Biblical Foundations for Life: Building for Eternity
A study exploring essential biblical principles for a life that endures.
1. The Singular God Manifest in Christ
1.1 The Fullness of the Deity
Verses: Colossians 2:9; John 14:9
- The complete essence of God dwells bodily in Jesus Christ.
- Seeing Jesus is seeing the Father; He is the visible representation of the invisible God.
1.2 One God, Not Separate Persons
Verses: Isaiah 45:5; 1 Timothy 2:5
- There is only one God, and Jesus is that one God manifested in flesh.
- Jesus is the sole mediator between God and humanity, demonstrating His unique role.
2. Repentance and Water Baptism in Jesus' Name
2.1 Repentance: Turning from Sin
Verses: Acts 3:19; 2 Corinthians 7:10
- Repentance involves a change of mind and heart, turning away from sin.
- It leads to a godly sorrow that produces salvation.
2.2 Baptism: Identification with Christ
Verses: Acts 2:38; Romans 6:3-4
- Water baptism by immersion in the name of Jesus Christ is for the remission of sins.
- It symbolizes our death, burial, and resurrection with Christ.
2.3 The Significance of Jesus' Name
Verses: Acts 4:12; Colossians 3:17
- Salvation is found only in the name of Jesus.
- Everything we do should be done in the name of Jesus, giving Him glory.
3. Receiving the Holy Spirit
3.1 The Promise of the Spirit
Verses: Acts 1:4-5; Acts 2:38-39
- Jesus promised the gift of the Holy Spirit to His followers.
- This promise is for all who believe and obey.
3.2 Speaking in Tongues: Initial Evidence
Verses: Acts 2:4; Acts 10:44-46
- Speaking in other tongues is the initial physical evidence of receiving the Holy Spirit.
- It is a supernatural utterance given by the Spirit.
3.3 The Spirit's Power for Witnessing
Verses: Acts 1:8; Luke 24:49
- The Holy Spirit empowers believers to be effective witnesses for Christ.
- It equips us with boldness and spiritual gifts.
4. Living a Sanctified Life
4.1 Holiness Unto the Lord
Verses: 1 Peter 1:15-16; Hebrews 12:14
- We are called to be holy in all our conduct, reflecting God's character.
- Pursuing holiness is essential for seeing the Lord.
4.2 Separation from the World
Verses: 2 Corinthians 6:17; Romans 12:2
- We must separate ourselves from worldly influences and practices.
- We should not conform to the patterns of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of our minds.
5. Looking for the Blessed Hope
5.1 The Return of Christ
Verses: 1 Thessalonians 4:16-17; Titus 2:13
- We eagerly await the return of Jesus Christ.
- This is our blessed hope and the culmination of our faith.
5.2 Eternal Life with God
Verses: John 14:2-3; Revelation 21:3-4
- Jesus is preparing a place for us in His Father's house.
- We will dwell with God forever, and there will be no more pain or sorrow.