Miracles (Part 4)

Jesus said, “These signs will follow those who believe: In My name they will cast out demons; they will speak with new tongues; they will take up serpents; and if they drink anything deadly, it will not hurt them; they will lay hands on the sick, and they will recover” (Mark 16:17-18). We are told, “they went out and preached everywhere, the Lord working with them and confirming the word through accompanying signs” (Mark 16:20).

We continue our study of miracles. In this part, we will consider the duration of miraculous gifts in the church.

1 Corinthians 13

“Love never fails. But whether there are prophecies, they will fail; whether there are tongues, they will cease; whether there is knowledge, it will vanish away” (13:8).

There is a great contrast between love and miraculous gifts. Love (agape) never fails. “Fails” (piptei) meaning: “to perish, i.e. to come to an end, disappear, cease” (Thayer). Love will never cease to be a part of God’s plan. However, this is not the case with miraculous gifts. Prophecies and knowledge will fail or vanish away. The original word (Katargethesntai) is the same, though rendered “fail” and “vanish away.” It means “to reduce to inactivity” (Vine’s). Tongues will cease. The original word (pausontai) means “stop (oneself), cease” (B.A.G.) [Gary Workman set forth some thoughts on the difference between the two words (katargethesntai and pausontai). “Tongues were to stop themselves whereas prophecies and knowledge had to be done away. As an example of this distinction, we read that the sacrifices of the old law could not cease – pauomai – (Hebrews 10:2). They could not complete their task so they had to be done away – katageo – (Ephesians 2:15), replaced by Jesus’ ‘one sacrifice for sins forever” (Hebrews 10:12). We might make this further observation: In contrast with the Old Testament sacrifices, Jesus’ sacrifice has permanence efficacy. Yet the doing of it has ended. It has ‘ceased to be offered’ (Hebrews 10:2) because ‘this he did once for all, when he offered up Himself’ (Hebrews 7:27). So that ‘there is no more offering for sin’ (Hebrews 10:18). His task of offering Himself has been completed – has ceased – while the effect continues on. Let us summarize this contrast: The Old Testament sacrifices could not cease but were done away; Jesus’ sacrifice has ceased but it is not done away because it will not be replaced… Likewise, tongues had no replacement” (Workman, Has “That Which is Perfect” Come?, pp. 4-5)].

The three miraculous gifts mentioned (prophecies, tongues, and knowledge) are representative of all miraculous gifts. Nine miraculous gifts are listed in 1 Corinthians 12. These nine gifts are divided into three categories, each separated by the word heteros: (1)Gifts of revelation(12:8); (2) Gifts of confirmation (12:9-10c); (3) Gifts of communication (12:10d,e). In 1 Corinthians 13, Paul takes one gift from each of these three categories: (1) Gifts of revelation: knowledge; (2) Gifts of confirmation: prophecies; (3) Gifts of communication: tongues. (For more information see Part 2 of this series).

“For we know in part and we prophesy in part. But when that which is perfect has come, then that which is in part will be done away” (13:9-10).

The word “perfect” (teleion) means “having reached its end, finished, complete, perfect” (Vine’s). It is juxtaposition to “in part.” The reference is to God will for man being completely revealed, disseminated, and confirmed.

The literal language is: “Out of part we know and out of part we prophesy; but when comes the complete thing, the thing out of part will be done away.” Roy Deaver once gave this illustration “On a construction site may be a pile of lumber. Brick and lumber are essential ‘Parts’ of the building under construction. Out of the brick part the workers may lay brick and out of the lumber part they may build walls, ‘out of part’ they lay brick and ‘out of part’ they build walls. But, when is come the perfect thing the out of the part thing ceases. There is no further need for the brick pile and the lumber stack. These ‘parts’ are lost in the perfect, the complete. In this case, the perfect thing is the complete building” (Article: Why the Neuter Gender in 1 Corinthians 13:10?). The complete comes out of the parts.

“When I was a child I spoke as a child, I understood as a child, I thought as a child; but when I because a man I put away childish things” (13:11).

Illustration one: A child matures and leave behind certain things in adulthood (e.g. childish manners and speech, childish ways of thinking and understanding). Even so, the church was maturing in its knowledge, and with such certain things would be left behind. Miraculous gifts were meant for the church in its childhood.

“For now we see in a mirror, dimly, but then face to face” (13:12a).

Illustration two: Ancient mirrors were polished metal. They allowed one to see, but not clearly. It was not like looking face to face. Even so, the early church, before complete revelation, were able to see. However, some things they were unable to see clearly. When revelation was complete, things would be much clearer. It would be like seeing face to face instead of in a mirror.

“Now I know in part, but then I shall know just as I also am known” (13:12b).

Illustration three: One can have partial knowledge of something without having thorough knowledge. Two different words are used for “know” in the text. The first word (ginosko) is contrasted with the second word (epignosomai) which refers to full knowledge; Thayer – “to become thoroughly acquainted with, to know thoroughly; to know accurately, know well.”

“And now abide faith, hope, and love, these three; but the greatest of these is love” (13:13).

These are the enduring characteristics of Christianity. These things abide, literally keep on abiding. Miraculous gifts will not. They needed to place greater emphasis on these enduring qualities, instead of being envious over who had what gift (For why love is the greatest see article Faith, Hope, Love, part 9).

Objections

  1. Some argue that this is speaking of Christ and His second coming. However: (a) The term “perfect” is neuter gender, not masculine. It is not “He who is perfect,” but “that which is perfect.” It is not “the perfect one,” but “the perfect thing.” (b) While it is true that Jesus is at times referred to as: “The Door,” “The Vine,” “The Bread of Life,” “The Light of the World,” etc. – those contexts are clear that Jesus is in view. Jesus has not even been mentioned in this chapter. His second coming has not been mentioned in this chapter.
  2. Some argue that this is speaking of heaven’s coming. However: (a) Heaven is not mentioned in the entire context of 1 Corinthians 12, 13, 14. (b) This is not language used elsewhere of heaven. (c) Some claim that there is nothing perfect this side of heaven, but such is not the case (Genesis 6:9; Job 1:1; 2:3; Matthew 5:43-44, 46-48; 19:21; 1 Corinthians 2:6; 14:20; Colossians 4:12; Hebrews 5:12-14; 2 Timothy 3:16-17; James 1:25).
  3. Some argue that this is speaking of the coming of agape love. However: (a) “Agape” is feminine gender, not neuter gender. (b) It is not imperfect love or unity being contrasted with perfect love or unity; but, it is partial knowledge and prophecy being contrasted with that which is perfect (complete).
  4. Some object that “knowledge” is feminine gender. This is true. Roy Deaver’s answered this way: “Paul… is setting forth a principle, and this is the reason for the use of the neuter gender… when is come ‘the perfect thing’ (any perfect thing) the complete, the whole – then the ‘out of the part thing’ (any out of part thing) ceases to be” (ibid).
  5. It is argued that we do not now see God or Jesus “face to face.” Therefore, this must refer to heaven. However, the text does not mention seeing God or Jesus. The wording “face to face” simply means to see or hear clearly [cf. Deuteronomy 5:4-5a. Israel did not literally speak with God face to face (Deuteronomy 4:12; 5:5; Exodus 19:12), nor did Moses (Exodus 3:20-23). However, He did talk with them face to face (Deuteronomy 5:4-5a), meaning clearly, plainly (Numbers 12:7-8)].
  6. Some have argued that it is not possible to have full knowledge (epignosomai) in this life. However, such is not true (Luke 1:1-3; Colossians 1:6, 9; 2 Peter 1:2; 2:20-21).
  7. Many brethren have pointed out that the scriptures are referred to as “the perfect law of liberty” (James 1:25). Some object that James was already written. Therefore, the scriptures cannot be in view in 1 Corinthians 13. However, let me suggest that James is using a figure of speech known as prolepsis. He is speaking in anticipation of its completion. Man needs to live in accord with God’s complete revealed will. Moreover, they were responsible to do so then, to the extent it had been revealed.
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Miracles (Part 3)

The early church received miraculous gifts from God (Acts 2:16-17; 1 Corinthians 12:4-11; Ephesians 4:8).  Miracles were worked through the apostles (Acts 3:1-10; 5:12; 5:15-16; 8:14-17; 9:32-35; 9:36-42; 13:6-12; 14:1-3; 14:8-10; 15:12; 16:16-18; 19:6; 19:11-12; 20:9-12; 28:3-5; 28:8-9).  Miracles also were worked through members, other than apostles (Acts 6:8; 8:6-8, 13; 9:17-18; 11:27-28; 19:6-7; 21:8-9; 21:11).

We continue our study of miracles.  In this part, we will consider how these gifts were received.

Two Means

Miraculous gifts were received by two means.  First, miraculous gifts were received directly from heaven.  This was rare.  This, by my count, happened only three times in the New Testament.  (1) It happened on that Pentecost which immediately followed Jesus’ ascension (Acts 2:1-4).  This happened to the apostles [The antecedent of the pronoun “they” is the apostles (Acts 1:26 cf. 2:1, 4)].  (2) It happened to Cornelius and his house (Acts 10:44-48; 11:15-18).  The purpose was to demonstrate that the gentiles were proper candidates for the gospel (Acts 10:44-47; 11:15-18; 15:6-11).  (3) It can be inferred that such happened to Saul (Galatians 1:1, 15-24; 2:6-9).  He did not receive inspiration from the hands of men (Galatians 1:1; 1:16-17).

Second, miraculous gifts were received through the hands of the apostles.  (1) The happened in Samaria (Acts 8:14-17).  Philip could work miracles (Acts 8:4-8, 13).  However, he did not confer miraculous gifts unto others.  The apostles were needed for this (Acts 8:14-17).  (2) This happened at Galatia (Galatians 3:2 cf. 3:5).  (3) This happened to Timothy (2 Timothy 1:6).  (4) This happened at Corinth (2 Corinthians 12:12-13 cf. 1 Corinthians 1:7)  The ability to confer miraculous gifts to others was the sign of an apostle.  (5) This happened at Ephesus (Acts 19:1-7).  (6) Paul had desire to do this at Rome (Romans 1:11).

Think of the implication. Miraculous gifts only came two ways. There are no apostles today, who can confer miraculous gifts [an apostle had to be a witness of Jesus’ resurrection (Acts 1:21-22).  Paul wrote that he was the last of the witnesses (1 Corinthians 15:8 cf. Acts 9:1-6)].  Moreover, the only non-apostles to directly receive miraculous ability in the New Testament was Cornelius and his house. This, chronologically the last such occurrence in the New Testament, was a special case.  Why should one expect to receive such today?

