new testament survey - dr. chris dortch · 2019-01-13 · class 202 new testament survey these were...

CLASS 202

GROWING UNIVERSITY

New Testament Survey A Gospel-centric Approach to

Understanding the New Testament

A Discipleship Ministry of FBC Mt. Sterling

CLASS 202 New Testament Survey

These were more fair-minded than those in Thessalonica, in that they received the word with all readiness, and searched the Scriptures daily to find out whether these things were so.

Acts 17:11

Dr. Chris Dortch, Editor

Cover: Ecce Homo (Behold the Man) By Antonio Ciseri in 1871 (Public Domain)

All scripture passages used are from the New King James Version of The Holy Bible, unless otherwise stated.

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WELCOME TO CLASS 202 NEW TESTAMENT SURVEY

The New Testament continues the narrative of the Gospel of Jesus Christ as we have seen throughout the Old Testament. The Gospel narrative consists of four major themes: creation, fall, redemption, and restoration. As we begin to work through the New Testament, it is my hope and prayer that you will discover how God plans to use you to reach the nations with the Gospel. The Bible is not only the historical narrative of God’s people, it is also the narrative of God’s love for His people and the focus is upon the key personality: Jesus! Jesus was promised, pictured, and predicted in the Old Testament and provided, proclaimed, and present in the New Testament. The life and ministry of Jesus reveals more completely God’s plan for redemption and restoration. The Redeemer “has come to seek and to save that which was lost” (Luke 19:10). THE BASIS FOR THIS CLASS This course is an introduction to the authorship and contents of the New Testament books with special attention given to key persons, places, and events. The aim of the course is to help believers interpret New Testament passages in their proper immediate context as well as the context of the larger Gospel narrative. THE GOALS OF THIS CLASS Upon successful completion of this course, you will be able to:

1. State the purpose of the New Testament. 2. Describe the content of the New Testament including authorship, literary style, theological

development, and the major themes and key verse of each book. 3. Correctly list the books of the New Testament in the order found in the English Bible. 4. Organize the content of the New Testament chronologically, book by book, into the

framework of the Gospels and Acts. 5. Explain the historical, political, cultural, and religious background of the New Testament.

PRIMARY SOURCES FOR THIS CLASS This workbook was developed from class notes and lectures given by Dr. Elmer L. Towns. The contents and basic structure were derived largely from the course textbook “A Journey through the New Testament” (Dr. Elmer L. Towns). The bibliography is a short list of suggested books for additional personal study that have also influenced the development of this material.

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ABBREVIATIONS

BIBLE NAME ABBREVIATIONS • Matt. Matthew • Mk. Mark • Lk. Luke • Jn. John • Ac. Acts • Rom. Romans • 1 Cor. 1 Corinthians • 2 Cor. 2 Corinthians • Gal. Galatians • Eph. Ephesians • Phil. Philippians • Col. Colossians • 1 Thess. 1 Thessalonians • 2 Thess. 2 Thessalonians

• 1 Tim. 1 Timothy • 2 Tim. 2 Timothy • Tit. Titus • Philem. Philemon • Heb. Hebrews • Jam. James • 1 Pet. 1 Peter • 2 Pet. 2 Peter • 1 Jn. 1 John • 2 Jn. 2 John • 3 Jn. 3 John • Jd. Jude • Rev. Revelation

LATIN ABBREVIATIONS • c. Latin circa “around” or “approximately.” • cf. Latin confer “confer” or “compare.” • e.g. Latin exempli gratia “for example.” Literally “for the sake of example.” • etc. Latin et cetera “and others” or “and the rest.” • ff. Latin folio “and the following” (verses, paragraphs, pages, etc.). Literally “on the next

page.” • i.e. Latin id est “that is.” Literally, “that is to say.”

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COURSE OUTLINE & TABLE OF CONTENTS

PART ONE: INTRODUCTION ................................................................................................................. 1 • Are Translations of the Bible Reliable? ..................................................................................... 3 • Are There Errors in the Bible? ...................................................................................................... 5 • The Divisions and Books of the New Testament ...................................................................... 7 • The Languages of the New Testament .................................................................................... 8 • The Purpose of the New Testament ......................................................................................... 8 • Study Questions (Part 1) ............................................................................................................. 9 PART TWO: THE GOSPELS ................................................................................................................... 11 • The Four Gospels ....................................................................................................................... 12

o Why Four Gospels? o What Can You Take Away?

• Matthew ..................................................................................................................................... 14 o Vital Stats of Matthew o Outline of Matthew

• Mark ............................................................................................................................................. 15 o Vital Stats of Mark o Outline of Mark

• Luke ............................................................................................................................................. 16 o Vital Stats of Luke o Outline of Luke

• John ............................................................................................................................................. 17 o Vital Stats of John o Outline of John

• The Preparation and Birth of Jesus ......................................................................................... 18 o Zacharias and Elizabeth: The Birth of John the Baptist o Joseph and Mary: The Birth of Jesus o John the Baptist: The Forerunner

• The Life and Ministry of Jesus ................................................................................................... 25 o The Tempter o The First Week of Jesus’ Ministry o The Passover o The Night Visitor: Nicodemus o The Noon Visitor: Samaritan Woman o The Ministry of Jesus in Galilee Begins o The Twelve: Choosing the Disciples o The Sermon on the Mount o The Witnesses of Faith and Unbelief o The Long Day o The Opposition Rises o The Last Year of Ministry o The Glory of the Lord o The Twelve: Pursuit of Greatness o The Light Shining in Darkness o The Twelve: Recovering Lost Power o The Trans-Jordan Ministry o The Death & New Life of Lazarus

• The Death and Resurrection of Jesus ..................................................................................... 68 o The Final Journey to Jerusalem o The Final Week o The Garden to Golgotha o The Cross to the Grave

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o The Resurrection o The Final Days of Jesus with His Disciples

• Study Questions (Part 2) ............................................................................................................ 87 PART THREE: THE ACTS OF THE APOSTLES ........................................................................................ 89 • Acts .............................................................................................................................................. 91

o Vital Stats of Acts o Outline of Acts

• The Establishment of the Church (Peter’s Ministry) ............................................................... 92 o Pentecost and the New Church

• The Expansion of the Church (Peter’s Ministry) ..................................................................... 95 o Growing Pains in the New Church o Philip: Reaching Out from Jerusalem o Saul of Tarsus o Cornelius: The Beginning of Gentile Christians o Barnabas: Outreach to the Gentiles

• The First Missionary Journey (Paul’s Ministry) ........................................................................ 107 o The Apostle Paul’s First Missionary Journey

• The Council of Jerusalem (Paul’s Ministry) ........................................................................... 109 o James: Leading the Church into Liberty (James and Galatians)

• The Second Missionary Journey (Paul’s Ministry) ................................................................ 111 o Taking the Gospel to Europe (Mark) o From Tarsus to Troas o Philippi o Thessalonica o Berea o Athens (1 Thessalonians and 2 Thessalonians) o Corinth

• The Third Missionary Journey (Paul’s Ministry) ...................................................................... 119 o The Church at Ephesus (1 Corinthians and 2 Corinthians) o From Ephesus to Jerusalem (Romans)

• The Trial of Paul (Paul’s Ministry) ............................................................................................. 124 o Paul’s Defense o The Journey to Rome (Luke) o Paul in Rome (Acts, Philemon, Ephesians, Philippians, and Colossians) o Paul’s Imprisonments in Rome (Titus, 1 Timothy, and 2 Timothy)

• Study Questions (Part 3) .......................................................................................................... 132 PART FOUR: PAULINE EPISTLES ........................................................................................................ 133 • Romans ..................................................................................................................................... 135

o Vitals Stats of Romans o Outline of Romans

• 1 Corinthians ............................................................................................................................. 136 o Vitals Stats of 1 Corinthians o Outline of 1 Corinthians

• 2 Corinthians ............................................................................................................................. 137 o Vitals Stats of 2 Corinthians o Outline of 2 Corinthians

• Galatians .................................................................................................................................. 138 o Vitals Stats of Galatians o Outline of Galatians

• Ephesians .................................................................................................................................. 139 o Vitals Stats of Ephesians o Outline of Ephesians

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• Philippians ................................................................................................................................. 140 o Vitals Stats of Philippians o Outline of Philippians

• Colossians ................................................................................................................................. 141 o Vitals Stats of Colossians o Outline of Colossians

• 1 Thessalonians ........................................................................................................................ 142 o Vitals Stats of 1 Thessalonians o Outline of 1 Thessalonians

• 2 Thessalonians ........................................................................................................................ 143 o Vitals Stats of 2 Thessalonians o Outline of 2 Thessalonians

• 1 Timothy ................................................................................................................................... 144 o Vitals Stats of 1 Timothy o Outline of 1 Timothy

• 2 Timothy ................................................................................................................................... 145 o Vitals Stats of 2 Timothy o Outline of 2 Timothy

• Titus ............................................................................................................................................ 146 o Vitals Stats of Titus o Outline of Titus

• Philemon ................................................................................................................................... 147 o Vitals Stats of Philemon o Outline of Philemon

• Study Questions (Part 4) ......................................................................................................... 148

PART FIVE: THE GENERAL EPISTLES .................................................................................................. 149 • Hebrews .................................................................................................................................... 151

o Vitals Stats of Hebrews o Outline of Hebrews o The Fall of Jerusalem

• James ........................................................................................................................................ 153 o Vitals Stats of James o Outline of James

• 1 Peter ....................................................................................................................................... 154 o Vitals Stats of 1 Peter o Outline of 1 Peter o Peter: The Apostle to the Jews

• 2 Peter ....................................................................................................................................... 156 o Vitals Stats of 2 Peter o Outline of 2 Peter

• 1 John ........................................................................................................................................ 157 o Vitals Stats of 1 John o Outline of 1 John



• Jude .......................................................................................................................................... 160 o Vitals Stats of Jude o Outline of Jude

• Study Questions (Part 5) ......................................................................................................... 161

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PART SIX: PROPHECY ...................................................................................................................... 163 • Revelation ................................................................................................................................. 165

o Vitals Stats of Revelation o Outline of Revelation o The Course of this Age o The Rapture of the Church o The End of the Tribulation o The Beginning of Eternity

• In Conclusion ............................................................................................................................ 174 • Study Questions (Part 6) .......................................................................................................... 175 APPENDIX ......................................................................................................................................... 177 • Biblical Translation Philosophy Continuum .......................................................................... 177 • Dispensational Premillennial Sequence of End Time Events ............................................. 177 GLOSSARY ........................................................................................................................................ 178 BIBLIOGRAPHY ................................................................................................................................. 181

CLASS 202: NEW TESTAMENT SURVEY page 1

PART ONE

Introduction

Therefore I also, after I heard of your faith in the Lord Jesus and your love for all the saints, do not cease to give thanks for you, making mention of you in my prayers: that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give to you the spirit of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of Him, the eyes of your understanding being enlightened; that you may know what is the hope of His calling, what are the riches of the glory of His inheritance in the saints, and what is the exceeding

greatness of His power toward us who believe, according to the working of His mighty power which He worked in Christ when He raised Him from the dead and seated Him at His right hand in the

heavenly places, far above all principality and power and might and dominion, and every name that is named, not only in this age but also in that which is to come.

Ephesians 1:15-21

CLASS 202: NEW TESTAMENT SURVEY


Are Translations of the Bible Reliable? I. How did we get the modern translations?

People sometimes ask, “If the Bible has been translated and re-translated through the years, then how do we know that the English Bible that we have today are even close to what Jesus actually said?”

Those who ask this question, often have the “Telephone Game” in mind. One person whispers a message to another, which is passed through a line of people until the last player announces the message to the entire group. When the last player announces the message, everyone laughs because the message was drastically butchered from the original message.

Unfortunately, people believe that our translations have been developed the same way, that translations have been re-translated again and again into the modern day. That is not how we translate the Bible. In fact, it’s quite the opposite. Our modern translations are not a translation of a translation. Each translation returns to the ancient manuscripts.

• Textual Criticism: The science of reconstructing ancient New Testament manuscripts.

• Modern translations are based on more manuscripts as we continue to discover more ancient manuscripts.

o 1611 King James Version is a very reliable translation. Yet, they had a very limited number of manuscripts from which to study and translate.

• Modern translations are based on even older manuscripts as new discoveries are made.

o Erasmus (1466-1536) only had about six medieval manuscripts available to him when he translated the Bible. He understood the importance of going back to the oldest source.

o Today, we have manuscripts that date all the way back to the 2nd century.

o We also have fragments of manuscripts that date back to the early part of the 2nd century.

o We have about 6000 Greek manuscripts that range from small fragments to full text.

The King James Version is not the foundation for any modern translation; the ancient Greek manuscripts are the foundation.

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II. How then do I know which translation to buy?

When you consider biblical translation philosophy, there is a continuum (see the Appendix for a chart).

A. Formal Equivalence (word for word): The goal of these translations is pure accuracy. To get as close as possible to one English word for one Greek word (e.g. New American Standard, Revised Standard Version).

Problem: It can be very difficult to read a translation that is primarily focused on formal equivalence. It’s a great translation, but it can be a challenge to read in public worship services.

B. Paraphrase (thought for thought): The goal of the paraphrase is to capture the thought. We read the words of Paul in Greek and we ask the question, “What’s the best way to translate this into English?” It’s not always a correspondence to words or even sentences, it is thought for thought. Paraphrases are also great translations (e.g. The Message, Children’s Bibles). They are great for children. They are great for reading large passages of the Bible.

Problem: They are probably not the best choice for study.

C. Dynamic Equivalence: The goal of the dynamic equivalence is to strike a balance between the two extremes. The most popular that fits into this category is the New International Version (NIV). It largely follows a word-for-word, but employs English idioms to match Greek idioms. Examples: • Matt. 1:18 “she having in the belly” = “she was pregnant” • Matt. 10:27 “what you hear in your ear” = “what you hear in secret” • Acts 28:27 “they hear heavily with their ears” = “slow to understand”

As a pastor, student, and teacher of God’s Word, I find myself most comfortable with the Formal Equivalence (e.g. New King James Version (NKJV), English Standard Version (ESV). III. Conclusion Read your Bible. When you purchase a Bible at your local Christian bookstore, you can rest assured that each translation is a good translation. The Bible is absolutely trustworthy. Therefore, your goal should determine which translation(s) to get.

• Follow along with the pastor: NKJV. • Personal study: ESV • Devotional and personal application: NLT • Reading to your children: The Message or a Children’s Bible

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Are There Errors in the Bible? I. Introduction

Prior to the invention of the printing press, copies of the New Testament were developed by hand for 1400 years.

How can we know that Scribes didn’t change the text?

One modern skeptic has suggested there are 400,000 errors in the New Testament manuscripts. That’s actually far more errors than there are words in the New Testament.

II. What types of “errors” are there?

1. The scribe simply made a mistake. He looked away and looked back to the original and picked back up at the wrong place. How should we think about this?

• This type of error is easy to spot. • Because they are easy to spot, scribes often fixed them

rather than copy them. • Because they are easy to spot, these errors do not make

their way into our translations. Why this is ridiculous: Bart Ehrman’s book “Misquoting Jesus” on page 13 shows Tim LaHaye’s name misspelled as “LeHaye.” The first printing of this book had 100,000 copies. So, how do we count that one typo? Do we count that as one error or 100,000 errors? To get to the 400,000 errors that skeptics have claimed are in the Bible, each copy must be counted as an “error.” Would it be fair to say, “Dr. Ehrman’s book has 100,000 errors”?

2. The second consideration is orthographic variance. You have likely noticed that there are regional spellings of words even within the English language. For example, if you’re in the United States you probably spell the word “color” C-O-L-O-R. However, if you’re outside of the United States, you may see the same word spelled C-O-L-O-U-R. It’s a regional spelling. How should we think about this?

• Could hardly be considered an “error.” • In fact, they are often helpful because the spelling helps

us understand what part of the world the manuscript came from.

Why this is ridiculous: Imagine you have an English copy of Harry Potter as well as an American copy of Harry Potter and each time we see the word spelled C-O-L-O-U-R we claimed the English copy has an error. We shouldn’t think that way toward the New Testament just because there are variances. This makes up the largest portion of so-called “errors.”

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3. The third type is minor non-translatable variance. There are minor variances that do not show up when translated. For example, in Greek it was common to put the definite article “the” in front of a name: The Chris Dortch. However, some manuscripts have dropped the definite article. How should we think about this?

• It’s a minor concern because it will never show up in our English translations.

• It doesn’t change the meaning of the text.

Why this is ridiculous: The absence of the definite article doesn’t change the meaning of the passage at all.

4. The fourth consideration is major translatable variance. These are the variances that your Bible will likely have a footnote that reads, “The oldest and best manuscripts.” For example, Mark 16:9-20 is not included in the oldest manuscripts (i.e. Codex Sinaiticus and Codex Vaticanus) although nearly all other manuscripts of Mark contain those verses.

Romans 10:17 has a major translatable variance. Some read, “Faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of God.” Another may read, “Faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of Christ.”

How should we think about this? • This is a very small fraction of the so-called “errors.” In

fact, there are only about two-dozen of these. • These variances do not change the message of the text.

Why this is ridiculous: While these are significant passages, the variances are not sufficient reasons to doubt the validity of the Bible. Furthermore, as we have already stated, the variances do not change the message of the text at all.

III. Conclusion

1. There are skeptics out there who are exaggerating the data. 2. These so-called “errors” are not reasons to dismiss the Scripture

and claim, “We don’t know what Paul really said, so how can we believe the Bible?”

3. Don’t use skeptical questions about the Bible as an excuse not to read the Bible.

4. Don’t use skeptical questions about the Bible to deny the claims of Christianity. Because the excuses are pretty flimsy when the evidence is examined carefully.

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The Divisions & Books of the NT The New Testament can be divided into five parts.

Part 1: The Gospels – 4 books

• Matthew • Mark • Luke • John

Part 2: The History – 1 book

• Acts

Part 3: Paul’s Letters (Epistles) – 13 books

• Romans • 1 Corinthians • 2 Corinthians • Galatians • Ephesians • Philippians • Colossians • 1 Thessalonians • 2 Thessalonians • 1 Timothy • 2 Timothy • Titus • Philemon

Part 4: General Letters (Epistles) – 8 books

• Hebrews • James • 1 Peter • 2 Peter • 1 John • 2 John • 3 John • Jude

Part 5: Prophecy – 1 book

• Revelation The New Testament Scriptures have four Gospels, which are biographical. They are not the complete biography of Christ, but are sufficient to establish His claim to the Son of God. The Acts of the Apostles is an historical book that covers the history of the early church and its beginnings. The Pauline Epistles are letters written by the Apostle Paul and the General Epistles are letters to churches or individuals to address concerns. Revelation is a descriptive and prophetic book of the end times.

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The Language of the NT What language was the New Testament written?

• The New Testament was written in Greek.

The Purpose of the NT

The New Testament is more than an historical narrative. It certainly provides a snapshot into the biography of Jesus that covers His life and ministry. We have historical information about the establishment of Christ’s church. There is even prophecy concerning the consummation of this present age. The New Testament is more than a “good book” that offers “tips for a better life.” For the Christian, the Bible is God’s Word and it reveals the character of God and the plan that God, our Creator, has for our lives.

The New Testament demonstrates that Jesus Christ is the fulfillment of the promised Gospel of the Old Testament. The New Testament reveals that the Old Testament has been pointing us and preparing us for Jesus Christ.

• “All the prophets testify about Him (Jesus) that through His name everyone who believes in Him will receive forgiveness of sin” (Acts 10:43 HCSB).

• “And beginning at Moses and all the Prophets, He expounded to them in all the Scriptures the things concerning Himself.” Luke 24:27

• “Then He said to them, ‘These are the words which I spoke to you while I was still with you, that all things must be fulfilled which were written in the Law of Moses and the Prophets and the Psalms concerning Me.’ And He opened their understanding, that they might comprehend the Scriptures.” Luke 24:44-45.

• “You search the Scriptures, for in them you think you have eternal life; and these are they which testify of Me.” John 5:39

The New Testament then proclaims “the fullness of the time had come, God sent forth His Son, born of a woman, born under the law, that we might receive the adoption as sons” (Galatians 4:4-5). Good News has come!

The Bible is to be interpreted and understood with a view that Christ is the central personality of all Scripture (i.e. both Old and New Testaments). This course will focus upon Christ through a Gospel-Centric approach that will examine the people and events of the New Testament in light of the Gospel: creation, fall, redemption, and restoration.

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Study Questions (Part 1): • Define what is meant by textual criticism.

• Why is the “telephone game” a poor example of how the Bible is translated?

• Define each of the following in terms of translation philosophy: formal equivalence, paraphrase, and dynamic equivalence.

• Identify the four types of “errors” of the New Testament and how we should address each of them.

• Identify the five major divisions of the New Testament.

• In what language was the New Testament written?

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PART TWO

The Gospels

And truly Jesus did many other signs in the presence of His disciples, which are not written in this book;

but these are written that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and that believing you may have life in His name.

John 20:30-31


The Four Gospels: Why Four Gospels?

Each book serves a unique purpose and presents the events from that perspective. The four Gospel books have incredible harmony with one another.

I. Matthew Matthew begins with a genealogy to prove Jesus’ right to the throne. Matthew was largely concerned with providing a bridge between the Hebrew Scriptures (i.e. Old Testament) and the continuity of the Christian faith. Matthew’s target audience would have been Jewish Christians and he quotes from the Old Testament more often than any other New Testament writer. Matthew wanted his readers to see that Jesus’ fulfillment of the Hebrew Scripture did not lessen their significance, but rather have gained greater significance. II. Mark Mark writes in a series of dramatic eyewitness accounts. His fast-moving pace skips over the genealogy of Christ, Jesus’ birth, and instead begins with a brief look at John the Baptist and jumps immediately into the beginning of Jesus’ earthly ministry. Mark wanted his readers to see that Jesus had the authority to forgive sin, something only God Himself has authority. Therefore, it was important for Mark to convey Jesus is God in the flesh. He is the Holy One of God (1:24), the Son of God (3:11), and Son of the Most High God (5:7-8). Furthermore, we will never understand the deity of Christ apart from His suffering, death, and resurrection. III. Luke Luke acknowledges that Jesus is God, while at the same time demonstrates the humanity of Jesus. The technical term for this Christian theology is the “hypostatic union.” There is a perfect union of Christ’s humanity and divinity. He wasn’t something “less than God (50% God),” He was God. Furthermore, He wasn’t something “less than human (50% human),” He was fully human. He is 100% God and 100% man. He begins with the supernatural birth of John the Baptist and then the virgin birth of Jesus, but also emphasizes the human aspects of Jesus’ circumcision, the dedication by Anna and Simeon, and being left at the temple at age 12. Luke acknowledges Jesus divinity and humanity when he wrote, “Jesus increased in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and men.” Luke wanted his readers to see that Jesus was a real-life person who was concerned about the welfare of all people, and had a special empathy for those who were despised or rejected by society. The Gospel of Jesus Christ is extended to everyone. God became one of us, so that He could save all of us.

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IV. John John was the last of the four Gospel books to be written, it is believed to be about 60 years or more after the crucifixion had taken place. He begins in eternity past, “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God” (1:1). Since John emphasizes Jesus’ deity, he states, “The Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we beheld His glory, the glory of the only begotten of the Father.” John tells us the purpose of His Gospel account, “And truly Jesus did many other signs in the presence of His disciples, which are not written in this book; but these are written that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and that believing you may have life in His name” (John 20:30-31).

What Can You Take Away? The four Gospel books have incredible harmony with one another. When considered together, we can see how each Gospel account contributes to the masterful plan of salvation to include all people.

I. All People No matter who you are, the four gospels make it possible for you to understand the good news of the Gospel of Jesus Christ.

II. All Needs

No matter what your need, the four gospels demonstrate how Christ can meet your needs.

III. Complete

Because there are four Gospel accounts, we get a well-rounded view of Christ. These are four distinct presentations of one perfect Gospel.

IV. Four Living Testimonies

God’s living Word does not cease to proclaim testimony of Jesus. “The four living creatures, each having six wings, were full of eyes around and within. And they do not rest day or night, saying: ‘Holy, holy, holy, Lord God Almighty, Who was and is and is to come!” (cf. Rev. 4:7-8; Ezekiel 1:10).

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Matthew

Vital Statistics of Matthew I. Authorship

A. Matthew (Levi)

B. Matthew was one of the twelve apostles of Jesus (cf. Mark 3:18; Luke 6:15; and Acts 1:13).

C. Matthew was a tax collector (Matt. 9:9).

D. Matthew was his Greek name. Levi was his Hebrew name (cf. Mark 2:14; Luke 5:27).

II. Dates

A. Date Written: 60 – 65 AD

B. It was written before the destruction of Jerusalem in 70 AD (Matt. 24).

III. Original Audience

A. Matthew was writing to Jewish Christians.

IV. Purpose

A. Historical: This Gospel account serves as the bridge between the Old and New Testaments because of its emphasis on the fulfillment of prophecy.

B. Christological: To prove that Jesus is the Messiah, the eternal King.

V. Key Word & Verse

A. Key Word: Kingdom (used 55 times)

B. Key Verse: Matthew 5:17

Outline of Matthew I. The Preparation and Birth of Jesus, The King (1:1-4:11)

II. The Life and Ministry of Jesus, The King (4:12-25:46)

A. Jesus begins His ministry

B. Jesus delivers the Sermon on the Mount

C. Jesus performs many miracles

D. Jesus teaches about the kingdom

E. Jesus encounters differing reactions to His ministry

F. Jesus faces conflict with the religious leaders

G. Jesus teaches on the Mount of Olives

III. The Death and Resurrection of Jesus, The King (26:1-28:20)

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Mark

Vital Statistics of Mark I. Authorship

A. John Mark. His Jewish name was John (i.e. Jonah) and his Roman name was Mark (i.e. Marcus).

B. John Mark was one of the missionaries who accompanied Paul and Barnabas on their missionary journeys. Mark was a cousin of Barnabas.

C. John Mark was possibly writing from the firsthand knowledge of Peter and was probably the first of the four Gospel accounts to be written.

D. John Mark (also known as Mark the Evangelist) was not one of the 12 disciples.

II. Dates



A. The Christians in Rome where Mark wrote the Gospel account. The Roman Empire was under Tiberius Caesar and the empire had excellent transportation and communication systems, which allowed the spread of the Gospel quickly from nation to nation.

IV. Purpose

A. Historical: To present the person, work, and teachings of Jesus.

B. Christological: To show that the Lord Jesus is the Messiah, the Son of God who was sent to suffer and to serve in order to rescue and restore mankind.

V. Key Word & Verse

A. Key Word: Immediately (used 36 times)

B. Key Verse: Mark 10:45

Outline of Mark I. The Preparation and Birth of Jesus, The Servant (1:1-13)

II. The Life and Ministry of Jesus, The Servant (1:14-13:37)

A. Jesus’ ministry in Galilee

B. Jesus’ ministry beyond Galilee

C. Jesus’ ministry in Jerusalem

III. The Death and Resurrection of Jesus, The Servant (14:1-16:20)

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Luke

Vital Statistics of Luke I. Authorship

A. Luke

B. Luke was a doctor (cf. Colossians 4:14) and accompanied Paul on his missionary journeys (cf. Acts 16-20).

C. Luke was a Greek Christian and is the only known Gentile author in the New Testament.

D. Luke also wrote the book of Acts, which is a second volume to his gospel account: Luke-Acts.

E. Luke was not one of the 12 disciples.

II. Dates

A. Date Written: 60 AD


A. Luke is writing to Theophilus, whose name means “one who loves God.” Some have suggested Theophilus is not a specific person, but rather a general greeting to all Christians. Regardless, Luke’s gospel is certainly written for all Gentiles and all people. Luke, being a Greek, was interested in presenting Christ to them.

IV. Purpose

A. Historical: To present an accurate account of the life and ministry of Jesus Christ, “so that you may know the exact truth” (Luke 1:14).

B. Christological: To present Jesus to the Greeks as the perfect human and Savior, the Son of Man, and the Savior of all men.

V. Key Word & Verse

A. Key Word: Son of Man (used 27 times)

B. Key Verse: Luke 19:9-10

Outline of Luke I. The Preparation and Birth of Jesus, The Savior (1:1-4:13)

II. The Life and Ministry of Jesus, The King (4:14-21:38)

A. Jesus’ ministry in Galilee

B. Jesus’ ministry on the way to Jerusalem

C. Jesus’ ministry in Jerusalem

III. The Death and Resurrection of Jesus, The King (22:1-24:53)

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John

Vital Statistics of John I. Authorship

A. John

B. John is one of the 12 disciples of Jesus. He is sometimes called John the Evangelist or John the Apostle.

C. John is the son of Zebedee and the brother of James. He and his brother were called the “Sons of Thunder.”

II. Dates

A. Date Written: 85-95 AD


A. John was writing to new Christians as well as non-Christians for the purpose of sharing the Gospel.

IV. Purpose

A. Historical: John’s Gospel account is not one of the three synoptic (common view) gospel accounts. Instead, it was written with a more theological substance. He does not record a genealogy, Jesus’ birth, childhood, temptation, transfiguration, appointment of the disciples, nor any account of Jesus’ parables.

B. Christological: John’s Gospel account was written so that all may believe in Jesus Christ the Son of God who gives eternal life. He writes, “…these are written that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and that by believing you may have life in His name” (John 20:31).

V. Key Word & Verse

A. Key Word: Believe (used 86 times) and Life (used 41 times)

B. Key Verse: John 20:30-31

Outline of John I. The Preparation and Birth of Jesus, The Son of God (1:1-2:11)

II. The Life and Ministry of Jesus, The Son of God (2:12-12:50)

A. Jesus encounters belief and unbelief from people

B. Jesus encounters conflict with the religious leaders

C. Jesus encounters crucial events in Jerusalem

III. The Death and Resurrection of Jesus, The Son of God (13:1-21:25)

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The Preparation and Birth of Jesus

Zacharias and Elizabeth: The Birth of John the Baptist I. Good Times for Zacharias

A. Zacharias had a good reputation. (cf. Luke 1:6)

B. Zacharias was about 60 years of age. (cf. Luke 1:7)

C. Zacharias was honored with this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. (cf. Luke 1:8-9)

II. Bad Times for Zacharias

A. Zacharias and Elizabeth had no children. (cf. Luke 1:7)

B. Zacharias and Elizabeth were embarrassed. (cf. Luke 1:24-25)

III. Good Times in the Temple

A. Zacharias’ prayers were heard and answered. (cf. Luke 1:13)

B. Zacharias was promised a son. (cf. Luke 1:15)

C. Zacharias’ sons’ task was to prepare the people for the Messiah. (cf. Luke 1:17)

D. Zacharias’ son took a Nazarite Vow. (cf. Luke 1:13-15)

a. Will not drink wine

b. Will not touch anything dead

c. Will not cut his hair

IV. Bad Times in the Temple

A. Zacharias demonstrated unbelief. Unbelief seeks a sign. (cf. Luke 1:18)

B. Zacharias was punished for his unbelief and was unable to speak until the day these things came to pass. (cf. Luke 1:20)

C. Zacharias endured additional embarrassment. (cf. Luke 1:21)

V. Good Times in the Nation

A. Pax Romana (Latin for “Roman Peace”): It was a long period of relative peace in which the Roman Empire enjoyed peace, prosperity, and expansion. It largely ensured protection, roads, mail, culture, good business, and religious freedom.

