Leading Gospel Studies In New Berea

WORKING FOR THE KINGDOM 1b

Leading Gospel Studies in New Berea

An illustrative story on how to lead evangelistic studies in a town with different religions but ready to hear the gospel

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Table of Contents Introduction..........................................................................5 L1. Do I Need to be Saved?.................................................6 HOW TO PRAY WHEN TEACHING THE LAW....................................6 USING THE TEN COMMANDMENTS TO TUTOR PEOPLE TO CHRIST................................................................................................6 THE RESULT OF YOUR DISOBEDIENCE........................................10

L2. Did Jesus Really Rise from the Dead? ........................13 DID JESUS REALLY DIE?.................................................................13 IS SUBSTITUTIONARY DEATH JUST AND DESIRED BY GOD?....14 ARE PAUL’S WRITINGS ABOUT RESURRECTION RELIABLE?.....15 ‘HOW CAN JESUS BE IN THE HEART OF THE EARTH?’ ..............17 ‘HOW DID JESUS LEAD CAPTIVITY CAPTIVE?’ ............................19 WAS JESUS THREE DAYS AND THREE NIGHTS DEAD?..............19 AN EYE-WITNESS’ ACCOUNT THAT JESUS DIED.........................21 JESUS’ BURIAL.................................................................................22 HINDRANCES TO STEALING JESUS’ DEAD BODY........................22 JESUS’ APPEARANCE TO MANY....................................................24 A BELIEF-PRODUCING ACCOUNT OF JESUS’ APPEARANCE.....24

L3. Did Jesus Fulfill Messianic Prophecies?......................26 HOW TO PRAY WHEN TEACHING MESSIANIC PROPHECIES ...........................................................................................................26 EXAMPLES OF SCRIPTURES FULFILLED IN JESUS’ LIFE. .........27

L4. How Can Jesus Be Both God & Man?.........................31 IS JESUS THE ‘I AM’?.......................................................................31 HOW CAN JESUS BE CALLED GOD?..............................................32 IS JESUS THE WORD?.....................................................................34 MORE QUESTIONS ABOUT CHRIST’S DEITY................................37

L5. Can I Be Sure I Am Going to Heaven?........................47 IS CHRIST SEEN IN ME?..................................................................47 WHEN I DIE, WILL I IMMEDIATELY GO TO HEAVEN?....................49 WHAT ABOUT GOOD WORKS?.......................................................52

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AM I FORGIVEN?..............................................................................52 SAVING FAITH..................................................................................53

L6. What are the Other Results of Christ’s Sufferings for Me?....................................................................................57 MENTAL AND EMOTIONAL PEACE.................................................57 BOLDNESS TO COME TO GOD.......................................................61 HEALING OF SICKNESSES AND DISEASES...................................63 CONTINUED FELLOWSHIP WITH GOD...........................................65 JESUS SUFFERED FOR YOU!.........................................................67

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Introduction In ‘Witnessing in New Berea’, I shared to you how to start evangelizing a place by finding a son of peace after praying and fasting for it. The illustrative story ended with an overview of the discipleship process. In this book, you will learn how to lead Spirit-empowered, evangelistic Bible studies in a house or houses of prayer. This book is a leader’s guide for the use of ‘Be Sure You are Saved’. If you are using a computer to read this, you may click this link: D:\Tabac's Files\HELP MATERIALS, FOR PUBLICATION\EVANGELISM & DISCIPLESHIP MATERIALS, ENGLISH\1. Be Sure You are Saved.odt. I pray that it will equip you (Ephesians 4:11-16) to do the work of an evangelist (2Timothy 4:5)--to help preach the gospel to all men in the power of the Holy Spirit (Mark 16:15-18; Acts 1:8) with all wisdom (Colossians 1:28-29) that you can help save as many as possible (1Corinthians 9:19-23), to the glory of God! --Brother Jun, 06/17/08

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Do I Need to be Saved?

HOW TO PRAY WHEN TEACHING THE LAW On the way to Nel’s house, Pol prayed in Tim’s hearing, ‘Father, during our study, in the name of Jesus, I forbid sin from 'seizing the opportunity afforded by the commandment' and producing in Nel and those who will join our Bible study "every kind of covetous desire" (Romans 7:8).’ ‘Tim, when there are new comers, at the end, lead them to receive Christ, okay?’ asks Pol. ‘Sure’ -- o0o --

USING THE TEN COMMANDMENTS TO TUTOR PEOPLE TO CHRIST 'Welcome!' is Nel's enthusiastic greeting to Pol, Tim and Precy. 'This is my wife Linda. These are our kids, Mike and Cathy.' Pol seeks to remember their names by greeting, 'I'm glad to meet you, ‘Linda … Mike … Cathy!' Nel continues to introduce those who are there, 'These are my friends Roman, Abe and Manny. … I shared to them that you prayed for me and that the doctor was surprised that I recovered quickly! I then tried to share to them what I heard from you but they have questions I can't answer! So I asked them to come here.' Having seated, Pol responds, 'We'll try to answer them, beginning with the statement, "You need to be saved!" Tim distributes the photocopied materials entitled 'Do I Need to be Saved?'. Pol continues, 'To this statement they may react, "I need to be saved?" Yes, indeed! Manny, please read the verses in your notes' "for all have SINNED and fall short of the glory of God," (Romans 3:23). "Everyone who sins breaks the LAW…; in fact, sin is lawlessness." (1John 3:4). 'According to these verses, what is your condition before God?' asks Pol. 'I have sinned and have broken the law of God,' responds Manny quickly. 'Here are the Ten Commandments given by the God who created you, the heavens and the earth. As we read each, let us answer the question, "Which ones have you disobeyed?" Let us take turns to read the commandments. Manny, please begin with the first commandment…'

7 '1. I am the LORD your God. You shall have no other gods before Me.' Pol reads what is written on the right side of the booklet: 'What you valued more than God has become your god. What is it? Money?…' Linda looks at Nel and smiled. 'Studies?' Cathy looks at her brother Mike with a sarcastic look.. ' … Self?' ' 'My sister spends a longer time looking at herself at the mirror than the time we spent at the church !' Mike gets even. ' … Your loved one?…' Nel looks at Linda, holds her hand and acknowledges, 'I guess I made my family my god sometime in the past!' 'Roman, will you read commandment number two?' asks Pol. '2. You shall not make for yourself an idol … You shall not bow down to them or worship them …' Roman protests, 'But that is not the second commandment!' Pol asks, 'Do you have a Bible here?' Nel wipes the Bible in the shelf and discovered that it has the Deuterocanonical books in it. Pol turned to Exodus 20:4 and asked Roman to read it. Pol asks, 'Do you think then that it is the second commandment?' 'Oh yes, it is!' admits Roman. 'Have you made or worshiped an idol?' … Pol tactfully moves to the next command, 'Abe, will you read commandment number 3?' '3. You shall not misuse the name of the LORD …' 'Have you misused God's name when unexpected things happened or when you cursed others? … 'Mommy does that!' Cathy said it with a smile. 'Just today, she said, 'O my God!'

8 Linda reads, '4…. Six days you shall labor and do all your work, but the seventh day is a Sabbath to the LORD your God. On it you shall not do any work …." 'You have been quick to read the next command, ha?' smiles Nel. The group laughs. 'That is what I have been trying tell these my friends--Saturday, the seventh day, should be time to go to church,' comments Addie. 'I'm glad you are convinced in your own mind as to when is the day to go to church! The Apostle Paul said, “One man considers one day more sacred than another; another man considers every day alike. Each one should be fully convinced in his own mind.” (Romans 14:5)' 'Oh, thank you!' is Addie's answer to the response he did not expect. Dear reader: If you think the day of rest should always be the seventh or the first day, have you studied why is the Sabbath the 1st and 8th days in Leviticus 23:39? What do you think about Hebrews 4:1,3,5,9-11; Revelations 14:13? Tim reads the question, 'Do you obey God's command to work? … In your busyness, do you have no day in a week to spend with the Lord?…' 'Mike, will you read number 5?' 'Honor your father and your mother.' Mike reads and points to her sister, who reacts, 'You also disobey that command!' Pol explains, 'The questions I am about to read are not only for the two of you, but also for the rest of us here, "Do you always obey your parents? … honor them? … help them? …"' '6. You shall not murder.' "…whoever gets angry with his brother … says … 'Empty-head!' … 'fool!' will be liable to the fiery hell." (Matthew 5:22 EMTV) Did you get angry with someone?… not forgive him?… speak harsh words to him?… 'You came just at the right time!,' remarks Manny. 'My wife and I had a quarrel last night.' ‘What do you intend to do as a result of this study?’ asks Pol. ‘I guess I need to ask forgiveness from her for speaking harsh words when I was angry with her last night.’

9 ‘I pray that God will draw you closer to each other as you do that!’ 'When I was a boy,' Abe remembers, 'my mom used to tell me, "Why are you not as intelligent as your older brother?” Perhaps that negative word demotivated me from finishing my studies!' Pol and Tim looks at him with pity. ‘7. You shall not commit adultery.’ "20 Do not have sexual relations with your neighbor’s wife…. 6 (Or with) … any close relative … 22 … with a man as one lies with a woman… 23 … with an animal …." (Leviticus 18) 'So the media is wrong about its acceptance of the third sex!'? discovers Manny. The group nods their heads in agreement. "... everyone who looks on a woman to lust for her has committed adultery with her already in his heart." (Matthew 5:28 NAS). Have you gazed at one not your spouse to lust for him/her?…Have you caused others to look with a lustful purpose at you? … ‘8. You shall not steal.’ Have you stolen other's property though it may only be a small amount… ‘I wonder why the candy bars are the most sold goods when my kids are selling in the store?’ asked Linda. Have you borrowed something with no intention of returning it? … ‘Oh, I forgot to return the book I borrowed from you!’ confesses Abe to Nel, ‘I’ll return it tomorrow.’ ‘9. You shall not give false testimony against your neighbor.’ Have you lied? … Have you said, "I have no money!" when you just did not want to lend? … Have you told others, “Tell him I am not here!” ‘This time, I really don’t have money!’ exclaims Manny. ‘So, you are saying that you did that sin in the past but not now?’ asks his friend Abe. Everyone smiles at Abe teasing his friend. “10. You shall not covet your neighbor's house… wife … or anything that belongs to your neighbor." (Exodus 20:1-17) … 'In what I learned, this is the ninth and tenth commandments!' remarks Roman.

10 Pol answers tactfully, 'What we are focusing now is obedience to them and not the right numbering. That is more important, right?' 'Oh yes!' Have you coveted others' possessions- their spouse, money, workers, etc.?

THE RESULT OF YOUR DISOBEDIENCE 'Have you disobeyed at least one commandment?’ ‘I think I obeyed only number 2!’ says Abe. ‘For me, I disobeyed all of them!’ exclaims Roman ‘Me too,’ affirms Manny and Nel. The others mentioned different numbers from 6-9. ‘Since we all disobeyed more than one commandment, consider these: ‘For whoever keeps the whole law and yet stumbles at just one point is guilty of breaking C ALL of it. (James 2:10). B. ‘Having disobeyed at least one commandment, how many of the Ten Commandments have you broken?’ ‘All!’ ‘… all our righteous acts are like filthy rags … our sins sweep us away.’ (Isaiah 64:6; Job 15:16) ‘Will your righteous acts then make you more acceptable to God?’ ‘Oh yes, it won't!’ was Manny's response with an enlightened face 'With that in mind,' Pol continues, 'let us see...' THE RESULT OF YOUR DISOBEDIENCE AND THE SOLUTION ‘But your iniquities have SEPARATED you FROM YOUR GOD; your sins have hidden his face from you, so that he will not hear.’ (Isaiah 59:2). C. ‘According to this verse, what is a result of your sins?’ ‘They have separated me from God.’ Your condition is called "dead in your transgressions and sins" (Ephesians 2:1) "For the wages of sin is death…" (Romans 6:23). “5 … the Lord … destroyed those who did not believe. 7 … and … gave themselves up to sexual immorality and perversion. They serve as an example of those who SUFFER the punishment of eternal FIRE.” (Jude 1:5-7)

11 'What is the tense of the word SUFFER?', Pol asks, 'Present ...', Roman replies. In unison with Abe, Manny exclaims, 'they are now suffering in fire!' 'Yes, that is what the rich man is now experiencing in Hades (Lucas 16:19-31) which is in the lower parts of the earth (Ezekiel 32:24; Ephesians 4:9; Numbers 16:32). He can be recognized for Abraham recognized the rich man (v.25). He has a body there. He has eyes with which he saw Abraham and Lazarus (v.23b). He has head and neck to lift up the eyes (v.23b). He also has a tongue (v.24) with which he spoke. He is now suffering there (v.23a,28b; 2Peter 2:9) because there is fire there (v.24b) though it is dark (Jude 1:13; Job 10:21-22; Psalm 88:6). He also has no water with which to quench his thirst (v.24a; Zechariah 9:11). He is wasting with hunger and has no strength (Psalm 88:4) against the fullness of violence (Psalm 74:19-20; Job 24:19 KJV note). He receives maximum and cruel (Song of Songs 8:6) troubles (Psalm 88:3), pains (116:3) and sorrow (2Samuel 22:6; Psalm 18:5) in heat, the teeth of wild beasts and venom of vipers (Deuteronomy 32:22-24) and worms that surround him (Isaiah 14:11). He has no peace (Isaiah 57:21). He cannot escape from that place (v.26). He is imprisoned (1Peter 3:19) in a chamber (Proverbs 7:27) or room with “bars” (Job 17:16; Jonah 2:6 KJV). He is like the angels who “when they sinned” God sent “to hell, putting them into gloomy dungeons to be held for judgment” (2Peter 2:4). The response to the revealed truth will bring him there (v.29-31). Manny asks, 'But aren't they still to be punished in the future? 'That is also true,' affirms Pol, 'read on.' 'They will be punished with everlasting destruction and shut out from the presence of the Lord … (2Thessalonians 1:9). ' ‘John saw the future. He narrated it in the past tense: 5 (The rest of the dead did not come to life until the thousand years were ended.) This is the first resurrection 6—Blessed and H—HOLY are those who have part in the first resurrection. The second death has I—NO power over them…. 7 When the thousand years are over…. 12 And I saw the dead, great and small, standing before the throne, and books were opened. Another book was opened, which is the book of life. The dead were judged according to what they had done as recorded in the books.13 The sea gave up the dead that were in it, and death and Hades gave up the dead that were J— IN them, and each person was judged according to what he had K— DONE. (Revelation 20)

12 'Note that the dead who were not part in the first resurrection will have remained in Hades until it will give them up. Then they will be judged according to what they had done. Since they have all sinned and all their righteousness is as filthy garments (Isaiah 64:6), their works could not save them (Ephesians 2:8-9). Their only hope is for their names to be written in the Lamb’s book of life. However, their names will not be found there since they have not been holy and blameless and the second death, the lake of fire has power over them. Since their names are not found written in the book of life, they will be thrown Into the lake of fire. 'Manny, please read Revelation 20:14,15' '.... The lake of FIRE is the second death. If anyone's name was not found written in the book of LIFE [belonging to the lamb that was slain], he was thrown into the lake of fire….' (Revelations 20:14,15; 13:8). D. If you continue being separated from God, dead in sins, what kind of punishment can you expect? ‘When I die, I will join those who now suffer the punishment of eternal fire and will be punished more in the lake of fire. E. ‘Where should your name be written so that you will not be thrown there?’ ‘In the book of Life of the lamb.’ … John saw Jesus coming towards him and said, "Look, the LAMB of God, who takes away the sin of the world!" (John 1:29) An angel told Joseph, "… you are to give Him the name H JESUS, because he will save his people from their sins." (Matthew 1:21) F. ‘Who is that LAMB who can save you from your sins? ‘Jesus!’ was the answer of the group. ‘Is He your Savior?’ Some nodded their heads in agreement. ‘To make sure, Tim will explain to us the inside cover article, ‘Do You Want to Always be with God who Reigns?’ … Tim explains it. The group listened while Nel observes that Tim just repeated what Pol explained to him the day before … … ‘Does this prayer expresses the desire of your heart?’ Tim asks. Mike and Cathy prayed the prayer, while the others says they were not yet ready.

13 ‘Next week, we’ll continue our study at the same day and time here! Okay?’ Everyone nods in agreement. ‘You may also invite others!’ 'We will,' says Abe and Manny.

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L2. Did Jesus Really Rise from the Dead? New comers attends the meeting. After some time of introducing them and a prayer for God’s guidance, Pol asks Abe to read Romans 10:9. “… if you confess with your mouth, ‘Jesus is Lord,’ and believe in your heart that God RAISED Him from the dead, you will be saved.” 'According to this verse, what do you need to believe in order to be saved?’ ‘That God raised Jesus from the dead!’ was Roman’s quick response. ‘On the other hand,’ Abe argues, ‘In 1 Corinthians 15:13-19, it says, “….if Christ has not been raised, our preaching is useless and so is your faith. …. your faith is futile; you are still in your sins. Then those also who have fallen asleep in Christ are lost. If only for this life we have hope in Christ, we are to be pitied more than all men.”’ Pol gladly follows up Abe’s point by asking the group, ‘According to this passage, if Jesus did not rise from the dead, what would be a result for us?’ ‘Our faith is useless and futile and we are to be pitied more than all men— because instead of being saved, those who died believing in Christ are lost!’, observes Apol.

