Psalm 32: 5. - I acknowledged my sin unto thee, and mine iniquity have I not hid. I said. I will confess my transgression unto the Lord; and thou forgavest the iniquity of my sin.
Acts 13: 38, 39. - Be it known unto you therefore, men and brethren, that through this man is preached unto you the forgiveness of sins;
And by him all that believe are justified from all things, from which ye could not be justified by the law of Moses.
Romans 8: 32. - He that spared not his own Son, but delivered him up for us all, how shall he not with him also freely give us all things?
1 John 1: 8, 9. - If we say that we have no sin. we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us.
If wo confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.
Luke 24: 45, 46, 47. - Then opened he their understanding, that they might understand the scriptures.
And said unto them. Thus it is written, and thus it behoved Christ to suffer, and to rise from the dead the third day:
And that repentance and remission of sins should be preached in his name among all nations, beginning at Jerusalem.
John 15: 26. - But when the Comforter is come, whom I will send unto you from the Father, even the Spirit of truth, which proceedeth from the Father, he shall testify of me.
2 Timothy 3: 16, 17. - All scripture is given by inspiration of God ancJ is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness:
That the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works.
Acts 10: 42, 43. - And he commanded us to preach unto the people, and to testify that it is he which was ordained of God to be the Judge of quick and dead.
To him give all the prophets witness, that through his name whosoever believeth in him shall receive remission of sins.
John 6: 45. - It is written in the prophets, And they shall be all taught of God. Every man therefore that hath heard, and hath learned of the Father, cometh unto me.
Revelation 14: 13. - And 1 heard a voice from heaven saying unto me, Write, Blessed are the dead which die in the Lord from henceforth: Yea, saith the Spirit, that they may rest from their labours; and their works do follow them.
What is meant by confessing transgressions?
Acknowledging that by our own act we broke away from God.
Why does David mention confessing transgressions?
Because sin reveals its presence by deliberate acts of rebellion.
To Whom did David confess?
To the Lord. Jehovah.
Why is there need to confess to Jehovah?
Bccause sin is a breaking of Jehovah's Covenant.
What lesson do these words convey?
That sin must be confessed to the Lord.
When should sin be confessed?
The moment God's Holy Spirit shows it to us and leads us to
acknowledge it.
III. - Sin Forgiven.
What followed confession?
God forgave the iniquity.
What is meant by forgiving iniquity? .
Removing the guilt of sin so that we are not exposed to punishment
How is the guilt of sin removed?
By the sacrifice of the death of Christ.
What has confession to do with forgiveness?
Although it does not move God to pardon (His own grace does
that) nor yet merits forgiveness (only the death of Christ does
that) yet when God reveals our sin to us and His mercy in
forgiving, true repentance compels confession; and such only as
repent and confess enjoy His pardoning love.
IV. - Error Condemned.
What does the Church of Rome teach concerning confession to God only?
That unless it is accompanied by perfect contrition it is unavailing.
What does she teach concerning confessiion to a priest?
That in this case imperfect contrition, or attrition, suffices.
What is attrition?
Fear arising from the turpitude or wickedness of sin occasioned hy
a dread of God's wrath accompanied by inchoate, or unformed
love, towards God.
At what period was the system of forgiveness by attrition and
confession to a priest instituted according to the Roman Church?
After the advent of our Lord Jesus Christ.
How did the fathers of the Old Testament obtain forgiveness?
By direct confession to God.
What objection is there to suggesting the introduction of a different
method of forgiveness for those in the New Testament times than
to those in Old Testament times?
That there is no hint of it in the New Testament.
What injury is done to the Lord by Rome's theory?
It represents Him as requiring different conditions of forgiveness:
one with, the other without, a priest.
What does the text teach us?
That confession should be made to God direct.
What comfort does it give us in confessing to God?
The moment David's confession was made forgiveness was realised.
Be it known unto you therefore, men and brethren, that through this man
is preached unto you the forgiveness of sins:
And by him all that believe are justified from all things, from which ye
could not bo justified by the law of Moses.
Other Versions' Translations of the Text.
Be it known unto you therefore, brethren, that through this man
is proclaimed unto you remission of sins:
and by him every one that believeth is justified from all things, from which ye
could not be justified by the law of Moses. - R.V.
Therefore let it be known to you, brethren, that through this Man
is preached to you the forgiveness of sins;
and by Him everyone who believes is justified from all things from which you
could not be justified by the law of Moses. - N.K.J.V.
Let it be known to you therefore, brothers, that through this man
forgiveness of sins is proclaimed to you,
and by him everyone who believes is freed from everything from which you
could not be freed by the law of Moses. - E.S.V.
38 So let it be clearly known and understood by you, brethren, that through this Man forgiveness and removal of sins is now proclaimed to you;
39 And that through Him everyone who believes [who acknowledges Jesus as his Savior and devotes himself to Him] is absolved (cleared and freed) from every charge from which he could not be justified and freed by the Law of Moses and given right standing with God. - AMP.
I. - What We Need to Know.
Who spake these words?
Apostle Paul.
Where did he speak them?
In the synagogue of Antioch of Pisidia.
Where is Antioch of Pisidia?
In Asia Minor.
Why does he say " Be it known unto you therefore" ?
Because his statement is a conclusion from what went before.
What was Paul talking about immediately before?
The Resurrection of our Lord.
