1 Thessalonians

Paul, along with Silas and Timothy, founded the church at Thessalonica on his second missionary journey. The Apostle had been drawn to this important Roman port after seeing a vision in which a Macedonian man was calling for help (Acts 16:9). While Paul was in Corinth, Silas and Timothy brought good and bad news about the Macedonian church. Though the church continued to be established, the Thessalonians were also reportedly having difficulties. Gentiles, and especially Jews, were impugning Paul’s sincerity, defaming him as a wandering charlatan who had deceived them. The church was also confused about the second coming of Christ. Some members worried about believers who had died before His return. Others considered it unnecessary to continue working, since Christ would return at any time. Still others were sinking back into the immorality of the culture. There was also a crisis in the leadership; many of the rank-and-file apparently were being offended by certain tactless elders. These and other minor difficulties occasioned Paul’s first letter to the Thessalonians, which was written from Athens.

1 Thessalonians 1

1:1-10 Greetings and commendation

1 Thessalonians 2

2:1-16 Paul’s method and Paul’s gospel
2:17-20 Paul’s absence and concern

1 Thessalonians 3

3:1-10 Timothy sent to strengthen the church
3:11-13 Prayer for the church

1 Thessalonians 4

4:1-12 Paul’s appeal for purity
4:13-18 The coming of the Lord and the Rapture

1 Thessalonians 5

5:1-11 The coming of the Lord and the Rapture (continued)
5:12-24 Paul exhorts the brethren
5:25-28 Final greetings and benediction

Standards of the Lord Jesus ChristLecture 112-4 (Spiritual Condition of Lust on the Heart)(Matthew 5:27-28)

By Kathy L. McFarland

Matthew 5:27–28 (KJV 1900)
27 Ye have heard that it was said by them of old time, Thou shalt not commit adultery: 28 But I say unto you, That whosoever looketh on a woman to lust after her hath committed adultery with her already in his heart.

This lecture is on a very important part of the Standards of Jesus Christ. Unlike the LORD God’s first children, His Chosen people that are part of Judaism, who are only required to obey His commandments literally, Christ’s standards are more detailed and deeper. Not only does Christ require adherence to the Commandments of the LORD God, He also requires diligence of the heart. He uses the example of lust in the heart that is just as sinful as doing the deed. Those that follow Jesus Christ accept His Standards and strive mightily to meet each of His requirements to be His people.

But here is the problem. Satan is quite aware that Christ’s baptism frees His Followers of original sin. The likelihood of Baptized Believers breaking the Commandments of God literally are slim. However, Satan knows that if He can corrupt the heart, that Christ will count that in His Standards as disobedience to God, and the devil becomes successful in his efforts.

Lust in the heart is the worst possible conflict every Christian must fight against. It is critical that you understand this condition fully and are armed with smart rules of engagement that give you the ability to keep Satan away from your heart. But this is important: Unless you take serious control over what enters your heart, you are susceptible as a Christian to having it contaminated with unrighteous and evil things. So not only are you tasked with obeying Christ’s Standards, you also must guard against Satan disrupting that obedience by corrupting your heart. Let’s get to work and see what Scripture has to offer us concerning the spiritual condition of lust that contaminates the heart.

(Special Note: During this lecture, please examine each Scripture carefully, and look at my Statements of Fact (SOF). See how concise I write my SOF’s and capture the full Truth of God. From this point on, please note the SOF’s into your learning, so your SOF’s can be powerful in your own personal study of the Word of God.)

1 John 2:15–17 (KJV 1900)
15 Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world. If any man love the world, the love of the Father is not in him. 16 For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life, is not of the Father, but is of the world. 17 And the world passeth away, and the lust thereof: but he that doeth the will of God abideth for ever.

Lust – 2123 ἐπιθυμία (epithymia), ας (as), ἡ (hē): n.fem.; ≡ Str 1939; TDNT 3.168—1. LN 25.12 deep desire, longing (Mk 4:19; Lk 22:15; Php 1:23; 1Th 2:17+); 2. LN 25.20 lust, coveting, craving (Gal 5:16; 1Ti 6:9; 2Ti 2:22; 1Pe 1:14)

1. Christians should not love the world.

2. Christians should not love the things that are in the world.

3. If anyone loves the world, then the love of the LORD God Father is not within them.

4. There are three things that are not of the Father LORD God, but of the world:
a. Lust of the flesh
1a. Lust of the flesh wars against the soul. (1 Peter 2:11)

2a. The works of the flesh are adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lasciviousness, idolatry, witchcraft, hatred, variance, emulations, wrath, strife, seditions, heresies, envyings, murders, drunkenness, revellings and such like. (Galatians 5:18-21)

b. Lust of the eyes
c. Pride of life

5. If a Christian has any of these conditions, they are not of the Father.

6. When this world ends and passes away, so will to the lusts within it.

7. Those who do not have the lust are doing the will of the LORD God and they will live forever.

8. The Greek word for Lust means the deep desire or longing for something; coveting is another word for lust.

Galatians 5:16–17 (KJV 1900)
16 This I say then, Walk in the Spirit, and ye shall not fulfil the lust of the flesh. 17 For the flesh lusteth against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh: and these are contrary the one to the other: so that ye cannot do the things that ye would.

9. Walk in the Holy Spirit, and you will not have the lust of the flesh. (Galatians 5:16-18)

10. The flesh lusts against the Holy Spirit; and the Holy Spirit is against the flesh.

Lusts of the Heart

Mark 4:18–19 (KJV 1900)
18 And these are they which are sown among thorns; such as hear the word, 19 And the cares of this world, and the deceitfulness of riches, and the lusts of other things entering in, choke the word, and it becometh unfruitful.

11. Christ says the following ENTER INTO a person, choke the Word of God, and become unfruitful according to His Parable, “Sower of Seeds.” (Note it does not originate from the person but enters into!)
a. Cares of this world
b. Deceitfulness of riches
c. Lusts of other things

12. Also note that the way Mark 4:18-19 is worded (“lusts of other things”), both the cares of the world and deceitfulness of riches are lusts also.

Mark 7:20–23 (KJV 1900)
20 And he said, That which cometh out of the man, that defileth the man. 21 For from within, out of the heart of men, proceed evil thoughts, adulteries, fornications, murders, 22 Thefts, covetousness, wickedness, deceit, lasciviousness, an evil eye, blasphemy, pride, foolishness: 23 All these evil things come from within, and defile the man.

13. HOWEVER!!! That which COMES OUT of people, defiles them.

14. Those things that COME OUT of people’s HEARTS are:
a. Evil thoughts
b. Adulteries
c. Fornications
d. Murders
e. Thefts
f. Covetousness
g. Wickedness
h. Deceit
i. Lasciviousness
j. Evil eye
k. Blasphemy
l. Pride
m. Foolishness

Teachings of Kathy L McFarland:
Are you understanding what Scripture tells us about the difference between those things that come from outside our bodies and enter into us, and those that develop inside our bodies in our hearts?

