Bible Study: Outline of 1 Corinthians Chapter 10

            "Law, Grace, and the Sin of Idolatry"
Note: The majority of the people that were members of the Corinthian church were “Gentiles” Paul wrote this part of the Corinthian letter to them because the "saved Gentiles needed to understand the history of the saved Hebrews among them in the church and how God dealt with the worship of idols. He uses their history and how God dealt with their ancestors to further enforce why the Gentile Christians needed to turn completely away from the sin of Idolatry".

I.         Israel’s “Wilderness Examples” Their History (Psalms 105:39)                (Verses 1-5)

Paul told them: “I don’t want you to be ignorant about Israel’s past” How Judaism was the “precursor to Christianity. It was “Christianity under a veil” wrapped in “types and hints.”

A.   Your Jewish forefathers were “under a cloud” and all passed through the sea. (They were under a “divine covering and conduct”) 

B.   God protected them with His “Sheikinah” Glory Cloud  

The cloud protected them 3 ways: A shiny cloud of light on one side , to show them their way. A fierce cloud of dark on the other to hide them from the pursuing Egyptians; God protected them and drowned the Egyptians when they passed through the Red Sea. and sometimes spread itself over them as a mighty sheet, to defend them from the burning sun in the hot sandy desert,

C.   They were baptized unto Moses in the cloud and in the sea.

They were brought under the Mosaic Covenant in the same manner that we are brought under the Christian Covenant and Law

D.   They all ate the same spiritual meat and drink the same spiritual drink 

The manna represented a type of “crucified” Christ. The water came from a “struck” rock  and followed them all throughout the wilderness. The rock was a type of Christ (solid rock), the foundation on which the church is built.

E.    God was not well pleased with many of them: “God overthrew the parent generation in the wilderness” because of their "rebellion and ingratitude".

Note: A whole rebellious  (parent) generation was dead in the wilderness within 40 years.

II.      Example and Object lesson: Don’t do now what they did back then       (verses 6-11)

A.   Don’t lust after evil things like they did : that is, after their "fleshly desires". 
Many died because God sent plagues the extinguish their raunchy behavior

B.   Don’t be idolaters like they did: 
They sat down  and ate, at the idolatrous feasts then rose up to play (to folly and evil) worshiping  a golden calf in  singing songs, doing sexually suggestive dances and participating in indecent debauchery( having open orgies in the temples)

C.   Don’t commit sexual immorality like they did i
In (Numbers 25:1-9) 24,000 who came in sexual contact (prostitution and others) with the daughters of Moab people died as a result 23,000 by a plague God sent. The other 1,000 were killed by Phinehas  (judge)and Grotus (priests)

Note:    There was a valid reason Paul warned the church of Corinth against this vile behavior:
It was common practice among all idolaters; especially the "financially well of" and the "social elite" and those business traders who frequent the Corinthian temples in Corinth. The majority of those who lived there were notorious for exemplifying this vile behavior. It was the prevalent vice there. To "Corinthianize" was a term synonymous among the ancients with licentiousness. It was so common in Corinth, that, there were no less than 1,000 prostitutes operating and flaunting their craft in any temple of idolatry there. Foreigners would flock there for the prostitutes among other reasons as well as transact other business ventures. The Corinthian church was completely surrounded by these wicked devices. and members were constantly tempted by their unsaved piers to continue to indulge in the wicked behavior around them even though the were now saved and delivered  but hampered by the vast exposure of idolatry, thus putting the members at risk.

D.   Don’t tempt God (Christ)

Don’t “test” the waters. That is, don’t try his patience, to provoke his anger, or to act in such a way as to see how much he will bear, and how long he will endure the wickedness and perverseness of people. The Israelites tempted him, or "tried his patience and forbearance," by rebellion, complaining, impatience, and dissatisfaction with his dealings.

E.    Don’t murmur (constantly complaining, never satisfied)

1.   The Israelites complained about the manna, they claimed it was a light bread-something incapable of affording them nourishment.

2.    They constantly complained about a longing to return to Egypt and acted as if God’s plans and promises for them for Canaan has failed. They were destroyed by serpents, and by the destroyer or plague; Apparently, the Corinthians were murmuring against God and Apostle Paul for prohibiting them from partaking of the idolatrous feasts, just as the Israelites did in the wilderness in reference to a similar subject.

F.    Reinteration: We are living in the “last” (latter) days. Take heed!   (verses 11-15)

.   Don’t rely on your own strength:    Anyone that think that they are “that” firm in the love of God, and in the knowledge of his truth; that regards ourselves as secure, Beware! When things are going well, many of us tend to stop relying on the direction and strength of God and rely on our own strength: That’s a prime set up for a person who becomes self reliant to fall Into sin, idolatry, or any other form of iniquity.

G.   Concerning  “Common Temptations”                       (verse 13)

1.     We are tempted by “familiar things” (Faithfulness to God will keep us)

2.     God always offers us a way of escape. (God is faithful)

3.     God allows testing (temptations) and with this allowance, He give us a way out or undergird us to be able to endure the testing.

4.     If God allows it. God will not let the temptation (testing) take us out but uses it to strengthen us, purge us and prepare us for something greater that we are not able to handle right at this moment.

5.     No matter the circumstances, God is in complete control of every facet of that trial, including the part that the devil plays in the process.

Thought Question: How much can we really bear? Here’s the Correct answer:
(Taken from Barnes Notes Commentary)
"God knows what His people are able to endure, and as He has entire control of all that can affect them, He will adapt all trials to their strength, and will enable them to bear all that is appointed to them. This is a general promise, and is as applicable to other Christians as it was to the Corinthians. It was to them a positive promise, and to all in the same circumstances it may be regarded as such now. It may be used, therefore:

(1) As a ground of encouragement to those who are in temptation and trial. God knows what they are able to endure; and he will sustain them in their temptations. It doesn’t matters how severe the trial; or how long it may be continued; or how much they may feel their own feebleness; yet He who has appointed the trial is abundantly able to uphold them. They may, therefore, repose their all upon Him, and trust to His sustaining grace.

(2) It may be used as an argument, that none who are true Christians, and who are thus tried, shall ever fall away, and be lost. The promise is positive and certain, that a way shall be made for their escape, and they shall be able to bear it. God is faithful to them; and though he might suffer them to be tempted beyond what they are able to bear, yet He will not, but will secure an egress from all their trials. With this promise in view, how can it be believed that any true Christians who are tempted will be suffered to fall away and perish? If they do, it must be from one of the following causes; either because God is not faithful; or because He will permit them to be tempted above what they are able to bear; or because He will not make a way for their escape. Since no Christian can believe either of these, it follows that they who are converted shall be kept unto salvation. 

Verse 14 is the warning and Paul's conclusion that the Gentiles were to flee from Idolatry.

III.             Three Different Fellowships                                          (verses 15-24)

A.   Church fellowship                   (Communion with Christ)       (verses 15-17)

The “Cup” of  Blessings ( the “wine” taken at the Lord’s Communion)   vs. 16
Christians, by partaking of the Lord's Supper, (breaking of the bread and drinking of the wine) are solemnly set apart to the service of the Lord Jesus; We acknowledge HIM as our Lord, and dedicate ourselves to him, not to idols worshipping or pagan idol feast. Taking communion also says that we identify with Christ in HIS suffering on the cross for us. We are “one” bread, that is one body in Christ.

B.   Fellowship of Israel      (Sacrifices at the Altar: a form of communion)   (verses 18-19)

The Hebrews presented their offereings to the priest at the altar. The people ate their part, the priest ate their part and the part was offered as a burnt offering to the Lord.

C.   Fellowship of the Gentiles-(unsaved)         (Sacrificed to Idol gods) (Verse 20-24)

1.    Converted Gentiles were to participate in Holy Communion not offer sacrifices to pagan deities or participate in pagan feast anymore. (vs. 20)

2.    Paul warned these Gentile converts they could not commune with both God and devils. They must denounce their former ways.

3.    To continue in the old path (paganism and idolatry) after accepting the new (Christianity) would provoke God to wrath.

D.   Christian Liberty: (Concerning All Things Lawful) (some aren’t edifying or wise) (verse 23-24)

1.    All things are lawful,  but all things don’t build up the church.

2.    All things are lawful, but conventional wisdom suggests that you lay them aside for the gospel sake.

3.    Both Christian and pagan meat were sold in the marketplace. The meat in  and of itself is harmless and may not be marked as offered to idols.

4.    For conscience sake. Don’t ask if it is or isn’t.

5.    The earth’s is the Lord, the fullness thereof and the world that dwell therein.

IV.    Feasts     (Christian , Pagan) the Pagan Conscience                (verses 27-32)

A.   Invitation to a non-religious feast at a private home- you ate permitted to eat whatever is on the table but not drink every beverage offered……unless….

B.   You are told that the food was offered to idols- you have the right to refuse it.

C.   Whatever you eat, drinlk or do, do all to the glory of God

D.   Give no offence.

Very Important things we really need to be aware of:  For all of our Benefit

   (1) Having confidence in our own security is no evidence that we are safe. We still must both pray without ceasing, draw near to the Lord everyday and die daily to the flesh

(2) Having such a confidence may be one of the strongest evidences that we are in danger. Those are most safe who feel that they are weak and feeble, and who feel their need of divine aid and strength. They will then rely on the true source of strength the Holy Spirit ; and they will be secure. We are only secure in Jesus Christ and when we rely and submit to God’s will as we are led by the Holy Spirit

(3) All professed Christians should be admonished.Remember, we are still going through sanctification. We are still a work in progress, We are still being separated from the power of sin. We have separated from the penalty of sin (eternal death) through our confession of faith in Jesus Christ as our savior and Lord. Until we are completely cleansed, we all are capable and still in danger of falling into sin, and of dishonoring the faith and the calling profession. We can’t stress this enough

We are the most vulnerable when we are permitted to approach near to God, and when the joys of salvation fill their hearts, should exercise special caution. For:

(a) Then the adversary will be especially desirous to draw away their thoughts from God, and to lead them into sin, as their fall would most signally dishonor the Christian religion.

(b) Then they will be less likely to be on their guard, and more likely to feel themselves strong, and not to need caution and solicitude. Accordingly, it often happens that Christians, after they have been especially favored with the tokens of the divine favor, soon relapse into their former state, or fall into some sin that grieves the hearts of their brethren, or wounds the cause of the Christian religion.

Conclusion:
So it is in revivals; so it is in individuals. Churches that are thus favored are filled with joy, and love, and peace. Yet they become self-confident and elated; they lose their humility and their sense of their dependence; they cease to be watchful and prayerful, supposing that all is safe; and the result often is, that a season of revival is succeeded by a time of coldness and declension. And thus, too, it is with individuals. Just the opposite effect is produced from what should be, and from what need be. Christians should then be especially on their guard; and if they then availed themselves of their elevated advantages, churches might be favored with continued revivals and ever-growing piety; and individuals might be filled with joy, and peace, and holiness, and ever-expanding and increasing love. 

