Is lordship part of the gospel?

 

We have been discussing why we share the gospel and how to share the gospel. What exactly is the gospel, anyways? 

 

Teleios recently completed a survey about the gospel. We had 539 participants, of whom 64% were <30 years, and 85% evangelicals. In total 92% believed they were saved by grace through faith and 44% thought they could not lose this salvation. Full survey results can be viewed here - Salvation: What do you know about it?.

 

We asked participants, what were the elements of the gospel message they needed to transmit to an unbeliever. We were heartened to see that generally adolescents and young adults, when presented with a written text, agreed with the basic elements of the gospel which included: 

• 92% stated we should tell people that they had sinned 
• 83% agreed that this sin deserved punishment by a just and holy God 
• 92% indicated that God provided his Son, Jesus Christ as a perfect sacrifice for man’s sins that when accepted by faith, is the only provision needed for salvation (Romans 3:23-26, Ephesians 2:8-9). 

However, 75% of participants noted that, although salvation was by grace, a person also needed to make Jesus lord of their life. In contrast, 17% said salvation was by grace alone. 

 

How does one resolve the difference between the two statements that salvation is by grace, but also required making Jesus Lord of your life? This is a critical question. Let us see what scripture says.

• Work/Grace combination - This scenario indicates that although salvation is by grace, we must work to make Christ Lord of our life while receiving more grace, allowing us to better submit to His lordship. This scenario is very close to Catholic dogma which indicates that we receive grace by the sacraments and work towards our salvation, receiving more grace as we do so, hopefully leading to salvation. There's no basis in scripture for this belief.
• Make Jesus Lord - In this scenario, salvation is by grace, but we must make Jesus Lord of our life to maintain or prove salvation. Scripture clearly says that a true believer should show signs that Christ is Lord. This is the primary purpose of 1 John 2:4, giving tests that Christians can use to determine if someone is really a believer. Since we do not have access to the Book of Life up in heaven, while on earth we can be confident of a fellow believer’s salvation only by assessing the quality of their beliefs, obedience and love. Other scriptures also provide tests that we can use to assess others (Galatians 5:22; 1 Timothy 3). However, to say that we believe in salvation by grace, but we must work to make Jesus Lord of our life to prove and/or maintain salvation contradicts the security of our wonderful salvation in scripture on four levels.

• Direct quotes - The Bible indicates we are secure (1 Peter 1:4-5; Romans 8:28-39; John 10:28-30).  Perseverance - God alone causes us to persevere, not us! It is out of our hands (2 Timothy 1:12-14; Philippians 1:6; 1 Thessalonians 5:23).
• Positions - We have unchangeable morphological and legal positions in Christ including being: justified, adopted, regenerated and sealed by the Spirit (Ephesians 1:1-14; Romans 3:23-26; Romans 6:2-9). 
• Insult to Christ! - Not to believe in security denigrates Christ’s gracious death for us! Otherwise, His amazing gracious sacrifice was sufficient for all our sins for all time. Therefore, we are to ‘get over’ our past sins and leave behind the things of salvation. If we do not, and keep trying to prove ourselves worthy, we are saying to Christ that His sacrifice was insufficient and to sacrifice Himself again, putting Him to public shame. This is certainly very bad and scripture says as such (Hebrews 6:1-8; Hebrews 10:26-39).

• Lordship comes from regeneration - This is a vital and underappreciated biblical point. When we believe at salvation the Holy Spirit enters us and regenerates us into a new person. The old person is dead and no longer functions to prove or disprove Jesus is Lord (Romans 6:2-9; Ephesians 2:4-7; Colossians 2:11-13). There is a new person created by God who then, and only then, can be obedient and do His works. 

 

Therefore, lordship can only be proven by the old person, being saved by grace and regenerated into a new person, and is only then able to do the works of God by His grace (2 Timothy 2:1). The work of salvation, from His gracious choosing us to taking us home to heaven, is totally a work of God, to His deserved praise and glory, not our own. 

