The Biblical Path of Life

Author: mjross

  • A New Life Pleasing God

    “So mightily grew the word of God and prevailed.”

    Acts 19:20

    The following is an excerpt from The Biblical Path of Life – Year Three, Quarter Two, Lesson 10:

    “… God allowed Paul to heal people and eliminate evil spirits. With this came people who tried to do the same things. ‘13. Then certain of the vagabond Jews, exorcists, took upon them to call over them which had evil spirits the name of the Lord Jesus, saying, We adjure you by Jesus whom Paul preacheth. 14. And there were seven sons of one Sceva, a Jew, and chief of the priests, which did so. 15. And the evil spirit answered and said, Jesus I know, and Paul I know; but who are ye? 16. And the man in whom the evil spirit was leaped on them, and overcame them, and prevailed against them, so that they fled out of that house naked and wounded. 17. And this was known to all the Jews and Greeks also dwelling at Ephesus; and fear fell on them all, and the name of the Lord Jesus was magnified‘ (Acts 19:13-17). Vagabond means ‘ones who just wander.’ Exorcists means ‘one who binds by an oath; generally one who by incantation professes to expel demons.’ These men, seven of which were sons of the chief priest, used incantations, professing to cast out demons. Nevertheless, see that even the demons recognized that these men did not know Jesus (for Jesus was not in their hearts). When they tried to cast out the demons, those demons jumped on them, ‘so that they fled out of that house naked and wounded.‘ God used this to magnify the name of Jesus. ‘And many that believed came, and confessed, and shewed their deeds‘ (Acts 19:18). Deeds means ‘an act, practice; works; meaning conduct.’ This caused many to recognize that they were living in a lifestyle that opposed the preaching of Jesus. What did the people do about it? ‘Many of them also which used curious arts brought their books together, and burned them before all men: and they counted the price of them, and found it fifty thousand pieces of silver‘ (Acts 19:19). Curious arts means ‘a standard term for magic or black arts; pointing to the lengthy and various rituals involved in incantation ceremonies and the precision with which they were performed.’ The people understood that they must eliminate theses wicked things from their lives. Once they did, read what followed. ‘So mightily grew the word of God and prevailed’ (Acts 19:20). Many people were saved, and God’s Word was spread.

    Paul continued his journey…

    A Deeper Path: See some things we just cannot help but notice. God has always called people to turn from their sin toward Him. ‘If my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land‘ (2 Chronicles 7:14). Theses were encouraging words for God’s people in King Solomon’s day.

    God has always warned His people to avoid sin and people who sin. ‘14. Enter not into the path of the wicked, and go not in the way of evil men. 15. Avoid it, pass not by it, turn from it, and pass away. 16. For they sleep not, except they have done mischief; and their sleep is taken away, unless they cause some to fall. 17. For they eat the bread of wickedness, and drink the wine of violence. 18. But the path of the just is as the shining light, that shineth more and more unto the perfect day. 19. The way of the wicked is as darkness: they know not at what they stumble’ (Proverbs 4:14-19). God wants people to live a just life, not a wicked life. God also gave the following warning. ‘23. Keep thy heart with all diligence; for out of it are the issues of life … 27. Turn not to the right hand nor to the left: remove thy foot from evil’ (Proverbs 4:23, 27). It is important to protect each heart – for what is placed in each individual’s heart will come out in that person’s life. Avoid wickedness and evil.

    As God allowed Paul to do many miracles and cast out evil spirits, there appeared a copycat: one who appeared to be able to do the same thing, until the evil spirit declared these men were false and jumped upon them. We, too, must be careful that something that has the appearance of good is not just a form of godliness, denying the power of Jesus (for these men had never known Jesus themselves). ‘Having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof: from such turn away‘ (2 Timothy 3:5). Christians are to be cautious and check out and know for certain if that something is truly from God.

    There is something else important to recognize. Once one becomes a Christian and begins to follow the Lord, that person must forsake all of the things of their past life. When Jesus called his disciples, they forsook all to follow Him. ‘And when they had brought their ships to land, they forsook all, and followed him’ (Luke 5:11). When the people in Ephesus believed in Jesus and confessed Him as their Lord, they had to remove their “deeds” from their sinful past. Remember what we read in Acts 19:19: ‘Many of them also which used curious arts brought their books together, and burned them before all men: and they counted the price of them, and found it fifty thousand pieces of silver.‘ It did not matter to them the monetary cost. They wanted to live a new life pleasing God.”

