FOUNDATIONS STUDENT WORKSHEETS Editor Dr. Wayne Gerber Editorial Committee Dr. Wayne Gerber Dr. Ann Keucher David Mann Contributors Dr. J. Duane Beals David DeSelm Dr. Thomas Dow Dr. Dennis Engbrecht Dr. Donald Gerig Dr. Wesley Gerig John Hedegaard Sarah Hedegaard Eileen Lageer Dr. John Moran Dr. Edward Oke Dr. Donald Taylor Revisions Dr. David L. D’Arcy All Bible quotes, Holy Bible, New International Version. Copyright 1978 by New York International Bible Society. Used by permission, Zondervan Bible Publisher. Produced by Discipling Ministries, Missionary Church, Inc. 1
Transcript
FOUNDATIONS
STUDENT WORKSHEETS
EditorDr. Wayne Gerber
Editorial CommitteeDr. Wayne GerberDr. Ann Keucher
David Mann
ContributorsDr. J. Duane Beals
David DeSelmDr. Thomas Dow
Dr. Dennis EngbrechtDr. Donald GerigDr. Wesley GerigJohn HedegaardSarah Hedegaard
Eileen LageerDr. John MoranDr. Edward Oke
Dr. Donald Taylor
RevisionsDr. David L. D’Arcy
All Bible quotes, Holy Bible, New International Version. Copyright 1978 by New York International Bible Society. Used by permission, Zondervan Bible Publisher.
Produced by Discipling Ministries, Missionary Church, Inc.
Published by Bethel Publishing Company, Elkhart, Indiana 46516.Copyright 1988.Second Edition published by Discipling Ministries, Fort Wayne, Indiana 46809. 2002.
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
The Bible .............................................................................................................................3Bible Study ..........................................................................................................................6Prayer ................................................................................................................................11Who is God? .....................................................................................................................14Jesus Christ: His Person and Work ...................................................................................18The Holy Spirit .................................................................................................................22The Creation and the Fall ..................................................................................................25Salvation ...........................................................................................................................29The Return of Christ .........................................................................................................32The Church ........................................................................................................................36The Missionary Church .....................................................................................................41Church: The Local Congregation ......................................................................................47Our Local Church .............................................................................................................51Reflections ........................................................................................................................55Glossary of Terms .............................................................................................................56
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THE BIBLEARTICLE OF FAITH
We believe that the Bible, consisting of the entire sixty-six books of the Old and New Testaments, is the Word of God given by divine inspiration, is inerrant in the original manuscripts, and remains the unchanging authority in matters of Christian faith and practice.
REVELATION
The Bible is God’s revelation to us. People who were guided in their communication by the Holy Spirit wrote it. God directed them in collecting and selecting the material they wrote and in the very words they used. The final product was actually God’s Word, not that of any person. The Bible as recorded by the writers was, therefore, without error.
What does the Bible say about all of God’s words?
Psalm 119:160 They are _____________________________________________________.
Proverbs 30:5 They are _____________________________________________________.
Titus 1:2 They are _________________________________________________________.
What is the difference between the way the Bible was produced and the way other writings are created?
II Peter 1:21
What is the Holy Spirit, who inspired the biblical text, called?
John 14:17
John 15:26
John 16:13
What is the Word of God called?
II Timothy 2:15
John 17:17
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INSPIRATION
The word “God-breathed” in the New International Version (NIV) is translated “inspired” in the King James Version. The idea behind the word is that all of Scripture, even the very words used in the original writings as they came from the hands of the various writers, is breathed out by God and is useful for equipping the child of God (II Timothy 3:16-17).
What did Jesus identify as the Scriptures of His day?
Luke 24:44-45
Jesus said that when He ascended to the Father, He would send the Holy Spirit Who would teach all things and remind His disciples of everything He had said (John 14:25-26).
From whom did the Holy Spirit obtain the material He passed on to the New Testament writers?
John 16:12-15
Although the apostles and their representatives actually recorded the words, the Bible is as much God’s Word as though Jesus had spoken it directly. These New Testament writings are Scripture the same as the Old Testament books are Scripture (II Peter 3:15-16).
ILLUMINATION
The Holy Spirit helps believers understand God’s Word. This is called illumination. It is different from revelation and inspiration, which ceased with the last biblical writer.
The Bible is a divine, not a human, explanation of things. Holy men borne along by the Holy Spirit wrote the Holy Scripture. The final result is God’s Word in human language.
How are we to use the Bible ?
Psalm 119:15
Matthew 4:4
How should we receive the Bible?
I Thessalonians 2:13
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The Bible, God’s Word in human language, has God’s authority behind it regarding all matters on which it speaks. Jesus and His apostles accepted Scripture as the final authority for both belief and practice. We must accept whatever is written in both the Old Testament and the New Testament. We must let God’s Word transform our minds and direct all aspects of our existence.
What are our obligations concerning God’s Word?
II Timothy 2:2
II Timothy 2:15
II Timothy 4:2
What are the rewards for living according to the Bible’s teachings?