B. Septuagint (Latin for “Seventy”): The Hebrew Bible had been translated into Greek and was called the “Septuagint (LXX)” in reference to the 70 scholars who translated the Hebrew Bible.

C. Sanhedrin: They were the Jewish ruling council of 70 seats plus the acting high priest. The Sanhedrin was comprised of three offices: Pharisees, Sadducees, and Elders. The Sanhedrin was abolished after the destruction of Jerusalem (70 AD).

D. Pharisees (the pure): They taught the Scriptures and believed in the supernatural. They were more popular with the masses

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than the Sadducees. The Pharisees were part of the Sanhedrin. The will also be referenced as “teachers of the law” or “scribes.”

E. Sadducees: The Sadducees were the upper class and tended to be more wealthy and held powerful positions such as chief priests (those who had previously served as high priest) and the acting high priest. They held the majority of the seats in the Sanhedrin. They did not believe in the supernatural. They were self-sufficient and denied God’s involvement in daily life. They did not believe in life after death. They also reject the existence of a spiritual world: angels, demons, etc.

F. Elders: They were the tribal and family heads of the people. They were, for the most part, the secular nobility of Jerusalem.

G. Herod: King Herod had begun a major restoration of the Temple in 20 BC (46 years / 26 AD).

H. Reformed: When the Jews (Remnant) returned from the 70 years of Babylon captivity (536 BC), they had a renewed vigor to worship God alone (monotheists), rejected idol worship, and strived to live outward holy lives.

V. Bad Times in the Nation

A. After Alexander the Great was defeated, his empire was split four ways with Syria and Egypt in constant war and the Holy Land was often their battleground.

B. Pompeii conquered Jerusalem for Rome in 63 BC.

C. When Julius Caesar was assassinated, Herod (who was appointed procurator by Caesar) went to Rome and was crowned “king of the Jews.”

VI. The End of the 400-Year Silence

A. God had been silent from speaking to His people for 400 years. With the advent of Jesus, God has broken His silence.

B. “You shall call his name John.” Neighbors and relatives wanted to name him Zacharias after his father, but Zacharias and Elizabeth knew to name him John. (cf. Luke 1:59-63)

C. Zacharias was able to speak after they named the boy John. (cf. Luke 1:64)

D. Zacharias’ prophecy declared that John “will be called the prophet of the Highest.” (cf. Luke 1:76)

E. Zacharias’ prophecy declared that John would identify the “Dayspring from on high.”

a. The “dayspring” is the point on the horizon where the sun is first seen.

b. The Dayspring will (a) reveal sin, (b) revitalize us in our sorrows, (c) redirect our steps, and (d) redeem our souls.

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Joseph and Mary: The Birth of Jesus I. Great Dreams in an Unlikely City (Luke 1:26-38)

A. Nazareth was an unlikely city because no prophet came out of Galilee (cf. John 7:52).

B. “You will call His name Jesus.”

a. Name: Jesus

b. Office: Christ (The office of Christ has three roles.)

i. Prophet: To Proclaim God’s Message

ii. Priest: To Intercede

iii. King: To Rule

c. Title: Lord

II. Elizabeth and Mary (Luke 1:39-45)

A. Elizabeth was the elderly aunt of Mary.

B. Elizabeth’s unborn baby leaped in her womb.

C. Mary stayed three months with Elizabeth.

III. Joseph’s Dream (Matthew 1:19-25)

A. According to the Law, Joseph had two options:

a. Public stoning (cf. Deut. 22:23)

b. Private divorce (cf. Deut. 22:25)

B. However, Joseph “did as the angel of the Lord had commanded him and too to him his wife.”

IV. Birth of the King in the City of a King (Luke 2:1-7)

A. Leaving Nazareth: Moving to a New Home

a. Joseph had probably built a home in Nazareth.

b. Probably faced gossip.

B. Moving to a New Home: Visited Bethlehem & remained there.

a. 40 days (purification)

b. They were still there at a later time when the wise men visited them.

c. They likely wanted to remain close to Jerusalem knowing that Jesus was the Messiah.

C. The Angels Worship

D. The Shepherds Worship

E. The Prophets Worship

a. Simeon was directed by the Holy Spirit to go the Temple.

b. Anna was elderly but spiritually alert.

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F. The Rulers Worship

a. Wise men requested to see the new baby who was born “King of the Jews” and their request threatened Herod (Matt. 2:2)

b. What was the star?

i. Some (i.e. Church Father Origin) have suggested Halley’s Comet.

ii. Some (i.e. Johannes Kepler a 17th century astronomer) have suggested calculations of a conjunction of Jupiter and Saturn.

iii. Some have suggested it was supernatural.

c. How did they know to follow the star?

i. “A star shall come out of Jacob; a scepter shall rise out of Israel.” Numbers 24:17

ii. Archeologists have uncovered Balaam’s prophesy from Numbers in the Trans-Jordan region in a village called Deir Alla (discovered in 1967). It is clear that the prophecy was known outside of Israel.

d. How many wise men (Magi) were there?

i. Since the Magi brought three gifts (i.e. gold, frankincense, and myrrh), it has been traditionally thought there were three present.

ii. The Bible does not specify the exact number of Magi that came to see Jesus.

G. Exile in Egypt

a. The Magi had intended to return to Jerusalem to share their discover with Herod, but God warned them in a dream not to return to Jerusalem. “They departed for their own country another way” (Matt. 2:12).

b. An angel appeared to Joseph and urged him to take Mary and Jesus to Egypt. When Herod realized that the Magi were not returning, he issued a decree to kill every male child age two and under throughout the region of Bethlehem. Based on the size of Bethlehem, it has been estimated to have been around two-dozen children.

H. Back to Nazareth

a. Upon hearing of Herod’s death, Joseph was instructed by an angel to return.

b. Archelaus slaughtered thousands of Jews and Joseph and his family returned to Nazareth rather than Bethlehem.

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V. A Son about His Father’s Business

A. The Childhood of Jesus.

While there are legendary accounts of Jesus performing miracles as a child, the Bible does not record much of His childhood. The New Testament identifies the changing of water to wine as Jesus’ first miracle.

B. The Journey to Jerusalem.

When Jesus was twelve, He remained in Jerusalem without His parents’ knowledge. They were in town for Passover and were now on their way back to Nazareth before they realized He wasn’t with them. Three days had past before they found Him at the temple (cf. Luke 1:49).

C. The Maturing of Jesus: “And Jesus grew in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and men” Luke 2:52

a. Wisdom: Jesus grew intellectually.

b. Stature: Jesus grew physically.

c. Favor with God: Jesus grew spiritually.

d. Favor with Men: Jesus grew socially.

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John the Baptist: The Forerunner I. Introduction (Matthew 3:1-6)

A. “Baptist” is not a noun, but a verb. It would be better understood as “John the Baptizer.”

B. Jesus spoke highly of John the Baptist when He said, “Assuredly, I say to you, among those born of women there has not risen one greater than John the Baptist” (Matt. 11:11).

C. John the Baptist was quite popular. He did not go to large cities where the crowd was located, to crowd came to him in the wilderness.

II. The Man Sent from God

A. His conception was divine planning. Zacharias and Elizabeth were too old for children.

B. His calling to ministry was divine. “…the Word of God came to John the son of Zacharias in the wilderness” (Luke 3:2)

C. His commission to ministry was prophesied. His father, Zacharias, prophesied, “And you, child, will be called the prophet of the Highest; for you will go before the face of the Lord to prepare His ways” (Luke 1:76).

D. His conduct was simple. He dressed in camel’s hair and ate locust and honey.

E. His commitment was unquestionable. He took a Nazarite vow: (a) not to drink wine, (b) not to touch anything dead, (c) not to cut hair.

III. The Man with a Message from God

A. The Principle Objective: “For this is he who was spoken of by the prophet Isaiah, saying: ‘The voice of one crying in the wilderness: ‘Prepare the way of the Lord; make His paths straight’’” (Matt. 3:3).

a. To turn individuals from the sins (cf. Matt. 3:2)

b. To call the nation to prepare for the Messiah (cf. Matt. 3:3)

c. To Bear witness to the true light (cf. John 1:8)

B. The Practical Application: “…fruits worthy of repentance…” (Luke 3:8)

a. Tax Collectors: Stop extorting from the poor (cf. Luke 3:13)

b. Soldiers: Don’t intimidate or abuse others (cf. Luke 3:14)

c. Herod: Was rebuked for marrying his sister-in-law, Herodias (cf. Luke 3:19)

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IV. The Man Who Knew His Role

A. Many people thought John the Baptist was the Messiah, but he consistently denied it.

B. John the Baptist identified the spiritual nature of the Messiah, not a political or military one. “John answered, saying to all, ‘I indeed baptize you with water; but One mightier than I is coming, whose sandal strap I am not worthy to loose. He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and fire’” (Luke 3:16).

V. The Man Who Baptized Jesus

A. The highlight of John’s ministry was when he introduced the Messiah to the nation. He reluctantly baptized Jesus, thus marking the beginning of Jesus’ ministry. The baptism that John had been practicing was an act of repentance for sin. Since Jesus was without sin, Jesus had no reason to repent or be baptized.

B. Why was Jesus baptized?

a. To identify with the remnant and to set the example for others. It was not only a baptism of repentance, but also a commitment to serve God. Jesus was making a public statement of His commitment to do the will of His Father.

b. At the age of 30, a Levite was dipped into water to signify cleansing and entering the priesthood.

C. The Triune Godhead

a. The Son was baptized.

b. The Holy Spirit came upon Him as a dove.

c. The Father spoke from heaven.

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The Life and Ministry of Jesus

The Tempter I. Satan Tempts Jesus (Luke 4:1-13)

Both Luke and Matthew record Jesus’ time in the wilderness at the beginning of Jesus’ ministry. Jesus spent 40 days alone, in a desert, abstaining from food and distraction.

A. The First Temptation

a. Satan appeals to the lust of the flesh, “If You are the Son of God, command this stone to become bread.”

b. Jesus responds with Scripture, “It is written, ‘Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word of God.’”

B. The Second Temptation

a. Satan appeals to the pride of life, “All this authority I will give You, and their glory; for this has been delivered to me, and I give it to whomever I wish. Therefore, if You will worship before me, all will be Yours.”

b. Jesus responds with Scripture, “Get behind Me, Satan! For it is written, ‘You shall worship the LORD your God, and Him only you shall serve.’”

C. The Third Temptation

a. Satan appeals to the lust of the eyes, “If you are the Son of God, throw Yourself down from here. For it is written: ‘He shall give His angels charge over you, to keep you,’ and, ‘In their hands they shall bear you up, lest you dash your foot against a stone.’”

b. Jesus responds with Scripture, “It has been said, ‘You shall not tempt the LORD your God.’”

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The First Week of Jesus’ Ministry I. Thursday (John 1:19-28)

John the Baptist was interviewed by the Sanhedrin and asked seven questions.

A. “Who are you?” (v.19) Explain yourself.

B. “What are you doing?” (v.21) Explain your motives.

C. “Are you Elijah?” (v.21) Are you Elijah the prophet?

D. “Are you the Prophet?” (v.21) Are you Moses?

E. “Who are you, that we can give an answer?” (v.22) Explain your calling.

F. “What do you say about yourself?” (v.22) Explain your authority.

G. “Why do you baptize?” (v.25) This was the real question they wanted answered.

II. Friday (John 1:29-34)

A. The next day John said, “Behold! The Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world!” (John 1:29)

B. “Takes away” has two implications…

a. destroy

b. once for all

III. Saturday (John 1:35-42)

Jesus began to recruit His disciples.

A. Andrew: The first called disciple.

B. John: The youngest disciple. He refers to himself as “that disciple whom Jesus loved,” “that disciple who leaned on Jesus’ breast,” and “the observer.”

IV. Sunday (John 1:40-42)

Jesus continued to recruit His disciples.

A. Simon: The primary disciple. The name Simon (listener) was changed to Peter (rock). The Greek language implies that Simon was less than thrilled about meeting Jesus and went with some reluctance.

B. James: The silent disciple.

V. Monday (John 1:43-51)

Jesus continued to recruit His disciples.

A. Philip: The analytical disciple. He was always asking questions. He was from Bethsaida, reflecting the principle of reaching people through relationships.

B. Nathaniel: The sincere disciple. He was also identified as Bartholomew, the son of Tolmai

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VII. Tuesday

Tuesday was likely a day of travel for Jesus and His six disciples as they went to Cana of Galilee.

VII. Wednesday (John 2:1-12)

The Wedding in Cana of Galilee

A. It was customary for Wednesday to be the wedding day. This is the basis on which the days of the week were determined.

B. It seems to be a poor family.

a. The word gamos translated “wedding” is singular and indicates a one-day celebration as opposed to an entire week celebration that was typical.

b. The family ran out of wine. This indicates they may not have had money to purchase enough wine.

C. It appears that Jesus may have been related to the bride.

a. Mary (Jesus’ mother) was already at the wedding and was fulfilling her family obligation to help cater the meal.

D. Why did Mary tell Jesus about the problem?

a. Some have suggested that Mary was either asking Jesus to go purchase more wine or to take his six guests and leave.

b. However, it seems likely that Mary knew Jesus would do something about the situation. Even if she didn’t know how or what He would do.

E. Why was Jesus apparently “abrupt” with His mother when He asked, “Woman, what does your concern have to do with me?”

a. The use of “woman” is not used in a derogatory sense that it might be used today. It was truly a term of respect.

b. It would be similar to saying, “What would you have me to do?”

F. Jesus’ statement, “My hour has not yet come” is in reference to the conclusion of His earthly ministry. It could be rendered, “Mom, what would you have me to do? I’m still here and can help you because My time of completing My earthly ministry is not yet here.”

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The Passover I. The Passovers (John 2:13; 5:1; 6:4; and 11:55)

John marks the three years of Jesus’ ministry by identifying the four Passovers in which every Jewish male was required to go to Jerusalem and observe (cf. Deut. 16:16).

A. The First Year of Jesus’ Ministry: Introduction

B. The Second Year of Jesus’ Ministry: Popularity

C. The Third Year of Jesus’ Ministry: Opposition

II. The Cleansing of the Temple

A. Jesus cleansed the Temple at the beginning and ending of His earthly ministry.

B. Jesus cleansed the Temple because of what they were selling. People could purchase their “sacrifice.” This was a symbolic slap in the face to Jesus.

C. “When He (Jesus) had risen from the dead, His disciples remembered that He had said this to them; and they believed the Scripture and the word which Jesus had said” (John 2:22).

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The Night Visitor: Nicodemus (John 3:1-16)

I. Why did Nicodemus come at night?

A. Possibly fear or embarrassment.

B. Nicodemus was a Pharisee and he may not want others to see him.

II. What does the phrase mean, “Unless one is born again?”

A. The Greek word anothen means “from above” and the second birth is to come “from above” or “from God.”

B. The first birth references the physical birth. The second birth (born again) is reference to a spiritual birth.

III. What does the phrase mean, “Unless one is born of water and the Spirit, he cannot enter the kingdom of God”?

A. In Hebrew parallelism, water means breaking the water sack, natural birth. It is not a reference to baptism, but a reference to being born physically (flesh).

B. This is in contrast to being born spiritually.

IV. What are the characteristics of the new birth?

A. Spiritual. “The wind blows where it wishes … so is everyone who is born of the Spirit” (John 3:8).

B. Heavenly. “How will you believe if I tell you heavenly things?” (John 3:12).

C. Substitutionary. “And as Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, even so must the Son of Man be lifted up” (John 3:14).

D. Sacrifice. “For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son” (John 3:16).

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The Noon Visitor: Samaritan Woman I. The Setting

A. Some believe the location to be at the foot of Mt. Ebal near what is believed to be Jacob’s well. This is the likely location.

B. Some believe the location to be what the Jews called “Shechem,” which means shecker (falsehood) or scheckar (liquor). Since the Jews didn’t like the Samaritans, they called the place “city of liars” or “city of drunks.”

II. What was known about the woman?

There are seven things to note.

A. She came by herself.

B. She was startled by Jesus. (John 4:9)

C. She was blind to the spiritual message. (John 4:11)

D. She argued religious tradition. (John 4:12)

E. She misunderstood God’s offer. (John 4:15)

F. She was evasive. (John 4:17)

G. She had difficulty giving up tradition. (John 4:19-20)

III. What comparisons can be made between the man (Nicodemus) and the woman?

A. The man came at night. The woman came at noon.

B. The man was named. The woman was un-named.

C. The man was rich. The woman was poor.

NOTE: The Talmud tells us that Nicodemus was one of the four wealthiest men of Jerusalem. While the Scripture makes no mention of him accepting Christ, the Talmud said he later became a follower of Christ.

D. The man was well respected. The woman was an outcast.

NOTE: Nicodemus was a prominent Pharisee and likely a spokesman for a small group within the Sanhedrin.

E. The man came to Jesus. Jesus came to the woman.

F. Began with a religious question. Began with physical things.

G. No response was recorded. Her response immediately followed.

IV. What did Jesus do for the woman?

A. He reached out to her. (John 4:7)

B. He offered her grace. (John 4:10)

C. He reminded her of her limitation. (John 4:13)

D. He uncovered her sin/problem. (John 4:16)

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E. He pointed out her hidden sin. (John 4:18)

F. He corrected her wrong facts. (John 4:22)

G. He explained what God required. (John 4:23-24)

a. Worship demands a sacrifice.

b. Worship is expressed in heart and head.

V. What was the woman’s response?

A. Her enthusiastic exit. She came with empty water pots, but left with a full vessel. (John 4:28)

B. She shared about her salvation with others. (John 4:29)

C. She brought revival to Samaria. (John 4:39)

D. She acknowledged the Lord as the Savior of the world. (John 4:43)

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The Ministry of Jesus in Galilee Begins I. Introduction

A. After Jesus returns from the Passover in Jerusalem, He begins “The Year of Popularity” in the region of Galilee.

B. Galilee is emphasized in Matthew, Mark, and Luke. Jerusalem is the emphasis of John. Tradition indicates that John the Apostle had a second home and business in Jerusalem.

II. Jesus Heals The Nobleman’s Son (John 4:46-50)

A. Jesus was returning from the Passover by way of Samaria.

B. The nobleman was a member of Herod’s court.

C. The son was a small child (paidion).

D. Jesus healed the child over a distance.

E. Comparison should be made in how different people from different backgrounds respond to Jesus. For example, the Jews seek after signs (v.48). The Gentiles seek after wisdom (v.50).

F. The healing of the nobleman’s son is identified as Jesus’ second miracle.

III. Jesus Rejected in Nazareth (Luke 4:16-30)

A. A visiting Rabbi was given opportunity to speak.

B. Jesus read from Isaiah 61 and declared, “Today this Scripture is fulfilled” (Luke 4:21).

C. Jesus’ statement of fulfillment was considered to be reason to stone Jesus for being a false teacher. This was a premature attempt to kill Christ.

D. There seems to have been a supernatural protection over Jesus as He was “…passing through the midst of them” (Luke 4:30).

IV. Jesus’ Ministry in Capernaum (Mark 1:21-28; Luke 4:31-37)

A. Jesus left Nazareth and went to Capernaum.

B. Capernaum is a city in Galilee.

C. Capernaum means “City of Nahum.” Probably not the same as Nahum from the Old Testament.

D. Jesus taught in the synagogues. He casts out an unclean spirit from a man at the synagogue in Capernaum.

V. Jesus Heals Peter’s Mother-In-Law (Matt. 8:14-17; Mark 1:29-34; Luke 4:38-41)

NOTE: Peter was married!

A. Jesus’ healing presence. “Jesus stood over her.” (Luke 4:39)

B. Jesus’ healing touch. “Touched her hand.” (Matt. 8:15)

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C. Jesus’ restoration. “He took her by the hand and lifted her up.” (Mark 1:37)

VI. Jesus Preached throughout Galilee (Mark 1:38; Luke 4:43-44)

A. Galilee was a large region, which may have had a population of nearly 3,000,000 people.

B. Nazareth, Cana, Tiberius, and Capernaum were all located in Galilee.

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The Twelve: Choosing the Disciples I. Introduction

A. Jesus did not immediately recruit all twelve disciples to follow Him. As we have seen, Jesus has already called six of the twelve and they have been with Him from the start of His ministry.

B. Why do we sometimes call them the “Twelve Disciples” and other times call them the “Twelve Apostles”?

1. The word “disciple” means “follower.”

2. The word “apostle” means “to send.” Since the disciples have not been “sent” by Jesus yet, we use the title “disciple.”

II. The Call of Matthew

A. Matthew: The Oldest Disciple.

B. Tax collectors were considered the most outrageous of all sinners.

a. They collaborated with Rome.

b. They inflated the taxes.

c. They used soldiers to enforce their demands.

d. They were ostracized by fellow Jews.

C. Matthew had superior ability.

a. Business knowledge

b. Political negotiations

c. Fluent in Greek, Latin, Hebrew, and Aramaic

D. Matthew made an immediate and knowledgeable decision to follow Jesus. Jesus said simply, “Follow Me” (Matt. 9:9).

E. Jesus criticized for attending a banquet given by Matthew.

F. Matthew’s decision became the basis for Zacchaeus’ conversion. Zacchaeus was the chief tax collector.

III. Jesus Appointed the Twelve (Mark 3:13-19)

A. The “job description” of the disciples. “…that they might be with Him and that He might send them out to preach” (Mark 3:14).

B. Our personal application in making disciples.

a. We must have vision. (Matt. 9:36)

b. We must have compassion. (Matt. 9:36)

c. We must pray. (Matt. 9:38)

C. While Jesus had many disciples (literally a learner or follower), He was preparing these twelve for a foundational ministry.

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D. These disciples will be foundational to establishing the New Testament Church. “Having been built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ Himself being the chief cornerstone” (Eph. 2:20).

E. These disciples will have apostolic authority. “Truly the signs of an apostle were accomplished among you will all perseverance, in signs and wonders and mighty deeds” (2 Cor. 12:12). They had sign gifts to validate their message and wrote the Scriptures by inspiration of the Holy Spirit.

F. What is best remembered about each disciple (cf. Acts 1:13)?

a. Peter: Primary – spokesman (leader of the first “squad”)

b. James: Silent – he was the first martyr (beheaded)

c. John: Youngest disciple

d. Andrew: First called – always brought people to Jesus

e. Philip: Analytical – always listed fifth (leader of second “squad”)

f. Thomas: The twin – doubter

g. Nathaniel: Sincere – royal background (also called Bartholomew)

h. Matthew: The tax collector

i. James the Lesser: small (leader of the third “squad”)

j. Simon the Zealot: revolutionary

k. Judas-Thaddeus-Lebbaeus: Three names – Hebrew: Judah, Greek: Judas (Later used “Jude” instead of Judas to avoid confusion with Judas Iscariot.)

l. Judas Iscariot: Betrayer - treasurer

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The Sermon on the Mount I. Introduction

A. This is the longest recorded sermon of Jesus. While He preached to the multitudes, scholars refer to as: (1) the ordination sermon for His disciples, or (2) His first staff meeting.

B. While some claim the sermon is primarily meant for the millennium because of the emphasis on the kingdom of God, it actually contains principles that apply in all cultures and all times.

II. Six Essentials for Discipleship from the Sermon on the Mount

A. The Beatitudes: What is your emotional adjustment? (Matt. 5:1-12)

a. “The poor in spirit.” Totally dependent upon God.

b. “They that mourn.” Broken over sin in their life.

c. “Are the meek.” Willing to set aside their rights.

d. “Hunger and thirst for righteousness.” Desire for outward holiness (practical righteousness).

e. “Are the merciful.” How to look at others.

f. “Are the pure.” Desire for inward holiness.

g. “Are the peacemakers.” Build relationships.

h. “Persecuted for righteousness’ sake.” To endure persecutions.

i. “Persecute you falsely.” Loyal to the Person of Christ no matter what.

B. Serve Others (Ministry): What is your reason for service? (Matt. 5:13-48)

a. Follow the true meaning of the Law. “Do not think that I come to destroy the Law … but to fulfill” (v.17)

b. Jesus is explaining New Covenant living as opposed to old Covenant law.

C. Live to Honor God (Worship): What is your motivation? (Matt. 6:1-18)

a. Do not give money for praise.

b. Do not pray for public recognition.

c. Do not fast so that others will notice.

d. Prayer is an essential part of your walk as a Christian.

D. Define Your Core Values (Discipleship): What governs your choices? (Matt. 6:19-34)

a. The ultimate focus of a disciple. “But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you” (Matt. 6:33).

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b. The ultimate priority of a disciple. “Where your treasure is there your heart will be also” (Matt. 6:21).

c. The ultimate loyalty of a disciple. “No one can serve two masters” (Matt. 6:24).

E. Build Relationships (Fellowship): What is your attitude toward people? (Matt. 7:1-14)

a. Be discerning but not judging.

b. Be compassionate, not critical.

c. Observe the “Golden Rule”: “Therefore, whatever you want me t do to you, do also to them, for this is the Law and the Prophets” (Matt. 7:12).

F. Help People Build on the Rock (Missions): What principles will guide your evangelism? (Matt. 7:15-29)

a. Beware of False Teachers. Know the truth. (Matt. 7:15-20)

b. Beware of False Professions. Know how to share your faith. (Matt. 7:21-23)

c. Equipped with the ability to discern the things of the Lord and able to share your faith, help others build upon the solid rock foundation that is Jesus Christ. (Matt. 7:24-29)

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The Witness of Faith and Unbelief I. Introduction

A. Following the “Sermon on the Mount,” the disciples were exposed to how these principles apply to ministry.

B. Additional support for Mosaic authorship of Deuteronomy

3. The book claims Mosaic authorship (cf. Deut. 1:1; 4:44; 29:1).

II. Jesus Heals a Leper (Matt. 8:1-4; Mark 1:40-45; Luke 5:12-16)

A. Leprosy was a disease, but was also an outcast lifestyle.

B. Even though there was provision in the Law, there are only two recorded healings of Leprosy in the Hebrew Scriptures: Miriam and Namaan.

C. The leper came asking for the Lord’s willingness and acknowledging the Lord’s ability. “Lord, if You are willing, You can make me clean” (Luke 5:12).

D. Jesus had two responses:

a. His desire. “I am willing, be cleansed” (Luke 5:13).

b. His action. “He put out His hand and touched him” (Luke 5:13).

E. Jesus reminded the leper of his obligation. “Go and show yourself to the priest and make an offering” (Luke 5:14).

III. Jesus Heals The Centurion’s Servant (Matt. 8:5-13; Luke 7:1-10)

A. The Centurion’s Request: “Lord, my servant is lying at home paralyzed, dreadfully tormented. … Say the word, and my servant will be healed.”

B. The Centurion’s Evidence of Faith:

a. He recognized Jesus. (Luke 7:3)

b. He humbled himself. (Luke 7:6)

c. He focused on the power of God’s word. (Luke 7:7)

C. The Centurion’s Great Faith: “I have not found such great faith, not even in Israel.”

IV. Jesus Raises the Widow’s Son from the Dead (Luke 7:11-17)

A. Premature Burial: There are many descriptions of death: brain dead, cease breathing, heart stopped beating, the soul departed, etc. Some people argue that in a heathen society, some have been “prematurely buried” who could have been revived in modern society by advanced technology. They suggest that Jesus did not raise the dead, but merely revived a body that was prematurely identified as dead. How do we know the boy was actually dead?

a. The Bible calls him a “dead man” (Luke 7:12).

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b. Jesus treated him as dead (Luke 7:14). Surely, Jesus, the Son of God knows the difference between a dead man and someone who needs to be resuscitated.

c. Later, Jesus said, “The dead are raised” (Luke 7:22).

B. Jesus has now healed the sick and raised the dead by simply speaking.

V. Contrasting Faith of Simon (The Pharisee) and a Woman (The Sinner)

A. The Pharisee Simon wanted more information about Jesus and invited Him to a meal. Usually, people of the city were allowed in the room after the meal to hear the message.

B. The woman responded to Jesus with an act of worship. (Luke 7:37-38)

C. The Pharisee Simon responded to Jesus with skeptical thoughts. (Luke 7:39)

D. Jesus responded to them both with a parable. (Luke 7:41-42)

E. Contrasts of the two…

a. Simon gave no kiss of greeting (which would have been the custom). The woman kissed the feet of Jesus.

b. Simon did not wash His feel (which would have been the custom as guests arrived with dirty feet from walking). The woman washed His feet with her tears.

c. Because Simon did not wash His feet, he offered no towel. The woman dried His feet with her hair.

d. Simon did not anoint his guest with oil. The woman anointed the feet of Jesus with oil.

VI. Parables

A. Jesus often taught using parables.

B. Parable literally means “likeness” and comes from para (besides) and ballo (to cast). A parable is an earthly story with a heavenly truth.

C. The Gospel According to Luke contains the most because he wrote to the Greeks. The Gospel According to John does not contain any parables.

D. Jesus used parables to reach the spiritually receptive listener, but hid His message to the antagonist or non-receptive. (cf. Matt. 13:11)

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The Long Day I. Introduction

A. The events of the “Long Day” appear to have occurred in a single day and would likely be an accurate reflection of the average ministry day of Jesus.