Accordingly, Teleios research has shown that people who believe in salvation by grace and in the security of their salvation report better wellbeing, anchored in the love of God and our eternal home.

 

Thank you for reading my blog today. Join me next week as we continue to evaluate scripture and its influence on our wellbeing.

 

THE GOSPEL - Be sure you are a Christian based on these biblical truths!

1. Man sinned.
2. God is just, requiring a punishment for sin.
3. But out of love God sent His Son, Jesus Christ who by dying on the cross, provided forgiveness of sins in taking man’s deserved punishment.
4. Therefore, by faith alone in Christ’s sacrifice for our sins and belief in His resurrection, man can gain eternal life.

(Ephesians 2:8-9, Romans 10:9-10, 3:21-26)

 

William C. Stewart, MD

 

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Disclaimer – This blog and its content are provided only as information and are intended for visitors 18 and older. No content on the website should be taken as advice or recommendation to any personal or institutional situation. The views expressed are those of the author alone and not necessarily either shared or endorsed by Teleios. Both the blog and the contents are subject to change at any time without notice. Although I endeavor to ensure that the blog and the content are current and accurate, it may contain errors. I do not represent that the blog or the content is current, accurate or complete, or appropriate for your specific requirements. I do not accept any liability from any person for the blog, the content or any other information (or the use of such information) I provide. I do not have a seminary degree, but I have trained myself in the scriptures to teach and provide this information. For any specific question, I suggest you contact experts in that field and/or do your own research into the scriptures.

 

Baptism: What does Scripture Teach?

Welcome back to my blog and thank you for visiting. Today's exciting topic is baptism. Prepare yourself for a wild ride!

Water baptism is a sacrament in most churches. In general, the number and form of the sacraments in the church are quite controversial and in part define church denominations. Sacraments generally are meant to convey a blessing on the believer or allow them to show their dedication to Christ. Unfortunately, a full discussion of individual denominational beliefs is beyond the scope of this blog.

The concept of baptism, however, is vitally important. Unfortunately, baptism can be a very emotional and divisive topic between individuals and denominations. Importantly, as biblically based believers we need to consider 1st the scriptures themselves to differentiate what the Bible states about baptism, or does not say, from opinion and tradition. Further reading is referenced below (1,2).

Let us look today at the meaning of the word and how young Christian millennials celebrate baptism.

What baptism means

First, let’s consider the word itself. The word is βαπτιζω (baptizoo) in the Greek (the language in which the New Testament originally was written), and was an old term borrowed from the dye trade. It meant that a piece of cloth immersed in the dye became identified with the new color (3).

In the epistles, the portion of scripture intended for the church, Christian baptism indicates that spiritually we are identified with the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ (Romans 6:1-11; Ephesians 2:4-7; Colossians 2:11-13). Otherwise, at salvation we were regenerated to a new person. We will discuss the nuances of the different meanings of baptism in scripture in the next blog.

Water baptism is mentioned in the epistles in 1 Corinthians 1 as a criticism by Paul regarding the method the people in this church are handling the practice.

How do Christian millennials celebrate baptism?

Millennials’ view of baptism

Teleios recently completed a survey 189 mostly evangelical adolescents and young adults. We asked them if they had been baptized and by which method. We also inquired about the significance of baptism. Here are the top 4 answers regarding the method of baptism and some associated meanings:

