o

[When Gods Spirit pulls us toward holy living, we respond.] mind. Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, in everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for 2. You did not receive the spirit of _____________ again you. Do not quench the Spirit (1 Thessalonians 5:16-19). to __________ (15). [Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, The Spirit of Christ Gives Life there is liberty (2 Corinthians 3:17). For God has not given us a Your physical body is destined to die (Hebrews 9:27). But spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind (2 if the Spirit of Christ is in you, you have eternal life because Timothy 1:7).] of His righteousness (Romans 8:10). As the Spirit of God 3. The ___________ Himself bears ___________ with had the power to raise Jesus from the dead, He will one day our spirit that we are children of God (16). raise your physical body from the dead (Romans 8:11). And [One witness to the truth that we are children of God is Gods God both raised up the Lord and will also raise us up by His Word: For you are all sons of God through faith in Christ Jesus power (1 Corinthians 6:14). Even now, the life-giving Spirit (Galatians 3:26). Another witness is the inner witness of Gods of Jesus within you often revives a weary or sick body for His Spirit that makes our spirit aware that we belong to God, that I am service when you ask Him. Therefore we do not lose heart. His, and He is mine. We call God Father and know it is true.] Even though our outward man is perishing, yet the inward 4. We are children of God, and joint heirs with Christ, if man is being renewed day by day (2 Corinthians 4:16). indeed we _____________ with Him (17).

56 57 ----------------------- Page 16----------------------an heir of God through C hrist Jesus, the Son of God, enjoyed a close relationship with (Galatians 4:6, 7). Just before Jesus was tried and executed His Father in heaven. They were one. Jesus said, The Son on a cross, He prayed to His Father in heaven, calling Him can do nothing of Himself, but what He sees the Father do; Abba, Father (Mark 14:36). Abba in the Aramaic lanfor whatever He does the Son also does in like manner guage was the intimate, personal expression of a small child (John 5:19b). For I have come down from heaven, not to calling out to his father, Da-da! We can have this sam e do My own will, but the will of Him who sent Me (John 6:38). close relationship with our Father in heaven. I always do those things that please Him (John 8:29b). Children of God Share Christs Suffering and Glory The Spirit of Adoption Jesus, though sinless, had to suffer. Though a We come into Gods family by the new birth. Whoever beSon, yet He learned obedience by the things which He suflieves that Jesus is the Christ is born of God (1 John 5:1a). fered (Hebrews 5:8). We, too, may suffer as we learn to deny The word adoption in the New Testament means being ourselves and obey the promptings of Gods Spirit in us. placed as an adult child. The Greeks in Pauls time raised The world will hate us as it hated Him (John 15:18). Suftheir children under guardians with many rules and regulafering in persecution gives us an opportunity to have deeper tions to follow until the time appointed by the father, when fellowship with Jesus. That I may know Him and the power each child would receive his inheritance as an adult child. A of His resurrection, and the fellowship of His sufferi ngs, mature child does not have to have rules and regulations being conformed to His death (Philippians 3:10). imposed on him. He has an inner desire to please his father. As joint heirs with Christ, we share in His suffering as well Children born of God receive the Spirit of adoption with all as in His glory. For to you it has been granted on behalf of the privileges and responsibilities of mature adult children. Christ, not only to believe in Him, but also to suffer for His They will live as Jesus did, willingly allowing themselves to sake (Philippians 1:29). But any suffering we experience be led by Gods Spirit and Gods Word. A child of God is not now is small compared with an eternity of joy and blessing in bondage to the letter of the written law, but follows the in heaven. For our light affliction, which is but for a mospirit of Gods law, which is written in his heart. The law of ment, is working for us a far more exceeding and eternal his God is in his heart; none of his steps shall slide (Psalm weight of glory (2 Corinthians 4:17). Looking unto Jesus, son, Jesus Lived as a Mature Son and if a son, then

He

was

37:31). I delight to do Your will, O my God, and Your law is the author and finisher of our faith, who for the joy that was within my heart (Psalm 40:8). set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, The Spirit of Christ (Gods Son) in us can call God Father and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God as Jesus did. And because you are sons, God has sent (Hebrews 12:2). Jesus said, To Him who overcomes I will forth the Spirit of His Son into your hearts, crying out, grant to sit with Me on My throne, as I also overcame and Abba, Father! Therefore you are no longer a slave but a sat down with My Father on His throne (Revelation 3:21). 58 59 LESSON 18. THE FUTURE GLORY OF THE 2. We also who have the firstfruits of the _____________ SONS OF GOD . . . groan within ourselves, ________________ waiting for

the adoption, the redemption of our _____________ (23). Romans 8:19-30 3. The __________ Himself makes _________________ 19For the earnest expecta- 26Likewise the Spirit also helps for us with groanings which cannot be uttered (26b). He tion of the creation eagerly in our weaknesses. For we do waits for the revealing of the not know what we should makes intercession for the _____________ according to the sons of God. 20For the creation pray for as we ought, but the will of God (27b). All who are in Christ are saints. was subjected to futility, not Spirit Himself makes inwillingly, but because of Him tercession for us with groanThe Groaning of All Creation who subjected it in hope; ings which cannot be uttered. When Adam sinned, bringing sorrow and death on all peo21because the creation itself 27Now He who searches the also will be delivered from the hearts knows what the mind ple, even the earth itself was cursed. But the earth, along bondage of corruption into of the Spirit is, because He with the children of God, will be delivered from the bondage the glorious liberty of the chilmakes intercession for the of decay when Christ returns. Nevertheless we, according dren of God. 22For we know saints according to the will of to His promise, look for new heavens and a new earth in that the whole creation groans God. 28And we know that all which righteousness dwells (2 Peter 3:13). In that day the and labors with birth pangs things work together for good together until now. 23And not to those who love God, to Lord of glory will be revealed to all the world in all His fullonly they, but we also who those who are the called acness and awesome majesty. With Him the sons of God have the firstfruits of the cording to His purpose. 29For restored in the image of Godwill be revealed for all to see. Spirit, even we ourselves whom He foreknew, He also groan within ourselves, eagerpredestined to be conformed The Birth Pains of Joyful Expectation ly waiting for the adoption, to the image of His Son, that the redemption of our body. He might be the firstborn Paul tells us why he experienced labor pains. My little

24For we were saved in this among many brethren. children, for whom I labor in birth again until Christ is hope, but hope that is seen is 30Moreover whom He preformed in you (Galatians 4:19). God is forming us into the not hope; for why does one destined, these He also called; image of His Son. This process is hidden from the world. The still hope for what he sees? whom He called, these He also 25But if we hope for what we justified; and whom He justichild of God is not honored or recognized in this world. But do not see, then we eagerly fied, these He also glorified. one glorious day there will be an unveiling! We will be resurwait for it with perseverance. rected with new bodies and presented faultless before the Something to Do presence of His glory with exceeding joy (Jude verse 24b). All creation yearns for that day of final redemption. Until then Fill in the blanks to find out who is groaning and why: we have the Holy Spirit, who is the guarantee of our inher1. The whole ________________ groans and labors with itance until the redemption of the purchased possession, to ___________ _________ (22). The creation eagerly waits the praise of His glory (Ephesians 1:14). for the revealing of the _________ ____ ________ (19). 60 61 ----------------------- Page 17----------------------A Child Bears the Image of His Father destined that they be like His Son, Jesus. He called them, It is very clear whose child a person is, because a child He justified them (declared them righteous), and

He

has

bears the image of his parents. Jesus knew this very well. given them His glory. Jesus prayed to His Father, And the When those who were trying to kill Him said, Abraham is glory which You gave Me I have given them, that they may our father, Jesus said, If you were Abrahams children, be one just as We are one: I in them, and You in Me (John you would do the works of Abraham. You do the deeds of 17:22, 23a). To them God willed to make known what are your father (John 8:39b, 41a). They said to Him, We have the riches of the glory of this mystery . . . : which is Christ one FatherGod. Jesus said to them, If God were your in you, the hope of glory (Colossians 1:27). When Christ Father, you would love Me . . . . You are of your father the lives in you, you can confidently expect to be with Him fordevil, and the desires of your father you want to do. He was ever and share in His glory. Those who are in Christ Jesus a murderer from the beginning (John 8:41b, 42a, 44a). glorify Him when they fulfill Gods purpose for their . This is why we need to be born againwe need a new FaFor we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for ther! And this is also why those who are born of God will be-

lives

good

works,

which

God

prepared

beforehand

that we

gin to resemble their Father in heaven as they become more should walk in them (Ephesians 2:10). and more like Jesus. As the Son of God, Jesus showed us Present Sufferings Work Together for Good what God was like because God was His Father. Paul says, All things work together for good to Beloved, now we are children of God; and it has not yet who love God (Romans 8:28a). God, who is all-powerful, will been revealed what we shall be, but we know that when He work even in the midst of terrible circumstances for the good is revealed, we shall be like Him, for we shall see Him as He of those who love Him. It is good to become like His Son, is. And everyone who has this hope in Him purifies himself, even though this transformation process includes suffering. just as He is pure (1 John 3:2, 3). The hope that the Bible Beloved, do not think it strange concerning the fiery trial talks about is not the kind of hope where we wish something which is to try you, as though some strange apwould happen and hope it does. Hope in the Bible refers to pened to you; but rejoice to the extent that you partake of something that is certain to happen. While you are waiting Christs sufferings, that when His glory is revealed, you thing h those

for it to happen, you can be filled with confident hope. This may also be glad with exceeding joy (1 Peter 4:12, 13). is the kind of expectant hope that John was talking about. In this you greatly rejoice, though now for a little while, Gods Purpose for Those Who Belong to Him if need be, you have been grieved by various trials, that the Those who love God are born of God and are called for genuineness of your faith, being much more precious than one purpose: to be conformed to the image of His Son, gold that perishes, though it is tested by fire, may be found that He might be the firstborn among many brethren (Roto praise, honor, and glory at the revelation of Jesus mans 8:29b). God knows those who are His. He has preChrist (1 Peter 1:6, 7). 62 63 LESSON 19. THE BELIEVERS ETERNAL PLACE elect (chosen one)? It certainly cant be God, because if you IN GODS HEART are in Christ, He Himself has declared you righteous.

