— 2 Corinthians 7:10 —
Godly sorrow brings repentance that leads to salvation and leaves no regret, but worldly sorrow brings death.
"Godly sorrow brings repentance that leads to salvation" refers to the sorrow for our sins that results in changed behavior. Many people are sorry only for the effects of their sins or for being caught ("worldly sorrow"). Compare Peter's remorse and repentance with Judas' bitterness and act of suicide. Both disowned Christ. One repented and was restored to faith and service; the other took his own life.
Wednesday, March 26, 2008
Seven Benefits from Reading Your Bible
Bible reading is more than a pleasant pastime. It can become a daily habit that will change your life.
God’s Word holds out the promise of rich benefits for those who spend time reading it and taking its truths to heart. Here are just seven of the many ways your life can be better as you make the Bible your daily reading companion. All seven come from Psalm 119-a magnificent song of praise for God’s Word.
1. The Bible will help keep you from sin. “I have hidden your word in my heart that I might not sin against you” (verse 11).
2. The Bible will lift up your burdens.”My soul is weary with sorrow; strengthen me according to your word” (verse 28).
3. The Bible will guide your steps. “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light for my path” (verse 105).
4. The Bible will bring you joy. “Your statutes are my heritage forever; they are the joy of my heart” (verse 111).
5. The Bible will lead you to wisdom.”The unfolding of your words gives light; it gives understanding to the simple” (verse130).
6. The Bible will give you peace. ”Great peace have they who love your law, and nothing can make them stumble” (verse 165).
7. The Bible will bring you back to God. “I have strayed like a sheep. Seek your servant, for I have not forgotten your commands” (verse 176).
From The Daily Walk Bible by Walk Thru the Bible Ministries
God’s Word holds out the promise of rich benefits for those who spend time reading it and taking its truths to heart. Here are just seven of the many ways your life can be better as you make the Bible your daily reading companion. All seven come from Psalm 119-a magnificent song of praise for God’s Word.
1. The Bible will help keep you from sin. “I have hidden your word in my heart that I might not sin against you” (verse 11).
2. The Bible will lift up your burdens.”My soul is weary with sorrow; strengthen me according to your word” (verse 28).
3. The Bible will guide your steps. “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light for my path” (verse 105).
4. The Bible will bring you joy. “Your statutes are my heritage forever; they are the joy of my heart” (verse 111).
5. The Bible will lead you to wisdom.”The unfolding of your words gives light; it gives understanding to the simple” (verse130).
6. The Bible will give you peace. ”Great peace have they who love your law, and nothing can make them stumble” (verse 165).
7. The Bible will bring you back to God. “I have strayed like a sheep. Seek your servant, for I have not forgotten your commands” (verse 176).
From The Daily Walk Bible by Walk Thru the Bible Ministries
Romans 6
Romans 6 informs us about our being dead in sin, but alive in Christ. I believe that this means because of our being held in sin, we are ‘dead’ in sin; that is, gone and farther apart from God. However, because we believe in Christ, we are ‘alive’ in Him, which means we are triumphant over our sins and can now be close to Christ! This is amazing and assuring, and I would enjoy reading about this if I were a new believer. The reason for that is because it tells of my forgiveness and assures me of my salvation
How to Study the Bible and Understand It
Have you ever had trouble digging into God’s word? What about getting your thoughts together regarding proper Bible study? Are you unfocused because you have no direction on how to begin? Listed below are 12 ways that may just help you regain that zeal and direction for your study:
Set aside a regular time for study - schedule study time in advance or other things will interfere. Bible study should be something you look forward to daily, so that you can show yourself approved to God (II Tim.2:15).
Pray for understanding - study the Bible in a prayerful attitude, asking God to lead you by His Spirit, and to reveal His will to you. True understanding comes from God. You cannot reason it out for yourself. If God teaches us, we will retain our understanding, but we have to desire it (Ps.119:33-40), trusting with all our heart and acknowledging all His ways (Prov.3:5-8). In that sense, even those who think they are not capable, will be given divine guidance (I Cor.1:25-29, Jer.9: 23-24).
Seek correction and instruction - the word of God cuts deep, like a two edged sword. It judges our innermost thoughts and reveals every character flaw. We must approach this study with a humble, correctable attitude (Jer.10:23-24, Is.66:1-2, 5). Without the Spirit of God guiding us, we cannot understand the word of God (Rom.8:6-9) to become perfect. Only then are we ready to understand that all scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness (II Tim.3:16), giving us spiritual light (Prov.6:23) and helping us to become perfect (Matt.5:48).
Realize the Bible is inspired - the entire Bible - both Old and New Testament - is the inspired word of God. When studying it, bear in mind that God is speaking to you. Reverence His word and let it inspire and motivate you to grow in His likeness. The Bible is from the very mind of Christ (Phil.2:5) and is of a spiritual nature; bringing eternal life (John 6:63).
Let the Bible interpret the Bible - keep in mind that although some passages may seem confusing at first, there are no contradictions in the Bible - none! Examine the content (scriptures before and after a relevant verse), and gather all scriptures on a given subject or doctrine. The clear passages will clarify and shed light on those that are difficult to understand. None of the Bible is of any private interpretation (II Pet.1:20) and the scriptures are true forever (John 10:35, GNB).
