Faith

WHY OUR JUDGMENTS FAIL

Posted on by BCI Step by Step

So many people fail to make wise judgments about their important decisions in life. No wonder there are so many divorces and broken families. Wrong judgments lead to decisions and actions that may not be the best or can have bad results. The Bible was given to guide us. It is important to study the Bible daily to grow in knowledge and wisdom. However, when pressed with difficult situations and facing important decisions, Godly counsel is a great help.

Where no counsel is, the people fall: but in the multitude of counsellors there is safety.
(Proverbs 11:14 KJV)

Hear counsel, and receive instruction, that thou mayest be wise in thy latter end.
(Proverbs 19:20 KJV)

For example, when you have a limited budget and are planning to buy a used car, getting the advice of the best-experienced mechanic would be very beneficial. However, many people follow their feelings as they make important decisions in life and do not feel the need of godly wisdom and counsel.

He that refuseth instruction despiseth his own soul: but he that heareth reproof getteth understanding.
(Proverbs 15:32 KJV)

WHY OUR JUDGMENTS FAIL

Because our judgment is… WITHOUT GODLY WISDOM

MANY PEOPLE REJECT KNOWLEDGE OF GOD’S WORD

Wisdom crieth without; she uttereth her voice in the streets: She crieth in the chief place of concourse, in the openings of the gates: in the city she uttereth her words, saying, How long, ye simple ones, will ye love simplicity? and the scorners delight in their scorning, and fools hate knowledge? Turn you at my reproof: behold, I will pour out my spirit unto you, I will make known my words unto you.
(Proverbs 1:20-23 KJV)

PEOPLE WHO DILIGENTLY SEEK FIND KNOWLEDGE AND WISDOM

If thou seekest her as silver, and searchest for her as for hid treasures; Then shalt thou understand the fear of the LORD, and find the knowledge of God. For the LORD giveth wisdom: out of his mouth cometh knowledge and understanding.
(Proverbs 2:4-6 KJV)

Because our judgment is… WITHOUT UNDERSTANDING

A PERSON WILL NOT TRULY UNDERSTAND UNTIL HE APPLIES WHAT HE KNOWS IS RIGHT

Wisdom is the principal thing; therefore get wisdom: and with all thy getting get understanding.
(Proverbs 4:7 KJV)

HAPPINESS IS FINDING WISDOM AND ALSO UNDERSTANDING

Happy is the man that findeth wisdom, and the man that getteth understanding.
(Proverbs 3:13 KJV)

A WISE PERSON WILL KEEP ON LEARNING AND WILL LISTEN TO WISE COUNSELLORS.

A wise man will hear, and will increase learning; and a man of understanding shall attain unto wise counsels:
(Proverbs 1:5 KJV)

TRUE REPENTANCE AND OBEDIENCE ARE NECESSARY TO UNDERSTAND MORE.

Forsake the foolish, and live; and go in the way of understanding.
(Proverbs 9:6 KJV)

WISDOM IS THE APPLICATION OF KNOWLEDGE SO WHEN HE FEARS GOD, HE OBEYS AND EXPERIENCES THE TRUTH IN HIS LIFE.

The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom: and the knowledge of the holy is understanding.
(Proverbs 9:10 KJV)

But be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving your own selves.
(James 1:22 KJV)

Because our judgment is… WITHOUT SELF-EXAMINATION

IT IS BETTER TO JUDGE YOURSELF FIRST BEFORE OTHERS TO AVOID UNFAVORABLE CONSEQUENCES

The wisdom of the prudent is to understand his way: but the folly of fools is deceit.
(Proverbs 14:8 KJV)

For if we would judge ourselves, we should not be judged. But when we are judged, we are chastened of the Lord, that we should not be condemned with the world.
(1 Corinthians 11:31-32 KJV)

EXAMINE YOURSELF IF THERE IS A WRONG ATTITUDE OF SELF-RIGHTEOUSNESS OR SELF-PRIDE

And he spake this parable unto certain which trusted in themselves that they were righteous, and despised others: Two men went up into the temple to pray; the one a Pharisee, and the other a publican. The Pharisee stood and prayed thus with himself, God, I thank thee, that I am not as other men are, extortioners, unjust, adulterers, or even as this publican. I fast twice in the week, I give tithes of all that I possess. And the publican, standing afar off, would not lift up so much as his eyes unto heaven, but smote upon his breast, saying, God be merciful to me a sinner. I tell you, this man went down to his house justified rather than the other: for every one that exalteth himself shall be abased; and he that humbleth himself shall be exalted.
(Luke 18:9-14 KJV)

CONSIDER YOURSELF BEFORE JUDGING OTHERS.

