The Biblical Path of Life

Tag: Jesus

  • Walking in Sunlight

    “Then spake Jesus again unto them, saying, I am the light of the world: he that followeth me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life.”

    John 8:12

    Have you ever traveled in this life discouraged, wondering how long your troubles may last? Have you had sorrow in your heart, sometimes feeling like the Lord has forgotten you? David wrote a Psalm with some of these questions in his heart and mind. Remember that before David became the king of Israel, King Saul spent many years chasing him wanting to kill him. It was during these days (before he became king) that David took his questions to the Lord.

    Read Psalm 13: “1. To the chief Musician, A Psalm of David. How long wilt thou forget me, O LORD? for ever? how long wilt thou hide thy face from me? 2. How long shall I take counsel in my soul, having sorrow in my heart daily? how long shall mine enemy be exalted over me? 3. Consider and hear me, O LORD my God: lighten mine eyes, lest I sleep the sleep of death; 4. Lest mine enemy say, I have prevailed against him; and those that trouble me rejoice when I am moved. 5. But I have trusted in thy mercy; my heart shall rejoice in thy salvation. 6. I will sing unto the LORD, because he hath dealt bountifully with me” (Psalm 13:1-6). This is a song that David wrote during trying times when he felt that God had forgotten him. However he trusted that the Lord was there and would take care of him. Therefore, David would rejoice. David recorded this, obviously to encourage others as well. Although we have no idea what the tune was, the words are extremely relevant for each person today who must remember to trust in the Lord.

    The following song has an encouraging message that reminds me of how David learned to trust God through his troubles, sorrows, and days where he believed his enemy was prevailing over him. Heavenly Sunlight helps one remember that we do not walk through this world alone – for God promised to never forsake those who belong to Him (see Hebrews 13:5)!

    Heavenly Sunlight (by H.J. Zelley)

    1. “Walking in sunlight, all of my journey;
    Over the mountains, thro' the deep vale;
    Jesus has said, “I'll never forsake thee,”
    Promise divine that never can fail. [Refrain]

    2. Shadows around me, shadows above me,
    Never conceal my Savior and Guide;
    He is the light, in Him is no darkness,
    Ever I'm walking close to His side. [Refrain]

    3. In the bright sunlight, ever rejoicing,
    Pressing my way to mansions above;
    Singing His Praises, gladly I'm walking,
    Walking in sunlight, sunlight of love.[Refrain]

    Refrain:
    Heavenly sunlight, heavenly sunlight,
    Flooding my soul with glory divine;
    Hallelujah! I am rejoicing,
    Singing His praises, Jesus is mine.”

    Read a few more encouraging verses of which this song may remind you:

    • “Then spake Jesus again unto them, saying, I am the light of the world: he that followeth me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life” (John 8:12).
    • “For God, who commanded the light to shine out of darkness, hath shined in our hearts, to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ” (2 Corinthians 4:6).
    • “As sorrowful, yet alway rejoicing; as poor, yet making many rich; as having nothing, and yet possessing all things” (2 Corinthians 6:10).
    • “Who is he that overcometh the world, but he that believeth that Jesus is the Son of God?” (I John 5:5).
    • “5. Let your conversation be without covetousness; and be content with such things as ye have: for he hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee. 6. So that we may boldly say, The Lord is my helper, and I will not fear what man shall do unto me” (Hebrews 13:5-6).

    Finally, remember how Jesus encouraged His disciples before he went to the cross: “1. Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in me. 2. In my Father’s house are many mansions: if it were not so,I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. 3. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, thereye may be also. 4. And whither I go ye know, and the way ye know.5. Thomas saith unto him, Lord, we know not whither thou goest; and how can we know the way? 6. Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me” (John 14:1-6).

    If David, who looked forward to Jesus’ day, could trust in the Lord and be encouraged, we too can be encouraged today.

    Do you recognize that the Lord will be with you through trials, remembering that Jesus is “the light of the world: he that followeth me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life”?

  • Offenses Will Come

    “But whoso shall offend one of these little ones which believe in me, it were better for him that a millstone were hanged about his neck, and that he were drowned in the depth of the sea.”