B. There are particular aspects and even responses to Jesus’ ministry that are introduced.

a. Hostility began to grow toward Jesus in Galilee.

b. Jesus begins to reveal Himself more than in the past.

c. Attention was given to the inner three disciples (i.e. Peter, James, and John).

d. There was an identification of a group of women who followed Jesus (i.e. Mary Magdalene, Joanna (the wife of Herod’s financial manager), and Susanna. The followed Jesus because:

o Gratitude: They had been “healed of evil spirits and infirmities” (Luke 8:2).

o Ministry: They sought to take the ministry of Jesus to others.

o Support: They sought to provide financial support to Jesus as well (cf. Luke 8:3).

II. The Family of Jesus (Mark 3:31-35)

A. The siblings of Jesus were not yet believers (cf. John 7:5).

B. While they were not believers, there was concern for Him with growing conflicts of the religious establishment.

C. Jesus’ brothers were James, Joses (or Joseph), Judas (or Jude), and Simon. Jesus also had sisters, but we don’t know their names (cf. Mark 6:3; Matthew 13:55-56).

D. Jesus’ siblings later became believers. In fact, James wrote the book of James. Judas wrote the book of Jude.

III. Jesus Casts a Demon Out of a Deaf Mute (Matthew 12:22-35)

A. The people responded, “Could this be the Son of David?” (Matt. 12:23)

B. The Pharisees suggested that Jesus worked miracles by the power of Beelzebub (cf. Matt. 12:24).

C. Jesus responded, “How can Satan cast out Satan?” (Mark 3:23).

D. What is the unpardonable sin? “Every sin and blasphemy will be forgiven men, but the blasphemy against the Holy Spirit will not be forgiven men” (Matt. 12:31).

a. Catholicism teaches: suicide is the unpardonable sin.

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b. “Blasphemy against the Holy Spirit” is to reject the conviction of the Holy Spirit unto salvation.

E. The Jews’ request for a sign was insincere, because they had just seen a miracle (cf. Matt. 12:38). Jesus gave them the sign of Jonah. “Jonah was three days and three nights in the belly of the great fish, so will the Son of Man be three days and three nights in the heart of the earth” (Matt. 12:40).

IV. Jesus Shares The Parable of the Sower (Matthew 13:1-53)

A. The Four Soils

a. Wayside (path by the field): Non-receptive.

b. Stony ground: Shallow people.

c. Thorns: Worldly concerns and possessions.

d. Good soil: Receptive response.

B. The Sower

a. Intentional (Mark 4:3)

b. Worker (Mark 4:3-4)

c. Knowledgeable. Must know seasons, soil, seed, etc.

d. Fruitful (Psalm 126:6)

C. The Seed

a. Sow seed of Christ’s righteousness in your own life (cf. Hosea 10:12).

b. Sow seed of God’s Word in your own life and others.

D. The Sowing

Sowing seed is a process.

a. Show your faith (Lifestyle Evangelism)

b. Help meet the needs of others (Servant Evangelism)

c. Ask others to worship with you (Invitational Evangelism)

d. Reveal what God has done in your life (Testimonial Evangelism)

e. Extend an invitation for others to personally accept Christ as their Savior (Personal Evangelism)

E. The Growing

a. Some growth is inward (personal growth).

b. Some growth is outward (numerical growth).

c. Some growth is unseen (impact growth).

F. The Harvesting

a. God’s work. “The Lord of the harvest” (Matt. 9:38). “So then neither he who plants is anything, nor he who waters, but God who gives the increase” (1 Cor. 3:7).

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b. Man’s work. “Not be weary in well doing, for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not” (Gal. 6:9).

c. Timing. “But when the grain ripens, immediately he puts in the sickle, because the harvest has come” (Mark 4:29).

G. The Stowing

a. God’s command. “I will say to the reapers … gather the wheat into my barn” (Matt. 13:30).

b. Faithfulness. “Honor the Lord with your possessions, and with the firstfruits of all your increase; so your barns will be filled with plenty, and your vats will overflow with new wine” (Prov. 3:9-10).

H. The Principles to Remember

a. Farming (evangelism) is a process and a lot of work.

b. The farmer (evangelist) wants both the biggest harvest possible and the best harvest possible. He wants both quality and quantity because they are not opposites of each other.

c. The more laborers we have, the larger the harvest.

V. Jesus Calms the Storm (Mark 4:35-41)

A. Jesus took a nap while crossing the sea. A violent (cf. Matt. 14:23) storm threatened their lives, but Jesus spoke, “Peace, be still” (Mark 4:39).

VI. Jesus Casts Demons Out of a Man (Mark 5:1-20)

A. How to know you are in trouble.

a. We spend out time in the wrong place. Mark 5:5

b. We are forced into bondage by others. Mark 5:4

c. We do not take responsibility for our life. Mark 5:3

d. We are dominated by our emotions. Mark 5:5

e. We reject God and are upset with His presence. Mark 5:5

f. We are continually out of control. Mark 5:5

g. We are angry and/or hate others. Matt. 8:28

h. We are anti-social in behavior. Luke 8:27

B. How to get out of trouble.

a. Recognize your need for help. Mark 5:6

b. Go to Jesus Christ for help. Mark 5:6

c. Recognize there is power in the Word of Christ. Mark 5:8

d. Realize only God can send evil away. Matt. 8:32

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e. Get close to Jesus. Luke 8:35

f. Clean up your outside appearance. Luke 8:35

g. Share your experience with others. Mark 5:19

C. How demons are cast out.

a. The victim must want help.

b. Help is not in the faith, prayers, or strength of the help-giver, but only in the blood of Jesus Christ.

c. The demon must be exposed as a demon.

d. The help-giver must share his faith and the Word of God to give strength to the victim.

e. The help-giver must claim victory in the blood of Jesus Christ.

f. The victim must clearly decide if he/she is going to follow Christ and be free.

g. It is by the faith of the victim they will be set free.

D. Can a Christian be possessed by a demon?

a. Some suggest that Christians can be demon possessed. However, the Scriptures make clear that the Holy Spirit takes up residence upon salvation. The Holy Spirit will not share residency with a demon (cf. 2 Cor. 1:22; 5:5; 1 Cor. 6:19).

b. It would be wise to make a distinction between demonic possession and demonic oppression.

i. Demonic oppression: The Bible says that the devil seeks to devour believers (cf. 1 Peter 5:8), and Satan and his demons “scheme” against Christians (cf. Ephesians 6:11). As Satan attempted with Jesus (cf. Luke 4:2), demonic forces tempt us to sin and oppose our efforts to obey God. Should a Christian allow the demons to succeed in these attacks, oppression results. Demonic oppression is when a demon is temporarily victorious over a Christian.

ii. Demonic possession: Non-believers who open their lives up to demonic involvement through cultic practices, habitual sinful behavior, rebellion, bitterness, idol worship, etc.

VII. Jesus Heals Two with Contrasting Problems (Mark 5:21-43)

A. Contrast the two miracles:

a. The woman with the issue of blood had 12 years of sadness. The girl at death’s door had 12 years of gladness.

b. The woman with the issue of blood touched Jesus.

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Jesus touched the girl.

c. The woman was an outcast. The girl was outstanding.

d. The woman lingered. The girl was in crisis.

B. Why we don’t come to Jesus?

a. We are embarrassed by what others will say. “The woman fearing” (Mark 5:33).

b. Others have given us wrong information and taken advantage of us. “Suffered many things from many physicians. She had spent all that she had and was no better, but rather grew worse” (Mark 5:26).

c. We have a history with our problem. “Now a certain woman had a flow of blood for twelve years” (Mark 5:25).

d. We are shackled by traditions and rumors. “She had heard of Jesus” (Mark 5:27). “If I may touch but the hem of His garment, I shall be cleansed” (Mark 5:28).

C. How did she know to touch the hem of His garment?

a. Malachi 4:2 states, “But to you who fear My name The Sun of Righteousness shall arise with healing in His wings.”

b. “Healing in His wings” is a reference to Jesus’ tallit (prayer shawl). When worn, the tallit resembles “wings.” The hem (or corner) of His garment would have been the tzitzit.

c. If she were familiar with this prophesy (which it appears she was), then she believed Jesus to be the Messiah, the Sun of Righteousness “with healing in His wings.”

D. How to touch Christ and get help.

a. You have to know about Christ and what He can do for you before you come to Him. (Mark 5:21-27)

b. You have to come to where Jesus is before you can touch Him. (Mark 5:27)

c. You have to come to Jesus by faith and not by mechanics. (Mark 5:34)

d. You have to come to Jesus, even if you think He has turned His back on you. (Mark 5:27)

e. You have to reach out in faith, even if you think Jesus does not know about your problem. (Mark 5:30)

f. You have to come to Jesus where you are scared and nothing else seems to help. (Mark 5:33)

g. When you come to Jesus, you must tell Him everything. (Mark 5:33)

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h. The more you hurt, the more imperative it is to come to Jesus. (Mark 5:25-26)

i. When you think you are lost in the crowd, come to Jesus. (Mark 5:27)

j. When you are touched by Jesus, you must confess it to others.

i. Salvation. “If you confess with your mouth the Lord Jesus and believe in your heart that God has raised Him from the dead, you will be saved” (Rom. 10:9).

ii. Invitation. Why did Jesus call her forward?

1. To give her acceptance back into society. It was the role of a priest to declare her clean.

2. To encourage others. Jairus had just heard his daughter had died (vv.35-36).

3. To teach His disciples.

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The Opposition Rises I. Introduction

A. Jesus sent His disciples out to preach and warned them of opposition.

B. The disciples needed to learn faithfulness in the face of rejection.

C. There was growing hostility toward Jesus by the religious establishment.

II. Jesus Last Trip to Nazareth

A. Jesus was met with sarcasm. “When did this man get this wisdom?” (Matt. 13:54)

B. Jesus was met with skepticism. “Is this not the carpenter’s son?” (Matt. 13:55)

C. Jesus was met with unbelief. “He (Jesus) did not do many mighty works there because of their unbelief.” (Matt. 13:58)

D. The digression of faith. How did people in Jesus’ hometown end up in unbelief?

a. Weak faith. Weak faith that is not matured will digress to little faith. (Romans 14:1)

b. Little faith. (Matt. 8:26)

c. Faithlessness.

d. Doubt.

e. Unbelief. (Matt. 17:20)

III. Positive Preparation of Disciples for Ministry (Matthew 10:5-15)

A. Jesus transferred His power to them. (Matthew 10:1)

B. Jesus commissioned them to preach. (Matthew 10:7)

C. Jesus gave them a focus of ministry. (Matthew 10:5-6)

D. Jesus taught them to check their attitude. (Matthew 10:8)

E. Jesus said they should minister where they are supported. (Matthew 10:9-11)

F. Jesus wants them to win the winnable. (Matthew 10:14)

IV. Negative Preparation of Disciples for Ministry (Matthew 10:16-42)

A. Watch your attitude when opposed. (Matthew 10:16)

B. Recognize your opposition will be harsh. (Matthew 10:17-18)

C. The Holy Spirit will give you a defense. (Matthew 10:19)

D. You must endure. (Matthew 10:22)

E. Don’t just accept the persecution, flee when necessary. (Matthew 10:23)

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F. Remember that Christ is your Example. (Matthew 10:24)

G. Stay focused on Christ not on your enemy. (Matthew 10:28)

H. Look to the greater reward. (Matthew 10:39)

V. The Results of the Disciples’ Preaching (Luke 9:6-9)

A. Promotion. This is the shift from “disciples” to “apostles.” (Mark 6:30)

B. Enemy feared. Herod and others began to fear Jesus and His disciples. (John 9:7-9)

C. Report. The apostles shared with Jesus all they had done. (Luke 9:10)

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The Last Year of Ministry I. Introduction

A. At the end of Jesus’ second year of ministry, Jesus kept searching for opportunities to leave the pressure of the crowd (Mark 6:31; 7:24; 7:31; and 8:13). Why?

1. He was in need of physical rest.

2. There was growing hostility of the Jewish leaders.

3. There were fanatical followers with political ideas.

4. Herod just killed John the Baptist.

5. There was an opportunity to further train His disciples.

II. The Most Memorable Miracle (John 6:1-14)

A. The Feeding of the 5000 is the only miracle recorded in all four Gospel accounts.

B. Why ask Philip? (John 6:5) Wasn’t Peter the spokesman?

a. Jesus knew He would get the facts. Philip was the analytical disciple.

b. Philip was the head of the “second squad.” This squad organized crowds.

C. What answer did Philip give?

a. Fact. Two hundred denarii was a day’s wages and was insufficient to feed everyone.

b. Faith. Jesus already knew what He was going to do.

D. Andrew was always bringing people to Jesus. He spotted a boy with a sack lunch. (John 6:9)

E. Six principles of ministry.

a. Organization. (Mark 6:40)

b. Gratitude. (John 6:11)

c. Division of Labor. Everyone did their part.

d. Used what was available.

e. Management. (John 6:10)

f. Conservation. (John 6:12)

III. What Jesus Does for You in the Storm

A. Jesus prays for you. (Mark 6:46; Heb. 7:25)

B. Jesus sees your struggles. (Mark 6:48)

C. Jesus comes to you. (Mark 6:48)

a. He comes to you when you are terrified. (Matt. 14:26)

b. He comes when you think you are alone in your struggles. (Matt. 14:23)

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c. He comes in your darkest hour. (Mark 6:48)

d. He comes when you think He has forgotten. (Mark 6:48)

e. He comes when you misunderstood His presence and purpose. (Mark 6:49)

D. Jesus reveals Himself to you in the storm. (Mark 6:50)

a. He will give you confidence. (Matt. 14:33)

b. He will overlook your failing. (Mark 6:52)

E. Jesus gives us courage in the storm before the circumstances are changed. (Mark 6:50-51)

F. Jesus will get you through the storm. (John 6:21)

G. Jesus wants you to recognize and worship Him for getting you through the storm. (Matt. 14:33)

H. When we successfully go through the storm, we help others in trouble. (Matt. 14:35-36)

IV. What We Can Learn from Storms

A. Since everyone has storms, you must make a decision to learn from the storms. And since life is a choice, you choose o become humble, mature, and godly. You choose what you will learn from a storm.

B. Since everyone has storms, you must give Him the Lordship of your experience to understand His purpose in it.

C. Since He is your Lord, you must accept every storm because that’s what God wants for your life.

D. Successful living through storms requires you to live with a sense of purpose.

E. Storms allow you to see your weakness and needs.

F. Things are not where they are supposed to be after a storm passes. Storms mess things up.

G. You get very close to those who protect you when you go through the storm. Usually you don’t see what God is doing in the storm until it is over. (Hebrews 12:11)

V. Jesus Teaches on Manna from Heaven

A. Jesus taught that He was the spiritual formation of the Old Testament type of manna.

B. Jesus offers satisfying life. (John 6:35)

C. Jesus offers everlasting life. (John 6:47-48)

D. Jesus offers resurrection life. (John 6:54)

VI. The 7+1 “I Am” Statements of Jesus

A. I Am the Bread of Life (John 6:35, 48)

B. I Am the Light of the World (John 8:12, 9:5)

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C. I Am the Door (John 10:9)

D. I Am the Good Shepherd (John 10:11)

E. I Am the Resurrection and the Life (John 11:25)

F. I Am the Way, the Truth, and the Life (John 14:6)

G. I Am the True Vine (John 15:1)

H. I Am the I Am (John 8:58)

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The Glory of the Lord I. Introduction

A. As Jesus embarked on His third and final year of ministry, He faced greater opposition.

B. Jesus spent time preparing the disciples for His departure.

II. Healing by Tested Faith (Mark 7:24-30)

A. A Syro-Phoenican woman (a Syrian living in Phoenicia) “kept asking Him to cast the demons out of her daughter” (Mark 7:26). Jesus gave an unusual answer, “Let the children be filled first, for it is not good to take the children’s bread and throw it to the little dogs” (Mark 7:22).

B. “The children” are in reference to “the Jews.” Romans 1:16 makes it clear that the Gospel is first for the Jew and then for the Gentile.

C. “The little dogs” was a term Jews used to describe Gentiles. Jesus “softened” the harshness of the term by using the word “little.”

D. The interaction the woman had with Jesus demonstrated her humility and tested her faith. “Yes, Lord, yet even the little dogs under the table eat from the children’s crumbs” (Mark 7:28).

III. Healing by Giving Faith (Mark 7:31-37)

A. Jesus healed many in Decapolis (Matt. 15:30).

B. Jesus healed a deaf-mute privately (Mark 7:33).

C. Jesus healed using different methods to demonstrate the power was not in the method, but in Himself (Mark 7:33).

D. Jesus “sighed” was an expression as a “Man of Sorrows” who grieved over the pains of the world.

E. Jesus said “Ephphatha” which means “be opened” and demonstrates the power of God’s Word. Again, He used different words to demonstrate the power was not in the “word,” but HIS Word.

IV. The Feeding of the 4000 (Mark 8:1-9)

A. How do we know this is different from the 5000 earlier?

a. Matthew and Mark record both events.

b. Jesus said these are two events. (Mark 8:19-20)

c. The numbers were different.

V. Healing by Growing Partial Faith (Mark 8:22-26)

A. A blind man was brought to Jesus and “they begged Him to touch him” (Mark 8:22).

B. The blind man likely had some faith, but was not completely

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convinced that Jesus could heal him. Jesus stimulated the man’s faith by matching the miracle to the man’s faith.

C. The partial faith then produced a partial miracle. “I see men like trees walking” (Mark 8:24). The “partial miracle” was not because of Jesus’ limited power, but a demonstration of the man’s limited faith.

D. Jesus then completed the miracle. “He was restored and saw everyone clearly” (Mark 8:25). Sometimes our limited faith can be stimulated to greater faith when we see a glimpse of what God can do.

VI. The Introduction of the Church (Matthew 16:13-21)

A. Jesus explained that the church would…

a. Be built on Jesus.

b. Communicate the Gospel.

c. Be victorious.

B. Jesus gave us five truths about the church in one phrase, “I will build My church.”…

a. “I”: Jesus is the Original Church Planter.

b. “will”: The church is future tense and not an Old Testament institution.

c. “build”: Jesus is the source of growth. (literally: “be building”)

d. “My”: The church belongs to Jesus.

e. “church”: The church is not a building, but a people. Ecclesia: “called out ones”

C. Jesus predicted His death and resurrection approximately 20 times before He was actually crucified. (Matt. 16:21)

D. The church is uniquely identified with Jesus Christ, so much so that the epistles call the church “the body of Christ.”

VII. The Mount of Transfiguration (Matthew 17:1-13)

A. The place was probably Mount Hermon.

B. Jesus appearance was illuminating. (Matthew 17:2)

C. Moses and Elijah were present. (Matthew 17:3)

D. The Father spoke again from heaven. (Matthew 17:5)

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The Twelve: Pursuit of Greatness I. Introduction

A. Jesus is now departing for Jerusalem on His way to the Feast of Tabernacles.

B. Jesus makes clear that the call of discipleship is sacrificial. (Luke 9:23)

C. Jesus increases His use of parables.

II. Teaching Faith by Healing a Boy (Matthew 17:14-21)

A. Unable. A father tried to get the disciples to heal his epileptic son who was demon possessed and unable to speak, but the disciples were not successful. (Matthew 17:16)

B. Unknowing. After Jesus healed him, the disciples asked, “Why could we not cast him out?” (Matthew 17:19)

C. Unbelief. Jesus explained that it was because of their unbelief. (Matthew 17:20-21)

III. The Disciples’ Expectations of Greatness (Luke 9:43-62)

A. Warning. Jesus explained to His disciples that He was about to be delivered over “into the hands of men.” (Luke 9:44)

B. Jesus set the example. Jesus could have argued that kings did not tax their family and as the Son of God he should be exempt. However, in directing Peter to catch a fish and find a coin for the tax, Jesus humbly expressed His willingness to lay aside His rights. (Matthew 17:24)

C. The dispute. The disciples began to dispute as to which of them would be the greatest. (Luke 9:46)

D. A child’s example. Jesus used a child as an example of humility and greatness in the kingdom of God. The child was an illustration of the disciples. (Matthew 18:3-4)

E. Jealousy. The disciples saw someone casting out a demon in Jesus’ name and the disciples stopped him. (Luke 9:49)

F. Conflict resolution. Jesus gives us the biblical model for resolving relational conflicts.

a. Go to them one on one. (Matt. 18:15)

b. If they don’t listen, go with one or two witnesses. (Matt. 18:16)

c. If the issue is still not resolved, bring it to the church. (Matt. 18:17)

d. If they continue in sin and refuse to listen to godly counsel, stop associating with them. (Matt. 18:17)

G. How often should a person be forgiven?

a. “I do not say to you, up to seven times, but up to

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seventy times seven” (Matt. 18:22).

b. That’s not 490 times, but continually forgive without end. “As many times as necessary.”

H. Parable that summarizes forgiveness. (Matt. 18:23-35)

a. Story of a man who is forgiven a great debt by the king but the man throws another into prison who owes him a small amount.

b. “My heavenly Father also will do to you if each … does not forgive his brother his trespasses” (Matt. 18:35).

IV. The Feast of Tabernacles (John 7:2-52)

A. Began on the 15th day of October and lasted 8 days.

B. Jesus’ brothers did not understand Jesus’ mission and had the wrong motives concerning Jesus. (John 7:3)

C. Jesus’ brothers were not believers at this time. (John 7:5)

D. Jesus took “country roads” as opposed to the “main roads.” (John 7:10)

E. Controversy continues. (John 7:19)

F. Jesus was accused of blasphemy. He asked, “Are you angry with Me because I have made a man completely well on the Sabbath?” (John 7:23).

G. Offer of the Holy Spirit. (John 7:37-39). To be filled with the Holy Spirit we must…

a. Desire. There must be a thirst and recognition of our own emptiness.

b. Repentance. We must come to Jesus; no one else can satisfy our thirst (emptiness).

c. Obedience. We must come to Jesus on His terms and do as He commands.

d. Faith. We must believe God will satisfy us and move toward His path of satisfaction.

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The Light Shining in Darkness I. Introduction

A. The Feast of Tabernacles was celebrated on the fifteenth day of October and the Jews made booths made of branches and lived outdoors for seven days to remember the 40 years Israel lived in the wilderness (cf. Leviticus 23:34ff).

B. While Jesus was in Jerusalem for this feast, the Jews had their greatest confrontation with Jesus and tried to kill Him.

II. Light in Moral Darkness (John 7:53 – 8:11)

A. Early Monday before sunrise, the Jews brought a woman taken in the act of adultery to entrap Jesus.

B. Entrapment. The Law commanded both male and female be stoned to death (cf. Deut. 22:22-24). Notice what the Jews did:

a. They did not take her to a Jewish court.

b. They did not stone her as the Law commanded.

c. It was a planned encounter.

C. Horns of the dilemma.

a. If He does not uphold the Law: He is not of God.

b. If He has her stoned: He is not a friend of sinners.

D. Jesus ignored them and began to write on the ground. What did He write?

a. Perhaps the 10 Commandments? He wrote with His finger (same as He wrote them in the Old Testament).

b. Perhaps He was writing the sins of her accusers. [since the accusers were “being convicted” (John 9:9) which comes from the word elegchomenoi meaning “to bring to light” perhaps Jesus was writing out their sins. Jesus also follows this with the statement of being the “Light of the World.”]

c. Perhaps the 7th commandment? “You shall not commit adultery.”

d. Perhaps He wrote the name of the guilty man.

e. Perhaps He wrote a verse on forgiveness.

f. Perhaps He scribbled on the ground (merely doodling).

g. NO ONE KNOWS. The Bible did not say and we are left wondering.

E. Jesus is the light to a darkened conscience. One of the ceremonies of the Feast of Tabernacles was the illumination of the temple. This occurred the night before and the lights had been burning all night. “The Light of Jerusalem.”

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F. Forgiveness is offered. Jesus extends forgiveness, “Neither do I condemn you; go and sin no more.” (John 8:10)

III. Light in Religious Darkness (John 8:12-59)

A. Why did Jesus refer to Himself as a light?

a. The ceremony of the illumination of the temple had occurred the night before which lit up all of Jerusalem.

b. To teach His fulfillment of the Messianic image (Isaiah 9:1).

c. Jesus was a moral light to the woman and the Jews. “…the darkness did not comprehend it” (John 1:5).

B. What did Jesus claim of the Jews?

a. They were in sin. (John 8:21, 24)

b. They were slaves to sin. (John 8:34)

c. They sought to kill Him. (John 8:37)

d. They did the work of Satan. (John 8:41)

e. They were not of God. (John 8:47)

C. What did Jesus claim of Himself?

a. He honors the Father. (John 8:49)

b. He claims to know Abraham. (John 8:55)

c. He claims deity. (John 8:58)

IV. Light in Physical Darkness (John 9:1-41)

A. Jesus calmly escaped an attempt on His life. As Jesus was leaving the Temple gate, His disciples asked about a blind man, “Rabbi, who sinned, this man or his parents, that the was born blind?” (John 9:2).

B. Jesus’ miracle broke their law. What accusations did the Jews have against Jesus?

a. Jesus spat on the ground to make clay (work).

b. Jesus mixed the spit with dirt to make clay (work).

c. Jesus healed a man on the Sabbath (work).

C. The man born blind grew in his worship of Jesus.

a. “A man called Jesus” (John 9:11).

b. “He is a prophet” (John 9:17).

c. “If this man were not from God, He could do nothing” (John 9:33).

d. “Do you believe in the son of God?” (John 9:35).

e. “Lord, I believe” (John 9:38).

f. “He worshipped Him” (John 9:38).

D. The man born blind faced growing opposition.

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a. They mocked him. “Is this not the man who begged?” (John 9:8-9).

b. They questioned him. “How did you receive your sight?” (John 9:15).

c. They attacked his claim. “How can a man that is a sinner (i.e. Jesus) do such miracles?”

d. They accused him of lying. “Give God the glory! We know this Man is a sinner” (John 9:24). In other words “admit that you’re lying.”

e. They physically threw him out of the Temple. “They cast him out” (John 9:34).

V. The Light Seen through Illustrations (John 10:1-21)

A. “I Am the Door” (John 10:9).

a. Sheep enter through the “door” which is often the Shepherd sitting in the opening.

b. The “door” determines who get in.

c. The “door” gives the sheep the liberty to “go in and out and find pasture” (spiritual food).

B. “I Am the Good Shepherd” (John 10:11)

a. Sheep know their shepherd’s voice (cf. John 10:2).

b. Good shepherds know their sheep by name (cf. John 10:3).

c. Good shepherds would give their life for the sheep (cf. John 10:11).

d. Good shepherds gather the whole flock (cf. John 10:16).

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The Twelve: Recovering Lost Power I. Introduction

A. The disciples still had not overcome the growing problem of pride that exhibited itself on their way to Jerusalem. They were not aware of the cause of their loss of power. “Why could we not…?” (Matt. 17:19).

B. While Jesus (once again) predicted His death and shared it with the disciples, they failed to understand. “But the did not (1) understand this saying, and it was (2) hidden from them so that they did not (3) perceive it; and they were (4) afraid to ask Him about this saying” (Luke 9:45)

II. The Seventy Sent Out for Effective Ministry (Luke 10:1-42)

A. Why the number 70?

a. The number 7 means “complete” or “whole.” This is why 70 Jewish scholars translated the Hebrew Bible into Greek. The Greek Old Testament is called the Septuagint (LXX) and means “seventy.” The Septuagint was translated into Greek at Alexandria, Egypt at some time between 280 and 150 BC.

b. Moses appointed 70 elders (cf. Numbers 11:16).

c. 70 was symbolic in representing the whole world (cf. Genesis 10, where 70 names are listed).

B. The 70 returned with great joy. Jesus reminded them that they should rejoice because their names are written in heaven (cf. Luke 10:20).

III. A Parable to Reach (Luke 10:25-37)

A. Jesus often taught using parables. “Without a parable He did not speak to them” (Matt. 13:34).

a. Memorable. Jesus used parables because they are easy to remember. People tend to remember stories better than abstract ideas.

b. Motivating. Jesus used parables to inspire them toward a new way of thinking and living.

c. Captivating. Jesus used parables to hold the attention of His listeners.

d. Insightful. Jesus used parables to make His listeners think through the principle being taught.

e. Conceal. Jesus used parables to conceal the truth from those who are disinterested or in rebellion to Him.

B. Parable literally means “likeness” and comes from para (besides) and ballo (to cast). It is placing one thing by the side of another for the purpose of comparison. In math, a parabola is the mirror-symmetrical curve on a graph. One

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side mirrors the other.

C. Six principles of interpreting parables:

a. Begin with Christ’s interpretation. This is usually found in either the introduction or the conclusion. “But he, wanting to justify himself, said to Jesus, ‘And who is my neighbor?” (Luke 10:29).

b. Look for one central truth, but don’t press the details. Don’t force an interpretation of the parable on every point of the story.

Bad Example: Augustine forced every point. (1) Down from Jerusalem, Adam left God’s presence, (2) Jericho, a city of morality, (3) thieves, the Devil, (4) beat him, persuaded Adam to sin, (5) oil, good hope, (6) wine, fervent spirit, (7) the beast, the flesh of Christ, (8) the inn, the church, (9) the morrow, after the resurrection. DO NOT DO THIS.

c. Don’t minimize the details that support the one interpretation. The details are important and should help us understand the whole (the one interpretation) and without them the parable would be deficient.

d. Consider the context and the culture. A lawyer asked of Jesus, “Who is my neighbor?” (Luke 10:29). So Jesus gave the parable of the Good Samaritan to answer the question.

e. The central truth is going to parallel the current event. Each parable has its own lesson, which is based on the original intent of the Lord. The meaning is going to be reinforced by the similarity between the event and the story’s proper interpretation.

f. A parable has one interpretation, but can have many points of application.

g. The parable should prompt us to think differently and to focus on living for the Kingdom of God as opposed to the kingdoms of this world.

IV. Interpreting The Good Samaritan

A. The Lawyer

a. One who interpreted the Old Testament law to people.

b. His purpose was to trip up Jesus.

c. “Teacher, what shall I do to inherit eternal life?” (v. 25)

d. Jewish leaders used Jesus’ response, “What is your reading of it?” (v.26).

B. The Great Commandment

a. “’You shall love the LORD your God with all your heart, with all your soul, with all your strength, and with all your

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mind,’ and ‘your neighbor as yourself.’” (v.27)

b. The lawyer gave the right answer.

C. The Personalities

a. Priest: Someone whose “job” was to care for others. He avoids the wounded man.

