Spiritual

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Wed 22 Dec 2010

Why Does God Call Us To Pray?

Posted @ 10:10 am      {Click to post comment} (1 posted) 
Category: Personal , Spiritual
Night before last I was awakened to pray.  I won’t go into the “how” at this time.  Suffice it to say that as I came to waking alertness I knew my only response was to pray.  To pray fervently.
 
This has happened to me a handful of times over the past decade.  There is no doubt in my mind what I was called to do.  There was no doubt in my mind what my reaction should be.
 
I lingered afterward in a state on ponderence, wondering why in the world God would wake me up to pray to Him to make-the-world-right.  I mean He is God.  He knew situation XYZ was about to occur.  He has the power to intercede.  Why involve an intermediary such as me?  A wholly inadequate intermediary at that.
 
His purposes include man as the instrument of His will.  I don’t understand it but I smell love all over it.
 
Oh yes, within the next 24 hours the reason for my prayers from deep within my gut became overwhelmingly obviously.  God did intercede in an event I was not even understanding was about to transpire.
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Mon 20 Dec 2010

In All His Toil

Posted @ 9:55 am      {Click to post comment} 
Category: Spiritual
I have concluded that there is nothing better for people than to be happy and to enjoy themselves as long as they live, and also that everyone should eat and drink, and find enjoyment in all his toil, for these things are a gift from God.
Ecclesiastes 3:12-13

TOIL – To labor; to work; to exert strength with pain and fatigue of body or mind, particularly of the body, with efforts of some continuance or duration.

LABOR – Exertion of muscular strength, or bodily exertion which occasions weariness; particularly, the exertion of the limbs in occupations by which subsistence is obtained, as in agriculture and manufactures, in distinction from exertions of strength in play or amusements, which are denominated exercise, rather than labor.

“Finding enjoyment in all his toil”
 
Are these words to live by?  Or are they simply words offered by a man who had grasped everything life had to offer and found futility in all of it?
 
From his position of wealth, prosperity and power could he have even comprehended the life of those who gleaned his fields?  Was his advice limited only to those who were affluent or was it socially neutral advice?
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Fri 17 Dec 2010

The Functioning of Spiritual Gifts

Posted @ 6:00 am      {Click to post comment} 
Category: Studies
1 Corinthians 12:12-31a
The Functioning of Spiritual Gifts
Date: 19-Dec-10
Required Resources: Many Parts One Body – Survivor (comedy).mpg (4min 10sec)
Purpose (Why am I teaching this lesson? What effect did the writer expect it to have on the recipients?)
The purpose of this lesson is to cause the participant to consider their function and effectiveness within the Body of Christ.

Theme (What central idea does this passage communicate?)
Each part in the Body is essential to the functioning of the Body

Introduction
Review & Homework:
Outline
A. Salutations & Reminders (v1:1-1:9)
B. Divisions within the church (v1:10-4:21)
C. …of conduct unbecoming a believer (v5:1-13) {church discipline}
D. Dealing with offenses in The Body (v6:1-11)
E. The bondage of sexual sin (v6:12-20)
 – Now For The Matters You Wrote About –
F. Marriage, Divorce & Singleness (v7:1-40)
G. Christian Liberty (v8:1-11:1)
H. Order in Worship (v11:2-14:39 )
   1. Submission to established order (v11:2-16)
   2. Order in the Observance of the Lord’s Table (v11:17-34)
   3. About Spiritual Gifts (v12:1-11)
   – Indentifying your Spiritual Gift(s) –
Ü 4. The functioning of Spiritual Gifts (v12:12-31a)
   5. The rule of using Spiritual Gifts (v12:31b -13:13)
   6. Proper use of the sign gifts (v14:1-25)
   7. Orderly worship (v14:26-39)
Homework
  • Read 1 Corinthians 12:12-31a and complete a page in your study booklet
  • Come to class with a one sentence summary of what Paul is saying in this passage.

WHITEBOARD ¿: Read v12:4, 5, 6, 8, 9, 11.  What is the source of our spiritual gifts?

This passage stresses the importance of diversity as the KEY to unity.

In 12:v1-27 the term “body” is used 13 times. As a metaphor it uniquely pictures the life of a believer. All parts are needed.  If one part is not functioning or sick, performance will be less than optimal.

If a part is cut out it withers and dies.
Ü Life is in the body. Life is not in isolation.

¿: Did God give all the gifts required for this to be a healthy body?
¿: Do you see the variety of gifts in full use here?
¿: Are YOU fully exercising your gift (or gift mix) here?

WHITEBOARD: passage outline

The Text
Scripture
Observation
1 Corinthians 12:12-13
MANY PARTS IN CHRISTS BODY

12 The body is a unit, though it is made up of many parts; and though all its parts are many, they form one body. So it is with Christ.
13 For we were all baptized by one Spirit into one body—whether Jews or Greeks, slave or free—and we were all given the one Spirit to drink.

Unit… many parts… work as one

“So it is with Christ” – This phrase equates the church to Christ

“baptized by one spirit into one body”  - the baptism unifies us in headship as well as purpose.
Ü There are no partial Christians – either we’re baptized in the spirit or not
¿: Do you think Paul has stressed unity in the body throughout 1 Corinthians to now be saying there is a spiritual baptism after your salvation (manifested in some sign gift)?
Ü If so, wouldn’t this mean there IS reason for division if I can say, “I received a baptism you didn’t receive”?

READ Acts 8:14-17
¿: Why didn’t they receive the Spirit until Peter & John showed up?
READ Acts 10:44-46
¿: Why did tongues come with the receiving of the Holy Spirit?

¿: If you didn’t study these verses in the context to what was happening in the church at the time vs. today, what might you deduce from these verses?

READ Acts 11:1-3; 15-18
¿: What result did Peter’s relaying his experience have on those who criticized what he had done?

Baptism of the Holy Spirit is the divine operation which places believers into the Body of Christ.
Ü It is not water baptism (cf. Matt. 3:11; John 1:33; Acts 1:5)
Ü It is not a post-salvation work in which believers become more spiritual (cf. 1 Cor. 1:2, 7; 1 Cor. 3:1)
Ü It is not tongues, not all in Corinth were given this gift (v12:30)
Ü IT IS the salvation all receive at the moment of Salvation

“Spirit to drink” – cf. John 14:12-14
1 Corinthians 12:14-20


“I’m not good enough…
so I’ll not participate in the Body”
ALL PARTS BELONG TO THE BODY

14 Now the body is not made up of one part but of many.
15 If the foot should say, “Because I am not a hand, I do not belong to the body,” it would not for that reason cease to be part of the body.
16 And if the ear should say, “Because I am not an eye, I do not belong to the body,” it would not for that reason cease to be part of the body.
17 If the whole body were an eye, where would the sense of hearing be? If the whole body were an ear, where would the sense of smell be?
18 But in fact God has arranged the parts in the body, every one of them, just as he wanted them to be.
19 If they were all one part, where would the body be?
20 As it is, there are many parts, but one body.

¿: Who arranged the parts of the body?
¿: Are there any parts which are unnecessary?
¿: What attitude does this passage address?

Ü There must be many members in order to have a body; variety is essential

Each part of the body should see itself as essential and be grateful for it’s God-given role.

Body example:
Is a finger as essential in the body as a lung?
Would a missing finger affect the body?  How?
1 Corinthians 12:21-26

“You’re not good enough…
So get out of my way while I make the Body work”
ALL PARTS INDESPENSIBLE

21 The eye cannot say to the hand, “I don’t need you!” And the head cannot say to the feet, “I don’t need you!”
22 On the contrary, those parts of the body that seem to be weaker are indispensable,
23 and the parts that we think are less honorable we treat with special honor. And the parts that are unpresentable are treated with special modesty,
24 while our presentable parts need no special treatment. But God has combined the members of the body and has given greater honor to the parts that lacked it,
25 so that there should be no division in the body, but that its parts should have equal concern for each other.
26 If one part suffers, every part suffers with it; if one part is honored, every part rejoices with it.

¿: What attitude does this passage address?

God designed that members of the body would demonstrate mutual concern for the well-being of the others.
Ü Some parts were considered “weaker” cf. 12:22; 8:7-13
Ü Some parts were considered “less honorable” cf. 12:23; 11:22
God desired there be no division in the body
Ü cf. 1:10; 11:18; 12:26

¿: Why is it that in the human body we clearly see how each part is essential but in the body of Christ, such a distinction is not so evident?

¿: What are your thoughts on denominational distinctions in the greater body of Christ?
¿: Is there use for the Pentecostals, Presbyterian’s, Baptists and 7th Day Adventists in the body?
1 Corinthians 12:27-31a
CHRISTS BODY HAS MANY PARTS

27 Now you are the body of Christ, and each one of you is a part of it.
28 And in the church God has appointed first of all apostles, second prophets, third teachers, then workers of miracles, also those having gifts of healing, those able to help others, those with gifts of administration, and those speaking in different kinds of tongues.
29 Are all apostles? Are all prophets? Are all teachers? Do all work miracles?
30 Do all have gifts of healing? Do all speak in tongues? Do all interpret?
31 But eagerly desire the greater gifts.

v27 – ¿: What is the emphasis based on redundancy in this verse?

¿: Is our unity based upon common function?  What is it’s basis?

¿: Whose will does the body exercise?
“first… second… third…” – possibly ranked because these gifts were so undervalued in Corinth (see chapter 14) or could be because they are “truth” gifts

Ü These gifts ministered to the body at large in a way the other gifts didn’t
Ü Given the Corinthian desire toward self-centeredness (e.g. divisions, lawsuits, divorce, meat sacrificed to idols, women in worship, manner of partaking in Lord’s Supper) an honest respect for other gifts was an essential attribute to the functioning as a body.

¿: As a matter of review, what is each of these gifts in verse 28?

¿: As you read verses 29 & 30, what is the answer to the question?
¿: What does this say about these gifts? [none are given to everyone]
¿: How would you respond to someone that says a specific gift is a sign that you have the Holy Spirit?

“eagerly desire”
¿: Which gift is the best?  How would you distinguish the “better” gifts from the others? [more of the body is edified]

¿: In the context of the letter based on the fact it is sandwiched between chapter 12 and 13, what does this say?
Ü The object of this phrase is the body (not the individual).  The idea being that as a body our focus should be on the gifts that edify more of the body (lung vs. finger)
Ü Taken in light of a “most excellent way” Paul is about to show them, the idea is to hold in high esteem not “my gifts” but “your gifts”

¿: Does this meaning fit [WHITEBOARD] v12:4, 5, 6, 8, 9, 11?