Cares of this world, deceitfulness of riches, and lust for “other things” enters into us and develops into all sorts of terrible lust inside our heart. Those lusts of the heart are the things that cause us to sin and be in disobedience to the Lord. Those lusts in the heart are interrelated to our development of all sins known to mankind.

It is not just about adultery. Look at SOF #14. All those things can develop in our hearts. Where do those things come from? Look at SOF #11. They come from outside the person’s body. The cares of this world, the deceitfulness of riches, and lustfulness of other things go into the body, and drastically affect the heart of the Believer.

When the believer has absorbed these things from the world, the heart becomes corrupted, sometimes slowly, sometimes quickly. Once that corruption happens, thoughts come to the Believer from the heart that are NOT righteous or pure. The corrupted heart becomes part of the dwelling place of the Holy Spirit, and it becomes more and more difficult to be guided by Him.

Do I need to tell you that Satan desires to get into your heart and control you from the inside? He doesn’t dare come close to your heart, because he knows that the Holy Spirit dwells within. So, Satan has figured out a way to squeeze into your heart that doesn’t require his presence. He doesn’t want to be clobbered! So, he injects the cares of this world, the deceitfulness of riches and other lustful things into the presence of the Christian, and if the Christian does not shield, corruption starts seeping in.

At this point, the heart begins doing sins of the flesh (SOF #4 (2a)). Soon the fallen Christian walks away from the Lord and embraces the things of this wicked world. The End.

(Hint: Say NO! to fancy clothes, seeking wealth, manipulating people to be successful in the world, worldly tricks and treats, connections to powerful entities in the world, titles to gain peoples respect, worldly sexual pleasures and practices, etc. Quit seeking fame, fortune, and fantastic opportunities!

Stay humble and focused upon the Word of God, reject the world and all its riches, and keep your attention upon the Holy Spirit’s guidance always!)

May the Lord help keep us from our foolishness! Amen.

Colossians

The Colossian Christians had been led to Christ by Epaphras. The majority were Gentiles who were progressing in their new faith. Paul rejoiced over their good spiritual condition, but the Colossian church was being exposed to a local heresy that threatened to deprive them of their spiritual blessings. Epaphras either visited Paul in Rome, or was imprisoned there with him. He informed Paul of the dangerous theological error circulating in the churches of Colossae and Laodicea. In response to Epaphras’ plea for help, Paul writes this epistle to the Colossians, which is also to be read at the church at Laodicea, in an attempt to check the heresy’s influence, to demonstrate the pre-eminence of Christ, and to confirm the addresses in the Christian faith.

Colossians 1

1:1-2 Salutation
1:3-13 Prayer for spiritual wisdom
1:14-19 The pre-eminent Christ
1:20-22 Reconciliation in Christ
1:23-29 Paul’s service in Christ

Colossians 2

2:1-3 Paul’s service in Christ (continued)
2:4-23 Warning against false teaching

Colossians 3

3:1-11 The new life in Christ
3:12-17 The Christian virtues
3:18-25 Advice for domestic life of the Colossians

Colossians 4

4:1 Advice for domestic life of the Colossians (continued)
4:2-6 Personal greetings to the Colossians
4:7-18 Closing exhortation to the Colossians

Philippians

Paul planted the church in Philippi about A.D. 50, on his second missionary journey. Their love for Paul was reciprocated often in full measure, and they were considered by him to be his beloved brethren. The Philippian assembly was in good spiritual health, and their only flaw is a lack of complete harmony among some of their members. Hence, Paul often summons them to unite and cautions them of the potential danger of their enemies.

Paul wrote this epistle to offer sincere thanks to his beloved converts for their gifts and support to him when he was in prison in Rome, and to relieve some of their anxiety when Epaphroditus (one of their own congregation) fell deathly ill as he was ministering to Paul. The resulting distress among the congregation at word of Epaphroditus’ illness, created an added burden for Paul. As a result, Paul writes this epistle thanking them for their gifts, and sends Epaphroditus home prematurely in order that all three parties may be relieved of unnecessary anxiety for each other. Epaphroditus arrived back in Philippi with Paul’s letter of thanks in hand, and the congregation at Philippi had both their beloved brother and a letter from Paul, encouraging them to be joyful in their spirits.

Philippians 1

1:1-2 Salutation
1:3-11 Thanksgiving and prayer
1:12-26 To me to live is Christ
1:27-30 Exhortation to steadfastness

Philippians 2

2:1-11 Christ’s
humiliation and exaltation
2:12-18 Shining as lights in the world
2:19-30 Timothy and Epaphroditus

Philippians 3

3:1-21 Pressing toward the mark

Philippians 4

4:1-7 Rejoice in the Lord
4:8-9 Think on these things
4:10-20 Appreciation for the gift
4:21-23 Greetings and benediction

What do you think?

I really want to know!

I receive daily requests to go to preach and teach in countries all over the world. I receive offers of great money to help form programs with me as the head of the productions.

This week, I have had many emails accusing me of avoiding the calls of God by failing to go to the various needs.

What I think I know: I’m doing what God called me to do. I am a writer, not a speaker. I am a teacher, not a preacher. I am one small part of the Body of Christ. My contributions in doing the Lord’s work guided by the Holy Spirit help all of those God brings to formulate their own works for Him. If I choose to answer one “call” of those wanting my actual presence, I would have absolutely no time to complete the works God has given me to write and publish freely to Christians He has assigned great works.

What many “callers” think: If I would step out of my comfort zone, fame would follow, and that extra attention would free me up to do even more works for the Lord and provide money to enlarge the works of God.

I AM CONFIDENT I AM DOING WORKS ASSIGNED BY GOD! However, am I limiting those works by “staying in my lane” and doing one thing very good?

I do NOT think I am limiting God’s works; rather, I think I am dedicated to the specific work God has given me. AND, I am doing just what I am tasked to do by Him.

Others think that I am not seizing the ability to grow the works higher and bring more glory to His Kingdom and specific peoples in need for direct ministry.

I really want to know what YOU think. I hope you choose my side! But if you don’t, could you please make a strong argument with Scripture support as necessary? Has my spiritual works helped and grown your own spiritual works?

Help me weigh this issue once and for all, so I can confidently accomplish the works the Lord has given me to do.

(This personal post is to help illuminate the indecisions that occur in all Christian works as they began growing)

CONCLUSION!!!!!!!!

My dear, fellowshipping Christian friends who contributed to this discussion. You have centered me, and supported me perfectly. Your conclusions are my conclusions, and my prayer reveals the same conclusions. With your participation, I was able to think on the indecisions from many different directions which was a Godsend.

