Romans (2010): Recent Episodes
Dr. Robert L. Dean Jr.
Romans has always been one of the favorite books of thoughtful Christians. In this epistle, the apostle Paul logically delineates the foundation and structure of Christian doctrine. The righteousness of God has been accurately identified as the central message of this epistle. How the righteousness of God relates to a human history of suffering, pain, and injustice, has been a frequent question through the ages. In Romans, Paul's answer shows that this question cannot be addressed in a sound bit
If there were a vitamin that would make us wiser, more content, and have a more fulfilling life, it would probably be the best-selling vitamin of all times. Listen to this lesson to learn that instead of swallowing a pill, making a habit of studying and applying what you learn in the Bible can do that and more for those who accept Christ as their Savior. Take this opportunity to review the entire book of Romans and see what major verses should be noted in each section. Learn more about two attributes of God: Righteousness and Justice. See the significance of Baptism by the Holy Spirit and the difference between inability and total depravity. Find yourself responding to God's Word as you daily apply its truths to the everyday events of your life.
Armchair travelling, anyone? If you can't visit Israel, then enjoy hearing recent travelers recount their insights into Biblical sites they visited. Then return to the book of Romans for a final wrap-up and hear about the people who sent greetings to the church in Rome. See the many references Paul made to the grace of God. Appreciate the majestic benediction that glorifies God the Father, His magnificent attributes, and all He has done for us.
It's great to be appreciated and nicer still if we thought people would still be reading high praise of us years later. Listen to this lesson to learn about Paul's commendations in his letter to the Romans. Although little is known about many of these people, there has been much speculation. Heed Paul's warnings about divisive people and allow this lesson to encourage us in our ministry to others
What is your vision of how the world works? More important, what is your view of God? Listen to this lesson to see how your views impact everything else, including your politics, your ideas of economics, and even how you view the differences between men and women. See how the Apostle Paul explains to Timothy what the role of women in the church should be. Find out what is meant by women not having authority over men or formally teaching them. Understand that Paul's views are based on the order of Biblical creation and the subsequent disobedience of mankind.
Are you a shrinking violet? Rationalizing that you are only keeping the peace as you wilt when faced with making a decision that puts you at odds with the current pagan culture? Listen to this lesson to see how important it is to have a Biblical viewpoint and be willing to stand firm no matter what the consequences. Realize this is a part of the angelic conflict and spiritual warfare and that we don't get to pick our battles. As the book of Romans draws to a close, see how the Apostle Paul mentions his Roman friends, giving us insights into these believers' lives.
Letters written by famous people give us insight into what mattered to them. The book of Romans is an inspired letter written by the Apostle Paul to the believers in Rome in the 1st century. Listen to this lesson to see how Paul closes out the letter by taking six areas he wrote about in the beginning of the letter and referring to them again in the end. See how he describes a mature believer as someone filled with goodness from the knowledge of the Word of God so they can encourage others to go forward. Follow along as he asks for continual prayer as he faces opposition. Accept the priority he lays out that whatever we do in life we are to serve the ministry.
Do you know you're a priest? Yes, you! Whether you're a man or a woman, if you've trusted in Christ's death on the cross for your eternal salvation, the Bible says you're now a priest and the focus of your life should be on your priestly service to the gospel. If you're wondering what that means, listen to this lesson to gain a clear, in-depth explanation of the gospel. Understand the meaning of unlimited atonement. Arm yourself by learning the three steps of the Faith-rest drill as you face the troubling disasters on the horizon so you can experience the joy and peace of God in your life.
"Now, what?" you ask, throwing your hands in the air as a steady stream of bad news spews out of your TV. How should we handle all the threatening events in our lives and in our country? Listen to this lesson to learn that God is always in control and we can have confidence that all is working according to His perfect plan. Understand the ten spiritual skills available to believers in Christ that enable us to have this firm hope in God and the peace and joy that follows even in the midst of disaster. Focus daily on the many Scriptures that encourage us and take us out of the mire of despair.
Terrorists. Wars. Diseases. Violent weather. What can we do to be safe in all these disasters? Listen to this lesson to learn about God's promises of protection as we face whatever comes our way. See how Paul uses quotes from the Old Testament to point out that God's plan was always for Jews and Gentiles to worship God together. Understand that God the Holy Spirit gives us a confident hope as we grow spiritually with the result that we have joy and peace in our lives.
Do you know any troublemakers? Listen to this lesson to learn what the Apostle Paul has to say about people in the church who cause trouble by holding to false beliefs. Understand that there will be controversies and that some people may have to be excluded but this should be done with gentleness. Follow Paul's use of Old Testament scripture to explain that Christ came into the world to be a servant to Israel. See that His becoming a servant illustrates that the path to greatness is through humility, which is obedience to authority. Notice that Gentiles, too, have reason to praise God for all He has done for them.
Squabbling. Sparring. Bickering. Sounds like a scene from an action movie but it's too often a description of Church history. Listen to this lesson to learn how the Apostle Paul is urging Christians to unite and always treat others with respect. See that while we are to accept one another, true unity must be based on accurate doctrine. Apply the virtues of kindness, tenderheartedness, and humility in your dealings with others and never fight over unimportant issues which are not specifically mentioned in the Word of God. Understand that Christian fellowship is first a result of a right relationship with God and then with other believers.
You love dancing and believe it's not forbidden in the Bible but a friend who is a new believer has been taught it's wrong. What is your responsibility toward him? Listen to this lesson to learn basic principles to apply that help us decide when to limit our behavior in order not to cause another believer to be offended or to stumble. Understand Paul's list of "dos" and "don'ts" that we can apply to our relationships with others. Keep in mind the importance of being patient and loving one another in all our actions. Gain an understanding of the meaning of the kingdom of God in this passage.
How could you do that and call yourself a Christian? If you're ever tempted to judge someone's behavior like that, you need to listen to this lesson to learn that only God has the right to judge us. Find out how to make wise decisions concerning things which are not forbidden in the Bible and welcome with open arms believers who don't see things just as you do. Be sensitive to your conscience and understand how it will change as you gain Biblical knowledge. Allow your thinking to be challenged in these areas as you apply grace orientation toward others.
Ever been puzzled over what you should do when the Bible isn't clear about whether something is wrong for a Christian to do? Listen to this lesson to learn that there are many decisions we have to make about things the Bible doesn't forbid. What is clear, though, is that we are not to quarrel with other believers about these things or do anything that causes them to stumble in their Christian life. See why we are told not to judge others but to accept them in love. Learn about the laws of love, liberty, expediency, and personal sacrifice. Accept that your spiritual life is not designed to operate in a vacuum.
"What's wrong with that guy? I don't see why I have to give up what I like just because it bothers him." Listen to this lesson to learn the difference between weak and strong believers. See what doubtful things are in the Christian life and ways we should deal with them. Understand that as we grow spiritually we demonstrate that we are disciples of Christ when we love one another and put their needs above our own.
How is it possible that Christians are called "sons of light" and then described as walking in darkness? Listen to this lesson to learn how the Bible uses light and darkness. See that at the moment we believe in Christ as our Savior we become sons of light permanently. Understand what happens when we sin after that. Accept the importance and necessity for confessing our sins so we can once again walk by the Spirit.
