Triston Reman My First Book

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TOGETHER WE

CAN CHANGE THEWORLD

T R I S T O N B I B E R

F L O W E R B A Y R O A T A N

2 4 4 5 4 0 6 3

8 9 7 5 1 5 9 7

Triston

THIS BOOK IS ALL ABOUT TEAM WORK AND

BRINGING PEOPLE CLOSER TO GOD



TRISTON REMAN

THE BEST OF THE WEST

TOGETHER WE CAN

CHANGE THE WORLD

IN CHRIST

BY: TRISTON REMAN



Information about this Book

Overview

This book publication is provided as a service of making god word our own

is part of a larger collection. Please visit Tbklove.missionplace.com for

complete list of available publications

About the Author

Triston Reman is considered to bring people closer to god

Because there are a lot that don’t believe in him

This is m first book and its is for ou to en!o

"urther #inks

TRI$TO% R&'A% (AR&

&nd )ser #icense Agreement

The viewing* printing or downloading of this book grants ou onl a limited*

none+clusive and nontransferable license for use solel b ou for our own

personal use. This license does not permit republication* distribution* assignment*

sublicense* sale* preparation of derivative works* or other use. An unauthori,ed

use of this book terminates the license granted hereb.

- (opright /0/ b triston reman care.inc

"or more information about the author* publishers* or how ou can support this

service* please contact triston00001gmail.com 2e are thankful

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for our interest and feedback and wish ou 3od’s blessing as ou read.

(O%T&%T$

Information about this Book . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 0

Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 0

About the Author . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 0

"urther #inks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 0

&nd )ser #icense Agreement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 0

A 2ord to the Reader . . . . . . . . . . .

(hapter /0. 4ow helping other can reduce stress and increase happiness . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

. .

(hapter /. 4ow 3od 2orks in Our #ives. . . . . . . . . . . . . .

(hapter /5. 4ow to (hange 6ourself7 . . . . . . 88.

(hapter /9. 4ow can we be sure :esus has forgiveness; 888.

(hapter /<. 3od help with our trouble888888

(hapter /=. $elf control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

(hapter />. 2hat the bible sa about mone. . . . . . . .

(hapter /?. Pride versus humilit. . . . . . . . .

(hapter /@.Relationships. . . . . . . .

(hapter 0/.24AT T4& BIB#& $A6 ABO)T #O&. . . . . . . . .

(hapter 00.3ossip . . . .

(hapter I . 2hat the bible sa about fait.. . . . . . . . . .

(hapter I5.'odern da idolatr. . . . . . . . .

(hapter I9.$et our minds on things above* not on earthl things. . . . . . . . . . . .

(hapter 0<. Temptation. . . . . . . . . . . .



(hapter 0=. Team work . . . . . . . . .

(hapter 0>. #oneliness. . . . . . . . .

(hapter 0?. #)(C. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

(hapter 0@. 3uilt. . . . . . . . . . . . . .

(hapter /. 4onest . . . . . . . .

(hapter 0. Blasphem . . . . . . . . .

(hapter . Re!ection. . . . . . . . .

(hapter 5. second coming of the lord888..

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B Triston reman

Author of this book



(4APT&R 0

4ow 4elping Others (an Reduce $tress and Increase 4appiness

4elping others brings good feelings to the giver and the receiver of the good deeds. )sing

our special gifts to help others can be a gift to ourself as ou en!o a self esteem boost for

making others’ lives better* and make the world a better place. 6ou feel more worth of

good deeds ourself* our trust in the decenc of people is reinforced* and ou feel more

connected to ourself and to others. In fact* research shows that those who demonstrate

more altruistic social interest tend to en!o higher levels of mental health* above and

beond the practical benefits of receiving help and other known pschospiritual* stress* and

demographic factors that ou would e+pect.

(reating a balanced lifestle that includes service to others can help ou feel less stress as

well* as ou feel more connected to our spirit* more grateful for what ou have* and less

invested in the Drat race’ that causes stress for so man of us. "ocusing on the positive in

life* and creating more positive things in the world* can help ou to maintain greater

feelings of happiness and fulfillment as well.

The following articles can give ou ideas and resources for how to create a life that includes

more helping others.

"inding 'eaning Through 4elping Others7 Eo ou have a nagging feeling that somethingFs

missing; 'an people find volunteering time* mone or castoffs as a wa to give life

meaning. #earn more about how getting involved in a cause ou believe in can help reduce

stress* increase happiness* and bring more meaning to our life. These tips make it eas for

people of various lifestles.



"ollow 6our Passion7 This resource from Oprah helps ou to look within ourself and see

what ouFd like to be doing to help others* and then do itG

%etwork "or 3ood7 This site can help ou keep track of our charitable donations for ta+

purposes. Better still* it can help ou find volunteer opportunities in our area that fit our

criteria* whether ouFre looking to help a lonel senior* pla with a homeless pupp* or getinvolved with a different cause.

2hen ou help other who need help ou receive blessing from de lord* is god to help one

And each other* team work is al its take to get the !ob done. 4ere are some of the some of

the verse that talk about team work7 &cclesiastes 97@0 &$ H </? helpful votes

Two are better than one* because the have a good reward for their toil. "or if the fall* one

will lift up his fellow. But woe to him who is alone when he falls and has not another to lift

him upG Again* if two lie together* the keep warm* but how can one keep warm alone; And

though a man might prevail against one who is alone* two will withstand hima threefold

cord is not Juickl broken.

0 (orinthians 07/< &$ H

As it is* there are man parts* et one bod. The ee cannot sa to the hand* KI have no

need of ou*L nor again the head to the feet* KI have no need of ou.L On the contrar* the

parts of the bod that seem to be weaker are indispensable* and on those parts of the bod

that we think less honorable we bestow the greater honor* and our unpresentable parts are

treated with greater modest* which our more presentable parts do not reJuire. But 3odhas so composed the bod* giving greater honor to the part that lacked it* ...

Philippians 705/ &$ H

$o if there is an encouragement in (hrist* an comfort from love* an participation in the

$pirit* an affection and smpath* complete m !o b being of the same mind* having the

same love* being in full accord and of one mind. Eo nothing from rivalr or conceit* but in

humilit count others more significant than ourselves. #et each of ou look not onl to his

own interests* but also to the interests of others. 4ave this mind among ourselves* which is

ours in (hrist :esus* ...

:ohn 0>7/5 &$ H

KI do not ask for these onl* but also for those who will believe in me through their word*

that the ma all be one* !ust as ou* "ather* are in me* and I in ou* that the also ma be

in us* so that the world ma believe that ou have sent me. The glor that ou have given

me I have given to them* that the ma be one even as we are one* I in them and ou in me*



that the ma become perfectl one* so that the world ma know that ou sent me and

loved them even as ou loved me.

0 Peter 70< &$ 7$o put awa all malice and all deceit and

hpocris and env and all slander. #ike newborn infants* long for the pure spiritual milk*

that b it ou ma grow up into salvation if indeed ou have tasted that the #ord is good.As ou come to him* a living stone re!ected b men but in the sight of 3od chosen and

precious* ou ourselves like living stones are being built up as a spiritual house* to be a

hol priesthood* to offer spiritual sacrifices acceptable to 3od through :esus (hrist. ...

0 (orinthians 07090= &$ H

"or the bod does not consist of one member but of man. If the foot should sa* KBecause I

am not a hand* I do not belong to the bod*L that would not make it an less a part of the

bod. And if the ear should sa* KBecause I am not an ee* I do not belong to the bod*L that

would not make it an less a part of the bod.

It’s often been said that it’s better to give than to receive* but did ou know that this clichM

is actuall backed b research; 2hile man of us feel too stressed and bus to worr about

helping others with their burdens* or would like to think about doing good deeds when we

have more Dspare’ time* energ and mone* altruism is its own reward* and can actuall

help ou relieve stress. Altruistic acts can improve our Jualit of life in several was* and

are absolutel worth the effort. 4ere are some was that helping others helps ou.

Ceeping Things In Perspective

'an people don’t reali,e the strong impact that their comparisons have on their outlook.

4owever* our e+pectations of life and the people ou compare ourself to can make a real

difference in our level of life satisfaction. "or e+ample* our home ma seem shabb to

ou if ou’re comparing it to the living rooms ou see in the pages of decorating maga,ines*

or it ma seem palatial and opulent compared to the structures inhabited b people in

impoverished countries. 4elping others in need* especiall those who are less fortunate

than ou* can provide ou with a sense of perspective on how fortunate ou are to have

what ou do in life be it health* mone* or a safe place to sleep* and help ou focus less on

the things ou feel ou lack. 4elping others with their problems can also help ou gain amore positive perspective on the things in life that cause ou stress.

These are was ou help lead a person in (hrist



$tep one7 3odFs purpose* peace* and love. 3od wants ou to e+perience peace and life

abundantl and eternall NRomans <70* :ohn 570=* 0/70/.

$tep Two7 Our problem7 $eparation. 3od created us in 4is own image to have abundant

life. 4e did not make us robots to automaticall love and obe 4im but gave us the gift of

free choice. 4ence* we chose to disobe 3od on our own will* which resulted in ourseparation NRomans 575* =75. Our attempts through the ages have failed to bridge the

gap NIsaiah <@7* Proverbs 0970.

$tep Three7 3odFs remed7 The cross. :esus (hrist is the onl answer to this problem. 4e

died on the cross* rose from the grave* and paid our penalt NI Timoth 7<* I Peter 570?*

Romans <7?.

$tep "our7 Our Response. To receive (hrist* we must trust in 4im b personal invitation

NRevelation 57/* :ohn 070* Romans 0/7@. Then pra with the individual and make sure

the receive discipling. And focus on the basics* which include praer* scripture* devotionallife* accountabilit* and discipleship.

Priorities7 2e should see a church that is growing in :esus (hrist in three priorities7

"irst* worship* praise and stud NPhilippians 570/.

$econd* growing in a relationship with other believers and discipleship N'atthew <75*

Proverbs 0>70>.

Third* reaching our friends* neighbors* and the world N'atthew ?* 3enesis 0705.

The Romans Road

The Romans Road is a group of Bible verses from the book of Romans that are used to help

people to better understand $alvation* and to lead people to (hrist. NRomans 575* <7?*

=75* 0/7@0/* 0/705

The "irst thing ou have to reali,e is that 6O) AR& a sinner. Romans 575 states* Q"or

all have sinned and fallen short of the glor of 3od.Q

2e are A## sinners. But* 3od loves us and 4e sent 4is son* :esus (hrist* to die on the

cross for our sins.

%e+t reali,e that 3od #oves 6O). Romans <7? sas* QBut 3od demonstrates his own love

for us in this7 2hile we were et sinners* (hrist died for us.Q There is no greater love than

that someone would la down their life for a friend. ThatFs what (hrist did for us.

2ithout 4im* ouFre literall doomed. Romans =75* Q"or the wages of sin is death* but

the gift of 3od is eternal life through :esus (hrist.Q



6es* the wages of sin is death* but 3od has given us the privilege of &ternal life in (hrist.

ItFs a gift* ou donFt have to work for it* !ust A$CG 2hat a giftGGG

(onfess our sins.... Romans 0/7@0/* QThat if ou confess with our mouth* F:esus is

#ordF* and believe in our heart that 3od raised him from the dead* ou will be saved. "or

it is with our heart that ou believe and are !ustified* and it is with our mouth that ouconfess and are savedQ Romans 0/705* Q"or &verone who calls on the name of the #ord*

will be saved.Q

ThatFs all ou have to doG N(all on the name of :esus and ask him into our heart* and ou

will be saved from the eternal pits of 4ellG

T4& PRA6&R.... If ou honestl* in our heart* believe everthing that was said here* pra

this praer7

Eear :esus* I C%O2 I am a sinner. I know that ou were sent b 3od to die on the cross* to

save me from m sins. I ask ou now to forgive me of the sins I have committed* and come

into m heart. Thank ou for ding on the cross for me. "rom this da forward* I will

follow our will and serve ou. A'&%.

If ou praed that Praer* and believe* welcome to the kingdom of 3odG 2e wish ou

would share this with a friend or famil member* and we would love to hear from ou.

2hat %e+t;

4elp and 'ake sure that person will7

"ind a (hurch. %ow ou will need to find a church* so ou can !oin the famil of 3od.

The will be there to lead ou down the path of (hristian living. The are not onl spiritual

guides* but also can be ver close friends. The will alwas be there when ou need them.

3et a Bible. A Bible is one of the most important tools for a (hristian. I would recommend

an %#T N%ew #iving Translation or the %I N%ew International ersion. A stud Bible is

the best. If ou would rather read a more literal translation of the Bible* ou should get a

%A$B N%ew American $tandard or C: NCing :ames ersion.

Pra dail. Praing is another important factor. Pick a time that everdaS ou have Juiet

time to pra everda. $uch as before ou go to bed* or when ou get up in the morning.

$ee our QArticle Erawing %ear to the 4eart of 3odQ and others on our Eiscipleship

(hannel for more information and helpsG

2hatever approach ou use* never argue or condemn the other personFs beliefs. "ocus on

3odFs love for the person* :esusF death on the cross for our sins* 4is resurrection* and the



personFs need to make a commitment to follow (hrist. Invite the person to actuall pra

with ou and commit his or her life to (hrist.

(4APT&R

4ow 3od 2orks in Our #ives

The Bible tells us that we can have a relationship with 3od. 4ow would a relationship with

3od impact us; $ome relationships are like nuclear e+plosions. There is blinding heat and

light and then a whole lot of damage. $ome relationships are like roller coasters ; up and

down. $ome relationships never seem to change. 2hat is a relationship with 3od like; 4ow

does 3od work in our lives;

According to :esus* over time* 3ods influence on our lives grows beond our e+pectations

until it becomes allconsuming. Relationship with 3od takes place over time. 3od builds a

relationship with us continuall and faithfull* but not e+plosivel. 4e does not bpass our

wills* 4e changes them slowl over time. But the result is beond our e+pectations.

)ltimatel* we become like 4im and 4e becomes the ver center of our lives.

The Bible promises that anone is able to know 3odFs will* be forgiven of sin* resist

temptation* endure hardship* serve obedientl* and receive eternal life. 3od provides the

power we need through :esusF blood* the $criptures* praer* hope* love* and other

(hristians. %o one needs to be lost. Anone can overcome their past* achieve victor over

sin* and become what 3od reJuires himHher to be.

:oshua 07>*? 'ost people want to succeed in some area7 business* famil relations* music*

athletics* politics* education* etc. 3od promised :oshua he could succeed in the most

important activit in life7 serving 3od.

People toda also need reassurance that we can succeed in being right with 3od.

People who are not (hristians are sometimes overwhelmed b the sacrifices (hristians

must make* the work to do* habits to change. The become so discouraged the do not eventr.

(hristians ma also become discouraged as the tr to live for 3od and find the have

failed in some area. $ome give up entirel. Others pretend to serve 3od while living in sin

and e+cusing themselves b saing the simpl cannot accomplish what the Bible sas.



The purpose of this stud is to show that 3od has provided all the blessings we need to

serve 4im successfull and receive eternal life.

These blessings are available to everone. 2e must meet conditions that reJuire effort and

sacrifice* but all of us are capable of meeting these conditions. 6ou can have 3odFs power

working in our lifeG

(onsider the Bible promises. %ote words referring to power* strength* and abilit in these

verses.

&+7 $uppose a powerful enem is coming to attack our cit* destro our wives and

children* causing great pain and grief. The enem has a powerful weapon which our arm

is convinced it cannot defeat.

Then the soldiers learn of someone who has a powerful new weapon. &verwhere it has

been used* the enem has been defeated.

The new weapon is obtained so ever soldier can have one. The weapons come with an

instruction manual. 'eetings are set up so the soldiers can learn how to use the weapon.

6our arm can successfull win the victorG All the soldiers have to do is attend the

meetings* stud the manual* and use the weapons provided.

2ould ou want those soldiers to sta home from 0H to H5 of the meetings* when the

could come; $hould the dadream through the meetings; $hould the take the manuals

home* la them on the shelf* and rarel read them;

The enem is $atan. 6ou and I are the soldiers. 2e will surel lose* not !ust our lives* but

our souls eternall unless we learn how to defeat $atanFs forces. 3od has provided armor

that is guaranteed to defeat $atan* but we must learn to use it. It comes with a manual we

must stud the Bible. The church is instructed to provide meetings so we can learn to use

the weapons.

6ou can successfull win the battle against $atan b the means 3od has supplied. Are ou

studing and attending the meetings diligentl so ou can be successful; Are ou as diligent

as ou would want soldiers to be if the were defending ou and our famil in wartime;

4ave ou even et enlisted in the arm;

Philippians 07=

As we !ourne down the road of life* it has man twists and turns in it and also some

mountaintop and valle e+periences. In the midst of all this* we ')$T see 3odFs hand

working throughout our lives.



(an we mess up 3odFs plan for our lives; $ort of es* and sort of no. 2e will do things that

are %OT 3odFs willS like sin* disobedience Nwhich is sin* etc.* that will get us off of 3odFs

track for our lives. But the moment we repent and seek 4im* 4e works us back into 4is

plan and will for our lives.6ou ma think no* ou donFt understand* I messed up too bad

for 3od to use me. %o* that is not soGGGI have wrestled with that mself* but we need to

remember that 3od is BI33&R than our messups. And guess what; 3od C%&2 ou

were going to mess up even B&"OR& ou messed up. 4e also C%&2 when ou would

repent and had A#R&AE6 laid out the path B&"OR&4A%E to get ou back on track with

4is will for ou 2O2GGG%ot onl does 3od move in straightening out our messups* but

4e also is moving in our everda life as we walk with 4im.

3od has probabl directed our lives as we have sought his will on specific matters. The

following twelve principles reveal how 3od can guide his children toda.

EI$(O&RI%3 3OEF$ P#A% "OR 6O)R #I"&

0. (ommit ourself to do 3odFs will N:ohn >70>S Rom. 070* .

. #ook for 3odFs will in the Bible NPs. 00@70/<.

5. Pra for guidance in appling 3odFs will N#uke 0?70.

9. 'ake sure our motives are pure in seeking 3odFs will N'att. =7.

<. Begin b doing what ou know is right NRom. 07.

=. "ace our own thoughts* strengths* and weaknesses realisticall N0 (or 0700* @50.

>. 6ou will have inner peace if our decisions are correct

NPhil. 97>S (ol. 570<.

?. $eek spiritual counsel from godl people NPs. 00709.

@. $tud circumstances to see whether doors are open or closed NActs 0=7=* >S 0 (or. 0=7@.

0/. Eo not move forward until ou know ou are obeing the Bible NIsa. 9/750.

00. :udge decisions b the long look NRom. 07S ?75@.

0. Be fle+ible about past decisions ou have made regarding the will of 3od NPhil. 5705.



(4APT&R 5

4ow to (hange 6ourself

Becoming a (hristian reJuires change. 2e must remove old habits and develop new ones.

This stud considers Bible principles to help us improve ourselves7 faith* love* repentance*

Bible stud* praer* avoiding temptation* and patience. 3odFs word is the best source of

guidance for selfhelp and motivation for selfimprovement.

4ave ou ever had difficult tring to change a habit; 4uman beings are creatures of

habit. 2e tend to continue acting as we have acted in the past. #ike a river flowing through

a canon* the longer a habit continues* the more deepl it becomes ingrained* and the

harder it is to change. This is true of all habits* good or bad.

