Scripture reading - Joshua chapter 2; chapter 6
Faith as defined by Hebrews: Assurance of things hoped for ... Evidence of things not seen. Believe God exists. Believe that He rewards those who diligently seek Him. James – Belief in God must be followed by works for faith to be real.
1. Why do people give other people nicknames?
Examples: Alexander the Great, Charlemagne, Louis the Pious, Richard the Lion-Heart, Charles the Bald, Frederick Barbarossa, Ivan the Terrible
2. You are a visitor to Jericho. A guide is leading you around the city showing you the sites. He points to a house and says, “That is the home of Rahab the Harlot”. What words/phrases do you associate with someone named Rahab the Harlot? Prostitute; whore; strong scent of perfume.
3. How did people in Jericho see her? Trash; someone to be avoided; Talked bad about her behind her back.
4. How do you think she saw herself? Piece of meat; abused; unloved; lonely; looked down upon; Low self-esteem.
Background on Jericho and the spies. One of the oldest cities in the world – 9000 B.C.
5. Of all the places the spies could have stayed, why Rahab’s house? Prostitutes have a reputation for keeping secrets if you pay them well.
6. What do you suppose the spies’ initial impression of Rahab was? Same as everyone else’s in Jericho.
7. When word reached Rahab and the spies that the king was searching for them, what do you think was going through the minds of the spies? We’re dead. Rahab is going to surrender us to the king. She is not going to risk her life for ours.
8. What did Rahab do? Hid the spies and sent the king’s men on a wild goose chase. Prostitutes have a reputation for being good liars. Her actions guaranteed the downfall of Jericho
9. Why did she do this? What was her motivation?
In a word salvation. Salvation for herself and her family. Her salvation rested on the mercies of the God of Israel. See verses 12-13.
10. Read verses 9-11. What did Rahab know about God? How did she refer to God? His power? How did she learn about God? The people whom the Israelites defeated were fleeing from the Israelites. Many saw the mighty walls of Jericho and figured they would be safe there. They spread the word around Jericho about the Israelites and their God. Rahab may have clients who shared with her their fear of the Israelites and their God. Do you think this head knowledge translated to heart knowledge (Faith)?
Rahab calls God “Lord” 4 times in the ESV. Hebrew word is Yahweh/Jehovah. It means self-existent or eternal one. God told Moses “I AM …”
(2:11) Your God - Elohim “the supreme God” Deut. 5:9 - I, the Lord(Yahweh/Jehovah) your God (Elohim), am a jealous God.”
Clincher - last sentence in verse 11. He is God in heaven above and on earth below. Translation - Jehovah, the Supreme Being you Israelites recognize, is above all, and yet he is here on earth too.
Rahab had sound knowledge of God and His people. She knew of Israel’s past, present, and future. She knew that the hand of God was at work in Israel. More importantly, she knew who God was: Jehovah, the sovereign Lord of Lords. He is almighty and His will cannot be thwarted. Her salvation and the salvation of her family rested in His hands.
Remember this prostitute saying all this. Not a priest, seminary student, or a theologian. A prostitute! Moreover, a Gentile prostitute. Not a Jew. Rahab’s faith was based on her belief of events she had not witnessed. She placed her hope in a God that she was sure can and would save her – a Gentile prostitute.
Why did you become a Christian? Why does anyone become a Christian? For the same reason Rahab became a follower of God. Salvation. In Rahab’s case, salvation from death at the hands of the Israelites. In your case, salvation from eternal death in Hell.
How did it happen? When you became a Christian, you did the same thing Rahab the Harlot did. Rahab believed that God existed (Hebrews) and that this God was the one true God (James.) She earnestly sought (James) this God believing He would reward her with salvation (Hebrews.) Rahab no longer believed in the gods of Jericho (fertility god, war god, etc.) or the gods she and her family had worshipped. She no longer sought them for her salvation.
When you became a Christian, you believed that God existed (Hebrews) and that this God was the one true God (James.) He alone offered salvation through the death and resurrection of his only Son Jesus. You earnestly sought (James) this God believing He would reward you with salvation (Hebrews.) You did not believe salvation came from the god of Islam, the teachings of Buddhism, the gods of Hinduism, hedonism (eat, drink, party because tomorrow we die), or atheism. You rejected the premise that other religions are pathways to God. You believed that God and God alone offered salvation from eternal torment – His only Son Jesus. You did not seek any other god, religion, or philosophy to find salvation. They did not provide you the assurance of what you hope for – life eternal.
How did you reach this conclusion? Like Rahab. She heard stories … testimonies about the God of the Israelites and they were enough to convince her that her salvation rested in Him alone. You heard testimonies from others about God – His power, His grace, His love, His mercy, His wrath - and they were enough to convince you that your salvation rested in Him alone.
In order to become a Christian, you have to have faith (Hebrews, James) in the following:
a. Belief there is a life after this earthly one.
b. Believe there are two destinations after this life – Heaven AND Hell
c. Believe that God alone offers salvation from Hell.
d. Salvation came in the form of His only Son Jesus and nothing else.
Thursday, July 22, 2010
Thursday, July 8, 2010
Faith Defined - James
Review background on Epistle of James.
1. Is there a difference between a Christian and a churchgoer? If so, what is the difference? James answers this question.
Read James 1:22-25
2. James writes that a person who professes to be a Christian is to be what? Doer of the word. Not what? Hearer of the word.
3. What does James mean by being a “doer of the word?” Curtis preaches the word of God. What does he normally end his sermon with? Application of God’s word. How to do God’s word in the coming week. Why? How many of the 800 or so who listened do so?
4. What does James mean by “hearer of the word?” Person hears Curtis preach. At end of sermon, leaves church and over the next week does not give the sermon another thought. Does not do anything that Curtis preached on from the word of God. Another name for “hearer of the word” is “pew filler.” Why does such a person come to church? Tradition – raised to go to church on Sunday; what a “Christian” does on Sunday; have to in order to stay on God’s “good list.”
5. What illustration does James give of someone who is only a hearer of the word? Read verses 23-24.
6. What does James say will happen to a person who is a doer of the word? Blessed. How? Remember Hebrews 11:6. What are the rewards the author is referring to? rewards/blessings - material, emotional, spiritual, (the gifts of the Spirit – Galatians 5:22) wisdom and knowledge, holiness/godliness, answers to questions. Perseverance to withstand adversity – See James 1:2-4. The more time you spend with God the more rewards/blessings you receive. Ultimate reward is eternal life.