Time is short! Don't fritter away your life in the darkness! Listen to this lesson to see how Paul urgently emphasizes that before our life on this earth ends we have a mission to fulfill. See how all of us are born into Satan's kingdom of darkness but when we believe in Christ as our Savior we are qualified to live in God's kingdom of light. Understand the difference between being positionally in the light and the daily need to walk in the light. Appreciate Christ's role during His time on earth of illuminating the world and revealing the truth to mankind.
"I believe for every drop of rain that falls, a flower grows." Songs about what we believe are everywhere. But what does it mean to believe? That seems like a simple question but listen to this lesson to learn there are many different meanings given to belief. Does the Bible teach there is a difference between what we believe in our heart and what we believe in our mind? Learn about the four ways we come to know anything and which one is the only one we can trust. Understand that the belief that gives us eternal life is simply believing the Bible when it says Jesus Christ died for our sins.
If you found out you only had a short time to live, what would you do differently? Listen to this lesson to learn that the Apostle Paul says we should always live in the light of eternity because as each day goes by we are closer to the end of the Church Age. Understand what follows a believer's death and the issues related to cremation. Explore the meaning of imminency and its relationship to unfulfilled prophecy. Find out some of the many different ways the words faith and belief are used in the Scriptures.
Should Christians cut up their credit cards because it's wrong for them to go into debt? Listen to this lesson to learn what Paul means when he says not to owe anyone anything. Grasp the importance in the Scripture of loving one another. Review how Jesus in the Sermon on the Mount emphasizes love. Understand that when we treat others in love and do not repay evil for evil, we are fulfilling the Law. Accept the overwhelming obligation of the mandate by hearing the many passages in the Bible that repeat the commandment to love one another.
When the government commands us to do that which God forbids or forbids us to do that which God commands, what should Christians do? Listen to this lesson to see how Daniel was sent to the lions' den because he continued to pray publicly even though it seemed like certain death. Hear Peter's directions on this matter and learn about the Doctrine of the Lesser Magistrate and the Magdeburg Confession. See that just because something seems unfair to us or we don't agree with it, we are not given the right to refuse to obey authority.
"I'm mad as can be and I'm not going to put up with it!" Is this how you feel about outrageous government actions? Listen to this lesson to hear about clear-cut examples in the Bible of people who found it necessary to disobey an authority. Learn about how the midwives in Egypt handled an order to kill Hebrew male babies. Understand the role of covert activities in opposition to evil. Admire how Daniel and his friends handled the issue of dietary laws in the royal courts. Be ready to choose your battles wisely and with humility in a pagan world.
Have you ever wondered why God allowed evil rulers like Nero and Adolph Hitler to come to power? Listen to this lesson to understand God's role in raising up rulers and removing them. See how the purpose of all authority, whether in the home, at school, on the job, or in the government is to bring peace and order into our lives. Don't be surprised to learn that it's not okay to disobey an authority just because we think they're unjust or we don't agree with them. Find out two Biblical reasons why we should be obedient to those over us and how our submission does not make us a doormat but glorifies God for all eternity.
When does a Christian have a right to revolt against his country? Listen to this lesson to learn Biblical principles of how we should respond to authority, whether good or evil. Contemplate the tyrannical government that Jesus Christ submitted to when He was crucified on the Cross for our sins. Understand that when this passage in Romans was written by the Apostle Paul, one of the cruelest leaders in history was ruling. Resist the sin nature's urge to rebel against authorities we don't agree with and recognize that our contribution to changing our country lies in spiritual growth, prayer, and fulfilling our obligations as citizens.
Surely you don't expect me to obey my unreasonable boss, or play second fiddle to my clueless husband, or pay every penny of my taxes to an out-of-control government? Listen to this lesson to learn that God is the One who instituted all authority and it's the believer's responsibility and privilege to submit to those in charge. Examine the meaning of submission and see the rare exceptions when we are to "obey God rather than man". Understand that these authorities are designed for our benefit and that humbling ourselves in obedience will bring rich rewards in time and eternity.
"Just wait. You're going to pay for hurting me!" Have you ever fantasized about some really nasty ways to get even with someone who has treated you awful? Listen to this lesson to learn that God has promised to handle all the wrongs committed against us. His justice may not come just when we want it to or in the exact way we want but we can be assured He is working behind the scenes on our behalf. Hear several illustrations of times when God worked out justice in the Old Testament. Be shocked to learn that instead of seeking our own vengeance, we can love our enemies, treat them kindly, and be rewarded by God.
Whoops! In spite of all your best intentions you flew off the handle again? You hurt someone's feelings? You insisted on getting your own way? Listen to this lesson to learn that God commands Christians to live at peace with all others. The result will be that we will have inner peace even in the midst of all kinds of chaos in our lives. Discover this peace is not something we can produce in ourselves but requires staying in fellowship with God, the source of all peace. Determine to pursue the ten spiritual skills and make them a part of your daily life, as you study God's word and walk by means of the Spirit.
Where's your comfort zone? Do you find it easy to dislike that obnoxious neighbor? Listen to this lesson as the Apostle Paul teaches us that the purpose of learning Biblical truth is to be changed. As we walk by means of the Holy Spirit we can learn to love one another, no matter how unlovable someone is. See the command not to demand justice and pay people back for what they do to us. Discover that our greatest enemy is what we think, considering ourselves to be better than others and deserving to get our own way. Examine the basic spiritual skills we need to employ in order to resolve problems with one another.
"Mirror, mirror on the wall. Who's the fairest of them all?" This little snippet from a famous fairy tale shows us that we all love ourselves and think we're the best. Listen to this lesson to learn that our greatest need is to learn to love others, no exceptions even for those who mistreat and hate us. Impossible, you say? Discover the different kinds of love described in the Bible and which one we are commanded to have for others. Don't be discouraged by the lofty Christian character traits listed here. Instead realize that these virtues are developed in us by the Holy Spirit when we hang in there, not giving up but persevering through confession of sin, daily Bible reading, and a passion for obedience and for prayer.
"I love you." Who doesn't enjoy hearing that but what does it really mean? Listen to this lesson to learn that the Biblical meaning of love is not just a tingly, electrifying feeling but a desire to do what is best for the one you love. Discover absolute standards for the functioning of your spiritual gifts, including teaching, mercy, encouragement, and giving. Examine the many examples of evil in the Bible and see how we should detest evil in ourselves and others and seek that which is good.
Should churches today try to be like the early Church in the 1st century? Listen to this lesson to learn that the early Church lacked information before the canon of Scripture was completed.and had to rely on the temporary spiritual gift of prophecy. Get an accurate explanation of prophecy in both the Old Testament and New Testament. See what tests were necessary to verify that someone was a prophet and how to tell false prophets. Take to heart the importance of interpreting our personal experiences, no matter how dramatic, in the light of the Word of God. Learn to never interpret the Scripture on the basis of these experiences.
Note: Following this Bible class, Dr. Dean sent out this supplemental information:
Should we interpret our experiences by the Word of God? Or interpret the Word of God by our experiences? In our experience-based world, this question apparently confuses even many Christians. A case in point are so-called near death experiences, like those described in various books where people allege that in a state of anesthesia or near death they were transported to heaven and relate their experiences. One of the most popular of these books is "Heaven is For Real." For a helpful, biblical analysis of these types of claims I recommend an article from The Berean Call.