NOTE: Don’t press the details. For example, don’t look into the ‘motive’ for why the priest avoided the wounded man. Perhaps he feared being mugged. That’s not the point. Instead, just note that it was someone who should have helped and he didn’t. He went out of his way to avoid helping.

b. Levite: Same tribe as the priest, another potential source of help. He too avoids the wounded man.

c. Samaritan: Someone who is looked down upon by the Jews. They were not full-blooded Jews (half-blooded).

i. He came.

ii. He had compassion.

iii. He bound up the wounds.

iv. He sat him on his donkey.

v. He brought him to the inn.

vi. He guaranteed care.

NOTE: These details come from within the text and should support the overall main point. Don’t get into things like “the inn is a picture of the church.”

D. The Question: “Which of these three do you think was a neighbor?”

E. The Answer: “The one who had mercy on him.”

F. The Application: “Go and do likewise.”

V. An Example of Humility (Luke 10:40-42)

A. Martha. “Martha welcomed Him (Jesus)” (Luke 10:40). “Martha was distracted with much serving” (Luke 10:42).

B. Mary. Sat at Jesus’ feet. “But one thing is needed, and Mary has chosen that good part, which will not be taken away from her” (Luke 10:42).

VI. The Model Prayer (Luke 11:1-13)

A. Jesus is our example. “Lord, teach us to pray” (Luke 11:1).

B. Jesus gave us a model prayer. “After this manner (pattern), pray” (cf. Matt. 6:9).

a. Worship. “Hallowed be Your name.”

b. Guidance. “Your kingdom come.”

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c. Yield. “Your will be done.”

d. Petition. “Give us this day our daily bread.”

e. Forgiveness. “Forgive us our debts.”

f. Victory. “Lead us not into temptation.”

g. Deliverance. “Deliver us from the evil one.”

h. Worship. “Thine is the kingdom, the power, and glory.”

C. Jesus gave us the intensity of prayer.

a. “Ask and it shall be given to you.”

b. “Seek and you will find.”

c. “Knock and it will be opened to you.”

VII. Warning at the Pharisee’s Home (Luke 11:37-54)

Jesus had been near the Pharisee’s home healing and preaching to the multitudes (Luke 11:14-37), which was probably: (a) a series of messages, (b) interrupted with crowd interaction (v.27), and (c) repeated messages. In the house Jesus does not does not follow the Pharisee’s “ceremonial cleansing” (v.38). Jesus pronounced six woes on hypocrisy:

A. “Woe to you… you tithe (as you should), but you don’t demonstrate love.” (v.42)

B. “Woe to you… you love the best seats.” (v.43)

C. “Woe to you… you are like graves.” (v.44)

D. “Woe to you… you load men with burdens hard to bear.” (v.46)

E. “Woe to you… you build the tombs of the prophets, and your fathers killed them.” (v.47)

F. “Woe to you… you have taken away knowledge.” (v.52)

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The Trans-Jordan Ministry I. Introduction

A. Herod Antipas was tetrarch (ruler of a fourth part) over Galilee and Perea (the east bank of the Jordan).

B. Current events include a Galilean revolt in which Jews were refusing to submit to Roman power or call Caesar “lord.” They would rather endure the greatest of torments, even death.

C. Jesus corrected their thinking that these Galileans deserved to suffer because of some sin. Instead, “unless you repent you will all likewise perish.” Also, a tower in Siloam fell, killing eighteen people.

II. Woman Healed on Sabbath

A. Jesus healed the woman in the synagogue, but the rules blamed her. “There are six days on which men ought to work; therefore come and be healed on them, and not on the Sabbath day” (Luke 13:14).

B. Jesus answered, “Hypocrites! Does not each one of you on the Sabbath loose his ox…?” (Luke 13:15).

C. “… His adversaries were put to shame” (Luke 13:17) Jesus put them in their place.

III. Jesus’ Trip to Jerusalem for Hanukkah (John 10:22-42)

A. The Feast of Dedication (Hanukkah). (cf. John 10:22)

B. Jews question Jesus. “If you are the Christ, tell us plainly” (John 10:24).

C. Why unbelief. “You do not believe because you are not My sheep” (John 10:26).

D. Assurance of Believers. “My sheep hear My voice, and I know them, and they follow Me. And I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish; neither shall anyone snatch them out of My hand” (John 10:27-28).

E. Accused of Blasphemy. “…you being a man make yourself God” (John 10:26).

F. Return to Perea. “He went away again beyond the Jordan” (John 10:40).

G. Concerning Miracles. “Then many came to Him and said, ‘John performed no sign, but all the things that John spoke about this Man were true’” (John 10:41).

a. Don’t seek to perform miracles. Since John the Baptist did not need them to authenticate his ministry, neither do you.

b. Don’t deny the presence of miracles. Since Christ performed them, don’t deny they are real.

H. A Threat to Life. “Get out and depart from here, for Herod

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wants to kill you” (Luke 13:31).

a. Don’t seek to be a martyr. Some will be martyrs for their faith, but don’t seek that. You life will be more influential than your death.

b. Don’t run from it. You may be martyred for your faith; don’t run from it. Your death will be more influential than your life.

IV. Jesus’ Attitude Toward Sinners (Luke 14:1 – 15:32)

A. The Parable of the Ambitious Guest (cf. Luke 14:7-15).

a. The occasion was Jesus eating with Pharisees.

b. Jesus shared a parable about a man who chose the best seat.

B. The Parable of the Great Supper (cf. Luke 14:16-24).

a. The outsiders will show up.

b. The insiders (some of the Jews) don’t have an interest, even though they were the first to be invited.

C. The Parable of the Lost Things (cf. Luke 15:1-32).

a. Lost Sheep.

b. Lost Coin.

c. Lost Son.

D. The Parable of the Unjust Steward (Luke 16:1-13)

a. When we are faithful in a little, we will be entrusted to manage greater responsibilities (cf. Luke 16:10).

b. Faithfulness is managing money is compared to faithfulness in managing spiritual things (cf. Luke 16:11).

c. Faithfulness is managing someone else’s things, means you will be given your own. (cf. Luke 16:12).

V. The Rich Man and Lazarus (John 16:19-31)

A. When Jesus quoted the words of Abraham, Jesus warned the Pharisees that their refusal to accept Him meant they would refuse even after He rose from the dead. “If they do not hear Moses and the prophets, neither will they be persuaded though one rise from the dead” (Luke 16:31).

B. Is “The Rich Man and Lazarus” a Parable or Actual Event?

a. Parables do not use real names. They usually begin something like, “There was a certain rich man who…”

NOTE: Historical fiction is a literary genre in which the plot takes place in historical past. They may use real names and real places, but the narrative is fictional (e.g. “The Titanic” movie is historical fiction which used a real event and some real names, but the story was

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fictional.) Arguably, this type of genre did not exist until centuries later.

b. While “The Rich Man and Lazarus” begin as a typical parable, the shift in verse 20 “But there was a certain beggar named Lazarus…” suggests an actual event.

c. Conclusion: In all honesty, it doesn’t really matter if it is a parable or an actual event. The point that Jesus was making is the same: Some people are not going to be persuaded to repent, even if someone came back from the dead to warn them. Ironically, Jesus did this very thing.

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The Death and New Life of Lazarus I. Introduction

A. Jesus was in Perea when He received an urgent message. “Behold, he whom you love is sick” (John 11:3).

B. Jesus stayed in Bethany when at Jerusalem (about 2 miles east of Jerusalem).

C. Jesus loved (phileo) Lazarus (v.3), but Jesus loved (agape) the whole family (v.5).

II. Jesus Delays (John 11:4-16)

A. Jesus delayed His visit (cf. John 11:4).

a. Jesus had healed from a distance before, but chose not to do so in this case.

b. At the time of the news, Lazarus was not dead yet.

B. Jesus decides after two days it is time to go to Judea (cf. John 11:6).

a. The disciples are less than thrilled (cf. John 11:8).

b. The Jews still want to kill Jesus and if He shows up there, they may attempt to kill Him (cf. John 11:8).

C. Jesus announces His reason for returning. Lazarus has died (cf. John 11:11).

a. The disciples thought he meant Lazarus was resting (cf. John 11:12-13).

b. Sleep is a symbolic word for death. In a spiritual sense, “sleep” refers to physical death; while “death” refers to a spiritual separation from God.

c. Jesus clarified, “Lazarus is dead” (John 11:14).

d. Thomas responds with fatalistic faith. “Let us also go, that we may die with him” (John 11:16). Thomas knew there was a real chance they could face death.

D. When God delays in answering our prayers, He understands and has a master plan in place.

III. Jesus at the Tomb of Lazarus (John 11:17-38)

A. Lazarus had been dead for four days (cf. John 11:17).

a. Days 1 to 3 are for family as they experience intense mourning.

b. Days 4 to 30 are for friends to express their condolences.

c. Jewish tradition wrongly believed that the soul hovers over the body for three days, but departs at the end of the third day. Jesus left no question that Lazarus was in fact dead.

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B. Jesus came to the tomb and waited for the sisters.

C. Martha was disappointed. “Lord, if You had been here my brother would not have died” (John 11:21).

a. She believed Jesus could have prevented his death.

b. She knows that she will see Lazarus again in the resurrection.

c. Jesus said, “I Am the resurrection and the life” (John 11:25).

D. Mary was discouraged. “She fell at His feet saying, ‘Lord, if You had been here, my brother would not have died” (John 11:32).

a. Jesus responded with a groaning in the spirit and was troubled (cf. John 11:33). Then, “Jesus wept” (John 11:35).

b. Why did Jesus weep?

i. His brotherly love for Lazarus.

ii. His compassion for Martha and Mary.

iii. The sorrow of friends (cf. John 11:33, 37).

iv. The emotional expression at the death of a loved one is appropriate and acceptable (even for us).

IV. The Raising of Lazarus (John 11:39-43)

A. Division of Labor. We must do our part. God will do His part. “Take away the stone” (John 11:39).

B. Why did Martha object?

a. Offensive odor of decomposition.

b. Doesn’t want to re-live the emotions.

c. Respect for the body.

C. Priority of faith. “Did I not say to you that if you would believe, you would see the glory of God?” (John 11:40).

a. The kingdoms of the world say: “Seeing is believing.”

b. The Kingdom of God says, “Believing is seeing.” When we come to God in faith, we begin to see things with greater clarity.

D. The Word of God is the instrument of regeneration. “Lazarus, come forth!” (John 11:43). God uses the power of His Word to give us life.

V. Attitudes Toward Life and Resurrection (John 11:44)

A. Jesus spoke. “Loose him, and let him go” (John 11:44). This is a picture of the new believer who must rid self of the bondage of sin.

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B. New believers. Many who came to mourn became followers of Christ (cf. John 11:45).

C. Indecisive. Some believed the fact of Lazarus being raised from the dead. They even ran to tell the Jews, but the did not place their faith in Christ.

D. Confused. Some of those hearing of the news didn’t know how to respond. “What shall we do?” (John 11:47).

E. Prophetic statement. “That one man should die for the people and not the whole nation perish” (John 11:50).

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The Death and Resurrection of Jesus

The Final Journey to Jerusalem I. Introduction

A. Retreat from Jerusalem. Jesus left Bethany shortly after raising Lazarus from the dead (cf. John 11:54).

B. Request for Faith. The apostles desired increased faith; and the Lord explained how faith can grow (cf. John 17:5-10).

II. Final Ministry in Samaria (Luke 17:11-19)

A. Jesus healed 10 lepers. The nationality of the 10 lepers is unknown, but they were in a village on the border of Samaria and Galilee.

B. Unclean. The lepers were announcing from a distance that they were unclean, but wanted Jesus’ help.

C. Exercise faith first. Notice Jesus’ instructions were to go show themselves to the priest even though the healing did not come until they were acting upon Jesus instruction. “So when He saw them, He said to them, ‘Go, show yourselves to the priests.’ And so it was that as they went, they were cleansed” (Luke 17:14).

D. Only one expressed gratitude and he was a Samaritan (cf. Luke 17:16).

E. Three questions:

a. “Were there not ten cleansed?” (Luke 17:17).

b. “Where are the nine?” (Luke 17:17).

c. “Were there not any found who returned to give glory to God except this foreigner?” (Luke 17:18).

F. Gratitude was rewarded. There was an eight-day examination period by the priest, but Jesus said, “Arise, go your way. Your faith has made you well” (Luke 17:19). We get strength, healing, and growth of character as we express our sincere appreciation to others.

III. Final Ministry in Galilee (Luke 17:20 – 18:14)

A. Question. The Pharisees wanted to know from Jesus when the kingdom of God would come. Jesus answered that the kingdom of God is does not come by observation (cf. Luke 17:20).

a. The kingdom of God is here (Luke 17:21).

b. The kingdom of God is also in the future (cf. Luke 17:22-37).

c. Jesus frequently taught that the kingdom of God was in contrast to the kingdoms of the world.

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B. Our response. Jesus provided two parables in response to the Pharisees’ question. Both pertaining to prayer in relation to the kingdom of God (cf. Luke 18:1-14).

a. Keep on praying (cf. Luke 18:1).

b. Make sure your relationship with God is in order (cf. Luke 18:13). “God be merciful to me a sinner!”

IV. Final Ministry in Perea (Luke 18:18-25)

A. The rich young ruler asked to follow Jesus. He was told to obey the commandments. The response, “All these I have kept from my youth” (Luke 18:21). “If you want to be perfect, go, sell what you have and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven; and come, follow Me” (Matthew 19:21).

a. The call of discipleship is always sacrificial.

b. The call of discipleship is always relational.

c. The call of discipleship is always transformational.

d. The camel was one of the largest animals frequently seen in Israel. The image of a “camel going through the eye of a needle” is to communicate something that is impossible. Therefore, you cannot become a disciple without sacrifice, a relationship, and transformational change.

B. Peter wants to know about the rewards of being an apostle (cf. Matthew 19:28).

C. Jesus gives a parable that dealt with wrong attitudes (cf. Matthew 20:1-16).

D. The mother of James and John requests seats of honor for her two sons (cf. Matthew 20:23).

a. James (was the first apostle to die a martyr)

b. John (was the last apostle to die – stranded on the island of Patmos)

E. Jesus teaches about servant leadership. “The Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life a ransom for many” (Matt. 20:28).

F. No matter where we are in our Christian growth or in fellowship with Christ, we will be tempted by pride and self-advancement.

V. Final Days in Jericho (Luke 19:1-28)

A. Two blind men. “Jesus, Son of David, have mercy on me?” (Luke 18:38).

B. How many were healed? Matthew identified two healed (cf. Matt. 20:29-34), but Mark only mentioned one (Mark 10:46-52). Mark obviously learned the name of one of the men healed

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(i.e. Bartimaeus), so it is likely he wrote about the healing of the man he got to know more personally.

C. Zacchaeus was a chief tax collector (i.e. the former supervisor of Matthew). It was very likely that the conversion of Matthew was the motivation for Zacchaeus’ desire to see Jesus.

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The Final Week I. Introduction

A. The Passover. It was time for the Passover and Pharisees knew that Jesus would be in Jerusalem. They saw this as the opportunity to seize Him (cf. John 11:55-57).

B. The exact day of the week of Jesus’ crucifixion is uncertain. It was either: Wednesday, Thursday, or Friday. Each has good reasons. The most commonly accepted day is Friday.

NOTE: Regardless of which day, the fact of the events remain unchanged. For purposes of our chronological study, we will stick with the traditional Friday crucifixion.

II. Saturday (A Day of Conversion)

A. A banquet was given in honor of Jesus and Lazarus (cf. John 12:1-8). Many people were coming to Christ as a result of Lazarus’ testimony (cf. John 12:11). The chief priest wanted to see Lazarus put to death as well (cf. John 12:9-10).

B. Mary anointed the feet of Jesus with a very costly oil of spikenard. Jesus said her act of worship was an “anointing for His burial” (cf. John 12:7).

C. Judas objected to Mary’s act of worship. Suggesting it was wasteful and could have been sold and given to help the poor (cf. John 12:4-5).

III. Sunday (A Day of Celebration – Palm Sunday)

A. Jesus sent two disciples to get a colt. If questioned, tell them, “The Lord has need of it” (Mark 11:3).

B. Symbols:

a. Coats = royalty (cf. Mark 11:7-8)

b. Palms = Messianic (cf. Mark 11:8)

c. Donkey = peace (cf. Mark 11:7)

d. Horse = war (cf. Revelation 19:11-16)

C. Two groups of people (symbolic of His Second Coming):

a. Those who came with Jesus from Bethany.

b. Those who came to meet Jesus out of Jerusalem.

D. Hosanna! People identified Jesus as the Messiah and began to worship Him.

a. In the Old Testament, the word “Hosanna” was used in anticipation of salvation. “Salvation come!”

b. In the New Testament, the word “Hosanna” was used in declaration of salvation. “Salvation has come!”

E. The Pharisees wanted Jesus to rebuke those who were singing Scripture (cf. Psalm 118:26) in application to Jesus. Instead,

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Jesus welcomed the praise (i.e. Hallel). “I tell you that if these should keep silent, the stones would immediately cry out” (Luke 19:40).

IV. Monday (A Day of Demonstration)

A. Jesus cursed the fig tree. “Let no one eat fruit from you ever again” (Mark 11:14).

B. Jesus cleansed the Temple. “My house is a house of prayer, but you have made it a den of thieves” (Luke 19:46).

C. Gentiles want to see Jesus. “Sir, we wish to see Jesus” (John 12:21).

a. The Gentiles could not enter the Temple beyond the “court of Gentiles” (i.e. the outer court of the Temple).

b. Philip was in charge of the logistics of crowds (Remember “second squad”).

D. The cross is anticipated:

a. “The hour has come…” (John 12:23).

b. “… a grain of wheat falls into the ground and dies…” (John 12:24).

c. “And I, if I am lifted up from the earth, will draw all peoples to Myself” (John 12:32).

E. The Father’s approval. “I have both glorified it and will glorify it again” (John 12:28).

V. Tuesday (A Day of Instruction)

A. Jesus spent each evening in Bethany during the final week. Tuesday begins and ends with a trip there.

B. Jesus gives a lesson on the withered fig tree (cf. Mark 11:20-26).

C. Confrontation over authority. The chief priests, the scribes, and the elders questioned Jesus’ authority. Jesus responded with a question of His own, “The baptism of John, was it from heaven or from men?” They refused to answer Jesus and so Jesus did not answer them (cf. Mark 11:27-33; Matt. 21:23-27).

D. Jesus taught three more parables.

a. The Parable of the Two Sons (Matt. 21:28-32).

b. The Parable of the Wicked Vinedressers (Matt. 21:33-46).

c. The Parable of the Wedding Feast (Matt. 22:1-14).

E. Confrontation over compromising (Matt. 22:15-22).

a. The Herodians, who were accused of compromising with Rome, brought Jesus a coin. “Whose image…?” (Matt. 22:20).

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b. “Render therefore to Caesar the things that are Caesar’s, and to God the things that are God’s” (Matt. 22:21).

F. Confrontation over the resurrection (Matt. 22:23-33).

a. The Sadducees presented Jesus with their argument against the resurrection. “Whose wife shall she be in the resurrection?” (v.28).

b. Jesus addressed the larger question and accused them of being ignorant of the Scriptures. He argued the resurrection from a verb tense (cf. Exodus 3:6, 15). “I am” rather than “I was.” Jesus is making it clear, “I am the God of Abraham,” not “I was the God of Abraham.” “I am the God of Abraham … God is not the God of the dead, but of the living” (Matt. 22:32).

G. Confrontation over the greatest commandment (Matt. 22:34-40).

a. A lawyer asked, “Which is the greatest commandment?” (v.36).

b. “You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind” (v.37).

H. Jesus questioned His accusers (Matt. 22:41-46).

a. “What do you think about the Christ? Whose son is He?” (v.42).

b. They answered, “The Son of David” (v. 42).

c. “How then does David in the Spirit call Him ‘Lord’?” (v.43).

I. Jesus gives the Olivet Discourse (Matt. 24 and 25). A sermon on the Second Coming of Christ.

VI. Wednesday (A Day of Anticipation)

A. Most call this “Ash Wednesday” or “A Day of Silence.”

B. There are three recorded events that occur on this day.

a. Jesus predicted His death in two days. “You know that after two days is the Passover, and the Son of Man will be delivered up to be crucified” (Matt. 26:2).

b. Jesus was anointed again, this time at the house of Simon the leper (cf. Matt. 26:6-13).

c. Judas finalizes the terms of betrayal (cf. Matt. 26:14-16).

VII. Thursday (A Day of Preparation)

A. It was the custom not to do any work on this day except prepare for the Passover. There is no mention of what Jesus did earlier in the day.

B. Peter and John prepared for the meal.

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C. The disciples continue their sinful attitude of pride. “Now there was also a dispute among them, as to which of them should be considered the greatest” (Luke 22:24).

D. The cross did not surprise Jesus. “Now before the Feast of the Passover, when Jesus knew that His hour had come that He should depart from this world to the Father, having loved His own who were in the world, He loved them to the end” (John 13:1).

E. The Last Supper (John 13:1-30)

a. Servant Leadership Modeled. “Jesus laid aside His garments, took a towel and girded Himself … began to wash the disciples’ feet” (John 13:4-5).

b. Peter refused. “If I do not wash you (Peter), you have not part with Me (Jesus)” (John 13:8).

c. Spiritual lesson:

1. The bath = salvation

2. Washing of feet = daily walk with the Lord. “He that is bathed (saved) needs only to wash his feet (daily walk)” (John 13:10).

d. Humility. “If I then your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also out to wash one another’s feet” (John 13:10).

e. How did Jesus warn Judas?

1. Jesus suggested that one of them was not saved. “… you are clean, but not all of you” (John 13:10).

2. Jesus quoted Psalm 41:9, “Even my own familiar friend in whom I trusted, who at my bread, has lifted his heel against me.”

3. Jesus stated directly, “Most assuredly, … one of you will betray Me” (John 13:21).

4. Jesus identified Judas. “It is he to whom I shall give a piece of bread when I have dipped it/ And having dipped the bread, He gave it to Judas Iscariot, the son of Simon” (John 13:26).

5. Jesus warns Judas. “What you do, do quickly” (John 13:27). Notice that Judas had “Satanic Possession” not just “Demonic Possession” (cf. John 13:27).

f. The Lord’s Supper was then instituted after Judas left (cf. Mark 14:22-26; Luke 22:14-23).

F. The Upper Room Discourse (John 13)

a. The first question: Peter. “Lord, where are You going?” (John 13:36). Answer: “In My Father’s house are many mansions … I go to prepare a place for you” (John

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14:2). It’s at this time that Jesus predicts Peter’s denial (cf. John 13:38).

b. The second question: Thomas. “… how can we know the way?” (John 14:5). Answer: “I am the way.. to the Father …” (John 14:6).

c. The third question: Philip. “Lord, show us the Father” (John 14:8). Answer: “He who has seen Me has seen the Father” (John 14:9).

d. The fourth question: Judas (not Iscariot). “Lord, how is it that you will manifest Yourself to us, and not to the world?” (John 14:22). Answer:

1. Seen through fellowship with Son and the Father (cf. John 14:23).

2. By the indwelling of the Holy Spirit (cf. John 14:26).

3. By inner peace (cf. John 14:27).

e. Knowing that time was limited (cf. John 14:30), Jesus and the disciples begin to walk. It was likely along the way in which Jesus gave the lesson on abiding in the True Vine. “Arise, let us go from here” (John 14:31). We know the Priestly Prayer was in Jerusalem (possibly at the Temple), but they will end at the Garden of Gethsemane.

G. Jesus’ Message of Abiding (cf. John 15:1-8).

a. Intimacy. “I am the vine, you are the branches” (John 15:5).

b. Communion. “Abide in Me” (cf. John 14:20).

c. Union. “and I in you” (cf. John 15:4).

H. Jesus’ High Priestly Prayer (John 17:1-26)

What were the three major petitions by Jesus (note the key word)?

a. Glorify. “Glorify Me together with Yourself, with the glory which I had with You before the world was” (John 17:5).

b. Keep. “Keep … those whom You have given Me” (John 17:11).

c. One. “That they all may be one, as You, Father, are in Me, and I in You” (John 17:21).

I. The Garden of Gethsemane

a. Jesus went there for the purpose of prayer. (cf. John 18:1)

b. Jesus prayed for the Father’s will. “let his cup pass from Me” (cf. Matt. 26).

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c. Jesus prayed with agony. “And being in agony, He prayed more earnestly. Then His sweat became like great drops of blood falling down to the ground” (Luke 22:44).

d. Jesus’ prayer was long. “What, could you not watch with Me one hour?” (Matt. 26:40).

e. Jesus was betrayed and arrested.

1. The soldiers said they were seeking “Jesus of Nazareth” (cf. John 18:5).

2. Miraculous response.

i. Jesus responded to the soldiers, “I am.”

ii. The soldiers “drew back and fell to the ground” (John 18:6). They seemed awestruck by Jesus and had difficulty arresting Him.

3. The symbol of betrayal. “Judas, are you betraying the Son of Man with a kiss?” (Luke 22:48).

4. Peter cut off Malchus’ ear. “Put your sword into the sheath. Shall I not drink the cup which My father has given Me?” (John 18:11).

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The Garden to Golgotha I. The Six Trials of Jesus

A. Before Annas, former high priest (cf. John 18:12-14).

a. To determine an indictment.

B. Before Caiaphas, current high priest (cf. Luke 22:66).

a. To determine a sin.

C. Before the Sanhedrin, the highest Jewish council during the Greek and Roman periods (cf. Luke 22:66).

a. A religious vote of guilty.

D. Before Pilate, the government trial (cf. John 18:28-38).

a. A government vote of not guilty.

E. Before Herod, a political move due to government jurisdiction (cf. Luke 23:7).

F. Before Pilate, the final trial without a verdict (cf. John 19:10).

The questions of Pilate:

a. “Are you the king of the Jews?” (cf. Luke 27:11-14)

b. “What is truth?” (cf. John 18:33-38)

c. “Do you not know?” (cf. John 19:9-11)

d. “Whom do you want?” (cf. Matt. 27:15-21)

e. “What then shall I do with Jesus?” (cf. Matt. 27:22-24)

II. The Indictment

A. The Jews were irritated because Jesus broke their Sabbath laws. Jesus’ claims of deity sent them over the edge. Therefore, the charge was blasphemy. “… He made Himself the Son of God” (John 19:7).

B. When Pilate refused their charge, the Jews changed it to treason. Pilate was not concerned if anyone claimed to be God. However, they knew he would be concerned if Jesus sought to overthrow the government. “And they began to accuse Him, saying, ‘We found this fellow perverting the nation, and forbidding to pay taxes to Caesar, saying that He Himself is Christ, a King’” (Luke 23:2).

III. Attempts by Pilate to Release Jesus

A. Honest response. “Pilate … went out again to the Jews, and said to them, ‘I find no fault in Him at all.’” (John 18:38).

B. Pilate “passed the buck.” Pilate sent Jesus to Herod.

C. Barabbas was substituted. “Whom do you want me to release to you? Barabbas, or Jesus who is called the Christ?’ For he knew that they had handed Him over because of envy’” (Matt. 27:17-18).

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D. Pilate’s wife had a dream. “Have nothing to do with that just Man, for I have suffered many things today in a dream because of Him” (Matt. 27:19).

E. Statement of innocence. “Pilate said to them, ‘You take Him and crucify Him, for I find no fault in Him’” (John 19:6).

F. Punished partially. “I will therefore chastise Him and release Him” (Luke 23:16).

G. Pilate washed his hands to symbolize his own innocence. “When Pilate saw that he could not prevail … he took water and washed his hands before the multitude” (Matt. 27:24).

IV. What Is the Cross?

A. The cross was a Roman instrument of execution designed to inflict intense pain and death.

B. The cross prolonged excruciating thirst, physical suffering, humiliation, and eventually killed the victim. Some agonized two weeks before dying.

C. The cross was used by Romans against its conquered people.

D. The cross was a public warning to lawbreakers. The sign placed above them stated their crime for everyone to see.

V. What Jesus Said about the Cross

A. Jesus predicted His death upon the cross (cf. Matt. 16:21).

B. Jesus said the cross would draw people unto Him (cf. John 12:31).

C. Jesus ensured Satan’s destruction at the cross (cf. John 12:31).

D. Jesus used the symbol of the cross in discipleship (cf. Luke 9:23).

VI. What Paul Said about the Cross

A. Co-crucifixion. “I am crucified with Christ, nevertheless I live, yet not I but Christ liveth in me” (Gal. 2:20).

B. Redemption. “Christ hath redeemed us from the curse of the law, begin made a curse for us: for it is written, cursed is everyone that hangeth on a tree” (Gal. 3:13).

C. Forgiveness. “We have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of His grace” (Eph. 1:7).

D. Satisfaction. “The blood of bulls and goats could never take away sin” (Heb. 10:14). “God hath set forth (Christ) to be a propitiation through faith in His blood … for the remission of sins that are past” (Rom. 3:25).

E. Reconciliation. “He might reconcile both (Jews and Gentiles) unto God … by the cross (Eph. 2:15).

F. Peace. “Having made peace through the blood of His cross” (Col. 1:20).

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a. Peace with God. “He is our peace” (Eph. 2:14). The Hebrew word for peace is “shalom.” The Greek word for peace is “eirene” (eye ray nay). The idea is “to be joined together into a whole.” It is not merely “getting along,” but in agreement with one another. Amos 3:3, “Can two walk together, unless they are agreed?”

b. Peace of God. “Come and preached peace to you” (Eph. 2:17). The idea is to have internal tranquility that comes from God.

VII. The Cross and My Life

A. The power to save. “The preaching of the cross is to them that perish foolishness; but unto us which are saved, it is the power of God” (1 Cor. 1:17-18).

B. The cause of offense. “The offense of the cross” (Gal. 5:11). The cross is offensive to those who want to be saved by works.

C. The cause of persecution. “Suffer persecution for the cross of Christ” (Gal. 6:12).

D. The symbol of our identification. “But God forbid that I should boast except in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, by whom the world has been crucified to me, and I to the world” (Gal. 6:14).

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The Cross to the Grave I. Introduction

A. Approximately four hours after the trials began, Jesus was executed.

B. It is doubtful Jesus’ followers understood the meaning of His crucifixion (1 Cor. 15:1-3).

C. The cross has become the crossroads of mankind.

II. Hateful Attitudes

A. The Jews didn’t want the sign on Jesus’ cross to read, “King of the Jew,” but rather, “He said He was the King of the Jews.” Pilate refused to change what he had already written (cf. John 19:21-22).

