THE BIBLE: HOW TO STUDY AND UNDERSTAND IT

STUDY – 1 THE SACRED SCRIPTURES
1- By what name are the sacred writings of the Bible commonly known?
“Jesus saith unto them, Did ye never read in the scriptures, The stone which the builders rejected, the same is become the head of the comer?” Matthew 21:42.
2- What other title is given the Bible?
“And he answered and said unto them, my mother and my brethren are these which hear the word of God, and do it.” Luke 8:21.
Note: It is interesting to note that the word Bible does not occur in the Bible itself. It is derived from the Latin biblia, or “little books”. The Greek word biblia in turn is derived from byblus, or papyrus, the name of ht material upon which ancient books were written. The Latin biblia is treated as singular, thus referring to the unity of the Bible as a whole. The Greek biblia is plural, calling attention to the fact that the Bible is a collection of many books. See Funk and Wagnalls New Standard Encyclopaedia, 1945 edition.
The Bible has 66 books and was written by 35 or 40 men over a period of some 1.500 years. The books are called the “Word of God.” Or the “Scriptures.” “Scriptures” means “writings”. Thus “Sacred Scriptures” means “Sacred Writings.”
A- THE SCRIPTURES GIVEN
3- How were the Scriptures given?
“All scriptures is given by inspiration of God.” 2 Timothy 3:16.
“For the prophecy came not in old time by the will of man: but holy men of God spake as they were moved by the Holy Ghost.” 2 Peter 1:21.
4- Who, therefore, did the speaking through these men?
“God, who at sundry times and in divers manners spake in time past unto the fathers by the prophets.” Hebrews 1:1.

B- THE PURPOSE OF THE SCRIPTURES
5- For what purpose were the Scriptures written?
“All scriptures 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, thoroughly furnished unto all good works.” 2 Timothy 3:16, 17.
6- What does God design that His Word shall be to us today?
“Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path.” Psalm 119:105.

C- THE DIVISIONS OF THE SCRITURES
7- What Three general divisions did Jesus refer to in the writings of the Old Testament?
“And he said unto them. These are the words which I spake unto you, while I was yet with you, that all things must be fulfilled, which were written in the law of Moses, and in the prophets, and in the psalms, concerning me.” Luke 24:44.
8- Upon what evidence did Jesus bases His Messiahship?
“And beginning at Moses and all the prophets, he expounded unto them in all the scriptures the things concerning himself.” Luke 24:27.
Note: When Christ spoke of the Scriptures he meant the Old Testament, for the New Testament had not yet been written.
9- What estimate did Job place upon the words of God?
“Neither have I gone back from the commandment of his lips: I have esteemed the words of his mouth more than my necessary food.” Job 23: 12.
10- How firm was the faith of Isaiah in the word of God?
“The grass withereth, the flower fadeth: but the word of our God shall stand for ever.” Isaiah 40:8.

STUDY – 2 HOW TO UNDERSTAND THE BIBLE
A- BIBLE APPROVAL OF PERSONAL STUDY
1- What did Christ say concerning the study of the Scriptures?
“Search the scriptures; for in them ye think ye have eternal life: and they are they which testify of me:” John 5:39.
2- For what were the Bereans commended?
“These were more noble than those in Thessalonica, in that they received the word with all readiness of mind, and searched the scriptures daily, whether those things were so.” Acts 17:11.
Note: “If God’s Word were studied as it should be,” says a modern Bible student, “men would have a breadth of mind, a nobility of character, and a stability of purpose that is rarely seen in these times. But there is but little profit derived from a hasty reading of the Scriptures. One may read the whole Bible through, and yet fail to see its beauty or comprehend its deep and hidden meaning. One passage studied until its significance is clear to the mind, and its relation to the plan of salvation is evident, is of more value than the perusal of many chapters with no define purpose in view and no positive instruction gained.”

B- THE SPIRIT OF GOD AND THE BIBLE
3- Who alone comprehends the things of God?
“God what man knoweth the things of a man, save the spirit of man which is in him? Even so the things of God knoweth no man, but the Spirit of God.” 1 Corinthians 2:11.
4- How thoroughly does the Spirit search out the hidden treasures of truth?
“But God hath revealed them unto us by his Spirit: for the Spirit searcheth all things, yea, the deep things of God.” 1 Corinthians 2:10.
5- What is one purpose for which the Holy Spirit was sent?
“But the Comforter, which is the Holy Ghost, whom the Father will send in my name, he shall teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said unto you.” John 14:26.
6- Why cannot the natural man receive the things of the Spirit?
“But the natural man receiveth not the things of the Spirit of God: for they are foolishness unto him: neither can he know them, because they are spiritually discerned.” 1 Corinthians 2:14.

C- PLACE OF PRAYER IN BIBLE STUDY
7- For what spiritual enlightenment should everyone pray?
“Open thou mine eyes, that I may behold wondrous things out of thy law.” Psalm 119:18.
8- For what spiritual gift did the apostle Paul pray?
“That the God of our Lord Jesus of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give unto you the spirit of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of him.” Ephesians 1:17.
9- Upon what conditions is an understanding of divine things promised?
“Yes, if thou criest after knowledge, and liftest up thy voice for understanding: if thou seekest her as silver, and searches for her as for hid treasures; then shalt thou understand the fear of the Lord, and find the knowledge of God.” Proverbs 2:3-5.

D- RESULTS OF SINCERE BIBLE STUDY
10- What are the Scriptures able to do for one who believes them?
“And that from a child thou hast known the holy scriptures, which are able to make thee wise unto salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus.” 2 Timothy 3:15
11- What great blessing did Christ confer upon His disciples after His resurrection?
“Then opened he their understanding, that they might understand the scriptures.” Luke 24:45.
12- How did Christ reprove those who, though familiar with the letter of the Scriptures, failed to understand them?
“Jesus answered and said unto them, Ye do err, not knowing the scriptures, nor the power of God.” Matthew 22:29.
13- Whom did Jesus pronounce blessed?
“But he said, Yea, rather, blessed are they that hear the word of God, and keep it.” Luke 11:28.

STUDY – 3 POWER IN THE WORD OF GOD
A- THE POWER OF GOD`S WORD IN NATURE
1- Through what agency did God create the heavens?
“By the word of the Lord were the heavens made; and all the host of them by the breath of his mouth…For he spake, and it was done; he commanded, and it stood fast.” Psalms 33:6-9; 148:5.
2- By what does Christ uphold all things?
“Upholding all things by the word of his power.” Hebrews 1:3.

B- AMAZING POWER OF THE WORD SPOKEN
3- Why were the people astonished at Christ’s teaching?
“And they were astonished at his doctrine: for his word was with power.” Luke 4:32.
4- What testified to the power of the world of Christ?
“And they were all amazed, and spake among themselves, saying. What a word is this! For with authority and power he commandeth the unclean spirits, and they come out.” Luke 4:36.
5- How did God heal His people anciently?
“He sent his word, and healed them, and delivered them from their destructions.” Psalm 107:20.
6- How did the centurion show his faith in the power of Christ’s word to heal?
“The centurion answered and said, Lord, I am not worthy that thou shouldest come under my roof: but speak the word only, and my servant shall be healed.” Matthew 8:8.

C- THE SEED OF GOD`S WORD WORKING IN US
7- What did Christ say is the seed of the kingdom of God?
“The seed is the word of God.” Luke 8:11.
8- Where should the word of Christ dwell?
“Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom.” Colossians 3:16. “For this cause also thank we God without ceasing, because, when ye received the word of God which ye heard of us, ye received it not as the word of men, but as it is in truth, the word of God, which effectually worketh also in you that believe.” 1 Thessalonians 2:13.
9- What nature is imparted through the promises of God?
“Whereby are given unto us exceeding great and precious promises: that by these ye might be partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust.” 2 Peter 1:4.
10- By what are believers made clean?
“Now ye are clean through the word which I have spoken unto you.” John 15:3.
11- How may a young man cleanse his way?
“Wherewithal shall a young man cleanse his way? By taking heed thereto according to thy word.” Psalm 119:9.
12- What power has the word when hidden in the heart?
“Thy word have I hid in mine heart, that I might not sin against thee.” Psalm 119:11 – Psalm 17:4.

STUDY – 4 THE LIFE-GIVING WORD
A- THE WORD OF GOD A LIVING WORD
1- What was Peter’s testimony concerning Christ’s words?
“Then Simon Peter answered him, Lord, to whom shall we go? Thou hast the words of eternal life.” John 6:68.
2- What did Christ declare His Father’s commandment to be?
“And I know that his commandment is life everlasting.” John 12:50.

B- JESUS AS THE LIVING WORD
3- What name is applied to Jesus as the revelation of the thought of God in the flesh?
“In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.” John 1:1. “And be was clothed with a vesture dipped in blood: and his name is called the Word of God.” Revelation 19:13.
4- What did this Word become?
“And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us.” John 1:14.
5- What was in the Word?
“And in him was life; and the life was the light of men.” John 1:4.
6- What is Jesus therefore also called?
“That which was from the beginning which we have heard, which we have seen with our eyes, which we have looked upon, and our hands have handled, of the Word of life.” 1 John 1:1.

C- JESUS AS THE LIVING BREAD
7- What did Jesus declare Himself to be?
“And Jesus said unto them, I am the bread of life: he that cometh to me shall never hunger; and he that believeth on me shall never thirst.” John 6:35.
8- What did He suggest that men should do with Him, the bread of life?
“As the living Father hath sent me, and I live by the Father: so he that eateth me, even he shall live by me. This is that bread which came down from heaven: not as our fathers did eat manna, and are dead: he that eateth of this bread shall live for ever.” John 6:57, 58.
9- What did Jesus really mean by our eating His flesh?
“It is the spirit that quickeneth; the flesh profiteth nothing: the words that I speak unto you, they are spirit, and they are life.” John 6:63.

STUDY – 5 CHRIST IN ALL THE BIBLE
A- GENERAL REFERENCES TO CHRIST
1- Of whom did Christ say the Scriptures testify?
“Search the scriptures; for in them ye think ye have eternal life: and they are they which testify of me.” John 5:39.
2- Of whom did Moses and the prophets write?
“Philip findeth Nathanael, and saith unto him. We have found him, of whom Moses in the law, and the prophets, did write, Jesus of Nazareth, the son of Joseph.” John 1:45.
3- From whose words did Christ say the disciples ought to have learned of His death and resurrection?
“O fools, and slow heart to believe all that the prophets have spoken: ought not Christ to have suffered these things, and to enter into his glory?” Luke 24:25, 26.
4- How did Christ make it clear to them that the Scriptures testify of Him?
“And beginning at Moses and all the prophets, he expounded unto them in all the scriptures the things concerning himself.” Luke 24:27.
5- Where in the Bible do we find the first promise of a Redeemer?
“And the Lord God said unto the serpent…will put enmity between thee and the woman, and between thy seed and her seed; it shall bruise thy head, and thou shalt bruise his heel.” Genesis 2:14, 15.
6- In what words was this promise renewed to Abraham?
“In thy seed shall all the nations of the earth be blessed.” Genesis 22:18 – Genesis 26:4; 28:14.
7- To whom did this promised seed refer?
“Now to Abraham and his seed were the promises made. He saith not. And to seeds, as of many; but as of one. And to thy seed, which is Christ.” Galatians 3:16.