Romans 8:31-39 Who can condemn you? It cant be Christ, because He 31What then shall we say to secution, or famine, or nakeddied for you. He rose again and lives in you. In fact He is at these things? If God is for us, ness, or peril, or sword? 36As it the right hand of God praying for you right now. For God did who can be against us? 32He is written: For Your sake we not send His Son into the world to condemn the world, but who did not spare His own are killed all day long; we are that the world through Him might be saved (John 3:17). Son, but delivered Him up for accounted as sheep for the Once some men brought to Jesus a woman caught in the us all, how shall He not with slaughter. 37Yet in all these Him also freely give us all things we are more than conact of adultery. They wanted Him to agree with their condemthings? 33Who shall bring a querors through Him who nation of her. But in His presence their consciences were charge against Gods elect? It loved us. 38For I am persuaded pricked and they slunk away one by one. When Jesus had is God who justifies. 34Who is that neither death nor life, nor raised Himself up and saw no one but the woman, He said he who condemns? It is Christ angels nor principalities nor who died, and furthermore is powers, nor things present to her, Woman, where are those accusers of yours? Has no also risen, who is even at the nor things to come, 39nor one condemned you? She said, No one, Lord. And Jesus right hand of God, who also height nor depth, nor any othsaid to her, Neither do I condemn you; go and sin no more makes intercession for us. er created thing, shall be able (John 8:10, 11). Jesus doesnt condemn you either, if you are 35Who shall separate us from to separate us from the love of in Himbut His purpose is for you to stop sinning. the love of Christ? Shall God which is in Christ Jesus tribulation, or distress, or perour Lord. The only thing that can separate a person from God sinhas been dealt with by God Himself. We should detest God Is For Us sin because it separated us from God. But your iniquities This lesson is full of questions and wonderful answers. We have separated you from your God; and your sins have hidhave already learned what Gods purpose for us is: to make den His face from you, so that He will not hear (Isa iah us like Jesus, restoring us to the image of God, our Father 59:2). But if we have come to Jesus to take away our sin and in heaven. Does God ever fail to accomplish His purposes? have been declared righteous, and if we are living in union Being confident of this very thing, that He who has begun with Jesus, allowing Him to work in us to make us more and a good work in you will complete it until the day of Jesus more like Him, what can possibly separate us from Hi m? Christ (Philippians 1:6). Absolutely nothing! We are free to love Him and serve Him We know God is for us because He sacrificed even His without fear, in holiness and righteousness before Him all own Son on our behalf. If He gave us His best when we were the days of our life (Luke 1:74b, 75). Jesus said, My sheep

sinners,

can He possibly withhold anything good from us hear My voice, and I know them, and they follow Me. And I now that we have been declared righteous? give them eternal life, and they shall never perish; neither Who can bring a charge against you, since you are Gods shall anyone snatch them out of My hand (John 10:27, 28). 64 65 ----------------------- Page 18----------------------LESSON 20. THE SOVEREIGNTY AND MERCY OF GOD to reply against God? Will the her thing formed say to him who was ll 1 made me like this? 21Does to pass in the pla where it I tell the truth in Christ, I ceived by one man, even by not the potter have power was said to them, You are am not lying, my conscience our father Isaac 11(for the chilover the clay, from the same not My people, th ere they also bearing me witness in the dren not yet being born, nor lump to make one vessel for will be called sons of t he liv2 Holy Spirit, that I have great having done any good or evil, honor and another for dis- ing God. 27Isaiah also cries sorrow and continual grief in that the purpose of God honor? 22What if God, wantout concerning Israel: my heart. 3For I could wish according to election might ing to show His wrath and to Though the number of the that I myself were accursed stand, not of works but of make His power known, children of Israel be as the from Christ for my brethren, Him who calls), 12it was said to endured with much longsuf- sand of the sea, the rem nant my kinsmen according to the her, The older shall serve the fering the vessels of wrath will be saved. 28For He will flesh, 4who are Israelites, to younger. 13As it is written, prepared for destruction, finish the work an d cut it whom pertain the adoption, Jacob I have loved, but Esau 23and that He might make short in righteousnes s, bethe glory, the covenants, the I have hated. known the riches of His glory cause the LORD will make a ce come not formed Romans 9:1-29 it, Why have you beloved. 26And it sha were not My people, and beloved, who

giving e

of

the law, the service 14What shall we say then? Is on the vessels of mercy, which short work upon

th

earth. unrighteousness 29And as with Isaiah s 15 For He the

5 of God, and the promises; of there He had prepared beforehand aid before: whom are

LO RD of from whom, according to the says to Moses, I will have called, not of the Jews only, Sabaoth had left us a seed , we flesh, Christ came, who is over mercy on whomever I will but also of the Gentiles? 25As would have bec ome like all, the eternally blessed God. have mercy, and I will have He says also in Hosea: I will Sodom, and we wo uld have Amen. compassion on whomever I call them My people, who been made like Gomorrah. 6But it is not that the word will have compassion. 16So of God has taken no effect. then it is not of him who wills, Paul Expresses His Grief For they are not all Israel who nor of him who runs, but of Paul weeps for his people, Israel, because they rejected are of Israel, 7nor are they all God who shows mercy. 17For children because they are the the Scripture says to Pharaoh, Christ (Messiah), whom God had sent to be their Savior and seed of Abraham; but, In Even for this same purpose I through them to bless the whole world. Romans chapter 9 Isaac your seed shall be have raised you up, that I tells us how God elected (chose) Israel, not based on anycalled. 8That is, those who might show My power in you, thing they did. Chapter 10 tells us why God had to set Israel are the children of the flesh, and that My name might be aside because of their unbelief and how God will restore these are not the children of declared in all the earth. God; but the children of the 18Therefore He has mercy on them in the future. These chapters hold much ins truction, promise are counted as the whom He wills, and whom He warning, and promise for us as Gods children. seed. 9For this is the word of wills He hardens. 19You will promise: At this time I will say to me then, Why does He The Blessings of Israel come and Sarah shall have a still find fault? For who has Fill the blanks with eight ways Israel was blessed by God: son. 10And not only this, but resisted His will? 20But 1. To whom pertain the _______________ (verse 4a). when Rebecca also had conindeed, O man, who are you 67 66

the fathers and God? Certainly not! for glory, 24even us whom He Unless

[They had been adopted by God as His children. Thus says the Four Illustrations of Gods Sovereignty LORD: Israel is My son, My firstborn (Exodus 4:22b).] Because Israel was proud of being Gods chosen people, 2. the ____________ (4). Paul explains that God is sovereign. He chooses whoever [The glory of Gods presence was with Israel. And there I ll He pleases to accomplish His purposes. His choice was not meet with the children of Israel, and the tabernacle shall be sanctibased on who they were or on anything they had done. fied by My glory (Exodus 29:43).] 3. the ___________________ (4). The Illustration of Isaac [God made covenants with Abraham, Moses, and David. You are Abraham had other children, but only Isaacthe son promsons of the prophets, and of the covenant which God made with ised by God and born through a miracle of Godreceived our fathers, saying to Abraham, And in your seed all the families of the inheritance. Likewise, not all the physical descendants of the earth shall be blessed (Acts 3:25).] Abraham inherit the promises of God. Only the spiritual chil4. the giving of the _______ (4). dren of Abrahamthose born spiritually by a miracle of God, [So He declared to you His covenant which He commanded you who have the same faith as Abrahamare Gods children. to perform, that is, the Ten Commandments; and He wrote them on Therefore know that only those who are of faith are sons two tablets of stone (Deuteronomy 4:13).] of Abraham. So then those who are of faith are blessed with 5. the ____________ of God (4). believing Abraham (Galatians 3:7, 9). Gods purpose for [Then indeed, even the first covenant had ordinances of divine the sons of Abraham is being carried out by people of God service and the earthly sanctuary (Hebrews 9:1).] who have true faithwhether they are Jews or Gentiles. 6. and the __________________ (4). The Illustration of Jacob and Esau [Many promises were given to Israel about their future and about the Messiah who would come. And we declare to you glad tidIsaac, the child of promise, had twin sons. Normally the ingsthat promise which was made to the fathers (Acts 13:32).] older son inherited the blessing and responsibility. But God 7. of whom are the ______________ (5). chose Jacob (later named Israel), the younger twin, to be the [Israel was proud of their fathersthe patriarchs Abraham, Isaac, father of the people through whom He planned to bless the and Jacob. The LORD delighted only in your fathers, to love them; world. Before they were born, before either boy had done and He chose their descendants after them (Deuteronomy 10:15a).] anything good or bad, God chose Jacob for this purpose. His 8. and from whom, according to the flesh, ____________ choice was not based on Jacobs character or conduct. came, who is over all, the eternally blessed ________ (5). Paul quotes the prophet Malachi to show that Isaacs de[The greatest gift of all was the Messiah, who would bles s the scendants through Esau were not Gods people. Hundreds whole world. To Him all the prophets witness that, through His of years after Jacob and Esau died, when the nation of Israel name, whoever believes in Him will receive remission of sins

wi

questioned Gods love, Malachi told them that God ved (Acts 10:43). Jesus can forgive sins because He is God.] Jacoba name for the nation of Israel, but He hated Esau 68 69 ----------------------- Page 19----------------------a for the nation of Edom, descendants of Esau was marred, and the potter made it into another vessel. God called a Territory of Wickedness (Malachi 1:2-4). God hates said, Look, as the clay is in the potters hand, so are you all workers of iniquity (Psalm 5:5), but He wants them to in My hand, O house of Israel! (Jeremiah 18:6b). repent and be saved. For God so loved the world that He A potter doesnt decide to make a vessel for destruction. gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him God doesnt either. He is not willing that any should perish should not perish but have everlasting life (John 3:16). . . . (2 Peter 3:9b). But when a vessel is marred by rebellion against Him, that vessel is worthy of destruction. God The Illustration of Pharaoh our Maker (Potter) has chosen to show His mercy to those He who is often reproved, and hardens his neck, will who will put themselves into His hands and let Him make suddenly be destroyed, and that without remedy. When the them anew in the way He chooses. We cannot fix ourselves. righteous are in authority, the people rejoice; but when a Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but wicked man rules, the people groan (Proverbs 29:1, 2). We according to His mercy He saved us, through the washing know that Pharaoh was a wicked ruler, because the people of regeneration and renewing of the Holy Spirit (Titus 3:5). of Israel groaned and cried out to God for deliverance. He If the marred vessel refuses to allow the potter to make it hardened his heart against God and the opportunities God into another vessel, it is destined for destruction. But God gave him to relent. God caused Pharaohs responses to has predestined a glorious purpose for those who heed His harden his heart even more. God planned to use Pharaohs call to Come! (Revelation 22:17). Just as He chose us in hard heart to demonstrate His great power. But indeed for Him before the foundation of the world, that we should be this purpose I have raised you up, that I may show My holy and without blame before Him in love, having predespower in you, and that My name may be declared in all the tined us to adoption as sons by Jesus Christ to Himself, earth (Exodus 9:16). Pharaoh should have been a great according to the good pleasure of His will (Ephesians 1:4, 5). God has the right to decide the conditions of His mercy. example to Israel of a hardened heart. But the people of Israel hardened their hearts and would not listen to God. He says, Choose life! (Deuteronomy 30:19). Life is in Jesus. This should be a warning to us (who have the many blessname

lo

Gods Mercy Is Wide Enough to Include You ings of God) not to harden our hearts through not listening to Whoever calls upon the name of the LORD shall be God or through not believing God. Today, if you will hear saved (Romans 10:13b). The one who responds to Gods His voice, do not harden your hearts (Hebrews 4:7b). invitation to be a vessel showing His mercy must be willing to anyone The Illustration of the Potter and the Clay desires to come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up God once told the prophet Jeremiah to go to the potters his cross daily [by doing what He says], and follow Me. For house to understand Gods words. As Jeremiah watched the what advantage is it to a man if he gains the whole world, potter working with the clay on the wheel, the clay vessel and is himself destroyed or lost? (Luke 9:23b, 25). 70 71 LESSON 21. GOD HAD TO SET ISRAEL ASIDE they preach unless they are ends of the world. 19B ut I 6 sent? As it is written: How say, did Israel not kn ow? Romans 9:30-33 But the righteousness of faith 30What shall we say then? speaks in this way, Do not beautiful are the feet of those First Moses says: I will proThat Gentiles, who did not say in your heart, Who will who preach the gospel of voke you to jealousy by those pursue righteousness, have atascend into heaven? (that peace, who bring glad tidings who are not a nation, I will tained to righteousness, even is, to bring Christ down from of good things! 16But they anger you by a fo olish the righteousness of faith; above) 7or, Who will have not all obeyed the gospel. nation. 20But Isaiah is ver y 31but Israel, pursuing the law descend into the abyss?(that For Isaiah says, Lord, who bold and says: I was found of righteousness, has not at- is, to bring Christ up from the has believed our report? 17So by those who did not allow the Potter to remake him. Jesus said, If

seek tained to the law of righteousdead). 8But what does it say? then faith comes by hearing, Me; I was made manife st to ness. 32Why? Because they did The word is near you, even and hearing by the word of those who did not ask for not seek it by faith, but as it in your mouth and in your God. 18But I say, have they not Me. 21But to Israel he says: were, by the works of the law. heart (that is, the word of heard? Yes indeed: Their All day long I have stretched

