How to interpret the Bible

(Jump to Basic truth; General principles of interpretation by Dr. Bernard Ramm; Six questions to ask in interpreting a Bible passage by J.I. Packer; “Big Pictures” in interpreting the Bible by Wayne Grudem; Principles of Biblical Interpretation, L-I-G-H-T-S to the Word of God by Hank Hanegraff; The Interpretive Process from “Basics of Bible Interpretation” by Bob Smith, Peninsula Bible Church, with excellent chapters like “The Greeks Had a Word for It” and “Helpful Hints on Hebrew”; Principle of progressive revelation; How to study the Bible, from “Straight Up” blog by Pastor James Macdonald, Harvest Bible Fellowship; Bible Interpretation from Learn the Bible University; Interpreting The Bible video blog series by Pastor Jeff Kluttz, First Baptist Church, Needville, Texas; “Arcing” method of Biblical interpretation by Daniel Fuller / John Piper; Five rules of Hermeneutics by Tim LaHaye; Ten rules of Hermeneutics by R. C. Sproul)

The entrance of thy words giveth light; it giveth understanding unto the simple (Psalm 119:130)

And beginning at Moses and all the prophets, he expounded unto them in all the scriptures the things concerning himself (Luke 24:27)

But the word of the Lord was unto them precept upon precept, precept upon precept; line upon line, line upon line; here a little, and there a little; (Isaiah 28: 13)

And Ezra the priest brought the law before the congregation both of men and women, and all that could hear with understanding, upon the first day of the seventh month.

And he read therein before the street that was before the water gate from the morning until midday, before the men and the women, and those that could understand; and the ears of all the people were attentive unto the book of the law.

And Ezra the scribe stood upon a pulpit of wood, which they had made for the purpose; and beside him stood Mattithiah, and Shema, and Anaiah, and Urijah, and Hilkiah, and Maaseiah, on his right hand; and on his left hand, Pedaiah, and Mishael, and Malchiah, and Hashum, and Hashbadana, Zechariah, and Meshullam.

And Ezra opened the book in the sight of all the people; (for he was above all the people;) and when he opened it, all the people stood up:

And Ezra blessed the Lord, the great God. And all the people answered, Amen, Amen, with lifting up their hands: and they bowed their heads, and worshipped the Lord with their faces to the ground.

Also Jeshua, and Bani, and Sherebiah, Jamin, Akkub, Shabbethai, Hodijah, Maaseiah, Kelita, Azariah, Jozabad, Hanan, Pelaiah, and the Levites, caused the people to understand the law: and the people stood in their place.

So they read in the book in the law of God distinctly, and gave the sense, and caused them to understand the reading. (Nehemiah 8:2-8)

Basic truth: The Bible must be interpreted according to its historical, literary and grammatical context.

The Bible must be interpreted by its historical context:

[1] A verse, chapter or entire book of the Bible must be interpreted according to its purpose which may be explicitly stated (1 John 5:13, John 20:31) or implied (Galatians 1:6 3:1 and 6:12.).

[2] The verse, chapter or whole book must be examined and interpreted by its chronology or time context, geography, and culture.

The Bible must be interpreted by its literary context, that is, by its form (poetry, narratives, proverbs, parables, epistles or letters), and the figures of speech used.

The Bible must be interpreted by its grammatical context:

[1] The Old Testament was written in Hebrew and the New Testament in koine Greek. A knowledge of Hebrew and Greek can be an invaluable tool in interpreting the Bible.

[2] Every Biblical text must be interpreted in the context of larger grammatical units (words, phrases, clauses, sentences, paragraphs, chapters and books).

[3] Each book of the Bible must be interpreted in view of the Bible’s unity.

General principles of interpretation, by Dr. Bernard Ramm

1. Since spiritual truth is spiritually discerned, to understand the thoughts of God the interpreter must be “born again” by the Spirit. (1 Corinthians 2:9, 3:4 and John 3:3).
2. The priority of the original languages.
3. Scripture interprets Scripture. (1 Corinthians 2:13; Isaiah 28:10, 13).
4. Clear systematic teaching passages should interpret shorter incidental passages.
5. God’s truth has been progressively revealed through the ages.
6. The New Testament interprets the Old Testament for the purpose of doctrine. (Hebrews 1:1-2; John 1:16; 2 Corinthians 3:6-18; Acts 20:27).
7. Correct interpretations consider the context and this might be the whole book.
8. If a passage is clearly not literal but figurative, determine what form the passage exhibits and follow special principles of interpretation for each one. Common forms are word figures (metaphor, metonymy, synecdoche); thought figures (simile, parable, allegory, personification, interrogation, irony, hyperbole, ellipsis, euphemism); poetry, types, symbols and prophecy.
9. Clear and extended apostolic teaching passages of Scripture must always interpret figurative passages that are unclear and not vice-versa.
10. The principle of first mention can be helpful in understanding a prophecy. Note when the term was first used in Holy Scripture and under what circumstances.

Six questions to ask in interpreting a Bible passage (from J.I. Packer’s A Quest for Godliness: The Puritan Vision of the Christian Life)

1. What do these words actually mean?
2. What light do other Scriptures throw on this text? Where and how does it fit into the total biblical revelation?
3. What truths does it teach about God, and about man in relation to God?
4. How are these truths related to the saving work of Christ, and what light does the gospel of Christ throw upon them?
5. What experiences do these truths delineate, or explain, or seek to create or cure? For what practical purpose do they stand in Scripture?
6. How do they apply to myself and others in our own actual situation? To what present human condition do they speak, and what are they telling us to believe and do?

“Big Pictures” in interpreting the Bible, by Wayne Grudem

Big Picture 1: The Bible is a historical document. Therefore, always ask, “What did the author want the original readers to understand by this statement?”

Big Picture 2: The original authors wanted the original readers to respond in some ways. Therefore, always ask, “What application did the original author want the readers to make to their lives?”

Big Picture 3: The whole Bible is about God! Therefore, we should always ask, “What does this text tell us about God?”

Big Picture 4: The center of the whole Bible is Jesus Christ. The entire Old Testament leads up to him and points to him, and the entire New Testament flows from him. Therefore, we should always ask, “What does this text tell us about the greatness of Christ?”

Big Picture 5: All history can be divided into several major “ages” or “epochs” in salvation history. Therefore, we should read every passage of the Bible with a salvation history timeline in our minds and constantly remember where every passage fits on the timeline.

Big Picture 6: Themes: Because the Bible is a unity (it has one divine Author though many human authors), there are many themes that develop and grow from Genesis to Revelation. Therefore, for each significant element in any text, it is helpful to ask,

(a) Where did this theme start in the Bible?

(b) How did this theme develop through the Bible?

(c) Where is this theme going to end in the Bible?

Principles of Biblical Interpretation, L-I-G-H-T-S to the Word of God, by Hank Hanegraaff

L (Literal Interpretation)

I (Illumination by the Holy Spirit)

G (Grammatical Principles)

H (Historical Context)

T (Teaching Ministry)

S (Scriptural Harmony)

The Interpretive Process, from Basics of Bible Interpretation by Bob Smith, Peninsula Bible Church (with excellent chapters like “The Greeks Had a Word for It” and “Helpful Hints on Hebrew”)

Then we should change our approach to that of a news reporter, who must constantly ask and answer the who, what, when, where, why, and how of his subject.