    Matthew 18:6

    Jesus came offering His kingdom to the Israelites. They had been looking for the Messiah. They expected their Messiah to sit on the throne of David and free them from the Roman government. However, they did not understand what it was that Jesus was offering them. He came to give them eternal salvation, restoring the relationship with God that had been severed. Jesus would establish the perfect kingdom, when they recognized Jesus as God, and receive Him as their Messiah. However, the established religious system, the rulers in that system, and the people in general rejected Jesus and what He had to offer them.

    Nevertheless, Jesus’ disciples understood who Jesus was for when He asked them, read Peter’s reply: “And Simon Peter answered and said, Thou art the Christ, the Son of the living God” (Matthew 16:16). Because they were beginning to understand that, Jesus began to teach them more. “From that time forth began Jesus to shew unto his disciples, how that he must go unto Jerusalem, and suffer many things of the elders and chief priests and scribes, and be killed, and be raised again the third day” (Matthew 16:21). Even though Jesus taught them this, they did not understand.

    Therefore, Jesus began to teach His disciples of the kingdom of God that was beginning to be formed. It was a kingdom that could not be seen with human eyes. When the Pharisees asked Jesus about this kingdom of God, read His reply: “And when he was demanded of the Pharisees, when the kingdom of God should come, he answered them and said,The kingdom of God cometh not with observation” (Luke 17:20). Not with observation means “you cannot see it with human eyes.” Jesus went on to say: “Neither shall they say, Lo here! or, lo there! for, behold, the kingdom of God is within you” (Luke 17:21). Within you means “it is located in your heart and affections; not external.” That is one reason why we refer to being saved as “asking Jesus into your heart.” You cannot see it with your eyes.

    When the disciples asked about the kingdom of heaven, Jesus began to explain. “1. At the same time came the disciples unto Jesus, saying, Who is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven? 2. And Jesus called a little child unto him, and set him in the midst of them, 3. And said,Verily I say unto you, Except ye be converted, and become as little children, ye shall not enter into the kingdom of heaven. 4. Whosoever therefore shall humble himself as this little child, the same is greatest in the kingdom of heaven. 5. And whoso shall receive one such little child in my name receiveth me. 6. But whoso shall offend one of these little ones which believe in me, it were better for him that a millstone were hanged about his neck, and that he were drowned in the depth of the sea” (Matthew 18:1-6). As Jesus began teaching His disciples of the kingdom of God, He began by explaining one must be humble, as a little child. To children, things are simpler, less convoluted. The Gospel Message is very simple – one must just believe – just as a child. Salvation begins with a new birth (see John 3:3). In other words, simply believe and receive without question – just like a child. Offend in Matthew 18:6 means “to craftily entice or lead to ruin, allowing someone to adopt a course in which he will unknowingly come to mischief and ruin (see also Mark 9:42 and Luke 17:2).” It is a terrible thing to “craftily entice or lead to ruin, allowing someone to adopt a course in which he will unknowingly come to mischief and ruin” – especially a child! Jesus warned that it would be “better for him that a millstone were hanged about his neck, and that he were drowned in the depth of the sea”. Just as it is a terrible thing to do this to a child, Jesus wanted us to understand that it is just as bad to offend a new Believer (Christian). It is a very dangerous thing to discourage a new Believer or by “allowing someone to adopt a course in which he will unknowingly come to mischief and ruin”. Every Christian should be very protective of new Believers and help them in any way to encourage them in this new Christian life. They are babes in Christ, who need to be fed, encouraged, and taught about the things of God. All Christians should help protect them from false doctrines or behavior that is unbecoming to a Christian who lives for Christ.

    Because salvation is so simple, and available to whosoever will believe (see John 3:16), Jesus gave a warning. “Woe unto the world because of offences! for it must needs be that offences come; but woe to that man by whom the offence cometh!” (Matthew 18:7). Offences means “things which lead others to turn away from God’s salvation and thus to come to ruin (see also Luke 17:1).” It is a very serious thing to turn anyone away from God’s salvation.

