Third Year Bible School Curriculum

PREFACE

The following outlines are designed to help train ministers in a school of ministry format. They are not the entire curriculum. At this level, practicums, projects, internships, and mentoring are crucial for a balanced program. These seven outlines are tools to help teach, instruct, train, and enlighten. We hope and trust that they can help as a part of your training program. Use them as you would like. You may copy them or use any part found herein to bless others.

Our prayer is that these outlines will be used to strengthen the weak, encourage the disheartened, and open the eyes of your understanding to the truth of God’s Word.

In His Service,

Russ Tatro

CHURCH GOVERNMENT

We will begin this course by first defining what we mean by "authority". The word "authority" in our English dictionary means, "power to influence", "persons in command", "grounds or convincing force", "influence or power".

As a noun it means lawful or liberty, upon order or commandment, high place or excellency, might, power, or potentate.

As a verb it has to do with action power, to exercise authority at home, self working or dominion.

To understand authority to its fullest degree, we must recognize and know the various levels of authority that exist.

Romans 13: 1, "every soul be subject unto the higher powers (authorities)

What are these "higher powers" ? Basically there are three:

1. God - The first and highest authority is God. He is the supreme authority of all creation.

2.Truth

3.Conscience of man.

No person has the right to violate these three levels of authority..

GOD THE SUPREME AUTHORITY

Romans 13:18 says,

“Let every soul be subject to the higher powers (the higher authority), for there is no power (authority) but of God. The powers (authorities) that be are ordained of God.”

If God ordains all authorities, then He must be supreme authority. God is sovereign which means highest, supreme and absolute. The word "sovereign" is not in the Bible but when we look up the definition, you will find these words highest, supreme and absolute.

In addition to these definitions you will find the word "unqualified". Some people say that God has unqualified authority. God is a supreme being, but His authority is "qualified". God has never done anything unqualified because He holds Himself in subjection to His own Word.

He will not permit certain things because of His Word. God is not a man that He should lie. God does not run this world in a "hit and miss" method. There are laws that God has given which are in operation at all times. God does not require anything of us that He Himself does not require of His own Self. (Numbers 30:2 says that, “He shall do according to all that proceeds out of His mouth.”)

You cannot defy the laws of gravity. You cannot defy the laws of sowing and reaping. These are natural or spiritual laws and they cannot be violated. If you plant corn, you will reap corn. If you plant sin, you will reap sin.

For example:

God does not tell us one thing, such as, "Do not lie", but then turn around and lie Himself, simply because He is sovereign. God holds Himself by a selfimposed law, it will not allow Him to do certain things. He holds Himself to the upholding of those laws because there is none higher than God. Example: Sowing to the spirit.

God has the ability to lie, but Titus 1:2 says He cannot lie. This qualifies His ability by not allowing Himself to lie. The reason for this is that God would violate some of His other laws.

2 Timothy 2:13, "If we believe not, yet He abideth faithful, He cannot deny Himself.”

Just because we disbelieve, it doesn't change God. He still loves us and still died for them.

Hebrews 6:13, "For when God made promise to Abraham, because He could swear by no greater He sware by Himself.”

He holds Himself to His own word.

Psalms 119: 89, “For ever , O Lord, thy Word is settled in Heaven.”

Review: God is sovereign. but, God explains what He will and will not do. He cannot lie, He cannot be unfaithful.

Example: My father died at age 53.It was not God's will for him to die. I asked the pastor to preach a salvation message and give an altar call. Seven relatives received Christ at my father's funeral.

Some people might say, "God in His sovereignty, caused your father to die so that those seven people could get saved."

No, Jesus died so that those seven people could get saved. They have the Scriptures and the Holy Spirit. But, we take the opportunity and God can use the situation for good. My grandmother was a different situation. She wanted to die and go home to be with the Lord.

As we read the scriptures in both the Old and New Testaments, you will find many accounts where God has specifically said what He will do and what He will not do. Where God has promised and where covenants were made and sealed with the shedding of blood, He will not go back on His Word.

Example: If in fact, God has unqualified sovereignty, then why does man have no fear of another universal flooding that destroys all life? Because God has promised that He will never again flood the whole earth.

Genesis 8:21, "1 will not curse the ground anymore for man's sake.

Genesis 9:917, "...and the bow shall be in the cloud and I will look upon it that I may remember the everlasting covenant between God and every living creature of all flesh that is upon the earth."

Isaiah 54:9,10, "Neither shall the covenant of peace be removed."

It is God Himself who qualifies Himself, not man. Does God have the ability to send another flood? Yes. He absolutely does, but He has said He will not do it. We can trust what God says, and we can rely on what He tells us as the truth.

Psalm 119:160, "Thy Word is true from the beginning and every one of they righteous judgements endureth forever."

Isaiah 40:8, "The grass withereth, the flower fadeth: but the Word of our God shall stand forever." He doesn't say one thing and then do another.

Isaiah 45:23, "1 have sworn by myself, the Word is gone out of my mouth in righteousness, and shall not return, that unto me every knee shall bow, every tongue shall confess."

Psalm 89:35,36, "Once have I sworn by my holiness that I will not lie unto David.

Psalm 110:4, "The Lord hath sworn, and will not repent."

Acts 2:2933, "God had sworn an oath."

Jeremiah 1: 12, "For I will hasten my Word to perform it."

Some say, "God's ways are higher than man's ways, therefore you never know what God is going to do. Since He can do anything, all we can simply do is accept whatever comes as the will of God for our lives."

Isaiah 55:9, "For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts".

Psalm 118:8,9, "It is better to trust in the Lord than to put confidence in man."

Some people actually believe that accepting sickness, disaster, poverty, fear, and failure, is letting God be sovereign, because, after all, "who really knows anything? God's ways are higher than our ways!"

Let me draw your attention to the word "higher". The word "higher in this verse means to soar, or it can mean, to be high like a tree or heaven, or an eagle's nest. It can mean to be exalted, elevated to a greater degree of dignity and honor. It means in a good sense or to take courage.

None of these definitions give the idea that higher is in any way on the level of man or beneath man. In the context of which it is used, Isaiah is prophesying under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit that God's ways are higher or greater than the futility of man's ways and deeds. God's thoughts, ways and deeds produce life or fruit. To accept sickness, poverty, failure and fear as the will of God is not acknowledging God's ways as higher. In reality, it is showing Him as even less than a man.

Even a natural father does not enjoy seeing his children sick or poor. So, to accept these things as a sovereign act of God is to bring Him down to the level of a criminal. If you read on in the next verse, notice what it says in verses 10-11:

Isaiah 55: 10,11, "For as the rain cometh down and the snow from heaven, and returneth not thither, but watereth the earth, and maketh it bring forth and bud, that it may give seed to the sower, and bread to the eater. So shall my Word be that goeth forth out of my mouth: it shall not return unto me void, but it shall accomplish that which I please and it shall prosper whereto I sent it".

God's ways are far beyond what we could ever ask or think, and yet He reveals them to us through His Word. God has set laws into motion. The sovereignty of God is the operation of the laws of God, be they known or unknown. People can operate in the laws of God and not even know it.

Laws work. They are absolute and will work regardless of whether or not you believe in them. Take for example, the law of gravity. You don't have to believe in it at all, but it still works.

TRUTH

The second level of authority is truth. There is an authority that accompanies truth. Certain things produce authority simply because they are true.

Example: 2 + 2 = 4.No matter how hard you try to make it equal 5, it cannot. You may believe that it equals "5", but that doesn't mean what you believe is true.

Just because an unbeliever does not believe that Christ died does not mean that Christ has not died. Just because a Christian does not believe in the Baptism of the Holy Spirit, does not mean that it is not true.

John 8:32, "Ye shall know the truth and the truth shall make you free".

John 14:6, "1 am the way, the truth, and the life".

It is in knowing the truth that people are set free.

Example: Everyone has been set free in the sense that Jesus paid the price for all humanity; but many don't know it because they have not been told. What do we mean by "truth"? The scriptures contain truth. They contain the words of Jesus and we must know the words of Jesus to be set Free. (See John 1:14 and Ephesians 4:21)The Bible contains the words of our Heavenly Father.

Example:

John 17:17, "Sanctify them through thy truth, thy Word is truth".

Jesus is speaking here of the Father.

Sickness, poverty, failure and defeat are real, but that does not mean they are truth. What God says is truth.

Psalm 33:4, "For the word of the Lord is right, and all His works are done in truth".

Psalm 119:160, "Thy Word is true from the beginning and everyone of they righteous judgements endureth forever."

Daniel 10: 21, "But I will show thee that which is noted in the scripture of truth".

James 1: 18, "Of his own will begat He us with the word of truth".

2 Timothy 2:15, "Rightly dividing the word of truth".

1 Timothy 2:4, "Come to the knowledge of the truth."

1 Thessalonians 2:13, "…you received it not as the word of men, but as it is in truth, the word of God".

2 Thessalonians 2:12, "Be damned who believe not the truth."

Ephesians 6:14, “Stand therefore, having your loins girt about with truth…”

No matter what the devil says, you are under no obligation to accept it as truth. Jesus said Satan is a liar. (John 8:44) He will not speak truthfully to us. You must search the scriptures yourself and find the truth.

Galatians 1:9 says that, “even if an angel comes preaching another gospel, don't believe it unless it agrees with the word of God". (Paraphrased)

In Acts 17:1012, we find the Bereans searched the scriptures diligently. Everything in the Bible is truly stated, but not everything stated in the Bible is true. For example, in Job 1:21, Job says, The Lord gave and the Lord took away". It is true that Job said that, but what He said was not true because Satan was the one who took it away. The Bible truly records the words of Satan, evil men and women, but it doesn't mean that what they said is truth.

What is the difference between a Christian who is baptized in the Holy Spirit and one who is not? One has believed the words of Christ, the other has not. Does their unbelief change the Word of God? Or change the truth?

Just because I don't understand a scripture or because a scripture is not quickened to me, does not mean the scripture itself is not true. The words of Jesus are true whether I believe them or not. The Words of the Father are true, whether I believe them or not.

Jesus died 2,000 years ago for all of mankind. I simply believed it in 1978.Jesus already died for those that are lost.

The scriptures contain truth. They contain the words of the Father, the words of the Son, Jesus, and the words of the Holy Spirit. They also contain the words of angels, the devil, demons, and rebellious men.

But, the words of the Father, Son and Holy Spirit, and men inspired by the Holy Spirit, contain truth.

John 17:17, Jesus says "Thy Word (logos) is truth." It is what God said that is truth. It is not what man says about God that is truth, but what God says about Himself.

It is not what man says about man that is true, but what God says about man. It is not what man says about Christians that are true, it is what God says about them that is true.

Psalms 33:4, “For the Word of the Lord is right and all His works are done in truth.”

Psalm 33:6, “By the Word of the Lord were the heavens made.”

Psalm 138:2, “You have magnified your Word above all your name.”

Proverbs 30:5, “Every Word of God is pure.”

Psalm 119:105, “Thy Word is a lamp unto my feet.”

Psalm. 119:130, “The entrance of your Word gives light.”

Why did God command Moses to tell the Israelites to tell their children about His power that delivered them? It was because when the time came they would go into other nations, and God did not want them to serve the false gods out of fear.

MEN WHO BELIEVED THE TRUTH.

Joshua 1:8, “This book of the Law shall not depart out of your mouth.”

Psalm 119:916, “Shall a young man cleanse his way?”

Psalm 119:4148, “So shall I keep thy law continually.”

Psalm 119:97104, “Oh, how I love thy law.”

God wanted the Israelites to believe Him and trust His Word no matter how bad the situation appeared. They were to obey the truth and tell their children, so they would believe the truth when they saw the enemies of God.

There are certain blessings or truths that have come to us through Jesus Christ. It is a past work with present and future benefit.

2 Corinthians 1: 1820

Hebrews 8:6,7

Paul writes by the inspiration of the Holy Spirit to churches of what has happened to them in the spirit because of the new birth.

2 Corinthians 5:17, “If any man be in Christ he is a new creature.”

You may not feel new, look new, smell new, sound new, but the truth is you are NEW. I must agree with the higher authority, if I am to walk in victory. The higher authority is God's Word.

Ephesians 1:3, “who has blessed us with all spiritual blessings.”

Colossians 1: 13, “who has delivered us from the power of darkness.

You may think because of what you see and feel that you are in the kingdom of darkness, but you are not.

Ephesians 4:24, “who after God is created in righteous and true holiness.”

Titus 3:5,6, “washed and made new by the Holy Spirit.”

Isaiah 53:4,5

Matthew 8:17

1 Peter 2:24

LOGOS AND RHEMA

The logos is the revealed will of God. The rhema is that which is spoken or uttered in speech.

There are scriptures that refer to logos and others refer to rhema. These are not in conflict with each other. Logos contains truth, and rhema contains truth.

THE HOLY SPIRIT BEARS WITNESS WITH BOTH LOGOS AND RHEMA.

Scriptures for Rhema:

Acts 28:25, “Paul had spoken one word”

Romans 10:8, “The word is nigh thee, even in thy mouth”

Romans 10: 17,…“so then faith comes by hearing”

2 Corinthians 13:1,… “shall every word be established”

Ephesians 1: 13

Ephesians 5:26

Ephesians 6:17

Hebrews 1: 1

Hebrews 6:5

Hebrews 11:3

1 Peter 1:25

Scriptures for Logos

1 Peter 3:1,…“that if any obey not the Word”

James 1:21, 22,…“the engrafted Word”

I Peter 1:23,… “born again by the Word”

I Peter 2:2,… “desire the sincere milk of the Word”

2 Peter 1: 19 a more sure Word of prophecy

Hebrews 4:12 for the Word of God is powerful

1 John 2:4,5 But whosoever keepeth His Word

1 John 2:14 and the Word of God abides in you

John 14:23 He will keep my Words

Revelation 1:9 for the Word of God

Revelation 3:8 You have kept my Word

Revelation 6:9 slain for the Word of God

Revelation 19:13 His name is called the Word of God

John 10:35 unto whom the Word of God came

John 12:48 and receiveth not my Words

Book of Acts

Acts 6:2, 4 leave the Word to serve tables

Acts 6:7 Word of God increased

Acts 8:4,14 and preached the Word of the Lord

Acts 8:25

Acts 10:36, 44 on all them which heard the Word

Acts 11: 1, 19 had also received the Word of God

Acts 12:24 the Word of God grew and multiplied

Acts 13:5,7,15,26,44,46,48,49

Acts 14:3,25

Acts 15:7,35,36

Acts 16:6,32

Acts 17:11,13

Acts 18:11 teaching the Word of God among them

Acts 19:10,20

Acts 20:32

How the Logos and Rhema Operate

Ephesians 6:14 loinbelt of truth = the logos word. All the other armor is attached to it. Righteousness, shoes of gospel of peace, faith, helmet of salvation, sword of the Spirit.

The sword of the Spirit is the rhema Word of God, spoken out of your mouth.

Example: Luke 4:4,8,12.Jesus says, "It is written" quoting from the Old Testament, quickened by the Holy Spirit.

Jesus studied the scriptures, He meditated on the Words of God. He did not walk around with His head in the clouds. The Holy Spirit quickened those scriptures to Him. The Father spoke in agreement with what He had spoken in the past concerning Him.

I Must Hear It Personally To Believe

2 Timothy 3:1417, "all scripture is given by inspiration"

John 20:31, "these were written"

2 Thessalonians 3:14, "and if any man obey not our word by this epistle"

Some people say, "I must have a personal "rhema" from God to believe what the "logos" says."

If that is true:

Why do we celebrate communion?

Why don't we commit adultery?

Why do we come together for church?

Why do we water baptize?

Why do we interpret a tongue when a message in tongues is given in the church?

Why do we believe in the virgin birth?

Why do we believe God rested on the 7th day?

Why do we believe there is a Hell?

Why do I believe I am a new creature in Christ?

Why do we anoint with oil?

Why do we bring church discipline to a fallen brother?

If a person had to have a ''rhema" word to believe the "logos" word, what would stop some carnal Christian from sleeping with another man's wife? He could say to you that he didn't hear a word from God!

2 Timothy 3:1417 Thou hast known the holy scriptures

REPROOF – CORRECTION

How to walk and not walk as a Christian, Crucify the flesh, lie not one to another, keep the unity of the Spirit, prefer one another, walk in the Spirit, renew your mind, not getting drunk on wine.

Instruction How to do certain things, how to have order with spiritual gifts, how to celebrate communion, how to care for the widows and the poor

When Paul writes by inspiration of the Holy Spirit to the churches, I am hearing the Word of God.

John 20:31 these were written that you might believe

2 Thessalonians 3:14 and if any man obey not my word by this epistle.

Just because I don't understand a scripture or because a scripture is not quickened to me, does not mean the scriptures themselves are not true.

The Words of the Father are true whether I believe them or not. The Words of Jesus are true whether I believe them or not.

Jesus died 2,000 years ago for me, but I didn't believe it until 1978.The unbelief of man does not change the truth of God.

JESUS CHRIST ABOVE ALL MEN

Jesus Christ has been given authority. Ephesians 1:2023, "Far above all principalities, and power and might and dominion, and every name that is named, not only in this world, but also in that which is to come".

Hebrews 1: 19, "But unto the Son, He saith, "Thy throne 0 God, is forever and ever. 11

Revelation 19:13, 16, "And on His thigh a name written, King of Kings, and Lord of Lords. "

Jesus Christ is supreme and sovereign authority. When there is a conflict between persons in authority, the only solution is for the people involved to look to a higher authority. This higher authority will resolve the situation.

WHAT HAS BEEN DONE THROUGH CHRIST?

Look up these scriptures and write down what Jesus has done for you.

- 2 Corinthians 1: 1820, "All of the promises."

- Hebrews 8:6,7

- Ephesians 1: 3, "who has blessed us."

- 2 Corinthians 5:17, "he is a new creature"

- Ephesians 2:5,6, "made us sit together"

- Colossians 2:13, "who has delivered us from the power of darkness"

- Ephesians 4:24, "who after God is created in righteousness and true holiness"

- Titus 3:5,6, "washed and made new by the Holy Spirit"

- Galatians 3:14, "the blessings of Abraham through Christ"

- Isaiah 53:4,5 Matthew 8:17 1 Peter 2:24 "we were healed"

It is not what man says about God that is true, it is what God says about Himself that is true.

It is not wrong to believe that God loves us.(John 3:16, 1 John 4:9,10) If it is God who tells us that He loved us, we can safely say that He loves us, because His authority and Word are greater than any seminary, any Bible teacher, and any philosophy.

To acknowledge and believe the words of Jesus and act on them is to walk in truth and authority. The Word of God carries great authority.

John 20:3 1, "But these things are written that you might believe."

The Holy Spirit bears witness with the truth or the words of Jesus.

- John 15:26, "He shall testify of me"

- John 15:7, "and my words abide in you"

- John 14:26, "will bring all things to your remembrance whatsoever I have said."

- 2 Thessalonians 3:13,14, "if any man obey not our word by this epistle"

CONSCIENCE, DELEGATED AUTHORITY AND CUSTOM

Authority of the Conscience

Romans 13:1,5, "Wherefore you must needs be subject not only for wrath, but also for conscience sake".

The word "conscience" can be broken down into two words: co and science. "Co" means two, and "science" means knowledge. Man is a product of two kinds of knowledge, a knowledge that comes from above, and a knowledge that comes from within.

The knowledge from within is a product of his five physical senses, sight, smell, taste, feel, and hearing. We receive spiritually in our hearts and mentally in our minds. Authority to act comes according to these two kinds of knowledge. The knowledge you receive from your heart and your head forms your conscience.

There are other definitions for conscience besides this of course. People know right from wrong by how they themselves wish to be treated. When something wrong is wrong to you, then it is wrong for you to do it to others. When speaking of conscience, we are talking about knowledge of the heart not the head. To him who knows the right thing to do and does not do it, it is sin.

Romans 2:1216 explains how people who have never heard the gospel are going to be judged. In verse 15, "which shew the work of the law written in their hearts, their conscience also bears witness". They are going to know by their conscience and will be judged according to their conscience. This means that the conscience carries authority.

People who have never heard the gospel still have some knowledge of God because the firmaments declare the glory of God. They have to recognize the existence of a supreme authority through the firmaments of the heavens, though they may not know His name.

Acts 17:23 tells us that these people worshipped the unknown God. Paul used this unknown God to make known unto them Jesus,

Romans 14:510, "One man esteemeth one day above another..."

Romans 14:13, "that no man put a stumbling block in his brother's way"

The fact that you have a conscience will qualify you to be either accused or excused.

In Romans 14:1723, especially note verse 22."Happy is he that condemneth not himself in that thing which he alloweth"

How did he allow it? He allowed it in his conscience, his heart and his head agreed. The knowledge you receive from your heart and from your head, forms your conscience.

The knowledge of the Word of God supersedes natural knowledge, therefore you must act on the Word of God. If you fail to do this, your heart will condemn you. When your heart knows to do the Word of God, but you rebel, your heart will condemn you.

Example: If a man believes he is supposed to worship on Saturday, but instead worships on Sunday, he will be condemning his own heart, violating the authority that is within him. Each individual is responsible to prove the Word of God in his own heart. Don't judge others. Your conscience will be the thing that will govern the authority in which you operate. If you violate that authority, then it is your responsibility to pay the penalty.

Scriptures that deal with the conscience of man.

John 8:9, "being convicted by their own conscience".

Acts 23: 1, "I have lived in all good conscience before God unto this day".

Romans 9:1, "my conscience also bearing me witness".

1 Corinthians 10:2529, "For conscience sake..".

2 Corinthians 4:2, "commending ourselves to every man's conscience"

1 Timothy 1:5, 19, "and of a good conscience"

1 Timothy 3:9, "in a pure conscience"

1 Timothy 4:2, "conscience seared"

1 Timothy 1:3, "with a pure conscience"

Titus 1: 15, "mind and conscience defiled

Hebrews 9:9, 14, "as pertaining to the conscience"

Hebrews 10:2, 22, "no more conscience of sins"

Hebrews 13:18, "we trust that we have a good conscience"

1 Peter 2:19, "endure grief for conscience sake"

1 Peter 3:16, 21, "having a good conscience/ answer of a good conscience"

Examples of matters of conscience:

Communion. How often?

Offerings. How often and how much?

Going to the movies. God can use movies.

Watching TV. God can use TV.

Going to the ballet.

Going to the opera.

Drinking alcoholic beverages.

Using birth control.

Playing sports.

Sex in marriage. How often?

Don't preach your convictions. Preach the Word of God. What you believe is not as important as what God's Word says. God is not obligated to honor your word. He is bound by His own word.

AUTHORITY

Delegated Authority or authority given because of a specific function or responsibility

Hebrews 13:17, "Obey them that have the rule over you and submit yourselves".

This scripture is establishing delegated authority. The police operate within the realm of delegated authority. God has given them the privilege and responsibility of ruling over us according to the laws of the land. Their authority has been delegated unto them.

The Lord has delegated certain responsibilities to the fivefold ministry gifts [apostle, prophet, evangelist, pastor, teacher], but some have tried to present their authority in such a manner that you have to do what they say, when they say, and how they say. However, God has not delegated to any man that type of authority.

Notice, I use the word "responsibility". With responsibility comes authority. A Person will find it difficult to operate in authority without taking responsibility.

Example: The Apostle Paul was an apostle to the churches he himself established. (1 Corinthians 3: 10) He made those churches his responsibility. Notice Paul did not exercise his apostolic authority over the churches that Peter or John had started. They were not his responsibility specifically speaking. (1 Corinthians 9:1,2)

It would have been foolish for Paul to walk into a church that Peter had started and exercise his authority there. Some people today want only the recognition, but do not want the responsibility. These are true usurper’s of authority. Moses did not pretend to be the leader of Egypt. He had a specific call or function or responsibility from God concerning the Israelites.

Some think that because Ephesians 4:11 talks about God giving the fivefold ministry gifts to the church that this means they can exercise their ministrygift authority any place, any time, any where, on whomever. But when you read the accounts of these ministry gifts growing and developing in the book of Acts, you will find, that they had specific places, specific people,

and specific responsibilities on a local and practical level, led by the Holy Spirit. God is never the author of confusion. (1 Corinthians 14:33)

This is why the Apostle Paul said in, Romans 15:20, "Yea, so have I strived to preach the gospel, not where Christ was named, lest I should build upon another man's foundation". Paul knew where his sphere of authority lay and wherein he had responsibility.

In Hebrews 13:17, the word "rule" in the Greek language simply means "to give shepherd like leadership". To rule does not mean to lord it over someone, but to lead like a shepherd would. A shepherd cares. He loves. He guides. He would even lay down his life for the flock.

Jesus is a good example of a true shepherd. He never ruled or lorded over anyone. Psalm 23:4, "Thy rod and thy staff, they comfort me." Jesus had great authority because he had great responsibility. A pastor has responsibility over the flock within the church, not outside it.

Many times even in our every day life, people make mistakes by trying to take authority for things they are not responsible for. They only end up in trouble.