Bible Study Series: "The Plight of The Corinthain Church"
"Paul defends His Call to Apostleship" 1 Corinthians Chapter 9

I.       Paul defends His Ministry and Apostleship                      (verses 1-6)

A.     Paul claims to be completely free: Paul claims his freedom from both secular and religious bondages which enables him to be fully devoted to the apostleship and ministry to God's people..

{Paul was free as an Apostle to enjoy the fruits of his labor, yet he chose to provide for his own needs, though at times the churches took care of some of his life’s expenses}   (vs. 1)

B.    He was qualified to be an apostle because he had seen the Lord Jesus. Some argued that he had not..    

REASON: [All of the apostles were appointed to be WITNESSES of the life, doctrines, death, and resurrection of the Lord Jesus, and that in their "being witnesses" was what gave “UNIQUENESS” of the apostolic office. The other eleven disciples received the “Great Commission” of Matthew 28]. Paul received his commission on the Damascus Road (Acts 9)

C.     He was qualified because He organized the Church of Corinth. The church was birthed and the people were converted through his preaching in Corinth.  (vs. 2)

D.    The existence of the Corinthian church (and the other churches) sealed his apostleship as the converts were no longer “heathens” but converted in the Lord.

Note: Nobody’s conversion is of “human” origin.  The preacher cannot save you! Salvation work is God’s and God’s alone. God gave evidence to both Paul and the Corinthian church that He was with him (Paul), and had sent him to them. Many people in the Corinthian Church knew him personally, heard him preach and were acutely, acquainted with his doctrines and manner of life, and be could bear testimony to who he was and what he taught.

[The conversion of sinners is the best evidence to "any minister" that they are sent of God]. It’s not based on how many people are converted under your ministry, but "the fact" that people are converted. The "chosen" minister anointed by the Holy Spirit simply preached the gospel and people came to Christ because of it. The divine blessing on his labors should cheer his heart, and lead him to believe that God has sent and that he approves him. Every minister and layperson should so live and labor, should so deny themselves that they may be able to APPEAL to the people among whom  they labor with the Gospel that they are “ministers” Called and laypersons  of the Lord Jesus. 

II.                Paul ‘s right to live like everybody else in the faith                                    (verses 3-6)

A.    Right to eat and drink- [that the church gave the pastors financial support as they ministered in thee pastorate or on the missionary field]

Right to lead a sibling, a mate, even other ministers- [that the church take care of  pastor and his wife financial needs while they labor in the mission field]

Or in the case of Paul and Barnabas either receive financial support from the church or became “bi-vocational”

B.   Apostolic Teaching: Concerning Marriage  (Contrary to Roman Catholicism)

 (1) Ministers if they chose had the right to marry, The papal doctrine of the celibacy of the clergy is contrary to apostolic example and Scripture.

(2) Missionaries also had a right if they chose to marry, and to take their wives with them to pagan lands. The Apostles were missionaries, and spent their lives in pagan nations as missionaries do now, and there MAY BE as good reasons for missionaries marrying now as there were then.

(3) Yet there are people, like Paul, who can do more good without being married. There ARE circumstances, like his, where it is not advisable to get married and there can be no doubt that Paul regarded the unmarried state for a missionary as preferable and advisable. Probably the same is to be said of most missionaries at the present day, that they could do more good if unmarried, than they can if burdened with the cares of families. Taking care of a family is a ministry in itself.

III.          Ministers are to live by the Gospel  (several reasons)                       (verses 7-14)

A.    For the Pastor, the work of the ministry is as arduous, and as self-denying, and perhaps as dangerous, as the work of a soldier; and common justice, therefore, a completely dedicated pastorate demands that he who devotes his youth, and health and life to it, for the benefit of others should have a competent support. (Vs.7)

B.     In the same manner you would not hinder (muzzle or fail to feed the ox) the ox who labors to plow your field, the minister should not be financially hindered to do all they can to be the best minister/pastor to God’s flock.   (Vs.8-9)

C.     The minister of God if they put in the diligent work in the mission field and pastorate, they should expect to be compensated. The true laborer for the Lord sows their work in hope that payday will come.                                 (Vs.10)

D.    Paul said in essence: "We impart to you, under the divine blessing, the gospel, with all its hopes and consolations. We make you acquainted with God; with the plan of salvation; with the hope of heaven. We instruct your children; we guide you in the path of comfort and peace; we raise you from the degradations of idolatry and of sin; and we open before you the hope of the resurrection of the just, and of all the bliss of heaven; and to do this, we give ourselves to toil and peril by land and by sea. And can it be made a matter of question whether all these high and exalted hopes are of as much value to dying man as the small amount which shall be needful to minister to the needs of those who are the means of imparting these blessings?" (vs.11)

E.     In Corinth, they were already supporting other teachers and they demanded it in some ways,

No doubt that the teachers in Corinth urged this right, and received a support. We the apostles; we who have labored for your conversion; who have founded your church; who have been the first, and the most laborious in instructing you, and imparting to you spiritual blessings? Don’t we because of the call to ministry have a greater claim (right) than they? YET, we haven’t capitalized on this right rather, we have forgone it that the Gospel ministry is not hindered. We have subjected ourselves to poverty, want, hunger, thirst, nakedness, rather than urge a "claim" on you, and thus leave the suspicion that we are actuated by mercenary motives. (vs. 12)

F.      Even the Levites and the priests were ordained by God to be compensated for the work done in the temple. In the same manner pertaining to the ministers of God, they too should be financially taken care of.  They should “live in” the Gospel” that is devote their very lives to it.

(vs.13-14)

IV.      Paul Defends His Ministry                                                      (verses 15-18)

A.    Paul chose to work for himself  so that money issues with the church would not become  “stumbling block” and the members in anger calling Him a “jack-legged” preacher.       Paul said he rather die than allow any man to try to void his apostleship.                           (vs. 15)

B.     Paul preached the gospel out of necessity and a “woe” (He was called by Christ Himself) not to glorify himself or to be glorified by men. A “woe” would fall upon him if he didn’t preach. There is a great danger on any person who doesn’t answer their God given calling.(vs. 16)

Important facts about the “Call” to the Gospel Ministry   

 (1) All ministers who are “duly called” to the work answers out of necessity. God will make your life miserable until you answer HIS call. You would be wretched in any other calling. Your conscience would constantly harass you. You wouldn’t have no interest in the plans of the world; in wealth schemes, and pleasure, and fame. Your heart is in the ministry work,  alone no matter what the circumstances. Whether though poverty, persecution, nakedness, cold, peril, sickness, you won’t find comfort In any other calling, Whether surrounded by affluence, friends, wealth, honors, pleasures, gaiety, fashion, you’d still be miserable.

(2) A person whose heart is not in the ministry, and who would be as happy in any other calling, is not fit to be an ambassador of Jesus Christ. Unless your HEART is there, and you prefer that to any other calling, you should never think of preaching the gospel.

(3) People who LEAVE the ministry, and voluntarily devote themselves to some other calling when they might preach, never had the proper spirit of an ambassador of Jesus.

If you leave the call to minister for the sake of ease or gain; to avoid the cares and anxieties of a pastor’s life leave to make money, or secure money when made; to cultivate a farm (if you live in the rural), to teach a school, to write a book, to live upon an estate, or to "enjoy life," they lay aside the ministry, it is proof that you never had a call to the work.

(4) If you choose to reject the call to ministry after you know beyond a shadow of a doubt God did call you, God will see to it that you will be "miserable" in your “other endeavors.

C.  Paul said the Gospel ministry was “laid” upon him and he answered willingly.
        Here are some of his responses to this revelation:

      1.        If I answer willingly, there is a reward awaiting me.

      2.        If I don’t, there is a “woe” punishment I’ll have to face from God.  (vs.17)

      3.        If I do it but my heart isn’t in it, there is no reward for me, yet because God place this mantle on me, I got to do the work anyway!   (vs. 18)

     4.         As a “reward”, when I preach the gospel, I will do it free of charge and become (bi-vocational)= I’ll work to support my personal needs and not burden the Corinthian church with personal money issues.  (vs. 18)

V. The “Methods” and Rewards” Of True Ministry                          (verses 19-27)

A.        Paul’s Methods of True Ministry                                            (verses 19-23)

1.   Though I’m free in Christ, I chose (volunteered) to become His servant to you.

a.   I labor to promote their welfare.

b.   I submit to the work without charge.

d.   I comply with the prejudices, habits, customs, and opinions of others as far as I can with a good conscience unless it is immoral or unmoral. Paul says that he had voluntarily put himself into this condition, a condition making it necessary for him to suit himself to the opinions, prejudices, caprices, and feelings of all people, so far as he could do it with a good conscience, in order that he might cause them to confess Jesus Christ and be saved, and that I might gain Christ the more. (drawn nearer in fellowship and communion with)

e.   To the Jews, I became as a Jew (in compliance to their customs, rites, prejudices as far as the law was concerned and as far as his conscience would allow to win them to Christ).

      To the Gentile, I complied with them under the grace (Law of Christ), omitt5ing the ceremonial aspects of the Mosaic Law to win them to Christ.

To the weak (those weak in the faith). Paul; became weak: I did not shock them. I complied with their customs. I conformed to them in my dress, habits, manner of life, and even in the services of religion. I abstained from food which they deemed it their duty to abstain from; and where, if I had partaken of it, I should have offended them. Paul did not do this to gratify himself, or them, but to do them good. And Paul's example should teach us not to make it the main business of life to gratify ourselves, and it should teach us not to lacerate the feelings of others; not to excite their prejudices needlessly; not to offend them where it will do no good. If truth offends people, we cannot help it. But in matters of ceremony, and dress, and habits, and customs, and forms, we should be willing to conform to them, as far as can be done, and for the sole purpose of saving their souls.

f.    I became (was made) all things to all men, I made whatever social adjustments I needed to make without compromising my values in Jesus Christ in order to win some of them to Christ. (Paul wasn’t going to win them all) AND NEITHER WILL WE.

B.. The Rewards of True Ministry                                                      (verses 24-27)

1.      Run and finish the Christian Race to receive the prize.          (vs.25)

Give yourself completely to God

Lay aside every weight and the sin that hinders you

Stay focus on the goals of Christianity, don’t get sidetracked by the cares of this world.

Don’t grow weary

 Keep your eyes on Jesus as the example. (the Author and finisher of our faith)

2.      Strive for the mastery of the faith and Ministry                                 (vs.26)

3.      Fight the good fight of faith to win

4.      Live by Example. Keep my body under subjection, maintaining self-control. (vs.27)
    Don't allow your misconduct and fleshly passions ensnare you and render yuou ineffective as a witness and soldier on the battlefield for the souls of men for christ jesus.