B- BIRTH, LIFE, SUFFERING, DEATH, RESURRECTION
8- Where was the Saviour to be born?
“But thou, Bethlehem Ephratah, though thou be little among the thousands of Judah, yet out of thee shall he come froth unto me that is to be ruler in Israel; whose goings forth have been from of old, from everlasting.” Micah 5:2.
9- In what prophecy are Christ’s life, suffering, and death touchingly foretold?
In the fifty-third chapter of Isaiah.
10- Where is the price of Christ’s betrayal foretold?
“So they weighed for my price thirty pieces of silver.” Zachariah 11:12 – Matthew 26:15.
11- Where in the Psalms are Christ’s dying words recorded?
“My God, my God, why hast thou forsaken me? Psalm 22:1 – Matthew 27:46 – “Into thine hand I commit my spirit.” Psalm 31:5 – Luke 23:46.
12- How is Christ’s resurrection foretold in the Psalms?
“For thou will not leave my soul in hell; neither wilt thou suffer thine Holy One to see corruption.” Psalm 16:10 – see Acts 2:25-31.

C- CHRIST´S SECOND COMING AND KINGDOM
13- In what words does Daniel foretell Christ’s receiving His kingdom?
“I saw in the night visions, and, behold, one like the Son of man came with the clouds of heaven, and came to the Ancient of days, and they brought him near before him. And there was given him dominion, and glory, and a kingdom, that all people, nations, and languages, should serve him: his dominion is an everlasting dominion, which shall not pass away, and his kingdom that which shall not be destroyed.” Daniel 7: 13, 14.
14- How is Christ’s second coming described in the Psalms?
“Let the floods clap their hands: let the hills be joyful together before the Lord; for he cometh to judge the earth: with righteousness shall he judge the world, and the people with equity.” Psalm 98:8, 9.
“Our God shall come, and shall not keep silence: a fire shall devour before him, and it shall be very tempestuous round about him. He shall call to the heavens from above, and to the earth, that he may judge his people.” Psalm 50:3, 4.

SIN; ITS ORIGIN, RESULTS, AND REMEDY

STUDY – 1 CREATION AND THE CREATOR
A- THE STORY OF CREATION
1- By Whom were the heavens and the earth created?
“In the beginning God created the heaven and the earth.” Genesis 1:1
2- How did God bring the heavens and earth into existence?
“By the word of the Lord were the heavens made; and all the host of them by the breath of his mouth. …for he spake, and it was done; he commanded, and it stood fast.” Psalm 33:6-9.
3- Through whom did God create all things?
“For by him (the Son) were all things created, that are in heaven, and that are in earth, visible and invisible, whether they be thrones, or dominations, or principalities, or powers; all things were created by him, and for him.” Colossians 1:16. “All things were made by him (through him), and without him was not anything made that was made.” John 1:3 – Hebrews 1:1,2.
4- What was God’s object in making the earth?
“For thus saith the Lord that created the heavens; God himself that formed the earth and made it; he hath established it, he created it not in vain, he formed it to be inhabited.” Isaiah 45:18.
5- How did God provide inhabitants for the world He had created?
“And the Lord God formed man of the dust of the ground, and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life; and man became a living soul.” Genesis 2:7.
6- In whose image was man created?
“So God created man in his own image, in the image of god created he him; male and female created he them.” Genesis 1:27.
7- To what glorious position did God assign man?
“Let them have dominion over the fish of the sea, and over the fowl of the air, and over the cattle, and over all the earth.” Genesis 1:26.
“What is man, that thou art mindful of him? And the son of man, that thou visitest him? For thou hast made him a little lower than the angels, and hast crowned him with glory and honor. Thou madest him to have dominion over the works of thy hands, thou hast put all things under his feet.” Psalm 8:4-6.
8- What home did God make for man in the beginning?
“And the Lord God planted a garden eastward in Eden; and there he put the man whom he had formed.” “And the Lord God took the man, and put him into the garden of Eden to dress it and to keep it.” Genesis 2:8,15.
9- How did God provide for the perpetuation of life?
“And out of the ground made the Lord God to grow every tree that is pleasant to the sight, and good for food, the tree of life also in the midst of the garden, and the tree of knowledge of good and evil.” Genesis 2:9.
10- What simple plan did God devise to test man’s loyalty and obedience?
“And the Lord God commanded the man, saying, Of every tree of the garden thou mayest freely eat: but of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, thou shalt not eat if it, lot in the day that thou eatest thereof thou shalt surely die.” Genesis 2: 16, 17.
11- By what power are all things upheld?
“Upholding all things by the word of his power.” Hebrews 1:3.

B- THE SPEECH OF NATURE
12- What do the heavens declare?
“The heavens declare the glory of god. …Day unto day uttereth speech.” Psalm 19:1, 2.
13- What may be perceived through the things that are made?
“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.” Romans 1:20.
14- What Contrast is drawn in the Scriptures between the Creator and false gods?
“Thus shall ye say unto them, The gods that have not made the heavens and the earth, even they shall perish from the earth, and from under these heavens.” “The portion of Jacob is not like them: for he is the former of all things; and Israel is the rod of his inheritance: for the Lord of hosts is his name.” Jeremiah 10:11, 16.
15- To whom is our worship justly due?
“O come, let us worship and bow down: let us kneel before the Lord our maker.” Psalm 95:6.
16- What is the true basis of the brotherhood of man?
“Have we not all one Father? Hath not one God created us? Why do we deal treacherously every man against his brother, by profaning the covenant of our fathers?” Malachi 2:10.

STUDY – 2 THE ORIGIN OF EVIL
A- THE BEING WHO FIRST SINNED
1- With whom did sin originate?
“He that committeth sin is of the devil; for the devil sinneth from the beginning.” 1 John 3:8
2- Was Satan created sinful?
“Thou wast perfect in thy ways from the day that thou wast created, till iniquity was found in thee.” Ezekiel 28:15.
3- What further statement of Christ seems to lay the responsibility for the origin of sin upon Satan and his angels?
“Then shall be say also unto them on the left hand. Depart from me, ye cursed, into everlasting fire, prepared for the devil and his angels.” Matthew 25:41.

B- SATAN AND CHRIST CONTRASTED
4- What led to Satan’s sin, rebellion, and downfall?
“Thine heart was lifted up because of thy beauty, thou hast corrupted thy wisdom by reason of thy brightness.” Ezekiel 28:1. “Thou hast said in thine heart, I will ascend into heaven, I will exalt my throne above the stars of God: I will sit also upon the mount of the congregation, in the sides of the north: …I will he like the most High.” Isaiah 14:13, 14.
5- In contrast with the pride and self-exaltation exhibited by Satan, what spirit did Christ manifest?
“Who, being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God: but made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men: and being found in fashion as a man, he humbled himself, and be came obedient unto death, eventhe death of the cross.” Philippians 2:6-8.

STUDY – 3 THE FALL AND REDEMPTION OF MAN
A- DEFINTION AND NARURE OS SIN
1- What is sin declared to be?
“Whosoever committeth sin transgresseth also the law: for sin is the transgression of the law.” 1 John 3:4.

B- THE RESULTS OF SIN
2- What is the final result, of fruit, of sin?
“And sin , when it is finished, bringeth forth death.” James 1:15.
“The wages of sin is death.” Romans 6:23.
3- Upon how many of the human race did death pass as the result of Adam’s transgression?
“By one man sin entered into the world, and death by sin; and so death passed upon all men, for that all have sinned.” Romans 5:12.
4- How was the earth itself affected by Adam’s sin?
“Cursed is the ground for thy sake; in sorrow shalt thou eat of it all the days of thy life; thorns also and thistles shall it bring forth to thee.” Genesis 3:17,18.
5- What additional curse came as the result of the first murder?
“And the Lord said unto Cain. … And now art thou cursed from the earth, which hath opened her mouth to receive thy brother’s blood from thy hand; when thou tillest the ground, it shall not henceforth yield unto thee her strength.” Genesis 4:9-12.
6- What terrible judgement came in consequence of continued sin and transgression against God?
“And the Lord said, I will destroy man whom I have created from the face of the earth.” “the end of all flesh is come before me; for the earth is filled with violence.” “And Noah was six hundred years old when the flood of water was upon the earth.” “The same day were all the fountains of the great deep broken up, and the windows of heaven were opened.” Genesis 6:7, 13; 7:6, 11.
7- After the Food, what came in consequence of further apostasy from God?
“And the Lord came down to see the city and the tower, which the children of men builded. And the Lord said, Behold, the people is one, and they have all one language; and this they begin to do; and now nothing will be restrained from them, which they have imagined to do. Go to, let us go down, and there confound their language, that they may not understand one another’s speech. So the Lord scattered them abroad from thence upon the face of all the earth: and they left of to build the city.” Genesis 11:5-8.
8- Into what condition has sin brought the entire creation?
“For ye know that the whole creation groaneth and travaileth in pain together until now.” Romans 8:22.

C- GOD`S DELAY IN DESTROYIN SIN
9- What explains God’s apparent delay in dealing with sin?
“The Lord in not slack concerning his promise, as some men count slackness; but is longsuffering to us-ward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance.” 2 Peter 3:9.
10- What is God’s attitude toward the sinner?
“For I have no pleasure in the death of him that dieth, saith the Lord God: wherefore turn yourselves, and live ye.” Ezekiel 18:32.
11- Can man free himself from the dominion of sin?
“Can the Ethiopian change his skin, or the leopard his spot? Then may ye also do good, that are accustomed to do evil.” Jeremiah 13:23.
12- What place has the will in determining whether man shall have life?
“And the Spirit and the bride say, Come. And let him that heareth say, Come. And let him that is athirst come. And whosoever will, let him take the water of life freely.” Revelation 22.17.