What importance does this give to the Resurrection?
It makes our hope of salvation depend on the truth of it.
How does our text begin? " Be it known unto you."
What does this teach us about the duty of those who receive the
Gospel?
They ought to make it known.
What can we learn from the use of the word " known "?
That the things concerning salvation are facts, neither imaginations
nor theories.
II.- The Subject of the Proclamation - This Man.
How may we be sure that the things concerning salvation are facts?
By noticing that they centre round the life and work of a real Person.
How is this brought before us in the text?
By the words " Through this man."
What is meant by " through this man " ?
By means of this man. (Greek with Genitive.)
What is meant by " through this man is preached unto you the
forgiveness of sins "?
We proclaim that sins can be forgiven by means of our Lord Jesus Christ
Who is meant by "this man"?
Our Lord Jesus Christ.
What is meant by preached?
Proclaimed or revealed.
What is made known or proclaimed?
Forgiveness of sins.
What does this teach us as to the matter of Gospel preaching?
It is concerned with the forgiveness of sins,
What praciical Gospel blessing is brought before us in these words?
The knowledge of sins forgiven.
III. - The Object of the Proclamation-Justification.
How is this thought of forgiveness expanded? " All that believe are justified from all things."
What is meant by "justified"?
Accounted righteous before God, treated as though we had never
sinned.
Who are said to be justified? " All that believe."
What is meant by "believing"?
Trusting, confiding.
By Whom are those who believe justified?
By our Lord Jesus Christ.
What is meant by saying we are justified by Him?
That faith unites us to Him and He satisfies for all our sins.
How is the fulness of this justification taught? " From all things." (Not to be taken with following as
though it read from all things from which the law of Moses
could not justify, implying some exceptions, but absolutely.)
IV. - The Defect of the Law.
What contrast is introduced in the text? " Could not be justified by the law."
Why could we not be justified by the law of Moses?
Because it only commanded what was to be done, and made no
provision for those who broke it.
What is the difference between the Law and the Gospel?
The Law commands us to do, the Gospel invites us to trust.
In what circumstances could we be justified by the law?
If we observed all its commands without breaking one at any time.
What was the mistake of the Jew?
He thought he could establish his righteousness by the law.
How does our text correct this error?
By teaching we could not be justified by the Law of Moses.
How does our text make room for those who are not Jews?
It tells us that all who believe are justified, whether Jews or Gentiles.
V. - Error Condemned.
How are we to receive the gift of justification?
By believing.
How does the Church of Rome say we receive it?
By sacraments.
How does the Church of Rome think we can increase justification?
By our own good works.
How does this contradict our text?
It would make the law have a part in our justification.
How does it injure the Gospel message?
It teaches that we assist in justification while the text says we " are
justified from all things" by our Lord Jesus Christ.
What is the means of justification in the text?
Believing.
How does that contradict Rome's theory?
It shows that justification must depend entirely on our Lord Jesus
Christ as it is secured by trusting and not by working.
He that spared not his own Son, but delivered him up for us all, how shall
he not with him also freely give us all things ?
Other Versions' Translations of the Text.
He that spared not his own Son, but delivered him up for us all, how shall
he not also with him freely give us all things? - R.V.
He who did not spare His own Son, but delivered Him up for us all, how shall
He not with Him also freely give us all things? - N.K.J.V.
He who did not spare his own Son but gave him up for us all, how will
he not also with him graciously give us all things? - E.S.V.
He who did not withhold or spare [even] His own Son but gave Him up for us all, will He not also with Him freely and graciously give us all [other] things? - AMP.
If we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us.
If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to
cleanse us from all unrighteousness.
Other Versions' Translations of the Text.
If we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us.
If we confess our sins, he is faithful and righteous to forgive us our sins, and to
cleanse us from all unrighteousness. - R.V.
If we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us.
If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to
cleanse us from all unrighteousness. - N.K.J.V.
If we say we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us.
If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to
cleanse us from all unrighteousness. - E.S.V.
8 If we say we have no sin [refusing to admit that we are sinners], we delude and lead ourselves astray, and the Truth [which the Gospel presents] is not in us [does not dwell in our hearts].
9 If we [freely] admit that we have sinned and confess our sins, He is faithful and just (true to His own nature and promises) and will forgive our sins [dismiss our lawlessness] and [continuously] cleanse us from all unrighteousness [everything not in conformity to His will in purpose, thought, and action]. - AMP.
I. - Self-Deception and its Consequences.
Against what error does our text warn us?
Against saying we have no sin.
What does our text to-day warn such people against saying? "We have no sin."
What do we learn from this connection?
That even Christians who are following the Lord are not free trom sin.
What is the error against which our text warns us?
The doctrine of sinless perfection.
How does the error arise?
People mistake a state of cleansing for a state of freedom from the
taint of sin.
What does John say of those who say they have no sin?
They deceive themselves.
What is meant by the word "sin"?
The root of evil in our nature.
What do we call this evil root?
Original, or Birth sin.
How does our Article describe it?
Article 9: the " fault and corruption of the Nature."
What is meant by saying "we deceive ourselves"?
We lead ourselves astray.
How do we lead ourselves astray when we say we have no sin?
We weaken our idea of the power of sin and lessen our watchfulness so that
we fall into evil.
Why does John say "we deceive ourselves"?
Because the error concerns our own state and leads us to wander -
it does not lead others astray.
