Catechism Insight – Doctrinal Standard WSC #29

Doctrinal Standard #29

  • Q. How are we made to take part in the redemption Christ bought?
  • A. We take part in the redemption Christ bought when the Holy Spirit effectively applies it to us.

Memory Verses

  • “Not everyone who says to me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven, but the one who does the will of my Father who is in heaven” (Matthew 7:21, ESV).

Scripture

  • Study Passage: Hebrews 5:11-6:12
    • Support Passages: Matthew 7:15-23, 13:1-23,; Romans 2:17-3:8, 11:1-10; I Corinthians 2:1-16; II Timothy 2:14-21; Titus 3:4-7
  • Bible Story: Acts 5:1-11

Thoughts

  • The London Baptist Confession of Faith of 1689 provides a thorough and well-balanced explanation between the effectiveness of God’s salvation in the lives of believers and the responsibility to “work out your own salvation with fear and trembling” (Philippians 2:12).
  • LBC 18.1 “Although temporary believers, and other unregenerate men, may vainly deceive themselves with false hopes and carnal presumptions that [in an unspiritual way they take it for granted] they are in the favour of God and in a state of salvation, such a hope on their part will perish [die away]. Yet those who truly believe in the Lord Jesus, and love Him in sincerity, and who endeavour to walk in all good conscience before Him, may be certainly assured in this life that they are in the state of grace, and may rejoice in the hope of the glory of God. And such a hope shall never make them ashamed. [It will never disappoint them or let them down, for God will bless them, hear their prayers, and finally take them to glory.]”
  • LBC 18.2 “This assurance is not merely a conjectural persuasion nor even a probable persuasion [something supposed to be true on slender grounds] based upon a fallible hope. It is an infallible assurance of faith founded on the blood and righteousness of Christ revealed in the Gospel. [It is based on a historical act of the Savior of the world.] It is also founded upon the inward evidence of those graces of the Spirit [marks or evidence of grace] in connection with definite promises made in the Scriptures, and also on the testimony [evidence] of the Spirit of adoption who witnesses with our spirits that we are the children of God [a felt, spiritual assurance], and who uses the experience of assurance to keep our hearts both humble and holy.”
  • LBC 18.3 “This infallible assurance is not so joined to the essence of faith that it is an automatic and inevitable experience. A true believer may wait long and fight with many difficulties before he becomes a partaker of it. Yet, being enabled by the spirit to know the things which are freely given to him by God, he may, without any extraordinary revelation attain this assurance by using the means of grace in the right way. Therefore it is the duty of every one to give the utmost diligence to make his calling and election sure, so that his heart may be enlarged in peace and joy in the Holy Spirit, in love and thankfulness to God, and in strength and cheerfulness for carrying out the duties of obedience. These duties are the natural fruits of assurance, for it is far from inclining men to slackness.”
  • LBC 18.4 “True believers may have the assurance of their salvation in various ways shaken, diminished, or intermitted [suspended for a time]. This may be because of their negligence in preserving it, or by their falling into some special sin which wounds the conscience and grieves the Spirit, or by some sudden or forceful temptation, or by God’s withdrawing the light of His countenance, and causing even those who fear Him to walk in darkness and to have no light. Yet, [whatever the cause or duration of the impairment of assurance] believers are never left without the seed of God [essential spiritual identity] and life of faith [that hold on eternal values], that love of Christ and the brethren that sincerity of heart and that conscience about their spiritual duty. Out of these things, by the operation of the Spirit, their assurance can in due time be revived, and in the meantime the presence of these graces preserves them from utter despair.” [1]

Discussion Questions

  • Who is the author of our salvation?
  • How does the Holy Spirit help us with our salvation?
  • How can we know if we are saved?
  • Philippians 2:12 says, “therefore, my beloved, as you have always obeyed, not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling.” What does this mean?
  • Why should we be both confident yet cautious with our salvation?


[1] Masters, Peter (1982). The Baptist Confession of Faith 1689 – Notes by Peter Masters. Ashland, Ohio, USA; BookMasters, Inc.


GCG Questions for Sermon on 07/22

This week Joe explained how we can know that Christ was the messiah; by His words and by His works. See Emmauscf.org/sermons for a complete list of scriptures used.

1. What did Jesus mean in Matt 5:17 when he stated “I have not come to abolish the law but to fulfill the law?
2. What was Jesus’ relationship to the law?
3. What did Jesus mean when he said “The Kingdom of God has come upon you” in Matthew 12:28-29? What is the kingdom of God? (don’t just say ‘the church’)
4. What acts in Jesus’ life were direct fulfillments of scripture (e.g. His birth, baptism, death) What scriptures were fulfilled?
5. How can the information from this sermon help in evangelizing to a non-believer? Explain. Share?
6. Have you recently reflected on the fact that Jesus was the savior of the world and God incarnate?
7. Do you live each day in light of the fact that Jesus is physically reigning from heaven with all power and authority. Why or why not. Share.