Keep an open mind - because there is so much religious confusion, it is necessary to prove the truth and distinguish it from error. In so doing, it is important to maintain a positive attitude and keep an open mind. Be thankful and appreciative as new knowledge is revealed. Be willing to change, even if it means you must unlearn wrong ideas and teachings. We can’t stay conformed to this world, but have to be transformed by the renewing of our mind, in order to prove by you what is that good and pleasing and perfect will of God (Rom.12:2). Examine yourself, whether you are in the faith (II Cor.13:5).
Prove God’s way is right - put the Bible to the test. Begin to practice the things you learn, and note how much more you get out of Bible study, and the changes taking place in your life. If we continue in God’s word, then only are we disciples of Christ, having proven God’s truth (John 8:31-32) and looking for understanding (I John 3:22), to experience life more abundantly (John 10:10).
Study by subject - in addition to reading the Bible through, concentrate at times on one book, doctrine or subject and get into it thoroughly. This systematic approach will help you grow in depth and understanding. But you have to search scriptures and subjects out, and that takes work because they are precept on precept; line on line, here a little, there a little (Is.28:10). In the end, your effort is well worth it because God’s word is the only truth we have (John 17:17).
Mark key verses and passages - a marking system will save time in locating scriptures and provide a quick recall of subject matter. We are to mark those who walk in God’s way (Php. 3:17) and those who walk contrary to God’s way (II Thess.3:14), so that we can take note of each example. In the same way, we are to note passages and mark our Bible to remember what we come across, developing a system that works best for us. For example: use one colour or symbol for doctrine, another for personal correction and another for story flow.
Meditate and review - stop and think about what you are learning and the real meaning of the scriptures you are studying. Then reflect on the different ways it can be applied in your daily life. God really blesses our focus on Him (Ps.1:1-3), on His law and way of life (Ps.119:97-99), and His very thoughts (Ps.139:17-18).
Read the Bible through - read the Bible from cover to cover as a separate project, in addition to other study. This will ensure no sections are missed and it will broaden your perspective as to story flow. It is for reading all the days of your life, so that you may be trained in the fear of the Lord your God to keep and do all the words of this teaching and laws (Deut.17:9).
Be familiar with study aids - study aids are useful for providing historical background and time settings on the books of the Bible. A good Bible handbook will provide helpful background information, while a concordance will locate all passages on a given subject. Bible maps will provide topographical, geographical and historical information, and commentaries can be helpful also, but exercise care as they contain a great deal of uninspired opinion.
Set aside a regular time for study - schedule study time in advance or other things will interfere. Bible study should be something you look forward to daily, so that you can show yourself approved to God (II Tim.2:15).
Pray for understanding - study the Bible in a prayerful attitude, asking God to lead you by His Spirit, and to reveal His will to you. True understanding comes from God. You cannot reason it out for yourself. If God teaches us, we will retain our understanding, but we have to desire it (Ps.119:33-40), trusting with all our heart and acknowledging all His ways (Prov.3:5-8). In that sense, even those who think they are not capable, will be given divine guidance (I Cor.1:25-29, Jer.9: 23-24).
Seek correction and instruction - the word of God cuts deep, like a two edged sword. It judges our innermost thoughts and reveals every character flaw. We must approach this study with a humble, correctable attitude (Jer.10:23-24, Is.66:1-2, 5). Without the Spirit of God guiding us, we cannot understand the word of God (Rom.8:6-9) to become perfect. Only then are we ready to understand that all scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness (II Tim.3:16), giving us spiritual light (Prov.6:23) and helping us to become perfect (Matt.5:48).
Realize the Bible is inspired - the entire Bible - both Old and New Testament - is the inspired word of God. When studying it, bear in mind that God is speaking to you. Reverence His word and let it inspire and motivate you to grow in His likeness. The Bible is from the very mind of Christ (Phil.2:5) and is of a spiritual nature; bringing eternal life (John 6:63).
Let the Bible interpret the Bible - keep in mind that although some passages may seem confusing at first, there are no contradictions in the Bible - none! Examine the content (scriptures before and after a relevant verse), and gather all scriptures on a given subject or doctrine. The clear passages will clarify and shed light on those that are difficult to understand. None of the Bible is of any private interpretation (II Pet.1:20) and the scriptures are true forever (John 10:35, GNB).
Keep an open mind - because there is so much religious confusion, it is necessary to prove the truth and distinguish it from error. In so doing, it is important to maintain a positive attitude and keep an open mind. Be thankful and appreciative as new knowledge is revealed. Be willing to change, even if it means you must unlearn wrong ideas and teachings. We can’t stay conformed to this world, but have to be transformed by the renewing of our mind, in order to prove by you what is that good and pleasing and perfect will of God (Rom.12:2). Examine yourself, whether you are in the faith (II Cor.13:5).
Prove God’s way is right - put the Bible to the test. Begin to practice the things you learn, and note how much more you get out of Bible study, and the changes taking place in your life. If we continue in God’s word, then only are we disciples of Christ, having proven God’s truth (John 8:31-32) and looking for understanding (I John 3:22), to experience life more abundantly (John 10:10).
