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LAYING THE FOUNDATION

CHAPTER I

The purpose of these lessons is to examine the six foundation stones outlined in Hebrews 6: 1 – 3. Many
people have only a surface knowledge of the Bible and Christianity. They need to be settled and grounded.
They need to know what they believe and why. They need a Bible basis for their faith.

The writer to the Hebrews recognized that there was something wrong in the lives of the people to whom he was
ministering. They were not growing and developing as they should.

Hebrews 5: 12 – 14, 6: 1
For though by this time you ought to be teachers, you have need again for someone to teach you the
elementary principles of the oracles of God, and you have come to need milk and not solid food. For
everyone who partakes only of milk is not accustomed to the word of righteousness, for he is a babe.
But, solid food is for the mature, who because of practice have their senses trained to discern good and
evil. Therefore leaving the elementary teaching of Christ LET US PRESS ON TO MATURITY…

Our prayer for you as you study this course is:

That God will fill you with the knowledge of His will through all spiritual wisdom and understanding. And
we pray this in order that you may live a life worthy of the Lord and may please Him in every way;
bearing fruit in every good work, growing in the knowledge of God, being strengthened with all power
according to His glorious might so that you may have great endurance and patience and joyfully giving
thanks to the Father.

Continuing this portion of scripture, Paul tells of the inheritance you have because the Father has qualified and
made you fit to share in.

Who has qualified you to share in the inheritance of the saints in the kingdom of light. For He has
rescued us from the dominion of darkness and brought us into the kingdom of the Son He loves, in
whom we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins. Colossians 1: 9b – 14

In Matthew 7: 24 – 29 Jesus has given us a good description of the necessity of laying a firm foundation in our
Christian lives.

What has the Holy Spirit shown you through this scripture?

The foundation one lays sets a limit on the weight and height of the structure one can build. If one attempts to
build a larger edifice than the foundation can support, eventually he will see his building begin to sag, lean, and
perhaps even collapse.

For no man can lay a foundation other than the one which is laid, which is JESUS CHRIST. I Corinthians 3: 11

Jesus Christ the foundation

WHO IS JESUS CHRIST?

The Son of God Mark 1: 11
God the Son Hebrews 1: 8
Creator Colossians 1: 16, 17 John 1: 3, 10
Messiah John 1: 45 – 45
Divine Titus 2: 13 Isaiah 9: 6
Incarnate Isaiah 7: 14 – 16 Jeremiah 23: 5 John 7: 42
Holy, Sinless, Righteous Luke 1: 35 II Corinthians 5: 21 I John 3: 5
Jeremiah 23: 5, 6
Omnipotent Luke 4: 14, 36 Acts 10: 38 Romans 1: 4
Ephesians 1: 19
Omnipresent Matthew 18: 20 Matthew 28: 20
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Hebrews 13: 5
Preexistant Genesis 1: 26 John 6: 62
Redeemer, Saviour Matthew 1: 21 Isaiah 61: 1 – 3
Unchangeable Hebrews 13: 8

He was conceived by the Holy Spirit

Luke 1: 35

He lived a sinless life

Hebrews 4: 15

He has authority to forgive sins

Matthew 9: 6

He provided full payment for all of our sins

Romans 5: 8 – 11

He physically rose from the dead

Romans 8: 11

He ascended into heaven

Mark 16: 19, Acts 1: 9

He lives to make intercession for us

Hebrews 7: 25

He will return to the earth

Acts 1: 11

He will take us home with Him

I Thessalonians 4: 16, 17

He is our life
Colossians 3: 4

WHAT JESUS SAID ABOUT HIMSELF

I AM:
The Bread of Life John 6: 35
The Light of the World John 8: 12
Resurrection and the Life John 11: 25
Way, the Truth and the Life John 14: 6
The True Vine John 15: 1
The Good Shepherd John 10: 11, 14

Now when Jesus came into the district of Caesarea Philippi, He began asking His disciples, saying, “Who do
people say that the Son of Man is?” And they said, “some say John the Baptist; and others, Elijah; but still
others, Jeremiah, or one of the prophets.” He said to them, “But who do you say that I am?” And Simon Peter
answered and said, “THOU ART THE CHRST THE SON OF THE LIVING GOD.” And Jesus answered and said
to him, “Blessed are you, Simon Barjona, because flesh and blood did not reveal this to you, but My Father who
is in heaven. And I also say to you that you are Peter, and upon this rock I will build My church; and the gates of
Hades shall not overpower it.

I will give you the keys of the kingdom of heaven and whatever you shall bind on earth shall be bound in heaven,
and whatever you shall loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven. Matthew 16: 13 - 19

Have you received this Christ, the Son of the Living God as your Saviour from your sin? Have you confessed
with your mouth that Jesus is your Lord? Have you believed in your heart that God has raised this Jesus the
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Son of God from the dead? If from your heart you say “yes”, then Romans 10: 9, 10 declares that “YOU ARE
SAVED”! You are a part of His family (John 1: 12) and a joint-heir with Christ (Romans 8: 17). You are in a
covenant agreement with the Father just as Abraham was with God (Genesis 17: 2). God said He would bless
Abraham in every way (Deuteronomy 28: 1 – 4).

Is He Lord of EVERY area of your life?

Determine in your heart to surrender to His Lordship now. What does God promise to those who seek Him with
their whole heart? Matthew 6: 33, Psalms 37: 4

Before we go on to the 6 foundational stones, let’s look at the Bible, the Word of God.

All scripture is inspired by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, for training in
righteousness; that the man of God may be adequate, equipped for every good work. II Timothy 3: 16, 17

The Amplified says, “Every Scripture is God-breathed, given by His inspiration…”

LOGOS the written word of God

RHEMA the spoken word of God

THE WORD OF GOD

Although the Bible consists of many different books written over a long period of time by a great variety of
writers, most of whom did not know one another, it has a unity that can be explained only by assuming, as the
book itself claims, that its writers were inspired by the Holy Spirit to give God’s message to man.

The theme of this message is the same in both Testaments, the redemption of man. The OT tells of the origin of
man’s sin and the preparation God made for the solution for this problem through His own Son the Messiah.
The NT describes the fulfillment of God’s redemptive plan; the four gospels telling about the Messiah’s coming;
the acts of the Apostles describing the origin and the growth of the church, God’s redeemed people; the Epistles
giving the meaning and implication of the Incarnation; and the Revelation showing how some day all of history
will be consummated in Christ.

The two testaments form two volumes of one work. The first is incomplete without the second; and the second
cannot be understood without the first. TOGETHER THEY ARE GOD’S REVELATION TO MAN OF THE
PROVISION HE HAS MADE FOR HIS SALVATION.

Old and New Testament mean “old and new covenant’, that God made with His people.