• Immersed as a young person or adult (32%) – Marked differences in the rite of baptism exist across denominations. Immersion baptism, which perhaps most closely represents the regenerative work of the Holy Spirit, is preferred strongly by Baptists. Baptists typically believe the rite should be performed after salvation when the convert is old enough to make a responsible decision (4). However. Christians often consider that baptism symbolizes primarily a commitment to God by the new believer which was true also in our survey (20%).
• Sprinkled as a child (23%) – This form of baptism is preferred by several traditional denominations and is generally believed to convey either:
  • Forgiveness of the sin nature, and prior sins, allowing for a fresh start and working towards salvation, combined with grace (generally a Catholic viewpoint) (5).
  • Salvation in infants too young to make a decision for Christ. This protection lasts to the time of “the age of responsibility” (generally a Presbyterian viewpoint) (6).
  • Commitment by parents to raise a child in a godly manner leaving the responsibility to the child to be saved and baptized as an adult (often non-denominational Bible believing churches) (7).
• Never been baptized (19%) – Although this group might be seen as disobedient by some Christians; the New Testament epistles, which contain the injunctions to the church, specifically do not command water baptism. For example, the Quaker church does not perform the rite of baptism (8). Of course, salvation itself is by grace alone with no added works required (Ephesians 2:8-9).
• Spiritually baptized by the Holy Spirit at salvation (15%). This choice is closest to the meaning of baptism in the New Testament epistles (the letters to the churches). Although controversial, in the epistles when baptism is mentioned it speaks of spiritual baptism (except 1 Corinthians 1). The apostle Paul explained that spiritual baptism ‘identified’ us in the death and life of our Lord, Jesus Christ. Baptism represents the regeneration by the Spirit to a new person who can serve our Lord. This regeneration appears to occur at salvation accompanied by the sealing of the Holy Spirit (Romans 6: 2-9, Colossians 2: 11-13, Ephesians 2:4-7).

We will speak more about this in our next blog and this topic is also covered in the salvation portion of Know the Bible. Indeed, 68% of the participants in our survey believed baptism represents the regeneration of the Holy Spirit in their lives (Titus 3:5).

In summary, we've seen today that water baptism, though a usual part of church life, is not attested well in the portions of scripture intended for the church (the epistles). Churches are free to administer baptism as long as they do not go against the word of God. Baptism in the epistles is spiritual baptism which identifies us with the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ.

Next time we will discuss more deeply the different types of baptism identified in scripture. You will be amazed! Join us then!

William C. Stewart

1. Ryrie CC. Basic theology: A popular systematic guide to understanding biblical truth. Moody Publishers, 1999.
2. Chafer LS. Systematic Theology. Abridged Volume II. Kregel Publications, 1947.
3. https://www.westernseminary.edu/transformedblog/2014/02/25/baptisim-meaning-and-mode/
4. https://www.baptistdistinctives.org/resources/articles/believers-baptism/
5. https://www.catholic.com/tract/the-forgiveness-of-sins
6. https://www.presbyterianmission.org/story/what-presbyterians-believe-the-sacrament-of-baptism/
7. https://howtoadult.com/conditions-must-parents-fulfill-order-children-baptized-7763.html
8. http://www.religionresourcesonline.org/different-types-of-religion/compare/baptism.php

For questions or to view more of our research…

Email                info@teleiosresearch.com

Website            http://teleiosresearch.com/

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Disclaimer - This blog and its content are provided only as information. No content on the website should be taken as advice or recommendation to any personal or institutional situation. The views expressed are those of the author and not necessarily either shared or endorsed by Teleios. Both the blog and the contents are subject to change at any time without notice. Although I endeavor to ensure that the blog and the content are current and accurate, it may contain errors. I do not represent that the blog or the content is current, accurate or complete, or appropriate for your specific requirements. I do not accept any liability from any person for the blog, the content or any other information (or the use of such information) I provide. I do not have a seminary degree, but I have trained myself in the scriptures to teach and provide this information. For any specific question, I suggest you contact experts in that field and or do your own research into the scriptures.   

The Power of Godly Thinking: Part 4

As we have discussed in past blogs, Christians have been regenerated through the power of the Holy Spirit into new people, providing the capacity to change ourselves to positive and biblical actions.

However, to behave in a scriptural manner we first must know how to think correctly. Unfortunately, non-biblical thinking may incite destructive speech and actions which can hurt and adversely influence others.