I asked for my friends thoughts, for four reasons. 1) I was being deluged with emails that were unanimously chastising me for hiding behind Facebook and not stretching the ministry bigger. 2) There are NO Christians that can see straight all of the time, and reliance upon fellowshipping Christian’s opinions help center the focus; 3) Though I thought I knew God’s will with certainty, I was shaky on some of the details; with my strong Christian’s friends support, I have it clear and concise now. 4) I wanted to let my Christians friends know that when you do a work for the Lord, this situation of wanting to advance it occurs EVERY time (it is our human nature), and also brings confusion for choosing direction. Hopefully, this sharing will remind others how common this problem is.

I am sticking with my convictions and my respected Christian friends support of this decision. Most importantly, the Lord has not told me differently, so it is here where I stand.

Big hugs to all my helpful friends!

Worksheet #3 (112-3)Standards of the Lord Jesus Christ

By Kathy L McFarland

115. (True or False) If you follow all the Standards of Christ recorded in the New Testament, you will be following God’s law perfectly. (Introduction)
a. True
b. False

116. (True or False) Christians follow God’s law specifically. (Introduction)

a. True
b. False

117. (True or False) Christians follow the Standards of Christ which reflect the Laws of the LORD God plus more! (Introduction)

a. True
b. False

118. (True or False) Christian leaders should teach the Standards of Christ to all Christians under their authority. (Introduction)

a. True
b. False

119. (True or False) Young Christians should be taught the Standards of Christ at every opportunity. (Introduction)

a. True
b. False

120. (True or False) The Holy Spirit flows through each Christian so they can follow the Standards of Christ. (Introduction)

a. True
b. False

121. (True or False) Mature Christians should focus upon the standards of Christ rather than the Laws of the LORD God. (Introduction)

a. True
b. False

122. (Fill in the blank) Followers of Jesus Christ are the __________________ of the earth. (Matthew 5:13)

a. Righteous
b. Sacrificed
c. Persecuted
d. Salt

123. What is the Greek meaning for the word “earth” in this one instance of Matthew 5:13?

a. Grounded people
b. Secular people of devout faith
c. People of belief
d. Inhabitants of the earth

124. (True or False) Followers of Jesus Christ are the “salt of mankind.” (Matthew 5:13)

a. True
b. False

125. (Fill in the blank) If the salt loses its savour, it is good for _______________. (Matthew 5:13)

a. Seasoning
b. Flavor
c. Nothing
d. Other things

126. (True or False) Followers of Jesus Christ must maintain their saltiness amongst mankind. (Matthew 5:13)

a. True
b. False

127. (Fill in the blank) Once salt has lost its savour, it cannot be made _____________ again. (Matthew 5:13)

a. Real
b. Christian
c. Forgiving
d. Salty

128. (True or False) When salt loses its flavor, it has no value and is useless. (Matthew 5:13)

a. True
b. False

129. (Fill in the blank) If Christians lose the flavor of Christ, their witness has no value and is __________. (Typology)

a. Useless
b. Cultish
c. Evil
d. All the above

130. (Fill in the blank) The “flavor” of Christ is how a Christian ______________ Him. (Matthew 5:13 and teachings)

a. Emulates
b. Serves
c. Follows
d. All the above

131. (True or False) If you keep the Standards of Christ, you will have His savory salt. (Matthew 5:13 and teachings)

a. True
b. False

132. (True or False) Christian witness without Christ is useless to mankind and is fit for a dunghill. (Matthew 5:13 and teachings)

a. True
b. False

133. (Fill in the blank) Mankind will cast out all _________________ witness. (Matthew 5:13 and teachings)
a. Christ
b. Worthless
c. Emotional
d. Angel

134. How should a mature Christian understand the words “He that hath ears to hear, let him hear” that are spoken by Christ? (Matthew 5:13 and teachings)

a. A deeper message is contained within His literal words
b. There is a hidden message that only mature Christians will understand
c. Mature Christians are alerted to the typological meaning of the discourse.
d. All the above

135. Why must Christians maintain the flavor of the Lord Jesus Christ’s standards with regards to fellowship? (Matthew 5:13 and teachings)

a. They will get along better
b. They will have peace with one another
c. They will have great Christian fellowship
d. All the above

136. (Fill in the blank) Christians are the light of the ______________. (Matthew 5:14-16)

a. Faith
b. Worship of God
c. World
d. None of the above

137. What type of illumination do the worldly live within? (Matthew 5:14-16)

a. Darkness
b. Lightness
c. Shadows
d. Colors

138. (Fill in the blank) Jesus uses the example of a _____________________ that is upon a hill that cannot be hidden. (Matthew 5:14-16)

a. City
b. Tree
c. Church
d. Cross

139. (True or False) Christian Light is always seen when darkness surrounds the viewer. (Matthew 5:14-16)

a. True
b. False

140. (True or False) The city upon a hill shines with light and cannot be invisible. (Matthew 5:14-16)

a. True
b. False

141. (True or False) Christ’s standards support Christians purposely going underground, hiding in homes, caves, wildernesses, and distant monasteries, to avoid persecution, poverty, illness, nuclear war, famine, End Times, the Apocalypse, persecution, war, or the downfall of governments. (Matthew 5:14-16)

a. True
b. False

142. (True or False) People do not light a candle, then hide it inside a container where the light cannot be seen. (Matthew 5:14-16)

a. True
b. False

143. Why do men light a candle and put it in a candlestick holder? (Matthew 5:14-16)

a. To avoid a fire
b. To subdue the light of the candle
c. To shine the light of the candle
d. None of the above

144. What does a brightly shining candle inside a candlestick holder give light to? (Matthew 5:14-16)

a. All in the world
b. All in the house
c. All in the Heavens
d. All in the church

145. Why does Christ want you to let your light shine? (Matthew 5:14-16)

a. So mankind can see your good works
b. So mankind can glorify your Father in Heaven
c. So Christ can be seen
d. All the above

146. (True or False) Do NOT hide your light of Christ! (Matthew 5:14-16)

a. True
b. False

147. (True or False) The Lord Jesus Christ did NOT come to destroy the law of the LORD God. (Matthew 5:17-20)

a. True
b. False

148. (True or False) The Lord Jesus Christ came to fulfill the law of the LORD God. (Matthew 5:14-16)

a. True
b. False

149. What does the Greek word for “destroy” mean as found in Matthew 5:17?

a. Fully accomplish
b. Make it happen
c. Abolish and make invalid
d. All the above

150. What does the Greek word for “fulfill” mean as found in Matthew 5:17?

a. Abolish
b. Make invalid
c. Fully accomplish and make it happen
d. All the above

