Does the End Justify the Means?

Introduction

 

Romans 3:8 - Paul had been falsely accused of teaching, "let us do evil that good may come."

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Paul here denied believing this doctrine, but many people today do believe it, or they reason as though they do. The idea is that we evaluate the goal or end result that we hope to achieve, and if the goal seems honorable or upright, then we conclude that whatever means or methods we might use to achieve that goal would also be honorable or upright.

The idea has several names: "Situation Ethics," "Moral Relativity," "end justifies the means," "practicality," and other terms. One man called it "using the devil's tools to do God's work."

The purpose of this study is to consider what the Bible says about the idea that the end justifies the means.

Lying and Deceit

Introduction

 

Our son Tim's company gave him two free tickets to a Cubs game, so he and I went. A professional photographer asked if we would like to have our picture taken for free. When we agreed, he gave us a card telling us how to access our picture online. But the site required us to pay $20 to get any useable picture. He "took the picture" for free, but he knew people would think they would get a picture for free. He deceived us.

Proverbs 6:16-19 lists seven things that are an abomination to God, and two of them involve lying: "a lying tongue," and "a false witness that tells lies." God hates a lying tongue!

Women's Role in Preaching and Church Leadership

Introduction:

Consider some changes that have occurred in church leadership roles in recent years.

* Some believe that women should be allowed to preach or lead prayer or singing in public worship assemblies.

* Some claim that women should be allowed to serve as elders/bishops or deacons.

* Some claim that women should be allowed to attend and speak in church business or decision-making meetings. Some claim women should have equal voice with men in such meetings.

* Some claim that churches must have "congregational meetings" in which all members, including women, discuss and make decisions. Some claim that such meetings must ratify or reject decisions made by the elders or men.

The purpose of this study is to examine the teaching of the New Testament about the role of women in such activities of church leadership and decision making.

Judgment Day

Introduction:

Romans 2:16 refers to "the day when God will judge the secrets of men by Jesus Christ."

Many passages teach there will be a day when Jesus comes again, and all who have ever lived will stand before Him to give account for their lives. The Judge on that day will be Jesus Himself, and He will reward each person according to how he has lived his life.

[See Matthew 25:31-46; John 12:48; Acts 1:9-11; 10:42; 17:30,31; Romans 2:4-11; 14:10-12; 2 Corinthians 5:10; 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18; 2 Thessalonians 1:5-9; 2 Timothy 4:1; Hebrews 9:27; 10:26-31; Revelation 20:11-15; Ecclesiastes 12:13,14.]

The purpose of this lesson is to study the judgment day as revealed in Romans 2.

Glory of Mary

Introduction:

Perhaps no other woman in history played such an important role in God's plan as did Mary.

By the grace of God she was greatly honored to be chosen as Jesus' mother. Surly, all people should appreciate Mary and imitate her good qualities.

Nevertheless, there is disagreement regarding the role or status of Mary. This issue remains one of the main differences between the Roman Catholic Church and other churches.

The purpose of this study is to examine the view held by the Roman Catholic Church regarding Mary and compare it to the teaching of the Bible.

Days of Creation: Literal Days or Long Ages?

Should we view the "days" of Genesis 1 as long periods to harmonize with evolutionary "science," or are they literal, consecutive days? To weaken the doctrine about the days of creation is to weaken the doctrine of creation itself, which in turn undermines faith in God and the Bible as God's word. (Note that "day" must have the same meaning for each of the "days" of creation.) Here is a brief summary of the evidence in the Bible.

Transubstantiation, the Mass, and Holy Eucharist

Introduction: 

Suppose I show you a picture of Abraham Lincoln from the Lincoln Memorial in Washington DC, then I say, "This is Abraham Lincoln, President of the USA." How would you react?

Most would understand that I meant this is a statue of Abraham Lincoln that serves as a memorial that reminds us of him. But suppose someone responds, "You said, 'This is Abraham Lincoln.' You mean Abraham Lincoln is a statue? How can you say our president is made of stone?"

That illustrates the issue in this study.

This study considers whether or not the elements of communion literally and physically become Jesus' body and blood.

The Nature Of The Holy Spirit

Introduction:

The purpose of this study is to consider the nature of the Holy Spirit and especially whether or not the Holy Spirit is a Diving Being who possesses Deity as part of the Godhead, like God the Father and God the Son.

Original Sin & Total Inherited Depravity

Introduction:

"Original sin" refers to the first sin committed by Adam and Eve, and the consequences of that sin to future generations. All Bible students agree that serious consequences came to mankind from that sin. But the term generally refers to a particular doctrinal concept about sin as taught by most Protestant and Catholic churches.

The purpose of this study is to examine the doctrine of "original sin" and the related doctrine of "total inherited depravity," and compare them to the Bible.