Most of the OT was written in Hebrew, the language spoken by the Israelites in Caanan before the Babylonian
captivity. The NT was composed in Greek.

There are 66 books, 39 in the OT, and 27 in the NT.

OT
Pentateuch first 5 books
Historical Joshua to Esther
Poetical Job to Song of Solomon
Prophets first major, than minor

NT
Gospels first 4 books
Historical Acts
Epistles first Paul’s, then General Epistles
Revelation

Until the invention of printing in the middle of the 15th century, all copies of the scriptures were made by hand.
The Greek translation of the OT, the Septagint, was begun about 250 BC and completed about 100 years later.
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There is much evidence for the reliability of the NT including 4500 Green manuscripts, dating from about AD
125 to the invention of printing. The first English Bible to be divided by chapter and verse was the Genevan
edition of 1560.

The Dead Sea Scrolls were found at Qumran near the Dead Sea in 1947. These are scrolls from the last
century BC and 1st century AD. There are parts of every OT book except Esther in the findings. Some of the
books are represented with many copies. Isaiah is complete and 12 manuscripts were found in one cave alone.
Also, 14 different manuscripts of Deuteronomy and 10 of Psalms were found. The scrolls are now housed in the
Shrine of the Book in the Hebrew University in Jerusalem.

SOME OF THE NAMES GIVEN TO THE SCRIPTURES

Book Psalms 40: 7, Revelation 22: 19
Book of the Law Nehemiah 8: 3
Good Word of God Hebrews 6: 4
Holy Scriptures Romans 1: 2, II Timothy 3: 15, I Corinthians 15: 3
Law of the Lord Psalms 1: 2, Isaiah 30: 9
Oracles of God Romans 3: 2, I Peter 4: 11
Scriptures of Truth Daniel 10: 21
Sword of the Spirit Ephesians 6: 17
The Word James 1: 21 – 23, I Peter 2: 2
Word of God Luke 11: 28, Hebrews 4: 12
Word of Christ Colossians 3: 16
Word of Life Philippians 2: 16
Word of Truth II Timothy 2: 15, James 1: 18

LIKENED TO A SEED
Matthew 13: 3 – 8, Matthew 13: 18 – 23, Matthew 13: 37, 38
Mark 4: 3 – 20, Mark 4: 26 – 32
Luke 8: 5 – 15

LIKENED TO A TWOEDGED SWORD

Hebrews 4: 12

FULFILLED BY JESUS
Matthew 5: 17
Luke 24: 27
John 19: 24

REPENTANCE FROM DEAD WORKS

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CHAPTER II

This is the first foundational stone from Hebrews 6: 1 – 3

What are the six Foundation stones?

1. Repentance from dead works.
2. Faith toward God.
3. The doctrine of baptisms.
4. Laying on of hands.
5. Resurrection of the dead.
6. Eternal judgement.

Be sensitive to the Holy Spirit if He shows you some areas of weakness in your foundation. Then when all is in
order, we can and must “press on to maturity”. Remember, OUR GOAL IS MATURITY in our Christian life.

So, see to it that you do not reject Him or refuse to listen to and heed Him who is speaking (to you now). For if
they (the Israelites) did not escape when they refused to listen and heed Him who warned and divinely instructed
them (here) on earth – revealing with heavenly warnings His will – how much less shall we escape if we reject
and turn our backs on Him who cautions and admonishes (us) from Heaven? Hebrews 12: 25 Amp.

What is “Repentance from dead works?” In this chapter, we will look at:
1. Repentance
2. Sin
3. Dead Works

REPENTANCE - Definition:
Metamelomai – to have a feeling of care, concern or regret.
Metanoes – to have another mind.

In the NT the subject chiefly has reference to “repentance” from sin, and this change of mind involves both a
TURNING FROM sin and a TURNING TO God. Repentance involves both a change of mind about sin, and a
change of heart-attitude toward sin.

Repentance is
A radical change in attitude toward God and sin
OR
A change of principle and practice
OR
A change of mind and inner man to accept God’s will.

The parable of the Prodigal Son is an outstanding illustration of this. Luke 15: 11 – 32

1. What happened that caused the son to take a look at himself? V 14 – 16

2. Indicate phrases from the text which illustrate the following steps of repentance:

a) the change of mind v. 17_____________________________________________________

b) the decision of the will v. 18, 19________________________________________________

c) the performance of the will v. 20________________________________________________

d) the father’s response v. 20, 24_________________________________________________

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Repentance is a command from God to all.

…God is now declaring to men that all everywhere should repent.

Acts 17: 30

Repentance was preached by:

John the Baptist Matthew 3: 1, 2

Jesus Matthew 4: 17, Luke 5: 32
The 12 Disciples Mark 6: 7 – 12
Peter Acts 2: 38
Paul Acts 26: 1, 19, 20

Repentance Remorse Reformation

Turning from sin to God feeling of great regret, surface change

Involves a change of hopelessness, despair
Heart. Does not lead to constructive
Change and does not help
Us to believe God.

e.g. David e.g. King Saul e.g. Israel & idolatry

“Create in me a clean I Samuel 31: 4, 5
heart”. Psalm 51 II Samuel 12: 1 – 25

Peter Judas
Luke 22: 54 – 62 Matthew 27: 3 – 10

RESULTS OF REPENTANCE

Joy in heaven. Luke 15: 7 – 10

Forgiveness and Pardon (times of refreshing). Acts 3: 19, Proverbs 28: 13
Reception of Holy Spirit. Proverbs 1: 23, Acts 2: 38
New Life Patterns II Corinthians 7: 1

Initial Continues leads to

Repentance through life holiness.

JUSTIFICATION SANCTIFICATION GLORIFICATION

HAT BRINGS IT ABOUT?

Repentance is a gift from God?

Acts 5: 31
Acts 11: 18

Man is enabled to repent because God works upon and within him. Our own efforts only get in God’s way. God
uses both external and internal means to turn a man to Himself, but man’s repentance is always preceded by
God’s illuminating power.

A. THE REVELATION OF GOD’S GOODNESS LEADS TO REPENTANCE

God reveals the goodness of His character to men in order to lead them to repentance. He does this
through a general providence sending rain and sunshine upon the just and the unjust. God may show His
goodness to a man through kindness and mercy in circumstance. Romans 2: 4
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B. GOD USES THE MINISTRY OF HIS WORD TO CREATE REPENTANCE IN THE HEART OF MAN
Acts 2: 37
Matthew 12: 41

C. GOD USES REPROOF, REBUKE, AND CHASTENING TO PROD MEN TO REPENTANCE.

Revelation 3: 19

D. GOD MAY USE A BROTHER TO SPECIFICALLY REBUKE A PERSON FOR HIS ACTIONS.
Luke 17: 3

This must be properly given. There are some qualifications given in scripture for those who feel “led” to
rebuke a brother’s sin:
1. He must not be guilty of the same “sin”. Romans 2: 1
2. The goal of the rebuke is to restore. Galatians 6: 1
3. The rebuke must be given in a spirit of gentleness. II Timothy 2: 24 – 26
Galatians 6: 1

Examine the following verses to discover what other actions will accompany true, Biblical repentance.
Mark 1: 15
Acts 20: 21
Acts 26: 20
Matthew 3: 8
Acts 2: 38

What kind of fruit will a repentant heart produce?