Are you trying to puzzle out what your spiritual gift is? Listen to this lesson to learn that it's not necessary to identify your gift in order to grow spiritually. See how as we mature in the spiritual life we will begin to function in our spiritual gift or even gifts. Revisit the difference between permanent and temporary spiritual gifts and the importance of the completion of the Canon of Scripture. Allow this lesson to encourage you to utilize your spiritual gift to build up the body of Christ in your local church and not for what you can get out of it for yourself.
Would you like to know more about "speaking in tongues"? Listen to this lesson to learn what it means, the history of the "tongues" movement, and whether this is a legitimate spiritual gift today. Find out the difference between permanent and temporary spiritual gifts. Discover if prophecy in the Old Testament is the same as the temporary gift of prophecy in the New Testament. See how Paul indicates love is permanent but prophecy, knowledge, and tongues are temporary. Understand that the deaths of all the apostles and the completion of the canon of Scripture abolished the temporary gifts.
Note that the video is incorrectly labeled as Romans Lesson #132 on the opening screen.
What do you want to do when you grow up? This isn't just a question for children, but all believers are given a spiritual gift at the instance of salvation which is to be used to benefit other believers. Listen to this lesson to see how, as we mature spiritually, we gain the resources to use our spiritual gift. Find out how to evaluate a local church to attend or see if your only choice is to participate in electronic messages where you still have options for exercising your spiritual gift. Learn that Christ took a victory ascent to Heaven after His resurrection and distributed spiritual gifts. Ask ourselves if we are willing to go through the process God has designed for us so we are prepared to rule and reign with Christ.
Me! Me! Gimme a gift! Who doesn't love to get a gift? Listen to this lesson to learn about an extraordinary gift, a spiritual gift, graciously bestowed on each of us by God when we trust in Christ as our Savior. See that the purpose of this gift is not for bragging rights or to make us look good in the eyes of others but to be used to benefit other believers in our local church. Learn the different words used to describe these gifts and how these gifts are for Church Age believers only. Understand that through spiritual growth and the transformation of our thinking we come to exercise our spiritual gift fully in service to God.
Who can tally all the months, years, and centuries the academic chattering class have wasted trying to figure out what the universe is all about when God has revealed the truth in the Bible? Listen to this lesson to learn about the history of ideas that appeal to man's sin nature but lead to a life of depression and despair. See how these philosophies have impacted everything in life from morality to law and social studies and music. Step up to the challenge of having your mind transformed from the inside out and marvel at the omniscience, omnipotence, and omnipresence of God who is always in control and has a perfect plan for mankind.
Mission impossible? According to the Apostle Paul, your mission, should you choose to accept it, is to submit to the radical surgery of the Word of God to have your thinking completely overhauled from the inside out. Come face to face with the two basic worldviews and explore the "Worldview Mix-Master" to see the four elements that go into it. Engage in the fierce spiritual battle for your mind with its major challenge between evolution and creation. Learn how the garbage in your soul can be ejected and the fantasy castles in your mind torn down. Listen to the life-changing questions that come out of various worldviews and how only the Word of God and the Holy Spirit can completely renovate your thinking.
What's on your bucket list that you hope to do before you die? Listen to this lesson to learn how our sin natures and the culture around us make us want to satisfy our every whim and desire but God's plan is to totally overhaul us and our thinking. Recognize that our aim should be to become committed disciples which is a decision we have to renew over and over throughout every day. Learn the true meaning of presenting ourselves as a living sacrifice to God and its connection to authority. Determine to respond to the challenge to be transformed from the inside out by putting God and His Word first in our lives.
Who says you need a crystal ball to foretell the future? Listen to this lesson to hear a summary of the Pre-Tribulation Rapture Study Group Conference held in Dallas this week with its emphasis on the reality of Bible prophecy. Learn how to access the papers read at the conference. Find out the soaring, triumphant conclusion to Romans, chapters one through eleven, and revisit an overview of what has been taught on justification, sanctification, and the righteousness of God. Thrill to the security of knowing that God with His infinite knowledge and wisdom is in control no matter what dark forces we face in our world today.
God's thoughts are not our thoughts so no wonder we're full of questions. Listen to this lesson to learn answers from the Apostle Paul to two burning questions. Find out how God opened the floodgates of blessing to the world through the Gentiles and understand the illustrations of the lump of dough and the root of the olive tree. Hear how Christians and Jews were both involved in the Zionist movement to return the Jews to the land and rest in the knowledge that the gifts and the promises of God are irrevocable.
Here's a riddle for you: What do an olive tree and a lump of dough have in common? Listen to this lesson to learn how the Apostle Paul uses these two illustrations to show how God's sovereignty selects groups for certain purposes. Learn about the cause of the blindness of the Jewish nation and how this opened the door for Gentiles to become a temporary channel of blessing to the world. Be warned that this should not lead to pride on their part.
"Lonely, I'm so lonely." Is this the refrain you're singing when you look around at all the people who reject God in the world today? Listen to this lesson to learn about a time when most of the Jewish people were heading down a path of self-destruction and laughing at God's messengers. At the same time there was a remnant of those who decided to prepare their hearts to follow Him. Even though they were ignorant of many of the commandments, God dealt with them graciously. Learn the difference between grace and works and listen to other examples of the Jewish remnant.
Just because you're a powerful warrior for God one day doesn't mean you can't become a whining, sniveling, namby-pamby coward the next. Listen to this lesson to find out how God came to the rescue of this prophet of Israel and interrupted his pity party. Follow Paul's argument for why the Jews should trust that God will keep all His promises to them in spite of their rejections of Him. Gain courage in your own life with the assurance that God is just as faithful to us and see how we can't second guess the methods God uses to fulfill His Word.
Feeling a little dizzy as you struggle to comprehend Romans, chapters 9 and 10? Seize this chance to take another run at understanding the vital concepts before arriving at Romans 11. Put yourself in the Apostle Paul's place as he finds pagan Gentiles believing the gospel message in droves while his own Jewish nation stubbornly believes that being Abraham's descendants give them an automatic ticket to heaven. As their jealous anger boils over, Paul, using Old Testament passages, carefully lays out proof that God will fulfill all His promises. End up ready to tackle the challenging conclusion to this section in Romans 11.
Ancient prognostications about the future of the world splash across the news from time to time. Are any of them worthy of our attention? Listen to the Apostle Paul as he reminds the Jews of their remarkable prophets who laid out the steps they must take to call on the Name of the Lord. Find out how they promised physical deliverance from the wrath of God during the explosive end times and how this applies to both Jews and Gentiles. Gain assurance that what God promises, He will always fulfill.
Will we go to heaven when we die if we've never told anyone that we believe in Jesus Christ for salvation? Listen to this lesson to learn what "confess with the mouth" means in Romans 10:9 with its special emphasis on the Jewish nation. Find out the three phases of salvation and how only one assures us of our eternal destiny and happens the instant we believe in Christ. Learn about the prophesied two returns of the Jews to the land and striking details of the coming Armageddon Campaign. Dr. Dean wrote a paper entitled "Believe and Confess: Does the Bible Teach a Two-Step Way to Salvation" for a book to be published by Bold Grace Ministries on Difficult Passages for a Free Grace Gospel. Click the Notes link to view this paper.