    Do you lead others toward salvation and encourage new Believers by living a Christ-like life, teaching them the things of God?

    Salvation

  • Christian Living

    “Wherefore seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us,”

    Hebrews 12:1

    The following is an excerpt from The Biblical Path of Life – Year Three, Quarter Four, Lesson 5:

    ‘Remember how we have learned that living a faithful Christian life is much like running a race (see 1 Corinthians 9:24-27). The goal to be kept in sight is Jesus (see Philippians 3:12-14). After remember many of the faithful men and women from the Old Testament (see Hebrews 11) who looked forward to the fulfillment of God’s promise – Jesus – see what they are to Christians today.

    “1. Wherefore seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us, 2. Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God” (Hebrews 12:1-2).

    All of those faithful who have died are now in heaven, watching Christians today. But more than that, they are mighty examples to us as we recognize the importance of eliminating the things that weigh us down, enabling us to run the race that is a faithful Christ-like life. Remember this, and it will help one keep their focus upon Jesus – always reminding Christians to life a life pleasing to Jesus.

    Moreover, Christians are not left without instruction. And more importantly, correction for when one chooses to live wrong (contrary to God’s Word).

    “5. And ye have forgotten the exhortation which speaketh unto you as unto children, My son, despise not thou the chastening of the Lord, nor faint when thou art rebuked of him: 6. For whom the Lord loveth he chasteneth, and scourgeth every son whom he receiveth. 7. If ye endure chastening, God dealeth with you as with sons; for what son is he whom the father chasteneth not?”(Hebrews 12:5-7).

    Remember that Christians are God’s children, and He disciplines Christians as His children. “Now no chastening for the present seemeth to be joyous, but grievous: nevertheless afterward it yieldeth the peaceable fruit of righteousness unto them which are exercised thereby” (Hebrews 12:11). Do you know of anyone who likes to get in trouble when they do something wrong? The smallest toddlers and children dislike it, teenagers despise it, and even adults do not appreciate chastisement (think: speeding ticket, etc.). Nevertheless, Christians are to remember that chastisement from God is perfect and right – and it makes Christians become more Christ-like when they receive that correction.

    How can Christians prevent chastisement? “5. Let your conversation be without covetousness; and be content with such things as ye have: for he hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee. 6. So that we may boldly say, The Lord is my helper, and I will not fear what man shall do unto me” (Hebrews 13:5-6).

    • Conversation means “disposition; manner; mode of thinking or feeling; acting; a turn of the mind.”
    • Without covetousness means “not fond of money; not a lover of money.”
    • Content means “to be satisfied with.”

    Once again, Christians are reminded to live a right life through Jesus and to be content with what God has given (see Philippians 4:11, and 1 Timothy 6:8). God will take care of His children.

    What else is important? “Remember them which have the rule over you, who have spoken unto you the word of God: whose faith follow, considering the end of their conversation” (Hebrews 13:7). Listening to godly pastors, teachers, and faithful Christian friends – making sure their lifestyle reflects faith taught in God’s Word. See what else Hebrews says about the importance of listening to faithful men and women of God. “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). Each person who teaches others about Jesus must give an account of that teaching. Think of it as keeping that teacher in check – not saying what they feel or think, but only what God’s Word has to say about issues. That may be one of the more difficult things a teacher does, but God will hold that teacher accountable for what is taught. So what does the writer of Hebrews add next? “Pray for us: for we trust we have a good conscience, in all things willing to live honestly” (Hebrews 13:18). It is important for every teacher to desire the prayers of faithful Christians, helping them to not only teach correctly, but to live right before God.’

    Have you learned to keep Jesus as the goal in your Christian live, remembering the faithful who have done this?

  • The Way of the Cross

    “This I say then, Walk in the Spirit, and ye shall not fulfil the lust of the flesh.”

