To show that the Bible can be completely trusted



FOUNDATIONSStudent ManualEditorDr. Wayne GerberEditorial CommitteeDr. Wayne GerberDr. Ann KeucherDavid MannContributorsDr. J. Duane BealsDavid DeSelmDr. Thomas DowDr. Dennis EngbrechtDr. Donald GerigDr. Wesley GerigJohn HedegaardSarah HedegaardEileen LageerDr. John MoranDr. Edward OkeDr. Donald TaylorRevisionsDr. David L. D’ArcyStephen Lane (2020)All Bible quotes, Holy Bible, New International Version. Copyright 1978 by New York International Bible Society. Used by permission, Zondervan Bible Publisher.TABLE OF CONTENTSIntroduction 3The Bible 4Bible Study 6Prayer 9Who is God? 11Jesus Christ: His Person and Work 14The Holy Spirit 16The Creation and the Fall 18Salvation 20The Return of Christ 22The Church 25The Missionary Church 28Church: The Local Congregation 31Reflections 34Glossary of Terms 35INTRODUCTIONPURPOSE:FOUNDATIONS provides an overview of the Missionary church. These lessons include studies of doctrinal truths, historical background, and practical Christian living.OVERVIEW:The Scripture translation used in this course is the New International Version (NIV). The Articles of Faith are taken from the Constitution. Where the article is long, it has been adapted.A glossary is provided in the back of the worksheets. The worksheets can be completed either before or during the class session.THE BIBLEARTICLE OF FAITHWe believe that the Bible, consisting of the sixty-six books of the Old and New Testaments, is the written Word of God, verbally inspired by the Holy Spirit and, therefore, true, reliable, and without error in all it addresses. We believe the Bible has been safeguarded by the Holy Spirit and transmitted to the present day without any doctrinal corruption. The Bible forever remains the unchanging and final authority for faith and living.INSPIRATION OF THE BIBLEThe Bible is God’s revelation to us. People who were guided in their communication by the Holy Spirit wrote it. God directed them in collecting and selecting the material they wrote and in the very words they used. The final product was actually God’s Word, not that of any person. The Bible as recorded by the writers was, therefore, without error.As you read Luke 24:44-45 what does it show you about Jesus’ perspective on the scriptures of His day? What light does John 14:25-26; 16:12-15 and 2 Peter 3:15-16 shed on the scope of the scriptures?____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________What do these verses teach us about God’s words? Psalm 119:160; Proverbs 30:5 and Titus 1:2.____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________What does 2 Peter 1:21 say about the way the Bible was produced? Why is this significant?____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________What can we learn about the Holy Spirit, who inspired the biblical text, from John 14:17; John 15:26 and John 16:13?____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________How do these verses refer to the Word of God? 2 Timothy 2:15 & John 17:17.____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________As you consider the Bible being true what other arguments would you use to defend that statement?______________________________________________________________________________In 2 Timothy 3:16-17 it states that the Bible is “God-breathed” (New International Version (NIV)) or “inspired” (King James Version.)? What do you understand by that and how would you explain that to someone else?____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Do you have any questions about the validity and truth of the Bible?______________________________________________________________________________ILLUMINATION & APPLICATION OF THE BIBLE.The Bible is a divine, not a human, explanation of things so the Holy Spirit helps believers understand and apply God’s Word. What do these verses say about how we are to view and use the Bible? Psalm 119:15; Matthew 4:4; 1 Thessalonians 2:13.____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________According to the MC Article of Faith, the Bible forever remains the unchanging and final authority for faith and living. How do these verses clarify this statement? James 1:22-25; Matthew 7:24-27. What does that mean to you?__________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________What promises come along with this kind of obedience? Psalm 119:9; Psalm 19:7-11; John 5:24.____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________In light of this value of the Bible what should we do with it according to these verses? 2 Timothy 2:2; 2 Timothy 2:15; 2 Timothy 4:2; Revelation 22:18,19.__________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________SUMMARYInspiration had to do with the communication and recording of truth. Illumination helps Christians understand the truth. Application helps us live the truth so that it will truly “set us free.” All three operations are the work of the Holy Spirit.BIBLE STUDYWHY WE STUDY THE BIBLEThe Bible is God’s personal communication to us and the source of our spiritual growth. “Like newborn babies, crave pure spiritual milk, so that by it you may grow up in your salvation, now that you have tasted that the Lord is good” (1 Peter 2:2-3). God provided us with His Word. The more we use it, the more we will grow to be like Him.Based on these scriptures, what are some reasons studying the Bible is profitable? Psalm 119:11, 98, 104 & 105; Mark 12:24; John 5:39; 2 Timothy 3:15-17; Hebrews 4:12.________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________HOW TO STUDY THE BIBLE?It is important to have a specific time and place for daily Bible study. Select a version or translation of the Bible that you like. When you want more information or need help you can consider additional Bible versions or translations, as well as, Bible dictionaries, atlases, handbooks, concordances, and commentaries. Many of these are available on Apps and the web.One Bible study method that many people find helpful is the Three-Step Discovery Method.Step 1: Observation - What does it say?Read the Scripture passage carefully.Give a title to the passage.Record your observations.Ask: Who? What? When? Where? Why? How?Write a key word which describes the passage.Step 2: Interpretation - What does it mean?Ask what message God is trying to give you. Underline key words and phrases.Paraphrase (put into your own words) the passage.Put the basic thought into one sentence.List truths and principles you discover.Find additional Scriptures which have the same key words or themes.Step 3: Application - What should I do?List ways you can apply what you learned from this passage.Choose the one you will put into practice this week.THE HOLY SPIRIT AND BIBLE STUDYSince the writing of the Bible was under the direction of the Holy Spirit He helps us understand it. His help, called “illumination,” is the key to all Bible study. How do these verses indicate the Holy Spirit helps us understand the Scriptures? John 14:26; John 16:13-15 and 1 Corinthians 2:12.