¿: How do you think the “body” picture holds true for a local body vs. the church universal?

Conclusion
Personal Application:
  • What does it mean if you’re not exercising your gift in the Body?
  • What does it mean if you’re only half-heartedly exercising your gift in the Body?

Homework:
  • Read 1 Corinthians 13
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Fri 3 Dec 2010

…Of Spiritual Gifts (revised)

Posted @ 6:00 am      {Click to post comment} 
Category: Studies
1 Corinthians 12:1-11
…Of Spiritual Gifts
Date: 28-Nov-10 & 5-Dec-10
Required Resources: #1 – About spiritual gifts.mpg (4min 37sec), #2 -Identifying your spiritual gift.mpg (2min 27sec),
“Talents-vs.-Gifts”, “The Gifts Defined”, “The Benefits of Speaking in Tongues (excerpt)”
Purpose (Why am I teaching this lesson? What effect did the writer expect it to have on the recipients?)
The purpose of this lesson is to inform as to the spiritual gifts listed in scripture, and the reason for those gifts.

Theme (What central idea does this passage communicate?)
Spiritual gifts are given for the common good

Introduction
Review & Homework:
Outline
A. Salutations & Reminders (v1:1-1:9)
B. Divisions within the church (v1:10-4:21)
C. …of conduct unbecoming a believer (v5:1-13) {church discipline}
D. Dealing with offenses in The Body (v6:1-11)
E. The bondage of sexual sin (v6:12-20)
 – Now For The Matters You Wrote About –
F. Marriage, Divorce & Singleness (v7:1-40)
G. Christian Liberty (v8:1-11:1)
H. Order in Worship (v11:2-14:39 )
   1. Submission to established order (v11:2-16)
   2. Order in the Observance of the Lord’s Table (v11:17-34)
  Ü 3. About Spiritual Gifts (v12:1-11)
   – Identifying your Spiritual Gift(s) –
   4. The function of Spiritual Gifts (v12:12-31a)
   5. The rule of using Spiritual Gifts (v12:31b -13:13)
   6. Proper use of the sign gifts (v14:1-25)
   7. Orderly worship (v14:26-39)
Homework
  • Read 1 Corinthians 12:1-6 and complete a page in your study booklet
  • When does a believer receive their spiritual gift(s)? (back up your answer with scripture)
  • Read 1 Corinthians 12:7-11, 28 plus Romans 12:6-8.
  • Make a list of the spiritual gifts you feel you are not even sure what it is.  We’ll talk about your list in class.

WHITEBOARD: The area of spiritual gifts is highly controversial in the Christian community.  However, there are likely few other areas of doctrine that are MORE VITAL to believer’s and the body of Christ than the exercise of a believer’s spiritual gifts.

¿: What prompted Paul to write about spiritual gifts? [see chap 11-14 summary in 14:39-40]

Show video

Below are a few questions we will try to answer today…
  • Why do the spiritual gifts exist?
  • How many gifts are there?
  • What is the meaning of each gift?
  • When do you receive your gift(s)?
  • Does everyone get one (or more)?
  • What is the difference between a spiritual gift and talents/abilities I was born with?

The Text
Scripture
Observation
DISCERNING
THE
SOURCE
1 Now about spiritual gifts, brothers, I do not want you to be ignorant.
2 You know that when you were pagans, somehow or other you were influenced and led astray to mute idols.
3 Therefore I tell you that no one who is speaking by the Spirit of God says, “Jesus be cursed,” and no one can say, “Jesus is Lord,” except by the Holy Spirit.

It is likely Paul is not trying to teach about the existence of spiritual gifts but instead the proper exercise of the gift.
¿: Why is it that in the church today we need to teach the gifts exist?

¿: How were they led astray?  How are we led astray today? [Influence runs deep]

Before coming to the Lord, those in Corinth were deceived by false gods.  This would have included direct influence by evil spirits and “confirming” signs the spirits were real.  In verse 3 Paul gives them a simple test to discern the true from the false spirits.

Test the spirits (cf. 1 John 4:1)
Ü TEST 1 – “Jesus be cursed” – to deny Jesus’ character, nature (divinity/humanness), or His work was claiming He was not who He said He was. This would be a case of a gift being utilized to claim a falsehood. (today that might be those false teachers who deny the deity of Christ)
- this phrase could possibly refer to Deut. 21:22-23 and the fact that Jesus body hung on the cross.  The Gnostics denied the humanity of Christ and said that the divinity left the body prior to hanging on the cross.  They believed that flesh was inherently evil, therefore Jesus could not have been fully human to be God.

Ü TEST 2 – “Jesus is Lord” – the ‘positive’ test.  To say that Jesus is equal to God is refuting Gnosticism.

¿: Why would these tests be necessary? [spiritual gifts were being improperly used]

v3 – God, Jesus & Holy Spirit
Ü the unity of the Godhead as a proof that all must be present in spiritual gifts
UNITY
OF THE
SOURCE
4 There are different kinds of gifts, but the same Spirit.
5 There are different kinds of service, but the same Lord.
6 There are different kinds of working, but the same God works all of them in all men.







Read
“Talents vs. Gifts”




WHEN?
Unity re-emphasized – Holy Spirit, Jesus & God
Ü the Godhead repeated in reverse order
Ü Unity of source an example is unity in usage

“gifts” – charisma [grk] – a divine enablement
Used 19 times in NT – an example: “gift of salvation”  (cf. Ro. 6:23)

Different gifts, different service, different working
- those with same gift may be called to use them completely differently.
- God may not even manifest the results in the same manner for the same gift from the same person.
Ü This seems to say that each gift is unique for a person and is used uniquely for each circumstance – as the Godhead sees fit.
“God works all of them” – Without God the gift cannot even be manifest

Spiritual gifts are NOT natural talents, skills and abilities.
Natural talents, skills and abilities are shared by believers and unbelievers alike.

¿: Can a spiritual gift be used wrongly?
¿: Can I “put on” a spiritual gift, I wasn’t given?  How would that work?

¿: When are spiritual gifts given?
Ü [Not before believer (Acts 1:8, 2:1-4); also cf. Acts 19:6; 1 Tim 4:14; 2 Tim 1:6]
Ü Are spiritual gifts given to us when we receive Christ, or are they cultivated through our walk with God? [Both. Normally, spiritual gifts are given at salvation, but also need to be cultivated through spiritual growth.]
Ü Can a desire in your heart be pursued and developed into your spiritual gift? [only if God wills it]

The emphasis here seems to be a variety.  The Corinthians were all clamoring for the “showy” gifts, possibly neglecting their own God-given gift.
UNITY
OF
PURPOSE
7 Now to each one the manifestation of the Spirit is given for the common good.
8 To one there is given through the Spirit the message of wisdom, to another the message of knowledge by means of the same Spirit,
9 to another faith by the same Spirit, to another gifts of healing by that one Spirit,
10 to another miraculous powers, to another prophecy, to another distinguishing between spirits, to another speaking in different kinds of tongues, and to still another the interpretation of tongues.
11 All these are the work of one and the same Spirit, and he gives them to each one, just as he determines.
WHY?
v7 – Unity of spirit & purpose can be maintained only through diversity of ministry.

Ü Not given for personal enrichment – nor where they given for “private use”

¿: Were these selected by the individual?
¿: If one were discontent in gifting, what’s it say about their relationship with God?

WHITEBOARD:


WHAT?



Read
“The Gifts Defined”
Spiritual gifts specifically called out in Scripture:
1 Cor. 12:8-10
1 Cor. 12:28-30
Rom. 12:6-8
Eph. 4:11
1 Pet. 4:10-11
- Wisdom
- Knowledge
- Faith
- Healing
- Miraculous powers
- Prophecy
- Distinguish between spirits
- Tongues
- Interpretation of tongues
-Apostles
- Prophets
- Teachers
- Workers of miracles
- Gifts of healing
- Helps
- Administration
- Tongues
- Prophecy
- Serving
- Teaching
- Encouraging
- Giving
- Leadership
- Mercy
- Apostolic
- Prophetic
- Evangelic
- Pastoral
- Teaching
- Speaking
- Serving

Notice appointment of offices also in list

These lists appears to be categories of gifts
*Sign gifts, ***foundational gifts
¿: Are there gifts you feel are not on this list?

¿: Are these lists all-inclusive?  Why do you think that? [since all were not mentioned in any list, why would I think the combination of lists would include all?]

¿: How important is it to know exactly what the definition of each gift is?

¿: How many times is the Holy Spirit mentioned in v1-11?  What is the significance?

The SIGN GIFTS
Ü Acts 2:1-21 (prophesied by Joel 2:28-32);
Ü Acts 10:44-48; Heb 2:4 (as a sign for circumcised believers)
Cessationism claims that some spiritual gifts eventually ceased to operate (through individuals) early in Christian history. Its counterpart continuationism claims that they still operate today.

READ: “The Gifts Defined: The Sign Gifts”
READ: “The Gifts Defined: Cessation of Gifts”
Ü Knowledge, Healing, Miracles, Tongues, Apostles, Prophets

¿: What are your scriptural leanings toward these two ideas – and why?

¿: Why were the SIGN gifts given? [Confirmatory gifts for establishment of church Heb 2:3b-4]  Does this preclude their ongoing use?

READ: “The Benefits of Speaking in Tongues”

Conclusion
Gifts of the Holy Spirit are clearly distinguished from the fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22). Jesus predicted the occurrence of false gifts, particularly in the end time (Matthew 24:24, 7:22, 23). Spiritual gifts are very important for a Christian; the fruit of the Spirit is a test of maturity of a believer.
Personal Application:
¿: Can you seek after certain spiritual gifts? [cf. v12:31 seems to indicate that this is possible. You can seek a spiritual gift from God and be zealous after it by seeking to develop that area. At the same time, if it is not God’s will, you will not receive a certain spiritual gift no matter how strongly you seek after it. God is infinitely wise, and He knows through which gifts you will be most productive for His kingdom.]

  • No matter how much we have been gifted with one gift or another, we are all called upon to develop a number of areas mentioned in the lists of spiritual gifts: to be hospitable, to show acts of mercy, to serve one another, to evangelize, etc.