In this life?
Psalm 119:9
Psalm 19:7-11
In the life to come?
John 5:24
SUMMARY
Revelation had to do with the communication of truth, and inspiration with the recording of truth. Illumination helps Christians understand the truth. All three operations are the work of the Holy Spirit.
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BIBLE STUDY
WHY WE STUDY THE BIBLEThe Bible is God’s personal communication to us and the source of our spiritual growth. “Like newborn babies, crave pure spiritual milk, so that by it you may grow up in your salvation, now that you have tasted that the Lord is good” (I Peter 2:2-3). God provided us with His Word. The more we use it, the more we will grow to be like Him.
How is Bible study profitable?
Psalm 119:11
Psalm 119:98
Psalm 119:104
Psalm 119:105
Mark 12:24
John 5:39
II Timothy 3:15-17
Hebrews 4:12
HOW TO STUDY THE BIBLEIt is important to have a specific time and place for daily Bible study. Select a version or translation of the Bible that you like. When you want more information or need help, other resources are available. These include additional Bible versions or translations, as well as, Bible dictionaries, atlases, handbooks, concordances, and commentaries.
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One Bible study method that many people find helpful is the Three-Step Discovery Method.
Step 1: Observation – What does it say?
Step 2: Interpretation - What does it mean?
Step 3: Application – What should I do?
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The Three-Step Discovery Method Worksheet
Step 1. Observation – What does it say?
Read carefully.The Lord is my shepherd, I shall lack nothing. He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters, he restores my soul. He guides me in paths of righteousness for his name’s sake. Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me. You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies. You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows. Surely goodness and love will follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever. (Psalm 23)
What title would you give this passage?
What are your observations?
Who?
What?
When?
Where?
Why?
How?
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What key word describes the passage?
Step 2. Interpretation - What does it mean?
What is the message?
Underline key words and phrases.
Paraphrase the passage.
Write the basic thought in one sentence.
What truths or principles do you find?
Find other Scripture about the same topic.
Step 3. Application - What should I do?
List ways you can apply what you learned.
What will you put into practice this week?
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THE HOLY SPIRIT AND BIBLE STUDY
The Holy Spirit helps us understand God’s Word. His help, called “illumination,” is the key to all Bible study.
Read the following verses and. list ways the Holy Spirit helps us understand the Scriptures.
John 14:26 _____________________________________________________________________
John 16:13-15
According to I Corinthians 2:12:
Who sent the Holy Spirit?
Why have we received the Holy Spirit?
SUMMARYThe Bible is God’s only written communication to us. To know Him better, we must knowHis Word. As we study the Bible, the Holy Spirit helps us understand it.
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PRAYER
WHAT IS PRAYER?
Prayer is talking to God and listening to God. Jesus gave us a model prayer (Matthew 6:9-13). It is usually called, “The Lord’s Prayer,” but a better name for it might be “The Believer’s Prayer.”
Using Matthew 6:9-13, answer the following questions:
How are we to address God?
How are we to approach God?
What are we to request from God?
God loves us as His children and He desires our fellowship. He is to be approached with reverence, respect, awe, and worship. God wants to be our King and desires us to be His obedient subjects. We should pray that His rule over our lives may be increased, and that His rule over all people may become a reality. God has a will and purpose for each person. When we pray “Your will be done,” we are asking that His will be fulfilled in our lives and that His purposes be worked out in history.
God wants to meet every need we have. We ask for forgiveness because God wants to cleanse us and restore us to Himself. We ask for guidance because God wants to lead us in His way. We ask for deliverance because evil and the evil one (Satan) are very strong and will overcome us without God’s power to help us.
Without God we are powerless; therefore, all glory rightfully belongs to Him
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WHY SHOULD WE PRAY?
Prayer should be as natural to the Christian as breathing. When we pray, we maintain fellowship with our loving Father. God hears and answers our prayers.
Why should we pray?
Matthew 26:41
I Timothy 2:1-2
James 4:2, 3
James 5:16
WHEN SHOULD WE PRAY?
Paul told us to pray ceaselessly. Although prayers are offered at special times such as worship services, prayer meetings, and private and family devotional periods, we should be conversing with our Father at all other times with our minds, our hearts, and our spirits (Philippians 4:6-7; Ephesians 5:19-20).
On what specific occasions should we pray?
James 5:13-16
HOW SHOULD WE PRAY?
The name of Jesus has great authority in Heaven. We pray in that Name, asking God to hear us for His Son’s sake (John 14:12-14; 15:14-17).
What other conditions are attached to God’s promise that He will hear and answer our prayers?
Psalm 66:18
Mark 11:24
I John 5:14
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What else does the Bible say about how we should pray?
Matthew 6:5-6
Matthew 6:7-8
Luke 11:5-10
WHAT ARE SOME TYPES OF PRAYER?