B. The soldiers took His possessions and cast lots for them (cf. John 19:23-24). The soldiers made fun of Him and spat on Him (cf. Matt. 27:27-31).

C. The chief priests, scribes, and elders mocked Jesus, “He saved others, Himself He cannot save” (cf. Matt. 27:41-42).

III. Jesus’ Seven Statements on the Cross

A. Statement of Forgiveness (to the Roman soldiers). “Father, forgive them for they do not know what they do” (Luke 23:24).

B. Statement of Acceptance (to the repentant thief). “Assuredly, I say to you, today you will be with Me in paradise” (Luke 23:43).

C. Statement of Human Responsibility (to His mother Mary and John). “Woman, behold your son … behold your mother” (John 19:26-27).

D. Statement of Separation (to God the Father as well as to the crowd). “‘Eli, Eli, lama sabachthani’ … ‘My God, My God, why have you forsaken Me?” (Matt. 27:46).

NOTE: Jesus was giving the title of a Psalm. During Jesus’ time, the Psalms were not number with chapters and verses. To identify a Psalm, they quoted the first line. Jesus wants the crowd to read “Psalm 22.”

E. Statement of Suffering (to the crowd). “I thirst” (John 19:28).

F. Statement of Victory (to everyone). “It is finished” (John 19:30). What was finished?

a. His agony.

b. His physical life.

c. The sacrifice of lambs.

d. Redemption for people.

e. The demands of the Law have been satisfied.

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f. The fulfillment of Messianic prophecy.

G. Statement of Completion (to God the Father). “Father, into Your hands I commit My spirit” (Luke 23:46).

IV. Noteworthy Events

A. The Darkness. “About the sixth hour (noon), there was a darkness over all the earth until about the ninth hour (3pm). And the sun was darkened” (Luke 23:44-45).

B. The Veil. The Holy of Holies was opened. “The veil of the temple was torn in two from top to bottom, and the earth did quake” (Matt. 27:51).

V. The Response

A. The hardened Roman centurion concluded, “Truly this man was the Son of God” (Mark 15:38).

B. Some of Jesus’ followers watched from a distance (cf. Mark 15:40).

C. Two of Jesus’ followers asked for the body to prepare Him for burial (i.e. Joseph of Arimathea and Nicodemus who came to Jesus by night) (John 19:38-39).

D. Pilate secures a guard (Matt. 27:62-66).

a. Roman Guard consisted of 4 to 16 men. Since Pilate said to make it “as secure as you know how,” it was likely 16 men standing guard!

b. The Roman Guard would not have fallen asleep while on duty for fear of execution.

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The Resurrection I. Introduction

A. Sunday! “Now when the Sabbath (Saturday) was past …” (Mark 16:1). It was also identified as “the first day of the week began to dawn” (Matt. 28:1).

B. The followers did not expect a resurrection, because they came to the tomb anticipating a dead corpse.

C. There was an earthquake. “There was a great earthquake; for an angel of the Lord … came and rolled back the stone from the door, and sat on it” (Matt. 28:2).

D. The soldiers gave a false explanation for Jesus’ empty tomb. “His disciples … stole Him away while we slept” (Matt. 28:13).

II. Events at the Empty Tomb (John 20:1-10)

A. Mary Magdalene and other women came before sunrise (cf. Luke 24:1).

B. Mary Magdalene was the leader of the group of women. She was mentioned first in Mark 16:1 and Matt. 28:1. She was the only one mentioned in John 20:1.

C. The women at the tomb saw an angel. “Do not be afraid … He is not here: for He is risen, as He said. Come, see the place where the Lord lay … go quickly and tell” (Matt. 28:5-6).

a. As they went to tell His disciples, they met Jesus (cf. Matt. 28:9).

b. Why did Jesus let them hold His feet? Worship.

D. Peter and John ran to the tomb. John makes it clear to the reader that he was the first to arrive even though Peter went into the tomb before him (cf. John 20:3-10).

a. John glanced (blepo). “… saw the linen clothes lying there…” (John 20:5).

b. Peter observed (theoreo). “… saw the linen clothes lying there…”

c. John examined and understood. “He saw and believed” (John 20:8). John was the first disciple to believe the resurrection. “For as yet they knew not the Scriptures, that He must rise again from the dead” (John 20:9).

III. Post-Resurrection Appearance of Jesus on the First Easter

A. To two women who took Jesus by the feet and worshipped (cf. Matt. 28:10).

B. To Mary Magdalene who said, “Sir… tell me where You have laid Him, and I will take Him away” (John 20:15).

a. She did not know what had happened (cf. John 20:13).

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b. She was upset at the situation (cf. John 20:11).

c. She assumed He had been moved (cf. John 20:15).

d. She was blinded to Jesus’ identity (cf. John 20:14-15).

e. She didn’t know when to leave. She had to be told (cf. John 20:17).

C. To Cleophas and wife who had the wrong perception and expectations concerning Christ (cf. Luke 24:21). Jesus properly instructed them, “Ought not the Christ to have suffered these things and to enter into His glory?” (Luke 24:26). They invited Jesus to their home and when He broke bread, “… their eyes were opened…” (Luke 24:31).

D. To Peter. The circumstances are not known but that evening the disciples said, “The Lord is risen indeed and has appeared to Simon” (Luke 24:34).

E. To 10 Disciples. Easter Sunday evening ten disciples were in the Upper Room. “Peace to you! As the Father has sent Me, I also send you” (John 20:21).

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The Final Days of Jesus with His Disciples I. Introduction

A. The apostles have a new responsibility to witness the resurrection to the world.

B. Believers have a new day of worship. They would begin to celebrate the resurrection on the Lord’s Day (Sunday), and He would appear to them on that day.

C. Thomas doubted. “Unless I see in His hands the print of the nails … I will not believe” (John 20:25).

II. Jesus and Thomas (Sunday, One Week Later)

A. Jesus appeared to the disciples including Thomas (cf. John 20:24-29).

B. Jesus made a miraculous entrance and said, “Peace to you” (John 20:26).

C. Thomas was invited to faith. “Reach your finger here … do not be unbelieving, but believing” (John 20:27).

D. Thomas gave the highest expression of his faith. “My Lord and my God” (John 20:28).

E. Thomas was commended for his faith. “Because you have seen (eido, i.e., insight) and understand Who I am, you have believed. Blessed are those who like you have not examined Me by sight and yet believed” (John 20:29).

III. Jesus and Seven Disciples (Sunday, Two Weeks Later)

A. Jesus appeared to seven of the disciples who had gone fishing early that Sunday morning (cf. John 21:1-11).

B. This is the third time Jesus has appeared to His disciples after He was raised from the dead (cf. John 21:14).

C. Why did the disciples leaven Jerusalem and return to Galilee?

a. Galilee was home.

D. Why did the disciples decide to go fishing?

a. Natural for them to work and earn a living.

b. Some suggest “backsliding.”

E. Why did they not recognize Jesus when He yelled to them?

a. Natural reason was He was too far away to recognize.

b. Spiritual reason is Jesus had not revealed Himself.

F. How did they come to realize it was Jesus?

a. Jesus gave them the same instruction He gave them at the beginning of their ministry together.

b. Jesus’ instructions produced a miraculous catch.

G. What was miraculous about this event?

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a. 154 fish.

b. The net didn’t break.

c. Peter pulls the net to shore.

d. Jesus was already cooking fish on the shore.

H. After they had eaten breakfast, Jesus addresses Peter by his old name and restores the relationship. “Simon, son of Jonah, do you love Me?” (cf. John 21:15-17).

a. Jesus asked Peter three times, “Do you love me?” The first two He uses “agape” and the third time He uses “philo.”

b. Each time Peter responds, “Lord, You know I love (philo) You.”

c. Simon Peter’s response was one of deep commitment. “Lord, You know (oida – by nature) all things, You know (ginosko – by experience) that I love (philo) You” (John 21:7).

IV. Jesus and His Disciples (Sunday, Three Weeks Later)

A. Jesus appeared to a crowd of 500 (1 Cor. 15:1-11). It is possible that the 500 were the next week (with James). However, Matthew 28:16-17 says “some doubted.” It is unlikely that the “some doubted” is speaking of the apostles. Jesus has already appeared to them previously.

B. Why did some still doubt (cf. Matt. 28:16-17)?

a. Some may not have been believers.

b. Doubt is like sin, it has not yet been eradicated.

C. What is involved in the Great Commission?

a. Ministry. “Go therefore and…” (literally… as you are going) Ministry to others should be a part of our daily living.

b. Evangelism. “…make disciples…” We are called to reach others with the Gospel of Jesus Christ.

c. Fellowship. “…baptizing them…” We are called to welcome people into the church fellowship.

d. Discipleship. “…teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you…” We are called to teach toward life-change.

e. Worship. “…I am with you always, even to the end of the age.” Our lives should worship Him. He is always with us.

V. Jesus and James (Sunday, Four Weeks Later)

A. Jesus appeared to His brother James (1 Cor. 15:7).

a. This was life-changing for James. Earlier, Jesus’ brothers

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did not believe. Seeing your half-brother raised from the dead would have had an impact.

b. James willingly went to his death in 67 AD proclaiming the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead.

c. James also became the pastor of the church in Jerusalem.

VI. The Ascension of Jesus (Sunday, Five Weeks Later)

A. 40 Days. “…after His suffering…” (Acts 1:3).

B. Jesus appeared to His disciples and explained they should tarry in Jerusalem until they are endued with power from on high” (Luke 24:49).

C. The disciples want to know when the physical kingdom will come. “Lord will You at this time restore the kingdom of Israel?” (Acts 1:6).

D. The Great Commission was given again. “But you shall receive power when the Holy Spirit is come upon you; and you shall be witnesses to Me in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth” (Acts 1:8).

E. Jesus ascended (active) into Heaven. “He went up.”

F. Two men in white apparel said…

a. “Men of Galilee, why do you stand gazing up into heaven?” In other words, “What are you waiting for?” (Acts 1:11).

b. “This same Jesus who was taken up from you into heaven, will so come in like manner as you saw Him go into Heaven” (Acts 1:11).

G. How will Jesus come again (i.e. return in like manner)?

a. Visible.

b. Gradual.

c. Unexpected.

d. With angels.

e. Through the clouds.

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Study Questions (Part 2): • Define what is meant by Pax Romana. How did this impact

the spread of the Gospel?

• What three offices comprised the Sanhedrin? Define each office.

• What are the three commitments of the Nazarite vow? Who took this vow?

• Who was the first disciple? Who introduced this disciple to Jesus? What is he known for?

• Who was the youngest disciple? What books of the Bible did he write?

• Who was the primary disciple and leader of the “first squad”? What four disciples made up the “first squad”?

• Who was the leader of the “second squad”? What was he largely responsible for?

• What is a parable? Which of the Gospel accounts contains the most parables? Which of the Gospel accounts does not contain any parables? What are some of the reasons Jesus used parables? What are some of the principles of interpreting parables?

• What is the only miracle recorded in all four Gospel accounts?

• What sinful attitude did the disciples seem to continually struggle with?

• What is the Feast of Tabernacles? What events of Jesus’ ministry surrounded this feast and how did they relate?

• The shortest verse of the Bible is “Jesus wept” (John 11:35). Why did Jesus weep?

• What indictment did the Jews first bring against Jesus? What did they change it to and why did they change it?

• What are the seven statements of Jesus on the cross? What is unique about Jesus’ fourth statement, “My God, My God, why have you forsaken Me?”?

• Select one of Jesus’ post-resurrection appearances and explain the significance.

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PART THREE

The Acts of the Apostles

But you shall receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you; And you shall be witnesses to Me in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria,

And to the end of the earth. Acts 1:8


Acts

Vital Statistics of Acts

I. Authorship

A. Luke

B. Luke was a doctor (cf. Colossians 4:14) and accompanied Paul on his missionary journeys (cf. Acts 16-20).

C. Luke was a Greek Christian and is the only known Gentile author in the New Testament.

D. Luke also wrote the Gospel According to Luke, which is the first part of his two-volume work: Luke-Acts.

E. Luke was not one of the 12 disciples.

II. Dates

Date Written: 63 – 70 AD


Luke is writing to Theophilus, whose name means “one who loves God.” Acts is also written for all people who love God.

IV. Purpose

A. Historical: To present an accurate account of the birth and growth of the Christian church.

B. Christological: To present the continuing work of Jesus Christ through the establishment of the Christian church.

V. Key Word & Verse

A. Key Word: Witness

B. Key Verse: Acts 1:8

Outline of Acts I. Peter’s Ministry (Acts 1:1 – 12:25)

A. The Establishment of the Church

B. The Expansion of the Church

II. Paul’s Ministry (Acts 13:1 – 28:31)

A. The First Missionary Journey

B. The Council at Jerusalem

C. The Second Missionary Journey

D. The Third Missionary Journey

E. The Trial of Paul

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The Establishment of the Church

Pentecost and the New Church I. Introduction

A. “Behold, I send the Promise of My Father upon you; but tarry in the city of Jerusalem until you are endued with power from on high” (Luke 24:49).

B. The disciples want to know when the physical kingdom will come. “Lord will You at this time restore the kingdom of Israel?” (Acts 1:6).

C. The Great Commission was given again. “But you shall receive power when the Holy Spirit is come upon you; and you shall be witnesses to Me in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth” (Acts 1:8).

D. Jesus ascended into Heaven (cf. Acts 1:9-11).

E. Prayer is essential to the Christian faith and has always been foundational to the church (cf. Acts 1:12-14).

II. Sunday, Six Weeks after the Resurrection (Acts 1:1-26)

A. A week has past and Jesus did not appear to them today.

B. The Holy Spirit has still not come.

C. The eleven apostles decided to elect a twelfth apostle. What were the qualifications to be one of the twelve?

a. Traveled with Jesus from the time of His baptism (cf. Acts 1:21-22).

b. Witness of the resurrection (cf. Acts 1:22).

D. Why they were proper to “complete” their number.

a. The number eleven was incomplete. Twelve is a number of completion.

b. They searched the Scriptures of prophecy concerning Judas and concluded Psalm 69:25 and Psalm 109:8 spoke of Judas (cf. Acts 1:20).

c. Joseph called Barsabas, and Matthias fit the qualifications (cf. Acts 1:21-23).

d. They asked the Lord through prayer to guide their decision (cf. Acts 1:24-25).

E. Should they have waited for the Apostle Paul?

a. Paul was the apostle to the Gentiles.

b. Paul advanced the church and missions.

c. Paul was used of God to write Scripture.

d. Matthias was never mentioned again.

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e. Casting lots does not seem to be the appropriate manner of selection.

III. Sunday, Seven Weeks after the Resurrection (Acts 2:1-47)

A. The Day of Pentecost had fully come.

B. They were in unity with one another.

C. They experienced miraculous signs.

a. Sound of a rushing mighty wind.

b. Divided tongues, as of fire, upon each of them.

c. They spoke in other tongues (foreign languages).

D. There was an outpouring of the Holy Spirit. Approximately 3000 people were saved and added to the church.

E. They preached Jesus crucified and now reigning as Christ and Lord.

F. The continued to observe what the apostles were teaching (sound doctrine), they ministered to one another, and spent time in prayer.

IV. Evangelistic Ministry (Acts 3:1-26)

A. Peter and John went to the temple to pray. “Silver and gold, I do not have, but what I do have I give you; in the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, rise up and walk” (Acts 3:6).

B. They continued to preach Jesus crucified and raised from the dead (cf. Acts 3:14-15).

C. People were amazed (cf. Acts 3:10).

V. Persecution of the Church (Acts 4:1-31)

A. The persecution of the church grew in intensity.

a. Mocked. “They are full of new win” (Acts 2:13).

b. Threatened. “…further threatened them…” (Acts 4:21).

c. Jailed. “…put them in the common prison” (Acts 5:18).

d. Beaten. “…beaten them…” (Acts 5:40).

e. Killed. “And they stoned Stephen…” (Acts 7:59).

B. How was the name of Jesus powerful?

a. Power of Jesus’ name to save. “…no other name given under heaven given among men by which we must be saved” (Acts 4:12).

b. Power of a testimony. “For we cannot but speak the things which we have seen and heard” (Acts 4:20).

c. Power of a changed life. “By the name of Jesus Christ… this man stands here before you whole” (Acts 4:10).

d. Power of prayer. “Lord, look on their threats, and grant

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to Your servants that with all boldness they may speak Your word” (Acts 4:29).

VI. Barnabas, Apostle to the Outcast (Acts 4:32-37)

A. He was a Levite, property owner from Cyprus. It was illegal for a Levite to own property (cf. Deut. 18:1-2).

B. Tradition suggests that Barnabas was the rich young ruler (cf. Luke 18:18-30). Money was the issue of his discipleship.

C. The name Barnabas means “Son of Encouragement.”

D. Barnabas always stood up for the outcast. He took up the case of Paul (cf. Acts 9:27), the Church at Antioch (cf. Acts 11:22-26), and John Mark (cf. Acts 15:39).

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The Expansion of the Church

Growing Pains in the New Church I. Introduction

A. The new church was growing.

a. 120 were praying in the Upper Room (cf. Acts 1:15).

b. 3000 were baptized (cf. Acts 2:14).

c. 5000 men were added (cf. Acts 4:4).

d. More were added (cf. Acts 5:14).

e. The disciples were multiplying (cf. Acts 6:1).

f. They multiplied greatly (cf. Acts 6:7).

g. Then the churches began to multiply (cf. Acts 9:31).

B. The term “numbered” implied those who identified with the church (i.e. members).

II. Internal Problems (Acts 5:1-16)

A. What was the spiritual condition of the church?

a. Great fellowship. “They continued steadfastly in the apostles’ doctrine, fellowship and breaking bread” (Acts 2:42).

b. Miracles. “Many signs and wonders were done by the apostles” (Acts 2:43).

c. Evangelism. “The Lord added to the church daily” (Acts 2:37).

d. Unity. “They were with one accord in one place” (Acts 2:1). “Hold all things common” (Acts 2:44).

B. What did Sapphira and Ananias have going for them?

a. Forgiveness of sin.

b. Blessing of Jesus.

c. Money. “Sold a possession” (Acts 5:1).

d. Acceptance of the people.

C. What brought their problems to surface?

a. Barnabas owned property in Cyprus (his home). He sold his land and gave the money to the church (cf. Acts 4:36-37).

b. Barnabas gave all of it to the church. “Having land, sold it, and brought the money and laid it at the apostles’ feet” (Acts 4:37).

c. Sapphira and Ananias likely saw the response given to Barnabas by others and sought similar praise.

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D. What then were their inward and outward problems?

a. Inward:

i. Desire for praise. They could have been honest and given a percentage, but they wanted others to think they had given everything.

ii. Confidence in money.

b. Outward:

i. Deceived the church. They never said they were giving it all to God, but they let everyone think they gave it all.

ii. Collaborated to lie.

E. How did Peter know they were deceiving the church?

a. Divine Insight.

b. “However, when He, the Spirit of truth, has come, He will guide you into all truth” (John 16:13).

F. How did Peter sort through a complicated problem?

a. Peter explains they didn’t have to sell their property (v.4).

b. Peter explains they didn’t have to give all their money to the church (v.4).

c. Peter explains their only obligation was to tell the truth, but instead they chose to lie (v.4).

G. Why did God judge them instantaneously? God doesn’t seem to do it today.

a. This would have corrupted the church’s foundation.

b. It demonstrates how God feels about hypocrisy.

c. Deceit would likely have become more widespread and destroyed their evangelistic efforts. Instead, the couple served as a warning for shallow followers (cf. Acts 15:13-14).

d. It was a testimony to the unsaved of the serious call of following Christ (cf. Acts 15:12-15).

H. Why did they bury Ananias immediately?

a. Medically. The Jews would not embalm a body because of blood.

b. Unclean. The body that was judged by God was unclean and all who touched the body were unclean.

I. What can we learn from this couple?

a. Hypocrisy. We learn that we can be self-blinded by a deliberate and calculated effort to deceive.

b. We must recognize our potential to inner sin (cf. Rom.

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7:18).

c. We must be honest before God (cf. Rom. 12:1).

d. We must be honest with one another. Talk about what is going on inside you.

e. We must remember that our attitude towards money reflects our inner character.

III. External Problems (Acts 5:17-42)

A. Apostles Arrested. “The men whom you put in prison are standing in the temple and teaching the people!” (Acts 5:25).

B. Saturation Evangelism. “You have filled Jerusalem with your doctrine” (Acts 5:28).

C. Galmaliel’s Counsel (a Pharisee). “But if it is of God, you cannot overthrow it, lest you even be found to fight against God” (Acts 5:39).

IV. Internal Problems (Acts 6:1-7)

A. The Hellenists were upset. “… there arose a murmuring against the Hebrews, by the Hellenists, because their widows were neglected…” (Acts 6:1).

B. Why was this a dilemma? “It is not desirable that we should leave the Word of God and serve tables” (Acts 6:2).

C. What is known about the seven men who were appointed?

a. They had Hellenist names.

b. They were servants (i.e. the name deacon means “to serve.”

c. Their qualifications: good reputation, filled with the Holy Spirit, wise and full of faith.

d. The church grew by the ministry of the Word and the power of the Lord. Only after it grew did the early church need to organize for continued growth.

e. The result of these men serving was more people came to faith. “… and a great many of the priests were obedient to the faith” (Acts 6:7).

V. The Ministry of Stephen the Deacon (Acts 6:8 – 7:60)

A. Stephen the deacon. “… did great wonders and signs among the people” (Acts 6:8). “And they were not able to resist the wisdom and Spirit by which he spoke” (Acts 6:10).

B. Stephen’s sermon. God’s work has been done outside the Temple and outside the Promised Land by those who were at first rejected. “The God of glory appeared to our father Abraham when he was in Mesopotamia” (Acts 7:2).

C. Stephen was the first martyr. “And they cast him out of the city and stoned him” (Acts 7:58).

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D. Stephen’s name means “crown.”

E. Stephen saw Christ prior to being stoned. He saw “… the Son of Man standing at the right hand of God” (Acts 7:56).

F. Stephen’s martyr is the introduction of Saul. “… laid down their clothes at the feet of a young man named Saul” (Acts 7:58).

G. Stephen’s prayer. “Lord, do not charge them with this sin” (Acts 7:60). Saul was converted (i.e. Apostle Paul).

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Philip: Reaching Out from Jerusalem I. Introduction

A. Persecution of the church was growing (cf. Acts 8:1-4).

a. Persecution has existed from the beginning.

b. Persecution intensified with the stoning of Stephen.

c. Persecution grew and scattered believers throughout the regions of Judea and Samaria.

B. The persecution of the church actually led to the spread of the Gospel. Acts 8:1 is the fulfillment of Acts 1:8.

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

b. “Now Saul was consenting to his (Stephen’s) death. At that time the church which was at Jerusalem; and they were all scattered throughout the regions of Judea and Samaria, except the apostles” (Acts 8:1).

II. The Gospel Spreads to Samaria (Acts 8:5-13)

A. Samaria was a logical choice for Christians to flee, considering that most Jewish leaders wouldn’t step foot in Samaria.

B. The Gospel was well received. “There was great joy in that city” (Acts 8:8). What contributed to their reception?

a. John the Baptist is traditionally associated with Samaria.

b. Jesus’ ministry there (i.e. The Samaritan Woman).

c. John the Deacon preached the Gospel and even performed miracles there (cf. Acts 8:6-7).

d. The dramatic conversion of Simon the Sorcerer (cf. Acts 8:9-13).

e. The work of the Holy Spirit.

III. Apostolic Confirmation of the New Church (Acts 8:14-25)

A. Why did Peter and John come from Jerusalem?

a. Apostolic confirmation.

b. To report to the believers in Jerusalem what God was doing.

B. Was Simon the Sorcerer saved?

a. Yes.

i. “Then Simon himself also believed” (Acts 8:13).

ii. “… and when he was baptized…” (Acts 8:13).

iii. “… he continued with Philip…” (Acts 8:13).

b. No.

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i. He offered the apostles money to gain the power they had. “And when Simon saw that through the laying on of the apostles’ hands the Holy Spirit was given, he offered them money, saying, “Give me this power also, that anyone on whom I lay hands may receive the Holy Spirit” (Acts 8:18-19).

ii. Peter declares he should perish with his money. Christians don’t “perish” in hell. “But Peter said to him, ‘Your money perish with you, because you thought that the gift of God could be purchased with money!” (Acts 8:20)

iii. Peter said he needed to repent. “You have neither part nor portion in this matter, for your heart is not right in the sight of God. Repent therefore of this your wickedness, and pray God if perhaps the thought of your heart may be forgiven you. For I see that you are poisoned by bitterness and bound by iniquity” (Acts 8:21-23).

iv. Simon requests for prayer. “Pray to the Lord for me, that non of the things which you have spoken may come upon me” (Acts 8:24). If Simon wasn’t saved, then perhaps this encountered with Peter was his point of repentance.

IV. The Ethiopian Eunuch (Acts 8:26-40)

A. Philip was directed by an angel of the Lord (cf. Acts 8:26).

B. Philip encountered an Ethiopian eunuch who was the chief financial officer of Queen Candace of Ethiopia (cf. Acts 8:27).

C. The Ethiopian was likely a wealthy man himself as he was reading a personal copy of Isaiah (cf. Acts 8:28-33).

D. Philip asked, “Do you understand what you are reading?” (Acts 8:30).

E. Ethiopian answered, “How can I, unless someone guides me?” (Acts 8:31).

F. Ethiopian asked, “What hinders me from being baptized?” (Acts 8:36).

G. Philip answered, “If you believe with all your heart, you may” (Acts 8:37).

H. The Ethiopian confesses Christ and was baptized by Philip. “When they came up out of the water, the Spirit of the Lord caught Philip away, so that the eunuch saw him no more” (Acts 8:39).

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Saul of Tarsus I. Introduction: Paul’s Background

A. Boastful Heritage (cf. Phil. 3:5).

a. Circumcised the eighth day (born into Jewish family).

b. Of the stock of Israel (can trace family line to Jacob).

c. Of the tribe of Benjamin (one of the two southern kingdoms that did not revolt).

d. A Hebrew of Hebrews (even all the women in his lineage are Hebrews).

B. Law Abiding (cf. Phil. 3:5-6).

a. Concerning the law, a Pharisee.

b. Concerning zeal, persecuting the church.

c. Concerning the righteousness, which is the law, blameless.

C. Highly Educated (cf. Acts 22:3).

a. A Pharisee, teacher of the law.

b. “Brought up in this city at the feet of Gamaliel” (Acts 22:3).

D. Roman Citizen (cf. Acts 22:27).

a. “‘Tell me, are you a Roman?’ He said, ‘Yes.’” (Acts 22:27).

b. Paul said, “I was born a citizen” (Acts 22:28).

E. Sanhedrin (cf. Acts 26:10).

a. A Pharisee.

b. Voted to kill Christians. “When they were put to death, I gave my vote against them” (Acts 26:10).

c. Consented to Stephen’s stoning. “Now Saul was consenting to his (Stephen’s) death (Acts 8:1a).

d. Authority to arrest from the high priest and elders of the Sanhedrin. “…went to Damascus to bring in chains even those who were there to Jerusalem to be punished” (Acts 22:5).

II. Saul’s Conversion (Acts 9:1-9)

A. Saul had a miraculous encounter with Jesus that led to his conversion.

a. A blinding light (v.9).

b. Jesus was present (v.3).

B. Jesus gave an immediate command. “…go into the city, and you will be told what you must do” (v.6).

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a. New believers are given short-term goals.

b. The faithfulness in your first task as a believer is indicative of long-range usefulness.

C. Saul’s testimony is told three times.

a. Acts 9:13-19

b. Acts 22:6-16

c. Acts 26:12-18

III. Saul’s Preparation (Acts 9:10-19)

A. The Lord spoke to Ananias ahead of time and gave him instructions to go to Saul of Tarsus (cf. Acts 9:10-16).

B. The reputation of Saul was known, but Ananias was obedient to the Lord (cf. Acts 9:17).

C. Ananias accepted Saul into the church. “Brother Saul,…” (Acts 9:17).

D. Saul was baptized. “Immediately there fell from his eyes something like scales, and he received his sight at once; and he arose and was baptized” (Acts 9:18).

IV. Saul’s Example for New Believers (Acts 9:6-22)

A. Saul had an encounter with Jesus and submitted to His authority. “Lord, what do You want me to do?” (Acts 9:6).

B. Saul was filled with the Holy Spirit (cf. Acts 9:17).

C. Saul was obedient to his first task and was baptized (cf. Acts 9:18).

D. Saul spent time with other disciples (cf. Acts 9:19).

E. Saul began serving Christ (cf. Acts 9:20).

F. Saul’s life was changed and it brought fruitfulness to his ministry to others (cf. Acts 9:21).

V. The Persecutor is Persecuted (Acts 9:23-30)

A. The Jews in Damascus sought to kill Saul (cf. Acts 9:23).

B. The Christians in Jerusalem were afraid of Saul (cf. Acts 9:26).

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Cornelius: The Beginning of Gentile Christians I. Introduction

A. The temporary end of persecution. “The churches throughout all Judea, Galilee, and Samaria had peace and … multiplied” (Acts 9:31).

B. The Gospel continues to spread. “Peter went through all parts of the country” (Acts 9:32). “All who dwelt in Lydda and Sharon … turned to the Lord” (Acts 9:35).

II. Cornelius’ Vision of an Angel (Acts 10:1-8)

A. God’s plan has always been to reach the nations through the nation of Israel. The significance of Christ’s ministry must be understood through the history of Israel, but it is now available to everyone. What was predicted in the Old Testament and commanded in the Great Commission is now occurring.

B. God will not turn His back on those who honestly seek Him (cf. Acts 10:2).

C. Angels do not preach, but rather they are God’s messengers. “Send for Peter … will tell you what you must do” (Acts 10:5-6).

III. Peter’s Vision of an Inedible Banquet (Acts 10:9-16)

A. It was about lunchtime (12 noon) and Peter was hungry (cf. Acts 10:9-10).

B. The sheet that had many “unclean” animals on it represented the Gentiles (cf. Acts 10:11-12).

C. The Lord invited Peter to service. “Rise, Peter; kill and eat” (Acts 10:13).

D. Peter responded with an unbiblical oxymoron, “Not so, Lord!” (Acts 10:14).

E. The Lord made clear, “What God has cleansed you must not call common” (Acts 10:15).

F. It appears that God repeated this phrase to Peter three times. As if to say, “Listen to me again… ‘What God has cleansed you must not call common.’ Are you hearing Me, ‘What God has cleansed you must not call common.’” The repetition of three with Peter seems to be significant.