Who is writing? About whom? And to whom?

About what is he writing? That is, we must try to discover the major subject he seeks to cover. What is the situation of writer and reader? What circumstances surround them? What is their nationality and cultural setting? What is their recent history? What is the exact meaning of the words used?

What literary form has the writer used: poetry, parable, narrative, history, logical argumentative discourse, prophecy?

When is the action taking place, especially in relation to the rest of biblical history?

Where is the action taking place? Where is the writer going with his argument? Where does he expect to carry his hearers?

Why is the book or passage being written? Why does the writer move from one topic to another in his discourse? Why is he angry, or excited, or pleading, or commanding, or exhorting?

How does he proceed to present his subject, through what logical steps or progress of thought? How does he seek to persuade his hearers? How does he relate personally to the message he is declaring? How does he introduce his subject? How does he conclude his communication? How is he motivated to write? How is he related to the ultimate Author of his book? How has he responded to the truth he is declaring? How have the intervening centuries clouded his content through changes in word meanings, cultural differences, and the changed viewpoints of modern man? How has he managed to communicate unchanging truth, in spite of all? How does his writing affect my approach to the facts of life and alter my life style?

The Principle of Progressive Revelation, by Dr. Robert C. Stone, Senior Pastor, Hillcrest Chapel, Bellingham, Virginia (download PDF)

The Bible is progressive revelation. A basic understanding of the Bible is that God chose not to tell us everything He intended, all at once. The revelation became fuller in content and meaning as it progressed. This does not mean the former truths became untruthful, but simply that former truth was made clearer by the addition of more details or information. The most obvious example of this is the progression of revelation from the Old to the New Testament.

Progressive revelation means, then, that each truth was made clearer by the addition of more and more of God’s truth. As time unraveled, the purpose of God became clearer and fuller (e.g., the enlargement of the ideas of ethics, worship and redemption in the Bible).

False understandings of progressive revelation, by Pastor Jeff Kluttz, First Baptist Church Needville, Texas

That revelation continues post-canonization of scripture.

Latter Rain Movement - Loose affiliation (group) which contends that God is speaking to them, extra-biblically, concerning new truths which were formerly hidden. They use Daniel 12:8-9 as a proof-text for their assertions.

The words “sealed up” were already revealed. Daniel wrote them. The teaching is not that - new words will come at the end – but that these words are sealed until the end. Or, that these things will not be understood until they unfold.

Latter Rain proponents teach that the seal has been broken on revelation. There is no proof as to how exactly they know this. They assert that now - they are learning new things. They do not prove how they are - learning these new things systematically:

It may be visions, dreams, etc. all unconfirmed by Scripture.

The homosexual - religious movement

A great movement is underway in various apostate denominations and extra-biblical pseudo-Christian groups which are purporting that God has revealed via progressive revelation that homosexuality is no longer wrong; or that it was never wrong at all, but mankind - got it wrong in their interpretation.

The UCC (nationally) has used this general claim in their acceptance of homosexuality in the church. Their campaign was entitled ―God is still speaking. Their website claims:

God continues to shed more light and truth in our world. In a similar way, we are not limited by past understandings of scripture, but we seek new insights and help for living the faith today. God is not finished with us yet.

Obviously, the issue with both movements – and others with this skewed and erroneous view of progressive revelation – is that God is still creating doctrinal truths, outside of his Word. Thus, doctrine is not determined by scripture alone (sola scriptura) but by scripture – and dreams – and visions – and other alternative revelations; each unverifiable and un-affirmed by Christ and the apostles.

“Arcing” method of Biblical interpretation by Daniel Fuller / John Piper

“Biblical Exegesis: Discovering the Meaning of Scriptural Texts” (PDF, 34 pages, 1.2 MB) by Dr. John T. Piper is a concise explanation of the system of “arcing” developed by Daniel Fuller, Professor-Emeritus at Fuller Theological Seminary. As Piper explains, “Arcing is a schematic way of representing the kinds of relationships between all propositions in any coherent writing leading to a simplified summary of the argument which shows the role played by each part in the argument.”

Chapter 6 of “Interpreting the Pauline Epistles” by Tom Schreiner (professor, The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary) explains in detail the “arcing” method.

Piper states why he finds arcing very valuable:

“The point of seeing propositions in relationship is not merely to elucidate the meaning of each proposition, but also to help us grasp the flow of an author’s argument. It was a life-changing revelation to me when I discovered that Paul, for example, did not merely make a collection of divine pronouncements, but that he argued. This meant, for me, a whole new approach to Bible reading. No longer did I just read or memorize verses. I sought also to understand and memorize arguments. This involved finding the main point of each literary unit and then seeing how each proposition fit together to unfold and support the main point.”

For example, the diagram at the left illustrates how arcing can be used in finding the meaning of Romans 12:1-2. As Piper explains, “Notice the structure of the final arcing. There is now one arc over the whole, which suggests that we have gotten a glimpse of the main thesis of this unit. Under this one arc are two arcs related as action-purpose. Under the larger of these are another two arcs related as action-purpose. Under the larger of these are two arcs related as negative-positive. In other words, the smallest arcs are gradually grouped together into larger units, that are then related to other units until there is one arc over the whole. We can then see how each of the smaller propositions functions to help communicate one main point. It cannot be determined in advance which units to arc together first. This comes from guided practice.”

The diagram to the right shows a longer passage like Luke 12:35-38 looks like when arced. Listed below are highlights of Piper’s summary of the arcing method:

• A proposition is a simple assertion about something.
• Whether you are reading the Greek or English New Testament, you must attend to the appropriate rules of grammar if the meaning of an author’s propositions is to be understood.
• Just as words derive meaning from their use in a proposition, so a proposition receives its precise meaning from its use in relationship to other propositions.
• The point of seeing propositions in relationship is not merely to elucidate the meaning of each proposition, but also to help us grasp the flow of an author’s argument.
• The relationships between propositions fall into two major classes: coordinate relationships and subordinate relationships. Two clauses have a coordinate relationship if one does not support the other in some way, but each is independent and makes its own contribution to the whole.
• Coordinate relationships between propositions (non-supportive) are series, progression and alternative
• Subordinate relationships between propositions (supportive) are: action-manner; comparison; negative-positive; idea-explanation; question-answer; ground (main clause-causal clause); inference (main clause-inferential clause); action-result (main clause-result clause); action-purpose (main clause-purpose clause); conditional (main clause-conditional clause); locative (main clause-locative clause); bilateral; concessive; and situation-response.