Study by subject - in addition to reading the Bible through, concentrate at times on one book, doctrine or subject and get into it thoroughly. This systematic approach will help you grow in depth and understanding. But you have to search scriptures and subjects out, and that takes work because they are precept on precept; line on line, here a little, there a little (Is.28:10). In the end, your effort is well worth it because God’s word is the only truth we have (John 17:17).
Mark key verses and passages - a marking system will save time in locating scriptures and provide a quick recall of subject matter. We are to mark those who walk in God’s way (Php. 3:17) and those who walk contrary to God’s way (II Thess.3:14), so that we can take note of each example. In the same way, we are to note passages and mark our Bible to remember what we come across, developing a system that works best for us. For example: use one colour or symbol for doctrine, another for personal correction and another for story flow.
Meditate and review - stop and think about what you are learning and the real meaning of the scriptures you are studying. Then reflect on the different ways it can be applied in your daily life. God really blesses our focus on Him (Ps.1:1-3), on His law and way of life (Ps.119:97-99), and His very thoughts (Ps.139:17-18).
Read the Bible through - read the Bible from cover to cover as a separate project, in addition to other study. This will ensure no sections are missed and it will broaden your perspective as to story flow. It is for reading all the days of your life, so that you may be trained in the fear of the Lord your God to keep and do all the words of this teaching and laws (Deut.17:9).
Be familiar with study aids - study aids are useful for providing historical background and time settings on the books of the Bible. A good Bible handbook will provide helpful background information, while a concordance will locate all passages on a given subject. Bible maps will provide topographical, geographical and historical information, and commentaries can be helpful also, but exercise care as they contain a great deal of uninspired opinion.
Thursday, February 28, 2008
Abortion and the Bible
The fundamental question to be answered is whether or not the life that has been conceived in the mother's womb is a human person, separate and distinct as an individual from the mother.
God created only three basic classes of life, each of which reproduces after its own kind: plants, animals, and people. (Gen. 1:11,12,20-25,26-30; 5:1-4). In which of these three categories should a living, unborn baby be classed? It cannot be considered plant or animal because plants and animals reproduce after their own kind. It is the result of human reproduction, and humans are distinct from the plants and animals. Therefore the life in the womb of a human mother must necessarily be human!
We next ask: is the life in the womb just a part of the mother's body (like an appendix, so removing it is not murder), or is it a separate and distinct individual from the mother so that aborting it is murder? This is the issue we must resolve.
The Bible (King James Version and most other versions) nowhere uses the phrases "human" or "human being" to refer to anyone, so we cannot determine whether the unborn is a human individual simply by searching for the terms "human being." Instead, the Bible identifies a human person by calling it simply a "man," "woman," "child," "son," "daughter," "baby," "infant," etc. What we need to know, then, is whether or not the Bible refers to the unborn baby by terms that imply humanity, just as it does for other humans.
A. God's Terms for the Unborn
Gen. 25:21,22
In Genesis 25:21,22, Rebekah conceived twins, and "the children struggled together within her." That which was conceived was called a "child" between the conception and the birth.
The Hebrew word used here (BEN) is the most common Old Testament word for a child or son. When used for the physical offspring of humans, it consistently refers to distinct human individuals (see Gen. 25:1-4; 3:16; etc.).
Job 3:3
On the very night of Job's conception it could have been said, "There is a man-child conceived." The word for "man-child" (Heb. GEBER) elsewhere means "man," i.e., a human individual (see Job 3:23; 4:17; 10:5; Psalms 127:5; 128:4; etc.).
Job 3:16
Babies that die before birth are called "infants" that never saw light. This is exactly like babies that are aborted. This word (Heb. OLEL) always and without exception refers to human individuals (cf. Hosea 13:16; Psalm 8:2; Joel 2:16).
Numbers 12:12; Luke 1:43
In Numbers 12:12, when Miriam became leprous, she was described "as one dead, of whom the flesh is half consumed when he cometh out of his mother's womb." If a baby dies before it is born -- as in an abortion -- the woman who conceived it is still a "mother."
In Luke 1:43, Elizabeth addressed Mary as "the mother of my Lord" before Jesus was born.
The word "mother" (Heb. EM; Greek METER), in contexts referring to physical human reproduction, always refers to one who has procreated or formed another human individual, a separate and distinct individual from the mother herself (see Num. 6:7; Gen. 3:20; Luke 1:60). A woman who has conceived, even if the child is not yet born and even if it dies before birth, is a "mother."
Luke 1:41,44
Elizabeth conceived (v. 24), and the life "in her womb" is called a "babe" or "baby" (Greek BREPHOS). This is the second-most-common New Testament word for a baby. It is always used for that which is a human individual separate and distinct from its mother (see Luke 2:12,16; Acts 7:19.)
Luke 1:36
Again, the life conceived in Elizabeth's womb, before it was born, is called "a son." The word "son" (Greek HUIOS), in contexts that refer to the physical offspring of humans, always refers to that which is a human individual separate and distinct as an individual from its parents. It is the most common New Testament word for a "son" (see Matt. 1:21,23,25; Luke 1:13,31; 2:7; etc.)