Homework:
  • Read 1 Cor. 12:12-31

Talents vs. Gifts

There are similarities and differences between talents and spiritual gifts.
  • Both are gifts from God.
  • Both grow in effectiveness with use.
  • Both are intended to be used on behalf of others, not for selfish purposes. 1 Corinthians 12:7 states that spiritual gifts are given to benefit others and not ourselves. As the two great commandments deal with loving God and others, it follows that one should use his talents for those purposes.

To whom and when talents and spiritual gifts are given differs.
  • A person (regardless of his belief in God or in Christ) is given a natural talent as a result of a combination of genetics (some have natural ability in music, art, or mathematics) and surroundings (growing up in a musical family will aid one in developing a talent for music), or because God desired to endow certain individuals with certain talents (for example, Bazeleel in Exodus 31:1-6).
  • Spiritual gifts are given to all believers by the Holy Spirit (1 Cor. 12:7)

While one may develop his talents and later direct his profession or hobby along those lines, spiritual gifts were given by the Holy Spirit for the building up of Christ’s church. In that, all Christians are to play an active part in the furtherance of the gospel of Christ.
  • All are called and equipped to be involved in the “work of the ministry” (Ephesians 4:11-12).
  • All are gifted so that they can contribute to the cause of Christ out of gratitude for all He has done for them. In doing so, they also find fulfillment in life through their labor for Christ.
  • It is the job of the church leaders to help build up the saints so they can be further equipped for the ministry to which God has called them. The intended result of spiritual gifts is that the church as a whole can grow, being strengthened by the combined supply of each member of Christ’s body.

To summarize the differences between spiritual gifts and talents:
1) A talent is the result of genetics and/or training, while a spiritual gift is the result of the power of the Holy Spirit.
2) A talent can be possessed by anyone, Christian or non-Christian, while spiritual gifts are only possessed by Christians.
3) While both talents and spiritual gifts should be used for God’s glory and to minister to others, spiritual gifts are focused on these tasks, while talents can be used entirely for non-spiritual purposes.

Recommended Resource: The Wonderful Spirit-Filled Life by Charles Stanley.


The Gifts Defined

There are various opinions as to the number of Spiritual gifts. Many items appearing as spiritual gifts are also required by the Bible of all Christians, such as faith, evangelism and so on.
  • The spiritual gift of Faith means faith despite the circumstances, or a particularly strong faith in God.
  • All believers are encouraged to share the Good News of Jesus Christ with other people, but the gift of Evangelism could mean a particular gift to reach others.

Message of wisdom: Understanding God’s will and applying it obediently to make skillful and practical application of the truth to life situations.

Message of knowledge: SIGN GIFT* – A message, concept, or bit of knowledge that God reveals supernaturally to the recipient.  Insight into the mysteries of God’s revelation that cannot be known apart from God’s revelation (cf. Rev. 22:18)
Ü Does 1 Cor. 13:8 say it will cease?

Faith: Knowing what you hope for, having a conviction about things you cannot see, trusting God in the most difficult and demanding of ways in the face human impossibilities, believing God’s Word, and obeying Him. (Hebrews 11)  This is in addition to the “saving” and daily faith every believer is provided. (cf. 1 Cor. 13:2)

Gifts of healing: SIGN GIFT** – (note plural) The God-given ability to bring or release healing to a person in their body or soul.  Paul had this gift (Acts 20:7-12) yet did not use it to heal many recorded (himself, Timothy & others).
Ü Some say proof this gift has ceased is that no one is walking around healing everyone today.
¿: Is that how it is used in Scripture?

Miraculous powers: SIGN GIFT** – The ability to perform supernatural acts.  A miracle is defined as defying the natural order of things.  At the wedding feast of Cana, the purpose of the miracle was as a sign, not to improve the party. (cf. John 2:11).  See also 2 Cor. 2:12.  Miraculous acts can be performed without God’s power (cf. Acts 19:14-16)

Prophecy: ½SIGN GIFT* – The God-given ability to receive a message from God to edify, exhort and comfort the Body of Christ or a believer. To speak the Truth as moved by the Holy Spirit. Most prophesying statements do not contain predictions about the future. An example of use is in 1 Cor. 13:2; 14:3
Ü Does 1 Cor. 13:8 say it will cease?

Distinguishing between spirits (discernment): The God-given ability to know what is from God and what is not from Him. The Divine ability to reveal an evil spirit or influence and bring God’s power (Jesus’ blood) and God’s love (Jesus’ crucifixion and resurrection) in its place.  Satan is the great deceiver, the father of lies (cf. John 8:44).  Used to discern false teachers (2 Pet. 2:1)

Tongues: SIGN GIFT* – A gift from God and the ability to speak another language not known by the believer speaking it. The Spiritual gift to speak another language not known by the believer speaking it; to build up the Body of Christ when the message is interpreted. Purpose: Acts 2:1-21; 1 Cor. 14:6 (prophetic word for believers); 22 (a sign for unbelievers)
Ü Does 1 Cor. 13:8 say it will cease?

Interpretation of tongues: SIGN GIFT* – The God-given ability to make tongues a clear message to all who are present to edify, exhort and comfort the Body of Christ.
Ü Does 1 Cor. 13:8 imply it will cease?

—- from other scriptural lists (other than 1 Cor. 12)

Apostle: FOUNDATIONAL – One sent by God with a holy mission to fulfill; and the strong powers and Spiritual gifts to fulfill the mission.  Apostolic ministry involves laying foundation(s). Use: Eph. 2:20

Prophet: FOUNDATIONAL – One who speaks, or communicates a message, authoritatively, as moved by the Holy Spirit Himself.  Prophetic ministry involves laying foundation(s). Use: Eph. 2:20

Teacher: Someone able to understand the more difficult things of God and explain them in a way that is easy to understand and live by in daily life. Use: James 3:1

Helps/Serving: The God-given ability to do for others whatever needs to be done. Divine ability to carry the burdens or tasks of others without seeking notice or earthly reward.

Administration: The God-given ability to understand clearly the immediate and long-range goals of a particular unit of the body of Christ, and to devise and execute effective plans for the accomplishment of those goals.

Encouraging: the ability to motivate Christians to do the works of Christ.

Giving: being blessed by God with resources or time and being able to give them where and when they are needed with a cheerful heart.

Leadership: God-given insight into when something needs to be done, who can do it, how it can be completed, and how to lead those people to get it accomplished.

Mercy: A heart to care for and encourage those who are not able to care for themselves and whom no one else would care for. Knowing who to help and when to help.

Evangelist: Someone who desires that all should come to know the truth that God loves everyone so much that He sent His Son Jesus Christ to live a perfect life, die, and rise again for their redemption, or someone who is gifted to proclaim this message.  Timothy was given charge (could apply to pastors?) (2 Tim. 4:5)

Pastor: A word that means ‘shepherd.’ Pastors are gifted to lead, guide, and set an example for other Christians.

Other Spiritual gifts

There is less consensus about other gifts not specifically mentioned in the usual lists of gifts, but that nonetheless seem to be hinted at in Scripture. Some are found in the New Testament such as:
  • celibacy (I Corinthians 7:7)
  • marriage (I Corinthians 7:7)
  • Others are found in the Old Testament such as:
  • craftsmanship
  • worship (gift of music)
  • interpretation of dreams (e.g. Joseph and Daniel)
  • Poverty (1 Cor. 13:3)

    • The Sign Gifts
    Some of these gifts are considered by many to the “sign gifts” and are considered to be given for the purpose of providing credentials to the apostles and early believers.  They were signs that these were authoritative agents of God in founding the church of God.  The sign gifts were also provided to the laity as a confirmation of the spirit.  Those that believe the sign gifts are for today – also see them as confirmation of the Holy Spirit.

    Ü A test for the SIGN GIFTS would be to determine it’s use for the common good.  Note: they are never used for personal edification or desire, although some believe that tongues can be a private prayer language.  If the gift is given, is it being used properly?

    The Cessation of Gifts
    *re: Knowledge, prophecy, tongues – see 1 Corinthians 13:8
    Love never fails. But where there are prophecies, they will cease; where there are tongues, they will be stilled; where there is knowledge, it will pass away.
    • “prophecies… cease” – [katargeō (grk)] – “to abolish” – passive tense means that someone or something causes it to stop
    • “tongues…stilled” – [pauō (grk)] – “to stop/come to end” – middle voice indicates a self-causing action. It will stop by itself.

    Cessation or Continuation?
      • Not specifically referred to in 1 Cor. 13:10 as ceasing when “perfection comes”
      • In 20 centuries of church history it has not been preserved and has appeared rarely and sporadically.  In 95 A.D., Clement of Rome wrote a letter to the church in Corinth concerning problems (surprise?) and there is no mention of tongues Justin Martyr (2nd century) wrote volumes on the church but nothing on tongues – even though he wrote lists of spiritual gifts.
      • Charismatic’s defend tongues speaking by “personal experience” and as a sign of the latter times. (cf. Joel 2:28-32).  The Holiness Movement around the turn of the 20th century revived tongues in modern times with the Pentecostalism.  In the 1960’s tongues spread into other denominations in the Charismatic Movement.
        READ: “THE BENEFITS OF SPEAKING IN TONGUES”

      **re: Healing – God has and does perform miracles throughout the history of mankind.  However, the Bible records only 3 periods of history in which human beings were given the gift of performing miracles.
          • Moses/Joshua
          • Elijah/Elisha
          • Jesus & the apostles
          Interestingly each period lasted about 70 years.

          It appears there will be a time of miracles in the end times (cf Heb. 6:5 & Revelation) as referred to in Joel.

          ***re: “foundational gifts” – God used these gifts in the first century to establish the church prior to His written Word.

          THE BENEFITS OF SPEAKING IN TONGUES
          By Andrew Wommack
          (excerpted from 16_The_Benefits_of_Speaking_in_Tongues_condensed_verison.pdf)

          One of the things that happened when the baptism of the Holy Spirit first came was that all the people who were there spoke in tongues. Acts 2:4 says that on the Day of Pentecost, they were filled with the Holy Ghost and spoke with other tongues as the Spirit gave them utterance. Consistently all the way through the book of Acts, there was a manifestation of God’s presence when the people received the Holy Spirit.

          Of course, there is much more to the Holy Spirit than speaking in tongues, but it is one of the important manifestations. First Corinthians 14:13-14 says, “Wherefore let him that speaketh in an unknown tongue pray that he might interpret. For if I pray in an unknown tongue, my spirit prayeth, but my understanding is unfruitful.” When you pray in tongues, your spirit prays. Once you speak in tongues, pray that you interpret so your understanding will become fruitful.