Are you willing to take your chances that your good deeds are enough to satisfy the perfect righteousness of God? For thousands of years many people have chosen this flawed belief rather than God's plan. Listen to this lesson to learn how Paul stresses that our salvation can never be dependent on what we do but on Christ's death. Learn what the role of the Mosaic Law was and what Paul means when he says, "Christ is the end of the law." Find out how after we are justified by faith in Christ, we receive the imputation of perfect righteousness and are free to learn to walk in obedience to God.
Are we puppets being manipulated to bring about God's plan for history or can we freely make our own choices? Listen to this lesson to learn that God is powerful enough to allow us free will but is nevertheless always bringing about His plans. Follow along to see that in spite of a pause because of the nation Israel's spurning of the Messiah, God's plan for them is still on track. Listen to a quick assessment of what has been covered so far in Romans and learn the difference between salvation and justification with the emphasis on righteousness.
Insistent questions swirl around God "hardening Pharaoh's heart." Could it mean God made Pharaoh do the evil things he did to the Jews? Paul tackles this question by going to Old Testament scriptures. Learn four ways Old Testament scriptures are used in the New Testament. Review the three Hebrew words for "hardened". See how God's sovereignty is expressed in the destiny of nations but that everyone has the free will to choose or reject God's plan of salvation through His Son, Jesus Christ.
One of the most spine-chilling people in ancient history is the cruel Pharaoh of Egypt who allowed appalling disasters, including the death of his own son, rather than free the Jewish slaves. When we read that God "hardened" Pharaoh's heart, does it mean God forced His will on him? Listen to this lesson to learn about God's foreknowledge and man's free will. Find out four ways God used this event to bless the Jews and display His glory to all the nations.
Can we figure out how God thinks and acts by using our human logic? Listen to this lesson to learn that God says His thinking is not our thinking. Learn how God has the right to decide what He will do and that we can rely on His faithfulness. See how each individual can use his free will to seek God and that God does not determine who will believe in Him. Listen in on a conversation between Moses and God to understand how Moses passes the test God gives him.
If God ever backed off His promises to the Jews how could Christians trust Him? Listen to this lesson to see how God, in His Sovereignty, chooses individuals and nations to fulfill His purposes but doesn't choose who will be saved. Find out that "love and hate" in Hebrew expresses "love and love less." Learn the difference between the children of the promise and the children of the seed.
Can we count on God to keep His promises? Listen to this lesson to learn how the Apostle Paul wrestles with this question concerning God's promises to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. Find out what it means to be Jewish and how those long lists of generations in the Bible are not there to put us to sleep. Watch out for "wolves in sheep's clothing" who say they are our spiritual teachers but don't stick to Bible texts.
"I know it's true. I saw some Bible programs on the Discovery and History channels. After all, they have all the experts on them, don't they?" Listen to this lesson to learn that the only expert on the Bible is the Bible itself. See that Christ existed before creation and that He is the Creator of all things. Learn that He is the very image of God and find out about the glory of Christ and the Shekinah glory. Hear how Christian martyrs were willing to die for their belief in the deity of Christ.
Also includes Isaiah 7:14, 9:6; Micah 52; John 1:1-15; and Hebrews 1:3
If you were asked why you believe in the deity of Jesus Christ, how would you answer? Listen to this lesson to understand that when the Apostle John calls Christ the "Logos", he was emphasizing that Christ pre-existed eternally in personal fellowship with God the Father. See how Christ is the Creator of all things and then became flesh as the God-Man, fully human and fully God. Learn how Isaiah in the Old Testament saw all three Members of the Trinity hundreds of years before Jesus Christ was born in Bethlehem.
Also includes Isaiah 7:14, 9:6; Micah 5:2; Colossians 1:15-17; Hebrews 1:3
Where should we turn when all around is gloom and darkness? Listen to this lesson to learn that the true source of light and truth is found in the Word of God. When Israel was in one of its darkest hours, God promised them a Messiah who would be both divine and human. Hear the rich meanings of the names of Christ in Isaiah 9:6. Follow the outline of Micah as it runs alongside Isaiah's prophecies. Take note of three key verses to memorize to share with unbelievers.
Lesson also includes Isaiah 7:14; Micah 5:2; John 1:1-5; Colossians 1:1-15; Hebrews 1:3
Who gives us our freedom and where do we get our rights? Listen to this lesson to see how the colonists recognized that government does not grant our rights but only God, our Creator, can. Learn the difference between being a gung-ho patriot and a loyal citizen in our country today. Discover how Isaiah 7:14 foretold the miraculous birth of the Messiah who would be called Immanuel, God with us.
If you want people to trust you, then you have to do what you say you'll do. We can have absolute trust in God because He always keeps His promises and covenants. Listen to this lesson to learn about eight covenants of God and how they impact mankind today. Discover two streams of prophecy in the Old Testament that foretell the Messiah will be both fully God and fully human and how God has not forgotten any of His promises to the house of David.
What does a mind-bending narrative about a great red dragon fighting against a pregnant woman clothed with the sun have to do with anti-Semitism? Listen to this lesson to learn how the Apostle John vividly portrays the last days of the angelic conflict in Revelation 12. See how the fallen angels led by Satan intensify their efforts to utterly destroy all Jews. Discover the prophets who predicted these events in the Old Testament and how God will ultimately win and bring a fair judgment on all who rebel against Him.
From the best-selling book of all times, hear this breathtaking true tale of a powerful Persian king and a lovely young Jewish girl who wins a beauty contest to become his queen. See how she risks everything to foil an arrogant, evil enemy to save her people from annihilation. Listen to this lesson on Esther and learn about the rise and development of anti-Semitism and the dangers it presents to people and nations who practice it. Find out about Satan's desperate attempts to destroy the Jews to try to prevent God from keeping His promises and fulfilling His plan.
If we believe God is faithful and will fulfill His promises to Jacob's descendants, then are we the new Nazis? Listen to this lesson to learn the view of a replacement theologian who makes this false accusation. Find out what Christian Palestinianism is to avoid the evils that come from it. Hear seven observations to help us recognize those who would have us believe that God doesn't keep His Word.
Have you seen any wolves lying down peacefully with lambs lately? That's what the Bible says would be happening if some theologians were right that the Church has replaced Israel and we are living in the Messianic Kingdom. Listen to this lesson to learn how literal interpretation shows us that we are still living in a fallen world. See how God will restore national Israel and fulfill all His promises to them. Find out the four types of supersessionism and learn when some in the church began to spiritualize the Bible rather than believing the words meant what they said.
Oh no! You see a letter from the IRS peeking out of your mailbox. After reading it, you don't assume it has a hidden meaning but that it means what it says. The same is true of the Bible. Listen to this lesson to learn about literal interpretation of the Scriptures. See how using allegorical instead of literal interpretation has led to Replacement Theology which teaches that God's promises to Israel now belong to the Church. Find out how this results in Christian anti-Semitism and its many evils.
When's the last time you thanked Israel for how it's helping you? Since the media lashes out at Israel as the number one trouble spot in the world, you may be wondering what they've done for you lately. Listen to this lesson to learn how even today the descendants of Abraham are fulfilling their role as a blessing to the world. Find out how the Apostle Paul expresses his searing grief in a rash wish of what he would be willing to do if it could help his Jewish unbelieving brothers. Enjoy an up-close personal tour of some of the sites of the Bible as they look today.