D- CHRIST, THE SINNER, AND SATAN
13- For what purpose was Christ manifested?
“And ye know that he was manifested to take away our sin; and in him is no sin…He that committeth sin is of the devil; for the devil sinneth from the beginning. For this purpose the Son of God was manifested, that he might destroy the works of the devil.” 1 John 3:5-8.
14- What was one direct purpose of the incarnation of Christ?
“Forasmuch then as the children are partakers of flesh and blood, he also himself likewise took part of the same; that through death he might destroy him that had the power of death, that is, the devil.” Hebrews 2:14.
15- To what extent has Christ suffered for sinners?
“He was wouded for our transgressions, he was bruised for our iniquities: the chastisement of our peace was upon him; and with his stripes we are healed.” Isaiah 53:5.

E- THE END OF SIN AND SORROW
16- When and by what means will the effects of sin be removed?
“But the day of the Lord will come as a thief in the night; in the which the heavens shall pass away with a great noise, and the elements shall melt with fervent heat, the earth also, and the works that are therein shall b burned up.” 2 Peter 3:10.
17- How thoroughly will the effects of sin be removed?
“And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes, and there shall be no more death, neither sorrows, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain: for the former things are passed away.” Revelation 21:4. “And there shall be no more curse: but the throne of God and of the Lamb shall be in it (the holy city); and his servants shall serve him.” Revelation 22:3.
18- Will sin and its evil results ever appear again?
“What do ye imagine against the Lord? He will make an utter end, affliction shall not rise up the second time.” Nahum 1:9. “There shall be no more death.” “And there shall be no more curse.” Revelation 21:4; 22:3.

STUDY – 4 CREATION AND REDEMPTION
A- CHRIST IN CREATION
1- What is revealed concerning God in the first verse of the Bible?
“In the beginning God created the heaven and the earth.” Genesis 1:1
2- Through whom did God work in creation all things?
“In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. The same was in the beginning with God. All things were made by him; and without him was not anything made that was made.” John 1:1-3.

B- CHRIST, CREATOR AND REDEEMER
3- Through whom is redemption wrought?
“but God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us. Much more then, being now justified by his blood, we shall be saved from wrath through him.” Romans 5:8, 9.
4- What scripture shows that the Creator is also the Redeemer?
“But now thus saith the Lord that created thee, O Jacob, and he that formed thee, O Jacob, and he that formed thee, O Israel, Fear not: for I have redeemed thee, I have called thee by the name; thou art mine.” Isaiah 43:1.
5- In what scripture do we learn that Christ, the active agent in creation, is also the head of the church?
“For by him were all things created, that are in heaven, and that are in earth, visible and invisible, whether they be thrones, or dominions, or principalities, or powers: all things were created by him, and for him: and he is before all things, and by him all things consist. And he is the head of the body, the church: who is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead; that in all things he might have the preeminence .” Colossians 1:16-18.
6- What scriptures plainly states that it is creative power which transforms the believer?
“For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them.” Ephesians 2: 10.
7- What prayer of David shows that he regarded redemption as a creative work?
“Create in me a clean heart, O God; and renew a right spirit within me.” Psalm 51:10.

C- THE CREATOR´S UPHOLDING, SUSTAINNING POWER
8- Who keeps the heavenly bodies in their places?
“To whom then will ye liken me, or shall I be equal? Saith the Holy One. Lift up your eyes on high, and behold who hath created these things, that bringeth out their host by number: he calleth them all by names by the greatness of his might, for that he is strong in power; not one faileth.” Isaiah 40: 25, 26.
9- What can the same Holy One do for the believer?
“Now unto him that is able to keep you from falling, and to present you faultless before the presence of his glory with exceeding jou, to the only wise God our Saviour, be glory and majesty, dominion and power, both now and ever. Amen.” Jude 24, 25.
“That the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give unto you the spirit of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of him the eyes of your understanding being enlightened; that ye may know what is the hope of his calling, and what the riches of the glory of his inherietance in the saints, and what is the exceeding greatness of his power to us-ward who believe, according to the working of his mighty power, which he wrought in Christ, when he raise him from the dead, and set him at his own right hand in the heavenly places.” Ephesians 1:17-20.
10- Who is declared to be the source of power to the weak?
“Hast thou not known? Hast thou not heard, that the everlasting God, the Lord, the Creator of the ends of the earth, fainteth not, neither is weary? There is no searching of his understanding. He giveth power to the faint; and to them that have no might he increaseth strength.” Isaiah 40:28, 29.

D- GOD`S MEMORIAL AND SIGN
11- Of what great works is the Sabbath both a memorial and a sign?
“Remember the Sabbath day, to keep it holy. Six days shalt thou labour, and do all thy work: but the seventh day is the Sabbath of the Lord thy God: in it thou shalt not do any work, thou, nor thy son, nor thy daughter, thy manservant, nor thy maidservant, nor thy cattle, nor thy stranger that is within thy gates: for in six days the Lord made heaven and earth, the sea, and all that in them is, and rested the seventh day: wherefore the Lord blessed the Sabbath day, and hallowed it.” Exodus 20:8-11. “It is a sign between me and the children of Israel for ever: for in six days the Lord made heaven and earth, and on the seventh day he rested, and was refreshed.” Exodus 31:17.
1- Inasmuch as creation and redemption are both wrought by the same creative power, of what besides the original creation was the Sabbath given to be a sign?
“Moreover also I gave them my Sabbaths, to be a sign between me and them, that they might know that I am the Lord that sanctify them.” Ezekiel 20:12.

STUDY – 5 THE CHARACTER AND ATTRIBUTES OF GOD
A-GOD`S JUSTICE, HOLINESS, AND RIGHTEOUSNESS
1- What two basic characteristics are part of God’s nature?
“The Lord is righteous in all his ways and holy in all his works.” Psalm 145:17.
2- In what language is the justice of God described?
“He is the Rock, his work is perfect: for all his ways are judgment: a God of truth and without iniquity, just and right is he.” Deuteronomy 32:4.

B- HIS STRENGTH, WISDOM, AND FAITHFULNESS
3- What is said of the strength and wisdom of God?
“Behold, God is mighty, and despisteth not any: he is mighty in strength and wisdom.” Job 36:5.
4- What treasures are hid in Christ?
“In whom are hid all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge.” Colossians 2:3.
5- What is said of God’s faithfulness in keeping His promises?
“Know therefore that the Lord thy God, he is God, the faithful God, which keepeth covenant and mercy with them that love him and keep his commandments to a thousand generations.” Deuteronomy 7:9.

C- HIS GRACIOUS IMPARTIALITY
6- In what words is His impartiality proclaimed?
“Then Peter opened his mouth, and said, Of a truth I perceive that God is no respecter of persons: but in every nation he that feareth him, and worketh righteousness, is accepted with him.” Acts 10:34, 35.
7- To how many is the Lord good?
“The Lord is good to all: and his tender mercies are over all his works.” Psalm 145:9.
8- Why did Christ tell us to love our enemies?
“But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you and persecute you; that ye may be the children of your Father which is in heaven: for he maketh his sun to rise on the evil and on the good, and sendeth rain on the just and on the unjust.” Matthew 5:44, 45.

STUDY – 6 LHE LOVE OF GOD
1- What is God declared to be?
“God is love.” 1 John 4:16.
2- How great is God’s love for the world?
“For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” John 3:16.
3- In what act especially has God’s love been manifested?
“In this was manifested the Love of God toward us, because that God sent his only begotten Son into the world, that we might live through him.” 1 John 4:9.

A- GOD`S DELIGHT
4- In what does God delight?
“Who is a God like unto thee, that pardoneth iniquity, and passeth by the transgression of the remnant of his heritage? He retaineth not his anger for ever, because he delighteth in mercy.” Micah 7:18.
5- How are His mercies continually manifested?
“It is of the Lord’s mercies that we are not consumed, because his compassions fall not. They are new every morning: great is thy faithfulness.” Lamentations 3:22, 23.
6- In view of God’s great love, what may we confidently expect?
“He that spared not his own Son, but delivered him up for us all, how shall he not with him also freely give us all things?” Romans 8:32.

B- FELLOWSHIP, SONSHIP, AND TRUST
7- What did Jesus say of the one who loves Him?
“He that loveth me shall be loved of my Father, and I will love him, and will manifest myself to him.” John 14:21.
8- Into what relationship to God does His love bring us?
“Behold, what manner of love the Father hath bestowed upon us, that we should be called the sons of God.” 1 John 3:1.
9- How may we know that we are the sons of God?
“For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are the sons of God…The Spirit itself beareth witness with our spirit, that we are the children of God.” Romans 8:14-16.

C- FELLOWSHIP OF BELIEVERS
10- In view of God’s great love to us, what ought we to do?
“Beloved, if God so loved us, we ought also to love one another.” 1 John 4:11.
11- With what measures of love should we serve others?
“Hereby perceive we the love of God, because he laid down his life for us: and we ought to lay down our lives for the brethren.” 1 John 3:16.
12- What exhortation is based upon Christ’s love for us?
“And walk in love, as Christ also hath loved us, and hath given himself for us an offering and a sacrifice to God for a sweetsmelling savour.” Ephesians 5:2.

D- LOVE`S WISE WAY
13- Upon what ground does God’s work for sinners rest?
“But God, who is rich in mercy, for his great love wherewith he loved us, even wherewith he loved us even when we were dead in sins, hath quickened us together with Christ, ´by grace ye are saved´ and hath raised us up together, and made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus.” Ephesians 2:4-6 – see: Titus 3:5, 6.
14- What is God’s love able to do for His children?
“Nevertheless the Lord thy God would not hearken unto Balaam; but the Lord thy God turned the curse into a blessing unto thee, because the Lord thy God loved thee.” Deuteronomy 23:5.
15- In what other way is God’s love sometimes shown?
“For whom the Lord loveth he chasteneth, and scourgeth every son whom he receiveth.” Hebrews 12:6.

E- LOVE EVERLASTING
16- How enduring is God’s love for us?
“The Lord hath appeared of old unto me, saying. Yea, I have loved thee with an everlasting love: therefore with loving-kindness have I drawn thee.” Jeremiah 31:3.
17- Can anything separate the true child of God from the love of God?
“For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come, nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.” Romans 8:38, 39.
18- Unto whom will the saints forever ascribe praise?
“UNTO him that loved us, and washed us from our sins in his own blood… to him be glory and dominion for ever and ever.” Revelation 1:5, 6.

STUDY – 7 THE DEITY OF CHRIST
A- THE FATHER´S TESTIMONY
1- How was Christ recognized by the Father while on earth?
“And lo a voice from heaven, saying, This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased.” Mathew 3:17.

