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Home Bible Studies

  • Christy Menias -  is the coordinator of the Home Bible studies Ministry.
  • Please Click here if you would like a home bible study.
  • Reaching into the homes of a searching world, Bible studies are a proven method of teaching God's Word and showing His love. One of the primary factors in the success of the FAC, Bible studies have literally impacted city upon city.
  • The purpose of Ministry Teams is to provide a means in which the impact of Bible studies can reach out, encompassing a greater surrounding. As a Team, development, teaching, training, mentoring, and coaching take on a new meaning as people are transformed from hungry hearts into grateful souls and, finally, into leaders reaching out for more hungry hearts.
  • It is through providing a core within which one can relate and feel belonging and security that the atmosphere for molding is begun. In this setting, Ministry Teams solidify new converts in the Word of God and encourage saints to partake in the discipleship process of souls.
  • To assist you with your deeper walk in Christ, please explore these studies:
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Repentance

  • Beginning with God's appeal to Cain, God has demanded repentance. Every heeded exhortation for repentance brought revival and life; every exhortation for repentance that was ignored brought judgment and death.
  • Without repentance, it is absolutely impossible for a sinner to receive forgiveness of sins.
  • Jesus said, "Except ye repent ye shall all likewise perish" (Luke 13:3). Peter reiterates the fact, "The Lord is long suffering toward us, not willing that any should perish but that all should come to repentance" (II Peter 3:9).
  • The New Testament begins with a call to repentance with John the Baptist's ministry, "Repent ye, for the Kingdom of Heaven is at hand" (Matthew 3:2). John the Baptist was the personification of repentance. He wore camel skins and ate locusts and wild honey (Matthew 3:4). His entire life made the statement that he was dead to himself. His words exemplified his life's mission, "Behold the Lamb of God!" (John 1:36) and "He must increase, but I must decrease" (John 3:30).
  • Man started in the Garden of Eden. John baptized in the wilderness. Jesus' journey to him in the wilderness is symbolic of how far man has drifted from God. Jesus meets us in the wilderness of our lives.
  • John said, "I baptize with water: but there standeth one among you, whom ye know not; He it is, who coming after me is preferred before me, whose shoe-latchet I am not worthy to unloose" (John 1:26-27). Although they could not see Him, the eye of faith could detect Him. The personification of repentance (John the Baptist) came in contact with the personification of righteousness (Jesus) . The life of John the Baptist shows us the requirement for our entering His presence. If you repent, you, too, may see God.

  • Questions:
  • 1. What is repentance? (Reference: Zondervon Pictorial Bible Dictionary)
  • a. Repentance [Greek = Metanioa] (Acts 2:38, Romans 2:4) means:
    (1) A change of mind with regard to sin.
    (2) A sorrow for sin which primarily is intellectual in nature.
  • b. Repentance [Greek = Metameleia] (Matthew 27:3, II Corinthians 7:9-10) means :
    (1) A change of soul.
    (2) A sorrow for sin which is primarily intellectual in nature that leads to turning away from sin
  • c. Repentance is death to sin, self, and the world (Romans 6:2-4).
    • d. Repentance was symbolized in the Old Testament by the Brazen Altar , the first article of furniture as you entered the Tabernacle. It spoke of Death .
      (1) Central to the Israelites' worship in the Old Testament was the Tabernacle as described in Exodus 19-40. More detail was given in thirteen chapters in the book of Numbers, eighteen chapters in the book of Leviticus, two chapters in the book of Deuteronomy, and four chapters in the book of Hebrews, with many other verses throughout the Bible. The tabernacle consisted of two rooms, the Holy Place and the Holy of Holies, with an outer court surrounded by a linen fence. There was one gate on the east side of the Outer Court.
      (2) In the outer court are two items of furniture that represent judgment: the Brazen Altar and the Laver of Water. Both are interconnected and complement each other.
      (3) The Brazen Altar was a place of death and shedding of blood. It was the largest object in the Outer Court. It could not be missed. Morning and evening sacrifices were offered daily. Specific animals were sacrificed on the altar, representing and providing a temporary substitute for Jesus. The blood, the smell, the burning, all spoke of death. The Brazen Altar could not be bypassed. A sacrifice (death) was mandatory (Exodus 30:9, Leviticus 10:1, Genesis 3:21, 4:3-5). It was not a beautiful sight. Repenting is repulsive to the natural man.
      (4) The Laver of Water was a place where blood and water must be mixed. The Bible says “Wash at the Laver, that ye die not" (Exodus 30:20). The washing of the hands and feet was necessary for the Priests to enter the Holy Place. This washing reminded the priests of their initial baptism where they were completely washed in preparation for their role as a priest (Exodus 29:4, 40:12, Leviticus 8:6).
      (5) The Brazen Altar represents repentance (death), and the Laver of Water represents baptism in Jesus' Name (by receiving the name of Jesus, His blood line and water are mixed). From His side came blood and water which gave birth to His bride (Colossians 2:9-12, 3:1-14). Both repentance and baptism in Jesus Name are necessary for a person to receive the gift of forgiveness or remission. Once a person is baptized, further forgiveness can be received by repenting (I John 1:9; 2:1).
      (6) When the new heaven and new earth are made (Revelations 21), theses articles of furniture (Brazen Altar and Laver of Water) will represent judgment. Hell will be thrown into the Lake of Fire. Water will no longer be necessary; the throne will sit on a sea of glass.
    • e. Scriptures that help us understand the meaning of repentance:
      (1) Asking for mercy (Psalm 51:1, Luke 18:13, Proverbs 28:13).
      (2) Asking for forgiveness (Psalm 25:18; 32:1, Ephesians 1:7, Acts 26:18, Psalm 103:4).
      (3) Confessing your sins (Proverbs 28:13, Psalm 51:3, II Samuel 12:13, Mark 1:4-5, Luke 15:21, 1 John 1:9).
      (4) Realizing we sin against God (Psalm 51:4).
      (5) Being honest (Psalm 51:6).
      (6) Forsaking wicked ways and unrighteous thoughts and returning to the Lord (Isaiah 55:7).
      (7) Dying out to sin, self, and the world (Romans 6:2-4).
      (8) Changing your mind (Matthew 21:28-29). It affects the intellect and causes complete renewal (Romans 12:2).
      (9) Being converted (Acts 3:19).
      (10) Putting away strange gods and serving Him alone (I Samuel 7:3).
      (11) Humbling yourself before God (II Chronicles 7:14, James 4:6-10).
      (12) Turning to the Lord (Acts 9:35, Isaiah 55:7, I Thessalonians 1:9, Acts 26:18). The Roman Army used the Greek word metanaeo to say "about face." It affects the will. We turn away from sin, self, and the world and start walking toward God.
      (13) Turning from evil ways and violence (Jonah 3:5-8).
      (14) Bringing forth fruits meet for repentance, proof, evidence of a changed life, reformation of life (Matthew 3:8).
      (15) Committing ourselves to teach others to become converts (Psalms 51:13). We become soul winners.
      (16) Making changes in our lives (Luke 15:20). The prodigal son didn't stay in the pig pen; he took action: "he arose, and came to his father." He changed what he was doing.
      (17) Bringing about sorrow that affects the emotions (II Corinthians 7:7-11, Luke 18:13).
  • 2. Is repentance necessary for salvation?
  • a. Jesus said, "Except ye repent ye shall like wise perish" (Luke 13:1-5).
  • b. "And the times of this ignorance God winked at, but now commanded all men everywhere to repent" (Acts 17:30).
  • c. It is obedience to Jesus' commandment (Matthew 4:17). We are to obey all the commandments (Matthew 28:20).
  • d. Jesus is "long suffering toward us, not willing that any should perish but that all should come to repentance" (II Peter 3:9).
  • e. Paul's mission that people would receive forgiveness (Acts 26:15-21).
  • f. Men should repent (Mark 6:12).
  • g. Necessary for sins to be blotted out and conversion (Acts 3:19).
  • h. Needed for life (Acts 11:18).
  • i. Must be preached in all nations (Luke 24:44-47).
  • j. Peter's message on the day of Pentecost, "Repent, and be baptized everyone of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost" (Acts 2:38). Note that Peter said, "everyone" should repent and be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ.