B. Observations on the Verses
That which has been conceived and lives in the mother's womb from conception on is referred to by God as a "child," a "son," an "infant," a "baby," a "man-child," etc. The woman in whose womb it lives is a "mother." No human being anywhere in the Bible is identified by terms that are more distinctly human than these terms. God makes no distinction between born and unborn life. He uses exactly the same terms for both, therefore we should view them as having the same nature.
Remember that we established from the beginning that the life in the mother's womb is human life. The only question to be settled was whether it is a distinct individual from its mother or just part of the mother's body. Consider the force of the evidence we have now examined:
Does the Bible refer to parts of the mother's body as "child," "son," "baby," etc.? Clearly not. Nor is a woman ever called a "mother" just because she has these body parts. Why is this so? Because the terms "child," "son," "baby," etc., are terms that imply a separate human individual, not just a part of the mother's body.
Consider the parallel to the Godhead. We can prove that God the Father and Jesus are two separate individuals by referring to the many passages that mention Jesus as the Son of God the Father. A person cannot be his own father or his own son. A father and his son make two separate individuals (cf. John 8:16-18).
Likewise, when a woman has conceived, the life in her womb is her "son" (or "daughter") and she is its "mother." If God the Father is a separate individual from Jesus Christ His Son, then in the very same way and for the very same reasons a mother must be a separate individual from the son or daughter in her womb.
II. How Should We Treat an Unborn Child?
The unborn life in the mother's womb is a human individual from conception on. How should we treat this unborn life, and may we deliberately kill it? Surely we must be guided by exactly the same rules or principles we should follow in our treatment of any other "child" or "baby." What are these rules?
A. Stewardship: Train, and Protect a Child
Abortion's defenders often argue that, if the mother does not "want" to have the child, she may abort it. But does a mother have the right to not want her child?
Psalm 127:3-5; 128:3-5 -- Children are a blessing, a source of happiness and joy to their parents. Yet unborn babies are children, so parents ought to appreciate them as a blessing from God. People who have Scriptural attitudes will never kill unborn babies because they will never want to. Abortion is the grossest form of ingratitude for God's blessing.
Proverbs 22:6; Ephesians 6:4 -- God has made us stewards of our children. A steward is a person who has been entrusted with something that belongs to someone else. He is responsible to care for that item and use it to accomplish the purpose of the one to whom it belongs. He will be condemned and punished by the owner or master if he abuses or misuses that which has been entrusted to him (Luke 12:42-46; Matt. 25:14-30; I Cor. 4:2).
An unborn child is a particular blessing that has been given into our care just as surely as is a child that has been born. We have the same God-given duty toward an unborn child as we do toward one that has been born. If we kill them, we defeat God's purpose for their lives. How can we "train up" and "bring up" those whom we have killed?!
Abortion is the grossest form of child abuse and the most extreme perversion of parental responsibility. God will not fail to hold us accountable.
B. God Says to Love Our Children.
Titus 2:4 -- Young women should be taught to love their children. But an unborn baby is a "child," and a woman who has conceived is a mother even before the baby is born. The Bible tells us how we should act toward those we love (I Cor. 13:4-7), and this teaching definitely does not allow us to kill them (Rom. 13:8-10).
We have clearly established that abortion is wrong without even (thus far) examining passages specifically dealing with murder. Abortion does fit the Bible definition of murder. But even if it did not, it would still be sinful because it is unloving, a lack of appreciation for God's blessings, and a gross abuse of our stewardship to raise our children as God directs.
C. Respect for Life: Do Not Kill an Innocent Child.
Many passages teach us not to deliberately kill innocent human beings. Please read Exodus 23:7; Proverbs 6:16,17; Revelation 21:8; 22:15; Matthew 15:19,20; and Romans 13:8-10. In addition, please consider these specific passages.
Psa. 106:37,38 -- Israel was polluted with blood because the people shed the innocent blood of their "sons and daughters." But unborn babies are "sons and daughters." What then is the condition of our land when over 25 million "sons and daughters" have been legally killed?
Matthew 2:16 -- Herod is considered wicked because he slew the male children in Bethlehem. Luke 2:12,16 calls such children "babes." But Luke 1:41,44 also calls unborn children "babes," so how can it be acceptable to kill them?
Hosea 13:16; 2 Kings 8:12 -- When children or infants are dashed to pieces, it is a great tragedy to any nation. Yet unborn babies are children or infants, and in our nation they are dashed to pieces by the millions!
Acts 7:19; Ex. 1:16-18 -- Pharaoh commanded that Israelite "sons" or "men children" be killed as soon as they were born. But these same terms are used for unborn babies. Would it have been acceptable for Pharaoh to have had abortions performed to kill the babies? Is it any less wicked if people today do it?
Deuteronomy 27:25 -- "Cursed be he that taketh a bribe to slay an innocent person." What clearer description could be given for people who operate abortion clinics?
Conclusion
Abortion is wrong, therefore, because it is a failure to love, appreciate, and care for a human baby. It is also wrong because it constitutes the deliberate killing of an innocent human being.
When people defend abortion, their arguments should always be evaluated in light of the fact that the unborn baby is a human being, a separate individual from its mother. Therefore, deliberately killing it would be just as wrong as killing any other innocent human being.