    Have you trusted in Christ, forsaking the things of your past life to live a new life in Christ, following Him?

    What to do to trust in Christ.

    The Biblical Path of Life – Year Three, Quarter Two

  • Lesson 9: Paul’s Second Missionary Journey: Acts 15:36 – 18:22

    Key Verse

    And at midnight Paul and Silas prayed, and sang praises unto God: and the prisoners heard them.

    —Acts 16:25

    Key Verse Thought: Read today’s Key Verse. Many will probably remember the events of Paul and Silas’ imprisonment. In this lesson, we will understand that although they were unjustly put into jail, yet they still sang praises to God: and the prisoners heard them. The music we sing, especially in trying times, can be a witness to the world to show them in whom we place our trust. We are always to be a witness for Jesus.

    Emphasis: We are to be a witness for Jesus no matter where we are or what the circumstances may be: just like Paul and Silas. Even while they were in prison, they were a witness for God, and the jailor was saved.

    Lesson Summary: In our last lesson, we learned about Paul’s first missionary journey. Paul and Barnabas were chosen and sent forth to the countries and cities around to preach Jesus. They began by preaching to the Jews, but when the Jews rejected, the focus was turned primarily to the Gentiles.

    Paul and Barnabas prepared for a second missionary journey. We will learn of their disagreement and why they separated. Paul took Silas. When they reached Lystra, they met Timothy, whom they took with them.

    They were headed to Asia, but Paul saw a man of Macedonia who called. Believing the Lord called them to preach there, they obeyed the Lord. They went to Philippi where they met Lydia with other women meeting. While in Philippi, a certain damsel, possessed with a spirit, followed them crying, “These men are the servants of the most high God, which shew unto us the way of salvation” (Acts 16:17). When they cast the spirit out of her, Paul and Silas were arrested, beaten, and thrown into prison. That night at midnight, as they were singing praises to God, there was an earthquake, which released their bonds. This gave the jailer and his family an opportunity to be saved.

    We will learn of Paul, Silas, and Timothy as they continued on to Thessalonica, Berea, and Athens (where Paul was able to preach on Mars’ hill, declaring unto them the “Unknown God” they ignorantly worshiped). Their next stop was in Corinth where they met Aquila and Priscilla, with whom Paul stayed. It was there in Corinth where Paul declared he was finished preaching to the Jews – he would go unto the Gentiles. However, God encouraged him to continue to speak – “for I have much people in this city” (Acts 18:10). Paul remained there for about eighteen months teaching the Word of God.

    Paul took Priscilla and Aquila with him to Ephesus where he left them. Paul began his return journey to Jerusalem, returning to many cities along the way, strengthening the disciples.

    Y3Q2 – Lesson 9 Questions

    Y3Q2 – Lesson 9 Children’s Worksheets

    If you are teaching this to children, the following are a couple of craft ideas to help them remember this lesson:

    The Biblical Path of Life – Year Three, Quarter Two is now available through Amazon.

  • Jesus is My Friend

    “Henceforth I call you not servants; for the servant knoweth not what his lord doeth: but I have called you friends; for all things that I have heard of my Father I have made known unto you.”

    John 15:15

    On the last night before Jesus was crucified, He gave some important information to His disciples. Jesus knew He was about to leave them, and they would think that they were alone. Jesus wanted to comfort and encourage them. But more than that, He had some instructions for His disciples. One of the special things Jesus encourage them with was that He loved them, and that they were His friends. “13. Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends. 14. Ye are my friends, if ye do whatsoever I command you. 15. Henceforth I call you not servants; for the servant knoweth not what his lord doeth: but I have called you friends; for all things that I have heard of my Father I have made known unto you” (John 15:13-15). Jesus was about to lay down His life (and then take it up again: see John 10:17-18). The disciples were to show that they were Jesus’ friends by their obedience. There is a great example of this in the Old Testament. Abraham believed God and obeyed Him (see Hebrews 11:17-19). “And the scripture was fulfilled which saith, Abraham believed God, and it was imputed unto him for righteousness: and he was called the Friend of God” (James 2:23). Abraham was the Friend of God.