&phesians 979 shows that ma!or changes must occur when we are converted to serve

3od. Old practices and attitudes must be replaced b new ones. (hristians must learn good

habits like Bible stud* praer* love* faith* patience* attending church meetings* giving*

teaching others* etc. 2e must also eliminate bad habits like foul language* uncontrolled

temper* gambling* drugs* smoking* drinking* gossip* ling* pornograph* se+ual

promiscuit* etc.

Cnowing what changes to make is not enough. 2e also need to know how to make them.

(hange does not come easil. $ince the $criptures provide us to all good works N Timoth570=*0>* the give all the guidance we need. 3odFs word is the best source of guidance for

selfhelp and motivation for selfimprovement.

#et us stud 0 specific* practical steps the Bible gives to show us how to change and

improve our selves to become what 3od wants.

$tep07 (hange 6our Purpose in #ife.

Before people are willing to act* the must be motivated. A sound sleeper is more likel to

get up in the middle of the night if the house is on fire than if he remembers he did not

brush his teethG (hristians have some of the strongest possible motives for changing.(onsider some7

#ove and Eedication to 3od

Romans 070* (hristians are transformed Nchanged b renewing their minds Ncf. &ph.

975. To live differentl* we must think differentl. 2e must not seek to be like the world

but to use our bodies in 3odFs service.



The 'acedonians practiced generous giving because the first gave themselves to the #ord

N (orinthians ?7<. (hanging our conduct becomes much easier when we are totall

dedicated to 3odFs service. N$ee also &cc. 0705S 'att. =755S 0=79.

0 :ohn <75S 970@*@ 2hat motivates us to obe 3od; Our love for 4im. 2hat motivates us

to love 4im; The fact that 4e loved us. 4ow do we know 4e loved us; Because 4e gave 4is$on to die to save us.

#ove is one of the strongest forces in e+istence. It can move a woman to rescue her children

from a burning building or a man to lift an automobile that has crushed a loved one. If ou

are having difficult changing ourself* ou need to learn to appreciate 3odFs blessings and

merc. N$ee also 0 :ohn 70<0>S 'att. 0/7595>S 75>9/S :ohn 0970<S (or. <7090>.

Imitation of (hrist

The desire to be like someone we admire is another powerful motivation. $ports heroes

inspire oung people in athletics. 2ashington and #incoln are models for patriotic citi,ens.

$o godl people like Abraham* %oah* Ruth* and 'ar motivate us to serve 3od. But the

greatest e+ample of all is that of :esus.

'atthew 0/79*< A disciple seeks to be like his master. (hristians are disciples of :esus

NActs 007=. 2e should follow 4is steps because 4e left us a sinless e+ample N0 Peter

70*.

As we face each decision in life* we should ask* Q2hat would :esus do;Q This will give us

strong motivation to change our lives. N$ee also 3al. 7/S 'att. 0=79S (ol. 570/.

Eesire for &ternal #ife* %ot &ternal Punishment

0 (orinthians @7< Athletes control their habits so the can win a temporar* earthl

honor. (hristians have an even stronger motive. 2e seek the crown of eternal life N:ames

070S Rev. 70/. 2e should set our minds on our eternal reward* not on earthl things N(ol.

570=S Peter 070/*00S Thess. 07?*@.

#ack of motivation is a ma!or reason people do not change to please 3od. The do not have

sufficient desire to change. Instead the want to please themselves or their friends and

famil. Often the are too concerned with the things of this life. )ntil our motives are right*

little else in this stud will help us. But when we are determined that serving 3od is ourmost important purpose in life* then we will find the means to make the necessar changes.

2hen we lack the motivation to change* let us think about wh we should love 3od* think

about the importance of being like (hrist* and think about our eternal destin.

$tep7 Believe 6ou (an (hange with 3odFs 4elp.



Proverbs 975 Ceep our heart with all diligence* for out of it are the issues of life. The

wa ou act is determined b our attitudes and intentions. People and circumstances ma

influence ou* but ou do not have to give in. 6ou do what ou decide to do Ncf. 'att.

0<70?*0@S 07595>.

0 (orinthians 0/705 3od will not allow temptations that are beond our abilit to bear.4e will alwas make a wa of escape. Q3od is faithful.Q 4e will alwas keep this promise. It

follows that ou can break an bad habit and develop an good habit according to 3odFs

will.

Philippians 9705 2e can do all things through (hrist who strengthens us. This includes

changing to please 4im. If we trust our own strength* we will fail. $atan can defeat us. If we

use (hristFs strength we will succeed* because $atan can never defeat 4im. Perhaps we

have failed in the past because we have trusted our own power instead of using (hristFs.

People sometimes convince themselves* QI !ust canFt change. ItFs too late. Besides* IFm onlhuman.Q The are not !ust belittling themselvesS the are dening 3odFs word. The will

fail simpl because the will give up instead of persisting to use 3odFs power.

Psalm 5>7< If ou commit ourself to the #ord and trust 4im* 4e will accomplish 4is will

for ou. %o matter how strong a temptation ou face* no matter how long ou have

practiced a sin* if 3od sas to change* ou can change. N$ee also &ph. =70/0?S 57/*0S

(or. @7?S :osh. 07<@.

$tep 57 $tud the Bible about 6our 4abit.

:oshua 07? To succeed in 3odFs work* meditate on 3odFs word. #ist the pertinent Biblepassages about each habit ou need to change. #ist reasons wh ou should change.

'editate on these verses dail* filling our mind with them. N(f. Psalm 07S 00@700.

Eeuteronom =7=@ "reJuentl remind ourself of these verses. 2rite them and place

them where the will remind ou7 on our bathroom mirror* on the refrigerator door* on

our table at mealtime* on the T knob.

'atthew 97000 :esus overcame temptation b Juoting $cripture. But this worked onl

because 4e knew the $cripture. 'emori,e verses about our habit so that* when ou aretempted* the will come to mind and strengthen ou. uote them to ourself and to those

who tempt ou. N$ee also Prov. 57<*=S Tim. 570=*0>S &ph. =70>S Rom. 070=S 4eb. 970.

$tep97 Repent of $in.



Acts ?7 $in reJuires repentance. Repentance is a change of mind a determined

commitment to cease sin and obe 3od Nsee 'att. 07?*@S Acts 0>75/S 0075. Before one

can change his conduct* he must change his mind.

Proverbs ?705 Eo not cover up our sin* den it* e+cuse it* or blame someone else. Admit

the error and be trul sorr N (or. >70/. But sorrow is not enough. 2e have trulrepented onl when we are so sorr that we determine to change our conduct.

'ost other achievements in life reJuire about 0/U abilit and @/U !ust plain

determination and hard work. In spiritual matters* ever accountable person has the

abilit to please 3odS so changing to please 3od is 0//U determined b our choice. 3od

has provided everthing we need. The decision is ours.

2e will never change until we make up our minds to pursue the means 3od provides until

we succeed. The decision to do this is repentance* and no one will change to please 3od

without it.

$tep <7 Eevelop a Plan of Action.

Proverbs 097 2e must devise to do good* not evil. 3odFs e+ample demonstrates the

importance of planning. 4e purposed manFs redemption NRom. ?7?* the church N&ph.

570/*00* the temple N4eb. ?7<* etc. Ncf. 3en. 070>. #ikewise* 3odFs servants need to have

a plan to succeed in 4is service N#uke 097=55S Ean. 07?S Psalm 0>75S Acts 0075S (or.

@7>.

In what other important endeavors will we succeed without a plan; (onsider the

forethought needed to build a house* run a business or a household* program a computer*etc. 2orthwhile activities* to be successful* need planning.

#ikewise* to change our life* ou need a specific* practical checklist of steps ou will take

to change. Anal,e the circumstances or causes that lead ou to fail to do right* then plan

how to avoid those causes. It ma help to write our plan down and modif it as needed.

This plan will include some specific points we are studing plus other points that fit our

specific problem.

'an people fail to change to please 3od because the never planned to succeed. The did

not plan to fail* but the failed to planG

$tep =7 Pra Regularl.

Praer is essential in two was.

A child of 3od should pra for forgiveness.



If ou are not et a child of 3od* ou need to believe in :esus* repent of sins* confess (hrist*

and be bapti,ed to be forgiven of sins N'ark 0=70=S Rom. 0/7@*0/S Acts 75?S 70=. 2hen

ou have done those things* ou become a child of 3od N3al. 57=*>S Rom. =75*9S 0 Peter

07*5. If ou sin afterward* ou need to pra for forgiveness NActs ?7S 0 :ohn 07?0/S

Prov. ?705S 'att. =70.

Then pra for 3odFs help.

'atthew =705 Ask 3od to Qdeliver us from evilQ Ncf. 'att. =790. Tell 3od e+actl what

our problem is. Pra often and regularl N0 Thess. <70>S (ol. 97. Pra especiall at the

moment when ou face temptation N'att. =75=9=.

3od has promised that* if ou ask 4is help* 4e will hear and answer N0 Peter <7>S Phil.

97=*>S &ph. =700*05*0?.

$tep >7 $eek 4elp from Other (hristians.

:ames <70= (hristians should confess their faults to one another so the can pra for one

another. 2e should bear one anotherFs burdens N3al. =7. If our sins have harmed specific

individuals* we should apologi,e to them N'att. <75*9.

2hen we are fighting an especiall difficult habit* it ma help to choose one or two special

counselors to talk with regularl. The can give us Bible passages and good advice about

how to change. The can encourage us. It ma motivate us !ust to know that others are

aware of our problem. And the can surel pra for us.

Public church meetings are especiall designed to give encouragement N4eb. 0/79*<S

570*05S &ph. 970<*0=. 2e need to attend regularl for man reasons* but especiall we

need encouragement as we tr to become what 3od wants us to be.

$tep ?7 Eiligentl Practice 2hat is Right.

0 (orinthians 0<7<? Be steadfast* immovable* alwas abounding in the #ordFs work.

Abundant* steadfast work is needed.

2e have discussed several steps to prepare us to change* but none of them can substitute

for hard work and dedicated effort. All the good attitudes in the world will not get the !ob

done until we follow through with action. 3od does not promise change will be eas* but 4epromises it is possible if we work diligentl according to 4is word.

:ames 07< Be doers of the word* not !ust hearers. 4abits are formed b repeated

action. 2e learn to ride a biccle b forcing ourselves to practice* even when it feels

unnatural and uncomfortable. But repetition produces a habit that then feels natural and

en!oable.



$o we change to serve 3od onl when we compel ourselves to do what we know is right and

repeat it until it becomes Qsecond nature.Q N$ee also Rom. =705S 'att. >70S #uke =79=.

$tep @7 $ubstitue 3ood 4abits for Bad Ones.

&phesians 975 Eo not !ust put off the old man. Put on the new man. %ote thee+amples7 $peak truth instead of falsehood Nv<* work and give to others instead of

stealing Nv?* speak good instead of evil Nv@* show kindness and forgiveness instead of

anger and bitterness Nv50*5.

'atthew 07959< A demon left a man but later found the manFs life still empt. 4e moved

back in bringing seven other demons with himG :esus applied this to Israel* but it is a

general principle.

Q%ature hates a vacuum.Q Remove the air from a bottle* and it will tr to get back in. "ill

the bottle with something substantial* and the air stas out. $o our life cannot sta a

spiritual void. It will fill with good or evil. Replace bad habits with good and the bad is less

likel to return.

"or e+ample* suppose ou determine to watch less T* so ou turn it off* but sit in front of it

with nothing else to do. $oon ou will turn it on again. But if ou become activel involved

in famil activities* Bible stud* etc.* soon ou will replace it with other habits.

"or ever bad habit ou Qput off*Q find some useful activit to Qput onQ in its place.

$tep 0/7 Avoid Temptation.

'atthew =705 2e should pra* Qlead us not into temptation.Q If we pra this* surel we

obligate ourselves to avoid people* places* and situations that tempt us Ncf. Rom. 05709.

0 (orinthians 0<755 &vil compan corrupts good habits. %ote7 QEo not be deceived.Q

'an people think the can return to bad compan without returning to bad habits. The

are deceivedG

'an habits such as drinking* smoking* drug abuse* gambling* and se+ual promiscuit

are begun and continued because of Qpeer pressure.Q Breaking such habits b themselves is

hard enough* but it is far more difficult when QfriendsQ urge us to continue them N0 Peter

975*9S Prov. 057/S &+. 57.

Psalm =7< 2e should hate the congregation of evildoers. Too often people sa* QI wonFt

drink Nor dance or gamble* etc.. IFll !ust go to the tavern Nor dance hall or casino to be

with m friends.Q 2hen people have gathered together for the purpose of practicing sin*

(hristians belong somewhere elseG N(f. (or. =7090?S &ph. <700.



6ou cannot change a bad habit while continuing to run with the QcrowdQ that caused the

habit. (hanging the habit will reJuire changing our friends because the QfriendsQ are part

of the habitG

$tep 007 "ace One Ea at a Time.

'atthew =755*59 Eo not worr about tomorrow. TodaFs temptations will be enough to

handle toda. 4andle tomorrowFs temptations tomorrow if tomorrow comes.

Often people Juit tring to serve 3od because the are overwhelmed b the sacrifices

reJuired to live the rest of their lives for 3od. But ask ourself this7 Q(an I practice what is

right toda !ust toda;Q Of course ou can. $o when ou get up each morning* promise

ourself and 3od* QI will live toda for 3od.Q EonFt worr about handling tomorrow. If it

comes* ou can handle it the same wa ou will handle toda.

Two men were climbing a steep path up a tall mountain. One looked to the top and asked*

Q4ow will we ever make it;Q The other replied* QOne step at a time.Q And that is the onl

wa for ou to change ourself.

$tep 07 Be Patient.

Romans 7> 2e receive eternal life if we continue patientl in well doing. 2e must be

steadfast* immovable* alwas abounding in the #ordFs work N0 (or. 0<7<?.

3alatians =7@ #et us not grow wear while doing good* for in due season we shall reap if

we do not lose heart. 6our habits did not develop overnight and will not likel disappear

overnight. It will take time. If ou fall* repent* and ask 3odFs forgiveness. But get up and go

on. Eo not give up. N0 :ohn 07?7

Peter 570? Becoming a mature (hristian is a process of growth. 6ou are born again as a

bab and graduall grow up in (hrist. 6ou ma look at mature (hristians and think*

Q2h canFt I be like them;Q But the probabl took ears to mature. Eo not be impatient

with ourself.

(4APT&R 9

4ow (an 6ou Be $ure :esus 4as "orgiven 6our $ins;

Eifferent ideas are taught about how a person receives forgiveness of sins b the blood of

:esus (hrist. Are we saved b Qfaith onl*Q or must we obe the gospel; Is baptism

necessar to salvation from sin or is obedience not essential; Is baptism sprinkling*



pouring* or immersion; $hould babies Ninfants be bapti,ed; 2hat can we learn from %ew

Testament e+amples of people who were forgiven; 2hat does the Bible teach;

Introduction7

To receive eternal life according to the gospel of (hrist* a person must be forgiven of sinsb :esusF blood N&phesians 07>S 'atthew =7?S 0 Peter 79. But man people are unsure

about whether or not the have been forgiven. Others ma think that the have been

forgiven* but would be surprised to learn that :esus does not agree.

'atthew >705 'an people* who believe in the #ord* will e+pect :esus to accept them

at the !udgment. Instead 4e will re!ect them because the have not done the will of the

"ather.

Acts 570S =7@ $aul was a :ew who opposed :esus in all good conscience* doing what he

sincerel believed he should do. 6et he was the chief of sinners N0 Timoth 0700<. (learl

he had been misled.

2hat about ou and me; Is it possible we have been misled like these people; 2hat about

baptism or Qfaith onl.Q 2hat about repentance and confession; $hould babies be

bapti,ed; Is baptism sprinkling* pouring* or immersion; $urel these Juestions deserve

our careful investigation.

The Bible teaches that we can be sure :esus has forgiven us if we have obeed the gospel

conditions of forgiveness.

4ebrews <7@ :esus is the author of eternal salvation unto all them that obe 4im. N$ee also

Acts 0/75<S #uke =79=S 0 :ohn 75=.

0 Peter 07 2e purif our souls in obeing the truth.

Romans =70>*0? 2e are made free from sin when we obe from the heart the doctrine

delivered.

If we recogni,e :esus as our #ord* then we must obe the conditions of forgiveness !ust as

the gospel reveals them* without an human changes NActs 0>700S 3alatians 07?*@S :ohn

@.

This stud is designed to help each be sure about salvation.

Please begin with a brief selfe+amination to show us where we are now N (or. 057<. Then

we will stud what the Bible sas about salvation and we can each compare our own case to

:esusF teaching.

0. 4ave ou made a personal commitment to serve :esus; Na es* Nb no.



. 4ave ou been bapti,ed; Na es* Nb no. If so* how old were ou;

2ere ou bapti,ed b Na sprinkling* Nb pouring* or Nc immersion;

2h were ou bapti,ed; Na to please loved ones* Nb as a sign I had been saved* Nc to

receive forgiveness of sins* Nd because others were doing it* Ne to !oin a denomination* Nfother7

2hen ou repented of sin and determined to live for 3od* how long was it till ou were

bapti,ed;

5. $uppose a person sincerel does the following things. At what point do ou believe his

sins would be washed awa; 2hen he Na hears the gospel* Nb believes* Nc repents* Nd

confesses :esus* Ne pras for forgiveness* Nf is bapti,ed*

Is it possible to be deceived* thinking 3od is pleased with us when he is not; 'att. >705

sas there are man people who think the are doing wonderful works in :esusF name* butthe will be surprised in the !udgment when 4e re!ects themG 2hat about ou and me;

2ill we be among that number; 2hat must we do to be sure this does not happen to us;

:esus answers this Juestion in verse 0. 2e must do the will of the "ather.

2hat does the "ather reJuire us to do to be forgiven of sins; :esus said all people must be

taught the gospel* and Qhe that believeth and is bapti,ed shall be savedQ N'ark 0=70<*0=.

To be sure we are saved* then* we must hear the gospel* believe it* and be bapti,ed. %otice

that baptism* according to 3odFs word* does not come after salvation* but is an essential

step in order to receive salvation.

#ater* in Acts 75?* Peter preached about :esus* then he commanded7 QRepent* and be

bapti,ed ... for the remission of sins...Q This shows that hearing* repentance* and baptism

are essential to forgiveness. Again we note that remission is a result that follows from

baptism. It does not come before baptism.

"inall* Romans =75*9 sas we are buried b baptism into :esusF death. %ow :esusF death is

what provides forgiveness* and this passage sas we contact that death in baptism* not

before. "urthermore* the passage teaches that baptism is a burial or immersion* not a

sprinkling or pouring. And since people must hear the gospel* believe* and repent before

the are bapti,ed* it follows that baptism is not for babies.

2hat about ou; 4ave ou done the will of the "ather* or will ou be one of the man

people who will find out too late that 3od is not pleased with them; 4ave ou heard the

gospel* believed it* repented of our sins* and been $cripturall bapti,ed; 2as our

baptism an immersion in water* and did ou do it for the purpose of receiving forgiveness

of sins.



(hapter <

3od help with our trouble

&verone has troubles. 2e face problems* affliction* suffering* and hardship. 2e need

strength* endurance* and patience. 2h do people suffer; Are all trials the result of sin

committed b the one who suffers; 2h does 3od allow trials* worries* an+ieties* and

difficulties; $hould we blame 3od and turn from 4im; (an troubles and suffering actuall

make us better people; Is it possible to faithfull endure our difficulties; 2hat solutions

does the Bible offer to help us endure and overcome our problems* afflictions* and

hardships;

2hat ever ou need or what ou !ust have to kneel down talk to the lord first ou have to

thank him for all the things he has do for us.