The “Exodus” Bible Study Series:  Outline of Chapter 20 of the Book of Exodus

Background information:        (God gave the 10 Commandments) Three times!!
Exodus 20: God spoke them directly!           Exodus 34: He wrote them

In Exodus 32  God hewn the tablets (wrote).... In  Exodus 34: Moses hewn the tablets 
(God wrote)         
The 10 Commandments are also known  by other names:  : Exodus 24:12 (“The Law or The Commandments”), Exodus 34:28 (“The Words of the Covenant”),  Deut 9:9 (“The Table of the Covenant”) Deut 4:13 (“The Covenant”)  Deut 9:10, 17 (“The two tables”), Exodus 16:34, 25:16 (“The Testimony”) Matthew 19:7 (“The Commandments”)

A.  The Law is one, and the whole Law is spiritual! The dividing of the Law into Moral Law, Social or Civil Law and Ceremonial or Religious Laws, while is convenient, is misleading. whether dealing with crops or criminals or worship. This is why Jesus Said if you break one of the laws, you are guilty of violating all of the Law

Important to know: The Law was not given as "a means to salvation". It was given to a people already saved (Exodus 19:4; 20:2) in order to "instruct them" in the manner of obeying the will of the Lord so that they might fulfill God's purpose for them as "a kingdom of priests and a holy nation" (19:6).

The 10 commandments were given not to "give life", but to "guide life"  The Jews were chosen to convey the oracles of God to the Gentile (heathen) world.
The Ten Commandments were divided into 2 categories:

1.      The first 4 commandments concern the believer’s direct relationship with God

2.      The last 6 commandments concern the believer’s direct relationship with other people as a reflection of their obedience to God.

3.      Christians obey the law by loving God with all our heart, soul, mind, and might, and loving our neighbor as we love ourselves. (We are under the law from it’s highest point) :  "LOVE"

4.      All of the Old Testament Law" hang" on Loving God and loving our neighbor!

I.       THE TEN COMMANDMENTS (literal meaning: 10 WORDS) Exodus 20:1-17

God spoke:                         Exodus 20:1-2

1.   ( Audibly and with authority) “I am the Lord, YOUR GOD which brought YOU out of the land of Egypt, out of the house of bondage.                                    (vs. 2)

The basis of God's commandments and people's obligation to obey the 10 commandments were based on the fact that Jehovah was their Lord and God who had redeemed them.

God had already proven that he was God, a “salvation” God and “their”(the Hebrews’) God. These commandments are given to a "saved people" (perserved) to teach them how to walk in God's way. The reason many of these commandments are written as “thou shall not’shall and shall not's” is because they presuppose the existence of sin and the evil desires in the human heart".  

a.     Thou shall have no other god before me.                   (vs.3)

It prohibits worshiping or honoring anything before God, in thought, word or deed: God is to have preeminence in all things in the life of the believer. (Colossians 1:18). A person, a nation, a church must be “Monotheistic” in their belief about God.

Translation: That there is only one God and Jehovah or (Yahweh) is HIS name!

b.  Thou shall not make unto thee any graven images, or any likeness of anything that is in heaven above, or that is in the earth beneath, or that is in the water under the earth. (vs. 4- 6)

c.   Thou shall not bow down to them, nor serve them…I the Lord your God am a jealous God

This prohibits the creation and use of graven images as objects of worship. But more importantly, it is a strong reminder that God is a Spirit, and is not to be conceived of as made in any of man's handmade images, in the image of man, or in the form of any other created being.

Note: this law comes with a definite punishment that will effect at least 4 generations   

The next generation and remote descendants  include sons, grandsons, great-grandsons and daughters. Some or all in the next generation inherit the consequences of their fathers' sins, in disease, poverty, captivity, with all the influences of bad example and evil communications. According to Levticus 26:39 and Lamentations 5:7 The "inherited curse" seems to fall often most heavily on the least guilty persons; but such suffering must always be free from the sting of conscience, but God shows mercy to those who keep this law and to those who love him.

d.  Thou shall not take the Lord your God’s name in vain.(vs.7)

This prohibits the use of God's name "in the service of unbelief and lying". To substantiate our falsehood by an appeal to God will bring certain judgment. God will  make you give account of taking his name in vain. Here also may be found force for the injunction to Christians to "walk worthy of the calling wherewith ye were called" (Ephesians 4:1), bear not the name of Christ in vain.

e.   Remember the Sabbath day to keep it holy   (vs. 8-11)

The word "sabbath" means, not rest or relaxation, but cessation from labor (no working). The reason for the Sabbath is given objectively here as found in the fact that God  (stopped working) ceased from the work of creation on the seventh day. Subjectively, in Deuteronomy 5:14-15, there is a reason given in the fact that men need rest. Also the Israelites were reminded thereby that God had redeemed them from the bondage of Egypt to enjoy his rest. The keeping of the seventh day of the week as the Sabbath is not abrogated in the NT, but the Sabbath of the New Creation is most naturally to be celebrated on that day when Christ, having ceased from his finished work, rose from the dead. (Sunday)

f.       Honor thy father and thy mother: that thy days may be long upon the land which the LORD thy God gives thee. (vs.12)    

This command marks a division between the commandments that deal with man's relation to God and those that relate to his fellow man. A man is obligated to honor his parents as he does God, and to assume responsibility for them as he does for his fellow men. That your days may be long. This may be understood as referring both to Israel's sojourn in the land of promise, and also to the life of the individual. Not only in Israel, but in all nations and individual lives, the destruction of the home marks the beginning of the end.

g.   Thou shall not kill. (vs.13)

.The "sanctity" of human life is upheld, and murder, for any reason,is forbidden. You shall not do anything hurtful or injurious to the health, ease, and life, of thy own body, or any other person's unjustly." This is one of the laws of nature, and was strongly enforced by the precepts given to Noah and his sons, Genesis 9:5,6. It does not forbid killing in lawful war, or in our own necessary  self-defense, nor the magistrate's putting offenders to death, for those things tend to the preserving of life; but it forbids all malice and hatred to the person of any (for he that hates his brother is a murderer), and all personal revenge arising from hatred; also all rash anger upon sudden provocations, and hurt said or done, or aimed to be done, in passion: of this our Savior expounds this commandment, Matthew5:22. And, as that which is worst of all, it forbids persecution, laying wait for the blood of the innocent and excellent ones of the earth.

h.     Thou shall not commit adultery. (vs. 14)

While this is directed specifically to maintain the purity and sanctity of marriage, it is also applied by Jesus to all sexual immorality of thought as well as deed (Matthew 5:27-28). Our chastity should be as dear to us as our lives, and we should be as much afraid of that which defiles the body as of that which destroys it. This commandment forbids all acts of uncleanness, with all those fleshly lusts which produce those acts and war against the soul, and all those practices which cherish and excite those fleshly lusts, as looking, in order to lust, which, Christ tells us, is forbidden in this commandment, (Matthew 5:28).

i.     Thou shall not steal.   (vs.15)

The rights of private property are to be respected. Personal property, especially, the stealing of their identity. This command forbids us to rob ourselves of what we have by sinful spending, or of the use and comfort of it by sinful sparing, and to rob others by removing the ancient landmarks, invading our neighbor's rights, taking his goods from his person, or house, or field, forcibly or clandestinely, over-reaching in bargains, nor restoring what is borrowed or found, withholding just debts, rents, or wages, and (which is worst of all) to rob the public in the coin or revenue, or that which is dedicated to the service of religion.

j.     Thou shall not bear false witness against your neighbor.   (vs.16)
                        False Witnessing is....
1. Speaking falsely in any matter, lying, equivocating, and any way devising and designing to deceive our neighbor.

 2. Speaking unjustly against our neighbor, to the prejudice of his reputation; and (which involves the guilty of both),

 3. Bearing false witness against him, laying to his charge things that he knows not, either judicially, upon oath (by which the third commandment, and the sixth of eighth, as well as this, are broken), or extra judicially, in common converse, slandering, backbiting, tale-bearing, aggravating what is done amiss and making it worse than it is, and any way endeavoring to raise our own reputation upon the ruin of our neighbor's.

k.  Thou shall not covet your neighbor’s house, thou shall not covet thy neighbor’s wife, nor his manservant, nor his maidservant, nor his ox nor his ass (donkey, mule,) nor anything that is your neighbor.

Covetousness is "the inordinate desire to possess what belongs to someone else. (Chadwick, Exodus in Expositor's Bible). "The most inward of all the commandments, forbidding not an external act, but a hidden mental state, a state, however, which is the root of nearly every sin against a neighbor" (Cambridge Bible). It is basically the sin of Adam and Eve, to desire that which it is not God's will that we have.

II.                Israel’s fear of God’s Presence                            Exodus 20:18- 21

A.    The people trembled in fear at God’s majesty                          (vs. 18)
(thunder, lightning, trumpet noise, dark smoke from on top of the mountain)    
Never was anything ever delivered with such awful pomp; every word was accented, and every sentence paused, with thunder and lightning, much louder and brighter, no doubt, than ordinary. Why did God give them the law in this dreadful manner, and with all this tremendous ceremony?

1. It was designed (once for all) to give a sensible discovery of the glorious majesty of God, for the assistance of our faith ,  They needed to know the terror of the Lord and that God is not to be played with!, They would be persuaded to live in his fear. (reference)

 2. It was a specimen of the terrors of the judgment, in which sinners will be called to an account for the breach of this law: the archangel's trumpet will then sound an alarm, to give notice of the Judge's coming, and a fire shall devour before him. (a eluding to Second coming to Christ)

3. It was an indication of the terror of those convictions which the law brings into conscience, to prepare the soul for the comforts of the gospel. Thus was the law given by Moses in such a way it might startle, affright, and humble men, that the Christ might be the more welcome. Paul largely describes this instance of the terror of that dispensation, foil to set off our privileges, as Christians, in the light, liberty, and joy, of the New-Testament dispensation, Heb 12:18, 

B.   The people told Moses: You speak to us:  Whatever God says to you, if you tell us, we will hear it (listen)            (vs.19)

C.   Don’t let God speak to us (directly), we might die

D. Moses said: God is testing you for 2 reasons:  (vs.20)

          1. So you will have fear (reverence) of him.

          2. That you may not sin 

E.    The people stood far off, Moses drew near the thick darkness where God was. (vs. 21)

III.             Law Concerning the Altar                          Exodus 20:22- 26

A.  God ‘s reminder:  I spoke to you from heaven                        (vs. 22)

B.   God’s warning:    Make no companions , Make no Idols                 (vs.23)
(repeating the 2nd commandment)

C.   God’s command:                              (vs. 25)

D.  God’s special instructions  (altar):

1.    No hewn stone. Don’t use personal tools. (Profanes the altar)

2.     Don’t go up the steps to God’s altar  (exposes your nakedness)

Bible Study Outline on Exodus Chapter 29

(Cross reference with Leviticus Chapter 8)

Note: Under God’s direction, Moses has set aside his brother Aaron and all of his sons: Nadab, Abihu, Eleazar and Ithamar (Chapter 28) for the office of the Priesthood. They were given their official priestly attire. Aaron served as the 1st high priest and in succession, it was by God’s design that all of the future high priest were to come from Aaron’s genealogy. "Although the holiness of their office was reflected in their outward dress, it was equally necessary, because of their sinfulness nature, that they should be sanctified (spiritually) through a special consecration ritual for the administration of their office. The directions now given for the consecration were carried out in Leveticus 8.