What should a woman do if she has aborted a baby and now realizes she did wrong? She does not need to spend the rest of her life with the burden of unforgiven guilt. The Bible says abortion is wrong, but it also offers a source of true forgiveness through the blood of Jesus Christ. God will forgive if we will come to Him according to His conditions. Read and obey these passages: Rom. 1:16; 6:3,4; 10:9,10; Mark 16:16; Acts 17:30; 2:38; 22:16.
God created only three basic classes of life, each of which reproduces after its own kind: plants, animals, and people. (Gen. 1:11,12,20-25,26-30; 5:1-4). In which of these three categories should a living, unborn baby be classed? It cannot be considered plant or animal because plants and animals reproduce after their own kind. It is the result of human reproduction, and humans are distinct from the plants and animals. Therefore the life in the womb of a human mother must necessarily be human!
We next ask: is the life in the womb just a part of the mother's body (like an appendix, so removing it is not murder), or is it a separate and distinct individual from the mother so that aborting it is murder? This is the issue we must resolve.
The Bible (King James Version and most other versions) nowhere uses the phrases "human" or "human being" to refer to anyone, so we cannot determine whether the unborn is a human individual simply by searching for the terms "human being." Instead, the Bible identifies a human person by calling it simply a "man," "woman," "child," "son," "daughter," "baby," "infant," etc. What we need to know, then, is whether or not the Bible refers to the unborn baby by terms that imply humanity, just as it does for other humans.
A. God's Terms for the Unborn
Gen. 25:21,22
In Genesis 25:21,22, Rebekah conceived twins, and "the children struggled together within her." That which was conceived was called a "child" between the conception and the birth.
The Hebrew word used here (BEN) is the most common Old Testament word for a child or son. When used for the physical offspring of humans, it consistently refers to distinct human individuals (see Gen. 25:1-4; 3:16; etc.).
Job 3:3
On the very night of Job's conception it could have been said, "There is a man-child conceived." The word for "man-child" (Heb. GEBER) elsewhere means "man," i.e., a human individual (see Job 3:23; 4:17; 10:5; Psalms 127:5; 128:4; etc.).
Job 3:16
Babies that die before birth are called "infants" that never saw light. This is exactly like babies that are aborted. This word (Heb. OLEL) always and without exception refers to human individuals (cf. Hosea 13:16; Psalm 8:2; Joel 2:16).
Numbers 12:12; Luke 1:43
In Numbers 12:12, when Miriam became leprous, she was described "as one dead, of whom the flesh is half consumed when he cometh out of his mother's womb." If a baby dies before it is born -- as in an abortion -- the woman who conceived it is still a "mother."
In Luke 1:43, Elizabeth addressed Mary as "the mother of my Lord" before Jesus was born.
The word "mother" (Heb. EM; Greek METER), in contexts referring to physical human reproduction, always refers to one who has procreated or formed another human individual, a separate and distinct individual from the mother herself (see Num. 6:7; Gen. 3:20; Luke 1:60). A woman who has conceived, even if the child is not yet born and even if it dies before birth, is a "mother."
Luke 1:41,44
Elizabeth conceived (v. 24), and the life "in her womb" is called a "babe" or "baby" (Greek BREPHOS). This is the second-most-common New Testament word for a baby. It is always used for that which is a human individual separate and distinct from its mother (see Luke 2:12,16; Acts 7:19.)
Luke 1:36
Again, the life conceived in Elizabeth's womb, before it was born, is called "a son." The word "son" (Greek HUIOS), in contexts that refer to the physical offspring of humans, always refers to that which is a human individual separate and distinct as an individual from its parents. It is the most common New Testament word for a "son" (see Matt. 1:21,23,25; Luke 1:13,31; 2:7; etc.)
B. Observations on the Verses
That which has been conceived and lives in the mother's womb from conception on is referred to by God as a "child," a "son," an "infant," a "baby," a "man-child," etc. The woman in whose womb it lives is a "mother." No human being anywhere in the Bible is identified by terms that are more distinctly human than these terms. God makes no distinction between born and unborn life. He uses exactly the same terms for both, therefore we should view them as having the same nature.
Remember that we established from the beginning that the life in the mother's womb is human life. The only question to be settled was whether it is a distinct individual from its mother or just part of the mother's body. Consider the force of the evidence we have now examined:
Does the Bible refer to parts of the mother's body as "child," "son," "baby," etc.? Clearly not. Nor is a woman ever called a "mother" just because she has these body parts. Why is this so? Because the terms "child," "son," "baby," etc., are terms that imply a separate human individual, not just a part of the mother's body.
Consider the parallel to the Godhead. We can prove that God the Father and Jesus are two separate individuals by referring to the many passages that mention Jesus as the Son of God the Father. A person cannot be his own father or his own son. A father and his son make two separate individuals (cf. John 8:16-18).
Likewise, when a woman has conceived, the life in her womb is her "son" (or "daughter") and she is its "mother." If God the Father is a separate individual from Jesus Christ His Son, then in the very same way and for the very same reasons a mother must be a separate individual from the son or daughter in her womb.