Jesus on the difference between a doer of the word and a hearer of the word – Matthew 7:24-26: Everyone then who hears these words of mine and does them will be like a wise man who built his house on the rock. And the rain fell, and the floods came, and the winds blew and beat on that house, but it did not fall, because it had been founded on the rock. And everyone who hears these words of mine and does not do them will be like a foolish man who built his house on the sand. And the rain fell, and the floods came, and the winds blew and beat against that house, and it fell, and great was the fall of it.
According to Jesus and James, it’s not enough to be a hearer of the Word, one must be a doer.
Read James 2:1-7
7. What did James tell his audience not to do? Prejudice for the rich and against the poor. Emphasize verse 1 – Show prejudice for or against no man if you profess to have faith in Jesus Christ. What example did he give of their failing? Read verses 2-3. Give up to date example.
8. How did members of the church judge who sat where? Appearance; name. Why do you think the people James wrote to showed partiality to the wealthy over the poor? Greed? Seeking influence? Give up to date example. Who will feel more welcomed in our church/receive preferential treatment – Bill Gates or David Crowder? A person wearing a suit, tie, and Dockers pants or a person in a well worn shirt, blue jeans, cheap pair of sneakers, and tatted up arms? Well respected mom of four or a lady with a “bad reputation?” What does James say? WDJD – What did Jesus do? He reached out to both rich and poor, the “good people” and the “bad people.”
Read James 2:8-13
9. According to James, because the audience was practicing prejudice they were committing what? Sin.
10. What commandment were they breaking? Leviticus 19:18; Mark 12:31.
Response of James audience – Coming down on us a little harsh, aren’t you James? So we don’t keep all of the commandments. At least we believe there is a God. That’s all that matters.
Read James 2:14-20
11. After reading verses 14-20, what are the answers to the two questions James asks in verse 14:
a. What good is it, my brothers, if someone says he has faith but does not have works? Their faith is worthless. Read verses 17 and 20. The people James was rebuking – the “hearers of the word only” group … they claimed to be Christians (Christ-like). Based on what? We believe in Jesus Christ. We believe he died and was resurrected. OK, so we show prejudice for the rich and against the poor. We don’t feed the hungry. We don’t look after widows and orphans. We still believe in God and His only Son Jesus Christ. As James points out who else believes there is one God? The demons believe and live in fear of that fact. The people James is writing to have no such fear or otherwise they would not be so bold to call themselves Christians and yet commit such egregious sin. Bring up to today. OK, you believe in Jesus Christ. You believe he died and was resurrected. And yet, you live your life not acknowledging that truth. Based on the life you live Mon-Sat., no one would know you were a Christian …. not friends, co-workers, not even your spouse and children. Jesus is nowhere evident in your everyday walk. Consequently, sin is prevalent in your life. Reason why – you are not a doer of the Word.
b. Can that faith save him? No. True faith produces outward evidence of that faith. Read Romans 10:9-10; John 3:16-21; II Corinthians 13:5.
Read James 2:21-26
12. James offers Abraham and Rahab as examples for “faith and works” argument. How did they illustrate the relationship of faith with works?
Abraham – Read Hebrews 11:17-19. If Abraham had refused to obey God’s command to offer Isaac as a sacrifice, of what worth is Abraham’s faith in God and His promise to produce through Abraham a great nation? By obeying God (works), Abraham gave credibility to his faith in God and His promise. See verse 22. By his works, Abraham “justified” his faith. The word “justified” is a legal term. Abraham was on trial to determine if his faith in God was true. God passed judgment in Abraham’s favor based on the evidence – Abraham’s actions/works.
Rahab the harlot – talk about in the next lesson
Many, including church leaders such as Martin Luther, have gotten the wrong impression about James argument regarding faith and works. They believed James was teaching that works are necessary to attain salvation. They call him the anti-Paul because the apostle Paul taught that faith alone, not works, produced salvation. James is not saying that works are necessary to attain salvation. He is saying that works are necessary to provide evidence/proof that one is saved/follower of Jesus. In that respect, Paul and James were in agreement. One of the major themes in Paul’s epistles was living a life based on God’s word. The reason Paul placed a greater emphasis on faith is because the audience he was writing believed works were necessary to ATTAIN salvation. James emphasized works because the audience he was writing to believed that works played no role in one’s faith.
Application
Take time this week to practice II Corinthians 13:5. Meditate upon this verse. Ask yourself this question: If you were put on trial for being a Christian, what would the verdict be? Guilty of being a Christian or not guilty of being a Christian? Do you have proof (works) that you can offer as evidence to convict you of being a Christian? Can you call witnesses (co-workers, spouse, friends, children) who will testify on your behalf that you are guilty of being a Christian? Would you be “justified” as Abraham and Rahab?
1. Is there a difference between a Christian and a churchgoer? If so, what is the difference? James answers this question.
Read James 1:22-25
2. James writes that a person who professes to be a Christian is to be what? Doer of the word. Not what? Hearer of the word.
3. What does James mean by being a “doer of the word?” Curtis preaches the word of God. What does he normally end his sermon with? Application of God’s word. How to do God’s word in the coming week. Why? How many of the 800 or so who listened do so?
4. What does James mean by “hearer of the word?” Person hears Curtis preach. At end of sermon, leaves church and over the next week does not give the sermon another thought. Does not do anything that Curtis preached on from the word of God. Another name for “hearer of the word” is “pew filler.” Why does such a person come to church? Tradition – raised to go to church on Sunday; what a “Christian” does on Sunday; have to in order to stay on God’s “good list.”
5. What illustration does James give of someone who is only a hearer of the word? Read verses 23-24.
6. What does James say will happen to a person who is a doer of the word? Blessed. How? Remember Hebrews 11:6. What are the rewards the author is referring to? rewards/blessings - material, emotional, spiritual, (the gifts of the Spirit – Galatians 5:22) wisdom and knowledge, holiness/godliness, answers to questions. Perseverance to withstand adversity – See James 1:2-4. The more time you spend with God the more rewards/blessings you receive. Ultimate reward is eternal life.
