G7-101010: June 2024

Sunday, 23 June 2024

Walking with God

Introduction

Walking with God is a central theme in the Bible, representing a close and continuous relationship with Him. This study explores what it means to walk with God, using various scriptures to illustrate how believers can live a life that is pleasing to Him.

Outline of this Lesson

1. Obedience and Faithfulness:

Example of Enoch (Genesis 5:24)**: Enoch's life is a powerful example of someone who walked faithfully with God. His walk was characterized by continuous fellowship and obedience, leading to him being taken directly by God.

Genesis 5:24: "Enoch walked faithfully with God; then he was no more, because God took him away."

Noah (Genesis 6:9)**: Noah’s faithfulness and obedience to God's commands amidst a corrupt world highlight the importance of righteous living. His commitment to God’s instructions saved his family and preserved humanity.

Genesis 6:9: "Noah was a righteous man, blameless among the people of his time, and he walked faithfully with God."

2. Humility and Dependence**:

- Micah 6:8: This verse emphasizes walking humbly with God, which means recognizing our dependence on Him and submitting to His will. Humility in our walk with God involves acknowledging that His ways are higher than our ways.

Micah 6:8: "He has shown you, O man, what is good; and what does the Lord require of you but to do justly, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God?"

3. Living by Faith:

- Hebrews 11:5-7: This passage recounts the faith of Enoch and Noah, illustrating that walking with God requires a steadfast trust in His promises even when they are not yet visible.

4. Rooted in Christ:

- Colossians 2:6-7: Walking with God in the New Testament context means living a life rooted in Christ. It involves continual growth in faith, being built up in the teachings of Christ, and expressing gratitude.

Colossians 2:6-7: "So then, just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live your lives in him, rooted and built up in him, strengthened in the faith as you were taught, and overflowing with thankfulness."

Practical Steps to Walk with God

1. Daily Devotion and Prayer

- Spend time daily in prayer and reading the Bible. This builds a strong foundation of communication and understanding of God's will.

Jesus often withdrew to lonely places to pray (Luke 5:16).

15But the news about Jesus spread all the more, and great crowds came to hear Him and to be healed of their sicknesses. 16Yet He frequently withdrew to the wilderness to pray. 17One day Jesus was teaching, and the Pharisees and teachers of the law were sitting there. People had come from Jerusalem and from every village of Galilee and Judea, and the power of the Lord was present for Him to heal the sick.…

2. Obey God's Commands

- Strive to live according to the teachings of the Bible. Obedience is a crucial aspect of walking with God.

Abraham's obedience to God's command to leave his homeland (Genesis 12:1-4).

1Now the LORD said to Abram,
“Go forth from your country,
And from your relatives
And from your father’s house,
To the land which I will show you;

2And I will make you a great nation,
And I will bless you,
And make your name great;
And so you shall be a blessing;

3And I will bless those who bless you,
And the one who curses you I will curse.
And in you all the families of the earth will be blessed.”

4So Abram went forth as the LORD had spoken to him; and Lot went with him. Now Abram was seventy-five years old when he departed from Haran.

3. Practice Humility and Repentance

- Humility involves recognizing our shortcomings and turning to God for guidance and forgiveness.

King David’s repentance after his sin with Bathsheba (Psalm 51).

1Have mercy on me,a O God,

according to Your loving devotion;

according to Your great compassion,

blot out my transgressions.

2Wash me clean of my iniquity

and cleanse me from my sin.

3For I know my transgressions,

and my sin is always before me.

4Against You, You only, have I sinned

and done what is evil in Your sight,

4. Community and Fellowship

- Engage with a community of believers for mutual encouragement and accountability. Walking with God is not a solitary journey but one that benefits from communal support.

- Early Christians devoted themselves to fellowship and the apostles' teaching (Acts 2:42-47).

42They were continually devoting themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer.

43Everyone kept feeling a sense of awe; and many wonders and signs were taking place through the apostles. 44And all those who had believed were together and had all things in common; 45and they began selling their property and possessions and were sharing them with all, as anyone might have need. 46Day by day continuing with one mind in the temple, and breaking bread from house to house, they were taking their meals together with gladness and sincerity of heart, 47praising God and having favor with all the people. And the Lord was adding to their number day by day those who were being saved.

5. Live Out Your Faith

- Demonstrate your faith through actions, such as serving others and sharing the gospel.

-The Good Samaritan's act of kindness (Luke 10:25-37).

25And a lawyer stood up and put Him to the test, saying, “Teacher, what shall I do to inherit eternal life?” 26And He said to him, “What is written in the Law? How does it read to you?” 27And he answered, “YOU SHALL LOVE THE LORD YOUR GOD WITH ALL YOUR HEART, AND WITH ALL YOUR SOUL, AND WITH ALL YOUR STRENGTH, AND WITH ALL YOUR MIND; AND YOUR NEIGHBOR AS YOURSELF.” 28And He said to him, “You have answered correctly; DO THIS AND YOU WILL LIVE.”

