Basic Bible Lessons For Beginners

Let's start by offering a prayer.

Dear Lord, As we try to learn about You and Your commandments, may we seek the truth in all things. May we look upon the word of the Bible as our authority that comes from you. May our hearts be receptive to Your truth, and may we have the courage to change our lives when we are shown the truth. May we be honest and sincere in this study. In the name of Jesus Christ we pray, Amen.

We should always begin Bible Study with prayer. What we learn DOES have an effect upon our souls. This index page is designed to inform. Here, we will learn the basic truths of God's word. We will answer several questions that most beginners have and want answers to. Many people get discouraged and quit Bible study because they do not understand the terminology. Hopefully we can open up your mind to wisdom and knowledge. What Do All Those Religious Words Mean? Our souls eternal destiny is dependant upon our actions in this life. Nothing can be done after we die, therefore it is important and also urgent that we learn as much about God and His Bible as we can in the short time we have here on this earth. Here are some things about the Bible we hope will help you. 1. Bible Authority 2. What About The Bible? 3. The Precious Bible 4. Where Did The Bible Come From? 5. How Do We Know We Have The Bible? 6. Why We Differ In Interpretation 7. How To Study The Bible 8. Some Rules For Bible Study 9. Inductive Bible Study 10.Basic Rules For Understanding The Bible Alike

11.Helpful Hints For Bible Study And Understanding 12.Getting The Most Out Of Your Bible Study#1 13.Getting The Most Out Of Your Bible Study #2 14.Getting The Most Out Of Your Bible Study #3 15.Getting The Most Out Of Your Bible Study #4 16.The 15 Divisions Of The Bible 17.Bible Study 18.Bible Facts 19.More Bible Facts 20.How We Learn From The Bible Part One 21.How We Learn From The Bible Part Two 22.How We Learn From The Bible Part Three 23.How We Learn From The Bible Part Four 24.How We Learn From The Bible Part Five 25.The A,B,C's Of Bible Study 26.10 Reasons For Bible Study 27.Is The Bible Sufficient? 28.The Value Of Bible Study 29.Some Things You Should Know
Here are some simple Articles and Sermon Outlines that teach basic truths about the Bible and your Salvation

God's Plan Of Salvation What Must I Believe? In Pursuit Of The Right Church Has God Already Chosen The Saved? Must I Do Anything To Be Saved? What Is The Purpose Of The Church?

 Can I Believe In God? Is My Faith Mine? What Is A Christian? Six Searching Questions What Must I Do To Be Saved Local Church Membership Why Are They So Many Different Churches?

Bible Authority

Introduction i. Attitudes among our denominational friends have shifted in recent decades. The hamlets of America were once alive with religious debate and members of the churches of Christ were always able to find sectarian preachers and members ready to defend their practices as scriptural. Today, when confronted with possible religious error, most will beg not to be judged and wonder aloud why Bible authority for our actions should matter anyway. ii. Thus, the question of Bible authority becomes as important to the Christian who would share the gospel as "What must I do to be saved?". iii. In this morning's lesson, we shall briefly study the subject of Bible authority with the hope of establishing why it is important.

Discussion I. What Is Bible Authority? A. The Church Belongs to Christ 1. an often overlooked fact is that the church belongs to Christ, and as such, ownership gives Christ the prerogative to direct its affairs a. Paul tells us in Ephesians 1:22-23 that Christ is the head of the church, which places him in unquestioned authority and makes his will paramount in the body b. he obtained this church, not by hostile takeover or inheritance, but by purchase, using his own shed blood to fund the buy

c. you see, Jesus has something invested in the church as well as being its director d. when the owner of a store or any kind of business walks in, there is usually an immediate change in the atmosphere of the placeeveryone tries a little harder to look a little better, for they fear and respect the man who makes their livelihoods possible e. this is the kind of respect that is always due Jesus, for he is an owner who is always present among us 2. in other illustrations, we see the church described in its kingdom role, with Jesus sitting upon her throne as monarch a. the redeemed are conveyed into this kingdom (Col. 1:13), which claims Christ as its blessed and only Potentate, King of kings and Lord of lords (1 Tim. 6:15) b. again, this position defines his power, for "all authority has been given to [him] in heaven and on Earth" (Matt. 28:18) c. we are his subjects, the elders his delegates and we are bound to obey his will and forbidden to venture beyond it, under penalty of eternal loss: 2 John 7-11 3. in yet another illustration, we are redeemed slaves, bought back by Jesus from servitude to the devil and sin, redeemed not to feign allegiance to Jesus while executing our own will, but to glorify him as our Master: Rom. 6:15-19 a. as Jacob would surely have paid any price to redeem Joseph from the slavery into which his brothers sold him, and as God did redeem all Israel from Egyptian bondage, so Jesus did come to Earth to lead captivity captiveout of the clutches of the devil and into the benevolent mastery of Christ b. therefore, we owe Jesus a debt of gratitude, which can never fully be repaid, but which deserves constant devotion c. trampling on his will as we substitute our opinions for his doctrines is like begging to return to the leeks and onions of Egypt after one has tasted true freedom B. Old Testament Bible Authority 1. under the Old Testament , men discovered divine authority in the law of Moses and found that rebellion proved fatal 2. consider the matter of transporting the ark of the covenant, to be done lawfully by inserting two poles through portions of it and carrying it by hand: 2 Sam. 6:1-8 a. David failed his leadership by allowing that new cart to be used in place of the less convenient but more lawful poles b. Uzzah was the unfortunate man whose intentions, while pious, were misguided and actually a violation of God's spoken will

c. this case well illustrates the condition of denominationalism today 1. men and women attempting to do good works through methods that go beyond God's will 2. otherwise innocent people violating God's will despite having the best of intentions 3. every good work that we desire to do can be done lawfully, if it is not congregationally approved, it can likely be individually done C. New Testament Bible Authority 1. Jesus set the tone for the expression of authority during his gospel ministry a. understand that his followers were mainly Jews who were living under the law of Moses and thus accustomed to looking to a religious code to direct their behavior b. the Lord's teaching showed that the law of Moses would be fulfilled and that his doctrine would would reign (Matt. 5:17) 2. in the sermon on the mount, he established his doctrine on a wide variety of moral issues, exposing the error that was then taught and planning a removal of the Mosaic allowance for divorce and remarriage for any cause a. when he sat down, the people were astonished at his teaching, not necessarily for its eloquence or revolutionary concepts, but because he taught them as if he had the authority vested in himself by himself, not delegated from God or the Sanhedrin (Matt. 7:28-29) b. it is here that man begins to look past Moses to Christ 3. the passing of the torch continues on the Mount of Transfiguration: Matt. 17:1-8 a. Moses, representing the law, and Elijah, representing the prophets, appear with Jesus to illustrate the fulfillment of the Old and establishment of the new b. when all is said and done, the authority of the old will disappear and the power of Christ will alone remain 4. his death and resurrection fulfilled the prophecies and nailed the law of Moses to his cross; his ascension back into heaven placed him upon the throne of David over his kingdom, the church of Christ a. Ephesians and Colossians are parallel letters, covering much the same material in slightly different language, and allowing each to serve as an inspired commentary on the other: Eph. 2:14-16 and Col. 2:13-14 b. thus there is no doubt that Paul is describing the end of the Mosaic age and the law that ruled it c. the age of Christ dawns with Jesus upon the throne of David: Acts 2:29-32

d. when God talked about raising up the Christ to sit on David's throne, he was describing in prophecy the resurrection of Jesus from Hadean Paradise and his ascension into heaven e. as much as the law of Moses ruled in men's hearts before, so now must the law of Christ reign in glory II. Law and Love Demand It A. Law Demands It 1. in Romans 6:14, Paul tells us that we are not under law, but grace in this age a. some take this to mean that all law has been abolished and that every man can do what seems right in his own eyes b. the context, however, argues against that conclusion: Rom. 6:1 1. for sin to be a possibility, there must be some law in existence: Rom. 4:15b 2. Paul then merely means that we are not under the law of Moses now, but the grace of Christ, which has the components of lawcommandments, prohibitions, rewards and consequences 3. moreover, we are told to "fulfill the law of Christ" in Galatians 6:2 and that of the Holy Spirit in Romans 8:2 2. the potential to commit sin means that some law is in place and that law could only be communicated through the New Testament, for the Old Testament has been ruled obsolete (Heb. 8:13) a. divine authority is not vested in this contradictory creeds of men or the oral traditions of the oldest apostasy, but "if any man speak, let him speak as the oracles of God" (1 Peter 4:11) b. Col. 3:17 c. by his words will we be judged (John 12:48) B. Love Demands It 1. John 14:15: "If you love me, keep my commandments." 2. not "glorify me by rejecting my words and the revelation of the Holy Spirit and going your own way" or by creating modern worship forms that please your senses or by adopting more convenient ways of doing what you want to do 3. if you love me, obey me: 1 John 2:3-6 a. even a religious zeal and the best of intentions will not make up for going beyond the doctrine of Christ in the New Testament

b. if you love Jesus and know him, you will submit to him C. How To Establish It 1. we establish divine authority for our individual or congregational actions the same way we understand any authority 2. to illustrate: my mother used to drive me to the grocery store with a list of things she wanted and a handful of coins a. by that written decree, I had positive knowledge of what I was supposed to do b. because I had seen her purchase things before, I had an example of ordering and paying c. and although she never specifically told me how to get from the deli counter to the register, I would necessarily infer that I was allowed to walk between the two d. I would not however feel authorized to purchase candy unless it was on the list e. I would not feel authorized to steal, for I had no such example 3. we establish Bible authority not by some arbitrary rule but as Bible characters didthrough heeding commands or prohibitions, by being limited to approved examples like the one in Acts 20:7 and by making only those inferences that are necessary to obeying the command, like having a meeting place in order to assemble (Heb. 10:25) a. we object to the construction of family life centers and the like for they are without command or example and are not necessary to fulfill any command God gave the church b. we object to the sponsoring church arrangement for it is without command, violates New Testament example and is an unnecessary inference Conclusion Bible authority is a subject we hope to say more about in the future, God willing, for it is clearly misunderstood today. by J.S. Smith Fort Worth, Texas

WHAT ABOUT THE BIBLE? "If any man speak, let him speak as the oracles of God." 1 Pet. 4:11. The Bible is either a revelation from God or a monumental hoax, containing many pretentious claims and preposterous doctrines, by which multitudes of people have been deceived.

That the Bible claims to be a divinely inspired revelation is readily seen by even its casual reader. Throughout its pages, from beginning to end, we read statements such as these: "Thus saith the Lord;" "The mouth of the Lord has spoken;" "Have ye not read that which was spoken unto you by God?" In addition, we have such explanatory passages as these: "All scripture is given by inspiration of God", 2 Tim. 3:16, and "The prophecy came not in old time by the will of man: but holy men of God spake as they were moved by the Holy Ghost (Spirit)" 2 Pet. 1:;21. That the Bible is truly a revelation from God is firmly believed by millions of people upon what they consider to be valid and convincing evidence. Some of this evidence is here presented for the reader's consideration. I. Unlike other creatures, man has moral and spiritual needs which must be supplied. This fundamental truth was noted by the prophet who said, "The way of man is not in himself," and that he himself is unable to "direct his steps." Jer. 10:23. Experience has demonstrated that the principles of faith and conduct revealed in the Bible effectively meet man's moral and spiritual needs, in every place under all circumstances. Whenever and wherever these principles have been respected and applied the welfare and well-being of men have improved. On the contrary, wherever they have been ignored or violated, then sorrow, sin, crime, disease and death follow. It has been well stated that men do not break the moral principles of the Bible, they rather break themselves upon them. II. The unity of the Bible is another amazing characteristic of it, in view of the circumstances under which it was produced. Consider: it was written by some forty men over a period of more than 1500 years. These men were widely separated by time, residence, culture, training, and language. Their occupations ranged from military leaders, kings, shepherds, farmers, fishermen and a tax-collector. The first part of it was written by Moses about 1500 B.C. and was concluded by John the apostle, about 90 A.D. The Old Testament was written in Hebrew and Aramaic; the New Testament in koine Greek. Yet, when its 66 books are brought together there is a systematic unity and harmony between them, as readily discernable as the unity existing between the chapters of a book written by a single author. Thus it is reasonable to assume that the ideas and principles recorded in the Bible originated in one mind -- that "all scripture" was given "by the inspiration of God." III. The time-lasting and constantly increasing popularity of the Bible indicates its supernatural origin. Although it is the oldest book in the world, it retains a freshness which appeals to every generation. It has been translated into some 1200 languages or dialects. Year after year, it outsells any other book in print. No book has been so bitterly opposed and treated as has been the Bible. In medieval times its readers were persecuted and jailed by its enemies, who also tried to burn it out of existence. Skeptics have endeavored to discredit the Bible in every century, but their efforts have been futile. Again and again, its doom has been predicted, but it has always survived, only to rise again to greater influence upon the lives of men. Truly, as it is written: "All flesh is as grass, And all the glory thereof as the flower of grass. The grass withereth and the flower falleth: But the word of the Lord abideth forever." 1 Pet. 1:24,25.

IV. The enobling influence upon the characters of those who practice the teaching of the Bible supports its claim to being the word of God. Wherever it has been read and practiced, the ideals and morals of the people have been uplifted. It reveals a standard for inter-personal human relationships excelling anything ever offered in the philosophies of the world. Its teaching on the "love of neighbor", and the "golden rule" (by which each one would treat his fellow-man only as he himself would be treated) if universally practiced would usher us into a world of utopian tranquility. Truly, the Bible has provided the potential to embellish the earth with the beauty of heaven. It has produced and will continue to produce of those who follow its principles, better parents and better children, better husbands and better wives, better employers and better employees, better teachers and better students, better leaders and better citizens. It has no equal! It is the only means by which the simple prayer, "Thy will be done on earth, as it is in heaven," can ever be realized. V. The harmony existing between the Bible and scientific truths (not theories), suggests that it is of divine origin. While the Bible does not propose to deal specifically with science, it is scientifically accurate whenever it touches that field. Many of its statements recognized or implied scientific truth many centuries before they were understood or accepted by scientists. We here offer but a few examples. Herbert Spencer's five "manifestations of unknowable." Time, Force, Action, Space, and Matter, are all implied in the first verse of Genesis -- "In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth." Gen. 1 also recognized the three kingdoms in creation, namely: Mineral, Vegetable and Animal, and in that very order. That the earth is a sphere spinning in space, was certainly implied by Job when he said that God "hangeth the earth upon nothing" Job 26:7. Medical scientists appreciate the simple statement which was written by Moses 1500 years before Jesus was born: "The life of the flesh is in the blood." Lev. 17:11. For these and many other reasons, we believe the Bible to be the word of God. We urge you to consider carefully the evidence before you render a verdict against it. Surely you would not want to carelessly reject the only standard in all the world which offers to you the "promise of the life which now is, and of that which is to come." 1 Tim. 4:8. By: Gordon J. Pennock THE PRECIOUS BIBLE One of the boldest statements Jesus ever made is that found in John 10:35, "The Scripture cannot be broken." Our steadfast faith in the sacred text is a definite bulwark of Christianity. As the prophet wrote long ago, "So shall my word be that goeth forth out of my mouth: it shall not return unto me void, but it shall accomplish that which I please, and it shall prosper in the thing whereto I sent it" (Isa. 55:11). The great German thinker, Immanuel Kant, said, "The existence of the Bible as a