151. (True or False) The Commandments, Statutes, and Ordinances of the LORD God were given to the Jewish people as a BEGINNING of forming relationship with humans. (Matthew 5:17-20)

a. True
b. False

152. (True or False) The Law of the LORD God was absolute and unforgiving. Either you obeyed all the law, or you were in disobedience to Him. (Matthew 5:17-20)

a. True
b. False

153. (True or False) When the Lord Jesus Christ came, He taught the meaning of the Laws given by the LORD God as recorded in the Old Testament. (Matthew 5:17-20)

a. True
b. False

154. What Scripture connects the Laws of the Old Testament with the teachings of Jesus Christ?

a. Matthew 5:27-28
b. Matthew 4:3
c. Matthew 6:10-11
d. None of the above

155. (True or False) The Lord Jesus Christ taught the meaning of those laws of the Old Testament given by the LORD God to mankind. (Matthew 5:27-28)

a. True
b. False

156. (True or False) The LORD Jesus Christ teaches that it is in the heart, not the actions, that sin takes place first. (Matthew 5:27-28)

a. True
b. False

157. (True or False) The Lord Jesus Christ teaching about the guilt of the heart as the breaking of the Law of the LORD God gives a more stringent standard of behavior. (Matthew 5:27-28)

a. True
b. False

158. (True or False) If Christians do not follow the taught Standards of Christ, they still are able to walk the way of Christ. (Matthew 5:19-20)

a. True
b. False

159. What happens if you break the least of the commandments that the Lord Jesus Christ has taught you? (Matthew 5:19-20)

a. You are forgiven automatically
b. Your position in the Kingdom of Heaven will be lowered
c. You will lose your salvation
d. You will be punished severely

160. Where do saved Christians go after the rest time is over in Heaven? (Matthew 5:19-20)

a. They die.
b. They live eternally in Heaven
c. They go to the Old Earth
d. They go to the New Earth

161. What is being at rest in Heaven like on this earth? (Matthew 5:19-20)

a. Sleeping
b. Dying
c. Working
d. Sabbath

162. What happens if you TEACH the standards of Christ wrongly to others? (Matthew 5:19-20)

a. You are forgiven automatically
b. Your position in the Kingdom of Heaven will be lowered
c. You will lose your salvation
d. You will be punished severely

163. (True or False) Teaching the commandments of the LORD God with the standards of the Lord WRONGLY will cause you lose your salvation. (Matthew 5:19-20)

a. True
b. False

164. 163. (True or False) Teaching the commandments of the LORD God with the standards of the Lord WRONGLY will cause you lose your advanced position in the Kingdom of Heaven. (Matthew 5:19-20)

a. True
b. False

165. What were the associations of the Scribes and Pharisees that Jesus spoke about? (Matthew 5:19-20)

a. They acted more righteous than any other Chosen people of the LORD God
b. They will have no advanced position in the Kingdom of Heaven
c. They are in the same category as Christians who teach the things of the Lord wrong
d. All the above

166. Where do we find the Commandment of the LORD God, “Thou shalt not kill?” (Matthew 5:21-22)

a. Exodus 20:13
b. Matthew 1:1
c. Ezekiel 5:15
d. Psalm 4:20

167. What does Old Testament say that you will be in danger of from the LORD God if you should kill? (Matthew 5:21-22)

a. Death
b. Expulsion
c. Purgatory
d. Judgment

168. How does Christ’s standards teach the law of killing? (Matthew 5:21-22)

a. If you purposely plan it, it is murder
b. If it is an accidental death, it is still murder
c. If you kill in anger, it is murder
d. If you are angry with your brother without a cause, you are in danger of judgment for killing

169. (True or False) No longer just accountable to the LORD God for the law of not killing another, followers of Christ were placed into Christ’s standard of not losing temper with a brother without cause. (Matthew 5:21-22)

a. True
b. False

170. (True or False) Jesus Christ says that anyone that says to his brother, “Raca” will be in killed by the Sanhedrin. (Matthew 5:21-22)

a. True
b. False

171. What is the semitic term of “Raca” written in Matthew 5:21-22?

a. Honored prophet
b. Jewish leader
c. Christian fellowship
d. Fool

172. Who does Christ warn will be in danger of judgement from, for calling someone “Raca?” (Matthew 5:21-22)

a. The LORD God
b. The Holy Spirit
c. The Lord Jesus Christ
d. Sanhedrin

173. Who were the Sanhedrin? (Matthew 5:21-22)

a. Government body of Gentiles
b. Government body of Christians
c. Government body of Seculars
d. Government body of Jews

174. (True or False) The Sanhedrin was a group of priests and religious teachers who met to decide legal matters that had religious, political, and social ramifications during the 1st century. (Matthew 5:21-22)

a. True
b. False

175. (True or False) Jesus taught the crescendo of “killing” which went from braking of one of the LORD God’s Ten Commandments, to culturally calling a Jew a “Raca,” to outright calling a brother “a fool.” (Matthew 5:21-22)

a. True
b. False

176. (True or False) The Lord Jesus Christ equals the act of “killing” and the act of “calling a brother a fool” as violations of God’s law that could place in danger of Hell. (Matthew 5:21-22)

a. True
b. False

177. (True or False) It is very apparent through Christ’s teachings of standards that “anger” is the root of killing, which can exact the same judgment, as the actual act. (Matthew 5:21-22)

a. True
b. False

178. (True or False) Christ’s standards do not task the inner attitude of the heart when considering violations of God’s Laws. (Matthew 5:21-22)

a. True
b. False

179. (True or False) If your heart is angry at your brother, it could lead to killing; thus, the standard of behavior is if you are angry, fix it before it becomes something worse. (Matthew 5:21-22)

a. True
b. False

180. (Fill in the blank) Christ’s standard concerning anger is based upon ____________. (Matthew 5:21-22)

a. All
b. With cause
c. Without cause
d. Exploding, violent, and out-of-control

181. (True or False) It is a narrower road we walk with Christ, not a wider one that the Jews walk upon. (Matthew 5:21-22 and Teachings)

a. True
b. False

182. (Fill in the blank) Christ teaches that _________________ with the neighbor you have offended is more important that offering a gift to the LORD God. (Matthew 5:23-26)

a. Reconciliation
b. Separation
c. Arguing
d. Negotiating

183. When should you offer your gift to the LORD God? (Matthew 5:23-26)

a. After anger has calmed
b. After reconciliation with your neighbor
c. After reconciliation with the LORD God
d. After reconciliation with the Church

184. What happens if your neighbor has a grudge against you and you don’t make peace quickly? (Matthew 5:23-26)

a. The adversary will get angrier
b. You will be delivered to a judge
c. You will be delivered to an officer
d. You will be sent to prison
e. All the above

185. What also is stopped if an escalation of anger disrupts the gifts given to the LORD God? (Matthew 5:23-26)

a. Prevent salvation
b. Prevent favorable reputation
c. Prevent the Christian from doing Christ’s intended works
d. Prevent spiritual growth

186. (True or False) The Lord Jesus Christ says to agree with angry neighbors quickly and make reconciliation, lest the neighbor’s anger gets out of control and makes you pay for the consequences to the “uttermost farthing.” (Matthew 5:23-26)

a. True
b. False

187. (Fill in the blank) “Uttermost farthing” means the ________________ before you are set free from the punishments of an escalating neighbor’s anger. (Matthew 5:23-26)

a. Must pay the smallest coin
b. Biggest punishments
c. Longest punishments
d. None of the above

