The Biblical Path of Life

Tag: Paul

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • Choose to be a Servant

    “And whosoever of you will be the chiefest, shall be servant of all.”

    Mark 10:44

    Remember, there are choices to be made everyday. Some choices are minor with few consequences. Others have major ones. The most important will always be the choice of where one will spend eternity. Next, one must choose how to live here on earth. Although Peter was a Believer, Peter was one came to a crossroad in his life. Initially, he denied Jesus. However, when given a second chance Peter fully committed to following Jesus. He is only one of many of whom we can read about in the Bible. Mark was another. Many remember that Mark left in the midst of Paul’s first missionary journey with Barnabas. When Barnabas wanted to take Mark on the second journey, Paul refused. The strife between Paul and Barnabas was so great, they separated. Paul took Silas on the second missionary journey, and we do not hear much more of Barnabas. However, we can learn more about Mark.

    Mark is first mentioned in Acts when many were gathered at his mother, Mary’s, house in prayer for Peter (see Acts 12:12). We learn that Mark was related to Barnabas (see Colossians 4:10). When Paul and Barnabas began to travel preaching the Gospel message, they took John Mark (see Acts 12:25). “And when they were at Salamis, they preached the word of God in the synagogues of the Jews: and they had also John to their minister” (Acts 13:5). Mark was to minister to Paul and Barnabas on this journey. It appears that the events that took place at Paphos caused Mark to loose courage and leave for home (see Acts 13:6-13). This is why Paul refused Barnabas’ request to take Mark on the second missionary journey. Mark had not proven himself as a faithful minister (a servant). Consider Mark’s thoughts as he quit, not remaining a faithful minister (servant) for the furthering of the Gospel message.

    Time passed, and we learn a few things of what happened to Mark after his great failure. Mark is mentioned in Paul’s letters to Colosse. About twenty years had passed, and Paul was in prison. He sent a letter to the Colossians. We learn that Mark (Marcus) was still alive and actively serving Christ. “Aristarchus my fellowprisoner saluteth you, and Marcus, sister’s son to Barnabas, (touching whom ye received commandments: if he come unto you, receive him;)” (Colossians 4:10). Mark was with Paul, and maybe going to see the Colossians. Paul wanted them to receive Mark. Paul described Mark (Marcus) as a fellow-laborer: “Marcus, Aristarchus, Demas, Lucas, my fellowlabourers” (Philemon 1:24). Mark became of help to Paul. Read what Paul wrote in second Timothy: “… Take Mark, and bring him with thee: for he is profitable to me for the ministry” (2 Timothy 4:11). Not only was Paul a servant of Jesus Christ (see Romans 1:1), Paul had obviously recognized what Mark had become: a faithful servant of Jesus.

    Peter, a servant of Jesus (see 2 Peter 1:1), acknowledged Mark in 1 Peter. “The church that is at Babylon, elected together with you, saluteth you; and so doth Marcus my son” (1 Peter 5:13). Most believe these comments refer to the fact that Peter was the one who won Mark (Marcus) to Jesus. It also helps us recognize that Mark had proved himself as a faithful Christian in his service with Peter.

    We have the witness of the two great Apostles (and servants) of Jesus (Paul and Peter) that Mark was considered profitable for the Christian ministry and was faithful for many years. However, probably the most important acknowledgment is the fact that the Holy Spirit inspired John Mark to record the book of Mark, one of the four Gospels. He was privileged to be one of the four who recorded the life of Jesus’ life here on this earth. Mark wrote primarily to the Romans presenting Jesus as a Servant. “For even the Son of man came not to be ministered unto, but to minister, and to give his life a ransom for many” (Mark 10:45). Mark emphasized what Jesus did more that what Jesus said. Jesus revealed He was God’s Son by the actions He did while on the earth – for He changed the world forever.

    Mark is a great example of one who in spite of an early failure, did not quit the Lord and proved himself faithful to the end. When Mark was faced with a major crossroad in life (remaining with Paul on his missionary journey), he chose to turn and leave. However, when given another chance to be used by God, Mark chose to follow Christ in ministry with Paul, Peter, and in the recording of Jesus’ life. It is interesting that Mark wrote of Jesus, acknowledging Jesus as God’s Servant. Mark wrote how Jesus’ works verified His Words. He focused on the importance of what Jesus did. In those actions of Jesus, Mark helped all who read to recognize that Jesus truly is the Son of God.