Objection

It is objected that the apostles were not the only ones who could confer miraculous gifts.  Two passages are usually cited as evidence.  (1) It is argued that Timothy received his gift by the hands of the eldership (1 Timothy 4:14).  However, this is not what the text says.  Timothy received his gift “through” (dia) the hands of Paul (2 Timothy 1:6).  It was “with” (meta) the hands of the eldership (1 Timothy 4:14).  The laying on of hands was sometimes done to separate one to a work (e.g. Numbers 27:23; Acts 6:5-6; 13:1-3).  Paul was the means of Timothy receiving his gift.  The eldership also laid their hands on Timothy, at this time, separating him to work with Paul (no doubt during the time of Acts 16:1-3).  “A.T. Robertson observes that meta ‘does not express instrument or means but merely accompaniment” (Wayne Jackson, Notes From The Margin of My Bible, Vol. 2, p. 130 – quoting Robertson, Word Pictures in the New Testament Vol. 4, p. 581).  (2) It is argued that Saul received the Holy Spirit through the hands of Ananias (Acts 9:10-18).  However, the text does not necessarily imply such.  Consider: (a) The purpose of Ananias’ laying of hands on Saul is stated: “So that he might receive his sight” (Acts 9:12).  (b) The purpose of Ananias’ coming is stated as two-fold: “that you may receive your sight and be filled with the Holy Spirit” (Acts 9:17).  It is possible Ananias’ hands provided Saul with restored sight, and that the Holy Spirit was given directly from heaven in Ananias’ presence.  Remember that Peter’s visit had something to do with Cornelius’ receiving the Holy Spirit; however, such did not come through Peter’s hands.  Saul’s apostleship did not come “from” (apo) or “through” (dia) man (Galatians 1:1).

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The Life of Christ in Scripture Alone

Introduction

  1. John 12:21 –   21 Then they came to Philip, who was from Bethsaida of Galilee, and asked him, saying, “Sir, we wish to see Jesus.”

I.   Pre-Incarnate

A.  John 1:1-3 –  In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was in the beginning with God.   All things were made through Him, and without Him nothing was made that was made.

B.  Colossians 1:16-17 –   For by Him all things were created that are in heaven and that are on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or principalities or powers. All things were created through Him and for Him.  And He is before all things, and in Him all things consist.

II.  Prophecy of His Birth

A.  Isaiah 7:14 – Therefore the Lord Himself will give you a sign: Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a Son, and shall call His name Immanuel.

B.  Isaiah 9:6-7 – For unto us a Child is born, Unto us a Son is given; And the government will be upon His shoulder. And His name will be called Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.  Of the increase of His government and peace  There will be no end.

C.  Micah 5:2 – “But you, Bethlehem Ephrathah, Though you are little among the thousands of Judah, Yet out of you shall come forth to Me The One to be Ruler in Israel, Whose goings forth are from of old, From everlasting.”

III. His birth/early life

A.  John 1:14 – And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we beheld His glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father, full of grace and truth.

B.  John 1:17 – For the law was given through Moses, but grace and truth came through Jesus Christ.

C.  Matthew 1:18-23 – Now the birth of Jesus Christ was as follows: After His mother Mary was betrothed to Joseph, before they came together, she was found with child of the Holy Spirit.  Then Joseph her husband, being a just man, and not wanting to make her a public example, was minded to put her away secretly.  But while he thought about these things, behold, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream, saying, “Joseph, son of David, do not be afraid to take to you Mary your wife, for that which is conceived in her is of the Holy Spirit.  And she will bring forth a Son, and you shall call His name Jesus, for He will save His people from their sins.”  So all this was done that it might be fulfilled which was spoken by the Lord through the prophet, saying:  “Behold, the virgin shall be with child, and bear a Son, and they shall call His name Immanuel,” which is translated, “God with us.”

D.  Luke 2:1-7 – And it came to pass in those days that a decree went out from Caesar Augustus that all the world should be registered.  This census first took place while Quirinius was governing Syria.  So all went to be registered, everyone to his own city.  Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into Judea, to the city of David, which is called Bethlehem, because he was of the house and lineage of David,  to be registered with Mary, his betrothed wife, who was with child.  So it was, that while they were there, the days were completed for her to be delivered.  And she brought forth her firstborn Son, and wrapped Him in swaddling cloths, and laid Him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn.

E.  Luke 2:8-17 –  Now there were in the same country shepherds living out in the fields, keeping watch over their flock by night.  And behold, an angel of the Lord stood before them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were greatly afraid.  Then the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid, for behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy which will be to all people.  For there is born to you this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord.  And this will be the sign to you: You will find a Babe wrapped in swaddling cloths, lying in a manger.”  And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God and saying: “Glory to God in the highest, And on earth peace, goodwill toward men!”   So it was, when the angels had gone away from them into heaven, that the shepherds said to one another, “Let us now go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has come to pass, which the Lord has made known to us.”  And they came with haste and found Mary and Joseph, and the Babe lying in a manger.  Now when they had seen Him, they made widely known the saying which was told them concerning this Child.

F.  Matthew 2:1-16 – Now after Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judea in the days of Herod the king, behold, wise men from the East came to Jerusalem,  saying, “Where is He who has been born King of the Jews? For we have seen His star in the East and have come to worship Him.”  When Herod the king heard this, he was troubled, and all Jerusalem with him.  And when he had gathered all the chief priests and scribes of the people together, he inquired of them where the Christ was to be born.  So they said to him, “In Bethlehem of Judea, for thus it is written by the prophet: ‘But you, Bethlehem, in the land of Judah, Are not the least among the rulers of Judah; Who will shepherd My people Israel.’”   Then Herod, when he had secretly called the wise men, determined from them what time the star appeared.  And he sent them to Bethlehem and said, “Go and search carefully for the young Child, and when you have found Him, bring back word to me, that I may come and worship Him also.”  When they heard the king, they departed; and behold, the star which they had seen in the East went before them, till it came and stood over where the young Child was.  When they saw the star, they rejoiced with exceedingly great joy.  And when they had come into the house, they saw the young Child with Mary His mother, and fell down and worshiped Him. And when they had opened their treasures, they presented gifts to Him: gold, frankincense, and myrrh.  Then, being divinely warned in a dream that they should not return to Herod, they departed for their own country another way.  Now when they had departed, behold, an angel of the Lord appeared to Joseph in a dream, saying, “Arise, take the young Child and His mother, flee to Egypt, and stay there until I bring you word; for Herod will seek the young Child to destroy Him.”  When he arose, he took the young Child and His mother by night and departed for Egypt,  and was there until the death of Herod, that it might be fulfilled which was spoken by the Lord through the prophet, saying, “Out of Egypt I called My Son.”  Then Herod, when he saw that he was deceived by the wise men, was exceedingly angry; and he sent forth and put to death all the male children who were in Bethlehem and in all its districts, from two years old and under, according to the time which he had determined from the wise men.

G.  Luke 2:41-52 –  His parents went to Jerusalem every year at the Feast of the Passover.  And when He was twelve years old, they went up to Jerusalem according to the custom of the feast.  When they had finished the days, as they returned, the Boy Jesus lingered behind in Jerusalem. And Joseph and His mother did not know it;  but supposing Him to have been in the company, they went a day’s journey, and sought Him among their relatives and acquaintances.  So when they did not find Him, they returned to Jerusalem, seeking Him.  Now so it was that after three days they found Him in the temple, sitting in the midst of the teachers, both listening to them and asking them questions.  And all who heard Him were astonished at His understanding and answers.  So when they saw Him, they were amazed; and His mother said to Him, “Son, why have You done this to us? Look, Your father and I have sought You anxiously.”  And He said to them, “Why did you seek Me? Did you not know that I must be about My Father’s business?”  But they did not understand the statement which He spoke to them.  Then He went down with them and came to Nazareth, and was subject to them, but His mother kept all these things in her heart.  And Jesus increased in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and men.

IV.  John’s Work

A.  Matthew 3:1-6  –  In those days John the Baptist came preaching in the wilderness of Judea,  and saying, “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand!”  For this is he who was spoken of by the prophet Isaiah, saying: “The voice of one crying in the wilderness: ‘Prepare the way of the Lord; Make His paths straight.’”  Now John himself was clothed in camel’s hair, with a leather belt around his waist; and his food was locusts and wild honey.  Then Jerusalem, all Judea, and all the region around the Jordan went out to him  and were baptized by him in the Jordan, confessing their sins.

B.  Matthew 3:11 –   I indeed baptize you with water unto repentance, but He who is coming after me is mightier than I, whose sandals I am not worthy to carry. He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and fire.

C.  Matthew 3:13-17  –  Then Jesus came from Galilee to John at the Jordan to be baptized by him.  And John tried to prevent Him, saying, “I need to be baptized by You, and are You coming to me?”   But Jesus answered and said to him, “Permit it to be so now, for thus it is fitting for us to fulfill all righteousness.” Then he allowed Him.  When He had been baptized, Jesus came up immediately from the water; and behold, the heavens were opened to Him, and He saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove and alighting upon Him.   And suddenly a voice came from heaven, saying, “This is My beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased.”

D.  John 1:29-34  –  The next day John saw Jesus coming toward him, and said, “Behold! The Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world!  This is He of whom I said, ‘After me comes a Man who is preferred before me, for He was before me.’   I did not know Him; but that He should be revealed to Israel, therefore I came baptizing with water.”   And John bore witness, saying, “I saw the Spirit descending from heaven like a dove, and He remained upon Him.   I did not know Him, but He who sent me to baptize with water said to me, ‘Upon whom you see the Spirit descending, and remaining on Him, this is He who baptizes with the Holy Spirit.’   And I have seen and testified that this is the Son of God.”

V.  Jesus’s Work Begins

A.  Luke 3:23  –   Now Jesus Himself began His ministry at about thirty years of age, being (as was supposed) the son of Joseph, the son of Heli, 

B.  Matthew 4:1-11  –  Then Jesus was led up by the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted by the devil.  And when He had fasted forty days and forty nights, afterward He was hungry.   Now when the tempter came to Him, he said, “If You are the Son of God, command that these stones become bread.”   But He answered and said, “It is written, ‘Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceeds from the mouth of God.’”   Then the devil took Him up into the holy city, set Him on the pinnacle of the temple,   and said to Him, “If You are the Son of God, throw Yourself down. For it is written: ‘He shall give His angels charge over you,’ and, ‘In their hands they shall bear you up,  Lest you dash your foot against a stone.’”   Jesus said to him, “It is written again, ‘You shall not tempt the Lord your God.’”   Again, the devil took Him up on an exceedingly high mountain, and showed Him all the kingdoms of the world and their glory.   And he said to Him, “All these things I will give You if You will fall down and worship me.”   Then Jesus said to him, “Away with you, Satan! For it is written, ‘You shall worship the Lord your God, and Him only you shall serve.’”   Then the devil left Him, and behold, angels came and ministered to Him.