II. How Should We Treat an Unborn Child?
The unborn life in the mother's womb is a human individual from conception on. How should we treat this unborn life, and may we deliberately kill it? Surely we must be guided by exactly the same rules or principles we should follow in our treatment of any other "child" or "baby." What are these rules?
A. Stewardship: Train, and Protect a Child
Abortion's defenders often argue that, if the mother does not "want" to have the child, she may abort it. But does a mother have the right to not want her child?
Psalm 127:3-5; 128:3-5 -- Children are a blessing, a source of happiness and joy to their parents. Yet unborn babies are children, so parents ought to appreciate them as a blessing from God. People who have Scriptural attitudes will never kill unborn babies because they will never want to. Abortion is the grossest form of ingratitude for God's blessing.
Proverbs 22:6; Ephesians 6:4 -- God has made us stewards of our children. A steward is a person who has been entrusted with something that belongs to someone else. He is responsible to care for that item and use it to accomplish the purpose of the one to whom it belongs. He will be condemned and punished by the owner or master if he abuses or misuses that which has been entrusted to him (Luke 12:42-46; Matt. 25:14-30; I Cor. 4:2).
An unborn child is a particular blessing that has been given into our care just as surely as is a child that has been born. We have the same God-given duty toward an unborn child as we do toward one that has been born. If we kill them, we defeat God's purpose for their lives. How can we "train up" and "bring up" those whom we have killed?!
Abortion is the grossest form of child abuse and the most extreme perversion of parental responsibility. God will not fail to hold us accountable.
B. God Says to Love Our Children.
Titus 2:4 -- Young women should be taught to love their children. But an unborn baby is a "child," and a woman who has conceived is a mother even before the baby is born. The Bible tells us how we should act toward those we love (I Cor. 13:4-7), and this teaching definitely does not allow us to kill them (Rom. 13:8-10).
We have clearly established that abortion is wrong without even (thus far) examining passages specifically dealing with murder. Abortion does fit the Bible definition of murder. But even if it did not, it would still be sinful because it is unloving, a lack of appreciation for God's blessings, and a gross abuse of our stewardship to raise our children as God directs.
C. Respect for Life: Do Not Kill an Innocent Child.
Many passages teach us not to deliberately kill innocent human beings. Please read Exodus 23:7; Proverbs 6:16,17; Revelation 21:8; 22:15; Matthew 15:19,20; and Romans 13:8-10. In addition, please consider these specific passages.
Psa. 106:37,38 -- Israel was polluted with blood because the people shed the innocent blood of their "sons and daughters." But unborn babies are "sons and daughters." What then is the condition of our land when over 25 million "sons and daughters" have been legally killed?
Matthew 2:16 -- Herod is considered wicked because he slew the male children in Bethlehem. Luke 2:12,16 calls such children "babes." But Luke 1:41,44 also calls unborn children "babes," so how can it be acceptable to kill them?
Hosea 13:16; 2 Kings 8:12 -- When children or infants are dashed to pieces, it is a great tragedy to any nation. Yet unborn babies are children or infants, and in our nation they are dashed to pieces by the millions!
Acts 7:19; Ex. 1:16-18 -- Pharaoh commanded that Israelite "sons" or "men children" be killed as soon as they were born. But these same terms are used for unborn babies. Would it have been acceptable for Pharaoh to have had abortions performed to kill the babies? Is it any less wicked if people today do it?
Deuteronomy 27:25 -- "Cursed be he that taketh a bribe to slay an innocent person." What clearer description could be given for people who operate abortion clinics?
Conclusion
Abortion is wrong, therefore, because it is a failure to love, appreciate, and care for a human baby. It is also wrong because it constitutes the deliberate killing of an innocent human being.
When people defend abortion, their arguments should always be evaluated in light of the fact that the unborn baby is a human being, a separate individual from its mother. Therefore, deliberately killing it would be just as wrong as killing any other innocent human being.
What should a woman do if she has aborted a baby and now realizes she did wrong? She does not need to spend the rest of her life with the burden of unforgiven guilt. The Bible says abortion is wrong, but it also offers a source of true forgiveness through the blood of Jesus Christ. God will forgive if we will come to Him according to His conditions. Read and obey these passages: Rom. 1:16; 6:3,4; 10:9,10; Mark 16:16; Acts 17:30; 2:38; 22:16.
Wednesday, February 27, 2008
Inspirational Bible Study !
"We love Him because He first loved us."
1 John 4:9-10
"And Jesus said unto them ... , "If ye have faith as a grain of mustard seed, ye shall say unto this mountain, Remove hence to younder place; and it shall remove; and nothing shall be impossible to you."
Romans 1:17
"There is no fear in love; but perfect love casteth out fear ... "
1 John 4:18
Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the LORD your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you."
Deuteronomy 31:6
The LORD gave this command to Joshua son of Nun: "Be strong and courageous, for you will bring the Israelites into the land I promised them on oath, and I myself will be with you."Deuteronomy 31:23
Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be terrified; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go."
Joshua 1:9
Then you will have success if you are careful to observe the decrees and laws that the LORD gave Moses for Israel. Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or discouraged.
1 Chronicles 22:13
Be on your guard; stand firm in the faith; be men of courage; be strong.