Example: If you are an usher, you cannot exercise authority over the youth ministry. it is not your responsibility. If you are the youth director, you cannot exercise your authority over the music department. It is not your responsibility. People on their jobs make the same mistake. Instead of looking for authority, look for responsibility, [WORK] then authority comes. Be careful of people who seek authority but not responsibility. Jesus came to serve, not to be served. (Mark 10:4245)

The Church Has Authority

The authority which God has given us can be likened to the authority given to an ambassador. The authority given to an ambassador is delegated to him, and he can only act to the limits of that authority. It is the same with the church in which I will cover more in detail later.

God has delegated spiritual authority to the body of Christ. We are His ambassadors.

What is the extent of our authority? We are to reconcile the world to God. (2 Corinthians 5:20) To give them the good news in Christ's stead. If Jesus was on earth today, He would still be teaching, preaching, healing and delivering. But, Jesus is not here, therefore, we have become His agents, His ambassadors. He delegated authority to the Church in the name of Jesus. (Matthew 28:18,19, Mark 16:1520)

It is His NAME that carries authority. Notice, when Jesus was here on earth, he did not physically overthrow governments. That was not His purpose in coming to earth. I will speak more about this later.

Stipulated Authority Only for a specific period of time

Whenever you are acting on the authority that has been delegated to another person, you must qualify that authority and specify exactly what you are responsible for. This is stipulated authority. In stipulated authority, both in the natural realm and in the spiritual realm, you enter into a legal contract.

Example: In Genesis 29:18,19, Jacob entered into an agreement or contract or covenant with Laban. There was a time limit however put on that agreement. Jacob served seven years for Rachel.

Sometimes people who are employed by certain companies or ministries may have a contract drawn up stating for what period of time they are under that contract.

Example: I was under a contract for two years as a youth minister. After two years, I could decide if I wanted to stay longer. I had authority as the youth director because I took on the responsibility of that department. After two years the contract expired. If I decided to leave that department, my authority and responsibility would end. This is stipulated authority. I believe it is good to qualify the responsibilities of any employee when hiring, IN WRITING!

CUSTOM

As we just stated stipulated authority was given to Jacob under contract to Laban, however, another law superseded. There was an additional authority called, custom. Genesis 29:1628 gives us the account. Laban made a deceitful contract knowing what the custom was all along. He wanted to make money.

There is a certain aspect of custom which can be either good or bad, depending upon how it is used. In this situation, Laban made it work to his advantage. The custom was the younger daughters could not be married until the older daughter was married first. It may not have been right or fair but it was the law. He used it to his advantage to receive a dowry from Jacob.

Romans 13:7, "Custom to whom custom is due" John 18:39, "Ye have a custom that I should release" 1 Corinthians 10:33, "I please all men in all things"

In 1 Corinthians 11: 16, Paul says we have no such custom, neither the churches of God. He was simply saying that this certain custom of head covering was not in authority over the other churches because they have no such custom.

We need to be sensitive to the customs of others especially within other churches. If you visit a church and they do not believe in raising their hands to praise God, you will feel the influence of their authority if you lift your hands. The authority in their custom will affect your behavior.

1 Corinthians 9:1922, "made all things to all men that I might win some." This is why when we go into another church, we give custom to whom custom is due. (Matthew 17:2427)

We need to be respectful of other people's customs.

Examples:

- Taking your shoes off in someone's home.

- Some hosts serve a toast with an alcoholic beverage

- Some have unusual customs like giving gifts to the Kuna Indian chief

- Panama on the San Blas Islands to get permission to preach

- Greeting people with a kiss

The mistake people make in the area of custom with their own lives is when they put it above the Word of God. (Matthew 15:19)

Other scriptures on custom, both good and bad.

Judges 11:39, 1 Samuel 2:1217, Ezra 3:4, Ezra 4:13,20; Ezra 7:24, Jeremiah 32:11, Matthew 9:9, Matthew 17:25, Luke 2:42, Luke 4:16,

Example of American Customs:

- Opening a door for a woman

- Opening a car door for a woman

- Giving an offering to the guest minister

- Giving a handshake

- Giving a hug if you are Christians or friends

- Wearing the wedding band on the left hand

- Bride wears white

- Men take off their hats when entering a building

In an Italian home they pinch your cheeks and kiss you, they overfeed their guests, and they drink wine with most meals.

FUNCTIONAL AUTHORITY

WRONG USE OF AUTHORITY, SUBMISSION AND OBEDIENCE

Functional Authority

There is authority in the way you function. More clearly, you have authority according to your abilities, be it by birth, training, or impartation. Some people just naturally have abilities by birth. Some are born with an ear for music. There are some who can sit down at a piano and play exquisitely. There is authority that comes through their music.

Some people are good with mathematics. Figuring percentages and adding figures is inherent with some. Other people are able to remember dates and times in history.

There is also authority that comes through impartation. God can impart supernaturally into the lives of those that He has called for specific functions.

Example: Smith Wigglesworth was a great man of God who received from God through impartation. He was middleaged when he answered the call of God on his life. He was an uneducated man, who could neither read nor write, but God imparted to him the ability to read one book, the Bible.

Through the gift of impartation to him by God, Wigglesworth became an authority concerning God's Word. As a result of his ministry, three men were raised from the dead and people were healed throughout the world.

My mother received the ability to play the piano even though she had never before played in her life before nor had taken any lessons.

Proverbs 18:16, "A man's gift maketh room for him, and bringeth him before great men

If you have a gift from God, whether it comes by birth, by training, or impartation, that gift will make room for you. If you have ability in that area, it will show up. I had the training of cooking special dishes and organizing parties. It brought me before one of the richest people in the state of Delaware.

Some people have diligently trained and developed abilities in a particular area so they can function with authority. Because they train and cultivate their abilities, authority is produced in their lives.

Example: Even though I worked for the Du Pont family, one of the wealthiest families in America, and they were my employers, I had authority in the kitchen of their home. They did not know how to run the kitchen, prepare special meals or purchase foods. That was the ability that I had, and with it came authority.

In fact, the lady of the home would even ask me first if they could schedule parties or dinners throughout the year. Yes, I was under their authority as my employer, but because of certain abilities or training that I had, I carried a measure of authority. If I had left the kitchen in their hands, it might have been burned to the ground. They simply did not have the skill.

Another example: Suppose there is a traffic accident in which a woman is injured. Observing the accident are three people: a policeman, a mechanic, and a nurse. Who will render medical assistance to the injured woman? The nurse will, because her training and ability is in that area, and she carries that authority.

The television program, Dr. Quinn, Medicine Woman which is a television story about a woman doctor in the late 1800's when it was not popular for a woman to be a doctor.

However, in the story, you find that she carries authority because she is the most medically trained person in the town.

When a person functions in a particular realm of authority, whether by birth, by training, or by impartation, it would be foolish for someone else to try to function in that position without the authority. Why? Because he has no authority.

Once you know your position within the body of Christ and understand what you are called to do, there is no reason to think about doing other things. As you train and develop in each area, you will be able to move on to higher things. Some people have never bothered to train themselves, so they are unequipped when the time comes to function.

This principle can also apply to the home. For instance, the one in charge of paying the bills should be the one who has the training and ability to do so. It does not necessarily have to be the man. If some men didn't have a good wife to handle the finances, they would have failed a long time ago. The important thing is to function within the abilities you have.

Don't allow your marriage to become frustrated by trying to exercise authority when you haven't taken the responsibility. If you are going to take the authority, then be willing to take the responsibility that goes with it.

Example: How do you expect to exercise your authority as the husband in the home when you don't work. You don't watch over the children to make sure they are well behaved, doing their homework, and playing peaceably. You don't nourish or cherish your wife, giving her honor as the weaker vessel. If you don't take the responsibility around the house, how can you expect people to consider you an authority?

Why do some children go to their mothers in reference to spiritual things, and not their fathers? It is quite simple. The mother has taken on the responsibility to see that her children are raised up under the admonition of the Holy Scriptures. She takes her children to church. She plays with them and sings praises throughout the day. You too, would consider her to be a spiritual authority.

EXERCISING THE WRONG KIND OF AUTHORITY

Many people try to exercise the wrong kind of authority in the wrong situation. Many times it is over someone else's will. In. John 8:3 1, Jesus said, "If you continue in MY Word, then are ye my disciples indeed". Notice, Jesus said, continue in His word, not the word of just anyone who wants to have power over you. We are to listen to our pastors as long as they are giving us the Word of God.

In Acts 23:15, We find that Paul is upset. Why is he so upset? Verse three tells us. "For sitteth thou to judge me after the law, and commandest me to be smitten contrary to the law?" Paul was arguing about the law of God. He was appealing to the authority of the Word of God, a higher authority.

From the rest of the passage, it sounds like Paul gave in and he did, but not to the high priest, but to the Word of God. Pastors have a delegated authority in a specific realm.

Example: A pastor has the vision for his local church. He feeds the flock of God (1 Peter 5:2), he reproves, he rebukes, and exhorts with all longsuffering and doctrine, according to 2 Timothy 4:2.He makes sure that everything is done decently and in order, taking the oversight. He is an undershepherd and Jesus is the chief shepherd. Jesus owns the sheep, they really belong to Him. A pastor is given a responsibility from Jesus, the Chief Shepherd, but only in a specific sense. (1 Peter 5:4)

Example: The pastor makes the final decision concerning major matters in his church. But concerning an individual member of that church, as far as where they live, how many children they should have, what kind of car they should buy, or how they should spend their money, is not the pastor's responsibility.

We have seen many problems like this come up throughout the body of Christ. Pastors assuming that they have unlimited authority over their congregations, tearing up and confusing the flock of the Lord Jesus Christ.

God has not given this kind of authority to any man. I have actually heard of pastors that tell their congregations that he will put a curse on anyone that leaves his church to go to another church.

I have even heard of a pastor who forbids to let any of his congregation move to another state. Yes, these things happened in the body of Christ, much to our shame. But, not only is it the pastor's fault by not recognizing that his authority is limited, but also the congregation is at fault. If people would stand up and refuse to be controlled or abused, there would be no one left to control, leaving such a pastor without a job. In Mark 2:2328, Jesus says "the Sabbath is made for man, not man for the Sabbath."

On the other side, pastors do have a delegated authority from God, but not as a dictator, but as a shepherd serving the sheep. The fivefold ministry is called to serve the body of Christ. They are within the body, not over it. Jesus said God made the Sabbath for man, not man for the Sabbath. By the same token, God gave these ministry gifts to help the body of Christ. He didn't give the body of Christ to help the ministry gifts or to serve them.

In 2 Corinthians 1:24, Paul wrote, "Not that we have dominion over your faith," You cannot make people accept things or do things or believe things. Notice I used the word "make" in the sense of dominion.

Ministry gifts are responsible only to prepare and deliver God's Word to the body of Christ. Once that is done, it becomes your responsibility to receive that word and act upon it.

Example: Jim Jones in Guyana, South America, had over 900 people under his command and influenced them to all commit suicide.

David Karesh, from Waco, Texas, was responsible for the deaths of dozens of people who died when the complex was burned to the ground. He had convinced his followers that it was the Battle of Armageddon.

Please realize that I am primarily talking about the office of the pastor and the congregation, not necessarily those that are paid staff of a ministry. A paid staff of a ministry not only has a pastor, in the spiritual sense, but also an employer in the natural sense.

The same principles that apply to someone working in the world, as a Christian, concerning their employer, would also apply to those working a paid position in the church. In fact, they should be better workers, knowing that this kind of labor reaps an eternal harvest with benefits hereafter.

Scriptural references to bad leadership:

Jeremiah 12: 1011 many pastors have destroyed my vineyard Isaiah 24:2 many times people rise and fall with their leadership (like priest, like people)

Numbers 13:2632 they brought an evil report

Numbers 14:2223 resulting in 3 and 1/2 million people led around the desert for 40 years. Be careful who you follow.

Jeremiah 23:13, woe be unto pastors who scatter the sheep

Some people will follow bad leadership anyway because they do not want to believe in response or studying the Word of God for themselves. (2 Timothy 2:15)

Jeremiah 5:31 says we are not to judge the hearts of our leaders, only their words and their deeds. Some people make a mistake here. They see something and they make a misjudgment of their leader's heart.

No, we should rather judge in the area of their words and deeds. Do the words they speak line up with the Word of God? Does the leader say, "Do as I say, but don't do as I do"? In other words, does he practice what he preaches? A pastor is an example in everything to the flock. This means great demand is placed upon him in the area of character. I will expound more on this in the role of the pastor, later.

If you cannot agree with the pastor, then you should leave. Don't stir up strife and division if you cannot agree. It is more honorable to leave than to be guilty of sowing strife and discontent among the flock of God. God never rewards strife and division.

Those Who Want To Exercise Authority Over You

3 John 1:9 shows us a man who is reaching for power and authority, but not responsibility. His name is Diotreophes, "who loveth to have the preeminence." The word "preeminence" means rule or authority. Diotrephes would not receive John. In verse 10, John writes concerning this man, what he will do when he comes.

Any time you find a person who says we are a select group and we only receive certain ones, LOOK OUT! Everyone should be welcomed. We are born into the body of Christ, not voted into it.

Notice in verse 11, John says, "Follow not that which is evil, but that which is good" in reference to Diotrephes attitude. Then John gives an example of a good leader in verse 12.His name is Demetrius. "Demetrius hath a good report of all men, and of the truth itself, yea, and we also bear record, and ye know that our record is true."

Notice that Demetrius is given to truth, not preeminence of authority. John is telling this group of people not to follow those that are going the wrong way, but to follow those who are leading us correctly.

Jeremiah 3:15, "And I will give you pastors according to mine heart, which shall feed you with knowledge and understanding." If you are not receiving knowledge and understanding from your spiritual leadership, you are not being led properly.

Jeremiah 23:3,4

Submission And Obedience

Romans 13:13

Notice verse 3, "rulers are not a terror to good works." When something is good, it is God. When something is evil, it is not God. This becomes a key or a clue in submission. God will not impose His will upon you, therefore no man has that right either.

Example: I have seen in praise and worship, a leader physically lift up the hands of someone in the congregation to get them to praise and worship God. If God told that praise and worship leader to do that, why did that person leave the church offended, never to return? Why did they seek out another assembly in which to worship? We cannot force people to do anything for God. God wants people to worship Him. God wants people to give their tithes but He doesn't force them.

If God doesn't force people, who do we think we are that we can force people to do things we want them to do?

There are conditions to submission. If it will produce good, then you are free to submit yourself in love. James 1: 17 says every good and perfect gift is from above. When a man is producing good, follow him. If his works are evil, if they kill, steal, or destroy, he is not from God. Satan is bad but God is good.

Before you make decisions, ask yourself a question. Is it producing good in my life, good for my family, and good for my nation? Submission and obedience are not the same. Obedience is an action, submission is an attitude of heart.

Ephesians 5:21 says we are to submit ourselves to one another in love. This does not mean we are to obey every word that is told to us. Submission is not unquestioned obedience to authority. You need to ask questions. There may be times that you have a check in your spirit, or conscience. You then must recognize this level of authority is supreme. If you violate your heart, you will be violating the principles of God. Submission is not blind response to any order or command.

Submission is a willingness to follow leadership as long as it does not violate God's Word. You are to follow your leaders as long as they follow God. Should they get off track, you are expected to keep following God.

Daniel 3:425, is the story of the three Hebrew men. The king's order for everyone to worship his god was a violation of the principles of the Word of God. These three men had to make a choice. They obeyed the Word of God and still had a heart of submission. They allowed themselves to be taken into the fiery furnace. They did not fight or try to escape.

These men were not in rebellion. They could not, under the Word of God, worship another god. God must have been pleased with their decision because they were supernaturally delivered.

Acts 4:13 the disciples of Jesus were thrown into prison for teaching and preaching Christ.

Acts 4:1721 they were commanded not to speak at all, or teach in the name of Jesus.

Acts 4:2330 they continued to preach and teach in the name of Jesus.

Remember in Mark 16, verses 1518, Jesus had told them to go into all the world and preach the gospel.

Acts 5:1220. Notice the apostles are thrown into prison again but an angel of the Lord sets them free and tells them to go stand and speak in the temple to the people all the words of this life. The angel is a representative of God. The words an angel speaks carry the same authority as God's Word. It was God's messenger who instructed the apostles to preach the gospel, regardless of what the high priest had told them; and the higher authority prevailed.

Acts 5:2129 we ought to obey God rather than man. It is a Bible principle that we are to obey and submit to man, as long as he is following God.

Joshua 2 gives us the story of Rahab. Rahab chose to believe God's word even though it was in violation of the laws of the land.

1 Samuel 16:1,2 Samuel obeys God's Word even though he may not have wanted to do it.

1 Samuel 19:1 Jonathan was commanded to kill David by his father, King Saul. But the law of God teaches not to take the life of a man for no reason. Which law has supreme authority? That which produces good.

Acts 9:2325 Paul and Barnabas obeyed God rather than the Jewish leaders.

Acts 14:17 These Jewish leaders were producing wrong. The key is to be led to do good.

Acts 17:57 Again, we see who has the higher authority, Caesar or Jesus.

Without knowledge of the higher authority, the natural human mind will say we are to worship the king. Yes, we are to obey the laws of the land, and pray for our leaders, but, if it comes to making a decision between your country and God, there is no question about which you are to follow. Follow God!

In Exodus 1: 1317, The Hebrew midwives were not in rebellion by delivering these pregnant Israelite women. They were just acknowledging the higher law of God. They feared God more than they feared Pharaoh, and did not kill those infants as was commanded. In fact, God blessed them all the more. God made these midwives houses. It pays to be obedient to God.

Ruling With Liberty

Galatians 5:1, " Standfast therefore in the liberty wherewith Christ has made you free." These people in the Galatian area churches were being told to conform to circumcision in order to be saved or truly spiritual. Paul tells them not to be entangled with the yoke of bondage.

If Jesus has set you free, don't allow people to put you under the Mosaic law, only the law of love. To put yourself under the law is to commit spiritual adultery because you are taking yourself out from under the marriage relationship you have with Christ and putting yourself under an old relationship.

For some people it is easier to be a slave than to be a leader. The only bondage we should have is to love. We are to submit to one another in love. Love should be the controlling and motivating factor in all we do.

It is dangerous for a leader to put people back under bondage. I am not talking about teaching people to live a holy life or renewing their minds, but when a leader adds something to the grace of God for salvation or spirituality, it can turn into bondage.

Jerermiah 34:1117, "But ye turned and polluted my name and caused every man his servant and every man his handmaid, whom he had set at liberty at their pleasure, to return, and brought them into subjection, to be unto you for servants and handmaids." After six years of service, these servants were to be set free. The Israelites did set them free, but then brought them back again against the law, into bondage.

If any person tries to exercise authority over you and put you into bondage, that person will be pulled down and his position brought to nought. He will destroy himself if he falls to do what the Spirit of the Lord tells him.

Judges 8:22,23, "And Gideon said unto them, I will not rule over you, neither shall my son rule over you: the Lord shall rule over you."

AUTHORITY OF THE BELIEVER, THE NAME OF JESUS

Luke 10: 19

Behold I give unto you power [authority] to tread on serpents and scorpions, and over all the power [dunamis] of the enemy and nothing shall by any means hurt you.

Matthew 28:18

All authority is given unto me in heaven and in earth. Go therefore and teach all nations

Jesus' victory was for the benefit of man.

Revelation 1: 18.Jesus took the keys of death and hell.

Colossians 2:15 tells us Jesus spoiled principalities.

His name is above every name

Philippians 2:9, 10.A name above everything in heaven, earth and hell.

Hebrews 1: 14, Ephesians 1:21

He gave us authority through His name.

Mark 16:17 In my name shall they cast out devils.

Jesus with His resurrected body is there at the right hand of the Father. But, that name has all the authority, all the power, all the dignity, all the majesty, all the glory that Jesus, the Person has.

The name stands for the Person. That name is given to us. We are born into the family of God and that name belongs to the family.

The Father has lifted the Son to the highest position in the universe, with the highest name. He has given Him honor, glory, and power and seated Him at His own right hand in the heavenlies, far above every known authority. And now, all this honor, glory, and authority, is vested in the name of Jesus, and that name is given to us.

James 4:7 resist the devil and he will flee

1 Peter 5:8,9 who resist steadfast in the faith

Ephesians 4:27 neither give place to the devil

Matthew 18:18 whatsoever you bind on earth shall be bound in heaven

Revelation 2:13 thou holdest fast my name

The Name of Jesus

What does the expression "In the Name" mean?

This expression "In Christ" is used about 130 times 'in the New Testament and shows us the believer's position, his legal standing and place in the family of God.

When Jesus gave us, the early Church, the right to use His name, that right meant that they were to represent Him, they were acting in His stead, and when they prayed in Jesus' name, it was as though Jesus Himself were praying.

Christ is at the right hand of the Father we are here as His representatives, not only collectively but individually.

When we pray in Jesus' Name, we are taking the place of the absent Christ. We are using His name, using His authority to carry out His will on the earth.

Jesus gave us the power of attorney to carry out the Father's will on earth. He has given to us the same authority He had when He was here, and the believer's position in Christ gives him the same standing with the Father that Christ had when He was here. We have the right to exercise the authority of God because we were given the Name.

We have a fourfold right to use the name:

We are born into the family of God and the name belongs to the family.

We are baptized into the name of Jesus which means baptized into Christ, Himself

The Name was conferred upon us by Jesus who gave us the power of attorney.

We are commissioned to herald that name among the nations, as His ambassadors.

Jesus with His resurrected body is there at the right hand of the Father. But, that Name has all the authority, all the power, all the dignity, all the majesty, and all the glory that the person, Jesus, has. The Name stands for the person and that Name is given to us.

When the believer is baptized into the name of Christ, he puts on all that is in Christ.

Example: When a wife is married into the name of the husband, she is married into his wealth, honor, and glory and becomes identified with him in all that he was or ever will be.

So when we are baptized into the name of Jesus we are baptized into all that name stands for all its wealth, all its glory, all its honor, all its power. All that name stands for before the Father belongs to the believer.

Jesus won victory and triumph in His substitutionary work for our benefit, not His.

What does the name mean to the Father, to the Church, and to Satan?

To the Father Jesus inherited a more excellent name than any of the angels as the first begotten son. God gave Him a name that is above every name, that at the name of Jesus every knee shall bow.

To Satan Jesus' conquest over sin, Satan, disease, death, Hell and the grave, acquired Him a name above all names.

To the Church He has given us a signed check on the resources of Heaven and asking us to fill it in. Whatsoever you shall ask of the Father, in my name." What is in back of the Name?

Phil 2:9, 10 Wherefore also God highly exalted Him and gave unto Him the name which is above every name.

Heb 1: 14 Jesus inherited a greater name than the angel.

Eph 1:21 every name that is named

The interference is that there was a name known in heaven, unknown elsewhere, and this name was kept to be conferred upon someone who should merit it, and Jesus, as we know Him, the eternal Son as He is known in the bosom of the Father, was given this name, and at this name every knee shall bow in three world, Heaven, Earth and Hell; and every tongue shall confess that He is Lord of the three worlds to the glory of God the Father.

When Christ rose from the dead, He defeated the devil. Jesus defeated all Hell and stands before the three worlds, Heaven, Earth and Hell, as the undisputed Victor over man's ancient destroyer.

Jesus conquered Satan before his own cohorts, his own servants in the dark region of the damned. Col 2:15

All authority has been given unto me in Heaven and in earth.

The Father has lifted the Son to the highest position in the universe, with the highest name. He has bestowed upon Him, honor and glory and power and seated Him at His own right hand in the heavenlies far above every known authority and now, all this honor, this glory, this authority, this power, is vested in the name of Jesus, and that name is given to us. Jesus has given us a check and that check represents all that is in back of His Name and that check is the Name of Jesus.

The Name of Jesus in many areas:

In Salvation:

All of the power and honor and authority that is in Jesus at the right hand of the Father, has been given to the Name of Jesus.

Matt 1:2123 and you shall call His name, Jesus, for it is He that shall save His people from their sins, and they shall call Him Emmanuel which is interpreted God with us.

Acts 4:12 neither is there any other name under Heaven that is given among men wherein we must be saved.

Acts 2:38 Repent ye and be baptized everyone of you in the Name of Jesus Christ unto the remission of sins.

Romans 10: 13 whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord be saved.

Luke 24:47 and that repentance and remission of sins should be preached in His name unto all the nations.

John 1: 12 but as many as receive Him, to them gave He the right to become children of God, even to them that believe on His name.

In Prayer

John 14:13 15 Whatsoever you shall ask in My name, that will I do that the Father may be glorified in the Son. If you shall ask anything in My name, that will I do.

John 15:16 Whatsoever you ask the Father in My name, He may give it to you.

John 16:2324 Hitherto have you asked nothing in My name, ask and you shall receive, that your joy may be made full.

Healing In That Name

Acts 3:16 Silver and Gold have I none, but what (who) I have, that I give, "In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, walk."

James 5:14 Anointing the sick in the name of the Lord.

Mark 16:1718 In My name they shall lay hands on the sick and they shall recover.

Deliverance from demons in the name of Jesus.

Acts 16:18 In the name of Jesus Christ to come out.

Mark 16:17 In My name, they shall cast out demons.