book for the people is the greatest benefit the human race ever experienced. Every attempt to belittle it or to do away with it entirely is a crime against humanity." God's word is true from the beginning (Psa. 119:160) and will still enthrall us when the earth has been cast aside as an old garment (Matt. 24:25; Heb. 1:12). The psalmist makes this point so powerfully: "For ever, O Jehovah, Thy word is settled in heaven" (Psa. 119:89). Sir Walter Scott said of it: Within this powerful volume lies The mystery of mysteries, Happiest he of human race To whom God has given grace; To read, to fear, to hope, to pray. To lift the latch and learn the way But better had he never been born Who reads to doubt or reads to scorn. The Bible can transform character, change hearts and point men to heaven. Christ has "the words of eternal life" (Jno. 6:68) and the entrance of God's word gives light (Psa. 119:130). The dynamic results of Scripture in our daily conduct is piercing, pungent and provoking (Heb. 4:12). We will never be the same, once we open our hearts and our minds to the revelation of God's truth! When Paul bade farewell to the elders of the Ephesian church, these were his noble words of departure: "And now I commend you to God, and to the word of his grace, which is able to build you up, and to give you the inheritance among all them that are sanctified" (Acts 20:32). The word of the Lord will judge us one day (Jno. 12:48), and it cannot be bound (2 Tim. 2: 9). When we live in harmony with its precepts, our lives are richer, fuller and blessed indeed. As the prophet wrote, "The grass withereth, the flower fadeth; but the word of our God shall stand forever" (Isa. 40:8). As to the inspiration of the Bible, these passages stand out in clarity and richness: 2 Sam. 23:2; 2 Pet. 1:;21; 1 Cor. 2:13; 1 Thes. 2:13; 2 Tim. 3:16,17; Jer. 1:9; Jno. 16:13; 17:17; 8:31,32. In a compelling summation, these verses tell us that the Holy Spirit inspired some forty men to write sixty-six Bible books that contain the very WORDS (not just the ideas, the notions, advice or concepts) that the Almighty God wanted mankind to clearly know. Holy men of God spoke as they were moved by the Holy Spirit. It was truly the word of God, not the word of men. Not only so, but these passages reveal that the Bible contains ALL of the will of our Maker. The allsufficient Scriptures rule out latter-day revelations and latter-day prophets. In a blasphemous excerpt from the Book of Mormon, 2 Nephi 29:6, we read that a man is a fool who says we have a Bible and need no more Bible! The foolish one is the one who goes beyond the message of the New Testament. The Scripture cannot be broken, according to Jno. 10:35. Through the centuries, evil men have tried to destroy the Bible, but still it stands because truth never dies. Earthly leaders have desparately tried to destroy heaven's message through means of persecution, inquisition, torture and by burning volumes of the Bible by thousands of copies, but still the Book of books circles the earth and blesses millions. The great influence of the Bible upon soiety is still seen through the actions of Presidents, Kings and courts of law. At weddings, and funerals and anniversaries, millions turn to it for comfort (Rom. 15:4). It is still a "light unto our path" (Psa. 119:105). The Bible is a joy (Psa. 119:97) as we meditate upon it day and night (Psa. 1:2). So precious is this Book that, during the "Dark Ages," when few copies were available,

villages blessed with a rare copy would chain it to the pulpit, so that each family would have access to it. The indestructable nature of the Bible, by God's providence, speaks of its divine origin and protection. Since "the law of the Lord is perfect" (Psa. 19:7), we should not be ashamed to speak of it before kings (Psa. 119:46). Preaching the oracles of God should be a delight for faithful and loyal soldiers of Christ (1 Pet. 4:11; Eph. 6: 17). Jehovah has been gracious to allow us the honor to boldly tell men His marvelous message. Someone has well stated that "the Bible is the perfect anatomy of the soul." Since our Creator is its Author (Psa. 33:9), no one knows us better. Jehovah has revealed His will and way to us in understandable tones and terms (1 Cor. 14:33). Not only is the Bible God's revelation to man, it is truly an infallible guide that maintains and sustains us as we travel through this pilgrim land on our way to glory. The psalmist spoke accurately and eloquently in Psa. 119:105 of that rich book: "Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, And light unto my path." Paul reminded the Ephesian elders that the sacred Scriptures had the ability to provide an eternal inheritance for them (Acts 20:32). The Bible, in sixty-six powerful and precious books, is a map that guides us safely and effectively through life and then on to mansions above in the presence of the redeemed (Matt. 8:11). All of these beautiful building blocks of spiritual endeavor point us to Christ, who is the heart of Scripture (Rev. 19:10). No other book has heaven's message of redemption and no other message has the guidance necessary for our fruitful sojourn on earth. Because the Bible is its own best witness, WE are on trial, not the BIBLE. By - Johnny Ramsey Where Did The Bible Come From? This question is very important because it establishes a foundation for our belief. By answering the question we will begin to have confidence that the Bible is from God and is the only source of authority in religious matters today. I wish that more people would seek out confirmation of the authenticity of God's book known as "The Holy Bible". This question is really answered by what we call apologetics. Many people have answered these questions and many have addressed all of the criticisms of the Bible. Sadly, the greatest enemy of Jesus and the Scriptures is not the athiest or the agnostic or even the critic, but the people who claim to be the friends of God that openly deny the inspiration and authority of His word, and replace God's truth with man's thoughts. A very deplorable situation exist when we have so many people that have spent a great effort to PROVE the Bible actually comes from God, and that Scripture is the message of God to mankind today. Then they turn around and teach doctrines and precepts of men that are contrary to the words of God. How strange to prove a book

infallible (without error), and fully sufficient to provide everything man needs (2 Peter 1:3) to know to be pleasing to God, then disregard the same. No wonder that so many intelligent people are confused by such matters. The simple answer to our question is: God wrote the Bible Deity (The Godhead) used His influence to motivate selected men to write His message. Everyone one of them knew what they were doing when they wrote to others. What they probably did not realize at the time was the fact that the holy Spirit helped to guide them in their thoughts and on some occasions, their very words. God used these men to instruct,discipline, reprove everyone that needs God's message. Some writers wrote to encourage people to obey the laws of God and some wrote to warn those who were disobedient to the Laws of God. "For this reason we must pay much closer attention to what we have heard, lest we drift away from it. For if the word spoken through angels proved unalterable, and every transgression and disobedience received a just recompense, how shall we escape if we neglect so great a salvation? After it was at the first spoken through the Lord, it was confirmed to us by those who heard, God also bearing witness with them, both by signs and wonders and by various miracles and by gifts of the Holy Spirit according to His own will."(Hebrews 2:1-4) God also instructed these writers to request that their message be spread everywhere. Most of the Bible was written in such a way that everyone could benefit from a message, even if that message was intended for a specific person. Now the fact that God wrote through these men many years ago in languages known to them, but foreign to us required that the message be interpreted. Since God intended that everyone receive His message, it only makes sense that God would somehow oversee the process by which we received the Bible in our own language. Many men have sought to bring the original words of God forward to an understandable way. "And they read from the book from the law of God, translating to give the sense so that they understood the reading. (Nehemiah 8:8) We must accept by faith that God has not deprived us of anything necessary for our salvation. We must also accept His word as His law, and we must submit to the precepts and teachings of God through that book as we recognize that the book comes from God Himself. We are warned about adding or taking away or even changing the things that God has given us. Acceptance of the Grand book as INSPIRED actually obligates us to obedience of His laws. Not only must we accept the Bible as being inspired, but our teaching must always reflect the truths found in the book. For that reason a very noble goal of any teacher of the word is to speak as it were the oracles of God (1 Peter 4:11). In other words, when we are teaching God's will, we must speak only those things that He has revealed unto us.

Study to show yourself approved to God, a workman that does not need to be ashamed, handling accurately the word of truth. (2 Timothy 2:15) By Carey Scott HOW DO WE KNOW WE HAVE THE BIBLE? It is a matter altogether of uncertainty to us whether such of the writings as now appear under the name of the Old and New Testaments are in the same state in which those collectors say they found them, or whether they added, altered, abridged, or dressed them up.... they decided by vote which of the books out of the collection they had made should be the word of God, and which should not." (Thomas Paine, The Age of Reason. 18) Unbelievers have always denied the authority of the Bible. Besides rejecting the fact the apostles and prophets were inspired of God, they also deny that we have any way of knowing how the Bible should read. There are two separate questions we must answer to be sure we do indeed have the Bible. First, we must know the canon of Scripture. "Canon," from the Greek word "kanon," meaning "rule" (cf. Galatians 6:16), refers to the list of books which are authoritative, in other words, are inspired of God. The problem of canonicity is to determine which books actually belong in the Bible. The other problem area is textual criticism. The word "criticism" does not mean a denial of Scripture. It means the attempt to determine the proper text of the books of the Bible. It is the study that tries to determine what the original manuscripts (the actual inspired documents that came from the apostles and prophets, known as "autographs") really said. So we have one overall inquiry to solve: Do we really have the inspired Scriptures in our present Bibles? But this greater question is answered by solving two smaller but very important matters. What is the canon of Scripture? In other words, what books really belong in the Bible? And, what is the text of the Scriptures? Can we know that the words in our present Bibles represent the words the apostles and prophets actually wrote? Canon Let's study canonicity first. This study naturally divides itself into two categories: Old Testament canon and New Testament canon. Old Testament We will first study the Old Testament canon. How do we know that the thirty-nine books in our Old Testament really belong there and are the only books that belong there? If we accept that Jesus is the Son of God, then whatever He says about any subject settles the matter. Although Jesus rejected most of the traditions of the Jews

(Matthew 15:5-9), He accepted as the "commandment of God" the Scriptures the Jews recognized as comprising the Old Testament (Matthew 15:1-4). The Master broke the Scriptures in the Jewish Bible into three sections: "the Law of Moses and the Prophets and the Psalms" (Luke 24:44), the very threefold division of the Old Testament the Jews recognized, which included the same thirty-nine books we have in our Old Testaments. Catholic Bibles today include several books not found in our Bibles. They are called the "Apocryphal" books. "Apocryphal" means "of doubtful authorship and authority." These books were never accepted as a part of the canon of Scripture by the Jews, none of them claim to be inspired of God, and they were even rejected by the great scholar Jerome, whose Latin translation of the Bible, the Vulgate, is the basis for Catholic versions of the Bible. There is no reasonable basis for doubting that we have the inspired Scriptures and all the inspired Scriptures that preceded the New Testament in our Old Testament. New Testament What about the New Testament? Jesus promised to send the Holy Spirit to His apostles to "guide" them "into all truth" (John 16:13-15). They did receive the Holy Spirit (Acts 2:1-4), and had "the treasure" of the inspired word of God "in earthen vessels." (2 Corinthians 4:7) In other words, the inspired Word was in inspired men. But the apostles and prophets of the New Testament wrote this inspired message in books for the disciples to read (Ephesians 3:1-7). What the apostles and prophets wrote "is in truth, the word of God, which also effectively works in you who believe" (1 Thessalonians 2:13) The apostle Peter promised that "the word of God," "the gospel," is "incorruptible" and "lives and abides forever" (1 Peter 1:22-25). Thus, even while the apostles were yet alive, their books were being circulated and saved (cf. Colossians 4:16) and were recognized as "Scripture" (2 Peter 3:14-16), that is, God's Word in written form. By the end of the second century a list of inspired books, in other words a New Testament canon, had been drawn up by Irenaeus, who was a student of Polycarp, who was a student of the apostle John. The Muratorian fragment, from about the same date, likewise lists the New Testament canon. Origen in the third century and Eusebius and Athanasius in the fourth century provide lists of those books which were accepted as inspired of God. Often people say the church gave us the Bible. This is not true. The Old Testament was complete four hundred years before the church was established. The New Testament was given to us by the apostles and prophets. The church simply recognized the New Testament in the same way a child recognizes its mother (cf. Galatians 4:21-31). The twenty-seven books which comprise our New Testament stand with the thirtynine Old Testament books to complete the canon of Scripture. Whereas the inspired Word of God was once in inspired men, it is now in an inspired book, the Bible.

Conclusion Do we have the actual books that belong in the Bible and all those books? Without a doubt! The Bible was written a very long time ago. How do we know its text has remained uncorrupted through the centuries, so that what we have is really accurate? Old Testament First, consider the Old Testament. The very attitude of Jesus toward the Old Testament settles the matter, so far as its transmission to his day. But what about to our day? Two facts, the almost fanatical devotion of the Jewish scribes and the abundance of manuscript evidence, give us unswerving confidence in the textual integrity of the Old Testament. Dr. Neil R. Lightfoot, in his book How We Got the Bible, describes the incredible, meticulous care with which the Jewish scribes (copyists) made sure that they accurately passed on from generation to generation the inspired text (pages 69-76). Probably no other copyists in history have been as devoted to accurately preserving a document. Furthermore, consider the abundance and value of manuscript evidence. Manuscripts are handwritten copies of documents. All ancient writing comes down to us in manuscript form, and the text of these documents is determined by these manuscripts. Various rules determine which manuscripts are most valuable in determining what the text of an ancient document really is, but probably the most important measure of a manuscript's value is its age. How close to the original document is it in age? Obviously, the older the manuscript the better. Our Old Testaments are translations of the Massoretic Text, a standard Hebrew text handed down by some very careful scribes known as Massoretes. The oldest manuscripts of this text date to about 1000 AD. But there are manuscripts of translations of this Hebrew text into other languages that date back to about the fourth or fifth century after Christ. Furthermore, since the discovery of the Dead Sea Scrolls, ancient Hebrew manuscripts found in caves close to the Dead Sea in 1948, we have Hebrew manuscripts of portions of the Old Testament that were written before the time Jesus walked on the earth. For example, there is a manuscript of the book of Isaiah that dates to about 200 BC. Thus, there is overwhelming proof of the accuracy of the Old Testament text. The New Testament The New Testament has even stronger confirmation. Codex Sinaiticus, which contains all the New Testament books in Greek, was written less than two hundred fifty years after the last apostle died. The Codex Vaticanus, which contains most of both the Old and New Testaments in Greek, was written only about two hundred to two hundred fifty years after the deaths of the apostles. The Codex Alexandrinus dates to about three hundred years after the first century.

