Text: John 1:1-3 The book of Genesis begins with the phrase, “In the beginning God…” (Genesis 1:1). John makes an unmistakeable parallel here in introducing his audience to Christ – the Word (John 1:1, 14). The point is clear – Jesus is equal with and one with the Father. These first three verses in John’s […]
June 11, 2012
Descriptions of the Church
Text: Matthew 16:18 Looking at the metaphors used to describe the Lord’s church in the New Testament helps us understand certain things about the church. Body (Ephesians 1:22-23) Follows the direction of the head It is expected to grow (Ephesians 4:11-16) – focus here on spiritual growth (v. 13-14) Made up of all different kinds […]
June 11, 2012
Names of the Church
Text: Matthew 16:18 Jesus promised to build His church, but what church is it? It is the church we can read about in the NT. Does it have a name? There are a few names that can be given, each one teaching us something about the Lord’s church. Church of Christ (Romans 16:16) Used for […]
April 23, 2012
Did Jesus Die in Our Stead?
Text: Romans 5:8 Jesus died for us – no Bible believer will deny this. But what was the nature of His death? Did He die “in our stead,” as a “substitute”? This is a common theory, and many brethren believe it, yet it is not Biblical. Punishment vs. Consequences for Sin It is vital that […]
April 9, 2012
A Body Prepared by God
Text: Hebrews 10:5 God prepared a body for Jesus so that He could fulfill His mission. Yet this is not the only body which God has prepared. While each is different, there are several things which they have in common. God Prepared Man’s Physical Body (Genesis 2:7) Man had no part in the preparation of […]
March 19, 2012
Qualifications to Lead
Text: Joshua 24:15 How do we decide who we will serve/follow? This is a common question in an election year. But this lesson focuses on matters more important than politics. Joshua challenged the people to choose, while he had already made his choice. Why follow God? What qualifies Him to be our king & worthy […]
