Bible Doctrine NotesLee J. Smith

IndexIntroduction to Bible Doctrine page 1Doctrine of the Scriptures page 3Doctrine of God page 12Doctrine of Jesus Christ page 17

INTRODUCTION TO BIBLE DOCTRINEI. DEFINITIONS: WHAT IS DOCTRINE OR THEOLOGY? A. The meaning of the Words.

“Doctrine” comes from the Latin word “doctrina” meaning instruction, education, learning, that which is taught or learned.“Theology” comes from the Greek words for God (theos) and study (logia) and thus means “the study of God”

B. Definitions.Doctrine is the truth recorded in Scriptures that is intended by God to be understood and taught.Theology is what the Bible teaches about God and our relationship with him: the truths of the Christian faith.

II. WHY IS DOCTRINE IMPORTANT? 1. Because God intends that we understand him and his plan for humanity.

The whole reason God gave us the Bible is that we might understand who he is and gain a relationship with him.

2. Because the followers of God in the Bible believed that doctrine was important. John 17:17 Acts 2:42, 5:28 Rm. 6:17 1 Tim. 4:13 Titus 2:1 Why

would God go to the trouble of revealing doctrinal truth and having it recorded in the Bible if he was not concerned that we understand it? Eph. 4:14-15, 1 Ti. 4:6, 16

3. Because salvation is founded on the foundation of right doctrine.Heb. 11:6, Rom 10:17 2 Tim. 3:14,15 Just believing the right truth about

God and Jesus Christ will not get you to heaven, but you cannot get to heaven without a knowledge and acceptance of the fundamental truths of the Gospel. 1 Jn 2:22-23 5:1 2 Jn 9

4. Because knowledge of right doctrine is the foundation for godly living. 2 Tim 3:16,17, Phil 1:9-11 Psalm 119:9-11, 105 1 Ti. 4:16, 2 Ti. 2:15, Ti. 2:7, 10. To separate right doctrine from right living is abominable and indicates insincere faith. James 2, 1Ti. 1:10, 6:1 5. Because knowledge of right doctrine prevents us from being deceived by false teaching. Eph. 4:14 1, Ti. 4:1-4, Ti. 1:9, Ti. 1:3, 2 Jn. 10, Heb. 13:9 6. Because knowledge of right doctrine enables us to minister effectively Acts 14:14-18, 17:22-31, 1 Ti. 4:6, 5:17, 2 Ti. 2:2, 4:2, Ti. 1:9, 1 Pe. 3:15

III. THE DANGERS OF STUDYING BIBLE DOCTRINE A. Knowledge of doctrinal truth can be misused

1. It can lead to spiritual pride. 1 Co. 8:12. It can lead to sterile intellectualism. In the Middle Ages the Scholastics

debated such things as how many angels could dance on the head of a pin.3. It can lead to a spirit of division. There are doctrinal issues so important

that they should separate us from others who deny them. These are the essentials of the Christian faith: issues which distinguish true biblical faith

from false religion.What are these essential truths?

the existence and nature of the triune God revealed in the Biblethe reality of sin and its consequencesthe incarnation and deity of Jesus Christthe death of Jesus Christ as our atoning sacrificethe bodily resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead.the nature of salvation as a gift by grace through faith alonethe second coming of Jesus Christthe existence of heaven and hellthe continued existence of the human spirit after deaththe existence of angels, Satan and demonsthe inspiration of the Bible

Is a person who denies these doctrines a Christian? 1 Jn. 2:22,23 Gal. 1:6-9, 5:12In matters of doctrine that are “non-essential” to the Christian faith and about which Christians disagree here are some guidelines:1) Do your homework; study for yourself and be able to back up what

you believe by the Bible.2) Don’t become overly dogmatic. Can they pray together and for each

other? Can they have fellowship? Can they be a part of the same church? We must learn how to disagree agreeably. To say I don’t

agree with you for these reasons, but I still love you in the Lord.3) Remember that no one person, church, pastor, teacher or school has all

the truth down perfectly.

IV. DIVISIONS OF BIBLICAL DOCTRINEBIBLIOLOGY --the study of the BibleTHEOLOGY PROPER - the study of the existence and nature of GodCHRISTOLOGY- the study of the person and work of Jesus ChristPNEUMATOLOGY - the study of the person and work of the Holy SpiritANTHROPOLOGY- the study of humankindHAMARTIOLOGY- the study of sinSOTERIOLOGY - the study of salvationECCLESIOLOGY - the study of the churchANGELOLOGY - the study of angels including Satan (Satanology) and

demons (demonology)ESCHATOLOGY - the study of last things (prophetic events)

THE DOCTRINE OF THE BIBLE

I. THREE MAJOR DOCTRINES ABOUT THE BIBLE A. REVELATION: the truth that God has disclosed truth about himself and his will. How has God revealed himself to us? 1. General Revelation

a. Through natural creation. Ps. 19:1 Rom. 1:18-21b. Through providence. Acts 14:16,17 (common grace)c. Through human moral nature. Gen 1:26.27 Acts 17:27-29, Rom. 2:14,15

2. Special Revelation1) Through Christ John 1:1,14,18 the living word2) Through the Bible 1 John 5:9-12 the written word

B. INSPIRATION: God’s superintending of the human authorsof Scripture so that using their own personalities, they composed and recorded his revelation without error in the original manuscripts.The Holy Spirit is the agent of inspiration.It is the Scriptures that are inspired not the authors. 2 Tim 16 declares the fact of inspiration. Pet. 1:21 declares the how inspiration

C. ILLUMINATION: the ministry of the Holy Spirit in causingthe believer to understand the Scriptures. 1 Cor. 2:9-3:2,John 16:12-15

II. HOW DO WE KNOW THAT THE BIBLE IS INSPIRED (GOD’S WORD)? 1. The logical justification. Philosophically speaking, if there is a personal God, it is only logical that he would reveal himself to us. So, if God revealed himself where can we find that revelation? 2. The authors of the Bible claim repeatedly that they are writing God’s Word. 2 Ti. 3:16, 2 Peter 1:21, Mark 12:36, Acts 4:24,25, Jer. 1:11, Obadiah 1.They are either telling the truth, lying or are deluded. 3. Jesus believed and taught that the Scriptures were God’s Word. Mark 12:36. The Apostles also accepted the authority of the Old Testament as God’s Word. 4. The New Testament authors also believed that their writings had God’s authority. 1 Cor. 14:37, 1 Cor. 2:10, 1 Tim. 5:18, 2 Pet. 3:16, Rev. 22:18-19 This was based on the promises of Jesus to them. John 14:26 and 16:13 5. The evidence of fulfilled prophecy. Dan 9:24-27, Isaiah

44:28, 45:1, Micah 5:2 6. The confirmation of archaeology. No archeological finding

contradicts any statement of the Bible. 7. The historical and scientific accuracy of the Bible 8. The remarkable unity of the Bible Written by over 40

different authors over a span of nearly 1500 yrs. in three different languages: OT-Hebrew and Aramaic NT-Greek.Yet there are no provable contradictions.