Catechism Insight – Doctrinal Standard WSC #28 (Week 3 of 3)

Doctrinal Standard #28 (3 of 3 weeks)

  • Q. How is Christ exalted?
  • A. Christ is exalted by His rising from the dead on the third day, His going up into heaven, His sitting at the right hand of God the Father, and His coming to judge the world at the last day.

Memory Verses

  • “For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ, so that each one may receive what is due for what he has done in the body, whether good or evil” (2 Corinthians 5:10, ESV).

Scripture

  • Study Passage: John 5:19-29
  • Support Passages: Matthew 13:36-43, 25:31-46; Acts 10:34-43, 17:30-31; Romans 2:1-8; II Corinthians 5:10; II Thessalonians 1; Hebrews 9:27-28; II Peter 3; Revelation 20-22
  • Bible Story: John 11:17-44

Thoughts

  • “The second coming will also issue in the great final judgment. This is for many people one of the most frightening prospects regarding the future, and well it might be for those who are apart from Christ and consequently will be judged to be among the unrighteous. For those who are in Christ, however, it is something to look forward to, for it will vindicate their lives.”
  • Jesus pictured himself as sitting on a glorious throne and judging all nations (Matt. 25:31-33). Although God is spoken of as the judge in Hebrews 12:23, it is clear from several other references that he delegates this authority to the Son. Jesus himself said, ‘Moreover, the Father judges no one, but has entrusted all judgment to the Son… And He has given him authority to judge because He is the Son of Man” (John 5:22,27). Peter told the gathering in Cornelius’s house, “[Jesus] commanded us to preach to the people and to testify that he is the one Paul informed the Athenians that God ‘has set a day when he will judge the world with justice by the man he has appointed. He has given proof of this to all men by raising him from the dead’ (Acts 17:31). And Paul wrote to the Corinthians, ‘For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ, that each one may receive what is due him for the things done while in the body, whether good or bad’ (2 Cor. 5:10). Second Timothy 4:1 states that Christ is to judge the living and the dead. [1]
  • While true believers will be judges and accepted based on the perfect sacrifice and righteousness of Jesus Christ they will still be judged  for the things they have “done while in the body, whether good or bad” (2 Cor. 5:10). It is during this judgment that Christ will “evaluate and bestow various degrees of reward, but the fact that they will face such judgment should never cause believers to fear that they will be eternally condemned. Jesus say, ‘He who hears my words and believes Him who sent me, has eternal life; He does not come into judgment, but has passed from death into life’” (John 5:24). [2]

Discussion Questions

  • Why does Jesus have the authority to judge the world?
  • How will believers in Jesus Christ be judged?
  • Will Christians be held accountable for their actions? Explain
  • How do you feel about the fact that you will be judged by Jesus Christ?
  • How should Christians feel about the judgment of Jesus Christ?
  • Can we do anything to prepare for the judgment of Jesus Christ?


[1] Erickson, Millard J. (1998). Christian Theology. Grand Rapids, Michigan, USA; Baker Books.

[2] Grudem, Wayne (1994). Systematic Theology. Grand Rapids, Michigan, USA; Zondervan Publishing House.


GCG Questions for Sermon on 07/15

This week Joe discussed Christ’s view of John the Baptist. Matt 11:7-15 will serve as the main text for this weeks questions.

1. Are there any cultural or background issues that are important in understanding the listed passages?
2. What key word(s)/phrase(s) really stand(s) out to you in these/this passage(s) of scripture? Why are/is they/it important?
3. Compare the listed passage with at least 3 other Bible versions (NIV, ESV, NASB, NKJV, Ect.) What similarities/differences do you observe? Share with your group.
4. Are there any verbs, commands, prepositions, or conjunctions, that seemed to stand out (if any)? What? Why? Share.
5. Read through at least 2 commentaries on the listed passage and share what your learned with your group. Here are some free online resources. (http://net.bible.org) (http://www.blueletterbible.org/) (http://biblia.com)
6. What was John’s Relationship to Jesus? Physically and spiritually.
7. Why was John seen as “The Greatest Prophet”?
8. How was John also Elijah? Why is this important?


GCG Questions for Sermon on 07/08

This week Joe discussed the significance of Jesus’ meeting with Moses and Elijah. Luke 9:28-36 will serve as the main text for this weeks questions.