Judge not, that ye be not judged. For with what judgment ye judge, ye shall be judged: and with what measure ye mete, it shall be measured to you again. And why beholdest thou the mote that is in thy brother’s eye, but considerest not the beam that is in thine own eye?
(Matthew 7:1-3 KJV)

Because our judgment is… ACCORDING TO APPEARANCE

JUDGE NOT ACCORDING TO APPEARANCE BUT JUDGE RIGHTEOUS JUDGMENT

Judge not according to the appearance, but judge righteous judgment.
(John 7:24 KJV)

Are ye not then partial in yourselves, and are become judges of evil thoughts?
(James 2:4 KJV)

MAN LOOKS ON THE OUTWARD APPEARANCE BUT GOD LOOKS ON THE HEART

But the LORD said unto Samuel, Look not on his countenance, or on the height of his stature; because I have refused him: for the LORD seeth not as man seeth; for man looketh on the outward appearance, but the LORD looketh on the heart.
(1 Samuel 16:7 KJV)

Because our judgment is… WITHOUT RIGHT COUNSEL

Where no counsel is, the people fall: but in the multitude of counsellors there is safety.
(Proverbs 11:14 KJV)

THEY DO NOT SEEK GODLY COUNSEL

Blessed is the man that walketh not in the counsel of the ungodly, nor standeth in the way of sinners, nor sitteth in the seat of the scornful.
(Psalms 1:1 KJV)

THEY LISTEN TO GOSSIPS THAN SEEKING THE TRUTH

Where no wood is, there the fire goeth out: so where there is no talebearer, the strife ceaseth. As coals are to burning coals, and wood to fire; so is a contentious man to kindle strife.
(Proverbs 26:20-21 KJV)

SOMETIMES THE COUNSELLOR LACKS EXPERIENCE UNABLE TO GIVE THE BEST ADVICE

But he forsook the counsel of the old men, which they had given him, and consulted with the young men that were grown up with him, and which stood before him:
(1 Kings 12:8 KJV)

For by wise counsel thou shalt make thy war: and in multitude of counsellors there is safety.
(Proverbs 24:6 KJV)

And Absalom and all the men of Israel said, The counsel of Hushai the Archite is better than the counsel of Ahithophel. For the LORD had appointed to defeat the good counsel of Ahithophel, to the intent that the LORD might bring evil upon Absalom.
(2 Samuel 17:14 KJV)

Because our judgment is…BASED ON FEELINGS

YOU CAN BE DECEIVED BY YOUR FEELINGS

The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked: who can know it?
(Jeremiah 17:9 KJV)

YOU CAN MAKE A MISTAKE BY FOLLOWING YOUR FEELINGS

He that trusteth in his own heart is a fool: but whoso walketh wisely, he shall be delivered.
(Proverbs 28:26 KJV)

YOU HAVE TO LISTEN TO WISE COUNSEL AND APPLY THEM WITH UNDERSTANDING.

So that thou incline thine ear unto wisdom, and apply thine heart to understanding;
(Proverbs 2:2 KJV)

Because our judgment is…WITHOUT KNOWLEDGE OF FACTS AND TRUTH

Prove all things; hold fast that which is good.
(1 Thessalonians 5:21 KJV)

A scorner seeketh wisdom, and findeth it not: but knowledge is easy unto him that understandeth.
(Proverbs 14:6 KJV)

For if our heart condemn us, God is greater than our heart, and knoweth all things.
(1 John 3:20 KJV)

For we can do nothing against the truth, but for the truth.
(2 Corinthians 13:8 KJV)

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Intercessory Prayer

Posted on by BCI Step by Step

The word “Intercessory” from the dictionary (Thesaurus) is an adjective which means “having the function of interceding”.  The word “intercede” is a verb that means “to act or interpose in behalf of someone in difficulty or trouble, as by pleading or petition”.  We know that prayer is talking to God, expressing our appreciation and praises of Him, thanksgiving, supplication, and confession.  God speaks to us through His words, the Bible.  Thesaurus dictionary defines prayer as “a spiritual communion with God or an object of worship, as in supplication, thanksgiving, adoration, or confession”.  Its simple definition is, “a petition; entreaty”.  So, we can have a clearer grasp of what intercessory prayer is, we need to understand the meaning of the words.  It simply means “praying for others” or “praying on behalf of others”.  