DID JESUS REALLY DIE? ‘Jesus cannot rise from the dead because He did not die!’, exclaims Abe, ‘The Jews just thought they killed Him but He did not! God answered His prayer and saved Him from death according to Hebrews 5:7: “During the days of Jesus’ life on earth, he offered up prayers and petitions with loud cries and tears to the one who could save him from death, and he was heard because of his reverent submission.” ‘However,’ replies Apol, ‘the verse that follows what you quoted says, “Although he was a son, he learned obedience from what he suffered” (v.8). In chapter 2 verse 9, it says, “…Jesus… suffered death… for everyone”’ ‘But Jesus prayed that God deliver him from death,’ Abe reasons out, ‘when he prayed “Father … take this cup from me….” (Luke 22:42)’ ‘Yes, Jesus’ prayers for deliverance from death were all answered by God (John 11:22,42; 5:18; 8:59; 10:39; 11:47-54),’ Pol affirms, ‘But the whole verse says, “Father, if you are willing, take this cup from me; yet not my will, but yours be done.” He expressed desire not to receive that cup but eventually His prayer and thus His will was that the Father’s will (that He drink the cup) be done (Matthew 26:42). That is why “Jesus commanded

15 Peter, ‘Put your sword away! Shall I not drink the cup the Father has given me?’” (John 18:11) Moreover, He did not “appeal to the Father to put at” His “disposal twelve legions of angels” (Matthew 26:53).’ Tim agrees, ‘Before they took Jesus, He said, “… what shall I say? ‘Father, save Me from this hour’? But for this purpose I came to this hour.” (John 12:27 NKJV). Indeed, Jesus’ death was both His will and purpose and that of the Father:

IS SUBSTITUTIONARY DEATH JUST AND DESIRED BY GOD? ‘But sacrificing Jesus was not God’s will!’ argues Abe, ‘God said, “I desire mercy and not sacrifice.” …. (Hosea 6:6; Matthew 9:13; 12:7 NKJV). God does not want sacrifice because it is unfair for Jesus to taste death for everyone (Hebrews 2:6)! Fathers shall not be put to death for their children, nor children put to death for their fathers; each is to die for his own sin.” (Deuteronomy 24:16; Ezekiel 18:20; Jeremiah 31:30).’ Apol answers, ‘Let me read Hosea 6:6, “For I desire mercy and not sacrifice, And the knowledge of God more than burnt offerings.” Thus, sacrifice here refers to burnt offerings. Jesus was not burnt. Therefore it cannot refer to his sacrifice!’ Pol adds, ‘If each of us is to die for his own sin, he will go to hell! But He does not deal according to our iniquities (Psalm 110:3). He provided a solution: ‘On the day that Adam sinned, he died (Genesis 2:17) physically for that happened years later for “Altogether, Adam lived 930 years, and then he died.” (5:5). He died spiritually. He was driven out of Eden (3:24), separated from God. In the same way, since “all have sinned” (Romans 3:23), all started as “dead in … transgressions and sins….” (Ephesians 2:1-3), separated from God (Isaiah 59:1-2). All became in danger of being eternally separated from Him, paying the penalty of eternal destruction (2Thessalonians 1:6-9) in the lake which burns with fire and brimstone (Revelation 21:8). 'Before Jesus came, forgiveness of sins is made possible through atonement (covering of sins through the blood of the animal offered) "...once a year with the blood...” (Exodus 30:10) 'Abe, will you read Leviticus 16:9-10,21-22?' '9 ... Aaron shall bring the goat on which the LORD’S lot fell, and offer it as a sin offering. 10 But the goat on which the lot fell to be the scapegoat shall be presented alive before the LORD, to make atonement upon it, and to let it go as the scapegoat into the wilderness. 11 And Aaron shall bring the bull of the sin offering ... and make atonement for himself and for his house, and shall kill the bull as the sin offering which is for himself. .... 21 "Aaron shall lay both his hands on the head of the live goat, confess over it all the iniquities of the children of Israel, and all their transgressions, concerning all their sins,

16 putting them on the head of the goat, and shall send it away into the wilderness .... 22 The goat shall bear on itself all their iniquities ... (Leviticus 16)' 'But God did not want those animal sacrifices. Hebrews 10 explains the reason. Roman, please read verses 1-5,7,10,14,19.' '1 The law .... it can never, by the same sacrifices repeated endlessly year after year, make perfect those who draw near to worship. 2 If it could, would they not have stopped being offered? For the worshippers would have been cleansed once for all, and would no longer have felt guilty for their sins. 3 But those sacrifices are an annual reminder of sins, 4 because it is impossible for the blood of bulls and goats to take away sins. 5 Therefore, when Christ came into the world, he said: ‘Sacrifice and offering you did not desire, but a body you prepared for me.’…. 7—Then I said, “Here I am—it is written about me in the scroll—I have come to do your will, O God.” … 10—And by that will, we have been made holy through the sacrifice of the body of Jesus Christ once for all…. 14—because by one sacrifice he has made perfect for ever those who are being made holy….19—... we have confidence to enter the Most Holy Place by the blood of Jesus' (Hebrews 10:1-19). ‘We see here that God “did not desire the sacrifice” of animals for it could not “take away” (10:4) and “cleanse once for all” (10:2) and “make perfect those who draw near to worship” (10:1). Instead, they were reminded of (10:3) and “felt guilty for their sins” (10:2). On the other hand, God desired the sacrifice of Jesus’ “body” (10:5). “…Jesus… suffered death… for everyone” (2:9), “…to take away the sins of many people….” (9:27-28; 2:17; 10:12). By His “shedding of blood there is forgiveness” (9:22). We believers also “have been made holy” (10:10) and “…perfect for ever…” (10:14), having “…confidence to enter the Most Holy Place by the blood of Jesus” (10:19) “…so that we may serve the living God” (9:14). 'The good news is that God provided a guilt offering (Isaiah 53:10) as the solution: God laid on His righteous, obedient (Isaiah 52:13;53:10,11), nonretaliating (53:7) and sinless (53:9) servant all of our sin—iniquities (53:5,6,11), transgression (53:5), turning to our own way (53:6)—and oppression (53:7,8), judgment (53:8) and its punishment (53:5)—infirmities, sorrows, smiting, striking (53:8), piercing, crushing (53:5), afflictions (53:4), suffering of soul (53:11) and body, and physical death (53:8,12). As a result, God will make Him great, justifying many (His offspring, 53:10) and dividing with the strong the spoils (53:12)—peace, healing (53:5), life (longer days) and satisfaction (53:11). That servant is Jesus (Acts 8:28-35). He said, "... My blood ... is poured out for many for forgiveness of sins. (Matthew 26:28 NAS). Is it now clear that substitutionary death is according to God’s justice and will?’ The group nods in agreement.

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ARE PAUL’S WRITINGS ABOUT RESURRECTION RELIABLE? Abe expresses his concern, ‘But how can I rely on Hebrews since Paul was its author. He was an idolater, “advocating foreign gods” by “preaching the good news about Jesus and the resurrection” (Acts 17:18). He was preaching another gospel. It was only according to his gospel that Jesus rose from the dead. He said, “Remember Jesus Christ, raised from the dead, descended from David. This is my gospel” (2 Timothy 2:8) and “… my falsehood enhances God’s truthfulness…” (Romans 3:7).’ ‘It is not certain that Paul was the author of Hebrews,’ Apol reasons out, ‘My study Bible for example mentions Apollos or Barnabas as a possible author.’ ‘Secondly,’ adds Pol, ‘in Acts 17:18, Paul was not advocating foreign gods but only seemed so to some of the “Epicurean and Stoic philosophers” who remarked, "He seems to be advocating foreign gods."’ Tim explains, ‘Paul said “my gospel” because others have preached other gospels (Galatians 1:6-9). The gospel he preached was the same as what Peter, James and John (the pillars of the church) preached (Galatians 2:110). In fact, Peter later endorsed Paul’s teachings (2Peter 3:15,16). ‘Paul also was not saying he was a liar in Romans 3:7. Here’s what he said, “5But if our unrighteousness demonstrates the righteousness of God, what shall we say? Is God unjust who inflicts wrath? (I speak as a man.) 6Certainly not! For then how will God judge the world? 7For IF the truth of God has increased through my lie to His glory, why am I also still judged as a sinner? 8And why not say, 'Let us do evil that good may come'? ––as WE ARE SLANDEROUSLY REPORTED and as some affirm that we say. Their condemnation is just.” (Romans 3:5-8 NKJV) Have you heard this report, “Paul was teaching salvation by faith; James by works!”? Read Galatians, Romans and James to see if such statement is true. Then share with others what you discovered... ‘But Jesus did not die, for He Himself testified: “For as Jonah was three days and three nights in the belly of a huge fish, so the Son of Man will be three days and three nights in the heart of the earth.” (Matthew 12:40),’ Abe explains, ‘Since Jonah did not die on the belly of the fish, so Jesus Christ did not also die!’ ‘But if Jesus did not die, how can He be in the heart of the earth?’, asks Pol. There is silence and some nodding in the group Pol continues, ‘Secondly, let’s see if Jonah did not really die. Please read Jonah 2:2-6 : “2… "Out of the belly of Sheol I cried, and You heard my voice. 3 For You cast me into the deep, into the heart of the seas, and the floods surrounded me; all Your billows and Your waves passed over me. 4 Then I said, ‘I have been cast out of Your sight…. 5 The waters surrounded me, even to my soul; The deep closed around me; Weeds were wrapped

18 around my head. 6 I went down to the moorings [or, extremity] of the mountains; The earth with its bars closed behind me forever; Yet You have brought up my life from the pit, O LORD, my God.” (NKJV). Now, where did Jonah go?’ There was silence. Everyone looks their Bibles until Aris concludes, ‘He was immersed in water—floods surrounded him, the waves passed over him (v.3) and the deep closed around him. Even weeds were wrapped around his head (v.5). In this situation, it is hard to think that he did not get drowned!’ ‘Yes, he died!’ admits Manny, ‘Jonah “went down to the extremity of the mountains”. Sheol is in “the foundations of the mountains” (Deuteronomy 32:22). If Jonah was alive, how can “the earth with its bars” be “behind” him that to him it looked like he will be there “forever” (v.6)? This seems to explain what Jesus meant when He mentioned that he was “in the heart of the earth” (Matthew 12:40). Like the condition of the kings of the earth sa Isaiah 24:22-23, Jonah was shut up in prison. Like adulterers, he descended to the chambers of death in Sheol (Proverbs 7:27; Job 17:16 NAS) ‘Yes, Jonah went to “the pit” (v.6) in the “belly of Sheol” or hell as my KJV puts it! There he cried and God heard his voice (v.2) and “brought up” his life from there (v.6)!’ ‘But if he died,’ argues Abe, ‘how come, he said, “"While I was fainting away....“ (Jonah 2:7 NAS)?’ He was still fainting. So, he died already! Apol replies, ‘The New King James’ Bible is more literal when it translates it this way, "When my soul fainted within me....” After a man dies, the soul, the conscious part of him, leaves the body (Genesis 35:18) and experiences torment or comfort (Luke 16:25) and therefore has feelings. In Sheol, Jonah’s soul within his spirit body was fainting away, wasting with hunger (Deuteronomy 32:24). There, he had no strength (Psalm 88:4). Like the kings of the nations, he also became weak (Isaiah 14:9-10). ‘But it was stated that Jonah was in the belly of the fish, not in the heart of the earth,’ continues Abe. ‘Lazarus was dead,’ explains Pol, ‘but it says in John 11:39 “he stinketh”. Thus, the body was called Lazarus. In the same way, while Jonah (i.e., his soul) was suffering in Sheol, he (his body) was in the belly of the fish. ‘But ...

‘HOW CAN JESUS BE IN THE HEART OF THE EARTH?’ asks Manny ‘Will you read Acts 2:27?’, requests Pol. ‘For You will not leave my soul in Hades [Greek for the Hebrew ‘Sheol’ or the English ‘hell’], nor will You allow Your Holy One to see corruption.’ (NKJV). ‘Now read Ephesians 4:8-9’

19 ‘8 …He says: "When He ascended on high, He led captivity captive, And gave gifts to men." 9 (Now this, "He ascended" ––what does it mean but that He also first descended into the lower parts of the earth?’ (NKJV). ‘Based on these verses, where did Jesus go?’ ‘To Hades (Acts 2:27), the lower parts of the earth (Ephesians 4:9).’ ‘When a man dies, his spirit goes to God first (Ecclesiastes 12:7). “Jesus said, ‘… I have not yet returned to the Father. …’” (John 20:17). Therefore, Jesus did not die!’ reasons Abe. ‘The Septuagint Greek translation of the word ‘goes’ in Ecclesiastes is different from the original Greek for ‘return’ in John. Therefore, we cannot conclude from John 20:17 that Jesus’ spirit did not go to God when Jesus died. In fact, at the cross, “Jesus called out with a loud voice, ‘Father, into your hands I commit my spirit.’ When he had said this, he breathed his last.” (Luke 23:46). Thus, God took care of His spirit (it went up to God) but His resurrected body did not “return” or “ascend” to Him yet that Jesus might “fill all things” (Ephesians 4:10). ‘Will someone read 1 Peter 3:18-20’ “18 For Christ also suffered once for sins, the just for the unjust, that He might bring us to God, being put to death in the flesh but made alive by the Spirit, 19 by whom also He went and preached to the spirits in prison, 20 who formerly were disobedient, when once the Divine longsuffering waited in the days of Noah....” (NKJV) ‘What did He do in hell?’ ‘He preached to the spirits of those who used to be disobedient in the days of Noah but who are now in prison.’ “5... the Lord, having saved the people out of the land of Egypt, afterward destroyed those who did not believe. 6 And the angels who did not keep their proper domain, but left their own abode, He has reserved in everlasting chains under darkness for the judgment of the great day; 7 as Sodom and Gomorrah, and the cities around them in a similar manner to these, having given themselves over to sexual immorality and gone after strange flesh, are set forth as an example, suffering the vengeance of eternal fire.” (Jude 1:6-7 NKJV) ‘Who else are in prison?’ ‘Angels who left their own abode and Sodom and Gomorrah and the cities around them who had given themselves to sexual immorality and gone after strange flesh.’ (Cf. Isaiah 24:22; Job 17:16) ‘What are they experiencing now?’ ‘The angels are in everlasting chains under darkness while the immoral people are now suffering eternal fire’ ‘Thus, the disobedient and the sexually immoral are now suffering torment in hell’s eternal fire. They could not escape (Luke 16:24-26). Jesus have been there. He knows how much torment they are suffering! ‘How about you? … Have you been into some immoral acts? … Is there an area in your life where you know you are disobeying and not believing in God? … If so, repent now before it is too late! … The group was silent …

20 Do you know of loved ones who are still disobedient to God? … The LORD, having at least seen the condition in hell is not willing for any of them to perish (2Peter 3:9)! Are you praying for them (1Timothy 2:1-8)? … Do you help expose them to the gospel? … Do not stop until they receive Christ or God takes their lives! ‘Will you read Ephesians 4:8?’ ‘ ... When He ascended on high, He led captivity captive....’

‘HOW DID JESUS LEAD CAPTIVITY CAPTIVE?’ asks Roman. ‘Physically, a captivity is used of those who did not experience physical death in the nation that lost the war (Revelation 13:10). Therefore, spiritually, captivity is used of souls of those who did not experience spiritual death--separation from God after physical death. Yes, the believers who died before Christ died on the cross are those who are called captivity. They include Lazarus and Abraham who are in a place of comfort which used to be above the place where people were suffering torment in Hades (Luke 16:23,25). Christ took those believers captive with Him when He ascended on high (Ephesians 4:8) so that they are now in Paradise in the third heaven (2Corinthians 12:2-4). Now all believers go straight to heaven when they die (2Corinthians 5:1,8; Philippians 1:21-24). Are you sure you are one of them? … Do you have loved ones who trusted Christ for their salvation before they died? If so, thank God that they are now in heaven! … ‘Jesus was able to lead captivity captive because by His death, Christ “rendered powerless him who had the power of death, that is the devil” (Hebrews 2:14 NAS) and “Having disarmed principalities and powers, He made a public spectacle of them, triumphing over them in it.” (Colossians 2:15 NKJV). Now, Jesus has “the keys of death and of Hades” (Revelation 1:18). Do you at times feel that the devil has ruined your life and that of your loved ones? … If so, let him hear you pray this prayer, “God, I thank you that Satan and his angels have been rendered powerless by Christ’s death on the cross for me and my loved ones!”

WAS JESUS THREE DAYS AND THREE NIGHTS DEAD? ‘But how can I believe all these things when the Bible is inconsistent!’ is Abe honest statement. ‘We have heard Jesus say that He was three days and three nights in the heart of the earth. But from the time He died on a Friday and rose again on Sunday, there weren’t three days and three nights!’