    Galatians 5:16

    It is always important to remember salvation is by faith in Jesus and His atoning death upon the cross. “Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me” (John 14:6). Once one trusts in Jesus, it is incumbent upon that new Christian to make Jesus Lord of that life. We then understand that the Christian life is not just difficult; it is impossible to live apart from the Holy Spirit. “This I say then, Walk in the Spirit, and ye shall not fulfil the lust of the flesh” (Galatians 5:16). We are taught to walk in the Spirit. The only way to do this is to learn to deny oneself and do what Christ would have us do. “I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me” (Galatians 2:20). It is with these thoughts that I awoke the other morning singing the following song. As I looked up the words to it, I was amazed at the three-fold teaching.

    I Must Needs go Home by the Way of the Cross

    Author: Jessie Brown Pounds (1906)

    “1. I must needs go home by the way of the cross;
    There’s no other way but this.
    I shall ne’er get sight of the Gates of Light
    If the way of the cross I miss. [Refrain]

    2. I must needs go home in the blood-sprinkled way,
    The path that the Savior trod,
    If I ever climb to the heights sublime,
    Where the soul is at home with God. [Refrain]

    3. Then I bid farewell to the way of the world,
    To walk in it nevermore;
    For the Lord says, “Come,” and I seek my home
    Where He waits at the open door. [Refrain]

    Refrain:
    The way of the cross leads home.
    The way of the cross leads home.
    It is sweet to know, as I onward go,
    The way of the cross leads home.”

    I remembered the song teaching that salvation is only through the cross upon which Jesus died. “Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me” (John 14:6). If I miss Jesus, I miss – for there is no other way.

    As I read verse two, I recognized that it was teaching that I must walk in the way that Jesus walked: “This I say then, Walk in the Spirit, and ye shall not fulfil the lust of the flesh” (Galatians 5:16). That is exactly what Jesus did. I am to follow His example.

    As I read the words to the third verse, I remembered that one day I will leave this world and all of its’ struggles, to live with my Lord forevermore. “These things have I written unto you that believe on the name of the Son of God; that ye may know that ye have eternal life, and that ye may believe on the name of the Son of God” (1 John 5:13).

    In all ways – salvation, walking, and living by the Spirit in this world, and looking forward to my future home – all are by the way of the cross. They each lead me to my eternal home. So the important thing for me to concentrate upon (once I have been saved) is to walk in the Spirit, and I will not fulfill the lust of the flesh. That is my daily job. Remember the fruit of the Spirit listed in Galatians: “22. But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, 23. Meekness, temperance: against such there is no law” (Galatians 5.22-23). As I walk in the Spirit, I begin to produce that fruit, and my character becomes more like Christ. It is then that others can see Jesus in me.

    Have you chosen to walk in the Spirit, daily, producing fruit that changes your character to be more like Jesus?

  • Lesson 13: Review of the New Testament: Matthew – Revelation

    Key Verse

    Wherewithal shall a young man cleanse his way? by taking heed thereto according to thy word.

    —Psalm 119:9

    Key Verse Thought: Read the Key Verse. Use the following definitions to help with the understanding of this verse:

    • Wherewithal means “how”
    • Young man means “from the age of infancy to adolescence; a girl or boy”
    • Cleanse means “to be transparent; clear; pure; innocent; to cleanse oneself”
    • Taking heed means “to guard; generally to protect or attend (keep the mind on) to; to regard; to preserve”

    From this verse one can understand that the only way to keep one’s life pure and innocent, pleasing God, is to keep one’s heart and mind on God’s Word, living according to what is written within.

    Emphasis: We are to understand that Jesus is the One promised from the beginning of time, and His life is revealed in the Bible. Christians must recognize the importance of knowing about all of God’s Word for it teaches each Christian how to live.

    Lesson Summary: This lesson will be a review over the whole New Testament. First remember the divisions we have learned. If you are teaching a class, instead of you, as the teacher, trying to teach the entire New Testament in one lesson, have your students tell you what they remember about the different divisions, and then about the different books. We must understand the importance of remembering just who Jesus is, and what He did for mankind. Also recognize the new Christians’ perseverance as they faithfully spread the Gospel message – even while suffering persecution. Remember the great leader Peter was as he helped establish the church among the Jews, and Paul as he dedicated his life to preaching the Gospel message to the Gentile nations on his missionary journeys. Even when Paul suffered great persecutions and imprisonments, he still took the time to not only continually tell people about Jesus, but he wrote many letters that now make up much of our New Testament. The most important thing we can and must recognize: all of Scripture is important for Christians to know in order to live that life God requires Christians to live. Without knowing the Scriptures, one can never fully please God with his life. Be encouraged to desire to not only read, but also to know God’s Word.