    Christians are encouraged to do the same. “He that hath my commandments, and keepeth them, he it is that loveth me: and he that loveth me shall be loved of my Father, and I will love him, and will manifest myself to him” (John 14:21). Manifest means “to exhibit (in person) or disclose (by words): – appear, declare (plainly), inform, (will) manifest, shew, signify.” Jesus promises to make Himself known to those who obey Him. Remember how Paul described it: “For in him we live, and move, and have our being…” (Acts 17:28a).

    The following verses are speaking of Jesus.“16. For by him were all things created, that are in heaven, and that are in earth, visible and invisible, whether they be thrones, or dominions, or principalities, or powers: all things were created by him, and for him: 17. And he is before all things, and by him all things consist. 18. And he is the head of the body, the church: who is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead; that in all things he might have the preeminence” (Colossians 1:16-18). Jesus created all things, and all things are for Him. Understanding this, Jesus must have preeminence and be all the world to a Christian. There is an old hymn that puts this thought into words.

    Jesus is All The World to Me

    by Will L. Thompson

    “1. Jesus is all the world to me,
    My life, my joy, my all;
    He is my strength from day to day,
    Without him I would fall:
    When I am sad, to him I go,
    No other one can cheer me so;
    When I am sad, he makes me glad,
    He’s my friend.

    2. Jesus is all the world to me,
    My friend in trials sore;
    I go to him for blessings, and
    He gives them o’er and o’er:
    He sends the sunshine and the rain,
    He sends the harvest’s golden grain;
    Sunshine and rain, harvest of grain,
    He’s my friend.

    3. Jesus is all the world to me,
    And true to him I’ll be;
    Oh, how could I this friend deny,
    When he’s so true to me?
    Following him I know I’m right,
    He watches o’er me day and night;
    Following him by day and night,
    He’s my friend.

    4. Jesus is all the world to me,
    I want no better friend;
    I trust him now, I’ll trust him when
    Life’s fleeting days shall end:
    Beautiful life with such a friend,
    Beautiful life that has no end;
    Eternal life, eternal joy,
    He’s my friend.”

    Recognizing Jesus is my friend, I must be His friend. Jesus must be “all the world to me”. With this understanding, read the warning we find in the book of James: “Ye adulterers and adulteresses, know ye not that the friendship of the world is enmity with God? whosoever therefore will be a friend of the world is the enemy of God” (James 4:4).

    • Adulterers and adulteresses means “one who is faithless toward God; used of those who neglect God and their duty toward Him and yield themselves to their own lusts and passions; a characteristic of infidelity; adulterous; faithless; idolatrous.”
    • Friendship means “to befriend; love; involving the adopting of the interests of the world to be one’s own.”
    • Enmity means “enemy; hatred; hostility.”

    One cannot be a friend of Jesus and a friend of the world. A choice must be made.

    Have you chosen to be a Friend of Jesus, making Him all the world to you?

  • Lesson 8: Paul’s First Missionary Journey: Acts 13 – 15:35

    Key Verse

    Then Paul and Barnabas waxed bold, and said, It was necessary that the word of God should first have been spoken to you: but seeing ye put it from you, and judge yourselves unworthy of everlasting life, lo, we turn to the Gentiles.

    —Acts 13:46

    Key Verse Thought: Read the Key Verse. In this lesson, we will learn about another rejection of Jesus by the Jewish people, and with that rejection, the message of Jesus diminishes to the Jewish people and the focus is turned to the Gentiles. We will learn that Paul was called to be a light to the Gentile people (Gentile means anyone not Jewish).

    Emphasis: To recognize that not only is salvation available to anyone, but it is the job of each Christian to go and tell others about Jesus – no matter what persecution may come. It is also important to stand for the truth that Jesus is the only way to gain salvation.

    Lesson Summary: We have recognized that Peter learned something from God – God could save anyone, not just the Jews. We also saw the persecution of Believers continue, for James was martyred and Peter was imprisoned. Nevertheless, the church continued to grow. We were reintroduced to Barnabas (for the church in Jerusalem sent him out to minister to many Believers), who had gone to Tarsus and found Saul. We also understood that it was in Antioch that Believers were first called Christians.