Adoration - praising God for His greatness and glory
Confession - admitting our sin and receiving His forgiveness
Thanksgiving - thanking God for answered prayer and blessings
Supplication (sometimes referred to as Petition) - asking God to meet our needs
Intercession - asking God to meet the needs of others
We should practice all of these types of prayer. It is important to begin with adoration and continue through confession. Then we can thank God for His goodness and mercy. Finally, we ask God for what He wills to give us, and we intercede for others.
SUMMARYPsalm 23 Prayer brings .
Matthew 11:28 Prayer provides .
Colossians 4:12 Prayer is sometimes .
Prayer is both a great privilege and an important responsibility of the Christian.
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WHO IS GOD?ARTICLE OF FAITH
We believe that the one and only true God is Spirit: self-existent, infinite, personal, unchangeable, and eternal in His being; perfect in holiness, love, justice, goodness, wisdom, and truth; omnipotent, omniscient, and omnipresent; Creator and Sustainer of all things, visible and invisible; both immanent and transcendent to creation; eternally existent in three persons, one in substance and co-equal in power and glory- Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.
THE EXISTENCE OF GOD
The Bible tells us much about God, but it never tries to prove that He exists. Instead, the Bible assumes that God is.
Moses recognized God’s existence (Exodus 3:6). Jesus stated that anyone who had seen Him had seen the Father (John 14:9). Paul began his letter with thanksgiving to God Who was personal and real to him (II Timothy 1:12).
Although logical arguments for the existence of God can encourage belief, arguments cannot prove God’s existence. The infinite God is beyond logical proof by finite human beings.
I Corinthians 2:9-10 ______________________________________________________________
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SOME NAMES FOR GOD
Biblical names point out essential characteristics or the nature of the person being identified. Below are some names used for God which describe His characteristics by revealing His intervention in life situations.
Name Meaning Reference
Elohim The strong one Genesis 1:1
Jehovah “I Am” - the self-existent Genesis 2:4 andeternal God Exodus 3:13-
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Adonai Master or Lord Genesis 15:2
Jehovah-jireh The Lord will provide Genesis 22:13-14
THE ATTRIBUTES OF GOD
The characteristics or qualities ascribed to God in the Bible indicate who He is and how He acts.
Because of these shared traits, God is able to have fellowship with people. (I John 1:3).
What gives God the right to rule over everything?
Roman 9:20-21 __________________________________________________________________
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THE TRINITY
Christians believe in one God (Deuteronomy 6:4; Mark 12:28-29), Who exists in the persons of God the Father (Matthew 6:9), God the Son (I John 5:20), and God the Holy Spirit (Acts 5:3-4).
The Trinity can be described as God existing as one being, yet as three persons. The three states of water may help us understand this concept. The chemical composition of water (H2O) is still the same, whether it is a liquid, frozen, or steam.
SUMMARY
It is difficult for a person to understand a being who is all-powerful, all-knowing, everywhere present, and eternally existent. Human beings cannot completely understand God. What we do know about God demonstrates the importance of our allegiance to Him through faith and assures us that we can have fellowship with Him.
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JESUS CHRIST: HIS PERSON AND WORK
ARTICLE OF FAITH
We believe in the deity of the Lord Jesus Christ; in His eternal generation from the Father; in His Incarnation by which He was conceived by the Holy Spirit and born of the Virgin Mary, thus uniting the divine and human natures in their completeness into the one unique person of Jesus Christ; in His sinless life and miraculous works; in His vicarious death to make atonement for the sins of the world; in His bodily resurrection and ascension to the right hand of the Father; in His sovereign power and lordship; in His present mediatorial ministry as the believer’s Advocate; in His imminent coming in power and glory.
INCARNATION
“Incarnation” means that Jesus Christ was God in human flesh (John 1:14).
What was unique concerning Christ’s conception that made Him both God and man?
Luke 1:26-35 ___________________________________________________________________
What powers and claims of Jesus demonstrated His divinity?
Matthew 4:23-24 ________________________________________________________________
Matthew 9:4 ____________________________________________________________________
Mark 1:22 ______________________________________________________________________
Mark 2:10-12 ___________________________________________________________________
John 1:3 _______________________________________________________________________
John 8:58 ______________________________________________________________________
John 10:18 _____________________________________________________________________
John 11:25-27 ___________________________________________________________________
John 20:31 _____________________________________________________________________
Even Jesus’ enemies understood those claims. They put Him to death, not for being a good man, but because of His claim to deity. We cannot accept Jesus as merely a good human teacher, for He clearly claimed to be God. We must accept Him as the one and only God-man, Who met the needs of fellow humans, took on Himself the penalty for our sin, and arose from the dead.
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VICARIOUS ATONEMENT
Vicarious atonement, or substitutionary atonement, means Jesus Christ died in the place of every person. All have sinned and fall short of the glory of God and deserve to be punished for sin (Romans 3:23; 6:23). Vicarious atonement is unique to Christianity. It is a gift of God to everyone who believes on His Son. Every other religion is a “do it yourself” system based on human effort.
Why is the sacrifice of Jesus acceptable for our sin?