    k. He has no pleasure in seeing the wicked die, he wants them to turn from their ways and live (Ezekiel 18:21-24).
  • l. John the Baptist and Jesus taught it as a basic requirement of entrance into the Kingdom of Heaven (Matthew 3:2, 8; 4:17). It is necessary to be born of the water and spirit (John 3:3-5).
  • 3. Several scriptures tell us that we must obey the Gospel.
  • "But they have not all obeyed the gospel" (Romans 10:16).
  • "In flaming fire taking vengeance on them that know not God, and that obey not the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ" (II Thessalonians 1:8).
  • "For the time is come that judgment must begin at the house of God: and if it first begin at us, what shall the end of them that obey not the gospel of God? And if the righteous scarcely be saved, where shall the ungodly and the sinner appear?" (I Peter 4:17-18).
  • The gospel is Christ died , was buried , and rose again (I Corinthians 15:1-4).
  • If obedience to the Gospel will keep me out of flaming fire, how do we obey the gospel?
  • Jesus gave us the answer in His first sermon. He said, " Repent (die) and believe the gospel " (Mark 1:15, Matthew 4:17). The Church, being his body, must experience the death, burial and resurrection (Romans 6: 2-4). Jesus tells us that to obey the death, burial and resurrection, we must die. If we die (repent), it is only natural for us to be buried (baptized in Jesus' Name), and then He can give us the resurrection power (the Holy Ghost).
  • To obey the gospel (II Thessalonians 1:8), we have to die (repent), be buried (immersed in water) in Jesus' name and receive the resurrection power, the Holy Ghost Christ in us the hope of Glory (Acts 2:38, Luke 24: 44-49).
  • 4. How do you repent?
  • a. Feel after Him, seek Him, find Him (Acts 17:27).
  • b. Abide in Him (I John 3:36). Spend time with Him. Pray. Depend upon Him.
  • c. Believe that He is and that He is a rewarder of them that diligently seek Him (Hebrews 11:6).
  • d. Restoration/restitution [to restore, give back] (Luke 19:1-10). Caution: Some lives are so entangled that it is impossible to straighten every thing out, (i.e. marital and moral problems). Do what is possible to prove your change of heart. Leave the rest in God's hands.
  • e. Ask Him to help you overcome your unbelief (Mark 9:24).
  • f. Godly sorrow worketh repentance-heart sorrow (II Corinthians 7:9-11, Psalm 34:18; 51:17, James 4:9, Joel 2:12, Zechariah 12:10-14). Let the tears flow. If you are a man, crying is manly before God. Nothing cleanses like tears.
  • g. Be able to say, "not my will, but thine be done" (Luke 22:42). Surrender yourself to Jesus. Die out to yourself, your ways, your plans. Give yourself totally, unreservedly unto Jesus. Put your life on the altar. Lift your hands to him [surrender] (Psalm 28:2; 63:4; 134:2).
  • h. Ask for mercy (Isaiah 66:2, Luke 18:13).
  • i. Confession/Contrition = Genuine sorrow for sin. He will look to him that is poor and of a contrite spirit (Psalm 51:17).
  • j. Turn from idols and all your abominations (Ezekiel 14:6). Turn from your old ways and start walking toward God.
  • k. Draw nigh to God, cleanse your hands, purify your hearts. Be troubled, mourn and weep. Be humble; don't judge (James 4:8-11, II Chronicles 7:14).
  • l. "Woe I am undone" (Isaiah 6:5). Undone means not done or finished.
  • m. "I will declare my iniquity, I will be sorry for any sin." (Psalm 38:18)
  • n. Ask God to search your heart (Psalm 19:12, 13; 139:23, 24).
  • 5. Who preached repentance in the New Testament?
  • a. John the Baptist (Matthew 3:1-2, Mark 1:4).
  • b. Jesus (Matthew 4:17, Mark 1:15; 2:17, Luke 24:47).
  • c. Peter on the Day of Pentecost (Acts 2:38; 3:19).
  • d. Paul (Acts 20:21).
  • e. Apostles (Mark 6:12).
  • 6. Will Jesus forgive our sins if we confess them?
  • a. "If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins" (I John 1:9).
  • b. Will receive mercy (Proverbs 28:13).
  • c. "So great is His mercy toward them that fear Him." "As far as the east is from the west, so far hath he removed our transgressions from us" (Psalm 103:11-12).
  • d. "He delighteth in Mercy." "..thou will cast all their sins into the depths of the sea" (Micah 7:18-19).
  • e. He will remember them no more (Jeremiah 31:34, Hebrews 8:12). We will not have to be embarrassed when we get to heaven. He will not remember our sins. In His mind our sins will be gone.
  • f. He will abundantly pardon (Isaiah 55:7).
  • 7. What is the meaning of "Bring forth therefore fruits meet for repentance" (Matthew 3:8)?
  • a. Good conversation; righteousness; manner of life (James 3:13-18).
  • b. Live a holy/sinless life (Romans 6:19-22).
  • c. Do works meet for repentance (Acts 26:20).
  • d. Works follow them that die (Revelation 14:13).
  • e. Fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22,23, Romans 7:4).
  • f. Good Works (Ephesians 2:10, II Timothy 2:21, Titus 2:14, Colossians 1:10).
  • g. All goodness and righteousness and truth (Ephesians 5:9).
  • h. Righteousness (Philippians 1:11).
  • i. Walketh uprightly and worketh righteousness (Psalm 15:1, 2)
  • 8. To whom do you repent?
  • a. To God (Acts 20:21).
  • b. One mediator Jesus God (I Timothy 2:5).
  • 9. In God's plan of salvation, repentance is a prerequisite to what?
  • a. Baptism in Jesus' name and receiving the Holy Ghost (Acts 2:38).
  • b. Entrance into the Kingdom of Heaven (Mark 1:4, Matthew 3:2; 4:17). Entrance into the kingdom requires being born again of the water--baptism in Jesus' name and the spirit--receiving the Holy Ghost (John 3:5).
  • 10. What are the results of repentance?
  • a. Abundant pardon (Isaiah 55:7).
  • b. Sins blotted out (Acts 3:19).
  • c. Restitution [to restore, give back] takes place (Luke 19:1-10).
  • d. Reconciliation [to restore to friendship or harmony] (Matthew 5:23-24).
  • e. Receiving mercy and enables a person to prosper (Proverbs 28:13).
  • f. Life (Acts 11:18).
  • g. Cleansing from unrighteousness; (I John 1:9).
  • h. A new heart (Ezekiel 18:31).
  • i. Joy in Heaven (Luke 15:7, 10).
  • j. God draws near the broken hearted (Psalm 34:18, Isaiah 57:15, Luke 15: 22-24 [Father = God]).
  • k. The qualities of love, kindness, and meekness (Colossians 3:12-17).
  • l. A changed life (Matthew 3:8).
  • m. Born of the Word (James 1:18, I Peter 1:23, I Corinthians 4:15).
  • n. Confessed sin (Psalm 51, II Samuel 12:13, Luke 15:21, Proverbs 28:13, I John 1:9).
  • o. Obedience to the Bible (Matthew 28:20, i.e. Acts 2:38 is a commandment).
  • 11. Does repentance entitle a person to pardon or does it just qualify them for it?
  • Repentance qualifies a person for pardon, but it does not entitle him to it (Acts 3:19, Isaiah 55:7). A person does not earn forgiveness by repenting, but it is a condition for it. Baptism in Jesus' Name is also an important condition.