Luke 10: 17 The demons are subject unto us in thy name.

Mark 9:38 saw one casting out devils in thy name.

Water baptized in the name

Acts 8:16 baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus

Acts 10:48 to be baptized in the name of the Lord

Persecution on account of His name

Acts 4:17 henceforth to no man in this name.

Nor teach in the name of Jesus.

Acts 5:28 Should not teach in this name vs 40 should not speak in the name vs 41 worthy to suffer shame for His name

1 Peter 4:14 Be reproached for the name of Christ

More on the name of Jesus:

In His name shall Gentiles trust Matt 12:21

Receive a child in His name Matt 18:5

Where two or more are gathered in My name Matt 18:20

A cup of water to drink 'in My name Mark 9:41

The name of the Lord was magnified Acts 19:17

Obedience for His name to the call Romans 1:5

Sing unto Thy name Romans 15:9

Paul beseeched believers by the name I Cor 6: 11

Washed from past sins in that name I Cor 6:11

That name glorified in us 11 Thes 1: 12

Unbelievers blaspheme that name James 2:7

Do all things in the name Col 3:17

Give thanks *in that name Eph 5:20

Present sins forgiven in that name 1 John 2:12

Believe on the name 1 John 2:23

Hold fast His name Rev. 2:13

TRADITIONAL FORMS OF CHURCH GOVERNMENT

CHURCH BOARD, PASTORAL ABUSE OF AUTHORITY

This excerpt is taken from Bob Yandian's book entitled: Decently and in Order.

"In the discussion that follows, my intention is not to judge one form of church government as superior, or interior to another from a natural point of view. Rather, I want to find and point out what form is in agreement with the Word of God, the Bible. There is one reason for that. If you want a supernatural church, you must have a biblical authority for your church government. Signs and wonders will become commonplace when your house is in order."

There are four main types of church government in the body of Christ today: Episcopalian, Presbyterian, congregational, and independent. The title tells us who is in authority.

Episcopalian Church Government

The Episcopalian form of church government is found in many types of churches: the Roman Catholic, the Anglican, the Episcopalian, the Methodist, the Lutheran and the Churches of God. The title points out who has authority, the bishops.

The Greek word "episkopos" translated Episcopalian means an overseer or a bishop. When you see the word bishop in scripture, it means an overseer. Another word to use might be superintendent. In the Episcopalian form of church government, the bishop (episkopos) has authority, and the pastor is under him.

The first denomination that I pointed to was the Roman Catholic church. The Roman Catholic church employs the Episcopalian form. It's I 'me of authority begins with the highest ranking bishop, the Pope. Under him is the Cardinal (Cardinal Bishop).

Under the Cardinal Bishop is the Archbishop. Under the Archbishop is the Bishop. Under the Bishop is the local Bishop. Under the local Bishop is the priest or pastor. The pastor (priest) who, by biblical authority is directly under the Lord Jesus Christ, is under the authority of five bishops above him.

Presbyterian Church Government

The Greek word from which we derive the word Presbyterian is presbuteros; this is where we get the word "elder". When we find the word "elder" in the Bible, it comes from the Greek presbuteros. One place the word is used is 1 Timothy 4:14:

Neglect not the gift that is in thee which was given thee by the prophecy, with the laying on of hands of the presbytery (the elders).

In this form of church government, the authority for the local church rests in a group of elders. This type of government is found 'in the Presbyterian church, the Pentecostal Holiness, the Friends and many nondenominational churches. The church is governed by a group of elders. Traditionally they number seven, ten or twelve.

Congregational Church Government

By this title, we can see that the congregation has the authority. Voting is the means by which most all decisions are made. The major denominations which have congregational church government include the Baptists, the Assemblies of God, the Churches of Christ, and the Congregationalists.

A most interesting fact about congregational forms of church government is that they arose about the time the United States became a nation, two hundred years ago. Apparently it was presumed that if we have a nation run by the will of the people, then we should have churches run by the will of the people. The authority rests with the congregation.

The reason some of these forms of church government came into being was out of an abuse of authority by the pastor. The Presbyterian form of church government arose because a pastor wasn't fulfilling his office properly. A group of men (elders) arose and exercised authority over him to protect the congregation.

When the elders began to abuse authority, the congregation as a whole decided to take the authority away from them. But even the congregational type of government is also subject to being swayed by one man's opinions or influence. No matter how we look at these attempts by men to prevent abuses, they still occur. God's Word is still our guide.

Independent Church Government

The independent form of church government is the closest with the Word of God. In this form of church government, the church is governed much like a corporate business. The pastor is like a president and the elders are like vicepresidents. Nevertheless, there is only one head to the organization, the pastor (president) of the church.

WHAT ABOUT CHURCH BOARDS?

I strongly believe in the authority of the pastor but not unlimited authority. There must be a system of checks and balances in a church just like a business, marriage, or other institutions.

Husbands are the final authority in the marriage, but not to the extent of committing adultery with no recourse for the wife.. "Because of the hardness of your hearts suffered you to put away (divorce)..." Matt 19:8

Because pastors also can become hardhearted and leave the lifestyle and doctrinal principles of the Word, protection must be built in for the people. "Church Board" is not a bad word.

Because boards have dominated churches, choked the creativity out of pastors, and stopped the move of the Spirit does not mean we throw the baby out with the bath water.

A pastor with unlimited authority an a church dominated by a board are both playgrounds for Satan. There must be a balance.

First there must be a process for acquiring a pastor, either a board of mature men or a congregation vote or both. Should the pastor abuse his office, the same process which put him in should remove him.

Let's create a good example. A group (board) of men find a pastoral candidate which seems to bear witness with them. They bring him in for a few weeks to speak to the people, and they also sense God's call on this man to be their pastor. A churchwide vote is taken on a set Sunday and he is elected by an 80% majority. (There are always those who would not recognize God if He sat next to them).

Once in office, the pastor should be free to run the church as he sees fit. The vote delegated authority to him.

When there is no pastor, the board was the authority. Now that a pastor is in his scriptural office, the board should go to a limited position. As long as the pastor's life and teaching remain in line with God's Word, the board's primary function is to advise.

They become a buffer between the pastor and the congregation. They can advise him as to the people's attitudes and feelings on particular subjects. They can also give him business information that he or his staff do not know. The board is advisory only. The pastor still makes the final decision.

One area the advisory board should have power over is the pastor's salary. A pastor should not designate his own salary. He should set pay scales of all staff below him but not his own. He should feel free to voice his opinion on his salary but leave the final decision to them.

The advisory board should be considered elders. They do not stand in the office of an elder (those who rule and teach see "Qualifications for Office Elder and Bishop") but they should be mature in the Word, in love, care for the congregation, and respect the pastor's office,

They are chosen by the pastor (Acts 14:23, Titus 1:5). Therefore when a new pastor comes to office he may want to change them after he has become familiar with the church operations. He may also want to change any or all of the staff, those who stand in the office of elder. He is the authority and this is his prerogative.

PASTORAL ABUSE OF AUTHORITY

If the pastor abuses his authority from the standards of God's Word, the advisory board should take authority to protect the congregation. The abuses should be apparent and blatant. They should fall under two categories: morals and/or doctrine. If the pastor should be unfaithful to his wife, steal money from the church funds, be caught in a crime, etc, the board should step in.

Should he blatantly teach doctrines contrary to the faith, the board should take authority here also. To teach against the virgin birth, divine healing, salvation by faith, etc., would be some of the areas. Small areas of disagreement will always arise, but should never constitute grounds for dismissal.

Also the advisory board should give ample opportunity for repentance on the pastor's part. treat him as the Lord treats you. (Matthew 18)

Should the pastor be caught in flagrant opposition to the Word and not desire to repent, the matter should be taken to the people for a vote. The ones who voted him in should vote him out. This is all the voting that should ever be done.

The process would begin again. The advisory board (perhaps with the staff’s help find

a candidate (possibly an associate on staff) for the congregation to vote on. Once God's man is found and put into office, the board goes back to advisory only.

So many boards, at this point, want to maintain a hold over the new pastor. They fear that he may make some mistakes and they want to protect the church. The basis for any healthy relationship is trust, not fear. Give him the full reins.

Do not make him pay for the mistakes of the previous pastor. He may become discouraged and eventually leave thus justifying the board's fears and causing even more pressure on the next pastor.

Boards which have control or equal authority with the pastor will always slow down the progress of the church. Most boards that I have seen in churches are made up of businessmen in the congregation. They meet once or twice a month to make decisions concerning the business and direction of the church. They do not live with the church problems each day, so therefore they are uninformed. The first thirty minutes to one hour are used to catch up on the month's happenings from the pastor who feels frustrated having to report this to the group.

They then spend hours discussing trivial details that the staff pastor could have remedied in ten minutes. The reason decisions take so long is because few on the board want to accept responsibility for a wrong decision. No one will make a firm decision. The buck is passed instead of being stopped. Decisions are shelved until the next meeting and the pastor goes back to his office with little accomplished. Such items as carpet colors, drapery fabrics, and choir robes are caught in a maze of confusion. The reason no one will accept responsibility, they fear offending the congregation. Their public acceptance is more important than progress.

Many boards are dominated by one or two strong willed people. We are back to one man rule when this happens. Why not make him the pastor?

Neither the universal church nor the home is run by a board. The local church is compared to both. How would you husbands like your home run by a group of men outside your family? They can only meet once a month, and you either have an equal voice or none at all. All problems must be held until the monthly meeting and presented to a group that does not live with your problems as you do from day to day.

The home is the training ground for handling the local church, the family of God.

For if a man know not how to rule his own house, how shall he take care of the church of God? (1 Timothy 3:5)

HOMILETICS

INTRODUCTION

Creative preachers are constantly discovering improved methods, fresh principles, and varied techniques, and they are discarding the less effective. From the Author of this text, he believes that a basic chronology in this process can be defined, illustrated, and applied,

By following these eight (8) steps, one will always know what to do next in building an effective ministry:

A prepared preacher

An idea to preach

A text interpreted

Related Material collected

Maturity security

Construction completed

The Sermon polished

The Message preached

God speaks through a prepared man by giving to him a sermon idea. This prepared man studies his ideas and related it to a text, a thesis, and a purpose. Next, he studies the text until he can state the truth of the scripture in one sentence. After Bible Study the preacher examines all possible materials in order to give depth and breadth to the growing sermon. By allowing time for maturity, the preacher adds new dimension to his developing message.

When these five basic and necessary preliminary steps have been take, Sermon construction begins. The preacher will state his topic or title; he then constructs the sermon body on the basis of the text, thesis, purpose, and title; he completes his organizational work by adding a conclusion, introduction, and invitation. Following this ground work, the preacher writes out his sermon and polishes or finishes his materials. Finally, he completes the task by preaching the message.

UNDERSTANDING THE TASK

An era of decadent Christianity will be upon us if the belief in a divine call is lost. Therefore, the

man God uses to preach the unsearchable riches of the Lord Jesus Christ is:

A regenerated person

A committed man

Someone who constantly communes with the Lord

He must also prepare himself through diligent study if he is to be effective spokesman to his age.

He must develop understanding of his basic task as it relates to the nature of preaching, the status of preaching, the objectives of preaching and the history of preaching.

DEFINITION OF HOMILETICS

Rhetoric was developed by the Greeks during the intertestemental period the height. Rhetoric is a study of clear speech as a means of effective communication and persuasion.

Homiletics is the adaptation of the principles of Rhetoric to the demands and practice of preaching. It is the science of preparing and preaching, It is the science of preparing and preaching/delivering a discourse/speech/address based upon scripture.

THE DEVELOPMENT OF HOMILETICS

Early Christian preaching was founded upon Ancient oratory, Hebrew prophecy, and Gospel preaching.

Apostolic preaching reflected a Jewish background, such as the OT Prophets and the teaching Rabbi.

Apostolic messages were primarily called Homily an informal, brief talk on a subject.

However, the abuse of some Jewish leaders and suspicion of Gentiles influence discourage the use of formal speech(rhetoric).

The Rise of Rhetoric in Christian Preaching

As the gospel moved beyond Samaria/Judea, the witnesses began to use Gentile forms of address.

The conversion and call of learned Gentiles trained in rhetorics led to more developed sermons.

The decline of Jewish leadership in the Christian faith tended to discouraged more developed sermons.

Some saw the rise of rhetorics as a blessing, and others, as a disadvantage.

THE SERMON IDEA

DEFINITION

The idea is both the starting point and central idea of the sermon. It is the place where God's truth meets life.

SOURCES OF THE IDEA

The Experience of the people

A knowledge of human nature, or current events will reveal ideas and needs.

The preacher should know well the people and the church setting, recent events and crisis.

The Pastor should develop a heart sensitive to ideas and needs. To help him do that, it is important that he be involved in pastoral work.

The Scripture

Reasons for using Scripture as source:

Only Biblical preaching is truly Christian/homiletical.

The essence of Christian preaching is biblical rather than structural.

Scripture remains relevant and applicable to life.

Scripture is an abundant varied source and will save you time in finding ideas(it is a uniquely inspired book).

Scripture lends authority to the preacher's word, especially on controversial issues.

Meaning and use of Text

The term "text" comes from the word "to weave" or to "construct". It was the biblical fabric of the sermon into which was woven the comments of the preacher.

Early preaching was mainly a continuous commentary on passages of Scripture.

FORMULATING THE STRUCTURE

THE TITLE OF THE SERMON (THEME)

Definition and Presentation

The title is the name the preacher gives to the sermon. It highlights the idea or subject of the sermon in an accurate, attentiongaining manner.

It may be finalized at any part in the sermon preparation. It may be announced formally or included into the sermon informally. The introduction is usually the best, but not the only place for the announcement.

The Characteristics of a Good Title

ClarityUse a few simple words (27 words).

Accuracy It should accurately predict/honestly express the content, main point, or some part of the sermon. This will usually tell the preacher's purpose.

Appropriate Be aware of the/your setting of worship, avoid title that is simply sensational or vulgar.

Original Let your title be stated in an attentiongetting, interesting way. The author opposes using biblical texts as titles.

Narrow Your title should be narrow. Limit the topic to fit the time available and the preacher's ability.

Phrasing the Title

The title should be phrased to indicate the part of the general subject which the sermon will consider. This gives direction to the thought. Some methods.

Emphatic Word(s) one or two nouns that give direction (habit of thankfulness)

Interrogative word(s)- Identifies the question to be answered (What think ye of Christ?)

Interpretative Word(s) Indicates command or request to be considered (Follow thou me).

Your title could be a declarative sentence In this case, the title states the sermon truth (Life is an Echo).

A Limiting word(s) It is a modifier which narrows the subject. (The One Sufficient Refuge).

THE BODY OF THE SERMON (DISCUSSION)

Discussion (Main Ideas)

The Body of the sermon discusses the subject by dividing it into several subjects, explained in a pleasing manner.

Number of Divisions

Fewer divisions aid memory, more divisions aid variety in discussion. Most say two to four is best.

Some subjects may require more main ideas.

Character of the Division

They should adequately cover the subject (Choose a limited subject that you can cover

The division should be distinct, separate, not mixed, choose words for clarity and brevity.

The main ideas should all be related to the subject in the same way.

It is not necessary to give an equal amount of time to each main idea.

Order and Expression

Practical Issues

Instruction, conviction should precede your appeal.

Theory or general approach should precede specific commands.

The appeal may come at the end of each division or in the conclusion.

Statement of the main points should be clear, attractive, and brief (a literation contrasting elements may help).

Should there be a previous announcement of your main point?

Broadus says such announcement should be made only if the ideas are difficult, complex, or to attract attention. He says it is better to summarize in the conclusion.

Others (including ourselves), will say that previous announcement (introduction) is helpful if done withoriginality.

Outline

Principles for outlining a Sermon

Each item(line) in your outline should contain one idea.

Each idea which is divided must have at least two subdivisions.

Each idea should be written in a sentence or phrase.

Illustrations, applications, scriptural references should not be a separate element in the outline (but included in the proper element).

Examples of Outlines

The Diamond Outline

A single idea is described from many viewpoints.

This promotes unity of thought, and is good for brief sermons.

The Leader Outline

Is one in which each major point builds upon preceding ideas.

This is good for persuasion" agreement with the first idea In leads to subsequent ideas and conclusion.

Analogical

Similarities between examples relationships and the truth to be supported are shown.

They are interesting and clear. However, the relationships will not all be the same (do not push the analogy too far), and they do not prove truths.

The Question/Answer Outline

The sermon raises questions and provides answers.

Variation of this is called the "Chase" outline – many answers are considered until the proper one is found.

This is good for crucial issues. Don't wait too long to give the answer.

TwoPoint Outline

The two points may be contrasted; good for correction/reproof

The two ideas may be the diagnosis and solution to some problems. (James 4:13)

You may use this outline for comparison of two ideas to explain and show similarities.

Hagelian Outline

The subject is discussed through its ideas, its opposite, and a compromise (synthetic) conclusion.

It is an appealing idea, beginning with an accepted idea and moves toward deeper understanding.

Outline for Argument

"Proof it" A statement proven by several facts.

"Rebuttal" Statement and facts that oppose it (1 Cor. 15).

"Dogfight" A strong, emotional attack on some idea that gains attention (Matt. 23:13ft)

Interpretation/Application Outline

The meaning of a passage is explained, then applied to life.(Acts 2)

This is basically an expository approach. which is biblical and practical

Refrain Outline

The sermon ideas are built around one often repeated phrase.

It is interesting, and it is easy to remember.

Transition

Definition Transition is the act or method of moving smoothly from one part of the sermon to another, one main point to another, or even one paragraph to another.

Values of Smooth Transition

It makes your subject clear by clarifying relationships between the various ideas (esp. main points) in a sermon.

This will help hold your hearers' attention.

Attention to the method of transition will aid the preacher in remembering the ideas that you are trying to relate.

Thinking about transition tests the unity of the sermon. Difficulty in transition suggests that the ideas are not properly related or arranged.

Methods of Transition

Relational method the use of ideas that are naturally in close relationship.

A connecting word you may number the points: (firstly, secondly are used); or you can use a single word such as "also, therefore".

You could also use a connecting phrase "in addition to", "on the other hand", etc.

You may use a bridge a separate additional related to the preaching and following ideas.

You may want to use a summary In a summary, preceding ideas are repeated and then the other/next added.

You can use a question. The use of question whose answer is the next idea.

Rhetorical device you can do this by the use of change in volume, posture, or a pause.

You can study, and several of these methods can be used.

CONCLUSION

The conclusion emphasizes the subject of the sermon as it closes the discussion, applies the message, and calls for decision. It is a crucial part of the sermon.

Types Of Conclusion

Carefully planned may be modified in your presentation to fit the situation.

It should be naturally related to the sermon body. It should fulfil the purpose of "therefore", so

Apply message to the hearers.

Use persuasive verbs and personal pronouns ("you")

Create a personal relationship between the speaker and the hearer.

The conclusion should be specific and clearly expressed. The hearer should be told how to respond (objective).

The Conclusion should be positive and forceful

Speak with conviction about promised blessing, You can warn a] so.

Avoid habits that announce the conclusion.

Save strength and time for conclusion.

METHODS OF CONCLUDING

Summary

Summary may restate the objective, text, title, or main points, especially if several arguments have been included.

All should be joined into one persuasive principle.

Application

Application is usually used in the conclusion, but may be used earlier.

points out how and where the sermon can be lived out in the hearer's life.

Application provides clear instruction on meeting the obligation.

Strong emotion may be useful, but not essential.

Illustrations

This is used to summarize and appeal.

The story must be carefully chosen and presented.

Direct Appeal

An exhortation should be specific.

Warnings should be used with understanding.

Poetic Conclusion

Recitation of an appropriate poem or hymn can be very effective.

It must be practiced and presented well,

INTRODUCTION

The part of the sermon that presents the sermon idea and its relation to the text. It helps in preparing for the development of the body. It prepared both the preacher and the congregation for the message.

OBJECTIVE

To make the congregation have interest in the subject.

Most are willing to hear, but all are not interested.

Your first sentence needs to be carefully prepared.

Prepare the Congregation to understanding the subject.

Introductions are generally necessary, unless the sermon is especially long or formal.

The introduction may come before or after the text.

CONTENTS OF INTRODUCTION

Source

Text

There may be narration of the text and its contents.

You may also want to include historical or geographical material associated with the text.

The Sermon Subject

Introduce the subject, perhaps compare or contrast with other ideas.

You may want to emphasize the relevance or importance of the subject.

The occasion may also be a source of content for you sermon.

may refer to the special meeting, or holy day being addressed.

You may refer to earlier hymns or biblical passage(s).

You may refer to personal feeling, but avoid apologizing to yourself or your presence.

You may want to refer/address a problem or need in the sermon,

You may want to use for your introduction, your sermon objective.

Be earnest to show its importance.

Life Situation.

This should be used appropriately and sensitively if others areinvolved.

Story or Illustration

It must be related to the subject, not just to gain attention.

If possible, the last statement may lead into the subject or sermon body.

A striking quotation, song title, well known saying.

Imagination selfdesigned episodes, examples.

Question - it should be and answerable in the message.

An object lesson This is the use of some object or item of interest that illustrates the subject.

QUALITIES OF A GOOD introduction

The Content should be related to the subject, yet distinct from the body.

It ought to be clear and specifically for the sermon, not general.

It should be brief, a single thought, or a few thoughts.

Some things to avoid:

Excessive emotion at the beginning.

Humorous elements unrelated to the subject,

Elaborate greetings and introductions should be avoided consider the setting.

The prayer before the introduction creates a good atmosphere.

INVITATION

DEFINITION

The Invitation is that part of the sermon and worship in which the congregation is shown how to respond and is given a chance to do so.

Conduct of the Invitation

Avoid distractions. The congregation should be led to remain throughout and join in songs and prayers.

Invitations should be carefully planned, and the desired response clearly explained.

The desired response may be/should be directly related to the sermon objective.

Other types of response may be allowed, perhaps in a separate part of the invitation. Or one general invitation may be given.

Possible types of response may include public action (walking forward), personal private, talking with a counselor, etc.

The invitation may be used in the conclusion while the congregation is still seated and involved, or can be separate from the sermon. Avoid repeating the same phrases.

Allow sufficient time for your invitation, but close when there is no longer response.

Rely upon God's Spirit rather than tricks or pressure. Hard decisions sometimes take longer.

CLASSIFICATION OF SERMONS BY SUBJECTS

THEOLOGICAL SERMON (DOCTRINAL)

CONTENT

This sermon deals with some basic Christian doctrine(belief) to explain and persuade.

A doctrine is composed of all biblical teaching on some subject, collected and arranged for study.

A healthy faith needs to be based upon accepted true beliefs; so this is a crucial type of preaching.

These sermons are however, often neglected, and seen as divisive or dull.

REQUIREMENTS

The preacher must study the doctrine, then present it In a clear andinteresting way.

Choose the more essential doctrines.

SUGGESTIONS

Be comprehensive, and survey the range of the doctrine.

You need to be positive and avoid argumentative spirit.

Be clear, grasp the doctrine first to yourself

Be practical, and apply it to life.

ETHICAL SERMONS

Content

Any ethical sermon concerns the goal of Christian living and how to meet those goals.

Care must be taken to tie the ethical conduct with real conversion experience.

Social and Church Problems make this type of sermon useful, necessary and popular.

SUGGESTIONS

Be positive, emphasize answers, not just problems.

Possible types of response may include public action (walking forward), personal private, talking with a counselor, etc.

The invitation may be used in the conclusion while the congregation is still seated and involved, or can be separate from the sermon. Avoid repeating the same phrases.

Allow sufficient time for your invitation, but close when there is no longer response.

Rely upon God's Spirit rather than tricks or pressure. Hard decisions sometimes take longer..

CLASSIFICATION OF SERMONS BY SUBJECTS

THEOLOGICAL SERMON (DOCTRINAL)

CONTENT

This sermon deals with some basic Christian doctrine (belief) to explain and persuade.

A doctrine is composed of all biblical teaching on some subject, collected and arranged for study.

A healthy faith needs to be based upon accepted true beliefs, so this is a crucial type of preaching.

These sermons are however, often neglected, and seen as divisive or dull.

REQUIREMENTS

The preacher must study the doctrine, then present it 'in a clear and interesting way.

Choose the more essential doctrines.

SUGGESTIONS

Be comprehensive, and survey the range of the doctrine.

You need to be positive and avoid argumentative spirit.

Be clear, grasp the doctrine first to yourself

Be practical, and apply it to life.

ETHICAL SERMONS

Content

Any ethical sermon concerns the goal of Christian living and how to meet those goals.

Care must be taken to tie the ethical conduct with real conversion experience.

Social and Church Problems make this type of sermon useful, necessary and popular.

SUGGESTIONS

Be positive, emphasize answers, not just problems.

Be constructive, present a plan on how to reach this goal(how can you do this?).

Be a friend; win the confidence of the congregation through faithful ministry.

Be patient with your congregation begin where they are and challenge them to move forward.

Be honest, admit that you sometimes fall short.

FUNCTIONAL ELEMENTS OF THE SERMON

Preaching has may objectives (tasks) such as evangelism, ethics, inspiration, etc. The tools used to carry on these tasks are the functional elements of the sermon. They often overlap and different types of sermons use various functions.