Christianity is a religion of facts and understanding (Colossians 1:9-10; Ephesians 1:17). Scriptural thinking is productive and healing. How then do we do it? Below is a biblically based process to help us change how we think, and ultimately how we act. What are the actions to develop biblical thinking?

Actions

There’s not one proven technique but here are some suggested steps to implement. I call them the 4 S’s.

• Search the scripture prospectively – Many people turn to God only when they have trouble. Yet the key to avoiding difficulties in our lives is to go to God before problems arise. That means studying scripture and implementing it, not just using the devotional or reading down the text, but actually taking time to learn what the words and phrases mean in context. Please visit our Bible study method link to learn better how to do this (https://teleiosresearch.com/bible-study-methods/). Such a study brings rich rewards.

• Study frequently – Do not limit yourself in scripture to 15 to 30 minutes a day in a legalistic manner, as this method almost always fails. The goal is not to accomplish a time period but to know our wonderful God! Plunge into scripture to change how you think to conform to His ways and develop wonderful fruit in your life. Find ways to spread the verses around your life so you will remember them. Study the Bible in several short periods in a day. No one method works for everybody. Do what you need to do to know God!

• Stop non-biblical thinking – Stop yourself when you’re pondering negative thoughts about yourself or other people. In these instances, pray for yourself or for those people using scripture. Be thankful for them! These actions, applied persistently, will transform your mind to think about yourself and people the way God does; very important!

• Socialize with scripture  – The verses that you read will help you, cause you to pray for others, being thankful for them and desiring good things for them; be sure to share this with other people. This mental discipline then will help you articulate your faith, build good habits in encouraging others, and will help those around you as well.

Self-test (2 Peter 1:3-10)

To assure that your thinking and subsequent conduct is consistent with God’s desires take Peter’s self-test!  This wonderful passage suggests building eight attitudes and actions to your life: faith, virtue, knowledge, patience, self-control, godliness, fraternal love, and a giving love. Peter indicates when our lives are consistent with these eight characteristics, we know that we are useful to God.

Growing these attitudes and actions in our lives depends on a biblical mindset that will foster their growth.

Developing routine mental habits consistent with the Bible will create in us a godly mindset to view life and people the way God desires and allows the Holy Spirit to bear fruit in your life and others.

Join us again next time and share this important blog with your friends and family!

William C. Stewart, MD

For questions or to view more of our research…

Email                info@teleiosresearch.com

Website            http://teleiosresearch.com/

Facebook          https://www.facebook.com/TeleiosResearch

Instagram         https://www.instagram.com/TeleiosResearch

Youtube           https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCh6wIbPgxeP0YvypwAn5-9Q

Disclaimer - This blog and its content are provided only as information. No content on the website should be taken as advice or recommendation to any personal or institutional situation. The views expressed are those of the author and not necessarily either shared or endorsed by Teleios. Both the blog and the contents are subject to change at any time without notice. Although I endeavor to ensure that the blog and the content are current and accurate, it may contain errors. I do not represent that the blog or the content is current, accurate or complete, or appropriate for your specific requirements. I do not accept any liability from any person for the blog, the content or any other information (or the use of such information) I provide. I do not have a seminary degree, but I have trained myself in the scriptures to teach and provide this information. For any specific question, I suggest you contact experts in that field and or do your own research into the scriptures.   

The Power of Godly Thinking: Part 3

As we have discussed in past blogs, Christians have been regenerated through the power of the Holy Spirit into new individuals with the capacity to change ourselves to take positive and biblical actions.

However, to behave in a scriptural manner we first must know how to think correctly. Unfortunately, non-biblical thinking may incite destructive speech and actions which can hurt and adversely influence others.

Christianity is a religion of facts and understanding (Colossians 1:9-10; Ephesians 1:17). Scriptural thinking is productive and healing. How then do we do it? Below is a biblically based process to help change how we think, and ultimately how we act.