Jesus on the difference between a doer of the word and a hearer of the word – Matthew 7:24-26: Everyone then who hears these words of mine and does them will be like a wise man who built his house on the rock. And the rain fell, and the floods came, and the winds blew and beat on that house, but it did not fall, because it had been founded on the rock. And everyone who hears these words of mine and does not do them will be like a foolish man who built his house on the sand. And the rain fell, and the floods came, and the winds blew and beat against that house, and it fell, and great was the fall of it.
According to Jesus and James, it’s not enough to be a hearer of the Word, one must be a doer.
Read James 2:1-7
7. What did James tell his audience not to do? Prejudice for the rich and against the poor. Emphasize verse 1 – Show prejudice for or against no man if you profess to have faith in Jesus Christ. What example did he give of their failing? Read verses 2-3. Give up to date example.
8. How did members of the church judge who sat where? Appearance; name. Why do you think the people James wrote to showed partiality to the wealthy over the poor? Greed? Seeking influence? Give up to date example. Who will feel more welcomed in our church/receive preferential treatment – Bill Gates or David Crowder? A person wearing a suit, tie, and Dockers pants or a person in a well worn shirt, blue jeans, cheap pair of sneakers, and tatted up arms? Well respected mom of four or a lady with a “bad reputation?” What does James say? WDJD – What did Jesus do? He reached out to both rich and poor, the “good people” and the “bad people.”
Read James 2:8-13
9. According to James, because the audience was practicing prejudice they were committing what? Sin.
10. What commandment were they breaking? Leviticus 19:18; Mark 12:31.
Response of James audience – Coming down on us a little harsh, aren’t you James? So we don’t keep all of the commandments. At least we believe there is a God. That’s all that matters.
Read James 2:14-20
11. After reading verses 14-20, what are the answers to the two questions James asks in verse 14:
a. What good is it, my brothers, if someone says he has faith but does not have works? Their faith is worthless. Read verses 17 and 20. The people James was rebuking – the “hearers of the word only” group … they claimed to be Christians (Christ-like). Based on what? We believe in Jesus Christ. We believe he died and was resurrected. OK, so we show prejudice for the rich and against the poor. We don’t feed the hungry. We don’t look after widows and orphans. We still believe in God and His only Son Jesus Christ. As James points out who else believes there is one God? The demons believe and live in fear of that fact. The people James is writing to have no such fear or otherwise they would not be so bold to call themselves Christians and yet commit such egregious sin. Bring up to today. OK, you believe in Jesus Christ. You believe he died and was resurrected. And yet, you live your life not acknowledging that truth. Based on the life you live Mon-Sat., no one would know you were a Christian …. not friends, co-workers, not even your spouse and children. Jesus is nowhere evident in your everyday walk. Consequently, sin is prevalent in your life. Reason why – you are not a doer of the Word.
b. Can that faith save him? No. True faith produces outward evidence of that faith. Read Romans 10:9-10; John 3:16-21; II Corinthians 13:5.
Read James 2:21-26
12. James offers Abraham and Rahab as examples for “faith and works” argument. How did they illustrate the relationship of faith with works?
Abraham – Read Hebrews 11:17-19. If Abraham had refused to obey God’s command to offer Isaac as a sacrifice, of what worth is Abraham’s faith in God and His promise to produce through Abraham a great nation? By obeying God (works), Abraham gave credibility to his faith in God and His promise. See verse 22. By his works, Abraham “justified” his faith. The word “justified” is a legal term. Abraham was on trial to determine if his faith in God was true. God passed judgment in Abraham’s favor based on the evidence – Abraham’s actions/works.
Rahab the harlot – talk about in the next lesson
Many, including church leaders such as Martin Luther, have gotten the wrong impression about James argument regarding faith and works. They believed James was teaching that works are necessary to attain salvation. They call him the anti-Paul because the apostle Paul taught that faith alone, not works, produced salvation. James is not saying that works are necessary to attain salvation. He is saying that works are necessary to provide evidence/proof that one is saved/follower of Jesus. In that respect, Paul and James were in agreement. One of the major themes in Paul’s epistles was living a life based on God’s word. The reason Paul placed a greater emphasis on faith is because the audience he was writing believed works were necessary to ATTAIN salvation. James emphasized works because the audience he was writing to believed that works played no role in one’s faith.
Application
Take time this week to practice II Corinthians 13:5. Meditate upon this verse. Ask yourself this question: If you were put on trial for being a Christian, what would the verdict be? Guilty of being a Christian or not guilty of being a Christian? Do you have proof (works) that you can offer as evidence to convict you of being a Christian? Can you call witnesses (co-workers, spouse, friends, children) who will testify on your behalf that you are guilty of being a Christian? Would you be “justified” as Abraham and Rahab?
Faith Defined - Hebrews
One of the themes of Hebrews is Faith. The author is concerned about the faith of his audience. He was concerned that due to the persecution they were experiencing their faith in God was weakening. What can cause your faith in God to waver?
Hebrews chapter 11 - the author defines faith and explains its importance
1. Read Hebrews 11: 1 - How does the author define faith?
The assurance (literal translation of the word assurance is “substance”) of things hoped for (hasn’t happened yet)
The evidence/certainty/conviction of things not seen.
Paraphrase - Faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see.
Example - Kid stuck in a tree. Father is below telling kid to jump, I’ll catch you. Father tells kid to close his eyes and jump.
2. Hebrews 11: 2-40 - How does the author illustrate what faith is? In the lives of the ancients - the men and women of old. LIST NAMES ON THE BOARD!
Does any name stand out to you? Surprise you? Rahab the prostitute. A Gentile with a bad reputation.
3. Hebrews 11: 6 - Without faith, it is impossible to do what? Please God. In order to come to God, one must do what? A) Believe God exists. B) Believe that God rewards those who seek Him. In the Greek the word “seek” is defined - to investigate, scrutinize - in depth, leave no stone unturned search.
Various translations (NIV, KJV, etc.) add the following adjectives to enhance the meaning of the word “seek”
diligent - characterized by steady, energetic application and effort
earnest - a serious and intent state of mind
sincere - marked by genuiness
All three relate to commitment.
4. What are the rewards the author is referring to? rewards/blessings - material, emotional, spiritual, (list the gifts of the Spirit) wisdom and knowledge, holiness/godliness, answers to questions. Perseverance to withstand adversity. The more time you spend with God the more rewards/blessings you receive. Ultimate reward is eternal life.