I.         Consecration of the Priests (Aaron and his sons) Exodus 29:1-9

A.   Offerings for the consecration process                                    (vs. 1-3)

1 young bull and 2 rams unblemished, unleavened bread and unleavened wheat cakes tempered with oil and wafers anointed with oil

Consecrating the priests was a solemn ceremony for 2 reasons:

1.      The people were to see that the office of the priesthood was an exalted office, an important office of great magnitude completely sanctioned by God.

2        The Priest were to see that they could not take their appointment to the priesthood lightly and they were to understand that the service they performed for God wasn’t just for the people’s benefit but for them too. They had to consecrate themselves COMPLETELY AND EVERYTIME they served in their priestly capacity.

B.   Bring them to the door of the tabernacle of the Congregation and wash them
(vs. 4-9)

4 things concerning the consecration of the Priest:

The priest had to be clean spiritually

They had to be clothed in the righteousness of God

They had to be empowered by the Spirit of God (Holy Spirit)

Water usage signified 3 things:

1.       In their relationship with God, it signified a transition from an unprivileged to a privileged state.,

2.      It signified a change in their status and social state from being “common” to being “consecrated”

3.      Signified the necessity and importance a person serving in ministry serving with moral purity and holiness. When Aaron and his sons were constituted priests, they were washed, that element importing that they were not only elevated from the condition of common Israelites to a holy office, but that they required to cultivate personal purity (Isa 52:11; John 13:10; 2 Cor. 7:1; 1 Peter 3:21)

II.                The Sacrificial Offerings in Behalf of the Priest             Exodus 29:10-30

A.   First:  Bring the young bull     (the Sin offering)                     vs. 10-14
Step by Step Procedure:

1.     Have Aaron and his sons lay their hand upon its head.

2.      Slaughter the bull at the doorway. (in God’s presence)

3.     Put some of the blood on the horns of the altar with your fingers.

4.     Pour out all of the blood at the base (front side) of the altar.

5.     Take the fat (covering the inner parts), the covering of the liver, both 
         kidneys- (fat and all) and burn them on the altar.

6.    Burn the meat and all other parts of the bull outside the city.

Note: There must be a sin-offering, to make atonement for the priest.

a.       The Priest must first make a “sin” offering for their own sin, before they could make atonement for the people, (Heb 7:27, 28).

b.      They were to put their hand on the head of their sacrifice (v. 10), confessing that they deserved to die for their own sin, and desiring that the killing of the beast might expiate their guilt, and be accepted by as a vicarious satisfaction.

c.        This “sin” offering was used as other sin-offerings were; only, whereas the flesh of other sin-offerings was eaten by the priests (Lev 10:18), in token of the priest's taking away the sin of the people, this was appointed to be all burnt without the camp (v. 14).

d.      The Sin offering signified the imperfection of the legal dispensation; for the sins of the priests themselves could not be taken away by those sacrifices, but they must expect a better high priest(Jesus Christ) and a better “ blood” sacrifice.

B.   Second: Take One Ram   [Procedure]   (The dedication Offering) vs. 15-18

1.     Have Aaron and his sons lay their hands on its head.

2.     Slaughter the ram.

3.     Sprinkle its blood around the altar.

4.     Cut it into pieces, washing its inside and its legs,

5.     Place its pieces with the head and burn it all on the altar. (burnt offering)

(offering it up in smoke)

Note: There must be a burnt-offering, a ram wholly burnt, to the honor of God. This offering signified that the priest had completely dedicated themselves to God and to his service, They were presenting their bodies as a living sacrifice, wholly and acceptable to God because as “called” servants, this was their “reasonable service.

Important: The sin-offering must first be offered before the burnt-offering; until God removes their sin guilt, no acceptable service can be performed, Isaiah 6:7

C.   The Other Ram    [Procedure]      ( The consecration offering)     vs. 19-22

1.     Have Aaron and his sons place their hands of its head.

2.     Slaughter the ram.

3.     Place some blood on the right earlobe, the right thumb of the right hand, the right big toe of Aaron and           his sons.

4.     Sprinkle the rest of the blood around the altar.

5.     Take some blood from the altar and anointing oil and sprinkle the garments of all of them. Consecrating their priestly garments.

Note: Concerning the Ram of Consecration. Once the priest had been cleansed and dedicated the next thing they did was symbolically had communion with God, as they ate their portion of the sacrificed ram.

a.       The Ears, hands, and feet (v. 20) were dedicated to God as the priiest were to listen to God’s instructions and obey his word.

b.      The "cleansing blood" and "sanctifying oil" were sprinkled not only upon the men, but upon their official garments (v. 21), symbolizing that God had both consecrated and empowered them for their assigned service.

D.   Ram of Ordination        (God’s Portion)                       vs. 23-25

1.      Take the fat, the tail, the fat from the inward part and the right thigh

2.     Take 2 cakes (one mixed with oil) and a wafer (from the basket of unleavened bread set before the Lord)

3.     Put them in Aaron and his sons’ hands.

4.     They are to wave them before the Lord.

5.     Take them from them and burn them on the altar. (burnt offering)

(Wave; this symbolically presented them to God. God's portion (v. 25) was consumed upon the altar.)

E.   Ram of Ordination         (Moses’ Portion)                     vs. 26-28

1.     Take the breast of the ram (Moses) from Aaron’s ram and wave it as a wave offering to God. It’s your portion!.

2.     Consecrate both the breast of the wave offering ad the thigh of the heave offering.

3.     It is for Aaron and his sons

4.     It’s a heave offering from Israel forever

(The breast and the thigh of the ram of the installation offering were given to Moses as to the officiating priest (vv. 26-28). Ordinarily, as here ordained, this portion would go to the priest)

III.                Passing of the Priestly Garments                                  Exodus 29:29-30
Aaron is to pass the high priest garment to one of his sons at the point he is no longer the high priest. His successor is to put them on for 7 consecutive days when he ministers in the tent of meeting (the holy place)                             vs. 29- 30

IV.            The Food of the Priesthood     (the Sacrificial meal)      Exodus 29:31- 34

A.   Boil the flesh of the Ram of ordination in the Holy Place.

B.   Aaron and his sons shall eat it with bread from the basket (at the doorway).

C.   They were to partake in each offering through the eating from the atoned and consecrated meats.

D.   Burn all that is eaten to prevent spoilage.

Note:  The other part, both of the flesh of the ram and of the bread, Aaron and his sons were to eat (at the door of the tabernacle) (v. 31-33), to signify that he called them not only servants but friends, (John 15:15). Jesus supped with them, and they with him. The eating of the flesh sacrificed for the atonement signified they receiving the atonement. As it was the expressed is (Romans 5:11), their thankful acceptance of the benefit of it, and their joyful communion with God thereupon, which was the true intent and meaning of a feast upon a sacrifice. If any of the food was left, it must be burnt, that it might not be in any danger of putrefying, and to show that it was an extraordinary peace-offering.

V.                  The Time of Consecration      Daily for the Priests                Exodus 29:35-36

A.   Ordination ceremony was to last 7 days for Aaron and his sons.

B.   Everyday offer a bull for a sin offering.

C.   Purify the altar before you make an offering.

D.   Anoint and consecrate it (the altar) for 7 days

E.    The altar and whatever touches it then shall be holy

VI.            Consecration of the Tabernacle                  Daily                    Exodus 29:37-42

A.   Offer (2) year old lambs (one in the AM.) (one at twilight)
Both offered with 1/10th  ephaph fine (wheat) flour, 1/4th hin of beaten oil, 1/4th hin wine for drink offering by fire unto the Lord for a “soothing aroma”

B.   To be offered continually and daily at the door of the Tent of Meeting.

C.   To make daily atonement for sin for the people and for Israel as a nation.

VII.         God’s Promise of Continual Blessing                                      Exodus 29:43-46

A.   I will meet with you the priest there and speak to you.

D.   I will consecrate the tent, and the offering, (by my (God’s) glory.

E.    God will consecrate Aaron and his sons, set them aside to minister as priests.

F.    God will dwell among the 12 tribes and be their God.

G.   They will know that I AM the Lord, their God who brought them out of Egypt. that I might dwell with them

H.   God’s signature: I AM the Lord their God.

     

Bible Study Outline for Exodus Chapter 27

Research Sources: Dakes Annotated Bible and Commentary, Matthew Henry Commentary, Barnes Theological Notes, Wycliffe Bible Commentary

I.          The Brazen Altar                Exodus 27:1-8     
              (Cross Reference: (Exodus 38:1-7)

Altar total Dimensions: 10 ft. 5in. squared (length and width) and 6ft. 3 in. high

Other names: Altar of burnt offerings because all offerings offered on it were to be offered by fire,

The Altar of God (Psalms 43:4) and the Altar of the Lord (Malachi 2:13)

According to the Dakes Annotated Bible, God gave 20 commands concerning the construction of the Brazen Altar.

Making the Brazen Altar                   Exodus 27:1-8    (cubit= 25 inches)

A.   Made of Acadia(Shittim wood)              (vs. 1)

B.   Was to be a square altar 5 Cubits long in length and width (125 inches)

C.   Was to be 3 cubits in height (75 inches)

Notes:    Commentary from Matthew Henry
“This brazen altar was a “type” of Christ dying to make atonement for our sins. The wood would have been consumed by the fire from heaven if it had not been secured overlaid by the brass. In like manner, the “human” Christ (his physical fleshly body) could not have withstood the wrath of God if it (his body) had not been supported by a divine power. Christ “sanctified” himself for his church, as “our” altar (John 17:19), and by his “mediation” (daily intercessions) sanctifies the daily services of his people (us) , who have also a right to eat of this altar (Heb 13:10), for we serve at it as spiritual priests. To the horns of this altar poor sinners fly for refuge when justice pursues them, and they are safe in virtue of the sacrifice there offered”.