    Y3Q4 – Lesson 13 Questions

    Y3Q4 – Lesson 13 Children’s Worksheets

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

  • Two Worlds

    “And when he had called the people unto him with his disciples also, he said unto them, Whosoever will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me.”

    Mark 8:34

    We are to recognize that there are two worlds. This world and a world to come. Jesus spoke of them. “And whosoever speaketh a word against the Son of man, it shall be forgiven him: but whosoever speaketh against the Holy Ghost, it shall not be forgiven him, neither in this world, neither in the world to come” (Matthew 12:32). He mentioned there is a difference in living for the world to come. “29. And Jesus answered and said, Verily I say unto you, There is no man that hath left house, or brethren, or sisters, or father, or mother, or wife, or children, or lands, for my sake, and the gospel’s, 30. But he shall receive an hundredfold now in this time, houses, and brethren, and sisters, and mothers, and children, and lands, with persecutions; and in the world to come eternal life” (Mark 10:29-30). Jesus wanted us to understand these two worlds. There is the world where sin rules and reigns supremely, and the world of which Christians are to live in anticipation. To prepare for the latter, one is to please the Lord and live for Him – not oneself. Remember what Jesus has called us to do: “And when he had called the people unto him with his disciples also, he said unto them, Whosoever will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me” (Mark 8:34).

    Jesus sent the Comforter (the Holy Spirit) to be with us (see John 16:7-13), teaching us how to live this Christian life (see 1 John 2:20, 27). Remember, one who has trusted in Christ as their Lord and Saviour, has received the Holy Spirit. “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). With that Spirit, we are to learn those things freely given to us as to how to live pleasing to Him. The Holy Spirit enables us to live this Christian life. He teaches us how to deny ourselves, and how we are to please Christ.

    We also understand that Christians have been called to forsake the things of this world, instead choosing things that please Christ. “1. If ye then be risen with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ sitteth on the right hand of God. 2. Set your affection on things above, not on things on the earth. 3. For ye are dead, and your life is hid with Christ in God” (Colossians 3:1-3). We are to remember that this our temporary home, for we are only passing through. Our forever home is with the Lord one day. So while we are here, we are to keep our eyes upon Christ. Remember how Paul recorded his own experience as he chose to know Christ (see Philippians 3:7-10). He gave us some insight as to how he was able to strive for this goal of knowing Christ. “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 understood the importance of forgetting the things in his past, and pressing forward, choosing to live for Christ Jesus. Paul recorded many letters in the New Testament to help us understand how to walk in the new life in Christ Jesus.

    Jesus knew what it was to deny Himself. He leads us by His example. He also gives us plain instructions as to what He expects from Christians. “23. And he said to them all,If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow me. 24. For whosoever will save his life shall lose it: but whosoever will lose his life for my sake, the same shall save it. 25. For what is a man advantaged, if he gain the whole world, and lose himself, or be cast away?” (Luke 9:23-25). One of our greatest battles is with our own hearts and minds.

    Knowing that Christians are to live lives pleasing to Jesus is not enough. Each person must choose as to which world he/she is going to love and serve. Remember the following warning: “15. Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world. If any man love the world, the love of the Father is not in him. 16. For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life, is not of the Father, but is of the world. 17. And the world passeth away, and the lust thereof: but he that doeth the will of God abideth for ever” (1 John 2:15-17). We have many examples in the Bible of those who chose to love this world by succumbing to the “lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life”. We must learn not to fail in the same manner as they did.

    Which world are you living for?

  • Believe in Him

    “That whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have eternal life.”

    John 3:15

    Almost everyone has either heard or memorized John 3:16:“For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” However, have you ever stopped to understand what this verse really means?