I Peter 2:22, 24 __________________________________________________________________
II Corinthians 5:21 _______________________________________________________________
Matthew 20:28 __________________________________________________________________
Luke 19:10 _____________________________________________________________________
John 8:28 ______________________________________________________________________
John 10:10 _____________________________________________________________________
I John 3:5 ______________________________________________________________________
RESURRECTION
Our hope for life after death rests on the resurrection of Christ from the dead (I Corinthians 15:17-23). His resurrection is described in the Bible as the “first fruits of those who have fallen asleep.” This means that, because Christ was resurrected, those who follow Him in faith will also be resurrected (I Peter 1:3).
We believe in the resurrection for several reasons. The empty tomb and the eyewitness reports of those who saw Jesus alive after His crucifixion are major reasons (I Corinthians 15:3-8; Luke 24:3). In addition, the sudden courage of the Disciples after their cowardice at the crucifixion, as well as the founding and growth of the church since Jesus was on earth, can best be explained by the resurrection (Luke 24:50-53; Acts 8:1-4). Most important, the resurrection demonstrates that Jesus was God as He claimed to be.
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PRESENT MINISTRY
Following His resurrection, Jesus ascended to the Father where He continues His ministry (Acts 1:9).
I John 2:1 ______________________________________________________________________
SUMMARY
By placing your trust in Jesus, you can escape the punishment of sin. Because Jesus Christ arose bodily from the dead, believers too, will be raised from the dead to live with Him forever.
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THE HOLY SPIRIT
ARTICLE OF FAITH
We believe that the Holy Spirit, the third person of the triune God, proceeding from the Father and sent by the Son, is one substance, majesty, and glory with the Father and the Son, very and eternally God. His office and work is to reprove or convict the world of sin, of righteousness, and of judgment; to regenerate such as repent of their sins and believe on the Lord Jesus Christ; to sanctify, endue with power, teach, guide, and comfort the believer.
PENTECOST
The word “Pentecost” literally means “fifty days.” It refers to the event that happened fifty days after the resurrection of Jesus. On that day the eternal Holy Spirit came to live in believers in a new way.
What promise of Jesus was fulfilled on Pentecost?
John 14:16 _____________________________________________________________________
What did believers receive when the Holy Spirit came?
II Peter 1:21 ____________________________________________________________________
THE HOLY SPIRIT AND THE CHRISTIAN
God the Holy Spirit plays an important part in the lives of people who have accepted Jesus Christ as their Savior. One word used to describe that special role is “indwelling.”
Using the information in the following verses, describe the life of a person who is indwelt by the Spirit.
John 14:17 _____________________________________________________________________
Just as a tree or plant bears fruit of its kind, the life of the believer bears the fruit of the Holy Spirit.
SUMMARY
The Holy Spirit is God’s presence in the world today. He brings people to God and enables them to live for Him.
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THE CREATION AND THE FALL
ARTICLE OF FAITH
We believe that man was created by an act of God and not by a process of evolution. He was created in the image and likeness of God and enjoyed unbroken fellowship with Him. Then man was tempted by Satan and chose to sin by disobeying God’s command. Because of his sin, man was separated from God and the sentence of both physical and spiritual death was passed upon him. Because of His love, however, God has provided redemption for all men who accept Christ as Savior through the work of Christ who died on the cross as a perfect sacrifice for sin. (Adapted)
CREATION
The two major views of the origin of the universe are creation and evolution. The theory of evolution suggests that all life, past and present, was formed through a gradual process over millions of years. Most evolutionists do not attribute the origin of life to God.
Creationists believe in the biblical account of creation. The first two chapters of Genesis teach that God brought all things into existence.
Read Genesis 1:1-31 to discover what God created on each day (does not mean a 24 hour day as we think of days) of creation.
Day 1 _________________________________________________________________________
Day 2 _________________________________________________________________________
Day 3 _________________________________________________________________________
Day 4 _________________________________________________________________________
Day 5 _________________________________________________________________________
Day 6 _________________________________________________________________________
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HUMAN BEINGS ARE A UNIQUE CREATION
Evolutionists often suggest that human beings are merely members of the evolved animal kingdom. This is contrary to the Genesis account of creation.
How was the creation of Adam and Eve different from the creation of animals?
God created humans in His own image to be above all other forms of life. Humans did not have to rise gradually above other animals through an evolutionary process - God created them to rule over every living creature on earth.
“In God’s image” cannot mean that we look like God, because God is a spirit without physical form. The divine image in which God created us includes the qualities of intellect (logic, reason, and knowledge), emotion (feelings), will (choice), and conscience (ability to know right from wrong). These qualities, which God also possesses, are given to us to help us love and serve Him. Together, they distinguish us from all other forms of animal life.
THE FALL
When Adam and Eve were placed in the Garden of Eden, they enjoyed a perfect relationship with God. They lived in a Paradise with only one restriction: they were forbidden to eat from the tree of the knowledge of good and evil (Genesis 2:17).