9. The demonstrated power of the Bible to change lives. The Bible has transformed the lives of individuals, families, tribes

and whole civilizations.10. The internal authority of the Bible. Heb. 4:1211. The remarkable circulation of preservation of the Bible. The

Bible has survived thousands of years even when it has been criticized and enemies have attempted to destroy it.There are some 8,000 MMS of the Latin Vulgate and at least 1,000 copies of other old versions. We have over 4,000 Greek MMS of the NT and 13,000 MMS copies of portions of the NT.Over 32,000 copies of the Bible are printed every day.

III. DO WE HAVE A RELIABLE TEXT?Inspiration applies to the original manuscripts penned by the authors of the Bible. We do not have any of the originals. So can we trust the text that we have today?

A. Support for the reliability of the NT Text. 1. Though we don’t have the originals, we do have very old

NT manuscripts.a. We do have over 5,000 Greek manuscripts of the NT, far

more than any other ancient book.b. Some of these manuscripts are very early. c. In comparison: The oldest manuscripts of Caesar’s Gaelic

War, composed between 58 and 50 b.c., is 900 years later. Only 35 manuscripts of Livy survive only one of which dates to the 4th century.The text of the Histories of Tacitus

(c.A.D.l00) depends on only two Manuscripts from the 9th and 11th centuries.

d. A Listing of the most Important NT manuscripts.1) the John Rylands manuscript (A.D. 130) P52 contains a portion of the Gospel of John (18:31-33, 37-38)2) the Chester Beatty Papyri (A.D. 200) three manuscripts

containing major portions of the NT.3) The Bodmer Papyrus II (A.D.150 to 200) contains most of the Gospel of John4) Codex Sinaiticus (A.D. 350) contains almost all the NT

and half of the OT5) Codex Vaticanus (A.D. 325-250) nearly all the Bible6) Codex Alexandrinas (A.D. 400) almost the entire Bible

2. We have other old witnesses to the NT text.a. Early translations. We have copies of Syriac and Latin translations dating as far back as the fourth century A.D.b. Quotations of the NT by early church leaders. The entire NT has been quoted by the early church fathers except foreleven versesExamples: Clement of Rome (A.D. 95) He quotes from:Matt,Mk, Lu, Acts, 1 Cor, 1 Pe, Heb. and Titus.

Ignatius (A.D. 70-110) Mt, Jn, Acts, Rom.,1 Cor.,Eph.,Phil., Gal.,Col., James, 1 & 2 Thes., 1&2 Tim. And 1 Pe.Justin Martyr (A.D. 130) Polycarp (A.D. 70-156) Irenaeus(A.D.170) Over 32,000 citations of the NT by church leaders Before A.D. 325 been catalogued.c. Use of the NT in ancient lectionaries. Lectionaries were reading schedules for the church. 2,135 lectionaries have been catalogued.

B. Support for the Reliability of the OT Text. 1. We have some old Hebrew manuscripts.

Cairo Codex (A.D. 895) contains both the former and latterprophets

Codex of the Prophets of Leningrad (A.D. 916) contains Is, Jer, Ezek and the Minor ProphetsCodex Babylonicus (A.D. 1008) earliest comple OT Manuscript.

2. We have the witness of the Dead Sea Scrolls.(200 b.c. to A.D. 68)These scrolls were discovered in caves at Qumron in 1947

What is remarkable about this discovery is that the OT text used in the DSS is nearly identical to the extantHebrew manuscripts we have though they are 1000 years older.

3. We have the Septuagint. (250 b.c.) This is a Greektranslation of the Hebrew OT. It is clear that the Hebrew text used when translating the LXX is substantially the same as the Hebrew manuscripts.

4. We have the Samaritan Pentateuch (fifth century b.c.) Differences with the Hebrew Massoretic edition (916) are quite insignificant.

5. We have the Jewish Writings.a. Targums These are commentaries on the OT text by

various Rabbis. Targum of Onkelas (60 b.c.) Contains Hebrew text of the Pentateuch. Targum of Jonathon Ben Ussiel (30 b.c.)

b. The Mishnah (A.D. 200) collection of traditions and

teachingsc. The Gemaras (Palistinian, A.D. 200; Babylonian A.D.

500),commentaries in Aramaicd. The Midrash (100 b.c. to A.D. 300) doctrinal studies

6. We have other witnesses: Origen’s Hexapla (A.D. 185-254);Josephus, Philo and the Zadokite Documents. All these bear witness to the existence of a Hebrew text quite similar to the Massoretic text.

7. The copy methods of the scribes were very careful.The main scribal copyists were: The Talumidists (A.D100-500) and the Massorites (A.D. 500-900). By scribalrules no word or letter must be written from memory. They devised an elaborate system of safeguards. For example they counted the number of times each letterwas used in each book. They numbered words and even letters of every book.C. Do the ancient manuscripts agree?

1. They agree to a great extent. There are variant readingswhere manuscripts have different words.

2. Few of these variant readings are significant and none of them cast doubt on any of the fundamental doctrines of the Christian faith.

3. The science of textual criticism is well-developed and reliable. Textual Criticism is the science of examining the variant readings to determine which reading was most probably the reading of the original manuscript.

D. Conclusion: We have no reason to doubt the reliability of theextant Hebrew and Greek texts or our translations of these texts.

IV. HOW DO WE KNOW THAT THE BIBLE IS COMPLETE? A. This is the question of the Canon. The word “canon” refers

to the official list of books accepted as inspired Scripture. How do we know that we have the complete Bible or that all the books in the Bible should be included in it?1. The Bible itself implies that the Word of God is complete.

Rev. 22:18 2. The Old Testament Canon.

a. Jesus accepted the Hebrew OT as the Word of God. Luke 11:51, Luke 24:44.

b. The NT authors bear witness to the OT as being the inspired Word of God. 2 Ti. 3:16.

c. Neither Jesus nor the Apostles grant authority to theApocrypha. These are books added to the Biblical canon by the Roman Catholic Church in 1546.