In the past several blogs we began to address in sequence: basis of biblical thinking and attitude in our thinking. Now let’s try to put our thinking into action by covering principles of biblical thinking.

Principles

A key verse regarding this process is: 

Romans 12:2 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. 

The word ‘prove’ in Greek (the original language of the Bible) is δοκιμάζω (dokimazo), meaning to examine or prove, denoting a positive inference. It was used of a tested warrior in battle. Otherwise, God’s word is truth and so we can depend on it to work in our lives. As we lean on the Bible and see it function, we grow in confidence to trust it and enjoy the good fruits from living obedient and faithful lives.

What is biblical thinking?

Use the acronym ‘4 P’s’:

• Pondering the word – As stated in Romans 12:1 we should transform our thinking based on biblical knowledge. We should ponder these things not just to correct our thinking but also to cause ourselves to know God better in transforming how we communicate with others. This is an active, prospective process, not just when we have problems and need to correct ourselves; it is a daily habit of healthy thinking (1 Timothy 4:16, Colossians 3:1-4; Hebrews 3:1).
• Praise – Keep a habit of commending and thanking God. He deserves it (Hebrews 13:15)! Also, praise keeps us from having unreasonable expectations of others and thinking too highly of ourselves. We should remember God’s goals are above our own (Romans 12:1-2).
• Prayer – We should have a mindset of going to God for all our needs (Hebrews 4:14-16). Instead of complaining or ruminating over situations we should turn instantly to prayer and have a faithful attitude that God will help us (1 Peter 4:12).
• Positive subjects – This perspective is imperative to force our minds to think about things that are positive, true, just, lovely pure, full of praise and wholesome (Philippians 4:8). Remembering healthy thoughts will keep us from becoming discouraged and help us to see the good and the potential in all situations and people. Further, the things we think are ultimately what we speak and thus help us encourage other people.

Renewing our minds to change how we think is a constant challenge as we battle to drive our thoughts to be consistent with the Bible. This process will change how we look at life and others and ultimately how we speak to others. It also provides an opportunity to see God’s Spirit working in our lives to bear fruit as we allow Him to transform us while we seek God through His word. Give it a try!

Summary – Indeed, our thinking processes are the basis of a healthy mindset as well as a fruitful relationship with others and with God.

Thank you for visiting my blog! Join us again next time as we continue our vital discussion on developing a biblical mindset.

Share this important blog with your friends and family!

William C. Stewart, MD

For questions or to view more of our research…

Email                info@teleiosresearch.com

Website            http://teleiosresearch.com/

Facebook          https://www.facebook.com/TeleiosResearch

Instagram         https://www.instagram.com/TeleiosResearch

Youtube           https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCh6wIbPgxeP0YvypwAn5-9Q

Disclaimer - This blog and its content are provided only as information. No content on the website should be taken as advice or recommendation to any personal or institutional situation. The views expressed are those of the author and not necessarily either shared or endorsed by Teleios. Both the blog and the contents are subject to change at any time without notice. Although I endeavor to ensure that the blog and the content are current and accurate, it may contain errors. I do not represent that the blog or the content is current, accurate or complete, or appropriate for your specific requirements. I do not accept any liability from any person for the blog, the content or any other information (or the use of such information) I provide. I do not have a seminary degree, but I have trained myself in the scriptures to teach and provide this information. For any specific question, I suggest you contact experts in that field and or do your own research into the scriptures.   

The Power of Godly Thinking: Part 2

As we have discussed in past blogs Christians have been regenerated through the power of the Holy Spirit into new people, providing believers with the capacity to change into those who carry out positive and biblical actions.

However, to behave in a scriptural manner we first must know how to think correctly. Even Christians can fall into unhealthy thinking habits such as lust, envy, jealousy and anxiety. Further, even within the church people may regard others and situations in less than biblical ways. Unfortunately, such non-biblical thinking may incite destructive speech and actions which can hurt and adversely influence others.