          I can give my own personal testimony that when I received the baptism of the Holy Ghost and started speaking in tongues, it changed my life dramatically. I believe when I got born again, Christ came to live inside of me and deposited everything there, but when the Holy Spirit came upon me, it started to manifest to me and other people. There are a couple of things that happen. The first year I prayed in tongues, my mind told me it was crazy, that all I was doing was wasting time. It took faith for me to pray in tongues, which is the reason Jude 20 says you build yourself up in your most holy faith. It takes you out of natural thinking and reasoning and puts you into a supernatural realm of faith.

          Another thing I experienced was that when I prayed in tongues, people I hadn’t thought of for years would come to my remembrance. I’d start praying for them, and within a day or two, they would contact me and I’d find that something miraculous had happened. This happened so many times that I finally began to put these things together and realize that when I was praying tongues, I was praying with wisdom that went beyond my mental ability. My spirit that knew all things and had the mind of Christ was praying for people in ways that I could never do with my own physical understanding.

          One day I was praying in tongues—as I said, it took faith for me to pray in tongues—and I was battling some thoughts like, You could be speaking in English and doing some good instead of speaking this gibberish. I had to deal with these thoughts and put them down, and I just kept praying. A guy I hadn’t seen for four years knocked on my door. He came in, didn’t say hello or anything, sat down, and began to cry and pour out his heart because he was having a lot of problems. I sat there thinking, Boy, I should have been praying in English. My next thought was, How would I have known to pray for him when I hadn’t seen him in four years? Finally, it just dawned on me that I had been praying, and God had been preparing me. I had been interceding for him in a way that I couldn’t have done if I were praying with my understanding. Suddenly, a revelation began to come to me and I told him, “I can tell you what your problem is.” I finished his story for him and gave him his answer.

          You have to understand that this was back when I was in a denominational church. He didn’t know what had happened to me and I wasn’t sure. It scared us both. But it was the power of God in manifestation, and He used it supernaturally. That is what this means: When you pray in tongues, it’s your spirit praying. Your spirit has been born again, has the mind of Christ, and knows exactly what to do. It has an unction (anointing) from God so that you know all things, and there is no limitation in your spirit. If you could walk in the power and revelation of your spirit, it would transform your physical life. One way of doing that, though not the only way, is to just start speaking in tongues. Recognize and believe that when you do, you’re building yourself up in your most holy faith, that your spirit is praying the hidden wisdom of God, and the perfect revelation of God is coming. Then, according to 1 Corinthians 14:13, pray that you can interpret. That doesn’t mean you have to stop praying in tongues and pray in English to interpret; it just means your understanding becomes fruitful.
          If you give a message in tongues in a church service, you have to stop and interpret in English. When you’re praying by yourself, what I do is pray in tongues and trust that God is giving me revelation. Sometimes my attitude just changes. I don’t have a specific word, but suddenly I see things clearly and get a different perspective. It may take a week before I get the full revelation, but I believe the time spent praying in tongues and believing I interpret is a part of it. Speaking in tongues is important for many reasons, certainly more than to prove you’ve received the Holy Spirit. It should be a part of everyday life. It is a way to communicate directly from your heart to the Father, bypassing your brain with its doubts and fears. It builds you up in your most holy faith and releases the hidden wisdom of God. I just pray that all of you will be able to flow in this, release your faith, and receive the full benefit of speaking in tongues.
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          Fri 26 Nov 2010

          …Of Spiritual Gifts

          Posted @ 6:00 am      {Click to post comment} 
          Category: Studies
           
          1 Corinthians 12:1-11
          …Of Spiritual Gifts
          Date: 28-Nov-10
          Required Resources: About Spiritual Gifts (comedy).mpg (4min 37sec), “Talents-vs-Gifts”, “The Gifts Defined”
          Purpose (Why am I teaching this lesson? What effect did the writer expect it to have on the recipients?)
          The purpose of this lesson is to inform as to the spiritual gifts listed in scripture, and the reason for those gifts.

          Theme (What central idea does this passage communicate?)
          Spiritual gifts are given for the common good

          Introduction
          Review & Homework:
          Outline
          A. Salutations & Reminders (v1:1-1:9)
          B. Divisions within the church (v1:10-4:21)
          C. …of conduct unbecoming a believer (v5:1-13) {church discipline}
          D. Dealing with offenses in The Body (v6:1-11)
          E. The bondage of sexual sin (v6:12-20)
           – Now For The Matters You Wrote About –
          F. Marriage, Divorce & Singleness (v7:1-40)
          G. Christian Liberty (v8:1-11:1)
          H. Order in Worship (v11:2-14:39 )
             1. Submission to established order (v11:2-16)
             2. Order in the Observance of the Lord’s Table (v11:17-34)
          Ü 3. About Spiritual Gifts (v12:1-11)
             – Indentifying your Spiritual Gift(s) –
             4. The function of Spiritual Gifts (v12:12-31a)
             5. The rule of using Spiritual Gifts (v12:31b -13:13)
             6. Proper use of the sign gifts (v14:1-25)
             7. Orderly worship (v14:26-39)
          Homework
          • Read 1 Corinthians 12:1-11 and complete a page in your study booklet
          • When does a believer receive their spiritual gift(s)? (back up your answer with scripture)

          WHITEBOARD: The area of spiritual gifts is highly controversial in the Christian community.  However, there are likely few other areas of doctrine that are MORE VITAL to believer’s and the body of Christ than the exercise of a believer’s spiritual gifts.

          ¿: What prompted Paul to write about spiritual gifts? [see chap 11-14 summary in 14:39-40]

          Show video

          Below are a few questions we will try to answer today…
          • Why do the spiritual gifts exist?
          • How many gifts are there?
          • What is the meaning of each gift?
          • When do you receive your gift(s)?
          • Does everyone get one (or more)?
          • What is the difference between a spiritual gift and talents/abilities I was born with?

          The Text
          Scripture
          Observation
          DISCERNING
          THE
          SOURCE
          1 Now about spiritual gifts, brothers, I do not want you to be ignorant.
          2 You know that when you were pagans, somehow or other you were influenced and led astray to mute idols.
          3 Therefore I tell you that no one who is speaking by the Spirit of God says, “Jesus be cursed,” and no one can say, “Jesus is Lord,” except by the Holy Spirit.

          It is likely Paul is not trying to teach about the existence of spiritual gifts but instead the proper exercise of the gift.
          ¿: Why is it that in the church today we need to teach the gifts exist?

          ¿: How were they led astray?  How are we led astray today?

          Before coming to the Lord, those in Corinth were deceived by false gods.  This would have included direct influence by evil spirits and “confirming” signs the spirits were real.  In verse 3 Paul gives them a simple test to discern the true from the false spirits.

          Test the spirits (cf. 1 John 4:1)
          Ü TEST 1 – “Jesus be cursed” – to deny Jesus’ character, nature (divinity/humanness), or His work was claiming He was not who He said He was. This would be a case of a gift being utilized to claim a falsehood. (today that might be those false teachers who deny the deity of Christ)
          - this phrase could possibly refer to Deut. 21:22-23 and the fact that Jesus body hung on the cross.  The Gnostics denied the humanity of Christ and said that the divinity left the body prior to hanging on the cross.  They believed that flesh was inherently evil, therefore Jesus could not have been fully human to be God.

          Ü TEST 2 – “Jesus is Lord” – the ‘positive’ test.  To say that Jesus is equal to God is refuting Gnosticism.

          ¿: Why would these tests be necessary?

          v3 – God, Jesus & Holy Spirit
          Ü the unity of the Godhead as a proof that all must be present in spiritual gifts
          UNITY
          OF THE
          SOURCE
          4 There are different kinds of gifts, but the same Spirit.
          5 There are different kinds of service, but the same Lord.
          6 There are different kinds of working, but the same God works all of them in all men.












          ò








          Read
          “Talents vs. Gifts”
          Unity re-emphasized – Holy Spirit, Jesus & God
          Ü the Godhead repeated in reverse order
          Ü Unity of source an example is unity in usage

          “gifts” – charisma [grk] – a divine enablement
          Used 19 times in NT – an example: “gift of salvation”  (cf. Ro. 6:23)

          Different gifts, different service, different working
          - those with same gift may be called to use them completely differently.
          - God may not even manifest the results in the same manner for the same gift from the same person.
          Ü This seems to say that each gift is unique for a person and is used uniquely for each circumstance – as the Godhead sees fit.
          “God works all of them” – Without God the gift cannot even be manifest

          Spiritual gifts are NOT natural talents, skills and abilities.
          Natural talents, skills and abilities are shared by believers and unbelievers alike.

          ¿: Can a spiritual gift be used wrongly?
          ¿: Can I “put on” a spiritual gift, I wasn’t given?  How would that work?

          ¿: When are spiritual gifts given?
          Ü [Not before believer (Acts 1:8, 2:1-4); also cf. 1 Tim 4:14; 2 Tim 1:6]
          Ü Are spiritual gifts given to us when we receive Christ, or are they cultivated through our walk with God? [Both. Normally, spiritual gifts are given at salvation, but also need to be cultivated through spiritual growth.]
          Ü Can a desire in your heart be pursued and developed into your spiritual gift?

          The emphasis here seems to be a variety.  The Corinthians were all clamoring for the “showy” gifts, possibly neglecting their own God-given gift.
          UNITY
          OF
          PURPOSE
          7 Now to each one the manifestation of the Spirit is given for the common good.
          8 To one there is given through the Spirit the message of wisdom, to another the message of knowledge by means of the same Spirit,
          9 to another faith by the same Spirit, to another gifts of healing by that one Spirit,
          10 to another miraculous powers, to another prophecy, to another distinguishing between spirits, to another speaking in different kinds of tongues, and to still another the interpretation of tongues.
          11 All these are the work of one and the same Spirit, and he gives them to each one, just as he determines.
          WHY?
          v7 – Unity of spirit & purpose can be maintained only through diversity of ministry.

          Ü Not given for personal enrichment – nor where they given for “private use”

          ¿: Were these selected by the individual?
          ¿: If one were discontent in gifting, what’s it say about their relationship with God?
          WHITEBOARD:




          WHAT?