Because Adam and Eve were created in the image of God and possessed conscience, they knew right from wrong. When given a choice between the two, they chose wrong although they could have chosen right. Because God gives people free moral choice, we can choose to resist temptation instead of submitting to it.
The temptation to disobey God came from the serpent, known throughout the Bible as Satan or the Devil. Satan used a three-fold attack in his temptation of Adam and Eve.
From what three vantage points did Satan appeal to Adam and Eve? ________________________
As an immediate consequence of the Fall, Adam and Eve realized that their state of innocence had abruptly ended. They quickly hid their nakedness (Genesis 3:7-9).
The Fall brought death (Romans 6:23). Separated from God through their choice to disobey Him, Adam and Eve fell from perfect fellowship to exclusion from God’s presence. Since in Adam all sinned, the Fall rendered the entire human race guilty (Romans 5:12). Consequently, each person inherits a sinful nature (Romans 5:19), most commonly known as “original sin.” As a result of this sinful nature, the sinner does not desire to do right and simply falls short. Sinful people, until made alive by the Holy Spirit, do not have a correct understanding of righteousness. They want fulfillment, but miss it by not taking God into account. The sinful nature is evidenced by a spirit of selfishness and rebellion (Romans 8:7). However, there is hope. God provides a remedy (John 3:16).
SUMMARY
God created Adam and Eve in His own image. Because they chose wrong instead of right, all creation was separated from God. However, God provided a remedy for sin through His Son.
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SALVATION
ARTICLE OF FAITH
We believe that all men are sinners and guilty before God. They are dead in trespasses and sin, and are unable to save themselves. God has, out of His infinite love, given His Son, the Lord Jesus Christ, to become man’s Savior. Genuine repentance is a necessary attitude and act of man that makes it possible for a holy and just God to forgive man’s sins. Faith must accompany repentance and is the act of the will whereby man embraces the promises of God and appropriates to himself, personally, the provisions of God’s grace. When the requirements of repentance and faith have been met, God justifies and regenerates the sinner.
GOD’S PROVISION OF SALVATION
The Bible states that when we receive salvation we become a new creation (II Corinthians5:17).
What does God do when we believe Christ and receive Him as our personal Savior?
John 1:12 ______________________________________________________________________
John 10:10 _____________________________________________________________________
Salvation requires repentance. Repentance means “turning and going God’s way.” It is a change of mind or attitude. It is much more than merely being sorry for our sins; it is changing the direction of our life from wrong to right.
Salvation also involves faith. Faith is trusting God to do what He promised.
Using Ephesians 2:8-9, answer the following questions.
By what have we been saved? ______________________________________________________
Through what did we receive grace? _________________________________________________
By what means can salvation never be achieved? _______________________________________
In addition to repenting and trusting God, we must confess that Jesus is our living Savior (Romans 10:9-10).
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STEPS TO SALVATION
Circle your responses to the following statements.
1. I know I am a sinner (Romans 3:23). Yes No
2. I know God loves me even though I have sinned (John 3:16). Yes No
3. I know that Christ died for my sin (Romans 5:8; I John 1:7). Yes No
4. I am willing to turn from my sin and go God’s way (II Peter 3:9). Yes No
5. I want to receive Christ as my personal Savior by believing that He will save me as He promised (John 1:12). Yes No
6. I will tell others that I have received God’s gift of salvation (Romans 10:9-10). Yes No
If you are not already a Christian, you can receive Christ by praying a prayer of faith which expresses your belief and trust in God. Simply tell God the things mentioned in the above steps.
SUMMARY
Salvation is the work of God in a person’s life. It is a gift of God, which cannot be earned, but must be accepted by each individual.
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THE RETURN OF CHRIST
ARTICLE OF FAITH
We believe that the return of Christ is the hope of the church. The return of Christ will be personal, bodily, and visible. Christ will first descend into the clouds, where His church will be called up to meet Him. After a period of judgments, Christ will return with His church to judge the nations and to establish His kingdom. He will rule the earth a thousand years. After a final judgment, new heavens and a new earth will be established where there will be no sin and where the righteous will live forever. One of the greatest sources of encouragement and consolation for the Christian is the promise that Jesus Christ will return. It is one of the believer’s strongest incentives to holy living and dedicated service to God. (Adapted)
THE RAPTURE
The second coming of Christ, sometimes referred to as the “rapture,” is when Christ descends in the clouds, where all believers will be caught up to meet Him.
The word “rapture” does not appear in the Scriptures; however, the event it describes is outlined in the New Testament.
What do the following verses teach about the rapture?
Mark 13:32 _____________________________________________________________________
The Bible describes the tribulation as a period of great distress. It is not always easy to recognize the difference between the periodic suffering and trials of God’s people and the tribulation of which the Bible speaks.
Many Christians believe the Bible teaches that the rapture will occur before the tribulation (pre-tribulation view). Others view the Scriptures as teaching that the rapture will occur toward the middle of the tribulation (mid-tribulation view). Still a third group believes the rapture will happen at the end of the tribulation (post-tribulation view).