188. (True or False) If Christians let anger replace goodwill with their neighbors, even if it is just their anger without reason, it can STOP the works of the Lord. (Matthew 5:23-26)

a. True
b. False

189. (True or False) “Thou shalt not commit adultery is in the Old Testament law and part of the Ten Commandments. (Matthew 5:27-28)

a. True
b. False

190. (True or False) Physical adultery is the act where a married person has sexual intercourse with an unmarried person. (Matthew 5:27-28)

a. True
b. False

191. (True or False) Both the married person and the unmarried person are committing the sin of adultery if they have sexual intercourse. (Matthew 5:27-28)

a. True
b. False

192. (True or False) The promises made during the marriage ceremony before God are considered a breakable oath by Him. (Matthew 5:27-28)

a. True
b. False

193. (True or False) The LORD God sends His blessings to spiritual marriage through the commitment of the two people to declare Him their LORD God. (Matthew 5:27-28)

a. True
b. False

194. (True or False) The Lord Jesus Christ’s standard is that if you even “lust” about sex with a married partner that is not your spouse, you are in disobedience to Him. (Matthew 5:27-28)

a. True
b. False

195. (True or False) EVERY Law that the LORD God gave in the Old Testament has a companion “HEART CONDITION” also. (Matthew 5:27-28 and teachings)

a. True
b. False

Feb 21, 2024 10:19:50am

Kathy L McFarland shared a profile.

Kathy L. McFarland is a Becker Bible Studies teacher and author of Guided Bible Studies for Hungry Christians. She has received her Bachelor of Science degree in Religious Studies from Liberty University and the Master of Divinity (Professional Ministries Track) degree from Liberty Baptist Theological Seminary & Graduate School. She is Founder and President of Becker Bible Ministries, Inc., the curriculum developer for Becker Professional Theology Academy, and a teaching faculty member. She also performs duties as Chaplain, and is an endorser for Chaplains at Becker Bible Ministries, Inc.

Kathy’s favorite studies to teach include the connections between Old Testament exegesis, Christian apologetics, and Bible typology and mysteries.

Standards of the Lord Jesus ChristLecture 112-3 (The Sermon on the Mount) (Matthew 5:1-13:48) (Part 1 of 2)

By Kathy L. McFarland

While Facebook friends argue back and forth about things like the different laws the Jews serve and how Christians may or may not have to follow them, it becomes confusing, doesn’t it? Old Testament following Christians have a difficult road to walk. Why make your Christian journey so tough? The Lord Jesus Christ took His time to teach the Disciples and all of us through His Word that capture His Sermon on the Mount. We have already studied the Beatitudes, which surprisingly are written for all of us Christians, and the things we are going through in this world. Now, let’s examine some of the standards of behavior that Christ wants His followers to emulate.

Every standard you are learning in this course and in the next course, Standards (Part 2) are the things of behavior you should be emulating to look like and walk like Christ. Every standard that we are studying is our rules of behavior as Christians. My hopes are that you are teaching young Christians these standards every day. Your Lord Jesus Christ expects Christian leaders to be displaying these standards of behavior in their own walk with Him and teaching them to those that are learning to be a Christian.

Now here is a very deep mystery that hardly any Christians realize completely. If you follow all the standards recorded in the New Testament, you will be following God’s law perfectly! We do not follow the law specifically. We follow the ways of the Lord Jesus Christ. Jesus Christ teaches us His standards, God’s standards, and His disciples pick up establishing and teaching standards where He left off when He left this earth. The Holy Spirit flows through each Christian so they can follow the standards of Christ. So instead of focusing on the law, let us focus upon the standards of Christ, and try to meet each of them. We don’t have time or the spirit to follow Old Testament law. Christ’s standards reflect God’s law in a different light, one that ultimately loves others as themselves. Let us begin again! Don’t forget to copy the database at the end of this course; it makes a handy reference when you are preaching, teaching, counseling, or admonishing about good and bad Christian behavior standards.

Matthew 5:13 (KJV 1900)
13 Ye are the salt of the earth: but if the salt have lost his savour, wherewith shall it be salted? it is thenceforth good for nothing, but to be cast out, and to be trodden under foot of men.

Earth – 1178 γῆ (gē), γῆς (gēs), ἡ (hē): n.fem.; ≡ DBLHebr 141, 824; Str 1093; TDNT 1.677— 5. LN 9.22 people, inhabitants of the earth, mankind (Mt 5:13)

Savour – 3701 μωραίνομαι (mōrainomai), μωραίνω (mōrainō): vb.; ≡ Str 3471; TDNT 4.832—1. LN 32.56 (dep.) become foolish (Ro 1:22+); 2. LN 79.44 (dep.) lose taste, lose saltiness, turn into inert substance (Mt 5:13; Lk 14:34+); 3. LN 32.59 cause to become nonsense (1Co 1:20+)

1. Followers of Jesus Christ are the “salt of the earth.”

2. The Greek word for earth in this one instance of Matthew 5:13 is speaking of the “inhabitants of the earth.” Followers of Jesus Christ are the “salt of mankind.”

3. If the salt loses its savour (taste, flavor) and become inert, it is good for NOTHING. If a Christian loses their savour of salt, they become fools.

4. Followers of Jesus Christ must maintain their saltiness amongst mankind.

Luke 14:34–35 (KJV 1900)
34 Salt is good: but if the salt have lost his savour, wherewith shall it be seasoned? 35 It is neither fit for the land, nor yet for the dunghill; but men cast it out. He that hath ears to hear, let him hear.

Fit – 2310 εὔθετος (euthetos), ον (on): adj.; ≡ Str 2111—1. LN 66.3 suitable, fit, usable (Lk 9:62; Heb 6:7+); 2. LN 65.32 useful, of value (Lk 14:35+)

5. Salt is good; but if it has lost its savour, it’s not good.

6. Salt, once it has lost its savour, cannot be made salty again.

7. When salt loses its flavor, it has no value and is useless.

8. If Christians lose the flavor of Christ, their witness has no value and is useless. (Typology)

9. A Christian’s witness of Christ that has lost the flavor of Christ, has absolutely no value and is useless! The flavor of Christ is how a Christian emulates HIM! If you keep His standards, you have His savory salt.

10. Christian witness is of no use to anyone, in the land or in the dung hill.

11. Men will cast out all worthless and useless stuff.

12. When we see the words “He that hath ears to hear, let him hear,” we know that the Lord Jesus Christ is speaking deeper with a hidden message that only mature Christians can understand. Thus, we are alerted to the typological meaning of the discourse.

Mark 9:50 (KJV 1900)
50 Salt is good: but if the salt have lost his saltness, wherewith will ye season it? Have salt in yourselves, and have peace one with another.

13. Christians must maintain the salt, the flavor (the standards of conduct) of the Lord Jesus Christ, if they are to have peace with one another. Amen.