  • 12. What enables us to repent?
  • a. For by grace are ye saved through faith; and not of yourselves: it is the gift of God (Ephesians 2:8-9, Acts 11:15-18, II Timothy 2:24, 25). In our flesh dwelleth no good thing (Romans 7:18).
  • b. The goodness of God leadeth thee to repentance (Romans 2:4).
  • c. His "long suffering toward us, not willing that any should perish but that all should come to repentance" (II Peter 3:9).
  • d. Conviction of sins from hearing God's Word (Acts 2:37, 38).
  • e. The preaching of God's Word (Jonah 3:1-10, I Thessalonians 1:5-10).
  • f. Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to His mercy he saved us, by the washing of regeneration, and renewing of the Holy Ghost (Titus 3:5).
  • g. Chastisement or Judgement from God (Rev 3:19, II Timothy 2:24-25).
  • h. The Holy Ghost (I Thessalonians 1:5-10, John 16:7-11).
  • Note: If God gives you an opportunity to repent, take it. His "Spirit will not always strive with man" (Genesis 6:3). "Seek ye the Lord while he may be found, call upon Him while He is near" (Isaiah 55:6).
  • 13. What is a good example of repentance in the Bible?
  • a. The prodigal son was in a pig pen, he came to himself, made a decision to change, got up and turned toward his father's house (a new direction), confessed his sin and was pardoned (Luke 15:11-32).
  • b. David's confession (Psalm 51).
  • 14. Who needs to Repent?
  • All people (Romans 3:23, 1 Corinthians 15:22, Romans 5:12-19, Luke 13:5). We are all sinners.
  • 15. What are the benefits of repentance?
  • a. Blessed and sins forgiven (Psalm 32:1, Matthew 11:29-30).
  • b. Restitution (Luke 19:1-10).
  • c. Peace of mind due to confessed sin (II Samuel 12:13, Luke 15:21, Psalm 32:3-5, 51).
  • d. Mercy (Proverbs 28:13, I John 1:9).
  • e. Birth of the Word (John 3:5, I Peter 1:23).
  • f. Prepares the person (temple) for God's name (baptism) and presence--receiving the Holy Ghost.
  • g. Cleansing (Psalm 51:7, 10).
  • 16. What is not repentance?
  • a. Thirst or conviction (John 7:37, Isaiah 55:1-2). Conviction accompanies salvation, but is not salvation (Matthew 11:28).
  • b. Remorse, emotion, anguish. Judas felt intense anguish and remorse but he did not change his mind, his course, his direction. Rather than returning to Jesus, he hanged himself (Matthew 27:3-5).
  • c. Confession alone. Saul confessed but he did not repent (I Samuel 15:24). He used confession to manipulate. Verse 30 states his reason for confessing.
  • 17. Do we have to continue to repent?
  • a. He never promised anyone strength apart from continued dependence upon Himself (Jeremiah 10:23-24, John 15:5).
  • b. We are made perfect in our weakness (II Corinthians 12:9-10, 13:3-11).
  • 18. What is a prerequisite of repentance?
  • a. Realizing we are sinners (Psalm 51:5).
    (1) "All have sinned" (Romans 3:23).
    (2) "If we say we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us" (I John 1:8). "If we say that we have not sinned, we make Him a liar, and His work is not in us" (I John 1:10).

    b. We must believe (Hebrews 11:6, John 1:12).
  • c. Unbelief and disobedience were man's sin in the Garden of Eden (Genesis 3). From that time forward the plan of salvation was based on belief and obedience. The obedience of faith (Romans 1:5, 16:26) means that obedience is part of true faith. If we believe, we must do something. We must start with repentance. In Romans 10:4-16 Paul was talking to Jews who understood that he was quoting from Deuteronomy 30:11-20 which states that we must do something to show our belief. Belief, alone, is insufficient. To be reborn, we must repent, be baptized in Jesus' name, and receive the Holy Ghost. The Holy Ghost is given to them that obey Him (Acts 5:32).
  • 19. Is it possible to always receive forgiveness?
  • The Bible speaks of some sins that are beyond forgiveness. They are:
    • The unforgivable sin (Matthew 12:22-32) or the unpardonable Sin (Mark 3:28-30) is blasphemy against the Holy Spirit. If a person continues to reject Christ and hardened himself against the truth, his continued rejection is unpardonable. The reprobate mind refuses to have God in his knowledge.
  • A place where there is no more forgiveness. The person willfully sins after receiving knowledge of truth (Hebrews 10:26). There is no hidden sin. God sees all.
  • 20. When should we repent?
    • a. As soon as possible after we sin.
    • b. Every time we pray.
      (1) The tabernacle plan shows us how to pray. The people entered through the camp of Judah which means praise. The first thing that they saw in the outer court was the enormous brazen altar sitting on a mound of earth where death took place (Exodus 20:24-26, Leviticus 9:22). There sacrifices were offered. Once they offered the sacrifices (repentance) and washed at the Laver of Water [blood and water had to mix], they entered into the Holy Place where petitions were offered at the Altar of Incense. Finally the High Priest entered the Holy of Holies with the Ark of the Covenant saturated with incense (praise/worship). Then they walked back out and passed through Judah (praise) again. These are the basic elements of prayer: Praise, repentance, petitions, praise.
      Note: Fire from the Brazen Altar was required to light the incense at the Altar of Incense in the Holy Place. The fire at the Altar of Incense was a continuous reminder of the Brazen Altar (Altar of Sacrifice/Repentance). If there was no sacrifice (Repentance) at the Brazen Altar, there could be no fire to light the incense, and subsequently no fire to light the candlestick. If we repent, His light will shine in our lives.
      (2) The Lord's prayer shows us how to pray and include repentance:
      a) "Our Father who art in heaven hallowed by thy name." We praise Him. He is holy.
      b) "Thy Kingdom come." Not our Kingdom. We acknowledge our part in bringing forth His purpose and will in our submitted lives. David's confession in Psalm 51:3 shows what he was going to do--win souls.
      c) "Thy will be done, in earth as it is in heaven." Not our will but His has to be done. We must be obedient to his word and repent/die out to the things that we are doing that are opposed to the word. We must repent if we are not doing His will. In earth, means our bodies made from mud (earthen vessels). We must obey as the angels in heaven obey Him.
      d) "Give us this day our daily bread" begins the petitions which include repentance, (i.e. "Forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those that trespass against us"). Note: If we don't forgive, he cannot forgive us.
      e) And "For thine is the Kingdom and the power and the glory forever" concludes with praise.
  • c. Paul said, "I die daily." He stayed in a state of continual repentance.
  • d. Continuously if we want to be a good witness and let His light shine (II Corinthians 4:10-12; 12:9-10; 13:3-4, Jeremiah 10:23, John 15:5, Colossians 1:9).
  • 21. What happens to a person that doesn't repent?
  • a. God resisteth the proud (James 4:6).
  • b. The world will be judged (Acts 17:30-31)
  • c. Visited with the dryness of death (Jeremiah 17:5-6, 13)
  • d. Given over to self trust and self justification (Jeremiah 17:9)
  • e. Blinded (John 5:44, Isaiah 29:11-14, John 9:40-41, Colossians 1:13, Acts 26:18)
  • f. God will judge all disobedience (Romans 5:18-19, Hebrews 2:2, I Timothy 9).
  • g. Judgment of flaming fire will be on those that obey not the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ (II Thessalonians 1:7-8).
  • 22. What is the great omission to the Great Commission (Matthew 28:19-20, Mark 16:15-18, Luke 24:47-49, Acts 1:4-8)?
  • On the surface, the great omission to the Great Commission is our failure to obey His main command to "Go Ye"…"make disciples." Digging a little deeper, the omission is a repentance problem. We fail to die out to ourselves, our way of life, and our plans and kingdoms. Jesus is not on the throne of our lives; we are. If we were dead to ourselves, we would be serving Him. We would be disciples (learners), eagerly seeking after that which would make us effective.
  • We are called to be ministers and to witness (Acts 1:8) those things that we have seen, heard, felt, and experienced pertaining to Him.
  • It is interesting that the words martyr and witness originate from the same Greek word martus . Both require death to self. He is waiting for us to repent.
  • 23. What is (are) the consequence(s) of not repenting (harboring sin)?
  • a. God will not hear your prayers:
    (1) "If I regard iniquity in my heart, the Lord will not hear me" (Psalm 66:18).
    (2) "But your iniquities have separated between you and your God, and your sins have hid his face from you, that he will not hear" (Isaiah 59:1-12).
    (3) "The eyes of the Lord are upon the righteous, and His ears are open unto their cry. The face of the Lord is against them that do evil. The righteous cry and the Lord heareth and delivereth them out of their troubles" (Psalm 34:15-17).
    (4) "The Lord is far from the wicked; but he heareth the prayer of the righteous" (Proverbs 15:29).
  • b. They will face judgment in Hell:
    (1) "In flaming fire taking vengeance on them that know not God, and that obey not the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ" (II Thessalonians 2:8).
    (2) "The wicked shall be turned into hell and all the nations that forget God" (Psalm 9:17).
    (3) "The wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord" (Romans 6:23).
  • Conclusion
  • The fire that lit the fire on the Brazen Altar came from God (Leviticus 9:24), and it was to never go out (Leviticus 6:8-13).
  • There are two ways to keep the fire burning:
  • (1) We can keep the fire burning by adding wood (humanity) to the fire. In obeying the Great Commission, "Go Ye" "make disciples," we can keep the fire ablaze.
  • (2) The Brazen Altar is symbolic of Repentance. If we take every opportunity to repent (die out to sin, self, and the world) and give ourselves unreservedly unto Jesus by presenting our bodies as a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God (Romans 12:1), the fire will continue to burn. His spirit (light) will radiate from our life. When Jesus died on the cross, His flesh was rent (Hebrews 10:20) and His Spirit was released to whosoever will. When we rent our flesh (die out to ourselves) people will not see us but Jesus (His Spirit) in us.
  • "If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow me. For whosoever will save his life shall lose it: but whosoever will lose his life for my sake, the same shall save it" (Luke 9:23-24).
  • "Except a corn of wheat fall into the ground and die, it abideth alone: but if it die, it bringeth forth much fruit" (John 12:24).
  • "I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me" (Galatians 2:20).