__________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________SUMMARYThe Bible is God’s only written communication to us. To know Him better, we must know His Word. As we study the Bible, the Holy Spirit helps us understand it.The Three-Step Discovery Method WorksheetStep 1. Observation – What does it say?Read carefully: The Lord is my shepherd, I shall lack nothing. He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters, he restores my soul. He guides me in paths of righteousness for his name’s sake. Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me. You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies. You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows. Surely goodness and love will follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever. (Psalm 23)What title would you give this passage? What are your observations?Who? What? When? Where? Why? How? What key word describes the passage? Step 2. Interpretation - What does it mean?What is the message? Underline key words and phrases & paraphrase the passage.______________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________ Write the basic thought in one sentence. __________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ What truths or principles do you find? Find other Scripture about the same topic. Step 3. Application - What should I do?List ways you can apply what you learned. What will you put into practice this week? PRAYERWHAT IS PRAYER?Prayer is communicating with God: talking to Him and listening to Him. Jesus gave us a model prayer. It is usually called the “Lord's Prayer.” From this Lord’s Prayer in Matthew 6:9-13 what can we learn about prayer?__________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________WHY SHOULD WE PRAY?Prayer should be as natural to the Christian as breathing is. When we pray, we maintain fellowship with our loving Father. God hears and answers our prayers. What do these verses tell us about the reason we are to pray? Matthew 26:41; 1Timothy 2:1-2; James 4:2, 3; James 5:16. __________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________WHEN SHOULD WE PRAY?Paul told us to pray ceaselessly. Although prayers are offered at special times such as worship services, prayer meetings, and private and family devotional periods, we should be conversing with our Father at all other times with our minds, our hearts, and our spirits. What do learn about prayer in Philippians 4:6-7; Ephesians 5:19-20; James 5:13-16?__________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________HOW SHOULD WE PRAY?What can we learn from these verses about how we are to pray? Psalm 66:18; Mark 11:24; 1 John 5:14; Matthew 6:5-6; Matthew 6:7-8; Luke 11:5-10; John 14:12-14; 15:14-17.________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________WHAT ARE SOME TYPES OF PRAYER?Adoration - praising God for His greatness and gloryConfession - admitting our sin and receiving His forgivenessThanksgiving - thanking God for answered prayer and blessingsSupplication (sometimes referred to as petition) - asking God to meet our needsIntercession - asking God to meet the needs of othersWe should practice all of these types of prayer. It is important to begin with adoration and continue through confession. Then we can thank God for His goodness and mercy. Finally, we ask God for what He wills to give us, and we intercede for others.SUMMARYPrayer is a privilege for one who has a relationship with God and is one of the foundational ways to grow as a disciple of His. It is not trying to convince God to do what you want Him to do, but an opportunity to grow in love, obedience and surrender to Him.WHO IS GOD?ARTICLE OF FAITHWe believe in one God, eternally existing in three divine persons, equal in power and glory — Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. God is the creator and sustainer of all things. His divine qualities — including love, holiness, justice, righteousness, faithfulness, infinite knowledge and power, self-existence, and omnipresence — all harmonize perfectly in the unity of his being.THE EXISTENCE OF GODThe Bible tells us much about God, but it never tries to prove that He exists. Instead, the Bible assumes that God is.Moses recognized God’s existence (Exodus 3:6). Jesus stated that anyone who had seen Him had seen the Father (John 14:9). Paul began his letter with thanksgiving to God Who was personal and real to him (2 Timothy 1:12).Although logical arguments for the existence of God can encourage belief, arguments cannot prove God’s existence. The infinite God is beyond logical proof by finite human beings. How does Hebrews 11:6 express this? How does God in Psalm 14:1 refer to those who refuse to accept His existence? __________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Here are some ways the Bible says God shows Himself to us: Psalm 19:1; John 5:39; John 14:9; Romans 1:19-20; 1 Corinthians 2:9-10.______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________What are some other ways you have experienced God revealing Himself to you?____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________SOME NAMES FOR GODBible names point out essential characteristics or the nature of the person being identified. Below are some names used for God. They describe characteristics revealing His intervention in life situations.NameMeaningReferenceElohimThe strong oneGenesis 1:1Jehovah“I Am” - the self-existent and eternal GodGenesis 2:4; Exodus 3:13,14AdonaiMaster or LordGenesis 15:2Jehovah-JirehThe Lord will provideGenesis 22:13-14THE ATTRIBUTES OF GODThe characteristics or qualities ascribed to God in the Bible indicate who He is and how He acts. What do these references tell us about God? Leviticus 20:26; Psalm 34:8; Psalm 90:2; Psalm 139:2-4; Psalm 139:7-12; Jeremiah 32:17; John 4:24; James 1:17; 1 John 1:9; 1 John 4:8. ________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________THE RELATIONSHIP OF GOD WITH PEOPLEHow do these verse express that God is different from us? Psalm 90:2; Jeremiah 23:24; Job 42:2; Psalm 139:7-12; Psalm 147:5.