Q'an who is born of woman is of few das and full of troubleQ N:ob 0970. 2e can

especiall appreciate these words when we think of the suffering endured b the one who

spoke them. Eifferent people deal with different problems and afflictions* and it seems that

some suffer more hardships than others do. But we all know b personal e+perience and

from the e+periences of those we know* that :obFs statement is true.

Troubles concern us* not !ust because hardship itself is a burden* but also because affliction

can lead to spiritual temptations. 2e ma be tempted to feel that our trials !ustif

committing sin. 2e ma become so discouraged that we blame 3od for our troubles* lose

faith in 4im* or begin to doubt 4is goodness and merc. As :obFs wife said* Q(urse 3od

and dieQ N:ob 7@.

The purpose of this stud is to offer Bible answers to Juestions people often ask about

suffering. 2h do people suffer; (an good come from suffering; Is it possible to endure

affliction with patience and faithfulness; 4ow can 3od give us strength to endure our

hardships and overcome our temptations; 2hat does the Bible sa;

2h do people suffer

There are several reasons* not !ust one reason* wh people suffer.$ometimespeople suffer as a result of their sins.Cing $aul lived a miserable life and

eventuall was slain because he had rebelled against 3od N0 (hron.

0/705*09.:udas killed himself because he had betraed :esus N'atthew >75

<.#ikewise toda* alcoholics ma develop disease* thieves ma be imprisoned*



etc.$ome people think this is the onl reason people ever suffer* but we will see

that it is not.

$ome people think that onl wicked people suffer* but 3od is on the side of the righteous

and will remove all their troubles. It follows that* if a person is suffering* he must have

committed some sin he should repent of.

This was the theor of :obFs friends N:ob 97>@S disproving this idea is a main theme of

that book. This same false doctrine is taught b man Qfaith healersQ who teach people that

3od must remove all their problems if the are right with 4im.

But we have learned that even righteous people suffer. This is important for the following

reasons7

2e should not conclude that we have been guilt of sin ever time we have a problem.

'abe we are suffering because of sin* so we should e+amine our lives. But mabe we are

suffering for other reasons* perhaps because we are righteous.

2e should surel never re!ect a Bible teaching !ust because it ma lead to suffering. If all

suffering was the result of our own sin* and if a course of action led to suffering* then we

would conclude it was a sinful act. But we have learned that godl people often suffer for

doing right.

2e should not become (hristians thinking it will automaticall solve all our problems. If

this is our motive* we ma fall awa when the hardships come.

If we believe that all suffering results from a personFs own sin* and if we see good peoplesuffering* we ma be tempted to blame 3od or to think 4e is not keeping 4is promises. But

we have learned that all people suffer* whether or not the are righteous.

The command to endure suffering is !ust another part of a (hristianFs life* like the

command to stud the Bible* pra* worship* etc. "aithful (hristians of all ages have

sufferedS we are not the onl ones. 2e should e+pect suffering to come* so our faith will not

be shaken when it does.

The ultimate and primar blame for suffering rests on $atan who tempts people to sin and

thereb brought sin into the world. The secondar blame rests upon people* ourselves

included* who have given in to temptation and committed sin that led to suffering.

6es* 3od did create suffering as a punishment for sin* but onl after 4e had given people a

life without problems and had warned them of the conseJuences of sin. 2hen the chose to

sin* 4e should no more be blamed for punishing them than a parent should be blamed

when he must punish a rebellious child. N(f. :ames 0705*0<.



Remember* if ou blame 3od and re!ect 4im because ou are suffering* then ou are doing

e+actl what $atan wants ou to do. 4e has defeated ouG The onl wa to defeat $atan and

reall overcome hardship is to maintain our faithfulness to 3od in spite of it.

:ames 079 (ount it !o when we face trials Nhardl the natural reaction* because this

leads to patience and completeness in 3odFs service. 2hoever developed patience when hispatience was never tried;

Romans <75< Re!oice in tribulations because the work steadfastness* approvedness* and

hope.

&ven in the phsical realm* which bones and muscles are the strongest; The ones that face

the most hardship. If ou la a block of ice and a block of cla in the sun* one is melted and

the other is hardened. The same circumstance produces opposite results.

The stor is told of two sons of an alcoholic. One son became a drunkard* the other became

a teetotaler. Both e+plained their conduct the same wa7 Q2hat can ou e+pect with a

father like mine;Q The same problem produced opposite results.

Trials defeat some people but strengthen others. It depends on how we deal with them.

(4APT&R =

$&#" (O%TRO#

2hen we practice selfcontrol* we do so b limiting and restraining those things which arein opposition to what 3od reJuires.

$elfcontrol in a person can take man forms. In other words* selfcontrol will be shown in

different was for each individual person. "or e+ample7

If someone does something bad to ou V some people ma want to get even with that person

b abusing them or hitting them. The person needs to e+ercise selfcontrol b restraining

themselves.

If ou like beer ou ma be tempted to drink a lot of it and become drunk. B e+ercising

selfcontrol ou will onl drink alcohol in moderation.

If ou en!o food V some people will keep on eating it beond what is health. These people

need to show restraint in the amount of food the eat V the need selfcontrol.



6ou are alone with our bofriend or girlfriend V the temptation to have se+ together is

ver real for some people. $elfcontrol of their desires is important to avoid an unwise

decisions being made.

Paul advice on selfcontrol

$amson is a case of a man who couldnFt e+ercise self control.

$amsonFs birth was promised b an angel to the childless wife of 'anoah of the tribe of

Ean. The angel announced Q...for the child shall be a %a,arite to 3od from the womb to the

da of his deathQ. $uch a vow reJuired the person to separate or devote himself entirel to

3odFs service for a fi+ed period of time. The central part of the vow therefore was in its

devotion and separateness. And of course this same vow applies to all people who are called

b the 3ospel we are to be separate.

$amson was not like most of the other !udges. 4e was not appointed to lead an arm* but

rather with his great phsical strength* coupled with braver* he was to do the work of the

arm himself. 4is work was to begin to deliver Israel from the Philistine oppression.

2e know then* that $amsonFs special gift from 3od was supernatural strength. 4is

strength was such that at a place called Ramathlehi he found the new !awbone of an ass

and with it killed one thousand of the Philistines. 4is strength was so great that he carried

awa the gates of a cit.

But despite all these great conJuering* he didnFt have the strength to rule his own lustful

passions. The phsical strength that $amson had* seems to have produced in $amson self

confidence rather than dependence on 3od. As a result he broke the %a,arite vow because

he couldnFt resist the Philistine women. As a result he ended up grinding corn in a Philistine

grist mill with his ees bored out.paul thought that selfcontrol was important and so he

wrote a lot of advice about it. This can be seen in a letter he wrote to Titus. 4e stated that

the elders must be selfcontrolled. $ince an overseer is entrusted with 3odFs work* he must

be blamelessnot overbearing* not Juicktempered* not given to drunkenness* not violent*

not pursuing dishonest gain. Rather he must be hospitable* one who loves what is good*

who is selfcontrolled* upright* hol and disciplined. Titus (h.07>? %I

4e told Titus to teach selfcontrol to the older men.

Teach the older men to be temperate* worth of respect* selfcontrolled* and sound in faith*

in love and in endurance.

Titus (h.7 %I

The older women were to teach selfcontrol to the ounger women.



#ikewise* teach the older women to be reverent in the wa the live* not to be slanderers or

addicted to much wine* but to teach what is good. Then the can train the ounger women

to love their husbands and children* to be selfcontrolled and pure* to be bus at home* to

be kind* and to be sub!ect to their husbands* so that no one will malign the word of 3od.

Titus (h.75<

The oung men were also encouraged to have selfcontrol.

$imilarl* encourage the oung men to be selfcontrolled.

Titus (h.7=

$o from these writings of Paul we can see that everbod needs to learn to be self

controlled. Paul made this such a big point because he knew that selfcontrol does not come

naturall.

$elfcontrol and sin Ndisobedience to 3od

$elfcontrol is a challenge to everbod. &ach person has some area in thought or action

where the find selfcontrol difficult. 4owever* if we don’t e+ercise selfcontrol then it can

lead to sin Ndisobedience to 3od.

Eo ou not know that the wicked will not inherit the kingdom of 3od; Eo not be deceived7

%either the se+uall immoral nor idolaters nor adulterers nor male prostitutes nor

homose+ual offenders nor thieves nor the greed nor drunkards nor slanderers nor

swindlers will inherit the kingdom of 3od.

0 (orinthians (h.=7@0/

All of these sins listed in these verses come about because of poor selfcontrol.

Praise of selfcontrol

$elfmaster is the greatest of all victories.

Better a patient man than a warrior* a man who controls his temper than one who takes a

cit. Proverbs (h.0=75 %I 'en who have subdued entire kingdoms have been defeated

in the efforts to control themselvesG "or e+ample* lack of selfcontrol of a bad temper can

be evidence of pride and impatience. There are man e+amples of those who did control

their temper. Eavid staed calm when he was cursed. %ehemiah also showed that he could

control his spirit even when the enem sneered at him and attempted to destro him.

4owever $amson and ),,iah are e+amples of people who could not control themselves7 a

man who controls his temper Wis betterX than one who takes a cit.



(hapter >

2hat the bible sa about 'one

Perhaps ou’ve heard the e+pression Qmone is the root of all evilQ. 'an people assume

that means that 3od hates mone. #et’s take a closer look at that verse...

The love of mone is a root of all kinds of evil. $ome people* eager for mone* have

wandered from the faith and pierced themselves with man griefs. But ou* men of 3od*

flee from all thisS and pursue righteousness* godliness* faith* love* endurance and

gentleness. 0 Timoth =70/00

'one7 root of all evil or a gift from 3od;

$o this is reall a warning to beware of the distraction that the pursuit of mone can be*

and a challenge to make 3od the priorit in our lives.

"or where our treasure is* there will our heart be also. #uke 0759

'one is not evil* in fact the Bible clearl states that mone is a gift from 3od.

6ou ma sa to ourself* Q' power and the strength of m hands have produced this

wealth for me.Q But remember the #ord our 3od* for it is 4e who gives ou the abilit to

produce wealth. Eeuteronom ?70>0?

Instruct those who are rich in this present world not to be conceited or to fi+ their hope on

the uncertaint of riches* but on 3od* who richl supplies us with all things to en!o.

Instruct them to do good* to be rich in good works* to be generous and read to share*

storing up for themselves the treasure of a good foundation for the future* so that the ma

take hold of that which is life indeed. 0 Timoth =70>0@

2e know that Abraham* Isaac* :acob* 4e,ekiah* :ob and :ehoshaphat were ver wealth

men of Bible times. $o* if we know that mone is a gift from 3od then the wa we use

mone and the priorit we give it in our lives is ver important.

2hat place does mone have in our life; Is it the most important priorit;

%o one can serve two mastersS for either he will hate the one and love the other* or he will

hold to one and despise the other. 6ou cannot serve 3od and mone. 'atthew =79

$o what does it mean to serve mone; 4ere are a few Juestions to ask ourself7



Are ou too bus working long hours to take time to read the Bible and pra;

Eo ou put our career ahead of our famil’s needs;

Eo ou make our decisions based on what it will cost or on what will please 3od;

Eoes the thought of sacrificing mone or career opportunities to do something for someone

else frighten ou;

If the answer to an of these Juestions is es* it’s time to take a close look at our priorities.

$o how do ou make 3od a higher priorit in our life;

Eo not let this Book of the #aw NBible depart from our mouthS meditate on it da and

night* so that ou ma be careful to do everthing written in it. Then ou will be

prosperous and successful wherever ou go. :oshua 07?

#et our character be free from the love of mone* being content with what ou haveS for

4e 4imself said* QI will never desert ou* nor will I ever forsake ou.Q 4ebrews 057<

4onor the #ord with our wealth. Proverbs 57@

If we make 3od our priorit he promises to make us prosperous and successfulG

2hoever trusts in his riches will fall but the righteous will thrive like a green leaf. Proverbs

007?

Eo not la up for ourselves treasures upon earth* where moth and rust destro* and where

thieves break in and steal. But la up for ourselves treasures in heaven* where neither

moth nor rust destros* and where thieves do not break in or stealS for where our treasure

is* there will our heart be also. 'atthew =70@0

2e are surrounded b pressure to achieve success* to work harder* earn more mone* bu a

bigger house* a newer car8

But godliness with contentment is great gain. "or we brought nothing into the world* and

we can take nothing out of it. But if we have food and clothing* we will be content with that.

People who want to get rich fall into temptation and a trap and into man foolish and

harmful desires that plunge men into ruin and destruction. 0 Timoth =7@

But let the brother of humble circumstances glor in his high positionS and let the rich man

glor in his humiliation* because like flowering grass he will pass awa. "or the sun rises

with a scorching wind* and withers the grassS and its flowers fall off* and the beaut of its

appearance is destroedS so to the rich man in the midst of his pursuits we fade awa.

:ames 07@00

If we trust in 3od and tr to follow 4is was we know that...



3od will meet all our needs according to his glorious riches in (hrist :esus. Philippians

970@A faithful man will be richl blessed* but one eager to get rich will not go unpunished.

Proverbs ?7/

$o do not worr* saing* Q2hat shall we eat; Or Q2hat shall we drink;Q or Q2hat shall

we wear;Q for the pagans run after all these things* and our heavenl "ather knows thatou need them. But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness* and all these things will

be given to ou as well. 'atthew =75055

:esus said to 4is disciples* Qtrul I sa to ou* it is hard for a rich man to enter the

kingdom of heaven. QAnd again I sa to ou* it is easier for a camel to go through the ee of

a needle* than for a rich man to enter the kingdom of 3od.Q

And when the disciples heard this* the were astonished and said* QThen who can be

saved;Q And looking upon them :esus said to them* Qwith men this is impossible* but with

3od all things are possible.Q 'atthew 0@70==

$o check our priorities* and invest in an eternal future7

Eo not love the world* nor the things in the world. If anone loves the world* the love of the

"ather is not in him. "or all that is in the world* the lust of the flesh and the lust of the ees

and the boastful pride of life* is not from the "ather* but is from the world. And the world is

passing awa* and also its lustsS but the one who does the will of 3od abides forever.

(hapter ?

Pride versus humilit

2hat e+actl is pride; It is having an opinion that ou are more important or superior

than those around ou. This pride can be in the mind of the person or is displaed in his or

her behavior.

2hat is humilit; It is having a opinion that ou are less important or inferior than those

around ou. This humilit can be in the mind of the person or is displaed in his or herbehavior.

3od talks about pride.

2hoever slanders his neighbor in secret* him will I put to silenceS



whoever has haught ees and a proud heart* him will I not endure. Psalm (h.0/07<

3od also talks about humilit.

4as not m hand made all these things* and so the came into being;Q declares the #ORE.

QThis is the one I esteem7 he who is humble and contrite in spirit* and trembles at m word.

Isaiah (h.==7

2hen ou read through the Bible a common theme is that we must avoid pride and take on

humilit as part of our character.

Romans chapter 07

"or b the grace given me I sa to ever one of ou7 Eo not think of ourself more highl

than ou ought* but rather think of ourself with sober !udgment* in accordance with the

measure of faith 3od has given ou. verse 5

Be devoted to one another in brotherl love. 4onor one another above ourselves. verse 0/

#ive in harmon with one another. Eo not be proud* but be willing to associate with people

of low position. Eo not be conceited. verse 0=

Pride lures us into living independentl of 3od

There is an incompatibilit between blind arrogance and the presence of 3od in our heart.

3od isn’t watchingL the sa to themselvesS Khe’ll never knowGL. Psalm 0/700 W0X

The proud person depends on himself rather than on 3od. This causes 3od’s guiding

influence to leave his life. 2hen 3od’s presence is welcome* there is no room for pride.

Pride can cut us off from 3od and others.

To some who were confident of their own righteousness and looked down on everbod

else* :esus told this parable7 QTwo men went up to the temple to pra* one a Pharisee and

the other a ta+ collector. The Pharisee stood up and praed about himself7 F3od* I thank

ou that I am not like other menrobbers* evildoers* adulterersor even like this ta+

collector. I fast twice a week and give a tenth of all I get.F

QBut the ta+ collector stood at a distance. 4e would not even look up to heaven* but beat his

breast and said* F3od* have merc on me* a sinner.F

QI tell ou that this man* rather than the other* went home !ustified before 3od. "or

everone who e+alts himself will be humbled* and he who humbles himself will be e+alted.Q

#uke (h.0?7@09



The Pharisee in :esus parable did not go to the temple to pra to 3od but to announce to

all within earshot how good he was. The ta+ collector went recogni,ing his sin and begging

for merc. $elfrighteousness is dangerous. It leads to pride* causes a person to despise

others* and prevents him or her from learning anthing from 3od. Eon’t let pride in our

achievements cut ou off from 3od.

2hen is pride bad;

'an people have different forms of pride. $ome pride is regarded b 3od as being good

and some as being bad.

3od sees pride as being bad when it is related to7

a. pride in appearance

2e are not tring to commend ourselves to ou again* but are giving ou an opportunit to

take pride in us* so that ou can answer those who take pride in what is seen rather than inwhat is in the heart. (orinthians (h.<70

b. pride in riches

The were proud of their beautiful !ewelr and used it to make their detestable idols and

vile images. Therefore I will turn these into an unclean thing for them. &,ekiel (h.>7/

(are needs to be taken to ensure we are not taking pride in riches

B our great skill in trading ou have increased our wealth* and because of our wealth

our heart has grown proud. &,ekiel (h.?7<

c. pride in comparing one with another

%ow* brothers* I have applied these things to mself and Apollos for our benefit* so that

ou ma learn from us the meaning of the saing* QEo not go beond what is written.Q

Then ou will not take pride in one man over against another.

0 (orinthians (h.97=

&ach one should test his own actions. Then he can take pride in himself* without comparing

himself to somebod else*

3alatians (h.=79

d. pride in things ou have achieved



#et another praise ou* and not our own mouthS someone else* and not our own lips.

Proverbs (h.>7

&phraim boasts* QI am ver richS I have become wealth. 2ith all m wealth the will not

find in me an iniJuit or sin.Q

3alatians (h.=79

e. boasting

6our boasting is not good. EonFt ou know that a little east works through the whole batch

of dough; 0 (orinthians (h.<7=

#ove is patient* love is kind. It does not env* it does not boast* it is not proud. 0

(orinthians (h.0579

"or everthing in the worldthe cravings of sinful man* the lust of his ees and the

boasting of what he has and doescomes not from the "ather but from the world. 0 :ohn

70=

)suall when 3od speaks about pride he is referring to this bad pride. This tpe of human

pride has one overriding characteristic V it is selfcentred.

2hen is pride good;

$ometimes in the Bible pride is referred to as being good.