·  "Always bearing about in the body the dying of the Lord Jesus, that the life also of Jesus might be made manifest in our body. For we which live are always delivered unto death for Jesus' sake, that the life also of Jesus might be manifest in our mortal flesh. So then death worketh in us, but life in you" (II Corinthians 4:10-12).

          • Into His Marvelous Light
  • Introduction
  • When walking out of a dark room into the sunshine, light can be blinding. As our eyes become accustomed to the light, we can see more clearly and enjoy the scenery that surrounds us. Likewise, when we look into the light of the scriptures, the brightness of truth can sometimes hurt. However, as our spiritual eyesight becomes adjusted we can enjoy "walking in the light".

    This Bible study is designed to allow us to "walk" into the marvelous light of the Word of God. We will be journeying into the scriptures by imagining we are back in the days of Jesus and the Apostles, listening to them teach and preach the plan of salvation. In order to do this, we will be careful to "rightly" divide the word of the truth (2 Timothy 2:15) by concentrating on the highlights of the three main divisions of the New Testament in chronological order, including:

    1. THE GOSPELS     - covering the words and works of Jesus Christ

    2.     THE ACTS OF THE APOSTLES     -covering the actions and preaching of the
    Apostles

    3. THE EPISTLES     - covering the letters written by the Apostles to the churches
    they started in the Book of Acts.

    We believe the scriptures are divinely inspired and, "of no private interpretation" (2 Peter 1:20-21).
    Therefore, every effort has been made to present the pure Word of God without adding to, or taking away from its teachings (Deuteronomy 4:2, Proverbs 30:5-6).

    It is not our intention to diminish any personal relationship you may have with our Lord. Neither do we desire to convince you of our own personal ideas or the creeds of any denomination. We simply desire to share the truth as it is written. Only by claiming the Bible as our sole authority can any of us be confident of our salvation, for it is the Word of God and not the traditions of men that will judge us all in the end.

     Let us read 2 Timothy 3:15-16 as we begin our journey into the Word of God...
  • Into the Gospels...

    John 1:1-5 & 14
     In the beginning, the Word was God and became flesh. Jesus Christ is the Living Word of God.

    John 1:11-13
    If we believe in Him and receive Him, Jesus gives us power to become the sons of
    God by a supernatural birth. He spoke further about this new birth one night to a
    ruler of the Jews...

    John 3:1-8
     The Lord told Nicodemus that everyone who wanted to see or enter into the
    Kingdom of God, must be born again of water and the Spirit.

     John 3:16-21
     Jesus also told Nicodemus that whosoever believeth in Him should have eternal life. Jesus mentioned two seemingly different requirements for salvation. One is being born again. The other is believing. Yet, this is not a contradiction. The next scripture explains how believing is related to experiencing the birth of the Spirit...

    John 7:38-39
     Here, we discover that if we believe on Him (according to the Word), we will receive
    the Spirit. We find that scriptural belief is more than just a change in the way we think. It also results in a scriptural experience.

     John 12:35-36 & 42-43
     Today, just as in Jesus' day, many believe on Him. But, they will not confess Him
    for fear of what others will do or say.

    John 12:44
     In response to their fearfulness, Jesus warns that His Spirit will judge us, so we must be careful not to reject it. Rather, we should believe and obey it... no matter what
    others say...

     John 17:17-20
     In Jesus' prayer for his disciples, just before His crucifixion, He said God's Word is
    truth. He also prayed for us; and for all those who would believe on Him through the
    Apostles' word.

    To find out what the Apostles' word was to be, let us read what Jesus told them to
    proclaim. The setting of the following great commission scripture in Luke 24:45-49 is just after the Lord's death, burial and resurrection... and just before His ascension into heaven.

     "Then opened he their understanding, that they might understand the scriptures,
    And said unto them, Thus it is written, and thus it behooved Christ to suffer, and to
    rise from the dead the third day: And that     repentance     and remission of sins should be preached in His name among all nations, beginning in Jerusalem. And ye are
    witnesses of these things    . And, behold, I send the promise of my Father upon you:
    but tarry ye in the city of Jerusalem, until ye be endued with power from on high.

    DID THE APOSTLES PREACH THE MESSAGE JESUS
    COMMANDED THEM TO PROCLAIM?

    HOW WAS THE PROMISE OF THE FATHER FULFILLED?

    Let us continue our journey into the Word of God by seeing what was preached and
    what happened at Jerusalem...
  • Into The Acts of the Apostles...

    Acts 1:3-5
     As we enter the Book of Acts, we discover almost immediately that the promise
    of the Father is the baptism of the Holy Ghost.

    Acts 2:1-17
    When the Apostles were at Jerusalem, they, along with many others, were joyously
    filled with the Holy Ghost and began to speak with other tongues as the Spirit gave
    the utterance (ability to speak). The amazed onlookers from many nations who heard
    them speaking with tongues asked, 'What meaneth this?" Then Peter explained the
    promised coming of the Spirit and went on to preach Christ and the original
    apostolic plan of salvation.

    Acts 2:36-38
     When the people who heard Peter's words believed that Jesus Christ was their Lord
    and Savior, they were sorry for their sins and asked Peter and the Apostles what they should do. Peter replied by preaching the message Jesus commanded to be preached in Luke 24:45-49. In light of this, consider the three elements of the Plan of Salvation that Peter preached in verse 38:

     1. REPENTANCE
    2. REMISSION OF SINS THROUGH BAPTISM IN JESUS' NAME
    3. RECEIVING THE GIFT OF THE HOLY GHOST

     NOTICE: Acts 2:38 is the fulfillment of the birth requirements Jesus mentioned in
    John 3:5 that were necessary to enter the Kingdom of God!

    water birth = baptism in the name of Jesus Christ!
    spirit birth = infilling of the Holy Ghost!

    Now, let's look at some more examples of people being born again of water and the
    Spirit as the Word Jesus gave His apostles continued to be preached throughout
    the Book of Acts...

     Phillip preaching to the Samaritans in Acts 8
     NOTICE: Some people say when they experienced joy; or when they believed in
    Jesus, or when they were baptized, they were automatically filled with the Holy Ghost. But what does the Word say?

     Acts 8:5-8
     Did they have great joy?

    Acts 8:12
     Were they baptized in His name?
    Did they believe in Jesus Christ?

    Acts 8:14-17
     Did they receive the Holy Ghost as a separate and distinct experience?

    Peter preaching to the Gentiles in Acts 10
    NOTICE    : Some people say being religious is enough, or that the Spirit-baptism
    evidenced by tongues was only for the day of Pentecost. If the Bible says this is true, then it is true. But the Word shows us through Cornelius' experience that this is not true... then it is not....

     Acts 10:1-2
     Was Cornelius a religious man?

    Acts 10:5-6
     Did God have more for him to do?

    Acts 10:44-46
     Did they receive the Holy Ghost and speak in tongues after the day of Pentecost?

    Acts 10:47-48
     Did they still have to be baptized in Jesus' name?