 

Should Christians Vote and Express Their Views to Rulers?

Surely local churches should not endorse candidates, nor sponsor or finance their campaigns. And individual Christians should not become so involved in politics that they neglect other God-given duties. But should Christians refuse all involvement in any issues that surround modern politics and elections?

 

Solving Marriage Conflict

Introduction:

Every family has disagreements. Someone once told about a couple celebrating many years of marriage. The man said, "I'm pleased to be able to say that we've never had a fight." The wife responded, "Well, it helps to get old and develop a poor memory!"

The couple that never has conflicts does not exist. Unfortunately, conflicts can lead to bad fights. A bad fight is one that seriously alienates husband and wife but never resolves the cause of the problem. As a result couples build up bitterness, quarreling, uncontrolled anger, hatred, and often divorce.

What many couples lack is the skill to discuss disagreements and resolve them. Specifically, they need the ability to discuss serious problems, reach a plan to resolve them, and then put that plan into action. I emphasize that this is a skill that many people simply never have learned, but which can be learned.

The purpose of this study is to learn what the Bible says about how to resolve conflict in marriage.

The Flood: Myth or Historical Event?

Many people view the flood as merely a myth or legend, but Genesis presents it as simple historic fact. Here are some of the evidences that this record is intended to be viewed as history:

Are You Really "Born Again"?

Introduction:

One of the most common expressions used by some sincere religious people is "born again": "born-again Christians," "born-again believers," etc. The way the expression is used sometimes makes one wonder whether folks really understand the Bible meaning of the term.

In this study, let us consider exactly how a person is "born again"

How does a person know whether he has been born again? Is it possible to think we have been born again when we really have not been? Some will reply that, to be born again you must accept Jesus as your personal Savior. But how does this happen? What does the Bible say?

Jesus' Second Coming: Fact and Fiction

2 Peter 3:10 - "The day of the Lord will come as a thief in the night."

Many fictions exist about the second coming of Jesus.

People who don't claim to be Christians hold many fictions about Jesus' return.

Many doubt that Jesus will return at all or that He will punish people for sin.

People who do claim to be Christians also hold many fictions about Jesus' return.

Speculations abound regarding when He will come and what will happen when He comes. Many of these fictions are popularized by people who hold various premillennial theories.

The purpose of this study is to examine fictions about that day and compare them to the facts of the Scriptures.

Religious Confusion and Disagreement

Religious confusion and disagreement abound. Religious people are divided into hundreds of different groups, wearing different names, worshiping in different ways, and teaching different doctrines.

In this study we want to consider why there is so much confusion, disagreement, and division. Does God approve of it or disapprove?

Why Should You Attend Church Meetings?

Introduction:

Many New Testament passages describe local congregations of God's people conducting regular meetings to worship God and study His word (Acts 20:7; 11:26; 1 Corinthians 11:17-34; chap. 14; Hebrews 10:25). These meetings are intended to provide blessings and opportunities that benefit those who attend.

The purpose of this study is to discuss why each Christian should urgently determine to attend whenever the local church meets.

Is One Interpretation of the Bible as Good as Another?

Introduction:

Many people believe the idea that truth is subjective, especially in religion. So some think that whatever you believe to be true, to you it is true. But what another person believes to be true, that is true for him. So, everybody has his own "truth," even if it flatly contradicts other people's "truths."

For years people used this idea to justify disagreements and contradictions between denominations. They say: "One person sees the Bible one way, and others see it differently. One interpretation is as good as another." In effect, this means that people cannot understand the Bible alike; so whatever it means to you is right for you, even if it contradicts the way other people see it. As long as you practice what you honestly believe the Bible says, God will be pleased.

As a result, some people will not even seriously listen to views that differ from their own. They think it does not matter anyway, so why discuss it?

The purpose of this study is to examine the idea that one belief or interpretation of the Bible is as good as another.

"MEEK AND LOWLY IN HEART"

INTRODUCTION:

Purpose of this study:

If we seek to be happy, to be led by the Spirit, to avoid destruction, to be like great people such as Moses and Jesus, we should want to know what meekness and humility are and how we can have them in our lives. It is the purpose of this lesson to study these qualities, what they are, and how they will affect our lives. Specifically, we will frequently note the examples and teaching of Moses and of Jesus regarding meekness and humility. 

Observance of Religious Holy Days

INTRODUCTION:

Modern denominations, that claim to be Christian, observe various holy days in celebration of religious events. These days have been developed and designated by men over the centuries since the New Testament was written. While you may read in the Bible about the events these days are supposed to memorialize, you do not find that the Bible tells us to observe these holy days in memory of these events.

The purpose of this study is to examine these holy days and see what the Bible says about them.