There are now more than 5,300 known Greek manuscripts of the New Testament. Add over 10,000 Latin Vulgate and at least 9,300 other early versions (MSS) and we have more than 24,000 manuscript copies of portions of the New Testament in existence today." (Josh McDowell, Evidence That Demands a Verdict, 39) There is now even a fragment of the Gospel of John that dates to the beginning of the Second Century, just a few years after the Apostle John died and a century earlier than unfriendly critics of the Bible claimed the book was written! How good is our New Testament text? For Caesar's Gallic War (composed between 58 and 50 B.C.) there are several extant MSS (manuscripts - K.S.), but only nine or ten are good, and the oldest is some 900 years later than Caesar's day. (F.F. Bruce, The New Testament Documents: Are They Reliable?, 16). If scholars accept the text of Caesar's Gallic Wars, and they do, how reasonable is it to reject the text of the New Testament? But what about variant (differing) readings between the many manuscripts? "The proportion of words virtually accepted on all hands as raised above doubt is very great, not less, on a rough computation, than seven-eighths of the whole. The remaining eighth therefore, formed in great part by changes of order and other comparative trivialities, constitutes the whole area of criticism. . . .the amount of what can in any sense be called substantial variation is but a small fraction of the residuary variation, and can hardly form more than a thousandth part of the entire text" (B.F. Westcott and F.J.A. Hort, The New Testament in the Original Greek, pages 2-3). And Westcott and Hort, scholars of the last part of the nineteenth century, are generally considered to be among the toughest critics of the biblical text. How accurate is the text of our Bibles? Our century has seen no greater authority in this field of New Testament criticism than Sir Frederic Kenyon, who died in August 1952, and we may take his words to heart with confidence: "It is reassuring at the end to find that the general result of all these discoveries and all this study is to strengthen the proof of the authenticity of the Scriptures, and our conviction that we have in our hands, in substantial integrity, the verifiable Word of God." And again: "The interval then between the dates of the original composition and the earliest extant evidence becomes so small as to be in fact negligible, and the last foundation for any doubt that the Scriptures have come down to us substantially as they were written has now been removed. Both the authenticity and the general integrity of the books of the New Testament may be regarded as finally established."'(F.F. Bruce, The Books and the Parchments, 189-190). Conclusion

Is the text of our Bible accurate? Definitely! Do we really have the inspired Scriptures in our present Bibles? The answer must be a resounding, "Yes!" The Lord through His divine providence has kept His promise and has preserved His Word for us in the Bible. When you read your Bible from a good, standard, English translation, rest assured you are reading the Scriptures, the inspired Word of God. You can and should have confidence in your Bible. "All flesh is as grass, And all the glory of man as the flower of the grass. The grass withers, And its flower falls away, But the word of the Lord endures forever." Now this is the word which by the gospel was preached to you. (1 Peter 1:22-23) By - Keith Sharp, via Think on These Things Why We Differ In Interpretation For hundreds of years, men have struggled to understand the bible alike. But many things have prevented them from seeing the bible alike. Various factors can, and most often do, enter the process so that each man comes away with a different interpretation. Some of these factors are: 1. Previous teaching efforts by others often leaves a residual effect so that each man comes to the study with preconceived ideas. We often refer to this as theological prejudice. It comes from different sources. A. One is family. Families have traditionally taught their children in their faith and subsequent generations continue on in this doctrine. How often I have heard, "Well, if such-and-such was good enough for my folks, then it's good enough for me." What they fail to realize is that if their folks were lost, so also are they. Ignorance of the law is no excuse (Acts 17:30). B. Another is a close friend. Young minds are easily bent or swayed by the camaraderie of a close friend. I know that, in my own life, some doctrines were tempting because they were practiced by some of my closest friends. Job had a severe problem with his three friends and his wife. She advised him to just "curse God and die." His friends falsely told him that God had punished him for some grievous sin. All four were wrong. 2. A third form of prejudice comes from being overpowered by a deceiving person. Today's television "evangelists" preach and practice so many diverse doctrines that a novice is soon overwhelmed by the ideology of each. The apostle Paul warned us that, "such are false apostles, deceitful workers, transforming themselves into the apostles of Christ. And no marvel; for Satan himself is transformed into an angel of light. Therefore it is no great thing if his ministers also be

transformed as the ministers of righteousness; whose end shall be according to their works." (2 Cor 11:13-15, KJV). 3. Biblical Ignorance is a fourth problem. Many people are either too disinterested to study or simply too lazy to devote the right kind of study to God's word. Many want to be "bible scholars" but are not willing to devote the time necessary to do the kind of job that God demands. Paul told young Timothy, "Study to show thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of God." (2 Timothy 2:15, KJV) Such a task is a demanding one and deserves full consideration of what God has said. Those who are interested in the bible often fail to understand it because they do not have a systematic approach to study. For this reason, we need to accept several rules that need to be emphasized. In our next lesson, we will be addressing these basic rules for understanding the bible alike. Submitted by Howard Justice

HOW TO STUDY THE BIBLE (2 Pet. 3:18; Acts 17:11-12; 2 Tim. 2:15) Introduction: Studying the Bible is one of the most profitable activities one can be engaged in IF he/she is determined to understand and then apply the teachings! There are some basic factors one must take into consideration to understand. First one needs to study with the idea/understanding that ALL SCRIPTURE is inspired of God (2 Tim. 3:16-17). However, as one studied he/she must understand that what is recorded is NOT ALL Gods will, but some others! The following factors needs to be seen as some basic rules for Bible Study! 1. Who is speaking (Job. 2:5, 9; Gen. 3:5; 14:1). In these passages we see that the serpent is speaking to Eve, accusing Gods good intention to her. Satan is accusing Job to God, claiming that if He take away the hedge (good life) from him that he would curse God. How wrong was he in other cases. Also, we find Jobs wife giving some foolish advice. The fool is speaking in Psalm 14. So, we need to SEE who is really speaking. God had recorded their words, so we can see the tactics of evil! 2. To Whom (Gen. 22:2). Abraham was commanded to offer his son, but we are not given that command to do the same. But God has recorded that for our learning --to see how FAITH acts. 3. When -- what dispensation (Age) Is something given! (Eph. 3:1-5; Acts 15:1; Gen. 17:11-13; 1 Cor. 9:21). We are not under the Law of Moses. We do have LAW, but it is Christ law, the New Testament scriptures constitute the rules and regulations we are governed by! Let us understand and keep that in mind, please, as we study the Bible!

4. Context --Before and After -(Matt. 24:17). This passages is speaking of the destruction of Jerusalem, which occurred in AD 70. Many have tried to apply it for modern day events, and have drawn wrong conclusions. 5. What is really said? 1). Literal or figurative language (Jn. 15:5; Lk. 3:4-5; Phil. 3:2) 2). Common Sense (Jn, 3:3,5) -- an old man? 3). Law of harmony (Matt. 4:7; Acts 16:31; Jas. 2:24-26; Matt. 27:5; Lk. 10:37; 13: 27) 4). Historical Order (1 Cor..; 2 Cor.; 1st; 2rd, 3rd John; 6. Titles --what is indicated by? 1). Genesis --Beginning 2). Exodus --Departure 3). Joshua Main leader, person in book 4). Judges --type of Judgment, or different person ruling at different Times. 5). Matthew, Mark, Luke, John --writer 6). Romans, Corinthians, Ephesians, Etc.. People to whom written 7. Purpose "study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly divided the word of God." (2 Tim. 2:15; Jn. 5.39) Acts 17:11 "These were more noble than those in Thessalonica, in that they received the word with all readiness of mind, and searched the scriptures daily, whether those things were so." Conclusion: Friends. We urge all to make this a daily activity. Having the same aim as those noblemen of Berea --to see if what is being accepted and practiced is SO, TRUE, from God! 1. There are reading schedule -- reading so much each day, etc. One can choose the way or manner in which one is to be so engaged, but it needs to be a daily activity! 2. There can be a topical study Church, Baptism, etc. This is where one searched out all that is said on one particular subject. A Concordance is helpful in doing this 3. There can be systematic as in times periods, etc. This, too, can be a profitable type of study! 4. Book study -- take a book, as Isaiah, Jeremiah, one of the Gospels --Matthew, Mark, Luke, or John. 5. Biographical -- Persons, Kingdoms, etc. This can be an interesting and profitable study. Beloved, whatever approach you use, do it! You owe it to yourself! By - William C. Sexton

SOME RULES FOR BIBLE STUDY. 1. Realize that the Bible must be studied and rightly divided. (2 Tim. 2:15). 2. Realize that the Bible contains the mind and will of God. (2 Pet. 1:21). 3. Approach the Bible reverently and humbly. (1 Thes. 2:13). 4. Have profound faith in ALL it says. One cannot accept only a part of the Bible as being inspired. We must accept it all or reject it all. 5. Let the Bible speak to you--not you to it. 6. Study for profit and with an earnest desire to know more of God's will, and not just to argue or endeavor to justify yourself. 7. Be willing to obey implicitly what God commands of you. (Matt. 7:21; Lk. 6:46). 8. Use common sense in your study. For example, some contend that the word "water" in Jno. 3:5 does not mean water, but common sense will convince us that it does. The letters w-a-t-e-r spell water in any other book, and there is nothing to indicate that it is used figuratively in this passage. 9. Observe who is speaking. All of the Bible was written by inspiration but that does not mean that all the statements recorded therein are true or were spoken by inspired persons. For example: Job 2:9; Psalms 14:1. 10. Observe to whom each statement is addressed. Whether to the alien sinner, Christian, unfaithful, etc. 11. Observe why each book was written. For example, the first four books of the New Testament were written to produce faith in Jesus as the Son of God, the book of Acts records the cases of conversion of the apostolic age and a history of the early church, the next twenty-one letters are instructions to Christians, and the book of Revelation is a book of symbolic teaching showing primarily things that are to come shortly, and offering encouragement to the early Christians under severe persecution. 12. Study and interpret each passage in light of its context or setting. Failing to do this, some have argued that Paul teaches in 1 Cor. 1:17 that baptism is not essential, but the context shows that he did baptize some, and the reason he was glad he hadn't baptized more was "lest any man should say that ye were baptized into my name." 13. Realize that there have been three distinct dispensations of religion -- the PATRIARCHAL (from creation to Sinai), (I would have to differ with that and suggest that it lasted from creation to the cross among the Gentiles, JWS) The JEWISH (from Sinai to the cross), and the CHRISTIAN (from Pentecost of Acts 2 until the coming of Christ). The New Testament is our guide in this dispensation. 14. Study the meaning of the titles of the books of the Bible.

15. Consider the history and chronology of the events of each book in the Bible. 16. Do not interpret one passage of scripture so as to contradict the teaching of another. For example, one cannot correctly interpret Rom. 5:1 or Acts 16:31 to teach salvation by faith only for that would contradict Jas. 2:24 and Gal. 5:6. 17. Determine if the language is literal or figurative. Take all passages as literal unless the context forces a figurative interpretation. To illustrate, it is clear that the "water" of Jno. 3:23 is literal, while the context and wording shows that "water" of Rev. 22:17 is figurative. 18. Don't read something into the text which is not there. Be content with taking only what it says. 19. Harmonize the Scriptures, taking ALL God says on any subject, letting all obscure passages be understood in light of the plain. 20. Have the proper attitude toward the Bible and how it teaches. Produce the Scripture for ALL you do in religion, and don't appeal to the SILENCE of the Bible for authority for anything. The Bible furnishes us completely (2 Tim. 3:16, 17; 2 Peter 1:3). We must not pervert it (Gal. 1:6-9). We must not go beyond that which is written (1 Cor. 4:6). We must not add to or subtract from its teaching (Rev. 22: 18,19). Arranged by Eugene Britnell. Inductive Bible Study These were more noble-minded that those in Thessalonica, in that they received the word with all readiness of mind, and searched the Scriptures daily to find out whether these things were so, Acts 17:11. It is likely that your personal Bible reading and study could be identified as inductive though you may not be familiar with this use of the term. The word inductive has a mathematical, electrical, scientific, philosophical and legal usage. As applied to Bible reading and study it simply means you engage yourself with the specific details of the text of Scripture. You do this yourself. The opposite of this is, to blindly accept the deductions of men and impose those into the text of Scripture. I use the word inductive to describe the approach I believe we ought to take, when reading and studying the Bible. To me it simply means, you engage yourself personally with the text, careful to let the text determine what you believe, teach and practice. Consider the opposite. If you decide (out of tradition, family or peer influence) what you want to believe, teach and practice and then read the Bible in search for passages that sound like they confirm what you have already decided, that is not inductive and not objective. If you have been trained at the feet of sound Bible

students, the non-inductive approach may not yield a steady stream of error. But it isnt the best approach for the best results in your personal faith and practice. 1. Inductive Bible Study Begins With The Text. What the Bible says is your starting place; your first step! Out of that reading and study, your beliefs are formed and your behavior determined. You observe for yourself what the text of Scripture says; you read it in narrative order, watch for all contextual information, compare related passages, and move from the specifics of the text to sound conclusions. So then faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of God, (Rom. 10:17). 2. Inductive Bible Study Requires Mental Effort. It is often noted, we live in the age of visual literacy. Television, Drama and PowerPoint is preferred over individual reading and study. Modern methods of communication often take their place of prominence above the message. In some cases, the audience knows how it was said but do not recall what was said. Personal inductive Bible study calls for individual involvement with the text. One-on-one You and your Bible alone! You read it. Then read it again. As you do the individual work, the promise is: when you read, you may understand my knowledge in the mystery of Christ, (Eph. 3:4). 3. Inductive Bible Study Must Attend To Context. Context is simply the total literary setting of a word or phrase. Context takes into account: the time, the writer, the culture, the occasion, the original recipients, the immediate theme and all other Biblical information relevant to the matter at hand. When engaged in Inductive Bible Study, you must not be content to let someone dictate what the context is. You discover context yourself as you read the verse within the paragraph, within the epistle or book you have read and all of this in the framework of your familiarity with the entire Biblical setting. 4. Inductive Bible Study Finds Its Intended End in Godly Behavior. The immediate purpose is to have a personal understanding of the Scriptures as a product of your own work with the text. The practical purpose is to know what you ought to believe, teach and practice. As a result of Inductive Bible Study, you are able to say: This is what I believe; Ive read it and studied it myself. This is what I know God said, because Ive read it myself. This is different than saying, This is what our church teaches, or this is what my preacher says. Hopefully, your local church teaches and practices the Scriptural pattern and the preachers you hear propose nothing for your belief but the Word of God. But your individual faith ought to be grounded in your individual reading and study. So that your life is led from day to day by your direct contact with the Word of God. Kay Arthur writes, "Inductive Bible study draws you into personal interaction with the Scripture and thus with the God of the Scriptures so that your beliefs are based on a prayerful understanding and legitimate interpretation of Scripture - truth that transforms you when you live by it." Once meaning is discovered in the text, the next step is self-inquiry: What does this mean to me today? Warning: If you let someone teach you an Inductive Bible Study Method, you may defeat the whole purpose. The purpose is for you (the student) to read and study the text, leading to your conclusions and ultimately your behavior before God.

By Warren E. Berkley Basic Rules For Understanding The Bible Alike Several rules are necessary for each bible student to accept in order to arrive at the truth when studying God's word. Here are several. Most of these come from D. R. Dungan's book entitled "Hermeneutics." Printed in 1901, it is a valuable text that the sincere bible student should have in his/her library. It is not an arbitrary listing of man-made rules. Instead, it is a collection of those conclusions which have been drawn from God's word; conclusions that serve us as practical rules for understanding the bible alike. I commend it to your study. Here is what God's word concludes: 1. The bible should be treated and studied like any other book. Whether one studies Chemistry, Zoology, Botany, English or Mathematics, he must study the book to receive the information contained therein. It requires effort (2 Timothy 2:15-16). 2. One needs to recognize that the weakness in understanding the bible lies at the feet of man. He must lay aside ALL preconceived ideas about God's word. Only after doing so can he insure a reasonable understanding of what God's word reveals. 3. God does not inspire the interpretation, only the revelation. Some claim that God gives them a "word of knowledge" about the bible. Such teaching is contrary to God's word. God inspired the writers with the knowledge to write the bible and each writer put it down in his own style. Therefore, man must study it in order to receive the knowledge contained in it. 4. Divine wisdom has adopted the word-method of revelation. God chose to speak in terms that we can understand. We must remember that the "secret things" belong to God but we are given to understand what He has revealed. It simply requires study. 5. Common sense is a major requirement. God has spoken so that we may understand but if we place an unreasonable interpretation upon His revelation, we do it a severe injustice and will miss the mark. Paul told the Thessalonian brethren. "And for this cause God shall send them strong delusion, that they should believe a lie" (2Thessalonians 2:11, KJV). Forcing an interpretation is a sure way to miss the mark and misunderstand God's word. 6. We must accept the bible as the "inspired word" of God (2 Timothy 3:16-17). The word "inspire" simply means "God breathed." It was the voice of God that the writers heard. And because it contains many sayings of mere men (as in the rebuke of Job by his three friends), one must understand that the revelation is true but not every statement is the truth. Only the context will demonstrate the truth. 7. Spiritual purity is necessary in order to accept what God has to say, especially about righteousness. One cannot live a devil-may-care life and accept the truth. Only if he is willing to live for God can he accept the will of God. One's mind must be attuned to the will of God else he will compromise God's word and fail to understand the truth.