If we're having troubles, is it because God doesn't love us anymore? Paul tackles this question head on and logically builds to a soaring crescendo of assurance that nothing can separate us from God's love. Listen and learn about the different judgments of mankind and how believers will be judged by Jesus Christ who loves us and gave Himself for us. See seven daunting life circumstances that we may face and why none can defeat us. Find out how Christ is our defense attorney and not even death or all the powers of hell can ever conquer us.
How's this for an iron-clad guarantee? Paul teaches that God Himself is for us, so no one can successfully accuse and convict us. Since God is the one who has cancelled the debt against us, there is no higher court to overturn His decision. Listen to learn the meaning of the legal terms of justification and imputation. Find out the answer to the question of whether our sins were paid for when Christ died on the Cross, or when we trusted in Him for our salvation. Understand the difference between the two types of imputations and the role the baptism of the Holy Spirit plays in our eternal security.
True, guaranteed security is only a fantasy in this life. Romans 8 teaches that God planned a secure destiny for everyone who trusts in His Son. But is there any dreadful wrongdoing we can commit that means God will not complete our destiny? In this lesson we see that God promises that no matter how chaotic our life becomes, He will stay with us until the end. Understand the unbroken chain that God's plan rests on and the seven rhetorical questions that Paul presents to assure us that nothing can separate us from the love of God. Learn how we can become one of the Super Bowl champions of eternity.
The "would've, should've, could've" questions in life can eat us alive. None of us know all that could have happened, but God's foreknowledge includes these alternative scenarios along with all the actual events of the past, present, and future. In His infinite wisdom, God designed a road map to spiritual maturity called predestination. Its ultimate goal is for all believers to be conformed to the image of His Son, Jesus Christ. Learn how predestination is not related to individual salvation but to God's plan and purpose. See the Scriptures that reveal God's contingency knowledge and hear how Romans 8:28-29 is a comfort to us in times of suffering.
Does God's foreknowledge violate man's free will? Two major camps have emerged in this age-old battle. On the one hand hear how Calvinists teach that foreknowledge means God predetermines how humans can respond to him. On the other hand, learn how Scripture clearly shows that foreknowledge means God "knows beforehand" but this knowledge does not influence mankind's choices. This last view portrays God's sovereignty as far greater than a deterministic God by revealing that God allows humans to make choices freely and yet, despite the chaos their sinful choices bring, He orchestrates the affairs of history to bring about His desired ends.
Foreknowledge and Predestination: A Calvinist Concept?
Learn how one can support the correct meaning of foreknow and predestine from the same verses the Calvinist uses to support his very different and questionable meaning. How have some very respectable Calvinists scholars articulated their reasoning for their interpretation of the term foreknowledge? What is the fallacy of their reasoning? How is the meaning of a word determined by those in the business of defining words? Understand what foreknowledge means within context throughout scripture. Does theology determine the meaning of scripture or does scripture determine a correct theology?
Romans 8:28 is frequently quoted in times of suffering, but seldom broken down into specifics which give it enhanced significance in our practical understanding. This study shatters the idea of the narrow omniscience of God in strict Calvinism as applied to election, predestination, and God’s “call.” Though not all of Calvinism is the same, understand more fully the five points of Calvinism which place regeneration before belief, abolish the universality of volition, and limit response to the gospel to a predetermined, specific few. See how God’s election and call relate to His plan for those who have already believed. Place into context scripture used to support Calvinist theology to determine who are called, the nature and result of their response, and the means through which God has always drawn us.
These are some of the most widely quoted verses in scripture for comfort and for reference to the term predestination. It is essential to study them in terms of context and vocabulary. Discover the rich context that adds to the encouragement this passage brings. Understand the universally applied principle for every believer and the enhanced reality to believers who are focused on the path to spiritual maturity. See the historical baggage attached to the concept of “the called,” the application it had in the Old Testament to Israel and true meaning of the term to believers today.
Even with spiritual stability there is something inside of us that mourns viscerally under the effect of corruption of sin in the world. All of nature joins us in our inexpressible grief. Our groaning is so pervasive we cannot help but share it with God in our longing for the day we will be released from its hold. Through the yoke of our mourning, God moves us toward our destiny of glory which is the character of Jesus Christ. In this gift through suffering, God gives us hope to endure difficulties with a confident expectation of this future reality. When does the groaning end? How is it related to the First Fruits of the Spirit and the beginning of redemption? How do our prayers reach God with the full intention of HIS purpose?
Believers and nonbelievers will suffer. The difference is that believers can be elevated through their suffering. For an unbeliever, suffering begins and ends with the pain. Behind the suffering of a believer is a loving God with a plan to employ the realities of life as a test, a tool, a compass, a motivator or an encouragement to others. A review of the ten reasons why we suffer is an encouragement, not necessarily to pinpoint a specific reason, but to focus on the God behind the reasons and respond with wisdom to what His omniscience permits. Correct orientation to suffering is a means of becoming joint heirs with Christ.
Suffering is inevitable in the Devil’s world. Suffering isn’t just the agony of a catastrophic event. It includes the spectrum of difficulties in life from annoyances more evident when we’re weary, to those major assaults that wipe us out for long periods. Our response to suffering is the issue, beginning with recognition of God’s authority, encouragement and application of scripture, and possibly a change in behavior. Become familiar with the ten categories of suffering through illustrations of each in scripture. Understand that suffering isn’t always a result of sin, but in all cases it is the hand of a loving God steering a beloved child toward a course of His choosing, to exalt Himself and to protect us through righteous living in time and the expectation of incomparable glory in eternity.
Inheritance in scripture can mean inheritance of salvation as a grace gift, or inheritance as a reward for spiritual growth. See how to discern the difference based on context and vocabulary. Paul hammers the Corinthian believers for lives that were rife with sin, addressing them as carnal. Still, it is clear that Paul is writing to believers. Since believers already have the inheritance of salvation, what inheritance is Paul talking about when he says the unrighteous shall not inherit? Clarify this important distinction which is often ignored to incorrectly illustrate salvation by works. What does Paul say about lawsuits brought by Christians? How does he bring eschatology into an answer which is frequently misunderstood?
Fundamental error can creep into scripture boldly, or, as in the interpretation of our passage, on the basis of punctuation alone. Our discussion in Romans concerns believers and the distinction between adoption as children and heirship as sons. As children of God at salvation, by grace, we are all adopted into the family of God as heirs of eternal life with potential for becoming heirs as sons. Because of choice inherent in the word potential, not all will become heirs as sons. Being heirs as sons and joint heirs with Christ requires a choice to pursue spiritual maturity and possible cultural anathema through obedience to Christ. This persistent pursuit results in intimacy with God in time and rewards in eternity. This study details the difference this choice creates among believers and the result it has in time and eternity.
In Romans 8:13 we’re told that if we live according to the flesh we must die. Is this eternal death? What are the choices believers make that result in spiritual maturity and life? Is one who proclaims “Jesus' words” while consistently walking in the flesh someone God recognizes as a mature son? Is there a difference in being adopted as a son and inheriting, and between being a child of God and a son of God? How is it that our inheritance, which God has set aside for us, can be thrown into the Lake of Fire? Understand the historical background of adoption and its doctrinal significance as it applies to the Greek and Roman ideas of adoption. Paul will expand on these ideas to show the privileges and obligations of being sons.