    It is almost as if Mark understood that actions are as important as words. He wrote what Jesus said: “And whosoever of you will be the chiefest, shall be servant of all” (Mark 10:44). Mark recognized Jesus was a faithful servant of all. Where Mark had once failed as a servant, he learned from his failure and became a great servant for Jesus, following Jesus’ example.

    Have you chosen to become a faithful servant of Jesus Christ?

    Do you allow your actions as a servant of Jesus to speak louder than your words?

  • Seasoned with Salt

    “Let your speech be alway with grace, seasoned with salt, that ye may know how ye ought to answer every man.”

    Colossians 4:6

    Some people are born with a gift of having a ready answer for any question or comment. Often times that answer can encourage one. However, there are also times when the ready answer is not what one needs to hear at all. A Christian is to “Let your speech be alway with grace, seasoned with salt, that ye may know how ye ought to answer every man” (Colossians 4:6). But what does that mean?

    The first part teaches us, “Let your speech be alway with grace”. Speech is easily understood as one’s conversations, and the words one speaks. This verse helps us understand what kind of speech we should use: “alway with grace”. What is grace? Grace means “the external form or manner of words or discourses as gratefulness, agreeableness, acceptableness.” Often times it is easy to speak in the heat of the moment, without this grace in our speech. This is one of the things Christians are to improve in their lives. Why is this so important? Remember how Paul encourages us with his example in Corinthians. “Now thanks be unto God, which always causeth us to triumph in Christ, and maketh manifest the savour of his knowledge by us in every place”(2 Corinthians 2:14). Savour means “a good odor as accompanying an acceptable sacrifice.” Knowledge means “spoken of what is known; doctrine.” Paul understood what God was able to do through his faithful testimony for Christ, portrayed in the way he lived and spoke. Everywhere Paul went he shared Jesus and the doctrine of salvation – making it known in “every place.” Wherever Paul went, the people were called to a time of decision – either accept Jesus, or reject Jesus. “15. For we are unto God a sweet savour of Christ, in them that are saved, and in them that perish: 16. To the one we are the savour of death unto death; and to the other the savour of life unto life. And who is sufficient for these things?” (2 Corinthians 2:15-16). Paul understood the importance of his words and lifestyle. At all times, the world looks at Christians. Christians’ lives are either a savor of death unto death or savor of life unto life. This teaches that Christians are either a witness for the world, turning people from Christ because of their words and lives, or Christians are a witness for Christ in the way they respond correctly to the things in this life.

    Once Christians understand the importance of their speech, they need to understand: seasoned with salt, that ye may know how ye ought to answer every man” (Colossians 4:6b). Seasoned with salt means “a word or discourse that is appropriate or proper.” Back in the old days, most people knew all of the purposes of salt; for it was a necessity of life. Consider three of the most important uses for salt. These are still useful for today.

    First, salt is often used to season food, giving it taste. Many foods would be tasteless without salt. It is important for Christians to have the Bible hidden in their hearts, allowing His Word to come out in their conversations and answers in life. Psalm 119 is all about the importance of having God’s Word in one’s heart. Christians should read it often, and put much of it into their hearts. What is placed in the heart will come out in one’s speech and lifestyle (see Proverbs 4:23).

    Second, salt is used to prevent corruption and instead be used to preserve. Christians’ lives should be a constant rebuke to the corruption of sin, and an encouragement to choose life. Remember: “For to be carnally minded is death; but to be spiritually minded is life and peace” (Romans 8:6).

    Finally, consider that salt creates one to be thirsty. One of the greatest things Christian’s lives should do is to cause others to want what they have – Jesus Christ.