    Through our lessons in the last few weeks, we cannot help but notice that the Gospel message of Jesus had been sent forth, and it was no longer focused toward the Jewish people. Anyone who believed could be saved. This message is reinforced in this lesson as we see the emphasis turn to the Gentile nations around through the missionary journeys of Paul.

    Paul and Barnabas were separated out to go and tell others about Jesus. We will follow their travels into the other countries and cities as they teach the people that the Old Testament Law could not justify them before God. However they were to understand that God sent Jesus, the One promised in the Old Testament, and only Jesus could give salvation. With this message, many believed and the Gospel message was spread, but it also brought great persecution from the Jewish people. Paul revealed that although some Jews believed, the majority of the Jewish people had rejected the Gospel message, so Paul was to be a light to the Gentiles. He was to focus his ministry to the preaching of Jesus to the Gentile people.

    Paul and Barnabas were kicked out of a city for preaching Jesus, but healed a crippled man in the next city. They stoned Paul, but he got up and continued on to the next city preaching the same message. After visiting many cities, they returned to encourage the new believers. They then returned to Antioch with a report of what God had done through their preaching of Jesus. However, when they heard of false teaching, they returned to Jerusalem to defend the truth that Salvation is by Grace through Jesus. They returned to Jerusalem with letters of these truths.

    Y3Q2 – Lesson 8 Questions

    Y3Q2 – Lesson 8 Children’s Worksheets

    If you are teaching this to younger children, the following is a craft idea to help them remember this lesson:

    We made a ship with stickers to remember Paul’s First Missionary Journey.

    The Biblical Path of Life – Year Three, Quarter Two is available through Amazon.

  • That I May Know Him

    “That I may know him, and the power of his resurrection, and the fellowship of his sufferings, being made conformable unto his death.”

    Philippians 3:10

    The New Testament tells us much of Paul and his ministry. When one reads the New Testament, Paul’s life stands out. Most remember that he led three missionary journeys spreading the Gospel Message of Jesus Christ, before he was taken as a prisoner to Rome. Remember how he often referred to himself. “Paul, a servant of Jesus Christ, called to be an apostle, separated unto the gospel of God” (Romans 1:1). He was an amazing servant. Paul understood that God sent him to share the Gospel message (see Acts 9:15, 20:24).

    Although God was able to do much through the life of Paul, Paul understood something very important. Philippians tells us a bit about Paul. His understanding of who he was and what was important should be an example for all Christians. “Though I might also have confidence in the flesh. If any other man thinketh that he hath whereof he might trust in the flesh, I more” (Philippians 3:4). If there was ever a man who could attain salvation by works of righteousness, it would be most difficult to beat Paul. He gives a listing of all of his worldly and religious achievements that should have gained him salvation if that was how salvation could be attained:

    • “5. Circumcised the eighth day,
    • of the stock of Israel,
    • of the tribe of Benjamin,
    • an Hebrew of the Hebrews;
    • as touching the law, a Pharisee;
    • 6. Concerning zeal, persecuting the church;
    • touching the righteousness which is in the law, blameless.” (Philippians 3:5-6).

    These seven things were such religious attainments in his day, one would think he was bound for heaven. However, he learned salvation could not be acquired by works. Read what he wrote in a letter to Titus: “5. Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to his mercy he saved us, by the washing of regeneration, and renewing of the Holy Ghost; 6. Which he shed on us abundantly through Jesus Christ our Saviour; 7. That being justified by his grace, we should be made heirs according to the hope of eternal life” (Titus 3:5-7). Paul understood that it did not matter who he was or what he had achieved in his life. Salvation did not come by works of righteousness that he could do. It only came by the mercy and grace of Jesus. “8. For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: 9. Not of works, lest any man should boast” (Ephesians 2:8-9).

    Beyond the understanding that nothing Paul could do could have earned him salvation, he recognized something important. 7. But what things were gain to me, those I counted loss for Christ. 8. Yea doubtless, and I count all things but loss for the excellency of the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord: for whom I have suffered the loss of all things, and do count them but dung, that I may win Christ,” (Philippians 3:7-8). He had to forsake everything that he was and thought he should be to follow Christ. He had to die to his old life. “Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new” (2 Corinthians 5:17).