5. Faith encompasses both believing God exists and that He rewards you for seeking Him. Why are both necessary? Shouldn’t believing God exists be enough? Answer that question next when we look at how the Book of James defines faith.
Application:
1. Does your faith match the definition provided by the author in Hebrews 11. Is your faith pleasing to God? Do you believe there is a God and that He rewards those who earnestly seek Him? If you are only doing the former and not the latter, you’ll find yourself in poor company. See James 2:19
2. You and your spouse each pick one of the ancient ones mentioned in Hebrews 11 and do a family devotional on how they illustrated persevering faith.
Hebrews chapter 11 - the author defines faith and explains its importance
1. Read Hebrews 11: 1 - How does the author define faith?
The assurance (literal translation of the word assurance is “substance”) of things hoped for (hasn’t happened yet)
The evidence/certainty/conviction of things not seen.
Paraphrase - Faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see.
Example - Kid stuck in a tree. Father is below telling kid to jump, I’ll catch you. Father tells kid to close his eyes and jump.
2. Hebrews 11: 2-40 - How does the author illustrate what faith is? In the lives of the ancients - the men and women of old. LIST NAMES ON THE BOARD!
Does any name stand out to you? Surprise you? Rahab the prostitute. A Gentile with a bad reputation.
3. Hebrews 11: 6 - Without faith, it is impossible to do what? Please God. In order to come to God, one must do what? A) Believe God exists. B) Believe that God rewards those who seek Him. In the Greek the word “seek” is defined - to investigate, scrutinize - in depth, leave no stone unturned search.
Various translations (NIV, KJV, etc.) add the following adjectives to enhance the meaning of the word “seek”
diligent - characterized by steady, energetic application and effort
earnest - a serious and intent state of mind
sincere - marked by genuiness
All three relate to commitment.
4. What are the rewards the author is referring to? rewards/blessings - material, emotional, spiritual, (list the gifts of the Spirit) wisdom and knowledge, holiness/godliness, answers to questions. Perseverance to withstand adversity. The more time you spend with God the more rewards/blessings you receive. Ultimate reward is eternal life.
5. Faith encompasses both believing God exists and that He rewards you for seeking Him. Why are both necessary? Shouldn’t believing God exists be enough? Answer that question next when we look at how the Book of James defines faith.
Application:
1. Does your faith match the definition provided by the author in Hebrews 11. Is your faith pleasing to God? Do you believe there is a God and that He rewards those who earnestly seek Him? If you are only doing the former and not the latter, you’ll find yourself in poor company. See James 2:19
2. You and your spouse each pick one of the ancient ones mentioned in Hebrews 11 and do a family devotional on how they illustrated persevering faith.
Thursday, June 24, 2010
Non-Pauline epistles pt. 1
XIV. Hebrews
Author – Unknown. Traditionally attributed to Paul which is why it is found after Philemon. However, most Christian scholars do not believe Paul wrote Hebrews. The unknown author had great knowledge of the Old Testament and the Jewish sacrificial system. He was also well schooled in the Greek language and logic. The author presents in his epistle a rational/logical argument as to why Christ was the fulfillment of the Old Testament.
When – Written prior to the destruction of the Temple in Jerusalem in 70 A.D. Following its destruction, the Jewish sacrificial system came to an end.
To Whom – Jewish Christians. In the Old Testament, Jews were also referred to as Hebrews. The epistle was specifically targeted at Jewish believers who were tempted to revert to Judaism because of persecution or who wanted to Judaize the gospel by practicing Old Testament customs and traditions (circumcision, animal sacrifices, and strict Sabbath observances.)
Purpose – To make as clear as possible to Jews, Christian and non-Christian, the superiority of Christ over the Old Covenant. The author’s audience was very familiar with the Old Testament – scriptures, heroes, traditions, rituals, customs, sacrifices, etc. He used all of the previous found in the Old Testament to demonstrate the supremacy of Christ (He is superior to the prophets, angels, Moses, priesthood of Aaron, etc.), and to illustrate how Jesus is the fulfillment of the Old Testament/the Law. The author ends his letter with an exhortation for Jewish Christians to remain committed to their faith in the face of persecution. In the process, the author defines what faith is.
Key Verses – Hebrews 10:11-12; 11:1
XX. James
Author – James, half-brother of Jesus Christ. James was head of the Church in Jerusalem.
When – about 50 A.D.
To Whom – Jewish Christians.
Purpose – The overarching theme of James’ epistle is the relationship between faith and works. The Christians James wrote to claimed to have true faith in Jesus; yet, their actions showed no evidence to support their assertion. They practiced prejudice, discrimination, verbal abuse, quarreling, and other acts of unrighteousness. James chastised them for their hypocrisy and in the process explained what true faith is. Explain Paul vs James on topic of faith and works – Paul emphasized faith. James emphasized works. Audiences – Paul writing to Christians who believed circumcision, traditions necessary for salvation. James writing to Christians who believed believing God existed, Jesus died and resurrected was enough. Not necessary to love neighbor. James emphasis on works made Martin Luther to want to remove epistle from Bible.
Key Verses – James 2:17
Author – Unknown. Traditionally attributed to Paul which is why it is found after Philemon. However, most Christian scholars do not believe Paul wrote Hebrews. The unknown author had great knowledge of the Old Testament and the Jewish sacrificial system. He was also well schooled in the Greek language and logic. The author presents in his epistle a rational/logical argument as to why Christ was the fulfillment of the Old Testament.
When – Written prior to the destruction of the Temple in Jerusalem in 70 A.D. Following its destruction, the Jewish sacrificial system came to an end.
To Whom – Jewish Christians. In the Old Testament, Jews were also referred to as Hebrews. The epistle was specifically targeted at Jewish believers who were tempted to revert to Judaism because of persecution or who wanted to Judaize the gospel by practicing Old Testament customs and traditions (circumcision, animal sacrifices, and strict Sabbath observances.)
Purpose – To make as clear as possible to Jews, Christian and non-Christian, the superiority of Christ over the Old Covenant. The author’s audience was very familiar with the Old Testament – scriptures, heroes, traditions, rituals, customs, sacrifices, etc. He used all of the previous found in the Old Testament to demonstrate the supremacy of Christ (He is superior to the prophets, angels, Moses, priesthood of Aaron, etc.), and to illustrate how Jesus is the fulfillment of the Old Testament/the Law. The author ends his letter with an exhortation for Jewish Christians to remain committed to their faith in the face of persecution. In the process, the author defines what faith is.