For

they

stumbled at that faith which we preach): 9That sound has gone out to all the out My hands to

isobedistumbling

stone. 33As it is if you confess with your earth, and their words to the ent and contrary people. written: Behold, I lay in Zion mouth the Lord Jesus and Something to Do a stumbling stone and rock of believe in your heart that God offense, and whoever believes has raised Him from the dead, Fill in the blanks from Romans chapter 10: on Him will not be put to you will be saved. 10For with 1. To have the righteousness that comes by faith one does shame. the heart one believes to righnot need to search for Christ far away (10:6, 7). The word is 1 Romans 10:1-21 teousness, and with the mouth ___________ you, even in your _____________ and in your Brethren, my hearts de- confession is made to salsire and prayer to God for Isvation. 11For the Scripture _____________ (10:8). rael is that they may be saved. says, Whoever believes on [He is not far from each one of us (Acts 17:27b). The LORD is 2For I bear them witness that Him will not be put to near to all who call upon Him, to all who call upon Him in truth they have a zeal for God, but shame. 12For there is no dis(Psalm145:18). The LORD is near to those who have a broken heart, not according to knowledge. tinction between Jew and and saves such as have a contrite spirit (Psalm 34:18).] 3For they being ignorant of Greek, for the same Lord over 2. Who must you confess with your mouth? The ________ Gods righteousness, and all is rich to all who call upon seeking to establish their own Him.13Forwhoever calls upon ____________ (9). righteousness, have not subthe name of the LORD shall be 3. What must you believe in your heart? That God has mitted to the righteousness of saved. _____________ Him from the _________ (9). 14 God. 4For Christ is the end of How then shall they call on 4. What does one do with his heart? ________________ the law for righteousness to Him in whom they have not to [receive] ________________________ (10). everyone who believes. 5For believed? And how shall they Moses writes about the righ- believe in Him of whom they 5. What does one do with his mouth? ________________ teousness which is of the law, have not heard? And how [acknowledgment] is made to __________________ (10). The man who does those shall they hear without a 6. Who shall be saved? Whoever ___________ upon the things shall live by them. preacher? 15And how shall ______________ of the LORD (13). 72 73 ----------------------- Page 20----------------------7. ousHow does faith come? by ________________ (17). own righteousness pleases God. . . . All our righte

How does hearing come? by the __________ of God (17). nesses are like filthy rags (Isaiah 64:6a). Those who are humble enough to recognize that they are sinful (and cannot The Need for Gods Righteousness live a righteous life in their own strength) count themselves At the time Jesus lived, the Phariseesreligious Jews dead to their old sinful life (crucified when Christ died in their insisted that all the laws of God, as well as added interpretaplace) and alive in the new life that Jesus gives them. And tions of the laws, must be kept diligently. When Jesus taught be found in Him, not having my own righteousness, which about the need for righteousness, He said, For I say to you, is from the law, but that which is through faith in Christ, the that unless your righteousness exceeds the righteousness righteousness which is from God by faith (Philippians 3:9). of the scribes and Pharisees, you will by no means enter the kingdom of heaven (Matthew 5:20). Even the righWhy God Had to Set Israel Aside teousness of the strict Pharisees was not enough for God. When Jesus came, Israel was busy trying in th eir own The laws given to Moses include such things as You shall strength and flesh to obey Gods law. They did not realize not murder and You shall not commit adultery (Exodus that the righteousness God desires can be attained only by 20:13, 14). These are outward acts. The righteousness Jesus faith in Jesus, who IS righteousness (1 Corinthians 1:30). talked about includes inner motivations of the heart. Jesus God had chosen Israel to be a channel of His blessing to taught that even being angry with someone in your heart the world. So when they refused to receive Jesu s as the without a cause, or calling someone a fool is unrighteouspromised Savior, God could not use them to share this good ness which deserves judgment. A man might not commit the news with the world. He chose believing Gentiles to be His act of adultery, but if he lusts after a woman in his heart, he people as Hosea had prophesied. Then I will say to those is guilty of adultery in Gods eyes. Gods righteousness must who were not My people, You are My people! And they be inward first. Jesus said, Woe to you, scribes and Pharishall say, You are my God! (Hosea 2:23b). sees, hypocrites! For you are like whitewashed tombs Jesus told a parable about a landowner who sent servants which indeed appear beautiful outwardly, but inside are full to his vineyard to receive its fruit. But the vinedressers in of dead mens bones and all uncleanness. Even so, you charge of the vineyard killed his servants one after the other. also outwardly appear righteous to men, but inside you are Finally he sent his only son, thinking they would respect him. full of hypocrisy and lawlessness (Matthew 23:27, 28). But they killed him also, wanting to seize the inheritance for Gods standard of righteousness is so high that nobody themselves (Matthew 21:33-39). Jesus said, Therefore I could meet it unless God gave him His own righteousness. say to you, the kingdom of God will be taken from you and And that is what God did! He sent Jesus (God made flesh)

given to a nation bearing the fruits of it (Matthew 21:43). to live among us and live the totally righteous life which God As we will see in the next lesson, though, God was merciful. demands. Jesus is a stumbling block to those who think their He did not set Israel aside totally or permanently. 74 75 LESSON 22. own not olive a desire, fatness uld be 1I say lest away His of Romans 11:1-32 the olive tree, 18do brethren, that you sho hear, to this very day. ignorant of this mystery, partaker of the root and tree? 25For I do ISRAEL WILL BE SAVED them, and with them became grafted into their

then, has God cast not not boast against the branchpeople? es. But I also ber that Certainly 9And if you boast, am you an do

David says: Let their remem- you should be wis a snare and a own opinion, that ha

e in your not! For hardening Israelite, ppened Abraham, ss of the 26 Benjamin. 2God in. And away His ed, as foreknew. to

table become not support

of the seed of trap, a stumbling block and a the root, but the root sup- in part has 19 of the tribe of recompense ports you. You will say then,

to them; 10let Israel until the fullne

has not Branches

cast were

their eyes be darkened, that broken off Gentiles has come

people whom He they may not see, and bow that I might be grafted in. so all Israel will be sav Or do you not down 20Well said. Because of unbetheir back it is always. written: The

Deliverer know what the Scripture says 11I say then, have they lief they were broken off, and will come out of Zion, and He of Elijah, how he pleads with stumbled that they should you stand by faith. Do not be will turn away ungodliness God against Israel, saying, fall? Certainly not! But haughty, but fear. 21For if from Jacob; 27for t his is My 3LORD, they have killed Your through their fall, to provoke God did not spare the natural covenant with them, when I prophets and torn down Your them to jealousy, salvation

branches, s. 28Conaltars, and

He

may

not

spare come con-

take to the cerning

away

their sin

I alone am left, has you either. 22Therefore

Gentiles. the gospe

l they are and they seek my life? 4But 12Now if their fall is riches for sider the goodness and severienemies for your sake, but what does the divine response the world, and their failure ty of God: on those who fell, concerning the elec tion they say to him? I have reserved riches for the Gentiles, how severity; but toward you, are beloved for the sake of for Myself seven thousand much more their fullness! goodness, if you continue in the fathers. 29For the gifts and men who have not bowed the 13For I speak to you Gentiles; His goodness. Otherwise you the calling of God are irrevo23 30 knee to Baal. 5Even so then, inasmuch as I am an apostle also will be cut off. And they cable. For as you were once at this present time there is a to the Gentiles, I magnify my also, if they do not continue disobedient to God, yet have remnant according to the ministry, 14if by any means I in unbelief, will be grafted in, now obtained mercy thro ugh 31 election

of

grace. 6And if by may for God is able to graft them

provoke

to jealousy their disobedience,

even so grace, then it is no longer of those who are my flesh and in again. 24For if you were cut these also have now bee n disworks; otherwise grace is no save some of them. 15For if out of the olive tree which is obedient, that t hrough the longer grace. But if it is of their being cast away is the wild by nature, and were mercy shown you they also works, it is no longer grace; reconciling of the world, grafted contrary to nature may obtain mercy. 32For God otherwise work is no longer what will their acceptance be into a good olive tree, how has committed them all to work. 7What then? Israel has but life from the dead? 16For much more will these, who disobedience, that He might not obtained what it seeks; if the firstfruit is holy, the are the natural branches, be have mercy on all. but the elect have obtained it, lump is also holy; and if th e and the rest were hardened. root is holy, so are the