    Paul preaching to John's disciples in Acts 19
     NOTICE    : Many people who are believers have not even heard about the Holy Ghost
    that is promised to them. Also, some people say it is not necessary to be baptized or
    re-baptize (if you were baptized by John the Baptist, would you think it would be necessary to be re-baptized using a different baptismal formula?) Others say it does not matter what is spoken when you are baptized. If the Bible indicates it does not matter, then it does not matter...but, what if the Bible shows us it DOES matter?

    Acts 19:1-2
     They were believers, but had they heard of or received the Holy Ghost?

    Acts 19:3-5
     Did those baptized by John the Baptist have to be rebaptized in Jesus' name?

    Acts 19:6
     Was receiving the Holy Ghost accompanied by the initial evidence of speaking in
    other tongues?

    We have found that the Apostles preached the following message:
    ...the life of Christ and His death, burial and resurrection
    ...repentance toward God and belief in Jesus Christ baptism in water by immersion in
    Jesus' name
    ...receiving the gift of the Holy Ghost (which was accompanied by the initial
    evidence of speaking with other tongues)

     Now, let us read what the Apostles had to say about the message of salvation they
    proclaimed in the Book of Acts. We can do this by reading the epistles (letters) they wrote to their converts.
  • Into the Epistles

     As we read the Epistles, we will notice how strongly the Apostles felt about the
    gospel (good news) of salvation. This is not because they were being judgmental,
    it is because they knew the Word Jesus had given them to proclaim was going to
    judge all men.
  • What did Peter say?
     "Ye have purified your souls in obeying the truth.. being
    born again.. by the word of God.. and this is the word
    which by gospel is preached unto you." (I Peter
    1:22-25)

     Peter Asked A Question:
     "...What shall the end be of them that obey not the gospel
    of God?" (I Peter 4:17-18)
  • Paul Gave The Answer:
     "The Lord Jesus shall be revealed from heaven with his
    mighty angels, In flaming fire taking vengeance on them
    that know not God, and the obey not the Gospel of our
    Lord Jesus Christ: Who shall be punished with everlasting
    destruction from the presence of the Lord, and from the
    glory of his power." (2 Thessalonians 1:7-9)

     What did Paul say?
     "I marvel that ye are so soon removed from him that called
    you into grace of Christ unto another gospel: Which is not
    another, but there be some that trouble you, and would
    pervert the gospel of Christ. But though we, or an angel
    from heaven, preach any other gospel unto you than that
    which we have preached unto you, let him be accursed. As
    we said before, so say I now again, If any man preach any
    other gospel unto you than ye have received, let him be
    accursed." (Galations 1:6-9)
  • What did James say?
     "....Receive with meekness the engrafted word, which is able
    to save your souls. But be ye doers of the word, and not hearer
    only, (deceiving your own selves). For if any be a hearer of
    the word, and not a doer, he is like unto a man beholding his
    natural face in a glass: For he beholdeth himself, and goeth his
    way, and straightway forgetteth what manner of man he was."
    (James 1:21-24)
  • The Word is able to save our souls!
  • JAMES TELLS US THAT IF WE SEE SOMETHING WE NEED TO
    DO, AS WE LOOK INTO THE "MIRROR OF THE WORD", WE
    SHOULD DO IT. LET US NOW CONSIDER WHAT WE WILL DO
    WITH WHAT WE HAVE HEARD...

·  Conclusion

  • DO YOU BELIEVE the Word of God is true and will judge us?
  • DO YOU BELIEVE Jesus Christ is Lord and Savior?
  • DO YOU BELIEVE it is necessary to repent by determining to turn from sin and giving your life to God?
  • DO YOU BELIEVE water baptism in the same of Jesus Christ is the biblical way to be baptized?
  • DO YOU BELIEVE the baptism of the Holy Ghost is for you today, and when you receive it you will speak in other tongues, just as they did in the Bible?
  • IF YOU BELIEVE THESE THINGS, PRAY RIGHT NOW, ASKING GOD TO ALLOW YOU TO EXPERIENCE ALL THAT HE HAS FOR YOU!

·  Supplemental Study Scriptures:

(1) Matthew 7:13-24

 NOTE: God's warning regarding false prophets and the
importance of being a doer and not just a hearer of the
Word.

(2) Matthew 16:15-19

NOTE: Peter was given the "keys of the kingdom" because
of his revelation of who Jesus Christ was.

(3) Other "Great Commission" scriptures":

NOTE: In Matthew 28:18-20 the word "name" is
singular in this command to baptize. The Apostles obeyed
this command when they baptized only in the name of
Jesus, and did not use the titles mentioned here. (see Acts
4:12)
Mark 16:15-18. The importance of water baptism and the
signs following believers.

(4) Matthew 16:15-19

 NOTE: Peter, who was given the "keys of the kingdom",
uses them to open the "kingdom door" by preaching the
original apostolic message of salvation for the first time.

 (5) Acts 8:35-39

NOTE: Philip must have mentioned baptism when he
preached Jesus to the Eunuch, because the Eunuch asked to
be baptized in water. The Greek root word for baptize is
"bapto", which literally means to cover wholly with fluid,
to dip. (see also Romans 6:3-4).

(6) Acts 10:34-43

NOTE: Peter preached the life and lordship of Jesus Christ
as well as His death, burial and resurrection.

 (7) I Peter 3:20-21

NOTE: According to Peter baptism is an essential part of the
plan of salvation.

We encourage you to read through the Gospels... in detail... and
continue to walk "into His marvelous light"!

      •  Speaking in Tongues
         
  • Throughout Christianity there is a great misunderstanding about speaking in tongues The basic problem is that people are not aware of the fact that there are three types of speaking in tongues. Everyone must experience (1) the speaking in tongues that is connected to the initial evidence of receiving the Holy Ghost and (2) their personal prayer language. The last type of speaking in tongues (I Cor. 12:10), divers kinds of tongues, can and should be sought by all, but is not necessary to speak for salvation.
  • The confusion comes from people who mix the last type of speaking in tongues with the first and second, and say that it is not necessary to speak in tongues. They are making a serious mistake.
  • The Book of Corinthians was written to people who had already repented of their sins, been baptized in Jesus' name, and received the Holy Ghost with the initial evidence of speaking in tongues.
  • The epistles are letters written to early Christians. If people have not obeyed the plan of salvation and read the epistles, they are reading somebody else's mail. It is no wonder they don't understand. It is no wonder there is so much confusion.
  • The apostle Paul was not telling them not to speak in tongues but when and where to properly use them. If you complete I Cor. 14 it should be obvious that Paul was not saying do not speak in tongues for he said v. 18 "I thank my God I speak with tongues more than you all" and v. 39 "forbid not to speak in tongues."
  • 2 Tim 2:15 "Study to show thyself approved unto God, a work man that need not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth." Study the following scriptures carefully to understand the differences in the different types of speaking in tongues.
  • THREE TYPES OF SPEAKING IN TONGUES:
  • There are three types of speaking in tongues. Each type has a different purpose. Everyone in the New Testament experienced the first and second type the initial evidence of receiving the Holy Ghost and tongues used in personal prayer. Some people may never experience the third type, which is the gift of tongues, although it is something to which we should definitely aspire.

·  A. In the New Testament there are 24 direct references to tongues.

The first one, in Mark 16:17, says, "These signs shall follow them that believe . . . They shall speak with new tongues."

The last one, in I Corinthians 14:39 says, "Forbid not to speak with tongues."

The 24 Scriptures in the New Testament are as follows:

Mark 16:17 Acts 2:4 Acts 2:8 Acts 2:11 Acts 10:46 Acts 19:6

I Corinthians 12:10,12:30,13:8,14:2,14:4,14:5,14:6,14:9,14:13,14:14,14:18

I Corinthians 14:19,14:21,14:22,14:23,14:27,14:39


B. Two indirect references to tongues in the New Testament are as follows:

1. Romans 8:26 refers to use of tongues in personalized prayer.

2. James 3:1-12 explains why God uses the tongue.

C. In the Old Testament there are two scriptures that pertain to tongues:

1. Genesis 11:9 states that God confounded the languages at Babel and that:
It confused the people.
It separated the people.
Note: On the day of Pentecost the opposite of this took place: Speakers were not confused; they were united.