Key Verses – Hebrews 10:11-12; 11:1
XX. James
Author – James, half-brother of Jesus Christ. James was head of the Church in Jerusalem.
When – about 50 A.D.
To Whom – Jewish Christians.
Purpose – The overarching theme of James’ epistle is the relationship between faith and works. The Christians James wrote to claimed to have true faith in Jesus; yet, their actions showed no evidence to support their assertion. They practiced prejudice, discrimination, verbal abuse, quarreling, and other acts of unrighteousness. James chastised them for their hypocrisy and in the process explained what true faith is. Explain Paul vs James on topic of faith and works – Paul emphasized faith. James emphasized works. Audiences – Paul writing to Christians who believed circumcision, traditions necessary for salvation. James writing to Christians who believed believing God existed, Jesus died and resurrected was enough. Not necessary to love neighbor. James emphasis on works made Martin Luther to want to remove epistle from Bible.
Key Verses – James 2:17
Thursday, June 10, 2010
Pauline epistles cont'd
XV. I Timothy
Author – Paul
When – Written about 64 A.D.
To Whom – Timothy, a disciple of Paul. He was very close to Paul. They had a father-son relationship. Paul first met Timothy during his second missionary journey through Asia Minor (present-day Turkey.) See Acts chapter 16. At the time this letter was written, Timothy was working with the church in Ephesus.
Purpose – Timothy was having to deal with a multitude of problems within the church of Ephesus – false teachings that created division and confusion, distractions that hampered worship services, poor leadership, and division based on wealth or social standing. In this letter, Paul gave Timothy instructions on how to confront these issues. He also offered encouragement to Timothy who was experiencing disrespect from the older members of the Ephesian church because of his young age. Read I Timothy chapter 4
Key verse – I Timothy 1:15-17
XVI. II Timothy
Author – Paul
When – Written about 67 A.D. from Rome shortly before Paul’s death. Chronologically, II Timothy is the last epistle Paul wrote that we have in the New Testament.
To Whom – Timothy, a disciple of Paul. He was very close to Paul. They had a father-son relationship. Paul first met Timothy during his second missionary journey through Asia Minor (present-day Turkey.) See Acts chapter 16. At the time this letter was written, Timothy was still working with the church in Ephesus.
Purpose – Paul knew that his death was near. His letter to Timothy can be read as his “Farewell Address” to Timothy and the Church. Paul was alarmed at the state of the Church. False teachings and factionalism plagued the Church. Persecution of Christians was on the rise. Given all this, Paul exhorted Timothy and the Church to remain faithful to Christ, to persevere in the face of adversity, to continue to preach the Gospel, to oppose false teachings, and to pursue righteousness. Paul informs Timothy that he, Paul, has fulfilled his mission on earth and is ready to accept his heavenly rewards.
Key verses – II Timothy 3:15-17; 4:6-8
XVII. Titus
Author – Paul
When – Written about 64 A.D.
To Whom – Titus, a Gentile Christian who worked closely with Paul. Titus acted as Paul’s “muscle.” If a church was experiencing problems – factionalism, false teaching, unrighteousness - Paul sent Titus to restore order. Example – Paul sent Titus to the church of Corinth to address and correct their many problems (II Corinthians chapters 7 and 8.) At the time Paul wrote this letter, Titus was overseeing the churches on the island of Crete off the coast of Greece. Paul and Titus had worked together to preach the gospel to the Cretans. When Paul moved on to his next destination, he left Titus with the responsibility to organize the Cretan churches and establish them in the true faith.
Purpose – Crete had a reputation for being an immoral society. Also, there was a Jewish presence on the island that did not get along with the native Cretans. The believers in Crete were immature in faith and were in need of instruction to overcome these obstacles. From reading Titus, Paul apparently found the Cretans to be difficult to minister to which is probably why he appointed Titus, “his muscle,” to oversee and establish the churches in Crete. Paul instructed Titus in the qualifications of church officials known as elders who would oversee individual churches. Paul exhorted Titus to rebuke false teachers (Titus chapter 1) and address immorality that plagued the Cretan church (Titus chapter 3.) Paul gave Titus specific instructions on what to teach the old and young, men and women, husbands and wives (Titus chapter 2.)
Key verses – Titus 2:11-15; Titus 3:3-8
XVIII. Philemon
Author – Paul
When – Written about 60 A.D. probably when Paul was imprisoned in Rome
To Whom – Philemon, a wealthy believer in Colosse, his family, and the believers meeting in his home.
Purpose – Paul wrote to Philemon to be lenient to his runaway slave Onesimus. Onesimus had fled Colosse and made his way to Rome where he met Paul in prison. Through his contact with Paul Onesimus became a Christian and assisted Paul with his ministry. The two developed a close friendsip. Onesimus is returning to Colosse and his master Philemon. Paul writes Philemon to accept Onesimus in love and as a brother in Christ not in anger and as his master. Receive him not as a slave but as a man. Welcome Onesimus as you would welcome me, Paul. He was confident that Philemon would do the right thing. Onesimus did return to Philemon bringing with him not only Paul’s letter to Philemon but also a letter Paul wrote to the church in Colosse that is the New Testament epistle known as Colossians. Read Colossians 4:7-9
Key verses – Philemon 1:6-7
Author – Paul
When – Written about 64 A.D.
To Whom – Timothy, a disciple of Paul. He was very close to Paul. They had a father-son relationship. Paul first met Timothy during his second missionary journey through Asia Minor (present-day Turkey.) See Acts chapter 16. At the time this letter was written, Timothy was working with the church in Ephesus.
Purpose – Timothy was having to deal with a multitude of problems within the church of Ephesus – false teachings that created division and confusion, distractions that hampered worship services, poor leadership, and division based on wealth or social standing. In this letter, Paul gave Timothy instructions on how to confront these issues. He also offered encouragement to Timothy who was experiencing disrespect from the older members of the Ephesian church because of his young age. Read I Timothy chapter 4
Key verse – I Timothy 1:15-17
XVI. II Timothy
Author – Paul
When – Written about 67 A.D. from Rome shortly before Paul’s death. Chronologically, II Timothy is the last epistle Paul wrote that we have in the New Testament.