Blindness Is a Judgment From God as it is written: God branches. 17And if some of the Many individual Jews through the years have believed the has given them a spirit of stubranches were broken off, por, eyes that they should not and you, being a wild olive promises of God and trusted in Him. They are called a remsee and ears that they should tree, were grafted in among nanta piece of Israelwho are Gods people. But when 76 77 8Just ----------------------- Page 21----------------------people do not want to listen, God allows them to be blinded a wild olive tree (a radically different tree) so that the tree to truth. This is what happened to Israel as a nation. can bear fruit. This is what God is doing. The natural branchFor the LORD has poured out on you the spirit of deep es (unbelieving Jews) were broken off, and believing Gensleep (Isaiah 29:10a). And in them the prophecy of Isaiah tiles were grafted in as the people of God to stir up Israel to is fulfilled, which says, Hearing you will hear and shall not return to Him. But now in Christ Jesus you who once were understand, and seeing you will see and not perceive far off have been made near by the blood of Christ (Eph(Matthew 13:14). But their minds were blinded. For until esians 2:13). That the blessing of Abraham might come this day the same veil remains unlifted in the reading of the upon the Gentiles in Jesus Christ, that we might receive the Old Testament. Nevertheless when one turns to the Lord, promise of the Spirit through faith (Galatians 3:14). the veil is taken away (2 Corinthians 3:14a, 16). Those who turn to Christ receive new understanding of the Scriptures God Will Show Mercy and Restore Israel because the Spirit of God reveals the truth to them (John Though Israel as a nation opposes the gospel, God still 15:26; 16:13). For the message of the cross is foolishness loves Israel because of His covenant with Abraham (Roto those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved mans 11:28, 29). God has promised that Israel will return to it is the power of God (1 Corinthians 1:18). Him (Isaiah 11:11-16; 12:1-6; 59:20, 21; Jeremiah 23:3; 31:1,10-12; Ezekiel 11:16-20; Zechariah 8:10-23). ThereThe Illustration of the Olive Tree fore say, Thus says the Lord GOD: Although I have cast Paul uses the example of the olive tree to show that God them far off among the Gentiles, and although I have scathas not cast Israel away forever. The people of Israel were tered them among the countries, . . . I will . . . assemble you like the branches of an olive tree planted by the Lord. The from the countries where you have been scattered, and I LORD called your name, Green Olive Tree, Lovely and of will give you the land of Israel (Ezekiel 11:16a, 17b). Good Fruit (Jeremiah 11:16). Wood from the olive tree was Because finding fault with them, He says, Behold, the used in building the temple of God (1 Kings 6:23, 32). Olives days are coming, says the LORD, when I will make a new were pressed to provide oil (symbol of the Holy Spirit) to covenant with the house of Israel . . . . I will put My laws in

keep the lamps burning continually and to be a holy anointtheir mind and write them on their hearts; and I will be their ing oil (Exodus 27:20;30:22-33) for service in the tabernacle. God, and they shall be My people. I will be merciful to their Cultivating fruitful olive trees takes decades of effort and unrighteousness, and their sins and their lawless deeds I continual grafting (inserting a good shoot into a notch cut in will remember no more (Hebrews 8:8, 10b, 12). the tree, then sealing it). This process invigorates the tree to Gods purpose is for believing Jews and believing Gentiles get the sap flowing. If graftings of good shoots do not work, to be united in Christ. And that He might reconcile them there is one last thing to try: Strip the tree of almost every both to God in one body through the cross, thereby putting branch, leaving only a stalk. Then shock it with grafts from to death the enmity (Ephesians 2:16). 78 79 LESSON 23. THE BASIS OF CHRISTIAN Do Not Be Like This World FRUITFULNESS We are no longer to be like this world. We are not to allow Romans 11:33-36 forever. Amen. the world to squeeze us into its shapeits ways of thinking 33Oh, the depth of the riches Romans 12:1-2 and speaking and acting. Do not love the world or the both of the wisdom and 1I beseech you therefore, things in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of knowledge of God! How unbrethren, by the mercies of the Father is not in him. For all that is in the worldthe lust searchable are His judgments God, that you present your and His ways past finding out! bodies a living sacrifice, holy, of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of lifeis not 34For who has known the acceptable to God, which is of the Father but is of the world. And the world is passing mind of the LORD? Or who has your reasonable service. 2And away, and the lust of it; but he who does the will of God become His counselor? 35Or do not be conformed to this abides forever (1 John 2:15-17). Do you not know that who has first given to Him world, but be transformed by friendship with the world is enmity with God? Whoever and it shall be repaid to the renewing of your mind, him? 36For of Him and that you may prove what is therefore wants to be a friend of the world makes himself through Him and to Him are that good and acceptable and an enemy of God (James 4:4b). This does not mean you all things, to whom be glory perfect will of God. should not be a friend to sinners. Jesus Himself was a friend of sinners (Luke 19:1-7). But you should not be like them. Responding to Our Awesome God As Paul ends his explanation of the good news of Gods Be Transformed grace, he breaks out in praise, astounded by the breathtakInstead of being like the world, we are to be transformed ing majesty of God, who does great things, and unsearch(literally, metamorphosed) by Godchanged into a totally able, marvelous things without number (Job 5:9).

different person. This word means to change form. In light of Gods great mercies, Paul pleads with those who The wormy caterpillar, which can only crawl, is metamorare trusting in Christ to give their bodies to God as a living phosed into a butterflya totally new formbeautiful and thank offering. If your old life is dead (crucified with Christ) free to fly with its new wings in a different world. What a picand you have the resurrected life of Jesus living in you, it is ture of the new-born Christian, who puts off self and leaves only reasonable to give your body to God as a sacrifice that his old world behind! The new Christian puts on the L ord is alive in Christ, holy and acceptable to God. Will you do Jesus and begins to live in the realm of the Spirit. that now? For example, give Him your mouth to praise Him But be [continually] filled with the Spirit, speaking to one and to tell others of His love for them. Give Him your eyes to another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing see needs as God sees them. Give Him your hands to do and making melody in your heart to the Lord, giving thanks what He shows you to do. Give Him your feet to go where always for all things to God the Father in the name of our He wants you to go. For in Him we live and move and have Lord Jesus Christ, submitting to one another in the fear of our being, . . . For we are also His offspring (Acts 17:28). God (Ephesians 5:18b-21). 80 81 ----------------------- Page 22----------------------Renew Your Mind EACH CHRISTIAN IS A PART OF We by continually renewing our minds, THE BODY OF CHRIST because what we think about affects how we speak and act. For as he thinks in his heart, so is he (Proverbs 23:7a). Romans 12:3-21 And be renewed in the spirit of your mind (Ephesians 3 LESSON 24. are transformed For I say, through the gence, fervent in spirit , serv4:23). Set your mind on things above, not on things on the grace given to me, to everyone ing the Lord; 12rejoicing in earth. For you died, and your life is hidden with Christ in who is among you, not to hope, patient in tribula tion, God (Colossians 3:2, 3). think of himself more highly continuing steadfastly in 13 We have been given many precious promises in Scripture, than he ought to think, but to prayer; distributing the that through these you may be partakers of the divine think soberly, as God has needs of the saints, en to

to giv

dealt to each one a measure of hospitality. 14Bless those who nature . . . (2 Peter 1:4b). We can meditate on Gods Word faith. 4For as we have many persecute you; bless and d o and His great love for us, bringing every thought into capmembers in one body, but all not curse. 15Rejoice with those tivity to the obedience of Christ (2 Corinthians 10:5b). the members do not have the who rejoice, and weep w ith Keep your mind on Jesus. Get to know Him through the same function, 5so we, being those who weep. 16Be o f the Bible. As His divine power has given to us all things that many, are one body in Christ, same mind toward one anand individually members of other. Do not set your mind on

pertain to life and godliness through the knowledge of Him one another. 6Having then high things, but associate wit h who called us (2 Peter 1:3a). As we grow in our knowledge gifts differing according to the the humble. Do not be wise in of Jesus, we put off our former conduct and put on the new grace that is given to us, let us your own opinion. 17Repay no man, who is renewed in knowledge according to the use them: if prophecy, let us one evil for evil. Have regard prophesy in proportion to our for good things in the sight o f image of Him who created him (Colossians 3:10b). faith; 7or ministry, let us use it all men. 18If it is pos sible, as Talk to God in your heart and aloud throughout the day. in our ministering; he who much as depends on you, live You will keep him in perfect peace whose mind is stayed teaches, in teaching; 8he who peaceably with all me n. on You, because he trusts in You (Isaiah 26:3). Pray withexhorts, in exhortation; he 19Beloved, do not avenge yourout ceasing (1 Thessalonians 5:17). who gives, with liberality; he selves, but rather give place t o who leads, with diligence; he wrath; for it is writ ten, Finally, brethren, whatever things are true, whatever who shows mercy, with cheerVengeance is Mine, I wi ll things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things fulness. repay, says the Lor d. are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of 9Let love be without hypoc20Therefore If your enemy good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything risy. Abhor what is evil. Cling hungers, feed him; i

f he to what is good. 10Be kindly thirsts, give him a dr ink; for praiseworthymeditate on these things (Philippians 4:8). affectionate to one another in so doing you will heap coals As we renew our minds and are transformed by the Holy with brotherly love, in honor of fire on his head. 21 Do not Spirit into the image of Jesus, we begin to understand by giving preference to one an- be overcome by evil, but overexperience how pleasing and perfect Gods will is. other; 11not lagging in dili- come evil with good. 82 83 We Are Members of One Body there are diversities of activities, but it is the same God who Romans 12:3-21 describes the life of the Christian who works all in all. But the manifestation of the Spirit is given has presented his body to God and is allowing the Holy Spirit to each one for the profit of all (1 Corinthians 12:4-7). to operate freely in him. He has a humble attitude and is very If you are in Christ, you have been given a gift to be used. aware of his dependence on God. He knows his place in the Do not neglect the gift that is in you (1 Timothy 4:14a). body of Christ. He uses the gifts God has given him. He lives Gifts are given to build up the body of Christ, not divide it. in love toward fellow believers and even toward enemies. As each one has received a gift, minister it to one another, For as the body is one and has many members, but all as good stewards of the manifold grace of God. . . . If any the members of that one body, being many, are one body, one ministers, let him do it as with the ability which God so also is Christ (1 Corinthians 12:12). In the same way supplies, that in all things God may be glorified thro ugh that each part of our bodies is in vital communication with Jesus Christ, to whom belong the glory and the dominion our brain, each believer in the body of Christ needs to be in forever and ever. Amen (1 Peter 4:10, 11b). vital union with the Head, Jesus, from whom all the body, Gifts Are to Be Used in the Outworking of Love nourished and knit together by joints and ligaments, grows Gifts from God are wonderful, but they must be used in with the increase which is from God (Colossians 2:19b). love. And though I have the gift of prophecy, and underBelievers who are nourished by Jesus will work together in stand all mysteries and all knowledge, and though I have all harmony. And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to faith, so that I could remove mountains, but have not love, which also you were called in one body, and be thankful. . . .