Five rules of Hermeneutics by Tim LaHaye

1. Take the Bible Literally. Do not spiritualize the Bible.
2. Keep it in Context. Do not lift a verse out of context to use it as a proof text because text out of context is a pretext.
3. Watch out for Idioms. Idioms change from generation to generation even in their own language; imagine how they change after 2,000 years from an ancient language from a different hemisphere.
4. Be Alert to the Figurative use of Language. Authors use figures of speech that can not be taken literally. The context is the key; it will tell you when to take a word literally or to find the figurative meaning.
5. Treat Parables Differently. An earthly story with a heavenly meaning. Parables have one central truth. Every illustration can be distorted when every detail of a parable is forced to take on an unintended meaning.

Ten rules of Hermeneutics from “Knowing Scripture” by R. C. Sproul

1. The Bible is to be read like any other book.
2. The Bible should be read existentially.
3. Historical narratives are to be interpreted by the didactic.
4. The implicit is to be interpreted by the explicit.
5. Determine carefully the meaning of words.
6. Note the presence of parallelisms in the Bible.
7. Note the difference between Proverbs and Law.
8. Observe the difference between the spirit and the letter of the law.
9. Be careful with parables.
10. Be careful with predictive prophecy.

Further study (Be like the Bereans! Acts 17:11)

[1] Chicago Statement on Biblical Hermeneutics, with commentary by Norman L. Geisler (download PDF)

The Chicago Statement on Biblical Hermeneutics was composed at Summit I of the International Council on Biblical Inerrancy. The summit took place in Chicago on October 26–28, 1978 for the purpose of affirming afresh the doctrine of the inerrancy of Scripture, making clear the understanding of it and warning against its denial.

Participants agreed that belief in the inerrancy of Scripture is basic, but valuable only as one’s understanding of the meaning of Scripture. Summit II was held in Chicago on November 10–13, 1982. A consensus statement of approximately one hundred participants and observers was formulated. (From Wikipedia)

[2] Sermons by Dr. Ron Dunn

How to Interpret the Bible for Yourself (1 of 3)
How to Interpret the Bible for Yourself (2 of 3)
How to Read Your Bible (3 of 3)

[3] How to study the Bible, from “Straight Up” blog by Pastor James Macdonald, Harvest Bible Fellowship

Principle 1: Seek to Understand the Authorial Intent

Principle 2: Understand What a Term or Event Meant to the Original Audience

Principle 3: Expect to See Unity Throughout the Scriptures

Principle 4: Use Scripture to Interpret Scripture

Principle 5: Move from the Clear to the Unclear

Principle 6: Attempt to resolve contradictory or difficult statements, but be willing to accept that human limitations may render a solution presently impossible.

How to Study the Bible: Interpretive Principle 7

[4] “Interpreting The Bible“ video blog series by Ptr. Jeff Kluttz, First Baptist Church Needville, Texas (download the PDF course notes)

• Interpreting the Bible Vlog Course Begins Today
• Interpreting The Bible Pt. 2 - Linguistic Principle
• Interpreting The Bible Pt. 3 - Historical/Cultural Principle
• Interpreting the Bible Pt. 4 - The Contextual Principle
• Bible Interpretation Pt. 05 - Contextual/Theological Principles
• Interpreting the Bible Pt. 6 - Resources
• Interpreting the Bible - Part 7 - The Golden Rule of Interpretation
• Interpreting the Bible - Part 8 - Applying The Golden Rule of Interpretation
• Interpreting the Bible - Parts 9-10
• Interpreting the Bible (Pt 11) - Double Reference (Pt. 2)
• Interpreting the Bible 12 - Progressive Revelation
• Interpreting The Bible 13 - The Law of First Mention
• Interpreting the Bible 14 - The Law of Recurrence
• Interpreting the Bible 15 - Hebrew Poetry

This series is a class study at First Baptist Church Needville on the topic of Biblical Hermeneutics, or the science of interpreting the scriptures. This course will unfold in three general phases:

The Principles: the truths which must be understood and considered when studying and interpreting scripture (such as historical, contextual, linguistic principles and others)

The Process: a deeper foray into the application of these principles, including study of several interpretive laws (the law of recurrence, the law of double reference, the golden rule of interpretation & others)

Practice: a time of extended application in which we will break apart and study the scriptures together, applying what we have learned. (finding the big idea of a paragraph, applying the principles and laws to ensure that the correct meaning, as understood by the original audience, is acquired)

[5] The Bible: Understanding Its Message, by J. Hampton Keathley, III , Th.M.

[6] Interpretation, Illumination and Application, by Sid Litke, Th.M.

[7] The Bible: God’s Living and Authoritative Word, by Greg Herrick Th.M., Ph.D.

[8] Bible Interpretation by Steve Lewis, High Peaks Bible Fellowship

Introduction to Bible Interpretation
This session discusses the need and the importance of sound principles for Bible interpretation. [10 slides, 51 minutes]

Understanding the Language of the Bible
This section discusses how we can best understand the language of the Bible. It gives an overview of several English versions for Bible study, and describes how we can determine the meanings of biblical words and phrases. [11 slides, 46 minutes]

The Importance of Context in Interpreting the Bible
This section discusses the importance of interpreting a passage of Scripture within its context, because the meaning of the text is almost always determined by what surrounds it. Principles, examples, and resources are included for interpreting in context. [12 slides, 48 minutes]

Understanding the Setting of a Bible Passage
This section discusses the importance of understanding the historical, geographical, and cultural setting of a Bible passage. [18 slides, 72 minutes]

Special Topics in Bible Interpretation
This section discusses special topics in Bible interpretation, including figurative language of several kinds (parables, symbols, types, prophecy). [13 slides, 59 minutes]

Applying the Scriptures to Our Lives Today
This section discusses the issues of alleged contradictions and difficulties in the Bible, the systematic unity of the Scriptures, and the principles for correctly applying the message of the Bible to our lives today. [15 slides, 67 minutes]

[9] Bible Interpretation, by David F. Reagan (from Learn the Bible University, Antioch Baptist Church, Knoxville, Tennessee)

Bible Interpretation I

Lesson 1 (listen to part 1 and part 2; download mp3 part 1 and part 2)
Lesson 2 (listen to part 1 and part 2; download mp3 part 1 and part 2)
Lesson 3 (listen to part 1 and part 2; download mp3 part 1 and part 2)
Lesson 4 (listen to part 1 and part 2; download mp3 part 1 and part 2)
Lesson 5 (listen to part 1 and part 2; download mp3 part 1 and part 2)
Lesson 6 (listen to part 1 and part 2; download mp3 part 1 and part 2)

Bible Interpretation II

Lesson 1 (listen to part 1 and part 2; download mp3 part 1 and part 2)
Lesson 2 (listen to part 1 and part 2; download mp3 part 1 and part 2)
Lesson 3 (listen to part 1 and part 2; download mp3 part 1 and part 2)
Lesson 4 (listen to part 1 and part 2; download mp3 part 1 and part 2)
Lesson 5 (listen to part 1 and part 2; download mp3 part 1 and part 2)
Lesson 6 (listen to audio; download mp3)

Sermons on Psalm 119 (Be like the Bereans! Acts 17:11)

[1] Centrality of God's Word, by Thomas C. Black

[2] Psalm 119 - The Grand Canyon of Scripture's Greatness and Sufficiency, by Philip G Layton, Gold Country Baptist Church, California, USA

Notes: (1) This ministry does not necessarily endorse or share all the views and opinions expressed in the materials, resources or links mentioned in these posts. Please always refer to the Articles of Faith and Biblical distinctives of Baptists when you study these materials. (2) This lesson is part of the projected 300 plus lessons. From time to time, the lessons will be updated, revised, combined, formatted, and edited to comply with the VOA Simplified English word list. Later on, these lessons will be categorized, numbered sequentially, and made available as PDF downloads. (3) Photo source: ChristianPhotos.Net - Free High Resolution Photos for Christian Publications

The verbal and plenary inspiration of the Bible

“All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: That the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works.” (2 Timothy 3:16-17)

We believe that the Holy Bible was written by men supernaturally inspired; that it has truth without any admixture of error for its matter; and therefore is, and shall remain to the end of the age, the only complete and final revelation of the will of God to man; the true center of Christian union and the supreme standard by which all human conduct, creeds and opinions should be tried.