3od sees pride as being good when it is related to7

a. pride in 3od

' soul will boast in the #ORES let the afflicted hear and re!oice. Psalm 597

but let him who boasts boast about this7 that he understands and knows me* that I am the

#ORE* who e+ercises kindness* !ustice and righteousness on earth* for in these I delight*Q

declares the #ORE. :eremiah (h.@79

Therefore* as it is written7 Q#et him who boasts boast in the #ord.Q 0 (orinthians (h.0750

b. pride in others

as ou have understood us in part* ou will come to understand full that ou can boast of

us !ust as we will boast of ou in the da of the #ord :esus. (orinthians (h.0709

2e are not tring to commend ourselves to ou again* but are giving ou an opportunit to

take pride in us* so that ou can answer those who take pride in what is seen rather than in

what is in the heart. (orinthians (h.<70



I have great confidence in ouS I take great pride in ou. I am greatl encouragedS in all

our troubles m !o knows no bounds. 0 (orinthians (h.>79

I will boast about a man like that* but I will not boast about mself* e+cept about m

weaknesses. (orinthians (h.07<

c. pride in self

&ach one should test his own actions. Then he can take pride in himself* without comparing

himself to somebod else* 3alatians (h.=79

The brother in humble circumstances ought to take pride in his high position. But the one

who is rich should take pride in his low position* because he will pass awa like a wild

flower.

:ames (h.07@0/

Pride in the work of 3od is praised in the Bible. It is oka to have a feeling of pleasure or

pride in something well done for the work of 3od as long as ou don’t compare ourself

against other people.

4umilit is essential for service to others

People toda are eager to raise their social status* whether b being with the right people*

dressing for success* or driving the right car.

"or everone who e+alts himself will be humbled* and he who humbles himself will be

e+alted.Q #uke (h.09700

2hom do ou tr to impress; Rather than aiming for prestige* look for a place where ou

can serve. If 3od wants ou to serve on a wider scale* he will invite ou to take a higher

place.

(hapter @

Relationships

&ach one of us struggles at one time or another with our relationships. The can be a

source of great !o and contentment* but the can also be frustrating and inadeJuate.

Perhaps ou argue with our husband* can’t talk to our teenager* wish ou had a better

relationship with our parents* barel survive our toddler’s temper tantrums or wish our

neighbour’s were easier to get on with;



6ou ma wonder what the Bible would have to sa about relationships* et 3od’s advice is

practical and relevant to us toda.

Being Angr

6es* it is ok to feel angr V it’s what ou do and how ou handle it that matters7

Be angr* and et do not sinS do not let the sun go down on our anger8 &phesians 97=

A gentle answer turns awa wrath* but a harsh word stirs up anger. Proverbs 0<70

&verone should be Juick to listen* slow to speak and slow to become angr* for a man’s

anger does not bring about the righteous life that 3od desires. :ames 070@/

Parents

4ave ou managed to make the transition from child and parent to friends* or is our

relationship with our parents still a work in progress;

A wise son brings !o to his father* but a foolish man despises his mother. Proverbs 0<7/

4onor our father and mother V which is the first commandment with a promise V that it

ma go well with ou and that ou ma en!o long life on the earth. &phesians =75

"athers* do not e+asperate our children* instead* bring them up in the training and

instruction of the #ord. &phesians =79

'arriage

'arriage was originall designed b 3od and the Bible is full of advice for the married*

and those who would like to be7

2hen one finds a worth wife* her value is far beond pearls. 4er husband entrusting his

heart to her has an unfailing pri,e.

Proverbs 5070/00

#ove is patient* love is kind. It does not env* it does not boast* it is not proud. It is not

rude* it is not selfseeking* it is not easil angered* it keeps no record of wrongs. #ove does

not delight in evil* but re!oices with the truth. It alwas protects* alwas trusts* alwas

hopes* alwas perseveres.

0 (orinthians 0579>



4usbands* love our wives* !ust as (hrist loved the church and gave himself up for her.

&phesians <7<

(hildren

Raising children is a challenging role* full of !o and tearsG

$ons are a heritage from the #ord* children a reward from him. Psalm 0>75

Train a child in the wa he should go* and when he is old he will not turn from it. Proverbs

7=

Eiscipline our son* and he will give ou peaceS he will bring delight to our soul. Proverbs

@70>

The #ord disciplines those he loves* as a father the son he delights in. Proverbs 570

2e will tell the ne+t generation the praiseworth deeds of the #ORE* his power and the

wonders he has done. Psalm >?79

%eighbours

Relationships with neighbours can be difficult and frustrating* et 3od offers clear advice

to help resolve the conflict7

Bear with each other and forgive whatever grievances ou ma have against one another.

"orgive as the #ord forgave ou. (olossians 5705

A man’s wisdom gives him patience7 it is to his glor to overlook an offense. Proverbs 0@700

6ou have heard that it was said* Q#ove our neighbour and hate our enem.Q But I tell

ou7 #ove our enemies and pra for those who persecute ou* that ou ma be sons of

our "ather in heaven. 'atthew <7959<

3od’s love for us

The most rewarding relationship of all is the one we can have with 3od through his son*

:esus (hrist7

This is how 3od showed his love among us7 4e sent his one and onl $on into the world

that we might live through him.



0 :ohn 97@

"or 3od so loved the world that he gave his one and onl $on* that whoever believes in him

shall not perish but have eternal life. :ohn 570=

"or the #ord is good and his love endures foreverS his faithfulness continues through allgenerations. Psalm 0//7<

"or as high as the heavens are above the earth* so great is his love for those who fear him.

Psalm 0/5700

(4APT&R 0/

24AT T4& BIB#& $A6 ABO)T #O&

#ove is one of the fundamental parts of the Bible and as such it must be a central part of

the believer’s life. Throughout the pages of the Bible the message of 3od is one of love and

this is revealed in 4is forgiveness* patience* merc* gentleness and kindness.

Because the love of 3od is so great in the Bible it should come as no surprise that the

greatest commandment in the Bible is this one7

:esus said to him* K D6ou shall love the #ORE our 3od with all our heart* with all our

soul* and with all our mind.’ This is the first and great commandment. And the second islike it7 D6ou shall love our neighbor as ourself.’ 'atthew 75>5@

The unfortunate fact is that man people either ignore the law of love or the onl partiall

obe it. 6et 3od is asking us for total commitment to this law.

The love of 3od

3od has shown us great merc and love. If we accept this* then we naturall want to show

merc and love to others. If we don’t* then we are not living a trul (hristian life.

Beloved* let us love one another* for love is of 3odS and everone who loves is born of 3odand knows 3od. 4e who does not love does not know 3od* for 3od is love. In this the love

of 3od was manifested toward us* that 3od has sent 4is onl begotten $on into the world*

that we might live through 4im. In this is love* not that we loved 3od* but that 4e loved us

and sent 4is $on to be the propitiation for our sins. Beloved* if 3od so loved us* we also

ought to love one another.

0 :ohn 97>00



3od has given us great love even though we don’t deserve it. In a similar fashion* we must

give our love to others whether the deserve it or not.

The love of 3od is ine+haustible.

3ive thanks to the #ORE* for he is good. 4is love endures forever. Psalm 05=70 N%I

Throughout the Psalm the phrase K4is love endures foreverL is repeated. 3od’s love will

never run out* because it flows from a well that will never run dr. In 4is love we will

alwas see kindness* merc and faithfulness.

The love of 3od is forgiving.

I sa to ou that likewise there will be more !o in heaven over one sinner who repents than

over ninetnine !ust persons who need no repentance. N#uke 0<7> I sa to ou that

likewise there will be more !o in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninetnine

!ust persons who need no repentance. #uke 0<7>

2e see the e+traordinar love of 3od when we read that 4e tenderl searches for sinners

and then with !o forgives them. This is the ama,ing love he has for each one of us.

The love of 3od is beond measure and is forever.

"or I am persuaded that neither death nor life* nor angels nor principalities nor powers*

nor things present nor things to come* nor height nor depth* nor an other created thing*

shall be able to separate us from the love of 3od which is in (hrist :esus our #ord. Romans?75?5@

%o matter what happens to us* no matter where we are* we can never be separated from the

love of 3od. 2hen the times are tough some people are driven awa from 3od* when in

fact this is the time that the should be coming to 4im and seeking his immeasurable love

for us. 3od tells us how great his love is so that we will feel totall secure in him.

Indeed it is impossible to separate us from the love of 3od which is in (hrist :esus our

#ord. If we !ust think about (hrist’s death we can see the proof of his unconJuerable love.

"or 3od so loved the world that 4e gave 4is onl begotten $on* that whoever believes in

4im should not perish but have everlasting life. :ohn 570=



The love of 3od is sacrificial V 4is love is not selfcentred. 4e loved us so dearl that he

gave us the life of 4is $on V the highest price that he could pa. :esus* in turn* willingl

gave his life so that we could seek reconciliation with 3od. In a similar manner* we must be

willing to give up our own comfort and securit so that others might !oin us in receiving

3od’s love.

The love of :esus

The e+ample of :esus (hrist is the one which we can look at and tr to cop. The apostle

Paul was humbled b the love of (hrist7

"or in (hrist :esus 8. the onl thing that counts is faith e+pressing itself through love.

3alatians <7=

Our love for others

$o what does the Bible give as guidelines for our love to other humans.

#ove suffers long and is kindS love does not envS love does not parade itself* is not puffed

upS does not behave rudel* does not seek its own* is not provoked* thinks no evilS does not

re!oice in iniJuit* but re!oices in the truthS bears all things* believes all things* hopes all

things* endures all things. #ove never fails. 0 (orinthians 0579?

The societ we live in confuses love and lust. )nlike lust* 3od’s kind of love is directed

outward towards others and not inward toward ourselves. 3od’s love is completel

unselfish. This tpe of love tends to go against what we are naturall inclined to do as we

must give love and not e+pect anthing in return.

The reJuirements for our love

#ove is not an option that we can either do or not do V the Bible commands that we show it

to not onl the #ord 3od but also to those around us. It is critical for those living true

(hristianit7

A new commandment I give to ou* that ou love one anotherS as I have loved ou* that ou

also love one another. :ohn 05759

The tpe of love reJuired is of selfsacrifice and servanthood. It is one of Kselfless givingL

where we love not onl friends but also enemies and persecutors. #ove is the ke to walking

as a true (hristian* because we cannot grow spirituall while we hate others. 2hen we

grow in our relationship with 3od we will grow in our relationships with others.

#ove is not an uncontrollable emotion.



Pursue love* and desire spiritual gifts* 0 (orinthians 0970

#ove is a choice that we make. 2e can choose to be concerned with people’s wellbeing and

treat them with respect* whether or not we feel affection toward them. If we make the

choice to love others then 3od will assist us to e+press this love.

$ome people think that love is !ust a feeling this is not correct. "or love can also be

e+pressed through our actions.

' little children* let us not love in word or in tongue* but in deed and in truth. 0 :ohn 570?

The greatest act of love we can do

Out of all the love we can give* the greatest act of love is to love 3od.

:esus answered him* KThe first of all the commandments is7 D4ear* O Israel* the #ORE our

3od* the #ORE is one. And ou shall love the #ORE our 3od with all our heart* with all

our soul* with all our mind* and with all our strength.’ This is the first commandment.

And the second* like it* is this7 D6ou shall love our neighbor as ourself.’ There is no other

commandment greater than these.L :ohn 07@50

(4APT&R 00

3ossip

$o what e+actl is gossip; It is idle talk or rumor* especiall about the personal or privateaffairs of others. It is most often made up of useless or spiteful tales and is almost alwas

done behind the back of the sub!ect of the gossip.

The words of a gossip are like choice morsels NProverbs 0?7?

'an of the maga,ines which can be bought at a newsagent are full of gossip. The tell of

what the 4ollwood stars are currentl up to. 3iven the sales of these maga,ines it is

obvious that gossip is a big seller.

3ossip is a problem for everone because we all like to hear news and tell it others V

particularl what we call K!uicL news.

The words of a gossip are like choice morselsS the go down to a manFs inmost parts.

Proverbs (h.0?7?



2hat does the Bible sa about gossip;

3od has nothing good to sa about gossip.

8a gossip separates close friends. Proverbs (h.0=7?

3ossip can keep believers out of the kingdom V it is classified as a sin.

The have become filled with ever kind of wickedness* evil* greed and depravit. The are

full of env* murder* strife* deceit and malice. The are gossips* slanderers* 3odhaters*

insolent* arrogant and boastfulS the invent was of doing evilS the disobe their parentsS

the are senseless* faithless* heartless* ruthless. Although the know 3odFs righteous decree

that those who do such things deserve death* the not onl continue to do these ver things

but also approve of those who practice them. Romans (h.07@5

If we love our neighbour* we will not tell stories about them or betra their trust.

$o in everthing* do to others what ou would have them do to ou* for this sums up the

#aw and the Prophets. 'atthew (h.>70

2ith this verse in mind* we should stop gossiping for no one likes to be the sub!ect of gossip

and rumours.

3ossip breaks down relationships

'aking up or spreading false reports was strictl forbidden b 3od.

Eo not pass along untrue reports. Eo not cooperate with an evil man b affirming on the

witness stand something ou know is false. &+odus (h.570 3ossip* slander* and false

witnessing undermined families* strained neighbourhood cooperation* and made chaos of

the !ustice sstem. Eestructive gossip still causes problems. &ven if ou do not initiate a lie*

ou become responsible if ou pass it along. Eon’t circulate rumours V rather stop them.

3ossip has lasting wounds

3ossip is often more harmful and lasting than phsical wounds.

Telling lies about someone is as harmful as hitting him with an a+e* or wounding him with a

sword* or shooting him with a sharp arrow. Proverbs (h.<70? W0X

#ing is vicious and can have permanent effects like those of a stab wound. Passing on a bit

of gossip can be like stabbing the victim with a sword. $ta silent rather than gossipG

3ossip is a waste of valuable time



Ceep ourself busG It is at times when ou are inactive when people start to gossip.

As for ounger widows* 8the get into the habit of being idle and going about from house

to house. And not onl do the become idlers* but also gossips and busbodies* saing

things the ought not to. 0 Timoth <70005

6et we hear that some of ou are living in la,iness* refusing to work* and wasting our time

in gossiping. In the name of the #ord :esus (hrist we appeal to such people V we command

them V to Juiet down* get to work* and earn their own living.

Thessalonians (4.57000 W0X

A la, person who doesn’t work ends up filling his or her time with less than helpful

activities* like gossip. 2hen we hear rumours and hearsa it is tantali,ing and e+citing to

hear V ou feel like one of the insiders. But these same stories can pull people down. Rather

than wasting time listening to these stories* look for a task* to do for (hrist or for our

famil. Then start working on the task. This is a much more positive use of our time.

4ow do ou know whether ou are gossiping;

One hint as to whether ou are gossiping ma be how much ou talkG

A gossip betras a confidenceS so avoid a man who talks too much. Proverbs (h./70@

2hen ou are telling a stor about someone ask ourself the following Juestions

0. 4ow certain am I that the facts are correct;

. 2as the information given in confidence;

5. 4ave I checked the facts with the person involved;

9. Am I telling this stor to help build up others in (hrist;

Eo not let an unwholesome talk come out of our mouths* but onl what is helpful for

building others up according to their needs* that it ma benefit those who listen. &phesians

(h.97@

(hapter 0

2hat the bible sa about fait

$o what e+actl is faith; It is believing in the certaint of things that cannot be seen.



To be a believer and a (hristian it is something which is absolutel necessar.

But without faith it is impossible to please 4im* for he who comes to 3od must believe that

4e is* and that 4e is a rewarder of those who diligentl seek 4im. 4ebrews 007=

3od will reward those who cannot see him* and et still show a strong desire to find him.

Possessing the characteristic of "aithfulness

6ou have heard the word K"aithfulnessL used in conversation this refers to someone whois reliable and loal. This is the tpe of person who would sta with something no matter

what happens. 2hen ou read about faith in the %ew Testament* it is usuall referring to

this tpe of loalt.

This is the central point of what 3od wants V loalt and faithfulness are ver important to

him. 4e wants us to make a commitment to him and then never later on change our loalt

to something else.

But the fruit of the $pirit is love* !o* peace* longsuffering* kindness* goodness* faithfulness*

3alatians <7

The fruits of the spirit include the characteristic of faithfulness. If we have it* then it shows

the godliness is growing in us.

2hat we can’t see

2hen we talk about faith it is referring to someone who is certain about something without

actuall seeing it. As :esus indicates* the more faith ou have the more ou can achieve.



$o :esus said to them* KBecause of our unbeliefS for assuredl* I sa to ou* if ou have

faith as a mustard seed* ou will sa to this mountain* D'ove from here to there*’ and it will

moveS and nothing will be impossible for ou. 'atthew 0>7/

$o nothing would be impossible for the man who had faith.

But it can be argued that if we have faith then we should be able to achieve anthing we

wish. But as :ohn point out this depends on 3od’s will.

%ow this is the confidence that we have in 4im* that if we ask anthing according to 4is

will* 4e hears us. And if we know that 4e hears us* whatever we ask* we know that we have

the petitions that we have asked of 4im. 0 :ohn <7 090<

If 3od’s will allows it* then we can do ama,ing things with our faith. But we must alwas

remember that faith will never allow us to change 3od’s determined will. 4owever* we

should alwas remember that without human faith man of the events in the Bible would

not have happened.

(onsider this stor7

Then %aaman went with his horses and chariot* and he stood at the door of &lisha’s house.

And &lisha sent a messenger to him* saing* K3o and wash in the :ordan seven times* and

our flesh shall be restored to ou* and ou shall be clean.L But %aaman became furious*

and went awa and said* KIndeed* I said to mself* D4e will surel come out to me* and

stand and call on the name of the #ORE his 3od* and wave his hand over the place* and

heal the lepros.’ Are not the Abanah and the Pharpar* the rivers of Eamascus* better than

all the waters of Israel; (ould I not wash in them and be clean;L $o he turned and wentawa in a rage.

And his servants came near and spoke to him* and said* K' father* if the prophet had told

ou to do something great* would ou not have done it; 4ow much more then* when he

sas to ou* D2ash* and be clean’;L $o he went down and dipped seven times in the :ordan*



according to the saing of the man of 3odS and his flesh was restored like the flesh of a

little child* and he was clean. Cings <7@09

%aaman did not want to wash in the dirt river :ordan* but because he had faith he tried

and as a result was no longer a leper.

(oping faith

As we have seen so far* faith is being sure about things that cannot be seen. But ofcourse

when ou think about it* faith itself cannot be seen. 6ou cannot sa that this person has

certain amount of faith V it cannot be measured. 4owever faith can be seen b others when

it affects how we behave. 2hen we look at some people we can see that faith has changed

their life. If we this then we should endeavour to cop what the have done.

that ou do not become sluggish* but imitate those who through faith and patience inherit

the promises 4ebrews =70

Remember those who rule over ou* who have spoken the word of 3od to ou* whose faith

follow* considering the outcome of their conduct. 4ebrews 057>

The same can appl to us. If we set a good e+ample b showing faith then others will cop

us.

Increasing faith

The Bible tells us that we must continuall increase our faith.

But also for this ver reason* giving all diligence* add to our faith virtue* to virtue

knowledge* to knowledge selfcontrol* to selfcontrol perseverance* to perseverance

godliness* to godliness brotherl kindness* and to brotherl kindness love. "or if these

things are ours and abound* ou will be neither barren nor unfruitful in the knowledge of

our #ord :esus (hrist. Peter 07<?



As an e+ample* we are told that the believers who lived in the ancient cit of Thessalonica

had faith that was continuall growing.

2e are bound to thank 3od alwas for ou* brethren* as it is fitting* because our faith

grows e+ceedingl* and the love of ever one of ou all abounds toward each other*

Thessalonians 075

$o what is the secret to increasing faith. The answer is that the more confidence we have in

3od the more our faith will grow. 2e can gain more confidence in 3od through praing to

him* through reading his word on a regular basis* through seeing 3od in action.