EXPLANATION

The Necessity of Explanation

Many believers suffer from a lack of understanding or an actual misunderstanding of biblical teaching

Doctrines such as salvation needs to be explained.

Proper actions in practical life needs to be explained.

Many people do not expect to understand the Bible hence, it needs explanation.

Repeated explanation of difficult issues will help the young, unconverted, new members and various people.

CAUTIONS CONCERNING EXPLANATION

Do not try to explain ideas that:

Are not assuredly true.

You do not understand.

Cannot be rationally explained. Describe what Scripture teaches on the subject and give your position. E.g.: Trinity.

Are best understood by experience or illustration (love, faith)

EXPLANATION OF TEXTS

AN ESSENTIAL TASK

Those talented in this need improvement; those less gifted need extra effort.

When you do this, you want to present the results, not the process, of your study.

Avoid the use of original language unless the congregation has a background,

Avoid the use of a list of scholars, unless the congregation has a background.

APPLICATIONS

DEFINITION:

Application refers to the act of leading people to recognize and use the biblical

principle in specific areas of life. This act may be found in any part of the

sermon, but often used in the conclusion.

Application includes:

- Focusing the claims of truth

- Suggesting means of obedience

- To persuade the hearers to use those means.

Focusing the Claims of Truths

The instructions and demands of the faith must be explained/related to the specific areas of life. These should not be addressed to specific individuals in the congregation.

Means to this include:

Remarks pointed statements joining obligations to the hearer's life.

Inferences reasonable conclusions drawn from the command/principle,

Lessons A full development or application of the subject's demands Program of four (4)steps.

Suggesting Means to Obey (Opportunity)

Supply practical ways of obeying divine truth.

Both whole societies and individuals need instruction in dealing with problems.

Speak within the area of your knowledge and involve other members who have training in other areas.

The preacher should first try to understand the problems personally.

Persuasion to Respond

Explanation and guidance must be followed by persuasion. People often fail to do what they know they should do.

Some means to persuasion.

Provide a good motive

- Happiness/avoidance of happiness

- Holiness or true goodness

- Reaching our potential in Christ

- Security(spiritual)

- Love for God and others.

Stir up feelings and desire to obey God. How?

Emotion is properly used to inspire and motivate, not to gain applause.

preacher must feel the message deeply, if the congregation is to be moved.

The preacher must study emotion and use imagination, also narrate events with a few details.

Compare our duty to God with our duties to other people to persuade to faithfulness.

Confine emotional appeal to a few planned parts of the sermon, especially in the climax.

Use Biblical passages that help explain the text.

Careful study will often allow a single brief explanation.

EXPLANATION BY NARRATION

Narration is the retelling of the facts of an event, which illuminates the subject

Narration must always be a servant to a subject, using necessary facts.

This is useful in introductions if kept in sermon purpose.

The variation of historical events is good for explanation.

Present practical facts accurately.

EXPLANATION BY DESCRIPTION

Pictorial language that helps the hearer "feel" as well as "see" an idea needing explanation in your text.

First visualize the scene in your imagination.

Then declare the crucial points of the scene with a few details.

Keep descriptions brief to avoid misuse of time.

EXPLANATION OF SUBJECTS

The main subject or main Idea(s) may be unclear to the hearers.

Methods of explaining the subject include:

Definition

Declare the major elements of an idea; this sets its boundaries.

especially important in controversial issues or complex ideas.

You may want to use compare and contrast.

Divisionbreaking the subject down into simpler parts.

Exemplificationusing concrete example to clarify ideas.

Sources: history (both biblical and contemporary events).

Give brief explanation following.

Comparison you compare/describe similarities between subject and some well known idea/event.

Parables: The Kingdom of God is like

What is best to use is a single point of comparison.

Argument

Introduction

Definition

Support for the sermon's ideas by relating them to other ideas already accepted as true.

Varieties of Argument

Argument by Testimony

- The most powerful argument is the preacher's personal experience.

- Limited personal experience makes the use of others testimony necessary.

- In testimony concerning matters of fact:

- Hod characters of witnesses is crucial.

- Improbable events need more proof, especially a reasonable justification or motive.

- Testimony concerning opinion

- The preacher should make it clear when he/she speaks from fact and from opinion.

- Opinions are strengthened by the use of supporting authority: What is reasonable Biblical passages that support the ideas through analogy.

Argument by Deduction

- This approach draws logical facts from a single general principle which is accepted as true. Example: Doctrinal Preaching.

- The speaker's principle must be true for deductive reasoning to be effective. Hearers must accept this principle as true.

- These conclusions must be logical and must continually evaluated on the basis of Scripture and experience.

- This type of argument is useful but must be used with care.

INTERPRETING THE TEXT

To REVEAL AND APPLY THE MEANING OF THE TEXT is one of the minister's most sacred duties. Such revealing is crucial because God has given the scripture for the purpose of redemption. The Spirit must aid in this work. This, interpretation is the attempt to follow the thoughts of the spiritled author through the language of Scripture.

METHODS OF INTERPRETATION

ALLEGORICAL interpretation

Definition

Allegorical interpretation is the search for truths that are implied by symbolic(non literal) use of terms in the passage. Such truths are not literally stated, so the literal words are only vehicles for deeper spiritual messages. Small details may take on great importance.

Definition

Judaism adopted this method of interpretation in order to reconcile OT with Greek philosophy(Philo of Alexandria): that is, the four rivers of Eden represented providence, courage, temperance and justice).

This spread into Christian theology Biblical scholars such as Origen and Clement of Alexandria adopted this method of interpretation. They declared that each passage has three meanings: Literal, Moral and Spiritual. The spiritual is the highest and opened only to matured believers(i.e., Prov. 22:2021, John 1:27) "unworthiness is inability to grasp incarnation and descend into Hades".

Some Biblical passages do have allegorical meaning (John 15).

However, an allegorical meaning should be the basis of the sermon only with clear biblical support. This approach tends to overemphasize details and to be highly subjective.

DOGMATIC INTERPRETATION

This interpretation is the use of scripture to prove official theological doctrine (creedal orthodoxy), not as the primary source of religious truths. Biblical passages are used to supported existing church doctrines.

Development

Begin in 2nd Century AD, the height of this was in the Middle Ages(Scholasticism).

Example: Augustine declared that difficult passages should be interpreted to agree with orthodox belief based upon the authority of the church.

Evaluation

Scripture is a powerful support for truth, but more a source of truth.

It is inadequate as a primary type of interpretation.

The danger in this view is that the true meaning of Scripture will be lost in the effort to support traditional doctrine.

MYSTICAL INTERPRETATION

Definition

This interpretation is a reaction against dogmatic interpretation in the Middle Ages, and emphasized levels and shades of meaning to aid devotional life.

Development

Bernard of Clairvaux used this method to find meanings which encouraged love and devotion to Christ. They emphasized Song of Solomon as a love affairs between God and his people.

A period of dogmatism after the Reformation led to a mystical reaction among Pietist and Quakers. They believed in an "inner light" of the Holy Spirit which revealed the meaning of Scripture, after separation form the meaning of actual words of grammar.

Evaluation

It is a useful corrective to overly dogmatic interpretation and it is an encouragement to devotion to Christ. The danger is that it can lead to subjectivism and superficial interpretation. Look for ways to add devotional application to doctrinal study.

RATIONALISTIC INTERPRETATION

There are a number of approaches which declare that man's own reasoning can discover, test, grasp all biblical truths.

Naturalistic/Accomodationist Approach

This approach rejects all supernatural or miraculous reality.

Miracles and divine intervention in history are denied and "explained" by natural means.

J. S. Semler explained the miracle accounts as local superstition and ignorance of natural causes.

Mythical Approach

A myth is a story that contains spiritual truth, though the story itself is not true.

Religious truth is the product of human discovery not divine revelation.

David Strauss in his Life of Christ declared that the early Christians created the myth of Christ to honor the great man Jesus.

Moral Approach to Interpretation

Immanuel Kant - accepted the ethical content of Scripture. He had little interest in theological meaning or doctrine.

Those approaches tend to deny, or overlook the revelation of God in historical events. Some become subjective.

MODERN INTERPRETATION

Form Criticism

The assumption is that Scripture is a compilation of tradition and sources gathered over a period of time. This is an effort to identify and date these sources.

In this view, illustrations, then stories, then lessons, and then myths/miracle accounts were included and contributed by various parts of the Church.

Efforts are made to determine why each part was included. This approach can be shaped by the interpreter's assumption.

Neo Orthodox

This was a reaction against 19th Century liberalism (more human invention than divine), but it also retained some liberal approaches to Scripture.

It tends to see the historical statements as less than the biblical truths they contain. They emphasized the inner personal meaning as essential to Scripture.

Evaluation

These approaches can be used to deny the historical integrity of Scripture.

They also tend to evaluate Scripture on the basis of current historical and scientific understanding.

These tend to be somewhat subjective.

PRINCIPLES OF INTERPRETATION

The interpreter must keep in mind that Scripture has a divine character as revelation and a human character as mediated through persons,

Scripture must be interpreted as a unified whole, especially centered in a message of redemption.

Passages which predict must be seen in the historical and intellectual context of their time. We begin with the author's expectation.

Miracle accounts must be approached as real possibilities and interpreted according to the author" purpose. (John "signs")

The author's interpretation is centered first, around/upon the author's intention, what the author mean to say (i.e.: Paul "flesh")

Secondly, interpretation asks what the passage means to the current reader (application). Most passages have a single obvious meaning which should be the focus interpretation.

Statements by a single author should be interpreted consistently with other statements by the same author, that is, (What Jesus said on the time of the Second coming).

The historical background/context must be considered in interpretation (Poetry, proverbs, apocalyptic literature must be interpreted as such).

STEPS IN INTERPRETATION

The Text in Historical Background

The text should be interpreted in light of its historical setting including author, recipients and purpose.

Historical content will aid to explaining the meaning of the text.

The Text in its Context

The context of a passage is the larger discourse which includes that passage. Both the immediate and remote context (i.e.: Phil 2:12, 14).

Proper interpretation of the text required that it be seen in its context(John 12:3233).

Analysis of the Text

The type of literature must be identified/used to interpret the text.

Songs & Poetry must be interpreted as Psalms and poetry – they often emphasize only a part of a larger subject and may be figurative.

Proverbs statements of general truth, not necessarily universal promises(Prov. 22:6).

Parables they hold a primary lesson often revealed by context(Lk. 19:27).

Narrative passages normally interpreted literally, but can be figurative (Lk. 22:19).

Apocalyptic literature these are often figurative, but may at times be literal (Rev.20:16)

The meaning of significant words must be discovered.

Misunderstanding words can lead to errors in interpretation (Phil 1:27) Consecration"

Be aware of what the term meant in the biblical era.

Dictionaries and lexicons can be of help, especially when a single English version is used to translate several words in the biblical language.

Concordances can aid in finding the meaning of that term in other passages and in your text. The same word is not always in the same way.

A definition may be given in the text(e.g. Heb. 11: 1)that will help you. Parallel and contrasting terms in the text may be of help(Prov. 10: 1; Lk. 1:47)

Figures of speech (ldiomatic expressions)

Definition of figure of speech

These are words or phrases not meant to be understood in a literal manner.

They are used to emphasize (Lk. 3:7). It may be used to aid the memory. (e.g.: the beam in the eye; camel through the eye of a needle). It may explain or illustrate(Good Shepherd).

They often describe ideas, feelings, subjects that not available to the physical senses.

Determining if a word or phrase is a figure of speech is crucial to interpreting your text.

Examples of figures of speech

Comparison Simole ( a comparison using "like" or "as".) Isa. 40: 1 ff)

Metaphor a direct comparison(Eg. "I am the Bread of Life").

Personification Objects are given human qualities (Eg: "if they hold their peace, the stones will cry out)

Anthropomorphism God is described with human qualities (Eg: "the hand/arm of God").

Metonymy the name of one thing is used to refer to a related thing(Eg: "They have Moses and the Prophets") Luke 16:29)

Synecdoche the name of the whole is used to refer to a part, the name of their part is used to refer to the whole. (Eg: Daily bread")

Hyperbole a deliberate exaggeration for the sake of emphasis. (John 21:25Whole world).

Euphemism Polite terms to discuss embarrassing or frightening subject ("Fall asleep" Acts 2:25).

Rhetorical Question (John 18.35) "Am I a Jew? – a question used to make a point with an obvious or implied answer.

Grammatical structure and Interpretation

The meaning of words is revealed partly by the relationship of words to one another, so grammatical structures are important.

The grasp of such a structure may be essential to interpreting the verse. ("I tell you, today you will be with men in paradise").

The time the thief’s arrival in paradise is determined by where the comma is placed. (Lk. 23:43)

"that" (neuter) in Ephesians 2:8 refers to salvation(neuter) not to faith or grace (feminine)

WRITING SERMON MANUSCRIPTS

ADVANTAGES

It aids you in concentration upon the sermon preparation, especially care in making it your best.

It also aids in thorough preparation, by making faulty reason or order of ideas obvious.

It aids in proper style, especially precise words and argument. This is very useful when dealing with controversial subjects.

It aids in the repeated use of the sermon, or in publication.

DISADVANTAGES

It can lead to over dependence on written words, and discourages the adjustment of delivery during the sermon.

It can discourage the further development of a sermon in later use(presentation).

It takes much time from other pastoral duties.

CONCLUSION

The purpose of manuscript writing is to aid in the delivery (preaching of sermon.

Suggestion write one manuscript a week this would depend upon the custom and where you are, how often you preach.

For sermons not written in manuscript form, use a sermon brief.

Introduction and conclusion are written out in full.

For the Body of the sermon, a sentence outline is used.

Written manuscripts should be reviewed and revised as they are used again.

METHODS OF DELIVERY

READING

Definition 1.The sermon is written out in full, carried into the pulpit and read to the congregation. It seems to require a special talent.

Read openly; don't try to hide the practice.

Some preachers suggest that one should not try to combine reading and speaking. Others suggest some combination.

Emphasize content and descriptive material. Good ideas must hold their attention.

Advantages

It aids in a finished style and repeated use of sermon.

It relieves anxiety and fear of forgetfulness, and helps you in presenting the sermon as planned (quotes, poems).

It discourages excessive emotion.

It encourages complete preparation.

Disadvantages

It hinders the adjustment of delivery to unexpected situation.

It is fundamentally different from speaking

It tends towards coldness and monotony.

It hinders rapport with the congregation.

It can make the minister timid and dependent upon a piece of paper.

RECITATION

Definition The sermon is written out in a full manuscript, then studied, and repeated from memory without notes.

Evaluation

Advantages

This is good for a finished style and complete preparation.

It is good in training your memory.

It allows eye contact and more rapport with the congregation than reading does.

Disadvantages

It can be abused through a lack of careful preparation.

It does not aid in written sermons or finished style.

This may lead to mistakes in statement, which should be corrected if serious.

It makes sermon delivery more dependent on the preacher's health or attitude.

FREE DELIVERY

This is delivery of the sermon without notes or manuscript in the pulpit.

Suggestions

First prepare a manuscript or detailed outline.

Do not take notes into the pulpit or try to memorize the sermon.

You rehearse the sermon through meditation or "speak it out(audibly or mentally).

Maintain a good physical condition.

Trust your memory and the Work of the Holy Spirit.

Advantages

It has the advantage of other forms of delivery.

It is appropriate for the nature of the gospel.

Disadvantages

Parts of the sermon may be forgotten or omitted.

Anxiety/overforgetfulness; longer preparation time.

This kind of delivery is dependent upon health and mood.

IMAGINATION

Effective explanation, application, argument all depend on a disciplined imagination.

I.THE NATURE OF IMAGINATION

A.Imagination is thinking by seeing as opposed to thinking by reason. Is valuable in all types of study(philosopher, scientist) imagine.

B.Imagination uses know facts comparing and setting them in new relations. Memory simply produces, while imagination refreshes and rearranges.

Simple unrestricted thought is fancy, but homiletical imagination. Imagination seeks the inner reality of ideas, and how to express them.

Summary Imagination is the imagining functions of the mind using facts to create a clear, interesting discourse. It takes time and effort.

FUNCTION OF IMAGINATION IN PREACHING

Construction of the Discourse(Arrangement)

This organizing thoughts in a useful and attractive patterns.

Every paragraph or sentence can benefit.

The subject is investigated and developed mentally.

A Display of Ideas in Revealing Familiar Images

Physical objects move our feelings more that abstract objects/ideas.

Ideas expressed images move on emotions, and the emotions renew our imagination.

Imagination Produces Understanding and Teaching Scripture

Past events can be expressed in historical imagination.

Future events can also be describe using imagination and imagery.

This Aids in Sharing Others Experience (Sympathetic imagination - speaking what the people feel as you conclude).

Through imagination we participate with others in their actions and feelings.

This also gives appropriateness and comparison to preaching.

MEANS OF CULTIVATING IMAGINATION

The Study of Nature and Art

A Study of Literature, Prose and especially poetry and song - lyrics.

Identify closely with the congregation to know their needs.

It maintains your own spiritual vitality and relation to God who speaks through imagination.

Practice efforts at description, illustration imagination.

ILLUSTRATION

Illustration is not a separate functional element but a servant to other elements. It aids in explanation, argument, and application. Illustration "throws light" on an idea, enabling others to "see" it better.

USES OF ILLUSTRATION

You use illustration to explain. It presents an example or analogy of an idea. It begins with people's present understanding,

You may use illustration to prove. An analogy is often used.

Illustrations can be used as an ornament 1.to make the truth attractive. Illustration do not obscure the truth.

Illustration can be used to gain attention.

It is good in introduction to gain attention initially.

Another way to gain attention is interspersed in the body after explanation or application.

Care must be taken that illustrations are directly related to the sermon idea.

Prepare the hearers emotionally for a crucial part. Care must be taken not to manipulate people's emotions.

Illustration can be used to persuade hearers to obey a biblical truth by showing someone who follows the command, This may be useful for you in completing an idea.

Include hearers by speaking to their context.

Illustration is used to aid the memory until the subject is understood and applied. This is more of preparing an idea.

TYPES OF ILLUSTRATION

Single Word a clear descriptive adjective or verbs(Eg.: grasshoppers)

Phrase a few words of memorable description ("salt of the earth").

Quotation a repetition or exact words, given the name of author whereever possible,

Detailed Example story, anecdote, biblical event, imagination. When you are using imagination, the invented nature of the story should be made clear. Be sensitive to the feelings of individuals.

SUGGESTIONS FOR ILLUSTRATION

Use illustrations only when they serve an idea and clearly make the point with little or no explanation.

Be accurate as possible concerning the facts.

Using variety of types of illustration: avoid repeating a single type often.

ELEMENTS OF AN ILLUSTRATION

The Climax This is a crucial statement or action which conveys the meaning or completes the purpose.

The introduction to an illustration is also important, you move into the illustration smoothly, without announcements, or apologizing.

Body Movement - ideas between introduction and climax.

Conclusion(Application) - An immediate summary statement of application to the idea being illustrated will often help the congregation.

SPECIALIZED SERMONS

ACADEMIC/ANNIVERSARY SERMONS

In an academic or social settings, the illustrations and style may vary, but the sermon should be a gospel message.

Avoid effort to impress (especially when preaching to other preachers). Bring them closer to Christ.

At secular meetings you can reach people normally unchurched.

CHILDREN’S SERMONS

It may be on a special Sunday, or separate Children's Service during the regular worship service, or children's sermonette as a part of the service.

Characteristics of Children's Sermon

It must be interesting 1.this is essential for children; use beauty or interest or humor.

It must be instructive 1.you use clear examples and appeal to positive factors, do not frighten the children.

Impress them

lead them to understand commitment and confession. Young people come to know Christ by the same basic steps as adults.

REVIVAL SERMONS

Avoid long sermons since the meetings are frequent.

Vary the content and objectives of the sermon, so that you can appeal to a wide range of people.

Employ a series of messages in this general order of church renewal, demands of the law, the mercy of Christ, an appeal for decision. Seek for lasting commitment, not just immediate response.

FUNERAL SERMONS

OBSTACLES TO OVERCOME

Inadequate preparation time

The variable mood of the mourners

The variable emotions of the preacher

There is a limited nature of biblical teachings on issues of death and the life after.

CHARACTERISTICS OF EFFECTIVE FUNERAL SERMONS

It needs to be biblically sound.

Avoid adding to biblical teachings concerning death.

Expression of feeling of the deceased person(s) or

Vivid descriptions of reunion in heaven.

You should be positive

Speak of hope, grace, victory in Christ (where appropriate)

Avoid over emphasis on sin, sorrow, etc

Be interesting in your presentation(use illustrative material) - experiences with the deceased, hymn, lyrics, biblical illustration, poems. The purpose is not to entertain.

Generally, funeral sermons should be simple and brief

Themes should be easily grasped and straightforward.

Complex theological issues should be discussed in other places.

Content/Subject Matter

Talk about the nature of death (Heb. 9:27)

Funeral sermon is a natural time to discuss the biblical truths concerning death, however this should not be the only time the subject of death is discussed.

The reality of physical death for everyone should be declared.

The term "death" should not be abided.

Stress that life is incomplete outside of fellowship with God, and our world is temporary and imperfect.

Emphasize Christian Hope

The hearers should be challenged to live in hope (Ps. 27:1114)

This hope is based upon God's promise of eternal life for those in Christ.

It is also based upon Christ's resurrection as a promise of life to come.

Give a challenge to the living

The focus of the message should be upon the living, not the dead.

God's presence and blessing in this life should be stressed.

This is the preacher's best service to the deceased.

A brief call to personal commitment is appropriate(Jn. 11:2526)

Use an appropriate way to comfort the mourners

Sorrow at death can be comforted by the recollection of past joys.

The ways in which the deceased blessed family and friends can be recalled.

Difficult Issues

Performing Funerals for Unbelievers

Some feel it is essential to mention the lack of faith and sins. Others say only true things that are positive. The same disagreement occurs over whether we should declare their eternity destiny.

The preacher must not, however, make unbiblical promise.

The emphasis of the sermon toward the living. Stress the nature of death and life. Point out divine justice and mercy.

FUNERAL SERVICE

All funeral services should share the message of Christ's Lordship, love and forgiveness, and life to come. The service must be Christian in its content.

The funeral is for the living, to provide comfort and gospel proclamation. It should not be used for other purpose.

Scripture

Passages should be clear with a minimal need for explanation.

Many passages are good. Not all are appropriate for every funeral.

Poetry - choose on the basis of content and agreement with scripture.

Music favorite hymns are good. Beware of content.

Liturgy

The congregation needs to be familiar with the liturgy, or it should be printed for them.

Liturgy may be used at the graveside.

Obituary (Life Sketch)

Be careful that facts are correct.

Tribute

Do as many as possible at the wake keeping.

CONTEMPORARY APPROACHES TO SERMON DELIVERY

A LETTER SERMON

The letters of Paul were publicly read as a part of early Church worship.

The sermon is prepared and presented to the congregation in the form of a letter.

This may be used as an introduction to a section of a sermon.

SHORT STORY/PARABLE SERMON

A sermon based upon or presented as a short story(Esther) or based upon a short story. Jesus taught in this way(Lazarus and the Rich Man)

A sermon based upon or presented as parable. Jesus does this in Lk. 15.These truths can be presented in a modern day application.

THE INTERVIEW SERMON

This is composed of an interview among several people (including the preacher) on some biblical issue or their lives.

AN OBJECT LESSON SERMON

It is often used with children, the sermon being built around some object.

DRAMATIC MONOLOGUE

The preacher portrays a biblical character/event in both action and speech. Costumes may be used.

The preacher plays the role of a biblical figure.

Careful preparation is required. Manuscript is helpful.

DIALOGUE SERMON

The sermon is composed of a free discussion between the preacher and the congregation, or dialogue among individuals on the podium.

Some issues of controversy is introduced and discussed. The pastor usually summarizes the discussion and suggests a conclusion.

Advantage

It gains interest, and encourages people to participate.

Disadvantages

It requires more preparation.

It may be resisted by individuals who are reluctant to speak in the sanctuary.

VOICES

THE ABILITIES AND DEVELOPMENT OF THE VOICE

The Compass this is the range or pitch(tone) the voice produces.

You need to use the full range or pitch available.

Development can be done through physical exercise, singing, reading aloud.

Generally, you should speak faster at a high pitch, and lower/slower at a low pitch.

Volume This is a loudness of the voice/speech (volume is not the same as the pitch.)

Volume is developed through exercise and good health.

Avoid a separate preaching voice which is different from your conventional speech, this can appear artificial.

Avoid a separate preaching voice that lacks conversational quality.

Volume can be used to make the message audible (loud) enough and understand and (not too loud).

Penetrating Power

This is the ability to be understood at a distance.

This is not the same as volume.

Projecting or throwing the voice outward; this is aided by good posture.

Look at the farthest hearers regularly.

Pronounce the words clearly.

Melody Sometimes called the "holy whine"

Vary the pitch, volume, speed in order to produce a pleasing sound and aid attention.

A singsong delivery ("holy whine") - this shouldn't be repetitive.