What does John add? " The truth is not in us."
What is meant by "the truth"?
God's full message concerning sin and redemption.
What is meant by saying "the truth is not in us"?
That we are not possessed and controlled by the truth.
What lesson can we learn from this?
That a sense of sin is an important part of truth.
II. - Confession and its Consequences.
What is the correct thing for us to do?
To confess our sins.
What is meant by "sins" in contrast to "sin"?
The evil thoughts, words and acts that spring from our corrupt
nature.
What is meant by "confessing sins"?
Admitting their presence and dealing with them as God requires.
What is involved in true confession?
Repentance, or forsaking sin. and faith in the power of our Lord s
blood to cleanse them.
To Whom should we confess our sins?
To God against Whom we sinned.
How is this shown in the text?
By the following words. He is faithful and just.
What is meant by " faithful"?
True to His promise, capable of being relied on.
What is meant by "just"?
Righteous.
How does God exhibit His faithfulness?
In forgiving sins.
How does He manifest His righteousness?
In cleansing us from all unrighteousness.
How does our text show that God's faithfulness and righteousness
are connected with our forgiveness and cleansing?
It says that He is faithful and just for the very purpose of forgiving
and cleansing (Greek - in order that He may, etc.).
What is meant by "to forgive us our sins"?
To release us from their guilt.
What is meant by "to cleanse us from all unrighteousness"?
Purifying us from the pollution and defilement of sin.
III. - Error Condemned.
Who wrote the words of our text?
The apostle John.
How do we know he included himself in the message he delivered?
He uses the pronoun " we " throughout.
What does he say concerning himself and others?
We have sin.
How does he express the absolute truth of this?
By saying that if he declared otherwise the truth would not be in him.
What does the Church of Rome teach concerning saints?
That by obedience to counsels of perfection they can acquire merit
before God.
What are "counsels of perfection"?
Commands over and above our duty, which enable us to acquire
superabundant merit.
What does John say of this doctrine? " If we say," etc.
How does the fact that we have sin directly contradict Rome's
theory of merit?
Sin is defect. If John at the end of a busy life still confessed
defect it is absurd to say he acquired merit, much more super-
abundant merit.
Then opened he their understanding, that they might understanded the scriptures,
And said unto them. Thus it is written, and thus it behoved Christ to
suffer, and to rise from the dead the third day:
And that repentance and remission of sins should be preached in his name
among all nations, beginning at Jerusalem.
Other Versions' Translations of the Text.
Then opened he their mind, that they might understand the scriptures;
and he said unto them, Thus it is written, that the Christ should suffer,
and rise again from the dead the third day; and that repentance and
remission of sins should be preached in his name unto all the nations,
beginning from Jerusalem. - R.V.
And He opened their understanding, that they might comprehend the Scriptures.
Then He said to them, "Thus it is written, and thus it was necessary for the Christ to
suffer and to rise from the dead the third day,
and that repentance and remission of sins should be preached in His name
to all nations, beginning at Jerusalem." - N.K.J.V.
Then he opened their minds to understand the Scriptures,
and said to them, "Thus it is written, that the Christ should suffer
and on the third day rise from the dead, and that repentance and
forgiveness of sins should be proclaimed in his name to all nations,
beginning from Jerusalem." - E.S.V.
45 Then He [thoroughly] opened up their minds to understand the Scriptures,
46And said to them, Thus it is written that the Christ (the Messiah) should suffer and on the third day rise from ( among) the dead,
47 And that repentance [with a view to and as the condition of] forgiveness of sins should be preached in His name to all nations, beginning from Jerusalem. - AMP.
I. - The Source of Enlightenment.
With what word does our text open? "Then."
What is meant by "then"?
At that time.
To what time is reference made?
The time between the Resurrection and the Ascension.
What is R.V. for "thus it behoved Christ to suffer"? " That the Christ should suffer."
What is meant by "the Christ"?
The One anointed of God.
What is the Old Testament word for Christ?
Messiah.
IV. - The Consequent Gospel Message.
What other message did our Lord give? " And that repentance," etc.
What is the Rhemish word for " repentance "?
Penance.
What is the usual English word for the word here translated
" Penance "?
Penitence (Latin, paenitentia).
To what mistake is the use of the word " Penance " likely to give
rise?
To the mistake of confounding an outward practice of confession
and the performance of satisfaction with an inward condition of
soul.
What is the meaning of "Remission"?
Forgiveness, release.
What is meant by "in His Name"?
In connection with His Person and work.
How is the universality of the Gospel message emphasised?
That it should be preached " among all nations."
How is the duty of testimony at home made clear? " Beginning at Jerusalem," - that was at home.
V. - Error Condemned.
What two things are closely connected in our text?
Understanding the Scriptures and preaching repentance and forgiveness of sins.
What does this connection teach us?
That the means for securing repentance and forgiveness is to preach
the Word of God.
But when the Comforter is come whom I will send unto you from the
Father, even the Spirit of truth, which proceedeth from the Father, he shall
testify of me:
Other Versions' Translations of the Text.
But when the Comforter is come, whom I will send unto you from the Father,
even the Spirit of truth, which proceedeth from the Father, he shall
bear witness of me: - R.V.
“When the Advocate comes, whom I will send to you from the Father
- the Spirit of truth who goes out from the Father - he will testify about me." - N.K.J.V.