3. The NT Canona. The church did not create the Canon. They just recognized the God-given authority of the inspired books.b. The basis for the NT is the promise of Christ to guide the Apostles. Jn 14:25 16:13c. The NT authors claim authority for their writings. 1 Cor

2:13, 14:37, 1 Ti. 5:18, 2 Peter 3:16 d. Certain principles guided the church in the recognition of the inspired books.

Does the book have internal authority?Does the book come from an Apostle or prophet?Is the book authentic?Does the book have life-changing power?Has the book been received, collected and used by the

people of God?Does the book agree with the rest of Scriptures?

e. The early church came to accept only the 27 books.1) The existence of a New Testament canon of Scriptureswas affirmed by early church leaders: Polycarp (A.D.115), Justin Martyr (100-165) Irenaeus (180) Ignatius (50-115).

2) The earliest listing of all 27 books was by Athanasius in A.D.367.

3) The Church Synod of Hippo in A.D. 393 confirmed this list.

V. IS THE BIBLE INERRANT? A. Definition: Inerrancy is the truth that the Bible is without

error in all matters about which it speaks. Another word often used for this is infallible.

B. Demonstration1. God is true. God breathed out the Scriptures. Therefore, the

Bible is true. Rom 3:4, John 17:3, Matt. 4:42. The Bible claims to be true.

Psalm 12:6, 119:89, 1 Cor 14:37.3. Jesus believed and taught that the Bible was without error.

Matt. 5:18, John 10:35, Matt. 22:32. Jesus spoke of OThistory as factual.

4. The Apostles believed that the Bible was without error. Gal. 3:16.5. Inerrancy relates to theology (what the Bible says about

God) history, (what the Bible says happened) and science(what the Bible says about the natural world).

6. Inerrancy does not rule out scribal errors. Copyists at times inadvertently or on rare occasions deliberately changed words from the original manuscripts.

7. Inerrancy does not rule out the accurate recording of errant statements. (For example, the lies of Satan in Genesis 3 are accurately recorded)

C. Problems. At times there are problems which appear to be errors or contradictions.1. Problems relating to history or science.2. Problems relating to parallel accounts of the same event.3. Problems which related to the NT usage of the OT.4. Problems which related to interpretation.5. However, problems are not errors. They are only problems

because we lack all the information we need to understand the solution.

THE DOCTRINE OF GOD

I. PROOF THAT GOD EXISTSA. Introduction. The Bible does not attempt to prove that God

exists; the Bible assumes his existence. Gen. 1:1. Though there are many logical reasons to believe in God, God’s existence cannot be scientifically proven. Both belief and unbelief matters of faith. Heb. 11:1,6. The unbelieversproblem is not that there is not enough evidence to support God’s existence; it is not an intellectual problem. Rather,unbelief is a moral problem. Ps. 14:1, John 3:19,20, Rom.1:18-20.

B. Classical Arguments for God’s Existence1. Cosmological Argument.This is the argument from cause and effect. It answers the question: “Why does anything exist?” The world is aneffect. It must have a cause. Possible answersto this question are: 1) Everything came from nothing.2) Everything had an impersonal cause (random energy or matter)

3) Everything had a personal cause/creator, a First Cause which is God.2. Teleological Argument. This is the argument from the design or order we see in the universe. What is the reason for design or order? 1) There Is no design or order, 2) It is

merely accidental, 3) There is a designer - God.3. Anthropological Argument

This is an argument from the nature of humans as rational and moral beings.How can mankind be explained? Answers: 1) He is just a product of chance evolution. If this is true how can we explain human personality and what basis is there for morality? Every person, even if he denies that people have moral ideas, has some standard of moral

conscience. 2) Humans have a personal andmoral creator - God.

4. Ontological ArgumentThis is an argument from the universal idea of God’s existence. There is a nearly universal idea of God. Where did this idea come from?

C. Proof for God found in His Self-Disclosure (Revelation)God has personally made himself known in human history orally and visually.1. He has spoken and appeared to people on different occasions. The Bible records these occasions.2. He has intervened through his providential care.

Acts 14:17, Ps. 19:13. He was personally present in the person of Jesus Christ.

Jn. 1:1,14,184. He shows his reality through answered prayer.

II. A DEFINITION OF GODWho is God? We cannot completely understand who God is in his totality. He is infinite; we have limited understanding.Definition: God is a spirit who is infinite, eternal and

Unchanging in his being and attributes. He is the Creator of all that exists.III. THE TRINITY

Though the word “trinity” is never used in the Bible, it aptly describes how the Scriptures describe God.Meaning: There is one God who eternally exists in three separate but equal persons.1. There is only one God. Dt. 6:4 Is. 43:10, 45:5, John 5:44,

Eph. 4:6, 1 Ti. 2:52. This God exists in three distinct persons.

a. The Father is God. 1 Cor. 8:6 Eph. 4:6b. The Son is God. John 1:1, Heb. 1:8c. The Holy Spirit is God. Acts 5:3,4

3. Scriptures which suggest that God is plural or triune.a. OT. 1) the name for God “Elohim” is plural. 2) Plural

pronouns are used for God. Gen. 1:26,27, 11:7, Is. 6:8Is 48:12-13

b. NT Matt. 28:19, 2 Cor. 13:14 1Cor. 12:4-6.

IV. THE ATTRIBUTES OF GOD1. INFINITE. God is without limitation as to time and space.

a. He transcends space. Acts 17:24-29b. He transcends time. Ps. 90:2 Gen 1:1 21:33 Mk. 13:19

Rom. 1:20,23 1 Ti. 1:172. OMNIPOTENT. God is all-powerful: he can do whatever he

wills to do that can be done. Job 42:2 Eccl 3:14, Jer. 32:3 Mt. 19:26, Jn 5:26, Eph. 1:11, Rev. 19:63. OMNIPRESENT God is totally present everywhere at the

same time. Ps. 121:3,4, Ps. 139:7-124. OMNISCIENT God knows everything that can be known,

both actual and possible. Ps. 139:1-6 Mt.6:8, 11:20-24 Lk. 12:67, 16:17 Acts 16:18, 1 Jn. 3:20

5. PERSONAL. God is a personal living being not an impersonal force. He has the characteristics of personality: intellect (He thinks)[Is 55:8], emotions (He feels[ Dt 1:37] and volition

(He decides). Gen 1:26, Acts 17:296. IMMUTABLE God is unchanging in his being and attributes

Heb. 13:8, Mal. 3:6, Ps. 102:24-277. SOVEREIGN God is supreme and has complete authority

over all others. Ex. 4:11 Is. 45:5-7 46:10 Acts 2:23 17:24-25 Rom. 9:11,15,16,20-23 Eph. 1:11 1 Tim. 6:15

8. HOLY. God is unique, different from all else and separate from all sin. Lev. 19:2, Ps. 99:9 Is. 59:2 Mt. 27:46 Lk. 1:49 John 3:36 Rom. 1:18, 4:8 1Pe. 1:15,16, 1 Jn 1:5, Rev. 4:8.