An e+ample of seeing 3od in action mabe when we see one of our praers answered* or we

are aware of the guiding hand of 3od in some event in our life. These are the things which

increase our faith.

Blind faith;

$ome ma sa that it sounds like we are being asked to have blind faith i.e. faith without

evidence. But this is certainl not the case. There is plent of evidence that 3od gives us7

a. evidence of his e+istence

because what ma be known of 3od is manifest in them* for 3od has shown it to them. "or

since the creation of the world 4is invisible attributes are clearl seen* being understood b

the things that are made* even 4is eternal power and 3odhead* so that the are without

e+cuse* Romans 070@/

(hapter 05

'odern da Idolatr

Idolatr is worshipping other things besides the one true 3od. (onsistentl throughout the

Bible it is made ver clear that idolatr is unacceptable.



In the times of the Bible* most people worshipped gods and goddesses made of stone* wood

or sometimes precious metals. 3od condemns the worship of such ob!ects. %o matter what

the idol is made of* it is still a lifeless ob!ect with no power or character. It definitel has no

power to save us from our sinsG Idolatr is not onl foolish but is a ma!or sin in the ees of 3od.

Idolatr reduces 3od to a deit that can be manipulated

The worship of idols b people suggests the think the can get their own wa b effectivel

sidestepping 3od and worshipping other KgodsL.

$o :acob said to his household and to all who were with him* Q3et rid of the foreign gods

ou have with ou* and purif ourselves and change our clothesL. 3enesis (h.5<7

2h did people have these idols NKforeign godsL; In the time of :acob* idols were

sometimes seen as a goodluck charm. $ome Israelites* even though the worshipped 3od*

had idols in their homes. :acob believed that idols should have no place in his household.

4e wanted nothing to divert his famil’s spiritual focus.

Idolatr worships the creature rather than the creator

4ow can intelligent people turn to idolatr; Idolatr begins when people re!ect what the

know about 3od.

Although the claimed to be wise* the became fools and e+changed the glor of the

immortal 3od for images made to look like mortal man and birds and animals and reptiles.

Romans 075



Instead of looking to 3od as the creator and sustainer of life* idol worshippers see

themselves as the centre of the universe. The soon invent KgodsL that are convenient

pro!ections of their own plans and decrees. These gods ma be wooden figures* but the

ma also be goals or things we pursue such as mone* power or comfort. 2hatever it is the

main point is that idolaters worship the things 3od made rather than 3od himself.

uestions to ask our self7

Is there anthing ou feel ou can’t live without;

Is there an priorit greater than 3od;

Eo ou have a dream ou would sacrifice everthing to realise;

Eoes 3od take first place;

Eo ou worship 3od or idols of our own making;

Eo ou not know that the wicked will not inherit the kingdom of 3od; Eo not be deceived7

%either the se+uall immoral nor idolaters nor adulterers nor male prostitutes nor

homose+ual offenders nor thieves nor the greed nor drunkards nor slanderers nor

swindlers will inherit the kingdom of 3od.

0 (orinthians =7@0/

'odern da idolatr

In the 0st centur* idolatr still e+ists V e+cept perhaps in some cases it is not as obvious V

it is more subtle. 2e can group modern da idolatr into three broad groups7



i Pagan religions of the modern age

There are some modern da religions with tens of millions of worshippers which base their

religion around idol worship the worship god’s made out of wood and stone.

6ou shall not bow down to them or worship themS for I* the #ORE our 3od* am a !ealous

3od* &+odus (h./7<

ii Idols are anthing that will take awa our devotion to 3od.

A lot of time spent on a boat can make it a idol.

If ou spend a lot of time following the life of a movie star or rock star then mabe that is

our idol. Another e+ample* mabe spending a lot of time devoted to using and maintaining

a recreational boat. This could make that boat our idol V it is taking our time awa from

worshipping 3od.

iii 3reed is idolatr

3reed is the wanting more of something. In this modern age of seeing advertising

everwhere* greed is something which is likel to continue growing. Advertisers use such

phrases as Kou deserve itL or Kou need itL. 4owever* greed is like a cancer which eats into

us V the more we get* the more we want V we are never satisfiedG

The hunger for bigger* better and more possessions ma not seem that bad to ou. But it

slowl creeps up on us and takes over our thoughts and actions. "ort ears ago people

were satisfied with the small black and white televisions* then in the 0@>/s and 0@?/s

everone had to have the larger colour television and now it is essential to have the 0>

centimetre plasma television in our loungeroomGG



6et greed is idolatr according to the Bible.

Put to death* therefore* whatever belongs to our earthl nature7 se+ual immoralit*

impurit* lust* evil desires and greed* which is idolatr. Because of these* the wrath of 3od

is coming. (olossians (h.57<=

Putting 3od first

$o in the future* if we want to avoid idolatr* what do we need to do;

"inall* brothers* whatever is true* whatever is noble* whatever is right* whatever is pure*

whatever is lovel* whatever is admirableif anthing is e+cellent or praiseworththink

about such things. 2hatever ou have learned or received or heard from me* or seen in me

put it into practice. And the 3od of peace will be with ou.

Philippians (h.97?@

2e need to put 3od first.

But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness* and all these things will be given to ou as

well. 'atthew (h.=755

Eo not store up for ourselves treasures on earth* where moth and rust destro... N'atthew

(h.=70@0

QEo not store up for ourselves treasures on earth* where moth and rust destro* and

where thieves break in and steal. But store up for ourselves treasures in heaven* where

moth and rust do not destro* and where thieves do not break in and steal. "or where our

treasure is* there our heart will be also. 'atthew (h.=70@0



QAnone who loves his father or mother more than me is not worth of meS anone who

loves his son or daughter more than me is not worth of meS and anone who does not take

his cross and follow me is not worth of me. 2hoever finds his life will lose it* and whoever

loses his life for m sake will find it. 'atthew (h.0/75>5@

(hapter 09

$et our minds on things above* not on earthl things.

Although ou’ve pointed to Philippians 570@ in our Juestion* it might be more helpful to

start answering this Juestion b looking at (olossians 570<. Paul discusses the same thing

in this passage* a little more full. 4is idea here is that once ou become a (hristian* ou

live in a new realit7

KIf ou have been raised with (hrist8L Nv0

In the Bible* (hristianit isn’t reall about doing good things it is about trusting 3od’s

goodness. 2e are* however* often encouraged to do good things. But when this happens it is

because we change when we become (hristians. 2e have been Draised with (hrist’ and we

are called on to live like it.

K$et our minds on things that are above* not on earthl things* for ou have died and our

life is hidden with (hrist in 3odL Nv5

Paul’s thinking here is* wh would ou continue doing Dearthl’ things wh would ou

even continue thinking about them if ou have died and are now !oined to (hrist;G It !ust

doesn’t make an senseG 2hat Paul means b Dearthl’ things is clarified in the ne+t few

verses7

DPut to death therefore whatever is in ou that is earthl7 se+ual immoralit* unhelpful

thoughts* uncontrollable passions* evil desires* greed8L Nv<

Paul doesn’t ordinaril use the term Dearthl’ to mean everda things that we do or find in

this world Nas opposed to heaven7 football* computer games* friends and famil all have

their place. 2hat Paul means b Dearthl’ is sinful things things that are contrar to our



new nature as someone who has died to sin and been raised with (hrist. $ometimes

ordinar things which are good in their own right can become sinful if we let them get in

the road of our relationship with 3od. If we* sa* value football over church or if we pla

computer games when we never read the Bible. In this case these Dearthl’ things reall are

sinful.

It is the same in Philippians 570@. To Dset our mind on earthl things’ means to desire

above everthing else something other than our relationship with 3od. Paul reminds us in

the ver ne+t verse of the same truth that we learned from (olossians. 2e are to value our

relationship with 3od above everthing else because Dour citi,enship is in heaven’ we have

changed. If we are (hristians we no longer belong to the earth* we belong to heaven.

I think ou will now see the answer to our Juestion. Paul means all the time. &ver

second* of ever da all of our life. 6ou are a citi,en of heaven* ou are raised with (hrist

thats the wonderful truth. %ow live like itG

(hapter 0<

Temptation

The Bible challenges us to control and guide our desires towards doing good rather than

evil. 2e all must take responsibilit for our own thoughts. As a result* we must learn to

control our thoughts.

The path to sin

$in is disobedience of 3od’s commandment. There is a pathwa that can lead to someone

committing a sin against 3od. This pathwa is7

0st Temptation

nd $in



5rd Eeath

This is e+plained ver well in the following passage7

Blessed is the man who endures temptationS for when he has been approved* he will receive

the crown of life which the #ord has promised to those who love 4im. #et no one sa when

he is tempted* KI am tempted b 3odLS for 3od cannot be tempted b evil* nor does 4e

4imself tempt anone. But each one is tempted when he is drawn awa b his own desires

and enticed. Then* when desire has conceived* it gives birth to sinS and sin* when it is full

grown* brings forth death.

Eo not be deceived* m beloved brethren. :ames (h.0700=

2e are being told to endure the trials we face in our da to da lives and focus on those

things which 3od commands. This ofcourse reJuires us to e+clude the things that he

forbids. This process reJuires us to overcome temptation. To please 3od* the believer must

think and act in the correct was when the are initiall faced with the opportunit to do

wrong.

The cause of temptation

There is a ongoing battle between good and evil in each one of us.

The heart is deceitful above all things and beond cure. 2ho can understand it; :eremiah(h.0>7@ %I

This ongoing battle is also mentioned elsewhere7



"or from within* out of menFs hearts* come evil thoughts* se+ual immoralit* theft* murder*

adulter* greed* malice* deceit* lewdness* env* slander* arrogance and foll. All these evils

come from inside and make a man Funclean.F Q

'ark (h.>705 %I

2hen we get evil thoughts we get it from within ourselves. $omeone or something else does

not put these thoughts into our mind. $o to overcome temptation we must firstl recogni,e

the source of the sinful thinking. 2e are responsible for our own thoughts. $o a believer in

3od must control these thoughts and alwas tr to do good.

One thing we need to remember is that what one person ma see as a temptation ma have

no effect on another person. 2e all react differentl to the things around us.

4elp in overcoming temptations

The three steps to overcoming temptation

There are three steps involved in overcoming temptation7

$tep one7 2atch

2ork out what are our ma!or weaknesses in temptation. Once ou understand these then

ou can be especiall prepared to fight temptation when ou in this situation.

$tep two7 Run



2e are to avoid putting ourselves into situations where we face temptation. As matter of

fact* we are told to run from an situation where we might be temptedGG

"lee the evil desires of outh* and pursue righteousness* faith* love and peace* along withthose who call on the #ord out of a pure heart. Timoth (h.7

$tep three7 Pra

2e can go to 3od to help us with overcoming temptation. 2e can ask him through praer

to keep us awa from influences and environments that we find tempting. In other words*

led us awa from circumstances that will make it difficult to serve 3od.

3od allows us to be tempted because he wants to test our faith and desire to serve him. But

he stops the temptations becoming too much for us. $o whenever we find ourselves in a

difficult situation of temptation* ou can overcome it b seeking 3od’s help.

To him who is able to keep ou from falling and to present ou before his glorious presence

without fault and with great !o to the onl 3od our $avior be glor* ma!est* power and

authorit* through :esus (hrist our #ord* before all ages* now and forevermoreG Amen.

:ude 9<

(hrist can also help when we are faced with temptation.

$ince the children have flesh and blood* he too shared in their humanit so that b his

death he might destro him who holds the power of deaththat is* the devil and free

those who all their lives were held in slaver b their fear of death. "or surel it is not

angels he helps* but AbrahamFs descendants. "or this reason he had to be made like his

brothers in ever wa* in order that he might become a merciful and faithful high priest in

service to 3od* and that he might make atonement for the sins of the people. Because he

himself suffered when he was tempted* he is able to help those who are being tempted.

4ebrews (h.7090?



(hrist never sinned but he was tempted.

Therefore* since we have a great high priest who has gone through the heavens* :esus the

$on of 3od* let us hold firml to the faith we profess. "or we do not have a high priest who

is unable to smpathi,e with our weaknesses* but we have one who has been tempted in

ever wa* !ust as we areet was without sin. #et us then approach the throne of grace

with confidence* so that we ma receive merc and find grace to help us in our time of need.

4ebrews (h.97090=

Ceeping our minds pure

2e need to avoid ungodl environments where we will be faced with temptations.

Blessed is the man who does not walk in the counsel of the wicked or stand in the wa of

sinners or sit in the seat of mockers. But his delight is in the law of the #ORE* and on his

law he meditates da and night. Psalm 070 %I

$o we need to replace ungodl thinking with godl thinking. The best wa we can overcome

temptation is b filling our minds with the things of 3od.

2e demolish arguments and ever pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of

3od* and we take captive ever thought to make it obedient to (hrist. (orinthians

(h.0/7< %I

:ust as a conJuering arm takes captives* so the faithful believer must take captive ever

thought and make it obedient to (hrist.



If we learn to control our minds and think onl about good things* then we can full control

temptation.

"inall* brothers* whatever is true* whatever is noble* whatever is right* whatever is pure*whatever is lovel* whatever is admirable if anthing is

e+cellent or praiseworththink about such things. 2hatever ou have learned or

received or heard from me* or seen in meput it into practice. And the 3od of peace will

be with ou.

Philippians (h.97?@

(hapter 0=

Team work

Teamwork happens when a group of individual people are brought together to achieve a

common purpose or goal. The needs of the group become more important than the needs of

the individual. $o for team work to work efficientl* each person need to put aside their

own individual needs so as to achieve the ob!ective of the group. 2hen the people in the

group work with each other this is known as teamwork.

"or teams to work effectivel* in other words* achieve the set goals the must make sure

the follow some fundamental principles of teamwork7

(ooperation with each other V set aside personal differences

"or a team to run smoothl the members musts work together in an effective manner. This

means putting aside personal differences so that overall aim can be achieved. The need tocooperate and collaborate with each other. If there are conflicts then these need to be

resolved b using principles as set out in the Bible.

2hat causes fights and Juarrels among ou; EonFt the come from our desires that battle

within ou; :ames (h.970 %I



'an people* including some believers of 3od* live onl to make a good impression on

others or mabe the live to !ust please themselves. This tpe of selfishness can cause

problems when working in a group. Paul therefore encourages the believers to have

spiritual unit with each other and then work as one for the main purpose.

Eo nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit* but in humilit consider others better

than ourselves. &ach of ou should look not onl to our own interests* but also to the

interests of others. Philippians (h.759

Believers need to work as a team* caring for the problems of others as though the were our

own problems. 2ith this (hrist like attitude the team of 3od’s workers will e+perienceunit.

(ooperation with each other V two is better than one

As we go through life we learn man things. In the same wa* the believer* as he reads

through the Bible* learns wisdom. 4e ma take this wisdom and appl it in his own life so

as to make his life more meaningful. 4owever* the Bible sas that he shouldn’t keep all thisinformation to himself.

Two are better than one* because the have a good return for their work7 if one falls down*

his friend can help him up.

But pit the man who falls and has no one to help him upG

Also* if two lie down together* the will keep warm. But how can one keep warm alone;

Though one ma be overpowered* two can defend themselves. A cord of three strands is not

Juickl broken. &cclesiastes (h.97@0



The thought of the man without dependants toiling pointlessl* suggests the thought that

Qtwo are better than oneQ. EonFt keep all our gains for ourselfshare* be a team man

and how much fuller our life will beG

In the first centur* it was a :ewish custom to travel in pairs* especiall at night. To work in

pairs is better* for the each can encourage and strengthen the other when the become

downcast or depressed among strangers. Also one might take the glor to himselfS and

there might be a loss of love for the work through !ealous or dissension* as in the case of

:ohn 'ark.

QTwo are better than oneQ appeared to be the guideline for the work of the Apostles in the

first centur. Two disciples were sent to find the colt. Peter and :ohn were sent to prepare

the Passover and were later sent together to $amaria. Paul and Barnabas were sent b the

(hurch to Antioch and later when the had their dissension* each took a companion.

And 4e called the twelve to 4imself* and began to send them out two b two*8 'ark

(h.=7>

$o teamwork was a vital part of the work of the apostles in the first centur because of its

numerous advantages. "or this to work* it reJuired cooperation between the two men.

Eedicated commitment to the ob!ectives

The members of the team need to give full participation to the ob!ectives of the team.

&verone must feel that the goals are important and that the are full committed to

achieving them. &ach member must understand that their contribution will be valuable to

the team meeting its goals.

3od has given all believers an important responsibilit of making disciples in all countries.



Then :esus came to them and said* QAll authorit in heaven and on earth has been given to

me. Therefore go and make disciples of all nations* bapti,ing them in the name of the

"ather and of the $on and of the 4ol $pirit* and teaching them to obe everthing I have

commanded ou. And surel I am with ou alwas* to the ver end of the age.Q 'atthew

(h.?70?/

To achieve this ob!ective involves preaching* teaching* nurturing* giving* administering and

numerous other tasks. To tr and achieve this ob!ective b ourselves would be e+tremel

difficult. But 3od has asked us to work as a team for he knows this is the best wa to be

successful.

%ow these are the gifts (hrist gave to the church7 the apostles* the prophets* the

evangelists* and the pastors and teachers. Their responsibilit is to eJuip 3od’s people to

do his work and build up the church* the bod of (hrist.

&phesians (h.97000 %ew #iving Translation

As a team each person has his own special abilities that he Nor she can offer. $ome of us can

do one task whereas someone else can do another task. Together the united team can serve

3od more effectivel than the individual team members can alone.

It is a human trait to overestimate what we can do as a individual and also to

underestimate what can be done as a group. But as believers are part of the bod of (hrist*

there is a lot more that can be achieved together than can ever be done alone.

Eedicated commitment to the ob!ectives V the e+ample of Paul

At the time when the apostle Paul was writing* ships were powered b sail and b oar.

$ome ships had two* even three banks of oars. These vessels were known as Dbiremes’ or

Dtriremes’* but there was one ship called the D$racusa’ which had twent banks of oars

ten on each side. It was built for 3erone II of $racuse* and was a fearsome structure with

the capacit to transport a whole arm of soldiers. 'athematicians have calculated that it

needed two thousand men to pull the ?// oars. It is believed that the longest oar was ?9 feet



long* and needed at least four men to operate itG 2e can imagine what an impressive ship

this was. 2here do ou think it was built; In (orinth in about // B(.

(ould it be that Paul knew about the building of this gargantuan slaveship* and thereforeused the analog of the underrower to describe to the (orinthians his own service* and

theirs; The apostle was content to describe his own work as like that of one of the men at

the bottom of a ship* operating his single oar. 4e knew that on his own he could onl flail

his oar uselessl in the sea. 4e stood no chance of moving the vessel on his ownS he needed

others to assist him. One man rowing on his own would be no useS two thousand rowing out

of step would not be much better. But all two thousand pulling together would provide the

necessar momentum and drive. Teamwork is what was needed.

Paul was therefore an underrower in his 'aster’s vessel. (hrist is the captain of his and

our salvationS he controls the vessel’s speed and direction* and through him we shall reach

our final destination.

But Paul also recorded a stern warning* again written in terms associated with the analog

of the team of rowers. Two men in &phesus* 4menYus and Ale+ander* had chosen not to

pull with the rest* and had made shipwreck of their faith* threatening to affect others too.