D.   The Horns       (4)                        (vs. 2)

1.    Horns were to be place on each corner projecting upward shaped similar to ox horns.  The Brazen Altar and the horns made up a “one- piece” unit all overlaid with bronze.

2.     The sacrifices were tied to the horns (Psalms 118:27) and people guilty of sin would grab hold to the horns as well. When the malefactor grab the horns, it symbolized that individual seeking protection from the God of Israel (Exodus 21:14; 1 Kings 1:50)

E.    Firebox

Make a grate of network of brass and upon the net make 4 brazen rings on each corner: placed under the “compass” (a protective shelf projected all around the altar) between the top and the base of the altar (underneath the framework in the middle). According to Leviticus 9:22, the priest walked on the shelf to carry out their work at the brazen altar.                           (Vs. 4-5)

F.    2 (bearing ) Staves: made of (Shittim) wood overlaid with brass places into the 4 rings (one on each side) to bear the firebox     (vs. 6-7)     

Other items to be used at the Brazen Altar
Flesh hooks: made of brass (used to maneuver the sacrifice on the altar) and Fire pans or snuff dishes or censers: made of brass (used to keep a perpetual fire going while the altar was being cleaned) vs. 3

Note: “Perpetual” fire was kept on it so if at any time anyone sinned, he had immediate access to God (Leviticus 6:13). The complete Brazen Altar and accessories must be made according to the model shown to Moses on the Mountain of God. (vs. 8)

Special note: Concerning the Priests:  (From Dakes Commentary)

1.     The priests were required to wear certain clothes while ministering around the altar
 (Exodus 28:43).

2.     They were supposed to be sober (Leviticus 10:1-10)

3.     They were required to obey (to the letter) all that the person offering the sacrifice was commanded, or bear their sin (Exodus 30:18-21).

4.     All who touched the altar were considered holy (Exodus 29:37). It was sanctified and anointed before use (Exodus 29:36-44; 30:26-28; 40:10; Numbers 7).

II.                The Outer Court   Exodus 27:9-15    Cross reference:  Exodus 38:9-17

 Dimensions: The court of the tabernacle was 104 ft. 2 in. x 208 ft. 4 in. It had 60 brass pillars and 60 brass bases. It had 120 fillets or (connecting rods); one rod on each side of each pillar, to hold up the pillar. The brass pillars had silver chapiters (Exodus 38:17). The gate space was 41 ft. 8 in.; and the height of the hangings 5 ft. 5 in. (Exodus 27:18; 38:18). The stakes which held the silver rods on each side of the pillars were brass (Exodus 38:20).

A.   Both the North and South  sides of the outer court (left and right side) make  hangings of fine linen (twined)  (vs. 9- 11) 100 cubits long (208 ft. 4 in.) on each side: 
20 brass pillars and 20 brass sockets (stakes).

B.    The hooks and fillets (connecting rods) were to be made of silver to go between the brass pillars and stakes in the ground to aid in holding up both the post and curtains

C.   Breath of the court: both on the west and east sides hangings (same material) fine linen (twined)

Dimension of the width: 50 cubits (104 ft. 2 in.) on each side:

Hangings on each of the gates: 15 cubits (31 ft. 3 in.) 3 brass pillars and 3 sockets (stakes)

III.             Outer court Gate  Exodus 27:16-17  Cross reference:  Exodus 38:18

The gate is 41ft. 8 in. wide (according to Dakes Annotated reference Bible)

A.   Hung on the gate of the court shall be a curtain 20 cubits (41 ft. 8 in.) twined linen wrought with needlework

(Embroidered with blue, purple and scarlet just like the curtain of the tabernacle)

B.   4 brass pillars for the gates

C.   4 brass socket (bases) for the foundations of the brass pillars just like the other 56 brass pillars of the outer court          (vs. 17)

D.   120 silver fillets (rods) 2 to a pillar, 60 pillars in all to hold it up

20 pillars for the north and south side, 10 pillars for the east and west sides4 pillars for the inner veil, 5 pillars for the outer veil- 69 pillars in all.

Special note: The 9 pillars (4 inner veils, 5 outer veils) were longer than the other 60. Many scholars believe that this was so the top of the Tabernacle could be raised (if need be) in the middle to resemble a tent or house roof with gable ends

E.    Hooks are to be made of silver, sockets (bases) are to be made of brass

IV.            Recap of the dimensions of the Outer Court                  Exodus 27:18-19

A.   God said: the dimensions of the court (according to the Dakes Annotated Bible) are as follows:

Height: 10 feet 5 inches

Length: 208 feet 4 inches

Width: 104 feet 2 inches                                       (vs. 18)

B.   All of the vessels of the Tabernacle (of The Outer Court), the Brazen Altar and its service as well as the pins were to be of brass. (vs. 19)

C.   These brass pins were driven in the ground like tent stakes (the silver rods were held by them)

(This was because brass rods (being a stronger metal) could withstand the tremendous pressure of being driven in the ground much better than either gold or silver).

V.               Oil of Eternal light                   Exodus 27:20-21 Cross reference: Leviticus 24:1

A.   God commanded that the children of Israel bring Olive Oil (beaten- cold pressed not heated) for the Oil lamps to cause them to burn always.    (vs. 20)

B.   Place the Lamps in the tabernacle of the congregation outside the veil separating the holy place from the Most Holy Place (the Ark of the Covenant)

C.   The Priest shall create a statue that states that the Lamps must always burn every evening to morning.                     (vs. 21)

Lamps were probably serviced both day and night

Bible Study Series: The Plight of The Corinthian Church:
“Christian Liberties versus Idol worship and Practices”    1 Corinthians Chapter 8

I.                   Idolatry versus Christian Liberties                       Chapter 8:1-13

A.   The Effect of Agape Love                                    (Verses 1-3)

1.      All of us who are converted to God through Jesus Christ have sufficient knowledge concerning idols and idol worship; and we know also the liberty which we have through the Gospel, We’re not bound by Jewish laws, rites, ceremonies, etc. We are saved by grace

Problem:      Too many (even the Christians of that day) carried their knowledge concerning this liberty too far, and do what is neither seemly nor convenient, and thus give offence to others." And do and say rash things that hurt others feelings and insulted them.

2.    Paul said their Knowledge was puffed up. The Corinthians became prideful and very conceited. They became “bigheaded” their ‘new found knowledge” puffed up the minds with vain conceit, They became bold and rash, quick to pass judgment, quick to condemn, having no regard of the consciences or feelings of others.

3.    Love builds up people not condemn them      [1 Corinthians 13:4] “Charity (love) suffers long and is kind” (is longsuffering and shows kindness). Real love looks out for the matter and seek to draw all men to Christ

4.    Rash people, arrogant and uncaring prideful people don’t care. They usually slam the character of others with no regard of how or what they say to others.

5.    You may possess knowledge, but you only have “partial knowledge”!! You don’t know all of what you should because if you knew better…you’d do better.

2 Schools of thought on this matter:

The Kariates  held to the letter of the Jewish law: they taught it was unlawful to eat any meat, or receive any benefits from heathen worship or anything offered to an idol. To them, it was unlawful to buy or sell idols or meat offered to idols.

The Traditionist maintained that they could use this meat provided that the “sign” of the idol was not stamped upon it. A “sign” or “markings”, such as a garland, guilded horns and hoofs images of the sun, moon, planets, stars, oceans, rivers, trees,  ect.. could be placed on the animal meat, marking it for idol worship and sacrifice.

The problem arose when this meat was sold in a shop and the markings could not be seen on the meat. The karaies, had serious issues about meat sold in the marketplace because they didn’t know or could tell by looking at the meat is it had been used in idol worship. Of course, the traditionalist didn’t care. It meant nothing to them that the meat was offered to an idol.
 
II.         Idols versus the “One True God”                                  (verses 4-6)
A.   Idols are many and nothing in the world

B.    There’s only One True God Jehovah, Yahweh, El Shaddai, Elohim and Jesus Christ is God “incarnate” (God manifested in the flesh)

C.   There are many called gods in heaven, on earth,    

The “gods”  Paul; talked about were their "pagan divinities", or objects and statues of religious worship; as well as the lords, nobleman  who were the rulers in the world, such as the emperors, from the Romans’ point of view were “considered” next to gods, and even some of them were deified. In opposition to these gods he places God the Father, the fountain of plenitude and being; and in opposition to the lords he places Jesus Christ, who made and who governs all things. …….
BUT to  US (Christians)  there is only ONE GOD:
God the Father- Jehovah :of whom are all things: we are IN HIM (We are made with intelligence for the purpose of “manifesting” HIS glory. We do that by first receiving , then reflecting his wisdom. Goodness, truth. In other words, reflecting the “fruit” of the Holy Spirit of God in our being and behavior.AND.....

Jesus Christ-of whom are all things:  we are BY HIM.   Christ is the our visible Governor (Lord)  both of the world and the church, by whom are all things were created and consist.  He is the Creator, the Upholder of the universe. And we by him. We are  (through the sanctification process) being brought with a price [the shedding on HIS precious blood], enlightened, saved and pardoned by God to the knowledge of the true God through the revelation of Jesus Christ. It is the Only Begotten Son (Jesus) alone that can reveal the Father. (John 1:14-18)

III.       Ignorance:                    [Read Romans 14:1-23]                   (verses 7-8)
A.   That knowledge (pertaining to idolatry) is not known to every man    (vs. 7)

Some both traditionalist and Gentiles both steeped in the “spirit of idolatry”  possessed the “conscience” of the idol, that is, these traditionalist and uninformed Gentiles who ate the meat that was offered to the idol, , considered the feast (their meal) as a sacred banquet, in which they believed that they were “having fellowship with the idol”.  This had to be dealt with and removed from among the fellowship………….

Because their conscience in God’s eyes was considered being weak- because they were not properly instructed in “divine things”, they are considered defiled. Any one of them that performs what he did as an act of religious worship, became guilty of idolatry because of their conscience .In the beginning of the Christian movement, (this early church), many of those “converted” Jews incorporated the rites of the Mosaic Law with the principles of the Gospel. Also among the Gentiles, there were several who did not abandon and cease their practice in idolatry or idolatrous notions, but kept and continued to practice some of its more spiritual and imposing parts. Apparently, they thought it necessary to combine pagan idolatrous feasts with the rites of Christianity.

B.   Feast yielded no Spiritual advantage  either  way                         (vs.8)
Eating didn’t give them a spiritual advantage and not eating didn’t hinder them spiritually either.

IV.           Christian Liberty: Results of misuse                                     (verses 9-13)
A.    Misuse causes a stumbling block to the weaker members. Knowing that an idol is nothing and continuing to frequent those idolatrous feast.

B.   Based on your profession of Christianity, you have no business attending a known. Non-Christian temple (church) mosque, Buddhist temple, Kingdom Hall, etc..and participate in their worships or practices.