__________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________On the other hand, what does God have in common with human beings? Proverbs 15:3 & Hebrews 4:13; Psalm 33:5 & James 5:11; Psalm 115:3.__________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________In light of this how do you understand 1 John 1:3?____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________What does Romans 9:20-21 tell us about God. What thoughts does that raise for you?____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________THE TRINITYThough the word ‘Trinity’ is not found in the Bible, Christians believe in one God (Deuteronomy 6:4; Mark 12:28-29), Who exists in the persons of God the Father (Matthew 6:9), God the Son (1 John 5:20), and God the Holy Spirit (Acts 5:3-4).The Trinity can be described as God existing as one being, yet as three persons. It is most clearly expressed in the Athanasian Creed: “We worship one God in Trinity, and Trinity in Unity; neither confounding the Persons, nor dividing the substance. For there is one Person of the Father, another of the Son, and another of the Holy Ghost but the Godhead of the Father, of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost is all one, the glory equal, the majesty coeternal.”No comparison is exact and this one is not either, but the three states of water may help us understand this concept. It is water when it is a liquid, it is water when it is frozen, and it is water when it is steam.SUMMARYIt is difficult for a person to understand a being who is all-powerful, all knowing, everywhere present, and eternally existent. Human beings cannot completely understand God. What we do know about God demonstrates the importance of our allegiance to Him through faith and assures us that we can have fellowship with Him.JESUS CHRISTARTICLE OF FAITHWe believe in Jesus Christ, the eternally begotten Son of the Father. He is the fully divine, living Word of God who also became fully human — conceived by the power of the Holy Spirit and born of the virgin Mary. His sinless human life, humble obedience to his Father’s will, sacrificial death and bodily resurrection made sufficient provision for the salvation of all people. In his ascension, he returned to his Father, where he reigns as Lord, Advocate, Great High Priest, and Coming Judge.INCARNATION“Incarnation” means that Jesus Christ was God in human flesh (John 1:14). What was unique concerning Christ’s conception as we read in Luke 1:26-35? ____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________What do these verses tell us about Jesus’ humanity? Matthew 4:2; Matthew 8:24; John 4:6, 7; 11:35; 12:27; 19:25; Hebrews 2:14; 4:15.________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________How do these following verses demonstrate Jesus’ divinity? Matthew 4:23-24; 9:4; Mark 1:22; 2:10-12; John 1:3; 8:58; 10:18; 11:25-27; 20:31?________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Even Jesus’ enemies understood those claims. They put Him to death, not for being a good man, but because of His claim to deity. We cannot accept Jesus as merely a good human teacher, for He clearly claimed to be God. We must accept Him as the one and only God-man Who met the needs of fellow humans, took on Himself the penalty for our sin, and arose from the dead.VICARIOUS ATONEMENTVicarious atonement, or substitutionary atonement, means Jesus Christ died in the place of every person. All have sinned and fall short of the glory of God and deserve to be punished for sin (Romans 3:23; 6:23). Vicarious atonement is unique to Christianity. It is a gift of God to everyone who believes in His son. Every other religion is a “do it yourself” system based on human effort.What does the Bible say about Jesus’ sacrifice for our sin? 1 Peter 2:22, 24; 2 Corinthians 5:21; Hebrews 9:22, 28.____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________According to these scriptures what was Jesus’ purpose for coming to earth? Matthew 20:28; Luke 19:10; John 8:28, 10:10; 1 John 3:5.__________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________RESURRECTIONOur hope for life after death rests on the resurrection of Christ from the dead (1 Corinthians 15:17-23). His resurrection is described in the Bible as the “first fruits of those who have fallen asleep.” This means that, because Christ was resurrected, those who follow Him in faith will also be resurrected (1 Peter 1:3).We believe in the resurrection for several reasons. The empty tomb and the eyewitness reports of those who saw Jesus alive after His crucifixion are major reasons (1 Corinthians 15:3-8; Luke 24:3). In addition, the sudden courage of the Disciples after their cowardice at the crucifixion, as well as the founding and growth of the church since Jesus was on earth, can best be explained by the resurrection (Luke 24:5-53; Acts 8:1-4). Most important, the resurrection demonstrates that Jesus was God as He claimed to be.PRESENT MINISTRYFollowing His resurrection, Jesus ascended to the Father where He continues His ministry (Acts 1:9). These scriptures explain what this ministry includes: Ephesians 1:20-23; 1 Peter 3:22; Hebrews 7:25; 1 John 2:1.__________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________SUMMARYBy placing your trust in Jesus, you can escape the punishment of sin. Because Jesus Christ arose bodily from the dead, believers too, will be raised from the dead to live with Him forever.THE HOLY SPIRITARTICLE OF FAITHWe believe in the Holy Spirit, the third person of the triune God, proceeding from and sent by the Father and the Son. He is the personal expression of God’s power — instrumental in all his works. He is the author and illuminator of sacred Scripture. He convicts the world of sin, righteousness, and judgment. He is the agent of the new birth, the one by whom we are baptized into the Body of Christ. As the spirit of holiness, he indwells every believer and his Church, purifying and empowering his people for holy living. He guides them into truth, comforts and encourages them, and enables them to fulfill the Great Commission. He produces his fruit in the lives of believers and gives them spiritual gifts for the good of the Church.PENTECOSTThe word Pentecost literally means fifty days. It refers to the event that happened fifty days after the resurrection of Jesus. On that day the eternal Holy Spirit came to live in believers in a new way. How do John 14:16 and Acts 1:8 relate to Pentecost?