"But when the Helper comes, whom I will send to you from the Father,
the Spirit of truth, who proceeds from the Father, he will
bear witness about me." - E.S.V.
But when the Comforter (Counselor, Helper, Advocate, Intercessor, Strengthener, Standby) comes,
Whom I will send to you from the Father, the Spirit of Truth Who comes (proceeds) from the Father, He [Himself] will testify regarding Me. - AMP.
I. - The Titles of the Holy Spirit.
What is the first name given to the Holy Spirit in our text?
The Comforter.
What is the meaning of the word "Comforter"?
Strengthcner or Helper ("Comfort" in English has changed its
meaning, Compare " comfortable sacrament," which is not exactly
" comforting sacrament " in the modern sense).
What is the reading in the Rhemish Testament?
Paraclete.
What does the Greek word " Paraclete " mean?
One called to your side to help-an Advocate.
How often is the word found in the New Testament?
Five times.
What persons are spoken of as Advocates in New Testament?
The Holy Spirit and our Lord Jesus Christ.
What does the use of the word Comforter or Advocate teach us
concerning the Holy Spirit?
That He helps us by pleading God's cause in our hearts.
What else is the Holy Spirit called in our text? "The Spirit of Truth."
Whatt is meant by saying " The Spirit of Truth "?
The Spirit Who is truth and reveals truth to men.
What help do we get from thinking of the Holy Spirit as " The
Spirit of Truth "?
We know that He is able to teach us all about God and our Lord
Jesus Christ that we require to know
Where is truth found most fully?
In the messages of God to man.
What does this teach us concerning the work of the Holy Spirit?
That it is His work to reveal the things of God to the soul.
II. - The Promise of the Holy Spirit.
What does our Lord promise concerning the Holy Spirit?
Referring to the Holy Spirit, He says, "Whom I will send unto
you from the Father."
What encouragement does this promise give us?
That in all our work for God we have a Divine Helper specially given to us.
III. - The Procession of the Holy Spirit.
What does our Lord say of the Spirit in relation to the Father?
Which proceedeth from the Father.
What is meant by " proceedeth "?
Goes forth.
Where is reference made to these words?
In the Nicene Creed, "who proceedeth from the Father and the Son."
What truth are they used to teach?
That the Holy Spirit eternally goes forth from the Father and the Son.
What is the clause " and the Son " called?
The Filioque clause.
When was it added to ihe Nicene creed.
At the Council of Toledo in Spain, 589.
Why do we think it right to speak of the Holy Spirit as proceeding
from the Father and the Son?
Because both the Father and the Son are said to send the Holy
Spirit and the Father and the Son are both said to dwell in us by the Spirit.
What great truth is preserved by the words of the Niccne Creed?
that the Holy Spirit is truly God of the same power and nature is
the Father and the Son.
How else is this truth taught us in the text?
The Holy Spirit is spoken of as " He."
What is the exact meaning of the word "He" in our text?
That Person.
What is remarkable about the use of the pronoun "He" here?
A masculine pronoun is made to refer to a neuter noun.
What did our Lord mean us to understand by the words " He shall
testify of me"?
No less a Person than the Spirit of Truth shall bear witness.
IV. - The Work of tho Holy Spirit.
What then is the work of the Holy Spirit?
To bear witness of Jesus.
What makes Him specially fit to bear witness?
The fact that He is the Spirit of Truth while our Lord is also the Truth.
What may we learn from the fact that the Holy Spirit testifies of
Jesus?
That the words and works of our Lord Jesus Christ are the final
testimony of God to man.
Against what error does this guard us?
Against the error of those who boast of fresh revelations given by
the Spirit.
In what two special ways is the promise made concerning the Holy
Spirit fulfilled?
In the inspiration of the Bible and in the continual opening of men's
minds to understand it.
V. - Error Condemned.
Who does the Church of Rome say is the vicar of Christ?
The Pope.
What does she say concerning the teaching of the Pope?
That he is infallible when teaching ex cathedra.
From Whom is he supposed to receive this infallible power?
From the Holy Spirit.
How then does the Holy Spirit teach of Jesus according to the
Church of Rome? .
By preserving the Church from error through the infallibility of the Pope.
How did our Lord teach that the Holy Spirit would bear witness?
By direct contact with the souls of men.
All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine,
for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness:
That the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works.
Other Versions' Translations of the Text.
Every scripture inspired of God is also profitable for teaching,
for reproof, for correction, for instruction which is in righteousness:
that the man of God may be complete, furnished completely unto every good work. - R.V.
All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching,
rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness,
so that the servant of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work. - N.K.J.V.
All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching,
for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness,
that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work. - E.S.V.
16 Every Scripture is God-breathed (given by His inspiration) and profitable for instruction, for reproof and conviction of sin, for correction of error and discipline in obedience, [and] for training in righteousness (in holy living, in conformity to God’s will in thought, purpose, and action),
17 So that the man of God may be complete and proficient, well fitted and thoroughly equipped for every good work. - AMP.
What is the meaning of " reproof " ?
Conviction, the power of bringing a sense of sin home to the hearer or reader.
What is the next use?
Correction.
What is the meaning of " correction " here?
That which brings us back to a right state of life and character.
What is the last use mentioned? " Instruction in righteousness."
What is meant by " instruction in righteousness " ?
The whole course of training and discipline which causes us to
go in the way of righteousness.