8. A good knowledge of contemporaneous history is helpful. Knowing about the customs of different nations, knowing when and how long biblical nations existed and understanding their effect on those who would serve God in the bible will greatly help one to understand the bible correctly. Understanding biblical geography is also helpful. A good set of biblical maps is also a good investment in bible study. 9. One should never use the bible to prove any preconceived doctrine. Far too often, men have conceived certain teachings in their minds but in an effort to "prove" their doctrine, they wrest the scriptures and do violence to the bible. Only after a careful study of the bible can one determine what IS the doctrine of God. 10. One should never view the bible as a book of mysteries. It is not. Though there are certain books of the bible that use a great deal of metaphorical language or "word pictures" to introduce prophecy, one should never believe that the bible is too difficult to understand. One should always expect to be able to understand the bible. 11. One should never read only favorite passages. Doing so induces one to neglect the remainder. The entire bible is important to us all. One must love, respect and study ALL the word of God in order to accept it properly. 12. One should never study the bible with a personal agenda. This is one of the main reasons for misunderstanding God's word. One must approach the bible from a systematic study, not one of duty but of love. Over the centuries, personal agenda has given way to denominational teachings and the formation of many different sects. It was what certain people wanted rather than what God has wanted that has been uppermost in destroying the "unity" of God's word (Ephesians 4:2-6). 13. One should never study God's word in an effort to make it harmonize with scientific theory. Doing destroys the omnipotence of God. Only after we accept that God is the omnipotent Creator for all that exists, can we fully understand the bible alike. The bible is not a work of science. It is the miraculous revelation of God. It contains those words necessary for deliverance from sin, how to live a righteous life before God (and man) and to insure our deliverance to Heaven after this life (1 Timothy 6:11). 14. Context always regulates the central thought of any passage. It also determines the definition of a word. Some words have a spiritual meaning while other passages may use the same word in a literal or physical way. Only context can determine the definition of such a word. 15. Certain methods of proof are used by God's word. Basically, they are Direct Command, Approved Example, and Necessary Inference. These are the basic methods that good bible scholars recognize and use to determine what God wants us to do today. It is the same method of proof used by the early Christians. 16. Finally, one must understand that any law is dispensational. That is to say, in each of the three dispensations of man, God has given a set of rules for people to live by. From Adam to Moses, man was under the law often referred to as the patriarchal law. From Moses until Pentecost, the Jewish people were under the Law

of Moses. All others (Gentiles) remained under the patriarchal law (Romans 2:14). Today, ALL are under the "new covenant;" the law of Christ (Galatians 6:2; Hebrews 9:11). In closing, let me add this. All must realize that the only way to Heaven is that which is found in God's word. Without that valuable information, one cannot be saved nor can he look to a life of rejoicing in the presence of God throughout eternity (Ephesians 4:2-6; Hebrews 11:6). I bid you all a good study. In Him: Howard Justice Helpful Hints For Bible Study And Understanding The Bible is the greatest book in the world. More books have been written about it than any other piece of literature on earth. It consistently leads the list of "best sellers" and has been the greatest inspiration to poets and painters, novelists and narrators in composing the greatest works of the ages. To the down-trodden and outcast of earth it offers hope, to the philosopher and sage it imparts wisdom, to the industrialist and farmer it teaches patience, to youth and young manhood it inspires courage, and to lives broken by sin and marred by transgression it points the way of salvation. Hated by the atheist, scorned by the agnostic, and betrayed by the modernist, it has nevertheless been the greatest influence in the development of civilization and its severest critics have never been able to produce any work of higher moral precepts or ethical influence. No psychiatrist has been able to penetrate the human heart to greater depth and reveal the emotions, ambitions, or weaknesses of men with more clarity nor has any sociologist been able to offer more practical and abiding remedies for the ills of a sick society than those afforded by this unique volume. Yet even by its professed friends it is frequently abused because it is misuse? The apostle Paul tells us that we should "handle aright the word of truth." This being true we need to study diligently that we divide it properly and make the application of it the Holy Spirit intended when He revealed the mind of God in it. Christians accept the Old Testament as inspired of God and applicable to the people to whom it was revealed and for whom it was intended. Consisting of five books of law Genesis through Deuteronomy 17 books of history and poetry Joshua through Songs of Solomon and 17 books of prophecy Isaiah through Malachi, this division of the Bible abounds with examples which Christians can use in teaching the blessings of obedience and the disastrous effects of disobedience to God. Therein we prove the claims of Christ and the inspiration of the New Testament. But we cannot expect to find there what Jehovah tells men now to do to be saved, for the scriptures set forth that mankind is now subject to the gospel or law of Christ. Thus the New Testament with the four gospels of Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John was written primarily to convince men that Jesus was the Son of God. The one book of Acts makes known the establishment and history of the church of Christ as it operated under apostolic direction in carrying the message of salvation to benighted non. sage of salvation to benighted men. The remaining 22 books of the New Testament consist of epistles written to individuals, congregations, and groups of

Christians impressing them with the life the newly established church should live, the worship it should render, and the work it should do. Included in these epistles is the will of God toward false doctrines and the teachers of them doctrines and teachers which would then and will till this day destroy the identity of the Lord's church. In the light of these general considerations concerning the word of God, let us think about how we may study it more effectively. While the Bible claims inspiration for itself and bears marks of its divinity on every page, we should not forget that man has been left to make his own investigation of its contents and apply its righteous principles to his own life and conduct. Needed: An Honest Heart (1) We should approach the study of God's word with honest hearts. This simply means that our minds will be open to an unprejudiced consideration of anything and everything about which the Bible speaks. It is very difficult to be completely unbiased in any matter. ]Especially, it seems, is this cue when men consider religious matters. The fact that our souls and their eternal destiny are involved, however, should stir us to be unusually careful that we seek to know simply and only what God's will is that we may do it acceptably. We are prone to develop our own religious concepts in the light of past training and experience. If we have been taught that it makes no difference what one believes as long as he is sincere the tendency is to allow this sentiment to color all our thinking. Yet a very casual appraisal of this state of mind reveals the folly of such thinking. If it makes no difference what one believes as long as he is sincere in that belief then it logically follows that it actually makes no difference whether or not one believes anything the Bible reveals. The Bible declares that God is, that Jesus Christ is His only begotten Son, that men are sinners and cannot be saved apart from Christ and the plan of salvation God has provided through Him. The Son himself has declared, "if ye believe not that I am he ye shall die in your sins" (John 8:24).... and "whither I go ye cannot come" (Jno. 8:21). If it makes no difference what one believes, then these statements of Jesus are nonsense. The writer of Hebrews says, "He that cometh to God must believe that He is" (Heb. 11:6), but if it makes no difference what one believes then the man who believes that there is no God is as well off spiritually as the person who confidently affirms the existence of Jehovah. By reducing this popular notion to an absurdity we can see its fallacy. The reason it makes a difference what one believes is because what one believes determines what he will be and do. Again, we may have our thinking clouded by parental influence to the extent that we are unwilling to think for ourselves for fear that we will reflect unfavorably upon the religious faith and practice of our parents. Some reason thus: "Whatever was good enough for my father and mother is good enough for me." This is a popular saying. Will it stand the test of straight thinking, however? If all our ancestors had taken this same attitude toward the religious practices of their forebears most of us would yet be worshipping idols. This is no ridiculous conclusion. Most Americans are of Gentile descent. Before Christ came the entire Gentile world was as heathen in its

religious concepts and practices as the peoples of earth today who have not received the spiritual enlightenment which comes only from the gospel of Jesus Christ. Somebody's parents changed their concepts and convictions. If they had not changed we who are their children and like wise our children after us would be bowing before the shrine of some graven image. Saul of Tarsus changed from an ardent advocate of the Jewish religion to a simple follower and servant of Jesus Christ. He loved his parents but he loved Christ more. Every apostle of Jesus once espoused the religious faith of his fathers but all of them gave it up to serve Christ. An honest man will always accept truth regardless of where he finds it. The story is told of a young man who succeeded his father in the operation of a general mercantile store. A government inspector called on him to check the accuracy of his scales and the yard stick with which he measured cloth. When the inspector applied the government's standard measuring yard stick to the stick of the young merchant he found that the young man's stick was not a yard long. It measured only 35 inches. When the young merchant's attention was called to his defective stick he became enraged and began to abuse the inspector. Said he, "My old father sold goods here for fifty years. He was an honest man and he used this same stick for years before he died. When you say this stick is only 35 inches you are reflecting upon the integrity of my father. He was not a shyster. He was an honest man!" The inspector quietly replied, "I am sure that you are telling the truth about the honesty of your father, young man. I have no reason to think your father ever intended to sell anybody less than 36 inches for a yard. But let me ask you something: Since your father was an honest man, as an honest man if he had learned that his measuring stick was an inch short of standard, what would he have done?" The young man cooled off. He saw the point. "He would have given up the old stick, sir, and obtained one that measured 36 inches," the young merchant replied. So it is with every person who is interested in truth. The honest man will not seek to hide behind either the ignorance or shortcomings of his parents' religion once he learns their knowledge and practice did not conform to the requirements of God's word. The honest heart is open to the truth of God and will espouse it regardless of the cost involved. Too many people form their own notions as to how things ought to be religiously without regard to divine authority. The person who assumes that one church is as good as another and disregards what the Bible teaches about the church is closing his mind to the word of God. The man who assumes that sprinkling and pouring are baptism by heaven's authority without studying the Bible to learn God's will is treating the Bible with contempt. He who wears a human religious name, insists on mechanical instrumental music in the worship, accepts majority rule in a church, thinks the church should sponsor athletic activities and furnish recreation for young and Ad, and advocates a host of other things as religious activities and responsibilities of the church, needs to examine his own heart and see if it is being ruled by his own personal will or is subject to the authority of Christ. To assume that everything is to be practiced in the name of Christ without first determining what the will of Christ is in such matter is to be basically presumptuous concerning one's own importance. Actually this process of thinking and acting makes the will of God bow

to the will of man. The honest person will seek to know God's will first and then endeavor to make his own will harmonize. By James R. Cope 1954 Getting The Most Out Of Your Bible Study #1 I am thoroughly convinced one of the great shortcomings within local congregations across this country is our Bible study. Does that surprise you? Most people to whom I have said this misunderstand what I am saying; I heartily agree that we are not doing enough, as individuals, but I also believe that the method of Bible study is also part of the problem. Most Bible studies conducted within the walls of our churches are either a verse-by-verse study or a fill-in-the-blank book that, in all likelihood, does not challenge the majority of the participants and leaves them bored with the Bible classes. That boredom leads to disinterest, and the lack of interest leads to less and less study. Less study leads to ignorance, and ignorance leads to our own destruction (cf. Hosea 4:6). Surely this is not our goal! So what do we do to remedy this? Some have recognized that our brethren are bored with the current setup and have decided the only way to make it less boring is to put on some sort of dramatic presentations and puppet shows [for the younger crowd], and some are even going for "mood music" to set the tone of the class. Some are forgoing Bible study altogether and are studying books of uninspired men and their classes resemble some sort of "Oprah's Book Club" group review. Some are opting to use denominational material [printed and visual] that teaches erroneous doctrines. Some have disbanded the Bible classes altogether [at least for the adults] because they can see no other choice. Surely there is a better way! There is a better way, but it seems that very few churches know it. Still others have at least recognized that there is a better way but do not implement it for fear of changing things; they would much rather listen to those who say, "But we've always done it this way." Right. And what happens when you keep doing the same thing you've always done? You keep getting the same thing you've always got: Christians of all ages who do not know the word of God as thoroughly as they could. Why would anyone refuse to change if it is for our own spiritual good? That I cannot answer. But I believe we should question those who do not seem to want to grow spiritually especially those leaders within our congregations who do not demonstrate any interest in the spiritual growth of their flock! Why don't they just hand the sheep over to the wolves and get it over with? If this seems a little blunt it is. But I believe we are at a point where someone needs to be blunt and say what needs to be said: There are far too many Christians out there who do not have an adequate grasp of the Scriptures, and far too many teachers, elders, leaders, and evangelists doing nothing about it. The apostle Paul has told us that Jesus Christ established certain people within His church for the equipping of the saints for the work of ministry (Eph. 4:11, 12). Those apostles, prophets, evangelists, pastors, and teachers are there for that very reason: equipping the saints. We must give our brethren the right equipment if we ever expect them to grow up in the faith.

One of the best ways we can properly equip our brethren is to give them the words of their Master, Jesus Christ. Within those words, we will find the answers to daily living, daily questions, daily trials and temptations, and daily problems. Lacking those words, we will fail at giving an answer for the hope that is within us (1 Pet. 3:15), we will fail to answer with an It is written, and we will fail to find the way of escape our Father provides for every temptation (1 Cor. 10:13). It is essential we get the babe in Christ involved in daily Bible reading and regular Bible study. It is just as essential to get older Christians more involved in the same things. Do not assume that just because someone was converted 'x' number of years ago that they have an adequate grasp of the Scriptures. In many cases, individuals have endured many years of verse-by-verse studies and fill-in-the-blank books with questions that are almost insulting to a mature Christians' knowledge, and the result is a generation of Christians bored with Bible classes and who have a hard time being motivated to pick up their Bibles to cover [once again!] the same old tired methods and suffer through more regurgitated lectures from teachers who haven't even begun to scratch the surface of God's word. By now, I am sure some of you are saying, "Okay, Mister Know-It-All, what's the solution?!?" Please take my word for it that I do not know it all, but I do know a better way than what most of us have endured for many years. The first thing to do is stop doing verse-by-verse studies. There is a proper time for such a study, but if you begin with that type of study, you are not considering the entire context of the book or letter you are studying. Only after you are familiar with the book's main message, and only after you understand the thought of each portion of the book or letter [paragraphs and/or chapters] can you get down to the sentences or partial sentences [which is what many verses are]. Imagine opening a book and reading only half of a sentence. Would you be able to properly interpret the writer's message, or even that partial sentence? Of course not! So why start a Bible study in that way? The first thing to do when beginning a Bible study is start at the top, so to speak. Instead of beginning with a verse, start with the entire book! Do a survey study of the book and get a grasp of the writer's audience and his intended message. Write down a short title for the book that conveys the writer's intended message. Then, once that is clear, consider a chapter at a time or if you're motivated enough to do so a paragraph at a time. Make sure you understand the thought of each paragraph and write it down somewhere you will be able to refer to later. Then and only then can we begin looking at a verse, or portion of a verse and see it in its proper context. [Think of an inverted pyramid as the method of studying each book.] Once the study has begun, how do we go about it? Here may be the most important part of the study. If we study in the wrong way, we will miss the message entirely, misinterpret it, or simply not get as much out of it as we possibly could have. It is important we enter into the study with the goal of getting as much out of God's inspired word as possible. That is not to say we will learn all there is to learn the first or even second or third or fourth time. Bible study is a lifetime task and should never be ceased. But here are some important tips to extract not only the true

meaning of the Scriptures, but as much as possible each and every time you study. A Bible study in which we learn only what God has intended and in which we extract as much as possible must begin with: Observation. This sounds like a given, but we have all seen one-on-one studies in which one has already made up his or her mind about what the Bible says, and enters into the study with blinders on. No matter what the text says, some have decided what it says before they even look at it and they do not truly see what it says. Observation is important! Proper Bible study is opening up the Bible and simply asking, "What does the text say?" Then comes proper Interpretation. Again, this is important because once we see what it says, we must figure out what it means. Many texts are misused because the audience and situation was not considered, and it has been applied to those to whom it does not apply. It is one thing to know what it says, but the meaning is even more important. This is where many errors are initially kindled often because of preconceived ideas or doctrines. Let the Bible tell us what it means, without forcing it or twisting it to fit with what we already believe. Then, it is time to make Application. The most important part of our study is this. If I consider all of the Bible, interpret it properly, but then never apply it, what good is it to me? If we fail here, we have failed entirely. We will consider more hints for effective and worthwhile Bible study next week. By Steven Harper Getting The Most Out Of Your Bible Study #2 As we talked about last week, a good deal of the Bible study that is going on across the country is lacking and needs to be addressed if we sincerely and personally desire spiritual growth not only for ourselves, but also for our brethren with whom we worship on a regular basis. Last week's article suggested that we need to forgo the current practice of exclusively studying by either continuous verse-by-verse studies or books that are not challenging enough to most participants, and begin with a broader, survey-type study of each book. It was further suggested that only after this should we then gradually narrow the study down to the point where it is more appropriate to study a verse at a time. [The inverted pyramid.] It was also stated that it is necessary to enter into the study in the appropriate manner, first making a thorough observation of the text, then making a proper interpretation, and finally, making personal application. But productive and effective Bible study must also be begun with the right attitude and with proper preparation if we are to gain further and deeper knowledge of the text. To illustrate this, just try reading a book late at night when you are tired and ready to go to bed, or at a time when you are pressed for time. Try reading a book you do not think is worth reading, or one you think it is too difficult to understand. How much knowledge will you gain from those times? How much will you comprehend? And how would you enter into the time allotted to read or study such a