By the "Bible" we mean that collection of sixty-six books, from Genesis to Revelation, which, as originally written does not only contain and convey the Word of God, but is the very Word of God.

By "inspiration" we mean that the books of the Bible were written by holy men of old, as they were moved by the Holy Spirit, in such a definite way that their writings were supernaturally and verbally inspired and free from error, as no other writings have ever been or ever will be inspired.

(from Articles of Faith: Of the Scriptures)

Basic truths:

[1] God specifically revealed himself to mankind through the Bible.

[2] The Bible is inspired. God superintended the authors of the Old and New Testaments such that what they wrote were exactly what He wanted to be written.

Definition of terms

[1] The word “inspiration” describes the process by which God gave the Bible to man. He did not mechanically dictate the Scriptures to the human authors. Rather, He superintended or “carried along” the writers (2 Peter 1:21) without destroying their individual vocabularies, writing styles, etc.

[2] The term “plenary inspiration” means that Bible as a whole is the Word of God. The Bible does not merely contain God's Word. It is God's Word. Each and every word is fully inspired (Matt 5:18).

[3] The term “verbal inspiration” means that God guided the human authors of the Bible as to the very words they used (1 Corinthians 2:13).

The divine aspect of inspiration

[1] God is the source of all Scripture (2 Timothy 3:16)

[2] The Bible is “inerrant” or without error (Titus 1:2; John 17:17). Since God Himself is the source of the Scriptures, they are without error. Furthermore, since the entire Bible is inspired, the entire Bible is inerrant.

[3] The Bible is “infallible” or authoritative on all matters (John 10:35; 2 Peter 1:3).

[4] The Bible is relevant (2 Timothy 3:16).

Difference between inerrancy and infallibility

Inerrancy emphasizes the Bible’s truthfulness. Infallibility, on the other hand, emphasizes its authority. Because the Bible is the infallible Word of God, it is the final authority on all matters.

The human aspect of inspiration

[1] The Bible was written in human language, the Old Testament in Hebrew and the New Testament in “koine” or common Greek.

[2] The Bible was written over more than 1,500 years by over 40 different authors. Each author wrote from the context of his own personal, family and cultural background, personality, vocation, circumstances, etc. God superintended or “carried along” the writers (2 Peter 1:21) without destroying their individual vocabularies, writing styles, etc. in such a way that the final product was exactly what He wanted. We can see for example, the differences between the Gospel written by John and the epistles written by Apostle Paul.

Further study (Be like the Bereans! Acts 17:11)

[1] A Theological Journey: Pt. 1 Our Foundation, by Luke Harris

[2] Can I Trust the Bible? by Randy Weece

[3] Archeological Finds Confirm The Bible, by Jarred Edgecombe

[4] Inspiration and Inerrancy, by M. James Sawyer, Th.M., Ph.D.

[6] The Bible: The Inerrant Word of God, by J. Hampton Keathley, III, Th.M

For available sermons, please surf to Sermon / Preaching resources. Sermons are also available from South McGehee Baptist Church, McGehee, Arizona; Central Baptist Church, Lowesville; First Baptist Church, Mountain View, Missouri; Swift Creek Baptist Church; Word of Life Baptist Church, Pottsville, Philadelphia; Palm Springs Baptist Church, California; South Woods Baptist Church; Grove Baptist Church, Ulster; Dudley Baptist Church, United Kingdom; Independent Fundamental Baptist Sermons, Fundamental Christian Radio Broadcasts, Off-Site Audio Page and The Christian Radio Tuner



“How firm a foundation, ye saints of the Lord, is laid for your faith in His excellent Word! What more can He say than to you He hath said, to you who for refuge to Jesus have fled?”

Notes: (1) This ministry does not necessarily endorse or share all the views and opinions expressed in the materials, resources or links mentioned in these posts. Please always refer to the Articles of Faith and Biblical distinctives of Baptists when you study these materials. (2) This lesson is part of the projected 300 plus lessons. From time to time, the lessons will be updated, revised, combined, formatted, and edited to comply with the VOA Simplified English word list. Later on, these lessons will be categorized, numbered sequentially, and made available as PDF downloads.

God’s special revelation of Himself to mankind

Basic truth: God has revealed truth about Himself specifically. The Bible is the only means of special revelation today.

Special revelation is that revelation of God that speaks directly to who He is, His will, and His ways. That revelation comes by way of the Lord Jesus Christ and His word: the Scriptures. This revelation is a potentially saving revelation of God. The Holy Spirit uses the word of God in the lives of some to effect the new birth. That’s why Paul said in Rom. 1:16, “I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ, for it is the power of God unto salvation…” (from Worldviews: God Explains it All - Part II, by Dr. Paul J. Dean)

The means of special revelation

A. In the past, God revealed specific information about Himself in different ways (Hebrews 1:1)

[1] Dreams (Genesis 20:3, 6 and 31:10 13).

[2] Visions (Isaiah 1:1 and 6:1).

[3] Angels (Luke 2:8 14).

[4] Direct address (Exodus 3:4ff).

[5] Prophets (Habakkuk 2:2 3).

B. God's special revelation culminated with Christ.

[1] Christ is God's final revelation to man. Christ is superior to all other means of special revelation (Hebrews 1:1-2)

[2] The Old Testament pointed to Christ (Luke 24:27) There are numerous Old Testament prophecies about Christ:

His birth (Gen 3:15; Gal 4:4); his lineage (Gen 49:10; Luke 3:33); his place of birth (Micah 5:2; Luke 2:4-7); his Galilean ministry of compassion and judgment (Isa 9:1-2; Matt 4:14-16); that he was the prophet to come (Deut 18:15, 18-19; Acts 3:20, 22); that he would function as a priest (Psalm 110:4; Heb 5:5-6); his betrayal (Psalm 41:9; Luke 22:47-48); his being sold for thirty pieces of silver (Zech 11:11-12; Matt 26:15; 27:1-10); his violent death (Zech 12:10; John 20:27); his resurrection (Psalm 16:10; Luke 24:7; Acts 2:25-28); his exaltation to God’s right hand (Psalm 110:1; Acts 2:33-34), his eternal reign in fulfillment of Davidic promise (2 Sam 7:12-16; Psalm 110:1; Isa 55:3; Acts 2:33-34; 13:22-23, 32-34). (from “Christology: Jesus Christ” by Greg Herrick Th.M., Ph.D.)