Discussion Questions

1. What does walking humbly with God look like in your daily life?

2. How can you incorporate more time for prayer and Bible study in your routine?

3. What are some challenges you face in obeying God's commands, and how can you overcome them?

4. How does being part of a faith community help you in your walk with God?

Conclusion

Walking with God involves a daily commitment to faith, obedience, humility, and community. By following biblical examples and practical steps, believers can cultivate a closer relationship with God and live a life that reflects His will.

By Rev Dr Rolando E Santiago DD, DPM, ThD

President- EaglesNest Christian Academy and School of Theology

Sunday, 16 June 2024

Teachability

On Teachability

In the study of Proverbs, emphasizes the importance of maintaining a teachable spirit. This principle is foundational for spiritual growth and wisdom. Below is an outline of his teaching on this principle, supported by relevant verses from Proverbs.

1. The Call to Wisdom

Bible Verse:

Proverbs 1:5 (NIV): "Let the wise listen and add to their learning, and let the discerning get guidance."

Explanation: Teachable spirit begins with a willingness to listen and learn. Even the wise are encouraged to continue growing in wisdom and understanding.

2. The Fear of the Lord as the Beginning of Wisdom

Bible Verse:

Proverbs 1:7 (NIV): "The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge, but fools despise wisdom and instruction."

Explanation: A teachable spirit is rooted in the fear of the Lord, which is the foundation of true knowledge and wisdom. Reverence for God prompts a person to seek and value His instruction.

3. Heeding Parental Guidance

Bible Verse:

Proverbs 1:8 (NIV): "Listen, my son, to your father’s instruction and do not forsake your mother’s teaching."

Explanation: Teachability includes respecting and learning from parental guidance. Getz underscores that parents often impart practical and moral wisdom essential for life.

4. Avoiding the Path of the Wicked

Bible Verse:

Proverbs 4:14-15 (NIV): "Do not set foot on the path of the wicked or walk in the way of evildoers. Avoid it, do not travel on it; turn from it and go on your way."

Explanation: A teachable person recognizes the importance of avoiding bad influences and immoral paths. Teachability involves discerning and rejecting actions and behaviors that lead away from wisdom.

5. Seeking Wise Counsel

Bible Verse:

Proverbs 12:15 (NIV): "The way of fools seems right to them, but the wise listen to advice."

Explanation: A teachable spirit is open to seeking and heeding wise counsel. This humility allows one to benefit from the experiences and insights of others.

6. Embracing Correction

Bible Verse:

Proverbs 15:31-32 (NIV): "Whoever heeds life-giving correction will be at home among the wise. Those who disregard discipline despise themselves, but the one who heeds correction gains understanding."

Explanation: Teachability includes a positive attitude towards correction and discipline. Embracing constructive feedback leads to greater wisdom and personal growth.

7. Valuing Knowledge Over Wealth

Bible Verse:

Proverbs 16:16 (NIV): "How much better to get wisdom than gold, to get insight rather than silver!"

Explanation: A teachable spirit values wisdom and knowledge more than material wealth. Prioritizing spiritual and intellectual growth over financial gain reflects true wisdom.

Conclusion

This teaching on the principle of teachability in Proverbs highlights the importance of maintaining an open, humble, and receptive attitude towards learning and instruction. This principle is crucial for spiritual maturity and acquiring true wisdom. By adhering to the teachings of Proverbs, believers can cultivate a teachable spirit that leads to a life of understanding and righteousness.

The 7 Blessings of Salvation in Christ: Module 2C

The 7 Blessings of Salvation in Christ: A Bible Study

Salvation in Christ brings numerous blessings to believers, transforming their lives and securing their eternal future. Here, we explore seven key blessings of salvation with supporting Bible verses and explanations.

1. Forgiveness of Sins

Bible Verse:

Ephesians 1:7 (NIV): "In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, in accordance with the riches of God's grace."

Explanation: Through Christ's sacrifice, believers receive forgiveness for their sins. This forgiveness is not earned but granted by God's grace, releasing us from guilt and restoring our relationship with God.

2. Reconciliation with God

Bible Verse:

Romans 5:10 (NIV): "For if, while we were God’s enemies, we were reconciled to him through the death of his Son, how much more, having been reconciled, shall we be saved through his life!"

Explanation: Salvation reconciles us to God, ending the enmity caused by sin. Through Jesus' death and resurrection, we are brought back into a harmonious relationship with God, ensuring peace and fellowship with Him.

3. Adoption as God's Children

Bible Verse:

Galatians 4:4-5 (NIV): "But when the set time had fully come, God sent his Son, born of a woman, born under the law, to redeem those under the law, that we might receive adoption to sonship."

Explanation: Believers are adopted into God's family, becoming His children with all associated rights and privileges. This new identity grants us access to God's love, care, and eternal inheritance.