    In this new life, Paul explained what was important. “9. And be found in him, not having mine own righteousness, which is of the law, but that which is through the faith of Christ, the righteousness which is of God by faith: 10. That I may know him, and the power of his resurrection, and the fellowship of his sufferings, being made conformable unto his death” (Philippians 3:9-10). Paul understood his righteousness was through “the faith of Christ, the righteousness which is of God”. What better righteousness could one ever want or need?! However, because of this righteousness which is of God, Paul understood that this enabled him to know Him. He wanted “the excellency of the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord” (see Philippians 3:9). This knowledge can only come when one chooses to make Jesus Lord in that life. Paul understood this. Paul decided that he wanted to know Him. “13. Brethren, I count not myself to have apprehended: but this one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before, 14. I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus” (Philippians 3:13-14). Paul spent his life getting to know his Lord, Jesus, personally. He pressed on toward the mark, forgetting what was behind understanding that he had not apprehended. As good as he was, Paul understood the importance of continually reaching to attain the things Christ wanted for his life. He wanted to know Jesus more, and the more he knew Him, the more Paul wanted to serve Him. Because Paul forsook who and what he was, trusted in Jesus Christ, making Him Lord of his life, Paul became a mighty servant for Jesus. He not only shared the Gospel Message of salvation available only through Jesus, but he was able to write down much of the New Testament. In those writings, we find out how to know Jesus. As we know Jesus better, we understand and accomplish the things God has planned for our lives. “For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them” (Ephesians 2:10).

    Have you trusted in Christ for salvation?

    Have you made it your desire to know Jesus more, then enabling you to understand the plan He has for your life?

    Learn how to trust Christ for salvation.

  • Lesson 7: The Gospel Message Spreads: Acts 11:19-12

    Key Verse

    Fear none of those things which thou shalt suffer: behold, the devil shall cast some of you into prison, that ye may be tried; and ye shall have tribulation ten days: be thou faithful unto death, and I will give thee a crown of life.

    —Revelation 2:10

    Key Verse Thought: Read today’s Key Verse. As you read this verse, begin to understand the importance of standing fast in the Christian faith – even if persecution comes. In this lesson, we will learn of one who was killed for his faith and one who was imprisoned for his, yet both men remained faithful.

    Emphasis: As you look at this lesson, recognize the significance of spreading the Gospel message, and the importance of ministering to new Christians as they grow in the Lord. Christians are to understand that being a faithful witness may leave us open for persecution – but we are to remember to be faithful, just like James and Peter.

    Lesson Summary: We have learned that church was being persecuted, which was causing the Gospel message to be scattered into the areas around (including Samaria). Nevertheless, as we learned in our last lesson, even while there was persecution, Peter continued to do what God asked him to do. He learned that anyone could be saved – Jew or Gentile. He witnessed the Roman centurion, Cornelius, his household, and many of his friends become Believers. Peter then reported back to the Believers in Jerusalem that God could save anyone.

    In this lesson, we find that the church continued to grow – in spite of persecution. So much so, that Barnabas was called from Jerusalem and was sent out to minister to the numerous Believers. When he saw the many blessings of God, he encouraged the people to adhere to the teachings of Jesus, growing closer to Him, and to continue telling others about Jesus. Barnabas then went to Tarsus, found Saul, and brought him back to help in the ministry, “… And the disciples were called Christians first in Antioch” (Acts 11:26). Then they began to minister to those in need.

    After this, the persecution intensified. Herod took James, the brother of John, and killed him for his faith. Then because it pleased the religious leaders, Herod put Peter in prison. We will learn in this lesson what happened when the church met together and prayed for Peter.

    Herod was an enemy of God and the Christians. In this lesson, we will see an instance when God allowed His people to see their enemy destroyed.

    Y3Q2 – Lesson 7 Questions

    Y3Q2 – Lesson 7 Children’s Worksheets

    If you are teaching this lesson to children, the following is a craft idea to help them remember this lesson.

    We made a jail from foam and pipe cleaners. We added stickers of a soldier gurading the jail, and yarn attached to allow Peter to escape from the jail.

    The Biblical Path of Life – Year Thee, Quarter Two is available through Amazon.

  • Study and Know the Things Freely Given

    “Now we have received, not the spirit of the world, but the spirit which is of God; that we might know the things that are freely given to us of God.”