Protect the individual quality of your voice. Don't try to imitate somebody else.

Protect the health of your voice, which is a musical instrument.

HERMENEUTICS

KINDS OF HERMENEUTICS

General Hermeneutics: This applies to the interpretation of all kinds of writings.

Hermeneutics is derived from the Greek word HERMENEUTIKE, which in turn is derived from the verb HERMENEUO;

Hermeneutics is therefore the science that teaches us the laws, methods and principles of interpreting the meaning of any writing.

Specific Hermeneutics: definite kinds of literally productions, such as laws, history, prophecy, poetry etc.

Hermeneutica Sacra: has a very special character, because it deals with a book that is unique in the realm of literature

Hermeneutica Sacra is therefore the science that teaches the principles, laws and methods of interpreting the scripture, in the light of the view that holds the Bible to be the inspired word of God. Example: Luke 24:27, V. 44 the word expounded(KJV) is diermeneuo: and means to explain thoroughly; to translate, expound, interpret.

i)The Law (Torah)

ii)The Prophets (Nebhim)

1.Genesis

A.Former Prophets

B.Latter Prophets

2.Exodus

1.Joshua

1.Isaiah

3.Leviticus

2.Judges

2.Jeremiah

4.Numbers

3.Samuel

3.Ezekiel

5.Deuteronomy

4.Kings

4.The Twelve

iii)The Writings (Kethubhim or Hagiographa (cric)

A.Poetical Books

B.Five Rolls (Megilloth)

C.Historical Books

1.Psalms

1.Song of songs

1.Daniel

2.Proverbs

2.Ruth

2.EzraNehemiah

3.Job

3.Lamentations

3.Chronicles

4.Esther

5.Ecclesiastes

So Christ bears witness to the Old Testament Canon.

The word canon comes from the root word 'reed'. The English word is canei, Hebrew form is gance and Greek Kanon. The Reed was used as a measuring Rod and meant standard. For example, Origen used the word 'canon 'to denote what we called the rule of Faith, the standard by which we are to measure and evaluate. Later it meant a list or index.

As applied to scripture an officially accepted list of books. The list above is the Jewish OT canon. The Christian Church has the same OT canon, but the number of books differs because we divide Samuel, Kings, Chronicles, etc into two books each; the Jews also consider the minor prophets as one book. Luke 11:51 also 23:3 5; 2 Chronicles 24:2 1.

Exegesis: A critical explanation of a passage of literature, especially the Bible. It

Learning to do Exegesis:

The key to good exegesis, and to a more intelligent reading of the Bible, is to learn to read the text carefully and to ask the right questions of the text.

There are two basic kinds of questions one should ask of every Biblical passage:

those that relate to context and

those that relate to content.

the questions of context are of two kinds:

historical

literary.

The Historical context:

The historical context has to do with the time and culture of the author and his readers, that is, the geographical, topographical, and political factors that are relevant to the author's setting and the occasion of the book, letter, psalms prophetic oracle, or other genre.

The more important question of historical context has to do with the occasion and purpose of each Biblical book and/or of its various parts.

The Literary Context

Essentially literary context means that words only have meaning in sentences, and for the most part biblical sentences only have meaning in relation to preceding and succeeding sentences.

We must try to trace the author's train of thought. One of the basic laws of Biblical interpretation is that one must take into account CONTEXT and author's intention in interpreting and applying scripture. A common axiom among Bible students is that a "TEXT WITHOUT A CONTEXT IS A PRETEXT'. Common sense tells us that any statement taken out of context, even in ordinary conversation, can be easily misunderstood.

The most important contextual question you will ever ask, and it must be asked over and over of every sentence and every paragraph is, 'What's the Author saying?'

The questions of content has to do with the meanings of words, the grammatical relationship in sentences, and the choice of the original text where the manuscripts have variant readings. For example, the meaning of Sabbath day's journey, 2 Corinthians 5:15 etc, etc.

The Study of Hermeneutics

Hermeneutics is a Science while Exegesis is an art.

Therefore one may say that Hermeneutica Sacra is the principle of arriving as a proper Exegesis of a given passage of scripture.

Hermeneutics is usually studied with a view to the interpretation of the literary productions of the past.

It's special task is to point out the way in which the difference or the distance between the author and his readers may be removed.

It teaches us that this is property accomplished only by the readers and transposing themselves into the time and spirit of the author.

In the study of the Bible, it is not sufficient that we understand the meaning of the secondary authors such as Moses, Isaiah, David, John, Matthew, etc. But we must endeavor to know the mind of the Holy Spirit.

The Necessity of Hermeneutics

Sin has darkened the understanding of the mind of men, and still exercises a pernicious influence on his conscious mental life. Therefore special efforts must be made to guide against error.

To avoid confusion on the teaching of various cults has infiltrated the Church of Christ.

To avoid shallow thinking, shallow preaching, and shallow Bible study and avoid using wrong principles of Bible interpretation.

Because man by wisdom knew not God, human reasoning is not enough. The Bible must be its own interpreter.

Men differ from one another in many way that naturally cause them to drift apart mentally.

Men drift and differ in intellectual capacity, aesthetic taste, and moral quality resulting in lack of spiritual affinity.

In intellectual attainment, some are educated and others uneducated.

In nationality, culture: with a corresponding difference in language, forms of thought, customs and morals.

HISTORY OF HERMENEUTICS AMONG THE JEWS

Both Jews and Greeks developed some definite and distinct principles of interpreting their respective writings many years before the birth of Christ. Both of these groups influenced the views held by the early Christians.

The Palestinian Jews:

They held that the OT was the inspired Word of God. They had a profound respect for the Bible as the infallible Word of God.

They regarded even the letters as holy, and their copyist were in the habit of counting them, least any of them should be lost in transcription.

They held the law in far greater esteem than the prophets and the Holy Writings.

The interpretation of the law was their major objective.

They carefully distinguished between the more literal sense of the Bible(poshat) and its exposition of exegesis (Midrash).

One controlling motive and feature of Midrash was to investigate and elucidate, by all exegetical means at command, all possible hidden meanings and applications of scripture.

The commentaries and traditions of the Jews were known as the Oral Law/tradition Mizhnah. This was the interpreter of the written law. This almost set aside the written law. Christ commented on this in MK. 7:13.

Hillel was one of the greatest interpreters of the Jews. He left us seven rules of interpretation by which, as least in appearance, oral tradition could be deduced from that of the written law.

Light and heavy

Equivalence

Deduction from several passages

An inference from several passages

Inference from the general to the specific

Analogy from another passage

Inference from the context

The Alexandrian Jews (GK Philosophers)

Their interpretation of scripture was based more or less on the philosophy of Plato. Plato had laid down a principle that one should not believe anything that human reason would conclude in unworthy of God. For example: whenever they found things in the OT that did not agree with their philosophy and that offended their sense of propriety, they resorted to allegorical interpretations.

Philo was the leading exponent of this form of Jewish interpretation. He did not altogether reject the literal sense of scripture, but regarded it as a concession .

For him, it was merely a symbol of far deeper things. The hidden meaning of scripture was the allimportant one.

This view later greatly influenced the Alexandrian Christian Church life.

HISTORY OF HERMENEUTICAL PRINCIPLES IN THE CHRISTIAN CHURCH

The School of Alexandria

At the beginning of the 3rd century AD, biblical interpretation was influenced especially by the catechetical school of Alexandria.

This city was an important seat of learningJewish religion and Greek philosophy met and walked hand in hand and influenced each other.

The Platonic Philosophy was still current in the form of NeoPlatonism and Gnosticism.

The famous cathechetical school came under the spell or influence of the popular philosophers and accommodated itself in the interpretation of the Bible.

Greek philosophy which had strongly influenced Jewish scholars began to exert its harmful influence on the Christian church the catechetical school (one of the first Bible Schools in Church History) attempted to harmonize the Christian faith with Greek philosophy.

The outcome was the development of what came to be known as the Allegorical School of interpreting the scriptures.

The chief representatives of this school were Clement of Alexandria and his disciple Origen.

Both Clement and Origen regarded the Bible as the inspired Word of God but shared the view of their day that special rule had to be applied in the interpretation of the Bible: They were of the opinion that only the allegorical interpretation contributed to real knowledge or produced right views.

Clement of Alexandria/North Africa

Hesitated that all scripture must be understood allegorically.

He was the first to apply the allegorical method to the interpretation of the New Testament as well as the Old Testament.

He produced the principle that all scripture must be understood allegorically.

He said the literal sense of scripture could only furnish an elementary faith, while the allegorical sense led on to a more mature and true knowledge.

Example: Clement taught that the five barley loaves with which Christ fed the five thousand suggested the preparatory training of the Greeks and Jews that preceded that wheat harvest. The two fish indicated the Hellenistic Philosophy; the curriculum of study and the philosophy itself.

In the story of the triumphant entry, the ass represents the letter of the OT and the colt stands for the NT. The two apostles who brought the animals to Jesus are the moral and spiritual senses.

Origen, Clement's Disciple:

Origen's main focus or work lies in Textual criticism rather than in biblical interpretation.

Origen regarded the Bible as a means for Salvation of men.

Clement held that there could be both a literal and a spiritual meaning in a text, while Origen held that everything in the Bible had a figurative meaning.

This figurative approach to scripture is known as the Quadriga, or the fourfold method of interpretation.

This method seeks to examine each text for four meanings in the text of scripture

Literal

Moral Tropological

Mystical Allegoric

Prophetic ii. Anagogic

This approach was taught through this means:

The letter(literal) shows us what God and our Father did.

The Moral(Tropologic) meaning gives us rules for daily life.

The allegoral shows us where our faith is hid.

The analogy shows us where we end our strife. (prophetic)

In Origen's exegetical approach, he rather disparaged or belittled the literal sense of scripture, but seldom to the moral sense and constantly employed because it yielded true meaning or knowledge. For example: Origen held that the spiritual meaning of Rebecca's coming to draw water for Abraham's servants and cattle is that we must come to the wells of scripture to meet Christ.

Origen of Alexandria, set the pace for understanding scripture throughout the early centuries of the Church until the reformation period.

THE SCHOOL OF ANTIOCH

This school developed toward the end of the third century. Two views were held by this school

and both opposed the Alexandrian School of Interpretation.

Theodore of Mopsurstia was a famous critic, he emphasized the human factor of the Bible and became literal in his views ii. he denied the divine inspiration of parts of the Bible, even though he recognized the great moral value of all.

His exegesis of scripture was intellectual and dogmatic.

John Chrysostom - great Christian orator and preacher; He maintained that every part of he scriptures was the infallible Word of God. This view is more spiritual and practical.

Both of these men insisted that the grammaticalhistorical interpretation was the only safe principle to follow, and rejected the allegorical views.

THE WESTERN SCHOOL OF INTERPRETATION OR EXEGETE:

Augustine and Jerome were leading teachers of this school. They made a strong impact on the Christian church of this time.

They maintained that the authority of the church and Christian tradition must be the final court of appeal.

They taught the necessity of accepting the literal sense of scriptures, and of basing all allegorical teaching on that fact.

In practice, Augustine freely used the allegorical view. Example: He introduced the view that the scriptures have a fourfold sense:

Historical

Aetiological

Analogical

Allegorical

This method of interpretation and the view that the Church was authorized to interpret the scriptures in the light of church tradition and church dogma finally paved the way for the Roman Catholic Church, with all its increasing errors of doctrine and practice.

THE PERIOD OF THE MIDDLE AGES, OR DARK AGES

During the period of the middle ages, humanity in general and of the clergy lived in profound ignorance of the Bible.

The Bible was regarded as a book full of mysteries, which could only be understood in a mystical manner.

Since the Bible was hard to understand, only the church could interpret it.

Therefore it became an established principle that the interpretation of the Bible must always be in the light of the tradition and doctrine of the Church. A fourfold sense of scripture was taught.

Literal

Tropological figure of speech

Allegorical representing ideas as by a story (Pilgrim Progress)

Analogical resemblance between things that are different.

The teachings of the Fathers and Church traditions became of greater value than the Bible itself.

Hugo said, "learn first what you should believe, and then go to the Bible to find it there."

It should be noted here that during this period not a single new Hermeneutical principle was developed and exegesis was bound hand and foot by traditional lords and by the authority of the church Roman Catholic. The church also degenerated badly during this period.

THE PERIOD OF THE REFORMATION

The Renaissance

The Renaissance was of great importance for the development of sound Hermeneutical principles. In the fourteenth and fifteenth centuries, dense ignorance and superstition prevailed in the Christian church.

Very few of the clergy were students of the Bible. There were doctors of Divinity who had never read the scriptures. Only those portions of the Bible that the church chose to use in their ritual, intermingled with church tradition, were familiar to the Christian world. With the coming of the Reformers such as Luther, Calvin, and Zwingli, this practice was challenged and changed to a greater degree.

Thios paved the way for what is known as the Great Protestant Reformation.

Martin Luther became the leader in marching the church from ignorance and superstition and back to the truth as contained in Jesus Christ "You shall know the truth and the truth shall set you free."

The Reformers believed the Bible to be the inspired Word of God.

The Bible was placed in its rightful position as the final court of appeal in determining truth,

The Reformers stated that the Church does not determine what the scriptures teach, but scriptures determine what the Church ought to teach.

The concern of Luther, Calvin, and Zwingli was to find the meaning intended by the authors, and make that the authority for faith and practice.

The three Reformers were united in rejecting the claim of the church to be the interpreter. They affirmed the freedom, ability, and responsibility of the individual to understand the meaning of scripture - not the pope.

The Reformers agreed that the entire Bible was trustworthy, and therefore, that scripture could and should interpret itself

They affirmed that illumination of the Holy Spirit was needed for understanding scripture. Hard work was also necessary.

The Reformers translated the scriptures into the vernacular broadcast the Word of God, and their interpretation of it far and wide.

They rejected both the allegorical views of the past and the official church traditions and interpretations, and emphasized the importance of taking the Word of God literally in its grammatical and historical sense.

They defended the right of private judgment, and yet desired to find Christ everywhere in the scriptures.

The Reformers did not agree in every respect on how scriptures should be interpreted.

Martin Luther's Views,

He defended the right to private judgment, emphasized the necessity of taking the context and historical circumstances into account, demand faith and spiritual insight in the interpreter, and desire to find Christ everywhere in the scriptures

He sometimes would use allegorication to interpret a passage in a way to reinforce his own theology.

His interpretation was dogmatic, controlled by the system of theology to which he was committed - salvation by grace through faith alone.

Sometimes his interpretation was subjective or was claimed to be received by direct illumination by the Holy Spirit.

John Calvin's View:

He opposed the use of allegory and he saw a contrivance of Satan to obscure the sense of scripture.

He firmly believed in the typical significance of such that is found in the Old Testament, but did not share the opinion of Luther that Christ should be found everywhere in scripture.

He reduced the number of Psalms that could be recognized by Luther as Messianic.

He insisted that the prophets should be interpreted in the light of historical circumstances.

As he saw it, the chief excellency of an expositor consisted in lucid brevity.

Moreover, he regarded it as "the first business of an interpreter to let his author say what he does say, instead of attributing to him what we think he ought to say".

He emphasized the sovereignty of God, and interpreted the scriptures in that light.

The Roman Catholics' Position:

These made no exegetical advance during the period of the Reformation.

They did not admit the right to private judgment, and defended against the Protestant, the position that the Bible must be interpreted in harmony with tradition.

The Council of Trent emphasized:

That the authority of ecclesiastical tradition must be maintained.

That the highest authority had to be ascribed to the Vulgate.

That is necessary to conform one's interpretation to the authority of the church and to the unanimous consent of the Fathers.

Unanimous View:

Although the Reformers differed in their views, they were united in their commitment to the presuppositions held by the New Testament writers.

That the Bible is from God and through men.

That the Bible is a straightforward communication of God's will for men.

That the Bible can be understood in terms of ordinary human language.

SOME APPROACHES TO SCRIPTURES

RATIONALISM - NATURALISTIC APPROACHES

Rationalism

A rationalist is one who relies on his own reasoning as the ultimate authority.

The rationalist preposition is that which cannot be verified in terms of contemporary experience of rational thought cannot be accepted as true and cannot be God's Word.

The rationalist ultimate criterion for deciding whether or not a teaching is trustworthy is the human reasoning.

To the rationalist, three kinds of problems in the Bible have been a stumbling block to accepting it as wholly trustworthy, and an authoritative Word of God.

Some teaching in the Bible have been considered morally unworthy for God. For example: David's prayers for vengeance on his enemies and the commands from God to destroy the people of Canaan the imprecatory Psalms.

The Miraculous for the rationalist, there is no such thing as a miracle. The "theory" held that miracles, such as the resurrection and Christ walking on the water are myths.

The rationalist cannot accept the miraculous in scripture because he has not personally experienced the miraculous, and because reports of miracles cannot be verified by experimentation. Therefore, they must be explained either as a misapprehension of natural events, or a myth growing up around some historical or imagined event.

Some Examples of the Rationalist:

The crossing of the Red Sea was actually the crossing of the Reed Sea a shallow swampland, through which the fleeing Israelites could walk.

Christ did not feed 5,000 people. He only used the generosity of the ]ad with the lunch and inspired the others to share their own lunches generously. The rationalist presupposition is that the miraculous is impossible.

Contradiction scriptural statements that seem not to agree.

Why Some People Chose To Become Rationalist?

Because "Textual or lower" critics seek to determine the original text of scripture. This is why few of the early textual critics were rationalists.

They believed the original text was divinely inspired.

On the other hand, literary or higher critics have dealt with such questions as the date of a book, the author, the type of literature and other "literary questions".

Such undertaking is not inherently rationalistic, but in the hands of the rationalists it has been called destructive higher criticism a criticism whose end result and purpose have been the destruction of confidence in scripture as being trustworthy and, ultimately authoritative.

The end result of the rationalistic approach to scripture is: there is no sure word from God, Scripture has no independent authority, human reasoning is the final authority for judging anything that presents itself as a word from God.

EXISTENTIALISM

The predominant approach to understanding the Bible has been called existential.

The existentialist holds that the Bible is a vehicle of God's revelation to man. God gets His message through by means of the Bible, but the Bible on its own cannot be called the revelation of God. For the Bible to become fully God's work, it must be received by someone. The Bible only becomes a revelation when properly mixed with faith by the reader or hearer.

The Word itself will not hold, until some human mind responds to the words of scripture.

Existentialist interpreters do not like to speak of the Bible as the "Word of God", but "containing the word of God".

Scripture alone is not revelation. It becomes revelation in the process of the interpreter's encounter with it.

The author does not produce an objectively true and sufficient word from Go. It is the hearer who subjectively determines what is God's word.

The two main proponents of this view are the Danish philosopher, Soren Kierkegard; he is credited with being the Father of Christian existentialism (18131855)and the next person is Karl Barth (18861960) was the most influential person in this movement. Barth was supernaturalistic in that he affirmed strongly miraculous elements - the resurrection of Christ. He taught that the supernatural elements of scripture could not really be true until, by faith, they were accepted by the interpreter as a word from God.

It is important to emphasized that the view of scripture held by these existentialists is not the view scripture holds of itself

CULTURAL RELATIVISM:

Some students of the Bible seek a spiritual meaning other than the natural meaning of the text.

All interpreters seek for a clear understanding of the Bible by studying the historical, cultural, and religious context of the author.

The responsibility of the student of scripture is to bridge the gap between ancient and modern the main purpose of authentic interpreters of scripture has been to apply the meaning to the present situation.

To do that effectively is a matter of must to understand the context of the reader or hearer. One who seeks to communicate Biblical truth to people in a culture other than his own, a study of the culture of the recipient is of the utmost importance.

This is called contextualization. The work of contextualizing the truth of God's word into the life of the hearer is what the incarnation is all about.

Proper interpretation will automatically lead to proper application and this will lead to proper living. Jesus Christ translated the truth of heaven into words, and action or activities that human beings could understand.

Contextualization then is the study of the cultural context of a passage of scripture for the purpose of clarifying the meaning of the text.

Culture is the way a group of people view things or does things the accepted norms of society. Therefore cultural relativism holds that the value of truth of any idea depends on the culture in which it is found.

The presupposition for cultural relativists is the same as that for rationalists and existentialists: Naturalism. For the naturalist, when a clear teaching of scripture is found in conflict with some human way of thinking, revelation must give way. For the cultural relativist, if one's understanding of the author's cultural setting or the contemporary meaning of the text itself, the presupposition is that the contextualizer has greater authority in determining truth than the Bible itself

DOGMATIC APPROACHES TO THE BIBLE:

A dogmatic or dogma is a system of belief constructed by scholars and laymen and pastors through the ages to explain and interpret all passages of scripture on the basis of their systems.

Some Examples: The presupposition of a dogmatic hermeneutic is, all the teaching from God and must be seen as a coherent whole; therefore all specific interpretation must

conform to it.

A dogmatic framework is built of materials provided in scripture and of logical deduction from the biblical date; When this is done every passage is made to conform to that system.

*The dogmatic approach was established as the official hermeneutical presupposition of the Bible and church dogma was infallible.

*Martin Luther also held a dogmatic approach He called the Book of James as he understood it to be an epistle of straw. His basic system of belief was found in Romans 1:17.Since the Book of James departed from that norm according to Luther's view, it was labeled as such.

When taken to an extreme, the dogmatic approach to scripture clearly has undesirable results. The Bible is no longer its own authority.

Some Leading Schools of Interpretation

The Socianians: They did not advance a single Hermeneutical principle, but in all their exposition proceeded on the assumption that the Bible must be interpreted in a rational way, or perhaps better in harmony with reason. As the Word of God it could not contain anything that was in contradistinction to reason nothing that could not be rationally apprehended. Thus the doctrines of the Trinity and Providence, etc., went by the board. They constructed a theological system of a mixture of rationalism and supernaturalism. The Socinians were reacting the confessional creeds.

Coccegus: This Holland Theologian was very much dissatisfied with the current method of interpretation. He felt that all scriptures are typically related. He insisted that every passage should be studied in the light of its context and of the general views of the writer.

The Pletists: They insisted on studying the Bible in the original languages, and under the enlightening influence of the Holy Spirit. They taught that every scripture had a hidden inner truth beneath the surface Mysticism. This tendency led to some rather speculative and sometimes false conclusion.

Higher Criticism: This school of thought developed the idea that the Bible could not be accepted as the inspired Word of God. It rejected the view of the verbal inspiration. These scholars(mentioned earlier above) stated that the Bible ought to be subjected to criticism like any other book, and rejected the supernatural element as being unscientific.

Semler: accepted the "Historical School" while at the same time rejecting the infallibility of the Bible, and hence pave the way for modern rationalism.

Strauss proposed a mythical interpretation of the Bible. This theory held that miracles, including the resurrection of Christ were a myth, the result of the Apostles ascribing to Jesus miracles which were only in the minds of the people a mystical age.

The Late 19th and the 20th Century

1799 is labeled as the official date of the birth of religious liberalism.

Schleirmacher published his famous addressed in which he ignored the divine inspiration of the Bible and reduced it to a mere human book, subject to errors.

These views robbed the Church of her sense of divine authority, and left the individual Christian drafting on a sea of uncertainty and doubt.

Science and higher criticism, taught by skeptics and agnostics robbed the church of her faith, life and message, and led to the breakdown of moral and family life.

True or vital Christianity was scorned, and a tidal wave of unbelief almost overwhelmed the church at this period.

Liberalism became the order of the day.

Miracles were ruled out.

Scholars and theologians spent more time searching for mistakes in the Bible that they did seeking to understanding its meaning.

Preachers expounded and preached materialism and the sciences rather that preaching Christ and Him crucified.

By the beginning of the 20th Century, Christianity seemed to have been dying out in the world. Doubts were replacing faith, and personal as well as national life degenerated, but thank God for Jesus.

A RETURN TO FAITH

In every denomination people began to cry out for reality and life. Three streams of religious systems revived but only two had the real thing.

A return to the "Faith once delivered to the Saints" by an increasing number of segments of historic Christianity, such as the Evangelical Anglican Church, some branches of the Baptists, some Presbyterians, and others.

The rapid rise of Holiness and Pentecostal groups. These stood for the verbal inspiration of the scriptures and personal experience of salvation, and a life of practical holiness.

Neoorthodox led by Karl Barth. This view was the rejection of rationalism, and a practical return to evangelical principles of interpretation of the scriptures. The weakness of this view was that it still maintain the idea that there were errors in the Bible, and it was not infallible. They say the Bible is a witness and recollection of revelation, and is a pointer toward God and truth.

PROPER CONCEPTION OF THE BIBLE

THE INSPIRATION, INFALLIBILITY, AND REVELATION OF THE BIBLE.

Inspiration of the Bible: this occurs only twice in the entire Bible.

From the OT: (Job 32:8 KJV) the Hebrew expression here is Neshamah "the breath of the Almighty".

From the NT: (2 Tim. 3:16) Inspiration here refers to two Greek words Theos meaning God, and pneustus meaning to breath out =:> Godbreathed (2 Peter 1:21).

In the writing of scripture, inspiration is the divine guidance and central of the messenger in recording and delivering the message. Even though human beings were used by God, yet the words are exactly the ones that God wanted to say. So when we say the Bible is inspired, we mean that the Bible is Godbreathed.