To Whom – Timothy, a disciple of Paul. He was very close to Paul. They had a father-son relationship. Paul first met Timothy during his second missionary journey through Asia Minor (present-day Turkey.) See Acts chapter 16. At the time this letter was written, Timothy was still working with the church in Ephesus.
Purpose – Paul knew that his death was near. His letter to Timothy can be read as his “Farewell Address” to Timothy and the Church. Paul was alarmed at the state of the Church. False teachings and factionalism plagued the Church. Persecution of Christians was on the rise. Given all this, Paul exhorted Timothy and the Church to remain faithful to Christ, to persevere in the face of adversity, to continue to preach the Gospel, to oppose false teachings, and to pursue righteousness. Paul informs Timothy that he, Paul, has fulfilled his mission on earth and is ready to accept his heavenly rewards.
Key verses – II Timothy 3:15-17; 4:6-8
XVII. Titus
Author – Paul
When – Written about 64 A.D.
To Whom – Titus, a Gentile Christian who worked closely with Paul. Titus acted as Paul’s “muscle.” If a church was experiencing problems – factionalism, false teaching, unrighteousness - Paul sent Titus to restore order. Example – Paul sent Titus to the church of Corinth to address and correct their many problems (II Corinthians chapters 7 and 8.) At the time Paul wrote this letter, Titus was overseeing the churches on the island of Crete off the coast of Greece. Paul and Titus had worked together to preach the gospel to the Cretans. When Paul moved on to his next destination, he left Titus with the responsibility to organize the Cretan churches and establish them in the true faith.
Purpose – Crete had a reputation for being an immoral society. Also, there was a Jewish presence on the island that did not get along with the native Cretans. The believers in Crete were immature in faith and were in need of instruction to overcome these obstacles. From reading Titus, Paul apparently found the Cretans to be difficult to minister to which is probably why he appointed Titus, “his muscle,” to oversee and establish the churches in Crete. Paul instructed Titus in the qualifications of church officials known as elders who would oversee individual churches. Paul exhorted Titus to rebuke false teachers (Titus chapter 1) and address immorality that plagued the Cretan church (Titus chapter 3.) Paul gave Titus specific instructions on what to teach the old and young, men and women, husbands and wives (Titus chapter 2.)
Key verses – Titus 2:11-15; Titus 3:3-8
XVIII. Philemon
Author – Paul
When – Written about 60 A.D. probably when Paul was imprisoned in Rome
To Whom – Philemon, a wealthy believer in Colosse, his family, and the believers meeting in his home.
Purpose – Paul wrote to Philemon to be lenient to his runaway slave Onesimus. Onesimus had fled Colosse and made his way to Rome where he met Paul in prison. Through his contact with Paul Onesimus became a Christian and assisted Paul with his ministry. The two developed a close friendsip. Onesimus is returning to Colosse and his master Philemon. Paul writes Philemon to accept Onesimus in love and as a brother in Christ not in anger and as his master. Receive him not as a slave but as a man. Welcome Onesimus as you would welcome me, Paul. He was confident that Philemon would do the right thing. Onesimus did return to Philemon bringing with him not only Paul’s letter to Philemon but also a letter Paul wrote to the church in Colosse that is the New Testament epistle known as Colossians. Read Colossians 4:7-9
Key verses – Philemon 1:6-7
Pauline epistles cont'd
VII. I Corinthians
Author – Paul
When – Written about 54 A.D.
To Whom - Believers in Corinth, a wealthy, prominent city in Greece.
Purpose – To address factionalism and immorality plaguing the church.
Key verse - I Corinthians chapter 13
VIII. II Corinthians
Author – Paul
When – Written about 58 A.D.
To Whom - Believers in Corinth, a wealthy, prominent city in Greece.
Purpose – To defend Paul’s call as an apostle; warnings regarding false apostles; exhortation to give.
Key verse - II Corinthians 12:5-10
IX. Galatians
Author – Paul
When – Written about 50 A.D.
To Whom - Believers in the region of Galatia located in Asia Minor (present day Turkey.)
Purpose – To warn against legalism; Reiterate that salvation is attained by faith not works; what is true righteousness; role of Holy Spirit.
Key verse - Galatians 6:7-10, 17
X. Ephesians
Author – Paul
When – Written about 61 A.D. when Paul was imprisoned in Rome
To Whom - Believers in Ephesus located on the west coast of Asia Minor (present day Turkey.) Wealthy trade city. Home to the Temple of Artemis, one of the seven wonders of the ancient world.
Purpose – To encourage the believers, especially the Gentiles, to pursue righteousness; called for unity among believers, Jew and Gentile, husbands and wives, parents and children, employer and employees; how to overcome Satan – the armor of God.
Key verse – Ephesians 5:1
XI. Philippians
Author – Paul
When – Written about 60 A.D. probably when Paul was imprisoned in Rome
To Whom - Believers in Philippi located in Macedonia in northern Greece.
Purpose – Paul does not write anything negative about the church. He expresses his love and gratitude for the Philippian believers. He encourages unity. He offers counsel and encouragement on how to endure suffering and adversity.
Key verses – Philippians 1:27-30; 4:4-7
XII. Colossians
Author – Paul
When – Written about 60 A.D. probably when Paul was imprisoned in Rome
To Whom - Believers in Colosse located in southwestern Asia Minor (present day Turkey.) The city was in a state of decline during Paul’s day. The church was founded by Epaphras, one of Paul’s disciples. After the Colossians had finished reading the letter, they were to pass it on to the believers in Laodicea for them to read.
Purpose – The believers in Colosse had fallen prey to false teachings that questioned the deity of Jesus Christ – that He was God in flesh. These false teachers believed the flesh was evil; therefore, God would not lower Himself to put on sinful flesh. They also taught that one attained salvation from evil not through the death and resurrection of Jesus but by learning secret knowledge (gnosis.) Without this secret knowledge, a person would continue to live in bondage to ignorance and enslavement to evil. At death, his/her spirit will not know unity with the Supreme God. Paul wrote this letter to Colosse to denounce such teachings. See Colossians 1:15-27; 2:8-20. To encourage the believers, especially the Gentiles, to pursue righteousness. See Colossians chapter 3.
Key verses – Colossians 3:15-17
XIII. I Thessalonians
Author – Paul
When – Written about 51 A.D.