How might we sum up the teaching given here in a sentence?
All that we require for our spiritual needs can be obtained through
the assistance of Scripture.
What is meant by " perfect "?
Complete, fully prepared. (Special aptitude for given uses.)
What is meant by the " man of God "?
The man who is doing God's work, fulfilling God's purpose; here
particularly the preacher Timothy.
What lesson do we learn from this?
It is only those who read or hear and obey the Scriptures who are
fitted to do God's will in the world.
IV. - The End Aimed at in this Employment
For what purpose does the man of God become perfect?
For " All good works." (R.V, " Every good work.")
What does the study of the Scripture do for the man of God?
It furnishes, or equips, him thoroughly for his work.
What does this teach us concerning the way to use Scripture?
We should so employ it that we become more useful to God and to our fellow-man.
What two great objects had Paul before him when he gave
this message?
The avoidance of coming evil and the exposure of false teachers.
What then are the two uses of Scripture?
To lead us in the way of God and to reveal to us the error of
those who seek to draw us astray.
V. - Error Condemned.
What is the Rhemish note on this text?
It requires us to add to the Old Testament, the New Testament
and the traditions and interpretations of the Church.
On what ground is this contention based?
On the ground that the New Testament was not then written.
How do you reply?
Paul refers to a quality-inspiration-which being present the
profit results. Tradition is not inspired.
How would you show that the interpretation of the Church is
no additional rule of faith?
Two Church teachers axe condemned in the context.
Why do we exclude tradition?
Because Paul definitely teaches that inspired Scripture makes the
man of God perfect.
How does our Article express this? "Holy Scripture containeth all things necessary to salvation" - Article VI.
And be commanded us to preach unto the people, and to testify that it is
he which was ordained of God to be the Judge of quick and dead.
To him give all the prophets witness, that through his name whosoever
believeth in him shall receive remission of sins.
Other Versions' Translations of the Text.
And he charged us to preach unto the people, and to testify that this is
he which is ordained of God to be the Judge of quick and dead.
To him bear all the prophets witness, that through his name every one that
believeth on him shall receive remission of sins. - R.V.
And He commanded us to preach to the people, and to testify that it is
He who was ordained by God to be Judge of the living and the dead.
To Him all the prophets witness that, through His name, whoever
believes in Him will receive remission of sins." - N.K.J.V.
"And he commanded us to preach to the people and to testify that he is
the one appointed by God to be judge of the living and the dead.
To him all the prophets bear witness that everyone who
believes in him receives forgiveness of sins through his name." - E.S.V.
42 And He charged us to preach to the people and to bear solemn testimony that He is the God-appointed and God-ordained Judge of the living and the dead.
43 To Him all the prophets testify (bear witness) that everyone who believes in Him [who adheres to, trusts in, and relies on Him, giving himself up to Him]
receives forgiveness of sins through His name. - AMP.
I. - The Charge of tho Risen Christ.
Who spoke these words?
Peter.
Where were they spoken?
In the house of Cornelius.
What office is here assigned to our Lord Jesus Christ?
That of Judge.
How is the extent of our Lord's office indicated?
He is Judge of quick and dead.
What is meant by "quick"?
Living (compare a quickset hedge). Anglo-Saxon cwic.
Why is the message that our Lord is Judge insisted upon?
It proves the truth of His teaching and brings home a sense of
responsibility.
What lesson do we learn from this fact?
That the Person with Whom we have to do is our Lord Jesus Christ.
III. - The Prophetic Testimony.
What additional evidence did Peter give?
That of the prophets.
What is meant by " To Him give all the prophets witness" ?
The whole Old Testament message is concerned with our Lord Jesus Christ.
Under what three aspects is our Lord presented in prophecy?
As Prophet, Priest, and King.
What other Old Testament representation is there of our Lords
work?
The Suffering Servant.
With what blessing are the prophets concerned?
The remission of sins.
What is meant by " remission " ?
Forgiveness, release from penalty.
How is remission procured? " Through His Name."
What is meant by "Through His Name" ?
In consequence of the Person and work of our Lord Jesus Christ
IV. - The Conditions of Remission.
Who receive the benefit of remission?
Those who believe on Him.
What is meant by " To believe " ?
To put trust in a person or thing.
What is meant by believing in Him?
Directing my trust to Him.
What is the R.V. for " believeth in Him " ? "Believeth on Him." (Greek - unto Him, upon Him.)
What does the message of the prophets teach us?
That our Lord is the centre of truth and life.
V. - Error Condemned.
How does the Church of Rome teach that forgiveness of sins is
obtained?
By the Sacraments of Baptism and Penance.
How does our text say forgiveness is obtained?
By believing on our Lord Jesus Christ.
What is the difference in the teaching of the text and that of
Rome?
The text speaks of a charge to preach forgiveness, the Church of
Rome speaks of administering forgiveness by human agents.
What position does the Church of Rome give the priest in the
Confessional?
The position of a judge.
Who is ordained Judge according to our text?
The Lord Jesus Christ.
What is the condition of blessing in our text?
Believing.
What does the Church of Rome impose?
Union with the Sovereign Pontiff.
It is written in the prophets, And they shall be all taught of God. Every
man therefore that hath heard, and hath learned of the Father, cometh unto me.
Other Versions' Translations of the Text.