C.  John 1:43-51  –   The following day Jesus wanted to go to Galilee, and He found Philip and said to him, “Follow Me.”   Now Philip was from Bethsaida, the city of Andrew and Peter.   Philip found Nathanael and said to him, “We have found Him of whom Moses in the law, and also the prophets, wrote—Jesus of Nazareth, the son of Joseph.”  And Nathanael said to him, “Can anything good come out of Nazareth?”  Philip said to him, “Come and see.”  Jesus saw Nathanael coming toward Him, and said of him, “Behold, an Israelite indeed, in whom is no deceit!”  Nathanael said to Him, “How do You know me?”  Jesus answered and said to him, “Before Philip called you, when you were under the fig tree, I saw you.”   Nathanael answered and said to Him, “Rabbi, You are the Son of God! You are the King of Israel!”   Jesus answered and said to him, “Because I said to you, ‘I saw you under the fig tree,’ do you believe? You will see greater things than these.”   And He said to him, “Most assuredly, I say to you, hereafter you shall see heaven open, and the angels of God ascending and descending upon the Son of Man.”

D.  Matthew 4:23-25  –   And Jesus went about all Galilee, teaching in their synagogues, preaching the gospel of the kingdom, and healing all kinds of sickness and all kinds of disease among the people.  Then His fame went throughout all Syria; and they brought to Him all sick people who were afflicted with various diseases and torments, and those who were demon-possessed, epileptics, and paralytics; and He healed them.   Great multitudes followed Him—from Galilee, and from Decapolis, Jerusalem, Judea, and beyond the Jordan.

VI.  Jesus’ Teaching

A.  Matthew 5:1-16  –  And seeing the multitudes, He went up on a mountain, and when He was seated His disciples came to Him.  Then He opened His mouth and taught them, saying:   “Blessed are the poor in spirit, For theirs is the kingdom of heaven.   Blessed are those who mourn, For they shall be comforted. Blessed are the meek, For they shall inherit the earth.   Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, For they shall be filled.   Blessed are the merciful, For they shall obtain mercy.   Blessed are the pure in heart, For they shall see God.   Blessed are the peacemakers, For they shall be called sons of God.   Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake, For theirs is the kingdom of heaven.   “Blessed are you when they revile and persecute you, and say all kinds of evil against you falsely for My sake.   Rejoice and be exceedingly glad, for great is your reward in heaven, for so they persecuted the prophets who were before you.   “You are the salt of the earth; but if the salt loses its flavor, how shall it be seasoned? It is then good for nothing but to be thrown out and trampled underfoot by men.   “You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hidden.   Nor do they light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a lampstand, and it gives light to all who are in the house.  Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven.

B.  Matthew 5:43-48  –  “You have heard that it was said, ‘You shall love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’   But I say to you, love your enemies, bless those who curse you, do good to those who hate you, and pray for those who spitefully use you and persecute you,   that you may be sons of your Father in heaven; for He makes His sun rise on the evil and on the good, and sends rain on the just and on the unjust.   For if you love those who love you, what reward have you? Do not even the tax collectors do the same?   And if you greet your brethren only, what do you do more than others? Do not even the tax collectors do so?   Therefore you shall be perfect, just as your Father in heaven is perfect.

C.  Matthew 6:9-13  –   In this manner, therefore, pray: Our Father in heaven, Hallowed be Your name. Your kingdom come.  Your will be done on earth as it is in heaven.   Give us this day our daily bread.   And forgive us our debts, As we forgive our debtors.   And do not lead us into temptation, but deliver us from the evil one.  For Yours is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever. Amen.

D.  Matthew 6:19-21  –   “Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal;   but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys and where thieves do not break in and steal.  For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.

E.  Matthew 7:13-14  –   “Enter by the narrow gate; for wide is the gate and broad is the way that leads to destruction, and there are many who go in by it.   Because narrow is the gate and difficult is the way which leads to life, and there are few who find it.

F.  Matthew 7:21-29  –   “Not everyone who says to Me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ shall enter the kingdom of heaven, but he who does the will of My Father in heaven.  Many will say to Me in that day, ‘Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in Your name, cast out demons in Your name, and done many wonders in Your name?’   And then I will declare to them, ‘I never knew you; depart from Me, you who practice lawlessness!’   “Therefore whoever hears these sayings of Mine, and does them, I will liken him to a wise man who built his house on the rock:   and the rain descended, the floods came, and the winds blew and beat on that house; and it did not fall, for it was founded on the rock.   “But everyone who hears these sayings of Mine, and does not do them, will be like a foolish man who built his house on the sand:   and the rain descended, the floods came, and the winds blew and beat on that house; and it fell. And great was its fall.”   And so it was, when Jesus had ended these sayings, that the people were astonished at His teaching,   for He taught them as one having authority, and not as the scribes.

G.  Luke 10:30-37  –  Then Jesus answered and said: “A certain man went down from Jerusalem to Jericho, and fell among thieves, who stripped him of his clothing, wounded him, and departed, leaving him half dead.   Now by chance a certain priest came down that road. And when he saw him, he passed by on the other side.   Likewise a Levite, when he arrived at the place, came and looked, and passed by on the other side.   But a certain Samaritan, as he journeyed, came where he was. And when he saw him, he had compassion.   So he went to him and bandaged his wounds, pouring on oil and wine; and he set him on his own animal, brought him to an inn, and took care of him.   On the next day, when he departed, he took out two denarii, gave them to the innkeeper, and said to him, ‘Take care of him; and whatever more you spend, when I come again, I will repay you.’   So which of these three do you think was neighbor to him who fell among the thieves?”   And he said, “He who showed mercy on him.”  Then Jesus said to him, “Go and do likewise.”

H.  Luke 15:1-10  –  Then all the tax collectors and the sinners drew near to Him to hear Him.  And the Pharisees and scribes complained, saying, “This Man receives sinners and eats with them.”   So He spoke this parable to them, saying:   “What man of you, having a hundred sheep, if he loses one of them, does not leave the ninety-nine in the wilderness, and go after the one which is lost until he finds it?   And when he has found it, he lays it on his shoulders, rejoicing.   And when he comes home, he calls together his friends and neighbors, saying to them, ‘Rejoice with me, for I have found my sheep which was lost!’   I say to you that likewise there will be more joy in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine just persons who need no repentance.   “Or what woman, having ten silver coins, if she loses one coin, does not light a lamp, sweep the house, and search carefully until she finds it?   And when she has found it, she calls her friends and neighbors together, saying, ‘Rejoice with me, for I have found the piece which I lost!’   Likewise, I say to you, there is joy in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner who repents.”

I.  Matthew 16:13-19  –   When Jesus came into the region of Caesarea Philippi, He asked His disciples, saying, “Who do men say that I, the Son of Man, am?”   So they said, “Some say John the Baptist, some Elijah, and others Jeremiah or one of the prophets.”  He said to them, “But who do you say that I am?”   Simon Peter answered and said, “You are the Christ, the Son of the living God.”   Jesus answered and said to him, “Blessed are you, Simon Bar-Jonah, for flesh and blood has not revealed this to you, but My Father who is in heaven.   And I also say to you that you are Peter, and on this rock I will build My church, and the gates of Hades shall not prevail against it.   And I will give you the keys of the kingdom of heaven, and whatever you bind on earth will be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth will be loosed in heaven.”

J.  Matthew 16:21-23  –  From that time Jesus began to show to His disciples that He must go to Jerusalem, and suffer many things from the elders and chief priests and scribes, and be killed, and be raised the third day.   Then Peter took Him aside and began to rebuke Him, saying, “Far be it from You, Lord; this shall not happen to You!”  But He turned and said to Peter, “Get behind Me, Satan! You are an offense to Me, for you are not mindful of the things of God, but the things of men.”

VII.  Opposition

A.  John 3:17-20  –  For God did not send His Son into the world to condemn the world, but that the world through Him might be saved.   “He who believes in Him is not condemned; but he who does not believe is condemned already, because he has not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God.  And this is the condemnation, that the light has come into the world, and men loved darkness rather than light, because their deeds were evil.   For everyone practicing evil hates the light and does not come to the light, lest his deeds should be exposed.

B.  John 11:46-50  –  But some of them went away to the Pharisees and told them the things Jesus did.  Then the chief priests and the Pharisees gathered a council and said, “What shall we do? For this Man works many signs.   If we let Him alone like this, everyone will believe in Him, and the Romans will come and take away both our place and nation.”  And one of them, Caiaphas, being high priest that year, said to them, “You know nothing at all,  nor do you consider that it is expedient for us that one man should die for the people, and not that the whole nation should perish.” 

C.  Luke 20:14-19  –   But when the vinedressers saw him, they reasoned among themselves, saying, ‘This is the heir. Come, let us kill him, that the inheritance may be ours.’   So they cast him out of the vineyard and killed him. Therefore what will the owner of the vineyard do to them?   He will come and destroy those vinedressers and give the vineyard to others.”  And when they heard it they said, “Certainly not!”   Then He looked at them and said, “What then is this that is written:  ‘The stone which the builders rejected
Has become the chief cornerstone’?  Whoever falls on that stone will be broken; but on whomever it falls, it will grind him to powder.”   And the chief priests and the scribes that very hour sought to lay hands on Him, but they feared the people —for they knew He had spoken this parable against them.

VIII.  Nearing Death

A.  Matthew 26:3-5  –   Then the chief priests, the scribes, and the elders of the people assembled at the palace of the high priest, who was called Caiaphas,   and plotted to take Jesus by trickery and kill Him.  But they said, “Not during the feast, lest there be an uproar among the people.”

B.  Matthew 26:14-16  –   Then one of the twelve, called Judas Iscariot, went to the chief priests   and said, “What are you willing to give me if I deliver Him to you?” And they counted out to him thirty pieces of silver.   So from that time he sought opportunity to betray Him.