    How are Christians able to do these things? Right before this, Paul encouraged Christians what to do to help them to become more like Christ: “Continue in prayer, and watch in the same with thanksgiving” (Colossians 4:2). Continue means “steadfastness and faithfulness in the outgoings of the Christian life, especially in prayer.” Paul then gave instructions as to how to “continue” that Christian walk. “Walk in wisdom toward them that are without, redeeming the time” (Colossians 4:5). Wisdom means “the skill in the affairs of life; practical wisdom; wise management as shown in forming the best plans; sound judgment and good sense.” Them that are without means “those not belonging to church; not Christians.” This helps us understand the importance of living a faithful Christian life. Christians’ lives are to be lived consistently, so that anyone who sees them (especially the lost: those without Christ) will know, with certainty, that they are Christians. Remember the important way we have now learned to do this. “Let your speech be alway with grace, seasoned with salt, that ye may know how ye ought to answer every man” (Colossians 4:6). What Christians say and the way they respond to situations must be Christ-like. Having God’s Word hidden in the heart will enable one to “know how ye ought to answer every man.” Each Christian is to live every aspect of his or her life so that at any point someone sees them, that person will see Jesus in the Christian’s life.

    Is your speech seasoned with salt, knowing how to answer those without Christ, teaching them how they can know Him?

    How to know Jesus

  • Ezekiel, a Watchman

    “So thou, O son of man, I have set thee a watchman unto the house of Israel; therefore thou shalt hear the word at my mouth, and warn them from me.”

    Ezekiel 33:7

    God called Ezekiel five years after he had been captured from Jerusalem and carried into Babylon (see Ezekiel 1:1-2). God would send Ezekiel to warn His people of pending judgment for sin. “1. And he said unto me, Son of man, stand upon thy feet, and I will speak unto thee. 2. And the spirit entered into me when he spake unto me, and set me upon my feet, that I heard him that spake unto me” (Ezekiel 2:1-2). Take note that God told Ezekiel to stand, giving him God’s Word, and he was then filled with God’s Spirit which would enable Ezekiel to do the task at hand. In that calling, like other prophets before him, he was warned that the people would not hear him. “But the house of Israel will not hearken unto thee; for they will not hearken unto me: for all the house of Israel are impudent and hardhearted” (Ezekiel 3:7). Take note that God said they were “impudent and hardhearted.” Impudent means “powerful and able to resist. It can have a connotation of stubbornness, impudence, and being unyielding see Ezekiel 2:4; 3:7-8)”. Hardhearted means “inflexible, obstinate, hardened, stubborn of heart: the totality of man’s inner or or immaterial nature”. This sounds like it would be an extremely difficult task!

    Why would the people not hear? Then in turn, why would God not hear them?

    • “Son of man, thou dwellest in the midst of a rebellious house, which have eyes to see, and see not; they have ears to hear, and hear not: for they are a rebellious house” (Ezekiel 12:2). They were a rebellious people.
    • “Because they despised my judgments, and walked not in my statutes, but polluted my sabbaths: for their heart went after their idols” (Ezekiel 20:16).
    • “Therefore will I also deal in fury: mine eye shall not spare, neither will I have pity: and though they cry in mine ears with a loud voice, yet will I not hear them” (Ezekiel 8:18).

    To add to the difficulty of Ezekiel’s task, God said Ezekiel would be dumb (unable to speak) for a period of time. “26. And I will make thy tongue cleave to the roof of thy mouth, that thou shalt be dumb, and shalt not be to them a reprover: for they are a rebellious house. 27. But when I speak with thee, I will open thy mouth, and thou shalt say unto them, Thus saith the Lord GOD; He that heareth, let him hear; and he that forbeareth, let him forbear: for they are a rebellious house.” (Ezekiel 3:26-27). Until Ezekiel could speak again, God had Ezekiel act out several signs of warnings (see Ezekiel 4-5). God let Ezekiel know that the dumbness would be removed. In the meantime, Ezekiel was one of the signs that was given to the Israelite people who were already in captivity. “In that day shall thy mouth be opened to him which is escaped, and thou shalt speak, and be no more dumb: and thou shalt be a sign unto them; and they shall know that I am the LORD” (Ezekiel 24:27). That dumbness of Ezekiel would be removed when Jerusalem was destroyed by Babylon. “21. And it came to pass in the twelfth year of our captivity … that one that had escaped out of Jerusalem came unto me, saying, The city is smitten. 22. Now the hand of the LORD was upon me in the evening, afore he that was escaped came; and had opened my mouth, until he came to me in the morning; and my mouth was opened, and I was no more dumb” (Ezekiel 33:21-22). God opened Ezekiel’s mouth so he could speak again.