          Read
          “The Gifts Defined”








          ò
          		 Spiritual gifts specifically called out in Scripture:
          Cessationism claims that some spiritual gifts eventually ceased to operate (through individuals) early in Christian history. Its counterpart continuationism claims that they still operate today.

          ¿: What are your scriptural leanings toward these two ideas – and why?

          1 Cor. 12:7-11
          1 Cor. 12:28
          Rom. 12:6-8
          Eph. 4:11
          1 Pet. 4:10-11
          -Wisdom
          -Knowledge
          -Faith
          -Healing
          -Miraculous powers
          -Prophecy
          -Distinguish between spirits
          -Tongues
          -Interpretation of tongues           		-Apostles
          -Prophets
          -Teachers
          -Workers of miracles
          -Gifts of healing
          -Helps
          -Administration
          -Tongues           		-Prophecy
          -Serving
          -Teaching
          -Encouraging
          -Giving
          -Leadership
          -Mercy           		-Apostolic
          -Prophetic
          -Evangelic
          -Pastoral
          -Teaching

          		 -Speaking
          -Serving

          Notice appointment of offices also in list

          These lists appears to be categories of gifts

          ¿: Are there gifts you feel are not on this list?


          ¿: Are these lists are inclusive?  Why do you think that? [since all were not mentioned in any list, why would I think the combination of lists would include all?]


          ¿: How important is it to know exactly what the definition of each gift is?


          ¿: How many times is the Holy Spirit mentioned in v1-11?  What is the significance?


          ¿: Why were the SIGN gifts given? [Confirmatory gifts for establishment of church Heb 2:3b-4]

          Conclusion
          Gifts of the Holy Spirit are clearly distinguished from the fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22). Jesus predicted the occurrence of false gifts, particularly in the end time (Matthew 24:24, 7:22, 23). Hence while Spiritual gifts are very important for a Christian, the fruit of the Spirit is a better test of the genuineness of a person.

          Personal Application:
          ¿: Can you seek after certain spiritual gifts? [cf. v12:31 seems to indicate that this is possible. You can seek a spiritual gift from God and be zealous after it by seeking to develop that area. At the same time, if it is not God’s will, you will not receive a certain spiritual gift no matter how strongly you seek after it. God is infinitely wise, and He knows through which gifts you will be most productive for His kingdom.]

          • No matter how much we have been gifted with one gift or another, we are all called upon to develop a number of areas mentioned in the lists of spiritual gifts: to be hospitable, to show acts of mercy, to serve one another, to evangelize, etc.

          Homework:
          • Read 1 Cor. 12:12-31

          Talents vs. Gifts

          There are similarities and differences between talents and spiritual gifts.
          • Both are gifts from God.
          • Both grow in effectiveness with use.
          • Both are intended to be used on behalf of others, not for selfish purposes. 1 Corinthians 12:7 states that spiritual gifts are given to benefit others and not ourselves. As the two great commandments deal with loving God and others, it follows that one should use his talents for those purposes.

          To whom and when talents and spiritual gifts are given differs.
          • A person (regardless of his belief in God or in Christ) is given a natural talent as a result of a combination of genetics (some have natural ability in music, art, or mathematics) and surroundings (growing up in a musical family will aid one in developing a talent for music), or because God desired to endow certain individuals with certain talents (for example, Bazeleel in Exodus 31:1-6).
          • Spiritual gifts are given to all believers by the Holy Spirit (1 Cor. 12:7)

          While one may develop his talents and later direct his profession or hobby along those lines, spiritual gifts were given by the Holy Spirit for the building up of Christ’s church. In that, all Christians are to play an active part in the furtherance of the gospel of Christ.
          • All are called and equipped to be involved in the “work of the ministry” (Ephesians 4:11-12).
          • All are gifted so that they can contribute to the cause of Christ out of gratitude for all He has done for them. In doing so, they also find fulfillment in life through their labor for Christ.
          • It is the job of the church leaders to help build up the saints so they can be further equipped for the ministry to which God has called them. The intended result of spiritual gifts is that the church as a whole can grow, being strengthened by the combined supply of each member of Christ’s body.

          To summarize the differences between spiritual gifts and talents:
          1) A talent is the result of genetics and/or training, while a spiritual gift is the result of the power of the Holy Spirit.
          2) A talent can be possessed by anyone, Christian or non-Christian, while spiritual gifts are only possessed by Christians.
          3) While both talents and spiritual gifts should be used for God’s glory and to minister to others, spiritual gifts are focused on these tasks, while talents can be used entirely for non-spiritual purposes.

          Recommended Resource: The Wonderful Spirit-Filled Life by Charles Stanley.


          The Gifts Defined

          There are various opinions as to the number of Spiritual gifts. Many items appearing as spiritual gifts are also required by the Bible of all Christians, such as faith, evangelism and so on.
          • The spiritual gift of Faith means faith despite the circumstances, or a particularly strong faith in God.
          • All believers are encouraged to share the Good News of Jesus Christ with other people, but the gift of Evangelism could mean a particular gift to reach others.

          Some of these gifts are considered by many to the “sign gifts” and are considered to be given for the purpose of providing credentials to the apostles and early believers.  They were signs that these were authoritative agents of God in founding the church of God.  The sign gifts were also provided to the laity as a confirmation of the spirit.  Those that believe the sign gifts are for today – also see them as confirmation of the Holy Spirit.

          Ü A test for the SIGN GIFTS would be to determine it’s use for the common good.  Note: they are never used for personal edification or desire,  although some believe that tongues can be a private prayer language.  If the gift is given, is it being used properly?

          Message of wisdom: Understanding God’s will and applying it obediently to make skillful and practical application of the truth to life situations.

          Message of knowledge: A message, concept, or bit of knowledge that God reveals supernaturally to the recipient.  Insight into the mysteries of God’s revelation that cannot be known apart from God’s revelation (Example of use cf. Rev. 22:18)

          Faith: Knowing what you hope for, having a conviction about things you cannot see, trusting God in the most difficult and demanding of ways in the face human impossibilities, believing God’s Word, and obeying Him. (Hebrews 11)  This is in addition to the “saving” and daily faith every believer is provided.

          Gifts of healing: SIGN GIFT – (note plural) The God-given ability to bring or release healing to a person in their body or soul.  Paul had this gift (Acts 20:7-12) yet did not use it to heal many recorded (himself, Timothy).
          Ü Some say proof this gift has ceased is that no one is walking around healing everyone today.
          ¿: Is that how it is used in Scripture?

          Miraculous powers: SIGN GIFT – The ability to perform supernatural acts.  A miracle is defined as defying the natural order of things.  At the wedding feast of Cana, the purpose of the miracle was as a sign, not to improve the party. (cf. John 2:11).  See also 2 Cor. 2:12.  Miraculous acts can be performed without God’s power (cf. Acts 19:14-16)

          Prophecy: (½ SIGN GIFT) – The God-given ability to receive a message from God to edify, exhort and comfort the Body of Christ or a believer. To speak the Truth as moved by the Holy Spirit. Most prophesying statements do not contain predictions about the future. An example of use is in 1 Cor. 14:3
          Ü Does 1 Cor. 13:8 say it will cease?

          Distinguishing between spirits: The God-given ability to know what is from God and what is not from Him. The Divine ability to reveal an evil spirit or influence and bring God’s power (Jesus’ blood) and God’s love (Jesus’ crucifixion and resurrection) in its place.  Satan is the great deceiver, the father of lies (cf. John 8:44)

          Tongues: (SIGN GIFT) – A gift from God and the ability to speak another language not known by the believer speaking it. The Spiritual gift to speak another language not known by the believer speaking it; to build up the Body of Christ when the message is interpreted.

          Interpretation of tongues: (SIGN GIFT) – The God-given ability to make tongues a clear message to all who are present to edify, exhort and comfort the Body of Christ.

          —- from other scriptural lists (other than 1 Cor. 12)

          Apostle: One sent by God with a holy mission to fulfill; and the strong powers and Spiritual gifts to fulfill the mission — (known by the fruit of the Spirit overflowing). Apostolic ministry involves laying foundation(s).

          Prophet: One who speaks, or communicates a message, authoritatively, as moved by the Holy Spirit Himself — (known by their good fruit).

          Teacher: Someone able to understand the more difficult things of God and explain them in a way that is easy to understand and live by in daily life.

          Helps/Serving: The God-given ability to do for others whatever needs to be done. Divine ability to carry the burdens or tasks of others without seeking notice or earthly reward.

          Administration: The God-given ability to understand clearly the immediate and long-range goals of a particular unit of the body of Christ, and to devise and execute effective plans for the accomplishment of those goals.

          Encouraging: the ability to motivate Christians to do the works of Christ.

          Giving: being blessed by God with resources or time and being able to give them where and when they are needed with a cheerful heart.

          Leadership: God-given insight into when something needs to be done, who can do it, how it can be completed, and how to lead those people to get it accomplished.

          Mercy: A heart to care for and encourage those who are not able to care for themselves and whom no one else would care for. Knowing who to help and when to help.

          Evangelist: Someone who desires that all should come to know the truth that God loves everyone so much that He sent His Son Jesus Christ to live a perfect life, die, and rise again for their redemption, or someone who is gifted to proclaim this message.

          Pastor: A word that means ‘shepherd.’ Pastors are gifted to lead, guide, and set an example for other Christians.

          Other Spiritual gifts

          There is less consensus about other gifts not specifically mentioned in the usual lists of gifts, but that nonetheless seem to be hinted at in Scripture. Some are found in the New Testament such as:
          • celibacy (I Corinthians 7:7)
          • marriage (I Corinthians 7:7)
          • Others are found in the Old Testament such as:
          • craftsmanship
          • worship (gift of music)
          • interpretation of dreams (e.g. Joseph and Daniel)
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          Fri 19 Nov 2010

          The Order and Ordnance of Communion

          Posted @ 6:00 am      {Click to post comment} 
          Category: Studies
           
          1 Corinthians 11:17-34
          The Order and Ordnance of Communion
          Date: 21-Nov-10
          Required Resources:
          Purpose (Why am I teaching this lesson? What effect did the writer expect it to have on the recipients?)
          The purpose of this lesson is to inform as to the importance and joy of the Lord’s Table.