Galatians 5: 22, 33

SIN
Sin has separated us from communion with a holy God. IN the cross of Jesus, God has established a bridge
between the sinful and the Holy. In granting repentance, God has not only given us permission to cross that
bridge and once again commune with Him, but by the working of His Spirit within our hearts, He actually is the
One who brings repentance about. He came to earth to call sinners to repentance (Luke 5: 32). And not only
does He call to us, He is looking for us, seeking us diligently. (Luke 15: 1 – 10). And in His love and mercy, He
patiently waits, prolonging the time before judgement falls, that we may return to Him. (II Peter 3: 9).

Sin – Definition
Hebrew – Hattath – missing
Pesha – transgression
Greek – Hamartia – missing the mark
Also transgression, unrighteousness, contempt and violation of law
Hamartiology – the study of sin

Sin is not only violation of the divine law, which is an expression of God’s will, it is violation of the expression of
God’s holy character.

Sin may be defined as anything in the creature which does not express, or which is contrary to the holy character
of the Creator. Sin then is not merely what we do but what we are. There is sin in our race and in our nature.
Romans 5: 12 – 21
Romans 3: 23

WHAT IS SIN?
A. Romans 14: 23
B. James 4: 17
C. James 1: 15

A concept, idea or temptation is received into the mind. If accepted the mind will ponder and review, and the
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idea will grow. The will determines to act on it. The words one speaks will be a reflection of the growing idea.
(Matthew 12: 34.)
Emotion will be aroused. Action will result.
II Corinthians 10: 5
Hebrews 4: 12
Isaiah 26: 3
Philippians 4:8

We need to change our focus and put on the new man which will begin to change our heart. Then we will see
the fruit of true repentance in our lives.

What does the Apostle Paul say to “put off” and to “put on?”
Ephesians 4: 22, 5: 21
Colossians 3: 8 – 17

David’s prayer of repentance from sin.

Psalms 32: 1, 2, 5
Psalms 41: 4
Psalms 51: 1 – 12

THE REMEDY
Psalms 103: 12
Isaiah 1: 18
Isaiah 53: 1 – 6
Isaiah 64: 5 – 8
Jeremiah 3: 31
I John 1: 8 – 10
Matthew 1: 21

My only hope is His substitutionary atonement, for He bore my sins “in His own body on the tree.”
I Peter 2: 24

REPENTANCE FROM DEAD WORKS

Dead works include everything we do whether secular or spiritual without relying upon God and drawing from His
life. Sometimes these are very religious things, and we do not recognize them as subtle forms of self-effort and
dependence upon ourselves. We have no life apart from vital union with Jesus Christ. Nothing we can do
will produce that life.

Kingdom of World Kingdom of God

Dead Works Fruit

Everything we do on our own, not the result of union with something alive
relying on God and drawing from
his life.

merit through works. Grace

work in order to be accepted free gift, cannot be earned

and approved

can never justify justifies freely

Galatians 2: 16

Romans 7: 12 – 14
Galatians 3: 10
Romans 9: 31, 32
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Then he believed in the Lord; and He reckoned it to him as righteousness. Genesis 15: 6

In the old covenant Abram was counted as righteous because he trusted in, relied on and remained steadfast to
the Lord. The Israelites trusted in their own efforts to keep the law trying to establish their own righteousness.
As a result the keeping of the law, although it was holy, righteous and good, produced no life just dead works.

What about all the “good things” you are doing?

Is your life producing fruit?

Please read Hebrews 3: 12, 4: 16 and write down what the Holy Spirit is showing you.

JESUS, OUR EXAMPLE

John 5: 17, 19, 20, 30
John 8: 26, 28 – 31

What happens when we rely on “dead works?”

1. We serve God out of fear.
2. We become enslaved to a legalistic system which demands works.
3. We cannot measure up so we experience bondage and condemnation.

This condemnation produces a deep unsureness or lack of confidence and we dread approaching Him in prayer.
Hebrews 9: 14

Why do we need our conscience purged from dead works?

1. So we can have confidence toward God. Hebrews 10: 22

2. To be free to serve the living God. Romans 12: 1
3. To be free to enter into His rest. Hebrews 4: 10
4. To relax our standards in relation to other people.

It was for freedom that Christ set us free; therefore keep standing firm and do not be subject again to a yoke of
slavery. Galatians 5: 1

FAITH IN GOD

CHAPTER III
Faith is trust in the person of Jesus, the truth of His teaching, and the redemptive work He accomplished at
Calvary. The result of such faith will be a total submission to Him and His message. There is no salvation apart
from believing upon Christ as the Incarnate Son of God.

Ephesians 2: 8, 9
Hebrew – EMUN –
Greek - PISTIS - firm persuasion: strong and welcome belief: conviction of the truth of anything.

Although in the OT (K.J.V.) the word “faith” occurs only twice and “to believe” less than 30 times, it sets for th the
life of the servants of God as a life of faith.

In the NT it occurs 500 times. In His miracles and teaching Jesus aimed at crating in His disciples a complete
trust in Himself as the Messiah and Saviour of men. He plainly told that faith in Him is necessary for eternal life,
and that refusal to accept His claims will bring eternal ruin. His primary concern with His own disciples was to
build up their faith in Him.

HOW DOES FAITH WORK?

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Faith is not a formula. Everything we do in faith should be an outflow of the love nature of Christ within us. It
operates according to the principles of God’s word. Faith only works in accordance to the word and never
contrary to what God has already spoken. THEREFORE, IT IS IMPERATIVE TO KNOW WHAT GOD HAS
SAID REGARDING ANY MATTER THAT WE ARE BELIEVING FOR. You need to know what god has
promised in His word. Faith includes both trusting God’s character and taking His word at face value.
Faith works with Love
Galatians 5: 6

This is what matters to God: “…faith activated and energized and expressed and working through love.” (amp)
I Corinthians 13: 2

Faith works with repentance

Both are a gift from God.
Acts 20: 20
Colossians 2: 6, 7

PROMISES TO THOSE OF FAITH

(Please write out the scripture and highlight or underline the promise given.)
Mark 9: 23 John 5: 24 John 14: 12
Acts 26: 18 Romans 5: 1 Romans 15: 13
Galatians 3: 9, 14, 26 Ephesians 6: 16 I Thessalonians 2: 13
Hebrews 4: 3 Psalms 125: 1 John 5: 1 – 3
…continuing verses 4 and 5
for everyone born of God overcomes the world. This is the victory
that has overcome the world, even our faith. Who is it that overcomes
the world? Only he who believes that Jesus is the Son of God. (NIV)

These verses tell us that whoever believes that Jesus is the Christ has enough victory faith in him to overcome
the world. And, to make the point very clear, verse five asks the question, “Who is it that overcomes the world?
Only he who believes that Jesus is the Son of God.” The power used to overcome the world is our faith. There
is enough of God’s very own faith residing on the inside of you right now to overcome anything the world can
throw at you.