THE INSPIRATION OF THE WRITERS

The Human Authors

2 Peter 1:21 Men moved by the Holy Spirit spoke from God. 2 Samuel 23 .2

God inspired his people to present and preserve His Word.

The Inspiration of the Word

2 Tim. 3:16 This affirmation applies to the words of scripture. This does not only apply to the idea of scripture as some have claimed because ideas cannot be communicated without words. When the Bible affirms that the scriptures are inspired, it is clearly referring to the words themselves.

God has breathed life into the very words of the Bible. His Holy Spirit fills them and uses them in giving life to people(John 5:39).

The Inspiration of the Interpreters

The interpreters of scripture can be inspired. (Job 32:79). The assertion here is that wisdom comes through the interpreter being filled with God's Spirit, being breathed upon by God. See I Peter 1:2021)

The Spirit who moved upon the original writers and speakers also moves upon the interpreters.

Any interpreter who seeks to understand the scriptures without being led by God's Spirit is doomed to failure. So you cannot interpret the scriptures alone. Jn: 16:13; 1 Cor. 2:14 Jn. 14:2526). God's Spirit is available and seeking to inspire the interpreter.

Interpretation is a spiritual discipline. This must be undergirded with prayer, seeking the guidance of God's Spirit. The interpreter must be open to the leadership of the Holy Spirit.

THEORIES OF INSPIRATION

The Interpreter must recognize that there is a difference between the fact of inspiration and theories as to how it occurred. Theories are human attempts to explain known facts. When we approach the Bible, there are several different theories proposed to explained how God inspired it. But the fact remains that he did. There are three basic theories of inspiration:

Verbal Inspiration applied to the Bible in the origin written, and claims that these writings were so inspired that the very words of scriptures were dictated by God.

Plenary Inspiration the Bible was inspired full; but that it was not dictated by God, leaving the human authors free to choose their own words to express the divine revelation.

Dynamic Inspiration the powerful process by which God inspired both the writers and words which they wrote, but without making the writers more autonomous.

Partial Inspiration the View that the Bible contains the Word of God, but also holds much that is fallible. This theory demands that man must sift the true from the false, and leaves him in fatal uncertainty, leaving to modernism, with its destructive hermeneutics.

These Theories must never be confused with the facts themselves. These are human means, attempting to explain or define the process by which God gives his word to us. Theories will chain by truth will not.

See The Broadman Bible Commentary, Vol. 1, rev., pp. 59, by Clifton J. Allen.

THE LITERATURE OF THE BIBLE

THE LITERATURE OF THE OLD TESTAMENT

The OT is a collection of books. It is the sacred library of ancient Israel plus more. There are 39 books which are included in it. These were written over hundreds of years and represent many different kinds of literature.

There were numerous authors and compilers some being Kings, farmers, Business men etc., each with his individual point of view, his characteristic vocabulary and style, and his unique intellectual ability and spiritual insight.

The OT was divided into three sections by the ancient Hebrews.

In their arrangement, the first five books make up the first section known as the Torah or the Law.

The second section is called the "Nabhiim or the Prophets". This section is divided into two subsections. The first of these is known as the "Former Prophets" which includes Joshua, Judges, Samuel and Kings.

The second subsection is called the "Latter Prophets" and includes Isaiah, Jeremiah, Ezekiel, and the 12.This is also called the Minor Prophets.

The last section of the Hebrew Bible is known as the 'Kathubim’ or the 'Writings' and includes all of the remaining books. The nature of these materials in each of the sections is different from that in the others and, demands different techniques for interpretation. The basic division between individual books as well as between parts of books is usually based upon whether we are dealing with prose or poetry.

Prose is generally straight forward, while:

Poetry is more complex, frequently an author's attempt to express emotions and ideas which are difficult to put meaningfully into simple words.

The Prose gives details, describes action, and tells a story.

The Poetry with its rhythm and sweeping images communicates a feeling, appealing to the emotions.

Prose and poetry can be subdivided into other categories of literature/literary structure.

Prose material may be categorize as:

Simple Narrative

Sacred history

Legal material

Speeches

Apocalyptic material:

is visionary and highly symbolic: E.g. David

Ezekiel

Poetry is divided into:

Hymns

Ballads

Liturgies

Wisdom Materials

Sermons, etc.

Each of these subdivisions prose and poetry techniques for interpretation.

PROSE

Simple Narrative (Gen. 12:4)

Sacred History (I Kings 16:303 1)

Legal Material (Ex. 20 :3)

Speech (I Kings 18:21)

Apocalyptic (Daniel 7:34)

POETRY

Hymn (Ps. 19:14)

Ballad (Isa. 5: 1)

Liturgy (Ps. 24:78)

Wisdom (Prov. 30.15b16b)

Sermon (Isa. 1:23)

THE LITERATURE OF THE NEW TESTAMENT

The literary problems of the NT are somewhat different from those of the OT. It is not useful dividing passages into prose and poetry for the NT interpreter, There are small portion of poetical reflection in the NT.

The NT is also a collection.

It was the sacred library of the early churches.

It is made up of 27 books, many with distinctive literary characteristics.

The NT can be classified into:

Gospels

History

Epistles

Apocalyptic

The Gospels consist of Matthew, Mark, Luke and John. These materials are not biographies, because they do not in any way seek to tell the life of Jesus. These books are known as sacred history. It is the testimony and record of the early Christians' memories of Jesus. The events selected were to interpret his ministry and mission to all men. They are a record of what God was doing in that time, a statement of the good news(2 Cor. 5:19; John 20:3 03 1).

The Epistles are ancient letters and they fall into three basic categories:

Philemon, 2 Timothy, Titus and 2 John and 3 John, are personal letters.

Church letters, addressed to specific historical crisis(1 & 2 Corinthians, Galatians, Philippians, Colossians, I & 2 Thessalonians, James, I & 2 Peter, I John & Jude).

Semitheological Essays (Romans, Ephesians, I Timothy and Hebrews). Epistles must generally be handled differently from other types of literature. It was apparently assumed that each would be read from beginning to end at one time.

Apocalyptic: Revelation is the basic book. Apocalypticliterature is highly symbolic, with emphasis upon visions and strange imagery. It also makes predictions of the future. These must be interpreted as such.

SOME EXAMPLES OF INTERPRETATION

Gospel (John 14:67)

Sacred History (Acts 2:4647)

Epistle (Philemon 1012)

Semi theological Essay(Heb. 10: 1112)

Apocalyptic (Rev. 21:12)

THE ANTIQUITY OF THE OLD TESTAMENT

Ancient weights and measurements

Length was measured in cubits and spans.

Weights were measured in talents, manas and shekels.

Volume was measured in homers, lethechs, ephahs, baths, and kabs.

One must seek to discover if the same system of measurement was used throughout the OT period and if it was consistent in its meaning during that time. For example, the interpreter must know if shekel was used as a measurement for the weight for the entire OT era, and if it was , did it refer to the exact same weight in 1200 BC as it did in 400 BC.It is highly likely that the meaning of these terms varied from beginning of the OT to the end. It is also possible that some of these terms were used throughout the entire period, while others were not. The interpreter must seek to know those things in order to accurately understand the Biblical message.

The Language of the Old Testament

Most of the OT was written in Hebrew, with very small portion in Aramaic.

The Aramaic sections are Daniel 2:46 7:28; Ezra 4:8 6:18; 7:12 26, and Jeremiah 10:11.

Biblical Aramaic is descendent from Hebrew and is familiar to it in from and structure.

Both are in the Semitic family of languages and quite different in grammar and syntax from English.

There are several major differences between Hebrew and English which must be understood if we are going to interpret the OT properly.

The first characteristic of Hebrew with which we must become familiar is its emphasis upon action. The verb is the key word in Israel language.

The ancient Hebrews did not involve themselves much with philosophical or theological argument.

They were mainly concerned with reporting what God did than with trying to describe what God was like (Ex 12:24 27).

This emphasis upon what God had done served as the foundation for their understanding of God as living and active.

The Old Testament is a record of action.

Hebrew verbs do not have any time concept in their forms, such as those with which we are familiar in English.

There is no past, present, or future tense in Hebrew.

Their verbs describe the state of an action.

The two basic states of action indicated by Hebrew verbs are complete and incomplete.

The Hebrews could describe events in the future as completed action, because it is completed in the mind of God.

Ex: Isa. 9.6a

Both verbs in this verse describe the action as already completed, though the event was apparently in the future.

This verse goes on to say "and the government will be upon His shoulder". Here, a verb form was used which shows incomplete action. The coming child would be born. But that was an action which would happen once and be finished, and completed. However, after his birth, God would place the divine authority upon him and that would never be completed.

This Godgiven government of the Kingdom would always be upon him. He would always have this authority.

In interpreting the OT, we need to recognize this quality of their verbs.

We must also recognize that the time setting of any action is revealed solely by the context. An interpreter forgets this at his peril. We must constantly be working for clues as to the time of an particular action.

4.Words in ancient Hebrew do not necessarily have the same meaning as words in our language. We must use words in the same sense as they did. Ex: The word "Perfect" in Gen. 6:9 and Job 1:8:

a.To us, perfect means morally upright, sinless.

b.But to the ancient Hebrews, the work actually meant "completed, finished".

c.These statements as describing Noah and Job did not refer to their morality but to their maturity. They were being described as spiritually mature.

The Culture of the OT,

The culture in which the OT, was written is largely important for the interpreter.

To understand the patriarchal narratives of Genesis, for example, we must endeavored to know something of their cultural background(Gen. 27:2733).

To us in our day, it would appear simple for Isaac to have gone ahead and blessed Esau, denying the blessing to Jacob, since Jacob got the blessing through deceit.

But those ancient people believed that words one spoken possessed a power which could not be recalled. Spoken words were absolutely binding.

Since the OT, covers so much time and territory, the culture of each of the nations from Egypt to Babylon is also important.

Exercise: Find the culture to Exodus 23:19b.

Find the culture to Deuteronomy 11: 10.

The Religion and Faith of the OT,

The OT, is both the product and central guide for the religion and faith of the Hebrew people. The religious rituals and observances are completely foreign to most of us. Why?

We so not have a sacrificial system. (Lev. 17:11; Heb. 9:25.)

The entire structure of the Levitical priesthood is outside the bounds of our knowledge and understanding.

The paraphernalia and places of Israel's worship are also difficult for us to understand.

The emphasis placed upon religious festivals and rituals and purposes becomes a barrier to out understanding.

E.g.: What do we know about Passover, Tabernacles or Booths, Pentecost, and Purim, and New Moon and Sheep-shearing?

The Historical Background of the Old Testament

The Israelites were not merely interested in what had happened, but in the meaning of what had happened. For example, the situation of two Kings of Israel, Omri and his son Ahab (1 Kings 16:21 28). The OT gives 209 verses to the reign of Ahab (1 Kings 16:29 22:40) and eight verses to Omri. Why is this so?

The answer does not lie in Ahab's or Omri's relative importance, but to the fact that God was doing something of importance in the reign of Ahab.

That period had more meaning for Israel since there was a prophet named Elijah on the scene during Ahab's reign.

So the history which OT records is sacred history, history with divine significance.

It is a history of what God was doing, not a history of what man was about.

To understand this sacred history, we need to know as much as possible of the history of the entire OT era.

We need also to understand the geography of their lands.

The PreChristian Outlook of the OT

The OT is a preChristian book. Its emphasis upon law is strange to those of us who have been brought up with the NT emphasis upon Grace. Furthermore, the famous Lextalion(Law of Retaliation) gives us problems(Lev. 241920). Compare this with Matt. 5 : 3 94 1.

Our immediate reaction is to judge the OT's teaching as being harsh and legalistic. But, in its own time, this was given as prohibition against vengeance. Nothing more that justice could be demanded by a person who had been wronged.

The OT has a very clear understanding of sin, Faith, Salvation, and other basic doctrines. The NT concept grew from the OT. The NT is the interpretation of the OT.

THE ANTIQUITY OF THE NEW TESTAMENT

The NT like the OT, is also a collection of ancient books.

The NT writings and the events they record cover a much more limited period.

What do you know about the organization and responsibilities of the Sanhedrin, or of a Roman procurator? And how do these relate to Herod Antipas, to whom Pilate sent Jesus? What do you really know about the Roman crucifixion?

Ancient books must be understand against their ancient backgrounds.

The Language of the New Testament

The NT was written in Greek.

The Greek of the NT is not classic but koine common language. This was the language of the ordinary people in the NT time. It was the language of the market place.

There is a Hebrew mind set behind the Greek of the NT.

A knowledge of the original language does not automatically ensure a correct interpretation.

The interpreter who does not know the original language, needs to be aware that translation from one language to another is an inexact science.

But there are certain characteristics of these ancient languages which we should know and be able to apply as we seek to interpret any biblical text. It we do not know these, then good commentaries can help.

The Culture of the NT

The cultural background of the NT is equally as important for Interpretation as the OT.

The immediate background out of which Palestinian Christianity arose is Greek, Roman, and Hebraic. To place Christianity against its proper background, these must be understood.

The Religion and Faith of the New Testament

The Religion and Faith of the NT are far more familiar to most Christians than the Old. The Reason is that we are NT Christians.

There is a common strand to the faith of both the Old and the New Testaments.

The OT. was preserved by the early Christians because they dared to believe that Jesus was its fulfillment.

They also dared to believe that, as Jesus' followers, they had become heirs to the promises of God in the OT.

The NT is the flower which grew from the OT's roots.

The OT. was the only scripture which the earliest Christians had.

In it they found the texts from which they proclaimed the news of Jesus.

The Historical Background of the NT

History was generally stable during the years of Christianity, There were significant upheavals in the periods immediately prior to the life of Jesus and the early years of Christianity.

The Greek conquest of the ancient world, the Maccabean revolt, and the Roman conquest of SyriaPalestine all played a part in establishing the world conditions in which Jesus was born and to which he ministered.

To try to understand fully the spread of Christianity without knowing both the events of the centuries which produced the NT, is to work with a serious handicap.

For example: Can you grasp the struggle which went on in Pilate's mind when he was seeking to release Jesus in John 19:12.

TASK OF THE INTERPRETER

You are an interpreter but you need an interpreter, all of us are interpreters and need an interpreter (Acts 8:3 03 1 ; Luke 24:45).

The Authority of the Bible

The Bible is authoritative because it is inspired by God. He is the divine Author of this Book. Its message comes from Him. There is an intrinsic authority in the Bible which no other Book has.

The Bible has an authority based upon the Lordship of Jesus Christ. When we acknowledge Jesus as our Lord, the Bible's authority over our lives takes on a new dimension.

Because the Bible is authoritative, we need to arrive at a clear understanding of what our task as interpreters of the Bible is and how we should go about it. We should not be contacted with poor understanding of its message and with shoddy interpretation.

The Responsibilities of Interpretation

The Responsibilities of Interpretation which rests upon all Christians has two implications.

is a personal responsibility to know the truth (Jn. 8:32). This places a heavy responsibility upon the shoulders, heads, hearts and minds of those who have been called to the task of interpretation. There is no excuse for ignorance (Hosea 4:6). Our failure to search the truth and know it robs us of God's best.

Our ministry to others: As we serve others in the name of Christ, we are involved in interpreting the scriptures. This involvement may include witnessing, counseling, teaching, preaching, etc.

If we fail to interpret it properly, not only do we fall in guiding people toward God, we will also be leading them astray. This responsibility is heavy to bear.

The very nature of a commitment to Christ involves interpreting his revelation to others. The scribes and Pharisees were the most active interpreters of God's word in Jesus' day. But they failed to carry out their responsibility; not by avoiding the task, but by doing it wrongly. (Matt. 23: 136).

Personal Blessings of the Interpreter

He is blessedly being allowed to know more about the will and purposes of God. No finite being can ever fully comprehend the infinite God. But at least we are allowed to enter into the divine counsel.

The blessing of knowing that God has considered you worthy of this great task.

knowledge of a job well done.(Matt. 25:21). Unless you do your best, this blessing will not be yours.

As you interpret the scriptures to others, you have their lives and destinies in your hands. They give their entire attention to you.

Personal Growth

TOOLS FOR INTERPRETING THE BIBLE

In selecting tools, several considerations must be taken into account.

It is imperative that the interpreter have the best tools available.

You should get tools which you are comfortable in using. This does not mean that the books you obtain should agree with all your ideas. If you are never challenged to consider new thoughts OF controversial ideas, Your mind and heart become narrow/stagnant, never developing beyond their present capacities.

The manner in which you use the tools you obtain is crucial. Do not become a slave to them. Do not let someone else do your thinking for you. Your tools should be an aid in helping you interpret, not a support upon which you learn to avoid the discipline in interpretation. When you present an interpretation to your people, it is you who are responsible, not your resources. Do not use anyone else's interpretation unless you are Willing to answer to God for it.

Translations

Your first tool you need is a text. An English translation of the Hebrew Bible for OT and the Greek NT.

The nature of the task of translating.

To one unfamiliar with the task, it may appear to be simple merely substituting the best English word for any specific Hebrew or Greek Word. In actual practice, it does not work this way.

There are idioms which cannot be translated literally.

There is also the problem of one language having words which simply do not exist in another: E.g., There is no single English word comparable to the Hebrew word, hesed. It means covenant love, loyal love, steadfastness, mercy, loving kindness, and commitment. Translating it into simple English terms becomes a major problem for a translator.

The grammar and syntax of Hebrew and Greek are different from that of English. The Hebrew uses very few adjectives, describing objects in other ways.(Ex:lsa 5:1 b). The Hebrew, having no appropriate adjectives, actually says it this way: "My beloved had a vineyard on a horn , the son of fatness". The idiom has to be interpreted to make sense to an English reader.

Consider and evaluate the various kinds of translations which are available before selecting.

Differentiate between an actual translation and a paraphrase or amplified translation. The Living Bible is one.

The Amplified translation or paraphrase make no attempt to give a literal translation of the original. They are an attempt by the author to explain a passage or give its interpretation to its readers. They are of no value in helping you to become an interpreter, because you have no way of knowing what the original actually said.

Denominational Translations

The Jerusalem Bible prepared by and for the Roman Catholic Church.

The New World Translation prepared by the Jehovah Witnesses.

In these translations, occasional passages are twisted or slanted toward one particular belief

Translations made by groups which cut across denominational lines. These by their very nature approach a mere consistent accuracy in presenting the ancient Hebrew or Greek text in English.

The King James Version prepared in 1611.

The American Standard Version prepared in the early part of this century in 1901. It is one of the more literal translations ever made.

The Revised Standard Version tried to incorporate the best textual and linguistic studies in order to present the biblical text in the clearest modern English (1881).

An updated version of the American Standard Version has recently been released, called the New America Standard Bible NASB 1971.Its aims were the same as the ASV, but it is neither as literal as the ASV nor in smooth English as the RSV.

The New English Bible made by English scholars, was intended to be an updating of the KJV. Unfortunately, it occasionally usesexpressions which are familiar to most American readers 1970.The interpreter should have several translations available for use in approaching the biblical text.

Dictionaries

The second kind of tools which an interpreter needs is good dictionaries. There are several kinds.

You need a good Hebrew English lexicon. The best Hebrew lexicon available for the interpreter is that by Brown, Driver, and Briggs(BDB). In the area of Greek, the best lexicon currently available is Walter Bauer, a GreekEnglish lexicon of the New Testament.

An interpreter needs a good Bible dictionary. These are necessary for looking up difficult biblical terms, getting a quick summary of the history of a city, person, or nation or otherwise defining a difficult or unclear concept. You have the Westminster Dictionary of the Bible and the Interpreter's Dictionary of the Bible. Others: Davis Dictionary of the Bible or Smith's Bible Dictionary. In choosing a dictionary, you should find one comprehensive enough to meet your needs but not so technical as to become a hindrance rather than an aid.

Concordances

Other than the Bible, the most important tool for the interpreter is a good concordance. This enable the interpreter to study a word or passage in its own context and in relation to other Old and New Testament passages. The Concordance should be one which is analytical. That is, it should give the word in the original language from which the English word is translated. There are only three of these available.

Robert Young's Analytical Concordance of the Bible(Rev. ed., 1902)

James Strong's Exhaustive Concordance of the Bible(1 894)

The New American Standard Exhaustive Concordance of the Bible (1981).

The first two are based upon the text of the King James' Version. The last is based upon the text of the NASB.

The reason why an interpreter should have such an analytical concordance is that several different Hebrew or Greek words may be translated by the same English word, while at the time several different English words may be used to translate one Hebrew or Greed word. Accurate interpretation demands that you know what the original word is which is behind the particular English word or phrase which you are interpreting.

The values of using the analytical concordance.

It will help in determining accurately the meaning of the Hebrew or Greek word which you are considering. It will enable you to consider every passage in the Bible where it occurs.

It will enable you to discover if a word changes in meaning from author to author or from one historical period to another.

It will enable you to trace the historical development of a theological concept throughout the Bible.

It will help you to discover how OT words are carried over into the Greek of the NT. This will make it easier for you to carry forward OT roots into their full NT flower.

It will enable you to do a character study of individuals by looking up every reference to the place.

It will enable you to find a passage when you know any words in it.

Histories

Any interpreter of the Bible needs to know about the history of the ancient near East during the biblical period as possible, because the Bible was written in actual historical settings, recording God's dealing with historical people. The more we know of the history the better off we shall be in our interpretation. These are tools and should not take the place of the Bible.

Atlases

An interpreter needs a good geographical reference Atlas. The geography of the biblical world is a significant part in our interpretation. For proper understanding, it is imperative that the interpretation should have a good historical atlas of the Bible.

Archaeology Books

A valuable tool for you as you approach the Bible is a good survey of the results of archaeological investigation in the lands of the Bible. This may deal with the OT world of particular areas, such as Egypt, Palestine, and Mesopotamia, etc.

Also, a book which as good photographs from the major archaeological sites will be of some value. Such a book can show Assyrian and Egyptian reliefs, Roman ruins, and other important items of portraying business life, methods of warfare, architectural features, religious items, relics of daily life which will add understanding to the biblical text.

OT and NT Introductions

You need at least one good 'Introduction to the OT and one to the NT. This will give you the basic information necessary to understanding the Bible as a whole, as well as giving your specific introductory information to the individual books.

The value of an introduction for an interpreter ties in the background which is given for each book, as well as a summary or analysis of its message. No passage should be interpreted until you are familiar with the book in which the passage Is found. It is also helpful to know how the passage fits into the developing message of the Bible.

Commentaries

The final tools you as an interpreter needs are good commentaries. They are important for a variety of reasons:

They, have insight into the background of books.

They give help in the areas of historical, archaeological, and literary backgrounds into a passage.

They give aid in studying grammatical and syntactical relations within a particular passage, and assistance in understanding words and meanings and developments.

They relate a passage to other similar or significant passages throughout the Bible.

MINISTRY GIFTS

INTRODUCTION

This is a study on the fulltime ministry gifts that Jesus has given to the Church. With a better understanding of these offices I believe we will better appreciate their influence in the churchworld today.

CHRIST'S PROVISION FOR THE CHURCH

Ephesians 4:812 Read all of it

Who gave these gifts?

The seminary? The deacon board? An electoral vote? No, Jesus gave these gifts or offices to the Church.

He only gave the Evangelist?

No He gave all five gifts to the Church.

When did He give them?

When He ascended on high where He now sits at God's right hand.

For what purpose did He give these ministry gifts?

For the perfecting or maturing of the saints

For the work of the ministry

To the building up of the body of Christ

For how long did He give the ministry gifts?

Vs 13 til we all come in the unity of faith until Jesus comes back for theChurch.

When Jesus comes back we will still have babies in Christ. Until Christ comes all of us will never come to that place of complete maturity.

Note:Some areas of Christendom have not matured beyond a certain stage of growth because they recognize only two or three ministry gifts.

It takes all of these ministries functioning to edify the body of Christ.

GOD SETS THE MINISTRY GIFTS IN THE CHURCH

1 Corinthians 12:27,28 and God hath set the gifts. (Jesus gives them to the Church, God sets them where He wants them, not man. Man cannot call or set in anyone.) If a man or woman has no calling from God, we have no business setting them into offices.

REASONS FOR NOT GOING INTO THE MINISTRY

Because you think it is a good idea.

Because someone else says you should, like your parents, spouse, close friend.

Husbands if you are called and your wife is not, don't try to call her yourself. Wife if you are called and your husband is not, don't try to call him yourself.

Seeing a need is not a call.

HOW YOU CAN TELL A DIVINE CALL

You will have the conviction in your spirit. You will have the witness in your heart, way down in your inner man.

A divine compulsion on the inside of you.

An anointing will be in your ministry. God's men and women were always anointed for service. King Saul, King David

When a person is called, there is an anointing that comes through you. Otherwise you just stand up and talk and share what you have.

Don't look for a supernatural visitation, just go by the inward intuition. Don't look for signs. Example: If the congregation is up in attendance, I must be called. If it is down, I must not be called. If only two people show up, just be faithful anyhow.