book? Most likely, you would gain very little and you would not enjoy the time spent reading such a book. It is no different when we read and study our Bibles! If we begin the study with the attitude that it is not worth our time, or if we start with the misconception that it is too difficult to understand, it is almost certain that we will gain very little if anything out of the time spent in studying. If we read it or attempt to study it when we are tired or when we do not have sufficient time to do a effective study, we will likely not get much out of it. Attitude. One of the most important factors in productive Bible study is our own attitude even before we enter the study. As I have stated already, if you begin with the mind set that it is not worth your time or with the belief it is too difficult, you will likely not gain much, if anything, from the study. But imagine what you will gain if you enter in believing it is worth your time and it is not too difficult! I imagine you have met people who enjoy studying their Bibles, but never stopped to realize it. Those people who actually enjoy studying God's word show it by their comments in the Bible classes and by their vocal demonstration of how much they love God and His word. You will not even have to ask them if they enjoy studying God's word because it is clearly evident by their attitude and their knowledge. The psalmist's attitude has given us a great illustration of one who truly loved reading the word of his Lord. This is the man who wrote an acrostic psalm that spelled out his love for God's word 'from A to Z' eight times for each letter of the Hebrew alphabet (Psalm 119)! Within that psalm, he said, Oh, how I love Your law! It is my meditation all the day! (v. 97) Was he exaggerating, or was this how he really felt? I believe the psalm speaks for itself, but he later says, My eyes are awake through the night watches, that I may meditate on Your word. (v. 148) His love for God's word actually kept him up at night so he could meditate on it! The Ethiopian eunuch demonstrated the difference an attitude may make in Bible study, too. When we meet this man (Acts 8:26-40), he was in his chariot, reading from Isaiah (v. 28). When Philip came to him, he was asked, Do you understand what you are reading? (v. 30) The eunuch did not get flustered and try to make it appear he did understand what he was reading and did not make some superficial comments about what he thought the proper interpretation was, but simply said, How can I, unless someone guides me? (v. 31) He actually asked Philip to come sit with him! His attitude, though, was evident long before this point because he had already traveled an extremely long distance just to come to Jerusalem to worship God properly. What does this say about this man's attitude? It says he was receptive to God's word before he picked it up. And when he had an opportunity to understand it better, he did not hesitate. The result was his own salvation! And, of course, there are the Bereans. When Paul had to hastily leave Thessalonica because of the persecution there, he went to nearby Berea, where he went into the synagogue of the Jews (Acts 17:10). When Paul preached God's word to the people there, they received the word with all readiness, and searched the Scriptures daily to find out whether these things were so. (v. 11) They were not as some in Thessalonica, who really did not care to hear what Paul had to say (v. 5), but their

hearts were prepared to hear God's word, and were prepared to verify it by a thorough search of God's word. That, friends and brethren, is the attitude we must have before we enter into the study. Are you ready to study? Your attitude will make all the difference in the world. One thing I am often asked when I get into an extended discussion about Bible study is: How can I learn to love Bible study even more than what I now do? The only answer I have been able to come up with is not an easy one. The solution isa love for God Himself. But how can I learn to love God more? The answer isstudy His word more often. It is a continuous circle of studying to know more about God, loving Him more deeply because we know Him more intimately, studying His word to know even more about Him, and loving Him more because we study more. If you can ever 'get in the circle' of loving God and studying His word, you have it made! The hard part is finding a starting point. Wherever you may feel like you are lacking, I suggest you start with the answer immediately. It doesn't matter which is your starting point, it is most important that you start. Making Time. Another one of the problems many have in their Bible study is nothing more than a lack of time devoted to the effort. Many people simply do not set aside enough time in their weekly schedule to give their full attention to an effective Bible study. Not a few of us remember those days when, as kids, we forgot to even look at our Bible class workbook until late Saturday evening or even Sunday morning on the way to the building. Unfortunately, there are many who are still doing that as adults! Many "forget" to study for the Sunday morning Bible study class until late Saturday night, and others who do not remember it until Sunday morning. I have seen my share of adults who are "filling in the blanks" and "studying" their Bibles even as the class is in progress. Those who "study" in this way are doing themselves no favor and are not getting the most out of their Bible study, to say the least. We need to do better than this! If we really want to learn more of God's word and if we really want to grow spiritually, then we need to make the study of God's word a higher priority in our lives. Most of us do not have to be told, as adults, to get up on Monday morning to get ready for work; we know the importance [hopefully] of getting to work on time and giving our best for the required work day. An honest worker does not shirk his or her duties, and realizes rest and recreation comes after the work is done. "First things first," as we say. But do we do that when it comes to our study of God's word? Do we recognize the full meaning of the words of our Lord Jesus Christ when He said, seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness (Matt. 6:33)? Are we honestly seeking the kingdom of God and His righteousness when it comes to the time we devote to studying God's word, where the righteousness of God is revealed (Rom. 1:16, 17)? Attitude and time will play an important role in the quality of your Bible study, without question, so let us work on these things for our own good. More next week. By Steven Harper

Getting The Most Out Of Your Bible Study #3 I don't know about you, but my memory is not what it used to be. It seems I have to write myself notes a lot more often than what I have in the past and, sometimes, I forget where I put my notes! I am sure a lot of this 'forgetfulness' is due to the fact that I now have three more children than what I did not so long ago, and they keep me busier than I sometimes think is possible. I do realize, though, that my notetaking does remind me of important responsibilities that I might otherwise forget or simply leave undone if I do not consider it important enough to write down. Sometimes, if the task or responsibility is unpleasant, I later wish I had forgotten to write down the note! But note-taking is an important part of effective Bible study, too, and it is this aspect I would like us to consider today. As far back as I can remember, I have been taking notes on Bible classes and sermons, and I have even made an effort to try to copy the illustrations used by preachers in the lesson to help me remember what was said. I have notebooks full of sermon outlines, charts, and overheads and I have often been able to refer back to a lesson I thought I had heard only because I had the notes from that lesson. I've even had occasion to remind preachers of what they said because I had the notes at hand. Those notes help me when my memory fails, but they also help me when I am trying to understand the meaning of a verse in its proper context. If I have outlined the book [or chapter] ahead of time, I may look at that outline and find the verse in its proper context and then consider the writer's intent. Way back in the Dark Ages, when I was still in school, I had a bad habit of never studying. Never. I paid close attention in class, but when the test time came near, I did not do anything that I wasn't already doing. I read over the class book very briefly, but I was never one to 'cram' for finals. In fact, the school system of which I was a part did not even require that I take the finals unless I had a low grade point average and/or had been absent a certain number of days. I coasted through junior and senior high school and expected that it would be pretty much the same when I went to college. Boy was I in for a surprise! The best thing I learned in college was that I did not know how to study. Since I never bothered to study up until then, I never took the time to learn how. It wasn't until I had been out of college for a few years that I ran across someone who showed me an effective way to study, and it was something I had actually known all along: take notes in generous portions. Along with this knowledge came some more helpful pointers I have ever since then tried to pass onto everyone I meet. If these things are implemented in your own personal Bible study, you will notice a tremendous change not only in what you learn, but the amount you learn, and even your desire to learn. Effective Study Requires A Pencil. To ensure you get the most out of your Bible study time, the student must bring the most helpful equipment he or she has at their disposal into the study. Some believe this means we go out and buy the most popular commentaries, or at least commentaries written by "respected brethren." If you truly want to learn what the Bible is saying, that is the worst thing you could

bring into the study! You will not learn what the Bible says by reading commentaries; you will only learn what other uninspired men say the Bible says. But if you truly want to learn what the Bible says, forget about commentaries and bring only your eyes, a pencil, and a notebook. I know this sounds simple and it is but it will help you more than you could possibly imagine. As we set to the task of studying, the first thing we must do is look intently into the text to see what is being said. As we do this, we must enter in with our minds free of personal prejudices and preconceptions that will taint the true meaning of the text. Study with the mind set to know only what the Bible says. As you read over the text, be meticulous in your search to know what is said. It is important to see the difference in even the smallest words [such as 'in" or "from"] and whether or not the word is singular or plural. Paul alluded to this necessary distinction (Gal. 3:16) and we are not excluded from being so particular, either. Some may consider this being overly picky, but when we ignore even the little things, we may miss some important lessons, or misunderstand the true meaning of the text. To heighten your awareness, the best thing to do in this step of your study is to put your pencil to good use. Start noting repeated words or phrases found throughout the text [for example: the word "better" in the book of Hebrews]; they are repeated for a reason! One thing I constantly remind my class is that there were no such things as exclamation points, bold letters, or underlining in the first century. The only means they had to emphasize a point was to repeat it. [Ex. Rom. 12:17-21 where Paul urges the brethren to not repay evil with evil, and Gal. 1:6-9 where Paul condemns the one who brings another gospel.] Repeated words or phrases often illustrate the intent of a book better than anything else, but if we fail to see the writer's repetition, we may miss the meaning entirely. Don't overlook anything. Another thing to look for is the writer stating the same point, but in various ways. [Ex. Psalm 119, where the psalmist states his love for God's word in an acrostic fashion, from "A to Z."] Look also for contrast and comparison as a means of unfolding the writer's message. [The Proverbs are often contrasts of the wise versus the foolish, or the rich and poor.] Look for a continuous progression of thought that leads up to a climactic point [such as the book Romans]. Look for any definitions of words or statements made earlier in the context [such as Mark's explanation of certain phrases or terms; 5:41, 15:22]. Jesus often used parables to teach, but he occasionally stopped to give explanations (Matt. 13). If the writer takes time to give us the meaning, we should not ignore the effort! Do not reject anything as possibly significant. The Four 'Rs' Of Reading. One of the greatest contributions to more effective Bible study comes at this point in the study. How we read will influence everything that follows [interpretation and application]. To help make our Bible study more effective, let us remember the four 'Rs' of reading: Read. I know, this sounds like a given, but don't take anything for granted. If we skim the text, if we read commentaries instead of the text, or if we read only portions of the text, we may miss the true meaning. Remember, the writer was inspired by the Holy Spirit to write these words; not a one is unimportant. Read the text

carefully, and then read it again and again and again. I have found my most productive Bible studies came after I had read the text more than 30 times before I got to class. Use your pencil during this period to note what you find. Reflect. Once you've read the text, now it is time to think about what you've discovered. Don't pick verses out of their context, but consider ea Getting The Most Out Of Your Bible Study #4 I have found that most brethren have never participated in a survey-type study of the books of the Bible, but have most commonly followed the verse-by-verse study or have used [and are now using] books that are not challenging enough to most adults. Even within the teenage classes, I have found most local churches use the same three or four publishers that offer books with lessons that are not even challenging enough for the teenagers. I don't know if they are just being prepared for inadequate books when they get older, but surely we can do better than this! I know and have heard some state they would like to have something better, but cannot find anything worthwhile. Some have expressed their frustration over books that are too simple, but admit that they also do not have the answer. Many simply do not know what to do differently than what they have always seen and what they have always done. Whose fault is this? The blame can be spread around, but I believe the basic fault lies in the fact that most people have never heard of or done anything else. Most people have never even heard of a survey study of the Bible, and wouldn't know what to do should someone tell them there was a better way than verse-byverse studies. What we need to do is correct the problem by supplying our soldiers with the right equipment so they can more readily fight the good fight and resist the enemy. It is the responsibility of preachers, teachers, and elders in all locations to provide the equipment for the saints that they may be able to more effectively do the work we have been given to do (Eph. 4:11-16). Just think how much more effectively an army would fight if they upgraded from bows and arrows to rifles and mobile artillery delivery systems! So what is involved in survey-type studies? How is it different from the traditional verse-by-verse study? I probably do not have to tell you that a lot of adult Bible classes begin something like this: TEACHER: "Okay, everyone, open up your Bibles to Acts 6. Or is it chapter seven? Oh, well, we'll just cover it again just in case." STUDENT: "I missed two weeks ago; could you go back over the last verse of chapter five again?" And on on and on it could go. Not too long ago, I was attending a Bible class at one congregation for about a month, and we went over portions of Hebrews chapter three three times in three weeks, verse-by-verse. The teacher kept coming up with more and more on the same text and simply presented more information than what most adults needed, and the meaning of the text was eventually lost to most who were listening. Far too often, this is the case in our Bible classes. It seems the accepted method is to put everything under the microscope and examine everything until every student [and

the teacher] has put in their comments. Some more scholarly preachers end up lecturing the class while no student has a say, and some get down to parsing the Greek or Hebrew words, losing the majority of the audience by going over their heads. The survey study is one in which the student [and the teacher] do all the work before coming to class on Sunday morning or Wednesday evening. Instead of considering the verses [or even chapters or the book as a whole] while in the class, we will consider them on our own time at home and bring those thoughts and discoveries to class to share with others. And if someone else in class reveals what we have found, we do not need to repeat it just so others can hear us talk. And when you study on your own time, please realize that, to have a productive study, it requires time. You cannot hurry a good study. The purpose of doing the survey study is to see each verse, chapter, or passage in its proper relationship with the rest, to understand its intended meaning, and to get the overall view of what the writer has given us. Picking out a verse and considering it without the context would be useless, for the most part, and misleading, at worst. We would not like it if someone took our words out of context to make us say something we did not intend, so neither should we do this with God's inspired word. As you probably already know, we must consider each passage in light of its immediate context. The three things I urge students to always consider are: who is writing, to whom he is writing, and what the situation is in which this is written. [It is here we must consider the author's personal situation and how it may shed light on what he has written, the setting in which the book/letter was written and/or received, and the situation of the audience to whom the writer directed the message.] Consider the letter to the Philippians, in which Paul writes to encourage them in the faith, and does so even as he is imprisoned. Think how the brethren must have been encouraged when they read such positive words from a man who was imprisoned as he wrote! As you sit down to do this study, resolve to do more than one reading of the text even if you are considering an entire book or letter. The first reading should be just to get a feel for the writer's message, not stopping to note organization [ignore, as much as possible, verse and chapter divisions]. At the end of the initial reading, write down your cursory observations. This may include some of the people, places, or events mentioned, the writer's intended message or theme, and maybe some key points that illustrate the overall message. The second [and sometimes third, fourth and so on] reading should note the structure of the book or letter, noting how the writer supported his main thought or intent. It may be that he makes an argument or statement early in the writing, and defends or illustrates it by using multiple points throughout the book (Romans), or he may simply make statements or provide illustrations throughout the writing and conclude with a statement or argument at the end (John). If a statement is made anywhere within the context that sums up the book's message, note it as a 'key verse.' Another helpful thing to do in your study is to make a chart or table of the book or letter. Begin with a blank sheet of paper and put the book's title at the top. Then,