C.  Matthew 26:17-20  –  Now on the first day of the Feast of Unleavened Bread the disciples came to Jesus, saying to Him, “Where do You want us to prepare for You to eat the Passover?”   And He said, “Go into the city to a certain man, and say to him, ‘The Teacher says, “My time is at hand; I will keep the Passover at your house with My disciples.”   So the disciples did as Jesus had directed them; and they prepared the Passover.   When evening had come, He sat down with the twelve.

D.  John 13:1-5  –  Now before the Feast of the Passover, when Jesus knew that His hour had come that He should depart from this world to the Father, having loved His own who were in the world, He loved them to the end.  And supper being ended, the devil having already put it into the heart of Judas Iscariot, Simon’s son, to betray Him,   Jesus, knowing that the Father had given all things into His hands, and that He had come from God and was going to God,   rose from supper and laid aside His garments, took a towel and girded Himself.  After that, He poured water into a basin and began to wash the disciples’ feet, and to wipe them with the towel with which He was girded.

E.  John 13:14-16  – If I then, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also ought to wash one another’s feet.  For I have given you an example, that you should do as I have done to you.  Most assuredly, I say to you, a servant is not greater than his master; nor is he who is sent greater than he who sent him.

F.  Luke 22:19-23  –    And He took bread, gave thanks and broke it, and gave it to them, saying, “This is My body which is given for you; do this in remembrance of Me.”

Likewise He also took the cup after supper, saying, “This cup is the new covenant in My blood, which is shed for you.  But behold, the hand of My betrayer is with Me on the table.  And truly the Son of Man goes as it has been determined, but woe to that man by whom He is betrayed!” Then they began to question among themselves, which of them it was who would do this thing.

G.  John 13:26-27  –  Jesus answered, “It is he to whom I shall give a piece of bread when I have dipped it.” And having dipped the bread, He gave it to Judas Iscariot, the son of Simon.  Now after the piece of bread, Satan entered him. Then Jesus said to him, “What you do, do quickly.” 

H.  John 13:34-35  –  A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another; as I have loved you, that you also love one another. By this all will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another.”

I.  John 14:1-6  –  “Let not your heart be troubled; you believe in God, believe also in Me. In My Father’s house are many mansions; if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you.  And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and receive you to Myself; that where I am, there you may be also.  And where I go you know, and the way you know.”   Thomas said to Him, “Lord, we do not know where You are going, and how can we know the way?”  Jesus said to him, “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me.

J.  Matthew 26:36  –  Then Jesus came with them to a place called Gethsemane, and said to the disciples, “Sit here while I go and pray over there.” 

K.  Matthew 26:47-56  – And while He was still speaking, behold, Judas, one of the twelve, with a great multitude with swords and clubs, came from the chief priests and elders of the people.  Now His betrayer had given them a sign, saying, “Whomever I kiss, He is the One; seize Him.”  Immediately he went up to Jesus and said, “Greetings, Rabbi!” and kissed Him.   But Jesus said to him, “Friend, why have you come?”  Then they came and laid hands on Jesus and took Him.   And suddenly, one of those who were with Jesus stretched out his hand and drew his sword, struck the servant of the high priest, and cut off his ear.   But Jesus said to him, “Put your sword in its place, for all who take the sword will perish by the sword.  Or do you think that I cannot now pray to My Father, and He will provide Me with more than twelve legions of angels?   How then could the Scriptures be fulfilled, that it must happen thus?”  In that hour Jesus said to the multitudes, “Have you come out, as against a robber, with swords and clubs to take Me? I sat daily with you, teaching in the temple, and you did not seize Me.  But all this was done that the Scriptures of the prophets might be fulfilled.”  Then all the disciples forsook Him and fled.

L.  Mark 14:53  –  And they led Jesus away to the high priest; and with him were assembled all the chief priests, the elders, and the scribes. 

M.  Mark 15:1  –  Immediately, in the morning, the chief priests held a consultation with the elders and scribes and the whole council; and they bound Jesus, led Him away, and delivered Him to Pilate.

N.  Mark 15:10-20  –  For he knew that the chief priests had handed Him over because of envy.  But the chief priests stirred up the crowd, so that he should rather release Barabbas to them. Pilate answered and said to them again, “What then do you want me to do with Him whom you call the King of the Jews?” So they cried out again, “Crucify Him!”  Then Pilate said to them, “Why, what evil has He done?”  But they cried out all the more, “Crucify Him!”   So Pilate, wanting to gratify the crowd, released Barabbas to them; and he delivered Jesus, after he had scourged Him, to be crucified.  Then the soldiers led Him away into the hall called Praetorium, and they called together the whole garrison.  And they clothed Him with purple; and they twisted a crown of thorns, put it on His head,  and began to salute Him, “Hail, King of the Jews!”  Then they struck Him on the head with a reed and spat on Him; and bowing the knee, they worshiped Him.  And when they had mocked Him, they took the purple off Him, put His own clothes on Him, and led Him out to crucify Him.

O.  John 19:28-30  –  After this, Jesus, knowing that all things were now accomplished, that the Scripture might be fulfilled, said, “I thirst!”  Now a vessel full of sour wine was sitting there; and they filled a sponge with sour wine, put it on hyssop, and put it to His mouth.   So when Jesus had received the sour wine, He said, “It is finished!” And bowing His head, He gave up His spirit.

IX.  Burial/Resurrection

A.  Luke 23:50-53  – Now behold, there was a man named Joseph, a council member, a good and just man.  He had not consented to their decision and deed. He was from Arimathea, a city of the Jews, who himself was also waiting for the kingdom of God.  This man went to Pilate and asked for the body of Jesus.  Then he took it down, wrapped it in linen, and laid it in a tomb that was hewn out of the rock, where no one had ever lain before.

B.  Luke 24:1-8  –  Now on the first day of the week, very early in the morning, they, and certain other women with them, came to the tomb bringing the spices which they had prepared. But they found the stone rolled away from the tomb.  Then they went in and did not find the body of the Lord Jesus.  And it happened, as they were greatly perplexed about this, that behold, two men stood by them in shining garments.  Then, as they were afraid and bowed their faces to the earth, they said to them, “Why do you seek the living among the dead?  He is not here, but is risen! Remember how He spoke to you when He was still in Galilee,  saying, ‘The Son of Man must be delivered into the hands of sinful men, and be crucified, and the third day rise again.’”  And they remembered His words.

C.  1 Corinthians 15:1-8  –  Moreover, brethren, I declare to you the gospel which I preached to you, which also you received and in which you stand,  by which also you are saved, if you hold fast that word which I preached to you—unless you believed in vain.  For I delivered to you first of all that which I also received: that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures,  and that He was buried, and that He rose again the third day according to the Scriptures,  and that He was seen by Cephas, then by the twelve. After that He was seen by over five hundred brethren at once, of whom the greater part remain to the present, but some have fallen asleep.  After that He was seen by James, then by all the apostles.  Then last of all He was seen by me also, as by one born out of due time.

D.  Matthew 28:18-20  –  And Jesus came and spoke to them, saying, “All authority has been given to Me in heaven and on earth.   Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit,  teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age.” Amen.

X.  Post Resurrection

A.  Acts 1:8-11  – But you shall receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you; and you shall be witnesses to Me in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth.”  Now when He had spoken these things, while they watched, He was taken up, and a cloud received Him out of their sight.  And while they looked steadfastly toward heaven as He went up, behold, two men stood by them in white apparel,  who also said, “Men of Galilee, why do you stand gazing up into heaven? This same Jesus, who was taken up from you into heaven, will so come in like manner as you saw Him go into heaven.”

B.  Acts 2:36-38  –  “Therefore let all the house of Israel know assuredly that God has made this Jesus, whom you crucified, both Lord and Christ.”  Now when they heard this, they were cut to the heart, and said to Peter and the rest of the apostles, “Men and brethren, what shall we do?”  Then Peter said to them, “Repent, and let every one of you be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins; and you shall receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. 

C.  Acts 4:11-12  –  This is the ‘stone which was rejected by you builders, which has become the chief cornerstone.’  Nor is there salvation in any other, for there is no other name under heaven given among men by which we must be saved.”

D.  1 Corinthians 2:2  –  For I determined not to know anything among you except Jesus Christ and Him crucified.

E.  Matthew 11:28-30  –  Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.  Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.  For My yoke is easy and My burden is light.”

* My idea for this lesson stems from a similar lesson that Hugo McCord once presented.

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Proverbs By Topic

The book of Proverbs contains a wealth of wisdom within it. It is extremely practical in nature. The book is 31 chapters in length, with a total of 915 verses.

It is wonderful reading as it is laid out. Taking one chapter per day, one can read the entire book through in a 31 day month. Try it some time.

However, at times we need to reference this wisdom at a quick and efficient pace. I have topically arranged the book around some major topics. I hope this helps you to access this wisdom quickly and efficiently.