Christianity is a religion based on facts and understanding (Colossians 1:9-10; Ephesians 1:17). Scriptural thinking is productive and healing. How then do we do it? Let’s consider a biblically based process to help us change how we think, and ultimately how we act.

In the prior blog we discussed using the Bible as a way to correct our thinking, to make ourselves holy and more consistent with God’s goals and desires. What is the next step?

Attitude

Once we begin to use the Bible to correct our thinking, what attitudes do we cultivate as Christians? There are many important attitudes in the Bible but here are some vital ones to help you start.

• Servant (Romans 6:10-23; Romans 12:1-2; Romans 13:8-14) – We ought to have the perspective of being servants of God and those who love and serve other Christians.
• Humility – A humble person is modest, without thinking too highly of themselves and without excessive expectations for others. Generally, our only expectation for ourselves and others should be seeking God. This applies not only to ourselves, but also to our marriage partners, family members, and Christian friends. Everything else is up for discussion! We serve God and do good to all men (Galatians 6:1-3,10; Romans 12:3; Romans 14:4).
• Faith – This is the foundation for a believer’s lifestyle. Romans 14:23 says what is not done in faith is sin. Therefore, we can have peace and joy in the decisions we make done in faith, not condemning ourselves. God is our help!
• Obedience – Adhering to God’s word and His wise precepts is critical. As Christ said, His commands are not burdensome (Matthew 11:28-30). Obedience produces the fruit of the Holy Spirit (Galatians 5:22-23), and ultimately causes a rich love for God’s word because of its wisdom and actions in promoting healthy thinking and lifestyle (Romans 12:1-2).
• Thankfulness – We should be people constantly thanking God for all the blessings He has given us, from our salvation to the smallest elements of our lives. This is key to healthy thinking. We should not have expectations, but work to achieve our goals, created in faith, and trust in God for the results. When we expect certain results, whether from God, ourselves, spouses, family, friends, or work, we will never be satisfied (1 Thessalonians 5:18; Colossians 3:15).
• Hope – This attitude is essential because it protects our mind, not only from fear of death but even when we are young, from fear of failure. When we know our future is secure, we can possess confidence as our identity derives from God and not whether we succeed or fail. This attitude assists us in avoiding despondency and developing a healthy perspective towards life that allows us to prosper (Ephesians 6:17; 3 John 1:2).

Developing routine mental habits consistent with the Bible will create in us a godly mindset to view life and people the way God desires and help the Holy Spirit bear fruit in your life and others.

Join us again next time as we complete this important section on practical tips for developing a productive godly mindset. Thank you for visiting my blog. 

Share this important blog with your friends and family!

William C. Stewart, MD

For questions or to view more of our research…

Email                info@teleiosresearch.com

Website            http://teleiosresearch.com/

Facebook          https://www.facebook.com/TeleiosResearch

Instagram         https://www.instagram.com/TeleiosResearch

Youtube           https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCh6wIbPgxeP0YvypwAn5-9Q

Disclaimer - This blog is provided for your use and enjoyment on an ‘as is’ and ‘as available’ basis. Both the blog and the contents are subject to change at any time without notice. Although I endeavor to ensure that the blog and the content are current and accurate, it may contain errors. I do not represent that the blog or the content is current, accurate or complete, or appropriate for your specific requirements. I do not accept any liability from any person for the blog, the content or any other information (or the use of such information) I provide. I do not have a seminary degree, but I have trained myself in the scriptures to teach and provide this information. For any specific question, I suggest you contact experts in that field and or do your own research into the scriptures.   

The Power of Godly Thinking: Part 1

As we have discussed in past blogs, Christians have been regenerated through the power of the Holy Spirit into new people, providing the capacity to change ourselves to conduct positive and biblical actions.