____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________WHO IS THE HOLY SPIRIT?The Holy Spirit is God. He is deity. In Acts 5:3-4, when Ananias lied to the Holy Spirit, Peter said he had lied to God. What do these verses tell us about the Holy Spirit? Genesis 1:2; John 16:7, 13; 1 Peter 1:11?____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________WHAT DOES THE HOLY SPIRIT DO?What can we learn about the work of the Holy Spirit from these verses? John 3:5; 15:26; 16:7-11; Romans 8:9, 26; 1 Corinthians 3:16-17; 2 Corinthians 1:21-22; Ephesians 5:18; 2 Peter 1:21.________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________THE HOLY SPIRIT AND THE CHRISTIANGod, the Holy Spirit, plays an important part in the lives of people who have accepted Jesus Christ as their Savior. One word used to describe that special role is “indwelling.” Using the information in the following verses describe the life of a person who is indwelt by the Spirit. John 14:17; Romans 8:5-11; 1 Corinthians 3:16-17; Galatians 5:22-25.________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________THE HOLY SPIRIT AND THE CHURCHThe Holy Spirit gives gifts to all Christians. What are some of these gifts and why were they given? Romans 12:4-8; 1 Corinthians 12:7-11, 28-31; Ephesians 4:11-13; 1 Peter 4:10-11.______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________SUMMARYThe Holy Spirit is God’s presence in the world today. He brings people to God and enables them to live for Him.THE CREATION AND THE FALLARTICLE OF FAITHWe believe that God created human beings — male and female — as co-equal bearers of the image of God. We believe in the historicity of the first man, Adam, who along with his wife, Eve, was uniquely created by a direct act of God as recorded in Genesis and not by a process of evolution. Made in his image, they are his crowning achievement. Adam and Eve were created without sin for perfect fellowship with God and were commanded to be fruitful and exercise benevolent dominion over the earth. Humankind was created for love of God and neighbor. That love was intended to find expression in every individual and every human institution. Through the misuse of their wills, however, our original parents succumbed to Satan’s temptation, disobeyed God’s command and thus brought sin into the world and became subject to physical and spiritual death. They became corrupt in their nature, and have passed on that nature to all their descendants. As a result, all human beings – while still bearing God’s image – are polluted in every aspect of their being. They are estranged from God by their sin and thus deserve God’s wrath. We believe that God desires all human beings to be restored to a right relationship with him. Redemption — the gracious design by which God intends to rescue humanity from the disastrous consequences of sin — has its origin in the love of God and is brought to fruition by his infinite wisdom and might. (Adapted)CREATIONThe two major views of the origin of the universe are creation and evolution. The theory of evolution suggests that all life, past and present, was formed through a gradual process over millions of years. Most evolutionists do not attribute the origin of life to God.Creationists believe in the biblical account of creation. The first two chapters of Genesis teach that God brought all things into existence. Read Genesis 1:1-31 to discover what God created on each day of creation.HUMAN BEINGS ARE A UNIQUE CREATIONEvolutionists often suggest that human beings are merely members of the evolved animal kingdom. This is contrary to the Genesis account of creation. How was the creation of Adam and Eve different from the creation of animals (Genesis 1:21-28; 2:7)?____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________God created humans in His own image to be above all other forms of life. Humans did not have to rise gradually above other animals through an evolutionary process - God created them to rule over every living creature.“In God’s image” cannot mean that we look like God, because God is a spirit without physical form. The divine image in which God created us includes the qualities of intellect (logic, reason, and knowledge), emotion (feelings), will (choice), and conscience (ability to know right from wrong). These qualities, which God also possesses, are given to us to help us love and serve Him. Together, they distinguish us from all other forms of animal life.THE FALLWhen Adam and Eve were placed in the Garden of Eden, they enjoyed a perfect relationship with God. They lived in a Paradise with only one restriction: they were forbidden to eat from the tree of the knowledge of good and evil (Genesis 2:17).Because Adam and Eve were created in the image of God and possessed conscience they knew right from wrong. When given a choice between the two they chose wrong although they could have chosen right. Because God gives people free moral choice, we can choose to resist temptation instead of submitting to it.What can we learn about the situation that took place between Satan, Adam and Eve from Genesis 3:1-6?____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________THE RESULTS OF SINAs an immediate consequence of the Fall, Adam and Eve realized that their state of innocence had abruptly ended. They quickly hid their nakedness (Genesis 3:7-9). What does the Bible indicate were the consequences of sin in Genesis 3:16-19, Romans 5:12 & Psalm 51:5?