9. JUST. (RIGHTEOUS) God is totally equitable (fair) in his dealings with his creatures. Ps. 19:9 Is. 30:18 Lk. 7:29 Acts 17:31 Rom 1:17, 2:11, 9:14.

10. LOVING. God acts for the benefit of his creatures. John 3:16 Rom. 5:8 Eph. 2:4 1 John 4:8.

11. GOOD . God is kind, benevolent toward his creatures. Nah. 1:7 Mt. 19:7 Mk. 10:18 Lk 1:30-50 Acts 14:17.

12. MERCIFUL. God does not give us what we deserve. Rom. 9:16, 11:30,31 Eph. 2:4 James 5:11.

13.TRUE God is honest and faithful to keep his word. He does

not lie or fail to keep his promises. Jn. 14:6 17:3 Rom 3:4,24 Eph. 1:4-6

14. FREE God is independent of his creatures. He does not need them. Isaiah 40:13,14.

15. WISE. God has the ability to know and act in the best way possible. Rom. 16:27

CHRISTOLOGYTHE DEITY OF JESUS CHRIST

PROPOSITION: Jesus Christ is God incarnate, the second person of the TrinityPROOF:I. He claimed to be God.

A. His claims about himself.1. He said he was equal with God. Jn.5:17,18; 10:30, 16:152. He said he existed before he was born. Jn.8:58, 17:53. He said he was the Son of God. Jn. 10:33,36; Lk.22:704. He said he was Messiah (Christ). Lk.22:67-69 cf.Is.9:6,75. He said he was the “I Am.” Jn.8:23,24,58 cf. Ex. 3:146. He claimed to be all that God the Father is. Jn. 14:8-10

B. Evaluation of these claims. (C.S.Lewis, Mere Christianity)II. He does things only God can do.

1. He created and upholds the universe. Jn.1:3; Gal.1:162. He forgives sin. Mk. 2:7; Lk. 7:483. He sent the Holy Spirit. Jn. 15:264. He raises the dead. Jn. 5:21,25,28; 6:44; 11:255. He judges all people. Jn. 5:22,27; cf. Acts 10:426. He is the only way to God. Jn.14:67. He gives eternal life. Jn. 10:28; 14:6; 17:2

III. Others claimed that Jesus is God.John 1:1,14; 20:28, Acts 20:28; Col. 2:9; Ti. 2:13; He. 1:8; 2 Pe 1:1Jn. 12:31-42 cf. Is. 6:1-10, Jn. 19:37 cf. Zech. 12:10

IV. He fulfilled Old Testament prophecies predicted about God.Zech. 12:10--Jn. 19:37 Is. 6:1-10--Jn. 12:31-42Is. 7:14--Mt. 1:21-23 Is. 9:6-7 & Jer. 23:5-6--Lk. 1:32-33,48Malachi 3:1--Lk. 1:76

V. He displayed the attributes of God.1. Omnipotence (able to do everything he chooses to do) Mt. 28:18;

Mk. 4:37-41.2. Omniscience (knowledge of all things, the actual as well as the

possible. Mt. 11:21; Jn. 1:47-49; Jn. 18:43. Omnipresence (everywhere present at the same time) Jn. 1:48, Mt.

Mt. 18:20; 28:204. Immutability (unchangeable and unchanging) He. 13:8

VI. He receives worship as God.Jn. 20:28 from ThomasRev. 5:9-14 from those in heavenHe. 1:6-7 God commands the angels to worship the Son even though Godalso says that he alone is to be worshipped. Ex. 34:14; Dt. 6:13Mt. 14:33 from the Apostles

VII. He is named as an equal with the Father and the Holy Spirit. Mt. 28:19

CHRIST IN ETERNITY PAST & IN THE O.T. PERIOD

PROPOSITION: God the Son eternally existed before the incarnation.

I. THE ETERNAL EXISTENCE OF GOD THE SON1. The Scriptures say Christ existed before the conception of Jesus.

Jn. 1:1-2; 8:58; Micah 5:2; Is. 9:62. The doctrine of the Trinity supports the eternal existence of

Christ. a. God is eternal.b. Christ is God.c. Therefore, Christ is eternal.

3. Scriptures speak of a heavenly origin of Christ before the birth of Jesus. Jn. 3:17,31; 6:38; 16:27-28; 17:5,24; 2 Co. 8:9;Gal. 4:4; Phil. 2:6-7.

II. THE APPEARANCES OF GOD IN THE O.T. WERE APPEARANCES OF GOD THE SON.A. God’s Appearances in O.T. were appearances of God the Son. 1. a THEOPHANY is an appearance of God on earth in visible form. 2. Logical conclusion:

a. No one has ever seen God the Father. Jn 1:18b. The Holy Spirit is invisible.c. Therefore the appearances must be of God the Son.

3. Examples: Gen. 18:1-33--to Abraham; Gen. 32:24-32, Hos 12:4-to Jacob; Josh. 5:13-15--to Joshua; Ezek. 1:1-28--to Ezekiel;Dan. 3:25--to Nebuchadnezzar.

B. The appearances of the Angel (messenger) of the Lord were sometimes appearances of God the Son.

1. The Angel of the Lord is the Lord himself.a. Gen. 16:7-13 to Hagar b. Gen. 22:10-12 to Abrahamc. Gen. 31;11-13 to Jacob. d. Ex. 3:2-6 to Moses.