1. Are there any cultural or background issues that are important in understanding the listed passages?
2. What key word(s)/phrase(s) really stand(s) out to you in these/this passage(s) of scripture? Why are/is they/it important?
3. Compare the listed passage with at least 3 other Bible versions (NIV, ESV, NASB, NKJV, Ect.) What similarities/differences do you observe? Share with your group.
4. Are there any verbs, commands, prepositions, or conjunctions, that seemed to stand out (if any)? What? Why? Share.
5. Read through at least 2 commentaries on the listed passage and share what your learned with your group. Here are some free online resources. (http://net.bible.org) (http://www.blueletterbible.org/) (http://biblia.com)
6. Discuss the significance of Jesus’ meeting with Elijah. Why was it important? Support with scripture.
7. How and why are the Law and Prophets the pre-runners and pre-requisites for Christ? Explain.
8. How is knowledge of the Law and Prophets helpful in sharing the Gospel with a non-believer? Explain. Share.


Catechism Insight – Doctrinal Standard WSC #28 (Week 2 of 3)

Doctrinal Standard #28 (2 of 3 weeks)

  • Q. How is Christ exalted?
  • A. Christ is exalted by His rising from the dead on the third day, His going up into heaven, His sitting at the right hand of God the Father, and His coming to judge the world at the last day.

Memory Verses

  • If then you have been raised with Christ, seek the things that are above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God” (Colossians 3:1, ESV).

Scripture

  • Study Passage: Revelation 1
    • Support Passages: Psalm 110:1 (quoted in Matthew 22:44, Mark 12:36, Luke 20:42; Matthew 26:64) Mark 14:62, 16:19; Luke 22:69; Acts 2:33-34, 5:30-32; Ephesians 1:20-23; Colossians 3:1; Hebrews 10:12-14; I Peter 3:22
    • Bible Story: Acts 7:54-60

Thoughts

  • Last week we examined the same doctrinal standard but focused on Christ being exalted through His resurrection and ascension. This week we will focus on Christ’s being exalted sitting at the right hand of God. Millard J. Erickson in his book Christian Theology provides a great explanation on the significance of Christ seated at the right hand of God.
  • “Jesus’ ascension means that he is now seated at the right hand of the Father. Jesus himself predicted this in His statement before the high priest (Matt. 26:64). Peter referred to the session at the Father’s right hand in his Pentecost sermon (Acts 2:33-36) and before the council (Acts 5:31). It is also mentioned in the Ephesians 1:20-22; Hebrews 10:12; 1 Peter 3:22; and Revelation 3:21; 22:1. The significance of all this is that the right hand is the place of distinction and power. Recall how James and John desired to sit at Christ’s right hand, and at his left as well (Mark 10:37-40). Jesus’ sitting at the right hand of God should not be interpreted as a matter of rest or inactivity. It is a symbol of authority and active rule. The right hand is also the place where Jesus is ever making intercession with the Father on our behalf. (Heb. 7:25).” [1]
    (See WSC #25 and lesson 32-34 for more information on Christ’s intercession)

 

Discussion Questions

  • Where is Christ currently at?
  • What is the significance of Christ sitting at the right hand of God?
  • What benefit do we as believers receive from Christ being seated at the right hand of God? (Refer to WSC # 25 and lessons #32-34).
  • What power and authority does Christ hold as he sits at the right hand of God?
  • How does it make you feel that Christ is alive and sitting at the right hand of God?


[1] Erickson, Millard J. (1998). Christian Theology. Grand Rapids, Michigan, USA; Baker Books.


GCG Questions for Sermon on 07/08/12

This week Joe discussed the significance of Jesus’ meeting with Moses and Elijah. Luke 9:28-36 will serve as the main text for this weeks questions.

1. Are there any cultural or background issues that are important in understanding the listed passages?
2. What key word(s)/phrase(s) really stand(s) out to you in these/this passage(s) of scripture? Why are/is they/it important?
3. Compare the listed passage with at least 3 other Bible versions (NIV, ESV, NASB, NKJV, Ect.) What similarities/differences do you observe? Share with your group.
4. Are there any verbs, commands, prepositions, or conjunctions, that seemed to stand out (if any)? What? Why? Share.
5. Read through at least 2 commentaries on the listed passage and share what your learned with your group. Here are some free online resources. (http://net.bible.org) (http://www.blueletterbible.org/) (http://biblia.com)
6. Discuss the significance of Jesus’ meeting with Elijah. Why was it important? Support with scripture.
7. How and why are the Law and Prophets the pre-runners and pre-requisites for Christ? Explain.
8. How is knowledge of the Law and Prophets helpful in sharing the Gospel with a non-believer? Explain. Share.