21 ‘That is true if they reckon time as we normally do it nowadays.’ Pol answers. ‘But they reckon time as we do! In John 11:9 NKJV,’ Abe argues, ‘Jesus answered, ‘Are there not twelve hours in the day?’ … ‘It is true that they divided the day into twelve hours,’ explains Pol, ‘However, in mentioning days, let us also look at the Bible. Will you read what Jesus’ enemies said in Matthew 27:63-64?’ ‘63 … "Sir, we remember, while He was still alive, how that deceiver said, ‘After three days I will rise.’ 64 Therefore command that the tomb be made secure until the third day, lest His disciples come by night and steal Him away, and say to the people, ‘He has risen from the dead.’ So the last deception will be worse than the first.” (Matthew 27:63-64 NKJV).’ ‘Now,’ Pol continues, ‘if they were counting days as we do today, Jesus’ enemies would ask that the tomb be made secure until the fourth day because Jesus will rise after three days! ‘The fact that they asked only after the third day means that they count even the portion of the first and third day as one day each. Let me illustrate from Acts. Will you read Acts 10:3,9,23,24,30?’ ‘“3 About the ninth hour of the day he saw clearly in a vision an angel of God coming in and saying to him, "Cornelius!" …. 9 The next day … Peter … 23 … invited them in and lodged them. On the next day Peter went away with them …. 24 And the following day they entered Caesarea. Now Cornelius0 was waiting for them…. 30 So Cornelius said, "Four days ago I was fasting until this hour; and at the ninth hour I prayed in my house, and behold, a man stood before me in bright clothing,” (NKJV).’ ‘Now, how many nights passed when Cornelius said “Four days ago…”?’ ‘Three!’ is the surprised answer of the group. ‘If the Bible says, “three days ago”, how many nights would have passed?’ ‘Two!’ ‘But Jesus said three days and three nights! How would you explain the three nights?’ is Abe’s challenge. ‘Now read 1 Samuel 30:13’ “…. And he said, "I am a young man from Egypt, servant of an Amalekite; and my master left me behind, because three days ago I fell sick.” (NKJV). Now based on the Biblical reckoning, how many nights have passed when it says, ‘three days ago’? ‘Two’. ‘Now read verse 12’ “And they gave him a piece of a cake of figs and two clusters of raisins. So when he had eaten, his strength came back to him; for he had eaten no bread nor drunk water for three days and three nights.” ‘In this verse, how many nights passed? ‘Three’. Thus, when the Bible says, “the Son of Man will be three days and three nights in the heart of the earth” in Matthew 12:40, it means the same as “three days” (27:63) or “the third day” (27:64)—part of sixth day (sometime after 3:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. Friday, Luke 23:44-46), the whole of Sabbath

22 (John 19:31; Luke 23:54, 6:00 p.m. of our Friday to 6:00 p.m. of Saturday) and part of first day of the week (6:00 p.m. of Saturday to early morning of Sunday, John 20:1).

AN EYE-WITNESS’ ACCOUNT THAT JESUS DIED ‘Let us see what happened when Jesus was on the cross. Apol, will you read John 19:30-33’ … “30—…. He bowed His head and gave up His spirit.33… He was already dead, they did not break His legs.” Pol explains, ‘For a person crucified, he has to push from his feet in order to get the air that he needs for breathing. Therefore, when the legs of the two thieves who were crucified with Jesus were broken, they eventually died for lack of air. For Jesus, it was unnecessary to break His leg because He was already dead. Will you continue reading verse 34?’ “

Instead, one of the soldiers pierced Jesus’ side with a spear, bringing a sudden flow of blood and water” ‘This indicates that Jesus died when He allowed Himself to die of “heart failure due to constriction of the heart by fluid” that surrounded it. ‘Now let us review: What are two proofs that Jesus truly died? 1. He gave up His spirit. 2. Blood and water flowed out of His pierced side. Abe drives his point, ‘But if Jesus was killed, He was cursed by God for being a false prophet. The punishment for being a false prophet is death (Deuteronomy 13:5 NIV). That penalty can be by hanging on a tree: “22 If a man guilty of a capital offense is put to death and his body is hung on a tree, 23 … because anyone who is hung on a tree is under God’s curse. …” (Deuteronomy 21:22-23). But we know that Jesus is not a false prophet. Therefore, He could not have been hung on a tree (Acts 5:30; 10:39; Galatians 3:13)!’ Pol replies, ‘If a man was killed, it is not necessary that he was a false prophet. In fact, Jesus said, “47 Woe to you, because you build tombs for the prophets, and it was your forefathers who killed them. 48 So you testify that you approve of what your forefathers did; they killed the prophets, and you build their tombs. 49 Because of this, God in his wisdom said, ‘I will send them prophets and apostles, some of whom they will kill and others they will persecute.’ ....” (Luke 11:47-51; Acts 7:52; 1Thessalonians 2:15) Apol adds, ‘I looked up Deuteronomy 13:5 and I saw that it did not say that the punishment for being a false prophet was death penalty. Rather, it says “That prophet or dreamer must be put to death, because he preached rebellion against the LORD … he has tried to turn you from the way the LORD your God commanded you to follow. ….” Yes, death penalty was given for preaching rebellion against God, not for being a false prophet! And Jesus did not preach rebellion against God!’ His enemies worked for His death penalty because He claimed to be the Son of God (Matthew 26:6364; 27:43; Luke 22:70; John 9:35-37; 10:36

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JESUS’ BURIAL ‘Let’s see an account about Jesus’ burial. Will you read John 19:3820:2?’. ‘Later, Joseph of Arimathea asked Pilate for the body of Jesus. Now Joseph was a disciple of Jesus, but secretly because he feared the Jews. With Pilate’s permission, he came and took the body away. He was accompanied by Nicodemus, the man who earlier had visited Jesus at night. Nicodemus brought a mixture of myrrh and aloes, about seventy-five pounds. Taking Jesus’ body, the two of them wrapped it, with the spices, in strips of linen. This was in accordance with Jewish burial customs. At the place where Jesus was crucified, there was a garden, and in the garden a new tomb, in which no-one had ever been laid. Because it was the Jewish day of Preparation and since the tomb was nearby, they laid Jesus there. Early on the first day of the week, while it was still dark, Mary Magdalene went to the tomb and saw that the stone had been removed from the entrance. So she came running to Simon Peter and the other disciple, the one Jesus loved, and said, “They have taken the Lord out of the tomb, and we don’t know where they have put him!” (John 19:38-20:2)

HINDRANCES TO STEALING JESUS’ DEAD BODY ‘If He just swooned away as some claimed, it would have been very hard for Him to get out of strips of linen wrapped around His body with about 75 pounds of myrrh and aloes (John 19:40). That wrapping had already become hard the third day. His body then looked like a mummy. Like Lazarus, “His hands and feet were wrapped with strips of linen …..” So if Jesus was to get out of the strips of line, some people had to “Take off the grave clothes” to “let him go” as they did for Lazarus (John 11:44). ‘Aside from the grave clothes, there are other things that could have made it harder for Him to get out of the tomb. 1. There was a “very large stone” that three women cannot roll away (Mark 16:1-4) from “the entrance of the tomb” (Matthew 27:60 NKJV). Consistent with this fact, one tomb stone found in the biblical site is about two tons or 4,000 pounds. 2. Guarding the tomb were Roman soldiers who were the mightiest soldiers at that time. Whatever group would move the stone, it would have broken the seal. “So they went and made the tomb secure by putting a seal on the stone and posting the guard.” (Matthew 27:66). 3. ‘On the seal was the face of Caesar: Breaking the seal then would mean fighting the Roman Empire. ‘Let us see how these “hindrances” helped make the evidence for the resurrection stronger (Acts 1:3):

24

THE VERY LARGE STONE AND THE SEAL

‘When Mary Magdalene arrived, she “saw that the stone had been removed from the entrance” (John 20:1) since an angel rolled it back from the entrance (Matthew 28:2). The Greek word translated “had been removed” comes from the same root as the word “picked up” in John 8:59: “At this, they picked up stones to stone him….” Thus: The very large stone was rolled back in a level higher than where it was that the stone was described as if picked up from the entrance! ‘Why do you think the angel removed it from the entrance?’ ‘God wants to make known that Jesus’ body is no longer there. The disciples cannot know this if the stone was still covering the place where Jesus was laid. Since the disciples are not to fight the Roman empire (John 18:36), none of them would dare remove the stone and the seal. So God sent angel to remove it. With the opened tomb, the angel can say, “You are looking for Jesus the Nazarene, who was crucified. He has risen! He is not here. See the place where they laid him.” (Mark 16:6)’

THE ROMAN SOLDIERS ‘Others say that the body was stolen. The soldiers were bribed to say, `His disciples came during the night and stole Him away while we were asleep.’ (Matthew 28:13). ‘This is very illogical for two reasons: ‘First of all, if the guards were asleep, how were they able to know who had stolen the body?

THE GRAVE CLOTHES ‘Secondly, if the body was indeed stolen, why did the thief (or thieves) leave the tomb in order? The “burial cloth that had been around Jesus’ head... was folded up by itself...” (John 20:7). ‘Have you heard of a thief leaving in order what he stole? …’ ‘Of course, no thief would do that!’ ‘The body was not stolen, but PASSED THROUGH “the strips of linen” (John 20:6). Having seen those strips lying there rolled up by themselves without a body inside, John finally believed the “Scripture that Jesus had to rise again from the dead” (John 20:7-8). ‘Will someone read John 20:6-9?’ “6 Then Simon Peter, who was behind him, arrived and went into the tomb. He saw the strips of linen lying there, 7 as well as the burial cloth that had been around Jesus’ head. The cloth was folded up by itself, separate from the linen. 8 Finally the other disciple, who had reached the tomb first, also went inside. He saw and believed. 9 (They still did not understand from Scripture that Jesus had to rise from the dead.)”

25

JESUS’ APPEARANCE TO MANY ‘Greater than these proofs is the fact that Jesus presented Himself alive (Acts 1:3). “3 For what I received I passed on to you as of first importance: that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures, 4 that he was buried, that he was raised on the third day according to the Scriptures, 5 and that he appeared to Peter, and then to the Twelve. 6 After that, he appeared to more than five hundred of the brothers at the same time, most of whom are still living, though some have fallen asleep. 7 Then he appeared to James, then to all the apostles, 8 and last of all he appeared to me also, as to one abnormally born. 9 For I am the least of the apostles and do not even deserve to be called an apostle, because I persecuted the church of God. 10 —But by the grace of God I am what I am, and his grace to me was not without effect. No, I worked harder than all of them yet not I, but the grace of God that was with me. 11 Whether, then, it was I or they, this is what we preach, and this is what you believed.” (1 Corinthians 15:3-11) ‘Consider some of those who saw Jesus alive after His death. ‘They have been transformed by what they saw that they were willing to die for it. Peter, who was too afraid that he denied Him three times before the cock crowed (John 13:38; 18:15,17,25; Mark 14:68) and three times before the cock crowed twice (Mark 14:30,69-72; Matthew 26:71) became a bold preacher of His resurrection (Acts 2:14,36; 4:13). Near the tomb, his audience could not prove him wrong (2:37-41). Only John among the Twelve did not die as a martyr for believing in the resurrection (John 21:18-19; Acts 12:2 and church history). James, Jesus’ unbelieving brother (John 7:5) believed after seeing Jesus and became one of the pillars of the church (Galatians 2:9). Paul, the former persecutor of followers of Jesus worked more than all the apostles because He saw Jesus (1Corinthians 15:8-10). ‘Furthermore, the Corinthian believers, at the time Paul wrote his letter to them, could still verify on site the testimonies of those who have seen Jesus. How many witnesses saw Him at one time?’ ‘More than five hundred!’ was Roman’s excited response. ‘How many of the more than five hundred can the Corinthians interview at that time?’ ‘Most of them because they were still alive then!’ ‘In other words, Paul was saying, “You want to check the veracity of Christ’s resurrection? Well then, you can ask most of the 500 who saw Him!” ‘Let’ see one account from one of those witnesses…’

A BELIEF-PRODUCING ACCOUNT OF JESUS’ APPEARANCE ‘Jesus’ ability to pass through the physical objects (such as the hardened linen wrappings) and at the same time be physically felt was also witnessed by Thomas - one who initially doubted. 24 Now Thomas (called Didymus), one of the Twelve, was not with the disciples when Jesus came. 25—So the other disciples told him, “We have seen the Lord!” But he said to them,

26 “Unless I see the nail marks in His hands and put my finger where the nails were, and put my hand into His side, I will not believe it.” ‘26—A week later His disciples were in the house again, and Thomas was with them. Though the doors were locked, Jesus came and stood among them and said, “Peace be with you!” 27—Then He said to Thomas, “Put your finger here; see my hands. Reach out your hand and put it into my side. Stop doubting and believe.” 28—Thomas said to Him, “My Lord and my God!” (John 20:24-28).’ ‘Thomas was just surprised!’ argues Manny. ‘If that was the case, Jesus could have rebuked him for using the name of God in vain. He could have said, “You shall not misuse the name of the LORD your God, for the LORD will not hold anyone guiltless who misuses His name.” (Exodus 20:7) Instead, ‘... Jesus told him, “Because you have seen Me, you have believed; blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed.”’ (John 20:29) According to this verse, was Thomas surprised or did he believe?’’ ‘He believed!’ was Tom’s response. ‘John then explained the importance of what he narrated in the verses quoted above and in the other parts of the gospel he wrote: ‘Jesus did many other miraculous signs in the presence of His disciples, which are not recorded in this book. But these are written that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and that by believing you may have life in His name.’ (John 20:30-31) How about you? Do you believe that Jesus rose from the dead? … Do you know that by His “resurrection” He was “declared to be the Son of God” (Romans 1:4), “the Christ” (Matthew 26:63), “the Savior of the world” (John 4:25,26,42), “of all men, especially of believers”, “His people from their sins” (Matthew 1:21)?… ‘God cannot have a Son!’ complains Abe. ‘No, Jesus is the Son of God,’ argues Aris, ‘but He is not equal to the Father!’ Pol smiles, ‘We shall discuss those issues in one of our future meetings. But you may start preparing by reading our next reading assignment—John 5-8. Okay?’… ‘Of course,’ Abe and Manny said with smiles in their faces. Do you also know that since you believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, you already have life (John 20:30-31)? Do you want to be sure? If so, confess Jesus as Lord. Tell him: “Jesus, I believe that You are the Son of God who took the form of a man, died because of my sins, and rose from the dead. I therefore receive and confess You as my Savior and Lord.” ‘I want to pray that prayer.’ Roman said. So Tim guides him to pray it, while the others were silent, respecting Roman’s decision. … They ate gladly and expresses desire to tag others along with them for the next meeting.

27 L3.

Did Jesus Fulfill Messianic Prophecies?

HOW TO PRAY WHEN TEACHING MESSIANIC PROPHECIES Now that same day two of them were going to a village called Emmaus, about seven miles from Jerusalem. 14 They were talking with each other about everything that had happened. 15 As they talked and discussed these things with each other, Jesus himself came up and walked along with them; 16 but they were kept from recognizing him. 13

17

He asked them, "What are you discussing together as you walk along?" They stood still, their faces downcast. 18 One of them, named Cleopas, asked him, "Are you only a visitor to Jerusalem and do not know the things that have happened there in these days?" 19 "What things?" he asked. "About Jesus of Nazareth," they replied. "He was a prophet, powerful in word and deed before God and all the people. 20 The chief priests and our rulers handed him over to be sentenced to death, and they crucified him; 21 but we had hoped that he was the one who was going to redeem Israel. And what is more, it is the third day since all this took place. 22 In addition, some of our women amazed us. They went to the tomb early this morning 23 but didn’t find his body. They came and told us that they had seen a vision of angels, who said he was alive. 24 Then some of our companions went to the tomb and found it just as the women had said, but him they did not see." 25

He said to them, "How foolish you are, and how slow of heart to believe all that the prophets have spoken! 26 Did not the Christ have to suffer these things and then enter his glory?" 27 And beginning with Moses and all the Prophets, he explained to them what was said in all the Scriptures concerning himself.” “They asked each other, "Were not our hearts burning within us while he talked with us on the road and opened the Scriptures to us?" (Luke 24:13-27 NIV) 32

‘I wish we could also teach as Jesus did!’ remarks Tim. ‘It is good that you desire the same thing as I did when I read again that passage,’ Pol affirms. ‘The good thing is that our desire can happen … to the degree that we allow Jesus to live His life through us. Let us pray … Jesus, live Your life through us that as I open the Scriptures to those who will attend tonight, their hearts will burn within them.’ ‘Amen!’ agrees Tim --o0o— ‘Nel, will you read 1Corinthians 15:1-4?’ asks Pol. “1 … the gospel I preached to you, which you received and on which you

28 have taken your stand. 2 By this gospel you are saved, IF you hold firmly to the word I preached to you. Otherwise, you have believed in vain. 3 For what I received I passed on to you as of first importance: that Christ died for our sins according to the SCRIPTURES, 4 that he was buried, that he was raised on the third day according to the Scriptures,” Pol asks, ‘Based on that passage, to be sure that you are saved, what message must you believe and hold firmly?’ Nel replies, ‘That in accordance with the Scriptures, Christ died for our sins, was buried and was raised on the third day. But how can I hold on firmly if I do not know those Scriptures?’ ‘Precisely,’ Pol exclaims, ‘That is why today, we will study some … EXAMPLES OF SCRIPTURES FULFILLED IN JESUS’ LIFE. We will see some of the Old Testament Scriptures and the corresponding fulfillment in the New Testament. We will have each person take turns to read the verses from left to right Old Testament Scriptures

New Testament Fulfillment

He was … a man of Then he said to them, "My soul is SORROWS.11 After the overwhelmed with SORROW to the suffering of his soul …. (Isaiah point of death. …." (Matthew 26:38; 53:3,11) Mark 14:34) 3

‘So Nel, please provide the answers on the blank as you read 1.’ 1. ‘He will experience sorrows.’ ‘During our 6th meeting, we shall understand how much sorrows and other sufferings he endured. But for now, we shall just take a quick look at some verses and just read through the fulfilled prophecies about them. Next verses please…’ He was oppressed 12 When he was accused by the chief priests and and afflicted, yet he did the elders, he gave no answer. … 14 … not even not open his MOUTH to a single charge—to the great amazement of the governor.” (Matthew 27:12-14; Mark 15:5; … (Isaiah 53:7) Luke 23:9; John 19:9) 7

‘Linda, please provide the answers on the blank as you read 2.’ 2. ‘He will not open His mouth to answer back oppression.’ How did you respond when others spoke evil about you? … Did you strike back with your lips? … Follow in Jesus’ steps (1Peter 2:18-23). …— his appearance Then they spat in his face and struck him with was so DISFIGURED their fists. Others slapped him (Matthew beyond that of any man 26:67) … he had Jesus flogged …. and then and his form marred twisted together a crown of thorns and set it beyond human likeness on his head. …. They spat on him, and took 14

29 — (Isaiah 52:14).

the staff and struck him on the head again and again. (27:26,29,30; Mark 15:15)

3. ‘He will be disfigured beyond human likeness.’ was another group member’s reading... ‘We will look back at this in the 6th meeting.’ But he was E—PIERCED … (Isaiah 53:5) “… When they came to … the evil men … have pierced my hands and my Skull, there they crucified him …. (Luke 23:33) feet.” (Psalms 22:16; Zechariah 12;10). 4. ‘His hands and feet will be pierced.’ Have you stepped on a nail? How did it feel? That could have been more painful if it pierced through your wrist bone or ankle as it did with Jesus! … he … was numbered with the … they crucified him, along with the TRANSGRESSORS. (Isaiah 53:12) criminals—one on his right, the other on his left. (Luke 23:33) 5. ‘He will be identified with the transgressors.’ They divide my GARMENTS among them and cast lots for my clothing. (Psalms 22:18)

When they had crucified him, they divided up his clothes by casting lots. (Matthew 27:35; Mark 15:24; John 19:23,24)

6. ‘They will divide his garments.’ …. he … made INTERCESSION Jesus said, "Father, forgive for the transgressors.” (Isaiah them, for they do not know what 53:12) they are doing." …. (Luke 23:34) 7. ‘He will make intercession for transgressors.’ Has anyone done you wrong? … Have you prayed that God will forgive him (Acts 7:60)? All who see me MOCK me; they hurl insults, shaking their heads: (Psalms 22:7)

The people stood watching, and the rulers even sneered at him.… (Luke 23:35) Those who passed by hurled insults at him, shaking their heads (Matthew 27:39; Mark 15:29).