FAITH AND SALVATION

There is no salvation apart from believing upon Christ as the Incarnate Son of God.
Ephesians 2: 8, 9
John 1: 12
John 5: 24
John 11: 25, 26
Acts 16: 31, 34
Romans 3: 22 – 28
Romans 10: 9
Philippians 3: 9

It is only through believing that we are able to receive anything from God. All of God’s promised blessings are
for those who rely, trust and lean on Him.
Hebrews 11: 6

FAITH AND HEALING

Matthew 8: 2, 13
Matthew 9: 22, 29
Luke 7: 9
Luke 8: 50
Acts 3: 16

Religion will tell you not to get your hopes up. God heals some people, but it might not be His will to heal you.
This is contrary to what the word of God says.

Mark 5: 21 – 43, tells of Jarius, a synagogue official who fell at the feet of Jesus and said, “My little daughter is
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at the point of death; please come and lay your hands on her, that she may get well and live.”

Even when news reached him that his daughter was dead, he had something in his heart that was more
powerful than a bad report. That something was faith. Jesus said, “Do not be afraid, only believe.”

On the way to Jarius’ house, He met a woman with a blood problem. This woman said, “If I just touch His
garments, I shall get well.” Jesus said, “Daughter, you faith has made you well…”

Faith is a power force. It is a tangible force. It is a conductive force. It will move things. Faith will change
things. Faith will change the human body. It will change the human mind. It will change the human heart. Faith
will change circumstances.

FAITH VS FEAR
Matthew 6: 25
Matthew 8: 23 – 27
Isaiah 12: 2
Isaiah 41: 10
Fear is a tangible force. The force of fear can imprison a man, but, the force of faith can make him free.

What do these scriptures say about faith?

John 7: 38
Mark 9: 23
Mark 11: 23, 24
Hebrews 11: 6
James 1: 6

Faith and Patience

Hebrews 6: 12
James 1: 2 – 4

What kind of faith is He looking for?

The kind of faith displayed by the woman in Luke 18: 1 – 8. She wouldn’t give up. She held out until the answer
came. She kept on asking, seeking and knocking.

Faith is released through:

A. Speaking
Matthew 17: 20
Mark 11: 23, 24
B. Acting
James 1: 22
James 2: 17

5. HOW CAN I GET MORE FAITH?

Romans 10: 17
The word of God produces faith in your heart. There is no other source of faith.

The physical body eats physical food and it produces physical power called strength. The food you eat is
assimilated by your body and turned into the force of strength.

The spirit of man feeds on spirit food. Jesus said:

…the words that I have spoken to you are spirit and are life.” John 6: 63
Proverbs 4: 20 – 23
MY SON, GIVE ATTENTION TO MY WORDS;
INCLINE YOUR EAR TO MY SAYINGS,
DO NOT LET THEM DEPART FROM YOUR SIGHT;
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KEEP THEM IN THE MIDST OF YOUR HEART.

FOR THEY ARE LIFE TO THOSE WHO FIND THEM,
AND HEALTH TO ALL THEIR WHOLE BODY.
WATCH OVER YOUR HEART WITH ALL DILIGENCE
FOR FROM IT FLOW THE SPRINGS OF LIFE.

BAPTISMS

CHAPTER IV

There are several baptisms mentioned in the Bible. In this study we will look at 5 of them.
1. Baptism of John
2. Baptism into Jesus
3. Water Baptism
4. Baptism of the Holy Spirit
5. Baptism of Fire.
BAPTO – dip – to cause something to be dipped, plunged or immersed.

BAPTISM OF JOHN

After 400 years of silence, God was again speaking prophetically in Israel. But the message was a new one. It
heralded a coming king and a new law. Preparation in individual hearts was necessary if they were to receive
their Messiah. The people were so unaccustomed to hearing God speak that they needed a messenger that
would awaken them and alert them to hear Him.

John came in the “spirit” and power of Elijah. This anointing from God gave John a special ability to bring the
people to a place of repentance and a change of heart. John preached the gospel of the kingdom. “Repent for
the kingdom of God is at hand.” Matthew 3: 2, 4: 17

People were to demonstrate their repentance of heart by water baptism. It was not to be a mere outward form.
They were to repent and live a life in keeping with this heart change. He always pointed those who would
believe and be baptized toward their true hope, the Lord Jesus Christ. Those who were baptized by John and
repented of their sin had demonstrated faith in the coming Messiah. They were not blinded by religious tradition
or bound by fear of their elders. They were already aware of their personal need

Please read John chapter 1 and Luke 3: 1 – 23

Isaiah 40: 3, 4 (John 1: 23, Luke 3: 4 – 6)
Malachi 4: 5, 6
Mark 1: 4, 5
John 1: 29
Luke 3: 8, 9, 16

John’s baptism was not sufficient for salvation. Yeas later Paul questioned the disciples at Ephesus concerning
their experience. They had been baptized by John but nothing more. They needed to believe in Jesus. When
they did and were baptized, they received the Holy Spirit and spoke in tongues and prophesied.

Please read Acts 19: 1 – 7

Matthew chapter 3 tells of JESUS’ BAPTISM. Please read this chapter.
Then Jesus came from Galilee to the Jordon to be baptized by John. Matthew 3: 13
Imagine how John the Baptist must have felt when Jesus presented Himself for baptism. John knew He was the
Son of God and needed no repentance. No wonder he declared:
I have need to be baptized by You, and do You come to me? Matthew 3: 14

Jesus said, “He had come to fulfill all righteousness.” He had come to fulfill all of His Father’s plans and He
willingly identified Himself with the people He came to save.