Is it true that the sin nature is just as powerful in the believer as in the unbeliever? According to different theologies, a “big” sin either makes you lose your salvation, or, if you commit one, you were never saved in the first place. Is there truth in either? See the two types of believers in Romans 8 who are conflicted between the Spirit and the flesh. How do they succeed or fail? When Paul teaches the indwelling of the Holy Spirit, is that indwelling applied to a corporate body, the Church, or does it apply to the individual believer? Learn the difference between permanent sanctification in “indwelling” and temporal volition in “filling.” Were believers in the Old Testament ever permanently indwelt by the Holy Spirit? What were the conditions of their “filling?”
Context is the key to interpreting Romans 8. Romans 6, 7 and 8 are about how the justified live. Paul uses “flesh” in ways that suggest the location of the corruption of sin is in the body, not the soul. In a similar passage (Galatians 5), as in our passage, the requirement of the Law is love (the basis of all virtues of the Spirit), which is fulfilled in us only as we walk according to the Spirit. For believers, there is a war within between flesh and Spirit. For unbelievers there is no war, only the flesh. That’s one way we know Paul is talking to believers. Unlike Old Testament believers, we are given the power to choose which we will serve. The flesh is a death-like existence in life; the Spirit is life and peace. We are slaves to the one we obey.
We understand that walking by means of the Spirit is not an experience or methodology. It is knowing the eternal reality that you are entirely different and operating from a radical new identity. Our world is not gray. It’s black or white, God’s way or man’s way, and because of our new identity in Christ, we have the power to make choices for a Spirit-filled life that are finely honed with time and application of the Word. The condemnation we escape through our choice of being filled by the Holy Spirit is the punishment in time caused by walking according to the flesh. The problem doesn’t morph with the culture. It remains the Sin Nature, not self esteem, addiction or emotional disorders. Paul’s contrasts are between flesh and spirit, life and death. Our tool to overcome a carnal death in time and achieve life and joy in all circumstances is the Holy Spirit.
Romans 8, one of the greatest chapters in the New Testament, needs to be understood with Galatians 5. Both pertain to the spiritual life. These truths which point out the profound advantages we have in the dispensation of the Church are learned through a growth process requiring study of scripture and conscience application. What is the progression Paul follows from Romans 6 that leads us to the believers’ relationship to the Law in the Church Age and the gift we have that emancipates us from the Law? Chapter 8 focuses on the Holy Spirit as the means to live the Christian life. What is the history behind some translations’ inclusion or exclusion of the second half of Romans 8:1? Does the word “condemnation” apply to justification or temporal punishment? What was the source Jesus used in His life that empowered Him to fulfill the Law and become our pattern for living the spiritual life?
With regard to the election; evil succeeds because good men do nothing. God’s permissive will is not necessarily His desire. Christians fail when, like the pagan, they fail to show up to learn God’s Word and aren’t courageous enough to be leaders in the counter culture of God. Contrast the glory of the Law, though it is insufficient, with the more glorious sufficiency of the Spirit which equips us to be ministers of the New Covenant. It has been thought there were two New Covenants, one of them with the Church. But the New Covenant is with the House of Israel and the House of Judah. The Church’s participation comes not on the human side, but on the divine side because of our identification with Christ. See how the New Covenant is yet to be fulfilled but blesses the Church who has a role, through the Holy Spirit, as ministers of this covenant. Learn the elements of conditionality and unconditionality in covenants and why more appropriate words, permanent and temporary, may be applied. Follow the future history of Israel’s restoration, God’s faithfulness in fulfilling His covenants and the differences in spiritual life as God’s ages in history are fulfilled.
In comparison to the Church Age, the Law provided little for the believer’s spiritual life. The Law was temporary, given by God so man could understand his impossible position of death. In the Church Age, the power of the sin nature is broken and the Holy Spirit indwells the believer, but even more is in store for the believer under the New Covenant, which is made with the house of Israel and the house of Judah but through which Church Age believers benefit. Through the Holy Spirit, New Testament teachers have resources to be ministers of the gospel. They can announce God’s plan for the New Covenant which may have similarities to today, but is enacted in the future with Israel. Learn about the New Covenant, permanent and eternal, introduced in the Old Testament, prior to the Church as a part of Israel’s future and her worldwide blessing to all nations.
The Jews wrestled with the paradigm shift from hundreds of years under the Law to the new idea of Grace. This was a major change in the understanding of spiritual dynamics. The Law had its place as a teacher in progressive revelation. Under the Law there was condemnation, but there was no provision that enabled one to accomplish what the Law demanded…, until Jesus Christ. How is accountability for the believer under the Law different under Grace? Grace has replaced Law with a completely different perspective. Learn how the confines of the Law have been broken and how we have been called to solutions through Grace and the Holy Spirit. See the challenge of Paul to contrast the limitation of Law to the freedom of Grace and with it, a new way God relates to His own.
This lesson also includes 2 Corinthians 3
As a result of Pastor Dean’s leadership participation in The Dispensational Hermeneutics Study Group, he read and commented on Martin Luther’s timeless quote about the importance of knowing scripture’s original languages in preparation for pastors to teach the Word of God. In our passages we confront a dispensational shift, a change in the way God relates to us, from Law to Grace. The Law failed because it could not make man righteous. Because the Law was fulfilled in Christ, a new relationship was born that transcended all the Law was meant to do. While moral tenets of the Law are not thrown out, we now follow our mandates and live our lives by faith, not by legalism. Our focus becomes spiritual growth, and the only way to accomplish that is through the Holy Spirit given by Grace instead of works of the Law accomplished through one’s own effort. As Gentiles, what is our inheritance? The promises belong to Israel. How do we get them? In all ages, how is man justified? Could life have ever come through the Law?
The transition from being under Law to being under Grace is best understood within a dispensational framework. What is the role of the Law in the Church Age? What was the role of the Law before the Church Age? The Jews valued the Law as a path to righteousness before God. It was never meant to be a means to personal holiness, but the bright light that exposed our unattainable need for righteousness. The value of the Law is never diminished in scripture. It is elevated as God’s creation, wondrous, perfect, pure, exalted. Though accused, Paul never taught contrary to a high view of the Law. The Law was temporary but sufficient to teach until maturity came through its fulfillment in Christ. The Holy Spirit is an even greater provision from God, a means to address sanctification in the most intimate and powerful level of relationship with Him made possible by means of the completed work of His Son.
Our presuppositions are ideas accepted as truth which shape our thoughts and actions. They may have been developed within a cultural framework and will need relentless scrutiny through the absolute Truth of scripture in order for us to maintain objectivity. See why we can presuppose that when Paul is talking about the Law he is talking about the Mosaic Law. Understand the reason the Law was given and how the Jews came under a new authority at the beginning of this age of Grace. Paul illustrates this transition out of the old authority in a teaching tool taken from an analogy related to death in marriage. See how death separates us from the authority of the one who has died, whether it is sin, a husband or Law, and how following the mandates of our new authority is a result of our new life in Christ.
Our challenge is to put into practice the reality we possess at salvation. Paul is laying the foundation for the spiritual life which begins with KNOWING what has already been accomplished. The provision we possess as believers is the freedom NOT to sin, not the freedom TO sin. We’ve always had the freedom TO sin. An irreversible break from our old nature has occurred and we are forever different. Sin is not dead but our proclivity to be comfortable in it is not the same. Reality is that we are slaves to righteousness, but free to respond to the master we choose, sin or righteousness. See how being under grace removes the mandate of law and gives us a freedom that wasn’t there for Old Testament believers. God’s righteousness gives life. Learn the about the life experiential righteousness can give. Note that the class number (#78) on the video is incorrect.