2. Isaiah 28:11-12 states, "For with stammering lips and another tongue will He speak to this people. To whom He said, this is the rest; and this is the refreshing: yet they would not hear." It is a prophesy connecting the giving of the Law at Mount Sinai, The Feast of Pentecost, and the Day of Pentecost when 120 disciples received the Holy Ghost in the upper room.  

  • What is the Baptism of the Holy Ghost?
  • The Baptism of the Holy Ghost is the promise of Jesus Christ that He would fill us with His Spirit, giving us power to be His witnesses, to overcome our flesh, and to make it to heaven.
  • Col. 1:27 says it very simply: "Christ in you, the hope of glory."
  • References:
    II Cor. 3:17,18 "The Lord is that Spirit"
    I John 3:24 "He abides in us"
  • What the Bible says about the Promise:
    • · Joel 2:28-29 (Acts 2:16-18) "I will pour out my Spirit upon all flesh"
    • · Isaiah 28:11-12 "with stammering lips and another tongue will he speak"
    • · Isaiah 59:20-21 Deliverance will be from the Lord
    • · Matthew 3:11 "He shall baptize you with the Holy Ghost, and with fire"
    • · Matthew 28:20 "I am with you always even unto the end of the world"
    • · John 14:26 "the Comforter, which is the Holy Ghost . . . Father will send"
    • · John 15:26 "the Comforter . . . whom I will send"
    • · John 16:7 "the Comforter . . . I will send Him"
    • · John 20:22 "Receive you the Holy Ghost"
    • · Acts 2:38-39 "You shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost"
    • · Gal. 3:13-18, esp. 14 "we might receive the promise"
  • The Baptism of the Holy Ghost is a very important New Testament experience.
  • Why is the term "Baptism" used?
  • Baptism means to totally immerse, plunge, or dip. Using this definition to be baptized in the Holy Ghost means to be completely immersed in the Spirit of God. We can be likened to an empty container in need of God's spirit. As an empty glass gets filled with water when submerged, so are we filled with His Spirit. "Baptism" as used in Acts 1:5, "filled" as used in Acts 2:4, "gift" as used in Acts 2:38, and "received" as used in Acts 8:17 are interchangeable terms .
  • Why is the term "Ghost" used?
  • The term Ghost is actually interchangeable with Spirit. You can find both listed in the King James Version of the Bible (Ghost: Acts 1:5, Acts 2:38-39; Spirit: John 3:5, Acts 2:17-18). Jesus, being a man, was composed of body, soul, and spirit. When He died, his body was separated from His spirit. His flesh had to taste of death. At His resurrection, His spirit was reunited with His body and glorified. Today, He freely gives His spirit to those that are obedient to His Word (Acts 5:32).
  • Why is the term "Holy" used?
  • God is holy. There is no other attribute of God that is talked about as much in the Bible as God's holiness.
    I Peter 1:16 says, "Be you holy, for I am holy" (Lev. 20:26). The root meaning of the word "holy" is to be "separated," to be without sin. Because God is holy and above sin, He is the only one that can help us to overcome sin. Without receiving the Holy Ghost, it is impossible for us to be holy.
  • It also tells us what we are supposed to be when we receive the Holy Ghost.
  • Is the Baptism of the Holy Ghost necessary?
  • 1. John 3:5 Jesus said, "Except a man be born of the water and of the Spirit, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God."
  • 2. Rom. 14:17 "For the Kingdom of God is . . . righteousness, and peace, and joy in the Holy Ghost ."
  • 3. Luke 24:49; Acts 1:4 Jesus commanded his disciples to tarry in Jerusalem for the Holy Ghost (also John 20:22).
  • 4. Romans 8:9 "But you are not in the flesh, but in the Spirit, if so be that the Spirit of God dwell in you. Now if any man have not the Spirit of Christ, he is none of His."
  • 5. The Feast of Tabernacles was a feast that was a yearly reminder of the Israelites' bondage and deliverance (salvation) from Egypt. An elaborate ritual occurred on the last day of the Feast of Tabernacles, at which the priest circled the altar seven times before kindling the sacrifices and the Psalms 113-118 were sung. It was a feast of joy and salvation. Isaiah 12:3 says, "With joy shall you draw water out of the wells of salvation ." (See also John 4:10-14 - Jesus was speaking to "Whosoever").
  • When this last song of praise ended, Jesus stood up and said (in John 7:37-39), "If any man thirst, let him come unto me, and drink. He that believes on me, as the scripture has said, out of his belly shall flow rivers of living water. (But this spoke he of the Spirit, which they that believe on him should receive: for the Holy Ghost was not yet given; because that Jesus was not yet glorified)."
  • Jesus speaking this at this time directly connected the Baptism of the Holy Ghost with salvation.
  • 6. 1 Cor. 12:3 "No man can say that Jesus is the Lord, but by the Holy Ghost ."
  • 7. Acts 1:8 "But you shall receive power , after that the Holy Ghost is come unto you; and you shall be witnesses unto me".
  • 8. 1 Cor. 6:11 "But you are washed, but you are sanctified, but you are justified in the name of the Lord Jesus, and by the Spirit of our God "
  • 9. 1 Cor. 12:13 "For by one Spirit are we baptized into one body."
  • 10. Eph. 1:13-14 "You were sealed with the Holy Spirit of promise, which is the earnest of our inheritance until the redemption of the purchased possession."
  • 11. Titus 3:5 ".. He saved us, by the washing of regeneration, and renewing of the Holy Ghost ."
  • 12. Mark 16:16 "He that believes and is baptized shall be saved." (1 Peter 3:21)
  • 13. Col 1:27 "Christ in you, the Hope of Glory."
  • Who can receive the Holy Ghost?
  • 1. Acts 5:32 "And we are witnesses of these things; and so is also the Holy Ghost, whom God has given to them that obey Him "
  • 2. Matt. 18:2 Those that come as little children can receive the Holy Ghost.
  • 3. Heb. 11:6, Mark 16:16, Acts 16:30-33 Those that believe (have faith) can receive the Holy Ghost.
  • 4. II Peter 3:9 "The Lord is not slack concerning his promise, . . . but is long suffering to us-ward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance." Those who repent can receive the Holy Ghost (Also Acts 2:38, Acts 3:19, II Cor. 6:16-7:1).
  • 5. Acts 2:38 "Repent, and be baptized everyone of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and you shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost." Mark 16:16 "He that believes, and is baptized , shall be saved; but he that believes not shall be damned." Those that are baptized can receive the Holy Ghost. Some do receive the Holy Ghost without being baptized first (i.e. Acts 10:44-48).
  • 6. Luke 11:9-13, Heb 4:16 Those that boldly ask Him, can receive the Holy Ghost.
  • 7. Acts 17:27 Those that feel after Him, and find Him , can receive the Holy Ghost.
  • 8. Psalm 81:10 Those that open their mouth can receive the Holy Ghost.
  • 9. Psalm 22:3 He inhabits the praises of His people.
  • When did the first Baptism of the Holy Ghost take place?
  • The first Baptism of the Holy Ghost took place on the Day of Pentecost (Acts 1:4-5, 2:1-4).
  • Why did the Baptism of the Holy Ghost occur on the Day of Pentecost?
  • The Day of Pentecost was the completion of the feast of weeks, which was synonymous with the Israelites' deliverance (salvation) from Egypt. Two loaves of bread were waved, which speak of the fact His plan of salvation was provided for both Jews and Gentiles.
  • The Day of Pentecost was a feast day that commemorated the giving of the law on Mount Sinai in the Old Testament. The law was written on stone. In the New Testament the law was written on men's hearts when He filled them with His Spirit. In the Old Testament, it was prophesied that He would write His laws on the "inward parts" and in their "hearts" (Jer. 31:31-33, Heb 8:7-13). All that entered into this New Covenant would know the Lord personally (Jer. 31:31-34).
  • The Day of Pentecost marked the beginning of the Old Covenant and the New Covenant. The Holy Ghost experience is the essence of the New Covenant replacing the Old Covenant of the law (II Cor. 3:3-18). The New Covenant is established on better promises (Heb. 8:6).
  • Did people have the Holy Ghost before the coming of Jesus Christ?
  • 1. Luke 1:15 John the Baptist did
  • 2. Genesis 41:38 Joseph did
  • 3. Exodus 31:2,3; 35:31 Bezaleel did
  • 4. Luke 1:41, 67 Elizabeth and Zacharias, John the Baptist's parents did