Jesus valued prayer.  In fact, it is the backbone of His ministry.  Early in the morning he rose up to pray:

And in the morning, rising up a great while before day, he went out, and departed into a solitary place, and there prayed. (Mark 1:35)

He usually went to a place where he would not be disturbed.  Where he can have time alone with the Father.  Prayer is essential in the life of our Lord Jesus during his earthly ministry.  Especially when he makes a very important decision in how he would spend his life and with whom he spends much time in prayer. 

And it came to pass in those days, that he went out into a mountain to pray, and continued all night in prayer to God. (Luke 6:12)

It is a question to us if we ever give much time to prayer when we make important decisions in our lives and our ministries, on how we should spend our time, talent, and treasure to impact more people and influence them for the Lord.  Do we consider how we can be a blessing to many, by praying for God’s laborers and their outreaches?  Do you ever pray for the salvation of the lost? Your prayer can be a blessing to many.  

Prayer is most important in the ministry of our Lord Jesus.  He brought salvation for us by his death and resurrection.  But after he ascended to heaven, he continued to minister to us by intercessory prayer.  

But this man, because he continueth ever, hath an unchangeable priesthood. Wherefore he is able also to save them to the uttermost that come unto God by him, seeing he ever liveth to make intercession for them. (Hebrews 7:24-25)

Jesus continues to save lost people and “he is ABLE TO SAVE them to the uttermost that come unto God BY HIM”.  It is clear in this passage that salvation is by grace through faith in Jesus.   This is related to Ephesians 2: 8-9:

For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast. (Ephesians 2:8-9)

Salvation belongeth unto the LORD: thy blessing is upon thy people. Selah. (Psalms 3:8)

Man cannot be a Savior, only God is the Savior.  Jesus saves and he always prays for us, believers and for the lost. 

In John 17 we find Jesus praying for believers and for the lost.  

I pray not that thou shouldest take them out of the world, but that thou shouldest keep them from the evil. They are not of the world, even as I am not of the world. Sanctify them through thy truth: thy word is truth. As thou hast sent me into the world, even so have I also sent them into the world. And for their sakes I sanctify myself, that they also might be sanctified through the truth. Neither pray I for these alone, but for them also which shall believe on me through their word;

(John 17:15-20)

In Luke 19: 10 we find that the very purpose of Christ is to seek and to save that which was lost. 

For the Son of man is come to seek and to save that which was lost.

(Luke 19:10)

Do you find it a great privilege to talk to God in prayer and intercede for others, for those who reach out for the lost and for the lost people to respond to God’s message through them?  

Consider these Scriptures:

And I looked, and there was none to help; and I wondered that there was none to uphold: therefore mine own arm brought salvation unto me; and my fury, it upheld me. (Isaiah 63:5)

And if thou draw out thy soul to the hungry, and satisfy the afflicted soul; then shall thy light rise in obscurity, and thy darkness be as the noonday: And the LORD shall guide thee continually, and satisfy thy soul in drought, and make fat thy bones: and thou shalt be like a watered garden, and like a spring of water, whose waters fail not. (Isaiah 58:10-11)

And the Lord said, Simon, Simon, behold, Satan hath desired to have you, that he may sift you as wheat: But I have prayed for thee, that thy faith fail not: and when thou art converted, strengthen thy brethren.

(Luke 22:31-32)

Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints; (Ephesians 6:18)

I exhort therefore, that, first of all, supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks, be made for all men; For kings, and for all that are in authority; that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty. (1 Timothy 2:1-2)

Finally, brethren, pray for us, that the word of the Lord may have free course, and be glorified, even as it is with you: (2 Thessalonians 3:1)

Take time to pray today… Praying for you 🙂 God bless — E. J. 

Grow Spiritually Through Prayer

Posted on by BCI Step by Step

How can you grow closer to the Lord?  Prayer is communicating with God and it is through constant communication with Him that you will be closer to Him.  

Draw nigh to God, and he will draw nigh to you. Cleanse your hands, ye sinners; and purify your hearts, ye double minded.

(James 4:8)

PRAYER PROMOTES SPIRITUAL GROWTH 

You grow by self examination. 

Search me, O God, and know my heart: try me, and know my thoughts: And see if there be any wicked way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting.

(Psalms 139:23-24)

You grow by acknowledging and confessing your sins to Him. 

Wash me throughly from mine iniquity, and cleanse me from my sin. For I acknowledge my transgressions: and my sin is ever before me.