A- CHRIST`S TESTIMONY
2- In what way did Christ refer to the eternity of His being?
“And now, O Gather, glorify thou me with thine own self with the glory which I had with thee before the world was.” John 17:5. “But thou, Bethlem Ephratah, though thou be little among the thousands of Judah, yet out of thee shall he come forth unto me that is to be ruler in Israel; whose goings froth have been of old, from everlasting.” Micah 5:2.
3- What does Christ say is His relation to the Father?
“I and my Father are one.” John 10:30.
4- How did Christ assert an equal proprietorship with His Father in the kingdom?
“The Son of mans shall send forth his angels, and they shall gather out of his kingdom all things that offend, and them which do iniquity.” Matthew 13:41.
5- What does God declares Himself to be?
“Thus saith the Lord the King of Israel, and his redeemer the Lord of hosts; I am the first, and I am the last; and beside me there is no God.” Isaiah 44:6.
6- In what scriptures does Christ adopt the same expression?
“And, behold, I come quickly; and my reward is with me, to give every man according as his work shall be. I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the end, the first and the last.” Revelation 22:12, 13.

B- APOSTLES JOHN AND PAUL SPEAK
7- What scripture states that the Son of God was God manifested in the flesh?
“In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.” “And the Word was made flesh and dwelt among us, `and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father´, full of grace and truth.” John 1:1, 14.
8- What fullness dwells in Christ?
“For in him dwelleth all the fullness of the Godhead bodily.” Colossians 2:9.

C- CHRIST THE SAVIOUR
9- How was He manifested on earth as a Saviour?
“For unto your is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord.” Luke 2:11.
10- How was Christ begotten in the flesh?
“And the angel answered and said unto her, The Holy Ghost shall come upon thee, and the power of the Highest shall overshadow thee: therefore also that holy thing which shall be born of thee shall be called the Son of God.” Luke 1:35.
11- Why was it necessary that He should be born thus, and partake of human nature?
“Wherefore in all things it behoved him to be made like unto his brethren, that he might be a merciful and faithful high priest in things pertaining to God, to make reconciliation for the sins of the people.” Hebrews 2:17.
12- Having such a wonderful Saviour, what are we exhorted to do?
“Seeding then that we have a great high priest, that is passed into the heavens, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold fast our profession. For we have not an high priest which cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities; but was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin.” Hebrews 4:14, 15.

STUDY – 8 CHRIST THE WAY OF LIFE
1- What does Jesus declare Himself to be?
“Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man competh unto the Father, but by me.” John 14:6.

A- MANS`S OF LIFE
2- In what condition are all men?
“But the scripture are all men?
“But the scripture hath concluded all under sin.” Galatians 3:22. “For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God.” Romans 3:23.
3- What are the wages of sin?
“But the scripture hath concluded all under sin.” Galatians 3:22. “For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God.” Romans 3:23.
4- What are the wages of sin?
“The wages of sin is death.” Romans 6:23.
5-How many are affected by Adam’s transgression?
“Wherefore, as by one man sin entered into the world, and death by sin; and so death passed upon all men.” Romans 5:12.
6- When man first transgressed, what was done to prevent him from living forever in sin?
“And now, lest he put forth his hand, and take also of the tree of life, and eat, and live for ever…So he drove out the man; and he placed at the east of the garden of Eden Cherubims, and a flaming sword which turned every way, to keep the way of the tree of life.” Genesis 3:22-24.

B-GOD`S GIFT AND REMEY
7- What is the gift of God?
“The gift of God is eternal life.” Romans 6:23.
8- How many receive this gift?
“And the Spirit and the bride say, Come. And let him that heareth say, Come. And let him that is athirst come. And whosoever will, let him take the water of life freely.” Revelation 22:17.
9- In whom is the gift of eternal life?
“This is the record, that God hath given to us eternal life, and this life is in his Son.” 1 John 5:11.
10- In receiving the Son, what do we have in Him?
“He that hath the Son hat life.” 1 John 5:12.
11- In What other way is this same truth stated?
“He that believeth on the Son hath everlasting life: and he that believeht not the Son shall not see life; but the wrath of God abideth on him.” John 3:36.
12- After one truly receives Christ, whose life will be manifested in him?
“I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me.” Colossians 2:20.

STUDY – 9 SALVATION ONLY THROUGH CHRIST
1- For what purpose did Christ come into the world?
“This is a faithful saying, and worthy of all acceptation, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners.” 1 Timothy 1:15.
2- Why was He to be named “Jesus”?
“Thous shalt call his name Jesus: for he shall sae his people from their sins.” Matthew 1:21.
3- Is there Salvation through any other?
“Nether is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be save.” Acts 4:12.
4- Through whom only may we come to God?
“There is one God, and one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus; who gave himself a ransom for all, to be testified in due time. …I will therefore that men pray every where, lifting up holy hands, without wrath and doubting.” 1 Timothy 2:5-8.
5- What has Christ been made for us, and for what purpose?
“For he hath made him to be sin for us, who knew no sin; that we might be made the righteousness of God in him.” 2 Corinthians 5:21.

THE DIVINE- HUMAN CHRIST
6- What three essentials for Saviour are found in Christ?
Deity: “But unto the Son he saith, thy throne, O God, is for ever and ever.” Hebrews 1:8.
Humanity: “When the fullness of the time was come, God sent forth his Son, made of a woman, made under the law.” Galatians 4:4.
Sinlessness: “Who did no sin, neither was guile found in his mouth.” 1 Peter 2:22.
7- What two facts testify to the union of divinity and humanity in Christ?
“Concerning his Son Jesus Christ our Lord, which was made of the reed of David according to the flesh, and declared to be the Son of God with power, according to the spirit of holiness, by the resurrection from the dead.” Romans 1:3, 4.
8- How complete was Christ’s victory over death?
“I am the first and the last: I am he that liveth, and was dead; and, behold, I am alive for evermore, Amen; and have the keys of hell and of death.” Revelation 1:7, 18 – Acts 2:24.
9- How complete is the salvation obtained in Christ?
“Wherefore he is able to save them to the uttermost that come unto God by him, seeing he ever liveth to make intercession for them.” Hebrews 7:25.
10- What should we say for such a Saviour?
“Thanks be unto God for his unspeakable gift.” 2 Corinthians 9:15.

THE WAY TO CHRIST

STUDY – 1 VICTORIOUS FAITH
A- NATURE AND NECESSITY OF TRUE FAITH
1- What is faith declared to be?
“Faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.” Hebrews 11:1.
2- How necessary is faith?
“Without faith it is impossible to please him.” Hebrews 11:6.
3- Is believing in divine truth sufficient?
“Thou belevest that there is one God; thou does well: the devils also believe, and tremble.” James 2:19.
4- From whom does faith come?
“God hath dealt to every man the measure of faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God.” Romans 10:17.
5- By what principle does genuine faith work?
“In Jesus Christ neither circumcision availeth any thing, nor uncircumcision; but faith which worketh by love.” Galatians 5:6.

B- FRUITS OF FAITH
6- What relation does faith bear to knowledge?
“Through faith we understand that the worlds were framed by the word of God.” Hebrews 11:3.
7- How does Abraham’s experience show that obedience and faith are inseparable?
“By faith Abraham, when he was called to out into a place which he should after receive for an inheritage, obeyed; and he went out, not knowing whither he went.” Hebrews 11:8.
8- With what, therefore, is the faith of Jesus joined?
“Here is the patience of the saints, here are they that keep the commandments of God, and the faith of Jesus.” Revelation 14:12.
9- In what other statement in the same truth emphasized?
“But wilt thou know, O vain man, that faith without works is dead?” James 2:20.

C- OTHER OBSERVATIONS
10- What is the result of faith`s being put to the test?
“The trying of your faith worketh patience.” James 1:3.
11- What relationship to God is established by faith?
“For ye are all children of God by faith in Christ Jesus.” Galatians 3:26.
12- How do the children of God walk?
“For we walk by faith, not by sight.” 2 Corinthians 5:7.
13- Upon what condition may one expect answers to prayer?
“But let him ask in faith, nothing wavering. For he that wavereth is like a wave of the sea driven with the wind and tossed.” James 1:6.
14- To what parts of the ancient armor is faith compared?
“Above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked.” Ephesians 6:16. “Putting on the breastplate of faith and love.” 1 Thessalonians 5:8.
15- What chapter in the Bible is devoted to faith?
The eleventh chapter of Hebrews. In 1 Thessalonians 5: 33-38, are summarized the victories of the heroes of faith.
16- What gives victory in our conflicts with the world?
“This is the victory that overcometh the world, even our faith.” 1 John 5:4.
17- What is the ultimate purpose of faith?
“Receiving the end of your faith, even the salvation of your souls.” 1 Peter 1:9.

STUDY – 2 HOPE IN GOD
1- Why were the Scriptures written?
“For whatsoever things were written aforetime were written for our learning, that we through patience and comfort of the scriptures might have hope.” Romans 15:4.
2- Why should God’s wonderful works be rehearsed to the children?
“We will not hide them from their children, shewing to the generation to come the praises of the Lord, and his strength, and his wonderful works that he hath done… That they might set their hope in God, and not forget the woks of God, but keep his commandments.” Psalm 78:4-7.

A- FROM DESPAIR TO LIVING HOPE
3- In what condition are those who are without Christ?
“Wherefore remember, that ye being in time past Gentiles in the flesh. …that at that time ye were without Christ, being aliens from the commonwealth of Israel, and strangers from the covenants of promise, having no hope, and without God in the world.” Ephesians 2:11, 12.
4- What does hope become to the Christian?
“Which hope we have as an anchor of the soul, both sure and stedfast, and which entereth into that within the veil.” Hebrews. 6:19.
5- In bereavement, from what hopless sorrow are Christians delivered?
“But I would not have you to be ignorant, brethren, concerning them which are asleep, that ye sorrow not, even as others which have no hope.” 1 Thessalonians 4:13.
6- Unto what has the resurrection of Christ begotten us?
“Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, which according to his abundant mercy hath begotten us again unto a lively hope by the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead.” 1 Peter 1:3.
7- What is the Christian’s hope called?
“Looking for that blessed hope, and the glorious appearing of the great God and our Saviour Jesus Christ.” Titus 2:13.
8- At what time did Paul expect to realize his hope?
“Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day: and not to me only, but unto all them also that love his appearing.” 2 Timothy 4:8.
9- What does the prophet Jeremiah say is a good thing for a man to do?
“It is good that a man should both hope and quietly wait for the salvation of the Lord.” Lamentations 3:26.
10- What will hope lead one to do?
“And every man that hath this hope in him purifieth Himself, even as he is pure.” 1 John 3:3.
11- What is the condition of one whose hope is in God?
“Happy is he that hath the God of Jacob for his help, whose hope is in the Lord his God.” Psalm 146:5. “Blessed is the man that trusteth in the Lord, and whose hope the Lord is.” Jeremiah 17:7.
12- In the time of trouble, who will be the hope of God’s people?
“The lord also shall roar out of Zion, and utter his voice from Jerusalem: and the heavens and the earth shall shake; but the Lord will be the hope of his people, and the strength of the children of Israel.” Joel 3:16.
13- What inspiring words are spoken to such as hope in God?
“Be of good courage, and he shall strengthen your heart, all ye the hope in the Lord.” Psalm 31:24.
14- How long should our hope endure?
“And we desire that every one of you do shew the same diligence to the full assurance of hope unto the end.” Hebrews 6:11.