    God called Ezekiel to be a watchman to the house of Israel. The first time, He was to give them a warning from God (see Ezekiel 3:16-27). Before God opened Ezekiel’s mouth, God called Ezekiel to give another warning, however it included a promise of restoration one day (see Ezekiel 33:22). “So thou, O son of man, I have set thee a watchman unto the house of Israel; therefore thou shalt hear the word at my mouth, and warn them from me” (Ezekiel 33:7). If Ezekiel was not faithful to declare God’s Word to the people, Ezekiel would be accountable for their lives (see Ezekiel 33:8-9).

    Christians live in a world today where most people do not want to hear about God. However, we can share the good news of Jesus with others. We should follow the example of Paul. “5. For our gospel came not unto you in word only …as ye know what manner of men we were among you for your sake. 6. And ye became followers of us, and of the Lord, having received the word in much affliction, with joy of the Holy Ghost: 7. So that ye were ensamples to all that believe in Macedonia and Achaia. 8. For from you sounded out the word of the Lord not only in Macedonia and Achaia, but also in every place your faith to God-ward is spread abroad; so that we need not to speak any thing. 9. For they themselves shew of us what manner of entering in we had unto you, and how ye turned to God from idols to serve the living and true God; 10. And to wait for his Son from heaven, whom he raised from the dead, even Jesus, which delivered us from the wrath to come” (1 Thessalonians 1:5-10). Paul not only shared the Gospel message, but lived a Christ-like life. The people heard, saw, and turned from idols to serve the living God by believing in Jesus. This faith in Jesus, delivers from the “wrath to come”.

    Do you live a life where others can see Jesus in you, then able to hear as you share the Gospel message?

    The Gospel Message

  • Learn to Walk Faithfully

    “As ye have therefore received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk ye in him:”

    Colossians 2:6

    Christians are to understand that once becoming a Christian there must be a moving forward in the Christian life. It begins with a consistent walk, becoming established in the faith. “6. As ye have therefore received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk ye in him: 7. Rooted and built up in him, and stablished in the faith, as ye have been taught, abounding therein with thanksgiving” (Colossians 2:6-7). Reading the Bible, is a great place to learn how to walk as a Christian (see 1 Peter 2:2). Then, one begins to grow in that Christian life.

    Paul compared the Christian life to a race. “24. Know ye not that they which run in a race run all, but one receiveth the prize? So run, that ye may obtain. 25. And every man that striveth for the mastery is temperate in all things. Now they do it to obtain a corruptible crown; but we an incorruptible. 26. I therefore so run, not as uncertainly; so fight I, not as one that beateth the air: 27. But I keep under my body, and bring it into subjection: lest that by any means, when I have preached to others, I myself should be a castaway” (1 Corinthians 9:24-27). These verses instruct that a Christian life is to be continually moving forward, striving for the goal at the end. With that moving forward, Paul said he kept his body in subjection. He understood the importance of keeping his life true to the Word of God so that he would never lose that Christian testimony. However, he also understood it took much work, and he knew it was a continual process of moving forward in his relationship with Jesus. “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 continually moved forward in his growth in Christ. Have you ever heard the saying that “if you are not moving forward, you are moving backward”? It is very true. If Christians do not continually read their Bible, pray, and live according to God’s Word, they digress in that growing process, becoming ineffective Christians.

    Peter also reminded Christians that scoffers will come. “3. Knowing this first, that there shall come in the last days scoffers, walking after their own lusts, 4. And saying, Where is the promise of his coming? for since the fathers fell asleep, all things continue as they were from the beginning of the creation” (2 Peter 3:3-4). Scoffers means “to deride; to mock; a mocker, scoffer, spoken of impostors or false prophets.” Not only will there be mockers, impostors, and false prophets, but also there will be men who question Jesus’ promise of returning for the church. Nevertheless, read the assurance we find in God’s Word. “The Lord is not slack concerning his promise, as some men count slackness; but is longsuffering to us-ward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance” (2 Peter 3:9). Jesus will come again, but He is waiting for any, and all who will, to be saved. Remember also what Paul wrote: “12. Teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly, in this present world; 13. Looking for that blessed hope, and the glorious appearing of the great God and our Saviour Jesus Christ” (Titus 2:12-13). See also: “Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day: and not to me only, but unto all them also that love his appearing” (2 Timothy 4:8). There is even a crown for Christians who love Jesus’ appearing.