(Psalms 51:2-3)

You grow as you ask for wisdom 

If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him.

(James 1:5)

You grow as you study God’s word. 

Open thou mine eyes, that I may behold wondrous things out of thy law.

(Psalms 119:18)

You grow as you apply God’s word and your life changes. 

But we all, with open face beholding as in a glass the glory of the Lord, are changed into the same image from glory to glory, even as by the Spirit of the Lord.

(2 Corinthians 3:18)

May you continue to grow in Him. 🙂 

BE THANKFUL

Posted on by BCI Step by Step

Our grateful attitude is the key to victorious prayer.

Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God.
(Philippians 4:6)

Being thankful is a demonstration of our faith that there is no need to worry because…

And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose.
(Romans 8:28)

A prayer of faith is pleasing to the Lord and is effective.

But let him ask in faith, nothing wavering. For he that wavereth is like a wave of the sea driven with the wind and tossed.
(James 1:6)

But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him.
(Hebrews 11:6)

Thanking God is believing that God has a purpose for every circumstance

In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.
(1 Thessalonians 5:18)

A thankful and praising attitude is a sign of maturity.

A merry heart maketh a cheerful countenance: but by sorrow of the heart the spirit is broken. The heart of him that hath understanding seeketh knowledge: but the mouth of fools feedeth on foolishness. All the days of the afflicted are evil: but he that is of a merry heart hath a continual feast.
(Proverbs 15:13-15)

RELATED TOPICS

The Doctrine about Prayer

The Doctrine about Prayer (Continuation)

EXPOSITION OF JAMES 2:17

Posted on by BCI Step by Step

James 2:17 says, “Faith without works is dead”. What is dead? The answer is ‘faith”. Dead faith is without works while living faith has works. Dead faith does not produce good works while living faith produces good works. What is meant by a dead faith? A dead faith is a functionless faith and a worthless faith. It is faith without understanding, without real conviction, without sorrow of sins, without repentance, without direction, without basis, without emotion, without love, without willingness, without real trust in Christ, and it is a mere intellectual belief. It is a false trust or false acceptance of Jesus. False trust does not produce works but true faith results in good works. A further analysis of the verse reveals that:

  • Faith comes first before good works. Example: I do not do good works to have faith rather I have faith that is why I do good works.
  • Good works are produced by true faith.
  • Good works are manifestations of real faith. Verse 18 says, “show me….”
  • Good works show what kind of faith a person has – true or false.
  • The issue here is the kind of faith. It does not say that good works are requisites to salvation. It shows that a living or real faith has the ability and willingness to show it through good works. Example. A young girl who is your neighbor claims to be a student of a prestigious school, but you never saw her wear the uniform required by that school, and not one of your neighbors saw her go to that school. Of course, you won’t believe her. She has nothing to show. In the same way, if there is a person who claims to be a Christian or a believer, but he is not willing to be baptized, and he does not serve God, of course, you won’t believe him.

James 2:26 says, “For as the body without the spirit is dead, so faith without works is dead also”. A dead body does not move to have the spirit. A living body moves because it has a spirit. A spiritually dead sinner cannot work to have the Holy Spirit, rather a person works and serve God because he has the Holy Spirit. (Romans 8: 9,14). If a sinner cannot work to have the Holy Spirit, how can he receive the Holy Spirit? The answer is by hearing the gospel and trusting Jesus as Savior and Lord, Acts 10:43-44; Eph.1:13. Intellectual or mere belief will not result to doing good works but a person who sincerely believes and trust in Jesus will prove it by his good works. Merely believing in the existence of God and the historical event that Christ died for man’s sins will not result to salvation. James 2:19 says, “…the devil also believe and tremble”. Many people have faith like that of the demon and think that they will go to heaven. To be sure that you are saved first, you must have truly repented of your sins and trusted Jesus as Savior (Jn.1:12; Luke 13:3). Second, you must have the conviction of the Holy Spirit and the assurance from God’s word (Rom.8:17; I John 5:11-13). Third, you prove it by living a “changed life” (II Cor.5:17; I John 2:3-4). James 2;18 says, “I will show thee my faith by my works”.

By E. J.

Doing the Will of God from the Heart

Posted on by BCI Step by Step

Not with eyeservice, as menpleasers; but as the servants of Christ, doing the will of God from the heart;
(Ephesians 6:6 KJV)

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Do you believe that your future matters according to your faith?