STUDY – 3 REPENTANCE
A-SIN AND REPENTANCE
1- Who are called to repentance?
“I came not to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance.” Luke 5:32.
2- What accompanies repentance?
“And that repentance and remission of sins should be preached in his name among all nations.” Luke 24:47.
3- By what means is sin made known?
“By the law is the knowledge of sin.” Romans 3:20.
4- How many are sinners?
“We have before proved both Jesus and Gentiles, that they are all under sin.” Romans 3:9.

B- FRUITS OF TRUE REPENTANCE
5- What will the truly repentant sinner be constrained to do?
“I will declare mine iniquity; I will be sorry for my sin.” Psalm 38:18.
6- What is the result of godly sorrow?
“For godly sorrow worketh repentance to salvation.” 2 Corinthians 7:10.
7- How does godly sorrow for sin manifest itself?
“For behold this selfsame thing, that ye sorrowed after a godly sort, what carefulness, it wrought in you, yea, what clearing of yourselves, yea, what indignation, yea, what fear, yea, what vehement desire, yea, what zeal, yea, what revenge! In all things ye have approved yourselves to be clear in this matter.” 2 Corinthians 7:11.
8- What did John the Baptists tell the Pharisees and Sadducees to do?
“Bring forth therefore fruits meet for repentance.” Matthew 3:8.
9- When God sent the Ninevites a warning message, how did they show their repentance, and what was the result?
“And God saw their works, that they turned from their evil way; and God repented of the evil, that he had said that he would do unto them; and he did it not.” Jonah 3:10.
10- What leads sinners to repentance?
“Or despisest thou the riches of his goodness and forbearance and longsuffering; not knowing that the foodness of God leadeth thee to repentance?” Romans 2:4.

STUDY – 4 CONFESSION AND FORGIVENESS
1- What instruction is given concerning confession of sin?
“Speak unto the children of Israel. When a man or woman shall commit any sin that men commit, to do a trespass against the Lord, and that person be guilty, then they shall confess their sin which they have done.” Numbers 5:6, 7.
2- How futile is it to attempt to hide sin from God?
“But if ye will not do so, behold, ye have sinned against the Lord: and be sure your sins will find you out.” Numbers 32:23. “Thou hast set our iniquities before thee, our secret sins in the light of thy countenance.” Psalm 90:8. “All things are naked and opened unto the eyes of him with whom we have to do.” Hebrews 4:13.
3- What promise is made to those who confess their sins?
“If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.” 1 John 1:9.
4- What different results attend the covering and the confessing of sins?
“He that covereth his sins shall not prosper: but whoso confesseth and forsaketh tem shall have mercy.” Proverbs 28:13.

A- BEING DEFINITE IN CONFESSION
5- How definite should we be in confessing our sins?
“And it shall be, when he shall be guilty in one of these thing, that he shall confess that he hath sinned in that thing.” Leviticus 5:5.
6- When David confessed his sin, what did he say God did?
“I acknowledged my sin unto thee, and mine iniquity have I not hid. I said, I will confess my transgressions unto the Lord; and thou forgavest the iniquity of my sin.” Psalm 32:5.

B- GOD`S DELIGHT IN FORGIVING
7- What is God ready to do for all who seek for forgiveness?
“For thou, Lord, art good, and ready to forgive; and plenteous in mercy unto all them that call upon thee.” Psalm 32:5.
8- Upon what did David rest his hope of forgiveness?
“Have mercy upon me, O God, according to thy lovingkindness: according unto the multitude of thy tender mercies blot out my transgressions.” Psalm 51:1.
9- What is the measure of the greatness of God’s mercy?
“For as the heaven is high above the earth, so great is his mercy toward them that fear him.” Psalm 103:11.
10- How fully does the Lord pardon when one repents?
“Let the wicked forsake his way, and the unrighteous man his thoughts: and let him return unto the Lord, and he will have mercy upon him; and to our Go, for he will abundantly pardon.” Isaiah 55:7.
11- What reason is given for God’s readiness to forgive sin?
“Who is a God like unto thee, that pardoneth iniquity and passeth by the transgression of the remnant of his heritage? He retained not his anger for ever, because he delighteh in mercy.” Micah 7:18 (See Psalm 78:38).
12- Why does God manifest such mercy and long-suffering toward men?
“The Lord is not slack concerning his promise, as some men count slackness; but is longsuffering to us-ward, not willing that any should perish but that all should come to repentance.” 2 Peter 3:9.

C- SPECIFIC EXAMPLES
13- When the prodigal son, in the parable, repented and turned toward home, what did his father do?
“When he was yet a great way off, his father saw him, and had compassion, and ran, and fell on his neck, and kissed him.” Luke 15:20.
14- How did the father show his joy at his son’s return?
“The father said to his servants. Bring forth the best robe, and put it on him; and put a ring on his hand, and shoes on his feet: and bring hither the fatted calf, and kill it; and let us eat, and be merry: for this my son was dead, and is alive again; he was lost, and is found.” Luke 15:22-24.
15- What is felt in heaven when a sinner repents?
“Likewise, I say unto you, there is joy in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner that repenteth.” Luke 15:10
16- What did Hezekiah say God had done with his sins?
“Behold, for peace I had great bitterness: but thou hast in love to my soul delivered it from the pit of corruption: for thou hast cast all my sins behind thy back.” Isaiah 38:17.
17- How completely does God wish to separate sin from us?
“Thou wilt cast all their sins into the depths of the sea.” Micah 7:19. “As far as the east is from the west, so far hath he removed our transgressions from us.” Psalm 103: 12.
18- How did the people respond to the preaching of John?
“The went out to him Jerusalem, and all Judaea, and all the region round about Jordan, and were baptized of him in Jordan, confessing their sins.” Matthew 3:5, 6.

D- CONDITIONS OF FORGIVENESS
19- Upon what basis has Christ taught us to ask forgiveness?
“And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors.” Matthew 6:12.
20- What spirit must those cherish whom God forgives?
“For if ye forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you: but if ye forgive not men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses.” Matthew 6:14, 15.
21- What exhortation is based on the fact that God has forgiven us?
“And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ’s sake hath forgiven you.” Ephesians 4:32.

E- THE BLESSED GIVER AND RECEIVER
22- Through whom are repentance and forgiveness granted?
“The God of our fathers raised up Jesus, whom ye slew and hanged on a tree. Him hath God exalted with his right hand to be a prince and a Saviour, for to give repentance to Israel, and forgiveness of sins.” Acts 5: 30; 31.
23- In what condition is one whose sins are forgiven?
“Blessed is he whose transgression is forgiven, whose sin is covered.” Psalm 32:1.

STUDY – 5 CONVERSION, OR THE NEW BIRTH
A- NECESSITY OF CONVERSION
1- How did Jesus emphasize the necessity of conversion?
“verily I say unto you, Except ye be converted, and become as little children, ye shall not enter into the kingdom of heaven.” Matthew 18:3.
2- In what other statement did He teach the same truth?
“Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God.” John 3:3.
3- How did he further explain the new birth?
“Jesus answered, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, except a man be born of water and of the Spirit, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God.” John 3:5.

B- AGENCY OF THE NEW CREATION
4- What takes place when one is converted to Christ?
“Wherefore if any many is in Christ, he is a new creation: the old things are passed away; behold, they are become new.” 2 Corinthians 5:17.
5- Through what was the original creation wrought?
“By the word of the Lord were the heavens made; and all that host of them by the breath of his mouth.” Psalm 33:6.
6- Through what instrumentality is conversion wrought?
“Being born again, not of corruptible seed, but of incorruptible, by the word of God, which liveth and abideth for ever.” 1 Peter 1:23.

C- REUSLTS OF TRUE CONVERSION
7- What change is wrought in conversion, or the new birth?
“Even when we were dead in sins, hath quickened us together with Christ, (by grace ye are saved).” Ephesians 2:5.
8- What is one evidence of this change from death to life?
“We know that we have passed from death unto life, because we love the brethren. He that loveth not his brother abideth in death.” 1 John 3:14; 1 John 2:29; 4:7.
9- From what is a converted sinner saved?
“Let him know, that he which converteth the sinner from the error of his way, shall save a soul from death, and shall hide a multitude of sins.” James 5:20.
10- What gracious promise does God make to His people?
“I will heal their backsliding, I will love them freely: for mine anger is turned away from him.” Hosea 14:4.
11- By what means is this healing accomplished?
“He (Christ) was wounded for our transgressions, he was bruised for our iniquities: the chastisement of our peace was upon him; and with his stripes we are healed.” Isaiah 53:5.
12- What indwelling power keeps such from sinning?
“Whosoever is born of God doth not commit sin, for his seed remaineth in him: and he cannot sin, because he is born of God.” 1 John 3:9.

STUDY – 6 CHRISTIAN BAPTISM
A- BELIEF, REPENTANCE, AND BAPTISM
1- What ordinance is closely associated with believing the gospel?
“And he said nto them, Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature. He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved; but he that believeth not shall be damned.” Mark 16:15, 16.
2- What did the apostle peter associate with baptism in his instruction on the day of Pentecost?
“Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins.” Acts 2:38.
3- In reply to his inquiry concerning salvation, what was the Philippian jailer told to do?
“And they said, believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and thou shalt be saved, and thy house. “Acts 16:31.
4- What followed immediately after jailer and his family had accepted Christ as their Saviour?
“And he took them (Paul and Silas) the same hour of the nigh, and washed their stripes; and was baptized, he and all his straightway.” Acts 16:33.

B- SPIRITUAL SIGNIFANCE OF BAPTISM
5- In connection with Christian baptism, what is washed away?
“And now why tarreist thou? Arise, and be baptized, and wash away thy sins, calling on the name of the Lord.” Acts 22:16.
6- By what means are sins washed away?
“Unto him that loved us, and washed us from our sins in his own blood.” Revelation 1:5.