    These teachings are not new, just reminders. “17. Ye therefore, beloved, seeing ye know these things before, beware lest ye also, being led away with the error of the wicked, fall from your own stedfastness. 18. But grow in grace, and in the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. To him be glory both now and for ever. Amen” (2 Peter 3:17-18). Grow means “to exceed; increase.” God’s Word is full of warnings: to beware, and to not be led away by error, or even by complacency (remember: “Therefore we ought to give the more earnest heed to the things which we have heard, lest at any time we should let them slip” Hebrews 2:1.) Instead, Christians are called to continually “grow in grace, and in the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ.” When one grows in grace, that life is transformed. This then causes that Christian to love and seek after God and the things of God. By growing in the knowledge of Jesus, one is continually moving forward in that relationship. That is what Peter was encouraging Christians to do. Read the warning for one who does not grow (or ceases to grow): “But he that lacketh these things is blind, and cannot see afar off, and hath forgotten that he was purged from his old sins” (2 Peter 1:9).

    Christians are to understand that once becoming a Christian, they are not finished – for there is a growing process that must take place. Remember also the examples we have in Peter and Paul. Paul understood that he became the mighty man of God he was because of the grace of God (see 1 Corinthians 15:10). However, it also took the labor of Paul to endure, thereby growing in Christ.

    Remember: A Christian is never to stop growing in the Lord.

    Have you progressed in your Christian life, becoming more like Christ?

  • The Biblical Path of Life

    Year Three, Quarter Two

    Now available on Amazon.

    The Biblical Path of Life is a clear and concise study that simplifies the understanding of how the Bible fits together as a whole. The lessons are organized into a few main points, with key verses explained helping one comprehend it better. It compares Scripture to Scripture, revealing that the entire Bible is to introduce one to Jesus and make known the need of Him in one’s life.

    In this third year of this three-year study through the Scriptures, we continue our study of the New Testament (having completed the Old Testament in Year Two). After looking at the life of Jesus as recorded in the four gospels, Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John, we reach the book of Acts. It is the only book in the New Testament division of History. As we learn about the early days of the church, the spread of the Gospel message is better understood. In those beginnings, thousands were saved at one time becoming disciples of Jesus. Once persecution began and people were killed for their faith, the Gospel message was spread into the known world, and the disciples of Jesus were called Christians. We will witness the great transformation of one of those persecutors as he, himself, became not only a Christian, but in our future studies we will learn that God used him, Paul, to write most of the books in the New Testament.

    This study is for:

    • An individual,
    • A family,
    • A small-group Bible study, or
    • A Sunday School program for all ages.

    The Bible is the most important thing we can to know, for it reveals what God expects from His people. In order to know how to live a Christian life that is pleasing to God, we must first understand what His Word says.

    A Review for The Biblical Path of Life – Year Three, Quarter Two


    “The Biblical Path of Life” brings the Bible to life as you learn how wonderfully everything fits together and how it reveals God’s plan through the ages for man’s redemption.
    Even though I have taught and/or been a student of this study for many years I am constantly learning new things each time I go through the study. “The Biblical Path of Life” has truly grown my faith and matured my walk with the Lord over the years. The Lord is a rewarder of those that diligently seek Him!

    ~Donna from Oklahoma

    Click here to learn how to be saved.

  • Paul’s Opportunity

    “Then Agrippa said unto Paul, Almost thou persuadest me to be a Christian.”

    Acts 26:28

    The following tells of one time when Paul gave his personal testimony of when Jesus called upon him, and Paul answered that call, trusting in Christ. Recognize a simple pattern.

    • Paul briefly reminded them of the sinner he was,
    • He spent time explaining the specific call Jesus made to him,
    • He told of his personal response,
    • Then the particular job Jesus gave to Paul to accomplish with his life.

    This is a good basis for anyone to use who will give a personal testimony. A personal testimony of when Jesus called upon one’s heart is pivotal in witnessing to someone else.