For the believer, the sin nature’s authority is a dead thing. To keep relying on him for orders and expecting victorious results is like jumping on the chest of a dead man. It’s futile, even a little disgusting. Our assignment is to climb out of the rut of old habits and focus on the mindset that we are completely new, completely different. When the opportunity arises to exercise our volition, relying on truth as its source, we begin building a new path above the familiar trench of muck and decay into the reality of the capacity for life in Christ. As a believer we are not commanded to be justified again. Our command is to be sanctified, an ongoing process of living the spiritual life, a result of our identification with Christ in the newness of His resurrection and a unique privilege for the church age believer.
The foundation of understanding our passage is the Baptism of the Holy Spirit. At that baptism the Old Man, everything we were before salvation, is crucified with Christ. He’s dead. We never have to kill him again. In his place we have been given a New Nature with new options. We don’t need to slap our New Nature awake periodically, but we do need to learn how to volitionally tap into the new life which is already ours. Sin did not die, but its power to rule is destroyed. This means we still must deal with sin, but the options we are given in our New Nature give us the power to do that through fellowship in confession and growth in our new Nature. Learn how the grammar of the passage clarifies any question regarding imperatives necessary to apply in our new lives and ones that are no longer an issue.
As a believer what is my relationship to sin? Did the Baptism of the Holy Spirit destroy it completely so I can approach a higher realm of perfection? Are we in our resurrection bodies? The comfy carpet of self-serving sin has been yanked as our foundation and replaced by the potential of spirituality which we had NO capability to exercise before salvation. That’s a huge difference. We’re supported by a different mattress and given a PhD in spirituality before we’ve even matriculated. Do we risk attending class so that we can begin to exercise our elite position or remain satisfied with the honor and return to life as it was, filthy but familiar? What died? Is sin dead or is it the old guy who was so comfortable reclining in the filth? The old guy is dead. Beating that dead horse is futility. Serving the new master is life.
Romans 6 introduces us to a radical change that takes place once at salvation. The change isn’t an experience. Understanding identification is the reality, a prerequisite to comprehend how experience can be realized. Picture the act of baptism, going under water, as a teaching tool. Just like Christ, we are not only dead to sin, but further, buried to it. Christ did not remain dead and buried, and like Him, we too emerge from burial to a unique position where sin’s power over us is defeated, creating a fundamental and permanent change, giving us an open ended potential for the spiritual life. Beyond mere ritual, Christ performs the reality by means of the Holy Spirit to raise us up with Him, free from the tyranny of sin.
We begin with a summary of what Pastor Dean learned at the Southeast AIPAC Regional Outreach Director’s Summit for Christian Leaders. Understand our new identity in Christ and the exclusive role the Holy Spirit has in our walk. This may be an abstract concept, but it is reality that is truer than empirical evidence can support. We are baptized by the Holy Spirit at salvation, a purification rite for us into Christ’s death which creates our own death to the tyranny of sin. But we continue to sin. The solution is supernatural, but ours none-the-less, to walk by the Spirit using knowledge of the Scripture which leads to a mature response to grace and abundance in this life. What are the eight baptisms and the roles some play in the life of the church age believer?
Spiritual life begins when we believe in Jesus Christ as savior. This is not an end moment or a pause, but the initial thrust of God’s after burner that propels our potential to consume truth and focus on the transcendent difference God provides in our nature that empowers us to live differently in this life with consequences in time and eternity. Knowing who we are in Christ is the cornerstone of understanding spiritual growth. From there we move through Paul’s explanation of spiritual growth as a choice, plus truth, and the impossibility of achieving that growth independent of the Holy Spirit.
Phase II salvation is related to sanctification; learning to think and relate to one another. It takes time to rethink the baggage that comes from living in this world. May we conclude that the ethical, moral man is spiritual? Is the mandate to the Church to make it comfortable for everyone to fit in? What is the role of the Holy Spirit in spirituality? Contrasts and definitions of life, death, spiritual life and sanctification are clearly given in this lesson so that these terms are no longer a mystery in the Christian life.
May we have a conversation with just anyone about spirituality and have confidence that we’re even talking about the same thing? Spirituality is a popular term today, but its meanings vary widely. Without a Biblical absolute as a definition, any conversation about Spirituality is simply shared ignorance. As one's born positionally dead, how do Christians, in their newness of life, avoid LIVING as though they were dead and realize the potential God has for us to live in the righteousness He has provided?
The instant Adam ate, before transgression was defined in the law, the human race died. There are many kinds of death. What are those deaths and which one, or ones, occurred because of Adam’s sin? There are consequences to all men for the disobedience of Adam and for the obedience of Christ. Understand the differences in those consequences and how they not only apply to eternity, but also apply today in our lives experientially. What is experiential righteousness? How is it related to our spiritual life?
Pastor Dean continues with reports on his trip to Israel with his visit to the Knesset and the Holocaust Museum. Two vital issues for this governing body are these: what’s going on with Arab Spring and what’s going on in Iran. The liberal and the conservative views are explained. In Romans 5:12, we see the comparison and contrast between Adam (the first Adam) and Christ (the second Adam). We also take an in-depth look at sin, including its definition, its penalty, its nature, and how it is passed on. Why is death referred to as THE death and what are the seven different deaths?
Romans 5 is a transition from the foundation of justification to the working out of our salvation which Paul is using more in terms of spiritual growth. The barriers between God and man are legal (a penalty required), spiritual death as the consequence of that legal condemnation and man’s works of unrighteousness. How has this legal problem been solved? Is personal sin an issue in our salvation? What is the issue in our salvation? How did sin and death spread to the entire world? What is personal sin? If it doesn’t figure into salvation, how is it dealt with it in our lifetime? If we mistreat someone, why is confession directed to our legal authority and not all about that person we mistreated?
What do justification, reconciliation, and hope have in common. In this class we learn how Paul connects these to the cross and the so great salvation we have "in Christ." Only by living in light of this reality can we "be saved," i.e., be delivered from God's discipline and judgment in time ("wrath").
Hope is the end product of a series of choices and the upward momentum of spiritual growth. Making these choices isn’t always easy. But growth is the result of choices. Maturity and consequent happiness is a choice. We must make grown-up decisions in a world of less than positive circumstances. The spiritual life isn't effortless. Growth and maturity are often the result of facing difficult decisions. This runs contrary to the self-absorbed focus of our narcissistic culture which has rejected adult values for the immediate gratification of adolescent fantasies built on utopian dreams. In contrast, biblical hope or confidence in our certain future provides strength for facing present trials. A tough mental attitude in facing trials isn’t developed through the exercise of “no pain, no gain” mantras, but is based on understanding reality as God defines it. We face life in light of God's promises with a focus on the One who made the promise. Giving up on God’s promise of hope and endurance in order to cave into pressure may result in repeated worldly perversion that declines to a point of no return, the loss of eternal, spiritual rewards and the loss of all the blessings God has made available now and in eternity. For the believer, Grace is never diminished and salvation never lost, but a measure of rewards in time and in eternity may be surrendered permanently. So how do we develop the mental attitude strength to face today's challenges in light of eternity's promise?