C- UNION WITH CHRIST IN BAPTISM
7- Into whose name are believers to be baptized?
“Go ye therefore, and make disciples of all the nations, baptized them into the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Ghost.” Matthew 28:19.
8- When believers are baptized into Christ, whom do they put on?
“For as many of you as have been baptized into Christ have put on Christ.” Galatians 3:27.
9- Into what experience are those baptized who are baptized into Christ?
“Know ye not, that so many of us were baptized into Jesus Christ were baptized into his death?” Romans 6:3.
Note: Baptism is a gospel ordinance commemorating the death, burial, and resurrection of Christ. In baptism public testimony is given to the effect that the one baptized has been crucified with Christ, buried with Him, an is raised with Him to walk in newness of life. Only one mode of baptism can rightly represent these facts of experience, and that is immersion – the mode followed by Christ and the primitive church.
10- How is such a baptism descrived?
“Therefore we are buried with him by baptism into death: that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Fathe, even so we also shoul walk in newness of life.” Romans 6:4.
11- How fully are we thus united with Christ in His experience of death and resurrection?
“For if we have been planted together in the likeness of his death, we shall be also in the likeness of his resurrection.” Romans 6:5.
12- What will follow this union with Christ?
“Now if we be dead with Christ, we believe that we shall also live with him.” Romans 6:8.
“Buried with him in baptism, wherein also ye are risen with him through the faith of the operation of God, who hath raised him from the dead.” Colossians 2:12.

D- BAPTISM AND THE HOLY SPIRIT
13- At the beginning of His ministry, what example did Jesus set for the benefit of His followers?
“Then cometh Jesus from Calilee to Jordan unto John, to be baptized of him.” Matthew 3:13.
14- What remarkable experience attended the baptism of Jesus?
“And Jesus, when he was baptized, went up straightway out of the water: and, lo, the heavens were opened unto him, and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove, and lighting upon him: and lo a voice from heaven, saying, This is my beloved Son, In whom I am well pleased.” Matthew 3: 16, 17.
15- What promise is made to those who repent and are baptized?
“Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost.” Acts 2:38.

E- PHILIP BAPTIZES AN ETHIOPIAN AND SAMARITANS
16- What question did the eunuch ask after Philip had preached Jesus unto him?
“And as they went on their way, they came unto a certain water and the eunuch said, See, here is water, what doth hinder me to be baptized?” Acts 8:36.
17- In order to baptize the eunuch, where did Philip take him?
“And he commanded the chariot to stand still: and they went down both into the water, both Philip and the eunuch; and he baptized him.” Acts 8:38.
18- How did the people of Samaria publicly testify to their faith in the preaching of Philip?
“But when they believed Philip preaching the things concerning the kingdom of God, and the name of Jesus Christ, they were baptized, both men and women.” Acts 8:12.

F- UNITY AND HEAVENLY PURPOSE
19- How perfect is the unity into which believers are brought by being baptized into Christ?
“For as the body is one, and hath many members, and all the members of that one body, being many, are one body: so also is Christ. For by one Spirit are we all baptized into one body, whether we be Jews or Gentiles, whether we be bond or free; and have been all made to drink into one Spirit.” 1 Corinthians 12:12, 13.
20- After being united with Christ in the likeness of His death and resurrection, what should the believer do?
“If ye then be risen with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ sitteth on the right hand of God.” Colossians 3:1.

STUDY – 7 RECONCILED TO GOD
1-What message of entreaty has God sent to us through His appointed messengers?
“Now then we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God did beseech you by us: we pray you in Christ’s stead, be ye reconciled to God.” 2 Corinthians 5:20.
2- Through whom is this reconciliation made?
“All things are of God, who hath reconciled us to himself by Jesus Christ, and hath given to us the ministry of reconciliation.” 2 Corinthians 5:18.

A- THE PRICE OF RECONCILIATION
3- What was required in order to effect this reconciliation?
“For if, when we were enemies, we were reconciled to God by the death of his Son, much more, being reconciled, we shall be saved by his life.” Romans 5:10.
“Having made peace through the blood of his cross, by him to reconcile all things unto himself.” Colossians 1:20.
4- How was He treated?
“But he was wounded for our transgressions, he was bruised for our iniquities: the chastisement of our peaces was upon him; and with his stripes we are healed.” Isaiah 53:5.
5- What did John declare concerning Him?
“Behold the Lamb of God, which taketh away (beareth, margin) the sin of the world.” John 1:29.
6- To what place did Christ carry these sins?
“Who his own self bare our sins in his own body on the tree, that we, being dead to sins, should live unto righteousness: by whose stripes ye were healed.” 1 Peter 2:24.

B- THE FATHER SUFFERS WITH CHRIST
7- In thus reconciling the world unto Himself, what attitude did God take toward men?
“God was in Christ, reconciling the world unto himself, not imputing their trespasses unto them.” 2 Corinthians 5:19.
8- What rendered it possible for God to treat sinners thus?
“All we like sheep have gone astray; we have turned every one to his own way; and the Lord hath laid on him the iniquity of us all.” Isaiah 53:6.

C- UNITY, PURPOSE, AND JOY OF RECONCILIATION
9- What is the great purpose of Christ in His work of reconciliation?
“And you, that were sometime alienated and enemies in your mind by wicked works, yet now hath he reconciled in the body of his flesh through death, to present you holy and unblameable and unreproveable in his sight.” Colossians 1: 21, 22.
10- Through whom is the reconciliation received?
“We also joy in God through our Lord Jesus Christ, by whom we have now received the atonement (literally, “reconciliation”)” Romans 5:11.

STUDY – 8 JUSTIFICATION BY FAITH
1- What is the means through which justifying grace is made available to the sinner?
“Much more then, being now justified by his (Christ`s) blood, we shall be saved from wrath through him.” Romans 5:9.
2- How is justification laid hold upon?
“Therefore we conclude that a man is justified by faith without the deeds of the law.” Romans 3:28.
3- What is the only way sinners may be justified, or made righteous?
“Knowing that a man is not justified by the works of the law, but by the faith of Jesus Christ, even we have believed in Jesus Christ, that we might be justified by the faith of Christ, and not by the works of the law: for by the works of the law shall no flesh be justified.” Galatians 2:16.
4- What concrete example makes clear the meaning of this doctrine?
“And he (Abraham) believed in the Lord; and he counted it to him for righteousness.” Genesis 15:5, 6.
5- How is the righteousness thus obtained described?
“And be found in him, not having mine 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 3:9.
6- Upon what condition is faith reckoned for righteousness?
“But to him that worketh not, but believeth on him that justifieth the ungodly, his faith is counted for righteousness.” Romans 4:5.
7- What statement testifies to Abraham’s faith in God?
“He staggered not a the promise of God through unbelief: but was strong in faith, giving glory to God; and being fully persuaded that, what he had promised, he was able also to perform. And therefore it was imputed to him for righteousness.” Romans 4:20-22.
8- How may we receive this same imputed righteousness?
“Now it was not written for his sake alone, that it was imputed to him; but for us also, to whom it shall be imputed, if we believe on him that raised up Jesus our Lord from the dead.” Romans 4: 23, 24.
9- What is inseparable from the experience of justification by faith?
“Be it known unto you therefore, men and brethren, that though this man is preached unto you the forgiveness of sins: and by him all that believe are justified from all things, from which ye could not be justified by the law of Moses.” Acts 13:38, 39.
10- How has Christ made it possible for righteousness to be imputed to the believer?
“For as by one man’s disobedience many are made inners, so by the obedience of one shall many be made righteous.” Romans 5.19.
11- What does the imputed righteousness of Christ enable God to do, and still be just?
“To declare, I say, at this time his righteousness: that he might be jut, and the justifier of him which believeth in Jesus.” Romans 3:26.
12- By what name is Christ appropriately called?
“Behold, the days come, saith the Lord, that I will raise unto David a righteous Branch, and a King shall reign and prosper, and shall execute judgement and justice in the earth. In his days Judah shall be saved, and Israel shall dwell safely: and this is his name whereby he shall be called, THE LORD OUR RIGHTEOUSNESS.” Jeremiah 23:5, 6.
13- What blessed experience follows upon the acceptance of Christ as our righteousness?
“Therefore being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ.” Romans 5:1.
14- What does Christ thus become to the believer?
“For he is our peace, who hath made both one, and hath broken down the middle wall of partition between us.” Ephesians 2:14.
15- What is proved by any attempt to be justified by the law?
“Christ is become of no effect unto you, whosoever of you are justified by the law; ye are fallen from grace.” Galatians 5:4; Romans 3:20; Galatians 2:21.
16- Why did Israel fail to attain unto righteousness?
“But Israel, which followed after the law of righteousness, hath not attained to the law of righteousness. Wherefore? Because they sought it not by faith, but as it were by the works of the law. For they stumbled at that stumbling stone.” Romans 9:31, 32.
17- Does faith set aside the law of God?
“Do we then make void the law through faith? God forbid: yea, we establish the law.” Romans 9:31.
18- What scripture shows that the righteousness which is received by grace through faith must not be made an excuse for continuing in sin?
“What shall we say then? Shall we continue in sin, that grace may abound? God forbid. How shall we, that are dead to sin, live any longer therein? Romans 6:1, 2.
19- Does faith exclude works?
“But wilt thou know. O vain man that faith without works is dead?” James 2:20.
20- What is the evidence of genuine, living faith?
“Shew me thy faith without thy works, and I will shew thee my faith by my works.” James 2:18.
21- What, then, are the visible proofs of genuine justification by faith?
“Ye see then how that by works a man is justified, and not by faith only” James 2: 24 – see: 22.
22- What great exchange has been wrought for us in Christ?
“For he hath made him to be sin for us, who knew no sin, that we might be made the righteousness of God in him.” 2 Corinthians 5:21.

A- CALL TO CONUAL CONSECRATION
23- How is this consecration urged upon all Christians?
“I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service.” Romans 12:1.
24- What is the sacrifice of praise declared to be?
“Through him then let us offer up a sacrifice of praise to God continually, that is, the fruit of lips which make confession to his name.” Hebrews 13:15.
25- How is the service of consecration to be carried forward by the Christian church?
“Ye also, as lively stone, are built up a spiritual house, an holy priest hood, to offer up spiritual sacrifices, acceptable to God by Jesus Christ.” 1 Peter 2:5.