I am nothing (1 Corinthians 13:2). That their hearts may be encouraged, being knit together in Jesus said in Matthew 22:37-40 that all the Law and the love (Colossians 3:15; 2:2a). Prophets rested on just two commandments: You shall love Gifts Are Given for Service to the Body of Christ the LORD your God with all your heart, with all your soul, Just as God has created all the parts of our bodies to work and with all your mind and You shall love your neighbor together beautifully, so each person in Christ has a unique as yourself. We cannot obey these commands on our own, function in the body of Christ. If the whole body were an but when Gods love is poured out in our hearts by the Holy eye, where would be the hearing? If the whole were hearSpirit who is given to us (Romans 5:5), then the Spirit in us ing, where would be the smelling? But now God has set the can accomplish what we cannot do. That the righteous members, each one of them, in the body just as He pleased. requirement of the law [love] might be fulfilled in us who do And the eye cannot say to the hand, I have no need of not walk according to the flesh but according to the Spirit you (1 Corinthians 12:17, 18, 21a). (Romans 8:4). For he who loves another has fulfilled the Now there are diversities of gifts, but the same Spirit. law. Love does no harm to a neighbor; therefore love is the There are differences of ministries, but the same Lord. And fulfillment of the law (Romans 13:8b, 10). 84 85 ----------------------- Page 23----------------------LESSON 25. THE CHRISTIANS RELATIONSHIP God Delegates Authority TO GOVERNMENT God Himself delegates authority to whomever He chooses. Romans 13:1-7 Nebuchadnezzar was a great king whose pride was hum1Let every soul be subject to if you do evil, be afraid; for he bled by God until he knew that the Most High rules in the the governing authorities. For does not bear the sword in kingdom of men, and gives it to whomever He chooses there is no authority except vain; for he is Gods minister, (Daniel 4:32b). When Jesus was delivered into the hands of from God, and the authorities an avenger to execute wrath Pilate to be crucified, Jesus answered, You could have no that exist are appointed by on him who practices evil. God. 2Therefore whoever re5Therefore you must be subpower at all against Me unless it had been given you from sists the authority resists the ject, not only because of above (John 19:11a). God is sovereign over all authorities. ordinance of God, and those wrath but also for conscience The kings heart is in the hand of the LORD, like the rivers who resist will bring judg- sake. 6For because of this you of water; He turns it wherever He wishes (Proverbs 21:1). ment on themselves. 3For also pay taxes, for they are

rulers are not a terror to good Gods ministers attending Resisting Authority Is the Same as Resisting God works, but to evil. Do you continually to this very thing. One of the fruits (results) of our union with Jesus Christ is want to be unafraid of the 7Render therefore to all their authority? Do what is good, due: taxes to whom taxes are submission to authority. Why? Because rebellion against and you will have praise from due, customs to whom cusauthority, which God has set up, is the same thing as rebelthe same. 4For he is Gods toms, fear to whom fear, honlion against God. It is the same as serving other god s or minister to you for good. But or to whom honor. Satan, who is in total rebellion against God. For rebellion is Something to Do as the sin of witchcraft, and stubbornness is as iniquity and 1. What example of authority does Paul use? Let every idolatry (1 Samuel 15:23a). soul be subject to the ______________ authorities(verse1). Our attitude is to be submissive as to the Lord imself. 2. Who appoints the authorities that exist? __________ (1) Therefore, just as the church is subject to Christ, so let the 3. What is Gods purpose for rulers? Not a __________ to wives be to their own husbands in everything (Ephesians good works, but to _________ (3). He does not bear the 5:24). Children, obey your parents in the Lord, for this is ________ in vain, for he is Gods minister, an ____________ right (Ephesians 6:1). Servants, be obedient to those who to execute __________ on him who practices evil (4). are your masters. . . , as to Christ (Ephesians 6:5). [Government should bear the sword only in response to evil.] 4. Why must we be subject to rulers? Not only because of Those in Authority Are Accountable to God wrath [punishment that is deserved for doing wrong] but also All who are in authority are responsible to or how for ________________ sake (5). they use the privilege God has given them. There is a time in rt [I myself always strive to have a conscience without offense toward God and men (Acts 24:16b).] (Ecclesiastes 8:9b). Their actions will be judged by God. 87 86 God gives instructions to fathers, husbands, and employcould not obey the kings law, he had a good attitude toward ers. And you, fathers, do not provoke your children to the king, and in the eyes of God he did no wrong. wrath, but bring them up in the training and admonition of Jesus disciples were put in prison and commanded by the the Lord (Ephesians 6:4). Husbands, love your wives, which one man rules over another to his

God

own

hu

rulers to stop teaching in Jesus name. Then Peter and the just as Christ also loved the church and gave Himself for it other apostles answered and said: We ought to obey God (Ephesians 5:25). And you, masters, do the same things to rather than men (Acts 5:29). They continued to teach, bethem, giving up threatening, knowing that your own Master cause Jesus had said, All authority has been given to Me also is in heaven (Ephesians 6:9a). in heaven and on earth. Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father Must We Always Obey Those in Authority? and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching t hem to There are times when someone in authority may ask you observe all things that I have commanded you; and lo, I am to do something which is against the instruction of a higher with you always, even to the end of the age. Amen (Matauthority. If a parent or husband or employer asks you to do thew 28:18b-20). When we obey Gods Word, we know that something which is against the law of the government or the Jesus, who has ALL authority, will be with us. law of God, you must obey the higher authority. If the govRevelation 13:15b speaks of one who will cause as many ernment forbids parents to tell their children about God, paras would not worship the image of the beast to be killed. ents must humbly obey God, who says, And these words We must remember Gods command, You shall have no which I command you today shall be in your heart; you other gods before Me (Exodus 20:3). Remember Jesus shall teach them diligently to your children, and shall talk of words: Do not be afraid of those who kill the body, and them when you sit in your house, when you walk by the after that have no more that they can do (Luke 12:4b). way, when you lie down, and when you rise up (Deuteronomy 6:6, 7). But they must respect the government and What We Owe to Governing Authorities obey laws which are not against Gods commands. Peter Taxes, customs, and proper respect is due to authorities. wrote, But even if you should suffer for righteousness They serve God (even if they do not realize it) by accomsake, you are blessed. And do not be afraid of their threats, plishing His purposes. Jesus Himself paid taxes (Matthe w nor be troubled. For it is better, if it is the will of God, to suf17:24-27). When asked if it was right to pay taxes to Caesar, fer for doing good than for doing evil (1 Peter 3:14, 17). the emperor of Rome, He said, Render therefore to Caesar The Bible tells about Daniel, who disobeyed a decree not the things that are Caesars, and to God the things that are to pray for 30 days to any god but the king. When Daniel was Gods (Luke 20:25b). Some things belong only to Godour thrown into a den of lions, God protected him, because I worship. Believers do not belong to this world. For our citiwas found innocent before Him; and also, O king, I have zenship is in heaven, from which we also eagerly wait for done no wrong before you (Daniel 6:22b). Though Daniel the Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ (Philippians 3:20).

88 89 ----------------------- Page 24----------------------LESSON 26. THE CHRISTIANS RELATIONSHIP debt to love others. Jesus said, A new commandment I give TO THE WORLD to you, that you love one another; as I have loved you, that Romans 13:8-14 you also love one another (John 13:34). God showed His 8Owe no one anything ex11And do this, knowing the love to such an extent that He sent Jesus to die in our place. cept to love one another, for time, that now it is high time What love we have received! How much love will overflow to he who loves another has fulto awake out of sleep; for now others if we let God, who IS love, truly live in us! filled the law. 9For the com- our salvation is nearer than Beloved, if God so loved us, we also ought to love one mandments, You shall not when we first believed. 12The commit adultery, You shall night is far spent, the day is at another. . . . If we love one another, God abides in us, and not murder, You shall not hand. Therefore let us cast off His love has been perfected in us. By this we know that we steal, You shall not bear the works of darkness, and let abide in Him, and He in us, because He has given us of His false witness, You shall not us put on the armor of light. Spirit (1 John 4:11-13). covet, and if there is any 13Let us walk properly, as in other commandment, are all the day, not in revelry and summed up in this saying, drunkenness, not in licenPut On the Armor of Light namely, You shall love your tiousness and lewdness, not in Jesus is coming again! It is time to wake up, throw off neighbor as yourself. 10Love strife and envy. 14But put on works that were done when we lived in darkness, and put on does no harm to a neighbor; the Lord Jesus Christ, and therefore love is the fulfill- make no provision for the the armor of light. Armor is protection. Light is protection ment of the law. flesh, to fulfill its lusts. from darkness. Jesus said, I am the light of the world. He Something to Do who follows Me shall not walk in darkness, but ha ve the light of life (John 8:12b). I have come as a light into the 1. Name five commandments that Paul quotes (verse 9): a. You shall not commit ________________. world, that whoever believes in Me should not abide n b. You shall not _______________. darkness (John12:46). And this is the condemnation, that c. You shall not ____________. the light has come into the world, and men loved darkness d. You shall not bear __________ ______________. rather than light, because their deeds were evil (John 3:19). e. You shall not ___________. Those who want to walk in light will come to Jesus. 2. What one commandment summarizes these five com-

Jesus also said, You are the light of the world (Matthew mandments? You shall _______ your ________________ as 5:14a). When He, the light of the world, lives in us, we also yourself (verse 9). will be light in the world. To put on the armor of light is the 3. What one word fulfills the law? _____________ (10). same thing as to put on the Lord Jesus Christ, who IS light. The Only Debt We Should Owe If Jesus lives in us, then light is in us. If we say that we have After Paul told Christians they need to pay the taxes and fellowship with Him, and walk in darkness, we lie and do customs that are due to the government, he says that Chrisnot practice the truth (1 John 1:6). tians should not owe anything to anyone except for their When we walk in light, we are eager to have Jesus point 91 90 out anything in our lives that needs to be confessed as sin LESSON 27. WHEN CHRISTIANS DISAGREE and allow Him to cleanse us, that we might continue to walk Romans 14:1-23 with Him in the light. But if we walk in the light as He is in 1 Receive one who is weak in ved the light, we the Christ died and rose and li

have fellowship with one another, and the faith, but not to disputes again, that He might be L

ord blood of Jesus Christ His Son cleanses us from all sin (1 over doubtful things. 2For one of both the dead and the livJohn 1:7). What a wonderful, free way to live! believes he may eat all things, ing. 10But why do yo u judge For as many of you as were baptized into Christ have but he who is weak eats only your brother? Or why do you put on Christ (Galatians 3:27). When you wake up each vegetables. 3Let not him who show contempt for your eats despise him who does not brother? For we shall all morning, you dress for the day. This is a good time to reeat, and let not him who does stand before the j udgment member that spiritually, too, you have taken off your night not eat judge him who eats; seat of Christ. 11For it is w ritclothesthe things you did when you lived in darkness and for God has received him. ten: As I live, says the Lord, lived for yourselfand are to put on clothes for living in day4Who are you to judge anothevery knee shall bow to Me, ers servant? To his own mass and every tongue shall confes

light. But let us who are of the day be sober, putting on the ter he stands or falls. Indeed, to God. 12So then each of us breastplate of faith and love (1 Thessalonians 5:8a). But he will be made to stand, for shall give account of h imself above all these things put on love (Colossians 3:14a). Only God is able to make him to God. 13Therefore let us no t when you are clothed with Jesus can you put up with others stand. 5One person esteems judge one another an ymore, one day above another; but rather resolve this, no t to and love them and so fulfill the law of Godthe law of love. another esteems every day put a stumbling blo ck or a How wonderful to be dressed in Jesus Himself every day! alike. Let each be fully con- cause to fall in o ur brothers 6 little children, abide in Him, that vinced in his own mind. He way. pears, we may have confidence and not be ashamed before who observes the day, ob14I convinced And now, when know He and apam

serves it to the Lord; and he by the Lord Jesus that t here is Him at His coming (1 John 2:28). who does not observe the day, nothing unclean of itse lf; but Make No Provision for the Flesh to the Lord he does not ob- to him who considers anyth ing serve it. He who eats, eats to to be unclean, to hi it is Those who are clothed with Christ know that the power for the Lord, for he gives God unclean. 15Yet if your brother victory over the flesh is not in themselves, but in the fact that thanks; and he who does not is grieved because of your they are in union with a crucified and risen Christ. There is eat, to the Lord he does not food, you are no longer w alkm eat, and gives God thanks. ing in love. Do not destroy no room for planning ways to satisfy any wrong desires of 7For none of us lives to him- with your food the one for your old self. And those who are Christs have crucified the self, and no one dies to him- whom Christ died. 16Therefor e flesh with its passions and desires (Galatians 5:24). I will self. 8For if we live, we live to do not let your good be spoken