    1 Corinthians 2:12

    As a Christian, have you taken time to not only read, but study your Bible? Many Believers find the Bible too difficult to understand or know. Is this the conclusion you have come to in your life? If you have not taken the time to read and study God’s Word, you are missing an infinite source of encouragement, help, instruction, comfort and even strength that can be gained nowhere else in this world.

    First, one must acknowledge that from Genesis to Revelation, the entire Bible, is the inspired Word of God. “All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness” (2 Timothy 3:16). Did you notice the first word, “All”? That really means all of Scripture is given by God. This reveals that all of the Bible is important – for God gave it to us. This should give us complete confidence in every part of it. For a Christian, the Bible is the authority by which we are to live our lives.

    God has given Christians more than the Bible to read. He gave each Christian the Holy Spirit to help us understand what the Bible says. “12. Now we have received, not the spirit of the world, but the spirit which is of God; that we might know the things that are freely given to us of God. 13. Which things also we speak, not in the words which man’s wisdom teacheth, but which the Holy Ghost teacheth; comparing spiritual things with spiritual” (1 Corinthians 2:12-13). Christians can have an understanding of what the Bible says. Not only are we to believe that the Bible is God’s Word, but that God gave us the Holy Spirit to help us understand what the Bible says. We are to trust God’s Spirit to help us understand it. This should help us recognize that it is not only imperative that each Christian reads the Bible, but also understands it. The more we read and understand it, the more important it becomes in our lives.

    Knowledge without application is pretty much worthless. In reading and understanding the Bible, one must choose to know how to follow its’ teachings. “For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them” (Ephesians 2:10). It is important to understand that God has a plan for each Christian’s life, however it is up to each individual to choose to walk in that path. Remember what God tells us about David. “And when he had removed him, he raised up unto them David to be their king; to whom also he gave testimony, and said, I have found David the son of Jesse, a man after mine own heart, which shall fulfil all my will” (Acts 13:22). David fulfilled God’s will for his life. How did David know what God expected? He asked God. “Shew me thy ways, O LORD; teach me thy paths” (Psalm 25:4). Not only did David ask God to show him God’s way, but to teach him the path God had for his life. The Bible is full of people who have chosen to know God’s ways, and follow in His paths. There are also many people recorded that chose to not follow in God’s paths. Each Christian is to read the Bible to find out what happens in a person’s life when they follow God’s paths, and what happens when people choose to make their own way in the world, disregarding God’s paths. “Now all these things happened unto them for ensamples: and they are written for our admonition, upon whom the ends of the world are come” (1 Corinthians 10:11). The Bible was written for us to not only come to know Christ as our Saviour, but to follow the examples that are recorded within so we know how to live a life pleasing to God. Paul wrote of this. “Those things, which ye have both learned, and received, and heard, and seen in me, do: and the God of peace shall be with you” (Philippians 4:9).

    Have a confidence that the Bible is completely true. Understand that the Holy Spirit will help Christians understand what the Bible says. Oftentimes, He uses good Bible teachers to help us understand, too (see 2 Timothy 2:2). But none of that will do any good if one does not chose to appropriate what is learned into the heart and life. It is only then that one becomes more like Christ.

    There are many excuses as to why people do not know or understand the Bible. Some people find the Bible too difficult to read, and others may think it takes too much time to read. But what does the Bible teach us? “It is the glory of God to conceal a thing: but the honour of kings is to search out a matter” (Proverbs 25:2). It is part of what God expects from Christians. To search out matters. It is then that we learn what it is God expects us to do. “That ye might walk worthy of the Lord unto all pleasing, being fruitful in every good work, and increasing in the knowledge of God” (Colossians 1:10).

    Have you taken time to believe the Bible, understanding that God expects you to know it and live your life according to what is written within?

  • Lesson 6: Gentile Believers: Acts 9:32 – 11:18

    Key Verse

    When they heard these things, they held their peace, and glorified God, saying, Then hath God also to the Gentiles granted repentance unto life.

    —Acts 11:18

    Key Verse Thought: Read today’s Key Verse. Remember that a Gentile is anyone who is not a Jew. Up to this point, we have learned that the Gospel message of Jesus had spread from Jerusalem into Samaria. So far, we have seen just the beginnings of the spread of the Gospel message to some Gentile people. In this lesson, we will see that the Jewish people finally begin to recognize that the Gentiles, too, could be saved.