IV. The Invitation to Evangelism (Acts 10:17-23)

A. A Divine Appointment. While Peter was thinking about the meaning of the vision, the men sent from Cornelius show up looking for Peter (cf. Acts 10:17-18).

B. Breaking Down Barriers. Peter understood God’s message to him, “You know how unlawful it is for a Jewish man to keep company with or go to one of another nation. But God has shown me that I should not call any man common or unclean” (Acts 10:28).

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V. The Conversion of Cornelius and His Household (Acts 10:24-48)

A. Peter was faithful to proclaim the Gospel to those who are willing to listen (cf. Acts 10:33).

B. Part of “oikos” evangelism is reaching people for Christ through existing relationships (cf. Acts 10:24). Oikos = household.

C. Peter’s message is Christ crucified and risen on the third day (cf. Acts 10:39-40).

D. As a result, the church continued to grow as new believers received the Gospel and were baptized (cf. Acts 10:48).

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Barnabas: Outreach to the Gentiles I. Introduction

A. Tradition claims that Barnabas was the rich young ruler.

B. Why was the city of Antioch strategic to spreading the Gospel?

a. A Trade Center. It was the gateway between the East and West.

b. International Population. Nearly every ethnic culture lived in the city.

c. Large Population. Antioch was the third largest city in the Roman Empire.

C. The church began when Christians fled Jerusalem because of the persecution of Saul (cf. Acts 8:1-2).

D. Saul had been in Tarsus for 10 years.

II. The Church at Antioch – A Model Example (Acts 11:19-30; 13:1-4)

A. Evangelism.

a. “Now those who were scattered after the persecution that arose over Stephen traveled as far as Phoenicia, Cyprus, and Antioch, preaching the word to no one by the Jews only” (Acts 11:19).

b. “But some of them were men from Cyprus and Cyrene, who, when they had come to Antioch, spoke to the Hellenists, preaching the Lord Jesus” (Acts 11: 20).

c. “And the hand of the Lord was with them, and a great number believed and turned to the Lord” (Acts 11:21).

d. “Then, having fasted and prayed, and laid hands on them, they sent them away” (Acts 13:3).

B. Fellowship.

a. “When he (Barnabas) came and had seen the grace of God, he was glad, and encouraged them all that with purpose of heart they should continue with the Lord” (Acts 11:23).

b. “For he was a good man, full of the Holy Spirit and of faith. And a great many people were added to the Lord” (Acts 11:24).

C. Discipleship.

a. “Then Barnabas departed for Tarsus to seek Saul. And when he had found him, he brought him to Antioch. So it was that for a whole year they assembled with the church and taught a great many people. And the disciples were first called Christians in Antioch” (Acts 11:25-26).

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b. “Then, having fasted and prayed, and laid hands on them, they sent them away” (Acts 13:3).

D. Ministry.

a. “Then the disciples, each according to his ability, determined to send relief to the brethren dwelling in Judea. This they also did, and sent it to the elders by the hands of Barnabas and Saul.

b. They preached, taught, encouraged, gave, etc. Each of these is an act of serving in ministry.

E. Worship.

a. “As they ministered to the Lord and fasted” (Acts 13:2).

b. All of the above bring worship and honor to Jesus.

III. Herod’s Attack on the Church (Acts 12)

A. The Roman Emperor, Caligula, attacked religions in the empire and decreed emperor worship. As a result, the Jews stopped persecuting the church as they defended themselves. He was assassinated on January 24, 41 AD.

B. Caligula’s uncle, Claudius, became the emperor in 41 AD.

a. Conciliation with Jews.

b. Jews got Rome to attack the church. “Herod … stretched out his hand to harass some from the church” (Acts 12:1).

C. James, the brother of John, was beheaded with a sword (cf. Acts 12:2). This was the first apostle to be martyred.

D. Because the beheading of James was well received by the Jews, Herod had Peter arrested with similar intent (cf. Acts 12:3-4).

E. Peter was delivered from the situation by an angel (cf. Acts 12:5-10).

F. There was unbelief in the church that Peter was not imprisoned. “Now Peter continued knocking; and when they opened the door and saw him, they were astonished” (Acts 12:16).

G. Herod died when an angel of the Lord struck him for not giving glory to God. He was eaten by worms and died (cf. Acts 12:21-23).

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The First Missionary Journey

The Apostle Paul’s First Missionary Journey I. Introduction

A. The Gentile focus of Antioch and the church in that city gave impetus to take the Gospel to other Gentile cities.

B. Paul’s first missionary journey began around 45 AD.

II. The Details

A. What was the authority for the trip? (Acts 13:2-4)

a. Jesus commanded. (The Great Commission)

b. The Holy Spirit directed.

c. The local church sent.

B. Why Cyprus first? (Acts 13:4)

a. Cyprus was Barnabas’ home.

b. Led by the Holy Spirit.

C. To whom did they go first? (Acts 13:5)

a. Synagogue.

b. Men of Israel (Jews), and you that fear God (anyone).

D. What was the response of their visit? (Acts 13:6-52)

a. Mixed responses. Just as Jesus said about sowing seeds.

b. Rejection. Some of the Jews were envious of Paul and spoke against him (cf. Acts 13:45).

c. Reception. Nearly the entire city came to here the Word of God (cf. Acts 13:44).

d. Opposition. They were also met with opposition (cf. Acts 13:8).

e. Conversion. Many Gentiles came to know the Lord (cf. Acts 13:48).

f. Thrown out. The Jews stirred up trouble and had them expelled from the city (cf. Acts 13:50).

E. Why did John Mark leave?

a. Some have suggested Mark was simply immature and not ready for the intensity of the trip.

b. Some have suggested he wasn’t being utilized. “They also had John as their assistant” (Acts 13:5).

c. It really isn’t clear.

F. Iconium (Acts 14:1-5)

a. Paul preached in Synagogue.

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b. Almost everyone in the city came to hear the Word of God (cf. Acts 13:44).

c. He was driven out of town by envious Jews.

G. Lystra (Acts 14:6-20)

a. In Lystra, Paul healed a man who had been unable to walk since birth.

b. People attempted deify Paul and Barnabas. They corrected them quickly.

c. The Jews from Antioch and Iconium came and stirred up the crowd and persuaded the crowd to stone Paul.

H. Did Paul die when stoned?

a. “They stoned Paul and dragged him out of the city, supposing him to be dead” (Acts 14:19).

b. Paul describes a moment when he was “… caught up into Paradise…” (2 Cor. 12:4). This may have been that moment.

c. It appears he had a miraculous and immediate recovery (cf. Acts 14:20).

d. Could this have caused him permanent damage? “A thorn in the flesh…” (2 Cor. 12:7).

I. Derbe, Lystra, Iconium, and Antioch (Acts 14:20-28)

a. They preached the Gospel in Derbe and many were saved (cf. Acts 14:21).

b. They returned to Lystra, Iconium, and Antioch to strengthen the disciples there (cf. Acts 14:21-22).

c. They appointed pastors in every church. “…they had appointed elders (pastors) in every church” (Acts 14:23).

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The Council at Jerusalem

James: Leading the Church into Liberty I. Introduction

A. Some (legalistic Christians who were called Judaizers) in the church insisted that the Gentile converts should observe Jewish practices (cf. Acts 15:1).

B. “Paul and Barnabas had no small dissension and dispute with them (Judaizers), they determined that Paul and Barnabas and certain others of them should go up to Jerusalem, to the apostles (the twelve) and elders (pastors), about this question” (Acts 15:2).

C. A church council addresses the concern.

D. Paul and Barnabas gathered support (cf. Acts 15:3).

II. The Jerusalem Council (Acts 15)

A. The purpose was to address the conflict between “legalistic Christians” and “grace Christians.”

B. Peter asked, “Now therefore, why do you test God by putting a yoke on the neck of disciples which neither our fathers nor we were able to bear?” (Acts 15:10).

C. God has confirmed the ministry among the Gentiles through signs and wonders (cf. Acts 15:22).

D. James quoted from the Old Testament. “Gentiles who are also called by my name” (Acts 15:15-16; cf. Amos 9:11-12).

E. What was the conclusion of the council?

a. Circumcision was not necessary for salvation.

b. Abstain from eating food that had been offered to idols.

c. Abstain from sexual immorality.

IV. The Letter of James to Gentile Believers (i.e. Acts 15:23-29)

A. The letter included within the book of Acts (cf. Acts 15:23-29) uses some of the same language that James used in his epistle to the Jewish believers (cf. Acts 15:29; James).

B. James was the half-brother of Jesus.

C. James was the pastor of the church in Jerusalem.

IV. The Letter of James to Jewish Believers (i.e. The Epistle of James)

A. Since the letter within the book of Acts (cf. Acts 15:23-29) addressed the Gentiles, James addresses similar issues in his epistle to Jewish Christians living in Gentile communities (cf. James 1:1).

B. Some have mistakenly thought that James was in conflict with

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Paul. However, James’ message was that saving faith would be demonstrated by its works.

V. The Continued Problem of Legalism

A. What was the influence of the letter from James and the Jerusalem Council? “They rejoiced over the encouragement” (Acts 15:31).

B. Who delivered the letter? Judas and Silas were sent from Jerusalem with the letter (i.e. Acts 15:23-29).

C. The problem came up again. When Peter came to Antioch he ate with Gentiles until Jewish believers showed up from Jerusalem. “Now when Peter had come to Antioch, I withstood him to his face, because he was to be blamed; for before certain men came from James (i.e. came from Jerusalem), he would eat with the Gentiles; but when they came, he withdrew and separated himself, fearing those who were of the circumcision. And the rest of the Jews also played the hypocrite with him, so that even Barnabas was carried away with their hypocrisy” (cf. Gal. 2:12-13).

VI. Paul’s Letter to the Galatians (i.e. The Book of Galatians)

A. The Apostle Paul wrote to the churches of Galatia (cf. Gal. 1:1-2).

B. Galatia is the Southern part of modern day Turkey. This is the region in which much of Paul’s first missionary journey took place.

C. Paul wrote to them in defense of his ministry by proving his apostleship. He also teaches the doctrine of Christian liberty.

Figure 1. Paul’s First Missionary Journey

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The Second Missionary Journey

Taking the Gospel to Europe I. Paul Getting Ready for Second Trip

A. Missionary Conference. “And when they … gathered the church together, they reported all that God had done with them…” (Acts 14:27).

B. Follow-Up Trip. “Let us now go back and visit our brethren in every city … and see how they are doing” (Acts 15:36).

C. Selecting the Team. “Now Barnabas was determined to take with them John … but Paul insisted that they should not take with them the one who had departed” (Acts 15:37-38).

D. Two Teams Developed. “Barnabas took (John) Mark and sailed to Cypress; but Paul chose Silas…” (Acts 15:39-40).

II. Who was John Mark?

A. The Gospel According to Mark was written around this time.

B. What do we know about John Mark?

a. The last supper was held in the “Upper Room” of Mark’s parents’ home. “He (Peter) came to the house of Mary, the mother of John, whose surname was Mark” (Acts 12:12).

b. Barnabas was either John Mark’s cousin or uncle (cf. Col. 4:10).

c. John Mark assisted Barnabas and Paul on their first missionary journey.

d. John Mark quit during the first missionary journey with Barnabas and Paul. “John (Mark) departing from them returned to Jerusalem” (Acts 13:13). This was the primary reason Paul did not want John Mark to join them for their next journey. Paul wanted someone who wouldn’t quit in the middle of the trip.

e. John Mark and Paul later reconciled. From his first imprisonment Paul wrote, “Epaphras, my fellow prisoner in Christ Jesus, greets you, as so Mark, Aristarchus, Demas, Luke, my fellow laborers” (Philemon 23-24). From his second imprisonment Paul wrote, “Get Mark and bring him with you, for he is useful to me for ministry” (2 Timothy 4:11).

f. John Mark was with Paul in Babylon. After Paul’s death, Mark joined Peter (cf. 1 Peter 5:13).

g. John Mark was the writer of Mark’s Gospel account, but Peter was the source of the Gospel account.

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From Tarsus to Troas (Acts 15:40 – 16:11) I. Who was Timothy?

A. He was a convert of Paul (cf. 1 Tim. 1:1-2).

B. He was a young man, probably about sixteen years old.

C. He was from a mixed family. His father was Greek and his mother was a Jewess (cf. Acts 16:1).

D. He was well taught in the Scriptures from childhood (cf. 2 Tim. 3:14-15).

E. He was from a good family. His father was likely not a believer, but his grandmother Lois and his mother Eunice had a huge impact on his faith (cf. 2 Tim. 1:5).

F. He was an eyewitness of persecution (cf. Acts 14:19).

G. He was Paul’s helper after John Mark quit (cf. Acts 13:13; 16:3).

H. He was willing to remove barriers in order to minister to others better (cf. Acts 16:3).

I. He was fruitful in his ministry (cf. Acts 16:5).

II. What Can We Learn from Timothy’s Life?

A. Timothy was an unlikely prospect: 16 years old, unsaved father, raised by his mother, far from Jerusalem, etc.

Principle: God chooses unlikely workers to accomplish His purposes.

B. Timothy heard the Gospel personally. His mother and grandmother taught him the Scriptures and Paul shared the Gospel with him.

Principle: We must be personal we sharing the Gospel.

C. Timothy observed the impact of the preaching of the Gospel.

Principle: The preached Word reinforces our faith.

D. Timothy observed the apostles reject false praise (cf. Acts 14:14-15).

Principle: Always be an example of Jesus Christ.

E. Timothy saw persecution firsthand and still decided to follow Jesus.

Principle: Following Jesus is always the best option.

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Philippi (Acts 16:12-40) I. What was the city of Philippi like?

A. Philippi was a Roman colony that gave citizenship to inhabitants.

B. Philippi was named for Philip II, father of Alexander the Great.

C. Philippi had a small Jewish population.

II. Why was there a prayer meeting by the riverside?

A. The Jewish community was not large enough for a synagogue.

B. Roman colonies tended to insist upon emperor worship and other practices that the Jews found offensive. As a result, Jews tended not to settle in Philippi.

III. What happened while they were in Philippi?

A. Paul and Silas led Lydia to Christ and she was baptized.

B. A demon possessed slave girl followed Paul and Silas around declaring them to be “servants of the Most High God (i.e. El Elyon)” (Acts 16:17). Since this girl was a source of income for her masters, they were upset with Paul and Silas for casting the demon out of her (cf. Acts 16:19).

C. As a result, Paul and Silas were arrested and imprisoned (cf. Acts 16:20-21).

D. While Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God, there was a great earthquake that opened all of the doors and loosed the chains. When the keeper of the prison awakened from sleep and assumed all of the prisoners were gone, he almost took his own life. Instead, Paul called out and said they were all there. As a result, he led him to Christ and then had opportunity to lead his family to Christ as well (cf. Acts 19:25-34).

E. The Philippians jailer asked the right question: “What must I do to be saved?” (Acts 16:30). The answer is clear, “Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and you will be saved, you and your household” (Acts 16:31). Paul is explaining that his whole household can believe on Jesus and be saved too.

F. Paul doesn’t leave quietly and uses his Roman citizenship to his advantage (cf. Acts 16:35-40).

G. The Church at Philippi was extremely close to Paul’s heart. He would later write, “You sent aid once and again for my necessities” (Phil. 4:16).

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Thessalonica (Acts 17:1-9) I. What was the city of Thessalonica like?

A. Thessalonica was named for the wife of King Cassander, 315 BC, the daughter of Philip II (Alexander the Great’s sister).

B. Thessalonica had a large Jewish population as evidenced by the presence of a synagogue.

II. What happened while they were in Thessalonica?

A. They preached there for three Sabbaths (cf. Acts 17:2-3).

B. Many people there were saved through faith in Christ (cf. Acts 17:4).

C. Some of the Jews in the community were not persuaded but incited a mob riot (cf. Acts 17:5-9)

Berea (Acts 17:10-14) I. What was the city of Berea like?

A. Berea means “place of many waters” as it is surrounded by springs in the plain below Mount Bermion.

B. Berea is a city in Macedonia and was not situated on the major highways. It was about 45 west of Thessalonica.

C. Berea is now the modern day city of Verria.

II. What happened while they were in Berea?

A. The Bereans listened and received the preaching of Paul and Silas (cf. Acts 17:10-11).

B. The Bereans searched the Scriptures (i.e. Old Testament) to verify what Paul and Silas were preaching was true (cf. Acts 17:11).

C. A large number of the Bereans, upon verification with the Scriptures, believed on Christ (cf. Acts 17:12).

D. The Jews from Thessalonica came to Berea to cause trouble there too (cf. Acts 17:13).

E. Paul and Silas remained in Berea, but Paul was sent away to protect him from the mob. The Berean Christians accompanied Paul to Athens because they were concerned for his safety (cf. Acts 17:14-15).

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Athens (Acts 17:15-34) I. What was the city of Athens like?

A. In the province of Achaia, Paul ministered to Athens differently from this ministry in Corinth. He preached the exact same message of the Gospel of Jesus Christ, but his approach needed to change.

B. Athens was the center of science, arts, and religion. Therefore, Paul’s approach needed to be more philosophical. His ministry in Corinth, the center of trade and transportation, was much more direct.

II. What happened while they were in Athens?

A. Athens was the home to temples and altars to gods such as Zeus (Jupiter), Athena, as well as “The Unknown God” (cf. Acts 17:16, 23).

B. What was Paul’s approach to ministry in Athens?

a. Synagogues. “Therefore, he reasoned in the synagogue with the Jews and with the Gentile worshippers…” (Acts 17:17).

b. Public Places. “…and in the marketplace daily with those who happened to be there” (Acts 17:17).

C. The people there were not receptive. “…spent their time in nothing else but either to tell or to hear some new thing” (Acts 17:21).

D. How did Paul preach to the people of Athens?

a. He began where they were (cf. Acts 17:22-23).

b. He built bridges (cf. Acts 17:24).

c. He lifted them to Christ (cf. Acts 17:31).

E. Some continued to mock and reject Christ (cf. Acts 17:32).

F. Some, however, did believe (cf. Acts 17:34).

G. While the fruitfulness of Paul’s efforts in Athens were minimal, he was fulfilled his role in presenting the Gospel.

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Corinth (Acts 18:1-17) I. What was the city of Corinth like?

A. The city was a harbor and trade center.

B. Small ships transported over the isthmus on wooden rail.

C. It was a city of loose morals. The Greeks described immorality “to live like a Corinthian.”

II. What happened while they were in Corinth?

A. Paul, a tentmaker by trade, stays with Aquila and Priscilla, fellow tentmakers (cf. Acts 18:1-3).

B. Paul found preaching every Saturday in the synagogues (cf. Acts 18:4).

C. Silas and Timothy catch up with Paul from Macedonia (cf. Acts 18:5).

D. Turning point in Paul’s ministry.

a. While Paul was faithful to preach the Gospel to the Jews, they continually opposed him and his message (cf. Acts 18:6).

b. Paul saw that the Gentiles were more receptive and decided to focus his attention on reaching the Gentiles (cf. Acts 18:6).

c. Paul stopped going to the synagogue, but instead went into homes (cf. Acts 18:7). He will continue to speak in synagogues, but not in Corinth.

d. The Lord appeared to Paul and confirmed his decision to leave the synagogue (cf. Acts 18:9-10).

E. What was the result of Jewish persecution against the church?

a. “When Gallio was proconsul of Achaia, the Jews with one accord rose up against Paul and brought him to the judgment seat, saying, ‘This fellow persuades men to worship God contrary to the law’” (Acts 18:12).

b. “Then all the Greeks took Sosthenes, the ruler of the synagogue, and beat him before the judgment seat. But Gallio took no notice of these things” (Acts 18:17).

c. Apparently, Sosthenes converted! “Paul, called to be an apostle of Jesus Christ through the will of God, and Sosthenes our brother,” (1 Cor. 1:1).

III. Aquila and Priscilla

A. In 52 AD, Roman Emperor Claudius expelled all Jews from Rome, so Priscilla and Aquila moved to Corinth. Since they were tentmakers and Corinth was the center of trade, this was a logical place to relocate.

B. Since Paul was also a tentmaker, he was able to work for them

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and avoid a financial burden on the Corinthian Church.

C. During Paul’s stay with Priscilla and Aquila:

a. Friendship. They developed a lasting friendship. They later traveled with Paul.

b. Salvation. They came to know the Lord as a result of Paul’s ministry.

c. Discipled. They learned the faith so well from Paul they were able to help Apollos understand the Gospel more accurately (cf. Acts 18:26).

d. Persecution. They experienced persecution as well” (cf. Rom. 16:3-4).

e. Served Together. They served as a couple in ministry and served as a helper to Paul” (cf. Rom. 16:3).

D. What happened after Paul’s departure?

a. Priscilla and Aquila were able to help Apollos understand the Gospel more accurately.

i. Apollos had knowledge of the Scriptures (cf. Acts 18:24), he knew the plan of salvation (cf. Acts 18:25), he was enthusiastic (cf. Acts 18:25), and a gifted teacher of the things of the Lord (cf. Acts 18:25).

ii. Apollos “knew only the baptism of John” (Acts 18:25), so his knowledge of discipleship was limited.

iii. Apollos preached in the synagogues and was then able to convince many of the Jews that Jesus was the Christ (cf. Acts 18:26-28).

b. Paul said, “I planted, Apollos watered, but God gave the increase” (1 Corinthians 3:6).

c. Priscilla and Aquila started a church in their home (cf. 1 Cor. 16:19).

d. Priscilla and Aquila were church planters in their new home when they moved back to Rome (cf. Rom. 16:3-5).

e. Paul was in a Roman prison sixteen years after meeting Priscilla and Aquila. They now live in Ephesus and Paul writes, “Greet Priscilla and Aquila and the household of Onesiphorus” (2 Tim. 4:19).

E. Why did Priscilla’s name occur before her husband’s name in Acts 18:18, Romans 16:3; and 2 Timothy 4:19?

a. She may have been more gifted in ministry. They certainly partnered in tent making as well as ministry. While they did both together, she may have devoted more to ministry, while Aquila devoted more to their

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trade.

b. Regardless, they had a clear partnership in work as well as ministry.

IV. The Thessalonians Letters

A. 1 Thessalonians

a. The Apostle Paul wrote 1 Thessalonians shortly after his forced departure from Thessalonica (54-55 AD).

b. Paul was in Corinth when he wrote the letter.

c. Paul wanted to confirm the young believers in the foundations of their faith, to exhort them toward godly living, and to instruct them about the Rapture.

B. 2 Thessalonians

a. The Apostle Paul wrote 2 Thessalonians soon after his first letter.

b. Paul was still in Corinth when he wrote this letter.

c. The recipients thought Christ had come and “missed” them because they were in persecution. They mistook their problems with “the Great Tribulation.” The letter teaches the nature of the tribulation.

Figure 2. Paul’s Second Missionary Journey

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The Third Missionary Journey

The Church at Ephesus I. Introduction: The End of the Second Missionary Journey

A. How did Paul end his second missionary journey?

a. He shaved his head (cf. Acts 18:18).

b. He planned to observe the Passover in Jerusalem (cf. Acts 18:21).

c. He stopped in Ephesus and even went to the synagogue to reason with the Jews there (cf. Acts 18:19).

B. Why did Paul shave his head?

a. “For he had taken a vow” (Acts 18:18).

b. Shaving your head was an indication of the end of a vow or someone who is in mourning. Paul clearly identifies his haircut in association with a previous vow he had taken. It is possible that he was ending a legalistic vow he had previously taken.

II. Ephesus (Acts 18:23; 21:17)

A. How did Paul begin his third missionary journey?

a. He traveled over land through Asia Minor.

b. He wanted to strengthen the disciples (cf. Acts 18:23).

B. What can be known about the twelve disciples of John the Baptist (cf. Acts 19:1-7).

a. They didn’t know about the Holy Spirit.

b. They didn’t know about baptism.

c. They believed and were baptized (cf. Acts 19:4-5)

d. They experienced a “Gentile Pentecost” (cf. Acts 19:6).

C. What happened during the ministry from Ephesus?

a. New location. Started in the synagogue preaching for three months and then moved to the school of Tyrannus (cf. Acts 19:8-9).

b. New strategy. They ministered for two years there and wanted to ensure everyone had head the word of the Lord Jesus (cf. Acts 19:10).

c. New outreach. They had great success in reaching people in Ephesus (cf. Acts 19:20).

D. What do we know about the attempted exorcism?

a. It was attempted by a group of itinerant Jewish exorcists.

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b. Sceva, a Jewish chief priest, and his seven sons are identified as the exorcists.

c. They had no power. “Jesus I know, and Paul I know; but who are you?” The demon moved into the Jewish exorcists (cf. Acts 19:15-16).

E. What were the results when the church cleansed itself of occult objects?

a. God was honored. “… the name of the Lord Jesus was magnified” (Acts 19:17).

b. Rid of occult books. “… those who had practiced magic brought their books together and burned them in the sight of all” (Acts 19:19).

c. Continued growth. “So the word of the Lord grew mightily and prevailed” (Acts 19:20).

III. The First Letter to the Corinthians

A. The Apostle Paul wrote 1 Corinthians sometime around 58-59 AD while he was finishing his ministry in Ephesus.

B. He had received word of problems in Corinth, but couldn’t go to help the church because of the revival at Ephesus.

C. He wrote about seven problems in Corinth.

a. Divisions in the church (cf. 1 Cor. 1:10-11:34).

b. Sexual immorality (cf. 1 Cor. 5:1-7:40).

c. Limitations to Christian liberty (cf. 1 Cor. 8:1-10:15).

d. Conduct at the Lord’s Table (cf. 1 Cor. 10:16-11:34).

e. The nature of spiritual gifts (cf. 1 Cor. 12:1-14:40).

f. The resurrection of the dead (cf. 1 Cor. 15:1-58).

g. The collection for the saints (cf. 1 Cor. 16:1-4).

IV. The Riot of Ephesus (Acts 19:23-41)

A. Why did the silversmith riot? Because people gave up idol worship.

B. The mob chanted loudly, “Great is Diana of the Ephesians!” (Acts 19:28).

C. Because of the danger in Ephesus and the need to raise money for saints in Jerusalem, Paul left to visit the churches.

V. The Second Letter to the Corinthians

A. The Apostle Paul wrote 2 Cor. some time around 59-60 AD.

B. He was probably in Philippi when he wrote this book.

C. He wrote to receive back the repentant member who was excommunicated, comfort the suffering, and defend his apostleship.

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From Ephesus to Jerusalem I. Introduction

A. Paul traveled to Corinth (i.e. South Greece).

B. From Corinth, Paul is going to travel back to Jerusalem and stopping at churches along the way.

II. The Book of Romans

A. The Apostle Paul wrote the book of Romans some time around 60 Ad while he was in Corinth.

B. He gave the most systematic presentation of the Gospel through this book.

C. He addresses: sin is a universal problem (cf. Rom. 1:18; 3:8), everyone is influenced by sin (cf. Rom. 3:9-20), sinners are justified by faith through Christ (cf. Rom. 3:21; 5:21), believers will still struggle with sin but there is victory (cf. Rom. 6:1-8; 39), the problem of the nation of Israel (cf. Rom. 9:1-11; 36), and practical applications of solutions (cf. Rom. 12:1-15; 31).

III. Troas (Acts 20:7-12)

A. The young teenager falls asleep during church while Paul is preaching (cf. Acts 20:9).

B. The young teenager, Eutychus, fell out of the third story window and died (cf. Acts 20:9).

C. Paul went down and raised him from the dead (cf. Acts 20:10).

D. They were greatly comforted (cf. Acts 20:12).

IV. Miletus (Acts 20:13-38)

A. Paul wanted to get to Jerusalem, if possible, on the Day of Pentecost (cf. Acts 20:16).

B. He wanted the pastors from Ephesus to meet him in Miletus.

C. Paul continues to receive warnings that chains and tribulation are waiting for him in Jerusalem, but it doesn’t slow him down (cf. Acts 20:23-24).

D. Pastors Conference. Paul addresses the threefold functions of pastors.

a. Elder (The Preacher) As an elder, you are to feed your flock with the preaching and teaching of God’s Word (cf. Acts 20:28).

b. Pastor (The Shepherd) As a pastor, you are to protect your flock from wolves who seek to do harm (cf. Acts 20:29-31).

c. Overseer/Bishop (The Administrator) As an overseer, you are to lead the church under the guidance of the Holy Spirit (cf. Acts 20:28).

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V. Continued Warnings to Paul (Acts 21:1-27)

A. When Paul arrives at Tyre, the disciples told him not to go to Jerusalem (cf. Acts 21:4).

B. The prophet Agabus warned, “Thus says the Holy Spirit, ‘So shall the Jews at Jerusalem bind the man who owns this belt, and deliver him into the hands of the Gentiles’” (Acts 21:11).

C. With so many people led of the Holy Spirit to warn Paul… “not to return to Jerusalem,” was Paul disobedient to the Holy Spirit?

a. Paul’s response. “What do you mean by weeping and breaking my heart? For I am ready not only to be bound, but also to die at Jerusalem for the name of the Lord Jesus” (Acts 21:13).

b. It appears that God was preparing Paul of the dangers ahead, making him fully aware and with full understanding.

VI. Taking a Vow in the Temple

A. Paul arrives in Jerusalem. The gift he is bringing to the church was so large it took a wagon to deliver it.

B. Paul is confronted as teaching new converts to forsake Moses.

a. He is told to pay for the sacrifice of four young Christians to be purified in the Temple (cf. Acts 21:15-25).

b. Paul, and others, seem to have compromised with the Judaizers. Paul was prevented from actually offering a blood sacrifice when he was dragged from the temple and beaten (cf. Acts 21:26-29).

C. A Roman garrison arrested Paul and chained him (cf. Acts 21:30-36).

D. Paul spoke to the Roman commander in Greek. Paul spoke to the Jewish crowd in Hebrew. He shared his conversion testimony.

E. The Roman commander determined to question Paul with a beating (cf. Acts 22:25).

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Figure 3. Paul’s Third Missionary Journey

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The Trial of Paul

Paul’s Defense I. Introduction

A. It has been about 30 years since Jesus was crucified, buried, and resurrected.

B. Paul is now imprisoned in Jerusalem about 60 AD.

C. Ananias, a former friend of Paul.

a. He has determined not to allow Paul to escape this time.

b. He sees this as an opportunity to “once and for all” deal a fatal blow to Christianity.