8. ‘He will be mocked and insulted.’ “1 My God, my God, why have you J Jesus cried out in a loud voice, … —FORSAKEN me? …. 3—Yet you "My God, my God, why have you are enthroned as the Holy One …. forsaken me?" (Matthew 27:46; Mark 15:34). (Psalms 22:1,3) 9. ‘The Holy God will forsake him.’ 14

I am poured out like K—WATER …. My heart has turned … Jesus said,

30 to wax; it has melted away within me. 15 My strength is dried up like a potsherd, and my tongue sticks to the roof of my mouth …. (Psalms 22:14,15)

"I am thirsty." (John 19:28)

10. ‘He will be very thirsty from lack of water.’ He keeps all his bones; not one of them is BROKEN. (Psalms 34:20)

—But when they came to Jesus and found that he was already dead, they did not break his legs. 36 —These things happened so that the scripture would be fulfilled: "Not one of his bones will be broken, (John 19:33,36) 33

11. ‘None of his bones will be broken.’ … the Anointed One will be cut off…. (Daniel 9:26) …. For he was cut off from the land of the living …. (Isaiah 53:8)

Jesus called out with a loud voice, "Father, into your hands I commit my spirit." When he had said this, he breathed his last. (Luke 23:46)

12. ‘As the Anointed One (Messiah or Christ), He will die physically.’ His grave was assigned with wicked men, Yet He was with a RICH man in His death … (Isaiah 53:9 NAS)

“57 … there came a rich man from Arimathea, named Joseph, who had himself become a disciple of Jesus. … 59 Joseph took the body, wrapped it in a clean linen cloth, 60 and placed it in his own new tomb ….” (Matthew 27:57-60)

13. ‘His burial place will be assigned with a rich man.’ Because you will not abandon me to the grave, nor will you let your Holy One see decay. (Psalms 16:10)

"… David … spoke of the resurrection of the Christ, that he was not abandoned to the grave, nor did his body see decay. 32 God has raised this Jesus to life, and we are all witnesses of the fact.” (Acts 2:29-32) 29

14. ‘He will raised from the dead.’ If there is 1 out of 2 chances for one of these prophecies to be fulfilled in one person, then the probability of these 14 to happen in the life of one person is 1/214 = 1/16384 = 0.006%! ‘Please explain further! I cheated just to pass my mathematics subjects!’ complained Linda. Tim explains, ‘It is like this. For you, you may decide to attend the Bible study or be absent. So we can say that there is 1 out 2 chances for you to be here. ‘For you and Emy: There are four possibilities—1. Both of you are present; 2. You are present but she is not; 3. She is present and you are not; 4. Both of you are absent. So there is 1 out of 4 chances that both of you are present ‘For you and Emy and Mary, there are eight possibilities—1. Three of you

31 are present; 2. Only you are present; 3. Only Emy is present; 4. Only Mary is present; 5. You and Emy are present; 6. You and Mary are present; 7. Mary and Emy are present; 8. All of your are absent. So there is 1 out of 8 chances for three of you to be present. ‘If each one of you represent a fulfillment of a prophecy, we can say that there 1 chance in 8 for 3 prophecies to be fulfilled in the life of Jesus … and there is 1 chance in 16384 for 14 prophecies to be fulfilled in His life!’ ‘Ahh! Now I get it!’ sighs Linda. ‘Now,’ continues Pol, ‘Do you know of a religious leader like Jesus?… ‘The religious leader I know is said to have fulfilled only one Old Testament prophecy! But there is one from another country who claims to fulfill the same prophecy!’ says Manny. ‘The one I know is said to have fulfilled 8! But others would debate those fulfillments!’ adds Abe. ‘Have you trusted in Christ?’ asks Pol. ‘Since I know of anyone else that reliable, I want to do that!’ says Linda. ‘I want to, but still I have some questions,’ explains Abe. ‘So do I,’ Manny adds. ‘I also!’ Aris states. ‘Now what we can do is this,’ Tim proposes, ‘Precy will explain further to Linda so she can trust in Christ; Pol and I will try to answer some questions you may have. Is that okay?’ ‘I think that is a good idea,’ affirms Pol. ‘Precy, when you and Linda are finished, you can join back the discussion! Okay?’ The group agrees … Linda received Christ in tears as Precy reviews the tract, ‘Do You Want to Always Be with God?’ while Pol and Tim tries to answer their questions. When Linda and Precy went back to the group, there is peace in Linda’s face that Abe says, ‘That look in your face convinces me more than the explanations I received from Pol and Tim!’ ‘Next meeting,’ says Pol, ‘we shall discuss more if Jesus were really God!’ ‘I am excited to be there during that meeting!’ says Manny. ‘So am I,’ Abe and Aris agrees. ‘For the meantime, do not forget your assignment--Read John 9-12 before our meeting and invite your friends!’ ‘I will,’ says Linda with firm conviction.

32 L4.

How Can Jesus Be Both God & Man?

Immediately after the singing and prayer, Abe ask a question, “I learned that time will come that those who thought they are saved will realize they are not really saved because they believed in more than one God! What is the use then of studying if Jesus were God?”

IS JESUS THE ‘I AM’? Roman replies, ‘I think the answer is in the notes: Jesus said, “… if you do not believe that I AM ... you will indeed die in your sins.” (John 8:24) ‘God said to Moses, “...This is what you are to say to the Israelites: `I AM has sent me to you.’” (Exodus 3:14).’ ‘But I AM in Exodus 3:14 is a wrong translation of the Hebrew!’ retorts Abe. ‘How do you know that? Do you read Hebrew?’ asks Tom. “Not really, but I learned that from my professor who was an expert in Hebrew!” “So your faith is resting on the trustworthiness of your professor?” argues Apol. “How about the many other Hebrew scholars who translated it as I AM? I have seen at least 22 of those translations. Do you mean those translators are all wrong?” The atmosphere is becoming tense. So Barnie said, “We believe that God inspired the original autographs in which the Bible was written (2Timothy 3:16-17). Furthermore, He also communicates His word through translations. Jesus would agree with this since He quoted a translation of Psalm 22:1 from Hebrew into Aramaic in Matthew 27:46. Let us therefore not settle that question since majority of those who are here do not know Hebrew. Okay?” The group nods in agreement. Pol wipes his face in relief. Do you know any of the languages in which the Bible was originally written (Greek, Hebrew or Aramaic)? ... If so, study it in that language and let others know what you are discovering! If not, remember that God can make Himself known to you through a literal translation you understand the most. Just let it richly dwell in you (Colossians 3:16). Pol asks ‘Does this claim that Jesus is the “I AM” mean that He is the God with whom Moses talked?…' ‘No,’ reasons Abe, ‘ “I am” means that He is the Messiah who was sent from above (Williams). In John 8:23, Jesus said, “I am from above...” ‘

33 Yes,’ affirms Aris, ‘Jesus also states in verse 28, “When you lift up the Son of Man, then you will know that I am He ...” The title Son of Man is the Messiah in Daniel 7:13.’ ‘But the word translated “the LORD” or Yahweh is the 3rd person form of Ehyeh translated “I am”, argues Apol. ‘The LORD who is full of glory, whom Isaiah saw in Isaiah 6:3,5, whose way is to be prepared (40:3) and who as the Messiah was pierced is clearly Jesus in John 12:41, Matthew 3:3 and Revelation 1:7,8.’ Apol was about to say the following “Jesus can be called the LORD or Yahweh of the Old Testament since He has the same name with the One with whom Moses talked (Exodus 3:14; John 8:24; Isaiah 6:3,5 & John 12:41; Isaiah 40:3 & Matthew 3:3; Zechariah 12:10 & Revelation 1:7,8).” However, Pol, who was conscious of the time gently cut him short by asking... ‘‘There are many things we can discuss today about the topic. Let me just say now that our destiny depends on our understanding of WHO JESUS IS (John 3:36). For this reason, let us look at some verses which will help us understand better the issues. Abe, will you read John 10:27-38?’ Abe read it...

HOW CAN JESUS BE CALLED GOD? Pol asked the group members to read the verses in the booklet and the they were able to answer the questions easily: “27 My sheep listen to my voice ... they shall never perish; B NO-ONE can snatch them out of my hand. 29 My Father ... is greater than C ALL; noone can D SNATCH them out of my Father’s hand. 30 I and the Father are one."” (John 10:27-30 ) 1. ‘In what sense is the Father greater than all?’ ‘No one can snatch Jesus’ sheep out of His hand’ 2. ‘Can anyone snatch the sheep out of Jesus’ hands?’ No one! 3. ‘If so, in what sense is Jesus and the Father one?’ ‘In being greater than all.’ “31 Again the Jews picked up stones to stone him, 32 but Jesus said to them, "I have shown you many great miracles from the Father. For which of these do you stone me?" 33 "We are not stoning you for any of these," replied the Jews, "but for blasphemy, because you, a mere man, claim to be D GOD."” (John 10:31-33) 4. ‘What did Jesus’ listeners understand Him when He said that He is and His Father are one in being greater than all?’ ‘He was claiming to be God. ‘If Jesus were not God but just a prophet, He could have corrected their wrong understanding of what He was claiming. But He did not.

34 Instead... “34 Jesus answered them, "Is it not written in your Law, ‘I have said you are gods’? 35 If he called them ‘E GODS’, to whom the word of God came— and the Scripture cannot be broken— 36 what about the one whom the Father set apart as his very own and sent into the world? Why then do you accuse me of blasphemy because I said, ‘I am God’s Son’? 37 Do not believe me unless I do what my Father does. 38 But if I do it, even though you do not believe me, believe the MIRACLES, that you may know and understand that the Father is in me, and I in the Father."” (John 10:34-38) 5. ‘How did God call those to whom the word of God came thereby represent Him?’ ‘Gods.’ ‘The Bible at times call any person who can represent God as Elohim (translated as ‘God’, ‘god’ or ‘gods’). Thus, human beings who can represent His word before others because to them the word came are called ‘gods’ in this verse. Many Bibles translated coming near before Elohim as coming near to judges (Exodus 22:8-9) since they represent God in making decisions. God made Moses as God to pharaoh (Exodus 7:1). Psalm 8:5 NASB95 says, “Yet You have made him a little lower than God...” is quoted in the Hebrews 2:7 as “YOU HAVE MADE HIM FOR A LITTLE WHILE LOWER THAN THE ANGELS....”’ 6. What is an evidence that God set Jesus apart and sent Him (v.36-38) and thus represent Him? Jesus does the ____________ the Father does. Indeed, as the image of the invisible God (Co 1:15), He is “the exact representation of his being” (Hebrews 1:3). “in Christ all the fullness of the Deity lives in bodily form” (Colossians 2:9). Therefore, is it blasphemy to call Him the Son of God and God? ____. “... about the Son he [God] says, "... O F GOD ....” (Hebrews 1:8) 7. ‘How did God call His Son?’ ‘God (2Peter 1:1).’ In calling His Son ‘God’, the Father gives His name to Jesus (Jn 17:11,12) that He now has the Father’s name (Mt 28:19). He is called “God and Savior” by Paul and Peter (Tit 2:13; 2Pe 1:1)’ ‘If Jesus’ claim that He is God is not true, the Father would not support it. But He supported it that all will honor Jesus as they honor Him (5:23). He showed Jesus all things He was doing that Jesus can do them (5:1920). He also gave to Jesus to have life in Himself and the authority over all flesh (17:2) to execute judgment (5:26-27,22) and to forgive sins. Thus, the works Jesus did —raising the dead, healing the paralytic, driving out demons etc.—are from the Father and with what John the Baptist, the Father and the Scriptures said, testify to the truth of Jesus'

35 claims (5:36,21,29; 10:33-39; Mark 2:10-11; Luke 11:20) that He is God, equal with the Father (John 5:18).’

IS JESUS THE WORD? Apol, will you read John 1:1?’ ‘In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was GOD.’ ‘8. What was the Word?’ ‘God!’ was the quick response of Roman. Aris pointing to his Thayer’s Greek Lexicon said, ‘The Greek word for “Word” was “logos” meaning “a thought … an idea … or what someone has said” but it is not God! It is just called that way because it comes from God, just as those to whom the word came are called gods in John 10:35.’ Pol explains, ‘The meaning of words are based on their context. Let us therefore see if God here really means God or just a thought, idea or what is said. What are some of the attributes or characteristics do you know which are true of God alone?’ ‘He is the eternal creator and source of life!’ said Pete. ‘Good answer! How did you know that?’ ‘Well, it is in the notes!’ The group laughs! Pol remarks, ‘The God upon whose name Abraham called was eternal. (Genesis 21:33). What are the qualities of the Word which show that He is eternal.’ ‘In the beginning He was already existing!’ answers Jon. Abe reasons out, “The word ‘beginning’ does not necessarily imply that the Word is eternal. The devil ‘was a murderer from the beginning’ (John 8:44). Does that mean that the devil is eternal?” Apol answers, “Again, the meaning of ‘beginning’ is based on the context. Satan was already a murderer or manslayer (Thayer) from the beginning of man’s potential to be slain (Genesis 2:17). By his deception, he murdered Adam and Eve (3:1-24). On the other hand, the Word was there already in the beginning, before ‘all things were made’ (John 1:3).” ‘That brings us up to the second quality of the Word,’ Pol adds, “Genesis 1:1 says, ‘In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth.’ (cf. Isaiah 45:18) The Word was involved in the creation of all things, including the world: 3 Through Him all things were made; without Him nothing was made that has been made. 10 … the world was made through him…. ‘Yes, all things were made through Him,’ admits Aris, ‘but He was not eternal! Jesus was the only begotten--He, who is the Wisdom of God (1Corinthians 1:24) was given birth before everything was made. “22 The LORD brought me forth as the first of his works, before his deeds of old; 23 I was appointed from eternity, from the beginning, before the world

36 began. 24 When there were no oceans, I was given birth, when there were no springs abounding with water; 25 before the mountains were settled in place, before the hills, I was given birth.... Then I was the craftsman at his side. I was filled with delight day after day, rejoicing always in his presence,” (Proverbs 8:22-30 NIV) ‘However,’ answers Apol, ‘the Hebrew translated “was given birth” is translated “brings” in “a north wind brings rain....” (Proverbs 25:23). Thus, just as the rain did not start to exist only when the north wind brought it, so Wisdom did not just start to exist when He was “given birth” or brought forth. Wisdom is eternal too, from eternity, from the beginning, before creation. ‘When the Bible says that there is one God (Is 43:10-13; Hos 13:4; Mr 12:29), it is referring to the Father (1Co 8:6) of our Lord Jesus (Col 1:3; Rom 15:6; 2Co 1:3; Eph 1:3; Col 1:3; 1Pe 1:3)’ confidently asserts Abe. Surprised that Pol is nodding his head, he continues to ask, ‘How can you say that Jesus is God?’ ‘Jesus is called God,’ Pol answers, ‘but not exactly in the same way as the Father is God: The Father did not come from Jesus but Jesus “came forth from the Father” (John 16:27,28; 17:8), being His Son and His Word (1:14; Rev 19:8). The Father did not create the Word, for without the Word, “nothing was made that has been made.” (1:3). ‘When did He came forth from the Father? It was before the beginning— for “He was in the beginning with God.” (John 1:2) . In fact, He came forth from eternity “... Bethlehem .... From you One will go forth for Me to be ruler in Israel. His goings forth are from long ago, from the days of eternity.” (Mic 5:2 NAS95). Thus, Jesus, the Word has existed since God existed— from eternity. There was no point of time that God was without Word. Just as I started to have thoughts since I existed as a person, (Psalm 139:13-16), God has the Word ever since He existed, and He existed from eternity! Jesus, like God, is eternal! ‘When I read Jun’s book, I said, “This is Jun!” So I called Jun’s word or thought ‘Jun’! In the same way, the Word of God (Re 19:13) is also called God!’ ‘Another attribute of God is that He is THE SOURCE OF LIFE. “The LORD God formed the man from the dust of the ground and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life, and the man became a living being. (Genesis 2:7). In the same way, the Word is the source of life: In Him was life…. (John 1:4). ‘When He took the form of a man, the Father granted Him to have life in Himself (John 5:26-27).’ ‘Let us go back to verses 1-3 of John: 1 … the Word was God. 2 HE was with God in the beginning. 3 Through HIM all things were made. …. 9. ‘What words prove that the Word was not just a thought or something spoken but a person already when all things were created?” “The use of the pronouns HE and HIM instead of IT,” was Pete’s quick response.