God had given John the Baptist a special sign by which he would recognize the Messiah. What was this sign?
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John 1: 29 – 34
Luke 3: 21, 22

BAPTISM INTO JESUS

For by one Spirit, we were all baptized into one body…I Corinthians 12: 13

Spiritual baptism is an entry into the new life of Christ – a passage from the old creation into the new. This
involves forgiveness of sins, and also an impartation of the life and righteousness of Christ to the believer and
the incorporation of the believer into Christ’s righteousness. II Peter 1: 4

What happens when we are baptized into the body of Christ at salvation?
1. We are placed in Christ.
Please read Romans 6: 1 – 14
2. Christ is placed in us.
I Corinthians 6: 17
John 14: 20
3. We are a part of The Body, His Church.
I Corinthians 12: 27
A. The head of this Body is Jesus
Ephesians 1: 22
B. This body is alive and growing.
Ephesians 4: 15
C. This Body must be functioning properly.
Romans 12: 4 – 6a
D. We are important to each other.
I Corinthians 12: 25, 26

WATER BAPTISM

In water baptism we are commemorating the burial and resurrection of Jesus. As we are identified with Him in
death, burial and resurrection, we too can live in newness of life.

Immersion depicts the symbolic aspect of baptism.

IMMERSION going into the water Romans 6: 8
Entering into the death of Christ
SUBMERSION going under the water Romans 6: 4a, Colossians 2: 11, 12
Experiencing the forgiveness of sin
EMERSION coming out of the water Ephesians 2: 6
Rising to walk in newness of life

In the early church baptism by immersion was the normal way of making a public confession of Christ. They
exercised their faith by following through on God’s command.
Acts 2: 38
Matthew 28: 19, 20

Under the Old Covenant, circumcision was instituted as a token of the covenant between God and man.
Genesis 17: 9 – 14. It was a cutting away of the flesh, a physical reality. Under the New Covenant, something
spiritual is cut away. Our old fleshly nature, the old man, the body of sin, I cut away by Christ through the
sacrament of water baptism.

As circumcision of the flesh is to the Old Covenant, the circumcision of the heart is to the New Covenant.
Do you think that water baptism is optional?

Who should baptize?

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Modern church tradition limits this privilege only to the ordained clergy. Matthew 28: 18 – 20 was a commission
not only to His disciples or the 70 but for all His disciples.

Water Baptism in the Book of Acts

Scripture Agent Object Location Time
_________________________________________________________________________________________
Acts 2: 37 – 41 Peter and 3,000 Jerusalem Immediately at the time of
Disciples believers repentance and faith.
_________________________________________________________________________________________
Acts 8: 12 Philip, the all who Samaria Immediately at the time of
Evangelist believed repentance and faith
_________________________________________________________________________________________
Acts 8: 36 – 39 Philip, the Ethiopian desert of Immediately at the time of
Evangelist eunuch Gaza repentance and faith
_________________________________________________________________________________________
Acts 9: 18 Ananias, a Saul of Damascus After his healing and receiving
Disciple Tarsus the Holy Spirit, but as part of
His initiation into Christ.
______________________________
Acts 10: 44 – 48 Peter and House of home in after receiving the
Holy Spirit, but
Certain Cornelius Caesarea as a part of initiation into Christ
Brethren (Gentiles) the same day.
_________________________________________________________________________________________
Acts 16: 14, 15 Paul, the Lydia and Thyatira Immediately at the time of
Apostle other women repentance and faith.
_________________________________________________________________________________________
Acts 16: 32 – 34 Paul and Philippian Philippi The same hour as repentance
Silas jailer and and faith.
Household
_________________________________________________________________________________________
Acts 18: 8 Paul Crispus and Corinth Immediately at the time of
Many others repentance and faith.
_________________________________________________________________________________________
Acts 19: 1 – 7 Paul 12 disciples Ephesus After they were instructed
Of John the “more perfectly.”
Baptist.

Who baptized in the previous scriptures?

When did baptism take place?

What about infant baptism?

Please record the requirement found in each verse for those who received water baptism.
Acts 2: 36, 41
Acts 2: 38
Acts 8: 12
Acts 8: 36 – 38
Acts 16: 14, 15
Acts 18: 8
Please make a summary statement of the above verses and indicate the significance this has concerning the
practice of infant baptism.

BAPTISM OF THE HOLY SPIRIT.

The doctrine of the Spirit as it relates to the believer has over the last half-century been shrouded in a mist such
as lies upon a mountain in stormy weather. A world of confusion has surrounded this truth. This confusion has
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not come by accident. An enemy has done this. Satan knows that Spiritless evangelicalism is as deadly as
Modernism or heresy, and he has done everything in his power to prevent us from enjoying our true Christian
heritage. A. W. TOZER.

Jesus said, “You shall know the truth and the truth shall set you free.” The Holy Spirit is The revealer of truth.
To understand revealed truth you need the God breathed breath of the Holy Spirit. Was it not the Holy Spirit of
God who inspired the original text to be written in the first place? That same Holy Spirit will reveal His truth to
you for the Word can only be spiritually discerned. I Corinthians 2: 12 – 14 And it will accomplish and achieve
the purpose for which it was sent. Isaiah 55: 10, 11

Like salvation, the gift of the Holy Spirit is a free gift and cannot be earned, so do not wait until you are good
enough. Be filled with the Spirit now! Ephesians 5: 18 – 20 He is a down payment, guarantee, pledge on your
heritage as the Father’s child. Ephesians 1: 13, 14 And it is for you! Acts 2: 39

Receiving the Holy Spirit Baptism enables you to receive the gifts of the Spirit that are found in I Corinthians 12:
7 – 11
SPIRIT
RUACH Greek
PNEUMA Hebrew – breath, wind

Please write in brief what each verse says regarding the Holy Spirit.
Joel 2: 28, 29
Mark 16: 15 – 17
Luke 11: 13
John 1: 33
John 14: 16, 17, 26
John 15: 26
John 16: 7, 8, 13, 15
Acts 1: 4, 5, 8, 16
Acts 2: 1 – 6, 11, 38, 39
Acts 8: 14 – 18, 29
Acts 10: 44 – 46
Acts 13: 2, 4
Acts 16: 6, 7
Romans 8: 9, 10, 26, 27
I Corinthians 6: 19
I Corinthians 14: 2, 4, 15, 18
Galatians 5: 22, 23
Ephesians 5: 18
II Peter 1: 21

THE QUALIFICATIONS NECESSARY TO RECEIVING THE HOLY SPIRIT ARE:

1. You need to be born again and desire to be filled. Romans 10: 9
2. Present yourself to Him. Romans 12: 1
3. Ask the Father in faith for His infilling. As you received the Lord for salvation by faith so you receive the
Holy Spirit by faith. Luke 11: 9 – 11, Galatians 3: 2
4. You begin to speak out as the Spirit gives you the ability. Acts 2: 4

PRAYING IN OTHER TONGUES

Why pray in other tongues?
Romans 8: 26, 27 We are weak and we need the Comforter
(the One with strength), the Helper
He knows every situation and the exact way
It should be prayed for.
Ephesians 6: 12 II Corinthians 10: 3, 4 – We are at war with
Spiritual beings. Our weapons are spiritual,
“mighty through God.”
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Intercessory prayer is spiritual warfare. We are mighty through the Greater One who is in us.

