InstaStudy

The General Will of God for All Believers

This Bible study outlines the foundational principles and expectations God has for every individual who chooses to follow Him. It explores the nature of God, the path to salvation, the call to a godly life, and the believer's purpose in the world.

1. Understanding the Nature of God

1.1 God is One

Verses: Deuteronomy 6:4; Isaiah 43:10-11; Isaiah 44:6; Mark 12:29
  • There is only one true God, and He is indivisible.
  • All divine titles and attributes belong to Him alone.
  • He is the sole Creator, Sustainer, and Redeemer.

1.2 God Manifested in Christ

Verses: John 1:1; John 1:14; Colossians 2:9; 1 Timothy 3:16; Isaiah 9:6
  • Jesus is the one God revealed in human flesh.
  • He is fully God and fully man, the visible image of the invisible God.
  • The Father, Son, and Holy Spirit describe different manifestations or roles of the one God.

1.3 The Spirit of God

Verses: John 14:16-18; Acts 2:4; Romans 8:9-11
  • The Holy Spirit is the Spirit of the one God, not a separate entity.
  • It is God's active presence and power at work in the world and in believers.
  • The Spirit indwells believers, empowering them for a godly life and service.

2. The Path to Salvation

2.1 Repentance

Verses: Acts 2:38; Luke 13:3; Acts 3:19
  • Repentance involves a sincere change of mind and heart towards God.
  • It is turning away from sin and committing to follow God's will.
  • This is an essential first step for the forgiveness of sins.

2.2 Water Baptism

Verses: Acts 2:38; Acts 8:16; Acts 19:5; Romans 6:3-4
  • Water baptism is immersion in water for the remission of sins.
  • It is performed in the name of Jesus Christ, signifying identification with His death, burial, and resurrection.
  • This act symbolizes a burial of the old self and a rising to new life in Christ.

2.3 Receiving the Holy Spirit

Verses: Acts 2:4; Acts 10:44-46; Acts 19:6; John 7:38-39
  • The infilling of God's Spirit is a divine empowerment for believers.
  • It is accompanied by the initial evidence of speaking in other tongues as the Spirit gives utterance.
  • The Holy Spirit empowers believers for service, witness, and holy living.

3. Living a Godly Life

3.1 Obedience to God's Word

Verses: John 14:15; James 1:22; Psalm 119:105
  • The Bible is the inspired and infallible guide for all aspects of life.
  • Believers are called to live in consistent obedience to its precepts.
  • Obedience demonstrates our love for God and our commitment to His will.

3.2 Holiness and Separation

Verses: 1 Peter 1:15-16; 2 Corinthians 6:17; Hebrews 12:14
  • God calls believers to be holy, just as He is holy, setting them apart from the world.
  • This involves pursuing purity in thought, word, and deed.
  • Living a life free from sin is a continuous pursuit, enabled by the Spirit.

3.3 Bearing Spiritual Fruit

Verses: Galatians 5:22-23; John 15:8; Matthew 7:16-20
  • Believers are expected to manifest the character of Christ in their lives.
  • The fruit of the Spirit includes love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control.
  • These qualities are evidence of the Spirit's work within us and bring glory to God.

4. The Purpose of the Believer

4.1 Worship and Adoration

Verses: Psalm 29:2; John 4:23-24; Romans 12:1
  • Our primary purpose is to give God glory, honor, and praise.
  • Worship is not just an event but a lifestyle of reverence and devotion.
  • We are called to worship Him in spirit and in truth.

4.2 Evangelism and Discipleship

Verses: Matthew 28:19-20; Mark 16:15; Acts 1:8
  • Believers are commissioned to share the good news of salvation with others.
  • This includes making disciples of all nations, baptizing them, and teaching them God's commands.
  • We are to be witnesses of Christ's power and grace to the ends of the earth.

4.3 Service and Ministry

Verses: 1 Peter 4:10; Romans 12:6-8; Ephesians 4:11-12
  • God has given every believer spiritual gifts to be used for the edification of the body of Christ.
  • We are called to serve others with humility, using our talents and resources.
  • Our service contributes to the advancement of God's kingdom and demonstrates His love.