37 The Word became flesh and made His dwelling among us. (John 1:14). 10. ‘What happened to the Word?’ ‘The Word became flesh.’ “We have seen that the Word is God, eternal Creator and source of life who became flesh. Now, let us see 11. ‘Who is this Word referred to by John: The Word became flesh and made His dwelling among us. We have seen His glory, the glory of the One and Only, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth (Jn 1:14). a. ‘Who was with God (v.1-2) and is full of grace and truth that we can expect them to come through Him (v.14)?’ ‘The Word,’ was the group’s reply. For the law was given through Moses; grace and truth came through JESUS CHRIST (v.17). b. ‘Who was with God the Father who made Him known (v.18)?’ ‘The only begotten Son.’ ‘Through whom grace and truth came (v.17)?’ Through Jesus Christ. c. ‘Therefore, who is the Word?’ .’He is Jesus Christ, the only begotten God!’ is Roman’s emotional answer. He continues, ‘Now I understand why we were taught that Jesus Christ is God who became a man!’ “...there is but one God, the Father....” In the beginning (Micah 5:2), the Word, His Son whom He called ‘God’ was already with Him. The Word came from Him (John 8:42) but was not created by Him. Instead, through the Word, He created all things. (1Corinthians 8:6). The Word was made flesh and did miracles and came to be known as Jesus, the Messiah. Dear reader, based on the above discussion, is it now clear to you that Jesus is the Son of God who has the qualities of God and has declared God the Father? If so, tell Him, ‘Lord Jesus, let me know You more as I read this article.” Otherwise, pray this prayer later when this truth becomes clear. YOU NEED TO RESPOND TO JESUS (Isaiah 45:21) “Yet to all who received him, to those who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God—children ... born of God.” (John 1:12-13) ‘12. What then do we need to do to have a personal relationship with God— to become His children (v.12).’ ‘Receive Jesus as the Son of God, God, the eternal life-giving Creator.’ ‘Have you received Him?’ Some members looked at each other.

38 ‘If so what is your relationship with Him?’ ‘I am now God’s child’. ‘You were born of whom (v.13)?’ ‘Of God.’ ‘Yes, you have been born again (3:3). God has accepted you as a child! Jesus said about Him’ ‘Some of you may now want to be sure you are his child. You can express your faith through the following prayer: “Lord Jesus, thank You for dying on the cross for my sins. I believe in my heart that the Father raised You from the dead. I now receive You as my God and Savior.” Aris and Manny prays this prayer and became sure that they were born again into God’s family (John 1:12-13; 3:3). ‘Pol continues to read the notes, assuring Aris and Manny and the rest: ”God has accepted you as a child! Talk to Him always—ask Him with thanksgiving and joy (1Thessalonians 5:16-18)” ‘For our next meeting, please Read John 13-16; Memorize John 17:21.’ Some in the group left. But others started to ask ....

MORE QUESTIONS ABOUT CHRIST’S DEITY HOW CAN CALL HIM GOD WHO HAS HUMAN NATURE? Manny complains, “God does not change (Malachi 3:16)! He does not grow ‘in wisdom and stature’ but Jesus did (Luke 2:52). God cannot die but Jesus did! ‘God is spirit….’ (John 4:24) but Jesus said, “See My hands and My feet, that it is I Myself; touch Me and see, for a spirit does not have flesh and bones as you see that I have.” (Luke 24:39 NAS). Therefore Jesus cannot be God!” Barnie taps him gently with a smile and said, ‘I appreciate your desire not to insult God by degrading Him to the level of man. The fact that Jesus grew in wisdom and stature and later died and rose again with flesh and bones are other evidences that Jesus was fully man.’ Moreover, he did not grasped His equality with God but as a man, He obeyed until death (Ph 2:5-11). Therefore, His characteristics as a man He used during that time cannot prove that He is not God also!

39 ‘Aris continues to assert but this time with a softer voice, “Jesus cannot be both God and man. The Bible says, ‘God is not a man …’ (Numbers 23:19). Pol said, “Let us look at that verse in detail. ‘God is not a man that he should lie, nor a son of man, that he should change his mind. Does he speak and then not act? Does he promise and not fulfill?' Now, does it say that God cannot become a man? “No!” was the group’s reply. “Rather than proving that Jesus cannot be both God and man, that verse should cause us to ask if Jesus was just a man. Let me explain… “If Jesus ever lied, those who were closest to Him could have witnessed it. Peter and John were two of them. Let us hear what they said concerning Jesus: ‘He committed no sin, and no deceit was found in his mouth.’ (1 Peter 2:22; Isaiah 53:9). ‘… in him is no sin.’ (1 John 3:5) “From the testimony of Peter and John, did Jesus lie?” “No!” Pol continues, “Others, including His enemies cannot prove Him to be a liar (John 8:46). Judas said Jesus was innocent (Matthew 27:4), so did Pilate and his wife (v.19,23,24), the thief on the cross (Luke 23:41), the centurion (v.47) and Paul (2Corinthian 5:21; Hebrews 4:15; 7:26). How about you? Do you live in a way that even your enemies cannot speak evil against you? ... If your character is attacked by others, will those who know you most be able to defend you? ...

HOW CAN JESUS BE GOD IF THE FATHER IS GREATER? Aris follows up Manny’s concern: If Jesus were God, why did He say the following? “The Father is greater than I” (John 14:28; Mark 13:32); “49 For I did not speak of my own accord, but the Father who sent me commanded me what to say and how to say it. 50 .... So whatever I say is just what the Father has told me to say." (John 12:49-50). “The Son can do nothing of Himself…” (5:19); “I can do nothing on My own initiative. As I hear, I judge” (5:30).’ Pol explains, ‘He said those things because He did not cling on to His right as God’s equal—existing “in the form of God” (Philippians 2:6). In John 5:26-27 ASV, we read: “For as the Father hath life in himself, even so gave he to the Son also to have life in himself: and he gave him authority to execute judgment, because he is a son of man” or a man (Numbers 23:19). As a man, He can “sympathize with our weaknesses” (Hebrews 4:15). Thus, He would make a good judge “6 who, although He existed in the form of God, did not regard equality with God a thing to be grasped, 7 but emptied Himself, taking the form of a bond-servant ... in the likeness ... 8 ... in appearance as a man ...” (Philippians 2:6-8 NAS).

40 Do you have problems relating with other people? If so, is it because you are holding on to your rights? ... Do you give allowance for others to make mistakes? ... Do you accept them in their weaknesses? ... I urge you, follow Jesus (Philippians 2:3-11)!

IS THE FATHER THE SAME PERSON AS THE SON AND AS THE HOLY SPIRIT? Aris continues in asking sincere questions, ‘If there is only one God how can Jesus be God and the Spirit be God too’? Onie answers, ‘God just expressed Himself in different ways. Sometimes, He expressed Himself as the Father; sometimes as the Son and sometimes as the Spirit. He is the same person, expressed in different ways, right?’ “Onie, would you like to read Acts 7:56?” requests Pol. ‘“Look,” he said, “I see heaven open and the Son of Man standing at the right hand of God.”’ ‘Now, does that verse indicate that Jesus and the Father are the same person?’ ‘Oh yes, Stephen saw that the Father as different from the Son!’ was Onie’s admission. Pol continues, ‘Yes, the Father and the Son are different persons; the Holy Spirit too is a different person from them. “16 As soon as Jesus was baptized, he went up out of the water. At that moment heaven was opened, and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove and lighting on him. 17 And a voice from heaven said, “This is my Son, whom I love; with him I am well pleased.” (Matthew 3:16-17) Do you see that it is over stretching to say that Jesus after descending from heaven and lighted on Himself and got back to heaven to say that the One on whom He lighted was Himself?’ The group smiled in agreement. Tim asks...

‘TO WHOM DOES THE BIBLE REFER WHEN IT SAYS “ONE GOD”?’ Pol continues to explain, “When the Bible speaks of one God (Mal 2:10; 1Ti 2:5; Mr 12:29; Ja 2:19), it refers to the Father (1Co 8:6) of our Lord Jesus Christ (Ro 15:6; 2Co 1:3; 11:31; Ep 1:3; Co 1:3; 1Pe 1:3) and of all (Ep 4:6). Manny asks, ...

‘IN WHAT WAYS ARE THE FATHER, SON AND SPIRIT SAID TO BE ONE?’ “Manny, please read Matthew 28:19”

41 “... make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the NAME of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit”. Pol asks, “According to this verse, the disciples were commanded to baptize in the NAMES or “NAME”? “In the name!” was Manny’s quick response. ‘That is one way by which they are one—the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit have one NAME,’ Pol continues to explain. ‘The Father gave Jesus His name that they have the same name. Jesus prayed: “….Holy Father, keep them in Your name, the name which You have given Me, that they may be one, even as We are.” (John 17:11)’ ‘The name of the Father is the name of Son and of the Spirit (Mt 28:19). There is “One LORD” (Deuteronomy 6:4). But that does not imply that only one person can be called LORD. The sender and the one sent are called LORD in Zechariah 2:8-9 NKJV. “For thus says the LORD of hosts: '...the LORD of hosts has sent Me.” Finis Dakes comments concerning Ps 110:1, “One manuscript correctly reads, ‘Jehovah said unto my Jehovah.’ The original Hebrew of Ps. 110:5 reads, ‘Jehovah at thy (Jehovah's) right hand.’ But out of extreme reverence for the name Jehovah (Yahweh), ancient scribes substituted 'Adonay for Jehovah in 134 passages, including Ps.110:5. Jehovah should have been retained in all 134 places. If it had been, then Ps. 110:5 would have clearly revealed two divine persons called Jehovah. All three persons of the Trinity are equally God, 'Adonay, Jehovah, and everything else that God is (see note (c), Gen. 19:24). The quotations of Ps. 110:1 in Mt. 22:41-45 and Acts 2:34-35 use the same Greek word Kurios of both the Father and the Son, proving them to be two Lord's or Jehovah's.” In the same way, “… there is but one Lord, Jesus Christ...” (1 Co 8:6b) does not mean only one person can be called Lord, for Jesus called the Father “Lord of heaven and earth” (Mt 11:25). Have you been praying to the Father as Jesus instructed (Matthew 6:9)? ... That is good. But have you prayed to Jesus as believers did (Acts 7:59-60; 9:10-17; 2Corinthians 12:8-9)? ‘But having the name of God does not imply that Jesus is God,’ complains Aris. ‘In Jeremiah 23:6 and 33:16, both the Messiah and Jerusalem have the name “The LORD our righteousness”. Jerusalem cannot be God, right?’ ‘Jeremiah 33:16 may be rendered thus: "This is the name wherewith he shall be called by her, the LORD our righteousness" (Gill’s translation, cf. Douay, Tyndale). Thus, the church will call the Messiah LORD or Yahweh!’ ‘Moreover, names describe some characteristics of the person. In each of The Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit are the attributes of the only true God (Jeremiah 10:10).’

42 For example, each one of them is an eternal Creator. In the beginning, coming from the Father but not created by Him, two eternal and separate persons were with Him already — His Spirit (Jn 15:26; He 9:14) and His Word (16:27,28) who is also His only begotten Son (1:18). Through them, He created all things (Ps 33:6; Job 33:4; 26:13 Duoay) for Himself (1Co 8:6). Another way by which the Bible says the Father and the Son are one is by saying that Jesus is in the Father and the Father is in Jesus (Jn 10:30,38). Jesus prayed “that all of them may be one, Father, just as you are in me and I am in you....” (John 17:21) ‘What does it mean that the Father is in Jesus and Jesus is in the Father?’ asks Tim. ‘Will you read John 14:9-11,24?’ ‘9 Jesus answered: "Don’t you know me, Philip, even after I have been among you such a long time? Anyone who has seen me has seen the Father. How can you say, ‘Show us the Father’? 10 Don’t you believe that I am in the Father, and that the Father is in me? The words I say to you are not just my own. Rather, it is the Father, living in me, who is doing his work. 11 Believe me when I say that I am in the Father and the Father is in me; or at least believe on the evidence of the miracles themselves. ... 24 He who does not love me will not obey my teaching. These words you hear are not my own; they belong to the Father who sent me.” (John 14:9-11,24).’ Pol asks the whole group, ‘From this passage, how do you understand what Jesus meant when He said that the Father is in Him?’ Everyone stares at their Bibles. After some silence, Pete said, ‘Ahh …’ Everyone looks at Pete and asks, ‘What did you see?’ Not answering, Pete rushes to the toilet! Again, people laughs! ‘I think that was tonight’s most important revelation to Pete—the location of the toilet!’ The group laughs the more! Pete came back with a smile and said, ‘I just cast out a spirit that is hindering me from concentrating on our study!’ The group has gone wild laughing. Jon even had tears while laughing. When everyone has gone back to their senses, Pete said, ‘Seriously, I think “the Father in the Son” means that the Father can be known, heard and seen in the Son that to know Jesus is to know the Father. The words that Jesus spoke which resulted in miracles (especially changed lives) were the result of God’s work in Him.’ ‘Yes, they are one in words and in works!’ Exclaims Jon. ‘Whatever Jesus would say in any situation, the Father would also say in the same situation!’ ‘… and whatever Jesus would do in a given situation,’ Jem adds, ‘the Father would also do in the same situation!’

43 ‘Did you three look at my teacher’s guide? …’ Pol smiles. ‘I know you didn’t! You are very correct. In fact, Jesus prays that we will be like Him and the Father in being one. He wants each one of you to be seen in me and I be seen in each one of you!’ ‘I hope that that includes our height!’ answers Zac. The group stooping down on him laughs! ‘As Jon said,’ Pol brought the group back to discussion, ‘Whatever Jesus would say in any situation, the Father would also say in the same situation. They are united in doctrine too—even in what we may say as minor ones. In giving the church leaders, His purpose was that “we all attain to the unity of the faith, and [that is] of the knowledge of the Son of God, to a mature man, to the measure of the stature which belongs to the fullness of Christ.”’ (Ephesians 4:13 NAS). He wants us to become united in knowing and becoming mature like Christ. Thus, we see that Jesus and the Father are one in character, word and works. What do you think God wants you to do to help true believers become like Christ united in doctrine, character and works? ... Do you take time to listen to their doctrine? ... If not, why? Do you think you already have all the true doctrines? ... ‘How do we begin helping true believers become like Christ in doctrine and character?’, asks Tom. ‘By seeking to unite in the knowledge of the Son of God.’ ‘No wonder we focus so much on Christ in our studies!’ exclaims the group.

IS JESUS THE TRUE GOD ALSO? Aris argues, ‘But Jesus prayed, “Now this is eternal life: that they may know you, the only true God....” (John 17:3). Therefore, the Father is the only true God! How can Jesus be the only true God also? ‘Read 1John 1:1-3’. “1That which was from the beginning, which we have heard, which we have seen with our eyes, which we have looked at and our hands have touched—this we proclaim concerning the Word of life. 2 The life appeared; we have seen it and testify to it, and we proclaim to you the eternal life, which was with the Father and has appeared to us. 3 We proclaim to you what we have seen and heard, so that you also may have fellowship with us. And our fellowship is with the Father and with his Son, Jesus Christ.”

44 ‘According to John in this passage, who is the eternal life?’ ‘that which was from the beginning ... with the Father -- the Word ... the Father’s Son, Jesus Christ. ... But how does that relate to the true God we are talking about?’ ‘Now read 1John 5:20’. ‘We know also that the Son of God has come and has given us understanding, so that we may know him who is true. And we are in him who is true—even in his Son Jesus Christ. He is the true God and eternal life.’ ‘Now, according to this verse, who is the true God and eternal life?’ ‘Jesus Christ’ was Aris’ admission.