Timoth* m son* I give ou this instruction in keeping with the prophecies once made

about ou* so that b following them ou ma fight the good fight* holding on to faith and a

good conscience. $ome have re!ected these and so have shipwrecked their faith. Among

them are 4menaeus and Ale+ander* whom I have handed over to $atan to be taught not to

blaspheme. 0 Timoth (h.070@/

2e have to learn to put our faith in the captain* and pull together in united service. 6et it is

much easier to sit back* considering others to be 3od’s stewards* and not ourselves. Paulwas certainl the steward of the 3entiles* and the #ord :esus served his 'aster* even unto

death on the tree.

2e read of the various tasks allocated in the %ew Testament churches* and see them

reflected in our own organisation. But we need to realise that service is a dut which falls



on all disciples without e+ception. The parable of the talents is ver familiar* but in #uke

0* the 'aster blesses the wise and faithful steward whom he had found working diligentl

when he returned without warning. Because he had the oversight of 3od’s house* the

faithful and wise steward was alwas working* while watching and waiting for his 'aster’s

return.

The team must be coordinated b a leader

The leader or leaders would help coordinate the team. This would help it achieve the goals

it was aiming for.

$olomon was e+ample of someone who knew the advantages of team work. 3ifted b 3od*

$olomon was to build a 4ouse Ntemple for 3od in :erusalem and was keen to begin b

laing its foundations. "irst* he reorganised some aspects of the Cingdom and then he

proceeded to build up a team of workmen* from Israel and elsewhere* to get the great

pro!ect underwa. There was a lot to be done.

4aving reorganised both the civil service and the tribal boundaries* to increase efficienc

and to ensure that the nation could afford the capital e+penditure programme he had in

mind for 3od* $olomon turned his attention to organising a large workforce. "or the

pro!ect reJuired civil engineering* comple+ building construction* and fine artwork. To do

all these well enough for 3od reJuired the involvement of an international team of

labourers and the emploment of skilled craftsmen.

After some time* a picture of the task force was beginning to become clear. :ew and 3entile

were going to work together to fell and transport the timber. $olomon’s lev drafted in a

huge number of labourers to work a month at a time* with a two months’ break before the

began another stint of felling duties. The wellestablished forests of #ebanon must havebeen alive with people from time to time* whenever the weather made felling and logging

practical* and whenever the sea was calm enough to let the log rafts0 be safel floated down

from #ebanon to :affa* and thence be dragged or carted up to :erusalem. Teamwork was of

the essence* for the record sas that7 Cing $olomon conscripted laborers from all Israel

thirt thousand men. 4e sent them off to #ebanon in shifts of ten thousand a month* so that

the spent one month in #ebanon and two months at home. Adoniram was in charge of the



forced labor. $olomon had sevent thousand carriers and eight thousand stonecutters in

the hills* as well as thirtthree hundred foremen who supervised the pro!ect and directed

the workmen. 0 Cings (h.<7050= %I

(hapter 0>

loneliness

#oneliness has to be e+perienced to be understood and it is b no means peculiar to those

who live alone. It is possible to be ver lonel indeed amidst a crowd of people. It is also one

of the trials that man of us have to face at some time in our lives.

A smpathetic ear devoid of impatienceS a little understanding of the problems of

lonelinessS an act of kindness and loveall warm the heart of the lonel one. These things

help to make life easier* but the problem of being lonel remains.

A person can feel lonel even in a crowd of people

:esus must have e+perienced loneliness on man occasions. 4e knew the warmth of famil

life* but preparation for his ministr and service to his "ather had to come first in his life.

This dedication to his "ather offended his famil at times and drew him apart from them.

This is evident when his mother and brethren waited without* hoping to see him* but :esus*

indicating his disciples* said* QBehold m mother and m brethrenQ. In spite also of the

closeness to him of his constant companions* the disciples* the were far from

understanding full his purpose and sacrifice.

Euring the last few das of his life* :esusF loneliness increased. 2hen he needed them most*

his friends left him. At the last supper his disciples contended as to who should be

accounted the greatest* and :udas departed to betra him. "earful of what should become

of them* the disciples fled when :esus was taken b the soldiers* thus fulfilling the 'asterFs



prophec that the would be scattered as sheep without a shepherd. The final ordeal of the

cross was before :esus.

$o with all this loneliness how did :esus cope;

:esus gained strength throughout his ministr b his Juiet communion with 3od. 2e

cannot achieve the closeness of :esus to 3od* but we can turn often to 3od in praer*

gaining strength in time of need.

2hen :esus heard what had happened* he withdrew b boat privatel to a solitar place.

4earing of this* the crowds followed him on foot from the towns. 'atthew (h.09705

Presence of :esus

Of all human e+periences* one of the most poignant is that of being separated from those

we hold dear. To take leave of one we love is to e+perience an acute sense of lossa feeling

of sadness and of lonelinessthe intensit of which varies with the strength of our regard

for the one who is going awa.

2hat then* we ma ask* must have been the feelings of the disciples of :esus when* after he

had led them as far as to Bethan* their #ord blessed them and was parted from them and

carried up into heaven; $urel* their sense of loss must have been more intense than

anthing we have e+perienced.

If we have ever reasoned along these lines* we shall be surprised to discover that in point of

fact the disciplesF feelings on this memorable occasion were Juite otherwise. The 3ospel

records of the Ascension betra no sense of loss. On the contrar* to Juote from #ukeFs

account* when the had witnessed the Ascension of their #ord the disciples Qreturned to

:erusalem with great !o7 and were continuall in the temple* praising and blessing 3od.Q

4ow is this remarkable parado+ to be e+plained ; 4ow is it that whereas we are downcast

and sad when we have taken leave of a loved one* the eleven* in apparentl similar

circumstances* were able to re!oice; There is onl one possible e+planation7 the disciples



did not believe that in an real sense the had been separated from their #ord. The were*

in fact* filled with an overwhelming sense of his presence. :esus was graduall training

them to understand that he was present everwhere.

Therefore go and make disciples of all nations* baptising them in the name of the "ather

and of the $on and of the 4ol $pirit* and teaching them to obe everthing I have

commanded ou. And surel I am with ou alwas* to the ver end of the age.Q 'atthew

(h.?70@/

"or where two or three come together in m name* there am I with them.Q 'atthew

(h.0?7/

Presence of 3od

#oneliness does not necessaril mean absence of other persons* it is more likel to be lack of

affinit of mind. $atisfaction of heart is not e+perienced in a crowd* but in the

consciousness of someone who is one with us in thought and aspiration. Though mankind

are bound closer together than ever b the inventions that enter ever home and land

simultaneousl* et loneliness of heart is !ust as possible as before.

(ompanionship is more real in the realm of the spirit than that of the senses. It is the

spiritual presence or companionship of the Eivine that gives radiance to a manFs

countenance* stedfastness to his faith* and love and !o to his heart. It was the blessing

offered to the (hildren of Israel that shepherded them through the wilderness when the

had left &gpt for the Promised hand. 'oses said* Q$how me Th wa that I ma know

Thee*L and the repl came7 Q' presence shall go with thee and I will give thee rest.Q

The modern (hildren of the (ovenant are assured of a triumphant end to their pilgrimage

in the same promise echoed ages after* through the words of the 3ood $hepherd 7

QIf a man love me* he will keep m words and m "ather will love him and we will come

unto him and make our abode with him. "or such a manall things abound GL



3od is present everwhere so there is no need to feel lonel.

&ven though I walk through the valle of the shadow of death* I will fear no evil* for ou

are with meS our rod and our staff* the comfort me. Psalm 579

6et I am alwas with ouS ou hold me b m right hand. 6ou guide me with our counsel*

and afterward ou will take me into glor. 2hom have I in heaven but ou; And earth has

nothing I desire besides ou. ' flesh and m heart ma fail* but 3od is the strength of m

heart and m portion forever. But as for me* it is good to be near 3od.

I have made the $overeign #ORE m refugeS I will tell of all our deeds. Psalm >575

=* ?

Ceep our lives free from the love of mone and be content with what ou have* because

3od has said* Q%ever will I leave ouS never will I forsake ou.Q 4ebrews (h.057<

Overcoming loneliness

2e all need human relationships.

The #ORE 3od said* QIt is not good for the man to be alone. I will make a helper suitable

for him.Q 3enesis (h.70?

(4APT&R 0?

#)(C

2hat does it mean to be luck;



The dictionar describes luck as random* when things happen b chance. Things do seem

to happen b chance sometimes...

The race is not to the swift or the battle to the strong* nor does food come to the wise orwealth to the brilliant or favour to the learnedS but time and chance happen to them all.

&cclesiastes @700

An athlete can fall during a race* an investor can loose their mone when a business fails* a

friend can be diagnosed with cancer* while a criminal ma escape without being punished.

&Juall* good things can happenS people fall in love* cures for diseases are discovered* a !ob

application is successful V but is it all reall !ust luck; Or* is 3od reall in control;

3ood luck

3od doesn’t promise us good luck* in fact the word luck is never mentioned in the Bible.

There are no random or chance happenings with 3od in control. 3od has a purpose for this

world and there is no event in our lives that is not in some wa a part of that plan.

I form the light* and create darkness7 I make peace* and create evil7 I the #ORE do all

these things. Isaiah 9<7>

And we know that in all things 3od works for the good of those who love him* who have

been called according to his purpose. Romans ?7?@

The ees of the #ORE are in ever place* beholding the evil and the good. Proverbs 0<75

The lot is cast into the lap* but its ever decision is from the #ORE. Proverbs 0=755



Perhaps instead of wishing our friends Qgood luckQ it would be much better to sa Q3od

bless ouQ

The #ord bless ou and keep ouS the #ord make 4is face shine upon ou and be gracious

to ou* the #ord turn 4is face towards ou and give ou peace. %umbers =79=

$uccess

2hen we wish someone Qgood luckQ don’t we reall mean that we wish them success*

happiness* good health* happ families* contentment and other good things;

That ma not seem like a bad thing at all* but it is so eas to let mone be the top priorit in

our lives8

%ow listen* ou who sa* QToda or tomorrow we will go to this* or that cit* spend a ear

there* carr on business and make mone.Q 2h* ou do not even know what will happen

tomorrow. 2hat is our life; 6ou are a mist that appears for a little while and thenvanishes. Instead ou ought to sa* QIf it is the #ord’s will* we will live and do this or that.Q

:ames 9705

2e are surrounded b pressure to achieve success* to work harder* earn more mone* bu a

bigger house* a newer car8

But godliness with contentment is great gain. "or we brought nothing into the world* andwe can take nothing out of it. But if we have food and clothing* we will be content with that.

People who want to get rich fall into temptation and a trap and into man foolish and

harmful desires that plunge men into ruin and destruction. 0 Timoth =7@

3od wants us to trust in 4im* not in moneS



2hoever trusts in his riches will fall but the righteous will thrive like a green leaf. Proverbs

007?

The #ORE makes poor and makes richS 4e brings low and lifts up. 4e raises the poor

from the dust and lifts the beggar from the ash heap* to set them among princes and make

them inherit the throne of glor. "or the pillars of the earth are the #ordFs* and 4e has set

the world upon them. 4e will guard the feet of 4is saints* but the wicked shall be silent in

darkness. "or b strength no man shall prevail. 0 $amuel 7>@

If we trust in 3od and tr to follow 4is was 8

3od will meet all our needs according to his glorious riches in (hrist :esus. Philippians

970@

who is able to do immeasurabl more than all we ask or imagine* according to 4is power

that is at work within us8 &phesians 57/

3od’s word* the Bible* teaches us 4is wa to find happiness.

Eo not let this Book of the #aw NBible depart from our mouthS meditate on it da and

night* so that ou ma be careful to do everthing written in it. Then ou will be

prosperous and successful wherever ou go. :oshua 07?

3ambling

6ou ma know of people who have lost their homes or their fortunes or their families b

gambling* 3ambling seems to offer a wa to get mone Juickl and easil but the Bible

offers good adviceS



Eishonest mone dwindles awa* but he who gathers mone little b little makes it grow.

Proverbs 05700

The love of mone is a root of all kinds of evil. $ome people* eager for mone* have

wandered from the faith and pierced themselves with man griefs. 0 Timoth =70/

A faithful man will be richl blessed* but one eager to get rich will not go unpunished.

Proverbs ?7/

$tarting over

:esus told a parable about a rich oung man who gambled awa all his inheritance and

everthing that he had. 4e was so desperate that he found a !ob feeding pigs and so hungr

that he would eat some of the pigs food. 6ou can read about it in #uke 0<7005.

The oung man was afraid to go back to his father’s house but when he did he was

welcomed with open arms. 3od is like the oung man’s father* 4e’s waiting for us to getour priorities right* and willing to forgive us our mistakes if we repent.

The #ord is not slow in keeping 4is promise* as some understand slowness. 4e is patient

with ou* not wanting anone to perish but everone to come to repentance. Peter

57@

Are not two sparrows sold for a penn; 6et not one of them will fall to the ground apartfrom the will of our "ather. 'atthew 0/7@

2e can re!oice* too* when we run into problems and trials* for we know that the are good

for usthe help us learn to endure. And endurance develops strength of character in us*

and character strengthens our confident e+pectation of salvation. And this e+pectation will



not disappoint us. "or we know how dearl 3od loves us* because he has given us the 4ol

$pirit to fill our hearts with his love. Romans <75<

(4APT&R 0@

3)I#T

2hat are we feeling when we e+perience guilt; 2e have a feeling of responsibilit or

remorse for some offense* crime* or wrong. This offense* crime or wrong can be real or

imagined.

In the conte+t of the Bible* people ma feel guilt when the have sinned.

2hat is sin;

The entire plan of 3od revolves around the concept of obedience.

EonFt ou know that when ou offer ourselves to someone to obe him as slaves* ou are

slaves to the one whom ou obewhether ou are slaves to sin* which leads to death* or toobedience* which leads to righteousness; Romans (h.=70= %I

"or the believer in 3od* obedience is critical. 3od loves obedience but hates sin. $o what

does 3od mean b KsinL; $in means to be disobedient to 3od. If a person is sinful then he

is full of disobedience.

2h does 3od hate sin; Because if we make a decision to disobe him then we re!ect all thethings he stands for V truth* love* patience* !ustice* faithfulness* merc and so on. 2hen we

sin we re!ect 3od himself.



The mind of sinful man is death* but the mind controlled b the $pirit is life and peaceS the

sinful mind is hostile to 3od. It does not submit to 3odFs law* nor can it do so. Those

controlled b the sinful nature cannot please 3od. Romans (h.?7=? %I

6ou are so proud of knowing the law* but ou dishonor 3od b breaking it. Romans

(h.75 %ew #iving Translation

3od hates sin so much that he has stated that all sin will lead to death.

"or the wages of sin is death* but the gift of 3od is eternal life in (hrist :esus our #ord.

Romans (h.=75 %I

3od wants each one of us to replace sin with obedience. 2e need to learn to hate sin like

3od does.

3uilt and sin

The Bible shows us that our sins distance us from our 3od. This can happen when we ma

feel guilt because we have problems overcoming certain sins. 2e ma find it difficult even

to want to overcome some sins. 2e feel we cannot face 3od like this. 6et whatever form

that sin takes* the 3ood $hepherd knows all his sheep b name* and he is* even now*

seeking ever last one of us.

I am the good shepherdS and I know ' sheep* and am known b ' own. As the "ather

knows 'e* even so I know the "atherS and I la down ' life for the sheep. And other

sheep I have which are not of this foldS them also I must bring* and the will hear '

voiceS and there will be one flock and one shepherd. :ohn (h.0/7090=

If we have not made enough time for 3od’s word in our bus lives* our love for 3od’s was

can weaken firstbefore we actuall fall into a sin. If we allow that love and respect to



cool* we la ourselves wide open to temptation. The more we desire sin* the further we are

distanced from 3od. 2hen at last we realise it* we find we are miles awa from 4im.

$ometimes we realise onl slowl how far we have distanced ourselves from our 3od* aslittle b little sin eats awa at our hope. $ometimes the feeling of distance from 3od is

brought home to us suddenl and sharpl. %othing will bring that distance home to us

more deepl than the sub!ect of death7 the stark illustration of the wages of sinthe

difference between light and darkness* life and no life. In the face of death* we cannot

deceive ourselves into thinking we can serve two mastersG I choose 3od and life* or sin and

death. The choice is entirel m own.

The result of sin is death

If we do feel trapped in a state of mind that desires sin* the beginning of turning back to

3od is to be honest with ourselves* and admit to that desirethat is better than being blind

to the fact* deceiving ourselvesG $in is deceitfulit does not appear to us in its true form. It

deceives us into thinking we can serve two masters. K4ow long halt e between two

opinions;L asked &li!ah. At an time we are either serving our own desires or serving 3od.

Both thought patterns cannot be in charge at the same time. 2hen our mind has been open

to wrong dependencies or thought patterns without resistance* we have been closing our

mind to 3od’s word and its guidance. 2e have to reverse this process* shutting our mind to

the sinful desires and opening it to 3od’s word. The bod knows what it likesour mind of

the flesh knows what it wants* and it will tr Kever trick in the bookL to get it. Thankfull*

3od has given us 4is Book .

The Bible Our $word

2hile the bod knows what it likes * 3od’s word shows us what we need . The battle is an

inward one* the arena is our mind* the Bible is our sword. If we allow 3od’s word into our

mind* it does not leave us as it finds us7 we must make a choice. &ither we harden our

hearts further* or we turn back to 4im. 2e can remain distanced* without hopeS or we can



tr hard to draw closer to 4im* determined to tr to respect 4is was and appreciate the

wisdom of them.

4ow can we regain our lost ground; 4ow can we find our wa back;

And ou will seek 'e and find 'e* when ou search for 'e with all our heart. :eremiah

(h.@705

2e must show our "ather in heaven that we want to find our wa back to 4im and 4is

was* that we will persevere* that we will never give up.

But without faith it is impossible to please 4im* for he who comes to 3od must believe that

4e is* and that 4e is a rewarder of those who diligentl seek 4im. 4ebrews (h.007=

It is not eas to turn back7 we can feel so entrenched. 2e ma tr to !ustif or e+cuse our

sins* we ma even miss themG 2e ma not be able to find in ourselves an desire for the

right was all we feel

is a longing for the wrong was. 2e must strengthen our love and respect for 3od’swisdom* through effectivel reading 3od’s word. %othing can help us moreet straight

awa we hit a problemG

Eifficult Reading or Praing

2hen at last we admit that we have been turning a deaf ear to 3od’s warnings in 4is word*

it can feel as if* now that we want to* we cannot hear 4im. As if 4e were saing* KRightthen* so ou didn’t want to listen to mewell* for a time ou won’t be able toL. 2e do not

here suggest our "ather would have that attitude* but to us at the time* in a turmoil of

mi+ed emotions* it ma seem like it. 4ow can we make our wa forward;



K2hat man of ou* having a hundred sheep* if he loses one of them* does not leave the

ninetnine in the wilderness* and go after the one which is lost until he finds it; And when

he has found it* he las it on his shoulders* re!oicing. And when he comes home* he calls

together his friends and neighbors* saing to them* DRe!oice with me* for I have found m

sheep which was lostG’ I sa to ou that likewise there will be more !o in heaven over one

sinner who repents than over ninetnine !ust persons who need no repentance. #uke

(h.0<75>

That hundredth sheep had got itself into a position where it could not get itself homeit

could onl admit that it was lost and cr for help. At that point the 3ood $hepherd came

looking for it and carried it home re!oicing. In our need for help* we must keep tring to

pra* faltering as we ma be.