    In John 3:16, we are to recognize the way in which God loved the world. Because sin had entered into the world, there was a breach between God and man. The penalty for sin is death (see Romans 6:23). There was only one way to bridge that separation and give life. Because God is a loving and gracious God, He sent His Son, Jesus, into the world.“But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us” (Romans 5:8). God gave His Beloved Son, Jesus, to pay the penalty for each individual person’s sin with His life. All one must do is believe upon Jesus, receiving this great gift. “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life” (John 3:16). Can you better understand this verse now? Read the next verse in that passage to understand even better as to why Jesus came: “For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through him might be saved” (John 3:17).

    After reading both of those verses, understand that the gift of the pardon for sin is offered – all one has to do is receive it. This pardon from sin is understood as a promise from God – but only for those who accept that gift. God wanted each person in the world to be saved from the penalty of sin, however God allows each person to make the choice: believe unto salvation or believe not (“He that believeth on him is not condemned: but he that believeth not is condemned already, because he hath not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God” John 3:18).

    Why would God, who is known for His great love, condemn people? Each person was already condemned because of that separation. God provided the way to be saved – leaving the decision up to each individual. People condemn themselves when they choose to not believe in Jesus (the Light, see John 8:12) and continue in sin. “And this is the condemnation, that light is come into the world, and men loved darkness rather than light, because their deeds were evil” (John 3:19). Those who choose to not believe, love darkness – because their deeds are evil. Surprisingly, many people enjoy sin.

    What if one chooses to continue in sin, rejecting the gift God offered? John summed up the consequences of rejecting this gift of Jesus in the last verse of that chapter. It tells what becomes of one who does not believe that Jesus came and died, living again, enabling Him to take away the sin of each individual who would only believe. “He that believeth on the Son hath everlasting life: and he that believeth not the Son shall not see life; but the wrath of God abideth on him” (John 3:36). This, too, is a promise.

    No one talks about the wrath of God anymore. What exactly is the wrath of God? It is mentioned most often in the New Testament. One clear understanding of it is found in the reading of Romans chapter one. In that chapter, one can understand that God’s wrath is holy and just in its’ indignation against sin. It is so much more than just anger at the willingness of people to continue in sin, it is extreme anger mingled with disgust or abhorrence of that sin.

    How can one escape the wrath of God. and choose this gift God offered? Remember what Jesus declared: “That whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have eternal life” (John 3:15). It is declared simply in the Scriptures: “9. That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved. 10. For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation” (Romans 10:9-10). Because one receives the Lord Jesus, believing by faith, that one will be saved from God’s wrath. “Much more then, being now justified by his blood, we shall be saved from wrath through him” (Romans 5:9).

    Life is fleeting and short. No one knows what tomorrow may hold. It is up to each individual to decide. Choose life (eternal with Jesus), or receive the penalty for sin – the wrath of God abiding on him.

    Each person has a choice to make:

    • Believe on the Son and have everlasting life, or
    • Believe not the Son and have the wrath of God abide upon them.

    Have you chosen to receive the gift of salvation (life) by believing in Jesus?

  • Lesson 12: The Revealing by Jesus Christ: Revelation

    Key Verse

    The Revelation of Jesus Christ, which God gave unto him, to shew unto his servants things which must shortly come to pass; and he sent and signified it by his angel unto his servant John:

    —Revelation 1:1

    Key Verse Thought: Have you ever read the book of Revelation? Why or why not? Have you ever heard that it is too hard to understand? Read the Key Verse. Revelation means “uncovering; unveiling; disclosure; spoken of future events.” We are to understand that the book of Revelation is not meant to be difficult or even mysterious. The name itself declares that the book is a time of “disclosure of future events.” In this lesson, we will learn what Jesus told his servant, John.

    Emphasis: We are to understand that the book of Revelation is not to be a mystery, for Jesus told His people what would come to pass. It is important for Christians to remember that all of Scripture is to be read and studied, for it is instructional to us, helping us become “throughly furnished unto all good works” (see 2 Timothy 3:16-17).