set nothing wicked before my eyes (Psalm 101:3a). Bethe Lord; and if we die, we die of as evil; 17for the kingdom o f to the Lord. Therefore, God is not food and drink, but loved, I beg you as sojourners and pilgrims, abstain from whether we live or die, we are righteousness and pe ace and fleshly lusts which war against the soul (1 Peter 2:11). the Lords. 9For to this end joy in the Holy Spirit. 18For h e 92 93 ----------------------- Page 25----------------------who things serves Christ in these drink wine nor do anything by [Entering the kingdom of God has nothing to do with what we do

is acceptable to God which your brother stumbles or dont do. It has everything to do with receiving the righteousne

ss and approved by men. 19Thereor is offended or is made of God as a free gift. As we live out Gods rig hteousness by the fore let us pursue the things weak. 22Do you have faith? power of the Holy Spirit in us, we know the peace and joy of God. ] which make for peace and the Have it to yourself before things by which one may edify God. Happy is he who does 6. He who serves Christ in these things is ______________ another. 20Do not destroy the not condemn himself in what to God and _______________ by men (18). work of God for the sake of he approves. 23But he who 7. Let us pursue the things which make for ___________ food. All things indeed are doubts is condemned if he and the things by which one may _____________ [build up] pure, but it is evil for the man eats, because he does not eat who eats with offense. 21It is from faith; for whatever is not another (19). Do not ____________ the work of ________ good neither to eat meat nor from faith is sin. for the sake of food (20). Something to Do [Gods Holy Spirit is working in each Christian (Philippians 2:1 3), and we should not hinder His work by tearing Christians down.] A. What is true of every Christian? 1. God has ______________ him (verse 3b). 8. It is not good to do anything by which your brother 2. To his own _____________ he stands or falls (4). _________________ or is _______________ [caused to sin 3. God is able to make him _____________ (4b). against his conscience and thus condemn himself] or is made 4. Each does what he does to the __________ (6). _________ (21). Whatever is not from faith is ______ (23). 5. Each gives God _____________ (6). [But beware lest somehow this liberty of yours become a stum-

6. Whether they live or die, they are the __________ (8b). bling block to those who are weak. But when you thus sin against 7. Each will stand before the judgment seat of _________ the brethren, and wound their weak conscience, you sin against (10b) and give ____________ of himself to ________ (12). Christ (1 Corinthians 8:9, 12). Let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith, having our hearts spr inkled [cleansed] B. Why should we not judge or offend other Christians? from an evil conscience (Hebrews 10:22a).] 1. There is nothing ______________ of itself [in matters that can be interpreted differently] (14). The Problem of Disputes [To the pure all things are pure, but to those who are defiled and Paul was sensitive to a common problem among Chr isunbelieving nothing is pure. They profess to know God but in tians. In Corinth some Christians were even suing each othworks they deny Him (Titus 1:15a, 16a).] er in court! Now therefore, it is already an utter failure for 2.We are no longer walking in ________ (15). you that you go to law against one another. Why do you not 3.We must not __________ one for whom Christ died (15). rather accept wrong? Why do you not rather let yourselves 4.Our ________ must not be spoken of as ________ (16). be defrauded? (1 Corinthians 6:7). He wrote to the church 5.The kingdom of God is not _______ and ________, but in Galatia, But if you bite and devour one another, beware righteousness, ________, and ______in the Holy Spirit (17). lest you be consumed by one another! (Galatians 5:15). 94 95 Jesus Himself prayed for those who would believe on Him. the Lord best by walking in the Spirit and obeying the law of That they all may be one, as You, Father, are in Me, and I love (which fulfills the law) by the power of the Spirit living in in You; that they also may be one in Us, . . . and that the them. For them, no food was unclean, and every day was world may know that You have sent Me, and have loved a day to rest from their own works (Hebrews 4:9,10). All had them as You have loved Me (John 17:21, 23b). Oh, that we received forgiveness of sins and an inheritance among would let go of self and live only to please the Lord! The those who are sanctified by faith in Me (Acts 26:18b). psalmist wrote, Behold, how good and how pleasant it is True Christians have different convictions about living as a for brethren to dwell together in unity! It is like the precious believer, but they all want to please the Lord and serve Him. oil upon the head, running down on the beard, the beard of Receive One Another Aaron, running down on the edge of his garments (Psalm Paul is clear: Receive one another, just also 133:1, 2). There is only one way for Christian brothers to live as Christ

received us, to the glory of God (Romans 15:7b). How did in unity. It is not by trying to be united. It is by letting Christ Christ receive you? It is by grace that you are saved, and not Jesus be the Head of the Church, and letting the oil of His by things you do or do not do. In the same way, we must graHoly Spirit run down from the Head to all the members of His ciously receive others who have put their trust in Jesus. body. A believer who is united with Christ will not want to mar When Jesus sent His disciples out to the towns of Israel, the body of Christ with strife and division. Seek peace, and He said, And whoever will not receive you nor hear your pursue it (Psalm 34:14b). words, when you depart from that house or city, shake off Illustrations of Doubtful Things the dust from your feet. Assuredly, I say to you, it will be Paul gives two illustrations of disagreement among true more tolerable for the land of Sodom and Gomorrah [cities believers: (1) kinds of things to eat or not to eat and (2) what destroyed by fire from heaven] in the day of judgment than days to observe or treat alike. for that city! (Matthew 10:14,15). This was a strong rebuke Some Jewish Christians believed that laws about foods in against those who did not receive Jesus disciples. Thos e the Old Testament should still be kept. If the proper meat who truly know God will recognize and receive His children. was not available, they would rather not eat any at all. They He who receives you receives Me, and he who receives Me felt that sabbaths and feast days should still be observed. receives Him who sent Me (Matthew 10:40). Some of the Gentile Christians believed that they should not Some people have convictions or scruples (for the sake of eat meat which had previously been offered to idols. Some the kingdom) which others do not have. Jesus illustrated this believed that every day was a day to serve the Lord and that when He spoke of those who did not marry for the sake of sabbaths foreshadowed our rest in Christ (Colossians 2:16, Gods work, All cannot accept this saying, but only those 17). Those who were strong in their faith that Christ fulfilled to whom it has been given (Matthew 19:11b). all the laws of the Old Testament felt that they could please Paul is teaching that those who have a personal conviction 96 97 ----------------------- Page 26----------------------from God should follow it in order to please the Lord. But It is better to judge ourselves. But let a man examine himthey should not judge someone as ungodly who does not self. For if we would judge ourselves, we would be hold the same conviction. Neither should the person who is judged (1 Corinthians 11:28a,31). Let us search out and

not

not persuaded about some personal matter look down on a examine our ways, and turn back to the LORD (Lamentaperson who is doing what he feels God has asked him to do. tions 3:40). The Lord will show us our hearts if we ask Him. Each Christian has a different function in the body of Search me, O God, and know my heart; try me, and know Christ. He is given a unique assignment and may be led to my anxieties; and see if there is any wicked way in me, and do things differently. Each is responsible to God and will lead me in the way everlasting (Psalm 139:23, 24). receive his own reward. Now he who plants and he who waters are one, and each one will receive his own reward We Will All Be Judged by Jesus according to his own labor (1 Corinthians 3:8). That none Therefore we make it our aim, . . . to be well pleasing to of you may be puffed up on behalf of one against the other. Him. For we must all appear before the judgment seat of For who makes you differ from another? And what do you Christ, that each one may receive the things done i n the have that you did not receive? (1 Corinthians 4:6b, 7a). body, according to what he has done, whether good or bad How careful and humble we ought to be before God in how (2 Corinthians 5:9, 10). Jesus is the only one who can judge we treat the precious people of God! Do not speak evil of righteously. My judgment is righteous, because I do not one another, brethren. . . . Who are you to judge another? seek My own will but the will of the Father who sent Me (James 4:11a,12b). He wants us to restore those who fall with (John 5:30b). He shall judge the world in righteousness a spirit of gentleness (Galatians 6:1). You also be patient. (Psalm 9:8a). Establish your hearts, for the coming of the Lord is at hand. We Serve the Lord, Not Man Do not grumble against one another, brethren, lest you be condemned. Behold, the Judge is standing at the door! And whatever you do, do it heartily, as to the Lord and (James 5:8, 9). not to men, knowing that from the Lord you will receive the reward Christ Do Not Judge Your Brother with Contempt (Colossians 3:23, 24). Jesus is the Lord of every true ChrisJesus Himself knew what it was like to be judged wrongly tian, and He is the one who tells each what to do. by people who considered themselves zealous for God. When I asked God to show me His heart concerning RoAre you angry with Me because I made a man completely mans chapter 14, I found myself sobbing with grief. God so well on the Sabbath? Do not judge according to appearlongs for us to love each other. Jesus said, This is My comance, but judge with righteous judgment (John 7:23b,24). mandment, that you love one another as I have loved you. Judge not, that you be not judged. For with what judgment If you love Me, keepMycommandments (John15:12;14:15). you judge, you will be judged (Matthew 7:1, 2a). Do you love Jesus enough to love as He loved? of the inheritance; for you serve the Lord

98 99 LESSON 28. JESUS CHRIST IS OUR EXAMPLE 2. Let each of us ________________ his neighbor for his

_________, leading to edification [building up his faith] (2). Romans 15:1-13 3. Even Christ did not ____________ Himself (3). 1We then who are strong ceived us, to the glory of God. [Not only is Christ an example of how to live, but also His Spirit ought to bear with the scru- 8Now I say that Jesus Christ lives in us, working in us both to will and to do for His good pleasples of the weak, and not to has become a servant to the ure (Philippians 2:13b).] please ourselves. 2Let each of circumcision for the truth of us please his neighbor for his God, to confirm the promises 4. The Scriptures were written for our _______________, good, leading to edification. made to the fathers, 9and that that we through the ______________ and _____________ 3For even Christ did not the Gentiles might glorify of the Scriptures might have __________ (4). please Himself; but as it is God for His mercy, as it is written, The reproaches of written: For this reason I [Things we read in the Bible were written for our admonition to those who reproached You fell will confess to You among the help us today (1 Corinthians 10:11b). All Scripture is given by on Me. 4For whatever things Gentiles, and sing to Your inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for were written before were name. 10And again he says: correction, for instruction in righteousness, that the ma n of God written for our learning, that Rejoice, O Gentiles, with His may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good wor k (2 we through the patience and people! 11And again: Praise Timothy 3:16,17). The Scriptures bring hope and comfort. This is comfort of the Scriptures the Lord, all you Gentiles! my comfort in my affliction, for Your word has given me life (Psalm might have hope. 5Now may Laud Him, all you peoples! 119: 50). You are my hiding place and my shield; I hope in Your the God of patience and com12And again, Isaiah says: word (Psalm 119:114). In His word I do hope (Psalm 130:5b).] fort grant you to be like- There shall be a root of minded toward one another, Jesse; and He who shall rise to 5. Now may the God of _____________ and __________ according to Christ Jesus, reign over the Gentiles, in grant you to be like-minded toward one another, according 6that you may with one mind Him the Gentiles shall hope. to Christ ___________ (5). and one mouth glorify the 13Now may the God of hope fill God and Father of our Lord you with all joy and peace in 6. With ______ __________ and ______ ____________ Jesus Christ. believing, that you may glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ (6). 7Therefore receive one an- abound in hope by the power [Both our thoughts and our words should glorify God