  • 5. In most cases the scriptures describe the Holy Ghost or Spirit of God coming upon, or moving upon people.
  • o Numbers 11:17-25 The Spirit was put upon the seventy elders
  • o Numbers 24:2 The Spirit of God came upon Balaam
  • o Judges 3:9,10 The Spirit of the LORD came upon Othniel
  • o Judges 6:34 . . . upon Gideon
  • o Judges 11:29 . . . upon Jephthah
  • o I Samuel 11:6 . . . upon Saul
  • o II Chr. 15:1 . . . upon Azariah
  • o II Chr. 24:20 . . . upon Zechariah
  • 6. Peter described it: II Peter 1:21 "For the prophecy came not in old time by the will of man: but holy men spoke as they were moved upon by the Holy Ghost."
  • Conclusion: We must conclude that the Spirit of God was in various Old Testament characters. Not everyone in the Old Testament had His Spirit. Those that had His Spirit received it for some specific purpose.
  • How is the Spirit (of God) that John the Baptist and other Old Testament people received different from what we can receive today?
  • 1. Everything in the gospels pertaining to the Baptism of the Holy Ghost and salvation is future tense:
  • o John the Baptist pointed to Jesus: Matthew 3:11 "I indeed baptize you with water unto repentance: but He that comes after me is mightier than I, whose shoes I am not worthy to bear: He shall baptize you with the Holy Ghost, and with fire." A special sign was given to John to show him that Jesus was the one who would baptize with the Holy Ghost (John 1:33).
  • o Jesus said that he would have to go away before the Comforter would come: John 16:7 "Nevertheless I tell you the truth; it is expedient for you that I go away for if I go not away, the Comforter will not come unto you; but if I depart, I will send Him unto you."
  • o John 7:38,39 "The Holy Ghost was not yet given."
  • o Before Jesus ascended into Heaven, He told His disciples to go to Jerusalem to receive the Holy Ghost (Matt 16:18, Luke 24:47-49).
  • 2. The great heroes of the faith in Hebrews 11 did not receive the promise (Heb. 11:39,40).
  • 3. On the Day of Pentecost, they that received the Holy Ghost spoke in tongues (See also Acts 10:45-46, 19:6). John the Baptist or any of the Old Testament saints did not speak in tongues when they received the Holy Ghost. They had something different .
  • 4. Matthew 11:11 "Verily, I say unto you, Among them that are born of women there has not risen a greater than John the Baptist notwithstanding, he that is least in the kingdom of heaven is greater than he ." (Luke 7:28)
  • 5. What we have is greater-- I Peter 1:12 "Unto whom it was revealed, that not unto themselves, but unto us they did minister the things, which are now reported unto you by them that have preached the gospel unto you with the Holy Ghost sent down from Heaven; which thing the angels desire to look into."
  • 6. Since the day of Pentecost, the Holy Ghost was given not only to fill people, but to make them a member of the body of Christ (I Cor. 12:3) "For by one Spirit are we all baptized into one body."
  • 7. Jesus had to die on the cross before His church (bride) could come into existence:
  • o Paul spoke of a great mystery, Eph 5:32 "This is a great mystery: but I speak concerning Christ and the church." Adam is a type of Christ and Eve is a type of the New Testament Church (Romans 5:14; Eph. 5:26-32).
  • o Gen. 2:21-24 As Adam's bride was taken from his side, Jesus' bride came from His side.
    John 19:34 The blood and water that poured from His side on the cross gave birth to the New Testament church.
  • 8. The Holy Spirit is given to abide with us permanently (John 14:16). It is the earnest of our inheritance (Eph. 1:13,14). By giving us His Spirit, Jesus is showing us the seriousness of His intent to be in us through out eternity, if we so desire.
  • 9. It was Jesus' duty to baptize with the Holy Ghost (Mark 1:8)--No one else could give it.
  • What is the evidence of receiving the Holy Ghost?
  • There is both an external and internal evidence that a person has received the Holy Ghost. (a) The common external evidence that occurred every time someone received the Holy Ghost was that they spoke in Tongues. Jesus had prophesied about it in Mark 16:17 "And these signs shall follow them that believe . . . they shall speak with new tongues," saying that there would be a definite sign following those that believed. Read the actual following occurrences where people received the Holy Ghost and note what the obvious evidence was "Speaking in tongues."
    Acts 1-2, esp. Acts 2:4 "speak with other tongues" (Jews: 120 disciples including Mary the mother of Jesus, and several women Acts 1:12-26).
    Acts 2:33 "which you now see and hear "
    Acts 10:44-48 "speak with tongues" (Gentiles)--How did they know that they had received the Holy Ghost?     Acts 10:46 (Also Acts 11:15-17 "the like gift")
    Acts 19:1-6 "spoke with tongues" (Ephesians)
    John 3:8 states that the pouring out of the Holy Ghost would be invisible, yet seen and heard.
    The Bible does not state that the Apostle Paul spoke in tongues when he received the Holy Ghost, but it does state that he spoke in tongues and understood the differences between the different types of tongues
    (I Cor. 12, 13, 14; esp. I Cor. 14:18).
    II Cor 13:1, Matt. 18:16, and Deut. 19:5 state that in order for a doctrine to be established that two or three witness have to say the same thing. Obviously from the above, we have many witnesses to the fact that speaking in tongues is the initial evidence of receiving the Holy Ghost. (b) The common internal evidence is the transformation that takes place inside a person: They receive power, strength, joy, the fruits of the spirit (Gal. 5:22-23), etc. The transformation reflects the abiding presence of God in a person's life and in many cases cannot be immediately observed. Because of this it is not a significant indicator of the receiving of the Holy Ghost.
  • Did everyone in the New Testament speak in tongues when they received the Holy Ghost?
  • Everyone in the New Testament spoke in tongues when they received the Holy Ghost. The only group of people where it could be questionable is the Samaritans in Acts 8:5-25. Philip went to the Samaritans. They listened to him, saw miracles, had great joy, believed his message, and were baptized in the name of Jesus. Since signs and miracles were already evident (v. 6), that which took place when they received the Holy Ghost must have been far more wonderful and powerful. If nothing supernatural had taken place, Simon would not have wanted to buy the power of laying on of hands to receive the Holy Ghost.
  • Acts 8 was probably written to show us that receiving the Holy Ghost was a separate experience from miracles, great emotion, believing, repenting, and being baptized in the Name of Jesus, and that salvation could not be attained without the receiving of the Holy Ghost.
  • When you speak in tongues, who is speaking?
  • Matthew 10:20 "For it is not you that speak, but the Spirit of your Father which speakes in you."
  • Romans 8:26 "Likewise the Spirit also helps our infirmities: for we know not what we should pray for as we ought: but the Spirit itself makes intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered."
  • Acts 2:4 "as the spirit of God gives utterance"
  • What is "speaking in tongues"?
  • Those who speak in tongues speak in a real language, although they themselves may not understand what they are saying. Many times observers have been able to recognize the languages. In Acts 2, foreign Jews were amazed because the Galilean Jews were able to speak their languages. That was the evidence to them that a miracle was taking place. I Cor. 14:21-22 says that tongues are "a sign for them that believe not."
  • The language can be either human or angelic in nature (1 Cor. 13:1).
  • Some people try to say that tongues were given to the 120 in Acts 2 to propagate the gospel to foreign Jews. If that is so, why did Peter have to get up and preach to them immediately after they had heard the 120?
  • Then, why did God have the Gentiles and Ephesian Jews in Acts 10 and 19 respectively speak in tongues?
  • Why are millions today speaking in tongues?
  • Why are "tongues" used as the initial evidence of receiving the Holy Ghost?
  • 1. God is Sovereign. He can do what He wants (Is 40:13-14, I Cor. 1:25-29).