The 3ood $hepherd comes to us through 3od’s word. Ceep tring to glean an help we can

from reading our Bibleour dail readings* a book of the Bible* a chapter* a versefilling

up with the spiritual food we must have been lacking.

I know* O #ORE* that a manFs life is not his ownS it is not for man to direct his steps.

:eremiah (h.0/75

2e don’t have it naturall in us to think as 3od teaches us. 2e constantl have to input

3od’s wisdom b reading 4is word. %othing else can fight sin. 2e shall begin to accept the

wa the Bible describes our sins and stop tring to !ustif them. This can be a frightening

time.

2e ma feel such a great heaviness that we did not love 3od’s was as we thought we did.

2e ma feel guilt that we have let 3od down. 2e can pass through man or all of these

feelings and later the ma leave us with another guilt to contend with on top of our initialproblemG Ceep going back to the $hepherd* cring out to him* reading his answers in the

word. The answers are thereG



Our difficulties are compounded because thoughts and feelings can be so mi+ed. $in

deceives* and one of the was it deceives is b presenting evil along with good. 2hile our

heart deceives us* 3od knows the heart of man.

Behold* I send ou out as sheep in the midst of wolves. Therefore be wise as serpents and

harmless as doves.

'atthew (h.0/70=

2hen we continue to pra and read 3od’s word* we not onl gain strength in resisting sin*

we also become more aware of sin.

$in deceives us b pandering to our shortterm satisfaction. $atisfing our own wants

above obedience to 3od is false securit* numbing our minds to our far greater longterm

needs.

Eesire for 3od’s was can be so weakS the desire to sin so strong. But :esus suffered long

and terribl out of his and the "ather’s love for us. That was done* not for the ou and me

who are being obedient* but for the ou and me who have walked along dangerous paths*

who have placed ourselves where we should not be. It is then that 3od still loves us andpleads with us to turn back* as a sheep to its shepherd* as a child to its "atherbecause 4e

first loved us while we were et sinners.

3od is not asking us to show 4im that we have suddenl become immune to sin4e asks

us to show 4im that we genuinel want to turn from sin* terribl hard though this can be

for us in our sinfulness. As 3od’s word changes our minds* and we learn the right paths*

slowl* surel* the warmth and closeness of hope and trust can begin to come back. Ea b

da we can show our "ather that we want to understand and respect 4is was* and that we

are never going to give up.

On our 3uard against $in



$ome things in our life !ust fan the flames so that we want more.

2e must be on our guard constantlour mind so easil slips into wrong thought patterns*

and these are so strong. (ertain things make it far harder for us7 the compan we keep* the

music we listen to* the words we sing along to* clothes we wear* films we watch* things we

read* being too bus or too tired to remember 3od’s was in our da7 an of these can

encourage our wants and fan the flames so that we want more. 2e must tr to avoid

situations which make it harder for us* not because we are so righteous* but because we are

so weakG

All that :esus passed through to open the wa to our forgiveness can mean more to us thanit has ever done* and can move us ver much. 2hen we confess our sins* and tr hard to

turn from them* to pass from sin to repentance* 3od is !ust to forgive us our sins.

4ow much it means to us to know that the #ord :esus took all our griefs and all our

sorrows* and died that we might liveG 2e know that*

KThe #ord is merciful and gracious* slow to anger* and plenteous in merc . . . 4e hath notdealt with us after our sinsS nor rewarded us

according to our iniJuities. "or as the heaven is high above the earth* so great is his merc

toward them that fear him. As far as the east is from the west* so far hath he removed our

transgressions from us. #ike as a father pitieth his children* so the #ord pitieth them that

fear him.L

Psalm 0/57? * 0/V05

#et us turn to 3od in our need and ask 4im to forgive us and to help us through 4is word

to find our wa back to 4im.

(4APT&R /

4onest



Is it important to be honest; In toda’s societ honest and integrit are difficult to find.

$ociet rationalises dishonest V it is considered as something necessar to get b in this

world.

#ing destros integrit

#ies will soon be detected and the liar is deceiving himself to think otherwise.

A case stud of a liar

taken from 0 $amuel (h.0<7 009

(onsider this incident that took place about 5*/// ears ago. It concerns the Israelite Cing

$aul and the prophet $amuel7

$amuel said to $aul* QI am the one the #ORE sent to anoint ou king over his people

IsraelS so listen now to the message from the #ORE. This is what the #ORE Almight sas7

FI will punish the Amalekites for what the did to Israel when the walaid them as the

came up from &gpt. %ow go* attack the Amalekites and totall destro everthing thatbelongs to them. Eo not spare themS put to death men and women* children and infants*

cattle and sheep* camels and donkes.F Q

$o $aul summoned the men and mustered them at Telaimtwo hundred thousand foot

soldiers and ten thousand men from :udah.

Then $aul attacked the Amalekites all the wa from 4avilah to $hur* to the east of &gpt.4e took Agag king of the Amalekites alive* and all his people he totall destroed with the

sword. But $aul and the arm spared Agag and the best of the sheep and cattle* the fat

calves and lambseverthing that was good. These the were unwilling to destro

completel* but everthing that was despised and weak the totall destroed.



Then the word of the #ORE came to $amuel7 QI am grieved that I have made $aul king*

because he has turned awa from me and has not carried out m instructions.Q $amuel was

troubled* and he cried out to the #ORE all that night.

&arl in the morning $amuel got up and went to meet $aul* but he was told* Q$aul has gone

to (armel. There he has set up a monument in his own honor and has turned and gone on

down to 3ilgal.Q 2hen $amuel reached him* $aul said* QThe #ORE bless ouG I have

carried out the #OREFs instructions.Q But $amuel said* Q2hat then is this bleating of

sheep in m ears; 2hat is this lowing of cattle that I hear;Q

$aul thought that he had won a great victor over the Amalekites* but 3od saw it as a great

failure because $aul had disobeed him and then lied to $amuel about the results of the

battle. $aul ma have thought his lie wouldn’t be detected* or that what he did was not

wrong. $aul was deceiving himself.

Truth stands the test of timeS lies are soon e+posed.

Proverbs 070@ W5X

People who tell a lie usuall find the have to tell further lies to cover the first one.

&ventuall the lie upon lie become a large out of control problem towering over themG

Eishonest people soon begin to believe the lies the build around themselves. Then the

start to lose the abilit to tell the difference between truth and lies. B believing our own

lies ou are deceiving ourself. But ou also alienate ourself from 3od* and ou lose

credibilit in all our relationships with other people. If ou lie to other people then their

perception of our integrit drops to a low level. In the long run* honest alwas wins out.

Above all* m brothers* do not swearnot b heaven or b earth or b anthing else. #et

our Q6esQ be es* and our Q%o*Q no* or ou will be condemned. :ames <70



A person with a reputation for e+aggeration or ling often can’t get anone to believe him

on his word alone. 6ou should never become like that. Alwas be honest so that others will

believe our simple es or no. B avoiding lies* halftruths* and omissions of the truth* ou

will become known as a trustworth person.

#ies can lead to in!ustice

2hen ou want to please or impress someone* it is tempting to lie to make ourself look

good. 6ou ma think it is easier to tell the other person what the want to hear. $ometimes

telling the truth can lead to someone doing something terrible to ou. Obeing 3od Nnot

telling lies* doesn’t alwas protect us from evil conseJuences. Obedience ma* in fact*

provoke them. But it is better to suffer from man’s displeasure than from 3od’s wrath.

Eo not be afraid of those who kill the bod but cannot kill the soul. Rather* be afraid of the

One who can destro both soul and bod in hell. 'atthew 0/7?

If ou are ridiculed for being honest* remember that this can be a sign that ou indeed

doing what is right in 3od’s ees

#ing undermines our unit with others

#ing to those ou associate with Nfriends* relations* work colleagues* etc disrupts unit b

creating conflict and destroing trust.

$top ling to each otherS tell the truth* for we are parts of each other and when we lie to

each other we are hurting ourselves. &phesians (h.97< W5X

There are man cases where deceit and honest have ruined families. A famil is onl as

strong as the level of honest between its members.



Eifferent levels of dishonest

uite often people argue that Kwhite liesL Nsmallscale dishonest is not a problem like full

ling. The Bible does not sa there is an difference.

%o one who practices deceit will dwell in m houseS no one who speaks falsel will stand in

m presence. Psalm 0/07>

:esus sas that deceit is one of man evil things which will defile someone.

Q2hat comes out of a man is what makes him Funclean.F "or from within* out of menFs

hearts* come evil thoughts* se+ual immoralit* theft* murder* adulter* greed* malice* deceit*

lewdness* env* slander* arrogance and foll. 'ark >7/

Briber

$ometimes ou hear of a person paing mone to someone else for a favour. This is what isknown as briber. 3od does not want this to happen.

#ORE* who ma dwell in our sanctuar; 2ho ma live on our hol hill; 4e whose walk

is blameless and who does what is righteous* who speaks the truth from his heart and has

no slander on his tongue* 8..and does not accept a bribe against the innocent. 4e who does

these things will never be shaken. Psalm 0<70<

4onest and 3od

3od makes it ver clear in various parts of the Bible that telling lies is a sin.



The #ORE detests ling lips* but he delights in men who are truthful. Proverbs (h.07

Eishonest actions are also criticised b 3od.

Q FEo not use dishonest standards when measuring length* weight or Juantit. )se honest

scales and honest weights* an honest ephah W0X and an honest hin. WX I am the #ORE our

3od* who brought ou out of &gpt. #eviticus (h.0@75<5=

#iars will not be allowed in the kingdom of 3od.

Outside are the dogs* those who practice magic arts* the se+uall immoral* the murderers*

the idolaters and everone who loves and practices falsehood. Revelation (h.70<

There are si+ things the #ORE hates* seven that are detestable to him7 haught ees* a

ling tongue* hands that shed innocent blood*

a heart that devises wicked schemes* feet that are Juick to rush into evil* a false witnesswho pours out lies and a man who stirs up dissension among brothers. Proverbs (h.=70=0@

3od asks us to have a character which upholds the highest standards of honest. 2e can

displa this on a dail basis b being open and honest with each other.

The hours in the above e+ample would var from person to person but I think ou get the

ideaG 2hat are ou doing with those 95 hours left over V our spare time where ou are free

to choose what ou do.



There are numerous activities which we could do in our spare time. $ome of these activities

take us towards 3od and others take us awa from 3od. 2hat is the Bible’s advice on how

we use our spare time;

Be ver careful* then* how ou livenot as unwise but as wise* making the most of ever

opportunit* because the das are evil. &phesians (h.<70<0=

Avoid godless chatter* because those who indulge in it will become more and more ungodl.

Timoth (h.70=

NAll the Athenians and the foreigners who lived there* spent their time doing nothing but

talking about and listening to the latest ideas. Acts (h.0>70

)sing our spare time

The Bible encourages the believer to make the best use of his time.

Be wise in the wa ou act toward outsidersS make the most of ever opportunit.

(olossians (h.97<

"inall* brothers* whatever is true* whatever is noble* whatever is right* whatever is pure*

whatever is lovel* whatever is admirableif anthing is e+cellent or praiseworththink

about such things. Philippians (h.97?

3o* eat our food with gladness* and drink our wine with a !oful heart* for it is now that

3od favors what ou do. Alwas be clothed in white* and alwas anoint our head with oil.

&n!o life with our wife* whom ou love* all the das of this meaningless life that 3od has

given ou under the sun all our meaningless das. "or this is our lot in life and in our

toilsome labor under the sun. 2hatever our hand finds to do* do it with all our might* for



in the grave* where ou are going* there is neither working nor planning nor knowledge nor

wisdom. &cclesiastes (h.0/70?

2asting time

In our spare time it ma be tempting to become la, and do nothing. But 3od warns us

against la,iness.

Besides* the get into the habit of being idle and going about from house to house. And not

onl do the become idlers* but also gossips and busbodies* saing things the ought not

to. 0 Timoth (h.<705

In the name of the #ord :esus (hrist* we command ou* brothers* to keep awa from ever

brother who is idle and does not live according to the teaching ou received from us. "or

ou ourselves know how ou ought to follow our e+ample. 2e were not idle when we were

with ou* nor did we eat anoneFs food without paing for it. On the contrar* we worked

night and da* laboring and toiling so that we would not be a burden to an of ou. 2e did

this* not because we do not have the right to such help* but in order to make ourselves a

model for ou to follow. "or even when we were with ou* we gave ou this rule7 QIf a man

will not work* he shall not eat.Q

2e hear that some among ou are idle. The are not busS the are busbodies. $uch

people we command and urge in the #ord :esus (hrist to settle down and earn the bread

the eat. And as for ou* brothers* never tire of doing what is right. Thessalonians (h.57=

05

The Bible encourages us to use our spare time working hard.

Our people must learn to devote themselves to doing what is good* in order that the ma

provide for dail necessities and not live unproductive lives. Titus (h.5709



2e each have finite time to use this is wh it is important to use it effectivel.

&ntertainment

2hen people have spare time the usuall look to entertainment to fill it. The

entertainment usuall turned to is movies* television* video games* maga,ines* etc. A large

portion of these tpes of entertainment is full of immoralit* violence and other behaviour

which goes directl against the tpe of behaviour that 3od asked of us.

The Bible sas that our leisure times should be spent profitabl.

$o whether ou eat or drink or whatever ou do* do it all for the glor of 3od.

0 (orinthians (h.0/750

#ife is here to en!oG

A lot of people think that living a life according to the principles of 3od is not en!oable.

This is a long wa from the realit of the situation. There are man verses in the Bible

which make it clear that 3od does want us to en!o ourselves.

But ma the righteous be glad and re!oice before 3odS ma the be happ and !oful.

Psalms =?75

I know that there is nothing better for men than to be happ and do good while the live.

That everone ma eat and drink* and find satisfaction in all his toilthis is the gift of

3od. &cclesiastes (h.57005



Re!oice in the #ord alwas. I will sa it again7 Re!oiceG

Philippians (h.979

(ommand those who are rich in this present world not to be arrogant nor to put their hope

in wealth* which is so uncertain* but to put their hope in 3od* who richl provides us witheverthing for our en!oment. 0 Timoth (h.=70>

(hapter 0

Blasphem

3od reJuires us to show him honour* reverence and great respect. Blasphem is treating

3od with contempt. 2e must be careful how we act and how we speak.

There are a number of was in which people can blaspheme7

'isusing or profaning 3od’s name

"orsaking 3od

2orshipping other gods

$inning defiantl

The common theme here is disrespect for 3od. $o an action that involves deliberate

disrespect for 3od is blasphem.

'isusing or profaning 3od’s name



3od’s name and his $on :esus name have ver deep spiritual meanings. 2hen we speak of

3od we are touching upon ever aspect of 4is wonderful purpose of love and truth. That

3od’s %ame should be used in vain as a mild e+pletive or e+pression of e+asperation* is

therefore one of the most insulting things a man can do to his 'aker.

6ou shall not misuse the name of the #ORE our 3od* for the #ORE will not hold anone

guiltless who misuses his name. &+odus (h./7>

Eo not blaspheme 3od or curse the ruler of our people.

&+odus (h.7?

Eo not swear falsel b m name and so profane the name of our 3od. I am the #ORE.

#eviticus (h.0@70

Eo not profane m hol name. I must be acknowledged as hol b the Israelites. I am the

#ORE* who makes ou hol #eviticus (h.75

Because of this anone who wants to please 3od and honour 4im will make ever effortnot to use 3od’s name lightl. If ou have blasphemed his name in the past then a heartfelt

praer to 3od for help to break this habit will help.

3od e+pects his people to respect him* acknowledge him as hol and to worship 4im with

great respect.

It is the #ORE our 3od ou must follow* and him ou must revere. Ceep his commandsand obe himS serve him and hold fast to him. Eeuteronom (h.0579

Tell Aaron and his sons to treat with respect the sacred offerings the Israelites consecrate to

me* so the will not profane m hol name. I am the #ORE. #eviticus (h7



6ou are worth* our #ord and 3od* to receive glor and honor and power* for ou created

all things* and b our will the were created and have their being. Revelation (h.9700

"orsaking 3od

Therefore* son of man* speak to the people of Israel and sa to them* FThis is what the

$overeign #ORE sas7 In this also our fathers blasphemed me b forsaking me7 &,ekiel

(h./7>

2orshipping other gods

I will set m face against that man and I will cut him off from his peopleS for b giving his

children to 'olech* he has defiled m sanctuar and profaned m hol name. #eviticus

(h./75

$inning defiantl

But anone who sins defiantl* whether nativeborn or alien* blasphemes the #ORE* and

that person must be cut off from his people. Because he has despised the #OREFs word and

broken his commands* that person must surel be cut offS his guilt remains on him.

%umbers (h.0<75/50

3od was willing to forgive those who made unintentional errors if the realised their

mistakes Juickl and corrected them. 4owever* those who defiantl and deliberatel sinnedreceived a harsher !udgment. Intentional sin grows out of an improper attitude toward

3od.

"orgiveness



Blasphem can be forgiven V an e+ample is the apostle Paul.

&ven though I was once a blasphemer and a persecutor and a violent man* I was shown

merc because I acted in ignorance and unbelief. The grace of our #ord was poured out on

me abundantl* along with the faith and love that are in (hrist :esus. 0 Timoth (h.0705

09

Paul re!ected :esus as the $on of 3od V so he blasphemed. 4e later on repented and was

forgiven.

There is one sin that cannot be forgiven and that is blasphem against the 4ol $pirit.

I tell ou the truth* all the sins and blasphemies of men will be forgiven them. But whoever

blasphemes against the 4ol $pirit will never be forgivenS he is guilt of an eternal sin.

'ark (h.57?@

Blasphem against the 4ol $pirit happens when a person deliberatel and consciousl

shows contempt for the power of 3od. An e+ample of this was when the :ews said that the

power of :esus to heal people came from an Kevil spiritL.

(hapter

Re!ection

To re!ect someone is to refuse to accept them. "or e+ample* if a man applied for a !ob witha compan and the decide to not accept his application then the have re!ected him.

The word re!ection means that someone is either in the process of being re!ected Nnot

accepted or has alread been re!ected.



'ost people want to be liked so it is difficult when we are not accepted. This re!ection ma

be because of the wa we look* our personalit or our behaviour. To be re!ected is an

unpleasant thing to be cast on to ou. It can be e+tremel hurtful.

Re!ection b those close to ou

Re!ection from those close to ou can be e+tremel painful because we trust these people

more than others.

:esus said to them* QOnl in his hometown* among his relatives and in his own house is a

prophet without honor.Q

'ark (h.=79 %I

:esus sas in this verse that a worker for 3od Nprophet is never honoured in his hometown.

But this didn’t slow down his work for 3od* as this work was far more important than

being respected or honoured b others. If famil* neighbours or friends don’t respect our

work for 3od then don’t let this re!ection stop ou from serving 3od.

Overcoming re!ection through teamwork

2hen the disciples travelled through the countrside* the did it in pairs. As individuals

the probabl could have reached more areas of the countr but (hrist didn’t want this.

4e decided that as a pair the could encourage and strengthen each other* especiall when

the were facing re!ection. 2hen we are facing re!ection we can get strength from 3od but

he also encourages us to meet our needs b teamwork with others.