2. The Angel of the Lord is distinct from the Lord. Gen. 24:7,40; Zech. 1:12-13.

3. Thus, the Angel of the Lord was God the Son, Christ.a. God is otherwise invisible. Jn 1:18b. No appearances of the Angel of the Lord are recorded

after the incarnation of Jesus Christ.III. CHRIST’S WORK IN ETERNITY PAST

PROPOSITION: Christ, God the Son, was involved in doing all that Godis said to have done.1. Ordaining an eternal plan Eph. 1:112. Creating the universe. Jn. 1:3; 1 Co. 8:6; Eph. 3:9; Co. 1:6,7;

3. Preserving the universe. Co. 1:17; He. 1:3.4. Providing for and protecting his people. 1Kgs 19:57--Elijah;

Dan. 3:38, 6:22 Daniel and his three friends.5. Revealing truth. Zech. 1:9; 2 Ti. 3:16

6. Judging sin. 2 Sm. 24:14-17; 2 Kg. 19:35.IV. TITLES OF GOD THE SON IN THE OLD TESTAMENT

Yahweh Zech 12:10; Is. 6:3,5 Elohim Is. 40:3 (Lk. 3:4) Is. 9:6,7Adoni Ps. 110:1’ Son of God Ps. 2:7 Son of Man Da. 7:13 Servant Is. 52:13 Branch Is. 4:2, 11:l Angel of the Lord Ge. 16:7-13 Anointed One (Messiah) Da. 9:25 Immanuel Is. 7:14Shoot Is. 11:1 Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Eternal Father, Prince of Peace Isaiah 9:6

THE INCARNATION OF JESUS CHRIST

I. DEFINITION: The word ”incarnation” means enfleshment.God the Son took upon himself a human nature in the person of JesusChrist.

II. THE FACT OF THE INCARNATIONJn. 1:1,14 Jesus was born @ 4 b.c.

III. THE METHOD OF THE INCARNATIONThe virgin conception of Jesus came about by the Holy Spirit’s power in the body of Mary.1. What Scriptures teach the virgin conception of Jesus?

Mt. 1:16 (feminine relative pronoun)Mt. 1:18-25; Lk. 1:31-35, 2:49; Is. 7:14; Ge. 3:15; Ga. 4:4

2. Why was the virgin conception necessary?a. to fulfill O.T. prophecy Is.7:14b. to show clearly the deity of Jesus Lk. 1:35c. to preserve Jesus’ sinlessness. Jn 8:46, He 4:15, 7:26, 2 Cor 5:21, 1 Pe 2:22.

3. What were the miracles of the incarnation?a. that a woman could conceive a child without a sexual union.b. that God prevented the sin nature from being passed on.c. that God became a human being.

IV. THE PRODUCT OF THE INCARNATIONJesus was a divine/human person.1. Jesus is fully God2. Jesus is fully human.

He had a real physical body Mt. 1:18, 4:2; Jn 4:6; 1 Jn 1:1.He had a human soul/spirit. Mt. 9:36, 26:28, Lk. 23:46;Jn.11:35

3. Jesus had two natures, divine and human, in one person4. The incarnation is an eternal union.

He rose bodily from the dead. Lk. 24:39He ascended bodily into heaven. Ac. 1:9He will return bodily to the earth. Ac. 1:11, Mk. 14:25

V. THE HUMBLING OF THE INCARNATIONGod the Son had to humble himself to become a man. Phil. 2:5-111. He humbled himself in becoming a human being. v.72. He humbled himself in submitting to death by crucifixion. v.8.3. What did he give up to become a man?

a. the display of his glory. Jn. 17:5 Re. 1:12-17 Mt.17:1-3.b. the voluntary use of some of his attributes. Mt. 24:36

Jn. 5:19c. the equal exercise of his authority. Jn. 6:38; 17:4.

VI. THE PURPOSE OF THE INCARNATIONA. Why did God become a human being?

1. To reveal God. Jn1:182. To be able to die as a sacrifice for our sins. Mt. 1:21,

20:28; Lk. 19:10; Jn. 12:23-27; Ga. 4:4-5; 1 Ti. 2:5.He. 10:1-10.

3. To fulfill the promises made to Abraham (Gen 12) and David(2 Sm 7).

4. To offer the Messianic kingdom to Israel. Mk 1:55. To enable his ministry as our high priest. He. 4:15, 5:12.6. To destroy the works of the Devil. 1 Jn. 3:87. To give us an example to live by. 2 Co. 11:1; 1 Pe. 2:218. To communicate God’s truth. Jn. 18:37; Mk 1:38.

B. Why did God need to become a human to fulfill these purposes?1. Because there was no human qualified to be a sacrifice for

sin. Rm 3:23; He. 7:26-27.2. Because only a human could die.

VII. THE OFFICES OF THE INCARNATE CHRIST1. Prophet. Dt. 18:15, Acts 3:22,26 Mt. 13:5,7

As prophet Jesus proclaimed God’s message.2. Priest. He. 4:14, 5:1-10, 7:25.

As priest Jesus made sacrifice for our sins. Je. 7:27.As priest Jesus intercedes for us before God. He. 7:23-25;1Jn. 2:1-2.

3. King. Micah 5:2; Is. 9:6; Lk. 1:31-33; Re. 11:1As king Jesus rules and will reign forever

VIII. WHERE IS JESUS NOW?1. He is in heaven.2. He abides in believers.

JESUS CHRIST IN O.T. PROPHECY & TYPES

I. JESUS CHRIST IN O.T. PROPHECY. Lk. 24:27,441. Types of messianic prophecy

a. General messianic prophecies: may refer to others but can beonly completely fulfilled by the Messiah. (Example: the “seed prophecies:” Seed of the woman (Gen. 3:15; Seed ofAbraham (Gal. 3:16); Seed of David (Lk. 1:32).

b. Specific messianic prophecies: refer only to the Messiah.2. Prophecies of Christ’s Birth

Micah 5:2>>Mt. 2:6>>placeIs. 7:14>>Mt. 1:22-23>>mannerGe. 49:10, Da. 9:25>>Ga.4:4>>timing

3. Prophecies of life events.Miracles--Is. 61:1>>Lk. 4:18, 7:22Origin in Galilee--Is. 9:1-2>>Mt. 4:15-16Flight to Egypt--Hos. 11:1>>Mt. 2:15Introduction by John--Is. 40:3, Mal. 3:1>>Mt. 3:13.Triumphant entry--Zech. 9:9>>Mt. 21:4,5Parables--Ps. 78:2 Mt. 13:35Rejection by the Jews--Is. 6:9-10>>Mt. 13:14-15.