. Let the other, just

as

Christ

also

re- of the Holy Spirit.

words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in Your sight, O LORD, my strength and my redeemer (Psalm 19:14).] Something to Do 7. Therefore _____________ one another, just as Christ Fill in the blanks to learn what we must do in order to be also ______________ us, to the __________ of God (7). like-minded with other believers: [He who receives you receives Me (Matthew 10:40a). To be at 1. We then who are __________ [in faith and convictions] peace with other believers honors God.] ought to _________ ________ the scruples [of conscience] 8. Christ has become a _______________ to the circumof the ______________ [in faith and convictions], and not to cision [Jewish people] for the _________ of God, to confirm ___________ ourselves (verse 1). 101 100 ----------------------- Page 27----------------------the _______________ made to the fathers (8), and that the Jesus Lived to Please the Father Gentiles might ____________ God for His __________ (9). Paul points out that even Jesus did not live to please [Jesus humbled Himself to become a servant. The humble He Himself. Then Jesus said to them, When you lift up the teaches His way. All the paths of the LORD are mercy and tru th Son of Man, then you will know that I am He, and that I do (Psalm 25:9b,10a). We can rejoice in Gods mercy. But You, O nothing of Myself; but as My Father taught Me, I s peak Lord, are a God full of compassion, and gracious, longsufferin g these things. For I always do those things that please and abundant in mercy and truth (Psalm 86:15). Jesus served His Him (John 8:28, 29b). Jesus said, Behold, I have come Father in heaven joyfully. I will praise You, O Lord, among the peo. . . to do Your will, O God (Hebrews 10:7b). He went a litples; I will sing to You among the nations (Psalm 57:9).] tle farther and fell on His face, and prayed, saying, O My 9. Now may the God of __________ fill you with all joy Father, if it is possible, let this cup pass from Me; neverand peace in _________________, that you may abound in theless, not as I will, but as You will (Matthew 26:39). __________ by the _____________ of the Holy Spirit (13). God was glorified when Jesus lived to please Him. And

[It is impossible for those filled with joy and peace and abounding suddenly a voice came out of the cloud, saying, This is My in confident hope to engage in strife or division. For you shall go beloved Son, in whom I am well Him out with joy, and be led out with peace (Isaiah 55:12a).] pleased. Hear

(Matthew 17:5b). Jesus said, Now the Son of Man is gloLive to Please the Lord, Not Yourself rified, and God is glorified in Him (John 13:31b). We have every reason to walk humbly before our God. He Our Lives Should Bring Glory to God has revealed truth to us and has shown us mercy. He has When you join with other Christians in glorifying God toshown you, O man, what is good; and what does the LORD gether (rather than promoting strife and division where there require of you but to do justly, to love mercy, and to walk should be none), this is a witness to unbelievers of the humbly with your God? (Micah 6:8). mercy and love of God (Romans 15:6, 7). They, too, can call The very essence of sin is to go our own way, to live to on the Lord and rejoice (Romans 15:9-11). Let your light please ourselves. This is why Jesus had to die for us. All so shine before men, that they may see your good works we like sheep have gone astray; we have turned, every one, and glorify your Father in heaven (Matthew 5:16). When to his own way; and the LORD has laid on Him the iniquity of a mans ways please the LORD, he makes even his enemies us all (Isaiah 53:6). to be at peace with him (Proverbs 16:7). Going our own way, pleasing only ourselves, does not Or do you not know that your body is the temple of the bring glory to God. For all have sinned and fall short of the Holy Spirit who is in you, whom you have from God, and glory of God (Romans 3:23). This is why it is so important you are not your own? For you were bought at a price; now to live so that we please Him and so bring glory to Him. therefore glorify God in your body and in your spirit, which We cannot do it, but Jesus can, and He lives in us. are Gods (1 Corinthians 6:19, 20). 102 103 LESSON 29. PAUL, EXAMPLE OF A TRUE CHRISTIAN If you are reproached for the name of Christ, blessed are you, for the Spirit of glory and of God rests upon you. Romans 15:14-33 written: To whom He was . . . But let none of you suffer as a murderer, a thief, an evil14Now I myself am confi- not announced, they shall s ee; doer, or as a busybody in other peoples matters. Yet if dent concerning you, my and those who have not heard anyone suffers as a Christian, let him not be ashamed, but

brethren,

that

you

also are

shall understand.

full of goodness, filled with all 22For this reason I also have let him glorify God in this matter (1 Peter 4:14-16). knowledge, able also to ad- been much hindered from Fulfill my joy by being like-minded, having the same monish one another. 15Nevercoming to you. 23But n ow no love, being of one accord, of one mind. Let nothing be theless, brethren, I have writlonger having a place in th ese done through selfish ambition or conceit, but in lowliness ten more boldly to you on parts, and having a great d eof mind let each esteem others better than himself. Let somepoints,asreminding you, sire these many years to co me because of the grace given to to you, 24whenever I journey each of you look out not only for his own interests, but also me by God, 16that I might be a to Spain, I shall come to y ou. for the interests of others (Philippians 2:2-4). minister of Jesus Christ to the For I hope to see you on my Gentiles, n my way there by you, if fir st I Paul knew that he had great liberty in Christ. But he also ing of the Gentiles might be may enjoy your company for acceptable, sanctified by the a while. 25But now I am goi ng was willing to lay down his rights in order to help weaker Holy Spirit. 17Therefore I to Jerusalem to minister to Christians. All things are lawful for me, but all things are have reason to glory in Christ the saints. 26For it p leased not helpful; all things are lawful for me, but all things do Jesus in the things which perthose from Macedonia and tain to God. 18For I will not Achaia to make a certain c onnot edify. Let no one seek his own, but each one the others dare to speak of any of those tribution for the poor amon g well-being. Just as I also please all men in all things, not things which Christ has not the saints who are in Jerus aseeking my own profit, but the profit of many, that they may accomplished through me, in lem. 27It pleased them inde How Can We Live to Please Others? gospel of God, that the offerministering the journey, and to be helped o

ed, be saved. Imitate me, just as I also imitate Christ (1 Corinword and deed, to make the and they are their deb tors. thians 10:23, 24, 33; 11:1). We should live to help each Gentiles obedient 19in mighFor if the Gentiles have been ty signs and wonders, by the partakers of their sp iritual other. And let us consider one another in order to stir up power of the Spirit of God, so things, their duty is also to love and good works, not forsaking the assembling of ourthat from Jerusalem and minister to them in material selves together, as is the manner of some, but exhorting round about to Illyricum I things. 28Therefore, when I one another (Hebrews 10:24, 25a). have fully preached the have performed this and gospel uit, Yet Paul did of Christ. 20And not want believers so I have sealed to them this fr to be entangled again

have made it my aim to I shall go by way of you to with a yoke of bondage (Galatians 5:1b) by pleasing those preach the gospel, not where Spain. 29But I know that who required keeping Old Testament laws to perfect themChrist was named, lest I when I come to you, I shall selves. He called this another gospel. For if I still pleased should build on another come in the fullness of the men, I would not be a servant of Christ (Galatians 1:10b). mans foundation, 21but as it is blessing of the gospel of 104 105 ----------------------- Page 28----------------------Christ. brethren, 30Now you, not believe, and that my servPauls Three Prayer Requests through the Lord ice for Jerusalem may be Paul had purposed to go to Jerusalem first and I beg

then to Jesus Christ, and through the acceptable to the saints, 32that love of the Spirit, that you I may come to you with joy Rome (Acts 19:21) on his way to Spain. (We do not know strive together with me in by the will of God, and may whether Paul ever reached Spain in his lifetime.) H e had your prayers to God for me, be refreshed together with already made arrangements to take with him an offering that

31that from

I may be delivered you. 33Now the God of peace had been collected for the Jewish saints in Jerusalem who those in Judea who do be with you all. Amen. were suffering great need (1 Corinthians 16:1). The Gentile Something to Do Christians were happy to do this, because they felt indebted Paul was confident that the Christians in Rome were to their Jewish brothers and sisters who had shared

1.

the able to

admonish each other because they were full of gospel with them. As a Jew, Paul taught this. He had written, _______________, filled with all ________________ (14). If we have sown spiritual things for you, is it a great thing 2. He had written boldly to remind them on some points if we reap your material things? (1 Corinthians 9:11). Let because of the ___________ given me by God (15). him who is taught the word share in all good things with 3. Paul was a minister of Jesus to the ____________ (16). him who teaches (Galatians 6:6). 4. Gentiles (non-Jews) who believed the gospel were like Paul begs the Christians in Rome to work together with Pauls offering to God, acceptable because they were him by praying for him concerning three things: (1) that he _________________ [made holy] by the Holy Spirit (16). would be delivered from those in Judea who did not believe; 5. Paul had reason to glory in _________ __________ (2) that his service for Jerusalem would be acceptable to the (17). He did not dare to speak of anything which _________ saints there; and (3) that by Gods will he would be able to has not accomplished through me (18). come to Rome to be refreshed together with them. [But by the grace of God I am what I am, . . . but I labored more abundantly than they all, yet not I, but the grace of God which was Answers to Pauls Prayer Requests with me (1 Corinthians 15:10).] God answered Pauls requests in unusual ways (Acts chap6. Paul made it his aim to preach the good news where ters 20-28). Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and lean they did not know about Christ, lest I should build on anothnot on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowler mans __________________ (20). edge Him, and He shall direct your paths (Proverbs 3:5,6). [Paul was called to pioneer work. He went where no one else had Paul was protected from a plot to kill him, but he arrived in gone. He based this on what Isaiah had prophesied about the cruRome as a prisoner for the sake of the gospel. For two years, cified Messiah: For what had not been told them they shall see, under house arrest, he was permitted to teach visitors freely and what they had not heard they shall consider (Isaiah 52:15b).] about Jesus. Before he was executed there, he wrote, I 7. Paul begged the Christians in Rome to strive together have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have with him in their ______________ to God for him (30). kept the faith (2 Timothy 4:7). 106 107