It seems clear that a world leader often called the “antichrist,” or “the man of lawlessness,” will appear during troubled times (II Thessalonians 2:3). For a time, he will bring a semblance of order out of the chaotic condition of the world. His human system will be totally opposed to God.
Who will the “man of lawlessness” pretend to be?
II Thessalonians 2:4 ______________________________________________________________
From whom will he obtain his power?
II Thessalonians 2:9 ______________________________________________________________
How will he win the masses?
II Thessalonians 2:9-10 ___________________________________________________________
It appears from Scripture that at the end of the tribulation Christ will lead the army of heaven in a great battle against the rebellious nations. Christ’s victory will end the rule of the antichrist (Revelation 19:11-19). Christ’s return at this time is called the “revelation.”
What will happen to the antichrist when Christ wins the battle?
The word “millennium,” meaning “thousand,” does not appear in Scripture. It refers to the thousand years of justice, peace, happiness, long life and health, and material and spiritual prosperity on earth, which will be established by Christ. During this time Christ will reign and Satan will be bound. The millennial kingdom will include those who have been raptured, those who have been resurrected from the dead, and those who have survived the tribulation period. All of creation will benefit from this reign (Revelation 20:4-6; Isaiah 65:17-25).
According to Revelation 20:4-5 who will be resurrected before the millennium? ______________
At the close of the millennium, Satan will be loosed for a brief period. He will lead a rebellion against Christ and His rule. Christ will bring this rebellion to a swift end, and Satan will be cast into the lake of fire (Revelation 20:7-10). Following this final rebellion, all who have died as unbelievers will be raised and judged by Christ at the great white throne.
What will be the fate of the unbelievers (Revelation 20:11-15)?____________________________
What will make this eternal fate inexpressibly horrible (Revelation 20:10; Luke 16:23-26)?______
Even though we may have difficulty understanding the events surrounding the return of Christ, His return remains our greatest hope. The Bible assures us that God is in control and that Christ will be eternally victorious.
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THE CHURCHARTICLE OF FAITH
We believe that the invisible and universal church is an organism composed of all believers in the Lord Jesus Christ who have been called out from the world, separated from sin, and vitally united by faith to Christ, its sovereign Lord. (Adapted)
THE UNIVERSAL CHURCH
The word “church” means “the called out ones” (1 Corinthians 1:2). The universal Church, the Body of Christ, is an invisible organism composed of all who have accepted Christ as Savior. The universal Church is not the same as the local church, which is a visible organization of a group of believers who meet regularly. The local church will be studied in another lesson.
RELATIONSHIPS IN THE CHURCH
What do the following verses say about Christ and the Church?
Matthew 16:18 __________________________________________________________________
Matthew 28:18-20 _______________________________________________________________
I John 4:12 _____________________________________________________________________
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ORDINANCES OF THE CHURCH
An ordinance is a ceremony commanded by Christ to remind us of a spiritual truth.
ARTICLE OF FAITH
The Christian ordinances are two in number, baptism and the Lord’s Supper. They are the outward rites appointed by Christ to be administered in each local church, not as means of salvation, but as visible signs and seals of its reality.
BAPTISM
This ordinance is an outward testimony of the inward reality of Christ’s cleansing in a person’s life.
Christians practice three different ways of baptism: sprinkling, pouring, and immersion. The Missionary Church practices baptism by immersion (symbolizing the death, burial, and resurrection of Christ). We do not baptize infants, but rather encourage the formal dedication of young children in a public service of the church.
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THE LORD’S SUPPER
This ordinance (often referred to as Communion or Eucharist) is a constant reminder of our Lord’s sacrifice, its meaning, and our relationship to Him because of it.
I Corinthians 11:23-24 I Corinthians 11:25-26
What are the elements? ___________________
What does each symbolize?
Why partake of them?
Why does the Bible say it is important for a believer to prepare for participation in communion?
I Corinthians 11:27, 29 ___________________________________________________________
The body of Christ is made up of all believers and exists for the purposes of worship, discipleship, stewardship and fellowship. The Holy Spirit equips the Church to fulfill its purposes. Baptism and the Lord’s Supper are the two special ceremonies of the Church.
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THE MISSIONARY CHURCH
History is a record of the past. It helps us understand how we got where we are today, it gives us a sense of our “roots” and it suggests ways we can plan for the future.
Truth to know: “Remember the days of old; consider the generation long past. Ask your father and he will explain to you” (Deuteronomy 32:7).
What does Deuteronomy 32:7 say we should do about the past?
The Missionary Church was the name selected following the merger of the Missionary Church Association and the United Missionary Church in 1969. This was possible because both denominations were committed to preaching only what was in the Bible and to evangelizing the world.
The United Missionary Church, known until 1947 as The Mennonite Brethren in Christ, was formed at a meeting near Dayton, Ohio, in 1883. It began, however, in the 1850’s when a number of Mennonite ministers were dismissed from their former churches for having prayer meetings, holding revival services, and giving public testimonies. It was largely through the leadership of Daniel Brenneman and Solomon Eby that the denomination was organized.