give it a descriptive headline immediately underneath. [For example: My descriptive headline for Romans would be 'The Righteousness of God Revealed.'] Write your 'key verse' immediately under that. Then, begin making descriptive headlines for each chapter. [As you use this study more and more, you may divide the book up into your own divisions, ignoring chapter divisions. However you do this, keep the connected thoughts connected!] After giving each chapter or section a title, then go back and list significant words, phrases, or events and label your list as such. Look for ways to incorporate these significant words into your chart's layout. [Grouping some sections may illustrate a significant thought.] By the time you are done, you will have an outline for the book or letter that you may reference quickly to see the overall message of the book, and some of the writer's main points. Keep this chart handy for your own personal benefit as you study more. As you study the book more [and maybe even the next time you study it], you will find more or different things to note. Write down your discoveries! Don't ignore new things you may learn! Hopefully, the things we have covered in the last month will help you to enjoy your Bible study more and more. Every place I have been where this was implemented, I have seen a noticeable improvement demonstrated in the attitudes toward and even participation in the Bible class period. What happens is more people studying because they enjoy it, and more people participating because they love hearing what others have found, and want to share their personal discoveries. Bible study can be a joy! Let us open our Bibles more, and let us have a love for God's word, as did the psalmist (Psa. 119:97). But let us also remember their value to us: Great peace have those who love Your law, and nothing causes them to stumble. (Psa. 119:167) Sin has no power over the Word of God! By Steven Harper RIGHTLY DIVIDING THE BIBLE BY PERIOD - 2 Timothy 2:15 1. The Antediluvian Period --- This covers from Creation to Noah's Flood. Ante means before (i.e., the great flood). 2. The Postdiluvian Period --- This covers from Noah's Flood to the call of Abraham (Genesis 12). Post means after or subsequent. 3. The Patriarchal Period --- This period covers from the call of Abraham to the descent into Egypt of Jacob's family. Earlier patriarchs had lived but we know so much more about Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob these adorn the Bible from Genesis 12 to Genesis 50. 4. The Egyptian Period --- This covers the era from the descent into Egypt to the Exodus, approximately 200 - 215 years. 5. The Period of Wandering --- This period covers 40+ years. Two miraculous water crossings adorn this period; crossing the Read Sea at the beginning of this period

and crossing the flood swollen waters of the Jordan River at the end under Joshua's leadership. 6. The Period of Conquest --- This is the period from their crossing into Canaan until the appointment of the first Judge, Othniel. Canaan is conquered and parceled out among nine and one-half of the tribes at this time. Two and one-half tribes had already received their inheritance under Moses in Eastern Palestine. 7. The Period of the Judges --- This is a lengthy period and covers from Othniel's appointment as first judge to the establishment of the kingdom under Saul. There were at least 15 judges - fourteen men and one woman judge, this era constitutes the dark ages in Israel's history. 8. The Period of the United Kingdom --- This is the era that covers the three reigns of Saul, David, and Solomon. Each ruled for forty years, this period begins with Saul's inauguration and ends with the division initiated by Solomon's apostate and sad ruin. 9. The Period of the Divided Kingdom --- Covered here are the years of Judah (Southern Kingdom) and Israel (Northern Kingdom). This period lasted from 975 B.C. - 722 B.C. Each of the kingdoms had 19 kings. David's line kept the Southern Kingdom except for Athaliah's short reign. The Northern Kingdom had several dynasties, which ruled briefly then faded away. 10. The Period of Judah Alone --- This covers about 136 years from the fall of Samaria to the destruction of Jerusalem by the Assyrians in 586 B.C. 11. The Period of the Captivity --- This covers those years Judah spent in captivity in Babylon. This cured their idolatrous inclinations. 12. The Period of the Restoration --- This period covers from Cyrus' decree that they could return to Canaan to Nehemiah's rebuilding Jerusalem and the city walls and Malachi's penning the final book of the Old Testament. 13. Between the Testaments Period --- This covers the 400 years from Nehemiah and Malachi to the announced births of John and Jesus. Many otherwise knowledgeable students of the Bible know very little of this period and yet knowledge of this era enhances a greater acquaintance with many New Testaments institutions and events. The editor has published a study guide to this era titled "THE FOUR HUNDRED SILENT YEARS 14. The Period of Jesus Incarnation --- This period covers from His birth to His ascension. Approximately 33 years are involved. The Son of God and Son of Man met and merged in Him who is our Glorious Savior and Majestic and all-powerful King. 15. The Period of the Lord's Church --- This covers from Pentecost until the end. The earth's final age. There will not be another opportunity for mankind; this is the last dispensation of time.

BIBLE STUDY Examining Scriptures is to act as a judge to distinguish truth from error for the good of the soul. Paul and Silas had preached the Word of God under critical and dangerous conditions in Thessalonica, but not in vain (1 Thes. 1:6,7; 2:13). In the synagogue Paul reasoned with the Jews out of the Scriptures, explaining and demonstrating that Christ had to suffer for sin and be raised to life for justification. This caused some to believe (Acts 17:1-4). However, some were not so persuaded but became envious; they then gathered a mob made up of evil men of the baser sort to set all the city on an uproar through vicious assaults on the citizens, but especially Christians. The preaching troubled the people! But uncontrolled mob demonstrations against these faithful men of God offered no further possibility to preach, so under the darkness of night the brethren sent Paul and Silas to Berea. Here he enters into the synagogue of the Jews and preaches the gospel of God which many believed -- "they received the word with all readiness of mind" (Acts 17:11). Luke informs us of the superior nobility of the Bereans compared to the Thessalonians, saying they "searched the Scriptures daily, whether those things were so" (Acts 17:11). Exactly what were they doing when searching the Scriptures? Evidently the Thessalonians did not react in this way to the same message. These at Berea did not resent what they heard but eagerly rushed forward to receive it and to examine it carefully , using all their mental faculties to acquire absolute truth. Their action in examining the Scriptures as the standard of moral and religious truth to ascertain whether they were hearing truth or error from Paul shows their fair-mindedness. They examined -- a judicial term, meaning "to sift up and down, make careful and exact research as in legal processes" (Robertson, 3/274; "a legal term among the Greeks, denoting the preliminary investigation for gathering evidence for the information of the judges, Acts 25:26" Vine, II/53); thus they with unbiased minds showing no partisan spirit acted as judges ascertaining truth for their souls. Paul's preaching created the kind of disciples that make excellent churches! The Christian who doesn't study or examine the Scriptures is in dire need. The residual benefits in having the truth are many; the one who doesn't grow in this is described in (Heb. 5:12-14) as dull of hearing and in need for someone to again teach him the first principles of the gospel. Christians must learn that beneficial Bible study is conditional. All hindering factors in one's life must be removed. Peter instructs us, "Therefore, laying aside all malice, all deceit, hypocrisy, envy, and all evil speaking, as newborn babes, desire the pure milk of the Word, that you may grow thereby" (1 Pet. 2:1). James says, to "lay aside all filthiness and overflow of wickedness, and receive with meekness the implanted Word, which is able to save your souls" (Jas. 1:21). So, in developing the will to know and do the truth one must be willing to give up whatever hindering causes that might prevent success, and give the time to examine the Scriptures for victory in this pursuit. Indeed, beneficial Bible study is conditional!

Beneficial Bible Study Is Objective: -- Peter shows the true intent in learning truth is growth. He shows how one receives the truth as a newborn (all families distinctly know the difference between a baby and a newborn one as to his feeding times), "that you may grow thereby" (1 Pet. 2:2). The purpose clause shows what happens when one receives the Word as a newborn. This sort of Bible study is with desire for God's approval (2 Tim. 2:15). This is the highest objective one can possibly have. Studying Scripture creates the will to not sin, "Your Word I have hidden in my heart, that I might not sin against You" (Psa. 119:11). The need is great and the hour is late for some of us to become serious in our studies to learn truth through the process of examination. Truth has nothing to fear, and truth will make you free. Paul's prayer for the Ephesian saints was that God would give them the spirit of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of Him, that the eyes of their understanding being enlightened so they may know the hope of His calling, the riches of the glory of His inheritance in the saints, and what is the exceeding greatness of His power toward us who believe (Eph. 1:15-20). What blessings there are for us in the full knowledge of which Paul speaks. Bible study is enhanced because of the assuring characteristics of the Word of God. We know it lives and is active; it corrects and encouragingly motivates (Heb. 4:12). It abides, and endures forever (1 Pet. 1:13-25). Jesus tells us His Words will by no means pass away (Matt. 24:35), or in any way be invalidated (Jno. 10;35). The word "broken" in this passage means "to annul, subvert; to do away with; to deprive of authority, whether by precept or by act" (Thayer 385). The words of the Lord are pure and inspired of God (Psa. 12: 6; 119:140; 2 Tim. 3:15). Think of the exceeding great and precious and pure Word. Try to mentally list a number of these promises. Having carefully examined/searched the Scriptures be sure to abound in them (2 Pet. 1:8; 1 Cor. 15;58). Defend the truth at all times (Jude 3; Phil. 1:17), knowing it will be the basis on which we all shall be judged (Jno. 12:48; Rom. 2:16). Don't fall prey to fairy tales and fables, but rather lean on the eternal Word of the Eternal God. By Earl E. Robertson, in Biblical Insights, Vol. 5, No. 8, August 2005. BIBLE FACTS: The system of chapters was introduced in A.D. 1238 by Cardinal Hugo de S. Caro, while the verse notations were added in 1551 by Robertus Stephanus, after the advent of printing. A Bible in the University of Gottingen is written on 2,470 palm leaves. According to statistics from Wycliffe International, the Society of Gideons, and the International Bible Society, the number of new Bibles that are sold, given away, or otherwise distributed in the United States is about 168,000 per day. The longest intercontinental telegram ever sent was the text of the New International Version of the Bible, sent from Geneva, where it was translated, to New York for printing.

The Bible can be read aloud in 70 hours. There are 8,674 different Hebrew words in the Bible, 5,624 different Greek words, and 12,143 different English words in the King James Version. A number of verses in the Bible (KJV) contain all but 1 letter of the alphabet: Ezra 7:21 contains all but the letter j; Joshua 7:24, 1 Kings 1:9, 1 Chronicles 12:40, 2 Chronicles 36:10, Ezekiel 28:13, Daniel 4:37, and Haggai 1:1 contain all but q; 2 Kings 16:15 and 1 Chronicles 4:10 contain all but z; and Galatians 1:14 contains all but k. BIBLE STATISTICS: Number of books in the Bible: 66 Chapters: 1,189 Verses: 31,071 Words: 783,137 Letters: 3,566,480 Number of promises given in the Bible: 1,260 Commands: 6,468 Predictions: over 8,000 Fulfilled prophecy: 3,268 verses Unfulfilled prophecy: 3,140 Number of questions: 3,294 Longest name: Mahershalalhashbaz (Isaiah 8:1) Longest verse: Esther 8:9 (78 words) Shortest verse: John 11:35 (2 words: "Jesus wept"). Middle books: Micah and Nahum Middle verse: Psalm 118:8 Middle chapter: Psalm 117 Shortest chapter (by number of words): Psalm 117 (by number of words) Longest book: Psalms (150 chapters) Shortest book (by number of words): 3 John

Longest chapter: Psalm 119 (176 verses) Number of times the word "God" appears: 3,358 Number of times the word "Lord" appears: 7,736 Number of different authors: 40 Number of languages the Bible has been translated into: over 1,200 OLD TESTAMENT STATISTICS: Number of books: 39 Chapters: 929 Verses: 23,114 Words: 602,585 Letters: 2,278,100 Middle book: Proverbs Middle chapter: Job 20 Middle verses: 2 Chronicles 20:17,18 Smallest book: Obadiah Shortest verse: 1 Chronicles 1:25 Longest verse: Esther 8:9 Longest chapter: Psalms 119 Largest book: Psalms NEW TESTAMENT STATISTICS: Number of books: 27 Chapters: 260 Verses: 7,957 Words: 180,552 Letters: 838,380 Middle book: 2 Thessalonians Middle chapters: Romans 8, 9

Middle verse: Acts 27:17 Smallest book: 3 John Shortest verse: John 11:35 Longest verse: Revelation 20:4 Longest chapter: Luke 1 Largest book: Luke INTERESTING FACTS ABOUT THE BIBLE. (Editor's note: "These facts might or might not be of interest to you, but some of them might be to some of you. I trust that they can be used to help you in the study of the Bible, at least maybe they will interest you enough that you will thumb through your Bible to check the verses, words, and chapters cited.") About forty men were engaged in the writing of the Bible, during a period of about 1600 years -- that is, from 1500 B.C. to about A.D. 100. These men wrote as they were moved by the Holy Spirit. 2 Pet. 1:21. They wrote not in words of human wisdom, but in words divinely taught. 1 Cor. 2:13. The Bible contains 3,566,480 letters, 773,746 words, 31,102 verses 1,189 chapters, and 66 books. The Old Testament contains 39 books; the New Testament, 27 books. In point of length, the average word of the Bible contains fewer than five letters. What a lesson for the fellow who has a mania for big words! The word "Jehovah" occurs 6,855 times. The word "Lord" occurs 1,853 times. The word "and" occurs 46,277 times, and the word "reverend" but once. Psa. 111:9. The book of Esther contains ten chapters, but neither the word "Lord" nor "God" is to be found in it. The middle chapter and the shortest is Psa. 117. It contains only two verses The middle verse in the Bible is Psa. 118:8. The middle book of the Old Testament is Proverbs. The middle chapter of the Old Testment is Job 29. The middle verse of the Old Testament is 2 Chron. 20:13. The shortest verse in the Old Testament is 1 Chron. 1:25; the longest, Esther 8:9. The middle book of the New Testament is 2 Thes. The middle chapter in the New Testament is between Rom. 13,14. The middle verse in the New Testament is Acts 17:17. The shortest verse in the New Testament, in English, is Jno. 11:35; in Greek, 1 Thes. 5:16. The longest verse in the Bible is Esther 8:9; it contains ninety words. The longest name in the Bible is found in Isa. 8:1. All the letters of the Alphabet, except j, are in Ezra 7:21. The nineteenth chapter of 2 Kings and the thirty-seventh chapter of Isa. are nearly identical.