4. Prophecies of his person.Is. 9:6-7--His humanity and deity.Gen. 3:15--His humanity.Micah 5:2--His deity.

5. Prophecies of his suffering and death.Betrayal Ps. 41:9 Mt. 26:47-50Falsely accused Ps. 35:11 Mt. 26:60Spit upon Is. 50:6 Mt. 27:30Bones not broken Ps. 34:20 Jn. 19:37Beaten Is. 52:14 Lk. 22:63His silence Is. 53:7 Jn 19:9 Lk 23:9, 1 Pe. 2:23Piercing Zech 12:10 Jn 19:34

Death with the wicked Is. 53:9 Lk. 23:32Innocent Is. 53:7 Lk. 22:14,23:47, 1 Pe. 2:22Mocked Ps 22:6-8 Mt 27:29

Forsaken Ps 22:1 Mt 27:46Buried with the rich Is. 53:9 Lk. 23:50-54Atoning death Is. 53:5,10 Mt. 20:28

6. Prophecies of his resurrectionPs. 16:10, Ps. 22:22, Is. 53:10, Ps. 118:22-24

7. Prophecies of his coming Millennial Kingdom.Ps. 24, 72, 110, Is. 4:2, 63:1, Dan. 7:14.

II. TYPES OF JESUS CHRISTDEFINITION: a TYPES A DIVINELY INTENDED PARALLEL: It consists ofan O.T. person, institution, event or object which prefigures and looks forward to Jesus and the N.T.1. Persons who were types of Jesus.

Aaron(Heb. 5:4, 8:6) Adam(Ro. 5:14) DavidMoses(Ac 7:37 Dt.18:15) Joshua JosephBoaz(kinsman/redeemer) Melchizedek(He.5) Jonah(Mt.12:40)

2. Eventsa. God’s provision of clothes for Adam and Eve.b. Preservation of Noah in the Ark (2 Pe. 2:5)c. Deliverance of Israel from Egypt.d. Celebration of the feasts by Israel.

3. Other typesa. the Old Testament sacrifices. Jn. 1:29; 1 Pe. 1:19; 2:21-23.b. the Tabernacle.c. miscellaneous.

Aaron’s rod (He. 9:4) The brass serpent (Jn 3:14-16)the rock (1 Co. 10:4) Noah’s Ark (1Pe. 3:21)the manna (John 6:32-33)

III. SEVEN BIBLICAL FIGURES OF SPEECH FOR JESUS CHRIST.Last Adam (1 Co. 15:45, 2 Cor 5:17) the giver of life.Head of the Body (Co. 1:18,24) direction/careShepherd (Jn 10) protection/guidanceVine (Jn 15) fruitfulnessHigh Priest (Heb 5-7) sacrifice/intercessionChief Cornerstone (1 Pe 2:4-8) assuranceBridegroom (2 Cor. 11:2, Rev. 19:7) relationship, love

THE LIFE OF THE INCARNATE JESUS CHRIST

I. HIS BIRTHDATE: His birth took place in Bethlehem @6 to 4 b.c.(the death of Herod the Great has been historically established as happening in 4 b.c., so Jesus’ birth can be no later than 4 b.c.Mt. 2:19PLACE: Bethlehem, JudeaSCRIPTURES: Mt. 1:18-25, Lk. 1:5-2:20

II. THE YEARS OF PREPARATION (from his birth to his baptism)DATES: 4 b.c. to A.D. 27A. In Bethlehem

1. His circumcision. (at eight days old) Lk. 2:21.2. His dedication at the temple in Jerusalem. (forty days old)

Lk. 2:22-383. The visit of the Magi. Mt. 2:1-12

They were men who studied the stars. They did not come tothe stable (Mt 2:11). They arrived from a few days after Jesus was born until he was two years old. (Mt. 2:16-17).

B. The exile in Egypt. (Mt. 2:13-18)C. Boyhood in Nazareth (2 b.c. to A.D. 26/27) Mt.2:19-23;Lk. 2:39-40)

1. His adoptive father, Joseph, was a carpenter. Jesus wouldhave learned that trade. (Mt. 13:55; Mk. 6:3)

2. Joseph and Mary had other children. (Mt. 13:55-56)3. Joseph probably died before Jesus began his public ministry.4. Only one incident is recorded concerning the boyhood years of

Jesus. (Lk. 2:41-50).5. Jesus had a normal development apart from sin. Luke 2:52

III. THE MINISTRY OF JESUS (A.D. 27-30)(3 1/2 years)A. The Beginning of Jesus’ Ministry.

1. His baptism and introduction by John. a. The introduction by John. Jn. 1:15,26-27,29-36.b. The baptism of Jesus. Lk. 3:21,22, Mk. 1:9-11, Mt. 3:13-17

Why was Jesus baptized?1) to identify himself with the message of John.2) to be identified as Messiah.3) to receive God’s Spirit for enablement.4) “to fulfill all righteousness.”

2. His temptation. Lk. 4:1-13 Mt. 4:1-11 Mk. 1:12-13B. His initial ministry in Galilee Jn. 1:35-2:12C. His early ministry in Judea Jn. 2:13-4:42D. His major ministry in Galilee. (A.D. 28-29) Lk. 4:14-13:21;

Jn. 4:43-8:59; Mt. 4:12-18:35; Mk. 1:14-9:50.1. Rejected in Nazareth. Lk. 4:16-302. Headquartered in Capernaum. Lk. 4:31, Mk.2:13. Calling of the Apostles

4. Preaching the “Sermon on the Mount.”(During this time Jesus made at least two trips to Jerusalem (Jn 5:1, 6:4,

7:2,10)[1) Ministry prior to the choosing of the Twelve. Lk. 4:14-6:11. 2) From the choosing of the Twelve to his departure to Northern

Galilee (Lk. 6:12-9:17). 3) From his departure for northern Galilee to his final

departure from Galilee (Lk. 9:18-13:21).E. The ministry in Perea. Lk. 13:22-19:28, Mt. 19:1-20:34, 26:6-13. Mk 10:1-45F. The final week of his passion. Mt. 21:1-27:66 Mk.11:1-15:47, Lk. 19:29-23:56,1

Jn.12:1-19:42Saturday arrival in Bethany arrival in BethanySunday triumphant entry crowd comes outMonday cleansing of templeTuesday final messages cursing tree/cleansing templeWednesday fig tree discussion

Olivet message.Thursday Last Supper Last supper/Upper roomFriday Death of Jesus death of JesusSaturday in the grave in the graveSunday resurrection resurrection

IV. NOTABLE ASPECTS OF THE LIFE OF JESUS CHRISTA. His teaching.

1. Major addresses1. Sermon on the Mount Mt. 5-72. Olivet Discourse Mt. 24-253. Upper Room Discourse Jn. 13-17

2. He presented himself as the one sent from God with God’s Word . Jn 8:42, 14:24, 17:8

3. He taught with authority. Mk. 1:22 Mt. 7:29 Lk. 4:32.4. He taught with divine wisdom. Jn. 7:155. He taught the necessity of radical commitment. Lk 14:266. He taught as a prophet-calling people to repent. Mk 1:15

B. His miracles. Their purpose was to authenticate his word.and meet people’s needs. Lk. 4:16-21 Jn. 7:31, 15:22-23,Purpose: Jn. 20:30-31 Mt. 11:20 Jn 14:11Response: Mt. 12:24-32 Jn. 2:23-25, 12:37-43

C. His parables. Definition: a parable is a story told to teach alesson or truth. Their purpose:1. To reveal spiritual truth and to illustrate it for those who

were open to it.2. To conceal spiritual truth from those who had rejected it.