    Lesson Summary: The book of Revelation is just what it says it is in the first verse. “The Revelation of Jesus Christ, which God gave unto him, to shew unto his servants things which must shortly come to pass; and he sent and signified it by his angel unto his servant John” (Revelation 1:1). Jesus revealed to John things to record for Christians to know and understand about things that had already happened and even future events. It not only tells of the differing church ages, but it tells of the second coming of Jesus and the impact that will have upon all of the world.

    Because of the volume of the book, we will go back to our overview approach as we study it. We will see the importance of knowing what is found within the book of Revelation. The church ages are described (see Revelation 2–3), as well as the rapture of the church (Revelation 4:1-2). The events that unfold after the church is removed (the Great Tribulation) is depicted in Revelation 6–22; first from earth’s perspective (see chapters 6-11), and then from heaven’s perspective (see chapters 13-19). There are “Seven Seals” (later called “Seven Vials” in heaven’s perspective), “Seven Trumpets”, and “Seven Thunders”. The two beasts will be revealed as they set about to deceive the nations. We will catch a glimpse of Satan’s banishment from heaven when he was cast down to the earth after a battle with Michael and his angels (see Revelation 12). The final demise of Satan will be revealed, as well as the reign of Christ for 1,000 years. At that point there will be the judgment of all of mankind as they stand before the great white throne – each being judged according to their works (see especially Revelation 20:15: “And whosoever was not found written in the book of life was cast into the lake of fire”).

    Finally, we will conclude our study comparing things lost in Genesis, to things that will be restored as it is declared in Revelation.

    Y3Q4 – Lesson 12 Questions

    Y3Q4 – Lesson 12 Children’s Worksheets

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

  • Lesson 11: The Abandonment of God’s Truth Revealed: Jude

    Key Verse

    Keep yourselves in the love of God, looking for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ unto eternal life.

    —Jude 1:21

    Key Verse Thought: Read the Key Verse. As we look at the book of Jude in this lesson, we will understand that he warned of apostasy, or abandonment of God’s truth. As we read, we will learn that this apostasy comes mainly because of false teachers and unbelievers. After reading the Key Verse, we are to recognize that the only way to stay with the truth of God’s Word is to do what this verse teaches – especially to “Keep yourselves in the love of God”. Doing this is what will help us not to believe false teachers who oppose God and the things of God

    Emphasis: As we look at this lesson, we are to understand that there will be false teaching, but Christians are to contend for the integrity of the truth of God’s Word. In Jude, we are to remember the judgment that befell upon those who rejected God’s Word. Christians are to keep themselves in the love of God, obeying God’s Word, as a witness to the lost world.

    Lesson Summary: The book of Jude is the eighth book in the final division of the New Testament: The Nine General Letters to the Jewish Church. Jude, who was also the half brother of Jesus, wrote it.

    Jude called for Christians earnestly to contend for the faith. He wrote warnings to Christians that there were false teachers who had not only rebelled against the teachings of Jesus, but that were leading people from the truth of the Gospel message. This is called apostasy. In order for Christians to understand just what apostasy is, Jude remembered a few previous apostasies: the Israelites in the wilderness, one-third of the angels, and the cities of Sodom and Gomorrha. Jude then recognized the apostasy that was occurring in his day. He compared this apostasy with three: Cain, Balaam, and Korah.

    Jude then recalled the life of Enoch, the seventh from Adam. He not only walked with God daily, but he understood and preached against the ungodly. Enoch understood that the Lord would return one day – and he warned others.

    After remembering that God knew apostasy would come, Christians are encouraged to build their lives upon the Christian faith and keep themselves in the love of God. By living a Christ-like life, Christians can be a witness to the lost world – and Christians are commanded to live a life that makes a difference in others by revealing Jesus to them. God will hold Christians accountable for this.

    Jude ended with the promise that God would enable Christians to do these things.

    Y3Q4 – Lesson 11 Questions

    Y3Q4 – Lesson 11 Children’s Worksheets

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

  • Is There a Portal to Another World?

    “And beside all this, between us and you there is a great gulf fixed: so that they which would pass from hence to you cannot; neither can they pass to us, that would come from thence.”