Joseph Ramseyer founded The Missionary Church Association after he was dismissed from his former denomination for wanting to be baptized by immersion as a born-again believer in Christ. Ramseyer continued to preach the message of God’s love through Jesus Christ as Savior, Sanctifier, Healer, and Coming King. In 1898 those who shared his convictions adopted the name “The Missionary Church Association” because of their desire to evangelize the world.
Further information about the history of The Missionary Church can be found in the book, Merging Streams, by Eileen Lageer and a video, Backward Glance.
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ORGANIZATION
The Missionary Church is composed of approximately *380 churches located in *11 organized districts (Central, East Central, Eastern, Florida, Hawaii, Michigan, Midwest, North Central, Northwest, Puerto Rico and Western) and *4 mission districts (Rio Grande Valley, Texas, Georgia and Mid-Atlantic).
* Check the Web site or call the denominational office for current information.
Each organized district has a district superintendent and other officers who care for the congregations within its borders. Mission districts are geographic areas where church planting ministries have been started but have not yet developed to a point of being self-governing.
A detailed map and directory of churches, district offices and denominational office is available on the Web site at: www.mcusa.org/directory/
The national office is located in Fort Wayne, Indiana. The denominational Web site is www.mcusa.org.
PURPOSE STATEMENT
The Missionary Church, in obedience to Jesus Christ the Lord, is committed to being holy people of God in the world and to building His church by worldwide evangelism, discipleship and multiplication of growing churches, all to the glory of God.
What two purposes does the Missionary Church have?1. _____________________________________________________________________________
The Missionary Church is an evangelical denomination committed to church planting and world missions.
In addition to church planting and evangelistic outreach in the United States, the Missionary Church engages in worldwide evangelism through World Partners USA.
World Partners USA has ministries in *29 countries. Approximately *100 missionaries are serving on these fields. Under a program called Missionaries-on-Loan (MOL), *15 additional missionaries serve other missions agencies.
* For current information, call World Partners USA at (260) 747-2027 or email [email protected]. You may also check information on the Web site at www.worldpartnersusa.com.
What is the name of the district in which your church is located? __________________________
Who is your District Superintendent? ________________________________________________
Who is the President of the Missionary Church? ________________________________________
List the missionaries your church supports and the areas in which they serve?_______________________________________________________________________________
What “people group” has your church adopted?________________________________________
World Partners is committed to establishing church planting movements among “people groups.” Rather than defining mission work in terms of countries in which we minister, the emphasis will be on the “people groups” we are discipling. “People groups” or ethnic groups, may be smaller than a country, or, as in most cases, stretch across several “countries.” Kurdish people are found in Turkey, Iraq, Iran, Syria, Nashville, TN and San Diego, CA. The city with the second largest population of Dominicans is not in the Dominican Republic. It is New York City.
SPECIAL AREAS OF INTEREST
COLLEGEThe Missionary Church college is Bethel College, located in Mishawaka, Indiana. Bethel College is a coeducational college of the arts and sciences founded in 1947. They have a growing student body of over 1,600 students from all over the United States and around the world. Bethel’s serene, wooded campus of over 60 acres provides an exceptional environment for work, study and spiritual growth. Bethel’s Web site is www.bethelcollege.edu.
CHURCH MULTIPLICATION TRAINING CENTERThe Church Multiplication Training Center, often referred to as CMTC, trains church planters and helps districts and local churches in the process of planting churches in their areas. They serve as consultants and provide coaching, support and resources. More information is available on their Web site at www.cmtcmultiply.org.
Emphasis is the magazine published by the Missionary Church. It contains news about churches and missions, as well as articles and other information. It is published bimonthly. Subscriptions are available through the local church.
Priority is a monthly newsletter with important news and highlights that is sent to pastors and local church leadership.
Harvest Times is a quarterly newsletter designed to communicate the vision, stories and needs of church planting.
Under Construction is a quarterly newsletter for children’s ministries.
SAMM Happenings is a newsletter for senior adult ministries.
Acorn’R is a monthly missions newsletter for children’s ministries.
People and Places is a publication containing denominational and world religious news. It is available by subscription from World Partners USA.
Let’s Explore Missions is a supplement for children’s ministries that focuses on Missionary Church missions. Mission material is also produced for the annual children’s summer missions project to assist local churches in promoting giving to missions.
The Missionary Church also publishes:
Annual calender highlighting district and denominational events.
Directory of all Missionary Church personnel.