C.   Because you were taught that YOUR conduct would not bring any harm in whatever you were doing. You must understand that  YOUR misuse of God given liberty causes the weaker member to both grieve the Holy Spirit, and become “darkened” in their spirit, hardened, causing them to slip back into idolatry, die in it and finally perish..

D.   Your actions of idolatry makes you are guilty of sinning against he weaker member ….and against God!  You are a "stumbling block" to them and yoiur actions makes it easier for them to fll back into Jesus said; whatever you do to these the “least” of my brethren, you do it also unto ME!

E.   Rather than give any occasion to a Christian to sin against God or a fellow weak saint causing them to harden their conscience that they should return to idolatry and perish, I would not only abstain from all meats offered to idols, but I would eat no flesh, should I exist through the whole course of time, but live on the herbs of the field, rather than cause my brother to stumble, and thus fall into idolatry and final ruin. Don’t knowingly do anything that would cause your brother or sister to perish

The Following Commentary was taken from Clarke’s Biblical Commentary. For your benefit, it’s a “Conduct list” of how the “stronger saint” ought to behave first, especially around any weaker saint.

1. The greater our reputation for knowledge and sanctity, the greater mischief we shall do by our influence and example if we turn aside from the holy commandment delivered unto us. Every man should walk so as either to light or lead his brother to heaven.

2. It is the duty of every Christian to watch against apostasy in his own case, and to prevent it as much as possible in that of others.

3. It is natural for man to wish and affect to be wise; and when this desire is cultivated in reference to lawful objects, it will be an indescribable good; but when, like Eve, we see, in a prohibition, something to be desired to make one wise, we are then, like her, on the verge of our fall. Though extensive knowledge is not given to all, yet it is given for all; and is the public property of the church. He who does not use it for general edification robs the public of its right. For the misuse and misapplication of this talent we shall give account to God, as well as of other gifts and graces.

4. Persons of an “acute temperament” (feelings get easily hurt)  and scrupulous conscience may be very troublesome in a Christian society; but as this excessive scrupulosity comes from want of more light, more experience, or more judgment, we should bear with them. Though such should often run into ridiculous extremes, yet we must take care that we do not attempt to cure them either with ridicule or wrath. Extremes generally beget extremes; and such persons require the most judicious treatment, else they will soon be stumbled and turned out of the way. We should be very careful lest in using what is called Christian liberty we occasion their fall; and for our own sake we must take heed that we do not denominate sinful indulgences, Christian liberties.

5. Though we are bound to take heed that we put not a stumbling block in the way of a weak brother, yet if such a brother be stumbled at any part of our conduct which is not to blame in itself, but of which he may have taken a wrong view, we are not answerable for the consequences. We are called to walk by the testimony of God; not according to the measure of any man's conscience, no matter how sincere he may be.

6. Many persons cover a “spirit of envy” and “non-giving” with the "name" of godly zeal and tender concern for the salvation of others; they find fault with all; (backbiters) their spirit is a spirit of universal censoriousness; none can please them; and everyone suffers by them. We should not possess the ‘”leaven” of the Pharisees. These destroy more souls by tithing mint and cummin, yet neglecting the weightier matters of the law. Such persons have what is termed, and very properly too, sour godliness. 

 

Bible Study Series: Plight of “The Corinthian Church” Part II  Lawsuit: "Member Against Member
1 Corinthians Chapter 6

I.     Christians are forbidden to take each other to Court         (Chap. 6:1-8)

“How dare you file a lawsuit against each other!”                            (verse1)

Apostle Paul brought this matter up for possibly 2 reasons:
1. He might be following up on the matter of judging in 1 Corinthians 5:13 as he brought it up here.
2.  It probably was a pervading issue within the church and he wanted to “nip it in the bud!”

Note:      Paul stresses the point that Christians ought to be able to work out differences between themselves without getting the secular world involved. Not that it wasn’t possible to get a fair judgment in a pagan tribunal, but it made the Corinthian church look bad and challenged the integrity of the Christian that had to go to secular judges to settle a matter between 2 Christians , as well as the Christian that wrong the plaintiff. [Church Covenant: We promised God that we will be just in our dealings, faithful in our engagement and exemplary in the way we conduct ourselves socially and in business.] Here’s 2 reasons…….

A.   The saints shall judge the world: You ought to be competent enough to judge trivial matters (petty disputes)         (verse 2)
B.   The saints shall judge angels :(verse 3) fallen (demons)

The object of verses (2 and 3) is to show that Christians were qualified to determine the outcome of controversies which might arise among themselves. This the apostle shows by reminding them that they shall be engaged in determining matters of much more moment than those which could arise among the members of a church on earth; If God will qualify us for kingdom work of that magnitude, they and we have been qualified to express a sound and fair judgment on the questions which might arise among the fellowship in the church.

C.   What do you do if you have judgments and or disputes among yourselves: (verse 4-6)
1.    (with sarcasm) Paul said : Set judges in the church that have the least esteem, (like the pagan magistrates to handle your business issues).
2.    Paul said to them in a shameful manner: You mean to tell me that in the Christian church-the church collected in refined and enlightened Corinth-there is not a single member so wise, intelligent and prudent that his brethren may have confidence in him, and refer their causes to him? Can this be the case in a church that boasts so much of its wisdom, and that prides itself so much in the number and qualifications of its intelligent members?  
There are 3 reasons for this::

(1)    Because they ought rather to take wrong and suffer themselves to be injured (giving up your right for someone else’s wrong)

(2)     Because they might have chosen some persons to settle the matter by arbitration without a formal trial.  A bible based/ Christ centered /Holy Spirit led Church Council

(3)     Because the civil constitution would have allowed them to have settled all their differences without a lawsuit. Josephus  Jewish Historian) says that the Romans (who were now masters of Corinth) permitted the Jews in foreign countries to decide private affairs, where nothing capital (non-money matters) was in question, among themselves.

D.   There’s a “fault” among you!                          (verse 7)
You dare to take your Christian brother/sister to a “secular” court ! 3 things were wrong with this:

(1).    Because religion (according to the Beatitudes) requires its friends to be willing to suffer wrong patiently if need be; (Proverbs 20:22; Matthew 5:39-40; Romans 12:17 to 19;1 Thessalonians  5:15.)

(2).    Because Christianity as a whole takes a tremendous “hit” and the local church suffers “public” ridicule from the media and community in general ,( It taints the testimony of the saints and Christianity in general) by comparison, the “private” wrong which an individual suffer (probably in all cases), than to drag a matter between two professed Christians into a civil, municipal or Superior court.

 (3)    The differences among Christians could be satisfied among themselves, by a reference to a wise church tribunal (as described above). In 99 cases out of 100, the decision would be more likely to be just and satisfactory to all parties from an amicable reference, than from the decisions of a civil court. In "the very few" cases where it would be otherwise, it would be better for the individual to suffer, than for the cause of religion to suffer. Christians OUGHT to love the cause of their Master more than their own individual interest. They ought to be more afraid that the cause of Jesus Christ would be injured than that they should be a few pounds poorer from the conduct of others, or than that they should individually suffer in their character from the injustice of others.

E.      Paul concluded that they would rather defraud their brethren and blatantly do wrong          .      (verse 8)

II.       Pertaining to the Sanctity of the Body: Christian Marriage: (to Christ and to our lawful mates)
            Chapter 6:9 to chapter 7:40

A.   Why is the Body Sanctified?                                (Verses 9 through 20)
1.  The Body is holy: washed and justified           (verses 9-12)
Therefore:  Don’t you know that the unrighteous shall not inherit the kingdom of God? Be not deceived: neither fornicators, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor effeminate, nor abusers of themselves with mankind,

Paul tells the church the “plain” truth about lascivious behavior, and they can’t claim ignorance to this truth; that such sinners should not inherit the kingdom of God. The” meanest” among them must know this much, that the “unrighteous” shall not inherit the kingdom of God,  that is, those persons shall not be owned as true members of his church on earth, (the organism, not organization) nor admitted as glorious members of the church in heaven.

What you need to know:

A.    If you have truly confessed Jesus Christ as your personal Savior, you must allow the Holy Spirit to take control of your life so Christ can possess you fully as a chosen vessel.

B.   Your name can be on a church role down here and still you can miss going to heaven: Jesus said: Not everyone that cry Lord, Lord shall enter into the kingdom of heaven that he (those of us) that do God’s will which is in heaven. On that day, many will say Lord, I prophesied in you named, I cast out devils in your name…I did many wonderous works in your name…Depart from me…. you workers of iniquity!

C.    All unrighteousness is sin; and all reigning sin, every actual sin committed deliberately, and not repented of, shuts out of the kingdom of heaven.

D.   Paul lists several sorts of sins: against the first and second commandments, as idolaters; against the seventh, as adulterers, fornicators, effeminate, and Sodomites; against the eighth, as thieves and extortioners, that by force or fraud wrong their neighbors; against the ninth, as revilers; and against the tenth, as covetous and drunkards, as those who are in a fair way to break all the rest.

E.    Those who knew anything of religion must know that heaven could never be intended for these. The scum of the earth are no ways fit to fill the heavenly mansions. Those who do the devil's work can never receive God's wages, at least no other than death, the just wages of sin, Rom 6:23.

F.     Paul warns them against deceiving themselves: Be not deceived. If you know what’s right, you are required to do what’s right….Men are very much inclined to flatter themselves that God is such a one as themselves, and that they may live in sin and yet die in Christ, may lead the life of the devil's children and yet go to heaven with the children of God. But this is all a gross cheat. Note, It is very much the concern of mankind that they do not cheat themselves in the matters of their souls. We cannot hope to sow to the flesh and yet reap everlasting life.

G.   Paul reminds them of what a change the gospel and grace of God made in them since they have been saved:                                                    (verse 11)

“Such were some of you were such notorious sinners acting like monsters rather than men. Grace changed all of that! It changes the vilest of men into saints and the children of God. Such were some of you, but you are not what you were. You are washed, you are sanctified, you are justified in the name of Jesus Christ, and by the Spirit of our God”.

Note,   The wickedness of men before conversion is doesn’t block them from regeneration and reconciliation to God. The blood of Christ, and the washing of regeneration, can purge away all guilt and defilement

You are sanctified, you are justified. Sanctification is mentioned before justification: and yet the name of Christ, by which we are justified, is placed before the Spirit of God, by whom we are sanctified. Our justification is owing to the merit of Christ; our sanctification to the operation of the Spirit: but both go together.

Note, No one is cleansed from the guilt of sin, and reconciled to God through Christ, but those who are also sanctified by the Holy Spirit. All who are made righteous in the sight of God are made holy by the grace of God.