DOES JESUS HAVE GOD’S NATURE? ‘One of the characteristics of the true God is that He is CREATOR. Verifying our earlier study, Colossians 1:13-17 says,“13 ... the Son, 16 ... by him all things were created: things in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or powers or rulers or authorities; all things were created by him and for him....” . ) Do you have a need? ... Can God who created the universe meet that need? ... If so, ask Him! ‘The true God is also EVERYWHERE PRESENT. 23 “Am I only a God nearby,” declares the LORD, “and not a God far away? 24 Can anyone hide in secret places so that I cannot see him?” declares the LORD. “Do not I fill heaven and earth?” declares the LORD.” (Jeremiah 23:23-24 ) Jesus said, “For where two or three come together in my name, there am I with them.” (Matthew 18:20). How can Jesus be here and in another place where people gather unless He is everywhere present?‘ Manny objects, ‘But Paul said in 1 Corinthians 5:4, “...I am with you in spirit”. Does that prove that Paul is God?’ ‘It does not!’ replies Barnie, ‘The whole verse says, “When you are assembled in the name of our Lord Jesus and I am with you in spirit, and the power of our Lord Jesus is present,” Paul stated that it was possible for him to be with the Corinthian believers in spirit by the power of our Lord Jesus. Furthermore, his spirit can only be in one place at a time! Is there a sin in your life which others have not known? ... God sees you wherever you do it! Confess it to Him now before it is too late! ‘The true God is also ALL KNOWING. God said, “Who then is like me? Let him proclaim it. Let him declare and lay out before me what has happened since I established my ancient people, and what is yet to come— yes, let him foretell what will come.” (Isaiah 44:7). He also acquires experiential knowledge of conditions (Deuteronomy 32:19; Exodus 4:14; Genesis 18:21; 22:12). This can also be said of Jesus. Peter told Him, ‘..."Lord, you know all things...." (John 21:17; cf. 16:30; 2:25).

45 But Jesus did not know all things!’ exclaims Manny, ‘In Mark 13:32, He says, “No-one knows about that day or hour, not even the angels in heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father.” (Mark 13:32 NIV). Moreover, He “grew in wisdom” (Luke 2:52). ‘Again, growing in wisdom, not knowing everything is a characteristic of Jesus as a man. His coming is dependent on the preaching of the gospel (Matthew 24:14) and on the bride making herself ready (Revelation 19:7). He will have experiential knowledge of our readiness, when it comes. Are you finding it difficult to make a decision because you do not know what will happen? ... He knows the best thing you can do! So call upon God for wisdom (James 1:5). ‘The true God is also ETERNAL. “But the LORD is the true God; He is the living God and the everlasting King. ....” (Jeremiah 10:10 NKJV). ‘John was born ahead of Jesus: When it was time for Elizabeth to have her baby, she gave birth to a son’ (Luke 1:57). After some time, the angel of the LORD told the shepherds, “Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; He is Christ the Lord.” (2:11) ‘Although John the Baptist was born earlier, He said concerning Jesus, ‘He was before me.’ (John 1:30). Though Abraham died many years before Jesus was born, Jesus said, “Before Abraham was born, I AM!” (8:57-59). ‘Yes,’ Aris affirms, ‘Jesus came into existence before Abraham did!’ ‘If Jesus wanted to communicate only that He was existing before Abraham did,’ Pol asks the group, ‘why do you think Jesus said, ‘I am” instead of “I was”?’ After some silence, Roman says, ‘Because He was not trying to communicate that He was born before Abraham was. Instead, He was saying, “What I was before Abraham was born, I am still right now.” He was already existing before Abraham was born in the same state as He was presently existing when He was talking to the Jews.’ Tim adds, ‘The Jews understood that He was claiming the eternity and immutability (unchangeable nature) of God. So they again took up stones to stone him as they had before done when they saw that He made Himself equal with God (John 8:59, 5:18).’ ‘Scripture also testify about Him,’ Pol continues, ‘“For unto us a child is born... His name shall be called...The Eternal Father...” (Isaiah 9:6 JB2000) “...Bethlehem ... from you One will go forth for Me to be ruler in Israel. His goings forth are from long ago, from the days of eternity." (Micah 5:2 NAS)’. ‘The same Greek word for “eternity” in the translation of Micah 5:2,’ Apol sharing his discovery says, ‘is translated “ever” when it says in Hebrews 13:8 KJ, “Jesus Christ the same yesterday, and to day, and for ever.” Thus, Jesus is the same ... for eternity!

46 ‘This study proves that we are right in believing the apostles’ creed,’ boasts Roman with his research. He continues, ‘In its Traditional English Version, the apostle’s creed states: I believe in God the Father Almighty, Maker of heaven and earth. And in Jesus Christ his only Son our Lord; who was conceived by the Holy Ghost, born of the Virgin Mary, suffered under Pontius Pilate, was crucified, dead, and buried; he descended into hell; the third day he rose again from the dead; he ascended into heaven, and sitteth on the right hand of God the Father Almighty; from thence he shall come to judge the quick and the dead. I believe in the Holy Ghost; the holy catholic Church; the communion of saints; the forgiveness of sins; the resurrection of the body; and the life everlasting. AMEN. ‘I also brought the Athanasian Creed,’ continues Roman, ‘Let me quote portions of it... which agrees with what we have studied... THE ATHANASIAN CREED .... What the Father is, the Son is, and the Holy Spirit is. The Father is uncreated, the Son is uncreated, and the Holy Spirit is uncreated. The Father is boundless, the Son is boundless, and the Holy Spirit is boundless. The Father is eternal, the Son is eternal, and the Holy Spirit is eternal. ... the Father is omnipotent, the Son is omnipotent, the Holy Spirit is omnipotent. ... Thus the Father is God, the Son is God, and the Holy Spirit is God. ... The Father is Lord, the Son is Lord, and the Holy Spirit is Lord. ... For as we are obliged by Christian truth to acknowledge every Person singly to be God and Lord, so too are we forbidden by the catholic religion to say that there are three Gods or Lords. The Father was not made, nor created, nor generated by anyone. The Son is not made, nor created, but begotten by the Father alone. The Holy Spirit is not made, nor created, nor generated, but proceeds from the Father and the Son. ... It is also necessary for eternal salvation that he believes steadfastly in the incarnation of our Lord Jesus Christ. Thus the right faith is that we believe and confess that our Lord Jesus Christ, the Son of God, is both God and man. ... He is equal to the Father in His divinity, but inferior to the Father in His humanity.

47 Although He is God and man, He is not two, but one Christ. ... He died for our salvation, descended into hell, and rose from the dead on the third day. He ascended into heaven, sits at the right hand of God the Father almighty. From there He shall come to judge the living and the dead. At His coming, all men are to arise with their own bodies; and they are to give an account of their own deeds. Those who have done good deeds will go into eternal life; those who have done evil will go into the everlasting fire. This is the catholic faith. Everyone must believe it, firmly and steadfastly; ...

‘So see you next time! It is late almost 12 midnight already!’ The group was surprised to see that they need not notice that time flew fast! They however dismissed happily.

48 L5.

Can I Be Sure I Am Going to Heaven?

‘Father, among those we are helping,’ Pol prays while he and Tim were walking toward Nel’s house, ‘those whose lives have been changed (2Corinthians 5:17), as we teach today, let them be sure that they have been forgiven of all their sins (1John 2:12).’ ‘Amen,’ Tim agrees.

IS CHRIST SEEN IN ME? Arriving at the house, they were greeted by Linda, ‘Why is that my husband is now sure she is going to heaven, but I am not?!’ ‘That is what we will be discussing today! … Can we first have our drinks?’ asks Pol with a smile. ‘Of course!’ says Linda with a smile. After they drank, Pol asked Nel, ‘How did you know that you are going to heaven?’ ‘I tried to explain to my wife, but I guess my convincing power is not strong!’ ‘If that is the case then, let us start with our lesson. … But will you first introduce us to these new people?’ ‘Pol and Tim, these are our neighbors, ‘Tom and his wife Faith.’ ‘Hi!' Tom greets Pol and Tim and proceeds, 'We have known Nel for a long time, but only recently did we notice that he seems to be very happy! We do not hear him fighting with his wife for a month now! We would like to check what is happening with him!’ While Tim distributes the lesson notes, Pol says, ‘Well, this lesson would explain why. As we go through it, at the beginning, please assume first that you have invited Christ into your heart. If later, you feel that you understand the benefits of doing so, I will help you do so. Is that okay?’ ‘Fair enough!’ answers Tom With Pol’s signal, Tim leads the group in prayer, ‘Father, thank You that You have given us Your word that we can be sure we are going to heaven!’ ‘Amen!’ agrees Nel. Looking at those who are present, Pol says, ‘Yes, you can be sure! First, you must believe that Jesus is the Christ. 1John 5:1 says

49 “Everyone who believes that Jesus is the Christ is born of God….” You must also believe that Jesus is the Son of God. 1 John 4:15 says: “If anyone acknowledges that Jesus is the Son of God, God lives in him and he in God.” (NIV) Believing in these things, you may now consider what Jesus promises: “Here I am! I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will COME in and eat with him, and he with me” (Revelation 3:20). ‘Linda, 1. ‘According to this verse, what did Christ do when you opened the door of your heart?’ ‘He will come in,’ answers Linda. Pol clarifies, ‘After you have done the condition He set—that you hear His voice and open the door—do you think He will still come in after an indefinite time, or He already came in?’ ‘I guess He came in!’ ‘You guess or you know?’ ‘Yeah, He came in!’ “…. Whoever claims to live in him must walk as Jesus did.” (1John 2:6) ‘I request that each one of us check the appropriate boxes for his life: In what way is Jesus seen in your life now?  I do not continue in sin (3:6-9);  I obey Him (2:3-11; 3:19-22);  I love other believers (3:14-16; 4:12,16). ‘Linda, in what way is Jesus seen more in Nel’s life?’ asks Pol. Linda looks at Nel straight in the eye, smiles and says, ‘He is no longer quick to get angry … and He loves me and our kids more now!’ ‘That is good, Nel!’ remarks Pol. ‘I know why my wife said that…’, Nel replies, ‘…because it is true!’ Some laugh; others thought he was serious. ‘Now the following verses are only for those in whose lives Jesus is seen. If you are not yet sure that Jesus is in you, we will give you a chance to be sure at the end… ‘Being God (Hebrews 1:1-13),He promises each one who received Him, “NEVER will I leave you; never will I forsake you.” (Hebrews 13:5) ‘So Linda,

50 2. ‘Will Christ ever leave you?’ ‘No, never!’ ‘If so, do you need to invite him again into your life?’ ‘Yes.’ ‘Because He came into you and will not leave you, He won’t go out, will He?’ ‘Yes, He won’t!’ ‘Will you then invite again someone who is always there?’ ‘Of course not!’ Paul knew that what Jesus told the disciples is also for him, “…. surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age" (Matthew 28:20). He also personally gave him the promise. 9 One night the Lord spoke to Paul in a vision: "Do not be afraid; keep on speaking, do not be silent. 10 For I AM WITH YOU, and no-one is going to attack and harm you, because I have many people in this city" (Acts 18:9-10). WHEN I DIE, WILL I IMMEDIATELY GO TO HEAVEN? ‘Since Paul knew that Jesus would not leave him, he was able to say, “23—...I desire to depart and be with CHRIST…” (Philippians 1:20-25) 2Corinthians was written “…. To the church of God in Corinth, together with all the saints throughout Achaia:” (1:1) whom he assumed to have Christ. Paul tells them, “Examine yourselves to see whether you are in the faith; test yourselves. Do you not realize that Christ Jesus is in you—unless, of course, you fail the test?” (13:5). He also said, “1—Now we know that if the earthly tent we live in is destroyed, we have a building from god, an eternal house in HEAVEN, not built by human hands. ... 8—We are confident, I say, and would prefer to be away from the body and AT HOME with the Lord...” (5:1-9) 3. On the basis of these passages, WHEN YOU DIE, WHERE WILL YOU GO (5:1)?’ ‘To heaven,’ is Linda’s response. ‘Yes!’ cheers Nel. ‘But it does not say that Paul immediately goes to heaven!’ complains Abe. ‘Will you read Philippians 1:22-25, Abe?’ asks Pol. “22 If I am to go on living in the body, this will mean fruitful labor for me. Yet what shall I choose? I do not know! 23 I am torn between the two: I desire to depart and be with Christ, which is better by far; 24 but it is more necessary for you that I remain in the body. 25 Convinced of this, I know that I will remain, and I will continue with all of you for your progress and joy in the faith,”

51 ‘If Paul died and he did not go immediately with Christ,’ Pol explains, ‘how can dying be “better by far” than remaining in the body and continuing with all of the Philippian believers for their “progress and joy in the faith” (Philippians 1:20-25)?’ ‘Yeah, waiting in unconsciousness cannot be better than helping others!’ concludes Abe. ‘Therefore, Pol must have gone immediately with Christ after his death for it to be better than helping the Philippian believers!’ ‘Let us continue with the question in our guide: Who will be there with you (Philippians 1:23)?’ ‘Christ.’ ‘What will you do there?’ ‘I will be at home with the Lord.’ ‘Do you know this?’ ‘Yes.’ ‘How do you know?’ ‘Paul says in 2Corinthians 5:1, “Now we know that if the earthly tent we live in is destroyed, we have a building … in heaven.” ‘We can also know from this study that the following beliefs are wrong: ●

Dead believers in Christ are unconscious until the resurrection.

●

Dead believers in Christ roam on earth for some days.

When Christians die, they will IMMEDIATELY go TO HEAVEN. They will experience what Jesus promised to the repentant thief on the cross, “... TODAY you will be with Me in Paradise (Luke 23:43) or “HEAVEN” (2Corinthians 12:2-4). Dead believers are now with Him in heaven. Aries protests, ‘But no one has gone to heaven!’ ‘There is one—Jesus (John 3:31; 8:23)!’ Tim states ‘That is Jesus! You can’t use him as an example!’ ‘He is the most reliable witness—he never sinned!’ ‘Paul also says that there is another one!’ Pol joins the discussion, ‘2Corinthians 12:2 says, “I know a man in Christ who … was caught up to the third heaven….”’ ‘Uhmm, okay!’ is Aris final agreement. ‘Isn’t it that only after we are raised from the dead can we be sure we are going to heaven?’ asks Manny. Pol replies, “That is a good question. We will answer that in one in one of the lessons we’ll study.” If you have tried the above series of explanation and the one you are helping still would not accept it, it is possible that he does not want to obey God. Jesus said, “If anyone chooses to do God’s will, he will find out whether my teaching comes from God or whether I speak on my own.” (John 7:17). Ask wisdom from God, “Father, is there someone who has offended him or is there something that has happened in his life that has made it hard for him to obey God?” When led by God, you may ask that

52 question to him directly. Pol continues, ‘Indeed, a believer goes to heaven immediately. That is why, later, “… God will bring with Jesus those who have fallen asleep in Him…For the Lord Himself will come down from HEAVEN…” (1Thessalonians 4:13-18). ‘You will no longer experience separation from God (Isaiah 59:2) or death (Romans 6:23). Instead, “… God has given us ETERNAL life, and this life is in His Son. He who has the Son has life; He who does not have the Son of God does not have life. These things I have written to you… that you may G—KNOW that you HAVE eternal life” (1John 5:11-13) 4. Because Christ will not leave you, what kind of life do you have? ‘Eternal.’ Do you know you have this kind of life? ‘Yes.’ ‘That is true if you are one of Jesus’ sheep,’ Pol explains. Jesus said, “My sheep LISTEN to my voice; I know them, and they FOLLOW me. I give them eternal life, and they shall NEVER perish; NO-ONE can snatch them out of my hand. My Father ... is greater than all; K—NO-ONE can snatch them out of my Father’s hand...” (John 10:27-28). Jesus “is ABLE to save completely those who come to God through Him….” (Hebrews 7:25) 5. What do you do that shows that you have eternal life? ‘I listen to Jesus’ voice and follow Him.’ ‘Will you ever perish in eternal fire as did the rich man and Sodom and Gomorrah (Jude 1:7; Luke 16:19-31)?’ ‘No!’ ‘Who can snatch you out of the hands of Jesus and the Father?’ ‘No-one!’ ‘Is Jesus able to save you completely if you come to God through Him?’ ‘Yes!’ ‘If so, when you die, where will your soul go (Revelation 6:9)?’ ‘To— heaven!’ WHAT ABOUT GOOD WORKS? ‘Since you are going to heaven, you have been saved: “8 For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God— 9 NOT by works, so that no-one

53 can boast. 10—For we are … created in Christ Jesus to do GOOD works, which God prepared in advance for us to do” (Ephesians 2:8-10)’ ‘Were you saved from hell because of good works?’ ‘No.’ ‘Then why were you created?’ ‘So that I can do good works!’ ‘So, good works is not a means to be saved, but a result of being saved!’ remarks Roman. ‘Once you were alienated from God and were enemies in your minds because of your evil behavior. (Colossians 1:21). AM I FORGIVEN? Being Your enemy, Jesus could not eat with you. But since you asked Him to come into your life and you believe in Him (Acts 10:43), Jesus can now eat with you because “... He FORGAVE us ALL our sins...” (Colossians 2:13-14). 6. ‘What did God do with your sins?’ ‘He forgave them.’ ‘How many of them did He forgive?’ ‘All.’ ‘If so, WHEN YOU DIE, WILL YOU STILL GO TO HELL?’ ‘Of course not!’ But you might ask, “If all my sins have been forgiven, does that mean that I can sin all the time and still be assured I am going to heaven?” … No! Here is what God says … “... This is the covenant I will make with them after that time, says the Lord. I will put my laws in their HEARTS, and I will write them on their MINDS.” Then he adds: “Their sins and lawless acts I will remember no more.” ... (Hebrews 10:10,12,14,16-18) 7. ‘If you are truly forgiven (if God will remember your sins no more), where has God placed his laws?’ ‘In my heart and mind.’ ‘Yes, His laws will remain in your mind. Will you still enjoy sin as you did in the past?’ ‘No more.’ ‘Linda, do you now know that you are going to heaven?’ ‘Yes!’ affirms Linda. ‘How do you know?’ ‘During one of our Bible study, I invited Christ to come into my life. I know He came in because of two things. First is His promise, He does not lie. Secondly, He also confirmed it through His life that I began to see in my life. I have become more patient.’

