“Therefore, leaving the discussion of the elementary principles of Christ, let us go on to perfection, not laying again the foundation…of laying on of hands” (Hebrews 6:1-2) The “laying on of hands” is considered milk by the Holy Spirit, but is a topic with much confusion surrounding it. Ppt: Outline: To download, right-click on the …
Continue reading Sermon: “Of The Laying On Of Hands”Apostles
When we consider matters of authority, do we understand that our need for authority reaches beyond the work and worship of the church to our individual lives? What standard of morality do we appeal to? Is there a standard of morality? Who, or what is the moral authority? Jesus said He has all authority (cf. …
Continue reading Sermon: Moral AuthorityIn Luke 20:1-8, the Jewish leaders sought to trap Jesus by questioning His authority. In return, Jesus exposed their disregard for authority by referring to the authority of John the Baptizer. Both Jesus’ words, and the Jew’s reasoning among themselves show that, not only do we need authority for what we do, but that authority …
Continue reading Sermon: From Heaven or From Men?Part 6 of 6 in a series of lessons seeking to identify the one church in the New Testament (cf. Ephesians 1:22-23; 4:4). The Lord’s church is distinct in her organization. What does the Bible say about how the church is organized? Is the Hierarchy of the Catholic Church scriptural? What about the various organizations …
Continue reading Sermon: Identifying the One Church (6) – Organization
Paul’s letter to the churches of Galatia addressed the problem concerning influence of Judaizing teachers. Their doctrine suggested that to be justified, one must observe the Law of Moses. The apostle defended his apostleship in Christ so the Galatians would respect the authority of his message. This section of Galatians serves a two-fold purpose: (1) …
Continue reading Galatians 2:11-16 It is apparent that some of Paul’s opposition were suggesting, or would have suggested he pretentiously recommended himself. To the contrary, Paul said later, “For not he who commends himself is approved, but whom the Lord commends” (10:18). Any commendation of the apostles that Paul brought forth ultimately came from God. Also, it is apparent …
Continue reading 2 Corinthians 3:1-3Paul begins his letter to Titus with a needed explanation. The defense of his apostleship is seen in various places throughout scripture. “As…one born out of due time” (1 Corinthians 15:8) his apostleship was questioned by some. However, Titus was aware of the legitimacy of his office, for Paul described him as “a true son …
Continue reading Pondering Scripture: Titus 1:1-4The apostle Paul used figurative language in the text to describe the relationship between those of like precious faith, and their relationship to God. The recipients were “once Gentiles in the flesh” (v. 11) but have been “brought near by the blood of Christ” (v. 13). As a result, they are: “Citizens with the saints” …
Continue reading Pondering Scripture: Ephesians 2:19-22Anyone would think it absurd to turn away from a sincere, loving, and caring individual to a self-serving, manipulative, and hateful one. However, ironically Paul found the Corinthians acting thusly. Their actions were instigated by certain false teachers who claimed to be apostles themselves. The Corinthians were greatly influenced by their deception to the degree …
Continue reading Article: Paul’s Concern For All The ChurchesPaul, via inspiration, describes the apostles as “the fragrance of Christ” (2 Corinthians 2:15). For they “[diffuse] the fragrance of His knowledge in every place” (2:14). This is also an expectation for all Christians. This lesson discusses what it means to be “The Fragrance of Christ.” Ppt: The Fragrance of Christ Outline: The Fragrance of …
Continue reading Sermon: The Fragrance of Christ