  1. Purpose of Book: 1:1-6
  2. Abomination: 3:32; 6:16-19; 8:7; 11:1; 11:20; 12:22; 13:19; 15:8; 15:9; 15:26; 16:5; 16:12; 17:15; 20:10; 20:23; 21:27; 24:9; 28:9; 29:27
  3. Age: 16:31; 20:29; 23:22
  4. Animals: 12:10; 27:23-27
  5. Anger/Wrath: 12:16; 14:17; 15:1-2; 16:32; 19:19; 25:28; 29:22
  6. Asking Questions/Seeking answers from others: 20:5
  7. Backsliding: 26:11
  8. Benevolence: 3:27-29:11:24-26; 14:20-21; 19:17; 21:13; 29:7; 31:20
  9. Boast: 27:1, 2
  10. Business/Money/Riches: 6:1-11; 10:2-5; 10:26; 11:1; 11:4; 11:15; 11:28; 12:24; 12:27; 13:4; 13:7; 13:11; 13:18; 14:4 14:20; 15:16-17; 15:19; 16:8; 16:11; 17:9; 17:18; 19:5; 19:15; 19:24; 20:4; 20:10; 20:13; 20:23; 21:5 21:6; 21:17; 21:25; 22:7; 22:13; 22:26; 22:28; 22:29; 23:4-5; 23:10-11; 23:20-21; 23:30-34; 25:13; 26:6; 26:13-16; 27:23-27; 28:8; 28:22; 29:24; 30:10; 30:25-28; 31:12-14; 31:15; 31:16; 31:19; 31:22; 31:24; 31:27
  11. Children: 10:1; 10:5;15:20; 17:2: 17:6; 17:21; 17:25; 19:13; 19:18; 19:26; 20:7; 20:20; 22:6; 22:15; 24:13-14; 24:24-25; 28:7; 29:3; 29:15; 29:17; 30:11; 30:17; 31:28
  12. Civic/Government: 11:11;14:28; 14:34; 14:35; 16:12; 19:12; 20:2-3; 20:8; 20:26; 20:28; 24:21; 25:2; 25:4-5; 29:2; 29:4; 29:12; 29:14; 28:2; 28:15-16; 31:1-9
  13. Conceit: 26:12
  14. Correction/Counsel/Instruction/Reproof: 3:11-12; 9:7-8; 11:14; 12:1; 12:15; 13:1-3; 15:4-5; 15:10; 15:12; 15:22; 15:31-33; 17:10; 19:20; 19:25; 20:5; 20:15; 23:9; 24:3-6; 27:3; 29:9
  15. Coworkers/ Employees: 14:35; 17:2: 25:13; 26:6; 28:16; 29:24; 30:10;
  16. Cover Sin: 10:12; 28:13
  17. Credit: 6:1-5; 11:15; 17:18; 22:7
  18. Enemies: 16:7; 24:17-18; 25:21-22
  19. Envy: 3:31-35; 14:30; 23:17-18; 24:1-2; 24:19-20; 27:3-4
  20. Etiquette: 23:1-3; 23:6-8; 25:6-7; 25:15; 25:20; 27:14
  21. Evil For Good: 17:13
  22. Excuses: 22:13; 26:13
  23. Folly: 5:21-23; 13:16; 14:8; 14:18; 14:24; 14:29; 15:21; 16:22; 17:12; 18:13; 26:4; 26:5; 26:11.
  24. Food: 15:17; 17:1; 21:17; 23:1-3; 6; 25:16; 30:7-9; 31:15
  25. False Promise: 25:14
  26. False Weight: 11:1; 20:23
  27. False Witness: 6:17-19; 12:17:14:5; 19:5; 21:28;    25:18
  28. Father: 1:8; 3:12; 4:1, 3; 6:20-23; 10:1; 13:1; 15:5; 15:20; 17:6; 17:21; 19:13; 19:26; 20:20; 23:22; 23:24-25; 27:10; 28:7: 28:24; 29:3: 30:11; 30:17
  29. Fear of the Lord: 1:7; 1:24-33:; 2:1-5; 3:7-10; 8:13; 9:10-11; 10:27-30; 13:13; 14:2; 14:16; 14:20-27; 15:16; 15:31-33:16:6; 19:23; 22:4; 23:17-18; 31:30
  30. Flatter: 26:28; 29:5
  31. Fool: 1:7, 22, 32; 3:35; 10:8; 10:18; 10:23; 11:29; 12:15; 12:23; 13:16; 13:19; 14:1; 14:8; 14:9; 14:16; 15:2; 15:5; 15:14; 17:10; 17:12; 17:24; 17:28; 18:2; 18:6; 18:7; 19:1; 23:9; 26:4-5; 26:6-9; 26:11; 26:12; 27:3; 28:26; 29:11; 29:20
  32. Forgive: 17:9; 28:13
  33. Friends/Associates: 1:10-19; 4:14-22; 6:1-5; 13:20; 14:7; 17:17; 18:19; 18:24; 22:24-25; 27:10; 27:17
  34. Gluttony: 25:16
  35. God Sees/Knows: 5:21; 15:3; 15:11; 20:27
  36. God’s Sovereign: 16:1; 16:4; 19:21
  37. God’s Word: 22:17-18; 30:5-6
  38. God Tries Heart: 16:2; 17:3; 21:2
  39. Good Name: 22:1
  40. Grace/Mercy: 11:16-17
  41. Grandchildren: 17:6
  42. Greed: 30:15
  43. Gullible: 14:5; 14:15
  44. Happy/Merry: 3:13-20; 15:13-15; 15:28; 17:22
  45. Hasty: 12:16; 25:8; 29:11
  46. Hate: 6:16-19; 8:13; 9:8; 10:12; 10:18; 12:1; 13:5; 13:24; 15:10; 15:17; 15:27; 19:7; 25:17; 26:24; 26:26; 26:28; 28:16; 29:10; 29:24;
  47. Heart: 4:23-27; 12:24-25; 17:22; 23:7
  48. Innocent Attacked: 1:11; 6:16-17
  49. Integrity: 19:1; 19:22; 20:7; 28:6
  50. Jealousy: 6:30-35
  51. Kindness: 19:22; 31:26
  52. Law: 1:8; 3:1; 4:1-2; 6:20-21, 23; 7:2; 13:14; 28:4, 7, 9; 29:18; 31:4-5; 31:26
  53. Lie: 6:16-19; 10:18; 13:5; 14:5; 19:5; 19:22; 21:6; 26:28; 29:12; 30:6
  54. Life’s Brevity/Uncertainty: 27:1
  55. Listening/Hearing: 16:20-24; 26:20-28
  56. Lots: 16:33
  57. Love: 3:12; 9:8; 15:9; 15:16-17; 17:1; 27:5-6
  58. Loyalty: 27:10
  59. Marriage: 5:15-21; 21:9; 21:19-20; 27:15; 31:10-31
  60. Meddling: 26:17
  61. Mother: 1:8; 4:1-3; 6:20-23; 10:1; 15:20; 19:26; 20:20; 23:22; 23:25; 28:24; 29:15; 30:11: 30:17; 31:1
  62. Neighbor: 3:28; 3:29; 6:29; 11:9; 11:12; 14:20-21; 16:29; 19:4; 21:10; 24:28; 25:8-9; 25:17-18; 27:14; 29:5
  63. Numbers: 6:16-19; 30:11-31
  64. Obedience: 19:16
  65. Offense: 18:19
  66. Peace: 28:1
  67. People to Avoid: 1:15-16; 4:14-15; 6:20-35; 13:20; 22:10; 22:24-25; 26:20-21; cf. Psalm 1:1; 1 Corinthians 15:33
  68. Preparation 6:6-8; 30:25; cf. Ecclesiastes 10:10
  69. Plans: 16:1
  70. Poverty/Poor: 14:20-21; 17:5; 18:23; 19:1; 19:4; 19:7; 19:22; 22:16; 22:22; 28:6; 22:2;
  71. Praise: 27:2; 31:28
  72. Pride/Conceit/Self-Righteous: 6:16-19; 11:2; 15:25: 16:5; 16:11-12; 16:18; 20:9; 21:4; 22:2; 26:2; 27:1-2; 28:25; 29:23; 30:13
  73. Prudent: 12:16; 12:23; 13:16; 14:8; 14:15; 14:18; 22:3; 27:12
  74. Punishment: 3:12; 10:13; 13:24; 20:30; 23:13-14; 26:3; 29:15; 29:17;
  75. Rebellion/Revolution: 24:21
  76. Repentance/Restitution/Confession: 6:30-31; 28:13
  77. Respect of Persons: 28:21
  78. Rich and Poor: 22:2
  79. Scorn: 1:22; 3:24; 9:7; 9:8; 13:1; 14:6; 15:12; 19:25; 19:28-29; 21:11; 21:24; 22:10; 24:9; 29:8
  80. Self-Control: 16:32; 25:28
  81. Self-Righteous: 20:9; 22:2
  82. Shame: 3:35; 9:7; 10:5; 11:2; 12:16; 13:5; 13:18; 14:35; 17:2; 19:26; 25:10; 29:15.
  83. Silver Rule: 20:22; 24:19
  84. Simple: 14:15; 14:18; 21:11; 22:3; 27:12
  85. Sin/Temptation: 1:10-19; 4:14-22; 5:22-23; 6:12-19; 10:23; 14:9; 22:3; 27:12; 30:7-9
  86. Sleep: 3:21-26; 4:16; 6:1-5; 6:9-11; 19:15; 20:13; 24:33-34; 29:17
  87. Strive: 3:30; 16:28; 18:6; 20:3; 25:8; 26:17; 28:25; 29:22
  88. Stubborn: 29:1
  89. Sweet/Pleasant: 2:10; 3:13-17; 3:24; 9:17-18; 13:19; 15:26; 16:24; 20:17; 22:17-18; 23:6-8; 24:3-4; 24:13-14; 27:7
  90. Subjective Thoughts: 14:12; 16:2; 16:25; 21:2; 30:12
  91. Talebearer: 11:13; 18:8; 20:19; 26:20-28
  92. Theft: 6:30-31; 28:24; 29:24
  93. Thoughts: 15:26; 21:5
  94. Trust in the Lord: 3:1-12; 30:5-6
  95. Trust in Men: 25:19
  96. Unrighteous Judgment: 17:15; 18:5
  97. Upright v. Perverse: 11:3-31
  98. Vision: 29:18
  99. War: 21:31
  100. Waste/Slothfulness: 12:24; 12:27; 15:19; 18:9; 19:24; 21:20; 21:25; 22:13; 24:30-34
  101. Whisperer: 16:28
  102. Wife: 5:15-21; 6:29; 18:22; 19:13; 19:14; 31:10-31
  103. Wine: 20:1; 21:17; 23:20-21; 23:29-35; 31:4-7
  104. Wisdom: 1:7-9; 1:20-33; 2:1-22; 3:13-26; 4:1-12; 5:1-2; 8:1-36; 9:1-18
  105. Wise: 3:35; 9:8-9; 10:1; 10:8; 10:14; 11:30; 12:15; 12:18; 13:1; 13:20; 14:1; 14:3; 14:16; 15:2; 15:7; 15:20; 15:31; 16:32; 17:28; 18:15; 20:26; 21:11; 21:20; 23:24:; 24:23; 25:12
  106. Wise in own eyes: 26:5; 26:11; 26:12; 28:11
  107. Wise v. Wicked: 10:6-31; 12:1-28; 13:5-25; 14:1-35; 15:5-33; 16:16; 24:13-14
  108. Women: 5:3-23; 6:20-35; 7:1-20; 9:13-18; 11:22; 12:4; 14:1; 22:14; 31:3
  109. Words: 10:19-21; 12:17-19; 12:22, 23, 25; 15:1-2; 15:4; 15:7; 16:20-24; 16:27-28; 17:5; 17:9; 18:8; 18:4; 21:6; 21:23; 21:28; 25:11; 26:4-5; 26:20-28; 29:11; 29:20; 30:14;
  110. Worship: 3:9-10; 15:8; 20:25; 21:3; 20:27; 28:9

 

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Miracles (Part 2)

There are different words used in the Bible to describe super-natural work: (1) “Miracle” (e.g. Luke 23:8; Acts 2:22).  The word is from the Greek, “dunamis” (it is from this word we derive our word “dynamite”).  The word refers to “power” (Vine’s).  It refers to the cause of the act, super-natural power.  Such power is from God.  (2) “Work” or “deed” (e.g. Luke 10:13; 24:19; Acts 2:11; 2 Corinthians 12:12).  The original word, “ergon,” has reference to the deed or work itself.  (3) “Wonder” (e.g. Acts 4:29-30; 5:12).  The Greek word is “teras.”  It refers to “something so strange as to cause it to be ‘watched’ or ‘observed’…” (Thayer).  The word has reference to the wonderment and amazement of those who witnessed the super-natural work (cf. Matthew 15:31; Acts 3:7-10; 7:30-31; 8:13).  (4) “Sign” (e.g. John 2:11; 4:54; 6:14; 12:18; Acts 2:22).  The word, “semeion,” though sometimes translated “miracle” by the KJV, should be rendered “sign.”  It refers to “a sign, mark, indication, token” (Vine’s).  In other words, the design of the miracle was to lead man to a truth beyond the miracle itself (cf. John 3:2).

