InstaStudy

The Obedience of Faith: A Bible Study Outline

This outline explores the biblical concept of the obedience of faith, examining its foundations, requirements, and practical application in the life of a believer. It emphasizes understanding God's nature, the path to salvation, and living a life empowered by the Spirit.

1. Understanding the One True God

1.1 God Fully Revealed in Jesus Christ

Verses: Colossians 2:9; Isaiah 9:6; John 14:8-9
  • All the fullness of the Godhead dwells bodily in Jesus Christ.
  • Jesus is identified as the Mighty God and Everlasting Father.
  • To see Jesus is to see the Father, revealing God's complete manifestation.

1.2 The Singular Saving Name of God

Verses: Acts 2:38; Acts 4:12; Matthew 28:18
  • Salvation is found in no other name than Jesus.
  • All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to Jesus.
  • Water baptism is commanded in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins.

2. The Foundation of Obedience: Repentance and Water Baptism

2.1 The Command to Repent

Verses: Acts 2:38; Acts 3:19; Luke 13:3
  • Repentance involves a sincere change of mind and heart, turning from sin.
  • It is a prerequisite for the remission of sins and spiritual refreshing.
  • Without repentance, all will perish.

2.2 Water Baptism in Jesus' Name

Verses: Acts 2:38; Romans 6:3-4; Acts 10:48
  • Water baptism is for the remission of sins and is an act of obedience.
  • It symbolizes dying to sin and rising to walk in newness of life with Christ.
  • Believers are commanded to be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ.

3. The Empowerment for Obedience: Receiving the Holy Spirit

3.1 The Promise and Experience of the Holy Spirit

Verses: Acts 2:38-39; Acts 2:4; Acts 19:6
  • The gift of the Holy Spirit is promised to all who obey and are baptized.
  • The initial evidence of receiving the Holy Spirit is speaking in other tongues.
  • This experience empowers believers for a life of holiness and service.

3.2 Walking in the Spirit

Verses: Galatians 5:16; Galatians 5:22-23; John 16:13
  • Walking in the Spirit means being led by God's divine guidance.
  • The Spirit produces fruit in the believer's life, such as love, joy, and peace.
  • The Holy Spirit guides believers into all truth and reveals the things of God.

4. Living a Life of Obedient Faith

4.1 Obedience as an Expression of Love

Verses: John 14:15; 1 John 5:3; Deuteronomy 11:1
  • Love for God is demonstrated by keeping His commandments.
  • God's commandments are not burdensome to those who love Him.
  • Obedience to God's statutes leads to blessings and a deeper relationship.

4.2 The Intertwined Nature of Faith and Works

Verses: Hebrews 11:6; James 2:17-18; Romans 1:5
  • Without faith, it is impossible to please God.
  • Faith without works is dead; true faith is demonstrated through obedience.
  • The gospel calls for the obedience of faith among all nations.

4.3 Perseverance in Obedience

Verses: Matthew 24:13; Philippians 1:6; Revelation 2:10
  • Those who endure in faith and obedience to the end will be saved.
  • God, who began a good work in us, will complete it until the day of Jesus Christ.
  • Be faithful unto death, and God will give you the crown of life.