However, before we can behave in a scriptural manner we first must learn to think correctly. Even Christians can fall into unhealthy thinking habits, such as lust, envy, jealousy and anxiety. Further, even within the church people sometimes may regard other people in less than biblical ways. Unfortunately, such non-biblical thinking may incite destructive speech and actions which can hurt and adversely influence others.

Further, some Christians may mistakenly depend on their emotions or conscience, thinking this is God’s way of directing their lives. However, scripture does not indicate He leads in this manner (please see ‘Gods Leading and Freedom’ chapter in Confirm the Bible on the Teleios website).

Christianity is a religion based on facts and understanding (Colossians 1:9-10; Ephesians 1:17). Scriptural thinking is productive and healing.

Goal – Be holy as God is holy (1 Peter 1:16)

Our objective on earth is to change our behavior to act and think as God. Today we will look at the basis of biblical thinking and an approach to developing it. In the next several blogs we will discuss our attitude in developing biblical thinking as well as the principles and the practical development to Biblical thinking.

Basis of biblical thinking

The ground rules for how we can improve our thinking are based in scripture and understanding its message. Further, we cannot begin to serve as God desires unless we do it according to the guidebook which is the Bible (Colossians 1:9-10; Ephesians 3:4; Ephesians 5:17).

Know the Bible - Indeed, scripture indicates godliness is based in the knowledge and understanding of scripture. This is our guide to a holy life! Further, we should develop a sober and alert mindset being careful what we do and say. These thought patterns pay dividends in creating spiritual maturity (Ephesians 1:16-17; Ephesians 5:15-20; Hebrews 5:13-14; Colossians 1:9-10).

• So what is the process? Learn the word! The key is proactively learning and understanding God’s word. This means learning beyond even a great Sunday sermon or beloved devotional to examine carefully the Bible yourself, so you fully comprehend and know it. The knowledge gained is freeing and transformative. However, no one can do it for you. Here are some simple suggestions that you can easily implement in your life.

• Download an incredible Bible software program like eSword on your computer, or MySword on your smart phone, to help you do efficient and knowledgeable scripture study.

• Use a valuable, but simple, Bible study method such as found on the Teleios website.
• Arrange your life to free up time to start reading, asking questions, and applying verses from an efficient New Testament epistle, such as Ephesians or Colossians, that will most quickly teach you the fundamentals of Christ and the Christian life.
• Don’t be legalistic. Learning the Bible is fun! The goal to grasp God’s word is long-term. It is not meant to be studied by predetermined 5, 15 or 30-minute intervals of time, but approached in love with joyous anticipation to how it will assist you!
• Be patient and the knowledge and the fruit will come over time.
• Use a trusted generally commentary like Barnes or Darby on eSword, or a good theology such as from Ryrie, to help assure yourself you’re not off base. Your pastor, church elder or mature believer, educated in the scriptures, might also help you.
• Discuss what you learn with others to enrich them and to practice articulating what you have learned from scripture.

Developing routine mental habits consistent with the Bible will create in us a godly mindset to view life and people the way God desires and allow the Holy Spirit bear fruit in your life and others.

In summary, the first step in developing a godly mindset is to learn God's word.

Thanks for visiting my blog.  Join me next time as we continue this exciting discussion of how to develop a godly mindset.

Share this important blog with your friends and family!

William C. Stewart, MD

For questions or to view more of our research…

Email                info@teleiosresearch.com

Website            http://teleiosresearch.com/

Facebook          https://www.facebook.com/TeleiosResearch

Instagram         https://www.instagram.com/TeleiosResearch

Youtube           https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCh6wIbPgxeP0YvypwAn5-9Q

Disclaimer - This blog is provided for your use and enjoyment on an ‘as is’ and ‘as available’ basis. Both the blog and the contents are subject to change at any time without notice. Although I endeavor to ensure that the blog and the content are current and accurate, it may contain errors. I do not represent that the blog or the content is current, accurate or complete, or appropriate for your specific requirements. I do not accept any liability from any person for the blog, the content or any other information (or the use of such information) I provide. I do not have a seminary degree, but I have trained myself in the scriptures to teach and provide this information. For any specific question, I suggest you contact experts in that field and or do your own research into the scriptures.   