Matthew 5:14–16 (KJV 1900)
14 Ye are the light of the world. A city that is set on an hill cannot be hid. 15 Neither do men light a candle, and put it under a bushel, but on a candlestick; and it giveth light unto all that are in the house. 16 Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.

Light – 5890 φῶς (phōs), φωτός (phōtos), τό (to): n.neu.; ≡ DBLHebr 240; Str 5457; TDNT 9.310—1. LN 14.36 light, in contrast with darkness (2Co 4:6); 2. LN 2.5 bonfire, firelight (Mk 14:54); 3. LN 6.102 torch (Ac 16:29); 4. LN 28.64 ἐν τῷ φωτί (en tō phōti), in public (Mt 10:27); 5. LN 11.14 people of God (Lk 16:8; Jn 12:36; Eph 5:8; 1Th 5:5+)

Hidden – 3221 κρύπτω (kryptō): vb.; ≡ Str 2928; TDNT 3.957—1. LN 21.12 keep safe, protect, hide (Mt 13:44; 25:18;l Lk 13:21 v.r. BAGD), for another interp, see next; 2. LN 24.29 made invisible, cause to be invisible (Mt 13:44; Col 3:3), for another interp, see prior; 3. LN 24.30 hide, for the purpose of safekeeping (Col 3:3), for another interp, see above; 4. LN 28.79 keep secret, cause something to not be known (Mt 11:25)

Candle – 3394 λύχνος (lychnos), ου (ou), ὁ (ho): n.masc.; ≡ DBLHebr 5944; Str 3088; TDNT 4.324—LN 6.104 lamp, a small vessel holding olive oil and a wick, used for lighting the dark (Mk 4:21; Lk 11:33; 12:35; 15:8; Jn 5:35; 2Pe 1:19; Rev 18:23; 21:23; 22:5)

Bushel – 3654 μόδιος (modios), ίου (iou), ὁ (ho): n.masc.; ≡ Str 3426—LN 6.151 container, a large bowl that holds about eight dry U.S. quarts (Mt 5:15; Mk 4:21; Lk 11:33+)

Standard of Being the Light of the World

14. Followers of Christ are the light of the world.

15. Look at that Greek word for “light.” φωτός (phōtos) is the Greek word that reminds us of “photographs,” right? What do photographs do? They take a picture of the actual image. If the surroundings are dark, no image can be seen. But, if that photograph is taken in light, the image of the actual person can be seen perfectly.

16. The world lives in darkness. Christians are the light. Light is always seen when darkness surrounds the viewer.

17. Jesus uses the example of a city that is upon a hill cannot be hidden. Once again, those bright lights atop a hill that light the city, the vibrant sounds of people within the city leave no doubt that it exists, and it is there on that hill.

18. The city cannot be kept secret from the world. It shines with the light and cannot be invisible.

19. Christian history records many times about Christians going underground, or into distant monasteries, often for the sake to avoid persecution, poverty, and illness. In today’s world, threat of nuclear war, famine, End Times, the Apocalypse, persecution, war, and the falling of government and nations has caused many, many Christians to seek refuge away from the world. They hide in holes they have dug in the ground, trees that conceal their presence, caves that darken their presence, and fortresses made to hide the Christians when trouble comes. These types of concealment are against the standards of Christ.

20. Men do not light a candle, then hide it inside a container where the light cannot be seen.

21. When men light a candle, they put it in a candlestick holder, where it can shine brightly and give light to all in the house.

22. Jesus says let your light shine! Let that light shine amongst all people so they can see your good works and glorify your Father in Heaven! Do NOT hide your light of Christ!

Matthew 5:17–20 (KJV 1900)
17 Think not that I am come to destroy the law, or the prophets: I am not come to destroy, but to fulfil. 18 For verily I say unto you, Till heaven and earth pass, one jot or one tittle shall in no wise pass from the law, till all be fulfilled. 19 Whosoever therefore shall break one of these least commandments, and shall teach men so, he shall be called the least in the kingdom of heaven: but whosoever shall do and teach them, the same shall be called great in the kingdom of heaven. 20 For I say unto you, That except your righteousness shall exceed the righteousness of the scribes and Pharisees, ye shall in no case enter into the kingdom of heaven.

Law – 1938 ἐννόμως (ennomōs): adv.; ≡ Str 1722 + 3551—subject to the law, or in possession of the law (Ro 2:12 v.r. BAGD); not in LN
Destroy – 2907 καταλύω (kataluō): vb.; ≡ Str 2647; TDNT 4.338—1. LN 20.54 tear down, destroy completely (Lk 21:6; Lk 23:2 v.r. NA26); 2. LN 20.55 destroy the works or efforts of another (Ro 14:20); 3. LN 13.100 put an end to (Ac 5:38); 4. LN 76.23 make invalid, abolish something in force (Mt 5:17); 5. LN 34.61 be a guest, be hospitably lodged (Lk 9:12; 19:7+)

Fulfil – 4442 πληροφορέομαι (plērophoreomai), πληροφορέω (plērophoreō): vb.; ≡ Str 4135; TDNT 6.309—1. LN 31.45 (pass.) be completely certain, be fully assured, convinced or persuaded (Ro 4:21; 14:5; Col 4:12+; Eph 3:19 v.r.); 2. LN 13.106 make happen, fulfill (Lk 1:1+); 3. LN 33.199 proclaim fully (2Ti 4:17+); 4. LN 68.32 accomplish, fulfill (completely), (2Ti 4:5+)

23. The Lord Jesus Christ did not come to destroy the law of the LORD God. He came to fulfill it.

24. Destroy means to “abolish” and “make invalid.” Fulfill means to “accomplish it fully” and to “make it happen.

Teachings by Kathy L McFarland
That is why I said it was confusing to me why Facebook friends argue among themselves whether to follow the Old Testament laws. It is of no importance to focus on the singular laws without the teaching of God placed upon them. That would be going backwards in our developed Christian faith.

The Commandments, statutes and ordinance of the LORD God given to the Jewish people were the beginning of forming a relationship with humans. There were no teachings, per se, given to them. The law was absolute and unforgiving. Either you obeyed all the laws (often confused by the Pharisees and the rabbis) and adhered to all the LORD God’s rules, or you were in disobedience to Him.

When the Lord Jesus Christ came, he taught the meaning of those laws of the Old Testament given by the LORD God to mankind. No longer a black/white, obey/disobey stringent representation of the laws, they became open to the teachings of Christ. Remember this teaching:

Matthew 5:27–28 (KJV 1900)
27 Ye have heard that it was said by them of old time, Thou shalt not commit adultery: 28 But I say unto you, That whosoever looketh on a woman to lust after her hath committed adultery with her already in his heart.

We learn from Jesus that the Law said don’t commit adultery; but He added a new teaching, that adultery was more than just an affair with a married person. The Lord taught that with His coming to earth, He will teach the real meaning of the law, not just the absolutes. The real meaning of the law that the LORD God made was if you look lustfully upon a woman, you commit adultery with your heart! The standards have changed! Before it was the absolute law; now it became the fulfilled law with a need to fully understand not only the rule but also the reason, ways, and the consequences of breaking that law.