    Luke 16:26

    Many people search for a “portal” to either enter another dimension or at the very least to peer into one. Innumerable movies have incorporated this into the story-line. These thoughts of a “portal” into another dimension are classified as science-fiction. People dream of finding a way through one of those “portals”. Scientists perform experiments trying to open a “portal” into another dimension. Man wants to “see what is on the other side.” Humans are limited in the ability to cross that threshold and return. However, there is another “world” that each person should seriously consider. Another “world” that Jesus addressed many times.

    Read of a certain rich man and a beggar named Lazarus in Luke 16:19-31.

    We are introduced to two men. “19. There was a certain rich man, which was clothed in purple and fine linen, and fared sumptuously every day: 20. And there was a certain beggar named Lazarus, which was laid at his gate, full of sores” (Luke 16:19-20). Notice that the rich man is not named. However the beggar was named Lazarus.

    We learn what happens immediately after death. “22. And it came to pass, that the beggar died, and was carried by the angels into Abraham’s bosom: the rich man also died, and was buried; 23. And in hell he lift up his eyes, being in torments, and seeth Abraham afar off, and Lazarus in his bosom. 24. And he cried and said, Father Abraham, have mercy on me, and send Lazarus, that he may dip the tip of his finger in water, and cool my tongue; for I am tormented in this flame” (Luke 16:22-24). One was carried by angels to Abraham. The other was buried, yet he was in hell. The rich man who was in torment, could see Lazarus afar off who was not in torment. The rich man wanted mercy and relief from the torment in the flame. “25. But Abraham said, Son, remember that thou in thy lifetime receivedst thy good things, and likewise Lazarus evil things: but now he is comforted, and thou art tormented. 26. And beside all this, between us and you there is a great gulf fixed: so that they which would pass from hence to you cannot; neither can they pass to us, that would come from thence” (Luke 16:25-26). We find no opportunity for relief from the torment for the rich man. Notice also that there is a great gulf fixed between the two places, and no one can cross it.

    Once the rich man realized he would not be freed from his torment in the flame, and Lazarus could not come even for a moment to bring him any relief, the rich man wanted to warn his family back on earth. “27. Then he said, I pray thee therefore, father, that thou wouldest send him to my father’s house: 28. For I have five brethren; that he may testify unto them, lest they also come into this place of torment” (Luke 16:27-28). He did not want anyone else to be sent to the place of torment in flame where he was now bound. He wanted Lazarus to be enabled to return to his life on earth to go warn the rich man’s five brothers. The rich man did not want his brothers to end up in that place of torment. “29. Abraham saith unto him, They have Moses and the prophets; let them hear them. 30. And he said, Nay, father Abraham: but if one went unto them from the dead, they will repent. 31. And he said unto him, If they hear not Moses and the prophets, neither will they be persuaded, though one rose from the dead” (Luke 16:29-31).

    This event speaks of very specific men: a certain rich man, Lazarus, and Abraham. One can understand it as a warning. There is another world to consider: an eternal one. The “portal” from one world to the other is death – either eternal death (in hell) or eternal life (in heaven).

    It is most interesting that after the rich man was in hell, in torment, he wanted to send someone back to warn his brothers about that awful place. Abraham reminded him of Moses and the prophets (referring to the Old Testament, which foretold Jesus would come). The rich man argued that if one went from the dead, his brothers would repent. Abraham reiterated; if they wouldn’t believe God’s Word, they wouldn’t believe one who rose from the dead. It was not long after Jesus told of this event that He suffered and died upon the cross – to pay that penalty of eternal death for any one who would believe upon Him. “For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord” (Romans 6:23). Jesus was that One who would come back from the dead that the rich man was to be looking for. Only faith in Jesus for remission of sins will keep one out of that place the rich man spoke of where he was “tormented in this flame”, yet there are many today, who do not believe. It will be those of unbelief who will spend eternity in that place of torment called hell.

    There has been much debate throughout the centuries as to whether heaven and hell are real places. Jesus declared they were real. When one reads the Bible, the uncertainty should end.

    Do you now understand that hell is a real place?

    Are you one who has received the gift of eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord?

    Read how to find eternal life through Jesus.