Tools for the Christian Life: Prayer 2

Welcome back to my blog. We are in a series exploring biblical concepts in the Christian life. There are many aspects to the Christian life. However, a pivotal aspect is advancing in our relationship with God; a simple biblically-based 5-step approach is what I call the ‘5 tools to maturity,’ taken from Acts 2:42 and 47, as follows:

·       Prayer

·       Praise

·       Fellowship

·       Receiving biblical teaching

·       Reaching others with biblical truth

These 5 tools describe the activities in the very first church in Jerusalem and provide a model for the actions Christians should perform routinely. Importantly, these five activities are confirmed in later verses in the epistles.

Last time started our discussion of these 5 tools by examining the content and attitude in prayer. Today we will consider several common questions about prayer.  

·       As born-again believers, how do we know what to pray?

o   Biblical – Our prayer requests should be consistent with what glorifies Jesus Christ (John 14:13-14; 15:7). The Apostle Paul offers 3 model prayers in the epistles in which he emphasizes what God wishes us and others to attain in our Christian walk, no matter what the situation (Ephesians 1:15-23; Ephesians 3:14-17; Colossians 1:9-15).

For example, if someone asked you to pray for their sick relative, not only could you pray for their health as God cares for all our needs, but pray also according to the model prayers by Paul as these list the issues in which God wishes us to mature no matter what the situation.

o   Paul’s model prayers include the following themes:

·       Confidence of our salvation (hope).

·       Knowledge, understanding and wisdom of God’s word, especially the epistles.

·       Knowledge of God’s power.

·       Knowledge of God’s love.

·       Demonstration of service, all done in power, patience, joy and persistence.

·       What about confession of our sins? 

This is a controversial point. The epistles do not instruct us, as Christians saved by faith, to confess daily our sins to God. We are forgiven as we confessed our sins, once for all time, at salvation (1 Jn 1:6-10)!

In contrast, the common injunction to believers in the epistles simply to obey (i.e., turning from our daily sins to adhere to the Bible, Romans 6:12-20; 2 Thessalonians 3:14; 1 John 3:22). It is the Holy Spirit who helps us obey and defeat our sins (Romans 8:13). Therefore, knowing we are forgiven, our prayers can be more forward-looking, service-oriented and filled with praise and thankfulness.

·       Why pray?

Medical research indicates that active prayer increases wellbeing, and the more frequent the prayer the better the wellbeing. Prayer is good for us and the epistles tell us to do it! Several potential benefits of prayer are:

o   God cares:

§  It provides a release for our emotions to God, perhaps relieving tension and frustration.

§  It engenders a sense that somebody cares and is listening. We also know that the Holy Spirit and Christ Himself pray on our behalf (Hebrews 7:25; Romans 8:26,34).

o   Good reminders:

§  It causes us to recognize and learn scripture as we pray.

§  It allows us time to consider and how we might help, problems (ours or other’s problems.

§  It reminds us to be thankful for others and for His blessings to us.

§  It helps us to praise and remember that we have a great God whose purposes are greater than ours. Thus, it helps keep our own problems in perspective.

o   God answers: In addition, as Christians we have the benefit of God’s promise to answer prayer so there may be a further benefit through His gracious provisions (John 14:13-14; 1 John 5:13).

Prayer is a key tool to maturity as a Christian, invoking God’s help but reminding us of scripture, praise and thankfulness, all which may our assist our wellbeing.

Prayer is one of the great benefits of our Christian life. Thanks be to God for such a provision.

Join us next time as we discuss the vital topic of praise.

William C. Stewart, MD

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