Why Bible Knowledge Is Important to You

Are you seeking spiritual direction in your life? Do you need answers to serious spiritual questions such as: Does God really exist? What is the purpose and meaning of life? Where did the world come from? Can we receive eternal life after death? How can we be forgiven of our sins and receive the favor and blessings of God.

We urge you to consider this study about spiritual direction based on belief in Christian teaching found in the gospel of Jesus Christ.

Preservation of the Bible

Introduction:

People sometimes wonder whether the Bible, as we have received it, is an accurate record of God's will.

The Bible claims to be a message that tells how God wants us to live. Many people appeal to the Bible as the standard of right and wrong in morals and religion. But can we be sure we have Bibles that accurately record God's word?

Critics often claim that "hundreds of errors" have crept into the Scriptures over the years. As a result, some say they do not need to obey the Bible at all. Others say we need new revelation so we can know God's will today.

In this study we will consider the preservation of the Bible to see if it has been accurately transmitted to us over the centuries.

Origin of Jesus' Church and of Denominations

Introduction:

Ephesians 3:10,11 - The church that Jesus built in the first century was part of the eternal purpose of God. That church was so important that Jesus died for it and He adds all saved people to it (Acts 20:28; 2:47).

But today we have hundreds of different denominations, differing from one another in name, worship, organization, and plan of salvation.

The purpose of this lesson is to consider the origin of these churches.

The Sabbath or the First Day of the Week?

Introduction:

Does the Bible teach Christians today to observe the 7th-day Sabbath, or is the first day of the week the special day for Christians?

Modern Sabbath keepers distinguish parts of the old law. They say only the "ceremonial law" or "Law of Moses" was removed, not the "moral law" or "Law of God," the 10 Commands. The Sabbath was in the 10 Commands, so it is still binding.

What does the Bible really teach?

How Can We Benefit from Jesus' Blood?

Introduction:

My mother loved to tell about a little boy (whom I will not name) whom she once told to take a bath. So he filled the bathtub with water; but when she checked, he was sitting on the side of the tub dangling his feet in the water. She informed him that, to receive any good from a bath, you have to get into the water!

He wanted the benefit of a bath without doing what you have to do to take a bath! That was silly. But unfortunately, many people make a similar mistake about Jesus' death.

Tell Me the Story of Jesus

Introduction:

Two of our best-loved hymns talk about "telling the story" of Jesus. One is entitled "Tell Me the Story of Jesus." The other is "I Love to Tell the Story." Both of them emphasize the fact that everyone needs to know the story of who Jesus is, what He did, and what He teaches.

1 Corinthians 15:1-5 says that the truth about Jesus is the foundation of the gospel. And Jesus is the central theme of the Bible. So everyone needs to hear the story of Jesus.

Kinds of Thieves

Introduction:

When I was about 6 years old, my family visited a neighbor down the street. I saw lying on the floor a toy Mickey Mouse watch - it didn't really even tell time, but it looked like a wristwatch. I wanted it, so I picked it up, put it in my pocket, and took it home. Of course, I felt terrible, because I knew better. Besides, I couldn't wear it without my parents asking me where it came from. Next time we visited that neighbor, I took it back and put it where I had found it. I never told anybody, and nobody ever said anything about it, but I learned my lesson.

Most people do not want to think of themselves as thieves, because they know stealing is wrong.

Stealing is wrong for a number of reasons:

Gospel of Physical Health and Wealth

Introduction:

Consider the following quote:

"Rev. Terry [Terry Cole-Whittaker] is telling [people] that they have every right, and the power, to get anything they want out of life ... She believes we can have it all, everything we want ... her bumper sticker [says] 'Prosperity is your divine right'..." - Ft. Wayne News-Sentinel (1/19/85).

This doctrine is becoming increasingly popular among believers in the "Charismatic Movement," Pentecostalism, and faith healers. Preachers teach that God will reward faithful service with good physical health and material abundance: people have a right to expect this, and God will even do miracles to accomplish it. Many call this "the gospel of physical health and wealth."

The purpose of this study is to examine this doctrine.

Living Together Without Marriage

Introduction:

Increasingly, couples in our society are living together without marriage. Some say marriage is "just a piece of paper," a legal formality. Others have a "trial marriage," saying they want to know if they are compatible before they make a commitment. Others justify sexual relations for those who are just dating as long as they care for one another and have a "meaningful relationship." Still others get married but then have a lover on the side.

Biblical Unity & Biblical Division

Introduction:

Most people would agree that religious unity is important. Many plans have been proposed to unite people religiously, yet the religious world remains tragically divided. World religions are divided from one another. So-called Christian denomination are divided. The Lord's church has suffered major divisions in the first century and since.

The purpose of this lesson is to study the Bible teaching about unity and division.

Slander, Gossip, and Evil Speaking

Introduction:

Speech is one of the most difficult aspects of life to control.