GOD EQUIPS THOSE MINISTERS WHO ARE CALLED

Those people whom God calls, He equips with spiritual gifts. Education is good, but we need more than education. We need a ministry equipped with supernatural gifts. Let Christ do it.

VARIETY AND BALANCE

One of the most fascinating things concerning the ministry gifts of Christ is their variety.

Apostles the Apostle's office seems to embrace almost every type of ministry.

Prophets the Prophet's ministry is inspirational. He speaks by direct, divine, inspiration and revelation.

Evangelists He has a direct endowment from the Lord to preach the Word.

Pastors He is a shepherd of God's sheep.

Teachers Teach the word not with natural ability, but by the divine ability of the Holy Spirit.

THE DIVINE PLAN IS FOR EACH MINISTRY WHICH GOD HAS SET IN THE CHURCH TO COMPLIMENT THE OTHER, PROVIDING A CHECK AND BALANCE.

Example:

The prophet is to inspire the teacher.

The teacher is to steady the prophet.

The evangelist reminds the pastor of the lost and dying world still out there.

The pastor shows the evangelist that those souls need caring for after they are saved.

The apostle shows all of them the need for fresh conquest on other lands.

A person can stand in more than one office, but we separate them to define them.

THE APOSTLE

APOSTLE

OBJECTIVES:

What are the four classes of apostles?

General background and understanding of one who stands in the office of an apostle

The behavioral and character requirements of all ministers of the gospel

The signs of a true apostle

How to recognize false apostles

The parameters of an apostle's ministry

There are four classes of apostles.

First Class

Jesus, the Apostle. He stands alone - Hebrews 3: 1, Luke 20:13, John 17:18, Isaiah 19:20

Jesus was a sent one.

Second Class: Foundation Apostles

The Twelve Apostles of the Lamb - Revelation 21:4, Acts 1: 15 22, Revelation 21:4

No one else can ever be in that class.

These were sent ones for a specific time and purpose

They were ministers of the gospel.

They were eye witnesses of His earthly ministry.

They were eye witnesses of His resurrection and sent to tell others

God used these apostles to lay down New Testament doctrine. - Ephesians 2:20

Third Class

Those who laid down New Testament doctrine but were not eye witnesses of Jesus' earthly ministry, death or resurrection.

Other apostles in this class:

Silas and Timothy I Thes 1: 1, 1 Thes 2:6

Apollos 1 Corinthians 4:49

Epaphroditus Philippians 2:25

Andronicus and Junia Romans 16:7

Two unnamed men 2 Corinthians 8:23

The apostle Paul was in this class Ephesians 3:45

The Lord's brother, James, who wrote the book of James Gal 1:9 was also in this class.

Fourth Class

Today's missionaries and certain pastors (will expound later)

There are NO foundation apostles today.

The foundation of the New Testament has already been laid.

Ephesians 2,19, 20

1 Corinthians 3:10

We build on that foundation, Jesus being the chief cornerstone.

That kind of anointing is not on today's apostles. If it was, they could add to the already established scriptures of the New Testament.

Anyone claiming to add to the scriptures is false.

MINISTRY GIFT FIRST GIVEN TO THE CHURCH

Ephesians 4:11

Romans 12:48

1 Corinthians 12:28

This list of ministry gifts is not a list of ministries according to hierarchy of importance.

This is a list of ministry gifts of how they became developed in the body of Christ.

DEVELOPMENT OF THE CHURCH

Apostles did everything at first. They operated in all the gifts to some degree.

Prophets Acts 13:1

Evangelist Acts 8

Pastors Acts 14:23, Acts 15,2, Acts 20:28

Teachers Acts 2:42.Acts 13:1

OVERSIGHT OF CHURCHES

Paul only had spiritual oversight of churches while he was establishing them. He had no oversight in the church at Jerusalem. Once he left a church he had established, he delegated that oversight to others. Acts 20:28

The pastor is the highest authority in the local church.

Apostles are not the authority in the local church.

THE WORD, APOSTLE

The Greek word "apostle" is translated from the word "apostolos" meaning a sent one. In the classical Greek, the word "apostle" used as a noun meant a "commissioned messenger" or an "ambassador". Used as a verb, it means "to send off or out".

A person who was sent to do a specific job was called an apostle because he was sent specifically to accomplish a certain task.

FOURTH CLASS OF APOSTLES

There are some in the body of Christ today who stand in the apostolic office in a measure as those sent out with a message.

These are commissioned by the Holy Spirit to bring a specific message or ministry along a certain scriptural line to the body of Christ. Philippians 2:25 Epaphroditus

He was called a messenger apostolos in the Greek

Example: Smith Wigglesworth was sent to the body of Christ as an apostle of faith. He brought revelation to the body of Christ on the doctrine of faith.

MISSIONARIES

A true missionary is a sent one by the Holy Ghost with a message to people of certain countries.

Missionaries today are doing the work of an apostle if they not only have the ability to get people saved as the evangelist does, but they also have the ability to start and establish churches.

PASTORS WHO STAND IN THE APOSTOLIC OFFICE

A pastor can sometimes stand in the apostolic office i a measure if he is sent by the Holy Spirit to build a church in a certain city. In that sense, he is a sent one to that city or community with a message.

Not every pastor sent to a city would qualify as an apostle. He would have to possess the other characteristics and spiritual qualities of the apostolic call operating in his life and ministry. (We will cover more on this later.)

Ex: James, the Lord's brother. He was an overseer or pastor in Jerusalem, but was also called an apostle. Galatians 1: 19 1 Corinthians 15:7 Acts 15:3 Acts 12:17

We do not know of any churches that he established by this point.

CHARACTERISTICS OF THE APOSTOLIC CALL

Paul as an example

A call to the ministry - Acts 13:14

A preacher or teacher

1 Timothy 2:7 ordained a teacher

2 Timothy 1: 11 ordained a preacher

A true apostle will have a submitted ministry.

He is able to submit his ministry to other proven ministers. - Galatians 2:1,2

He was commissioned to bring that gospel to a specific group of people (such as the Gentiles).

His apostolic authority did not extend to everyone. He did not have unlimited apostolic authority.

He had the fruit of an apostolic ministry.

His message was the gospel.

SIGNS OF A TRUE APOSTLE

Signs, wonders, mighty deeds 2 Corinthians 12:12

A very deep personal experience with the Lord, beyond the ordinary.

Acts 9:5,6

Acts 26:1310 the apostle Paul

QUALIFICATIONS FOR THE APOSTOLIC MINISTRY

Some ministers do not prepare themselves to stand in the ministry God has called them to. 1 Timothy 3:17 Read it all

These qualifications can be applied to all the ministry gifts.

verse 3 He must not be a lover of money insatiable desire for wealth and ready to obtain it by questionable means.

He must not use his office to extort money from people. We raise money to preach the gospel. We don't preach the gospel to raise money.

Example: Judas Iscariot He disqualified himself.

Verse 6 Not a novice

A person could be saved for many years and still be a novice if they have not developed spiritually.

FALSE APOSTLES

A true apostle = plants and establishes new works in the Lord's name on a sound biblical foundation the Word of God

False apostles = counterfeits the real out of impure motives for reasons of personal gain.

They are arbitrary and exclusive and bring people under bondage.

MOTIVATION

One called to the apostolic office who has taken time to develop his character would rather hide himself and lift up Jesus.

He will make sure he bases his ministry solidly on the Word rather than on spiritual gifts or signs and wonders.

His concern is for the whole body of Christ.

PREPARE YOURSELF

Through studying the Word of God and preparing your heart.

Separation from the things of the world and things that take up valuable time.

Serve right where you are. Be faithful in the local church.

As you are faithful to prepare yourself, He will be faithful to open doors for ministry.

THE PROPHET

OBJECTIVES:

What constitutes the office of a prophet?

The difference between the prophet's ministry in the OT and NT

The Holy Spirit versus Familiar Spirits

Visions and Revelations

What goes with a prophet's ministry?

Misconceptions about prophets The Old Testament prophets were the preachers and teachers under the old Covenant.

They had an anointing to teach and preach under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit. They were teachers and preachers.

They spoke for God by inspiration.

Under the Old Covenant, the prophet gave guidance to the people because they didn't have the Holy Spirit living inside them.

They were called "seers" because they would see into the realm of the spirit and see and know things supernaturally.

The Old Testament office of a prophet consisted more of foretelling. As they preached to the people, they would stop and begin to foretell about the coming Messiah. Then, they would take right up where they had left off preaching by inspiration to the Israelites about following God.

Some Old Testament prophets wrote scriptures under the anointing. They were foundational in that way

PROPHET, PRIEST AND KING

Under the Old Covenant, the only people who were specially anointed by God were the prophet, priest and king.

The office of the king was not a preacher. His anointing was to govern.

The office of the priest was not a preacher. His anointing was in the tabernacle or temple as a mediator. They would remind the people of the law but they were not anointed for preaching or teaching.

David was a prophet, priest and king.

Acts 2:25,30 11 Samuel 5:12 11 Samuel 24:25

King Saul tried to intrude into the office of a priest.

Sometimes God would single out certain people to carry out special jobs. He would anoint them to perform the task like Gideon. Judges 6:3640.

NEW TESTAMENT SAINTS

We are living in a time of fulfillment of the Old Testament prophecies.

We have a better covenant based upon better promises. Hebrews 8:6

God dwells in us. 2 Corinthians 6:16, Romans 8:9, 2 Corinthians 4:7

In the Old Testament, they had certain instructions concerning worship. They had to go to the tabernacle in Jerusalem where the ark was located. John 4:20

The Holy Spirit dwells in us. John 14:17

All believers are priests and kings under the New Covenant. I Peter 2:9, Rev 5:9,1 0

HOW DOES GOD LEAD THE BELIEVER IN THE NEW TESTAMENT?

The number one way all believers, including the prophets, are led, is by the inward witness. Romans 8:16, Colossians 3:15

The still small voice. I Kings 19:12, John 10:27

The authoritative voice of the Holy Spirit in their own spirit. Acts 8:29, Acts 10:19, Acts 11:12

Rarely will God lead by a vision or a revelation, but that happens more frequently to those called to the office of the prophet. They have visions and revelations.

THERE ARE THREE TYPES OF VISIONS

A spiritual vision a person has a vision in his spirit, or sees in his spirit. This is the lowest type of vision.

A trance when one falls into a trance, his physical senses are suspended for the moment. He is not aware of where he is or anything that contacts the physical.

Acts 22:17,18 Paul in a trance

Acts 10: 10, 11 Peter in a trance

An open vision this is the highest type of vision, a person's physical senses are not suspended. His physical eyes are not closed, yet he sees into the spirit realm. (Like Jesus walking into a room.)

PROPHETS ARE NOT GUIDES IN THE NEW TESTAMENT

Prophets confirm what God has already spoken to the hearts of believers.

Acts 11:28 Agabus foretold a future event but did not direct the church.

Acts 2 1: 10,11 Agabus prophecies a word of knowledge about Paul going to Jerusalem. Paul already knew by the Holy Spirit Acts 20:22,23

WHAT IS A NEW TESTAMENT PROPHET?

A person called to the fulltime ministry.

A preacher or a teacher of the Word.

They speak from the inspiration of the moment, many times with no planned outline. (Forthtelling)

They have revelation gifts operating in their ministries on a more consistent basis.

They may also foretell future events but only as the Spirit wills.

Their prophecies come to pass and they line up with the Word of God.

NO FOUNDATIONAL PROPHETS

We do not have any foundational prophets today. Just like the apostle. If we had that kind of anointing, we would be able to add to the New Testament scriptures. Ephesians 2:19, 20

Paul was also a foundational prophet.

JESUS WAS A PROPHET

He taught and preached. Matthew 9:35

He was anointed for the fulltime ministry. Luke 4:18

He moved in the revelation gifts. John 4:18 woman at the well John 1:47 Nathaniel John 13:38 the cock would crow three times Matthew 17:27 coins in the fish's mouth Luke 5:4 a draught of fishes Matthew 21:2 a donkey tied

Jesus had the Spirit without measure. John 3:34

Jesus called Himself a prophet. Mark 6:16

His prophecies came to pass and they were based on the Word of God.

The temple being destroyed

His death, burial and resurrection

Peter would be martyred

His disciples would be hated

PRIVATE MANIFESTATIONS

Jesus is a good example of a true prophet. He preached the Word first or taught. He moved in the revelation gifts, word of knowledge word of wisdom, discerning of spirits, but this occurred many times in private.

The Apostle Paul was also a prophet. He wrote a large portion of the New Testament through the revelation of the Holy Spirit. Ephesians 3:3

But, Paul was first a preacher and a teacher of the Word of God. 1 Timothy 2:7

2 Timothy 1: 11

Paul did not run around prophesying over people.

OLD TESTAMENT PRIVATE MANIFESTATIONS

1 Kings 17:19 Zarephath woman

2 Kings 5: 10 Naaman

2 Kings 5:2527 Gehazi

Many times the manifestations of the Holy Spirit is operating in the private life of a prophet.

TRYING TO MAKE SOMETHING HAPPEN

A prophet can get off course spiritually thinking God is going to move by the gifts of the Spirit in every service. The Holy Spirit may or He may not; it is as He wills, not as man wills. 1 Corinthians 12:11

Prophets can open themselves up to familiar spirits

When God uses a minister mightily, he can get lifted up in pride. He can walk away from God and get into sin or he can get moneyminded and greedy and lose the anointing. Then, they listen to any voice that comes to them without checking. They try to operate in spiritual gifts on their own to direct people's lives.

These familiar spirits give them information about people. Acts 16:16

Many Voices

By operating in the flesh without the anointing, you move into the realm where there are many spirits and many voices.

It is possible to yield to the wrong spirit.

Matthew 16:16 thou art the Christ

Matthew 16:23 Get thee behind me, Satan

Luke 9:54,55 James and John

Acts 8:924 Simeon

OLD TESTAMENT PRIVATE MANIFESTATIONS

1 Kings 17:19 Zarephath woman

2 Kings 5: 10 – Naaman2 Kings 5:2527 Gehazi

Many times the manifestations of the Holy Spirit is operating in the private life of a prophet.

TRYING TO MAKE SOMETHING HAPPEN

A prophet can get off course spiritually thinking God is going to move by the gifts of the Spirit in eve service. The Holy Spirit may or He may not; it is as He wills, not as man wills. 1 Corinthians 12:11

PROPHETS CAN OPEN THEMSELVES UP TO FAMILIAR SPIRITS

When God uses a minister mightily, he can get lifted up in pride. He can walk away from God and get into sin, or he can get moneyminded and greedy and lose the anointing. Then, they listen to any voice that comes to them without checking. They try to operate in spiritual gifts on their own to direct people's lives.

These familiar spirits give them information about people. Acts 16:16

MANY VOICES

By operating in the flesh without the anointing, you move into the realm where there are many spirits and many voices.

It is possible to yield to the wrong spirit.

Matthew 16:16 - thou art the Christ

Matthew 16:23 - Get thee behind me, Satan

Luke 9:54,55 - James and John

Acts 8:924 - Simon

Acts 5:14 Ananias and Sapphira

Luke 22:3 Judas

1 John 4:1 Beloved, believe not every spirit but try the spirits whether they are of God: because many false prophets are gone into the world.

HOW CAN YOU LEARN THE DIFFERENCE?

1 John 5:8 the Spirit and the Word agree

John 16:13 the Holy Spirit leads us into all truth

John 10:4,5 a stranger we will not follow

1 John 4:1 will not exalt man

HOW TO KEEP FROM GETTING OFF

Stay close to God

Stay in the Word

Exalt God, not yourself

JUDGING PROPHECIES

Does it line up with the Word? 1 Corinthians 14:29, 1 Thes 5:21

Does it edify, exhort or comfort? 1 Corinthians 14:23

Does it edify the whole church? 1 Corinthians 14:12

ANY SPIRITFILLED BELIEVER

Just because gifts of the Spirit flow through you occasionally, that does not make you a prophet. Any spiritfilled believer may have an occasional manifestation of revelation gifts as the need arises.

Acts 21:9 Philip had four daughters which did prophecy, but that in itself did not make them prophets or prophetesses.

YOU CANNOT CALL YOURSELF

Men and women who are called to the office of the prophet, are called to a fulltime ministry office.

They are called and set apart by God to the ministry.

They can't call themselves into a ministry office.

NO PROPHETS IN THE LAITY

There are NO prophets in the laity.

Those in the laity are not spiritually equipped, nor do they have the anointing to stand in a ministry office.

IMITATING A PROPHET

Some people see a prophet operate in some of the more spectacular demonstrations of the revelation gifts of the Spirit, and they think they can do that, too. Then, they try to prophesy using revelation gifts, and they are either prophesying in the flesh or they are 'inspired by occult power.

MISCONCEPTIONS CONCERNING PROPHETS

Prophets do not know everything about people's life or situations. It is only as the Holy Spirit reveals this. 2 Kings 5:2527

There are socalled prophets today who teach that they can prophesy every time they lay hands on people. This is impossible and unscriptural. 1 Corinthians 12:11

WHAT GOES WITH A PROPHET'S MINISTRY?

Laying on of hands.

A healing ministry goes along with the prophet's office.

Luke 4:27 Naaman the Syrian

2 Kings 5:3 10 Elisha had a healing ministry and people knew it.

Jesus stood in the office of a prophet and He had a healing ministry. John 9:6,7 Luke 7:1214

Let God set you in your place in the body of Christ.

If you think God has called you to the ministry office of a prophet, let Him put you into that office.

As you are faithful to do what He gives you as you are maturing spiritually, eventually when He sees that He can trust you with it, He will set you into that office.

THE EVANGELIST

OBJECTIVES:

1.Understanding of the office of an evangelist

2.What accompanies an evangelist's ministry?

3.The purpose of Healings and Miracles

4.The need for other ministry offices

Luke 4:8 He has anointed me to preach

Ephesians 4:11,12

1 Corinthians 12:2 8.. miracles, then gifts of Healings

The word "evangelist" occurs three times in the New Testament.

1.Ephesians 4:11,12

2.Acts 21:8

3.2 Timothy 4:5

The meaning of the word "evangelist" is: one who brings the good news, a messenger of good tidings. Evangel = good news

The evangelist's favorite theme is SALVATION in the simplest form, not the rapture or the covenants of the Bible. The only New Testament example we have of an evangelist is Philip. Philip's ministry is the only model we have. Philip had one message and that was Jesus Christ.

Acts 8:5 and preached Christ unto them Acts 8:35 and preached unto them Jesus.

No matter what scripture the evangelist starts out with they preach Jesus. That is their calling.

WHAT ACCOMPANIES THE EVANGELIST'S MINISTRY?

The supernatural will accompany the evangelist's ministry, miracles and gifts of healings. 1 Corinthians 12:28 miracles, then gifts of healings. is referring to the evangelist. Healings. and miracles can go with other offices also but they do definitely accompany an evangelist.

Acts 8:58 hearing and seeing the miracles which he did.

What we call an evangelist, many times is really an exhorter. Romans 12:8

An exhorter exhorts the people to get saved, but miracles and gifts of healings. do not follow. A person may start out as an exhorter and get to be an evangelist later.

An evangelist needs no pleading from others. A true evangelist will not need someone to tell them to win the lost because there will be a divine urge burning in them.

Example: Philip was in the ministry of helps. He was ordained a deacon, yet we find him down in Samaria with this heavenly gift burning in his spirit. Also, to the Ethiopian, which is how the nation of Africa received the Gospel. An evangelist cannot help but preach the gospel.

Example: A missionary on the bus to the Darien, got all of them saved. The bus stopped at a regular bus stop and a man wouldn't get off until our missionary friend prayed with him to receive Christ. She got the whole bus to pray and receive Jesus. That's an evangelist!

THE PURPOSE OF MIRACLES AND HEALINGS

Miracles and Healings is the finest way of advertising there can be. Divine power will draw a crowd. Miracles and Healings arrest and compel attention. Once you get the people's attention, you preach the gospel to them.

Acts 8:6 They gave heed to what Philip spoke after they saw the miracles.

PREACH THE WORD

Even after these people in Acts 8 saw the miracles, no one was saved until Philip preached. They were saved as a result of his preaching. Acts 8:12

THE NEED FOR OTHER MINISTRY GIFT OFFICES

The evangelist needs the ministry gifts of the pastor and the teacher to help him.

Acts 8:14 Peter and John go to these converts and get them filled with the Holy Spirit.

Philip had no ability to establish a church so he needed the apostle. Philip did his job by getting people saved. One person will never be able to do everything. The evangelist has a traveling ministry. He does not settle down in one place for long.

THE PASTOR

OBJECTIVES:

Understanding of pastoral office and government

Purpose and function of deacon boards

Early church development of pastors

Definition of a pastor

The role of a pastor

Different church structures

Accountability of pastors

THE EARLY CHURCH

At first, the early church did not have pastors; the only recognized ministry was the Apostles of the Lamb. God raised up Paul to go to the Gentiles. Acts 18:11 Acts 20:31 He would start churches. Paul would choose older men to oversee new works. The Greek word "elder" literally means an older person.

As the church grew and men and women matured, the ministry gift of a pastor would come forth.

ELDERS

As a church had time to grow and develop, the meaning of elder changed as well.

Example:

Acts 19:17 the baby stage of the Ephesus church

Acts 20:17, 28 the church has now grown and is now being overseen not just by elderly people, but by those who are anointed to pastor. Paul addresses them as elders or overseers. These elders had developed into teachers and preachers.

Example # 1:

In Acts 20:28 When Paul addresses elders or pastors, he is talking about people who are called to the fulltime ministry. Preachers and teachers who are spiritually equipped to feed the flock of God, the Word.

*These elders were not businessmen put in charge of the church.

*Businessmen have no anointing on them to stand in the pastoral office.

*Every ordained minister is an elder, whether he is an apostle, prophet, evangelist, pastor or teacher.

*Elder is not a separate office from the fivefold ministry.

Example #2

In a large church, there may be several pastors on staff, several licensed ministers and teachers. These all would be considered elders. They would be ones that have an anointing to shepherd and feed the flock of God.

DEACONS

Deacons have no anointing on them to stand in the pastoral office. Acts 6:16, unless, of course, they are in a season of preparation because they have a higher call. They, along with businesspersons, can offer expertise in the area of finances or other areas of need.

ORDINATION

That is the reason the Bible teaches that we are not to take a novice and put him in an office of authority or in a ministry office 1 Timothy 3:6

Not to lay hands suddenly 1 Timothy 5:22

We are to wait until he or she proves their ministry and gains some spiritual maturity and experience before he is ordained to full eldership in the body of Christ.

Eldership is not for those just starting out in ministry or for spiritual novices.

Example:

In Panama, we had a couple who were in a season of maturing spiritually in proving their ministry. We finally ordained them to full eldership and they are pastoring a church today.

GOVERNMENTS

In 1 Corinthians 12:28 governments is referring to the pastoral office.

Nowhere in scripture do we find the government of a local body headed up by the apostle, prophet, evangelist, or teacher.

* The pastor is the highest authority i the local church.

Governments is a distinct ministry gift, not a combination of all the ministry gifts together, forming some kind of a church government.

James made the final decisions in Jerusalem.

Acts 15:22,23 Acts 15:13

APOSTLES MAY PASTOR FOR A SHORT TIME

The apostle may pastor for a while, but ultimately, he will turn it over and start new works.

An apostle should be a member of a local church.

THE WORD "SHEPHERD"

The words "shepherd" and "pastor" come from the same Greek word "poimen" which Vine's Expository explains as a "shepherd", one who tends herds or flocks (not merely one who feeds them) and is used metaphorically of Christian pastors. Pastors help give guidance, as well as feed the flock.

The same Greek word that is translated "overseer" in Acts 20:28 is translated as "bishop" in 1 Timothy 3:1

It is the Greek word "episkopos" and it is translated as "superintendent, bishop, or overseer" and according to Vine's, is another word for elder.

* The bishop, overseer, shepherd, pastor and elder, all describe the pastoral office.

* The term "elder" may apply to other offices as well.

The word "pastor" is only used once in Ephesians 4:11, however, it has many varying forms (bishop, elder, overseer, and shepherd) and are used many times throughout the New Testament.

THE LOCAL CHURCH

Jesus is the Great Shepherd of the sheep.

John 10: 11 I am the good shepherd

Hebrews 13:20 that Great Shepherd of the sheep

1 Peter 2:25 unto the shepherd and bishop of your souls

1 Peter 5:4 the Chief Shepherd shall appear

Matthew 23:37 How often would I have gathered thy children together, even as a hen gathereth her chickens under her wings, and ye would not.

Jeremiah 12: 10 the sheep hear his voice

THE SENIOR PASTOR

Ephesians 4:11

1 Corinthians 12:28

Jeremiah 3:15

Jeremiah 23:14

There is only one senior pastor. Anything with more than one head is a freak. There can be many associate pastors. These would have the daily oversight and care of the church. These would be elders.

You can have a plurality of elders if they have one senior pastor overseeing them. A plurality of elders without one head is a mess (Example of a church I once attended.)

ATTACKS ON THE CHURCH

The two things the devil attacks more than anything are the family and the Church.

God puts a blessing on the local church.