Christians that don’t understand that they should focus on Christ’s teachings, rather than on the Old Testament laws, never reach the higher standards that the Lord Jesus Christ has set for His followers. And if a Christian does not reach those standards, then that Christian is not walking the way of Christ. Period.

Footnotes:

James Swanson, Dictionary of Biblical Languages with Semantic Domains: Greek (New Testament) (Oak Harbor: Logos Research Systems, Inc., 1997).

Worksheet #2 (112-2)Standards of the Lord Jesus Christ (Part 1)

By Kathy L McFarland

64. What do you emulate if you are following One as Lord? (Kathy L McFarland teachings)

a. His Ways
b. His Will
c. His Teachings
d. All the above

65. What does following the teachings of Christ with regards to the Standards He performs and the Standards He expects us to fulfill lead to? (Kathy L McFarland teachings)

a. Salvation
b. Ordination
c. Restoration
d. Righteousness

66. (Fill in the blank) The _________________ the Scripture information becomes, the more easily relatable to another Scripture it is. (Kathy L McFarland teachings)

a. Bigger
b. Smaller
c. Typological
d. Parable-like

67. How do Becker students narrow down the meaning of Scripture? (Kathy L McFarland teachings)

a. Using Statements of Fact (SOF)
b. Using Statements of Data (SOD)
c. Connecting the smaller bits of information to form concise meaning
d. All the above

68. (Match) Connect the Beatitude types with rewards: (Matthew 5:1-12)

1. Poor in Spirit
2. Those that Mourn
3. Meek
4. Those who hunger and thirst after righteousness
5. Merciful
6. Pure in heart
7. Peacemakers
8. Persecuted for righteousness’ sake
9. When men shall revile you, and persecute you, and shall say all manner of evil against you falsely, for my sake

a. Obtain mercy
b. Shall be called the children of God
c. Kingdom of Heaven
d. Kingdom of Heaven
e. Comforted
f. Inherit the earth
g. Be filled
h. See God
i. Great is your award in Heaven

69. What are the “Blessed” portions of the Sermon on the Mount called? (Matthew 5:1-12)

a. Sermons
b. Parables
c. Beatitudes
d. Typology

70. What is the spirit spoken about as in “the poor in spirit?” (Matthew 5:3)

a. Holy Spirit
b. Soul
c. Ghost
d. All the above

71. What is a really good word that describes the meaning of the word “poor” in spirit? (Matthew 5:3)
a. Humble
b. Without riches
c. Without morals
d. Without hope

72. What does “voluntary humility” mean? (Colossians 2:18-23)

a. Purposeful and intentional humbleness
b. Unintentional, unplanned humbleness
c. Innocent reaction to modest circumstances
d. None of the above

73. If a Christian has “voluntary humility” what will it lead to? (Colossians 2:18-23)

a. Virtue
b. Righteousness
c. Take your reward away from you
d. Loss of salvation

74. (True or False) “Voluntary humility” is a good standard to strive for. (Colossians 2:18-23)

a. True
b. False

75. (True or False) “Voluntary humility” means that you purposefully make yourself appear humble. (Colossians 2:18-23)

a. True
b. False

76. (True or False) If a pretend Christian shows “voluntary humbleness” it is equal to wrongly worshipping the angels. (Colossians 2:18-23)

a. True
b. False

77. (True or False) To be pleasing to the LORD God and the Lord Jesus Christ, you must display an honest INVOLUNTARY humility. (Colossians 2:18-23)

a. True
b. False

78. (True or False) The opposite of “voluntary humility” is “involuntary humility.” (Colossians 2:18-23)

a. True
b. False

79. (True or False) Voluntary humbleness shows wisdom in worship and humility. (Colossians 2:18-23)

a. True
b. False

80. (True or False) Voluntary humbleness neglects the body and does not satisfy the flesh. (Colossians 2:18-23)

a. True
b. False

81. (True or False) It IS GOOD to have involuntary humbleness. (Colossians 2:18-23)

a. True
b. False

82. The poor in spirit are the __________________ humble. (Matthew 5:3; Colossians 2:18-23)

a. Voluntary
b. Involuntary

83. What is involuntary humbleness like? (Colossians 2:18-23)

a. Every cell in the Christian’s body worships and fears the LORD God.
b. They don’t just appear humble; their entire being is in awe of the greatness of the LORD God.
c. They WILL inherit the Kingdom of Heaven.
d. All the above.

84. Who is the comforter that is sent to comfort mourning Christians? (John 14:15-18)

a. LORD God
b. Lord Jesus Christ
c. Holy Spirit
d. All the above

85. What happens if the Christian refuses to accept the comfort given by the Comforter? (John 14:15-18)

a. They will be crippled with sorrow
b. They will not receive relief from their pain
c. Their grief will be unresolved
d. All the above

86. Choose the most correct sentences concerning meekness. (Kathy L McFarland teachings)

a. Jesus was so meek that He had no emotional intensity ever.
b. Christians should be so meek that they are never noticed.
c. The current earth does not belong to Christians; their meekness here will NOT be their meekness on the New Earth
d. Meekness means that Followers of Christ must be gentle to spread the Gospel to all corners of the world

87. When Jesus says that the meek “shall inherit the earth,” which earth is He talking about? (Kathy L McFarland teachings)

a. Heaven
b. Hell
c. Old Earth
d. New Earth
e. New Heaven

88. How should Christians behave on this Old Earth? (Kathy L McFarland teachings)

a. Meek, gentle, mild.
b. Forceful, opiniated, political
c. Angelic, holier than others, and inspired
d. Religious, preaching, praising in public

89. (True or False) If you carry and posture with guns, knives, machetes aggressively, concealed or otherwise, you are not being meek. (Kathy L McFarland teachings)

a. True
b. False

90. How is meekness shown in the clothing types that Christians choose? (Kathy L McFarland teachings)

a. Women can show bosoms and wear tight clothes if everything is covered
b. Men can wear tight pants that shows bulges but no actual skin
c. Men and women should buy the best and most expensive looking clothes, and take many pictures and poses, to show the benefits of belonging to the Kingdom of God.
d. Both men and women should dress conservatively, with all parts of the body (including the face of women) covered.
e. A good rule is if clothing or lack of it draws attention, it is wrong for the Christian, and does not show meekness.