Further study (Be like the Bereans! Acts 17:11)

[1] How the Bible Came From God to You, by David Weidlich

[2] The Old Testament in the New Testament (from Baker's Evangelical Dictionary of Biblical Theology)

[3] Theology of Hebrews (from Baker's Evangelical Dictionary of Biblical Theology)

[4] The names of Christ:

And He shall be called...Advocate (1 John 2:1); Lamb of God (John 1:29); The Resurrection and the Life (John 11:25); Shepherd and Bishop of Souls (1 Peter 2:25); Judge (Acts 10:42); Lord of Lords (1 Timothy 6:15); Man of Sorrows (Isaiah 53:3); Head of the Church (Ephesians 5:23); Master (Matthew 8:19); Faithful and True Witness (Revelation 3:14); Rock (1 Corinthians 10:4); High Priest (Hebrews 6:20); The Door (John 10:9); Living Water (John 4:10); Bread of Life (John 6:35); Rose of Sharon (Song of Solomon 2:1); Alpha and Omega (Revelation 22:13); True Vine (John 15:1); Messiah (Daniel 9:25); Teacher (John 3:2); Holy One (Mark 1:24) Mediator (1 Timothy 2:5); The Beloved (Ephesians 1:6); Branch (Isaiah 11:1); Carpenter (Mark 6:3); Good Shepherd (John 10:11); Light of the World (John 8:12); Image of the Invisible God (Colossians 1:15); The Word (John 1:1); Chief Cornerstone (Ephesians 2:20); Savior (John 4:42); Servant (Matthew 12:18); Author and Finisher of Our Faith (Hebrews 12:2); The Almighty (Revelation 1:8); Everlasting Father (Isaiah 9:6); Shiloh (Genesis 49:10); Lion of the Tribe of Judah (Revelation 5:5); I Am (John 8:58; King of Kings (1 Timothy 6:15); Prince of Peace (Isaiah 9:6); Bridegroom (Matthew 9:15); Only Begotten Son (John 3:16); Wonderful Counselor (Isaiah 9:6); Immanuel (Matthew 1:23); Son of Man (Matthew 20:28); Dayspring (Luke 1:78); The Amen (Revelation 3:14); King of the Jews (Mark 15:26); Prophet (Matthew 21:11); Redeemer (Job 19:25); Anchor (Hebrews 6:19); Bright Morning Star (Revelation 22:16) The Way, the Truth, and the Life (John 14:6)

Sermons (Be like the Bereans! Acts 17:11)

[1] God Has Spoken, by Kenneth W. Burton

[2] Introduction to Hebrews, by Tad Wychopen

[3] For other available sermons, please surf to Sermon / Preaching resources. Sermons are also available from South McGehee Baptist Church, McGehee, Arizona; Central Baptist Church, Lowesville; First Baptist Church, Mountain View, Missouri; Swift Creek Baptist Church; Word of Life Baptist Church, Pottsville, Philadelphia; Palm Springs Baptist Church, California; South Woods Baptist Church; Grove Baptist Church, Ulster; Dudley Baptist Church, United Kingdom; Independent Fundamental Baptist Sermons, Fundamental Christian Radio Broadcasts, Off-Site Audio Page and The Christian Radio Tuner

Notes: (1) This blog uses RefTagger. Simply mouse over any verse reference and a popup box will appear with the KJV citation; (2) This ministry does not necessarily endorse or share all the views and opinions expressed in the materials, resources or links mentioned in these posts. Please always refer to the Articles of Faith and Biblical distinctives of Baptists when you study these materials. (3) This lesson is part of the projected 300 plus lessons. From time to time, the lessons will be updated, revised, combined, formatted, and edited to comply with the VOA Simplified English word list. Later on, these lessons will be categorized, numbered sequentially, and made available as PDF downloads.

God’s general revelation of Himself to mankind

When we try to imagine what God is like we must of necessity use that-which-is-not-God as the raw material for our minds to work on; hence whatever we visualize God to be, He is not, for we have constructed our image out of that which He has made and what He has made is not God.

If we insist upon trying to imagine Him, we end with an idol, made not with hands but with thoughts; and an idol of the mind is as offensive to God as an idol of the hand.

(“God Incomprehensible”, by A.W. Tozer, from his book “Knowledge of the Holy”)

Basic truth: God has revealed Himself generally to mankind through creation and conscience.

[1] God reveals Himself to mankind through creation.

Psalms 19:1-4

1. The heavens declare the glory of God; and the firmament sheweth his handywork.
2. Day unto day uttereth speech, and night unto night sheweth knowledge.
3. There is no speech nor language, where their voice is not heard.
4. Their line is gone out through all the earth, and their words to the end of the world. In them hath he set a tabernacle for the sun.

Romans 1:18-20

18. For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who hold the truth in unrighteousness;
19. Because that which may be known of God is manifest in them; for God hath shewed it unto them.
20. For the invisible things of him from the creation of the world are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even his eternal power and Godhead; so that they are without excuse:

[2] God has revealed Himself through man’s conscience.

Romans 2:14 15

14. For when the Gentiles, which have not the law, do by nature the things contained in the law, these, having not the law, are a law unto themselves: 15. Which shew the work of the law written in their hearts, their conscience also bearing witness, and their thoughts the mean while accusing or else excusing one another;

The purposes of general revelation

Through general revelation, men understand that (1) God exists; (2) He is the Creator; and (3) He has established absolute and complete standards of right and wrong which must be obeyed (Romans 1:18-20, and 2:14-15).

General revelation renders men inexcusable before God. When men reject God, they are without excuse because He has clearly revealed Himself to all men (Romans 1:20).

The limits of general revelation

General revelation, however, cannot save. General revelation communicates enough truth about God to make men responsible to seek Him for salvation. However, it does not communicate the content of the Gospel (1 Corinthians 15). It communicates only enough truth to condemn men.

On the other hand, man’s conscience is a fallible guide to what is right and wrong.

Mankind responds to general revelation by suppressing it (Romans 1:18).

What about those who have never heard the Gospel?

If a man, looking at nature, the stars, etc. does what is right and wrong according to his conscience, won’t he be saved?

[1] “Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me” (John 14:6).

[2] “Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved” (Acts 4:12).

Definition of terms

[1] Revelation: in terms of divine revelation, it is God making himself known to the objects of that revelation, e.g., angels and people. The fact that God must make himself known in order for us to know him is necessary since we are finite and he is infinite, and we are sinful and he is holy. (from “Is the Bible the Only Revelation from God?”)

[2] General revelation: God making himself known in creation, providentially orchestrated history, and conscience (i.e., in conjunction with the moral law). Thus, it is general in the sense that it is equally available to all men and women, everywhere, all the time, and is less specific information about God than one acquires in special revelation. Special revelation refers to God making himself known through special acts (e.g., signs and miracles), appearances, Christ, and Scripture. (from “Is the Bible the Only Revelation from God?”)