__________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________The Fall brought death (Romans 6:23). Separated from God through their choice to disobey Him Adam and Eve fell from perfect fellowship to exclusion from God’s presence. Since in Adam all sinned the Fall rendered the entire human race guilty (Romans 5:12). Consequently, each person inherits a sinful nature (Romans 5:19) most commonly known as “original sin.” As a result of this sinful nature the sinner does not desire to do right and simply falls short. Sinful people, until made alive by the Holy Spirit, do not have a correct understanding of righteousness. They want fulfillment but miss it by not taking God into account. The sinful nature is evidenced by a spirit of selfishness and rebellion (Romans 8:7). However, there is hope. God provides a remedy (John 3:16).SUMMARYGod created Adam and Eve in His own image. Because they chose wrong instead of right all creation was separated from God. However, God provided a remedy for sin through His Son.SALVATIONARTICLE OF FAITHWe believe that Jesus Christ is God’s only provision for our salvation. He voluntarily offered himself as our representative and substitute, and suffered and died on the cross in our place — taking upon himself God’s righteous wrath. We believe in his bodily resurrection on the third day, which powerfully declared him to be the Son of God. By his death and resurrection, Jesus once for all conquered sin, death, hell, and the devil. We believe that Christ is the atoning sacrifice for the sins of the whole world. Salvation is a divine gift given to any who repent and believe. Repentance and faith are the divinely-enabled human responses to the grace of God. By the power of the Holy Spirit, a sinner must turn away from sin and embrace God — thus appropriating the benefits of Christ’s life, death and resurrection. All who truly believe and receive Christ are fully justified, reconciled to God, born of his Spirit, adopted as his children, and united with Jesus in his death and resurrection. They will one day see him in his glory and be glorified themselves, as God brings his redemptive work to completion. GOD’S PROVISION OF SALVATIONThe Bible states that when we receive salvation we become a new creation (2 Corinthians 5:17), the Bible refers to this as being ‘born again’ (John 3:3). From these verses what do you learn about that new creation? John 1:12; 3:16; 10:10; Romans 5:1 & Ephesians 2:4-5.__________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________OUR RESPONSE TO SALVATIONWhat do you learn from Romans 3:10 and Romans 3:23?____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Salvation requires repentance. Repentance means “turning and going God’s way.” It is a change of mind or attitude. It is much more than merely being sorry for our sins; it is changing the direction of our life from wrong to right.Paraphrase 2 Corinthians 7:9-10.________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Salvation also involves faith. Faith is trusting God to do what He promised. What can we learn about salvation from Ephesians 2:8-9?____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________In addition to repenting and trusting God, we must confess that Jesus is our living Savior (Romans 10:9-10).STEPS TO SALVATIONCircle your responses to the following statements.I know I am a sinner (Romans 3:23). Yes NoI know God loves me even though I have sinned (John 3:16). Yes NoI know that Christ died for my sin (Romans 5:8; I John 1:7). Yes NoI am willing to turn from my sin and go God’s way (2 Peter 3:9). Yes NoI want to receive Christ as my personal Savior by believing that He will save me as He promised (John 1:12). Yes NoI will tell others that I have received God’s gift of salvation (Romans 10:9-10). Yes NoIf you are not already a Christian, you can receive Christ by praying a prayer of faith which expresses your belief and trust in God. Simply tell God the things mentioned in the above steps.SUMMARYSalvation is the work of God in a person's life. It is a gift of God which cannot be earned but must be accepted by each individual.THE RETURN OF CHRISTARTICLE OF FAITHWe believe that the final years of human history will be characterized by worldwide persecution and divine judgment. We believe that the return of Jesus will be personal, bodily, visible, and glorious. His second coming, the blessed hope for which we must be constantly prepared, is a source of encouragement and comfort, a motive for holy living, and an inspiration for ministry and mission. We believe that when Jesus returns, he will subdue his enemies and establish his kingdom on earth and will reign in perfect righteousness. For those in Christ, death is gain, because to be absent from the body is to be present with the Lord. THE RAPTUREThe second coming of Christ, the rapture, is when Christ descends into the clouds where all believers will be caught up to meet Him. The word “rapture” does not appear in the Scriptures; however, the event it describes is outlined in the New Testament. What do the following verses teach about the rapture? Mark 13:32; Acts 1:11; 1 Corinthians 15:51-52; 1 Thessalonians 4:13-5:4.________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________THE TRIBULATIONThe Bible describes the tribulation as a period of great distress. It is not always easy to recognize the difference between the periodic suffering and trials of God’s people and the tribulation of which the Bible speaks.Many Christians believe the Bible teaches that the rapture will occur before the tribulation (pre-tribulation view). Others view the Scriptures as teaching that the rapture will occur toward the middle of the tribulation (mid-tribulation view). Still a third group sees the presentation of God’s Word to be that the rapture will happen at the end of the tribulation (post-tribulation view). The majority of people in the Missionary Church adhere to the pre-tribulation view.It seems clear that a world leader called the antichrist, the man of lawlessness, will appear during troubled times (2 Thessalonians 2:3). He will bring a semblance of order out of the chaotic condition of the world. His human system will be totally opposed to God. What can we learn about this ‘man of lawlessness’ from 2 Thessalonians 2:4, 9 & 10; Revelation 13:8?____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________What does Revelation 13:7, 8, 16-18 show us will be under the control of the antichrist?____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________THE REVELATIONIt appears from Scripture that at the end of the tribulation Christ will lead the army of heaven in a great battle against the rebellious nations. Christ’s victory will end the rule of the antichrist (Revelation 19:11-19). Christ’s return at this time is called the revelation. What do Revelation 19:20 & 20:1-3 tell us will happen as a result?