James 3:2 - If we can control our speech, we can control all areas of our lives.
Titus 3:1,2 - Christians are told to "speak evil of no one."
1 Peter 2:1 - "Lay aside ... all evil speaking."

Most people are aware that the Bible gives guidelines about speech, and specifically about how we should speak about others. The Bible deals with "slander," "backbiting," etc.

Most are also aware that this is common problem.

Was Peter the First Pope?

Introduction:

Several religious groups teach as fundamental doctrine that Peter was the first earthly head and Chief Shepherd (pastor) of the church, and modern church leaders are his successors. Others claim that the Papacy is the foundation of the church. Consider this quotation:

"The Pope ... is the bishop of Rome and the Vicar of Christ on earth. He is the visible head of the whole Catholic Church ... Who was the first Pope? St. Peter, who was made Pope by Jesus Christ Himself ... Did Peter's authority die with him? No, it was handed down to a man named Linus, and after he died, it was handed down to another, and so on, during the past 2000 years ... Does Jesus require us to follow the Pope in matters of religion? Yes, because obedience and loyalty to the Pope are among the chief requirements of the Lord's plan for unity in His church" (A Catechism for Adults, by William Cogan, 1975 ed., pp. 55,56).

In this study we want to see what the Bible says about this doctrine. If it is true, as important as it is, we will surely find it in the Bible.

Are You a Pharisee?

Introduction:

Just as there are various denominations today among those who claim to be Christians, so there were various sects among Jews in Jesus' day. Studying what the Bible says about these groups may help us learn lessons useful in our service to God.

The purpose of this study is to consider some lessons from the Pharisees.

The Pharisees were a prominent sect. They correctly believed in spirits and in the resurrection of the dead, whereas Sadducees did not (Acts 23:8).

However, they also possessed many characteristics that Christians should avoid. Their errors, combined with their zeal and influence, often led them into conflict with Jesus and His disciples.

People today who believe in strict obedience to God's word are often accused of being "Pharisees."

Creation vs. Evolution

Note: We accept the Bible, even when it contradicts unproved "scientific" hypotheses, because of the evidence that the Bible is true. These proofs include eyewitness testimony of miracles, fulfilled prophecy, and Jesus' resurrection. For a discussion of these evidences, see the articles on our web site.

The following points are a summary of evidence that evolution can never be harmonized with the Bible.

Buddhism and Christianity

Introduction:

Our purpose is to examine the doctrines of Buddhism and compare them to the Bible.

The History of Buddhism
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Buddhism is an offspring of Hinduism, similar to Hinduism in many ways. It began in India in about the 6th century B.C., and from there it spread throughout Asia. Today it is found mainly in Japan, China, and the Far East. Relatively few people in India itself are Buddhists today.

Importance of Active Involvement in a Local Church

Introduction:

Many principles teach the importance of the church in general. People often fail to appreciate the importance of the church. But consider:

The church was purposed by God from eternity - Ephesians 3:10,11.

The church was built by Jesus - Matthew 16:18.

The church was purchased by Jesus' blood - Acts 20:28; Ephesians 5:23,25.

The church is the household/family over which God is the Father - Ephesians 2:16,19; 1 Timothy 3:15.

The church is the body over which Christ is head - Ephesians 1:22,23. [Colossians 1:18,24]

The church is the kingdom over which Christ rules - Matthew 16:18,19; Colossians 1:13.

All saved people are added by Jesus to the church - Acts 2:47; Colossians 1:13,14. It follows that church membership is essential to salvation.

The Children's Liberation Movement

Introduction:

In recent decades our society has seen the rise of various "liberation" movements, including Women's Liberation, Animal Liberation, etc.

The purpose of this study is to examine the Children's Liberation movement.

This movement is generally promoted by "child advocates" working through various child welfare and social service agencies. These especially include official government agencies, such as child and family services agencies. In particular, a leading force in promoting the movement has been the United Nations, which sponsored the "International Year of the Child" (IYC). (This occurred some time ago, but we will see that the UN is still implementing its goals.)

The Doctrine of Baptisms

Introduction:

Hebrews 6:1,2 - The elementary principles of God's word include "the doctrine of baptisms."

The Bible mentions several different baptisms. Some that are mentioned several times are: John's baptism, water baptism of the gospel, Holy Spirit baptism. Others are mentioned, but only very rarely.

The purpose of this lesson is to study the three major baptisms of the Bible and determine which of them we should practice today.

How to Determine Whether the Bible Is True

Introduction:

What is the proper method to determine the validity of the Bible?

Over the years I have observed various ways people have tried to use to prove that the Bible - or some other religious standard - is or is not true. Some of these methods are valid and can lead to a proper conviction of truth; others are invalid and lead people to improper conclusions.

The purpose of this study is to compare methods sometimes used to determine whether or not a revelation is from God, and then determine what is the proper approach.