Mt. 13:10-16 Mk. 4:21-25D. His transfiguration. Mt. 17:1-8 Lk. 9:28-36E. His conflicts with the Jewish religious leaders.F. His training of the Twelve.

V. THE IMPORTANCE OF THE RECORD OF JESUS’ EARTHLY LIFEA. It proved the truth of his claim to be sinless. Mk. 2:1-12, Jn8:46B. It proved the truth of his claim to be God. Jn 8:58, 10:30C. It furnishes us with an example to follow. Phil 2:5, 1 Jn 2:6-7D. It provides us with the content of his teaching.E. It shows how he fulfilled prophecy. e.g. Dan. 9:24-27. Matt. 1:22, Lk 24:44

THE DEATH OF CHRISTI. INTRODUCTION

Jesus’ death was no mistake; it was the purpose of his incarnation.Jn. 3:14, Mk. 8:31, Lk. 9:22. The cross is God’s greatest gift andmankind’s greatest crime. The death of Christ is the most significantact of history. Without it no other doctrine has value.

Scriptures: Luke 22:39-23:49 Isaiah 52:13-53:12ATONEMENT is the general word used to describe what Jesus’ deathaccomplished.

II. THE NATURE OF CHRIST’S PHYSICAL DEATHJesus did not bleed to death. For detail see: Jim Bishop, The DayChrist Died, pages 278-280. Also see articles in the Journal of theAmerican Medical Association, 2 55 (1986)1455-63 and Catholic BiblicalQuarterly, 19, 343-46.

III. THE TIME OF JESUS’ DEATH1. The traditional Friday crucifixion is correct. [To properly understand the “three days and three nights” one mustremember that in Jewish reckoning any part of a day was reckonedas a day.]2. Jesus was on the cross @ 6 hours and died @ 3:00 p.m. when theJudean Jews were slaying their Passover lambs.

IV. THE SPIRITUAL NATURE OF JESUS’ DEATH (SEVEN VIEWS)1. A ransom paid to Satan.2. The Satisfaction view. Jesus’ death satisfied God’s offended honor3. The Moral Influence view. God, by showing love through Jesus’

experiencing of human suffering, influences sinners to repent.4. The Example view. Jesus died as our example to show us to be

willing to give ourselves for others.5. The Mystical Influence view. Christ’s death, in some unknown way

influences mankind for good.6. The Governmental view. Christ’s death was a token payment for

sin and not an actual payment. God accepted his death as arepresentative payment. Since the principle of God’s governingjustice has been acknowledged, God sets aside the actual penalty.Jesus thus died as an innocent victim.

7. The Substitutionary Atonement view. Christ died in our place asour substitute. He bore the penalty (actual payment) for sins.The guilt of sinners was placed on him. John 1:29, Gal. 3:13,1 Pe. 2:24, 2 Cor. 5:21, Heb. 9:28. --note the use of the Greek preposition anti in Mt. 20:28, Mk. 10:45 and 1 Pe. 3:18.

--This was a penal action (judicial). This was a vicarious act.

V. THE ACCOMPLISHMENTS OF THE DEATH OF JESUS CHRIST

1. REDEMPTION. Meaning: Christ’s death paid the ransom price to feeus from our bondage to sin and guilt. Scriptures: 2 Pe. 2:1,Rev. 5:9, Gal. 3:13, Gal.4:5, Mt. 20:28, Eph 1:7, 1 Pe. 1:18-19. Results:We are released from the penalty of sin. We belong to Christ.1 Co. 6:19-20, Titus 2:14.

2. RECONCILIATION. Need: We were alienated from God by sin.Isaiah 59:3,1Eph. 2:12-13. Meaning: Christ’s death removed thebarrier of sin so we could be brought back into harmony with God.Scriptures: 2 Cor. 5:18-20, Rom. 5:10,11, Eph. 2:11-19.Results: We have peace with God. We have access to the Father.

3. PROPITIATION . Meaning: Christ’s death satisfied God’s holy wrathagainst sin. Scriptures: 1 John 2:2, Rom. 3:25. Results:Christ’s death was sufficient to satisfy God’s holy demands.

4. JUDGMENT OF THE SIN NATURE. Rom. 6:1-10 We are no longer slaves to sin. We have power to overcome it; it need no dominate us.

5. END OF THE LAW. Rom. 10:4, Col. 2:14, Acts 13:39 Rom. 3:20. We are no longer under the Mosaic law as our code of conduct. Weare instead under the Law of Christ.

6. GROUND OF OUR CLEANSING. It makes cleansing from sin possible.1 John 1:7-9

7. BASIS FOR SATAN’S JUDGMENT. Col. 2:14-15 Jn. 12:31,44, 16:11.8. JUSTIFICATION. Meaning: God’s declaration that the believing

sinner is righteous. The basis of justification is Christ’sdeath. The means of justification is faith in Christ (Rom. 5:1)Scriptures: Rom. 3:25, Col. 1:13, Eph. 1:6, Rom 3:22-30, 5:9

9. BASIS OF OUR INHERITANCE. Col. 2:9-10, Eph. 1:3, 1 Pe. 1:4 10. BASIS OF OUR SANCTIFICATION. Meaning: God’s act of setting us

apart for himself and from sin.1) Positional--being set apart from the penalty of sin.(past) 1 Cor. 6:11, Heb. 10:10. (relates to spiritual destiny)2) Personal--being set apart from the power of sin. (relates

to spiritual growth) 1 Pe. 1:16.(present process)3) Total--being set apart from the presence and capability of

sinning. (relates to heaven) 1 Jn. 3:1-3, Eph. 5:26-27Jude 24-25. (future)

11. PEACE With God Rom. 5:1. Between Jew & Gentile Eph. 2:11-18 12. FULFILLMENT OF OLD TESTAMENT PROPHECY 13. FORGIVENESS. Eph. 1:7.