Then touched he their eyes, saying, According to your faith be it unto you.
(Matthew 9:29 KJV)

Not boasting of things without our measure, that is, of other men’s labours; but having hope, when your faith is increased, that we shall be enlarged by you according to our rule abundantly,
(2 Corinthians 10:15 KJV)

For as he thinketh in his heart, so is he: Eat and drink, saith he to thee; but his heart is not with thee.
(Proverbs 23:7 KJV)

Do you believe that God has the best plan for your life?

For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, saith the LORD, thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to give you an expected end. (Jeremiah 29:11 KJV)

The thief cometh not, but for to steal, and to kill, and to destroy: I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly. (John 10:10 KJV)

I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service. And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God. (Romans 12:1-2 KJV)

Do you believe that many Christians missed God’s best plan for them because they do not seek God’s will in their lives?

But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you. (Matthew 6:33 KJV)

Delight thyself also in the LORD; and he shall give thee the desires of thine heart.
(Psalms 37:4 KJV)

Do you believe that Satan still tempts believers, misleads them, and brings destruction to their bodies and troubles in their lives?

To deliver such an one unto Satan for the destruction of the flesh, that the spirit may be saved in the day of the Lord Jesus. (1 Corinthians 5:5 KJV)

Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour: (1 Peter 5:8 KJV)

The consequence of right or wrong decisions affects one’s future.

And whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men; Knowing that of the Lord ye shall receive the reward of the inheritance: for ye serve the Lord Christ. But he that doeth wrong shall receive for the wrong which he hath done: and there is no respect of persons. (Colossians 3:23-25 KJV)

WHAT YOU NEED TO DO?

SEEK GOD FIRST

But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.
(Matthew 6:33 KJV)

For what shall it profit a man, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul?
(Mark 8:36 KJV)

O taste and see that the LORD is good: blessed is the man that trusteth in him.
(Psalms 34:8 KJV)

And every one that hath forsaken houses, or brethren, or sisters, or father, or mother, or wife, or children, or lands, for my name’s sake, shall receive an hundredfold, and shall inherit everlasting life. But many that are first shall be last; and the last shall be first. (Matthew 19:29-30 KJV)

LEARN GOD’S WORDS

But grow in grace, and in the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. To him be glory both now and for ever. Amen. (2 Peter 3:18 KJV)

And that from a child thou hast known the holy scriptures, which are able to make thee wise unto salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus. All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: That the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works. (2 Timothy 3:15-17 KJV)

So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God.
(Romans 10:17 KJV)

ATTEND THE SERVICES OF A BIBLICAL CHURCH REGULARLY

Not with eyeservice, as menpleasers; but as the servants of Christ, doing the will of God from the heart; With good will doing service, as to the Lord, and not to men: (Ephesians 6:6-7 KJV)

And let us consider one another to provoke unto love and to good works: Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another: and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching. (Hebrews 10:24-25 KJV)

SUPPORT THE MINISTRY

For we stretch not ourselves beyond our measure, as though we reached not unto you: for we are come as far as to you also in preaching the gospel of Christ: Not boasting of things without our measure, that is, of other men’s labours; but having hope, when your faith is increased, that we shall be enlarged by you according to our rule abundantly, To preach the gospel in the regions beyond you, and not to boast in another man’s line of things made ready to our hand. (2 Corinthians 10:14-16 KJV)

But this I say, He which soweth sparingly shall reap also sparingly; and he which soweth bountifully shall reap also bountifully. Every man according as he purposeth in his heart, so let him give; not grudgingly, or of necessity: for God loveth a cheerful giver. And God is able to make all grace abound toward you; that ye, always having all sufficiency in all things, may abound to every good work: (2 Corinthians 9:6-8 KJV)

Then he which had received the one talent came and said, Lord, I knew thee that thou art an hard man, reaping where thou hast not sown, and gathering where thou hast not strawed: And I was afraid, and went and hid thy talent in the earth: lo, there thou hast that is thine. His lord answered and said unto him, Thou wicked and slothful servant, thou knewest that I reap where I sowed not, and gather where I have not strawed: Thou oughtest therefore to have put my money to the exchangers, and then at my coming I should have received mine own with usury. Take therefore the talent from him, and give it unto him which hath ten talents. (Matthew 25:24-28 KJV)

DAILY SEEK GOD’S GUIDANCE THROUGH PRAYER AND MEDITATION

Blessed is the man that walketh not in the counsel of the ungodly, nor standeth in the way of sinners, nor sitteth in the seat of the scornful. But his delight is in the law of the LORD; and in his law doth he meditate day and night. (Psalms 1:1-2 KJV)