91. (True or False) Believers dancing with holiness in praise of the LORD God during worship can be meek if done inside the church setting. (Kathy L McFarland teachings)

a. True
b. False

92. (True or False) If a church opens its doors to invite the world within, and dances for entertainment’s sake with their dance moves emulating sex to possibly attract men or women, then it is justified for witness of Christ and is meek. (Kathy L McFarland teachings)

a. True
b. False

93. What should Christians do if the Lord chooses them for specific works that requires them to gain the attention of the world? (Kathy L McFarland teachings and personal thought)

a. Whatever the sanctioned works are, the Lord will provide you with the tools and equipment necessary
b. The works that require notice of the world can not always be conducted meekly (although Mother Teresa did a pretty good job at that part).
c. If the works must be exposed to worldly attention, it is for the notice of the works, not the notice of the Christians doing them.
d. All the above

94. What does the Greek word for “hunger” mean in Matthew 5:6?

a. Starving
b. Without food
c. Desire strongly
d. None of the above

95. What does the Greek word for “thirst” mean in Matthew 5:6?

a. Dehydrated
b. Dry
c. Desire Strongly for a spiritual need that God can satisfy
d. None of the above

96. (True or False) Christ says that those that desire his teachings strongly, that have spiritual needs that cause a searching of God’s Word, will NOT be blessed. (Matthew 5:6)

a. True
b. False

97. (True or False) “Those that show compassion on the lowly” is the Greek meaning of “merciful.” (Matthew 5:6)

a. True
b. False

98. What is the attribute of mercy and faithfulness of a High Priest make? (Hebrews 2:17-18)

a. Reconciliation for the sins of the people
b. Forgiveness for the sins of the people
c. Acceptance for the past sins of the people
d. None of the above

99. (True or False) Christ will give mercy to us if He sees Christians giving mercy to those lower than them. (Hebrews 2:17-18)

a. True
b. False

100. What is the Standard of Christ concerning mercy that is contained within the Lord’s Prayer? (Matthew 6:9-15)

a. Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name
b. Thy kingdom come. They will be done in earth, as it is in heaven
c. Give us this day our daily bread
d. And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors.
e. And lead us not into temptation but deliver us from evil.
f. For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, forever.
g. Amen.

101. (Fill in the blank) Before forgiveness can be offered, ________________must be bestowed. (Matthew 6:9-15)

a. Rewards
b. Mercy
c. Reconciliation
d. An Amen

102. (True or False) Pure in heart means to be clean, ritually clear of responsibility, and innocent. (Matthew 5:8)

a. True
b. False

103. (True or False) To be “ritually clear of responsibility” means that Christians no longer must sacrifice a lamb for their sins. (Matthew 5:8)

a. True
b. False

104. (True or False) Christ’s blood washes His Followers completely, once and for all. (Matthew 5:8)

a. True
b. False

105. When there are differences between Christians, what should they NOT do. Mark all that apply. (Matthew 5:9)

a. Reconcile
b. Make war
c. Gossip
d. Make trouble
e. Fight
f. Be hypocritical
g. Riot
h. Make peace

106. (True or False) Christians must sometimes fight to force their belief and Christ’s standards upon anyone. (Matthew 5:9)

a. True
b. False

107. (True or False) If the LORD God is not directing the fight and sharing His mighty power with you to be victorious, then you must be at peace with everyone in your life. (Matthew 5:9)

a. True
b. False

108. (True or False) Christians ARE ALWAYS persecuted for righteousness’ sake. (Matthew 5:9)

a. True
b. False

109. (True or False) We have learned from our study of the Beatitudes that it is about all CHRISTIANS!

a. True
b. False

110. (True or False) Christians will inherit all things listed in the Beatitudes, because to be Christian means to always do these teachings.

a. True
b. False

111. (True or False) No instruction of these Standards of Christ in the Beatitudes requires specialized training. If you are a Christian, you do them.

a. True
b. False

112. (True or False) The Beatitude blessings are exactly what Christians carry with them as a direct result of following the Teachings of Christ.

a. True
b. False

113. (True or False) The Beatitudes are like “reasonable rewards” that come to all Christians. (Romans 12:1-3; Kathy L McFarland teachings)

a. True
b. False

114. (True or False) The rest of the Sermon on the Mount records Jesus Christ preparing His Disciples with the new Standards that do not come automatically to Christians.

a. True
b. False

Ephesians

Epaphras, a leader in the Colossian church, visited Paul while a prisoner at Rome to seek his apostolic help in dealing with the Colossian heresy. In response, Paul wrote the Colossians in opposition to their doctrinal error. Part of the defense of his position pictured Christ as head of the universe and of the church. After completing Colossians, Paul, with this idea of Christ’s headship still fresh in mind, wrote Ephesians to spell out the logical outcome of this doctrine: if Christ is the church’s Head, then Christians are members of His body; that is, believers enjoy an intimate relationship with Him, and thus have a unique relation with one another. Paul seeks to present the church as members of Jesus’ body, possessing the closest possible relationship with Him and each other. Paul also stresses that both the Jewish and Gentile Christians share the same intimacy in God’s family, and stand before Him on the same common ground of grace. These two doctrines join to make the theme of Ephesians that Jewish and Gentile believers are “one new man”.

Ephesians 1

1:1-2 Greeting
1:3-14 Spiritual blessings in Christ
1:15-23 Prayer for knowledge and understanding

Ephesians 2

2:1-10 Grace and faith
2:11-22 The unity of all believers

Ephesians 3

3:1-13 Paul’s mission to the Gentiles
3:14-21 Prayer for inner growth

Ephesians 4

4:1-13 The unity of the Spirit
4:14-32 The new life in Christ

Ephesians 5

5:1-21 The ways of the believer
5:22-33 Marriage is symbolic of the church

Ephesians 6

6:1-9 Advice to children and servants
6:10-20 The whole armor of God
6:21-24 Final greetings

Galatians

Paul had led the Galatians to Christ. They had made a good start in the Christian life and were doing well spiritually. Later, some Jewish teachers (called Judaizers) taught the Galatians that to be saved one must not only believe in Christ, but must also obey the Mosaic Law, the sign of which is circumcision. In preaching this heresy, they also attacked Paul’s apostleship and gospel. Their false teachings begin to hinder the Galatian’s obedience to the LORD GOD, and they were starting to observe some parts of the law, as well as considering a complete acceptance of the law.

Paul writes his epistle to expose the error of the Judaizers’ gospel and their impure motives. His ultimate goal is to prevent the readers from embracing a false gospel and to encourage them to retain their spiritual freedom in Christ. Paul’s focus is the justification by God’s grace through faith, the true message of salvation received directly from Jesus Christ.

Galatians 1

1:1-5 Greeting
1:6-10 There is no other gospel
1:11-24 Paul’s ministry of the true gospel

Galatians 2

2:1-10 Paul’s ministry of the true gospel (continued)
2:11-14 Paul rebukes Peter at Antioch
2:15-21 Justification is not of the law

Galatians 3

3:1-5 Freedom from the law
3:6-18 God’s covenant with Abraham
3:19-29 Purpose of the law

Galatians 4

4:1-7 Purpose of the law (continued)
4:8-20 Faith and the law
4:21-31 The allegory of Hagar and Sarah

Galatians 5

5:1-15 Living by faith
5:16-26 Walking in the Spirit

Galatians 6

6:1-10 Applications of new principles
6:11-18 Paul glories in the cross

error

Enjoy this blog? Please spread the word :)