LESSON 30. g he 1I of

PAULS PERSONAL GREETINGS 21Timothy, my fellow workRomans 16:1-27 er, and Lucius,

gospel

and

the preachin

the Lord. 12Greet Tryphena Jason, and Jesus Christ, according to t

commend to you Phoebe and Tryphosa, who have laSosipater, my kinsmen, greet revelation of the

mystery our sister, who is a servant of bored in the Lord. Greet the you. 22 I, Tertius, who wrote which was kept secre t since the church in Cenchrea, 2that beloved Persis, who labored this epistle, greet you in the the world began 26but now has you may receive her in the much in the Lord. 13Greet RuLord. 23Gaius, my host and been made manifest, an d by Lord in a manner worthy of fus, chosen in the Lord, and the host of the whole church, the prophetic Scriptures has the saints, and assist her in his mother and mine. 14Greet greets you. Erastus, the treasbeen made known to all whatever business she has Asyncritus, Phlegon, Hermas, urer of the city, greets you, nations, according to the c omneed of you; for indeed she Patrobas, Hermes, and the and Quartus, a brother. 24The mandment of the everl asting has been a helper of many brethren who are with them. grace of our Lord Jesus God, for obedience to the and of myself also. 15Greet Philologus and Julia, Christ be with you all. Amen. faith 27to God, alone wise, 3Greet Priscilla and Aquila, Nereus and his sister, and 25Now to Him who is able to be glory through Jesus Chris t my fellow workers in Christ Olympas, and all the saints establish you according to my forever. Amen. Jesus, 4who risked their own who are with them. 16Greet necks for my life, to whom one another with a holy kiss. Something to Do not only I give thanks, but The churches of Christ greet Fill in the blanks from the last chapter of Romans: also all the churches of the you. 1. Paul commended ___________ (1) and asked the beGentiles. 5Likewise greet the 17Now I urge you, brethren, church that is in their house. note those who cause divilievers in Rome to assist her with whatever she needed. Greet my beloved Epaenetus, sions and offenses, contrary [This sister in the Lord served in the church in Cenchrea, about who is the firstfruits of Achaito the doctrine which you seven miles south of Corinth, where Paul wrote this letter. Appara to Christ. 6Greet Mary, who learned, and avoid them. ently she planned to travel to Rome and would deliver Pauls letter. ]

labored much Andronicus

for us. 7Greet 18For those who are such do and Junia, my not serve our Lord Jesus 2. Paul sent greetings to ________________ and kinsmen and my fellow prisChrist, but their own belly, _____________, who had risked their lives for him (3). oners, who are of note among and by smooth words and [Paul first met this godly couple in Corinth. Th ey had left Italy the apostles, who also were in flattering speech deceive the Christ before me. 8Greet Amhearts of the simple. 19For when all Jews were commanded to leave Rome. Since both Aquila plias, my beloved in the Lord. your obedience has become and Paul were tentmakers by trade, Paul stayed with them and they 9Greet Urbanus, our fellow known to all. Therefore I am worked together (Acts 18:1-3). They later sailed with Paul as far as worker in Christ, and Stachglad on your behalf; but I Ephesus. Here they heard the eloquent Apollos speak powerfully ys, my beloved. 10Greet Apelwant you to be wise in what is from the Scriptures. When Aquila and Priscilla heard him, they les, approved in Christ. Greet good, and simple concerning took him aside and explained to him the way of God more accuthose who are of the house- evil. 20And the God of peace rately (Acts 18:26b). Now this godly couple were back in Rome, hold of Aristobulus. 11Greet will crush Satan under your continuing their practice of having a church meet in their house.] Herodion, my kinsman. Greet feet shortly. The grace of our those who are of the house- Lord Jesus Christ be with 3. Notice how Paul loved these fellow-workers! A number hold of Narcissus who are in you. Amen. were faithful women serving the Lord. Paul also sent greet108 109 ----------------------- Page 29----------------------Answers to Questions ings to ___________ (13), chosen in the Lord, and to his The answers to the questions in this Bible study on Ro mans are found mother, who also had been like a mother to Paul. below so that you can check your work and know the correc t answers. [This Rufus was probably the son of the man who was forced to Refer to this page only after you have answered the quest ions. carry the cross for Jesus on His way to be crucified (Mark 15:21).] Page 2 Pages 21 and 2 2 1. prophets, Scriptures Christ, all, believe 4. Several who worked with Paul in Corinth sent greetings, 2. Jesus Christ , propitiation, 1. law, Jesus 2. redemption

including the man who wrote the letter as Paul dictated it: I, 3. David, flesh blood, right eousness ____________, who wrote this epistle, greet you (22). 4. Son, God, power, holiness, 3. just, justif ier, Jesus resurrection 5. Pauls host while he was in Corinth was ___________, 5. grace, obedience, nations , faith who was also host of the church there (23). Page 8 8 1. glorify, thankful eves, 6. glory [This man had been baptized by Paul (1 Corinthians 1:14).] 2. wise, fools 7. perform 6. Paul warned the Christians in Rome to avoid those who 3. glory, image d 8. believe, 4. uncleanness, dishonor h raised, dead cause _____________ and offenses, contrary to the doctrine 5. truth, lie, creature, Creator lieve, 9. offenses, you learned (17). These people did not serve 6. vile passions, women, men justification their own __________ (18). 7. debased 8. judgment, death, approve 0 when professing Christians acted like the world Pages 10 and 11 1. peace, God 5. disappoint, For many walk, of whom I have told you often, and now tell you 1. truth 2. access love, even weeping, that they are the enemies of the cross of Ch rist: 2. deeds, evil, good 3. glory Holy Spirit . 3. partiality 4. tribulatio ns, 6. wrath whose end is destruction, whose god is their belly, and whose glory 4. Jesus Christ perseveran ce, 7. saved, life is in their shamewho set their mind on earthly things (PhilipPage 13 character, hope pians 3:18,19). They did not count their old life crucified with Christ.] 1. Jew 6. instructed Pages 31-33 2. law , 6. gift, many 7. guide, light, 1. sin, death [Paul grieved 4. excluded 5. faith, deeds Pages 27 and 2 1. work, beli ungodly 2. uncircumcise 3. seal, fait 4. father, be Jesus but righteousness 5. dead, exist Pages 29 and 3

7. Paul wanted them to be ___________ in what is good, 3. God instructor, 7. free, and ______________ [innocent] concerning evil (19). 4. will teacher justification 5. excellent 8. grace, reign Benediction Page 14 on 9. righteous, The gospel, once a mystery, is now revealed clearly in the 1. steal 3. rob temples ce, all, life all, 2. commit adultery 4. breaking 10. obedience, Scriptures. Paul ends his marvelous letter by acknowledging Pages 17 and 18 righteous that God will be glorified through Jesus Christ forever and is 1. none, one 9. poison 6 able to establish you. Now to Him who is able to keep you 2. none 10. cursing, laves, freed 3. none ce, God from stumbling, and to present 4. all you bitterness

all, sinned 2. reigned 3. judgment, condemnati 4. disobedien sinners 5. death Pages 35 and 3 1. crucified, s 2. raised, on

faultless before the 11. shed blood 3. dead, sin, 4. alive, dea 5. instrument dominion and

alive, God presence of His glory with exceeding joy, to God our Savior, 5. unprofitable 12. misery d 6. good, one s, righteousness who alone is wise, 13. peace

be glory and majesty, 7. throat 14. fear power, both now and forever. Amen (Jude 24, 25). 8. deceit 110 Page 48

111 2. love, neighbor The Good News in Romans 3. love

1. condemnation, Christ Jesus 2. law, life, free, law, sin 1. The power of God can save you from His wrath. 3. law, weak, flesh, flesh, sin Pages 94 and 95 B. 1. unclean I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ, for it is the power of A. 1. received 4. condemned, requirement, 2. master 2. love God to salvation for everyone who believes. For the wrat h of God is fulfilled, flesh, Spirit 3. stand 3. destroy revealedfromheavenagainstallungodliness. Ro

mans1:16a,18a Page 52 k,

4.Lord 4. good, evil 2. The goodness of God leads you to repentance. 1. minds, flesh, Spirit 5. thanks 5. food, drin 2. death, life, peace 6. Lords peace, joy Or do you despise the riches of His goodness, . . . not k

nowing 3. enmity, subject, can, please 7. Christ, 6. acceptable , that the goodness of God leads you to rep entance? For all have Page 57 account, approved sinned and fall short of the glory of God. R omans 2:4; 3:23 1. led, Spirit God 7. peace, edi fy, 3. The righteousness of God is received by faith, not works. 2. bondage, fear destroy, G od But to him who does not work but believes on Him who ju stifies 3. Spirit, witness 8. stumbles, 4. suffer offended, the ungodly, his faith is accounted for righteousness. Romans 4:5 Pages 60 and 61 weak, sin 4. The love of God is demonstrated by Christs death for you. 1.creation, birth pangs, sons of God Pages 100-102 But God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that wh ile we 2. Spirit, eagerly, body 1. strong, bear with, weak, please were still sinners, Christ died for us. Romans 5:8 3. Spirit, intercession, saints 2. please, good Pages 67 and 68 3. please 5. The gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus. 1. adoption 5. service 4. learning, patience, comfort, hop e The wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is etern al life in 2. glory 6. promises 5. patience, comfort, Jesus Christ Jesus our Lord. Romans 6:23 3. covenants 7. fathers 6. one mind, one mouth 4. law 8. Christ, God 7. receive, received, glory 6. The Spirit of life in Christ Jesus sets you free fr om sin. Pages 73 and 74 8. servant, truth, promises, Likewise you also, reckon yourselves to be dead indeed to sin, 1. near, mouth, heart glorify, mercy but alive to God in Christ Jesus our Lord. There is ther efore now no 2. Lord Jesus 9. hope, believing, hope, power condemnation to those who are in Christ Jesus. For the la w of the 3. raised, dead Page 106 Spirit of life in Christ Jesus has made me free from the law of sin 4. believes, righteousness 1. goodness, knowledge and death. Roman

s 6:11; 8:1a, 2 5. confession, salvation 6. calls, name 7. hearing, word hose who Page 86 urpose. And 1. governing the renew2. God

2. grace 3. Gentiles 7. The will of God (to transform you) is good. 4. sanctified And we know that all things work together for good to t

5. Christ Jesus, Christ love God, to those who are the called according to His p 6. foundation do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by 7. prayers ing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good a

nd accept3. terror, evil, sword, avenger, wrath Pages 109 and 110 able and perfect will of God. Ro mans 8:28; 12:2 4. conscience 1. Phoebe 5. Gaius Page 90 2. Priscilla, Aquila 6. divisions , BELIEVE IN JESUS AND CALL ON HIS NAME TO BE SAVED 1. a. adultery 3. Rufus belly b. murder 4. Tertius 7. wise, sim ple That if you confess with your mouth the Lord Jesus and believe c. steal in your heart that God has raised Him from the dead, you will be d. false witness As you study or review this Bible study, saved. For with the heart one believes to righteousness, and with e. covet mark the verses you would like to memorize. the mouth confession is made to salvation. For whoever cal ls upon 112 the name of the Lord shall be saved. Roman s 10:9,10,13 ----------------------- Page 30----------------------FREE COPIES AVAILABLE As the Lord provides the cost through contributions, free copies of this booklet will be sent in limited those who request them for personal study. Other Joy studies are available on Genesis, Psalms, Matthew, John, and Revelation. When requesting quantities, please tell us clearly how you plan to use the booklets. Write to: WORLD MISSIONARY PRESS, INC. P.O. Box 120 New Paris, Indiana 46553 U.S.A. website: www.wmpress.org Front cover: Original art by Edwin B. Wallace Jesus was sent by God to die for the sins of the world. His hands and feet were nailed to a cross. Three days later He arose from the dead and appeared to many. Thomas, one of His disciples, said, Unless I see in His hands the print of

quantities

to

the nails, ... I will not believe (John 20:25b). When Jesus later showed him His hands and His side, Thomas saw and believed. Jesus said, Blessed are those who have seen and yet have believed (John 20:29b) FreeNot to Be Sold

not 600/2 ROM