WEBSITES
Missionary Church USA: www.mcusa.orgWorld Partners USA: www.worldpartnersusa.comBethel College: www.bethelcollege.eduChurch Multiplication Training Center: www.cmtcmultiply.org
What is the magazine published by the Missionary Church? ______________________________
What is the name of the children’s missions’ newsletter? _________________________________
What is the purpose of Harvest Times? _______________________________________________
What is Let’s Explore Missions? ____________________________________________________
How many missionaries serve through World partners USA? _____________________________
In how many countries do they serve?________________________________________________
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CHURCH: THE LOCAL CONGREGATIONEach local church is a group of believers who meet in a specific location. They are organized to do what the Bible commands. A church is the people, not the building. Some early churches did not have a separate building for their meetings. Instead, they met in houses. (Romans 16:5)
PURPOSETo what was the early Church continually devoting themselves according to Acts 2:42?
What were some other activities of the early church?
a. Acts 2:43 __________________________________________________________________
b. Acts 2:44-45 ________________________________________________________________
c. Acts 2:46 __________________________________________________________________
d. Acts 2:47 __________________________________________________________________
STATEMENT OF PURPOSE
The Missionary Church, in obedience to Jesus Christ the Lord, is committed to being holy people of God in the world and to building His church by worldwide evangelism, discipleship and multiplication of growing churches, all to the glory of God.
What does “being holy people of God in the world” mean?
Truth to know: “Let us not give up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but let us encourage one another–and all the more as you see the day approaching” (Hebrews 10:25).
Because the early church followed Christ and obeyed His commands, the church grew (Acts 2:42-47).
The name of our denomination is meaningfulNAME MEANINGMissionary Our commitment to reaching people around
the world for ChristChurch A group of believers who have joined
together locally and nationally for worship, fellowship, instruction and evangelism
LEADERSHIP
Our denomination has a congregational form of government. The people of the local church are responsible for the church.
How is your church structured for ministry? ___________________________________________
What ministries does your church have, i.e. Sunday school, small groups, worship, women’s ministries, MMI, children’s club, youth, etc.? __________________________________________
II Timothy 4:2 __________________________________________________________________
I Timothy 4:12-16 _______________________________________________________________
MEMBERSHIP
The Missionary Church receives persons as members who:1. have accepted Jesus Christ as their personal Savior;2. have been baptized; and3. have confessed their faith.
What is the usual procedure for membership in your church? _____________________________
Members of the Missionary Church are expected to live according to high moral standards. They are not to adopt the values, attitudes, goals, or lifestyle of non-Christians, but are to be “holy people of God.”
List some ways Christians should be different from non-Christians.
Specific life issues are addressed in the Constitution of the Missionary Church under “Articles of Practice.”
SUMMARY
Each local church is a group of believers who meet in a specific location. They are organized to carry out the purposes of God in the world.
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REFLECTIONSList several things you have learned through this course about:
The Bible
Bible Study
Prayer
God
Christ
The Holy Spirit
The Creation and Fall
Salvation
The Return of Christ
The Church
The Missionary Church
The Local Church
Our Local Church
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GLOSSARYAdvocate – one who speaks in favor of someoneAtonement/reconciliation - bringing God and man back together by removing man’s guiltAttribute - a descriptive quality or characteristic; a special ability or nature, like holy or all-knowingConcordance - an alphabetical list of words with biblical referencesCreation - God making all things from nothingDeity - truly GodEternal - having no beginning or end; no reference to time (always is)Evangelism - sharing the gospelFaith - trusting in God to do what He promisedFellowship - companionship with other ChristiansFruit of the Spirit - Christ-like qualities the Holy Spirit produces in the lives of believersGifts of the Spirit - abilities God gives to believers to serve HimGrace - undeserved favorHoly - perfect in power, love and purityHumanity - the human nature of ChristIllumination - the Holy Spirit opening hearts and minds of people helping them understand God’s
messageIndwelt by the Spirit - being under the influence and control of the Holy SpiritImminent - about to happen; very near or closeIncarnation – God moving into human flesh, as in Christ becoming humanInspiration - God’s special influence on the writings in the Bible; God-breathedMediatorial - go between, to negotiate for two parties or peopleMillennium – a 1,000 years reign of ChristOmnipotent – all-powerfulOmniscient - all knowingOmnipresent - present everywhere at the same timeOrdinance – an action commanded by Christ to remind us of a spiritual truth; nowadays, often a
special ceremonyParaphrase - the restatement of a Bible text in words ways to understandRapture - first part of Second Coming which means the “taking up” of Christians; being lifted above
the ordinary; taken out of ourselvesRedemption - the act of buying backRepentance - turning and going God’s wayResurrection - return to lifeSalvation - the action of receiving Christ which gives new life, freeing us from the old life of sin; the
process of being saved or delivered from sin and its penalty of eternal damnation by repenting and believing in Christ
Satan - a fallen angel who rebelled against God and leads the forces of evilSin - any willful thought, word or act, which does not measure up to God’s standardSovereign - above or superior to all others in power and position or rank; the most exalted; unlimited
supreme powerTheory - unproven beliefTribulation - Seven-year period of deep troubleTrinity - The Father, Son and Holy Spirit existing as one GodVicarious - taking the place of; a substitute; instead ofVirgin birth - Jesus’ birth as God’s only natural childWorship - adoration of God more than anything else