And in the morning, rising up a great while before day, he went out, and departed into a solitary place, and there prayed. (Mark 1:35 KJV)

Only be thou strong and very courageous, that thou mayest observe to do according to all the law, which Moses my servant commanded thee: turn not from it to the right hand or to the left, that thou mayest prosper whithersoever thou goest. This book of the law shall not depart out of thy mouth; but thou shalt meditate therein day and night, that thou mayest observe to do according to all that is written therein: for then thou shalt make thy way prosperous, and then thou shalt have good success. (Joshua 1:7-8 KJV)

NUN. Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path. (Psalms 119:105 KJV)

Thy word have I hid in mine heart, that I might not sin against thee. (Psalms 119:11 KJV)

Order my steps in thy word: and let not any iniquity have dominion over me. (Psalms 119:133 KJV)

SEEK GODLY COUNSEL

Where no counsel is, the people fall: but in the multitude of counsellors there is safety.
(Proverbs 11:14 KJV)

The way of a fool is right in his own eyes: but he that hearkeneth unto counsel is wise.
(Proverbs 12:15 KJV)

Poverty and shame shall be to him that refuseth instruction: but he that regardeth reproof shall be honoured. (Proverbs 13:18 KJV)

Hear counsel, and receive instruction, that thou mayest be wise in thy latter end. (Proverbs 19:20 KJV)

Without counsel purposes are disappointed: but in the multitude of counsellors they are established.
(Proverbs 15:22 KJV)

BE STRONG IN THE LORD TO OVERCOME SATAN’S TEMPTATIONS

Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour: (1 Peter 5:8 KJV)

Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might. (Ephesians 6:10 KJV)

This I say then, Walk in the Spirit, and ye shall not fulfil the lust of the flesh. For the flesh lusteth against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh: and these are contrary the one to the other: so that ye cannot do the things that ye would. (Galatians 5:16-17 KJV)

The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked: who can know it? (Jeremiah 17:9 KJV)

Keep thy heart with all diligence; for out of it are the issues of life. (Proverbs 4:23 KJV)

TRUST AND OBEY GOD

But that no man is justified by the law in the sight of God, it is evident: for, The just shall live by faith.
(Galatians 3:11 KJV)

Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths. (Proverbs 3:5-6 KJV)

But be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving your own selves. For if any be a hearer of the word, and not a doer, he is like unto a man beholding his natural face in a glass: For he beholdeth himself, and goeth his way, and straightway forgetteth what manner of man he was. (James 1:22-24 KJV)

RELATED LESSONS:

Why a Christian experiences afflictions

What benefits can you get out of your problems

Why does God allow people to experience suffering?

Which will you follow, truth or feelings?

Reasons for Knowing God

BE FIRM IN THE FAITH

Posted on by BCI Step by Step

And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers; For the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ: Till we all come in the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fulness of Christ: That we henceforth be no more children, tossed to and fro, and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the sleight of men, and cunning craftiness, whereby they lie in wait to deceive; (Ephesians 4:11-14 KJV)

Leaders of the church are God’s gifts. It says, “He gave….”

And I will give you pastors according to mine heart, which shall feed you with knowledge and understanding. (Jeremiah 3:15 KJV)

The office of the Apostles and Prophets, however, had already ceased. The requirement for the office of the Apostle is mentioned in Acts 1: 21-22 and no one would qualify now. In the case of Paul, he was a special Apostle and he had a personal encounter with the Lord Jesus at Damascus road. The office of the Apostles ceased at the death of the last Apostle. The prophets ceased when the Bible was completed. No prophecy is to be added to the Bible. (Rev. 22: 18). The Bible is complete as our rule and guide. (2 Timothy 3: 16-17). The Bible was given in an installment basis until the whole Bible was completed. Before the Bible was completed there were Apostles and Prophets. Now we have the complete Bible as our guide and basis of faith (1 Cor. 13:8-10, James 1: 25). What we need today are pastors who will explain the prophecy of the Bible.

God desires us to grow in the knowledge of God’s word. We must be careful of so many false teachings and false teachers today. We must be grounded in the right doctrines of the Bible.

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DEPENDENCE ON GOD IN DISCIPLE-MAKING

Posted on by BCI Step by Step
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Are you a Christian? If you claim to be a Christian, you must be following Christ, because a Christian is a follower of Christ. Be a disciple, a student of the word, a learner. Being a disciple is more than agreeing to religious truth. Rather, it is a commitment to follow Christ. Discipleship is a process of continuous learning and growth. Be a disciple, a follower of Christ.