II. Trial Before the Sanhedrin

A. Paul was a Pharisee and the members of the Sanhedrin are his “old friends.”

B. Paul declares his innocence (cf. Acts 23:1).

C. Paul did not know that Ananias had been promoted to high priest (cf. Acts 23:3-5).

D. Paul knew the division of theology between the Pharisees and Sadducees. The Pharisees believe in life after death, while the Sadducees do not (cf. Acts 23:6).

E. The Lord appears to Paul and encourages him because he will testify in Rome as well as Jerusalem (cf. Acts 23:11).

F. Paul was to be brought before Felix the governor (cf. Acts 23:23-24).

III. Hearing Before Felix

A. The charge. Paul caused dissension being the Jewish ringleader of the sect of Nazarenes.

B. The defense. “They neither found me in the temple disputing with anyone nor inciting the crowd, either in the synagogues or in the city. Nor can they prove the things of which they now accuse me” (Acts 24:12-13).

C. The procrastination. Felix puts things off, “Go away for now; when I have a convenient time I will call for you” (Acts 24:25). Paul remained bound for two years (cf. Acts 24:22-27).

IV. Hearing Before Festus

A. Festus followed Felix as governor and wanted to establish a good relationship with all Jews. He asked Paul if he was willing to go to Jerusalem for trial. The Jews planned to kill Paul on the way to trial (cf. Acts 25:1-12).

B. Paul appeals to Caesar as a Roman citizen (cf. Acts 25:10-11).

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V. Appearance Before Agrippa and Bernice

A. King Agrippa and Bernice come to Caesarea (cf. Acts 25:13).

B. Paul stands before King Agrippa and shares his personal conversion testimony (cf. Acts 26:1-23).

C. King Agrippa responds, “You almost persuade me to become a Christian” (cf. Acts 26:28).

D. Paul responds that he wishes the king and everyone listening to become the same as Paul (i.e. a Christian) except without chains (cf. Acts 26:29).

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The Journey to Rome I. Introduction

A. The trip to Rome was mandated. “This man might have been set free if he had not appealed to Caesar” (Acts 26:32).

B. Paul was under the supervision of Julian of the Augustan Regiment.

C. Paul’s physical problems flared up. The “thorn in the flesh” woe.

a. Migraine headaches? (Perhaps caused from stoning.)

b. Ophtalmia, a disease of the eyes? (Perhaps caused from stoning.)

II. The Gospel According to Luke

A. Luke, a gentile and physician who traveled with Paul wrote his Gospel account around this time (60 AD).

B. Luke finished writing in Caesarea.

C. Luke is writing to emphasize the humanity and humility of Jesus, the secret of being a Christian is to follow Christ daily, take up your cross, and deny self. The way up is down. To be exalted, humble yourself. The way to victory is surrender.

III. Trip to Rome (Shipwrecked)

A. They detoured around Cyprus because of rough weather and were forced into Crete’s border of Fair Havens.

B. Paul’s prediction. “Men, I perceive that this voyage will end with disaster and much loss” (Acts 27:10).

C. The left the harbor when the winds “blew lightly.” There was a terrible storm for 14 days and they threw the cargo overboard.

D. Paul insisted they eat. “He took bread and gave thanks to God in the presence of them all” (Acts 27:35).

E. Paul was encouraged. “For there stood by me this night an angel of the God to whom I belong and whom I serve” (Acts 27:23).

F. The ship was stuck on the beach and began to break apart. “And the rest, some on boards and some on parts of the ship. And so it was that they all escaped safely to land” (Acts 27:44).

IV. Ministry on Malta

A. After landing on Malta, Paul was bitten by a deadly snake, but he did not die (cf. Acts 28:4).

B. Publius’ father was healed by Paul and became the basis of ministry there. Many people began to be saved (Acts 28:7-10).

C. Paul sailed to Italy. Word spread among the Christians, so they

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came to meet him on the Appian Way.

V. Ministry in Rome

A. He was a political prisoner (cf. Acts 28:16).

B. The Jewish leaders met with Paul and he shared the Gospel of Jesus Christ with them (cf. Acts 28:23).

C. The Jews were blinded with judicial blindness (cf. Acts 28:26-27).

D. The book of Acts has an abrupt ending and doesn’t really bring a conclusion (cf. Acts 28:30-31).

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Paul in Rome I. Introduction

A. No accusation against Paul. The Jews told Paul they never received any letters or accusations from Judea concerning Paul (cf. Acts 28:21).

A. Paul was granted limited freedom, but enough to do ministry. A soldier guarded him (cf. Acts 28:16). He was essentially under house-arrest (cf. Acts 28:30).

B. Acts does not have a clear conclusion. Instead, it just stops. However, it does end in Rome… “the uttermost past of the earth.”

C. The prison letters are considered the “loftiest” in content, emphasizing the believer’s new position “in Christ.”

II. Praetorium Guard

A. Widespread conversions. “…the furtherance of the Gospel evident to the whole palace guard…” (cf. Phil. 1:12).

B. Widespread outreach. Converted guards took the Gospel to the world.

C. Widespread influence. “Especially those who are of Caesar’s household” (Phil. 4:22).

III. The Letter to Acts

A. Luke, a Gentile physician who traveled with Paul wrote the book of Acts as a second volume to his Gospel account (i.e. Luke-Acts).

B. Luke emphasized six great themes of the early church.

a. The power of transformed lives.

b. The church spread from Jews, to Gentiles, to the world.

c. The witness by believers to the resurrected Christ.

d. The Holy Spirit works to convict, convert, and carry out the Great Commission.

e. The foundation of all victory is prayer.

f. The victory shall come to both churches and believers who triumph over barriers to spread the message.

IV. The Prison Letters (Philemon, Ephesians, Philippians, & Colossians)

A. There was an interdependence and cooperation among the churches.

B. Paul was expecting wide circulation. “Now when this epistle is read among you, see that it is read also in the church of the Laodiceans” (Col. 4:16).

C. The strength of the prison letters focused on what believers have “in Christ” (wealth), practical matters of Christian living

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(walk), and reminders from Paul while he was in prison of their fight with the enemy (warfare).

V. The Letter to Philemon

A. Paul wrote this letter to Philemon while he was in prison in Rome some time around 62 AD.

B. This letter with Ephesians and Colossians was delivered by Tychicus (cf. Eph. 6:21; Col. 4:7).

C. Philemon was a wealthy Christian who owned slaves. The church met in his home.

D. Paul was writing to Philemon to ask him to welcome back his runaway slave as a brother in Christ, not as a slave.

E. While Paul did not argue the abolition of slavery, this book has been the basis for abolition of slavery in Christian countries because it deals with the inward reasons to reject slavery (i.e. the brotherly relation between master and slave).

VI. The Letter to the Ephesians

A. Paul wrote this letter to the Ephesians while he was in prison in Rome some time around 62 AD.

B. This letter with Colossians and Philemon was delivered by Tychicus (cf. Eph. 6:21; Col. 4:7).

C. Paul’s letter to the Ephesians was intended to be circulated among the churches.

D. The most systematic presentation of the body of Christ (universal church, church triumphant, invisible church, etc.). Strong emphasis on believer’s unity in Christ.

VII. The Letter to the Philippians

A. Paul wrote this letter to the Philippians while he was in prison in Rome some time around 62 AD.

B. This letter as delivered by Epaphroditus (cf. Phil. 2:25).

C. There was no serious problems addressed, but there was some disharmony (cf. Phil. 4:3).

D. The proper Christian experience is the outworking of “Christ in us.” For me, to live is Christ, and to die is gain” (Phil. 1:21).

VIII. The Letter to the Colossians

A. Paul wrote this letter to the Colossians while he was in prison in Rome some time around 62 AD.

B. This letter with Ephesians and Philemon was delivered by Tychicus (cf. Eph. 6:21; Col. 4:7).

C. This letter was written to correct explicit heresies (i.e. doctrinal errors such as Gnosticism, Stoicism, Epicureanism.

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Paul’s Imprisonments in Rome I. First Imprisonment in Rome

A. A guard stayed with him (cf. Acts 28:16).

B. He had his own rented house (cf. Acts 28:30).

C. He was allowed to have visitors (cf. Acts 28:30).

D. He had limited freedoms (cf. Acts 28:31).

E. He would be under house arrest for two years (cf. Acts 28:30-31).

II. Second Imprisonment in Rome

A. Damp prison.

B. Paul is anticipating his death.

C. Paul has been deserted by some friends (cf. 2 Tim. 1:15).

D. Paul wrote three letters while he was released and then reimprisoned. They are Pastoral Epistles (i.e. 1 & 2 Timothy and Titus).

III. The Letter to Titus

A. Who was Titus?

a. Titus was never mentioned in Acts.

b. Titus was a Gentile, probably from Crete.

c. Titus was led to Christ by the Apostle Paul (cf. Titus 1:4).

d. Titus was a companion in Antioch where he was saved.

e. Titus attended the Jerusalem Conference (cf. Gal. 2:1).

B. Paul wrote this letter to Titus after Paul was released from prison in 63 AD, but before he wrote 1 Timothy.

C. Paul wrote this letter possibly from Corinth as he visited Greece and Minor Asia (cf. Titus 3:2).

D. Paul identifies himself as an apostle because Titus faced those who rejected both (i.e. Titus and Paul).

E. Paul addresses the standards of a pastor, the speaking of a pastor, and the ministry of a pastor.

IV. The First Letter to Timothy

A. Paul wrote this letter to Timothy, the pastor at Ephesus, some time in 63 AD.

B. Paul led Timothy to Christ. “my true son in the faith” (cf. 1 Tim. 1:2).

C. Paul identifies himself as an apostle because false teachers were entering the church (cf. 1 Tim. 1:7) and they were spreading poisonous doctrine (cf. 1 Tim. 6:4-5).

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V. The Second Letter to Timothy

A. Paul wrote this letter to Timothy, the pastor of Ephesus, some time around the autumn of 66 AD.

B. Paul is writing from prison (cf. 2 Tim. 2:9), where he is alone, closely guarded, and strict confinement.

C. Paul wanted to encourage Timothy as a young pastor, knowing the hardship that is facing him (cf. 2 Tim. 1:8; 2:3; 4:5).

D. Paul requested that Timothy come as soon as possible to visit him.

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Study Questions (Part 3): • What was Luke’s profession?

• Tradition says that Barnabas may have been who?

• What does the word “deacon” mean?

• Who is identified in Scripture as the first Christian martyr?

• Who abandoned Barnabas and Paul on their first missionary journey? How did Paul feel about this prior to his second missionary journey? How do we know they were reconciled?

• James, the half-brother of Jesus, was the pastor of what church?

• What did the Judaizers teach? How was this addressed?

• Who went with Paul on his second missionary journey as a partner? Who partnered with Barnabas?

• Why didn’t Philippi have a synagogue?

• How did the Bereans verify what Paul said was true?

• Athens was the center for what activities?

• Corinth was the center for what activities?

• What was the trade of Aquila and Priscilla? Who also had this same trade?

• What warnings did Paul receive as he traveled back to Jerusalem at the end of his third missionary journey?

• What are the threefold functions of a pastor?

• Timothy, a very young pastor, was the pastor of what church?

• What four epistles did Paul write while he was first imprisoned in Rome?

• What three pastoral epistles did Paul write when he had been released and reimprisoned in Rome?

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PART FOUR

The Pauline Epistles

I thank my God upon every remembrance of you, always in every prayer of mine making request for you all with joy,

for your fellowship in the gospel from the first day until now, being confident of this very thing,

that He who has begun a good work in you will complete it until the day of Jesus Christ.

Philippians 1:3-6


Romans

Vital Statistics of Romans I. Authorship

A. The Apostle Paul

II. Dates


B. The book of Romans was written from Corinth as Paul was preparing for his visit to Jerusalem.


A. Paul was writing to Christians in Rome and believers everywhere.

B. Paul had finished his work in the east, and he planned to visit Rome on his way to Spain after first bringing a collection to Jerusalem for the poor Christians there (cf. Rom. 15:23-28). The Roman church was mostly Jewish but also contained a great number of Gentiles.

IV. Purpose

A. Historical: To introduce Paul to the Romans and to give a sample of his message (Paul’s most systematic presentation of the Gospel) before he arrives in Rome.

B. Christological: To demonstrate that righteousness is found through Christ.

V. Key Word & Verse

A. Key Word: Righteousness

B. Key Verse: Romans 1:17

Outline of Romans I. What to Believe (Romans 1:1 – 11:36)

A. Sinfulness of mankind

B. Forgiveness of sin through Christ

C. Freedom from sin’s grasp

D. Israel’s past, present, and future Jesus begins His ministry

II. How to Behave (Romans 12:1 – 16:27)

A. Personal responsibility

B. Personal notes

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1 Corinthians

Vital Statistics of 1 Corinthians I. Authorship

A. The Apostle Paul

II. Dates


B. The book of 1 Corinthians was written near the end of Paul’s three-year ministry in Ephesus, during his third missionary journey.


A. Paul was writing to the church in Corinth and Christians everywhere.

B. Corinth was a major cosmopolitan city, a seaport and major trade center. It was filled with idolatry and immorality. The church was largely made up of Gentiles. Paul had established this church during his second missionary journey.

IV. Purpose

A. Historical: To identify problems in the Corinthian church, to offer solutions, and to teach the believers how to live for Christ in a corrupt society.

B. Christological: To demonstrate the unified hope of believers found through the resurrection of Jesus Christ.

V. Key Word & Verse

A. Key Word: Wisdom

B. Key Verse: 1 Corinthians 1:24

Outline of 1 Corinthians I. Paul Addresses Church Problems (1 Corinthians 1:1 – 6:20)

A. Divisions in the church

B. Disorder in the church

II. Paul Answers Church Questions (1 Corinthians 7:1 – 16:24)

A. Instruction on Christian marriage

B. Instruction on Christian freedom

C. Instruction on public worship

D. Instruction on the resurrection

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2 Corinthians

Vital Statistics of 2 Corinthians I. Authorship

A. The Apostle Paul

II. Dates


B. The book of 2 Corinthians was written after the events of Acts 19:23 – 20:3 probably from Philippi.


A. Paul was writing to the church in Corinth and Christians everywhere.

B. Paul had already written three letters to the Corinthians (two are now lost). In 1 Corinthians (the second of these letters), he used strong words to correct and teach. Most of the church had responded in the right spirit; there were, however, those who were denying Paul’s authority and questioning his motives.

IV. Purpose

A. Historical: To affirm Paul’s ministry, defend his authority as an apostle, and refute the false teachers in Corinth.

B. Christological: Christ uses His people to carry out His ministry.

V. Key Word & Verse

A. Key Word: Comfort

B. Key Verse: 2 Corinthians 1:3-4

Outline of 2 Corinthians I. Paul Explains His Actions (2 Corinthians 1:1 – 2:11)

II. Paul Defends His Ministry (2 Corinthians 2:12 – 7:16)

III. Paul Defends The Collection (2 Corinthians 8:1 – 9:15)

IV. Paul Defends His Authority (2 Corinthians 10:1 – 13:14)

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Galatians

Vital Statistics of Galatians I. Authorship

A. The Apostle Paul

II. Dates


B. The book of Galatians was written to the churches in Galatia surrounding the events of the Jerusalem Council (cf. Acts 15). NOTE: It isn’t clear if Paul wrote before or after the Jerusalem Council.


A. Paul was writing to the churches of Galatia (Southern Turkey) that he planted during his first missionary journey.

B. The most pressing controversy in the early church was the relationship of new believers, particularly Gentiles, to the Jewish laws. This was especially a problem for the converts and for the young churches that Paul had planted on his first missionary journey.

IV. Purpose

A. Historical: To refute the Judaizers (who taught that Gentile believers must obey the Jewish law in order to be saved), and to call Christians to faith and freedom in Christ.

B. Christological: To demonstrate that through Christ we have freedom.

V. Key Word & Verse

A. Key Word: Liberty

B. Key Verse: Galatians 5:1

Outline of Galatians I. Authenticity of the Gospel (Galatians 1:1 – 2:21)

II. Superiority of the Gospel (Galatians 3:1 – 4:31)

III. Freedom of the Gospel (Galatians 5:1 – 6:18)

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Ephesians

Vital Statistics of Ephesians I. Authorship

A. The Apostle Paul

II. Dates


B. The book of Ephesians was written during Paul’s first imprisonment in Rome.


A. Paul was writing to the church at Ephesus and believers everywhere.

B. Tychicus was to deliver the letters (i.e. Ephesians, Colossians, and Philemon) with the instruction to circulate the letters among other churches (cf. Col. 4:7,16).

IV. Purpose

A. Historical: To strengthen the believers in Ephesus in their Christian faith by explaining the nature and purpose of the church, the body of Christ.

B. Christological: To demonstrate the importance of the believers’ unity in Christ.

V. Key Word & Verse

A. Key Word: Body of Christ

B. Key Verse: Ephesians 4:4-6

Outline of Ephesians I. Unity in Christ (Ephesians 1:1 – 3:21)

II. Unity in The Body of Christ (Ephesians 4:1 – 6:24)

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Philippians

Vital Statistics of Philippians I. Authorship

A. The Apostle Paul

II. Dates


B. The book of Philippians was written during Paul’s first imprisonment in Rome.


A. Paul was writing to the church at Philippi and believers everywhere.

B. Paul and his companions planted the church at Philippi during his second missionary journey (cf. Acts 16:11-40). This was the first church established on the European continent.

C. The Philippian church had sent a gift with Epaphroditus to be delivered to Paul, who was in a Roman prison at the time. Paul wanted to thank them for their gift.

IV. Purpose

A. Historical: To thank the Philippians for the gift they had sent Paul and to strengthen these believers by showing them that true joy comes from Jesus Christ alone.

B. Christological: To demonstrate the joy of Christ through any circumstance.

V. Key Word & Verse

C. Key Word: Joy or Rejoicing

D. Key Verse: Philippians 4:4

Outline of Philippians I. Joy in Suffering (Philippians 1:1-30)

II. Joy in Serving (Philippians 2:1-30)

III. Joy in Believing (Philippians 3:1-21)

IV. Joy in Giving (Philippians 4:1-23)

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Colossians

Vital Statistics of Colossians I. Authorship

A. The Apostle Paul

II. Dates


B. The book of Colossians was written during Paul’s first imprisonment in Rome.


A. Paul was writing to the church at Colossae, a city in Asia Minor, and all believers everywhere.

B. Paul had never visited Colossae. The church was likely planted by Epaphras and other converts from Paul’s missionary travels.

C. Tychicus was to deliver the letters (i.e. Ephesians, Colossians, and Philemon) with the instruction to circulate the letters among other churches (cf. Col. 4:7,16).

IV. Purpose

A. Historical: To combat errors in the church such as Gnosticism, Stoicism, and Epicureanism.

B. Christological: To demonstrate that believers have everything they need in Christ.

V. Key Word & Verse

A. Key Word: Sufficiency

B. Key Verse: Colossians 2:9-10

Outline of Colossians I. What Christ Has Done (Colossians 1:1 – 2:23)

II. What Christians Should Do (Colossians 3:1 – 4:18)

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1 Thessalonians

Vital Statistics of 1 Thessalonians I. Authorship

A. The Apostle Paul

II. Dates


B. The book of 1 Thessalonians was written from Corinth shortly after Paul’s forced departure from Thessalonica.


A. Paul was writing to the church at Thessalonica, and all believers everywhere.

B. The church at Thessalonica was very young, having only been established only two or three years prior to this letter. They needed to mature in their faith and they had a misunderstanding concerning what happens to Christians who die before Christ’s return.

IV. Purpose

A. Historical: To strengthen the Christians in Thessalonica in their faith and to give them the assurance of Christ’s return.

B. Christological: The return of Christ is certain.

V. Key Word & Verse

A. Key Word: Example

B. Key Verse: 1 Thessalonians 1:7

Outline of 1 Thessalonians I. Faithfulness to the Lord (1 Thessalonians 1:1 – 3:13)

II. Watchfulness for the Lord (1 Thessalonians 4:1 – 5:28)

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2 Thessalonians

Vital Statistics of 2 Thessalonians I. Authorship

A. The Apostle Paul

II. Dates


B. The book of 2 Thessalonians was written from Corinth soon after he wrote 1 Thessalonians.


A. Paul was writing to the church at Thessalonica, and all believers everywhere.

B. The church at Thessalonica was confused about the timing of Christ’s return. Because of the mounting persecution, they thought the day of the Lord had already come. They mistook their persecution as “the Great Tribulation.” In light of Christ’s coming, they stopped making any plans for the future.

IV. Purpose

A. Historical: To clear up the confusion about the second coming of Christ.

B. Christological: The body of Christ is not to be idle as we wait upon the Lord’s return.

V. Key Word & Verse

A. Key Word: Perseverance

B. Key Verse: 2 Thessalonians 3:5

Outline of 2 Thessalonians I. The Bright Hope of Christ’s Return (2 Thessalonians 1:1 – 2:17)

II. Living in the Light of Christ’s Return (2 Thessalonians 3:1-18)

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1 Timothy

Vital Statistics of 1 Timothy I. Authorship

A. The Apostle Paul

II. Dates


B. The book of 1 Timothy was written from Macedonia (possibly Philippi), after Paul had been released from his first imprisonment in Rome and just prior to his second and final imprisonment in Rome.


A. Paul was writing to Timothy, a convert of Paul’s, and the pastor of the church in Ephesus.

B. The letter was also written for all church leaders and believers everywhere.

C. Timothy was one of Paul’s closest companions. Paul had sent Timothy to the church at Ephesus to counter the false teaching that had arisen there (cf. 1 Tim. 1:3-4).

IV. Purpose

A. Historical: To give encouragement and instruction to Timothy, a young pastor.

B. Christological: “He was manifested in the flesh, vindicated by the Spirit, seen by angels, proclaimed among the nations, believed on in the world, taken up in glory” (1 Tim. 3:16).

V. Key Word & Verse

A. Key Word: Godliness

B. Key Verse: 1 Timothy 3:16

Outline of 1 Timothy I. Instructions on Right Belief (1 Timothy 1:1-20)

II. Instructions for the Church (1 Timothy 2:1 – 3:16)

III. Instructions for Leaders (1 Timothy 4:1 – 6:21)

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2 Timothy

Vital Statistics of 2 Timothy I. Authorship

A. The Apostle Paul

II. Dates

A. Date Written: 66 AD (Autumn)

B. The book of 2 Timothy was written from prison in Rome. Paul was arrested again and will be executed under Emperor Nero.


A. Paul was writing to Timothy, a convert of Paul’s, and the pastor of the church in Ephesus.


C. Timothy was one of Paul’s closest companions. Paul had sent Timothy to the church at Ephesus to counter the false teaching that had arisen there (cf. 1 Tim. 1:3-4).

IV. Purpose

A. Historical: To give final instructions and encouragement to Timothy, pastor of the church at Ephesus.

B. Christological: “If we died with Him, we shall also live with Him. If we endure, we shall also reign with Him. If we deny Him, He also will deny us. If we are faithless, He remains faithful; He cannot deny Himself” (2 Tim. 2:11-13).

V. Key Word & Verse

A. Key Word: Be strong

B. Key Verse: 2 Timothy 2:15

Outline of 2 Timothy I. Foundations of Christian Service (2 Timothy 1:1 – 2:26)

II. Difficult Times for Christian Service (2 Timothy 3:1 – 4:22)

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Titus

Vital Statistics of Titus I. Authorship

A. The Apostle Paul

II. Dates


B. The book of Titus was written from Macedonia (possibly Corinth), after Paul had been released from his first imprisonment in Rome and just prior to his second and final imprisonment in Rome.


A. Paul was writing to Titus, a Greek, probably a convert of Paul’s ministry.


IV. Purpose

A. Historical: To advise Titus in his responsibility of supervising the churches on the island of Crete.

B. Christological: “looking for the blessed hope and glorious appearing of our great God and Savior Jesus Christ, who gave Himself for us, that He might redeem us from every lawless deed and purify for Himself His own special people, zealous for good works” (Titus 2:13-14).

V. Key Word & Verse

A. Key Word: Blessed Hope

B. Key Verse: Titus 2:13

Outline of Titus I. Leadership in The Church (Titus 1:1-16)

II. Right Living in The Church (Titus 2:1-5)

III. Right Living in Society (Titus 3:1-15)

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Philemon

Vital Statistics of Philemon I. Authorship

A. The Apostle Paul

II. Dates


B. The book of Philemon was written during Paul’s first imprisonment in Rome.


A. Philemon, who was probably a wealthy member of the Colossian church.

B. The letter was also written for all believers everywhere.

IV. Purpose

A. Historical: To convince Philemon to forgive his runaway slave, Onesimus, and to accept him as a brother in the faith.

B. Christological: Christ brings reconciliation unto Himself and one another.

V. Key Word & Verse

A. Key Word: Brother

B. Key Verse: Philemon 15-16

Outline of Philemon I. Paul’s Appreciation of Philemon (Philemon 1-7)

II. Paul’s Appeal for Onesimus (Philemon 8-25)

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Study Questions (Part 4): • Which book is Paul’s most systematic presentation of the

Gospel? Why?

• What city was identified as a major cosmopolitan city and the center of trade?

• What book did Paul write to refute the Judaizers? What were the Judaizers teaching?

• What are the four Prison Epistles? Where was Paul imprisoned?

• How do we know that Paul’s letters were intended for circulation among the churches?

• Which book was written to strengthen the believers by showing them that true joy comes from Jesus Christ alone? What circumstances was Paul facing while writing this book?

• What church was battling Gnosticism, Stoicism, and Epicureanism? Define each of these terms.

• Which church had a misunderstanding concerning the second coming of Christ? Why did Paul need to write two letters to them?

• Who was the pastor of the church at Ephesus?

• Who was the pastor responsible for supervising multiple churches on the island of Crete?

• Who was the wealthy man from Colossae who was a former slave owner? What was Paul’s command to him?

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PART FIVE

The General Epistles

For the word of God is living and powerful, And sharper than any two-edged sword,

Piercing even to the division of soul and spirit, And of joints and marrow,

And is a discerner of the thought and intents of the heart. Hebrews 4:12


Hebrews

Vital Statistics of Hebrews I. Authorship

A. Unknown

II. Dates


B. The book of Hebrews was probably written shortly before Paul’s death and before the destruction of Jerusalem in 70 AD.


A. Hebrew Christians (perhaps second-generation Christians, cf. Hebrews 2:3) who may have been considering a return to Judaism, perhaps because of immaturity, stemming from a lack of understanding of biblical truths.


IV. Purpose

A. Historical: These Jewish Christians were undergoing fierce persecution, socially and physically, both from Jews and from Romans. Christ had not returned to establish His kingdom, and the people needed to be reassured that Christianity was true and that Jesus was indeed the Messiah.

B. Christological: To present the sufficiency and superiority of Christ.

V. Key Word & Verse

A. Key Word: Better

B. Key Verse: Hebrews 4:14-16

Outline of Hebrews I. The Superiority of Christ (Hebrews 1:1 – 10:18)

A. Christ is greater than the angels

B. Christ is greater than Moses

C. Christ is greater than the Old Testament Priesthood

D. The New Covenant if Greater than The Old

II. The Superiority of Faith (Hebrews 10:19 – 13:25)

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The Fall of Jerusalem I. Introduction

A. There were waves of persecution by Jews against the church in Jerusalem, mostly because of rivalry or competition, even though they shared similar cultural-religious background. The Roman government looked on the church as a part of the Jewish movement. For the church to stand independently, there had to be a strong distinction between Judaism and Christianity. The book of Hebrews is God’s call to Jewish Christians to leave the temple worship and only follow Christ. The destruction of the temple in Jerusalem also removed the temptation for Jewish Christians to return to temple worship and instead to exclusively worship and follow Christ.

II. The Failure of Legalistic Christians

A. Sacrificing Animals. Denying the very Messiah they typified.

B. Looking to a Priest. Denying the High Priesthood of Jesus.

C. Keeping the religious days and symbols.

III. What Is Better?

A. The Messenger is Better (cf. Hebrews 1:1-4).

B. The Hope is Better (cf. Hebrews 7:19).

C. The Covenant is Better (cf. Hebrews 7:22).

D. The Promises is Better (cf. Hebrews 8:6).

E. The Sacrifice is Better (cf. Hebrews 9:23).

F. The Heavenly Home is Better (cf. Hebrews 10:34).

G. The Hope is Better (cf. Hebrews 11:40).

H. The Blood of Jesus is Better (cf. Hebrews 12:24).

IV. Danger of Going Back

There was a constant temptation for the Jewish believer to return to the Old Testament ways because of the outward things they saw (i.e. Temple, rituals, pageantry, festivals, etc.). They were warned in six passages against going back.

A. Danger of Neglect (cf. Hebrews 2:1-4).

a. Because of Punishment

b. Because of Light

B. Danger of Unbelief (cf. Hebrews 3:7-19).

C. Danger of Disobedience (cf. Hebrews 4:11).

D. Danger of Regressions (cf. Hebrews 6:4-8).

E. Danger of Rejection (cf. Hebrews 10:26-31).

F. Danger of Refusal (cf. Hebrews 12:25-29).

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James

Vital Statistics of James I. Authorship

A. James, the half-brother of Jesus.

B. James was the pastor of the church in Jerusalem.

II. Dates


B. The book of James was written to Jewish believers surrounding the events of the Jerusalem Council (cf. Acts 15).


A. The book of James was written to Jewish Christians residing in Gentile communities.


IV. Purpose

A. Historical: To expose hypocritical practices (i.e. Judaizers) and to teach proper Christian behavior.

B. Christological: Christ is the church’s teacher and He remains functionally active in the church.

V. Key Word & Verse

A. Key Word: Temptations and Trials

B. Key Verse: James 2:18

Outline of James I. Genuine Religion (James 1:1-27)

II. Genuine Faith (James 2:1 – 3:12)

III. Genuine Wisdom (James 3:13 – 5:20)

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1 Peter

Vital Statistics of 1 Peter I. Authorship

A. Peter

II. Dates



A. The book of 1 Peter was written to Jewish Christians driven out of Jerusalem and scattered throughout Asia Minor.


C. Peter was probably in Rome when the persecution under Emperor Nero began. Eventually Peter was executed during this persecution. Throughout the Roman Empire, Christians were being tortured and killed for their faith, and the church in Jerusalem was being scattered throughout the Mediterranean world.