We are studying the subject of miracles.  In this part, we will consider the specific miraculous gifts given in the New Testament.

Specific Gifts

The following lists are composed from the three chapters (Romans 12; 1 Corinthians 12; Ephesians 4):

Gifts of Revelation: (1) The word of wisdom (1 Corinthians 12:8 cf. 2:6-7).  This refers to the receiving and revealing of God’s hidden wisdom.  (2) The word of knowledge (1 Corinthians 12:8, cf. 1:4-5; 13:2; 13:8; 14:6).  This refers to knowing and teaching God’s will.  The distinction may be that the first gift had to do with revealing God’s word (his was done by the apostles and the New Testament prophets); While, the second gift had to do with the inspired ability to teach what had already been revealed by the apostles and the prophets.

Gifts of confirmation: (1) Faith (1 Corinthians 12:9 cf. 13:2; Matthew 17:20; 21:21; Mark 9:23; 11:22-23). It is true that “faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of God” (Romans 10:17 cf. Luke 8:11-12; John 5:45-47;; 17:20; 20:30-31; Acts 8:12; 17:11-12; 18:8; Ephesians 1:13-14). This, however, refers to super-natural works designed to build faith in others, and were accomplished through the faith of the workers (cf. 1 Corinthians 13:2; Matthew 17:20; 21:21; Mark 9:23; 11:22-23). We now move from the general to some specific kinds of miracles as the list continues – (2) Gifts of healings (1 Corinthians 12:9). This includes the ability to super-naturally heal various diseases and illnesses, and demon possession (cf. Acts 8:4-8; 28:8-9). (3) The working of miracles (1 Corinthians 12:10). David Lipscomb commented, “The word here translated ‘working’ literally means ‘inworking’ of powers. That is… the ability to impart power of working miracles others.” The apostles had this ability (Acts 8:14-18; 19:6-7; Romans 1:11; 1 Corinthians 1:7 cf. 2 Corinthians 12:12-13; Galatians 3:2-5; 2 Timothy 1:6). (4) Prophecy (1 Corinthians 12:10 cf. 13:2; 13:8). The term “prophecy” means “to speak forth” (see Vine’s). It does not necessarily mean to foretell the future. It can mean simply “the speaking forth of the mind and counsel of God” (Vine’s). However, since this is in the grouping of gifts of confirmation, this seems to refer to predictive prophecy (cf. Acts 11:27-28; 21:10-11). Note: 1 Corinthians 12:8-10 is divided into three groupings, each group being separated by the word “heterous” (another of a different kind). (5) Discerning of spirits (1 Corinthians 12:10). This refers to the super-natural ability to discern what is in man, his thoughts, and if he is speaking the truth (cf. John 2:25; Matthew 9:3-4; Acts 5:1-3; 1 John 2:19-20; 2:26-27).

Gifts of communication: (1) Kinds of tongues (1 Corinthians 12:10 cf. 13:2; 13:8; 14:8-11; 14:18-19; 14:27; 14:39). This is the super-natural ability to speak in a foreign language without studying it [(cf. Acts 2:4-11). Note: For more information see article – Tongue Speaking: What Was It? By Bryan Hodge]. (2) The interpretation of tongues (1 Corinthians 12:10 cf. 14:27-28). This is the super-natural ability to interpret. Note: This grouping – gifts of communication – helped in both revelation and confirmation.

Ministries

Miraculous gifts are closely connected with certain positions and works in the early church. Consider:

Positions of Revelation and Teaching: (1) Apostles (Ephesians 4:11; 1 Corinthians 12:28). The word literally means, “one sent forth” on a mission (Vine’s). This is speaking of the apostles of Jesus Christ. They were selected eyewitnesses, commissioned to carry the gospel into all of the work (Acts 1:21-22 cf. Matthew 28:18-20; Mark 16:15-16; Luke 24:46-49; Acts 1:8). They evidently possessed all miraculous gifts (Acts 2:4; 3:6-7; 8:14-17; 9:40; 1 Corinthians 14:18; Acts 14:8-10; Acts 19:1-6; Acts 20:9-10, 12). (2) Prophets (Ephesians 4:11; 1 Corinthians 12:28; Romans 12:6). The word literally means “one who speaks forth” (see Vine’s). Think of it this way – all apostles were prophets (Ephesians 2:20; 3:5, Granville Sharp Rule); but not all prophets were apostles (Acts 2:17-18; 11:27-28; 21:8-9; 21:10). (3) Evangelist (Ephesians 4:11). The word literally means “a bringer of good news” (Thayer) Philip is so-called (Acts 21:8). Timothy is so called (2 Timothy 4:5). They “preach the word” (2 Timothy 4:1-2). (4) Teachers (1 Corinthians 12:29; Romans 12:7). The book of Ephesians speaks of pastors and teachers (Ephesians 4:11). Think of it this way – all pastors are to be teachers [Ephesians 4:11 (notice these words are not divided with a “some” between them); 1 Timothy 3:2; Titus 1:9]; but not all teachers are pastors (2 Timothy 2:1-2). The term ‘pastor’ refers to an elder (Acts 20:17 cf. 20:28; 1 Peter 5:1 cf. 5:2-4).

Positions of miracle workers: (1) Workers of miracles (1 Corinthians 12:28-29). David Lipscomb commented, “The in-working of powers.” That is, the ability to confer miraculous abilities unto others. (2) Gifts of healings (1 Corinthians 12:28, 30). This is possibly the gifts used by “he who shows mercy” (Romans 12:8).

Position of communication: (1) Speakers of tongues (1 Corinthians 12:28, 30). (2) Interpreters of tongues (1 Corinthians 12:30).

Position of leadership: (1) Helps (1 Corinthians 12:28). This is perhaps the same as those who minister (Romans 12:7). This is possibly a reference to deacons. (2) Administrations (1 Corinthians 12:28). This is possibly a reference to elderships. Romans speaks of “he who leads” (Romans 12:8).

Miscellaneous works: (1) Exhorting (Romans 12:8). This can be done by preaching (2 Timothy 4:2). Such can also be done in daily conversation, and in the assembly of the church (Hebrews 3:13; 10:24-25). Barnabas was an exhorter (Acts 4:26). (2) Liberal giving (Romans 12:8). God evidently blessed some, so that they would be able to give liberally. The rich should understand the responsibility to properly use their money (1 Timothy 6:17-18 cf. Luke 12:48b; 2 Corinthians 8:12).

It should be kept in mind that while some of the listed ministries require miraculous gifts (e.g. apostle, prophet, workers of miracles, etc.), many of those listed do not require miraculous gifts. Apollos, for example, proclaimed Jesus from the scriptures without inspiration (Acts 18:24-28). However, the various positions and works are listed with the miraculous, because these positions and works were frequently accompanied by miraculous gifts in the early church.

Diversity of Gifts

A couple of things should be kept in mind. First, it was possible to be a Christian in the first century, and be without a miraculous gift (Acts 8:9-17; Romans 1:11), for at least a period of time, and maybe always. Second, the various gifts were distributed through the church. Not all Christians received the same gift or gifts (Romans 12:4-8; 1 Corinthians 12:4-30; Ephesians 4:7-16).

Why didn’t God give all miraculous gifts to each and every member of the early church? The answer is that He wanted the members working together as members of the human body do (Romans 12:3-4; 1 Corinthians 12:12-17; Ephesians 4:16).

There is an application for us, beyond the miraculous gifts context. Strengths and weaknesses differ from member to member. We each have innate and acquired abilities and skills. These abilities and skills are to be used in the body “for the profit of all” (1 Corinthians 12:7; 14:26b; 1 Peter 4:10). Let us work together to build up and strengthen the church. Let us work together to  reach the lost. Let us work together to the glory of God.

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In The News: An Open and Shut Case

James Dixon stood accused of shooting police sergeant Richard Scanlon in the abdomen during a scuffle on Chicago’s south side.  James Dixon was guilty, right?  He did shoot sergeant Richard Scanlon, right?

Here’s are some facts: (1) A neighbor called the police to report a man with a gun.  Scanlon arrived to find Dixon noisily arguing with his girlfriend’s father.  (2) Dixon and the father began to physically fight.  Scanlon stepped in to break it up.  A shot rang out.  Scanlon was hit.  (3) A .22 caliber gun belonging to Dixon was found nearby.  It was covered with Dixon’s fingerprints.  One bullet had been fired from the gun.  (4) The father, by all accounts, had been unarmed.  (5) The policeman’s revolver remained holstered.  (6) Powder-burns on Scanlon’s skin showed that he had been shot at close range.  (7) Dixon had a previous rap-sheet.  (8) Dixon pleaded guilty.  Note: The officer did not die,  He was awarded a medal for bravery for his efforts.

An open and shut case, right?  Not exactly.  Consider these additional details: (1) Some witnesses said that before Scanlon arrived Dixon’s gun had discharged once.  The bullet went downward into the front porch.  Moreover, there was a chip in the porch consistent with the testimony.  (2) Dixon explained that he had hidden the gun because he didn’t want to be caught with it, not because he had shot the officer.  (3) The powder-burns were concentrated in the inside – but not above – the left pocket of Scanlon’s shirt.  (4) Dixon had spent three years prior in prison, but he had been wrongfully convicted.  (5) The confession and guilty plea was part of a plea bargain agreement.  If convicted Dixon could go away for twenty years in prison.  If he pleaded guilty, the sentence would be one year, and he had already spent 362 days in jail, thus he was almost done –  if he would plea bargain.