54 ‘I testify to that too!’ affirms Nel. So did their children Mike and Cathy. ‘Tom and Faith, Do you also want to have the same assurance that your friends Nel and Linda has?’ asks Pol. ‘Sorry, but there are still doubts in my heart about some of the things that we discussed,’ replies Tom. ‘But I am now ready!’ says Faith. ‘Linda, would you like to help Faith receive Christ by reading to her “Do You Want to Always Be With God?”?’, asks Tom. ‘Sure!’ Linda reads the gospel tract while the rest prayerfully listened as she shares. After they finished reading through the tract, Pol asks Faith, ‘Now do you know you are going to heaven too?’ ‘Yes!’ ‘The next question is for all of us: Do you want to thank God for what He has done for you?’ All those who have received Christ nods their heads in agreement. ‘So let us stand up and pray the prayer in your notes: Father, I now know that I am going to heaven because You have forgiven me of all my sins and I have eternal life. As an expression of my gratitude, I will now continue to read the Bible daily to obey it (John 8:31-32). I will also join a Bible study group (Hebrews 10:23-25). Tim concludes, ‘For this coming week, your assignment is to Read 1John and bring your friends with you!’ Nel asked Pol, ‘I have some questions to ask. Can you stay for a while?’ ‘Sure’ When the rest have left, Tim, desiring to know more, asks, ‘Can I stay too?’ ‘Sure!’ SAVING FAITH Nel states, ‘I have an officemate who told me, “Since my sins have been forgiven already, I can continue to sin and still be assured I am going to heaven!” ‘ Pol adds, ‘I met another who was fainthearted, discouraged from returning to God (Isaiah 35:4 LXXE), quitters (Robertson), fainthearted, afraid, ‘Still another said, “I am not sure I am going to heaven! ... I have received Christ and have been a backslider. I’m not sure I can still be accepted! I

55 quit!”’ Nel continues, ‘Actually, I want to ask for myself: I’m afraid I may not be saved! I MAY HAVE COMMITTED THE UNPARDONABLE SIN!’ ‘Nel and Tim,’ Pol lovingly answers, ‘Let each one read Hebrews 10:1039! alternatively for each verse.’ And by that will, we have been made A HOLY through the sacrifice of the body of Jesus Christ once for all. 11 Day after day every priest stands and performs his religious duties; again and again he offers the same sacrifices, which can never take away sins. 12 But when this priest had offered for B ALL time one sacrifice for sins, he sat down at the right hand of God. …14 … by one sacrifice he has made C PERFECT for ever those who are being made holy. …. 16 "This is the covenant I will make with them after that time, says the Lord. I will put my laws in their D HEARTS, and I will write them on their minds." 17 Then he adds: "Their sins and lawless acts I will remember no more." 18 And where these have been forgiven [more literally, where there is E FORGIVENESS of these things (NAS)], there is no longer any sacrifice for sin.” ‘10

Therefore, brothers, since we have confidence to F ENTER the Most Holy Place by the blood of Jesus, 20 by a new and living way opened for us through the curtain, that is, his body, 21 and since we have a great priest over the house of God, 22 let us G DRAW NEAR to God with a sincere heart in full assurance of faith, having our hearts sprinkled to cleanse us from a guilty conscience and having our bodies washed with pure water. 23 Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we H PROFESS, for he who promised is faithful. 24 And let us consider how we may spur one another on towards love and good deeds. 25 Let us not give up I MEETING together, as some are in the habit of doing, but let us encourage one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching. 26 If we deliberately keep on sinning after we have received the J KNOWLEDGE of the truth, K NO sacrifice for sins is left, 27 but only a fearful expectation of judgment and of raging L FIRE that will consume the enemies of God. 28 Anyone who rejected the law of Moses died without mercy on the testimony of two or three witnesses. 29 How much more severely do you think a man deserves to be punished who has trampled the Son of God under foot, who has treated as an unholy thing the blood of the covenant that M SANCTIFIED him, and who has insulted the N Spirit of grace? 30 For we know him who said, "It is mine to avenge; I will repay," and again, "The Lord will judge his O PEOPLE." 31 It is a dreadful thing to fall into the hands of the living God. P 32 Remember those earlier days after you had RECEIVED the light, when you Q STOOD your ground in a great contest in the face of R SUFFERING. 33 Sometimes you were publicly exposed to insult and persecution; at other times you stood side by side with those who were so treated. 34 You S SYMPATHIZED with those in prison and T JOYFULLY accepted the confiscation of your property, because you knew that you yourselves had ‘19

56 better and lasting U POSSESSIONS. 35 So do not throw away your confidence; it will be richly rewarded. 36 You need to persevere so that when you have done the V WILL of God, you will receive what he has promised. 37 For in just a very little while, "He who is coming will come and will not delay. 38 But my W RIGHTEOUS one will live by faith. And if he shrinks back, I will not be pleased with him." 39 But we are not of those who X SHRINK back and are destroyed [lit., to destruction (NAS)], but of those who believe and are saved [to the Y PRESERVING of the soul (NAS)].” (Hebrews 10:1-39) ASSURANCE OF SALVATION IS NOT A LICENSE TO SIN: I. ASSURANCE FOR THE FAINTHEARTED: ... this priest had offered for B ALL time one sacrifice for sins ... (v.12)

A.For which sins did Jesus offer Himself?

‘For all time (v.10,12) That is why, that there is no longer any sacrifice for sin (v.18).

B. What are some of its results for us? ... we have been made A HOLY through the sacrifice of the body of Jesus ... (v.10) … by one sacrifice he has made C PERFECT for ever those who are being made holy. ….(v.14) 1. God has made and is making me holy sanctified, a SAINT! 2. God has made me perfect for ever (v.14). There is nothing that I need to add to what Christ did (John 19: 30)! ... you yourselves had better and lasting U POSSESSIONS. (v.34). 3. I have a better and lasting U ___________________ . 4. God will continue to put His laws on my D __________ and mind (v.16). … BE TRANSFORMED by the renewing of your MIND … (Romans 12:2). Based on this on-going command, when does God want to put his laws on your mind? Check the box of the correct answer: Once and for all; Everyday E C. ____________________ of sins available anytime. God will remember them no more (v.17). When does this happen? As God reveals my sins and I confess them and He cleanses me (1John 1:32:1) from a guilty conscience that I can draw near to God with a sincere heart (v.22). D. I have confidence to F __________ God’s presence (v.19). II. WARNING TO THE UNRULY—TO THOSE WHO MAKE GRACE A

57 LICENSE TO SIN: A. What benefits have you received but which you cannot use as a basis for saying you are saved if you continue sinning wilfully? That: 1. I am M __________________ (v.29)—holy, a saint. 2. I am a child of God, a brother or sister (v.19; Job 1:6; 38:7; Jude 1:6-7). 3. I have received the J ___________________ of the truth (v.26a): 4. I am W _________________ (v.38). 5. I am one of God’s O ____________ (v.30; Jude 1:5). B. After receiving the light (v.32a), the knowledge of the truth (v.26), why is continued and deliverate sinning very dangerous? Because if I do so: 1. I may be judged as God’s enemy (v.27) for: a. treating as unholy thing the blood that made me holy (v.29). b. I insulted the N __________ of grace (v.29) as the ; Matthew 12:22-32) c. I trampled the Son of God under foot (v.29) not recognizing his holiness as dogs would trample holy things and swine would to pearls (Mt 7:6) K 2. ____ sacrifice for sins is left. Jesus will not die for that sin anymore (v.26b). 3. I can only expect a raging L _______ which will consume God’s enemies (v.27,30). III. From the commands and examples in the following verses, WHAT SHOULD YOU DO to receive what was promised (v.36)) and “…REALIZE THE FULL ASSURANCE OF HOPE UNTIL THE END” (Hebrews 6:11 NAS)? A. Pray— G _________ ________ to God (v.22) B. Witness—Hold unswervingly to the hope we H ______________ (v.23). C. Fellowship—do not give up I ________________ together with other Christians to spur one another on towards love and good deeds (v.24) D. Obey—do the V _________ of God (v.36). E. Stand my ground in the face of R _________________, insult and persecution (v.32,33a) F. R _____________________ with those are insulted, persecution or imprisoned (v.33,34,36). G. T ________________ accept if I were treated unfairly (v.34).

58 L6.

What are the Other Results of Christ’s Sufferings for Me?

‘It is good that you came early, Tim,’ remarks Pol, ‘We have to pray lots of things for our group’ ‘What things?’ ‘I will just pray, and you add whatever you feel the Holy Spirit is asking you to pray based on the lesson you reviewed’ ‘Okay!’ ‘Father, you are the God of love,’ begins Pol, ‘I pray that our group members’ hearts will be knit together in love (Colossians 2:2) as each one shares deep pains in the past.’ ‘Yes, Lord,’ Tim agrees. ‘Let their hearts be burning as we study the results of Christ’s sufferings for them (Luke 24:32).’ Pol adds, ‘Let the love of Christ overwhelm all their pains and compel them to live no longer for themselves but for Him (2Corinthians 5:14-15).’ ‘We pray too that both of us will be quick to hear what they are sharing.’ ‘Yes, Father, teach us to be slow to speak (James 1:19,20) and to weep with those who weep (Romans 12:15). ‘We pray too that any sickness present will be healed (3John 1:2) today.’ --o0oWhen Pol and Tim arrives at Nel’s house, they noticed that it was filled with people. So Pol asked, ‘Is there a birthday party here?’ Nel replied with a smile, ‘No, our group members just invited many to come. And they did!’ ‘That’s great!’ After some time of introduction to each new comer, Pol begins, ‘You have been privileged to join a study today which has helped transform lives of many! We shall see the results of Christ’s sufferings for our lives. First is the potential for…

MENTAL AND EMOTIONAL PEACE ‘Now I want each of us to check the boxes that correspond to your experience 1. Check what happened to you or someone you love that caused mental and emotional pains for you? o Death of a loved one (Matthew 17:23; 1Thessalonians 4:13 d); o being terrified by a traumatic experience

59 (Daniel 7:7 ); o being betrayed (Matthew 26:21 ); o being unfairly treated (1Peter 2:19; Matthew 18:31 d); o losing a position as by ‘a king who was deposed by his subjects’ (Polyaenus 8,47 d, an ancient writing); o not getting what one wants (Luke 18:23-24da); o making a wrong decision (Mark 6:26d); o failing to satisfy a loved one (John 21:17 d) especially when you are missing him/her and he/she knew you were sick (Philippians 2:26-27b; o giving birth (John 16:20-22d); o being forced to give (2Corinthians 9:7d); o fear with a pampered child (Sirach 30:9c); o committing a sin (2Corinthians 7:8-10; 2:1-7 d) or remaining in it (Romans 9:2 d); o being chastened for it (Hebrews 12:11 d). Share your most painful experience to a partner now... c

d

Seeing one without any partner, Tim goes to be his partner. ‘Now, share to your partner your most emotionally painful experience. …’ Pol went around trying to hear what is being shared. … Some were even sharing with tears in their eyes. … ‘Now, we will have a chance for a few to share briefly, say in three minutes, to the group what you experienced. Who lost a loved one?’ Emy, who is a new comer, raised her hand together with two others. She said, ‘My mom just died last month.’ ‘Oh …’ is the group’s response. She continues with tears in her eyes, ‘I still feel the pain.’ The group was silent as she wipes her tears with a tissue paper which her friend Rick gives to her. ‘We will pray for you later, okay? … ‘Now who among you was terrified by a traumatic experience?’ No one raised his hand but Pol notices a tear from Mary’s face. Looking at the faces of others, he prayed in his heart, ‘Lord, minister to her also today!’ (Unknown to him, she has been in and out of different hospitals’ psychiatric wards, unable to recover from the trauma of attempted rape, whether it actually happened or not was unknown to even her family.) ‘Now who among you was betrayed by a friend?’ ‘My best friend took my boyfriend away from me!’ shares Emy. ‘But Emy, I did not know she was your boyfriend!’ answers Mary. ‘In fact, I broke up with him when I heard about it!’ … (Not knowing how to handle the situation, Pol and Tim just prayed silently.) ‘Don’t worry, ladies, I’m still available!’ comments their common friend, Pete. The group laughs. ‘If that is the case,’ Emy proposes, ‘I will just be reconciled with Mary!’ More laughter. … ‘Now who among you was unfairly treated?’ Tim asks.

60 Pete raises his hand and says, ‘Just now!’ Now, even Mary laughs. ‘Who lost a position you wanted?’ Nel explains, ‘I was head of a government institution where I worked beginning with the rank and file, but got replaced by an outsider when we had a change of president.’ ‘Looking with empathy for what he suffered, Pol continues, ‘We have had two presidents who had a similar experience to that king deposed by his subjects as referred to by Polyaenus, an ancient Greek writer . Related to what you shared is not getting what one wants. Now who has that experience?’ ‘I was third only in the sprint tournament,’ murmurs Mike. ‘It’s okay,’ affirms her mother, Linda. ‘But Mom,’ complains Mike, ‘we were only three contestants!’ Group laughs. … ‘Now who among you has made a wrong decision?’ asked Pol. Most raised their hands. ‘Anybody who wants to share the wrong decision he made?’ ‘I required my son to take the course which only I like for him,’ remarks Roman. ‘As a result, he was not able to finish it!’ The parents looked with sympathy for him. ‘I married someone who is not a believer,’ tells another. ‘Now, we are separated!’ ‘Thanks for your trust that what we heard will not leave this place,’ affirms Pol. ‘It is our desire for this group to help each others on issues like this. … ‘Now who got sad when you learned that you failed the expectation of someone important to you?’ Most raise their hands. ‘Everything I have done has always been wrong to my wife!’ complains Abe. ‘If I am late in going home, she would ask me, “Why are you late?”. If I am early, she would ask me, “What do you need?”’ ‘I was very lonely when worked abroad and had to separate from my family,’ narrates Manny, ‘especially when I got sick, and my wife is not there to care for me. Even worse, she learned about it from a friend but she had no phone with which I can contact her!’ ‘Let me ask the mothers, “Tell me, what negative emotions have you felt in giving birth?” “It feels like having one of your feet in the grave. The expectation of greater pain makes the suffering worse!” says Linda.

61 ‘I understand that to a certain degree,’ claims Nel. ‘You gave birth too?’ comments Pete. Ignoring Pete’s comment, Nel continues, ‘That is why I borrowed money and skipped meals just to send you money when you gave birth so that you won’t have the added sorrow of trying to find money to pay the hospital bills. But it was not painful to give that because of my love for you!’ Their children were smiling to their ears. Roman narrates, ‘I once was giving some allowance for a man in our club who had no work. But it became painful to give when I learned that he was just using the money I was giving him to watch movies! (Proverbs 10:26).’ ‘Who of you pampered a child and you had grief later as a result of it?’ asks Pol. About 2 raise their hands. ‘Now please bow down your heads and close your eyes. Answer this question silently… by raising your hand if your answer is ‘Yes’ so I can pray for you. Have you trusted Christ for your salvation but has committed a sin and is now suffering its consequences? … If so, remember that it will be sorrowful now, but it will make you holy and righteous (Hebrews 12:1-29)! ‘Father, thank you for making those who raised their hands and the rest of us more like Jesus. Amen. ‘Mary, would you like to read the paragraph on after “Jesus felt the emotions you had in the foregoing verses....” ’

“

‘Before He was crucified, He …began to be in terrible pain a and agony of mindb,” “horror–stricken c and desperately depressed b” (Matthew

“

26:37; Mark 14:33 Philips) He said, My soul is overwhelmed with sorrow d to the point of death.” (v.34; Matthew 26:38). And being in anguish, He prayed more earnestly, and His sweat was like drops of A

BLOOD falling to the ground (Luke 22:44).” (Superscripts correspond to those above.)

a,b,c,d

Pol asks Mary the next question: 2. How terrible were Christ’s mental and emotional sufferings? ‘His sweat became like drops of blood!’ Mary reads with surprise. Tim reads what follows, ‘There are medical cases where the anguish of the soul became so extreme that the tiny capillaries in the head burst and the blood mixed

62 with sweat. (Extra-Biblical data were taken from Josh McDowell's books: The Resurrection Factor, pp. 41-49; and Evidence That Demands a Verdict, Revised Edition, pp. 196-199) ‘That was how terrible Jesus suffered mentally and emotionally because of your sins. ‘Now your mind and emotions can be peaceful: “Surely He … carried our sorrows … the punishment that brought us peace was upon Him ….” (Isaiah 53:4,5). Pol allowed a time of silence and said, ‘Let me pray for us all … ‘Jesus, thank You that understand all our sorrows. You know how it feels to lose a love one (John 11:35). … You understand how it is to be traumatized. … You felt the pain of being betrayed by your friend Judas (Psalm 41:9; John 13:18). … You were unfairly treated, considered worse than a criminal. … Though You made the world, but the world, beginning with Israel did not recognize You as their king (John 1:10-11). … You did not get what you want with the unbelieving and perverse generation (Luke 9:41) nor with disciples who were slow of understanding (Matthew 16:8-12). … You looked with understanding of Peter’s wrong decision to betray You that caused him to weep bitterly (Luke 22:60-62). … Your emotional suffering came to the extreme that you shed blood (Hebrews 12:4). … On this basis, Lord, I ask that You now heal all emotional wounds of all of us who are in this Bible study. Amen. ‘Oh, that was refreshing!’ exclaims Emy. ‘That is just one of the benefits of Christ’s death for us. We also can have

BOLDNESS TO COME TO GOD ‘Now, with your partner, share your answer to the question:

3. What shameful experience have you had? Being o falsely accused;

o mocked for a condition which I cannot repair; o despised; o forsaken by friends; o uncovered of my nakedness/sexually assaulted/raped.