How do we do this warfare?

Ephesians 6: 18, 19 “Pray at all times in the Spirit.” This means praying in other
Tongues as the Holy Spirit gives the utterance. (see I Corinthians 14: 15)

Galatians 4: 19 Colossians 4: 12 “in labor” and laboring earnestly”

It seems like hard labour many times, because it runs contrary to the flesh and the natural, logical mind.

We are to persevere in prayer (keep at it until the job gets done). There will often come a sense of relief, a
witness in the spirit when the specific object of prayer has been achieved in the Spirit realm.

What is intercession?

Jeremiah 15: 1 Standing before God on behalf of others (unbelievers, baby Christians,
Ministers of the gospel, ministries, works of the ministry, leaders, etc.)

Ezekiel 22: 30 In the gap against enemies, or to stop God’s punishment. II Chronicles 7: 14

The over-riding, motive prayer is, “Thy kingdom come; Thy will be done on earth…” The desire for God’s
kingdom and will must be greater than any other desire. The motive is AGAPE love.

Continue each day to use your prayer language.

Romans 8: 26, 27
I Corinthians 14: 4
BAPTISM OF FIRE

When John the Baptist was prophesying concerning the One who was to come after Him, he declared that Jesus
would baptize with the Holy Spirit and with fire (Matthew 3: 11). So far we have discovered that the Holy Spirit
baptizes us into Jesus and Jesus baptizes us into the Holy Spirit. What can this baptism of fire be? It certainly
doesn’t sound like something I would enjoy! In fact, it sounds downright unpleasant! And yet, knowing the
depths of His love for me, I would not want to refuse anything from His hand.

What is the purpose of this baptism with fire? God has given at least three pictures to illustrate for us His
working in this way.
A. To Separate the Holy from the Unclean
Proverbs 17: 3
Gold and silver are found imbedded in useless materials. In order to separate the precious from the common,
great heat must be applied. In the same way, our hearts contain both the priceless and the worthless. Often
God must “turn up the heat” in our lives that we might cling to the pure and discard the unclean.
B. To Destroy the Unclean
Matthew 3: 11, 12
The place of the fire in this picture is slightly different. Here we have Christ as the farmer who has threshed his
crop of wheat. The kernels have been separated from the chaff by repeated beatings. The good wheat will be
gathered into the barn until it is needed. But, the chaff will be burned with unquenchable fire. The farmer is not
going to leave it sitting nearby where some wind of adversity could mix it back up with his good clean wheat.
He’s going to get rid of it so it can never contaminate his harvest again.
C. To make us Strong and Beautiful
Romans 9: 20, 21
In new testament times, there were two ways to make an earthenware bowl. If you didn’t want to spend a lot of
time or money on fancy dishes for your every day family use, you could just form a bowl from the clay and allow
it to dry in the sun. This kind of vessel would break and crumble quite easily but it didn’t matter because it could
be cheaply replaced (rather like using paper plates or Melmac!). On the other hand, every family wanted special
dishes to use for special occasions. These were also formed from clay but instead of sun-drying, they were
baked in a kiln. These were more expensive but also more durable and special (like your wedding china).
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II Timothy 2: 14 – 25

The fire is what makes us like Jesus. Please read I Peter 4: 12 – 19. What three things are we to do when we
are going through a fiery ordeal (verses 13, 16, 19)?
Verse 13
Verse 16
Verse 19
Peter says that we shall rejoice with exaltation at the revelation of His glory, if we share His sufferings. Why?
Because when He is revealed, when He appears, we shall be like Him (I John 3: 2)! It is the fire that will
conform us to the image of Christ. Therefore, rejoice, consider it all joy when you encounter trials and
temptations, knowing that the testing of your faith is to produce endurance. Allow the fire to have its perfect
result. Don’t run from it or jump out of the kiln half-baked! Let the fire do its work that you may be perfect,
mature and complete, lacking nothing. (James 1: 2 – 4)

Please meditate on Romans 5: 3 – 5 and record the revelations God speaks to your heart through His Word.

THE LAYING ON OF HANDS

CHAPTER V
The laying on of hands was a significant channel imparting life to those in need during Jesus’ ministry. At times
He not only used the spoken word but a personal touch as well. Our hands should also be a channel, imparting
His life to those we touch.
Impartation – (Web). – to impart
To communicate or transmit
To give what one has by contact, association or influence.

Just as electrical wires carry electricity to the designated places, your hands can bring the power and love of
God to those in need. We must pass on what God gives us if we are to continue growing. Our blessings are not
meant to be hoarded. The law of receptivity is that we must keep a flow, a balance between giving and
receiving. When you lay hands on someone you must be assured that first of all God has given you something
to pass on. Peter and John said to the beggar, “Such as we have we give unto thee”.

Why is the Right Hand so important?

The right hand was considered the hand of:

a. strength
b. honour
c. personal favour

The right hand:

Considered more valuable in battle
Used in entering covenant
Truly expresses the inner person (left hand considered deceitful)
God’s right hand communicates His power and ability to keep, deliver and intervene for us.
I Kings 2: 19
Psalms 16: 8
Psalms 45: 9
Psalms 73: 23
Psalms 105: 5
Psalms 16: 11
Acts 2: 33

God has ordained special uses for our hands. Jesus said we would do Grater works than He did (John 14: 12).
It is not by our own might but by the Holy Spirit. We have Holy Ghost power inside of us and we need to know
how to release that miracle-working power to perform those “greater works”. Our hands can be used to give out
that miracle-working power to those that we touch.
1. Healing
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One way that God has, to bring healing to the sick is through the laying on of hands by a believer. This
touch from an anointed person can bring healing and strength into the sick and injured. It is more than
positive suggestion. It is an impartation of the power of God into the person to whom hands are being laid
on.
Luke 13: 11 – 13
Matthew 8: 14, 15
Mark 16: 18

When we pray for the sick, we should assert the authority we have in Jesus name and COMMAND
HEALING TO COME INTO THE PERSON. It is God’s will for all of His children to be healed. This is the
reason Jesus came, to destroy the works of the devil (I John 3: 8). He commissioned US to lay hands upon
the sick, using HIS authority. It is in the Name of Jesus that all miracles are done. The power of the Holy
Spirit is always available within us to do miracles.

2. Holy Spirit
Acts 19: 6 shows us: “…When Paul had laid his hands upon them, the Holy Spirit came on them and they
began speaking with tongues and prophesying.” When the apostles laid hands on others, they received the
baptism of the Holy Spirit with the evidence of speaking in tongues.