1 Corinthians 16:13
Saturday, February 23, 2008
Final Teachings of Jesus !
>>> Read Mark 13:1-13. <<<
As they left the temple area, one of the disciples pointed to the magnificent buildings and commented on their splendor. Jesus replied that they all would be torn down. This remark astonished the disciples and they asked when this would happen and what sign there would be of the temple's impending destruction. Jesus began answering by telling about some things that would happen before the temple was destroyed. He warned of false Christs, wars, natural disasters and great persecution. These events would be unsettling for the Christians, but Jesus assured them that they were not signs of the overthrow of the temple. It is remarkable that some people have taken these things that Jesus said were not signs of the destruction of the temple and used them to try to predict the date of the return of Christ.
*1* According to v1-4, what subject was Jesus discussing in these verses? Answer: The destruction of the ______ in Jerusalem.
*2* Instead of saying that the events of these verses were signs of the immediate end, what did Jesus say in v7? Answer: The end is ______.
The Destruction of the Temple
>>> Read Mark 13:14-30. <<<
This paragraph is one of the most difficult in the gospel of Mark. Several things should be carefully observed: 1) Jesus said that all of these things were going to occur within that generation (13:30). 2) We know that Jerusalem and the temple within it were destroyed by Roman armies in the year 70 A.D. Contemporary reports chronicle Jerusalem's horrible siege and tell that thousands (possibly more than a million) died in the conflict. 3) Jesus warned the Christians to flee to the mountains. History records that the disciples fled to a mountain fortress near the Dead Sea. As far as we know, no Christians perished in that war. It always pays to listen to Jesus.
*3* What did Jesus tell the disciples in Judea to do when they saw the evil thing in the temple (v14)? Answer: They should ______ to the mountains.
*4* When did Jesus say all the things in 13:1-30 would occur? a) when He returns for the final judgment; b) within that generation; c) no one knows; d) 2000 years later. Answer: ______.
Jesus Warns of His Return
>>> Read Mark 13:31-37. <<<
In verse 30 Jesus said that the destruction of the temple would occur within that generation. But in verse 32, He spoke of an event that would occur at a totally unknown time. He was referring to His own return and the destruction of the world. Not even Jesus Himself knew when that would occur. So, He exhorted everyone to be alert and constantly prepared His return.
Note -- Practical lessons: 1) We should not believe anyone who claims to be able to predict the date of the Lord's return. If Jesus didn't know, surely no mere man does. Anyone who claims to be able to discern the time of Jesus' return by a careful study of prophetic texts is claiming to know more than the Lord Himself and should not be taken seriously. 2) Since we don't know when the Lord will come back, we should always be ready. If you knew for sure that the Lord would come back today, would you change some things in your life? Then why not just assume that He is returning today (for He might), and make the changes immediately. It is utterly foolish to procrastinate in our repentance.
*5* Who knows when Jesus will return (cf. 1 Thess. 5:1,2)? a) those who study prophecies; b) the angels; c) Christians; d) only the Father. Answer: ______.
Anointing of Jesus
>>> Read Mark 14:1-11. <<<
What contrasting attitudes toward Jesus! The chief priests and scribes searched for a way to kill Him. Judas offered to betray Him. But a single woman spent 300 days' wages for perfume which she poured over His head. The disciples criticized her for this extravagant act of love. They viewed it as a waste of money, and thought it would have been better to have sold the perfume and given the money to the poor. But Jesus defended her saying that she had anointed His body for burial and that in all the world people would tell of her deed.
*6* What did the woman pour over Jesus' head? Answer: She poured out a flask of expensive ______ made from nard (spikenard).
*7* What did the disciples think should have been done with the perfume? Answer: They thought it should be sold and the money given to the ______.
The Last Supper
>>> Read Mark 14:12-26. <<<
Passover was an annual feast commemorating God's sparing the Jews in the tenth plague on Egypt (see Exodus 11-12). Jesus sent the disciples to prepare the feast, then He ate it with them. During the meal, Jesus warned that one of them would betray Him. He was trying to prepare the apostles for the traumatic night to follow. The Lord also took some of the bread and grape juice of the Passover and said that it was His body and blood. In this way, He initiated the observance of the Lord's Supper, a feast that was continued by the early Christians (Acts 2:42; 20:7; 1 Corinthians 11:17-34).
Note -- Is it I? It is interesting to observe the disciples' reaction to Jesus' prediction that one of them would betray Him. Each asked: Is it I? They were thinking of the possibility of their own fall. Unfortunately, this moment of introspection soon vanished and in the next paragraph they return to brash overconfidence. Surprisingly, they did not ask: Is it Judas? Apparently they had not observed anything in Judas' behavior during the months they had spent together that signaled that he was disloyal. When we read Jesus' warnings in the Bible, we also should ask: Is it I?
*8* When Jesus predicted that one of the disciples would betray Him, what did they ask? Answer: They asked, "______?".
*9&10* In the Lord's supper, what do the bread and fruit of the vine remind us of? Answer: The bread reminds us of Jesus' ______, and the fruit of the vine reminds us of His ______.