    Emphasis: In this lesson, we are to recognize that the Gospel message is not just for the Jew – but that anyone who will believe in Jesus can be saved. As Christians, we should never stop growing and learning. We are to become faithful witnesses – much like Peter.

    Lesson Summary: In our last lesson, we saw the great transformation of Saul, later called Paul, because he responded to the call by Jesus. He was chosen to spread the Gospel message to the Gentile people. (Remember the following verse: “15. But the Lord said unto him, Go thy way: for he is a chosen vessel unto me, to bear my name before the Gentiles, and kings, and the children of Israel” Acts 9:15.)

    We have learned that the church was being persecuted – which was causing the Gospel message to be scattered into the areas around (including Samaria). However, even during a time of persecution, Peter continued to do what God asked him to do. In this lesson, we will read that he continued to heal and even raised Dorcas from the dead.

    Peter stayed at Simon a tanner’s house. During this time of reprieve, he received a message from the Lord. We find Peter still learning more from Jesus (when he saw a vision revealing that anyone could be saved – Jew or Gentile), as he continued to grow in the Lord. He learned that the Gospel message is for Gentiles, too. It was then that Peter obeyed God when He was sent to the Roman centurion, Cornelius’, house. Because Peter was faithful to deliver the Gospel message to a Gentile, Cornelius and many of his friends became Believers. Peter then reported to the other Believers that God could save anyone.

    Y3Q2 – Questions

    Y3Q2 – Children’s Worksheets

    If you are teaching this to children, the following is a craft idea to help them rememer this lesson:

    We took a white bandana and filled it with all kinds of animal stickers to help us remember Peter’s vision.

    The Biblical Path of Life – Year Three, Quarter Two is now available through Amazon.

  • Called to be Saints

    “Unto the church of God which is at Corinth, to them that are sanctified in Christ Jesus, called to be saints, with all that in every place call upon the name of Jesus Christ our Lord, both theirs and ours:”

    1 Corinthians 1:2

    We most often call people who have trusted in Jesus for salvation “Christians”. This implies that the one who has given that heart and life to Jesus has become Christ-like. Did you realize that in the New Testament, the name “Christian(s)” is only used three times? (“… And the disciples were called Christians first in Antioch” Acts 11:26b.) Another name given for those who have chosen to follow Christ is “disciple”. They are called “disciple” (or disciples) thirty times. Two times they are called “Believers”. However, the most prevalent name is “saints”. We should remember when the Lord sent Ananias to speak to Saul (the persecutor of the new followers of Christ). “Then Ananias answered, Lord, I have heard by many of this man, how much evil he hath done to thy saints at Jerusalem” (Act 9:13). Those in Jerusalem who had trusted in Jesus were called “saints”. Many of the letters in the New Testament are addressed to the “saints.” (See Romans, 1 Corinthians, Ephesians, Philippians, and Colossians.) Saints means “holy, set apart, sanctified, consecrated; its fundamental ideas are separation, consecration, devotion to God; separated morally.” Even more interesting, the name “saint” is interchangeable with the word “holy” in several verses. In these verses, the meaning for saint and holy are the same. It is this definition of the word “saint” or “holy” that each Christian should attain.

    Why is it important to understand that those we call Christians are also known as “saints”? There are specific instructions to those called “saints” or “holy”. Because of this, it is important to know what these instructions are so that we can follow them.

    Paul wrote a letter to the Christians in Rome. “To all that be in Rome, beloved of God, called to be saints: Grace to you and peace from God our Father, and the Lord Jesus Christ” (Romans 1:7). Take notice that the declared that they were “called to be saints”. He does this again in 1 Corinthians. “Unto the church of God which is at Corinth, to them that are sanctified in Christ Jesus, called to be saints, with all that in every place call upon the name of Jesus Christ our Lord, both theirs and ours” (1 Corinthians 1:2). Notice again that Paul declares that “all that in every place call upon the name of Jesus Christ” are “called to be saints”. Called means “called, invited, welcomed, appointed.; the called ones are those who have received the divine call having conformed to God’s saving purposes.” What is one who has been called to be a saint (holy) to do? “1. 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. 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” (Romans 12:1-2). Note Paul wrote, “holy, acceptable unto God”. Remember, this means “holy, set apart … its fundamental ideas are separation, consecration, devotion to God; separated morally.” This kind of life is acceptable unto God. How is one to do this?