B- THE EXAMPLE OF JESUS
26- Who has set example of complete consecration?
“And whosoever will be chief among you, let him be your servant: even as the Son of man came not to be ministered unto, but to minister, and to give his life a ransom for many.” Matthew 20:27, 28.
27- Who has set the example of complete consecration?
“And whosoever will be chief among you, let him be your servant: even as the Son of man came not to be ministered unto, but to minister, and to give his life a ransom for many.” Matthew 20:27, 28.
28- What position has Jesus taken among His brethren?
“For whether is greater, he that sitteht at meat, or he that serveth? Is not he that sitteth at meat? But I am among you as he that serveth.” Luke 22:27
29- What did Christ’s spirit of meekness and consecration lead Him to do?
“But made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men.” Philippians 2:7.
30- To what extent did Christ humble Himself?
“And being found in fashion as a man, he humbled himself and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross.” Philippians 2:8.

C- CALL TO COMPLETE COSECRATION
31- How does He exhort us to the same consecration?
“Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall fin rest unto your souls.” Matthew 11:29.
32- What does He make the condition of discipleship?
“So likewise, whosoever he be of you that forsaketh not all that he hath, he cannot be my disciple.” Luke 14:33.
33- How should he walk who professes to abide in Christ?
“He that saith he abideth in him ought himself also so to walk, even as he walked.” 1 John 2:6.
34- Do we belong to ourselves?
“Know ye not…ye are not your own? For ye are bought with a prince.” 1 Corinthians 6:19, 20.
35- What are we therefore exhorted to do?
“Therefore glorify God in your body, and in our spirit, which are God’s” 1 Corinthians 6:20.
36- When truly consecrated, for what is one ready?
“Also I herd the voice of the Lord, saying, whom shall send, and who will go for us? Then said I, here am I send me.” Isaiah 6:9.

STUDY – 9 BIBLE SANCTIFICATION
A- THE CALL TO SANCTIFICATION
1- What inspired prayer sets the standard of Christian experience?
“And the very God of peace sanctify you wholly; and I pray God your spirit and soul and body be preserved blameless unto the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ.” 1 Thessalonians 5:23
2- How necessary is the experience of sanctification?
“Follow after peace with all men, and the sanctification without which no man shall see the Lord.” Hebrews 12:14.
3- What encouragement is held out as an aid in attaining this experience?
“For this is the will of God, even your sanctification.” 1 Thessalonians 4:3.
4- What distinct purpose did Christ have in giving Himself for the church?
“Husbands, love your wives, even as Christ also loved the church, and gave himself for it: that he might sanctify and cleanse it with the washing of water by the word.” Ephesians 5:25, 26.
5- What king of church would He thus be able to present to Himself?
“That he might present it to himself a glorious church, not having spot, or wrinkle, or any such thing: but that it should be holy and without blemish.” Ephesians 5:27.

B- CHRIST`S BLOOD AND TRANSFORMATION
6- By what is this cleaning from sin and fitting for God’s service accomplished?
“For if the blood of bulls and of goats, and the ashes of an heifer sprinkling the unclean, sanctified to ht purifying of the flesh: how much more shall the blood of Christ, who through the eternal Spirit offered himself without spot to God, purge your conscience from dead works to serve the living God?” Hebrews 9:13, 14.
7- What change is thus brought about?
“And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.” Romans 12:2.

C- SANCTICATION A GROWTH IN GRACE
8- In the experience of sanctification, what attitude must one assume toward the truth?
“God hath from the beginning chosen you to salvation through sanctification of the Spirit and belief of the truth.” 2 Thessalonians 2:13.
9- What instruction shows that sanctification is a progressive work?
“But grow in grace, and in the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ.” 2 Peter 3:18.
10- What description of the Apostle Paul’s experience is in harmony with this?
“Brethren, I count not myself to have apprehended: but this one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before, I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus.” Philippians 3:13, 14.
11- Can anyone boast of sinlessness?
“If we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us.” 1 John 1:8.
12- What are we exhorted by the prophet to seek?
“Seek ye the Lord, all ye meek of the earth, which have wrought his judgement; seek righteousness, seek meekness: it may be ye shall be hid in the day of the Lord’s anger.” Zephaniah 2:3.
13- In whose name should everything be done?
“And whatsoever ye do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus.” Colossians 3:17.
14- In all we do, whose glory should we have in view?
“Whether therefore ye eat, or drink, or whatsoever ye do, do all to the glory of God.” 1 Corinthians 10:31.

D- SHUT OUT OR SHUT IN
15- What classes of persons are necessarily shut out of the kingdom of God?
“For this ye know, that no whoremonger, nor unclean person, nor covetous mans, who is an idolater, hath any inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and of God.” Ephesians 5:5. “Know ye not that the unrighteous shall not inherit the kingdom of God? Be not deceived: neither fornicators, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor effeminate, nor abusers of themselves with man kind, nor thieves, nor covetous, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor executioners, shall inherit the kingdom of God.” 1 Corinthians 6:9, 10.
16- What must be crucified and eliminated from our lives if we would be holy?
“Mortify therefore your members which are upon the earth; fornication, uncleanness, inordinate affection, evil concupiscence, and covetousness, which is idolatry: for which things sake the wrath of God cometh on the children of disobedience.” Colossians 3:5, 6.
17- When purged from these sins, in what condition is a man, and for what is he prepared?
“If a man therefore purge himself from these, he shall be a vessel unto honor, sanctified, and meet for the Master’s use, and prepared unto every good work.” 2 Timothy 2:21.

STUDY – 10 IMPORTANCE OF SOUND DOCTRINE
1- Does it matter what one believes, so long as he is sincere?
"God hath from the beginning chosen you to salvation through sanctification of the Spirit and belief of the truth." 2 Thessalonians 2:13.
2- What advice was given to Timoty while preparing for the gospel ministry?
"Till I come, give attendance to reading, to exhortation, to doctrine... Take heed unto thyself, and unto the doctrine." 1 Timothy 4:13-16.
3- What similar instruction was given to Titus?
"But speak thou the things which become sound doctrine:" "in all things shewing thyself a pattern of good works: in doctrine shewing uncorruptness, gravity, sincerity." Titus 2:1,7.

WARNING AGAINST FALSE DOCTRINES
4- Of what kind of doctrines should we beware?
"That we henceforth be no more children, tossed to and fro, and carried about with every wind of doctrine." Ephesians 4:14 - see: Hebrews 13:9.
5- What is a "wind of doctrine"?
"And the prophets shall become wind, and the word is not in them." Jeremiah 5:13.
6-What danger attends the teaching of false doctrine?
"But in vain they do worship me, teaching for doctrines the commandments of men." Matthew 15:9.
7- By what doctrie are some to be misled in the last days?
"Now the Spirit speaketh expressly, that in the latter times some shall depart from the faith, giving head to seducing spirits, and doctrines of devils." 1 Timothy 4:1.
8- To what would men turn their ears?
"For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears; and they shall turn away their ears from the truth, and shall be turned unto fables." 2 Timothy 4:3,4.

THE TEST OF TRUE AND FALSE
9- How may we determine the truthfulness of any doctrine?
"Prove all things; hold fast that which is good." 1 Thessalonians 5:21.
10- By what should we test, or prove, all doctrine?
"To the law and to the testimony: if they speak not according to this word, it is because there is no light in them." Isaiah 8:20.
Note: The Bible is the test of all doctrine. Whatever does not harmonize and square with this, is not to be received. "There is but one standard of the everlastingly right and the everlastingly wrong, and that is the Bible." T.De Witt Talmage.
11- For what is all scripture profitable?
"All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is prifitable for doctrine." 2 Timothy 3:16.
12- What will sound doctrine enable the faithful teacher to do?
"Holding fast the faithfull word as he hath been taught, that he may be able by sound dectrine both to exhort and to covince the gainsayers." Titus 1:9.

STUDY – 11 PRESENT TRUTH
1- By what are men sanctified?

"Sanctify them through thy truth: thy word is truth." John 17:17.

2- To what knowledge would God have all men come?

"Who will have all men to be saved, and to come unto the knowledge of the truth." 1 Timothy 2:4.

3- After receiving a knowledge of the truth, what must one do in order to be sanfified by it?

"God hath from the beginning chosen you to salvation through sanctification of the Spirit and belief of the truth." 2 Thessalonians 2:13.

4- And what besides a mere belief in the truth is necessary?

"Elect according to the foreknowledge of God the Father, through sanctification of the spirit, unto obedience." 1 Peter 1:2.

5- What effect does obedience to the truth have?

"Seeing ye have purified our souls in obeying the truth through the Spirit." 1 Peter 1:22.

SPECIAL MESSAGENS FOR SPECIAL TIMES

6- Does the Bible recognize what may be called "present truth"?

"Wherefore I will not be negligent to put you always in remembrance of these things, thou ye know them, and be established in the present truth." 2 Peter 1:12.

Note: Some truths are applicable in all ages, and therefore present truth for every generation; others are of a special character, and are application; others are of a special character, and are applicable to only one generation."

7- What was the special message for Noah`s day?

"And God said unto Noah, The end of all flesh is come before me; for the earth is filled with violence through them; and, behold, I will destroy them with the earth. Make thee an ark of gopher wood." Genesis 6:13,14.

8- How did Noah show his faith in this message?

"By faith Noah, being warned of God of things not seen as yet, moved with fear, prepared an ark to the saving of his house; by the which he condmned the world, and became hir of the righteousness which is by faith." Hebrews 11:7.

9- How many were saved in the ark?

"The longsuffering of God waited in the days of Noah, while the ark was a preparing, wherein few, that is, eight souls were saved by wather." 1 Peter 3:20.

JONAH AND NINEVEH

10- What special message was given to Jonah for Niveveh?

"So Jonah arose, and went unto niveveh, according to the word of the Lord...And Jonah began to enter into the city a day`s journey, and he cried, and said, Yet forty days, and Nineveh shall be overthrown." Jonah 3:3,4.

11- What saved the people from the predicted overthrou?

"So the people of Niveveh believed God, and proclaimed a fast, and put on sackcloth, from the greatest of them even to the least of them." "And God say their works, that they turned from their evil way; and God repented of the evil, that he had said that he would do unto them: and he did it not." Jonah 3:5,10.

THE PREACHING OF JOHN THE BAPTIST

12- What was the special mission of John the Baptist?

"There was a man sent from God, whose name was John. The same came for a witness, to bear witness of the Light, that all men through him mingt believe." John 1:6,7.

13- What answer did he return when asked concerning his mission?

"He said, I am the voice of one crying in the wilderness, Make straight the way of the Lord, as said the prophet Esais." John 1:23.

14- What did Christ say of those who rejected John`s message?

"But the Pharisees and lawyers rejected the counsel of God against themselves, being not baptized of him." Luke 7:30.

15- What did those do who were baptized of John?

"And all the people that heard him, and the publicans, justified God, being baptized with the baptism of John." Luke 7:29.