It is written in the prophets, And they shall all be taught of God. Every
one that hath heard from the Father, and hath learned, cometh unto me. - R.V.
It is written in the prophets, 'And they shall all be taught by God.'
Therefore everyone who has heard and learned from the Father comes to Me. - N.K.J.V.
It is written in the Prophets, 'And they will all be taught by God.' Everyone who
has heard and learned from the Father comes to me. - E.S.V.
It is written in [the book of] the Prophets, And they shall all be taught of God [have Him in person for their Teacher]. Everyone who has listened to and learned from the Father comes to Me - AMP.
I. - The Prophetic Writings.
To whom were these words spoken?
To the Jews who murmured at our Lord Jesus Christ.
What difficulty had the Jews"?
They could not understand how One Whom they thought they
knew could have come down from heaven.
In what connection do they occur in Isaiah?
In connection with the promised restoration of Israel.
What does our Lord's application of the word to Himself prove?
That He claimed to be tbe fulfilment of the prophet's hope.
II. - The Content of the Message.
What did the prophets say? "They shall be all taught of God."
To whom did the "all " refer in the Old Testament?
To the all who were redeemed and restored.
How does our Lord explain the word "all"?
Every man that hath heard and learned of the Father.
How did our Lord describe the Father's work in the previous
verse?
As drawing.
How do the words "taught of God" explain the meaning of the
words " Except the Father draw him " ?
They show that God draws by opening the mind and heart through His message.
What does this teach us?
That we only really come to God when we understand His mind
and will. (The drawing is not merely an impulse; it is a serious
apprehension of divine truth, and as such is permanent.)
What is meant then by " taught of God " ?
Made to understand His message by His own work in our hearts.
What is the R.V. for "hath heard, and hath learned of the
Father " ? " Hath heard from the Father, and hath learned."
What is meant by " Hath heard from the Father "?
Recognising a message as coming from God Himself.
What does our Lord add to hearing from the Father? " Hath learned."
What does "hath learned" mean?
Hath given due attention to God's revelation,
What does the Saviour say results?
All such come to Him.
What position does this give our Lord?
The position of being the great End of all God's teaching.
What is the great value of the Bible messages?
They are God's way of leading us to our Lord Jesus Christ.
What is it which gives them this power?
The fact that God speaks through them to our very souls.
IV. - The Object of Faith.
How does our Lord show in this text that He alone is the Saviour?
By saying " Every man......cometh unto Me."
What is meant by" cometh" ?
The act of reliance by which we depend on our Lord Jesus Christ.
What three steps in salvation are here given us?
i. Hearing God's voice. ii. Learning God's Will and Purpose. iii.
Coming by an act of will to our Lord Jesus Christ.
What does this teach us about the beginning of our salvation?
That it has its beginning from God and not from us.
Why is it that God must begin the work of salvation in us?
Because by nature we are opposed to God owing to our sinful condition.
How does the Church of Rome divide the members of the Church?
Into the teaching and the hearing body.
What does she mean by the teaching body?
The priests and especially the Bishops with the Pope at their head.
What does she mean by the hearing body?
The laity, who are to receive without question what is taught to them.
What does our text tell us?
Every true believer is taught of God.
What check does this put upon human teachers?
It compels them to prove to their hearers that they are really uttering the words of God.
How does our text contradict Rome's idea?
By showing that the difference between teachers and learners is
only one of degree, as God's will is that both should submit to His Divine guidance.
And I heard a voice from heaven saying unto me, Write, Blessed are the
dead which die in the Lord from henceforth: Yea, saith the Spirit, that they
may rest from their labours; and their works do follow them.
Other Versions' Translations of the Text.
And I heard a voice from heaven saying, Write, Blessed are the
dead which die in the Lord from henceforth: yea, saith the Spirit, that they
may rest from their labours; for their works follow with them. - R.V.
Then I heard a voice from heaven saying to me, "Write: 'Blessed are the
dead who die in the Lord from now on.' " "Yes," says the Spirit, "that they
may rest from their labors, and their works follow them." - N.K.J.V.
And I heard a voice from heaven saying, Write this: "Blessed are the
dead who die in the Lord from now on." "Blessed indeed,” says the Spirit, "that they
may rest from their labors, for their deeds follow them!" - E.S.V.
Then I heard further [perceiving the distinct words of] a voice from heaven, saying, Write this: Blessed (happy, to be envied) are the dead from now on who die in the Lord!
Yes, blessed (happy, to be envied indeed), says the Spirit, [in] that they may rest from their labors, for their works (deeds) do follow (attend, accompany) them! - AMP.
I. - The Heavenly Voice.
What does the apostle John say he heard? " A voice from heaven."
What part does "the voice from heaven" play in the visions of
John?
It usually gives either an explanation of a vision, or some warning, or encouragement.
What contrast is introduced by the voice here?
The contrast between those who receive the mark of the beast and those who refuse.
What does the Spirit say death in the Lord secures?
Rest from pain and toil.
What period is mentioned in the text? " From henceforth."
What is meant by " From henceforth " ?
From the time of this utterance.
Why are the words "from henceforth" given in the heavenly
utterance?
Because the revelation of blessing in death was tully given by
our Lord Jesus Christ. (We follow R.V.)
III.- The State of the Dead in the Lord.
Of what class is this blessing the privilege?
Those who die in the Lord.
What is meant by being "in the Lord" ?