    When given the opportunity, Paul gave his personal testimony before the rulers:

    • Paul briefly reminded them of the sinner he was:

    “4. My manner of life from my youth, … that after the most straitest sect of our religion I lived a Pharisee. 6. And now I stand and am judged for the hope of the promise made of God unto our fathers: 7. … For which hope’s sake, king Agrippa, I am accused of the Jews. 8. Why should it be thought a thing incredible with you, that God should raise the dead? 9. I verily thought with myself, that I ought to do many things contrary to the name of Jesus of Nazareth. 10. Which thing I also did in Jerusalem: and many of the saints did I shut up in prison, having received authority from the chief priests; and when they were put to death, I gave my voice against them. 11. And I punished them oft in every synagogue, and compelled them to blaspheme; and being exceedingly mad against them, I persecuted them even unto strange cities” (Acts 26:4-11). Paul acknowledged that he was a sinner. He even worked against the spread of the Gospel message.

    • He spent time explaining the specific call Jesus made to him:

    “12. Whereupon as I went to Damascus with authority and commission from the chief priests, 13. At midday, O king, I saw in the way a light from heaven, above the brightness of the sun, shining round about me and them which journeyed with me. 14. And when we were all fallen to the earth, I heard a voice speaking unto me, and saying in the Hebrew tongue, Saul, Saul, why persecutest thou me? it is hard for thee to kick against the pricks. 15. And I said, Who art thou, Lord? And he said,I am Jesus whom thou persecutest. 16. But rise, and stand upon thy feet: for I have appeared unto thee for this purpose, to make thee a minister and a witness both of these things which thou hast seen, and of those things in the which I will appear unto thee; 17. Delivering thee from the people, and from the Gentiles, unto whom now I send thee, 18. To open their eyes, and to turn them from darkness to light, and from the power of Satan unto God, that they may receive forgiveness of sins, and inheritance among them which are sanctified by faith that is in me” (Acts 26:12-18). While Paul was yet in sin, Jesus called upon him to be saved (“sanctified by faith that is in me”).

    • He told of his personal response:

    “Whereupon, O king Agrippa, I was not disobedient unto the heavenly vision” (Acts 26:19). Paul was obedient to the call. He was saved.

    • And then the particular job Jesus gave to Paul to accomplish with his life:

    “20. But shewed first unto them of Damascus, and at Jerusalem, and throughout all the coasts of Judaea, and then to the Gentiles, that they should repent and turn to God, and do works meet for repentance. … 22. Having therefore obtained help of God, I continue unto this day, witnessing both to small and great, saying none other things than those which the prophets and Moses did say should come: 23. That Christ should suffer, and that he should be the first that should rise from the dead, and should shew light unto the people, and to the Gentiles” (Acts 26:20-23). Even though many wanted to kill Paul for obeying God’s command to go and tell the Gentiles about Jesus, Paul never quit.

    We then read the response of Festus. “24. And as he thus spake for himself, Festus said with a loud voice, Paul, thou art beside thyself; much learning doth make thee mad. 25. But he said, I am not mad, most noble Festus; but speak forth the words of truth and soberness” (Acts 26:24-25). Art beside thyself means “to be mad; to rave; a person who speaks and acts in such a way that they appear to others as being out of their mind.” Mad means “to rave as a maniac; madness; insanity.” Festus just thought Paul was out of his mind – crazy. Or did he? Festus did not treat Paul as a prisoner who was crazy. It is very possible that Festus felt the conviction of this Truth Paul declared, and he did not want to admit this Truth.

    • And then Paul invited Agrippa to respond to the Gospel message:

    “26. For the king knoweth of these things, before whom also I speak freely: for I am persuaded that none of these things are hidden from him; for this thing was not done in a corner. 27. King Agrippa, believest thou the prophets? I know that thou believest. 28. Then Agrippa said unto Paul, Almost thou persuadest me to be a Christian” (Acts 26:26-28). What was Agrippa’s response? “Almost thou persuadest me to be a Christian” (see Acts 26:28). Instead, he rose up and went aside, agreeing that Paul had done nothing worthy of death – or even bonds (means “without freedom”).

    Jesus called Paul, he believed and was saved, and then God sent him to preach Jesus – primarily to the Gentiles. He even spoke to rulers. His testimony of believing in Jesus allowed him to be a witness for Jesus so they could know how to be saved. His example is a good formula for anyone to use who will give their personal testimony of the time they trusted in Jesus. A personal testimony of when Jesus called upon one’s heart is pivotal in becoming a witness for Jesus.

    Have you ever shared your personal salvation experience with anyone else?

    How To Be Saved