IV. Purpose

A. Historical: To offer encouragement to suffering Christians.

B. Christological: Christ is our hope in the midst of suffering and our example of how to endure suffering faithfully.

V. Key Word & Verse

A. Key Word: Suffering and Glory

B. Key Verse: 1 Peter 1:7

Outline of 1 Peter I. God’s Great Blessings to His People (1 Peter 1:1 – 2:10)

II. The Conduct of God’s People (1 Peter 2:11 – 4:19)

III. The Shepherding of God’s People (1 Peter 5:1-14)

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Peter: The Apostle to the Jews I. Introduction

A. Peter was the apostle to the Jews while Paul was the apostle to the Gentiles. Peter ministered in churches that were predominantly Jewish in nature; hence, as the early church became more Gentile in makeup, Peter’s role diminished. There is no mention of him after his release from Herod’s prison (cf. Acts 12:5-17).

II. Peter in Scripture and History

A. He traveled with his wife. “Do we not have the right to take along a believing wife, as do all the other apostles … and Cephas?” (1 Cor. 9:5).

B. He had a confrontation with Paul. “When Peter had come to Antioch, I withstood him to his face” (Gal. 2:11).

C. John Mark was his associate. The Gospel According to Mark was influenced by Peter as supported by historical testimony: Papias, Irenaeus, Justin Martyr, Clement of Alexandria, Eusebius, and Tertullian all attribute Mark’s Gospel account to Mark acting as Peter’s scribe.

D. History also indicates that Peter was crucified upside-down at his request because he was unworthy to die in the same manner as Jesus.

III. The Four Places of Ministry

A. Antioch (cf. Gal. 2:11-14). Peter was comfortable with Jewish Christians and his “sin” was allowing legalistic believers to intimidate him (cf. Gal. 2:12).

B. Asia Minor (cf. 1 Peter 1:1).

C. Babylon (cf. 1 Peter 5:13). Babylon had one of the largest populations of Jews, who were considered more orthodox than those in Jerusalem.

D. Rome. While Peter was not the first bishop in Rome (i.e. Pope), however, most Bible scholars agree he was martyred in Rome. The church was already established and growing prior to Peter or Paul arriving in Rome, but they did minister there.

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2 Peter

Vital Statistics of 2 Peter I. Authorship

A. Peter

II. Dates


B. 2 Peter was written about three years after 1 Peter was written.


A. The letter was written for all believers everywhere.

IV. Purpose

A. Historical: To warn Christians about false teachers and to exhort them to grow in their faith in Christ and grow in their knowledge of Christ.

B. Christological: One day Christ’s judgment will come to all who refuse to believe.

V. Key Word & Verse

A. Key Word: Knowledge

B. Key Verse: 2 Peter 1:3

Outline of 2 Peter I. Guidance for Growing Christians (2 Peter 1:1-21)

II. Danger to Growing Christians (2 Peter 2:1-22)

III. Hope for Growing Christians (2 Peter 3:1-18)

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1 John

Vital Statistics of 1 John I. Authorship

A. John the Apostle

B. John was the youngest of the twelve, who went all the way to the cross with Jesus, lived the longest and died a natural death. Each of the other disciples who fled the threat of crucifixion with Christ, died a martyr’s death.

C. John was an older man and the only surviving apostle at this time. He had not yet been banished to the island of Patmos, where he would live in exile. As an eyewitness of Christ, he wrote authoritatively to give this new generation of believers assurance and confidence in God and in their faith.

II. Dates



A. The book of 1 John was written from Ephesus to the churches of Asia Minor. The letter is untitled and was written to no particular church.


IV. Purpose

B. Historical: To reassure Christians in their faith and to counter false teachings.

C. Christological: To reaffirm the full humanity and deity of Jesus Christ.

V. Key Word & Verse

A. Key Word: Know

B. Key Verse: 1 John 5:13

Outline of 1 John I. God Is Light (1 John 1:1 – 2:27)

II. God Is Love (1 John 2:28 – 4:21)

III. God Is Life (1 John 5:1-21)

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2 John


A. John the Apostle

B. John does not identify himself, but there are four reasons to believe the author is John the Apostle.

a. Tradition.

b. Literary Style (word use).

c. Spiritual Authority.

d. Apostolic Knowledge.

II. Dates



A. The book of 2 John was written from Ephesus to “the chosen lady and her children.”

a. Literal View. This was written to an individual acquaintance and her family who received itinerant preachers (cf. 2 John 10). Apparently had given boarding to a false teacher.

b. Figurative View. This may have been a metaphor for a local church in Asia Minor who received itinerant preachers. The closing statement, “The children of your chosen sister send their greetings” (2 John 13). This seems to reference John’s home church as a “sister” church and the membership (i.e. children).

IV. Purpose

A. Historical: To emphasize the basics of following Christ, truth and love, and to warn against false teachers.

B. Christological: To declare Christ has come in the flesh.

V. Key Word & Verse

A. Key Word: Love in Truth

B. Key Verse: 2 John 6

Outline of 2 John I. Watch Out for False Leaders (2 John 1-11)

II. John’s Final Words (2 John 12-13)

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3 John


A. John the Apostle

B. The author does not identify himself, but for the same reasons as 2 John, John the Apostle is believed to be the author.

II. Dates



A. The book of 3 John was written from Ephesus to Gaius.

a. Gaius of Derbe (cf. Acts 20:4)?

b. Gaius of Corinth (cf. Rom. 16:23)?

c. Gaius that Paul baptized (cf. 1 Cor. 1:14)?

d. Probably none, but an active layman in the church and personal friend of John. Probably someone that John has led to Christ (cf. 3 John 4).


IV. Purpose

A. Historical: To commend Gaius for his hospitality and to encourage him in his Christian walk.

B. Christological: To show Jesus Christ is the foundation for all theological truth, personal spirituality, and local church life and ministry.

V. Key Word & Verse

A. Key Word: Truth in Love

B. Key Verse: 3 John 5

Outline of 3 John I. God’s Children Live by the Standards of the Gospel (3 John 1-12)

II. John’s Final Words (13-15)

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Jude

Vital Statistics of Jude I. Authorship

A. Jude

B. Which Jude?

a. Jude, the half-brother of Jesus and brother of James the pastor of the church in Jerusalem (cf. Jude 1). (Personal view).

b. Jude, the apostle (i.e. Judas Lebbaues Thaddaeus).

c. Jude, the son of James and grandson of Zebedee.

II. Dates


B. After 1 and 2 Peter were written, because he seems to refer to them (cf. Jude 17-18 with 2 Peter 3:3 and Jude 11-13 with 2 Peter 2:4).


A. The book of Jude was written to Jewish Christians.


IV. Purpose

A. Historical: To remind the church of the need for constant vigilance, to keep strong in the faith, and to oppose heresy.

B. Christological: Jesus is our Sovereign Lord.

V. Key Word & Verse

A. Key Word: Contend for Truth

B. Key Verse: Jude 3

Outline of Jude I. The Danger of False Teachers (Jude 1-16)

II. The Duty to Fight for God’s Truth (Jude 17-25)

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Study Questions (Part 5): • What is the key word for the book of Hebrews? What are

some of the comparisons made?

• What year was the destruction of Jerusalem? What temptation did this solve for some Jewish Christians?

• Who was the pastor of the church in Jerusalem?

• Who was a close companion of Peter and served as his scribe?

• How do we know Peter was married? Were other apostles married?

• Who was the only disciple to die of old age and not die a martyr’s death?

• What are the two views of “the chosen lady and her children” from 2 John?

• What Scriptural support do we have for the author of Jude being the half-brother of Jesus?

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SESSION SIX

The Prophecy

Then He who sat on the throne said, “Behold, I make all things new.” And He said to me, “Write, for these words are true and faithful.”

Revelation 21:5


Revelation

Vital Statistics of Revelation I. Authorship

A. John the Apostle

II. Dates



A. The book of Revelation was written from Patmos to the seven churches in Asia.


C. Most scholars believe the seven churches of Asia to whom John writes were experiencing the persecution that took place under Emperor Domitian (90-95 AD). It seems that the Roman authorities had exiled John to the island of Patmos (off the coast of Asia). John, who had been an eyewitness of the incarnate Christ, had a vision of the glorified Christ. God also revealed to him what would take place in the future, judgment and the ultimate triumph of God over evil.

IV. Purpose

A. Historical: To give warning and hope to all believers concerning Christ, the things to come, a message to the seven churches, and a foundation of worship.

B. Christological: To reveal the full identity of Christ.

V. Key Word & Verse

A. Key Word: Revelation

B. Key Verse: Revelation 1:3

Outline of Revelation I. Letters to the Churches (Revelation 1:1 – 3:22)

II. Message for the Church (Revelation 4:1 – 22:21)

A. Worshipping God in heaven

B. Opening the seven seals

C. Sounding the seven trumpets

D. Observing the great conflict

E. Pouring out the seven plagues

F. Seizing the final victory

G. Making everything new

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The Course of This Age I. Introduction

A. The early church anticipated the soon return of Jesus Christ (cf. Acts 1:6).

B. Jesus could return at any moment throughout history.

C. Even though Jesus has delayed His return, “Of that day and hour no one knows, no not even the angels … but My Father only” (Matt. 24:36).

D. The Lord has not forgotten His promise to return, but He is patiently waiting for more to be saved (cf. 2 Peter 3:9).

E. While we don’t know the day or hour, we are given signs and general principles of what happens concerning end times (cf. Matt. 13:10-11).

II. The Olivet Discourse (Matthew 24-25)

A. What three questions were asked of Jesus concerning the end times?

1. When? “But of that day and hour no one knows, not even the angels in heaven, but My Father only” (Matt. 24:36).

2. What shall be the sign of Your coming? As you get closer, you’ll see more signs.

3. What shall be the sign of the end? Christians will be hated and killed. Many will be offended. People will betray one another and hate one another. False prophets will rise. There will be a total disregard for laws (cf. Matt. 24:9-14).

B. There will be many false prophets.

C. There will be wars and rumors of wars.

1. Between nations.

2. Between alliances. “nation against nation” and “kingdom against kingdom” (cf. Matt. 24:7).

3. Hearing about wars (i.e. “rumors of wars”).

D. There will be famine, epidemic disease, and earthquakes (cf. Matt. 24:7).

E. There will be a disregard to law. “…lawlessness will abound” (Matt. 24:12).

F. There will be a growing apostasy (i.e. an abandonment or renunciation of religious beliefs). “The love of many will grow cold” (Matt. 24:12).

III. The Mysteries of the Kingdom of Heaven (Matthew 13)

A. A mystery is truth hidden but later revealed (cf. Eph. 3:4-5).

B. Jesus taught in parables.

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a. The Sower. Continuous sowing of the Gospel produces a wide variety of results.

b. The Seed. This is the evident power of life in the Word.

c. The Tares. This is a counter sowing by Satan.

d. The Mustard Seed. Christianity will grow outwardly.

e. The Leaven. The Gospel will permeate all areas of life.

f. The Hidden Treasure. God will gather to Himself a peculiar people.

g. The Dragnet. God will end the age in judgment.

IV. The Mystery of Seven Churches (Revelation 2-3)

A. What we learn about Jesus from these churches:

a. Jesus is present in all seven of these churches (cf. Rev. 1:20; 2:1)

b. The sins of these churches were offensive to Jesus.

c. Jesus called five to repentance or risk judgment.

B. These were not the only churches that we in the region of Asia Minor. Why were these chosen? To parallel conditions between the seven churches and the general conditions of the church age.

V. The Seven Churches Aligned with the Church Age

A. Ephesus: The apostolic church that wandered in love (cf. Rev. 2:5). The Apostolic church: 30-100 AD.

B. Smyrna: The church that remained true in trials (cf. Rev. 2:6). The Persecuted church: 100-316 AD.

C. Pergamos: The church that compromised with the world (cf. Rev. 2:14). The State church: 316-500 AD.

D. Thyatira: The church that was entirely corrupt (cf. Rev. 2:20). The Development of the Papacy: 500-1500 AD.

E. Sardis: The church of the reformation (cf. Rev. 3:2). The Dead church of the Reformation: 1500-1700 AD.

F. Philadelphia: The church that had revival and missionary outreach (cf. Rev. 3:8). The Revival Missionary church: 1700-1900 AD.

G. Laodicea: The church that stopped caring and compromised (cf. Rev. 3:15-16). The Apathetic church: 1900 to present.

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The Rapture of the Church I. Introduction

A. The Second Coming focuses on Jesus, not judgments, natural calamities, etc.

B. There will be signs before Jesus returns. A sign is to inform of the nearness of events, but not the exact moment.

C. What are some of the signs before Jesus returns?

a. Israel will return to the land (cf. Ezekiel 37:1-18).

i. Fulfilled: Israel returned in 1948

b. Increase in knowledge (cf. Daniel 12:4).

i. Fulfilled: Knowledge is now increasing at an exponential rate. Previous centuries showed a slight incline, but not rapid.

c. Increase in travel (cf. Daniel 12:4).

i. Fulfilled: We now have global travel as opposed to previous generations.

d. Growing apostasy (cf. 1 Tim. 4:1-3).

i. In Progress: There is a growing abandonment of Christian values and beliefs.

e. Internationalism (cf. Rev. 13:1ff).

i. In progress: There seems to be a movement toward a one-world government (e.g. United Nations, European Union, etc.).

D. The time of His return is unknown (cf. Matt. 24:36).

E. The fact of His return is certain (cf. John 14:3).

II. The Rapture

A. The rapture = “caught up” (cf. 1 Thess. 4:17). “Come up here…” (Rev. 4:1). All believers in the church age will be taken to Heaven with Christ.

B. The characteristics of Jesus’ return:

1. It will be without warning (1 Thess. 4:13).

2. He will descend from the clouds (1 Thess. 4:16).

3. His voice will be as a trumpet blast (1 Thess. 4:16).

4. Dead believers will be resurrected (1 Cor. 15:52).

5. Living believers will follow resurrected believers.

6. All believers will be with the Lord Jesus.

III. The Tribulation (7 Years)

A. The Tribulation will last seven years. The tribulation called the 70th week is for 7 years (cf. Dan. 24-27). The tribulation is

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divided into 42 weeks (Rev. 11:2), 3 ½ years or 1260 days (Rev. 12:6). It is also called “a time and times and half a time” (Rev. 12:14).

B. Those left will be spiritually blinded (cf. 2 Thess. 2:11).

C. The Holy Spirit (i.e. Restrainer) will be taken out of the way (cf. 2 Thess. 2:6-7).

D. A world ruler will be revealed who:

a. Will be opposite of all that God requests.

b. Will take the place of God (i.e. Anti-christ = “in the place of Christ” or “substitute Christ.”

c. Will be an effective communicator (cf. Rev. 13:5).

d. Will be an economist with a plan.

e. Will provide everyone a “number” for economic purposes (cf. Rev. 13:16-17).

f. Will be a statesman who forms a confederation of nations (cf. Rev. 13:1ff).

E. How will this world ruler get everyone to follow his leadership?

a. He will perform signs and wonders (cf. 2 Thess. 2:9-10). Perhaps the same miracles as Jesus.

b. He will be described as raised from the dead (cf. Rev. 13:3).

c. He will oppose and overcome all who refuse (cf. Rev. 13:7).

IV. What Will Be The Future of Israel?

A. The world ruler will make a peace pact with Israel (cf. Dan. 9:27).

a. The world ruler breaks his treaty with Israel after 3 ½ years (cf. Dan. 9:24ff).

b. He will persecute Christians (Jewish believers).

c. He will desecrate the temple (cf. Matt. 24:15).

d. The last half is called “The Great Tribulation.”

B. Israel will rebuild the temple in Jerusalem (cf. Rev. 11:1-2).

C. A Jewish evangelist will preach the Gospel of Jesus worldwide (cf. Rev. 7:1-8).

V. What Events Will Happen in Heaven During the Tribulation on Earth?

A. Worship in Heaven. The throne is beautiful, but the center of attention is Christ. The raptured saints gather around the throne to worship (cf. Rev. 5:12).

B. The saints are given their rewards at the Bema Judgment Seat

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(cf. 2 Cor. 5:10).

C. The saints will give their rewards (i.e. crowns) back to Jesus (cf. Rev. 4:10).

D. The book with the seven seals is opened by Jesus Christ (cf. Rev. 5:5).

VI. What are the Seven Seals?

A. First Seal: Rider on a white horse: fear.

B. Second Seal: Rider on a red horse: took peace from the earth.

C. Third Seal: Rider on a black horse: famine.

D. Fourth Seal: Rider on a pale horse: death.

E. Fifth Seal: 144 Jewish witnesses martyred.

F. Sixth Seal: Anarchy from Hell.

G. Seventh Seal: Great silence in Heaven, the coming of Christ to judge.

Figure 4. Dispensational Premillennial Timeline

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The End of Tribulation I. Introduction

A. After the rapture, the world ruler will make a covenant with Israel for seven years guaranteeing the nation peace, protection, and the right to re-build the Temple (cf. Daniel)

B. The world ruler will use his confederation of ten nations to influence the nations of the world.

C. The world ruler will launch a substitute church based on his signs and wonders that cause many to worship him. Babylon (i.e. Iraq) will be his religious center.

D. The world ruler will introduce an economic recovery plan based on a “cashless” economy whereby all purchases will be base don their assigned numbers.

E. What will life be like during the tribulation?

a. Tentative peace but seething sinfulness.

b. The world will be portrayed by an image of being religious, scientific, cultural, elegant, prosperous, and peaceful. In reality, it will seethe with greed, selfishness, pleasure, political force, sexual deviance, and other abominations (cf. Rev. 17:1-6).

II. After the World Ruler Breaks His Peace Pact with Israel

A. What are the seven trumpets of natural calamities (judgment)?

1. First Trumpet: Partial destruction of vegetation (cf. Rev. 8:7).

2. Second Trumpet: Partial destruction of sea (cf. Rev. 8:8-9).

3. Third Trumpet: Partial destruction of fresh water (cf. Rev. 8:10-11).

4. Fourth Trumpet: Partial darkening of solar light (cf. Rev. 8:12-13).

5. Fifth Trumpet: Release of demons from hell (cf. Rev. 9:1-12).

6. Sixth Trumpet: Release of four angels for destruction (cf. Rev. 9:13-21).

7. Seventh Trumpet: Great announcement of the Kingdom (cf. Rev. 11:15-19).

B. Israel and Jerusalem are targets of oppression.

1. Two witnesses are killed and left in the streets for three and a half days. The whole world will be watching these events unfold (cf. Rev. 11:3-12). Internet? Television?

i. Moses and Elijah?

ii. Elijah and Enoch?

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2. Israel flees to the wilderness (cf. Rev. 12:13-17).

III. A Tale of Two Cities

A. Babylon will be the economic (cf. Rev. 18) and spiritual (cf. Rev. 17) center of the world ruler. Babylon will probably be more encompassing than a rebuilding of historic Nebuchadnezzar’s capital city. The coming Babylon will probably include the entire empire of Nebuchadnezzar (i.e. Iraq, Iran, Syria, Kuwait, and other surrounding Arab nations).

B. Jerusalem and Israel will be the center of God’s influence.

IV. The Seven Bowls of Judgment

A. First Bowl: Physical pain on people (cf. Rev. 16:2).

B. Second Bowl: Sea became blood (cf. Rev. 16:2).

C. Third Bowl: Fresh water turns to blood (cf. Rev. 16:3).

D. Fourth Bowl: Sun scorches the earth (cf. Rev. 16:8-9).

E. Fifth Bowl: The world ruler’s kingdom darkness (cf. Rev. 16:10-11).

F. Sixth Bowl: Euphrates River dries up (cf. Rev. 16:12-16).

G. Seventh Bowl: Babylon destroyed (cf. Rev. 16:17-21).

NOTE: The stage is now set for Jesus’ second coming. He will return with His church.

V. The Battle of Armageddon

A. What will the army be like that attacks Israel?

a. Inspired by demons (cf. Rev. 16:14).

b. Influenced by the world leaders (cf. Rev. 16:15).

c. Joined by armies of the east (cf. Rev. 16:12).

d. The nations of the earth (cf. Rev. 19:19).

B. The world ruler is thrown into the lake of fire (cf. Rev. 19:20).

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The Beginning of Eternity I. The Millennium (1000 Years)

A. The Lord will return to Jerusalem (cf. Zech. 8:3).

B. The throne of David will be established (cf. Luke 1:31-33).

C. David will be the “vice-president”. (cf. Ezek. 37:25).

D. The apostles will administer the kingdom (cf. Matt. 19:28).

E. Christians will reign with Christ (cf. Rev. 20:6).

F. The curse will be removed from nature (cf. Rom. 8:21).

II. The Eternal Abode – Heaven (Rev. 21-22)

A. What will our future abode look like?

a. We will live forever with God.

b. God will rule.

c. The future creation will be new (cf. Rev. 21:5).

B. What will our life be like in Heaven?

a. No Temple (cf. Rev. 21:22).

b. No Sun (cf. Rev. 21:23).

c. No Tears (cf. Rev. 21:4).

d. No Death (cf. Rev. 21:4).

e. No Regrets (cf. Rev. 21:4).

C. The quality of life will be similar to what we experience now without sin and corruption. We will laugh, enjoy creation, enjoy animals, worship Jesus, etc. “Life in heaven will not be that unlike our life on earth.” –Ironside.

D. A crystal clear river flows through the heart of the city, and the tree of life grown on its banks.

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In Conclusion I. The Gospel

A. The Gospel has four major themes: creation, fall, redemption, and restoration.

B. The Old Testament begins with creation, then mankind falls, and is left seeking redemption and restoration.

C. The New Testament begins with Jesus Christ as God’s plan for redemption and ends with the promise of His Second Coming (restoration).

D. The Apostle Paul reminds us that the Old Testament is not complete without the fulfillment of its promises in the New Testament. He said, “Therefore the law was our tutor to bring us to Christ, that we might be justified by faith” (Gal. 3:24).

II. The Major Themes of the New Testament

A. The Life and Ministry of Jesus Christ

B. The Establishment of the New Testament Church

C. The Return of Jesus Christ and Eternity

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Study Questions (Part 6): • Where was John when he wrote the book of Revelation?

• What are some of the signs that will take place before Jesus returns? What evidence do we have that some of these have been fulfilled?

• What does the word “rapture” mean?

• How long will the Tribulation last? What happens after 3 ½ years into the Tribulation?

• What events take place at the end of the seven-year Tribulation and mark the beginning of the Millennial Reign?

• What city will serve as the economic and spiritual center of the world ruler (i.e. Anti-christ)?

• Who will serve as prince during the Millennial Reign?

• What will life be like in Heaven?

• What are the four themes of the Gospel? Which of these themes are addressed in Revelation?

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APPENDIX

Figure 5. Biblical Translation Philosophy Continuum

Figure 6. Dispensational Premillennial Sequence of End Times Events


GLOSSARY OF PEOPLE AND TERMS

Apostasy: the abandonment of Christianity for unbelief.

Canon: “measuring rule,” hence “standard.” The Protestant canon includes thirty-nine books in the OT, twenty-seven in the NT. Protestant churches have accepted these books not because of the decision of a church or council, but because the books themselves were: (a) authoritative: “Thus saith the Lord,” (b) prophetic: OT – prophet, king, judge, etc. or NT – either written by an apostle, the testimony of an apostle, or eyewitness (cf. 2 Peter 1:20), (c) authentic: it must be consistent with other revelation of truth, (d) dynamic: it demonstrates God’s life-changing power (cf. Hebrews 4:12), (e) received: it was accepted and used by believers (cf. 1 Thess. 2:13).

Christological: relating to the theology concerned with the person, attributes, and ministry of Jesus Christ. Furthermore, a Christological Hermeneutic is a method of interpreting Scripture that is concerned with the person, attributes, and ministry of Jesus Christ. The Bible is to be interpreted and understood with a view that Christ is the central personality of all Scripture.

Cooper’s Golden Rule of Interpretation: “When the plain sense of Scripture makes common sense, seek no other sense; therefore, take every word at its primary, ordinary, usual, literal meaning unless the facts of the immediate context, studied in the light of related passages and axiomatic and fundamental truths indicate clearly otherwise.” Here is an abbreviated paraphrase of his rule: “when the literal sense makes good sense, seek no other sense lest it result in nonsense.”

Dynamic Equivalence: a method used to convert source text (e.g. Hebrew or Greek) into another language (e.g. English). The dynamic (also known as functional) method attempts to strike a balance with “word for word” and “thought for thought” approaches to convey the message in the source text. When appropriate, this method employs equivalent expressions and idioms from a contemporary language like English.

Elders: a leader or senior figure in a tribe or group (e.g. Sanhedrin). The office of elder was also used in the first century church as the pastoral role of preaching and teaching.

Epicureanism: an ancient school of philosophy found in Athens by Epicurus. The school advocated hedonism (i.e. pleasure as the highest good), but of a restrained kind: mental pleasure was regarded more highly than physical, and the ultimate pleasure was held to be freedom from anxiety and mental pain, especially that arising from needless fear of death and of the gods.

Formal Equivalence: a method used to convert source text (e.g. Hebrew or Greek) into another language (e.g. English). The formal (also known as literal) method attempts to translate the source text “word for word” into another language.

Gentile: any person who is not Jewish.

Gnosticism: a heretical belief that all matter is evil and only the spirit is good. Salvation could only be gained through secret knowledge. Gnosticism is derived from the Greek word gnosis, meaning “to know.” Gnostics rejected the humanity of Jesus Christ.

Heresy: a belief or opinion contrary to biblical doctrine.


Hermeneutic: concerning interpretation, especially of the Bible or literary texts.

Hypostatic Union: the combination of divine and human natures in the single person of Christ. Jesus is 100% God and 100% man. He was not 50% God (something less than God) and 50% man (something less than human).

Jewess: a Jewish woman or girl.

Judaizers: a term for Christians who insist that the believers should follow the Law of Moses.

Millennial Reign: the thousand-year reign of Christ specifically mentioned in Revelation 20:1-6. It is the anticipated Messianic Kingdom by the Old Testament Prophets. It will follow the Rapture, the Tribulation, and the Second Coming of Christ.

Messiah: the expected king and deliverer of the Jews. “Messianic” is something related to the anticipated Messiah.

Nazarite: a person who voluntarily takes the vow described in Numbers 6:1-21. (a) will not touch anything unclean/dead, (b) will not drink wine, and (c) will not cut their hair.

Parable: a simple story used to illustrate a moral or spiritual lesson.

Paraphrase: a method used to convert source text (e.g. Hebrew or Greek) into another language (e.g. English). The paraphrase method attempts to translate the source text “thought for thought” into another language and is not concerned with translating the exact wording.

Patriarchs: narrowly defined as Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.

Pax Romana: the peace that existed between nationalities within the Roman Empire (literally: “Roman Peace”).

Pentateuch: Greek for the first five books of the Bible (i.e. Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, and Deuteronomy). Pente meaning “five” and teuchos meaning “scroll, tool, or book.”

Pharisees: one of the religious parties that existed among the Jews in the days of Christ and the early church. They taught the Scriptures and believed in the supernatural. They were more popular with the masses than the Sadducees. The Pharisees were part of the Sanhedrin. The will also be referenced as “teachers of the law” or “scribes.”

Prophecy (Broad Definition): The word prophecy means “to forth-tell.” Forth-telling involved insight into the will of God. This type of prophecy exhorted people to change their behavior.

Prophecy (Narrow Definition): The word prophecy means “to fore-tell.” Fore-telling involved foresight into the plan of God. This type of prophecy predicted the future. While many people think of prophecy as fore-telling it is forth-telling that is much more common in the Bible. However, in the instances where fore-telling is used it is compelling evidence that the Bible is in fact the Word of God.

Prophet: The word prophet comes from the word meaning “to announce.” A prophet was God’s mouthpiece or the human instrument through which God declared His message to men.

Rapture: “caught up” (cf. 1 Thess. 4:17). “Come up here…” (Rev. 4:1). All believers in the church age will be taken to Heaven with Christ.


Sadducees: one of the religious parties that existed among the Jews in the days of Christ and the early church. They were the upper class and tended to be more wealthy and held powerful positions such as chief priests (those who had previously served as high priest) and the acting high priest. They held the majority of the seats in the Sanhedrin. They did not believe in the supernatural. They were self-sufficient and denied God’s involvement in daily life. They did not believe in life after death. They also reject the existence of a spiritual world: angels, demons, etc.

Sanhedrin: the Jewish ruling council of 70 seats plus the acting high priest. The Sanhedrin was comprised of three offices: Pharisees, Sadducees, and Elders. The Sanhedrin was abolished after the destruction of Jerusalem (70 AD).

Septuagint (LXX): The Hebrew Scriptures were translated into Greek at Alexandria, Egypt at some time between 280 and 150 BC. This translation is called the Septuagint and is abbreviated with Roman numerals LXX (in reference to the 70 Jewish scholars who translated the Old Testament into Greek).

Second Coming: the return of Christ and His church to the earth to establish His Millennial Reign, following the seven years of tribulation.

Stoicism: an ancient Greek school of philosophy founded in Athens by Zeno of Citium. The school taught that virtue, the highest good, is based on knowledge. It is a submission to fate or providence in which nothing lies within man’s power but imagination, desire, and emotion. Man can perceive and assent to the determinism that makes all events necessary and therefore reduces evil to mere appearance.

Synagogue: a place where Jews gathered for instruction and worship during the New Testament period.

Textual Criticism: the process of attempting to ascertain the original wording of a text.

Tribulation: (1) trouble or affliction of any kind. (2) a seven year period immediately following the Rapture of the church and concluding with the Second Coming of Christ to set up His Millennial Reign.


BIBLIOGRAPHY

Carson, D. A. and Douglas J. Moo. An Introduction to the New Testament. Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan, 2005.

Geisler, Norman L. A Popular Survey of the New Testament. Grand Rapids, MI: Baker Publishing Group, 2014.

Lea, Thomas and David Alan Black. The New Testament: Its Background and Message. Second Edition. Nashville, TN: Broadman & Holman Publishers, 2003.

Scott, J. Julius Jr. Jewish Backgrounds of the New Testament. Grand Rapids, MI: Baker Academic, 1995.

Towns, Elmer L. A Journey through the New Testament: The Story of Christ and How He Developed the Church. Mason, OH: Cengage Learning, 2008.

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