"or we are 3odFs fellow workersS ou are 3odFs field* 3odFs building. 0 (orinthians (h.57

@ %I



$erving (hrist reJuires us to work with others V as a team.

Overcoming re!ection b drawing close to 3od

(hrist gave an e+ample of complete trust in 3od.

2hen the hurled their insults at him* he did not retaliateS when he suffered* he made no

threats. Instead* he entrusted himself to 4im who !udges !ustl. 0 Peter (h.75

The e+ample of (hrist was one of absolute nonresistance to evil and complete trust in 3od.4e could have avoided all his trials N'atthew =7<5* but he knew that the path of salvation

la through suffering and death* and like a good shepherd * he led the wa. 4e overcame

the re!ection b others b putting complete trust in 3od.

Re!ection of others

2e are told b Paul to not re!ect others but rather accept each other.

Accept one another* then* !ust as (hrist accepted ou* in order to bring praise to 3od.

Romans (h.0<7>

Accept other believers and don’t re!ect them on the basis of some trivial matter.

Re!ection b 3od;

3od promises never to leave or forsake us.



Ceep our lives free from the love of mone and be content with what ou have* because

3od has said* Q%ever will I leave ouS never will I forsake ou.Q 4ebrews (h.057< %I

3od confirmed to Israel that we had not left them7

"or the #ORE will not re!ect his peopleS he will never forsake his inheritance. Psalm @9709

%I

Paul made a similar point to the first centur believers7

I ask then7 Eid 3od re!ect his people; B no meansG I am an Israelite mself* a descendant

of Abraham* from the tribe of Ben!amin. 3od did not re!ect his people* whom he foreknew.

EonFt ou know what the $cripture sas in the passage about &li!ahhow he appealed to

3od against Israel7

Romans (h.0070 %I

&ven though Israel had re!ected their 'essiah and had refused to listen to Paul’s

preaching* 3od’s promises were still relevant. If it is true for the Israelites then how muchmore so for the believerG 3od will never leave us or forsake us* providing we do not leave

him.

And ou have forgotten that word of encouragement that addresses ou as sons7

Q' son* do not make light of the #ordFs discipline* and do not lose heart when he rebukes

ou* because the #ord disciplines those he loves* and he punishes everone he accepts as ason.Q 4ebrews (h.07<=

$ilence Re!ection b 3od;



:ob suffered a lot in his life. 4e was especiall upset because 3od was silent and gave no

reasons for his suffering. :ob misinterpreted this silence as meaning that 3od was re!ecting

him. This apparent re!ection b 3od bothered :ob even more than an suffering he was

going through.

QOnl grant me these two things* O 3od* and then I will not hide from ou7 withdraw our

hand far from me* and stop frightening me with our terrors. :ob (h.057 / V 0 %I

:ob didn’t want 3od to Kwithdraw our hand far from meL* in other words* re!ect him.

3od’s silence does not mean he has re!ected us. $ometimes we will intervene in our lives in

unseen was.

Re!ection of 3od

$ometimes* through our actions and thoughts we can make the mistake of re!ecting 3od.

This can be done in a number of was7

0. $elfishness

$ometimes selfishness can lead us to re!ecting 3od. The Israelites did this7

6ou have said harsh things against me*Q sas the #ORE. Q6et ou ask* F2hat have we said

against ou;F

Q6ou have said* FIt is futile to serve 3od. 2hat did we gain b carring out his

reJuirements and going about like mourners before the #ORE Almight; But now we call

the arrogant blessed. (ertainl the evildoers prosper* and even those who challenge 3od

escape.F Q

'alachi (h.57050<



$o here is a case showing the peopleFs arrogant attitude toward 3od. The basicall

re!ected 3od saing QIt is foolish to worship 3od and obe him. 2hat good does it do to

obe his laws* and to sorrow and mourn for our sins ; "rom now on* as far as we are

concerned* Blessed are the arrogant* for those who do evil shall prosper* and those whodare 3od to punish them shall get off scotfreeQ.

$o* we can see from these verses that selfishness is a re!ection of 3od and all that he

represents. Is that the same with us sometimes; Eo we sometimes ask Qwhat good does

serving 3od do for me;Q. If we do then our focus is selfish. Our real Juestion should be

Q2hat good does serving 3od do for 3od;Q

. Trusting our own !udgement more than 3od’s !udgement

There are man people in this world who ignore the evidence of 3od’s e+istence. The Bible

tells us that these people are foolish.

The fool sas in his heart* QThere is no 3od.Q The are corrupt* their deeds are vileS there

is no one who does good. Psalm 0970

There are others who are wicked because the refuse to live b 3od’s commandments. 2e

become like these people when we rel more on ourself than on 3od.

5. Trusting other humans more than 3od

$ome people put church leaders or other people before 3od.

This has happened in the past as well. "or e+ample in the time Of $amuel. The true king of

Israel was 3od. 4owever* the nation of Israel wanted another king.



$amuel summoned the people of Israel to the #ORE at 'i,pah and said to them* QThis is

what the #ORE* the 3od of Israel* sas7 FI brought Israel up out of &gpt* and I delivered

ou from the power of &gpt and all the kingdoms that oppressed ou.F But ou have now

re!ected our 3od* who saves ou out of all our calamities and distresses. And ou havesaid* F%o* set a king over us.F $o now present ourselves before the #ORE b our tribes

and clans.Q 0 $amuel (h.0/7 0>0@ %I

Israel re!ected 3od b asking for a human being instead of 3od as their guide and leader.

If we look at histor we can see that men and women have continuall re!ected 3od. This

practice continues even toda. 2e need to look at our lives and decide what is our highest

priorit. If we push 3od aside and treat someone or something else as being more

important then we are re!ecting 3od. There are man e+amples in the Bible for us to learnfrom and the all teach one thing V 3od should be foremost in our life.

9. %ot taking up 3od’s offer of salvation

3od loved us so much the he gave us his onl begotten son. :esus perfect life* his truthful

words and his sacrifice of love are designed so that we sit up and take notice and follow the

e+ample of :esus. If we do this we are taking up 3od’s offer of salvation.

:esus said to them* Q4ave ou never read in the $criptures7

Q FThe stone the builders re!ected has become the capstone WcornerstoneXS the #ord has

done this* and it is marvelous in our eesF; 'atthew (h.079 %I

4owever* if we ignore 3od’s gracious gift of his son* then we re!ecting 3od himself.

$ummar



As we might e+pect* the people whom 3od condemns are those who do not recognise their

need and who are unwilling to submit to 3od and 4is word. $uch were the Pharisees7

The tie up heav loads and put them on menFs shoulders* but the themselves are notwilling to lift a finger to move them. 'atthew (h.579

$uch men are selfrighteous and have lost their sense of dependence upon 3od. The ma

be divided into three classes7

0. Those who ignore 3od’s word completel* who are willingl ignorant7

#ike the people who lived in the das of %oah* the refuse to heed the warnings given b

those who preach the wa of righteousness. The deliberatel choose to remain in darkness.

%oah had certainl preached to his contemporaries* but when the flood came Kthe knew

notL. The knew all rightS the had heard the message* after a fashion. But inasmuch as

the did not want to know* their ears had been shut to %oah’s saving message. The disciples

were told to Kshake the dust off their feetL when leaving the houses of such people.

. Those who deliberatel distort it or re!ect 3od’s word7

The #ord refers to blasphemers against the 4ol $pirit* for whom there is no forgiveness.

These are Kfalse prophetsL who present a distorted gospel and invite men to believe in a

hope founded upon the Juicksand of human reasoning.

5. Those whose lives do not sincerel attempt to reflect 3od’s word7

The are hpocrites* who act out a part when it serves their purposesS their piet is based

upon selfinterest. The #ord has a stern warning for those who hear the word of 3od but

either ignore its directions* or manipulate its teaching to suit themselves7



Q%ot everone who sas to me* F#ord* #ord*F will enter the kingdom of heaven* but onl he

who does the will of m "ather who is in heaven. 'atthew (h.>70

Psalm 5970>/ &$ H <= helpful votes

2hen the righteous cr for help* the #ord hears and delivers them out of all their troubles.

The #ord is near to the brokenhearted and saves the crushed in spirit. 'an are the

afflictions of the righteous* but the #ord delivers him out of them all. 4e keeps all his

bonesS not one of them is broken.

(hapter 5

$econd coming of the lord

:esus 2ill (ome Again

The Bible presents 3odFs work of redemption as an ongoing process. Throughout the Old

Testament* 4e leads 4is chosen people toward truth and righteousness. The final phase of

the process of redemption began with the first coming of :esus and will culminate in the

events surrounding 4is $econd (oming. There will be a final !udgment of all people* livingand dead. The faithful will receive new spiritual bodies for eternal lifeS the wicked will be

cast into hell. There will be a final defeat and destruction of all evil $atan* sin* suffering

and death. The kingdom of 3od will come to its fulfillment at last.

:esus left no doubt that 4e will return again to complete 4is mission of salvation for

mankind7

QEonFt be troubled. 6ou trust 3od* now trust in me. There are man rooms in m "atherFs

home* and I am going to prepare a place for ou. If this were not so* I would tell ou

plainl. 2hen everthing is read* I will come and get ou* so that ou will alwas be with

me where I am.Q N%#T* :ohn 09709



Related verses7 'atthew 575@* #uke 0?7?* :ohn 0970?* ?@* Acts 0700* 57/0* 0

(orinthians 007=* Philippians 97<* (olossians 579* 0 Thessalonians 070/* 70@* 5705* <75*

Thessalonians 7?* 0 Timoth =7090<* Titus 705* 4ebrews @7?* :ames <7>@* Peter 070=*

0 :ohn 7?* 57* Revelation 5700* 70* 7/.

2hen 2ill :esus (ome Again;

The Bible tells of man events that will occur before the $econd (oming and which will be

signs that the end is near. There will be wars* famines* earthJuakes* false prophets*

persecutions* and an increase in wickedness. The 3ospel must first be preached to all

nations. The temple at :erusalem would be destroed. NThe temple was in fact destroed b

the Romans in >/ A.E.

'an of :esusF followers e+pected 4im to return within their lifetimes* and that

e+pectation was supported b several passages such as7

QTrul I sa to ou* this generation will not pass awa until all things take place. 4eaven

and earth will pass awa* but ' words will not pass awa.Q N%A$* #uke 07555

On the other hand* passages such as this one place the $econd (oming much farther in the

future7

QAnd this gospel of the kingdom shall be preached in the whole world for a witness to all

the nations* and then the end shall come.Q N%A$* 'atthew 9709

%o completel satisfactor resolution of these differences in the Bible has ever been found*

and the timing of the $econd (oming has been a sub!ect of hot debate within (hristianit

from the beginning. :esus* 4imself* said no one would be able to predict e+actl when 4e

would return7



Q%o one knows about that da or hour* not even the angels in heaven* nor the $on* but onl

the "ather. Be on guardG Be alertG 6ou do not know when that time will come.Q N%I* 'ark

057555

The event* when it happens* will be swift and une+pected7

$o ou also must be read* because the $on of 'an will come at an hour when ou do not

e+pect him. N%I* 'atthew 979599

Over the past /// ears there have been countless attempts to interpret current events

according to the signs in the Bible. There have been innumerable predictions that the

$econd (oming was imminent. All have been wrong.

Related verses7 'atthew 0=7>?* 970<0 =79* 'ark @70* 05705=* 097=* #uke @7=>*

07<5=* Thessalonians 07>0/* Peter 57?09* Revelation 07>

Be PreparedG

Because no one knows when :esus will come again for the final !udgment* we must alwas

be prepared. :esusF Parable of the Ten irgins N'atthew <7005 speaks directl to the

need to be spirituall prepared for the final !udgment* and a number of 4is other saings

make the same point.

Related verses7 'atthew 979<0* 'ark ?75?* 057555>* #uke @7=* 075<9>* 07595=* 0

Thessalonians <75* Timoth 97?* 4ebrews @7?* 0 Peter 07>* 05* 9705* Peter 570/09

Resurrection



&verone who has ever lived will be brought back to life in some form to face the final

!udgment along with those still living7

'ost assuredl* I sa to ou* the hour is coming* and now is* when the dead will hear thevoice of the $on of 3odS and those who hear will live. "or as the "ather has life in 4imself*

so 4e has granted the $on to have life in 4imself* and has given 4im authorit to e+ecute

!udgment also* because 4e is the $on of 'an. Eo not marvel at thisS for the hour is coming

in which all who are in the graves will hear 4is voice and come forth those who have

done good* to the resurrection of life* and those who have done evil* to the resurrection of

condemnation. N%C:* :ohn <7<@

Related verses7 'ark 070?>* #uke 097009* Acts 97* 0>70?* @5* 57=S 970<0=* 0*

Romans 970>* <70>* =7<* ?* ?700* 0070<* 0 (orinthians =7090<* 0<75* (orinthians 07@* 9709*

<700/* Philippians 570/00* 0* (olossians 070?* 0 Thessalonians 97050?* Timoth 70?*

4ebrews =7* 0070@* 5<* Revelation /7005

"inal :udgment

2hile we are still living* or until :esus comes again* we have ever opportunit to repent

Nchange our was from evil to good. But in the end we will all be !udged Nsee 2hat does the

Bible sa about salvation;.

&verone* the still living and the resurrected dead* will face 3odFs !udgment. &ven those

who profess (hristianit will be !udged b the deeds the have done in life N'atthew >70

5* (orinthians <70/. Those who have lived righteous lives will be granted eternal lifeS

those who have lived evil lives will be condemned to eternal punishment N'atthew <7@5/*

<7509=* 'ark @7959?. The apostle Paul put it this wa7

Therefore we are alwas confident and know that as long as we are at home in the bod we

are awa from the #ord. 2e live b faith* not b sight. 2e are confident* I sa* and would

prefer to be awa from the bod and at home with the #ord. $o we make it our goal to

please him* whether we are at home in the bod or awa from it. "or we must all appear



before the !udgment seat of (hrist* that each one ma receive what is due him for the

things done while in the bod* whether good or bad. N%I* (orinthians <7=0/

The righteous who are granted eternal life will receive new spiritual bodies that are in somewas similar to the old earthl bod and in some was different.

$o will it be with the resurrection of the dead. The bod that is sown is perishable* it is

raised imperishableS it is sown in dishonor* it is raised in glorS it is sown in weakness* it is

raised in powerS it is sown a natural bod* it is raised a spiritual bod. N%I* 0 (orinthians

0<7999

Related verses7 'atthew >70* 0>* 0=79>* :ohn 570=0* <705/* Acts 0/75@95* 0>7@

50* Romans 7<0=* 0 (orinthians 97<* 0<75* Timoth 970?* :ames 700>* 97000* <7>

@* 0 Peter 970=* :ude 07090<* Revelation 7/5* /7000<* 7005

The %ew 4eaven and &arth

The final result of the $econd (oming will be fulfillment of all the promises of the kingdom

of 3od. $atan will be destroed* and there will be no more sin* suffering or death.

And the devil* who deceived them* was thrown into the lake of burning sulfur* where the

beast and the false prophet had been thrown. The will be tormented da and night for

ever and ever. N%I* Revelation /70/

QAs the weeds are pulled up and burned in the fire* so it will be at the end of the age. The

$on of 'an will send out his angels* and the will weed out of his kingdom everthing that

causes sin and all who do evil. The will throw them into the fier furnace* where there will

be weeping and gnashing of teeth. Then the righteous will shine like the sun in the kingdom

of their "ather. 4e who has ears* let him hear.Q N%I* 'atthew 0579/95



Then I saw a new heaven and a new earth* for the first heaven and the first earth had

passed awa* and there was no longer an sea. I saw the 4ol (it* the new :erusalem*

coming down out of heaven from 3od* prepared as a bride beautifull dressed for her

husband. And I heard a loud voice from the throne saing* Q%ow the dwelling of 3od is

with men* and he will live with them. The will be his people* and 3od himself will be with

them and be their 3od. 4e will wipe ever tear from their ees. There will be no more

death or mourning or cring or pain* for the old order of things has passed awa. N%I*

Revelation 0709

Related verses7 'atthew ?700* 0@7?5/* 'ark 097<* #uke 057@* :ohn 0975* Romans

?70?0* 0=7/* 0 (orinthians 7>0/* 057?05* 0<7/=* 9<9@* (olossians 579* 0 :ohn 70>*

Revelation >7090>* 0070<* 0@70@/* 70<

'iscellaneous Topics

$everal topics receive less prominent mention in the Bible than those above* but ma

provide additional insight into the events surrounding the $econd (oming. Because these

topics are not full e+plained in the Bible* a number of different interpretations have

arisen* and man of those interpretations go far beond an Biblical basis.

The Antichrist N0 :ohn 70?* * 975* :ohn 07> is identified as a liar and deceiver who

denies that :esus is the (hrist. As of the writing of 0 and :ohn* at the end of the first

centur* man antichrists were said to be alread present in the world. It is not clear* but

there ma be another antichrist to come whose spirit is alread present in the world.

The antichrist is sometimes said to be the beasts of Eaniel >700* the beast of Revelation

057000?* or the Qman of sinQ of Thessalonians 75* but those interpretations are not

certain.

At various times in histor one group or another has proclaimed the identit of the

antichrist. Those who have been so named include the Roman emperors (aligula* Titus*

%ero and (laudius* 'uhammad Nthe prophet of Islam* most of the popes* man Protestant



theologians* man world leaders* and man other individuals and groups. 4owever* such

proclamations do not have an Biblical basis.

The 3reat Tribulation NRevelation >709 is a period of great suffering and distress whichwill occur in con!unction with the $econd (oming. It is often seen as a fulfillment of the

Old Testament prophec of Eaniel @79>.

Related verses7 Psalms 700* 'atthew 970<<0* 'ark 05709<* Revelation @7000* 0=705

0=

The 'illennium NRevelation /700/ is described as a period of a thousand ears during

which $atan is bound and the resurrected saints reign with (hrist before the final

!udgment. There is no other clear mention of the millennium in the Bible. The nature of the

millennium is a sub!ect of great debate within (hristianit* and beliefs about it fall into

several categories7

Amillennialism views the millennium as a smbol of the present age where the (hurch

carries on (hristFs work and the binding of $atan was accomplished b :esus in the past.

Postmillennialism views the millennium as a future period during which the gospel messagewill eliminate evil from the world and (hrist will rule spirituall for a thousand ears

before before the $econd (oming.

Premillennialism views the millennium as a thousand ear period between the $econd

(oming and the final !udgment. Two subcategories of premillennialism can be identified7

4istoric premillennialism views the millennium as the ne+t stage in advancement of the

kingdom of 3od* coming after the present age of the (hurch and before the new heaven

and earth.

Eispensationalism views the millennium as a period during which the Old Testamentpromises to the nation of Israel will be fulfilled. In this view7

&stablishment of the $tate of Israel in 0@9? is evidence that the $econd (oming is

approaching.

The Rapture Nsee below will occur before the 3reat Tribulation begins so that (hristians

will not have to face that time of suffering.



The Rapture N0 Thessalonians 97050> refers to the departure of faithful (hristians Nthe

(hurch to meet the #ord in the air. There are three theories about when the Rapture will

occur7

Pretribulational rapture7 2hen :ohn ascends to heaven NRevelation 970

'idtribulational rapture7 2hen the two prophets ascend to heaven NRevelation 007000

Posttribulational rapture7 At the end of the seven bowls NRevelation 0=70>0



Author b Tristan reman

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