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Catechism Insight – Doctrinal Standard WSC #28 (Week 1 of 3)

Doctrinal Standard #28 (1 of 3 weeks)

  • Q. How is Christ exalted?
  • A. Christ is exalted by His rising from the dead on the third day, His going up into heaven, His sitting at the right hand of God the Father, and His coming to judge the world at the last day.

Memory Verses

  • “But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth” (Acts 1:8, ESV).

Scripture

  • Study Passage: Acts 1:1-11
  • Support Passages: Matthew 27:62-28:20; Mark 15:42-16:20; Luke 23:50-24:53; John 19:38-21:25; I Corinthians 15:1-11; I Timothy 3:16
  • Bible Story: The resurrection of Christ from the gospels  Matthew 27:62-28:20; Mark 15:42-16:20; Luke 23:50-24:53; John 19:38-21:25

Thoughts

  • Wayne Grudem in his systematic theology book explains the significance of the resurrection within the lives of believers.
  • “Christ’s resurrection insures our regeneration: Peter says that ‘we have been born anew to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead’ (1 Peter 1:3). Here he explicitly connects Jesus’ resurrection with our regeneration or new birth. When Jesus rose from the head He had a new quality of life, a ‘resurrection life’ in a human body and human spirit that were perfectly suited for fellowship and obedience to God forever. In His resurrection, Jesus earned for us a new life just like his. We do not receive all of that new ‘resurrection life’ when we become Christians, for our bodies remain as they were, still subject to weakness, aging, and death. But in our spirits we are made alive with new resurrection power.  Thus it is through his resurrection that Christ earned for us the new kind of life we receive when we are ‘born again.’”
  • “Christ’ resurrection insures our justification: In only one passage does Paul explicitly connect Christ’s resurrection with our justification (or our receiving a declaration that we are not guilty but righteous before God). Paul says that Jesus ‘was put to death for our trespasses and raised for our justification’ (Rom. 4:25). When Christ was raised from the dead, it was God’s declaration of approval of Christ’s work of redemption. Because Christ ‘humbled himself and became him…’ (Phil 2:9). By raising Christ from the dead, God the Father was in effect saying that he approved of Christ’s work of suffering and dying for our sins, that His work was completed, and that Christ no longer had any need to remain dead. There was no penalty left to pay for sin, no more wrath of God to bear, no more guilt or liability to punishment.”
  • “Christ’s resurrection insures that we will receive perfect resurrection bodies as well: The New Testament several times connects Jesus’ resurrection with our final bodily resurrection. ‘And God raised the Lord and will also raise us up by his power (1 Cor. 6:14). Similarly, ‘He who raised the Lord Jesus will raise us also with Jesus and bring us with you into his presence’ (2 Cor. 4:14). But the most extensive discussion of the connection between Christ’s resurrection and our own is found in 1 Corinthians 15:12-58. There Paul says that Christ the ‘first fruits of those who have fallen asleep’ (1 Cor. 15:20)… Just as the ‘first fruits’ or the first taste of the ripening crop show what the rest of the harvest will be like for that crop, so Christ as the ‘first fruits’ shows what our resurrection bodies will be like when, in God’s final ‘harvest,’ he raises us from the dead and brings us into his presence.”  [1]
  • The memory verse speaks of the power that believers will have when the Holy Spirit comes and dwells within them. According to scripture the indwelling of the Holy Spirit took place after the resurrection and accession of Jesus Christ. “The sending of the Holy Spirit was important, for whereas Jesus could work with the disciples only through the external teaching and example, the Holy Spirit could work within them (John 14:17). Having more intimate access to the centers of their lives, He would be able to do the works that Jesus did, and even greater ones (John 14:12). And through the Holy Spirit’s ministry, the Triune God would be present with them; thus Jesus could say that He would be with them forever (Matt. 28:20).” [2]

Discussion Questions

  • Quickly review how Jesus Christ was humiliated and contrast that with how he was exalted.
  • Explain how Christ’s resurrection is much more than a historical event? (Refer to the “thoughts” section above).
  • What is the benefit of Christ’s resurrection and ascension in the lives of believers? (Refer to the “thoughts” section above).
  • How do the benefits or significance Christ’ resurrection make you feel?
  • In your own words explain the importance of Jesus’ resurrection and ascension.


[1] Grudem, Wayne (1994). Systematic Theology. Grand Rapids, Michigan, USA; Zondervan Publishing House.

[2] Erickson, Millard J. (1998). Christian Theology. Grand Rapids, Michigan, USA; Baker Books.



"Him we proclaim,
warning everyone and teaching everyone with all wisdom,
that we may present everyone mature in Christ."
(Colossians 1:28, ESV)

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