PERSONAL CHARACTERISTICS OF A DISCIPLE

A disciple is in constant fellowship with Christ through regular prayer and meditation.

If ye abide in me, and my words abide in you, ye shall ask what ye will, and it shall be done unto you. (John 15:7 KJV)

A disciple bears fruit.

Herein is my Father glorified, that ye bear much fruit; so shall ye be my disciples. (John 15:8 KJV)

A disciple responds to God’s love and obedience.

As the Father hath loved me, so have I loved you: continue ye in my love. If ye keep my commandments, ye shall abide in my love; even as I have kept my Father’s commandments, and abide in his love. (John 15:9-10 KJV)

A disciple is joyful.

These things have I spoken unto you, that my joy might remain in you, and that your joy might be full. (John 15:11 KJV)

A disciple loves as Jesus loves.

This is my commandment, That ye love one another, as I have loved you. Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends. (John 15:12-13 KJV)

PERSONAL COMPETENCES OF A DISCIPLE

A disciple submits to a teacher who teaches him how to follow Jesus.

Be ye followers of me, even as I also am of Christ.
(1 Corinthians 11:1 KJV)

Obey them that have the rule over you, and submit yourselves: for they watch for your souls, as they that must give account, that they may do it with joy, and not with grief: for that is unprofitable for you.
(Hebrews 13:17 KJV)

A disciple studies and learns Jesus’ words.

These were more noble than those in Thessalonica, in that they received the word with all readiness of mind, and searched the scriptures daily, whether those things were so.
(Acts 17:11 KJV)

A disciple learns Jesus’ way of ministry.

And he saith unto them, Follow me, and I will make you fishers of men.
(Matthew 4:19 KJV)

A disciple imitates Jesus’ life and character.

Fulfil ye my joy, that ye be likeminded, having the same love, being of one accord, of one mind. Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves. Look not every man on his own things, but every man also on the things of others. Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus: (Philippians 2:2-5 KJV)

A disciple finds and teaches other disciples to follow Jesus.

Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world. Amen.
(Matthew 28:19-20 KJV)

And the things that thou hast heard of me among many witnesses, the same commit thou to faithful men, who shall be able to teach others also. (2 Timothy 2:2 KJV)

WE MUST DISCIPLE

If we don’t disciple, will some disciples be active and committed to the great commission?

DEPEND ON GOD’S GRACE — GRACE TRANSFORMS

We are saved by grace through faith. We started by God’s in salvation, and so we continue to walk in our Christian life by God’s grace.

O foolish Galatians, who hath bewitched you, that ye should not obey the truth, before whose eyes Jesus Christ hath been evidently set forth, crucified among you? This only would I learn of you, Received ye the Spirit by the works of the law, or by the hearing of faith? Are ye so foolish? having begun in the Spirit, are ye now made perfect by the flesh? (Galatians 3:1-3 KJV)

But grow in grace, and in the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. To him be glory both now and for ever. Amen. (2 Peter 3:18 KJV)

As we are involved in discipleship, we must remember that we cannot do it on our own. But we need to rely on God’s grace to transform lives.

Being confident of this very thing, that he which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ: (Philippians 1:6 KJV)

Then he answered and spake unto me, saying, This is the word of the LORD unto Zerubbabel, saying, Not by might, nor by power, but by my spirit, saith the LORD of hosts. (Zechariah 4:6 KJV)

Whom we preach, warning every man, and teaching every man in all wisdom; that we may present every man perfect in Christ Jesus: (Colossians 1:28 KJV)

There is grace in conversion, and so, in our whole journey of our Christian walk. God’s grace transforms. First, we are justified at the new birth. Then after salvation, the Spirit continues to work in our sanctification. That is the process of being Christ-like.

THE OBJECTIVE OF DISCIPLESHIP IS TRANSFORMATION.

The evidence of salvation is transformed lives.

A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another. By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another.
(John 13:34-35 KJV)

He that saith, I know him, and keepeth not his commandments, is a liar, and the truth is not in him. But whoso keepeth his word, in him verily is the love of God perfected: hereby know we that we are in him. He that saith he abideth in him ought himself also so to walk, even as he walked.
(1 John 2:4-6 KJV)

FAITH IN GOD IN DISCIPLESHIP IS EVIDENT IN ONE’S DEDICATION

“God does not choose men and women because of what they are, but because of what they will become.”