    Peter gave us instructions. “14. As obedient children, not fashioning yourselves according to the former lusts in your ignorance: 15. But as he which hath called you is holy, so be ye holy in all manner of conversation; 16. Because it is written, Be ye holy; for I am holy” (1 Peter 1:15-16). Remember, this “holy” is the same word as “saint”. Conversation means “behavior, lifestyle.” Once one has been called to be holy (a saint), that life is to change from the old lifestyle and be holy (live a life in devotion to God) in all behavior.

    Paul wrote instructions to the saints (holy) in the letter to the Colossians. “12. Put on therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, bowels of mercies, kindness, humbleness of mind, meekness, longsuffering; 13. Forbearing one another, and forgiving one another, if any man have a quarrel against any: even as Christ forgave you, so also do ye. 14. And above all these things put on charity, which is the bond of perfectness. 15. And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to the which also ye are called in one body; and be ye thankful. 16. Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom; teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord. 17. And whatsoever ye do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God and the Father by him” (Colossians 3:12-17). This is a great listing for us as “Saints” today to use to transform our hearts and lives. This will produce a Christ-like lifestyle. We can then be Christians (Christ-like). It will allow us to be able to encourage other Christians as well. Paul gives a great listing to help us understand what kind of life Christ wants us to live and why (“see Ephesians 4:12-32).

    Have you been called to be a saint?

    Do you then choose to live a life that is changed, holy and acceptable unto God?

    Find out how to become a “Saint”.

  • Lesson 5: Saul Becomes Paul: Acts 9:1-31

    Key Verse

    Paul, a servant of Jesus Christ, called to be an apostle, separated unto the gospel of God,

    —Romans 1:1

    Key Verse Thought: After reading the key verse, understand that this verse declares that Paul was called to be an apostle. To remember who the eleven remaining Apostles had chosen, read that it was Matthias (see Acts 1:26). Nevertheless, that is the last time we read of Matthias specifically. We are to understand that God chose Paul (renamed from Saul) to be that twelfth Apostle. In this verse, the word separated means “to separate; to select to some office or work. Paul had been a Pharisee (which means to separate) who had been separated unto the law, or the study of the law. Now he was saying that he was separated to the gospel – the message of Jesus.”

    In this lesson, we will learn how Saul changed, becoming Paul.

    Emphasis: We are to understand that to become a Christian one must believe in Jesus, and that He is God’s Son – by faith, regardless of what any “religion” teaches. Then one must seek to learn more about Jesus by going to church, but especially reading God’s Word – learning directly from Jesus.

    Lesson Summary: Beginning in our last lesson, we saw that the Gospel message was carried out of Jerusalem and Judea into Samaria (remember “… and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judaea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth” Acts 1:8b). We have begun to learn just how Jesus’ command was being obeyed. In this lesson, we will meet the man God chose to begin the spread of the Gospel message into the “uttermost part of the earth.” He was an avid persecutor of the early church named Saul (whose name was later changed to Paul).

    In this lesson, we will read events you may have heard many times before. Nevertheless, try to learn new things about this event that you may have never grasped before. It will help since we are trying to go through the Bible in historical order, tying events and people together – fitting the pieces of the puzzle together, revealing that the whole Bible is centered on the Gospel message of Jesus, and the spread of it.

    We met the young man, Saul, when he was present at the stoning of Stephen. We then read that he was “consenting unto his death” and “made havock of the church, entering into every house, and haling men and women committed them to prison” (see Acts 8:1-3). In this lesson, we will find out that he made this his personal priority – persecuting the “disciples of the Lord” (see Acts 9:1-2), until he met Jesus on the road to Damascus.

    There was a drastic change in Saul when he met Jesus – for even his name was changed to Paul. In this study, we will understand that it took time and much study to prepare for the task Jesus had for Paul’s life – to be the Apostle sent to the Gentile people.

    Y3Q2 – Lesson 5 Questions

    Y3Q2 – Lesson 5 Children’s Worksheets

    If you are teaching this lesson to children, the following are a couple of craft ideas to help them remember this lesson about Paul:

    The Biblical Path of Life – Year Three, Quarter Two is available through Amazon.