          Theme (What central idea does this passage communicate?)
          Dishonoring God in the Lord’s Table

          Introduction

          Review & Homework:
          Outline
          A. Salutations & Reminders (v1:1-1:9)
          B. Divisions within the church (v1:10-4:21)
          C. …of conduct unbecoming a believer (v5:1-13) {church discipline}
          D. Dealing with offenses in The Body (v6:1-11)
          E. The bondage of sexual sin (v6:12-20)
           – Now For The Matters You Wrote About –
          F. Marriage, Divorce & Singleness (v7:1-40)
          G. Christian Liberty (v8:1-11:1)
          H. Order in Worship (v11:2-14:39 )
              1. Submission to established order (v11:2-16)
              Ü 2. Order in the Observance of the Lord’s Table (v11:17-34)
          Homework
          • Read 1 Corinthians 11:17-34 and complete a page in your study booklet
          • Come prepared to explain what The Lord’s Table means to you personally.

          Read text
          ¿: What was the occasion when Jesus broke the bread and drank the cup?
          Ü Tell me about the occasion behind the feast of the Passover.

          The Text
          Scripture
          Observation
          1 Corinthians 11:17-22
          THE ABUSE

          17 In the following directives I have no praise for you, for your meetings do more harm than good.
          18 In the first place, I hear that when you come together as a church, there are divisions among you, and to some extent I believe it.
          19 No doubt there have to be differences among you to show which of you have God’s approval.
          20 When you come together, it is not the Lord’s Supper you eat,
          21 for as you eat, each of you goes ahead without waiting for anybody else. One remains hungry, another gets drunk.
          22 Don’t you have homes to eat and drink in? Or do you despise the church of God and humiliate those who have nothing? What shall I say to you? Shall I praise you for this? Certainly not!

          “divisions among you” – divisions were addressed in chapters 1-4 – from the context of the passage, might this have been class divisions?
          Ü A commemoration of Christ’s’ selfless act had become an experience of selfishness.  Someone goes in want and someone else has excess.

          “to some extent I believe it” – could Paul be saying, “It seems exaggerated but from what other abuses I’ve already heard about, I have to believe there’s truth in what I hear?”
          Ü Reputation precedes the facts

          v19 seems to say that without “abusers” those that obey God wouldn’t stand out.
          ¿: Do you think Paul is saying there MUST be “abusers”? (cf. Matt 18:5-7; 13:24-30)
          Ü The approved ones in God’s flock are tried in hardship and come out shining!  Only these saints should be entrusted to leadership positions. (cf. 1 Tim 3:8-10)

          ¿: From v21 does this sound like the Lord’s Table as we know it today?
          Ü In the early church the Lord’s Table was remembered in conjunction with a communal feast, called the “Love Feast” or “Agape Feast” (cf. Jude 1:12)

          ¿: What did Paul TWICE say he felt about their behavior? [no praise - v17, 22]
          ¿: What summary value statement did Paul make? [meetings do more harm than good - v17]

          Ü When coming before the Lord’s Table Christians should leave all racial prejudice, sexual prejudice, class pride, and any idea of superiority behind.
          ¿: What truth is this statement based on? [In the Lord, all are equal]
          ¿: What if another believer (or my spouse) wronged me (and I can’t get over it)?
          1 Corinthians 11:23-26
          THE ORDNANCE

          23 For I received from the Lord what I also passed on to you: The Lord Jesus, on the night he was betrayed, took bread,
          24 and when he had given thanks, he broke it and said, “This is my body, which is for you; do this in remembrance of me.”
          25 In the same way, after supper he took the cup, saying, “This cup is the new covenant in my blood; do this, whenever you drink it, in remembrance of me.”
          26 For whenever you eat this bread and drink this cup, you proclaim the Lord’s death until he comes.































          READ
          v24-25 in KJV
          “what I also passed on to you” – Paul was reminding of what he’d already told them.

          It is likely these words were recorded before the gospels were penned.
          (Matthew=60-85AD;  Mark=55-70AD;  Luke=60-75AD; John=100-115AD;  1 Corinthians=52-54AD)

          The Passover meal began with the host’s pronouncing a blessing over the first cup of red wine and passing it to the others present.  Four cups of wine were passed around during the meal.  After the first cup was drunk bitter herbs dipped in a fruit sauce were eaten and a message was given on the meaning of Passover.  The the first part of a hymn, the Hallel (which means “praise” and is related to hallelujah, “praise ye the Lord”), was sung.  The Hallel is comprised of Psalms 113-118, and the first part sung was usually 113 or 113 and 114.  After a second cup was passed, the host would break and pass around the unleavened bread.  The meal proper, which consisted of the roasted sacrificial lamb, was eaten.  The third cup, after prayer, was then passed and the rest of the Hallel was sung.  The forth cup, which celebrated the coming kingdom, was drunk immediately before leaving.  It was the third cup that Jesus blessed and that became the cup of Communion. [The MacArthur New Testament Commentary: 1 Corinthians; John MacArthur; 1984; pg 271]

          After the meal, before they went out they sang a hymn (cf. Matt. 26:26-30)

          What we celebrate as the Lord’s Table was taken from a portion of the Passover meal.

          Ü Transubstantiation (Roman Catholic) – teaches that the bread and wine are literally changed into the body and blood of Christ.

          Ü Consubstantiation (Lutheran) – teaches that the true body and blood of Christ are in, with, and under the bread and wine.
          ¿: Where either of these true at the time Christ instituted the meal?

          ¿: What is the key difference of v24, 25 between KJV and modern xlations/WHY? [KJV is based on manuscripts not deemed as accurate by modern scholars]
          ¿: Does it make a difference? (John 19:31-36; Psalm 34:20)

          “for you” – ¿: What is the significance of these words?

          ¿: Why unleavened bread?
          Ü Unleavened bread was a sign of the haste in leaving Egypt.  Christ’s body is our deliverance.
          ¿: Why wine?
          Ü Wine was a symbol of the blood on the doorposts which signaled the angel of death to pass over a household.  Christ’s blood redeems us from death.

          ¿: How often does our church partake?
          ¿: How often should the church partake? [There was no prescribed frequency.]

          “until he comes” – this is our hope and joy… The Lord’s Table is remembering in vivid detail what Christ did for ME.  IT IS a time of joy in the knowledge of His promised coming.
          1 Corinthians 11:27-32
          THE ADMONITION

          27 Therefore, whoever eats the bread or drinks the cup of the Lord in an unworthy manner will be guilty of sinning against the body and blood of the Lord.
          28 A man ought to examine himself before he eats of the bread and drinks of the cup.
          29 For anyone who eats and drinks without recognizing the body of the Lord eats and drinks judgment on himself.
          30 That is why many among you are weak and sick, and a number of you have fallen asleep.
          31 But if we judged ourselves, we would not come under judgment.
          32 When we are judged by the Lord, we are being disciplined so that we will not be condemned with the world.

          ¿: In the context of this passage, what was the unworthy manner which Paul says they are partaking?

          ¿: Read v29 and v32 in KJV, what are the significant differences? [it’s a good practice to compare various translations when trying to discern the meaning of a passage]

          ¿: What was the judgment many were under?
          ¿: Do you think this applies to us today?  What about judgment in other areas within the body?

          “judged ourselves, we would not come under judgment” – honest confession – ask God to reveal sin in us, especially in this context of relationships.  Judging ourselves means sin is acknowledged and confessed.  Apologies and reconciliation are made at the time, if possible.
          1 Corinthians 11:33-34
          THE PRESCRIPTION

          33 So then, my brothers, when you come together to eat, wait for each other.
          34 If anyone is hungry, he should eat at home, so that when you meet together it may not result in judgment. And when I come I will give further directions.

          Conclusion
          Personal Application:
          • Do you view the Lord’s Table as a somber event?  Why and why not?
          • In light of the abuses of the Corinth, how do you think Christ intended it?

          Homework:
          • Read 1 Corinthians 12:1-11
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          Fri 12 Nov 2010

          Submission to Order

          Posted @ 6:00 am      {Click to post comment} 
          Category: Studies
          1 Corinthians 11:2-16
          Submission to Order
          Date: 14-Nov-10
          Required Resources:
          Purpose (Why am I teaching this lesson? What effect did the writer expect it to have on the recipients?)
          The purpose of this lesson is to understand how God’s design for submission fits within the Body today.

          Theme (What central idea does this passage communicate?)
          Submission to Divine order

          Introduction
          Review & Homework:
          Outline
          A. Salutations & Reminders (v1:1-1:9)
          B. Divisions within the church (v1:10-4:21)
          C. …of conduct unbecoming a believer (v5:1-13) {church discipline}
          D. Dealing with offenses in The Body (v6:1-11)
          E. The bondage of sexual sin (v6:12-20)
           – Now For The Matters You Wrote About –
          F. Marriage, Divorce & Singleness (v7:1-40)
          G. Christian Liberty (v8:1-11:1)
          H. Order in Worship (v11:2-14:39 )
            Ü1. Submission to established order (v11:2-16)
                  a. Reminder of foundational teaching (v2)
                  b. The Devine order (v3)
                  c. The Question (v4-6)
                  d. Argument 1 – Order of creation (v7-9)
                  e. Argument 2 – The angels (v10)
                  f. Equality in the Lord (v11)
                  g. Argument 3 – Natural way (v13-15)
                  h. Argument 4 – Accepted order (v16)
          Homework
          • Read 1 Corinthians 11:2-16 and complete a page in your study booklet
          • Come prepared to discuss:
            Ü whether woman should or should not cover their heads in church (and when)
            Ü why is this passage even in scripture?

          Whiteboard: High level review of book to place context

          In this next segment (v11:2-14:39) of the letter, Paul discusses various issues of order when the body assembles to worship. Interestingly he begins by talking about women’s head covering during worship and ends with a discussion of women speaking during the service.

          Remember, this section of the book is addressing issues raised by the church in Corinth

          Read text
          ¿: Is this instruction for today?  Why/why not?
          ¿: What is the danger in saying the specific admonition in this passage IS NOT for today?
          ¿: If we say that a woman covering her head was only cultural, why not say the same about how the Bible defines marriage, after all aren’t fundamental Christians alienating themselves by their stance?

          We need to exercise caution in this passage as there is a tendency to say “that doesn’t apply to me.”  If we assert that Paul inserted his own beliefs into the teaching, then we deny the inspiration of the entirety of Scripture.  The slippery slope is that this makes the believer judge of which scriptures apply.