  • 2. The words we speak express our inner self (Matthew 12:34).
  • 3. Speaking in tongues symbolizes God's complete control of the believer. He is able to conquer the unconquerable. The tongue is a little member that controls the whole body like the rudder of a ship (James 3:8, Rom 6:13).
  • 4. Without a genuine proof that we have received the Holy Ghost, what assurance beyond our own feelings could we have that we have got the Holy Ghost? People that believe in unconditional eternal security say that a person that sins never really received the Holy Ghost or was converted in the first place. When church "leaders" or "pillars" fall in sin, this leads many to wonder if their own conversion was genuine.
  • 5. At Pentecost God reversed the sign of judgment of tongues at Babel, and the Door of Salvation opened to all nations.
  • 6. It fulfills prophesy (Is 28:11-12).
  • 7. It fulfills promises (Mk 16:15 -18, Acts 1:8).
  • 8. The Baptism of water and Spirit constitutes the new birth (John 3:3-7). As the cry of a baby removes all doubt of its birth, Jesus said a sound would accompany every birth of the Spirit (John 3:8).
  • 9. God is able. He made a donkey to talk (Num. 22:28-35), a deaf and dumb man to talk (Mark 7:31-37), people to permanently change their language (Gen 11:7-9), and He could make rocks to cry out (Luke 19:40). Why can't He get someone to speak in a foreign language?
  • Is the "gift of the Holy Ghost" the same as the nine spiritual "gifts" that are talked about in I Cor. 12, 13, 14?
  • The word "gift" is expressed with a different Greek word when referring to the initial baptism of the Holy Ghost - "Dorea." When the "gift" denotes any of the nine spiritual gifts including the Gift of tongues, the word "charisma" is used. The Bible purposely makes a distinction between these words.
  • What is the most common error concerning Speaking in Tongues?
  • The most common error concerning "speaking in tongues" is that people think that there is only one type of "Speaking in Tongues" -but there are actually three types . The Bible makes the distinction and addresses the issue of spiritual gifts in the Book of Corinthians to people that had already received the Holy Ghost and spoke in tongues. Everyone must experience the speaking in tongues that is connected to the initial evidence of receiving the Holy Ghost (1st type) and they must develop their prayer language (second type). The third type of speaking in tongues is not necessary for salvation, but definitely beneficial and should be sought by everyone. If the three types are confused and all are thought to be unnecessary, a serious mistake could be made: a person could be kept from receiving an essential part of salvation-the Holy Ghost.
  • Satan is trying to de-emphasize speaking in tongues to keep people from receiving the Holy Ghost. He has tried to distort what Paul was talking about concerning the spiritual gifts to the point that he was saying that Paul was telling people not to speak in tongues. Reading the entire chapter (Cor. 14) can easily show you Paul's true feelings on speaking in tongues, that he spoke in tongues, and that there was a proper way to use them.
  • According to I Cor. 13:8-10, are tongues to cease in this age?
  • The "ceasing of tongues" in I Cor. 13:8-10 does not refer to this age. In fact the verses point out that if tongues cease, knowledge and prophecy (preaching and teaching) will also cease. That which is perfect is Jesus, and He has not returned yet.
  • The gift of tongues spoke about in I Cor. 12 - 14 is for the Church today. Why would God give them only to take them away?
  • Does the devil have the ability to produce tongues?
  • Satan has power to perform miracles and he often tries to imitate God's work (Ex. 7:10-12, Rev. 13:2, 11-15)
    (i.e. in one type of Yoga (Hinduism), people scream, contort their bodies, go through crazy gymnastics, and speak in a hideous tongue).
  • That facts that "tongues" of the Devil exist is a proof of the real Biblical tongues because for everything that God has, the devil has a counterfeit.
  • If people are seeking God, reading the Bible, and praying to Jesus, they don't have to worry about the "tongues" of the devil.
  • Why didn't the fire and wind repeat themselves in further incidents of people receiving the Holy Ghost?
  • The Bible uses the fire and wind in much the same way that fire, thunder, lightning, and an earthquake was used at the giving of the Law on Mount Sinai. It caught people's attention. It was a manifestation of His power.
  • Additional implications of the wind and fire are:
    • · The wind is significant with the breath of God in Gen.2:7, John 3:8, 20:22, and Ezekiel 37:9.
    • · The fire of the Spirit equates to Matthew 3:11-12 to burn up the chaff, the Golden Candlestick )Rev 1:12-20, Matt 8:12), and the burning bush (Heb 1:7; Exodus 3:1-15) and every manifestation of God's glory up to and including the Day of Pentecost. The glory cloud on Mount Sinai settled on the tabernacle in the Desert. Later it appeared when David was establishing his tabernacle and when Solomon dedicated his tabernacle. Significantly there were 120 priests, trumpeters, and shewbread -a type of the Day of Pentecost where the glory cloud became 120 glory clouds .
  • The number 120 signifies the end of life in the flesh and the beginning of life in the Spirit (i.e. 120 years to build Noah’s Ark, 120 Jubilees (120 X 50 = 6000 years), three 40 year periods in Moses’ life, three kings each reigning 40 years, and 120 people on the day of Pentecost).
  • What is the significance of the "laying on of hands" in the receiving of the Holy Ghost?
  • The laying on of hands is not an absolute necessity in receiving the Holy Ghost because some people received the Holy Ghost without it. Laying on of hands helps a person demonstrate their submission to God's plan and leadership, symbolizes the bestowal of God's spirit, and helps instill faith in the seeker.
  • What are the benefits of having the Holy Ghost?
  • 1. Titus 3:5, Eph. 1:13-14 The seal of our SALVATION
  • 2. John 14:26 Comforter = Counselor, Helper, Advocate, Strength, and Standby
  • 3. II Cor 5:17 Make us a new creature
  • 4. I Cor 12:4-11, Acts 6:3, 11:22-24 Equips us for service
  • 5. Acts 1:8, Mark 16:17-18, II Tim 1:7 Gives us power (Includes power: to be a witness, to overcome sin, and to be resurrected at his coming Eph 1:13, 4:30, Rom. 8.11).
  • 6. II Cor. 3:18 Changes us to be like Jesus
  • 7. John 16:13, Rom. 8:4 Gives us direction and daily guidance
  • 8. Acts 13:52, Luke 24:52-53 Joy
  • 9. Ezek. 36:27 Helps us to walk in His statutes
  • 10. John 3:5,8 Regeneration--the new birth experience
  • 11. Romans 8:15, Gal. 4:5-6 Adoption--makes us sons of God
  • 12. Romans 8:5, II Cor 3:18 Holiness--we are changed into His image
  • 13. II Cor. 3:18, I Peter 4:14 Glory
  • 14. Is 28:11-12, Matt. 11:28 Rest and refreshing
  • 15. Rom. 8:13 Mortify the deeds of the Flesh
  • 16. Rom. 8:26 Receive Intercession
  • 17. I Cor 6:19 Makes us a Temple of the Holy Ghost
  • 18. Eph. 2:20-22 Makes us a habitation of God--The Holy Temple, the one building, fitly framed together.
  • 19. Gal. 3:13-18 Makes us recipients of special blessings--heirs of the Abrahamic Covenant.
  • 20. Eph. 2:18 Access to God
  • 21. I Cor. 6:11, I Peter 1:2 Sanctifies us.
  • 22. Titus 3:5 Renews our nature
  • 23. Rom. 8:16 Witness that we are children of God
  • 24. I Cor. 12:3 Gives us ability to say Jesus is Lord
  • 25. Rom. 8:26 Helps us to pray
  • 26. John 14:26 Will teach us all things and remind us of what He said
  • 27. John 16:7, 13, John 15:26 He will lead us to all truth
  • 28. I Cor. 12:13 Puts us into the body of Christ
  • 29. II Tim 1:7 A sound mind
  • 30. Rom 8:26-27, Eph 2:18 Intercessor
  • 31. Gal 4:22-23, Rom 5:5,14:17, I John 4:7-8,16, I Cor. 13:1-2 The nine fruits of the spirit ( love , joy, peace, long suffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, and temperance).
  • 32. Rom. 10:9-10, I Cor. 12:3 Gives us the ability to confess that Jesus is Lord
  • 33. II Cor 3:17, Rom 8:15 Liberty
  • 34. Rom 14:17 His Kingdom gets established in our hearts
  • 35. Rom 14:17, Rom 3:22 Righteousness of God
  • 36. John 16:8 Reproves the world
  • Luke 24:47-49 Endued with power means clothed with power--the believer receives a Garment of Priestly Ministry

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