What was the truth?  The truth eventually was brought forth by the press.  Scanlon had an illegal pen gun.  It had unintentionally gone off in the struggle.  Scanlon had shot himself by accident.  Dixon was exonerated and won a lawsuit against the police.  Scanlon was stripped of his medal, pleaded guilty to official misconduct, and the veteran officer was fired.

The moral?  Be careful before condemning.  1 Timothy 5:22 reads, “Lay hands suddenly on no man, neither be partakers of other men’s sins: keep thyself pure.”

Note: The Dixon-Scanlon story is told in The Case For Christ by Lee Strobel, pp. 9-ff.  Also, Lee Strobel, “Four Years in Jail – and Innocent,” Chicago Tribune (August 22, 1976) and “Did Justice Close Her Eyes (August 21, 1977).

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Miracles (Part 1)

Miracles are a part of the Biblical record. They occur in both the Old Testament and in the New Testament. Jimmy Jividen listed the references to miracles in the Gospel accounts and New Testament record: (1) Matthew – general references to miracles, 10; specific miracles, 20; (2) Mark – general references to miracles, 6; specific miracles, 18. (3) Luke – general references, 6; specific miracles, 21; (4) John – general references to miracles, 7; specific miracles, 8. (5) Acts – general references to miracles, 10; specific miracles, 12. (6) Epistles – general references to miracles, 5 (Jimmy Jividen, Miracles From God or Man?, p. 25-65).

This series will look closely at the subject of miracles. In this part, we will define what a miracle is, and consider its purpose(s).

Definition

A miracle does not simply refer to the amazing. People sometimes speak of “the miracle of child-birth,” or a “miracle play” in sports. However, such is not how the Bible uses the term.

A miracle is God’s working on a plane above natural law. Wayne Jackson states it this way, “A miracle is a divine operation that transcends what is normally perceived as natural law (What Does The Bible Say About Miracles?, christiancourier.com). Stephen Wiggins has written, “A miracle, as used in the Bible, is an act of God wherein He supersedes or suspends His natural laws.   My good friend, Lockwood, is always bold enough to tell the Pentecostals to their face that he does not care how they define a miracle as long as they properly distinguish between the natural and the supernatural. Me thinks the brother is right on target. A miracle is not to be confused with a work of nature… Nor should a miracle be confused with a work of providence, which is an effect produced by a special act of God accomplished through natural means” (What is a Miracle?, Hammer & Tongs, May – June 1996, p. 5).

Let’s make a distinction. (1) Hannah prayed for a child, had marital relations with her husband, Elkanah, “and the LORD remembered her,” and she conceived (1 Samuel 1). This was not a miracle. It was God’s providence. However, Mary’s virgin conception (Matthew 1:23-25), and Sarah’s conception post-menopause (Genesis 18:11) were miracles. (2) Praying for food (Matthew 6:11) and receiving it through work (2 Thessalonians 3:10) is not a miracle. It may involve God’s providence. However, Jesus feeding the 5,000 with five barley loaves and two small fish (John 6) was a miracle. A miracle involves that which is naturally not going to happen, like raising the dead. (For more information on the difference between a miracle and providence see article entitled “The Providence of God”).

Purpose

The purpose of miracles was not purely for physical benefit. This is evident from the fact that Paul left Trophimus in Miletus sick (2 Timothy 4:20). Moreover, miraculous gifts were not used to heal Timothy’s stomach ailment. Instead, Paul advised him to – “No longer drink only water, but use a little wine for your stomach’s sake and your frequent infirmities” (1 Timothy 5:23). Paul requested three times that his “thorn in the flesh” be removed. Yet, no miracle was performed. Instead, he was told by the Lord – “My grace is sufficient for you” (2 Corinthians 12:9).

The purpose of miracles was not primarily about physical relief. This is evident from the Biblical record. The reason Jesus healed a paralytic man is stated – “that you may know that the son of man has power on earth to forgive sins” (Matthew 9:6). The reason Jesus healed the man born blind was – “that the works of God should be revealed in him” (John 9:3-4). These works bore witness that Jesus had been sent by the Father (cf. John 5:31, 33, 36). The reason Jesus raised Lazarus from the dead is stated – “that they may believe that You (the Father, B.H.) sent me” (John 11:41b-42 cf. 11:14-15). Yes, Jesus had compassion on people (Matthew 14:14; 15:32; 20:33-34; Mark 1:40-41; 5:19; 8:1-2; Luke 7:11-13). However, the purpose of miracles was not primarily about physical relief, for if it were, He would have instantly healed all the sick in the world, and emptied every cemetery. This, He did not do.

The purpose of miracles was not material gain. I have heard of those who say they will heal if enough money is paid. However, Jesus told the apostles: “Heal the sick, cleanse the lepers, raise the dead, cast out demons. Freely you have received, freely give” (Matthew 10:7-8).

The primary purpose of miracles in both the Old Testament and in the New Testament was revelation and confirmation of this revelation being from God. God told Moses that he would do miracles – “that they may believe that the LORD God… has appeared to you” (Exodus 4:1-5). God told Joshua that the waters of the Jordan would part, “That they may know that, as I was with Moses, so I will be with you” (Joshua 3:7-8 cf. Exodus 14). The widow of Zarephath proclaimed, after Elijah revived her son, “Now by this I know that you are a man of God, and that the word of the LORD in your mouth is the truth” (1 Kings 17:24). The miraculous works of Jesus did, testified that God sent Him (John 5:36 cf. 9:3-4). Nicodemus said to Jesus – “Rabbi, we know that You come from God; for no one can do these signs You do unless God is with him” (John 3:2). The resurrection of Jesus powerfully confirms Him and His message (Romans 1:4; Matthew 12:38-40). Jesus chosen witness had their message confirmed, “God also bearing witness both with signs and wonders, with various miracles, and gifts of the Holy Spirit” (Hebrews 2:1-4). “They went out and preached everywhere, the Lord working with them and confirming the word through the accompanying signs” (Mark 16:20). The message did not go forth in word alone. It went forth with power and much assurance (1 Thessalonians 1:5 cf. Romans 15:18-19).

Miraculous gifts edified the church (1 Corinthians 14:12). This edification came through revelation and inspired teaching (1 Corinthians 14:3, 6). Misusing the gifts of the tongues did not edify (1 Corinthians 14:17).

Once Confirmed, Always Confirmed

Once new revelation was miraculously confirmed, it stood confirmed. Jeremiah did not, for instance, work miracles to confirm the words of Moses. Once a message had been confirmed God considered the evidence sufficient. The rich man wanted a miracle. He wanted Lazarus to return from the dead to warn his brothers (Luke 16:27-28). He was told, “They have Moses and the prophets; let them hear them… If they do not hear Moses and the prophets, neither will they be persuaded though one rise from the dead” (Luke 16:29-31). In other words, the written message of Moses and the prophets were deemed sufficient warning. Jesus does not need to die and be resurrected in every generation. The evidence of His death, burial, and resurrection is sufficient for every generation subsequent to the cross. His death, burial and resurrection were once and for all (Hebrews 9:24-28; 1 Peter 3:18; Revelation 1:18).

Think of the implication. If revelation is complete (John 16:13; Jude 3), an if this message was confirmed in the first century (Hebrews 2:1-4), and if this messages stands as confirmed – once it has been confirmed, then where is the need for miracles today?

Objection

It is objected that Christians of Corinth possessed miraculous gifts (1 Corinthians 1:7; 12:1-14:40), and yet they had the testimony of Christ confirmed in them (1 Corinthians 1:6). Therefore, the message can be confirmed and miraculous gifts continue. This objection fails to consider that new revelation was still being revealed at this time  (1 Corinthians 13:9-10).

It is objected that miraculous gifts provide edification, exhortation, and comfort to the church (1 Corinthians 14:3, 6, 12). However, it should be kept in mind that these things were provided through revelation and inspired teaching (1 Corinthians 14:3, 6; 2 Timothy 4:2; 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18). The church still receives edification, exhortation, and comfort through the revealed word.

It is pointed out that God used supernatural power in creation (Genesis 1:1). Furthermore, supernatural power will be used in the resurrection to come (John 5:28-29). Therefore, miracles can serve some purpose other than revelation and confirmation. I agree there are special one-time miraculous events which occur without human agency. These include: The creation (Genesis 1:1); the conception of Mary (Isaiah 7:14); and the resurrection to come (John 5:28-29). [Though I would point out that creation does reveal and confirm our God (Psalm 19:1-4; Acts 14:17; Romans 1:20). Mary’s conception no doubt also revealed and confirmed God’s plan to at least some (Luke 1:26-56)]. These exception aside. The normal purpose of miracles in the Bible is revelation and confirmation. This is true whether the miracle was direct from heaven, or by human agency.

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Christ: Our City of Refuge

The cities of refuge are mentioned several times in the Bible (Exodus 21:12-13; Numbers 35:9-34; Deuteronomy 4:41-43; 19:1-13; and Joshua 20:1-9).  Out of the forty-eight cities given to the Levites, six were designated cities of refuge, and they were: on the west side of Jordan – Kedesh, Shechem, and Kirjath Arba (Hebron); and on the East side of the Jordan – Golan, Ramoth, and Bezar.  These were cities of which those who had caused accidental death could flee for protection.

Today, according to book of Hebrews, Christ is our refuge (Hebrews 6:17-19).  Let us look, therefore, at some parallels that exist between these six cities and Christ.

Parallel #1: These cities were accessible to all who dwelt in the land (Joshua 20:9).  Even so, salvation today is accessible to all (Romans 1:16).

Parallel #2: Human activity (travel) was necessary to obtain physical salvation in these cities (Joshua 20:3).  Even so, human activity is still required for spiritual salvation (Acts 22:16; Philippians 2:12).

Parallel #3: There was salvation in no other cities.  Likewise, there is salvation in no other name (Acts 4:12) and in no other church (Ephesians 5:23 cf. Ephesians 4:4 cf. Ephesians 1:22-23; Acts 2:47).

Parallel #4: There is no mention of proxy running.  Each person had to personally flee for refuge.  Even so, each of us today must personally respond to Christ (Mark 16:15-16).

Parallel #5: The guilty party could not bribe his way out of the situation (Number 35:31-32).  Likewise, we cannot bribe our way out of hell, or into heaven (Matthew 16:26 cf. Proverbs 11:4).  Man cannot, in and of himself, earn salvation (Ephesians 2:8-9).

Parallel #6: Peace could be found within the gates of these cities.  Peace is through Christ Jesus (Romans 5:1; Colossians 1:19-23).