____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________THE MILLENNIUMThe word “millennium,” meaning thousand, does not appear in Scripture. It refers to the thousand years of justice, peace, happiness, long life and health, and material and spiritual prosperity on earth which will be established by Christ. During this time Christ will reign and Satan will be bound. The millennial kingdom will include those who have been raptured, those who have been resurrected from the dead, and those who have survived the tribulation period. All of creation will benefit from this reign (Revelation 20:4-6; Isaiah 65:17-25). What are some of the details mentioned about this in Revelation 20:4-5; 2 Timothy 2:12 & Isaiah 11:6-9?__________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________THE FINAL JUDGMENTWhat do we learn about the fate of unbelievers from Revelation 20:11-15; 20:10 & Luke 16:23-26?__________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________THE NEW CREATIONThe heavens and the earth as we know them will be changed. What do these verses tell us about the details of the new creation? 2 Peter 3:10-13; Revelation 21:1-5, 7?____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________How should Christ’s return affect those who believe in Him? See Titus 2:11-14 & 1 John 3:2-3.__________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________SUMMARYEven though we may have difficulty understanding the events surrounding the return of Christ His return remains our greatest hope. The Bible assures us that God is in control and that Christ will be eternally victorious.THE CHURCHARTICLE OF FAITHWe believe that the invisible and universal Church is a spiritual body comprised of all believers, both living and dead — over which Christ himself is Head and Lord. We believe that the local church is to be a loving community of Christ’s followers who gather for worship, prayer, instruction in the Word, mutual encouragement and discipline. As the temple of the Holy Spirit, the Church is to display his holiness, bear his fruit, and be adorned by his gracious gifts. As a people called out of darkness, the Church will embody the pervasive, life-transforming power of God by equipping the saints for the work of ministry — bearing witness to the truth and exerting influence in every realm of the broader culture. The Church is called by Jesus to proclaim the gospel — locally, cross-culturally, and internationally — and to make disciples of everyone everywhere in the power of the Holy Spirit.THE UNIVERSAL CHURCHThe word “church” means “the called out ones” (1 Corinthians 1:2). The universal Church, the Body of Christ, is an invisible organism composed of all who have accepted Christ as Savior. The universal Church is not the same as the local church which is a visible organization of a group of believers who meet regularly. The local church will be studied in another lesson.RELATIONSHIPS IN THE CHURCHWhat do these verses say about Christ and the Church? Matthew 16:18; 28:18-20; Colossians 1:18; Ephesians 5:25.__________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________How should church members relate? John 17:21; 1 Corinthians 12:25-26; Ephesians 4.16.__________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________THE PURPOSE OF THE CHURCHThe Church has five major functions: worship, discipleship, apostleship, stewardship and fellowship. How does the Bible say the Church is to perform these functions?Worship - Psalm 96:8-9; John 4:24; Acts 1:14; Acts 12:7; Hebrews 10:25; 1 Peter 2:5________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Discipleship - Matthew 28:19-20; Acts 2:42; Romans 12:2; 1 Corinthians 12:7-11; Ephesians 4:12-13________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Apostleship - 1 Corinthians 12:28; Matthew 28:18-20; Acts 1:8; 1 Peter 3:15-17________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Stewardship - 1 Peter 4:10; 1 Corinthians 4:2; Luke 12:15-34; Genesis 2:15; 1 Timothy 6:20________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Fellowship - Matthew 22:39; Acts 2:44-47; 1 Corinthians 12:25-28; John 1:14; Romans 12:10; 1 John 4:12________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ORDINANCES OF THE CHURCHAn ordinance is a ceremony commanded by Christ to remind us of a spiritual truth.ARTICLE OF FAITHWe believe that baptism and the Lord’s Supper were instituted by the Lord Jesus himself — not as a means of salvation, but as outward signs of the salvation we have by faith. They are the divinely mandated means by which believers publicly affirm their faith in Christ. Water baptism symbolizes the spiritual union that every believer has with Jesus in his death, burial, and resurrection. Therefore, we believe that the biblical pattern is baptism upon profession of faith in Christ, and furthermore, that it should be administered by immersion whenever possible. The Lord’s Supper serves as not only a vivid memorial of Jesus’ bodily sacrifice and shed blood, but also as a proclamation of his death until he returns. It symbolizes the believer’s union with Christ and the spiritual unity shared by every believer. It provides a powerful inducement to self-examination, should be celebrated joyfully and regularly, and is open to all who are followers of Christ.BAPTISMThis ordinance is an outward testimony of the inward reality of Christ’s cleansing in a person’s life. What do these verses say about the significance of baptism? Romans 6:3-4; 1 Peter 3:21; Titus 3:4-6; Galatians 3:27.__________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________How are we to prepare for baptism? Acts 2:38; Acts 16:14-15; Acts 16:30-33.__________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Why should believers be baptized? Mark 1:9-11; Matthew 28:19; Acts 18:8.__________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Christians practice three different ways of baptism: sprinkling, pouring, and immersion. The Missionary Church practices baptism by immersion (symbolizing the death, burial, and resurrection of Christ). We do not baptize infants, but rather encourage the formal dedication of young children in a public service of the church.THE LORD’S SUPPERThis ordinance (often referred to as communion) is a constant reminder of our Lord’s sacrifice, its meaning, and our relationship to Him because of it. As you read 1 Corinthians 11:23-29 what do you learn about this ordinance and our approach to it?