          Whiteboard: dissect text
          v2 (application from fundamental teaching)
          Divine order
          THE QUESTION
          Arguments 1-4 to determine the principle
          Finally –  covering the head as situation at the time

          The Text
          Scripture
          Observation
          1 Corinthians 11:2-16
          1 Corinthians 11:2

          ¿: Does this praise seem out of place?
          ¿: Why did Paul say this as he introduced the section? [maybe the following was not core teaching while he was with them but it’s application could be drawn from Paul’s teaching]
          Divine Order
          1 Corinthians 11:3

          Paul spells out the Divine order of creation.  In this order even Christ submitted to the will of the father (Luke 22:41-42) and some day angels will submit to believers (1 Cor. 6:3). This principle is not just to husbands and wives, it extends throughout society.

          There is no implication of superiority, as we see later in the passage.  It’s simply a matter of order.  There are many cases in the workplace, in church leadership, in the government where those in charge are not more knowledgeable or even more skilled – the essential quality is to maintain & acknowledge God’s design for societal order.
          The Question
          1 Corinthians 11:4-6

          In Paul’s day women’s hair was a common object of lust.  Women were expected to cover their hair.  To fail to cover their hair was thought to provoke male lust as a bathing suit is through to provoke it in some cultures today.  Upper-class women, eager to show off their fashionable hairstyles did not practice it.  Thus Paul needed to address culture clash in the church between upper-class fashion and lower-class concern for sexual propriety being violated. [The IVP Bible Background Commentary: New Testament; Keener; 1993; pg475]

          v5 – Roman law provided for shaving a woman’s head when caught in adultery.

          “prays or prophesies” – (cf. Tit. 2:3-5 for more on woman’s role in speaking in body)
             Prophesy = speaking under divine inspiration = truth-telling
            Ü praying is talking to God, prophesying is talking to men about God
             ¿: Do these verses exclude women from praying or prophesying?

          *in light of the “everything is permissible” philosophy of the church, could it be that the women were flaunting the custom of the day?
             ¿: If this were true, do you think it was right or wrong to tell them to cover their heads?
             ¿: For this to even be a question raised to Paul, what might have been the heart attitude of those not covering their head?

          ¿: When do these verses apply? [when woman prays and prophesies]

          Secular history of this time in the Roman empire teaches us that there was a feminist movement and women would take off their head covering to be like a man and exhibited other signs of protest, such as moving into traditionally males jobs, neglecting family obligations and even wearing male clothing.[The MacArthur New Testament Commentary: 1 Corinthians; John MacArthur; 1984; pg 256]

          The idea of head covering could have been a local custom of those in Corinth.  A custom based upon the “order of society.”  In essence this passage may be saying that “in your culture this practice acknowledges the God-ordained order of things; therefore do not abolish the custom since it reminds of what God instituted.(v10)”

          ¿: Does this mean there was something wrong with wearing clothing of choice or taking an occupation normally occupied by another gender? [no, the issue would be whether it’s spawned by a rebellious heart]
          ¿: Do any of us want to identify with those who are rebellious?
            Ü Remember the meat sacrificed to idols.  It’s not whether we can that matters it’s about the message we communicate to others.

          ¿: If it’s permissible not to cover the heart – assuming a right heart – why would Paul under inspiration of the Holy Spirit say to do it?
          Argument 1
          Order of Creation
          1 Corinthians 11:7-9











          “glory of God” – Gen. 1:27 – man was created from the dust of the ground, woman from man.
          “glory of man” – woman was an ally of man; complimentary role (cf. Prov. 12:4)

          Cf. Gen. 2:18-24 – The order of creation was man then woman.  Woman was not created inferior to man but with gifts and abilities which complemented and completed man.  The “order of creation” argument was not to subjugate woman but to show divine order.  Men and women are different both physically and in societal roles.

          Both were created in the image of God.  Woman being created from man is a direct reflection of man – the glory of man.

          ¿: Are these verses cultural only (in reference to order of relationship)? [no, they go back to creation]
          Argument 2
          The Angels
          1 Corinthians 11:10




          “because of the angels”  - could mean:
          (somehow the angels are involved – Matt. 18:10; 1 Cor. 4:9; Eph. 3:8-10; 1 Tim. 5:21)

            Ü would bring the wisdom of God into disrepute
            Ü angels lusting after women (cf. Gen. 6:1-3)
            Ü some believe refers to angels involved in divine worship would be offended by a breach in the order of things
            Ü some believe refers to angels one day subordinating to believers, including these woman; therefore the woman need to show proper respect in their wise choices today to show that they can submit to authority – angels might be tempted by bad example
            Ü maybe this is as simple as viewing angels as spectators in the story of humanity. They saw what happened in the garden and do not want to see it again

          “sign of authority”
             ¿: What does this mean?
             ¿: Does “sign of authority” help (or confuse) our discerning this passage? [I believe it’s the key verse in understanding this passage – this thought contains the central idea]
          Equality
          1 Corinthians 11:11-12

          Paul clarifies the relationship of men in women in order show that he is only talking about head coverings.  He is not teaching chauvinism.
          Argument 3
          Nature
          1 Corinthians 11:13-15

          “very nature of things” – normally men grow facial hair, women have long hair, men short; Paul was saying “look around, doesn’t it make sense from what we’re seen of the way things are.”
          Argument 4
          That’s the way it is
          1 Corinthians 11:16

          “we have no other practice” – all the churches are in agreement on this matter

          Conclusion
          Personal Application:
          • What did Paul expect to happen in Corinth?
          • What do you think this instruction to those in Corinth?
          • What is expected of us today?

          • Regardless whether Paul is saying “cover your head” for all generations/cultures it’s not the outward sign that counts – the outward should be there as a sign of the inward
          • Ü ¿: If you DO NOT believe covering your head applies today – do you think there should be an outward sign of acknowledgement of God’s order?

          Homework:
          • Read 1 Corinthians 11:17-34
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          Fri 5 Nov 2010

          To God be the Glory

          Posted @ 6:00 am      {Click to post comment} 
          Category: Studies
          1 Corinthians 10:14-11:1
          “To God be the Glory”
          Date: 7-Nov-10
          Required Resources:
          Purpose (Why am I teaching this lesson? What effect did the writer expect it to have on the recipients?)
          The purpose of this lesson is to create a sense of purpose in the Christian life that rises above self-centeredness

          Theme (What central idea does this passage communicate?)
          The Christian life is about God’s glory, not personal satisfaction

          Introduction
          Review & Homework:
          Outline
          A. Salutations & Reminders (v1:1-1:9)
          B. Divisions within the church (v1:10-4:21)
          C. …of conduct unbecoming a believer (v5:1-13) {church discipline}
          D. Dealing with offenses in The Body (v6:1-11)
          E. The bondage of sexual sin (v6:12-20)
          F. Marriage, Divorce & Singleness (v7:1-40)
          G. Christian Liberty (v8:1-11:1)
                  1. The rule of love (v8:1-13)
                  2. The rule in action (v9:1-27)
                  3. The rule abused (v10:1-13)
              Ü 4. The rules intent (v:10:14-11:1)
                            a. Understanding idolatry (v14-22)
                            b. All belongs to God (v23-26)
                            c. Thankfulness without demands (v27-30)
                            d. All to glorify God (v31-11:1)
          Homework
          • Read 1 Corinthians 10:14 thru 11:1 (yes, the passage does cross over into the next chapter – remember chapter divisions were not added until the middle ages and are not always an accurate indicator of change of subject)
          • Complete a page in your study booklet – find a title that sums up this passage
          • Ü Come to class prepared to tell us what the difference is between this passage and 1 Cor. 8:1-13 (did Paul say the same thing twice?)


          POP QUIZ – How does Chapter 8 differ from this last half of chapter 10? – True or False?
          • In chapter 8 Paul emphasized that in order to build up a brother, the rule is love
          • He said that idols were nothing
          • He said that in “questionable/gray areas” there was freedom
          • He said that in “morally neutral” issues that it’s OK as long as I don’t cause the brother with a weaker conscience to stumble
          • This means I AM ALLOWED do whatever I want as long as it doesn’t violate a fellow believer’s conscience or violate God’s law [false, see principles laid out in v10:14-11:1]

          Before Paul’s teaching on the evils of idolatry, notice he says FLEE.
          ¿: Why not teach the “why” followed by “therefore?” [evil is not to be rationalized]

          The Text
          Scripture
          Observation
          1 Corinthians 10:14-22
          Understanding idolatry

          1 Corinthians 10:14-15

















          WHITEBOARD
          Cf. Isa 44:12-20 – an idol is nothing

          “flee from idolatry” – does not say to study it, to become better acquainted with it, or to trifle with it in any way
          Ü Idolatry includes much more than bowing down or burning incense to a physical image.  Idolatry is having a false god – any object, idea, philosophy, habit, occupation, sport, or whatever that has one’s primary concern and loyalty or that to any degree decreases one’s trust in and loyalty to the Lord [The MacArthur New Testament Commentary: 1 Corinthians, John MacArthur, 1984, pg232]
          Ü Romans 1:20-21 says that man (us) knew God but did not give Him what was rightfully his.
          Ü Job expressed his heart about what God deserves (Job 31:24-28)
          Ü Jonah knew God. Jonah had an idol which came before God  (Jonah 2:8)
          ¿: What was Jonah’s idol which was the source of his rebellion against God?

          ¿: Name some things you do which decrease your trust and loyalty for God. [when we act as if He can’t meet our needs – or that in our effort I will meet my own needs, covetousness, etc., etc.]

          Ü An idol can even be something set up in the name of God, but that diminishes Him. Examples: a church, a ministry, even the Scriptures (a specific translation, or denial of the whole of God’s Word by choosing only the parts we want – for instance clinging fast to rebellion against laws we don’t like when God says obey the rulers in authority over us)
          United in Spirit
          Example 1
          a. Oneness in the body of Christ

          1 Corinthians 10:16-17

          “cup of blessing” – the third and last cup of the Passover meal – blessing was said over it.  Taking the cup is saying we are all participants in the benefits of Christ.

          During communion our oneness with Christ means we are one with each other.
          United in Spirit
          Example 2
          b. Oneness in Israel’s sacrificial system

          1 Corinthians 10:18

          “those who eat the sacrifices participate in the altar” – portion for altar, priest & offerer.

          All who ate identified themselves with God.
          United in Spirit
          Example 3
          c. Oneness with demons

          1 Corinthians 10:19-22

          ¿: Paul says you cannot drink the cup of demons and the Lord (v21), what does he mean?
          ¿: v21 doesn’t make sense – didn’t Jonah do both? (worshipped God & hated the Assyrians)
          ¿: What about {whiteboard list}, can’t I do both?