‘Now take time to share to your partner the MOST SHAMEFUL experience you have ever had?’ Again Pol went around trying to observe how the members share their experiences. There were sparks of laughter from some pairs. ... One was sharing her story in a soft voice, not wanting the rest to hear. ‘Who have been falsely accused?’ asked Pol. Two of them raised their

63 hands! ‘I have been accused as a movie idol!’ boasts Pete. Looking at Pete, some smiled; others laughed. His friend, Jon, teased him, ‘That is not an accusation … that is a mistake!’ More laughter. ‘If that person were here,’ asserts Jem, ‘he would be sharing that as the most shameful experience!’ ‘Why are you sporting on Pete?’ Emy rebukes Jon and Jem. ‘For me, he looks like an idol!’ Others teases her. She continues, ‘… an idol for the mountain tribes!’ A louder laugh. Seeing Pete becoming reddish already, Jon says, ‘Pete is my friend. And he is not ugly … he is uglier!’ Now, Jem was rolling on the floor laughing. When everyone felt refreshed by the laughter, Pol returns to the topic, ‘Now who of you was truly accused?’ ‘I was accused of copying my seatmates answers in an exam when it was him who did it!’ narrates Mike. ‘So what did you learn from that experience?’ asks Nel gently. ‘That I should no longer cheat!’ ‘Very good, son!’ ‘Jesus had that too,’ Pol reads the notes. ‘He was falsely accused as worse than a thief and a murderer who was clamored by the crowd to be released instead of Him (Mark 15:6-15; John 18:40).’ Who among you have been mocked for a condition you cannot repair?… ‘In my high school days, I was second for the chess tournament,’ boasts Aris. ‘A professor friend of mine was assigned to call the winners. When he called me, the whole high school students who were present clapped their hands and I proudly went up the stage and shook his hand with my right hand and reached out for the trophy on his left hand. But the trophy was only for the first place winner! When I noticed he was not giving it, I dropped his hand, turned around, walked … and hit the stage’s post!’ Again, there is laughter in the group. ‘At least, time heals that mistake!’ affirms Pol, ‘What are some things which are beyond the control of children for which they have been mocked?’ ‘Some have been mocked for a physical deformity,’ reminds Zac. ‘I was mocked for being an adapted daughter,’ sighs Emy. ‘Who among you were despised?’ ‘When I went down from the mountains to study,’ Manny sadly shares,

64 ‘the lowlanders among my classmates despised me.’ ‘Who among you have seen a worm in a corpse’s body?’ Some raised their hands. ‘What was your reaction when you saw it? ‘When I saw a worm in a dead cat on the road, I despised it!’ Emy says. ‘I almost even vomited!’ exclaims Mary. ‘Imagine if that were others reaction when they saw you!’ ‘Jesus was treated that way. He was mocked and despised by the people as if he was a worm in a corpse’s body. He said, “But I am a worm and not a man, scorned by men and despised by the people. All who see me mock me; they hurl insults, shaking their heads:” (Psalms 22:6-7) Who among you has been forsaken by his friends? Mary and Emy raises their hands. Not wanting another potential fight, Pol just continued, ‘So was Jesus! “… all the disciples deserted Him and fled.” (Matthew 26:56)’ ‘A homosexual told me he was stripped naked,’ shares Linda. ‘A friend of mine was raped by her father. Another was sodomized by his classmate.’ Can Jesus understand that?’ ‘Please read John 19:23-24 in your notes’ “23 … the soldiers … took His [outer] garments and made four parts, to each soldier a part…. Now the tunic [undergarment] was without seam…. 24 They said therefore among themselves, "Let us … cast lots for it…" (John 19:23-24 NKJV). ‘If they got Jesus’ outer garments and undergarment,’ asks Pol, ‘what remained in His body?’ ‘I guess nothing!’ says Mike ‘… So no crucifix I have seen adequately represents what happened on the cross!’ ‘Yes, He was crucified naked before many. Nevertheless, He “… endured the cross, scorning its shame…” (Hebrews 12:2) so that you may not be ashamed (Romans 9:33)?! ‘There is another good result of Christ’s sufferings. … HEALING OF SICKNESSES AND DISEASES ‘Now,’ asks Pol, “4. What is the WORST PHYSICAL PAIN you have ever experienced?’ ‘Giving birth to a my children has been the worst pain to me!’ says Linda. ‘I had stone in the kidney,’ tells Roman, ‘I rolled around in pain before it was removed!’

65 ‘Compare it with Christ’s experience…’ Pol exhorts, ‘His appearance was so DISFIGURED beyond that of any man and His form marred beyond human likeness … (Isaiah 52:14). 5. How terrible was His physical suffering? He was disfigured beyond human likeness. Have you ever been beaten that way?’ ‘I was by beaten by three guys before,’ shares Jon, ‘… my whole body ached for days!’ ‘You must have been badly beaten at that time,’ says Pete, ‘I can still see it in your face now!’ The group laughs. ‘Now you are getting even!’ Pol reads the notes this way, ‘…“He took up our infirmities and carried our DISEASES.” (Matthew 8:17). But He was pierced for our transgressions, He was crushed for our iniquities … by His wounds we are HEALED (Isaiah 53:5). ‘I studied the word for ‘wounds’ and I discovered that it is translated as stripes in Proverbs 20:30 KJV that says, “The blueness of a wound cleanseth away evil: so do stripes the inward parts of the belly.” Thus, I concluded that His wounds by which we are healed refers to the “black and blue marks of bleeding in the inward parts” like that in a “black eye”. ‘Israel’s condition is described this way, “From the sole of your foot to the top of your head there is no soundness—only wounds and bruises and open sores, not cleansed or bandaged or soothed with oil.” (Isaiah 1:4,6). Then Isaiah 52:14 of NASB says, “Just as many were astonished at you, My people, So His appearance was marred more than any man, And His form more than the sons of men.” Thus, from the sole of the foot to the top of His head, Jesus had wounds, bruises and open sores! Therefore, when “the whole company of soldiers” which is about 400-600 (Barnes on Matthew 27:27) spat on Him, He contracted all the diseases he could get from the saliva of those soldiers! This leads us to the next question:

6.What did Jesus carry on the cross (Matthew 8:17)?’

‘Our diseases,’ is

the group’s quick answer. ‘Because of this, what can happen to you when you are sick?’ ‘I can be healed!’ ‘Who among you here are sick?’ Linda and Mary raised their hands. … Pol continues, ‘Now, I request the rest to come to the one with whom you interact more—to Mary or to Linda. Otherwise, just come to one of them.’ Emy and Pete went to Mary and the rest went to Linda. … ‘Now if anyone of you need to forgive them, do so, that they may be

66 healed as you pray for them (James 5:14-18).’ … Emy and Mary asked forgiveness from each other and hugged each other while crying. Pete jokingly offered a hug also that they laughed. Nel held Linda’s hands and asked forgiveness for times when he was not considerate and treating her with respect (1Peter 3:7). ‘Now I want those of you who are sure you are already saved to lay your hands on them and follow this prayer, “Father, thank you that Jesus already took this person’s sickness on the cross (Isaiah 53:4,5). As we lay hands on her in Jesus’ name, she will recover (Mark 16:16-20) and you will be glorified. Therefore we ask this sickness to depart from her body now, in Jesus’ name (John 14:12-13).” ‘Mary and Linda, pray the prayer in the notes audibly now, uttering the sickness you had.' Jesus, thank you for taking up my infirmities and diseases because of my sins. I believe that by your wounds I am healed of ________________!

CONTINUED FELLOWSHIP WITH GOD ‘7. Have you ever felt so abandoned that you even felt that even GOD LEFT YOU?’ Some nodded their heads. ‘Anyone who wants to share what happened?’ asks Pol. Mary shares, ‘There was a time in my life when my first boyfriend left me for another. I was studying in another place, so my family was not there to comfort me. The money they sent got delayed. My grades went down. I was so lonely in my room and even shouted, “God, where are you?”. So I attempted suicide.’ ‘It is good you were not successful!’ remarks Pete! ‘Yes, it was at that time, that out of the blue, Emy called me and treated me for dinner!’ ‘Before Emy came to the rescue,’ Pol comments, ‘you felt you were abandoned. If others left you, so was Jesus. When they seized Him, “…all the disciples deserted him and fled.” (Matthew 26:56). Pol looks at Tim and he understood that he was to read: Did you feel as if God abandoned you? … Consider what happened to Jesus: It was now about the sixth hour, and darkness came over the whole land until the ninth hour (Luke 23:44; Matthew 27:45; Mark 15:33). About the ninth hour Jesus cried out in a loud voice, … "My God, my God,

67 E

why have you FORSAKEN me?" (Matthew 27:46 Mark 15:34). ‘Mary,’ continues Pol, ‘8. How difficult was Christ’s loneliness? ‘Even His God had forsaken him!’ answers Mary with relief! Meditate on God’s grace: He suffered mentally and emotionally so that you can have mental and emotional peace. He was shamed publicly so that you need not be ashamed before God. He endured sickness so that you can get healed. God forsook Him so that He can say to you, “Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you." (Hebrews 13:5). ‘Manny, will you read Romans 12:1-2?’ asks Pol. “Therefore, I urge you, brothers, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your BODIES as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God—this is your spiritual act of worship” (Romans 12:1-2). ‘What is Paul requesting here?’ Manny answers, ‘That I offer my body as a living sacrifice’. ‘Do you want to do this?’ ‘Of course’ 'Listen as Tim and I take turns to read “Jesus Suffered for You!” slowly.’ So Pol and Tim reads the article given on the next pages...

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JESUS SUFFERED FOR YOU! This is the truth that can have the greatest positive impact in your life. I say this because it is true to the lives of millions—including mine: Though I was quite religious before I trusted Christ alone for my salvation, I was a sinner, a slave of sin and of Satan, my former father. For each sin I have done and will be doing, I deserve God’s wrath, eternal separation from Him and torment in a place of fire and deep darkness. Yet Christ loved me so much that He left all the glories of heaven, took the form of a poor carpenter and SUFFERED FOR ME IN ALL AREAS: mental, emotional, social, physical and spiritual. MENTALLY and EMOTIONALLY, as seen in His prayer before He was crucified. He said, “Father... remove this cup from Me; yet not My will...” “And being in agony He was praying very fervently; and His sweat became like drops of blood, falling upon the ground”. SOCIALLY, He suffered too. His own people gave Him to the godless Roman soldiers. Friends forsook him. He was shamed publicly. PHYSICALLY, He suffered also in many stages: He was not given a chance to sleep. He was forced to travel from Gethsemane to Annas, to Caiphas, to the council elders, to Pilate, to Herod, back to Pilate, and finally to Golgotha. Some spat on His face. Others blindfolded Him and beat Him with their fists. Still others slapped Him. They also scourged His shoulders, back and legs with flagellum (which had sharp, jagged pieces of bone lead woven to long leather thongs of various lengths). They did this until the skin of His back was hanging in long ribbons; His veins were laid bare, trickling with blood and His muscles, sinews and bowels exposed. Roman soldiers wove a crown of thorns around His head and gave blows on His face and kept beating His head (on which the crown was placed!) with a reed. Four to six hundred soldiers spat on him. The sputum was so dirty that His whole body got more infections. He bore a 110-pound crossbar for sometime but was so weak that another man was forced to carry it for Him. He refused to drink anesthetic wine mixed with myrrh and gall that He may fully experience what I deserve for my sins. Seven-inch iron spikes were driven through His forearms and heel bones . . . On the cross, He experienced arms’ fatigue, with great waves of cramps sweeping over the muscles, knotting them down in deep, relentless, throbbing pain. There He was also dizzy, thirsty, starving, and had traumatic fever and tetanus. The unnatural position made His every movement painful. The lacerated veins and crushed tendons throbbed with incessant anguish. The wounds, inflamed by exposure, gradually gangrened. The arteries, especially at the head and stomach, became swollen and oppressed with surcharged blood. While each variety of misery went on

69 gradually increasing, there was added to them the intolerable pang of burning and raging thirst. He had a shock and constriction of the heart that He finally, in rupture of the heart, gave up His physical life. That’s why when He was pierced at the side, blood and water came out. Worst of all, He suffered SPIRITUALLY: Before He died physically, on the cross, from 12 noon to 3 p.m., He bore my sins. As a Christian, I have a new nature that hates sin. This gives me an idea, though partial, on how much suffering He received, Him who knew no sin, when He carried all of my sins, including the guilt associated with each! And it was not just my sins that He took, but also those of the whole world at all times !! The Father and the Holy Spirit had no choice but to forsake Him and place God's entire wrath upon Him!!! He endured all of these in view of the joy of seeing THE GOOD THINGS I WOULD RECEIVE WHEN I ACCEPT HIM. Now I have received every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places! There is forgiveness for all my sins! I am freed from sin and Satan! God considers me as having the righteousness Christ has! I am now God’s child! I am co-seated with Jesus Christ far above the angels, Satan and all his demons! Being a new creation, I have access to the power to live a full and meaningful life! In fact, I am becoming more like Christ in my character and I will be sinless like Him in heaven!! There I will no longer experience sorrow, pain and death but eternal joy with Him and others who trusted Him alone for their salvation!!! These are just some of the riches of God’s grace that made me what I am and caused me to do what I am doing. Yes, because of what He has done and will be doing to me, I presented my body to Him as a living sacrifice once and for all and am now seeking to give Him the greatest glory in my life. HOW ABOUT YOU? What Christ did for me on the cross, He did also for you. Have you trusted Him for you salvation? If you haven’t done it yet, trust Him now… Have you given your body to serve Him and others? If you have not, tell Him something like this: “Lord Jesus, because of what You have done for me, I want You to be the Master of my life. My body, possessions, desires and dreams are now Yours. I will seek to know, by prayer, Your will in every situation. That You can use me for others’ well being, I shall remain in a house of prayer for all the nations. I will also seek someone to be my companion who will hold me accountable in my walk with You. I will not be judgmental. I will accept them just as you have accepted me. I will remember that God causes all things that all of us may be more like you. Since that group will help strengthen Christians and save souls, I will give to helping that group one of my highest priorities. As you enable me, I will allow You to use me to save, heal, free and restore others to You.”

70 When the article is being read by Tim at some portions, Pol tries to observe evidences of God touching the hearts of people. He observes some are teary eyed. ... When they came to the question, 'Have you trusted Him alone for your salvation? If you haven't done it yet, trust Him now...', Pol assigned old timers to share to the new comers using the tract 'Do You Want to Be with God Always?' giving the instruction, 'After about 10 minutes, all of us will pray the closing prayer. Then an announcement will be given'. Most of the new comers gladly received Christ! When everyone has finished, Pol continues, 'Have you given your body to serve Him and others?' Some nods their heads in agreement; others were just silent. 'If you have not, tell Him something like the prayer Tim will read?' Tim reads it. 'As you can see,’ Pol explains, ‘that prayer is an expression of your commitment to the Lordship of Christ in every are of your life. It is also a commitment to this group and to its goal of helping others also. So if you want to pray this prayer, stand up with me and follow in prayer after me as I read it a phrase at a time' Then he led them in a prayer. ... 'Next Friday night to Saturday, we shall have a retreat on how to obey God’s commandments. Can you come? ’ Most of the group nods in agreement. ‘May I bring a friend with me?’ asks Emy. ‘Sure!’ was Pol’s reply. ‘So, we’ll see each other then here by 7:00 p.m. on Saturday?’ ‘We’ll surely do that!’ was Pete’s response for the group

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Leading Gospel Studies in New Berea The author has been preaching the gospel in buses, vans, trains, streets, market places since 1980. This book illustrates a better approach to evangelism than that ministry. It is reaching out to the neighbors of a son or sons of peace through Spirit-empowered, evangelistic Bible studies in a house or houses of prayer. It is a combination of what he learned in the past 27 years as an evangelist. This book will equip you (Ephesians 4:11-16) to do the work of an evangelist (2Timothy 4:5) of helping preach the gospel to all men in the power of the Holy Spirit (Mark 16:15-18; Acts 1:8) with all wisdom (Colossians 1:28-29) so that you can help save as many as possible (1Corinthians 9:19-23), to the glory of God! As you read this booklet, you will be equipped as those whom Pol and Tim will seek to reach out come from different religious backgrounds. You will learn how to answer tough questions even as you enjoy reading it as the story unfolds. Humor is added so that you will occasionally smile as you learn new things …

WORKING FOR THE KINGDOM 2

Toward Transformation

A Study of the Ten Commandments Toward an Abundant, Free and Holy Life

One of the joys of helping others know God is seeing them walk in truth (3John 1:4). The sequel to the booklet Leading Gospel Studies in New Berea—Toward Transformation—will help you teach your disciples in a way that will help them obey all of Christ’s commandments (Matthew 28:19) which are also God’s (John 12:49). When they do this, Jesus makes Himself known to them (14:21) and they are able to know the Father more as well (14:7).

If you want to teach the topics in this booklet (through its study guide, Be Sure You are Saved!), to have a clear copy of the materials or to ask any question, contact His Equippers for Life Purposes through: website to download free materials: www.equippers.spaces.live.com email to write to and messenger to chat with: [email protected] mobile phone: +63917 848-1928