Parallel #7: One had to remain in one of these cities to continue in a saved state as long as the High Priest lived (Joshua 20:6).  In contrast, our High Priest lives forevermore (Hebrews 7:23-25).  We must therefore continue faithfully in Him forevermore (Revelation 2:10; 14:13; 1 John 1:7).

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The Holy Spirit: The Helper

The Holy Spirit is referred to as the “Comforter” (KJV, ASV), the “Helper” (NASB, NKJV, McCord’s, ESV), the “Advocate” (Estes’ Better Version), or the “Counselor” (NIV, note: I do not recommend this version) four times [(John 14:16; 14:26; 15:26; 16:7).  This same original word is used of Jesus once (1 John 2:1).  It is there translated “Advocate” (KJV, ASV, NASB, NKJV, Estes’, ESV)].  What is intended?  In what way would the Holy Spirit function as the Helper?

Definition

Let’s consider what the original word, parakletos.  Here is what lexicons say: (1) Vine’s, “lit. ‘called to one’s side,’ i.e. to one’s aid… It was used in a court of justice to denote a legal assistant, counsel for the defense, an advocate; then, generally, one who pleads another’s cause… In the widest sense, it signified a ‘succorer, comforter.’ Christ was this to His disciples, by implication of His word ‘another’ (allos, ‘another of the same sort,’ not heteros, ‘different’) ‘Comforter’ when speaking of the Holy Spirit.”  (2) Thayer, “prop. summoned, called to one’s side, esp. called to one’s aid; hence… one who pleads another’s cause before a judge, a pleader, counsel for defense, legal assistant; an advocate… one who pleads another’s cause with one, an intercessor… in the widest sense, a helper, succorer, aider, assistant; so the Holy Spirit destined to take the place of Christ with the apostles (after his ascension to the Father), to lead them to a deeper knowledge of gospel truth…”

Context

The Holy Spirit is only referred to as the “Helper” in John 14 – 16.  The setting of John 14 – 16 is private.  Jesus is privately addressing the apostles.  “These chapters form a unit.  In these three chapters are some special promises to the apostles.  A failure to keep this in mind in the study of these chapter leads to endless confusion and misunderstanding of the Holy Spirit.  When the promises of the Holy Spirit are applied to Christians in general, it is a complete misapplication of the promises” (Franklin Camp, The Work of the Holy Spirit in Redemption, p. 119).

The Helper

The setting: Jesus was soon to return to the Father (John 13:33, 36; 14:3, 5-6).  The apostles were to remain on earth (John 13:36).  They still had work to do (John 14:12).  They were being commissioned to carry the gospel into all the world (Matthew 28:19; Mark 16:15; Luke 24:47).  They would testify of Jesus (John 15:27).

How could they do this?  How would they accurately present what Jesus did and said?  Moreover, Jesus had not taught them all that they needed to know.  There were so many things that they did not know or fully understand. How would they be able to do this work?

Jesus would not leave them as helpless orphans (John 14:18).  Another Helper would be provided.  (1) He would teach them all things (John 14:26), guiding them into all truth (John 16:12-13).  (2) He would cause them to have an accurate memory of Jesus and His teaching (John 14:26; 15:26-27).  The inspiration of the apostles is the context.

The Advocate

The word, parakletos, as we’ve pointed out, was used of a defense attorney (cf. 1 John 2:1).  The Holy Spirit would help the apostles before men.  “Behold, I send you out as sheep in the midst of wolves.  Therefore be wise a serpents and harmless as doves.  But beware of men, for they will deliver you up to councils and scourge you in their synagogues. You will be brought before governors and kings for My sake, as a testimony to them and to the Gentiles.  But when they deliver you up, do not worry about how or what you should speak.  For it will be given to you in that hour what you should speak; for it is not you who speak, but the Spirit of you Father who speaks in you” (Mathew 10:16-20).

What About Us?

While it is true that we, today, receive “comfort” (though a different word) from the Scriptures (Romans 15:4; 1 Thessalonians 4:18), and while it is true that we get “comfort” (though a different word) through Christian fellowship (2 Corinthians 7:6, 13; 1 Thessalonians 4:18; 5:11, 14), the “Comforter” (KJV) spoken of in John 14-16 refers to the Holy Spirit’s helping of the apostles, inspiring them.  Only in this context is the Holy Spirit said to be the “Comforter” (KJV), or the “Helper” (NKJV).

 

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Calling On The Name

“And it shall come to pass that whoever calls on the name of the LORD shall be saved” (Joel 2:32 cf. Acts 2:21; 22:16; Romans 10:13).

What does it mean to call on the name of the LORD? This is an extremely important question because it concerns salvation. Let’s consider the scriptures –

Acts 2

Peter’s sermon began by quoting Joel (Acts 2:16-21 cf. Joel 2:28-32). Peter included these words, “Whoever calls on the name of the LORD shall be saved” (Acts 2:21 cf. Joel 2:32). Then, the sermon exposed the people’s sin, and the righteousness of Christ (Acts 2:22-33). The people cried out, “Men and brethren, what shall we do?” (Acts 2:37). Finally, Peter extended the invitation saying, “Repent and let every one of you be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins” (Acts 2:38). “And with many other words he testified and exhorted them, saying, ‘Be saved from this perverse generation” (Acts 2:40). We are told “then those who gladly received his word were baptized; and that day about three thousand souls were added to them” (Acts 2:41).

Watch this:

Acts 2:21          Whoever         calls on the name of the LORD             shall be saved

Acts 2:38         Every one        repent and be baptized                          for the remission of sins                                                       in the name of Jesus Christ

Wayne Jackson has commented, “If calling on the Lord results in salvation (2:21), and yet repentance combined with baptism produces forgiveness of sins (2:38), it logically follows that ‘calling’ is the equivalent to penitent baptism” (The Acts of the Apostles From Jerusalem to Rome, p. 22). When one submits to the Lord, appealing to His authority for forgiveness of sins, he is calling on the name of the Lord.

Acts 22

Saul, on the road to Damascus, was told by Jesus, “Arise and go into the city, and you will be told what you must do” (Acts 9:6). He was led to the city (Acts 9:8). The penitent Saul neither ate nor drank the next three days (Acts 9:9). He continued in prayer (Acts 9:11). Finally, Ananias instructed, “Arise and be baptized, and wash away your sins, calling on the name of the Lord” (Acts 22:16).

He is told: (1) “Arise.” Wayne Jackson wrote, “’Arise’ (probably from his prone position of prayer cf. 9:11). It is a noteworthy observation that if ‘baptism’ could be administered by the sprinkling of water, there would have been no need for Saul to ‘arise’ prior to submitting to the rite. Of course, the verb baptize (to immerse) excludes sprinkling anyhow” (ibid, p. 285). (2) “Be baptized and wash away your sin.” Baptism is necessary for salvation (Mark 16:15-16; Acts 2:37-38; 22:16; 1 Peter 3:21). The wording “be baptized” is in the middle voice, and could be rendered “have yourself baptized.” (3) “Calling on the name of the Lord.” This is a participle phrase. In context, “Calling on the name of the Lord” is the equivalent of what Saul did, when he did “Arise and be baptized.” Consider this sentence: “The children see-sawed on the teeter-totter, spun on the merry-go-round, swung on swings, and slid on the slide, playing in the park. The phrase “playing in the park” does not describe another activity. Instead, the verbs, “see-sawed,” “spun,” “swung,” and “slid” explains what they did “playing in the park” or how they were “playing in the park.”

There are different ways to call on the name of the Lord. It does not always refer to baptism. However, it does here.

Romans 10

“There is no distinction between Jew and Greek, for the same Lord over all is rich to all who called upon Him. For ‘whoever calls on the name of the LORD shall be saved’” (Romans 10:12-13). This passage makes clear that Joel’s prophecy included those beyond Jewish origin.

In context, calling comes after faith (Romans 10:14) and before salvation (Romans 10:13). Roy Deaver commented, “If ‘calling’ follows after faith and precedes salvation, and if repentance, confession, and baptism follow after faith and precede salvation – then it is clear that ‘calling on the Lord’ and repentance, confession, and baptism are the same!” (Romans: God’s Plan for Man’s Righteousness, p. 379). Wayne Jackson commented, “The term ‘call’ reveals that salvation is not unconditional. A comparison of Acts 2:21 and 2:38 indicates that ‘calling’ is a generic expression embracing specific conditions of obedience (viz. repentance and immersion). The apostle continues by asserting that one cannot call on whom he has not believed; thus, the calling is an addition to believing, which excludes the notion of salvation by faith alone. There is more. One cannot believe unless he is willing to hear, which adds yet another condition – a disposition willing to listen to and critically examine the gospel message” (A New Testament Commentary, p. 284).

Jesus

Jesus said, “Not everyone who says to Me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ shall enter the kingdom of heaven, but he who does the will of My Father in heaven” (Matthew 7:21). He also said, “Why do you call Me ‘Lord, Lord,’ and not do the things I say?” (Luke 6:46). Certainly, more than words are demanded.

Old Testament

It seems that at times, even under the Old Testament, “calling on the LORD” included more than prayer. Isaiah 55:6-7 reads, “Seek the LORD while He may be found, call upon Him while He is near. Let the wicked forsake his way, and the unrighteous man his thoughts, let him return to the LORD, and He will have mercy on him; and to our God, for He will abundantly pardon.” Does not seeking the LORD and calling upon Him for mercy and pardon include repentance in this passage?

An Illustration

Even in everyday usage the language of calling upon someone can mean more than merely speaking to someone. Eric Lyons used these illustration from Bobby Bates has saying, “When a doctor goes to the hospital to ‘call on’ some of his patients, he does not merely walk into the room and say, ‘I just wanted to come by and say, ‘hello.’ I wish you the best. Now pay me.’ On the contrary, he involves himself in a service. He examines the patient, listens to the patient’s concerns, gives further instructions regarding the patient’s hopeful recovery, and then often times prescribes medication. All of these elements may be involved in a doctor ‘calling upon’ a patient. In the mid-twentieth century, it was common for young men to ‘call on’ young ladies. Again, this expression meant something different than just making a request’” (Eric Lyons, Calling on the Name of the Lord, apologeticspress.org).

Different Usages

Abraham called upon the name of the LORD” (Genesis 12:8) when he worshipped. The early church called on the name of the Lord, or the name of Jesus Christ our Lord, following their conversion (Acts 9:14, 21; 1 Corinthians 1:2). It does not always mean “repent and be baptized.” However, it does always mean approaching God in submissive obedience.

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