The Bible holds the distinction of being the first printed book; it was first reprinted in 1450 A.D. The first Bible printed in this country was in the Indian language in 1663. This translation was made and published by John Eliot, the so-called "Apostle to the Indians." This is the earliest example of the whole Bible translated and printed in a new language for the purpose of evangelization. The first English Bible printed in this country was in 1782. The first translation of the Bible made in America was printed in 1808. It was the work of Charles Thomson. The first translation of the New Testament published in America was printed in 1826 by Alexander Campbell. It first appeared under the title, "Sacred Writings"; later, "Living Oracles." It was largely a compilation of the works of Doddridge, Macknight, and George Campbell. It is not generally know that Noah Webster, author of the famous "Webster's Dictionary" and the "Blue-Back Speller," made a translation of the Bible, which was published in 1833. The King James Version of the Bible was first published in 1611. The Revised Version of the whole Bible was issued in 1885. The American Standard Version was published in 1901. The Bible was divided into chapters by Cardinal Hugo in 1250. The New Testament was divided into verses by Sir Robert Stephens in 1551. The whole Bible, divided into chapters and verses, first appeared in 1560 in what is known as the "Geneva Bible." It was so called because it was prepared by the Reformers in Geneva. It is also called the "Breeches Bible," because Gen. 3:7 is translated: "They sewed fig leaves together and made themselves breeches." The Bible is the most translated book in the world. It has been translated into more different languages and dialects than any other book that has been written. The Bible continues to be the best seller in the world. The Bible is the best book in the world. It is the only book that reveals the origin, mission, and destiny of man. It is a textbook on salvation. There is no conflict between the Bible and the facts of science. There may be many conflicts between the Bible and the theories of so-called scientists, and between the facts of science and the theories of so-called "Bible Scholars." Above all things, the Bible should be studied and obeyed and taught. -----compiled by B.C. Goodpasture. How We Learn From The Bible Part One How we learn from the Bible is not as complex as some present it to be. No special classes, catechisms, orientation or human creeds are required. Paul wrote to the Ephesian church, "For this cause I Paul, the prisoner of Jesus Christ for you Gentiles, if ye have heard of the dispensation of the grace of God which is given me to you-ward: how that by revelation he made known unto me the mystery; (as I wrote afore in few words, hereby, when ye

read, ye may understand my knowledge in the mystery of Christ). - Eph. 3:1-4. The mystery was revealed, made known or manifest. It was not hidden in cryptic messages that need special means of decoding. Timothy was a reader of the Old Testament and he knew what he read. He learned the message he studied -2 Tim. 3:15-16. Reading has to be done with a hunger and thirst after what is true and right -- never just to prove a point. Jesus chided Jews of his day for their faulty reading of scripture. They searched the scriptures but failed to understand what the scriptures meant - John 5:39-40. Such a thing is always dangerous. How should we apply what we read? The will to obey or comply with what is read from holy writ gives assurance of knowing the truth. "If any man will do his will, he shall know of the doctrine, whether it be of God, or whether I speak of myself" - John 7:17. The truth, once understood and obeyed brings freedom from sin - John 8:32. Jesus commissioned his chosen ambassadors with the task of teaching or making disciples. Disciples are students who are taught. They are made by being taught the truth. Once a learner learns the truth and is baptized into the name of the divine Godhead, he still needs teaching. Thus Jesus told his apostles to make disciples (learners), baptizing them into the name of the sacred Three. The Lord gave his apostles the duty of "teaching them to observe all that I've commanded you. . ." - Matt. 28:19-20. There are ways to learn what the Lord told his apostles to teach the church. One is reading, the other is hearing and another is putting what is learned into practice James 1:21-22. We read not only what the apostles taught but also what they did -and we imitate them. This was the method of Jesus - Acts 1:1. The apostles had the commission to set forth precedents that are to be imitated by the church - Phil. 4:9; Heb. 13:7 (assume this last reference to be the apostles who had spoken the word of God to them). Jesus also said to his apostles, "Verily I say unto you, Whatsoever ye shall bind on earth shall be bound in heaven: and whatsoever ye shall loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven" - Matt. 18:18. The apostles, under the direct guidance of the Holy Spirit, were to bind or loose as they were instructed. No man or set of man has that right. No mere human being has the right to bind anything the Lord and his apostles didn't bind, nor does anyone have the right to loose what they did not loose. The only legitimate and right binding done in the church is based on apostolic teaching and/or practice. What precedents set forth by the apostles are binding on the church? More to follow. Go to Part Two. By Dudley Ross Spears How We Learn From The Bible Part Two

Under the direct guidance of the Holy Spirit, the apostles of Christ were to make disciples of all nations - Matt. 28:19. They were the teachers of the world, instructing all to deny ungodliness, worldly lusts and live soberly, righteously and godly in the world looking for the soon return of Jesus - Titus 2:12-13. By the time Peter was guided to write 2 Peter he claimed that all things pertaining to life and godliness had been given by the grace of God - 2 Pet. 1:3. With the special divine grant these men were told, "Truly I say to you, whatever you bind on earth shall have been bound in heaven; and whatever you loose on earth shall have been loosed in heaven" - Matt. 18:18 (NASBU). Paul, the last addition to this select group, wrote: "Wherefore I beseech you, be ye followers of me. For this cause have I sent unto you Timotheus, who is my beloved son, and faithful in the Lord, who shall bring you into remembrance of my ways which be in Christ, as I teach every where in every church - 1 Cor. 4:16-17. Apostolic instructions are the standard for every church that claims to belong to the Lord. Apostolic instruction comes not only through their direct teaching; it comes by observing the precedents set by apostolic authority. They set divine precedents the Lord intends his church to follow. Thus Paul could write, "Brethren, be followers together of me, and mark them which walk so as ye have us for an ensample" - Phil. 3:17. (Note also Phil. 4:9). Following Paul means to imitate his model, to copy and duplicate the actions of the apostles. How does one learn when apostolic precedents are to be imitated? There are a couple of maxims about biblical interpretation that determine this. The Bible is a book or harmony. Interpreting one biblical teaching to contradict another is fundamentally wrong. Since the New Testament teaches us through precedents set by the apostles, no precedent is binding if it contradicts plain teaching found elsewhere in the Bible. The New Testament is applicable to all men in this dispensation of time. Nothing the Lord requires of man to be saved and stay saved is beyond man's ability. Paul wrote the Corinthians about their giving and said, "it is accepted according to that a man hath, and not according to that he hath not" - 2 Cor. 8:12. Apostolic prededents that are in harmony with the sum of New Testament teaching and are possible in this present dispensation are binding precedents to be duplicated by the church. It is evident that apostolic authority did not bind some things on the church. Paul required Titus to submit to circumcision "because of the Jews" - Acts 16:3. Paul also loosed this in his letter to the churches of Galatia - Gal. 5:6. Anything tied to custom or culture, not wrong in itself, is not necessarily bound on the church. Only the apostles have the right to bind. When they set a precedent for the church to follow only they could loose it. We have a precedent that applies to the first day of the week -- Sunday. The fact that Acts 2:42 relates what was done on the first day of the week; the fact that at Troas the disciples met to break bread - Acts 20:7; and the fact that the Corinthians were to contribute of their material means on the first day

of the week - 1 Cor. 15:2, sets a precedent for that day. A New Testament church must duplicate this today. In the absence of any information that these activities were done on any other day, the fact that nothing in this precedent contradicts any New Testament teaching, and the fact that it is possible in any age for the church to duplicate these activities on the first day of the week, makes this a precedent for us to duplicate. The conclusion to which all this brings us is that we have precedent for meeting together on the first day of the week to observe the sacred memorial feast in memory of the suffering of Jesus. We also have the precedent of meeting on the first day of the week to contribute of our material means in order for the Lord's church to carry out its divinely assigned mission. The apostles bound the first day of the week. Where is there any evidence they ever loosed it? Go to Part Three By Dudley Ross Spears How We Learn From The Bible Part Three Another way we learn from the Bible is called necessary inference. It is a common method used by the Lord himself. First, allow me to define what is meant by necessary inference. Inference and opinion are the proper and instant effect of human reasoning. Jesus recognized the normal reasoning power of accountable humans. On one occasion he warned his disciples to beware of the leaven of the Pharisees and Sadducees. They wondered why he spoke of leaven. They were "reasoning in their hearts" -- "Which when Jesus perceived, he said unto them, O ye of little faith, why reason ye among yourselves, because ye have brought no bread?" - Matt. 16:8. Other references: Mark 2:8; 1 Cor. 1:10 (note "same judgment" -- conclusions reached.) Inferences and opinions we form as we learn from the Bible ought never be bound as equal with divine law. Thomas Campbell, in the "Declaration and Address," stated it this way. "That although inferences and deductions from Scripture premises, when fairly inferred, may be truly called the doctrine of God's holy word, yet are they not formally binding upon the consciences of Christians farther than they perceive the connection . . ." There is a difference in an inference "fairly" deduced and one that is necessarily deduced from Scripture premises. Some logic books refer to this as inescapable conclusions based on premises accepted as true. The book of Hebrews is replete with necessary inferences that teach the superiority of the New Covenant over the Old.

Jesus used a necessary inference to prove the Sadducees were wrong on the resurrection of the dead. The Sadducees asked Jesus a trick question about a woman who had successively married seven brothers, all of whom died. They asked the Lord, "in the resurrection whose wife shall she be of the seven?" - Matt. 22:28. His answered in the logical format of necessary inference. Jesus cited Exodus 3:6 where God spoke to Moses and said, "I am the God of thy father, the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob." Abraham, Isaac and Jacob had been physically dead for centuries but Jesus used the present tense "I am." He affirmed the necessary conclusion that God is still the God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob. Based on the premise set forth in Exodus 3, Jesus necessarily inferred that, "God is not a God of the dead (those who do not exist) but of the living." The necessary inference is that Abraham, Isaac and Jacob still exist because God is not a God of the dead. The passage Jesus used from Exodus 3 does not say God is a God of the living and not of the dead -- but Jesus did. It is the inescapable conclusion drawn from true premises. The inescapable conclusion drawn from the premises Jesus used is a prime and proper example of necessary inference. This is but one of many instances of the use of necessary inferences by which we learn from the Bible. This legitimizes our use of the same format as we seek to learn God's will for us. Go to part four By Dudley Ross Spears How We Learn From The Bible Part Four The Silence of Scripture There are many popular religious practices and doctrines, not specifically mentioned in the Bible that are justified on the principle of silence. Since the practice or doctrine is not even mentioned, or alluded to, many feel perfectly free to teach and practice what pleases them. The one proviso is that it must not be specifically forbidden by inspiration. Such an attitude is quite presumptuous. To presume something is to speak or act without warrant or proudly. It presumes to know the mind of God. Such an attitude seeks to make up God's mind for him. No mere man has the power or right to invade the secret precincts of God's mind and declare what God approves or disapproves. Sadly, many do. One hallmark of the Lord's church has been the slogan, "We speak where the Bible speaks and where the Bible is silent, we are silent." Whatever comes next is presumption. Whether God approves counting beads, using candles and incense to aid prayer cannot be learned by direct statement, approved apostolic example, or necessary inference. The only authority for it is what God hasn't revealed. It can only

be "authorized" by human wisdom and human tradition. Sincere Bible students never deny that the knowledge of God's mind is possible. Some are mixed up on how to find where God has revealed his mind. Paul wrote, "Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love him. But God hath revealed them unto us by his Spirit: for the Spirit searcheth all things, yea, the deep things of God" - 1 Cor. 2:9-10. Only what is revealed is the basis of authorized teaching and practice. All else is not only presumptuous; it is amounts to going beyond the teaching of our Lord - 2 John 9-11. No mere man knows the mind of God outside what the Lord reveals in scripture - Rom. 11:33-36. His mind is revealed to us through apostolic authority Eph. 3:1-5. The ancient prophet cried out, "O LORD, I know that the way of man is not in himself: it is not in man that walketh to direct his steps" - Jer. 10:23. Solomon wrote, "There is a way which seemeth right unto a man, but the end thereof are the ways of death" - Prov. 14:12. God's silence didn't authorize Nadab and Abihu to offer any other fire than what the Lord authorized. They paid for their presumption - Lev. 10:1-2. Hebrews 7:14 reads: "For it is evident that our Lord sprang out of Juda; of which tribe Moses spake nothing concerning priesthood." Only those of the specified tribe of Levi could scripturally perform priestly duties. The Lord didn't specifically say none could be priests from other tribes. He simply specified the one tribe from which priests could legitimately serve. The scriptures are divinely revealed and tell mankind what pleases God. There is no other source of such information. The only way to please God, to have the unity the Bible requires, and to glorify and honor God is to confine all teaching and religious activity to that which is revealed. There is also a slogan that still rings true: "In matters of faith, unity; in matters of opinion, liberty; and in all things love." Next, but what about Bible classes, multiple communion cups, meeting houses, etc." That comes in the next installment. Go to part five By Dudley Ross Spears How We Learn From The Bible Part Five Expediency: The word "expedient" appears several times in the New Testament. As a noun, it has the basic meaning of "advantage." When Jesus spoke of restrictions on divorce and remarriage, his disciples concluded: "If the case is so with a man and his wife, it is expedient (to his advantage) not to marry" - Matt. 19:10. Normally it is used to state

what is best or better in decisions on what to do or not do - John 11:50; 18:4; 2 Corl 8:10, etc. Paul wrote, "All things are lawful for me; but not all things are expedient. All things are lawful for me; but I will not be brought under the power of any" - 1 Cor. 6:12. Expediency in doing what God authorizes must always be "in the faith" of our Lord Rev. 14:12. Nothing can be expedient that is not done in execution of what the Lord has authorized. Since the scriptures recognize expedient actions in either doing or not doing what God authorizes, a proper application of the principle includes only things not mentioned that are advantageous in doing what the Lord commands. The authority for expedients inheres in the command they are helpful and best in carrying out. We have learned that the Lord authorized his people to come together and break bread as a memorial to his death and suffering - Matt. 26:26-27. To the Corinthian church Paul delivered the command given by Jesus to "do this in memory of me" - 1 Cor. 11:23-24. There is an approved apostolic example that they did this "on the first day of the week" - Acts 20:7. Since they were to repeat this - 1 Cor. 11:26, and every week has a first day, it is necessarily concluded that the observance is done every first day of the week. The time of day for observing the memorial is a matter of choice. Here is where we apply expediency. The time best suited or most appropriate is a matter of expediency. It is not definite that the church at Troas observed it late on Sunday evening. What we know is that they assembled on the first day of the week to break bread. The church in Jerusalem, on the day it came into being, "broke bread" - Acts 2:42. No time of day is indicated. It was after about 3,000 people were baptized for the remission of their sins. That the church at Troas came together "to break bread." We can safely conclude they did so. When they did it is not relevant. It may have been expedient for some in the early church to meet early in the morning. Some of them were owned by slave masters who expected them to go to work on Sunday. It makes no difference what time the church observes the Lord's Supper as long as it is done on the first day of the week. The command given to the church to teach is exemplified by the words of Paul to the church at Thessalonica. He commended them in that, "from you hath sounded forth the word of the Lord, not only in Macedonia and Achaia, but in every place your faith to God-ward is gone forth; so that we need not to speak anything" - 1 Thess 1:8. "Every place" is all inclusive. There is no specific day to which the congregation of Christ's people are limited in teaching. In discussion with those who believe all teaching done by a local church must be confined to "one undivided assembly," it has been countered that there is no wrong place to teach the Bible. If so, where would it be? The early church did it in a Jewish temple. Paul did it in their synagogues and schools. A local congregation may choose to have separate Bible classes any time or any day. So long as nothing but truth is

taught, so long as the result of the local church's action is simply teaching, any method of teaching is an authorized expedient. There are specific methods God has given. God specifies that those with the capacity of hearing, believing, and repenting of their sins are the only ones who are subjects of water baptism. There is no authority to baptize infants or those who cannot reason. Therefore sprinkling or pouring water on a candidate cannot be expedient. The only music mentioned in connection with New Testament worship is vocal music -- singing - Eph. 5:19; Col. 3:16; 1 Cor. 15:15-16; Rom. 15:9; Heb. 2:12; James 5:13. The use of song books adds nothing to the authorized action, singing. Whatever is done when a congregation sings together, when the result is nothing but singing, whatever is used to assist in the singing comes under the authority to sing. By Dudley Ross Spears The A,B,C's of Bible Study ATTITUDE. If you have a strong desire to find out what's right, and to live as you should before God, that attitude will serve you well as you read and study the Bible. This desire becomes the motive that keeps you "on task," as you seek to discover the right way of the Lord. "Blessed are those who keep His testimonies, who seek Him with the whole heart" (Psa. 119:2; Jas. 1:21). BALANCE. You should give attention to all the Word of God. There may be certain topics you develop a special interest in, and some passages may be especially relevant to current needs. But you need to have a good, overall knowledge of all the Word of God (Acts 20:27). COMMANDMENTS. In your study, you will come across commandments; imperative statements which require action, and originate in divine wisdom. Carefully look into the context, and discover who the commandment is directed to. If the commandment applies to you, decide right then that you will obey (Psa. 119:4; Rev. 22:14). DILIGENCE. Diligence means great effort and care. If you read the Bible carefully, and study the context, define words and consult references ... that requires effort, but pays great dividends. Pray as David did: "Open my eyes, that I may see wondrous things from Your law" (Psa. 119:18). EXAMPLES. All through the Scriptures, there are examples. We read of people who did good things, and afford us excellent illustrations of what's right. There are also stories of good people who took wrong turns and sinned against God. In other words, there are good examples and bad examples. We should study these, and let them instruct us (1 Cor. 10:6; Phil. 4:9). FAITH. Effective Bible study requires belief in God, trust in Jesus, and full confidence in the truth of God's Word. Mere intellectual or academic interests will never yield the fruit that is generated by faith (Rom. 10:17; Heb. 11:6).