____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________SUMMARYThe body of Christ is made up of all believers and exists for the purposes of worship, discipleship, apostleship, stewardship and fellowship. The Holy Spirit equips the Church to fulfill its purposes. Baptism and the Lord’s Supper are the two special ceremonies of the Church. THE MISSIONARY CHURCHMISSIONARY CHURCH HISTORYHistory is a record of the past. It helps us understand how we got where we are today, it gives us a sense of our “roots” and it suggests ways we can plan for the future.The Missionary Church was the name selected following the merger of the Missionary Church Association and the United Missionary Church in 1969. This was possible because both denominations were committed to preaching only what was in the Bible and to evangelizing the world.The United Missionary Church, known until 1947 as The Mennonite Brethren in Christ, was formed at a meeting near Dayton, Ohio, in 1883. It began, however, in the 1850’s when a number of Mennonite ministers were dismissed from their former churches for having prayer meetings, holding revival services, and giving public testimonies. It was largely through the leadership of Daniel Brenneman and Solomon Eby that the denomination was organized.Joseph Ramseyer founded The Missionary Church Association after he was dismissed from his former denomination for wanting to be baptized by immersion as a born-again believer in Christ. Ramseyer continued to preach the message of God’s love through Jesus Christ as Savior, Sanctifier, Healer, and Coming King. In 1898 those who shared his convictions adopted the name “The Missionary Church Association” because of their desire to evangelize the world.Further information about the history of The Missionary Church can be found in Merging Streams (book) by Eileen LageerORGANIZATIONThe Missionary Church is composed of approximately 500 churches located in Regions, Districts and Mission Districts. Each organized Region/District has a Director or Superintendent and other officers who care for the congregations within its borders. Mission districts are geographic areas where church planting ministries have been started but have not developed to the point of being self-governing. A detailed map and directory of churches, district offices and denominational office is on the Web site at: directory. The national office is located in Fort Wayne, Indiana and the denominational Web site is .DO YOU KNOW?What is the name of the district in which your church is located? ____________________Who is your Regional Director/District Superintendent? ___________________________Who is the President of the Missionary Church? _________________________________PURPOSE STATEMENTThe Missionary Church, in obedience to Jesus Christ her Lord, is committed to being holy people of God in the world and to building His church by worldwide evangelism, discipleship and multiplication of growing churches, all to the glory of God.To what has the Missionary Church committed itself?____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________We carry out these purposes by:Being Holy People - preaching and practicing holy livingWorldwide evangelism - World Partners USADiscipleship - OnMission trainingChurch planting - multiplication of growing churchesAccording to these verses what does it mean to "be holy people of God in the world"? Romans 12:2; 1 Peter 2:9-10. What other things would you include in the meaning of “being holy people of God in the world?”__________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________What do you think of when you hear the term: “building His Church?” How does Matthew 28:18-20; Acts 1:8; 2:42-47 & Hebrews 10:25 clarify it?__________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Our denomination is the “Missionary Church.” Why do you think it was decided to call it that?____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________WORLDWIDE EVANGELISMThe Missionary Church is an evangelical denomination committed to church planting and world missions. In addition to church planting and evangelistic outreach in the United States, the Missionary Church engages in worldwide evangelism through World Partners USA. World Partners USA has ministries in over 100 countries. For current information email info@. You may also check information on the web site at .MISSIONARY CHURCH’S UNIVERSITYThe Missionary Church school is Bethel University located in Mishawaka, Indiana. Bethel University is a coeducational college of the arts and sciences founded in 1947. They have a growing student body of over 2,000 students from all over the United States and around the world. Bethel’s Web site is betheluniversity.MUNICATIONSPriority is a monthly newsletter, sent to pastors and local church leaders, with news and highlights that are relevant to leadership in and of the church.Today’s Latest is sent monthly to anyone associated with the Missionary Church with news and highlights from the national ministry of MCUSA and the international work of World Partners.Church Plants and Planters is a quarterly newsletter designed to communicate the vision, stories and needs of church planting.Annual calendar highlighting district and denominational events.CHURCH: THE LOCAL CONGREGATIONEach local church is a group of believers who meet in a specific location. They are organized to do what the Bible commands. A church is the people, not the building, as we read that the early church met in houses (Romans 16:5).PURPOSEAs you read Acts 2:42-47 what do you think the early gatherings of Christians looked like?____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________LOCAL CHURCH LEADERSHIPOur denomination has a congregational form of government. The people of the local church are responsible for the church. How is your church leadership structured? According to 1 Timothy 3:1-7 and Titus 1:7-9, what qualifies someone to become a leader in the church?__________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________What ministries does your church have, i.e. Sunday school, small groups, worship, youth, etc.?____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________How are officers selected?____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________PASTORThe pastor gives spiritual guidance to the congregation. How do these verses clarify that statement? Acts 6:4; John 21:15-17; Acts 20:28; Ephesians 4:11-13; 1 Timothy 4:12-16 & 2 Timothy 4:2.