[3] Mediate general revelation: God reveals Himself through the medium of creation.

[4] Immediate general revelation: God implants in all human beings an innate knowledge of Himself.

[5] Conscience: “the part of you that judges the morality of your own actions and makes you feel guilty about bad things that you have done or things you feel responsible for.” (from Cambridge Advanced Learner's Dictionary )

Further study (Be like the Bereans! Acts 17:11)

[1] Is the Bible the Only Revelation from God? by Greg Herrick Th.M., Ph.D.

[2] The Revelation of Righteousness, by Allen Ross, Th.D., Ph.D.

[2] No Excuse for the Heathen (Romans 1:18-32), by Bob Deffinbaugh , Th.M.

Sermons/ illustrations (Be like the Bereans! Acts 17:11)

[1] Are You Ashamed?

[2] God’s Wrath Against Unrighteousness

[3] For other available sermons, please surf to Sermon / Preaching resources. Sermons are also available from South McGehee Baptist Church, McGehee, Arizona; Central Baptist Church, Lowesville; First Baptist Church, Mountain View, Missouri; Swift Creek Baptist Church; Word of Life Baptist Church, Pottsville, Philadelphia; Palm Springs Baptist Church, California; South Woods Baptist Church; Grove Baptist Church, Ulster; Dudley Baptist Church, United Kingdom; Independent Fundamental Baptist Sermons, Fundamental Christian Radio Broadcasts, Off-Site Audio Page and The Christian Radio Tuner

Notes: (1) This blog uses RefTagger. Simply mouse over any verse reference and a popup box will appear with the KJV citation; (2) This ministry does not necessarily endorse or share all the views and opinions expressed in the materials, resources or links mentioned in these posts. Please always refer to the Articles of Faith and Biblical distinctives of Baptists when you study these materials. (3) This lesson is part of the projected 300 plus lessons. From time to time, the lessons will be updated, revised, combined, formatted, and edited to comply with the VOA Simplified English word list. Later on, these lessons will be categorized, numbered sequentially, and made available as PDF downloads.

God’s holiness and His love

“Sanctify yourselves therefore, and be ye holy: for I am the Lord your God.” (Leviticus 20: 7)

“Because it is written, Be ye holy; for I am holy.” (I Peter 1:16)

“He that loveth not knoweth not God; for God is love.” (I John 4:8)

Basic truth: God is holy in love. He always does what is best for us.

God's holiness has two aspects: He is separate (or set apart) from His creation, and He is morally pure. I John 1:5 states, "This then is the message which we have heard of him, and declare unto you, that God is light, and in him is no darkness at all."

The qualities of God described as holy are His name (Leviticus 22:32), His ways or actions (Psalm 77:13), and His name and dwelling place (Isaiah 57:15).

Because God is holy, He cannot be tempted to do evil, nor does He tempt anyone to do evil (James 1:13).

Qualities of God’s love

God’s love for mankind is an expression of His will and choice: “I will heal their backsliding, I will love them freely: for mine anger is turned away from him. ” (Hosea 14:4)

Because God is holy, His love cannot overlook sin. While I John 1: 8 says that God is love, His love is always marked by truth (Psalm 33:5), and justice (Ephesians 4:15).

God's love is sacrificial (John 3:16; 15:13; 1 John 4:9 10).

God's love is unconditional. Romans 5:8 states how God demonstrated His love for sinners by sending His Son to die for them.

God's love is unending (Jeremiah 31:3).

Consequences of God’s holiness for men

Because God is holy, we can see our sinfulness more clearly (Isaiah 6:1 5). We can be holy ourselves (1 Peter 1:15-16). We must fear, glorify, and worship God (Revelation 15:4).

Because of God’s holiness, we must sing to him (Psalm 30:4), exalt and worship Him (Psalm 99:9).

God expresses His love for believers by disciplining them (Hebrews 12:5 8).

The believer expresses his love for God by obeying Him (John 14:15).

We must love others (I John 4:8).

Further study / sermons (Be like the Bereans! Acts 17:11)

[1] From Knowledge of the Holy by A.W. Tozer: The Holiness of God, and The Love of God

[2] Sermons on 1 Peter 1:16 (a) Called To Be Saints, (b) Holy, Why?; and (c) “Live to be Holy”

[3] For other available sermons, please surf to Sermon / Preaching resources. Sermons are also available from South McGehee Baptist Church, McGehee, Arizona; Central Baptist Church, Lowesville; First Baptist Church, Mountain View, Missouri; Swift Creek Baptist Church; Word of Life Baptist Church, Pottsville, Philadelphia; Palm Springs Baptist Church, California; South Woods Baptist Church; Grove Baptist Church, Ulster; Dudley Baptist Church, United Kingdom; Independent Fundamental Baptist Sermons, Fundamental Christian Radio Broadcasts, Off-Site Audio Page and The Christian Radio Tuner

Notes: (1) This blog uses RefTagger. Simply mouse over any verse reference and a popup box will appear with the KJV citation; (2) This ministry does not necessarily endorse or share all the views and opinions expressed in the materials, resources or links mentioned in these posts. Please always refer to the Articles of Faith and Biblical distinctives of Baptists when you study these materials. (3) This lesson is part of the projected 300 plus lessons. From time to time, the lessons will be updated, revised, combined, formatted, and edited to comply with the VOA Simplified English word list. Later on, these lessons will be categorized, numbered sequentially, and made available as PDF downloads.

God’s holiness and His righteousness

Thus saith the Lord, Let not the wise man glory in his wisdom, neither let the mighty man glory in his might, let not the rich man glory in his riches:

But let him that glorieth glory in this, that he understandeth and knoweth me, that I am the Lord which exercise lovingkindness, judgment, and righteousness, in the earth: for in these things I delight, saith the Lord. (Jeremiah 9:23-24)

“But what things were gain to me, those I counted loss for Christ, yea doubtless, and I count all things but loss for the excellency of the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord: for whom I have suffered the loss of all things, and do count them as dung, that I may win Christ. And be found in Him, not having my own righteousness, which is of the law, but that which is through the faith of Christ, the righteousness which is of God by faith”. (Philippians 3:7-9)

Basic truths

God’s righteousness is part of his character (Psalms 7:9; 116:5; 119:137).

God Himself is the standard of right and wrong (Deuteronomy 32:3 4)

God delights in the exercise of righteousness (Jeremiah 9:24).

The wicked have no interest in God’s righteousness (Psalms 69:27)

Righteousness requires the punishing of disobedience or failure to conform to the standard (Daniel 9:14) and the rewarding of obedience (Hebrews 6:10).