          ¿: Does an idol have power?

          The point: “participation with is identification with”
          1 Corinthians 10:23-26
          All belongs to God

          1 Corinthians 10:23-26

          “Everything is permissible”—but not everything is beneficial. “Everything is permissible”—but not everything is constructive. (v10:23 – context of food sacrificed to idols)
             compare
          “Everything is permissible for me”—but not everything is beneficial. “Everything is permissible for me”—but I will not be mastered by anything. (v6:12 – context of sexual sin)

          It is possible the phrase “everything is permissible” was a common preaching point for Paul while he was in Corinth

          ¿: Is Paul saying he can do whatever he wants? [no, he’s talking about things which are morally indifferent]
          Two tests:
          Ü Is it permissible for me?
          Ü Will it be good for others?
          ¿: What do you give up for the sake of others?

          Applies to dress, food, drink, standards of living, speech, and entertainment

          “The earth is the Lord’s, and everything in it” – Ps 24:1 commonly used among the Jews as a thanksgiving at the table.  The point in this context is that what the Lord make IS GOOD.
          1 Corinthians 10:27-30
          Thankfulness without demands

          1 Corinthians 10:27-30

          ¿: In v28, do you think the “man who told you” is a believer or unbeliever?  Why?
          Ü Why do you think most commentators seem to think v28 is about the “weaker” believer? [conscience]
          ¿: Agree of disagree that an unbeliever does not have this kind of conscience?
          ¿: What are other reasons for an unbeliever to make such a statement? [bragging, trying to trip the believer]

          ¿: How does the teaching compare to questions of conscience with believers in chapter 8?

          A question would be: “Is a piece of meat so important that I should cause such an offense to another?”
          ¿: What about {whiteboard list}?

          v30 talks of giving thanks for the meat being eaten while at the same time wounding another’s conscience, or having another condemn you.  This is contradictory to the way a Christian should conduct his life.

          The point: Give thanks for our liberty, then express our liberty by choosing not to offend.
          1 Corinthians 10:31-11:1
          All to glorify God

          1 Corinthians 10:31-11:1

          Ü Principle # 1 of Christian living… In what I am doing now, can I bow my head and ask the Lord to magnify Himself through my actions? (Col 3:17)

          Ü Principle # 2 of Christian living… As much as is possible with me, am I living at peace with my fellow man?  (Ro 12:18)  (Paul is referring to the needless offense he is not speaking of things which violate principle # 1)

          Ü We cannot add to God’s inherent glory.  He is what He is.  He always was and always will be.
          Ü We can ascribe glory to God: confession of sin, trusting God, bearing fruit, thanking Him, suffering for Christ, being content, praying, spreading the Word.

          The point: There is nothing too mundane in life to not give glory to God

          All to the glory of God, no needless offenses to fellow man whether believer or unbeliever (1 Pet. 2:11-19)

          Conclusion
          Personal Application:
          • Christians have no business in idolatrous behavior but “the meat in the market” is like all other meat – it is legalism to make something of it… unless something is made of it for you, then abstain.
          • ¿: In what areas do I do what is permissible and yet find it does not bring glory to God?

          Homework:
          • Read 1 Corinthians 11:2-16 and complete a page in study booklet
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          Fri 29 Oct 2010

          Lessons Learned?

          Posted @ 6:00 am      {Click to post comment} 
          Category: Studies
          1 Corinthians 10:1-13
          Lessons Learned?
          Date: 31-Oct-10
          Required Resources: You Never Let Go.mp3 – Matt Redman & lyric sheets
          Purpose (Why am I teaching this lesson? What effect did the writer expect it to have on the recipients?)
          The purpose of this lesson is to encourage participants to evaluate their “freedoms in Christ” in light of biblical examples.

          Theme (What central idea does this passage communicate?)
          Freedom is not license

          Introduction
          Review & Homework:
          Outline

          A. Salutations & Reminders (v1:1-1:9)

          B. Divisions within the church (v1:10-4:21)
          C. …of conduct unbecoming a believer (v5:1-13) {church discipline}
          D. Dealing with offenses in The Body (v6:1-11)
          E. The bondage of sexual sin (v6:12-20)
          F. Marriage, Divorce & Singleness (v7:1-40)
          G. Christian Liberty (v8:1-11:1)
                  1. The rule of love (v8:1-13)
                  2. The rule in action (v9:1-27)
              Ü 3. The rule abused (v10:1-13)
                            a. A rich history (v1-4)
                            b. A warning from history (v6-10)
                            c. An application of history (v11-13)
                  4. The rules intent (v:10:14-11:1)
          Homework
          • Read 1 Corinthians 10:1-13 and complete a page in your study booklet.
          • 1 Corinthians 8 opens up with Paul saying, “Now about food sacrificed to idols.”
            1 Corinthians 10:31-33 ends this section by saying, “So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it for the glory of God.”
            Why does Paul sandwich a history lesson in this section?

          ¿: Who enjoyed history in school?  Why/why not?  Do you feel it’s an important subject?  Why/why not?

          Review book outline to date (purpose: place this passage in it’s surrounding context as well as the book)
             The first half of 1 Cor. 8 dealt with food sacrificed to idols.
             The second half of chapters 8 dealt with how my liberty can affect others.
             Chapter 9 dealt with Paul’s example of how he used his liberty.
             Chapter 10 deals with how my liberty (abused) can affect me.

          After release from bondage, Israel experienced severe discipline for their actions of rebellion against the God who delivered them.  The focus of this lesson is to take a look at history for ourselves and see what learnings we can glean.

          The Text
          Scripture
          Observation
          1 Corinthians 10:1-4
          A rich history
          1 Corinthians 10:1-4
          From homework “words or phrases repeated”?
          Repetition: All… all… all… all… most…(in v5)
          ¿: What is Paul’s point in this?

          ¿: “For” refers back to? [being disqualified for prize -1 Cor. 9:27]
          ¿: What were the direct blessings of God which the Israelites experienced?
          ¿: What does it mean to be baptized into Moses? [under the leadership of, and acknowledged authority of Moses]

          Ex. 12:28-32, 40-41 – Freed from bondage after 430 years

          Under the cloud
             Ex. 13:21-22 – The cloud guided their way out of Egypt
             Ex. 14:19-20 – The cloud protected them
             Num. 9:15-22 – The cloud continued throughout 40 year journey in wilderness
          Passed through the sea
             Ex. 14:21-31 – Passed through on dry ground (people trusted in God)
          Food
             Ex. 16:2-4 – Manna    
             Num 11:4-5; 18-21; 31-33 – provided meat
          Drink/Rock
             Ex. 17:1-7 – Water from rock at Horeb
             Num. 20:7-11 – Water from rock at Meribah

          Paul draws a comparison between salvation of Israel and salvation through Christ
          Ü “under the cloud” – identified w/God
          Ü “through the sea” – separated from Egypt
          Ü with God’s deliverance also comes provision
          1 Corinthians 10:5-10
          A warning from history
          1 Corinthians 10:5-10

          Paul’s message here is that issues the Corinthians were dealing with were no different than ancient Israel had to contend with after their deliverance.

          Scattered over desert
             Num. 14:26-35 – Lord disallows from entering promised land after spies return
          Compare to 1 Cor. 9:24-27 – disqualified for the “race”

          Sin
          Specifics
          Idolatry (v7)
          Idolaters – Ex. 32:1-8
          Immorality (v8)
          Sexual immorality – Num. 25:1-9
          Ü 23,000 vs. 24,000 unknown why different except that Paul specifies “in one day” – it could be that the other 1,000 died later or they were the members of the priesthood
          Trying God (v9)
          Even in the midst of blessing (refer back to Num. 11 w/ blessing of quail Numbers 11:31-34 -Kibroth Hattaavah = “graves of lust”)
          Killed by snakes – Num. 21:4-9
          Complaining (v10)
          Destroying angel
             Num. 16:1-5; 16-35 – Koreh’s followers swallowed by the ground
             Num. 16:41-50 – those who grumbled about Koreh, struck down with plague

          ¿: Do you think there’s any significance that all these are tied to food? [possible because greater passage is tied to food, maybe sensual indulgence]
          1 Corinthians 10:11-13
          An application of history
          1 Corinthians 10:11-13

          Paul gave more than a history lesson, these were examples and warnings

          Could it be that some in Israel’s past (and Corinth) WERE NOT looking for a way out, instead a way to indulge?
          Ü Indulging the flesh is careless, foolish and may “disqualify” us from the race.

          “what you can bear” –
          ¿: Who causes us to sin? [self, the flesh not satan]

          “a way out so that you can stand up under it”
          ¿: Does he say we can escape?
          ¿: What does he promise to provide?
          Ü Endure via: prayer (Mk. 14:38), trusting (this promise), focus on Christ (Heb. 12:2-4)
          v13
          Listen to the words of “You Never Let Go – Matt Redman

          Conclusion
          Personal Application:
          • “If you think you are standing firm, be careful that you don’t fall”
            ¿: How does this admonition apply to you today?
          • ¿: How were the temptations of the Israelites different than what you face today?

          Homework:
          • Read 1 Corinthians 10:14-33
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          Wed 13 Oct 2010

          Kid in the Candy Store

          Posted @ 12:32 pm      {Click to post comment} 
          Category: Personal , Spiritual
          Can you imagine what must be going through the minds of the remaining miners in Chile?  Trapped underground for 69 days.  700,000 tons and ½ mile of earth between them and families and friends.  At this point over 50% have reached the surface.
           
          What about the last guy?  What must be going through his mind?  What level of anticipation must be there.  How can one contain themselves.  This has got to be better than a kid having the freedom to select ALL the candies and eat until he cannot eat anymore.
           
          It’s been that kind of week for me.  At this moment I am so prepared, so ready, so equipped for the next few days.  By the way, I’ve done nothing in the way of preparation except the hard part – laying it all down before God; making every attempt to submit and soak.  He’ll do the rest.
           
          I don’t even know what will be required of me and I honestly do not care.  I am fully equipped for anything and everything.  One step at a time.  I don’t even need to know when I’m supposed to take that next step.  He’ll tell me.  He always has.  My task is to wait for the voice.  In it’s time He’ll tell me what to do next.
           
          Oh, that I could learn to lean all the time.
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