__________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________MEMBERSHIPThe Missionary Church receives persons as members who:1. have accepted Jesus Christ as their personal Savior;2. have been baptized; and3. have confessed their faith.What is the usual procedure for membership in your church?____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________OUR LOCAL CHURCH HISTORYWhen was your church started? _______________How was your church started?________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________What is the most significant contribution your church makes to your local community?________________________________________________________________________How does your church participate in church planting?________________________________________________________________________Who are the career Christian workers that have come from your church (missionaries, ministers, evangelists, etc.)?________________________________________________________________________What has been your church’s strategy for outreach in your local community?________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________How does your church participate in world missions?________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________MINISTRIESBriefly describe your church's ministry to: Family, Children, Youth, Adults; Seniors; Persons outside the church; Persons in other countries.____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Who is responsible to care for the sick and needy of the congregation?______________________________________________________________________________PRACTICES AND CONDUCTMembers of the Missionary Church are expected to live according to high moral standards. They are not to adopt the values, attitudes, goals, or lifestyle of non-Christians, but are to be “holy people of God.” According to these verses list some ways Christians should be different from non-Christians. Galatians 5:22-26; Ephesians 4:24-32; Philippians 2:14-16; 1 Peter 2:9-12.________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Specific life issues are addressed in the Constitution of the Missionary Church under “Articles of Practice.” We currently include the following in our constitution (check the website and constitution for the most up to date listing):Divine Healing The Lord’s Day Christian Stewardship Dedication of Children Marriage and the Home Divorce Practices and Conduct Attitude toward Civil Government Attitude toward Strife and Military Service Oaths SUMMARYEach local church is a group of believers who meet in a specific location. They are organized to carry out the purposes of God in the world.REFLECTIONSList several things you have learned through this course about:The Bible ____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Bible Study __________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Prayer ______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________God ________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Christ ______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________The Holy Spirit _______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________The Creation and Fall __________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Salvation ____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________The Return of Christ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________The Church __________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________The Missionary Church ________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________The Local Church _____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Our Local Church _____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________GLOSSARYAdvocate – one who speaks in favor of someoneAtonement/reconciliation - bringing God and man back together by removing man's guiltAttribute - a descriptive quality or characteristic; a special ability or nature, like holy or all-knowingConcordance - an alphabetical list of words with biblical referencesCreation - God making all things from nothingDeity - truly GodEvangelism - sharing the gospelFaith - trusting in God to do what He promisedFellowship - companionship with other ChristiansFruit of the Spirit - Christ-like qualities the Holy Spirit produces in the lives of believersGifts of the Spirit - abilities God gives to believers to serve HimGrace - undeserved favorHoly - perfect in power, love and purityHumanity - the human nature of ChristIllumination - the Holy Spirit opening hearts and minds of people helping them understand God's messageIndwelt by the Spirit - being under the influence and control of the Holy SpiritImminent - about to happen; very near or closeIncarnation – God moving into human flesh, as in Christ becoming humanInspiration - God's special influence on the writings in the Bible; God-breathedMediatorial - go between, to negotiate for two parties or peopleMillennium – a 1,000-year reign of ChristOmnipotent – all-powerfulOmniscient - all knowingOmnipresent - present everywhere at the same timeOrdinance – an action commanded by Christ to remind us of a spiritual truth; nowadays, often a special ceremonyRapture - first part of Second Coming which means the "taking up" of Christians; being lifted above the ordinary; taken out of ourselvesRedemption - the act of buying backRepentance - turning and going God's wayResurrection - return to lifeSalvation - the action of receiving Christ which gives new life, freeing us from the old life of sin; the process of being saved or delivered from sin and its penalty of eternal damnation by repenting and believing in ChristSatan - a fallen angel who rebelled against God and leads the forces of evilSin - any willful thought, word or act which does not measure up to God's standardSovereign - above or superior to all others in power and position or rank; the most exalted; unlimited supreme powerTribulation – seven-years period of deep troubleTrinity - The Father, Son and Holy Spirit existing as one GodVicarious - taking the place of; a substitute; instead ofVirgin birth - Jesus' birth as God's only natural childWorship - adoration of God more than anything else ................
................

In order to avoid copyright disputes, this page is only a partial summary.

Google Online Preview   Download