NOTE: There are many more accomplishments of Christ’s death.VI. THE EXTENT OF THE ATONEMENT. (For whom did Christ die?)

1. LIMITED ATONEMENT VIEW. Christ died only for the elect--those whom he had chosen to save. Jn. 10:11,15,26, Eph. 5:25

2. UNIVERSAL ATONEMENT VIEW. Christ died for all people. Jn. 1:29,3:17, 2 Co. 5:19, 1 Ti. 4:10, 1 Pe. 2:1, 1 Jn. 2:2

3. The atonement of Jesus’ death was sufficient for all people, but itis only applied to those who believe.

THE RESURRECTION OF JESUS CHRIST

I. THE REALITY OF THE RESURRECTION. John 20, Mk. 16, Mt. 28, Lk.24, etc.II. EVIDENCE OF THE RESURRECTION OF CHRIST.

1. The empty tomb.(Unbelievers have concocted several explanations to explain theempty tomb: (1) someone removed the body-disciples, enemies, (2)the women went to the wrong tomb, (3) Jesus swooned but revived in the cool of the tomb, (4) the whole story is a fabrication ofwishful thinking. None of these theories hold any weight.)

2. His post-resurrection appearances. ( eyewitnesses)to Mary Magdalene. Jn. 20:11-17to the other women Mt. 28:9-10to Peter 1 Cor. 15:5to the two disciples going to Emmaus Lk. 24:13-35to the ten disciples Lk. 24:36-43to the eleven disciples Jn. 20:26-29to seven disciples in Galilee Jn. 21:1-23to more than 500 gathered disciples 1 Co. 15:6to James (Jesus’ half-brother) 1 Co. 15:7to the eleven at the ascension. Mt. 28:16-20to Stephen Acts 7:55-56to Paul 1 Cor. 15:8to John. Rev. 1:12-20

3. The remarkable change in the disciples.4. The coming of t he Holy Spirit. Jn. 16:75. the existence of the Church.6. The change of the day of worship to Sunday.7. The existence of the New Testament.

III. THE IMPORTANCE OF CHRIST’S RESURRECTION1. It demonstrated that Jesus was who he claimed to be.

Rom. 1:4, Acts2:36, 10:402. It. demonstrated the truth of his predictions. Mt. 28:6

Mt. 12:38-40, 16:31, 17:9. etc.3. It fulfilled O.T. prophecies. Lk. 24:46, Acts 2:24-28

Psalm 16:8-11, Ps 22:22,118:22-24, Is. 53:104. It guarantees our resurrection. 1 Co. 15:20-22, 2 Co. 4:145. It makes the judgment of the unsaved certain. Acts 17:31.6. It assures us of God’s acceptance of what Christ did on the cross

for us. Rom. 4:25,10:9, 1 Co. 15:17,207. It empowers us for spiritual living and service. Eph. 1:19-22,

Rom. 5:10, Romans 6.8. It gives us a living advocate in heaven. Heb. 4:14-16, 7:259. It placed Christ in a position to give spiritual gifts. Col. 1:18,

Eph. 4:8. 10. It guarantees unfulfilled prophecies. Ps. 110:1, Psalm. 2:8-9

11. It is the primary evidence for the truth of the Christian faith.IV. THE NATURE OF CHRIST’S RESURRECTION BODY

1. It was a real physical body. Jn. 20:20,27 Lk. 24:39,42-43.2. It was the same body that was laid in the tomb. Jn 20:25-29.3. Yet, it was a changed body. It was no longer subject to death

Rom. 6:9. It was not subject to time or spatial limitations1 Co. 15:4244, Jn 20:19

4. It is a glorified body. Phil 3:21, Rev. 1:12-16V. WHO RAISED CHRIST JESUS FROM THE DEAD

1. The Father. Ps. 16:10, Acts 2:24-32, 13:30 Rm 6:4 Eph. 1:19-202. Christ raised himself from the dead. Jn. 2:19 Jn. 10:17-18.

3. The Holy Spirit. Rom 8:11, 1 Pe. 3:18(?)

THE PRESENT MINISTRY OF CHRIST

I. HIS MINISTRY TO US1. He is praying for us. Heb. 7:25, 9:24, Rm. 8:34, Jn. 17:15,

1 Jn 2:1.2. He is preparing a place for us. Jn 14:33. He is building his church. Mt. 16:184. He is functioning as Head of the Church. Eph. 1:18-23 As Head:

He gives gifts (Eph. 4:11), direction (Eph 2:20-22), power(Gal. 2:20 and love (Eph 5:29)

5. He gives us access to god’s throne. Jn. 14:13-14, 16:23,27,1 Tim. 2:5.

6. He gives us special help for particular needs. He. 2:18, 4:14-16.7. He loves us. Rom. 8:35-398. He makes it possible for us to produce spiritual fruit. Jn.15:1-169. He is Lord in heaven. Acts 2:36, Phil. 2:9-11, Rm 8:34, 8:1,

1 Pe. 3:22 10. He sacntifies us. Eph. 5:25-27 He. 2:11 9:12-14, 13:12. 11. He is giving eternal life to those who believe. Jn 10:10,28 17:2.

II. WHERE IS JESUS CHRIST NOW?

1. Jesus Christ is in heaven at the right hand of the Father.Acts. 1:11, 2:33 Phil 1:23

2. Jesus Christ indwells the believer here on earth. Jn 14:20Gal. 2:20, Mt. 28:20.

CHRIST AND THE FUTURE

I. CHRIST AND THE RAPTURE. Jesus Christ will return for his Church. 1 Th. 4:13-18, 1 Cr. 15:51-58, Jn. 14:1-3

II. CHRIST AND THE TRIBULATION. The Tribulation is a seven-year period of time between the Rapture and the Second Coming of Jesus Christ.1. He will pour out judgments upon the earth. Jn. 5;22, Rev. 3:10

2 Cor. 5:102. He will receive worship in heaven. Rev. 5.3. He will judge the works of believers in heaven. 1 Cr. 3:11-15.

III. CHRIST AND THE MILLENNIUM. Jesus Christ will come with his church to set up his kingdom and reign for 1000 years on the earth. Rev. 20:1-10Rev. 11:14, Dan 7:14, Is. 11:3-5, 65:20, Zech. 14:24-28.

IV. CHRIST IN ETERNITY. Through eternity Jesus Christ will reign.Rev. 5:13,14, 11:14, 1 Cor. 15:24-28.