I thank my God upon every remembrance of you, Always in every prayer of mine for you all making request with joy, For your fellowship in the gospel from the first day until now; Being confident of this very thing, that he which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ: (Philippians 1:3-6 KJV)

So being affectionately desirous of you, we were willing to have imparted unto you, not the gospel of God only, but also our own souls, because ye were dear unto us.
(1 Thessalonians 2:8 KJV)

EXAMPLES OF FAITH IN THE BIBLE, HEBREWS CHAPTER 11.

ELDERS — They obtained a good report, (v.2).

ABEL — He offered a more excellent sacrifice than Cain (v.3).

ENOCH – He had a testimony that he pleased God, (v.5).

NOAH — He moved with fear, and prepared an ark ( v.7).

ABRAHAM – He obeyed and went, offered up Isaac under great test, (vv. 8-19).

SARA – received strength to conceive, v.11.

JOSEPH – made mention of the departing of Israel when he died, v.22.

MOSES – chose to suffer affliction with God’s people, etc. vv. 24-29.

RAHAB – perished not with unbelievers, v.31.

WE NEED FAITH THAT MOVES US TO ACTION

What doth it profit, my brethren, though a man say he hath faith, and have not works? can faith save him? If a brother or sister be naked, and destitute of daily food, And one of you say unto them, Depart in peace, be ye warmed and filled; notwithstanding ye give them not those things which are needful to the body; what doth it profit? Even so faith, if it hath not works, is dead, being alone. (James 2:14-17 KJV)

And why call ye me, Lord, Lord, and do not the things which I say? Whosoever cometh to me, and heareth my sayings, and doeth them, I will shew you to whom he is like: He is like a man which built an house, and digged deep, and laid the foundation on a rock: and when the flood arose, the stream beat vehemently upon that house, and could not shake it: for it was founded upon a rock. But he that heareth, and doeth not, is like a man that without a foundation built an house upon the earth; against which the stream did beat vehemently, and immediately it fell; and the ruin of that house was great. (Luke 6:46-49 KJV)

FAITH THAT EMBRACES DISCIPLESHIP

REAL — Actively obey it.

HISTORICALLY defined by people who make action

DISTINGUISHED itself from intellectual or mere because it demonstrates proof.

THOUGHTFUL OBEDIENCE, not religious words.

— E. J.

RELATED LESSONS

The cost of discipleship

Spiritual qualification of a discipler

Delighting in the Lord

Posted on by BCI Step by Step

Delight thyself also in the LORD; and he shall give thee the desires of thine heart.
(Psalms 37:4 KJV)

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There are three important events that people celebrate: Birth, Marriage, and Death. Someone said, “What about graduation?”, But I replied, “People do not celebrate graduation yearly, hahaha!” Therefore, we cannot say that marriage is a less important decision. There are many youth who enter into relationship without thinking of marriage. If you make a wrong decision, that will affect the course of your life. King Solomon gave some advice:

“Keep thy heart with all diligence; for out of it are the issues of life.”
(Proverbs 4:23 KJV)

Many young people follow their feelings and do not seek God’s will for their lives. The reason is that they easily trust in man or themselves more than God. The Bible says:

“Thus saith the LORD; Cursed be the man that trusteth in man, and maketh flesh his arm, and whose heart departeth from the LORD.” (Jeremiah 17:5 KJV)

“It is better to trust in the LORD than to put confidence in man.”
(Psalms 118:8 KJV)

If you truly trust God, you will obey God’s commandments and put a Christian standard in your relationship goals.

“Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers: for what fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness? and what communion hath light with darkness? And what concord hath Christ with Belial? or what part hath he that believeth with an infidel? And what agreement hath the temple of God with idols? for ye are the temple of the living God; as God hath said, I will dwell in them, and walk in them; and I will be their God, and they shall be my people.” (2 Corinthians 6:14-16 KJV).

“Let no man despise thy youth; but be thou an example of the believers, in word, in conversation, in charity, in spirit, in faith, in purity.“
(1 Timothy 4:12 KJV)

“Who can find a virtuous woman? for her price is far above rubies.“
(Proverbs 31:10 KJV)

If you truly trust God, you will seek God first, grow in Him, and trust that He will grant the desires of your heart. 

“But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.” (Matthew 6:33 KJV)

“Delight thyself also in the LORD; and he shall give thee the desires of thine heart.”
(Psalms 37:4 KJV)

RELATED LESSONS:

Guard Your Heart

What does the Bible say about your heart?

Defining True Love