To Whom - Believers in Thessalonica, the largest city in Macedonia. It was a major military and commercial city located along a major Roman road. The city contained a large number of temples to Roman gods. The Gospel was not well received in Thessalonica. The believers were few in number and were experiencing persecution. See I Thessalonians 2:14-16. They had become greatly discouraged.
Purpose – To encourage the believers who were experiencing tremendous persecution and to express his concern for their spiritual health. Paul feared that the Thessalonian believers felt abandoned by him which Paul repeatedly stated was not the case. To encourage the believers, especially the Gentiles, to pursue righteousness. See I Thessalonians chapter 4. Paul offered assurance to the believers that those have died due to persecution will be resurrected first at Christ’s return and then those who are alive. When that will be, Paul writes that no one knows; therefore, be alert and pursue righteousness.
Key verse – I Thessalonians 5:16-22
XIV. II Thessalonians
Author – Paul
When – Written about 52 A.D.
To Whom - Believers in Thessalonica, the largest city in Macedonia. It was a major military and commercial city located along a major Roman road. The city contained a large number of temples to Roman gods.
Purpose – To clarify what he wrote in his first letter regarding Christ’s return. Some believers had developed an unhealthy fixation about Christ’s return. Others were in a state of panic because they had been duped by false teachers claiming to be from Paul who said that Jesus had already returned. To rebuke those taking advantage of the charity of Christians.
Key verse – II Thessalonians 2:15
Author – Paul
When – Written about 54 A.D.
To Whom - Believers in Corinth, a wealthy, prominent city in Greece.
Purpose – To address factionalism and immorality plaguing the church.
Key verse - I Corinthians chapter 13
VIII. II Corinthians
Author – Paul
When – Written about 58 A.D.
To Whom - Believers in Corinth, a wealthy, prominent city in Greece.
Purpose – To defend Paul’s call as an apostle; warnings regarding false apostles; exhortation to give.
Key verse - II Corinthians 12:5-10
IX. Galatians
Author – Paul
When – Written about 50 A.D.
To Whom - Believers in the region of Galatia located in Asia Minor (present day Turkey.)
Purpose – To warn against legalism; Reiterate that salvation is attained by faith not works; what is true righteousness; role of Holy Spirit.
Key verse - Galatians 6:7-10, 17
X. Ephesians
Author – Paul
When – Written about 61 A.D. when Paul was imprisoned in Rome
To Whom - Believers in Ephesus located on the west coast of Asia Minor (present day Turkey.) Wealthy trade city. Home to the Temple of Artemis, one of the seven wonders of the ancient world.
Purpose – To encourage the believers, especially the Gentiles, to pursue righteousness; called for unity among believers, Jew and Gentile, husbands and wives, parents and children, employer and employees; how to overcome Satan – the armor of God.
Key verse – Ephesians 5:1
XI. Philippians
Author – Paul
When – Written about 60 A.D. probably when Paul was imprisoned in Rome
To Whom - Believers in Philippi located in Macedonia in northern Greece.
Purpose – Paul does not write anything negative about the church. He expresses his love and gratitude for the Philippian believers. He encourages unity. He offers counsel and encouragement on how to endure suffering and adversity.
Key verses – Philippians 1:27-30; 4:4-7
XII. Colossians
Author – Paul
When – Written about 60 A.D. probably when Paul was imprisoned in Rome
To Whom - Believers in Colosse located in southwestern Asia Minor (present day Turkey.) The city was in a state of decline during Paul’s day. The church was founded by Epaphras, one of Paul’s disciples. After the Colossians had finished reading the letter, they were to pass it on to the believers in Laodicea for them to read.
Purpose – The believers in Colosse had fallen prey to false teachings that questioned the deity of Jesus Christ – that He was God in flesh. These false teachers believed the flesh was evil; therefore, God would not lower Himself to put on sinful flesh. They also taught that one attained salvation from evil not through the death and resurrection of Jesus but by learning secret knowledge (gnosis.) Without this secret knowledge, a person would continue to live in bondage to ignorance and enslavement to evil. At death, his/her spirit will not know unity with the Supreme God. Paul wrote this letter to Colosse to denounce such teachings. See Colossians 1:15-27; 2:8-20. To encourage the believers, especially the Gentiles, to pursue righteousness. See Colossians chapter 3.
Key verses – Colossians 3:15-17
XIII. I Thessalonians
Author – Paul
When – Written about 51 A.D.
To Whom - Believers in Thessalonica, the largest city in Macedonia. It was a major military and commercial city located along a major Roman road. The city contained a large number of temples to Roman gods. The Gospel was not well received in Thessalonica. The believers were few in number and were experiencing persecution. See I Thessalonians 2:14-16. They had become greatly discouraged.
Purpose – To encourage the believers who were experiencing tremendous persecution and to express his concern for their spiritual health. Paul feared that the Thessalonian believers felt abandoned by him which Paul repeatedly stated was not the case. To encourage the believers, especially the Gentiles, to pursue righteousness. See I Thessalonians chapter 4. Paul offered assurance to the believers that those have died due to persecution will be resurrected first at Christ’s return and then those who are alive. When that will be, Paul writes that no one knows; therefore, be alert and pursue righteousness.
Key verse – I Thessalonians 5:16-22
XIV. II Thessalonians
Author – Paul
When – Written about 52 A.D.
To Whom - Believers in Thessalonica, the largest city in Macedonia. It was a major military and commercial city located along a major Roman road. The city contained a large number of temples to Roman gods.
Purpose – To clarify what he wrote in his first letter regarding Christ’s return. Some believers had developed an unhealthy fixation about Christ’s return. Others were in a state of panic because they had been duped by false teachers claiming to be from Paul who said that Jesus had already returned. To rebuke those taking advantage of the charity of Christians.
Key verse – II Thessalonians 2:15
Wednesday, April 14, 2010
Overview of the Epistles of Paul
What is an epistle? A letter. Before e-mail and text messaging, a person use to get a pencil/pen and piece of paper and write about what is going on in their life, ask what’s going on in your life, how the family is doing, what the weather was doing, etc. They would put the letter in an envelope and mail it to whoever they wrote the letter to. The epistles of Paul were letters from Paul to groups of Christians and individuals. These letters were not social letters. They were sermons. Their purpose was to provide instructions on Godly living. Remember, there is no Bible. Yes, there was the Old Testament and early believers did read it; however, the Old Testament did not include the teachings of Jesus Christ. Paul, inspired by the Holy Spirit, wrote letters to the churches to share and instruct them in the teachings of Jesus.