Being brought into living union with Him so as to receive the
benefit of His work for us.
What may we learn from the use of the words which die ?
That this message is extended to all who are in the Lord, who
experience death at any time.
What does this teach us about the Christian's death?
It is no longer a punishment but a release from toil.
IV. - The One Connection with a Previous Existence.
What else does the Spirit add to the heavenly voice? "Their works do follow them."
What is Revised Version for " and their works," etc.? " For their works follow with them."
How does the R.V. treat these words?
As an additional proof that the blessed dead rest from their
labours.
How are these words an additional proof that they rest?
They reveal the character of the dead as those who were blessed
of God.
What lesson do we learn from this last message?
That the only thing that matters here is the life we lead.
V. - Error Condemned.
What does our text tell us about the dead who die in the Lord?
They are blessed and at rest.
What does the Church of Rome teach about the blessed dead?
That they have to spend a period in purgatory.
What is meant by Purgatory?
A place where souls suffer for a time before they enter into heaven.
What do the righteous carry with them into the other world on
this theory?
Their sins.
What does the text tell us they take?
Their works.
What is the contrast between Rome's theory and God's Word?
Rome says:
They suffer.
Their sins follow.
They are to be pitied.
God's Word says:
They rest.
Their works follow.
They are blessed.
Question 19.
Though wickedness be sweet in his mouth, though he hide it under
his tongue; Job 20: 12.
19. And Joshua said unto Achan, My son, give, I pray thee, glory to the
LORD God of Israel, and make confession unto him; and tell me
now what thou hast done; hide it not from me.
20. And Achan answered Joshua, and said, Indeed I have sinned
against the LORD God of Israel, and thus and thus have I done:
21. When I saw among the spoils a goodly Babylonish garment, and
two hundred shekels of silver, and a wedge of gold of fifty shekels
weight, then I coveted them, and took them; and, behold, they are
hid in the earth in the midst of my tent, and the silver under it. Joshua 7: 19-21.
But he went in, and stood before his master. And Elisha said unto
him, Whence comest thou, Gehazi? And he said, Thy servant went
no whither. 2 Kings 5: 25.
If I covered my transgressions as Adam, by hiding mine iniquity in
my bosom: Job 31: 33.
Question 37.
Even as David also describeth the blessedness of the man, unto
whom God imputeth righteousness without works, Romans 4: 6.
Sixth Ten - Text 2
Question 6.
32. And we declare unto you glad tidings, how that the promise which
was made unto the fathers,
33. God hath fulfilled the same unto us their children, in that he hath
raised up Jesus again; as it is also written in the second psalm, Thou
art my Son, this day have I begotten thee. Acts 13: 32, 33.
Sixth Ten - Text 3
Question 1.
What shall we then say to these things? If God be for us, who can
be against us? Romans 8: 31.
Question 3.
- 28. And we know that all things work together for good to them that
love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose.
29. For whom he did foreknow, he also did predestinate to be
conformed to the image of his Son, that he might be the firstborn
among many brethren.
30. Moreover whom he did predestinate, them he also called: and
whom he called, them he also justified: and whom he justified, them
he also glorified. Romans 8: 28-30.
Question 21.
- And we know that all things work together for good to them that
love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose. Romans 8: 28.
Sixth Ten - Text 4
Question 2.
- But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship
one with another, and the blood of Jesus Christ his Son cleanseth us
from all sin. 1 John 1: 7.
Question 4.
- But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship
one with another, and the blood of Jesus Christ his Son cleanseth us
from all sin. 1 John 1: 7.
Sixth Ten - Text 5
Question 4.
- And he said unto them,These are the words which I spake unto
you, while I was yet with you, that all things must be fulfilled,
which were written in the law of Moses, and in the prophets, and in
the psalms, concerning me. - Luke 24: 44.
Question 19.
- And said unto them, Thus it is written, and thus it behoved Christ
to suffer, and to rise from the dead the third day: - Luke 24: 46.
Question 21.
- And said unto them, Thus it is written, and thus it behoved Christ
to suffer, and to rise from the dead the third day: - Luke 24: 46.
Question 23.
- 1. Who hath believed our report? and to whom is the arm of the
LORD revealed?
2. For he shall grow up before him as a tender plant, and as a root out
of a dry ground: he hath no form nor comeliness; and when we
shall see him, there is no beauty that we should desire him.
3. He is despised and rejected of men; a man of sorrows, and
acquainted with grief: and we hid as it were our faces from him; he
was despised, and we esteemed him not.
4. Surely he hath born our griefs, and carried our sorrows: yet we did
esteem him stricken, smitten of God, and afflicted.
5. But he was wounded for our transgressions, he was bruised for our
iniquities: the chastisement of our peace was upon him; and with
his stripes we are healed.
6. All we like sheep have gone astray; we have turned every one to
his own way; and the LORD hath laid on him the iniquity of us all.
7. He was oppressed, and he was afflicted, yet he opened not his
mouth: he is brought as a lamb to the slaughter, and as a sheep
before her shearers is dumb, so he openeth not his mouth.
8. He was taken from prison and from judgment: and who shall
declare his generation? for he was cut off out of the land of the
living: for the transgression of my people was he stricken.
9. And he made his grave with the wicked, and with the rich in his
death; because he had done no violence, neither was any deceit in
his mouth.