Note: That is, they honored God by this act, which showed their faith in His truth for that time.

CHRIST AND HIS RECEPTION

16- Did God`s chosen people receive Christ when He came?

"He came unto his own, and his own received him not." John 1:11.

17- What reason did they give for not receiving Him?

"We know that God spake unto Moses: as for this fellow, we know not from whence he is." John 9:29.

18- What was the result of the Jews`not accepting Christ?

"And when he was come near, he beheld the city, and wept over it, saying, If thou hadst known, even thou, at least in this thy day, the things which belong unto thy peace! But now they are hid from thine eyes." Luke 19:41,42. "Behold, your house is left unto you desolate." Matthew 23:38.

SPECIAL MESSAGE FOR THE LAST DAYS

19- Is there to be a special message for the last days?

"Therefore be ye also ready: for in such an hour as ye think not the Son of man cometh. Who then is a faithful and wise servant, whom his Lord hath made ruler over his household, to give them meat in due season?" Matthew 24:44,45.

20- What does Christ say of that servant who, when He comes, is found giving "meat in due season"?

"Blessed is that servant, whom his Lord when he cometh shall find so doing." Matthew 24:46.

21- What will be the burden of the chosing gospel message?

"Far God, and give glory to him; for the hour of his judgment is come: and worship him that made heaven, and earth, and the sea, and the fountains of waters...Babylon is fallen, is fallen...If any man worship the beast and his image, and receive his mark in his forehead, or in his hand, the same shall drink of the wine of the wrath of God." Revelation 14:7-10.

22- How are those described who accept this message?

"Here is the patience of the saints: here are they that keep the commandments of God, and the faith of Jesus." Revelation 14:12.

23- How earnestly is this work to be prosecuted?

"And the lord said unto the servant, Go out into the highwayss and hedges, and compel them to come in, that my house may be filled." Luke 14:23.

Note: This work is now going on. In every part of the world the sound of this closing gospel message is being heard, and the people are being urged to accept it, and to prepare for Christ`s second coming and kingdom.

STUDY – 12 THE OBEDIENCE OF FAITH

LIFE, PARABLES, AND MIRACLES OF CHRIST

THE HOLY SPIRIT

STUDY - 1
THE HOLY SPIRIT AND HIS WORK

A- THE COMFORTER
1- What precious promises did Jesus make to His disciples shortly before His crucifixion?
“I will pray the Father, and he shall give you another Comforter, that he may abide with you for ever.” John 14:16.

2- Why was it necessary for Christ to go away?
“Nevertheless I tell you the truth; It is expedient for you that I go away: for if I go not away, the Comforter will not come unto you; but if I depart, I will send him unto you.” John 16:7.

3- Who is the Comforter, and what was He to do?
“But the Comforter, even the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, he shall teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance all that I said unto you.” John 14:26.

4- What other work was the Comforter to do?
“And when he is come, he will reprove (“convince” margin,) the world of sin, and of righteousness, and of judgment.” John 16:8.

B- THE SPIRIT OF TRUTH
5- By what other title is the Comforter designated?
“But when the Comforter is come, whom I will send unto you from the Father, even the Spirit of truth, which proceedeth from the Father, he shall testify of me.” John 15:26.

6- What did Jesus say the Spirit of truth would do?
“Howbeit, when he, the Spirit of truth is come, he will guide you into all truth: for he shall not speak of himself; but whatsoever he shall hear, that shall he speak: and he will shew you things to come.” John 16:13.
Note:
a) The Spirit speaks (1Timothy 4:1).
b) The Spirit teaches (1 Corinthians 2:3).
c) The Spirit bears witness (Romans 8:16).
d) The Spirit makes intercession (Romans 8:26).
e) The Spirit distributes the gifts (1 Corinthians 12:11).
f) The Spirit invites the sinner (Revelation 22:17).

7- Why cannot the world receive Him?
“Even the Spirit of truth; whom the world cannot receive, because it seeth him not, neither knoweth him” John 14:17.

8- How has God revealed to us the hidden things of the kingdom?
“But god hath revealed them unto us by his Spirit: for the Spirit searcheth all things, yea, the deep things of God.” 1 Corinthians 2:10.

9- Who moved upon the prophets to give their messages?
“For the prophecy came not in old time by the will of man: but holy men of God spake as they were moved by the Holy Ghost.” 2 Peter 1:21.

10- After Pentecost, how was the gospel preached?
“With the Holy Ghost sent down from heave.” 1 Peter 1:12.

11- How intimate is His union with believers?
“But ye know him; for he dwelleth with you, and shall be in you.” John 14:17.

12- What promise is thus fulfilled?
“Lo, I am with you always, even unto the end of the world.” Matthew 28:20.

13- By whom is this union sealed?
“In whom also after that ye believed, ye were sealed with that holy Spirit of promise.” Ephesians 1:13.

STUDY – 2
FRUIT OF THE SPIRIT

1- What is the fruit of the Spirit?
“The fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, temperance.” Galatians 5:22, 23.

2- What are the works of the flesh?
“Now the works, of the flesh are manifest, which are these; Adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lasciviousness, idolatry, witchcraft, hatred, variance, emulations, wrath, strife, seditions, heresies, envyings, murders, drunkenness, revellings, and such like.” Galatians 5:19-21.

3- How may the works of the flesh be avoided?
“Walk in the spirit, and ye shall not fulfil the lust of the flesh.” Galatians 5:16.

4-By what is the love of God shed abroad in the heart?
“The love of God is shed abroad in our hearts by the Holy Ghost which is given unto us.” Romans 5:5.

5- What is love declared to be?
“And above all these things put on love, which is the bond of perfectness.” Colossians 3:14.

6- By is love declared to be?
“For in Jesus Christ neither circumcision availeth any thing, nor uncircuncision availeth any thing, nor uncircumcision; but faith which worketh by love.” Galatians 5:6.

7- What does love do?
“Hatred stirreth up strifes: but love covereth all sins.” Proverbs 10:12. “Have fervent charity among yourselves: for charity shall cover the multitude of sins.” 1 Peter 4:8.

8- In what way does love manifest itself?
“Love suffereth long, and is kind; love envieth not; love vaunteth not itself, is not puffed up, doth not behave itself unseemly, seeketh not its own, is not provoked, taketh not account of evil.” 1 Corinthians 13:4, 5.

A – THE KINGDOM OF GOD
9- Of what does the kingdom of God consist?
“For the kingdom of God is not meat and dringk; but righteousness, and peace, and joy in the Holy Ghost.” Romans 14:17.
Note: It is the Christian’s privilege to have righteousness, peace, and joy – a righteousness, which is of God by faith (Romans 3:21,22); a peace that passeth understanding (Philippians 4:7), which the world can neither give nor take away; and a joy that rejoices evermone. (1 Thessalonians 5:16; Philippians 4:4).

B – GENTLENESESS, GOODNESS, FAITH.
10- What does God’s gentleness do for us?
“Thy gentleness hath made me great.” Psalm 18:35.

11- What spirit should we show toward others?
“And the servant of the Lord must not strive; but be gentle unto all men.” 2 Timothy 2:24.

12- What does the goodness of God do?
“Or despisest thou the riches of his goodness and forbeareance and longsuffering; not knowing that the goodness of God leadeth thee to repentance?” Romans 2:4.

14- How does faith determine our standing with God?
“But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him.” Hebrews 11:6.

C – FROM CONDEMNATION TO PEACE
15- What is said of all these different virtues?
“Against such there is no law.” Galatians 5:23.
Note: The law condemns sin. But all things, beings virtues, are in harmony with the law. They are produced by the spirit; and the law, which is spiritual, cannot, therefore, condemn them.

15- From what condemnation does the leading of this Spirit save us?
“But if ye be led of the Spirit, ye are not under the law.” Galatians 5:18.

16- To what unity are Christians exhorted?
“Endeavouring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace.” Ephesians 4:3.

STUDY – 3
GIFTS OF THE SPIRIT

A – GIFTS FROM THE GODHEAD
1- Concerning what subject ought we to be informed?
“Now concerning spiritual gifts, brethren, I would not have you ignorant.” 1 Corinthians 12:1

3- When Christ ascended, what did He give to men?
“Wherefore he saith, When he ascended on high, he led captivity captive (literally, “he led captives captive”), and gave gifts unto men.” Ephesians 4:8.

4- What were these gifts that Christ gave to men?
“And he gave some, apostles; and some, pastors and teachers.” Ephesians 4:11.

5- How are these gifts elsewhere spoken of?
“And God hath set some in the church, first apostles, secondarily prophets, and thirdly teachers, after that miracles, then gifts of healings, helps, governments, diversities of tongues.” 1 Corinthians 12:28.

B – PURPOSE OF THE GIFTS
6- For what purpose were these gifts bestowed upon the church?
“For the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ: …that we henceforth be no more children, tossed to and fro, and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the sleight of men, and cunning craftiness, whereby they lie in wait to deceive; but speaking the truth in love, may grow up into him in all things, which is the head, even Christ.” Ephesians 4:12 – 15.

6- What result is to be obtained by the exercise of the gifts in the church?
“Till we all come in (´into,´margin) the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stture of the fullness of Christ.” Ephesians 4:13.

7- How is unity preserved in the diversities of gifts?
“Now there are diversities of gifts, but the same Spirit.” 1 Corinthians 12:4.

8- For what purpose is the manifestation of this one Spirit given?
“But the manifestation of the Spirit is given to every man to profit withal. For to one is given by the Spirit the word of wisdom; to another the word of knowledge by the same Spirit; to another faith by the same Spirit; to another the gifts o f healing by the same Spirit; to another the working of miracles; to another prophecy; to another discerning of spirits; to another divers kinds of tongues; to another the interpretation of tongues.” 1 Corinthians 12:7-10.

9- Who controls the distribution of the gifts of the Spirit?
“But all these worketh that one and the selfsame Spirit, dividing to every man severally as he will.” 1 Corinthians 12:11.

10- Was it God’s design that all should possess the same gifts?
“Are all apostles? Are all prophets? Are all teachers? Are all workers of miracles? Have all the gifts of healing? Do all speak with tongues? Do all interpret?” 1 Corinthians 12:29, 30.

C – PERIOD OF THE GIFTS
11- Were the gifts of the Spirit to continue forever?
“Whether there be propheticies, they shall be done away: whether there be tongues, they shall cease; whether there be knowledge, it shall be done away.” 1 Corinthians 13:8.

11- When will the gifts of the Spirit be no longer needed?
“When that which is perfect is come, then that which is in part shall be done away.” 1 Corinthians 13:10.