Hope is a process, developed, not given in total at salvation. Hope is a present reality based on a future promise, our assured destiny. Hope stands firm in adversity. Adversity is the building block of Christian character. How can there be joy in adversity? Confidence in God’s promises and His long-term plan produces a mentality of joy. Hope grows through revelation, the disclosure and unveiling of fuller knowledge through His Word. Fuller knowledge develops into an intimate relationship with God through an understanding of the all sufficiency of His attributes. Discover the joy in the certainty of His promises and the motivation to stand firm no matter what circumstances deliver.
As we wrap up Paul's explanation of justification, we also take a look at what he had to say in Philippians 3. Are we made internally righteous? Does justification change us? This lesson reiterates what we have been studying in Romans 4 - that justification is always apart from works and is through faith alone.
This lesson on justification focuses on Abraham's 14 tests of faith. Was this testing the cause or the result of justification? As we study the doctrine of Justification, we learn that justification is always apart from works and is through faith alone. This lesson also includes Genesis 15:6.
We continue our study in the book of Romans by looking at Genesis 15:6 and are reminded of what Grace really means. We learn the importance of what is meant by the word "Biblical", that all authority is the Word of God only. We learn that "belief" is illustrated in both Abraham and David in the Old Testament, and is the basis of their Justification. Justification is from the Grace of God. Lesson also includes Genesis 15:6
As we continue in our study of Romans, we are reminded by Paul that Justification applies to both Jews and Gentiles We learn under what framework God's Righteousness and Justice operate. We learn the compatibility of Righteousness and love, and the concept of Biblical love. This lesson explains the Justification of Abraham.
As we continue in our study of Romans, we are reminded by Paul that Justification applies to both Jews and Gentiles. We learn under what framework Gods Righteousness and Justice operate. We learn the compatibility of Righteousness and love, and the concept of Biblical love. This lesson teaches us the differences between real and judicial imputation, and answers the question, what is forensic Justification?
At the point of salvation, we receive several things from God. One of them is Righteousness. But whose Righteousness is it? Is it a righteousness that God the Holy Spirit creates within us, or is it God's own perfect Righteousness from His essence? And what of redemption and propitiation? When Christ paid the legal penalty for all mankind's sins on the cross, He served as our kinsman redeemer, and God's justice was satisfied - propitiation. That means that redemption and propitiation relate to all mankind. Yet the condemnation of Adam's original sin and the state of unrighteousness and spiritual death must still be resolved. So what must occur for God to make a declaration of Righteousness for each one of us?
Studying God's righteousness continues as we look at the Doctrine of Imputation. In this lesson, we look at the differences between impute and impart, and we learn some very important distinctions between real imputations and judicial imputations. What are they?
As we wrap up our study of this chapter in Romans, we are again reminded of the overall theme of this book: the righteousness of God. But man is helpless, hopeless, and no one living is righteous. Job asks the question that all of us must ask, how can a man be righteous before God? In this lesson, we learn more about this gift of righteousness we receive from God.
In our study of God's righteousness and how we get it, Paul talks about the law. What law is he referring to, and what exactly does "works of the law mean"? In this lesson we begin to look at what justification means, and as we get into vs. 21, God makes a legal declaration - what is it?
"There is none righteous, no, not one." We have all heard of total depravity, but what does that really mean? Romans 3 is perhaps one of the most debated chapters in the Bible with regard to the beliefs associated with Calvinism. Many arguments come out of what Paul says about faith. In this lesson, we are introduced to how truth, faithfulness, and righteousness are connected, and how closely related faithfulness is to truth. The ten rhetorical questions Paul poses in the first ten verses of this chapter merit a lot of consideration and investigation.
Is there a sufficient moral pathway to God that a man can take on his own? As we continue in our study of Romans, Paul again reminds us how God demonstrates His Righteousness with regard to the human race. In this lesson we learn about the significance of circumcision and the difference between a circumcised and uncircumcised heart.
In Romans, Paul tells us what we believe and why we believe it. As we get into verse 17, Paul begins to address the Jews and their boastfulness. What does Paul mean when he uses the term ?Jew?? What does it mean to be a Jew? This lesson breaks down the history of Judaism and takes a look at the different ways this term (and other terms for Israel) have developed, as well as what Paul is saying about the significance of circumcision.
The Word of God makes it clear that at the point of salvation, we are imputed with God's perfect Righteousness (+ R). So what is Paul talking about when he says in your sins? Weren't our sins paid for at the cross? Once again emphasizing the importance of the Old Testament to correctly understand what Paul is teaching, this lessons looks at the Mosaic Law and the importance of keeping the law in the Old Testament. Yet, the Law showed that man cannot keep the Law and remain cleansed any more than we today can achieve perfect righteousness alone. The Mosaic Law clearly illustrated what still is true today - man is morally degenerate and needs a Savior.
Every religion except Christianity emphasizes human ability to please God. The Scripture also emphasizes that God judges man according to works (Romans 2:6). Works are the basis for the judgment at the Great White Throne Judgment. Here in Romans 2:6-16, Paul also affirms that those who persevere and work hard and do well will receive eternal life. However, there is a catch. This lesson explains that catch.
Immoral degeneracy isn't the only consequence of rejecting the knowledge of God. Moral degeneracy is also very common. Religion is one form of moral degeneracy, but there are others who are very moral and upright who believe that they too have lived a fine upright life and deserve heaven. But even the most moral have also sinned. So how can a sinner get into God's heaven?
The mass media has indoctrinated most Americans with the idea that homosexuals are born that way. This is completely false. No scientific facts support this. Not one. The idea is only misplaced hope and fantasy speculation. While all sin is sin, and homosexuality is not some sort of super sin, it is still a sin, and still unacceptable and should not be made legal or the basis for same-sex marriage. This study provides documentation which shows once again that the Bible is right and modern man is suppressing the truth in unrighteousness.
God brings three increasingly harsh judgments on idolatrous cultures. The second and third relate to sex role confusion: same sex perversion and gender role confusion and distortion. This fits within the pattern of sin and judgment since the Fall. This lesson explores the causes and circumstances.
Decisions and ideas have consequences. When a person, a tribe, or a culture rejects God, the consequences are devastating. Romans 1:18-23 clearly teaches that all human beings are religious: they all know God exists. Those who reject the God of the Bible always substitute something or someone else to worship. The result is that God then gives us over to our desires. The three stages of divine judgment described in this chapter show the cultural degradation that ensues from the rejection of God.
How do we communicate biblical truth to unbelievers? On the one hand we don’t want to compromise the authority of Scripture by appealing to another authority to validate truth, but then we also don’t want to ignore evidence. We must realize the dynamics that enter into a conversation with the unsaved. We see this with Paul in Athens.
We don't witness to everyone the same way. The apostles began with Abraham when talking to Jews and Gentiles with an Old Testament background, but with the God of creation, when talking to pagan Gentiles.When Paul came to Athens, he first went to the synagogue, and then to the agora, the marketplace. There he attracted the attention of the intellectual elites, the Stoics and Epicureans. They could not understand what he was talking about when speaking of the resurrection. It did not fit their preconceived notions, their religious framework. So they asked for more. They invited Paul to address them at Mar's Hill, a rock outcropping beneath the Acropolis. There we have a tremendous example of Paul's explanation of the gospel by defining God and then man.