2.              Because your Body belongs to the Lord                                     (verses 13-18)

A.   Appetites for the body versus an appetite for the things of God (verse 13)

The physical body and its appetites will pass away God will destroy both

B.  Our bodies were not designed for licentious acts but to be devoted to the Lord. . Our body is our “earthly tabernacle that houses the Holy Spirit

C.   God acts, and plans, and provides for it. He sustains and keeps it; God makes provision for its immortal purity and happiness in heaven. It is not right, to pollute this body that’s been design to carry holiness within in the presence of the Holy Spirit. Remember:  God will exert his mighty power in raising up the body, and will make it glorious, it ought not to be prostituted to purposes of licentiousness.

3.  Our body is God’s temple                                        (verses 19-20)

A.   We are no longer our own…The Holy Spirit indwells us

B.   We have been bought with a price! Paid for with the precious blood of Jesus Christ!

Special notice:  About Sins and how they affect your body:
Sins in general; that is, the common sins which people commit  that do not immediately and directly affect the body or waste its energies, and destroy life. Are the sins of falsehood, theft, malice, dishonesty, pride, ambition, etc. They do not immediately or directly impair the body or waste its energies.BUT…

Does have more of a direct and immediate effect is on the mind; but sexual immorality, fornication, adultery, bestiality and others  produces an immediate and direct effect on the body itself.

Sexual immorality of any kind is a sin against your body, "It wastes the bodily energies; produces feebleness, weakness, and disease; it impairs the strength, enervates the man, and shortens life." Perhaps no single sin has done so much to produce the most painful and dreadful diseases, to weaken the constitution, and to shorten life as this. Other vices, as gluttony and drunkenness, do this also, and all sin has SOME effect in destroying the body, but it is true of this sin in an eminent degree. 

"

Bible Study Outline Series: The Plight of The Corinthian Church: "Sexual Immorality and Lawsuits Against Fellow Church Members""1 Corinthians Chapter 5   “Sexual immorality in and out of the Church”

Church Covenant: We promise to walk circumspectly in the world, be just in our dealings, faithful in our engagements and exemplary in our deportment (the way we carry ourselves as well as how we behave) To avoid all tattling, backbiting, and excessive anger......Slow to take offense but always ready to reconcile our differences.

Remember: Many eyes are upon us, and many mouths will be opened against us if we fall into any scandalous practice.      

I.     (Sexual) Immorality:  Defiles the church and the fellowship of the saints   (Verses 1-2)

A.   Commonly reported:  A man in the Christian church was involved in a sexual immoral act with his mother or step mother. (His father’s wife)

B.   The situation between them was Public knowledge:  (Not that there were no such instances of incestuous marriages among the heathens; especially among “upper class” people and “nobles” but, whenever this happened and made publicly known, It would send shockwaves throughout the community and the heathen community would react in horror and show open disdain for the act and the people who did it). It wasn’t “common” in the church

C.    Paul chastises the church’s response and conduct concerning this: The congregation had a “puffed- up” attitude about it and did nothing to get it out of the church. [The person may have been a church leader that was an excellent leader as far as the work was concerned but lived a scandalous life.] Despite his known sexual issues, the church as a congregation was proud that they had “such a leader”. Instead being grieved of his personal lifestyle… they looked the other way! (failed to reprimand, renouncing him and removing him from the society, they continued to applaud him and pride themselves in him.

Question: How does sexual immorality of any kind defile the church spiritually, psychologically and physically (socially community-wise?

1.    Sexual immorality taints the witness of that church and the guilty person (s)

2.    It corrupts the fellowship:  directly and indirectly   It causes a public scandal and vicious rumors and makes the other members of the church co-m conspirators whenever the church congregation as a whole fails to take a public (church –wide) stance against such lascivious behavior

3.    This act brought both spiritual and social disdain toward them and the reputation of the Corinthian church from God’s perspective, (it should have been!)

4.    This illicit act gave the Corinthian church a bad name among the heathens who showed more a disdain for this act with a community setting then the church members did in the church.

II.       Pauls Perspective:      Immorality Must Be Judged        (verses 6-13)

WHAT TO DO:  Convene (Have a Meeting) and deal with this matter: (vs. 3- 5)

     "For I indeed, as absent in body but present in spirit, have already judged (as though I were present) him who has so done this deed. In the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, when you are gathered together, along with my spirit, with the power of our Lord Jesus Christ,. Deliver such a one to Satan for the destruction of the flesh, that his spirit may be saved in the day of the Lord Jesus.*  (if I were with you;  you know what I would advise,. In other words: since you know my views and feelings, and what I would do, and knowing his love for them, they could act as if he were there.)

Special note: This passage proves that discipline belongs to the church itself; and so deep was Paul’s conviction of this, that even he would not administer it, without their (motion, second and vote) concurrence and action. And if Paul would not do it, and in a case too where bodily pains were to be inflicted by miraculous agency, assuredly no other ministers have a right to assume the authority to administer discipline without the action and the concurrence of the church itself.

(Taken From Dakes Annontated Bible): Paul gives a 5-point method in judging the fornicator: or any major sin matter that brings shame upon the church fellowship and the persons involved (Remember: You are the church)

1.   Any discipline or sanctions that must be meted out against any member or members in the church fellowship is to be done by the sole authority of Jesus Christ. You must pray and seek God‘s direction and then operate only in the methods and direction God gives you.

2.   Gather in church conference Matter brought before the governing church body. Church’s (God’s) biblical stance must prevail: what we bind God binds…what we set loose spiritually…God will looses

3.   Agree with what God placed in the spirit and mind of The Pastor who serve as the overseer and liaison between God and the church congregation. As the church must act in unison on the recommendation, the deacons (if you have them) other church elders all must be of one mind and purpose in Jesus Christ in any matters pertaining to disciplining a member or in the transacting any of the church’s business

4.   Use the power of Jesus Christ to do the following: Pray, search the scriptures and pray some more…fast if necessary! Your actions must be Bible based, Christ centered, Holy Spirit led and Mission bound.

 5.   Deliver THEM to Satan (1 Corinthians 5:4-5) Purpose: [for the destruction of the flesh, that the spirit may be saved in the day of the Lord Jesus. Withdraw the right hand of fellowship from them thereby removing the church’s covering until they repent and be reconciled both to the church and to Christ. (they brought shame to both)

Warning to the Offender: Whenever the church withdraws the right hand of fellowship from an offender for any offense, (According to Matthew 18:15-18) God also steps back from the person too and by HIS directive allows afflictions that are design to bring the offender to confront the error of their ways, return to the church and repent, thus return to God and restoration in the church fellowship. (2 Chronicles 7:14) This requires members to withdraw all fellowship and spiritual influence from them, to quit praying for them, so as (God permits) to permit Satan to afflict his body thus perhaps bringing him to repentance, that his spirit might be saved in the end. This was effective, for in the second letter Paul wrote the church to forgive him lest he should be swallowed up in excessive sorrow (2 Corinthians 2:6-7).

Boasting is not good                                        verse 6
[Glorying in yourself is not good] \
           Your boasting over gifts, privileges, and powers is not good. Reason:  You are so busy contending over your teachers that you have let the church fall under scandalous corruptions that threaten its very existence Boasting in the face of un-confessed sin is never good.

Purge yourself                                                            verse 7
 [Know ye not that a little leaven leaveneth the whole lump]
         If you permit this incestuous person to continue in your midst without judgment, the whole church will become ruined by moral impurities. By the OLD leaven he means vice and sin; and also here the person who had committed the sin in their church. That you may be pure, and free from the corrupting principle that sin that brought corruption to the fellowship and ultimately tainted the reputation of the church and the people..

[As ye are unleavened] That is, as ye are bound by your Christian profession to be unleavened, (to be pure) your very PROFESSION implies this, and you ought, therefore, to remove all forms of impurity, and to become holy. Let there be no impurity, and no mixture inconsistent with that holiness which the gospel teaches and requires. Your walk ought to reflect your talk. Your life ought to reflect the things that fall from your lips.

Evangelistic campaign:                                                verse 8-9    
           Put away all wickedness from our hearts as individuals, and from our societies and churches. Let us engage in the service of God putting away by all evil."

[Not with the old leaven] that is, not under the influence, or in the indulgence of the feelings of corrupt and un-renewed human nature (the Old nature)-

 [But with the unleavened bread ...] That is, do it with sincerity and truth. Let us be sincere, and true, and faithful; as the Jews partook of bread unleavened, which was emblematic of purity, so let us BE sincere and true. It is implied here that this could not be done unless they would put away the incestuous person-No Christians can have, or give evidence of sincerity, who are not willing to put away all sin.

Fellowship Revival: Cleaning House around your life        verses 9-13
Paul wrote to the church about their associations with fornicators (vs. 9-10)
Paul did not mean that we should refuse ALL kinds of contact (association) with them. However, as Christians, we must not to make them companions and close friends because we are unequally yoked. We are to be civil towards them. We are permitted to have dealings with the world in normal transactions of life, as long as we don’t allow these associations to cause us to be corrupted by their lifestyles.

Important thing to remember:    

This world is full of such persons. You meet them everywhere in practically every venue.. You cannot avoid them in the ordinary transactions of life, unless you either destroy yourselves, or withdraw wholly from society. This passage shows:

(1) That this society was full of the licentious and the covetous, of idolaters and extortioners.

(2) That it is not right either to take our own lives to avoid them, or to withdraw from society and become monks; and therefore, that the whole monastic system is contrary to Christianity; and,

(3) That it is needful we should have some contact with the people of the world; and to have dealings with them as neighbors, and as members of the community. "How far" we are to have contact with them is not settled here. The general principles may be:

    (a) That it is only so far as is necessary for the purposes of good society, or to show kindness to them as neighbors and as members of the community.

    (b) We are to deal justly and fairly with them in all our transactions.

    (c) We may be connected with them in regard to the things which "we have in common" - as public improvements, the business of education, etc.

    (d) We are to endeavor to do them good, and for that purpose we are not to shun their society. But,

    (e) We are not to make them our companions; or to associate with them in their wickedness, or as idolaters, or covetous, or licentious; we are not to be known as partakers with them in these things. And for the same reason we are not to associate with the frivilous in their gaiety; with the proud IN their pride; with the fashionable IN their regard to fashion; with the friends of the theater, the ballroom, or the splendid party, IN their attachment to these amusements. In all these things we are to be separate; and are to be connected with them only in those things which we may have "in common" with them; and which are not inconsistent with the holy rules of the Christian religion.

    (ff) We are not so to associate with them as to be corrupted by their example; or so as to be led by that example to neglect prayer and the sanctuary, and the deeds of charity, and the effort to do good to the souls of people. We are to make it a great point that our piety is not to suffer by that contact; and we are never to do anything, or conform to any custom, or to have any such contact with them as to lessen our growth in grace; to divert our attention from the humble duties of religion; or to mar our Christian enjoyment.