Jesus Predicts the Flight of the Disciples
>>> Read Mark 14:27-31. <<<
Jesus told the disciples that they would all fall away. Peter retorted that though the others might, he would never abandon Him. Christ replied that he would deny Him three times that very night. Again Peter denied it saying that he would even be willing to die with Him. Perhaps Peter's overconfidence was one reason he fulfilled this very prophecy a few hours later.
*11* What did Jesus predict Peter would do that very night? Answer: Peter would ______ Jesus three times.
*12* How did Peter respond to this prediction? Answer: He said he would rather ______ than deny Jesus.
Jesus Prays in the Garden
>>> Read Mark 14:32-42. <<<
Jesus took His disciples into a garden and asked them to watch and pray. He told them that He was deeply distressed. He went a little farther and prayed that God would take the cup of suffering away from Him. Jesus knew how terrible His death would be. He asked, however, that God's will be done above all. Each time He returned to His disciples, they had fallen asleep. Jesus wrestled with His griefs and fears alone, without human support.
Note -- The true suffering of Jesus: This paragraph reveals Jesus' deep grief as He thought about what He was going to suffer. He knew exactly what was about to happen and He dreaded it. Was He thinking only of physical pain? Crucifixion certainly was an agonizing experience--the victim slowly suffocated as he grew gradually weaker and finally unable to pull his body up against the nails to breathe. But others have suffered similar executions with less dread than Jesus. There must be something Jesus feared besides pain. Several passages teach that Jesus bore the sins of the world on the cross (Isaiah 53; 1 Peter 2:24; 2 Corinthians 5:21). He suffered the punishment for man's sin, which was spiritual death, separation from God. His greatest agony was being cut off from His Father on the cross (study Mark 15:34). Because He suffered this punishment of utter separation from God, His faithful followers will never have to.
*13* What did Jesus pray for in the garden? Answer: He asked for the ______ to pass from Him.
*14* Whose will did Jesus say should be done? (a) His own will, (b) His Father's will, (c) the will of the Jewish leaders, (d) all of the preceding. Answer: ______.
Jesus Is Arrested
>>> Read Mark 14:43-52. <<<
Judas had bargained with the chief priests to betray his Master. He had promised to lead them to the place where He spent the night, away from the crowds. Although Jesus knew the plan, He went again to the usual spot where He knew Judas could easily find Him. A troop of soldiers with the traitor leading the way interrupted the calm of the night. Judas kissed Jesus, a signal that it was safe to arrest Him. One disciple tried to defend Jesus by sword, severing the ear of a man in the arrest party in the process (see Luke 22:50-51; John 18:10-11 for more details). But then the disciples lost their nerve and fled. Jesus remained alone with His captors and Judas.
*15* Who betrayed Jesus for money (cf. v10,11)? Answer: Jesus was betrayed by ______.
*16* What sign did he use to identify Jesus for the captors? Answer: He betrayed Jesus with a ______.
Jewish Trial of Jesus
>>> Read Mark 14:53-65. <<<
Though it was very late at night, Jesus was brought before the Jewish supreme court and tried. They bribed false witnesses who told contradictory stories about Him. For a time, it appeared that the court would be unable to find consistent testimony by which to convict Jesus. Finally, the high priest asked Him if He were the Christ. When Jesus said, "Yes," they used this statement as evidence of blasphemy and convicted Him. Then they spat on Him, mocked Him and beat Him.
*17* Why was the Jewish court unable to convict Jesus on the basis of the testimony of the false witnesses? a) their testimony was inconsistent; b) the witnesses refused to testify; c) they could not allow false witnesses to testify in their court; d) Jesus refuted what they said. Answer: ______.
*18* What was finally used to convict Jesus in the Jewish trial? Answer: He admitted that He was the ______, the Son of the Blessed One.
Peter Denies Jesus
>>> Read Mark 14:66-72. <<<
Peter had slipped into the courtyard to watch the trial. Various people began to recognize him. A servant-girl asked him if she hadn't seen him with Jesus. Peter claimed not to understand what she was talking about. Then she began to tell others that he was a disciple and he flatly denied it. Finally, others noticed his Galilean accent and accused him of following Jesus. With this, Peter panicked, vehemently denying Jesus, even asking God to curse him if He knew the man. The cock crew and Peter remembered Jesus' warning. He came to himself with a sickening awareness of the horrible deed he had done. He rushed out and began weeping in despair.
Note -- Failure of the disciples: The disciples failed Jesus miserably in His hour of greatest need. They fled. Peter denied Him. Why? They had been such loyal supporters. Think back upon contributing factors in their failure: 1) They hadn't listened when Jesus had frequently warned them of His impending suffering. They had been too eager to argue about who would be the greatest in the kingdom. 2) They were overconfident. Earlier that evening, Jesus warned them that they would flee, but they didn't believe it. 3) They didn't watch and pray in the garden as He instructed. Thus, they were not mentally prepared to face the challenge. We could fail in the hour of temptation for these same reasons.
*19* How many times did Peter deny Jesus during the Jewish trial? Answer (give a number): ______.
*20* How did he react when he realized that he had denied Jesus? a) killed himself; b) apologized to Jesus; c) gave up being an apostle; d) fled away and began to cry. Answer: ______.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