If you recall from the book of Acts, Paul went on three missionary journeys through Asia Minor (present day Turkey) and Greece. He stopped at cities (Ephesus, Corinth, Philippi, etc.) along his journeys to preach the Gospel and strengthen/encourage/disciple believers. After leaving a city, Paul did not forget the believers he left behind. During his travels, Paul regularly kept tabs on the fledgling churches. Christians from these churches would visit Paul, usually when he was in prison, and Paul would ask them how things were in Ephesus, Corinth, Galatia. He would then compose a letter to address whatever issues the churches were experiencing. Paul would give words of discipline, encouragement, clarification, instruction all based on the teachings of Jesus Christ. The letter was read to the entire church; church leaders studied Paul’s words; church members discussed them in their homes. Oftentimes, the letter would be passed on to a nearby church for them to read. Ex. Colossians 4:16; Galatians. Paul’s letters were extremely valuable to early believers. No less than Peter himself placed Paul’s epistles on par with the Old Testament Scriptures (II Peter 3:15-16.) Therefore, the early believers made every effort to preserve his words so that they could regularly be reviewed as well as be passed on to future generations of believers. They did so by making copies.
Common themes found in Paul’s epistles:
1. How to be a Christian: Paul explained the principle of salvation – how does one become a Christian? In the process, Paul defined basic Christian concepts such as sin and faith.
2. What it means to be a Christian: After you become a Christian, what’s next? Paul explained the principle of righteousness – living a life based on God’s standards. That life should be different from the one you lived before you became a Christian. Paul explains the role the Holy Spirit plays in enabling us to live a righteous life.
3. Confronting adversity and tribulation: Early believers experienced persecution on every level – family, community, national. This persecution was not just physical. It was also social and economic. To the persecuted, Paul informed them about the source of contentment, hope, comfort, and peace.
4. Unity of believers: Paul emphasized the importance of unity in the church. He regularly compared the church to the human body and referred to the church as the body of Christ. A body is made up of different parts that must function together in order for the body to work properly. The early churches were made up of Jews and Gentiles who regularly did not get along. Among the more Gentile churches, factionalism was a problem. Members were divided over teachings, rituals, etc. To promote unity among believers, Paul taught on the concepts of forgiveness, acceptance, humility, and most importantly love all of which were characteristics embodied in Christ.
5. Words of warning against false teachings. The early church faced threats from false teachers. They included Jews who taught that in order to be a true Christian one had to strictly adhere to the Mosaic Law – circumcision, diet, festivals, etc. Paul condemned such teaching regularly in his epistles. He also cautioned early believers about “wolves in sheep clothing.” They were false teachers who claimed to have a more complete Gospel. The words sounded Christian but there would be a sprinkling of falsehoods that only a mature believer would recognize. Paul often had to counter these false teachings in his epistles.
VI. Romans
Author – Paul
When – Written around 57 A.D.
To Whom - Believers in Rome, the capital of the Roman Empire.
Purpose – To explain salvation, sin, righteousness, faith versus works, and the vital role of the Holy Spirit.
Key verse - Romans 12:1-2
If you recall from the book of Acts, Paul went on three missionary journeys through Asia Minor (present day Turkey) and Greece. He stopped at cities (Ephesus, Corinth, Philippi, etc.) along his journeys to preach the Gospel and strengthen/encourage/disciple believers. After leaving a city, Paul did not forget the believers he left behind. During his travels, Paul regularly kept tabs on the fledgling churches. Christians from these churches would visit Paul, usually when he was in prison, and Paul would ask them how things were in Ephesus, Corinth, Galatia. He would then compose a letter to address whatever issues the churches were experiencing. Paul would give words of discipline, encouragement, clarification, instruction all based on the teachings of Jesus Christ. The letter was read to the entire church; church leaders studied Paul’s words; church members discussed them in their homes. Oftentimes, the letter would be passed on to a nearby church for them to read. Ex. Colossians 4:16; Galatians. Paul’s letters were extremely valuable to early believers. No less than Peter himself placed Paul’s epistles on par with the Old Testament Scriptures (II Peter 3:15-16.) Therefore, the early believers made every effort to preserve his words so that they could regularly be reviewed as well as be passed on to future generations of believers. They did so by making copies.
Common themes found in Paul’s epistles:
1. How to be a Christian: Paul explained the principle of salvation – how does one become a Christian? In the process, Paul defined basic Christian concepts such as sin and faith.
2. What it means to be a Christian: After you become a Christian, what’s next? Paul explained the principle of righteousness – living a life based on God’s standards. That life should be different from the one you lived before you became a Christian. Paul explains the role the Holy Spirit plays in enabling us to live a righteous life.
3. Confronting adversity and tribulation: Early believers experienced persecution on every level – family, community, national. This persecution was not just physical. It was also social and economic. To the persecuted, Paul informed them about the source of contentment, hope, comfort, and peace.
4. Unity of believers: Paul emphasized the importance of unity in the church. He regularly compared the church to the human body and referred to the church as the body of Christ. A body is made up of different parts that must function together in order for the body to work properly. The early churches were made up of Jews and Gentiles who regularly did not get along. Among the more Gentile churches, factionalism was a problem. Members were divided over teachings, rituals, etc. To promote unity among believers, Paul taught on the concepts of forgiveness, acceptance, humility, and most importantly love all of which were characteristics embodied in Christ.
5. Words of warning against false teachings. The early church faced threats from false teachers. They included Jews who taught that in order to be a true Christian one had to strictly adhere to the Mosaic Law – circumcision, diet, festivals, etc. Paul condemned such teaching regularly in his epistles. He also cautioned early believers about “wolves in sheep clothing.” They were false teachers who claimed to have a more complete Gospel. The words sounded Christian but there would be a sprinkling of falsehoods that only a mature believer would recognize. Paul often had to counter these false teachings in his epistles.
VI. Romans
Author – Paul
When – Written around 57 A.D.
To Whom - Believers in Rome, the capital of the Roman Empire.
Purpose – To explain salvation, sin, righteousness, faith versus works, and the vital role of the Holy Spirit.
Key verse - Romans 12:1-2
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