God’s righteousness is exhibited in:

• The heavens (Psalms 50:6; 97:6)
• His testimonies (Psalms 119:138,144)
• His commandments (Deuteronomy 4:8; Psalms 119:172)
• His judgments (Psalms 19:9; 119:7,62)
• His word (Psalms 119:123)
• His ways (Psalms 145:17)
• His acts (Judges 5:11; 1 Samuel 12:7)
• His government (Psalms 96:13; 98:9)
• The gospel (Psalms 85:10; Romans 3:25,26)
• The final judgment (Acts 17:31)
• The punishment of the wicked (Romans 2:5; 2 Thessalonians 1:6; Revelation 16:7; 19:2)

God’s righteousness is described as:

• Very high (Psalms 71:19)
• Abundant (Psalms 48:10)
• Beyond computation (Psalms 71:15)
• Everlasting Psalms (119:142)
• Enduring for ever (Psalms 111:3)
• The habitation of his throne (Psalms 97:2)

What we must pray for:

• To be led in righteousness (Psalms 5:8)
• To be quickened in righteousness (Psalms 119:40)
• To be delivered in righteousness (Psalms 31:1; 71:2)
• To be answered in righteousness (Psalms 143:1)
• To be judged according to righteousness (Psalms 35:24)
• For its continued manifestation righteousness (Psalms 36:10)

Further study (Be like the Bereans! Acts 17:11)

[1] Nave's Topical Bible: Righteousness; Self-righteousness

[2] Torrey's Topical Textbook: Righteousness; Righteousness Imputed; Righteousness of God; Self-righteousness

[3] Baker's Evangelical Dictionary: Righteousness

[4] Easton's Bible Dictionary: Righteousness

[5] JVI Prophecy Dictionary: Rewards of Righteousness

Sermons on Jeremiah 9:23-24 (Be like the Bereans! Acts 17:11)

[1] Preaching the Pastor’s Favorite Hymns: Be Thou My Vision

[2] Thrive Over Sin (1 of 4): Do Not Be Prideful

[3] For other available sermons, please surf to Sermon / Preaching resources. Sermons are also available from South McGehee Baptist Church, McGehee, Arizona; Central Baptist Church, Lowesville; First Baptist Church, Mountain View, Missouri; Swift Creek Baptist Church; Word of Life Baptist Church, Pottsville, Philadelphia; Palm Springs Baptist Church, California; South Woods Baptist Church; Grove Baptist Church, Ulster; Dudley Baptist Church, United Kingdom; Independent Fundamental Baptist Sermons, Fundamental Christian Radio Broadcasts, Off-Site Audio Page and The Christian Radio Tuner

Notes: (1) This blog uses RefTagger. Simply mouse over any verse reference and a popup box will appear with the KJV citation; (2) This ministry does not necessarily endorse or share all the views and opinions expressed in the materials, resources or links mentioned in these posts. Please always refer to the Articles of Faith and Biblical distinctives of Baptists when you study these materials. (3) This lesson is part of the projected 300 plus lessons. From time to time, the lessons will be updated, revised, combined, formatted, and edited to comply with the VOA Simplified English word list. Later on, these lessons will be categorized, numbered sequentially, and made available as PDF downloads.

The infinity of God

Psalm 32: 6 - 9

By the word of the Lord were the heavens made; and all the host of them by the breath of his mouth. He gathereth the waters of the sea together as an heap: he layeth up the depth in storehouses. Let all the earth fear the Lord: let all the inhabitants of the world stand in awe of him. For he spake, and it was done; he commanded, and it stood fast.

Jeremiah 32:17

Ah Lord God! behold, thou hast made the heaven and the earth by thy great power and stretched out arm, and there is nothing too hard for thee:

Three basic facts about God’s infinity

1. God is omnipotent, or all-powerful. His power is unlimited over creation (Psalm 32: 6 - 9; Jeremiah 32:17), history (Proverbs 21:1 Revelation 17:17) and men’s lives (Job 38:41, 42:2).

2. God is omniscient, or all-knowing. His knowledge is unlimited (John 21:17 and 1 John 3:20; Hebrews 4:13) over the universe (Psalm 147:4 Hebrews 4:13), the details of life (Matthew 10:30), possible events (1 Sam 23:10-13, Matthew 11:21)

3. God is sovereign. His authority is unlimited over all things (Romans 8:28; 1 Chronicles 29:11-12; Ps 22:28, 103:19), and over human history (Proverbs 21:1 Revelation 17:17).

The omnipotence of God

God created the universe by His word (Psalm 33:6).

Since God is our Creator, He owns us (Psalm 89:11).

The created universe reveals God and leaves men without any excuse for rejecting God. (Romans 1:19-20).

His power shows that there is no god like Him (Deuteronomy 3:24).

His power makes it possible for Him to do what is impossible for men to do (Matthew 19:25 26).

God has displayed His power through acts in history that are recorded in the Bible so everyone can see His power and would fear Him (Joshua 4:23 24).

The powers of heaven (angelic beings) and the peoples of the earth (human beings) are under God's control (Daniel 4:35)

God's power keeps things together (Col 1:16-17).

The knowledge of God

There are no limits to His knowledge (Psalm 147:5).

God completely knows the wicked and the good (Proverbs 15:3).

God knows about all men and everything they do (Psalm 33:13 15).

Since God's knowledge of mankind is complete, we are accountable to Him (Hebrews 4:13).

The sovereignty of God

God’s plan determines history from beginning to end (Isaiah 46:9 11).

The will of God determines all details of history (Ephesians 1:11).

God controls events and circumstances like casting of the lot (Proverbs 16:33), the death of a sparrow (Matthew 10:29), the time and location of a man's existence (Acts 17:26), and tomorrow’s events (James 4:13 15).

God is never dependent on man (Romans 11:33 36).

God does whatever pleases Him (Isaiah 46:9 10 Ps 115:3; Daniel 4:35).

Whatever God does is always right (Romans 9:20).

Further study (Be like the Bereans! Acts 17:11)

[1] How can God be sovereign and man be free? Please read Knowledge Of The Holy, and The Pursuit of God, by A.W. Tozer

[2] Resources from Answers in Genesis

Why Does God’s Creation Include Death and Suffering?

Couldn’t God Have Used Evolution?

Could God Really Have Created Everything in Six Days?

Are There Really Different Races?

Did Jesus Say He Created in Six Literal Days?

Hasn’t Evolution Been Proven True?

For available sermons, please surf to Sermon / Preaching resources. Sermons are also available from South McGehee Baptist Church, McGehee, Arizona; Central Baptist Church, Lowesville; First Baptist Church, Mountain View, Missouri; Swift Creek Baptist Church; Word of Life Baptist Church, Pottsville, Philadelphia; Palm Springs Baptist Church, California; South Woods Baptist Church; Grove Baptist Church, Ulster; Dudley Baptist Church, United Kingdom; Independent Fundamental Baptist Sermons, Fundamental Christian Radio Broadcasts, Off-Site Audio Page and The Christian Radio Tuner

Notes: (1) This ministry does not necessarily endorse or share all the views and opinions expressed in the materials, resources or links mentioned in these posts. Please always refer to the Articles of Faith and Biblical distinctives of Baptists when you study these materials. (2) This lesson is part of the projected 300 plus lessons. From time to time, the lessons will be updated, revised, combined, formatted, and edited to comply with the VOA Simplified English word list. Later on, these lessons will be categorized, numbered sequentially, and made available as PDF downloads. (3) Photo source: ChristianPhotos.Net - Free High Resolution Photos for Christian Publications

The person we call God

Jeremiah 9:24 “But let him that glorieth glory in this, that he understandeth and knoweth me, that I [am] the LORD which exercise lovingkindness, judgment, and righteousness, in the earth: for in these [things] I delight, saith the LORD.”