The Purpose of Separation and Withdrawal                                   verses 11-13

Separation and withdrawal was necessary in these times to save the church from scandal, and from the injurious reports which were circulated. The pagan accused Christians of all manner of crime and abominations. These reports were greatly injurious to the church. But it was evident that currency and plausibility would be given to them if it was known that Christians were on terms of intimacy and good fellowship with pagans and intemperate persons. Hence, it became necessary to withdraw completely from them to withhold even the ordinary courtesies of life; and to draw a line of total and entire separation. Whether this rule in its utmost strictness is demanded now, since the nature of Christianity is known, and since religion cannot be in "so much" danger from such reports, may be made a question. But as neighbors and relatives;as those who may be in distress and want, we are assuredly not forbidden to show toward them the offices of kindness and compassion.

                   Biblical Outline of St. Luke Chapter 12

I.                   Beware of  Hypocrites and Hypocrisy                           Chapter 12:1-3

A.   Jesus warns his disciples in the midst of an overflow crowd.  (vs. 1)

(This resulted from the events of Chapter 11) Beware of the “leaven” of the Pharisee:           False teachings and doctrines and mannerisms

When Jesus cautions them to beware of "the leaven of the Pharisees," he means that they should be cautious about catching their spirit and becoming like them. True Christianity is the way of sincerity, humility, and truthful “Christ-like” living. The more humble a person in Christ, the more that person resembles the way Christ expect us all to conduct ourselves

Special Note:  Why is Hypocrisy compared to “leaven?”  Hypocrisy is like leaven or yeast, because:

1. Sometimes, hypocrisy can exist in a person without being immediately detected by others.

2. Hypocrisy and Hypocrites are insinuating. Just like leaven will eventually overtake the whole mass. hypocrisy will, if undetected and removed, soon shows up in all our works, feelings and expressions.

3. Hypocrisy puffs us up, and fills us with pride and vanity. Nobody is more proud than the hypocrite, and Pride “stinks” in God’s nostrils.

4. Hypocrisy focuses on the faults of others and ignores the faults of the fault finder. (Matthew 7:5) Usually the fault that the fault finder focuses on in others is minor compared to their own faults.

B. Jesus warns that nothing shall be hidden             (vs. 2)

C. Jesus every word spoken in the dark every secret spoken in the ear will be spoken in the light and publicly proclaimed.          (vs. 3)

II.      Having Fear (Reverence) For God (the Father)    Chapter 12:4-7

A.    Who to fear and who not to fear               (vs. 4-5)

1.     Satan or Any demon is not to be feared "The power of your enemies is a limited.

2.     Other men or women; Don’t be intimidated by the power of scoffers, not even of murderers, to drive you off from your work, for you that have learned to triumph over death may say, even of them, Let them do their worst, after that there is no more that they can do; the immortal soul lives, and is happy, and enjoys itself.

3.     Fear God and have “holy” reverence (fear) for him because:        God is to be feared more than the most powerful men: "I will forewarn you whom you shall fear (v. 5): that you may fear man less, fear God more. Moses conquers his fear of the wrath of the king, by having an eye to him that is invisible. By owning Christ you may incur the wrath of men, which can reach no further than to put you to death (and without God's permission they cannot do that

4.     God will provide: The lives of Christians and God’s ministers are the particular care of divine Providence, v. 6,7. God’s Providence takes cognizance of the meanest creatures, even of the sparrows. "Though they are of such small account that five of them are sold for two farthings, yet not one of them is forgotten of God, but is provided for, and notice is taken of its death.

5.     Know your real value to God:  Now, you are of more value than many sparrows, and therefore you may be sure you are not forgotten, though imprisoned, though banished, though forgotten by your friends; much more precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of saints than the death of sparrows."

III.             Publicly “owning” Christ                                     Chapter 12:8-12

A.  The Importance of Witnessing (Confessing Jesus)                             (vs. 8-9)

Note:      "You will either be owned or disowned by Christ, in the great day (judgment),

Which one will happen to you depends on what you do today until death.

Remember: Confessing or publicly witnessing for Christ will put us in opposition with some in the public and from those who stand in opposition, we might lose or suffer losses in some area in our public life, but be rest assured if we do confess Him publicly, we will be owned by him in the great day before the angels of God, to their everlasting comfort and honor.

What will Jesus confess in our behalf?

1.     Jesus Christ will confess, that he suffered for us.

2.     That we are to have the benefit that came as a result of his sufferings.

3.     Acknowledge that we also suffered for him.

4.     Acknowledge that his kingdom and interest on earth were advanced by our sufferings.

5.     We will be honored in heaven because of our confession of Jesus Christ in public witness.

What will happen if we deny him?  (afraid to witness publicly or confess His name)

 Remember:  To deter us from denying Christ, and acting  cowardly by publicly deserting  his truths and ways, we are here assured that those who deny Christ, and treacherously depart from him, whatever they may save by it, though it were life itself, and whatever they may gain by it, though it were a kingdom, a position of power, money, etc.. will be lost at the end.

What will we lose in heaven?

1.     We will be denied esteem before the angels of God.

2.      Christ will not know us, will not own us, will not show us any favor.

3.     We will suffer eternal loss. Departure as “workers of iniquity” from God’s very presence

Something to think about…..According to Revelation 14:10, a considerable part of the misery of damned sinners will be that the holy angels will abandon them, and will be the pleased witnesses, not only of their disgrace, as here, but of their misery, for they shall be tormented in the presence of the holy angels), who will give them no relief.

B.   Persecution                                                 (vs. 10)

Don’t worry about what to say God will give (teach) you what to say in the hour of persecutioin..

IV.            The Church and Legal Matters                                      Chapter 12:11-21

A.  A man with an inheritance dispute (covetousness)        (vs. 13-14)

B.   Jesus response: Who made me a judge over you (this “legal” affair)

“The argument was the brother allegedly took all of the inheritance and would not divide it according to Jewish Law: The oldest got 2/3 of the inheritance and the rest of the children divided the remainder 1/3”.

Jesus knew if he got involved, the Pharisees would have accused him of overstepping his bounds. (though he was not bound)

Note:     Neither the church nor the pastor should be goaded into presiding over personal legal matters. The Judicial Court system was set up by God in accordance of O/T laws to handle such affairs. (An area of separation of Church and state) The church should deal with “spiritual matters” not legal.

C.   Covetousness and the abundant life           (vs. 15-16)

1.     Beware of covetousness: desiring the things that belong to others. (exodus 20:17)     abundant life is “spiritual” and not based on accumulation of possessions

V.               Parable of the Rich fool                    Chapter 12:16-21

A.   Rich farmer has a “bumper” crop and assess what to do with it (vs. 16-17)

B.   Chooses to “hoard” instead of “share”  build bigger barns             (vs.18)

C.   Decides to eat drink and be merry believing he had many days to live off what he harvested             (vs. 19)

D.  Divine interruption        :         Death                                       (vs.20)

E.   Divine lesson: Self centered or Christ centered    (vs. 21)

“Seven Lessons we can take away from this parable”

1. That wicked people are often signally prospered-their ground brings forth plentifully. God gives them their desire, but sends leanness into their souls.

2. Riches bring with them always an increasing load of cares and anxieties.

3. Trusting in earthly riches steal our away the affections from God. This is an insult to God and insinuating, and dangerous to our soul.

4. Covetous people are more concern with where they can hoard and store their wealth rather than what good they can do to the poor and needy by sharing their wealth.

5. No one who covets riches can keep them from their appointment with death. Riches cannot and do not prolong life. In fact, in many cases, can accelerate death.(Hebrews 9:27). Death will come upon them suddenly, and unexpectedly.

6. The person who trusts in his or her riches is a fool in the sight of God. At some point, they will become a fool in their "own" sight, and will go to hell with the consciousness that they were spiritually bankrupt and their life in reality was no more than wasted days and wasted nights.

7. The “true wisdom” of this life is first and “foremost”, seek the kingdom of God, (Seek Jesus Christ) then start making preparations to meet the Lord one day. In other words, be ready to die: Either way, when we leave here, it won’t  matter how much we left, or even how suddenly we left here.  If our affections are not fixed on our riches, we shall leave them without regret. If our treasures are laid up in heaven, death will be but "going home," and happy will be that moment when we are called to our rest.

VI.        Living Life Worry Free (Practical Living)                            Chapter 12:22-31

A.   Don’t worry about tomorrow            (vs. 22-31)

B.   Life is more than what you eat or wear  (vs. 23)

C.   God values us and will take care of our daily needs. (consider what he does in the bird kingdom)  (vs. 24)

D.   Why worry? It doesn’t help your situations. Be anxious for nothing. (vs. 25-26)

E.    If God takes care of everything else. Surely, he will take care of you.  

(vs. 27- 31)  Seek the Kingdom of God first, then God will add everything else you need.

F.    God wants to give you the kingdom. (vs. 32)

G.   Lay your treasures in heaven (invest in the things of God)      (vs.33-34)

VII.         Difference Between A faithful servant and an Evil Servant  (Chapter 12:35-48)

Faithful Servant:

1.    Working while waiting for the Master’s return.

2.    On duty and on guard at all times, even while resting and sleep.

3.    Knows that the Lord could come at any time of the day.

4.    A faithful steward will have authority in the Master’s kingdom.

5.    A faithful steward knows that the more his master gives him, the more stewardship is required from him.

6.    An “unfaithful steward will be punished and beaten according to their unfaithfulness.

VIII.      Christ will bring Division (Last Day Prophecy)   (Chapter 12:49-53)

A.  Christ to send fire (renovation) after the church is raptured   (vs.49)

B.   Christ’s Baptism  Suffering and Crucifixion                  (vs. 50)

C.   Christ brings peace to believers but division to the world (vs. 51-53)

Those opposed to Jesus Christ will reject him and become violent toward those who accepted him, even within families, and among friends.

IX.            Discern the Time           (what time is it?)            (Chapter 12:54-56)

A.  The Danger in looking for miraculous signs (Matthew 16:1-4)         (vs. 54)

These are regular events. So you see my miracles; you hear my preaching; you have the predictions of me in the prophets; why do you not, in like manner, infer that "this is the time" when the Messiah should appear?

Jesus said in essence: you have been searching the scriptures, looking in the stars and everywhere else for an indicator when the Messiah would come. You have your signs and you still will not believe God has already sent the very one you have been searching for!

X.               Settling Legal Differences with God    (Do's and don't                 (Chapter 12:57-59)

A.  Do all you can to settle differences with Christ as the Savior  before Christ comes back as our  Judge          (vs.57-59)

B.   `Don’t Make Jesus Christ an adversary.

C.   Remember, an unrepentant sinner will die (Hebrews 9:27-28)