10. Yet it pleased the LORD to bruise him; he hath put him to grief:
when thou shalt make his soul an offering for sin, he shall see his
seed, he shall prolong his days, and the pleasure of the LORD shall
prosper in his hand.
11. He shall see of the travail of his soul, and shall be satisfied: by his
knowledge shall my righteous servant justify many; for he shall
bear their iniquities.
12. Therefore will I divide him a portion with the great, and he shall
divide the spoil with the strong; because he hath poured out his
soul unto death: and he was numbered with the transgressors; and
he bare the sin of many, and made intercession for the
transgressors. Isaiah 53.
Question 37.
- 21. Then said Jesus to them again, Peace be unto you: as my Father
hath sent me, even so send I you.
22. And when he had said this, he breathed on them, and saith unto
them, Receive ye the Holy Ghost:
23. Whose soever sins ye remit, they are remitted unto them; and
whose soever sins ye retain, they are retained. - John 20: 21-23
Sixth Ten - Text 6
Question 7.
- My little children, these things write I unto you, that ye sin not.
And if any man sin, we have an advocate with the Father, Jesus
Christ the righteous: - 1 John 2: 1.
Question 15.
- Nevertheless I tell you the truth; It is expedient for you that I go
away: for if I go not away, the Comforter will not come unto you;
but if I depart, I will send him unto you. - John 16: 7.
Question 17.
- I will not leave you comfortless: I will come to you. - John 14: 18.
Sixth Ten - Text 7
Question 3.
- And that from a child thou hast known the holy scriptures, which
are able to make thee wise unto salvation through faith which is in
Christ Jesus. 2 Timothy 3: 15.
Question 4.
- But evil men and seducers shall wax worse and worse, deceiving,
and being deceived. 2 Timothy 3: 13.
Question 5.
- But continue thou in the things which thou hast learned and hast
been assured of, knowing of whom thou hast learned them; 2 Timothy 3: 14.
Question 15.
- And that from a child thou hast known the holy scriptures, which
are able to make thee wise unto salvation through faith which is in
Christ Jesus. 2 Timothy 3: 15.
Question 16.
- All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for
doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in
righteousness: 2 Timothy 3: 16.
Question 18.
- For whatsoever things were written aforetime were written for our
learning, that we through patience and comfort of the scriptures
might have hope. Romans 15: 4.
Question 26.
- That the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all
good works. 2 Timothy 3: 17.
Sixth Ten - Text 8
Question 3.
- 1. There was a certain man in Caesarea called Cornelius, a centurion
of the band called the Italian band,
2. A devout man, and one that feared God with all his house, which
gave much alms to the people, and prayed to God alway. Acts 10: 1, 2.
Question 4.
- And he commanded us to preach unto the people, and to testify
that it is he which was ordained of God to be the Judge of quick
and dead. Acts 10: 42.
Question 6.
- Not to all the people, but unto witnesses chosen before God, even
to us, who did eat and drink with him after he rose from the dead. Acts 10: 41.
Question 13.
- Not to all the people, but unto witnesses chosen before God, even
to us, who did eat and drink with him after he rose from the dead. Acts 10: 41.
Question 14.
- And he commanded us to preach unto the people, and to testify
that it is he which was ordained of God to be the Judge of quick
and dead. Acts 10: 42.
Question 15.
- Because he hath appointed a day, in the which he will judge the
world in righteousness by that man whom he hath ordained;
whereof he hath given assurance unto all men, in that he hath raised
him from the dead. Acts 17: 31.
And declared to be the Son of God with power, according to the
spirit of holiness, by the resurrection from the dead: Romans 1: 4.
Sixth Ten - Text 9
Question 3.
- No man can come to me, except the Father which hath sent me
draw him: and I will raise him up at the last day. - John 6: 44.
Question 10.
- And all thy children shall be taught of the LORD; and great shall
be the peace of thy children. - Isaiah 54: 13.
Question 20.
- 45. Then opened he their understanding, that they might understand the
scriptures,
46. And said unto them, Thus it is written, and thus it behoved Christ
to suffer, and to rise from the dead the third day:
47. And that repentance and remission of sins should be preached in his
name among all nations, beginning at Jerusalem. - Luke 24: 45-47.
Question 34.
- 33. But this shall be the covenant that I will make with the house of
Israel; After those days, saith the LORD, I will put my law in their
inward parts, and write it in their hearts; and will be their God, and
they shall be my people.
34. And they shall teach no more every man his neighbor, and every
man his brother, saying, Know the LORD: for they shall all know
me, from the least of them unto the greatest of them, saith the
LORD: for I will forgive their iniquity, and I will remember their
sin no more. Jeremiah 31: 33, 34.
Sixth Ten - Text 10
Question 4.
- The same shall drink of the wine of the wrath of God, which is
poured out without mixture into the cup of his indignation; and he
shall be tormented with fire and brimstone in the presence of the
holy angels, and in the presence of the Lamb: Revelation 14: 10.
Question 5.
- And he had power to give life unto the image of the beast, that the
image of the beast should both speak, and cause that as many as
would not worship the image of the beast should be killed. Revelation 13: 15.
Question 8.
- Here is the patience of the saints: here are they that keep the
commandments of God, and the faith of Jesus. Revelation 14: 12.
Question 21.
- 28. Come unto me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give
you rest.
29. Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly
in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls.
30. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light. - Matthew 11: 28-30.