Three basic facts

1. God exists. The Bible never explains or tries to prove God’s existence. It merely states God’s existence as a fact.

2. God is a person. He displays all of the characteristics of personality (thinking, acting and feeling).

3. God is a Trinity. God is one, yet exists as three persons - Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.

God exists

Genesis chapter 1 is the account of Creation. In verse 1, God's existence is simply stated as a fact, without any explanation.

According to Hebrews 11: 1-6, we can know that God exists by faith. Verse 3 states that what is seen is understood by faith.

God is a person

Genesis chapter 2 enumerates several things God did to show that He is a person: He worked, spoke, breathed, planted a garden, commanded, brought the woman to the man, rested, and brought the animals to the man.

John 4:24 states that God is a spirit. Some of the things that a spirit can do are: Matthew 10:20 (speaks); Mark 2:8 (knows); Luke 1:47 (rejoices); Romans 8:26 (helps and intercedes); Romans 8:27 (thinks and intercedes; Romans 15:30 (loves); and Philippians 2:1 (fellowships).

Proverbs 3:19,20 shows that God thinks: “The LORD by wisdom hath founded the earth; by understanding hath he established the heavens. By his knowledge the depths are broken up, and the clouds drop down the dew.”

Isaiah 46:11 shows that God acts: “Calling a ravenous bird from the east, the man that executeth my counsel from a far country: yea, I have spoken it, I will also bring it to pass; I have purposed it, I will also do it.”

God feels joy (Isaiah 62:5), sorrow (Gen. 6:6), compassion (Psalm 145:8) and hate (Psalm 5:5).

God is a Trinity

Deuteronomy 6:4-9 state that God is one. Verses 5 to 9 state our responsibilities: to love God completely, and teach His commandments to our children.

Exodus 20:1-6 state that God is one. This requires that He alone must be worshiped. Verse 5 says that worshiping other gods places us under God’s wrath, punishment or judgment.

In John 6:27 and 1 Peter 1:2, the Father is called God.

In John 1:1, Hebrews 1:8, and 1 John 5:20, the Son is called God.

In Acts 5:3 4, the Holy Spirit is called God.

In Matthew 3:16 17, all three (Father, Son and Spirit) are called God.

Further study (Be like the Bereans! Acts 17:11)

• Is There a God? (Six straight-forward reasons to conclude that God exists)
• What Is God Like?
• Who is God? (What is God really like? A one-page description...)
• Where is God? (Why God is not totally invisible and hidden)

For available sermons, please surf to Sermon / Preaching resources. Sermons are also available from South McGehee Baptist Church, McGehee, Arizona; Central Baptist Church, Lowesville; First Baptist Church, Mountain View, Missouri; Swift Creek Baptist Church; Word of Life Baptist Church, Pottsville, Philadelphia; Palm Springs Baptist Church, California; South Woods Baptist Church; Grove Baptist Church, Ulster; Dudley Baptist Church, United Kingdom; Independent Fundamental Baptist Sermons, Fundamental Christian Radio Broadcasts, Off-Site Audio Page and The Christian Radio Tuner

Notes: (1) This ministry does not necessarily endorse or share all the views and opinions expressed in the materials, resources or links mentioned in these posts. Please always refer to the Articles of Faith and Biblical distinctives of Baptists when you study these materials. (2) This lesson is part of the projected 300 plus lessons. From time to time, the lessons will be updated, revised, combined, formatted, and edited to comply with the VOA Simplified English word list. Later on, these lessons will be categorized, numbered sequentially, and made available as PDF downloads. (2) Photo source: ChristianPhotos.Net - Free High Resolution Photos for Christian Publications

The study of God

Notes: (1) I read “Knowing God” way back in 1973 when I was a freshman at the University of the Philippines in Diliman, Quezon City. Although both Packer (Anglican) and Spurgeon (Baptist) are renowned Calvinists, there are a lot of things they said that we can learn from without necessarily agreeing with their theology. Please read “Of the Freeness of Salvation” from the Articles of Faith; (2) Knowing God study guides: Section 1 Introduction & Chapters 1-6; Section 2 Chapters 7-17; Section 3 Chapters 18-22.

Knowing God, by J.I. Packer

“We are cruel to ourselves if we try to live in this world without knowing about the God whose world it is and who runs it. The world becomes a strange, mad, painful place and life in it a disappointing and unpleasant business, for those who do not know about God. Disregard the study of God, and you sentence yourself to stumble and blunder through life blindfold, as it were, with no sense of direction and no understanding of what surrounds you. This way you can waste your life and lose your soul."

On January 7th, 1855, Charles Haddon Spurgeon, minister of New Park Street Chapel, Southwark, London, England opened his morning sermon as follows:

It has been said by someone that “the proper study of mankind is man”. I will not oppose the idea, but I believe it is equally true that the proper study of God's elect is God; the proper study of a Christian is the Godhead. The highest science, the loftiest speculation, the mightiest philosophy, which can ever engage the attention of a child of God, is the name, the nature, the person, the work, the doings, and the existence of the great God whom he calls his Father.

There is something exceedingly improving to the mind in a contemplation of the Divinity. It is a subject so vast, that all our thoughts are lost in its immensity; so deep, that our pride is drowned in its infinity. Other subjects we can compass and grapple with; in them we feel a kind of self- content, and go our way with the thought, “Behold I am wise”. But when we come to this master-science, finding that our plumb-line cannot sound its depth, and that our eagle eye cannot see its height, we turn away with the thought that vain man would be wise, but he is like a wild ass's colt; and with solemn exclamation, “I am but of yesterday, and know nothing”. No subject of contemplation will tend more to humble the mind, than thoughts of God...

But while the subject humbles the mind, it also expands it. He who often thinks of God, will have a larger mind than the man who simply plods around this narrow globe... The most excellent study for expanding the soul, is the science of Christ, and Him crucified, and the know ledge of the Godhead in the glorious Trinity. Nothing will so enlarge the intellect, nothing so magnify the whole soul of man, as a devout, earnest, continued investigation of the great subject of the Deity.

And, whilst humbling and expanding, this subject is eminently consolatory. Oh, there is, in contemplating Christ, a balm for every wound; in musing on the Father, there is a quietus for every grief; and in the influence of the Holy Ghost, there is a balsam for every sore. Would you lose your sorrow? Would you drown your cares? Then go, plunge yourself in the Godhead's deepest sea; be lost in his immensity; and you shall come forth as from a couch of rest, refreshed and invigorated. I know nothing which can so comfort the soul; so calm the swelling billows of sorrow and grief; so speak peace to the winds of trial, as a devout musing upon the subject of the Godhead. It is to that subject that I invite you this morning...