4. Indwelling of the Holy Spirit

Bible Verse:

Ephesians 1:13-14 (NIV): "And you also were included in Christ when you heard the message of truth, the gospel of your salvation. When you believed, you were marked in him with a seal, the promised Holy Spirit, who is a deposit guaranteeing our inheritance until the redemption of those who are God’s possession—to the praise of his glory."

Explanation: Upon salvation, believers receive the Holy Spirit, who dwells within them. The Spirit acts as a guide, teacher, and comforter, empowering believers to live godly lives and assuring them of their eternal inheritance.

5. Justification by Faith

Bible Verse:

Romans 5:1 (NIV): "Therefore, since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ."

Explanation: Justification is God's act of declaring believers righteous based on their faith in Christ. It removes the penalty of sin, granting us peace with God and a new standing before Him.

6. Eternal Life

Bible Verse:

John 3:16 (NIV): "For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life."

Explanation: Salvation assures believers of eternal life with God. This promise extends beyond physical death, guaranteeing a future of everlasting joy, peace, and communion with the Lord.

7. New Creation in Christ

Bible Verse:

2 Corinthians 5:17 (NIV): "Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!"

Explanation: Believers are transformed into new creations in Christ. This spiritual rebirth signifies the passing away of the old sinful nature and the emergence of a new life characterized by righteousness and holiness.

Conclusion

The blessings of salvation in Christ are manifold, offering believers forgiveness, reconciliation, adoption, the Holy Spirit, justification, eternal life, and a new identity. Each of these blessings is a testament to God's immense love and grace, securing both our present and future in Him. Reflecting on these truths encourages us to live in gratitude, devotion, and obedience to God.

Knowing the Ways of God

Psalms 103,

…v6The LORD executes righteousness and justice for all the oppressed.

v7He made known His ways to Moses, His deeds to the people of Israel.

v8The LORD is compassionate and gracious, slow to anger, abounding in loving devotion.…

Psalm 86

Discovering God's ways often revolves around understanding God's character and His relationship with His people, as illustrated in Psalm 86. This Psalm is a heartfelt prayer of David, expressing his deep trust in God and his desire to know God's ways. Here's an outline of the key themes based on Psalm 86,

1. Seeking God's Mercy and Grace

Bible Verse:

Psalm 86:1-3 (NIV): "Hear me, Lord, and answer me, for I am poor and needy. Guard my life, for I am faithful to you; save your servant who trusts in you. You are my God; have mercy on me, Lord, for I call to you all day long."

David begins by appealing to God's mercy and grace, recognizing his own neediness and dependence on God. Acknowledging our need for God's mercy is the first step in discovering His ways.

2. Trusting in God's Goodness and Forgiveness

Bible Verse:

Psalm 86:5 (NIV): "You, Lord, are forgiving and good, abounding in love to all who call to you."

David highlights God's forgiving nature and His goodness. Trusting in God's inherent goodness and readiness to forgive is crucial for understanding His ways and experiencing His love.

3. Recognizing God's Uniqueness and Power

Bible Verse:

Psalm 86:8-10 (NIV): "Among the gods there is none like you, Lord; no deeds can compare with yours. All the nations you have made will come and worship before you, Lord; they will bring glory to your name. For you are great and do marvelous deeds; you alone are God."

David acknowledges God's unparalleled greatness and power. Recognizing God's sovereignty and unique attributes helps believers to comprehend His ways more fully.

4. Learning from God's Teachings

Bible Verse:

Psalm 86:11 (NIV): "Teach me your way, Lord, that I may rely on your faithfulness; give me an undivided heart, that I may fear your name."

David expresses a desire to learn God's ways and to remain faithful. The importance of being teachable and seeking God's guidance to understand His will and follow His path.

5. Experiencing God's Love and Faithfulness

Bible Verse:

Psalm 86:13 (NIV): "For great is your love toward me; you have delivered me from the depths, from the realm of the dead."

David reflects on God's great love and past deliverance. Experiencing and remembering God's love and faithfulness in our lives is essential for trusting His ways, even in difficult times.

6. Asking for God's Strength and Protection

Bible Verse:

Psalm 86:16-17 (NIV): "Turn to me and have mercy on me; show your strength in behalf of your servant; save me, because I serve you just as my mother did. Give me a sign of your goodness, that my enemies may see it and be put to shame, for you, Lord, have helped me and comforted me."

David seeks God's strength and protection against his enemies.Relying on God's strength and seeking His protection are vital aspects of understanding and walking in His ways.

Conclusion

This teaching on discovering God's ways, as illustrated in Psalm 86, revolves around several key themes: seeking God's mercy, trusting in His goodness, recognizing His power, learning from His teachings, experiencing His love, and relying on His strength.

Each of these themes is supported by David's heartfelt prayer in Psalm 86, providing a comprehensive understanding of how to discover and follow God's ways in our lives.