GOD. One vital accomplishment of Bible study is to learn about God. There is really no other way to find out who God is, what He is like, how He reacts, and what He has promised, except in the Scriptures (Rom. 11:22). HELP. Don't ever hesitate to ask for help. Have you ever been in a preacher's office? The walls are lined with hundreds of books, and their purpose is to help the preacher understand the Bible. Dictionary books, concordances, commentaries and reference works simply imply that we may need some help. There is no shame in asking for help (Acts 8:30,31). IMPLICATIONS. As you go through the written Word of God, not only will you learn from examples, and find commands that apply to you, there are also implications. Don't call just anything an implication, but when the information in the text leads to a conclusion, accept it and consider it to be part of God's revelation. JESUS. "...God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son...," and this good news is the theme of the Bible. Look for this everywhere! In Old Testament prophetic passages, the psalms of David, the institutions of the Mosaic system, the gospel accounts, Acts, the epistles and the Revelation of John ... Jesus is everywhere. Look for Him, and let every new experience of Bible study bring you closer to Him (John 3:16; Col. 1:18). KNOWLEDGE. Your object is to acquire a knowledge of God's truth. LOVE for the truth. Paul spoke of some who would perish, and he said they were deceived "because they did not receive the love of the truth, that they might be saved" (2 Thess. 2:10). Therefore, a love for the truth is an essential quality of a good Bible student. MATURITY. Growth to maturity in Christ can never be realized, apart from Bible study. As you learn of Christ, and study His will and apply what you learn, you involve yourself in a process that produces maturity (Col. 1:28). NOURISHMENT. Understand, that you cannot have spiritual life without the divine food that sustains that life. "Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceeds from the mouth of God" (Matt. 4:4; see also, Heb. 5:12-14 & 1 Pet. 2:1-3). OBEDIENCE. Honoring Christ and pleasing God by obeying the Word of God ... let that be your constant object (Matt. 7:24-27; Heb. 5:9). PATIENCE. Do you sometimes think it would be great to sit down with your Bible today and have complete knowledge by noon tomorrow? That's not reality. Be patient with yourself, keep studying, and you'll add more to your store of Bible knowledge after every session (Phil. 3:15). QUESTIONS. Use questions to learn about a text. "Who wrote this ... Who was it written to ... What was the historical circumstance ... Are there any other passages that will help me understand this ... What is there in this passage that I need to apply ... How does this passage help me understand other parts of the Bible ?? etc."

REVIEW. Don't ever finish or "get through" with any portion of Scripture. Go back and review. Start over again with key passages, and you may learn something you missed before (Phil. 3:1; 2 Pet. 3:1). STUDY. There is a difference between reading and study! When you read, that's your first contact with the information. Next, you should think about that information: "What did it mean to them? What does this mean today? How do I apply this today? How does this passage or teaching relate to other parts of the Bible." When you study, you apply the mind God gave you to the book He gave you (Eph. 5:17). TRACKING promises and prophecy. When you find a promise (Gen. 3:15), or a prophecy (Isa. 53) in the Old Testament, follow those passages to their fulfillment. UNDERLYING PRINCIPLES. Especially when you read the stories in the Old Testament, don't just regard those passages as historical narratives. Look for underlying principles that transcend dispensational boundaries (Rom. 15:4). VERSIONS. Bible bookstores' shelves are running over with all sorts of different versions and translations of the Bible, some good and helpful; others, twisted and inaccurate. Consulting several English translations can be helpful, but don't get too far away from the standard translations {King James, New King James, American Standard, New American Standard}. WORDS. Don't deceive yourself into thinking that "word studies" and definitions are boring or unnecessary. The fact is, God has chosen to communicate with us through words. We need to know what those words mean. Use a good Bible dictionary, consult references, and respect the Biblical significance of the words you read (1 Cor. 2:13). X marks the spot. Systematic reading all the way through the Bible is a great help to your understanding. Read a portion; mark an "X" in the margin, or put the date, then continue at that place next time. YOURSELF. We may be tempted, in our Bible reading and study, to immediately think of others -- how they need this; how others have violated what the passage says. Our first concern must be, self-examination (2 Cor. 13:5). ZEAL. As you read and study and gain knowledge, be sure that knowledge is accompanied by the zeal to teach and practice the truth of the gospel (Rom. 10:1-3) by Warren E. Berkley 10 Reasons for Bible Study 1. The Bible yields food for the soul. It has the milk necessary for the spiritual growth of the babe, and meat to sustain the older, mature Christian (1 Peter 2:1-2; Hebrews 5:12-14). 2. A knowledge of the truth, and obedience to it, is necessary to be made free from sin (John 8:31-32; 1 Peter 1:22).

3. The Bible reveals God's view of man. It enables the student to see himself as God sees him, for the Bible is God's mirror of the soul (James 1:22-25). 4. A working knowledge of the Bible arms one against the difficulties and hardships of life. It has a message to cover every condition and problem. It can be used in every emergency from the cradle to the grave (Romans 15:4). 5. The knowledgeable Christian is able to comfort and edify the discouraged and brokenhearted (Colossians 4:6; 1 Thessalonians 4:14). 6. The Scriptures contain all good works that are pleasing to God and give all things that pertain to life and godliness (2 Timothy 3:16-17; 2 Peter 1:3). 7. One must study the Bible to have the approval of God, to be a ready workman, and to handle correctly the word of truth (2 Timothy 2:15; 1 Peter 3:15). 8. A knowledge of the Bible is the only safeguard against fatal error (Acts 17:11; 1 John 4:1). 9. The Scriptures are able to build us up and to give us a home in Heaven (Acts 20:32; 2 Timothy 3:15). 10. The Bible will be our standard of judgment in the last day (John 12:48; Revelation 20:12). - by David J. Riggs

Is the Bible Sufficient? The apostle Paul wrote to Timothy and said, "All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work" (II Tim.3:16-17). In a word, Paul is saying, "The Bible is sufficient." It is all we need. People indicate their lack of faith in this passage when they say such things as, "Well, my church teaches...", or, "In our last council, our church decided to allow...", and, "We follow the Bible and our church traditions." In dealing with the Pharisees on one occasion, Jesus addressed such attitudes when he said, "...you have made the commandment of God of no effect by your tradition. Hypocrites! Well did Isaiah prophesy about you, saying: 'These people draw near to Me with their mouth, and

honor Me with their lips, but their heart is far from Me. And in vain they worship Me, teaching as doctrines the commandments of men'" (Matthew 15:6-9). Either God's word (the Bible) can equip man with all he needs for "every good work" -- or we need modern-day revelations; and, therefore, God's word is not sufficient. If God's word is not sufficient -- then neither can it be trusted. WHY? Because the Bible tells us that it is sufficient. Therefore, if it is in error concerning that issue -- it will certainly be in error on many other issues. If one believes the Bible is sufficient, they will then believe that creeds and manmade doctrines are prohibited. Where is the justification for them? Can you find justification for creeds in Galatians 1:6-9, "...if we, or an angel from heaven, preach any other gospel to you than what we have preached to you, let him be accursed"? Can you find justification for creeds in II John verse 9, "Whoever transgresses and does not abide in the doctrine of Christ does not have God"? What about Deuteronomy 4:1-2, "...listen to the statutes and the judgments which I teach you to observe, that you may live...You shall not add to the word which I command you, nor take anything from it..."? If creeds just restate what the Bible says, why have them? If they say more, or less, than what the Bible says -- they are condemned by God's word (II John 9, et. al.). Yes, the Bible teaches that it is sufficient. If we believe the Bible, then we must also believe its claim of sufficiency. If a child is obedient only when the parents' rules are suitable to the child -- the child is not obedient at all. If we believe the Bible only when it suits our purpose -- we don't really believe it at all. If that is true of us, we must realize that we are cheating ourselves out of the very thing we desire. In John chapter 6, we have a record of many disciples turning away from Jesus because of a difficult teaching He was presenting. Jesus then turned to His twelve apostles and said, "Do you also want to go away?" Peter's answer was what ours should be, "Lord, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life" (John 6:66-68). It is only those who believe and respect God's word enough to abide in it, who will have a hope of heaven (Mt.7:21-27; Jn. 8:32). By Wayne Chamberlain THE VALUE OF BIBLE STUDY Paul told Timothy, Be diligent to present yourself approved to God, a worker who does not need to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth (2 Tim. 2:15). Being able to rightly divide (or handle aright (ASV) the word of truth is a matter of perspiration rather than inspiration. That is, one must be diligent. The diligent study of the Bible will accomplish several things for the child of God. Equip him/her for every good work. All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work. (2 Tim. 3:16, 17).

Supply him/her with all things that pertain to life and godliness. as His divine power has given to us all things that pertain to life and godliness, through the knowledge of Him who called us by glory and virtue (2 Peter 1:3) Provide light in a dark world. Your word is a lamp to my feet And a light to my path. (Psalm 119:105). Provide spiritual food. Therefore, laying aside all malice, all deceit, hypocrisy, envy, and all evil speaking, as newborn babes, desire the pure milk of the word, that you may grow thereby, (1 Peter 2:1-2) Arm him/her for spiritual warfare Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord and in the power of His might. Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this age, against spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places. Therefore take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand. Stand therefore, having girded your waist with truth, having put on the breastplate of righteousness, and having shod your feet with the preparation of the gospel of peace; above all, taking the shield of faith with which you will be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked one. And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God (Eph. 6:10-17). Of course, individual Christians can study at home, alone, and benefit greatly. But will they not benefit much more from coming together at the place of worship and combining their efforts at coming to a better understanding of Gods word? Surely, this was one of the reasons God, through the Spirit - inspired apostles and prophets, established local congregations! By Bob Myhan Some Things You Should Know You should know that in Bible times, the church is called: The temple of God (1 Corinthians 3:16) The bride of Christ (Ephesians 5:22-32) The body of Christ (Colossians 1:18,24; Ephesians 1:22-23) The kingdom of God's son (Colossians 1:13) The house of God (1 Timothy 3:15) The church of God (1 Corinthians 1:2) The church of the first-born (Hebrews 12:23)

 The church of the Lord (Acts 20:28) The churches of Christ (Romans 16:16) You should know that the church is: Built by Jesus Christ (Matthew 16:13-18) Purchased by the blood of Christ (Acts 20:28) Built on Jesus Christ as the only foundation (1 Corinthians 3:11) Not built on Peter, Paul, or any other man (1 Corinthians 1:12-13) Composed of the saved, who are added to it by the Lord who saves them (Acts 2:47) You should know that members of the church are called: Members of Christ (1 Corinthians 6:15; 1 Corinthians 12:27; Romans 12:4-5) Disciples of Christ (Acts 6:1,7; Acts 11:26) Believers (Acts 5:14; 2 Corinthians 6:15) Saints (Acts 9:13; Romans 1:7; Philippians 1:1) Priests (1 Peter 2:5,9; Revelation 1:6) Children of God (Galatians 3:26-27; 1 John 3:1-2) Christians (Acts 11:26; Acts 26:28; 1 Peter 4:16) You should know that the local church has: Elders (also called bishops and pastors) who oversee and tend the flock (1 Timothy 3:1-7; Titus 1:5-9; 1 Peter 5:1-4) Deacons, who serve the church (1 Timothy 3:8-13; Philippians 1:1) Evangelists (preachers, ministers) who teach and proclaim the word of God (Ephesians 4:11; 1 Timothy 4:13-16; 2 Timothy 4:1-5) Members, who love the Lord and each other (Philippians 2:1-5) Autonomy, and is bound to other local churches only by the common faith shared (Jude 3; Galatians 5:1) You should know that the Lord Jesus Christ: Loved the church (Ephesians 5:25) Shed his blood for the church (Acts 20:28) Established the church (Matthew 16:18) Added saved people to the church (Acts 2:47) Is the head of the church (Ephesians 1:22-23; Ephesians 5:23) Will save the church (Acts 2:47; Ephesians 5:23) You should know that man did not:

 Purpose the church (Ephesians 3:10-11) Purchase the church (Acts 20:28; Ephesians 5:25) Name its members (Isaiah 56:5; Isaiah 62:2; Acts 11:26; 1 Peter 4:16) Add people to the church (Acts 2:47; 1 Corinthians 12:18) Give the church its doctrine (Galatians 1:8-11; 2 John 9-11) You should know, to enter the church, you must: Believe in Jesus Christ (Hebrews 11:6; John 8:24; Acts 16:31) Repent of your sins (Turn away from your sins) (Luke 13:3; Acts 2:38; Acts 3:19; Acts 17:30) Confess faith in Jesus (Matthew 10:32; Acts 8:37; Romans 10:9-10) Be baptized into the saving blood of Jesus Matthew 28:19; Mark 16:16; Acts 2:38; Acts 10:48; Acts 22:16) You should know that baptism requires: Much water (John 3:23; Acts 10:47) Going down into the water (Acts 8:36-38) A burial in water (Romans 6:3-4; Colossians 2:12) A resurrection (Acts 8:39; Romans 6:4; Colossians 2:12) A birth (John 3:3-5; Romans 6:3-6) A washing (Acts 22:16; Hebrews 10:22) You should know that by baptism: You are saved from sins (Mark 16:16 1 Peter 3:21) You have remission of sins (Acts 2:38) Sins are washed away by the blood of Christ (Acts 22:16; Hebrews 9:22; Hebrews 10:22; 1 Peter 3:21) You enter into the church (1 Corinthians 12:13; Acts 2:41,47) You enter into Christ (Galatians 3:26-27; Romans 6:3-4) You put on Christ and become a child of God (Galatians 3:26-27) You are born again, a new creature (Romans 6:3-4; 2 Corinthians 5:17) You walk in newness of life (Romans 6:3-6) You obey Christ (Mark 16:15-16; Acts 10:48; 2 Thessalonians 1:7-9) You should know that the faithful church will: Worship in spirit and in truth (John 4:23-24) Meet on the first day of the week (Acts 20:7; Hebrews 10:25) Pray (James 5:16; Acts 2:42; 1 Timothy 2:1-2; 1 Thessalonians 5:17) Sing, making melody with the heart (Ephesians 5:19; Colossians 3:16)

 Eat the Lord's supper on the first day of the week (Acts 2:42 20:7; Matthew 26:26-30; 1 Corinthians 11:20-32) Give, liberally and cheerfully (1 Corinthians 16:1-2; 2 Corinthians 8:1-5; 2 Corinthians 9:6-8) You should know, that in New Testament times there was: One family of God (Ephesians 3:15; 1 Timothy 3:15) One kingdom of Christ (Matthew 16:18-19; Colossians 1:13-14) One body of Christ (Colossians 1:18; Ephesians 1:22-23; Ephesians 4:4) One bride of Christ (Romans 7:1-7; Ephesians 5:22-23) One church of Christ (Matthew 16:18; Ephesians 1:22-23; Ephesians 4:4-6) You know that the same church today: Is guided by the same word (1 Peter 1:22-25; 2 Timothy 3:16-17) Contends for the one faith (Jude 3; Ephesians 4:5) Pleads for unity of all believers (John 17:20-21; Ephesians 4:4-6) Is not a denomination (1 Corinthians 1:10-13; Ephesians 4:1-6) Is faithful to Christ (Luke 6:46; Revelation 2:10; Mark 8:38) Wears the name of Christ (Romans 16:16; Acts 11:26; 1 Peter 4:16) You should know that you can be a member of this church: By doing what people 1900 years ago (Acts 2:36-47) Without being in any denomination (Acts 2:47; 1 Corinthians 1:10-13) You should know that a child of God: Can be lost (1 Corinthians 9:27; 1 Corinthians 10:12; Galatians 5:4; Hebrews 3:12-19) But is given a law of pardon (Acts 8:22; James 5:16) Is constantly cleansed by the blood of Christ as he walks in the light of God (1 Peter 2:9-10; 1 John 1:5-10)