It works the same way today. Once you are filled with the Spirit, you have the anointing in your hands to
impart it to
Others.

Please write in brief the instances Acts records regarding the impartation of the Holy Spirit through the laying on
of hands.

Philip to the Samaritans

Acts 8: 4 – 19

Saul’s Conversion
Acts 9: 1 – 19

Disciples of John
Acts 19: 1 – 7

3. Transmission of Authority

It is God’s order for those who are in a position of authority to lay hands upon someone who is called by
God to a specific ministry. The leader of one in authority is imparting a commission and the authority and
grace necessary to accomplish the calling.

We must remember that the leader is acting only to confirm what God had planned and purposed for the
individual in the beginning. It is God and only God that calls specific people to a certain position.

5-fold ministry gifts

Ephesians 4: 9 – 15

Moses imparting authority to Joshua

Numbers 27: 12 – 23

The apostles to the seven

Acts 6: 1 – 8

The prophets and teachers to Saul and Barnabas

Acts 13: 1 – 5
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4. Special Miracles
Acts 19: 11

If you need a special anointing for a special task, ask God to anoint your hands for it. Jesus has unlimited
power. Believe Him for the special anointing you need as His power is released through you, His channel.

5. Ordination
Acts 6: 6

Hands were lain on these leaders in the early church to prepare them for a ministry. Whatever were these
deacons going to do? They were going to serve tables, cook soup, wait on people and other very common
things. But this verse implies that they needed an anointing to do even these every day things. Everything
our hands find to do is a ministry, and we need His anointing for it.

6. Blessing

When Jesus was on earth, the parents pressed in upon Him so He could lay His hands upon their children.
Matthew 19: 13 – 15
Mark 10: 16

Please read Genesis 27 and 48: 8 – 20

7. The Transferring of the sins of the people onto an innocent sacrifice by the High Priest
Please read:
Leviticus 1: 1 – 4
Leviticus 16: 21, 22

Here we see sinful man laying his hand on the head of an innocent animal and as a result the death of the
animal satisfies the justice of God, which declares that the soul that sins must die. The sin of man was
imparted to the animal.

Please read about:

The Lamb of God on whom the Lord has laid the iniquity of us all.
Isaiah 53: 4 – 12

What other things can your hands be used for?

Exodus 17: 11
Psalms 134: 2
Galatians 2: 9

Oh to be His hand extended

Reaching out to the oppressed
Let me touch Him
Let me touch Jesus
So, that others may know and be blessed

Dear heavenly Father:

I pray your special anointing to come into these hands, and that you will begin to use them to minister to others.
Lord, there are needs all around us, so lead these hands to sick people, to the broken-hearted, to the wounded.
God, use these hands in a special way. Let them be bold for You and really reach out to demonstrate the love of
the gospel of Jesus Christ. We thank you for the power that works within us and flows out of us through our
hands. In Jesus’ Name we praise you and thank you. Amen

THE RESURRECTION OF THE DEAD

…Do not be afraid; I am the first and the last, and the living One; and I was
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dead, and behold, I am alive forevermore, and I have the keys of death and
Hades. Revelation 1: 17, 18

When the exceeding greatness of God’s power surged through the lifeless body of Jesus and raised Him from
the dead, this was the greatest moment in human history. Satan was defeated and we were granted redemption
of our sins and translated from the kingdom of darkness into the kingdom of the Son. Now God has legal right to
give man Eternal Life because there had been a perfect redemption.
Colossians 1: 13
Colossians 2: 15

RESURRECTION: ANASTASIS (Greek)

-the arising to life of the dead

Without the resurrection of Jesus, the preaching of the gospel would amount to nothing, and our faith would be
without effect, empty and unfounded.
I Corinthians 15: 14, 17

Jesus was openly designated as the Son of God in a miraculous manner – His Resurrection. Please read
Romans 1: 1 – 6
Romans 1: 4

Please read John’s record about Jesus’ resurrection.

John 19: 31, 20: 29

Jesus’ followers did not have understanding about His death and resurrection. It is only the Spirit of God that
opens man’s heart to understand this truth. It is important that we intercede on behalf of unbelievers that God
would reveal the truth of His resurrection to them. To be saved one must believe in his heart that God has
raised Jesus from the dead.
(Romans 10: 9) (See also Acts 16: 14)
Mark 9: 9, 10 Please record verse 10
Luke 18: 31 – 34 Please record verse 34
Luke 24: 36 – 49 Please record verse 45
John 2: 18 – 22 Please record verse 22
Paul’s main emphasis was to preach the Good News convincing the people that Jesus had indeed risen from the
dead.
Please read Acts 17: 16 – 34 and Acts 26

If we who are abiding in Christ have hope only in this life and that is all,
Then we are of all people most miserable and to be pitied.
I Corinthians 15: 19 (AMP)

There was a religious group of people who were very Saducees. What do the scriptures say concerning the
Saducees?

In brief
Acts 4: 1, 2
Acts 23: 6 – 8

Who were the Witnesses who saw Jesus alive after His Resurrection?
A. They were people who had known Jesus well.
Acts 1: 21, 22
B. They were Witnesses chosen before hand by God.
Acts 1: 21, 22
C. They were anointed by the Holy Spirit to be witnesses and to interpret what they saw. Please read Acts
1: 8, 2: 15, 13: 30, 31

1. Mary Magdalene Mark 16: 9 John 20: 11 – 18

2. Other women Luke 24: 10

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3. Simon Peter Luke 24: 34 I Corinthians 15: 5

4. Cleophas and another disciple on Emmaus Road Mark 16: 12, 13 Luke 24: 13 – 35

5. Ten apostles in a closed room John 20: 19 – 24

6. Eleven apostles, Thomas included John 20: 26 – 29

7. The apostles at Tiberias John 21: 1 – 23

8. More than 500 brethren at one time I Corinthians 15: 6

9. James, Jesus’ half brother I Corinthians 15: 7

10. The apostles at the mount Matthew 28: 16, 17 Mark 16: 19
Luke 24: 50 Acts 1: 3 – 12

11. Paul, years later I Corinthians 15: 8 Acts 9: 3 – 7

If you are in Him, what is your legal position because of Jesus’ resurrection?

Read references and write out in brief how each applies to you in regard to His resurrection.
1. Romans 6
2. Romans 8: 10, 11
3. Galatians 2: 19, 20
4. Ephesians 1: 18, 2: 7
5. Philippians 3: 20, 21
6. Colossians 2: 9 – 14

The Resurrection of our Bodies

The anticipation of our resurrection is called “that blessed hope”. Titus 2: 13. When we anticipate
something we wait for it, and prepare for it. John says that everyone who has this hope fixed on Him purifies
himself, just as He is pure. I John 8: 3 It is also called a lively hope.
I Peter 1: 3

Through faith in the Lord Jesus Christ, death no longer holds fear for us. We know that when our bodies die,
our spirits shall be present with the Lord. II Corinthians 5: 8 And on the resurrection day our bodies shall
be changed and we shall live forever in the presence of our Lord.

Please record in brief what each says regarding our resurrected bodies.
John 5: 28, 29
John 6: 39, 40, 44, 54
I Corinthians 15:12 – 32
I Corinthians 15: 35 – 58
Philippians 3: 21
I Thessalonians 4: 13 – 18

How should the knowledge of Resurrection affect our present living?

Romans 4: 24, 25
II Corinthians 5: 5
Philippians 3: 10, 11

ETERNAL JUDGMENT

CHAPTER VII
Judgment (Greek) “KRISIS” -to separate
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-to make a distinction between

To Judge (Greek) “KRINO” -to separate or make a distinction
-to exercise a judgment upon
-to try as a Judge, bring to trial, to sentence
-to determine or decide

Please read Matthew 13: 24 – 52, 25

The Bible clearly teaches that there will be a judgment for all.

It is appointed unto man once to die, but

After this the judgment
Hebrews 9: 27

…for we shall all stand before the judgment

seat of God.
Romans 14: 10

…God will judge both the righteous man and

the wicked man…
Ecclesiastes 3: 17

In our courts a verdict is rendered after examining the evidence and hearing arguments from both sides.
Because God understands all our motives or reasons for doing what we do, no argument, jury or testimony
is needed.

Ecclesiastes 12: 14

“…the Lord…will both bring to light the things hidden

in the darkness and disclose the motives of men’s
hearts…”

WHO WILL JUDGE?

God himself is the Judge of all but He has given authority to carry out His judgment to the Son, Jesus.
John 5: 22

Jesus said that “the very message that I have spoken will itself judge and convict him on the last day.”
John 12: 48

HOW WILL HE JUDGE?

A. Justly, Righteously, Without Favourtism or Partiality.

Romans 2: 11
Colossians 3: 25

B. According to Knowledge
God will take into account the amount of light we had and what we did with it. Paul said that although he
was a blasphemer and a persecutor, and a violent aggressor, yet he was shown mercy, because he acted
ignorantly in unbelief. I Timothy 1: 13
Matthew 10: 15
Matthew 11: 22
Hebrews 2: 2, 3
Hebrews 10: 26 – 30 (in brief)
Hebrews 12: 25
II Peter 2: 20, 21 (in brief)

IS ALL ETERNAL JUDGMENT RESERVED FOR THE FUTURE

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No! There is also PAST JUDGMENT, and PRESENT JUDGMENT.

PAST JUDGMENT on the Cross was completed when Jesus Christ took upon Himself the full penalty of
God’s wrath against sin. Although satan was defeated spiritual warfare between satan’s kingdom and Lord’s
kingdom continues. God is developing us as Sons as we learn to overcome satan by using the weapons
and provisions God has given to us. It is only through ignorance of the Word and what was accomplished
for us that satan is able to exercise authority over us.

John 5: 24

PRESENT JUDGMENT

A. We ourselves determine the standard by which we are judged.

Matthew 7: 2
Matthew 6: 15

B. Sowing and Reaping

Galatians 6: 5 – 9

C. The Lord’s Supper

It is important for Christians to judge their motives and actions before taking communion. We are not to
refuse to take part in the Lord’s Supper because of sin in our lives but to repent and receive His cleansing
and forgiveness and then “let him eat”.

Please read I Corinthians 11: 23 – 34

I Peter 4: 17 says, “For it is time for judgment to begin with the household of God.”

It takes the light to make us aware of darkness. Let us allow the light of God’s holiness to shine upon us so
we will see more clearly what kind of person we are.

There is also PRESENT JUDGMENT for unbelievers.

“…the way of transgressors is hard.”

Proverbs 13: 15

Please read Romans 1: 18 – 32

What does this tell us about the present judgment for unbelievers?

John 3: 18 (condemned. KRISIS)

FUTURE JUDGMENT FOR UNBELIEVERS

The punishment of the wicked is eternal separation from God (unable to stand in His presence). This
judgment at the Great White Throne is not to decide their future destiny or determine their guilt. This has
already been decided. They will be judged as to what they have done with Jesus. He assigns them to their
final place of punishment, the lake of fire. This is the second death.

Please read Revelations 20: 11 – 15

II Thessalonians 1: 9
Mark 9: 46
Matthew 8: 12

FUTURE JUDGMENT FOR BELIEVERS

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At the first resurrection, the dead in Christ will be raised. They will be joined with the believers who are on
earth and together they will meet the Lord in the air to face the Judgment Seat of Christ.

The Judgment Seat of Christ is the place of the final examination of all believers. (Romans 14: 10b). This
is a judgment of his works after he became a Christian. None will be judged for things done before being
born again. (Psalms 103: 10 – 12, 44: 22, Micah 7: 19, Hebrews 8: 12)

II Corinthians 5: 9, 10

The believers’ life is compared to a building. ON the firm foundation of Jesus Christ we each are able to
build a secure fine building. Each thing he does, each “work” is a part of the building. Some works are gold,
silver and precious stones. Others are wood, hay and straw.

Please read I Corinthians 3: 10 – 15

Some believers will receive greater rewards than others; some will suffer loss. The rewards in the Bible are
described as “crowns”. The crowns speak of public recognition and honour. The praise of men will look so
dim in the light of His recognition. These crowns will demonstrate Christ’s approval of us and His
acceptance of our work.

Five crowns are mentioned in Scripture. What are the qualifications for receiving each crown?
1. The Crown of Life
James 1: 12
Revelations 2: 10

2. The Crown of Glory

I Peter 5: 1 – 4

3. The Crown of Righteousness

II Timothy 4: 7, 8

4. The Incorruptible Crown

I Corinthians 9: 25

5. The Crown of Joy

Philippians 4:1
I Thessalonians 2:19

What should our response be to the truth of Jesus’ soon return and knowing that we must all stand before the
Judgment Seat of Christ?

Watch therefore – give strict attention and be cautious

And active – for you know neither the day nor the hour
When the Son of man will come.

Matthew 25: 13 (Amp)

Will His words to you be, “Well done, you upright, honourable, admirable, and faithful servant?” You have been
faithful. Enter into and share the joy; the delight, the blessedness which your master enjoys.” Matthew 25: 21
Amos 4: 12
Ecclesiastes 12: 13, 14
Jude 24
And now, little children, abide (live, remain permanently) in Him, so that when He is made
Visible, we may have and enjoy perfect confidence (boldness, assurance) and not be ashamed
And shrink from Him at His coming.
I John 2: 28 (Amp)
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