Sheep are scattered without a pastor . Matthew 9:35,36

TV and Radio ministries do not take the place of the local church

Hebrews 10:25

THE TITHE

The tithe belongs to God

He directs it to the local storehouse Malachi 3:10

Old Testament . the Temple and Levites (stranger, orphan, widow) New Testament . the local church

Tithing was before, during and after the Law

Before:Genesis 14:1820 . Abraham Genesis 28:2022 . Jacob

During: Malachi 3: 10

After:Hebrews 7:18

Deut 18:17 . a pastor should eventually be supported financially Numbers 18:2126 . a tenth went to the Levites 1 Corinthians 9:115 . Even so hath the Lord ordained 1 Timothy 5:17,18 . Do not muzzle the ox

Jesus had women that followed His ministry and supported Him.

THE MARKS OF A TRUE SHEPHERD

The pastor is like a daddy of a family. He loves the sheep in a way that an evangelist, prophet, or teacher cannot love them because he has the shepherd's anointing on him.

A shepherd's heart is a gift from God.

A pastor is stationary in the local church.

A pastor will either be a preacher or a teacher of the Word, but his main office is to pastor.

If a minister just has the teaching gift, then his ministry gift is teaching, not the pastoral office.

Just because a person can preach or teach does not make him a pastor.

A pastor would rather minister to the needs of the sheep than do anything else.

A minister who doesn't want to be around the sheep is not a pastor.

A pastor won't want to leave after he preaches. He will greet the people.

A PASTOR IS NOT A DICTATOR

He must be seasoned in patience.

He will love people, just as they are, seeing his flock through the eyes of faith.

The pastor will feed the flock a wellbalanced meal.

Acts 20:28

Jeremiah 23:14

1 Peter 5:2

John 21:1517

1 Timothy 4:13

He will correct with the Word. 2 Timothy 4:2,3

GOVERNING THE LOCAL BODY SPIRITUALLY AND NATURALLY

1 CORINTHIANS 12:28 GOVERNMENTS IT HAS TWO SIDES: THE SPIRITUAL AND THE NATURAL.

The natural side which is buying property, building new buildings, buying equipment

He can delegate some things but still needs to maintain some oversight of the financial areas

He can have an advisory board to help counsel him in business matters.

Acts 6:16 the deacons did not decide the doctrine of the church. They were put in charge of the monies.

Men of honest report

TAKING OVER A CHURCH

Deacon board can change.

Do not be dictatorial.

Do not make any major changes for the first few years. Let people know you love them.

If you can't work with the existing board, do not take the pastorate.

Provide all things honest in the sight of all men. Romans 12:17

SMALL CHURCHES

A small church does not need elders or associate pastors. Let it grow first.

MINISTERIAL ACCOUNTABILITY

Every minister ought to be accountable to someone. Romans 14:7 Romans 12:5 1 Corinthians 12:12

Every pastor needs a pastor Proverbs 24:6

MINISTERIAL RESTORATION

Galatians 6:1 restore such a one

FINANCIAL ACCOUNTABILITY

A board of advisors is good to have for handling business affairs, but not spiritual oversight or running the church.

FALSE PASTORS

Anyone who is in the ministry for personal gain and does not have the people at heart is false. The person who teaches things that hurt and divide his flock. A pastor should be a person who protects from false ministers which divide churches.

DISCOVER YOUR MEASURE AS A PASTOR AND LEADER

Captains of Tens, Fifties, Hundreds and Thousands

(Ex 18:19; 1 Chron 134: 1; 1 Chron 28: 1; Romans 12:12)

CAPTAINS OF TENS PASTORAL HOME GROUP LEADER

Measure: 1540 people including children

Father or Mother of an extended family

Does not have to have any public ministry

Deals with people on a onetoone basis

Does not need any organizational skills

Does not need a public pulpit teaching gift

Knows scripture but imparts truth in a conversational way

Is a lover of people and delights to spend time with them

Small things matter to him

His life and marriage are an example to others

Main gift is pastoral

Does not initiate strategy or vision

A loyal follower of those who do

He speaks positively and is an encourager

He cultivates loyalty in those who follow him towards the leadership

His life is characterized by joy and thanksgiving

He stewards for another the elders and knows it

Could be a person of greater measure on his way to his ministry

CAPTAIN OF TEN DEACON IN CHARGE OF A TASK

Many of the qualities of the above

But will have the ability to organize and supervise the task allotted to him

Will have a fatherly or motherly pastoral attitude to those who he leads

Often a training ground for a tie for those of greater gift to learn faithfulness and servanthood (Luke 16:1012)

CAPTAINS OF FIFTIES LOCAL CONGREGATIONAL ELDER/PASTOR

Measure: 70200 people including children

Still primarily a Father of a larger extended family

He is a lover of people and they love him and feel free to come to him

On first name relationships with everybody

Wants to be known by everybody and have time for them. A great desire to always be available to everybody

Can teach publicly as well as personally

Has some organizational skills, but he does everything himself with others helping him

Everyone comes to him for help

Everything comes to him for decisions

As concerns are people and his vision is local

His teaching concentrates on the practical issues of living, character and personal growth.

He does not know how to release and develop leadership

He does not initiate strategy and vision

In his heart he longs for someone to follow and be over him

He is insecure as Number One (though he will often seek to function as one out of a desire to prove himself)

He is not able to identify gift and ministry and put it to work

If not secure, men of greater gift are a threat to him

Even more so with women

People of greater gift in his church love him, but after a while get frustrated and often leave, usually with gratitude

Without external relationships and input from greater gift men, the church muddles on as a happygo lucky family, gaining a few, losing a few, but never really growing beyond his measure

Needs to be a part of something bigger

CAPTAINS OF HUNDREDS LEADER OF THE LARGER CHURCH

Measure: 150500 people including children

Has a clear ability to teach publicly

Has a clear ability to rule or lead (1 Timothy 5:17)

Has a clear organizing ability

He delegates tasks knows how to release people to serve

But the buck still stops with him and everything still passes over his desk for decision

He is limited in his ability to initiate strategy or vision beyond the local church

His concerns are still primarily local and concerning people

He still tries to know everybody by name and to know what is happening in their lives

His main gift is still pastoral

He often has plurality of leadership but they are helpers and servants to him and he never really releases control

He feels insecure if he does not know all that is going on and has a hand in it personally

He longs for someone to consult and be accountable to

He is insecure as a Number One though often functions this way as he has to prove himself

He is not able to identify gift and ministry

He does not know how to release and develop leadership

If he is not secure, men of greater gift are a threat to him

Even more so with women

Without external relationships and input from greater gift men, the church muddles on as a happygo lucky family, gaining a few, losing a few, but never really growing beyond his measure

People of greater gift get frustrated after a while and leave the church and move on to something else, usually with gratitude

Needs to be part of something bigger

CAPTAINS OF THOUSANDS CITY CHURCH

EPH. 4 MINISTRY Measure: 1000's

Has an effective public ministry to large crowds

His ministry draws the people

He holds the people and is "known" by his public ministry. He is able to share his heart and is transparent publicly so the people really feel they know him and can trust him though they have never had time with him on a personal basis

He is a good organizer and motivator on a broad scale

He releases areas of responsibility with power to make unilateral decisions to others but still holds them accountable for the quality of what they do

He keeps his finger on everything but does not get involved with the details

He is primarily concerned with vision and strategy the work of the Kingdom, not the daily care of people's lives

He has a big vision, beyond the local church

His main concern is to spot gift and leadership, develop it and release it

He draws gifted men to him like a magnet and is not made insecure by them

He inspires these gifted men and draws them on to be bigger and to do bigger things than they would ever do on their own

He is primarily concerned with leaders and motivating them and directing them

He understands submission and can work in a team under another leader as well as being able to lead

He is strong enough to take hold of difficult relationship situations and resolve them, even if there is pain involved in bringing the situation to clarity

He is able to bring correction to strong leaders

He is secure enough not to have to be liked by everybody

Such gifts are born rather than trained He fears God rather than the people, yet is a lover of men and a servant at heart

Nevertheless, such gifted men need their gift to be developed and trained by special fathering by those already developed and mature in this ministry

The early years of such men are often difficult because they often serve under Captains of 50's and 100's who tend to shut them down. It can be a part of their training to develop character and humility, but it should not continue for too long

There are some big gift men who are not called to organize or oversee anything. They are released to bring their gift to serve in the wider body of Christ. They are Captains off 1,000's in their ranking but do not actually lead a lot of people and do not have any direct

responsibility for a significant work. They still need to be fitted in and submitted to apostolic oversight. They need a nondemanding secure base to go out from.

THE TEACHER

OBJECTIVES:

Understanding of the office of a teacher.

Teaching ministry is not dry.

Fundamental doctrines of the Church.

The marks of a teacher.

Things to avoid as a teacher.

JESUS, OUR EXAMPLE OF A TEACHER

Luke 3:21,22 Holy Ghost came upon Him

Philippians 2:7 and took upon Him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of man

Luke 4:14 returned in the power of the Spirit

Luke 4:15 and He taught in their synagogues

Verse 18 the Spirit of the Lord is upon me

Jesus moved in all the ministry gifts without measure John 3:34

The anointing was upon Him to teach

Other scriptures: Luke 13:22, Mark 4:1, Matthew 11: 1, Matthew 26:55

JESUS GIVES THE MINISTRY GIFTS

PURPOSE OF THE MINISTRY GIFTS

1 Corinthians 12:28,29 Ephesians 4:11 tells us that God has placed the ministry gift of a teacher in the church:

For the maturing of the saints

For the work of the ministry

Building up of the body of Christ

No one can make himself or herself a fivefold ministry gift teacher in the body of Christ.

All the education in the world will not make you a ministry gift teacher.

The ministry gift of a teacher is a man or a women who is called by God, who is set by the. Spirit of God to stand in that office

The teaching gift is a divine call.

We are all called in a general sense and because the Holy Spirit is in us we can teach what we have learned.

However, there are some called specifically into the fulltime ministry who are set by God into the office of a teacher.

All of those called to the ministry are first and foremost preachers and teachers of the Word of God, but some are fivefold ministry gift teachers.

STANDING IN MORE THAN ONE OFFICE

One can stand in the office of a pastorteacher, evangelistteacher, prophetteacher, but we have separated the offices so that we can better define them.

Example: Acts 3:1 = names five men who were either prophets or teachers, or prophet teachers.

Barnabus was a teacher Acts 11:2226

Paul was a prophetteacher who later became an apostle

PROPHETS IN THE OLD TESTAMENT

Prophets in the Old Testament were the preachers and teachers to the servants of the Lord. The anointing came upon them to teach and to preach to the people.

In the New Testament, however, the Holy Spirit lives inside a believer and there is an anointing through the Holy Spirit that dwells inside of us, that leads us and guides us into all truth.

1 John 2:27 John is writing to believers not to follow the false Gnostic teachings of so called philosophers, who lead people away into Gnosticism.

These Gnostics were trying to instill false doctrine about the different levels of intermediaries including angels, to reach God.

Listen to that still, small voice because it will lead you into truth. That anointing will teach you what is false and what is truth.

Teach" here means to impart instruction, instill doctrine into one.

God is now in you, and you don't need someone to teach you how to get to God.

John was in no way saying that we do not need the fivefold ministry gift of a teacher in the body of Christ.

Pastors are to teach their flock.

Older men are to teach younger men.

Older women are to teach younger women.

Motivational gift of training.

But we do have an anointing in us and we do not need some socalled false prophet to teach us on how to know God.

WHAT ARE THE EVIDENCES OF A MINISTRY GIFT TEACHER?

They will have an anointing

Anyone can get up and share what they have, but that does not mean they are a teaching gift.

A person who knows the Bible can teach what he knows, but this is not the teaching gift God is talking about in Eph. 4:11

This ministry gift of a teacher is not the same as teaching Sunday school or teaching in the secular field. (These are skills or abilities that one has, or has developed.)

There is a special anointing from Heaven that envelopes a person that stands in this office.

The ministry gift of a teacher will refresh the believer. I Cor 3:69. Paul describes the teaching ministry as watering. If a person is called to teach, it leaves people refreshed and revived. Just like watering a plant leaves it revived and refreshed. If teaching does not leave the people refreshed, it simply is not the power of the Holy Spirit. Apollos was a teacher. It was said of him that he helped much.

Acts 18:2428 – NOTE "I would rather have an anointed deacon than a dry teacher."

NOTE:It has nothing to do with how fast you talk or how eloquentyour words.

The teaching ministry will dispel unbelief - Mark 6:16

When people are in unbelief, sometimes the only thing that will remove it is the teaching ministry.

Some of these ministries that produce doubt and unbelief are not moving under the anointing.

THE WORK OF A TEACHER

The work of a teacher is to build people up, not tear them down.

Ephesians 4:11,12 the word edify means = to build up. If something you teach, even though it is true, is causing division, back off from it.

Paul said to the church at Corinth,, the Hebrews in particular, that there are some things I would like to tell you but you couldn't bear it, so I am just not going to tell you. Some people just cannot handle certain teachings because they are babies.

CHARACTERISTICS OF A TEACHER

Revelation you can't teach without it.

Teachers are willing to be taught.

Teachers are people of prayer and study.

You need to find out if your ministry is in the local church or to the Body of Christ at large. Some ministry gift teachers have a traveling ministry among churches. Acts 13:1 certain prophets and teachers in the church at Antioch. Paul and Barnabas had a higher call.

THE TEACHING MINISTRY IS IMPORTANT

The teaching office to the church is more important than the working of miracles or gifts of healings. These will never establish a Christian in faith. Teaching is more necessary to the believer.

THINGS TO AVOID AS A TEACHER

Do not be a "knowitall".

Keep a humble attitude. Knowledge can puff you up and cause you not to walk in love.

The teacher needs to embrace the other ministry gifts.

The prophet will inspire him.

He pastor will provoke him to love the sheep.

He evangelist will remind him of the lost.

The apostle will point to new conquests overseas.

WHERE TO START?

If you feel called to the fivefold teaching ministry:

Be faithful to prepare. Turn off the TV and spend time studying and preparing sermons, lessons.

Keep a notebook of your sermons and catalog them.

Start a cycle of truth and create lessons/sermons.

Teach the people God places in front of you TODAY. Start right were you are!

Step out in faith into new areas of opportunity.

FINAL THOUGHTS

Teachers are to be supported: Galatians 6:6 Communicate: to make one's necessity your own, so as to relieve them. Deut 18:17, Numbers 18:2032

Those that ministered full time were supported.

THE MINISTRY GIFT OF HELPS

OBJECTIVES:

Definition of ministry of helps

Understanding of deacons

Music ministry

Tongues and Interpretation

Becoming a better minister

Helpful hints in ministry

HELPS - 1 CORINTHIANS 12:2830

Romans 12:48 or ministering let us wait on our ministering

Right in the middle of this ministry gifts list in 1 Corinthians 12:28 right in the midst of apostles, prophets, teachers, evangelists, we find the ministry of helps. The Church world has been hurt by recognizing only two or three ministry gifts. Your calling might be to the ministry of helps and to push yourself into another office can cause problems.

DEACONS

You may sense the call of God and assume it is pastoring or an evangelist, but it may be 'in the helps ministry. In 1 Corinthians 12:28 the word "helper" = a helper or reliever. In Romans 12:7 or ministry, let us wait on our ministering. This is talking about deacons. The word "ministering or ministry" is diakonia it means relief, service or attendant.

Deacons are the men and women who serve in the ministry of helps. This word is also used in Philip 1: 1, 1 Timothy 3:8.It is the word used of Phebe in Romans 16:1 and it is translated "servant". The deacon's ministry in the early days of the church was having charge of the alms, and being an observer of the poor and sick.

The deacon's ministry is a divine call. Acts 6:16 describes the appointing of seven men.

Philip started out in the ministry of helps. He was helping the Apostles wait on tables so they could pray and give themselves to prayer and the ministry of the Word. He later became an evangelist.

Stephen started out in the ministry of helps and God used him in a mighty way. The other five men are not mentioned again, so evidently they continued in the ministry of helps.

Romans 16:3,4 Paul calls Priscilla and Aquilla helpers. Romans 16:6 Greet Mary

THE MUSIC MINISTRY

The music ministry is part of the helps ministry. It is an anointed ministry, it is not something someone does because they are talented. There is a difference between a person who is ministering in song and one who is singing.

The anointing will be all over the person called to minister in song to the Lord. Without the anointing, it is a strain on the people. You just know if the person is anointed or not.

2 Kings 3:15, 16 the prophet, Elisha, called for a minstrel.

This minstrel's playing his instrument was a help to the prophet getting into the spirit. Some worship leaders can actually hinder the anointing on the speaker instead of enhancing the anointing. I know because there have been times when I sensed the anointing within me but when the worship was over it had left me.

Anything that has to do with the operation of the church or with ministering could come under the ministry of helps. People who work in church offices are serving in the ministry of helps. When rewards are passed out, because the person was faithful,, they will receive a reward, just like the prophet or apostle.

Other positions ushers, greeters, church maintenance, book and tape, cleaning, etc, Sunday School, Youth and Children are all ministry of helps in the local church.

TONGUES AND INTERPRETATION - 1 CORINTHIANS 12:2830

This is not your devotional tongues between you and God. This is not just the gifts of the Spirit in the church. This is a real ministry of tongues and interpretation to the church. This is a gift ministering to others.

Do all speak with tongues? Paul is talking about the ministry gift of tongues to the church. All tongues, in essence, are the same but in purpose and use they are different.

Example Years ago a couple ministered to the public. He spoke messages in tongues and his wife interpreted.

FAITHFULNESS TO THE CALL

God did not plan any spiritual failures. God did not plan some to fail and some to succeed. So, ministers who fail either were never called or they are hopelessly unfaithful.

If you are a minister or going into the ministry you have to apply yourself to the calling of God upon your life. Just like you have to work at a marriage to make it the best, the same way you work on your ministry.

HOW DO I BECOME A BETTER MINISTER?

STUDY 2 TIMOTHY 2:15

Study to show thyself approved unto God, a workman that needs not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the Word of truth. Rightly dividing cutting straight.

Example: Did you ever see someone cut a piece of meat or fish crooked? Or cut a cake or pie crooked? Doesn't it irritate you?

We are to cut the Word straight by studying the meaning of words and verses of scripture, learning to take things in the context which it is given. This is why so many preachers trip when they get to passages on women's head coverings.

You must make study a part of your life. Preparation time is never lost. Every good minister should have a concordance. We were not allowed to graduate until we bought several study books.

Jesus studied the scriptures. Paul was a studied the scriptures. You cannot walk around with your head in the clouds and expect the Holy Spirit to give you revelation. Sometimes you must dig deep to get gold. Surface reading is okay but you must dig deeper.

Dedicate some ministers fail because they are only half dedicated. Dedicate every area of your life to God.

Matthew 26:3642 thy will be done

Luke 9:23 26 let him deny himself and take up his cross daily

Consecrate Even though you start at the bottom and not the top.

Submit to the Will of God Some ministers are like King Saul who thought it was better to sacrifice than to obey God. I Samuel 15:22,23

We must submit to the will of God to be a success.

Remain faithful No matter how hard it may seem, or how much you have been suffering, remain faithful to the call. God rewards faithfulness, not offices. If you are just preaching to two people, remain faithful.

If you are in another man's ministry, remain faithful. If you are faithful in another's, God will give you your own. Matthew 25:2123. You might say, "But, it is only a few people".

Luke 16: 10 He that is faithful in that which is least, is faithful also in much. He that is unjust in that which is least, is unjust in that which is much. Why should God give you more if you are not faithful in the little he has given you?

Example Second Year Bible school and School of Ministerial Training are usually those that go on into ministry. If you cannot be faithful in Bible School, the world of ministry is even harder. Why should God trust His people to you if you are not faithful?

FAITHFULNESS IS WHAT PROMOTES YOU

Some think because they are so gifted or talented they will be promoted but they usually are a loud horn just irritating to the ears. Why? Because they are unfaithful. Pastors look for faithful people to put into positions of leadership. I encourage you to look for every opportunity to minister no matter how small it may seem.

Be a person of integrity.

Psalm 15:4 He that swears to his own hurt and changes not.

If you tell someone you are going to do something, be a person of your word. Some ministers have a bad reputation among other pastors because they say they are going to do something and never follow through. Be honest. Stealing is sin. God does not pretend He doesn't see when you steal. Lying is sin, and the Bible says liars have their place in Hell. Rev 21:8

If you only had 50 people in your service, don't say you had 100 people. Your sin will be exposed sooner or later. If you are stealing, and you don't repent, it will be discovered by someone.

Develop / Mature Grow up

Ministers are developed. It takes time to develop the ministry gift. Usually people start out in a different area of ministry from what God called them to. Paul did not start out as an apostle. (Acts 13)

Philip started out in the ministry of helps (Acts 6:16)

If God called you to pastor, you will not begin pastoring a church of 2,000. You will start out with a small group or as an assistant pastor, or youth pastor, etc. God may call you to be an evangelist but you will not start out preaching to crowds of 5,000. You may start out preaching to five. Zech 4: 10 don't despise the day of small things

HELPFUL HINTS

Don't try to be like someone else. Be yourself Let God use your personality. There is only one Billy Graham.

Don't be too hasty in saying what you are. "I am a prophet or teacher". Take time to find out what you are. God will not put a novice or an immature Christian in the office of a deacon or an immature preacher in the office of a prophet. 1 Timothy 3:6

Don't advertise yourself. If God has called you to a certain office, you won't have to tell anyone because everyone will know it. It is not your place to promote your office. Promote Jesus instead. Preach the Word.

Be faithful to work for God wherever you are.

Take time to wait on God. Take time to fast and pray and find out God's perfect will for your life and ministry.

Stay open to God. Find out what God wants you to do and where you are to be.

Don't intrude into the wrong office. Just because you are an evangelist, doesn't mean you are an anointed teacher. Intruding into the wrong office can cost you your life.

Develop your character. If you are called of God to stand in an office, that office demands respect. If you have respect for the office you are in, you will teach people to have respect for that office. Set the right examples for people, and provide things honest in the sight of all men.

CHURCH GROWTH

TEXT: Matt. 16:18,19; 25:1429; Gen. 1:28

INTRODUCTION:

Christ's intention was to spread the Kingdom of God through the Church as the Instrument.

He said, "I will build my church". He's the builder of the church.

In Genesis chapter one, God told man to be fruitful and multiply.

He give man the power and potential to increase, and therefore knowing the command of God to grow and the fact that Christ died for men to be saved and added to His Church, makes Church growth very important.

THE IMPORTANCE OF CHURCH GROWTH

GROWTH DEFINED: Becoming larger in size as a result of some natural process or the process of development.

THE CHURCH: Review on the nature and work of the Church will motivate and help us inour present study.

The CHURCH is the will of God. It is a living organism, not an organization, and has the power to grow. The Church is a living entity, the body of CHRIST. Therefore, it must grow. This is what makes church growth important.

Two main dimensions in which the church should grow:

SPIRITUAL MATURITY

PHYSICAL MATURITY

Church growth is not limited to only numerical size but also quality life developed in the Power of the Holy Spirit.

Growth in size and no spiritual maturity leads to death. But Spiritual growth, welldiscipled leads to physical development.

The "word" Church" is never used in Scripture to refer to a material building. The language used of the Church in Acts could not be applied to a material building. Acts 2:47; 7:38; 8:1 3 11.2226 etc.

WHAT THE CHURCH IS NOT:

The church is not a denomination

It is not a block/material building

It is not an organization

Christ's emphasis is to build a Kingdom of people.

THE CHURCH AND THE KINGDOM OF GOD

The Church is not the Kingdom of God. Here is a relationship between the Church and the Kingdom of God. They both have much in common, but the kingdom is larger than the church.

The kingdom includes the whole universe, the angelic hosts, OT Saints and the NT saints.

The Church is confined to the believers of this present church age

The church is the Instrument of the Kingdom The Church multiplies the Kingdom. The Church preaches the Kingdom.

DEFINITION: The word "Church" is a translation of the Greek Word "EKKLESIA" which is made up of two other words: EK meaning "out of' and KALEO which means "to call".

Thus the word "EKKLESIA" literally means "the called out ones". It is used in scripture to refer to the nation of Israel and to the Christian community of believers, whether in heaven or on earth (Acts 7:3 8 ; Heb. 12:23; Rev. 1: 11)

COMPOSITION OF THE CHURCH: It's composed of both Jews and Gentiles, and is revealed as the Body of Christ.

Christ is the BUILDER/MULTIPLIER OF THE CHURCH (Matt 6: 18) The Lord adds to the Church (Acts 2:47) Christ is the Head (Col. 2:19). Since He is the builder, we must look to Him for strength, vision, and guidance as fellow co workers. Without Him, we can do nothing.

WHAT THE CHURCH IS: It's the eternal purpose of God. This purpose or intention of God was planned before the foundation of the world. (Eph. 1:4,9 Titus 1.2,3)

The Church is made up of people who are called out of darkness and set apart for God (1 Peter 2:9)

It is the Temple or building of God in which Christ dwells. It is made up of people

a living building of lively stones (I Peter 2:59; Eph. 2:20 22)

God's purpose is to build up a house for His habitation by the Spirit.

There are two facets of building people

MULTIPLICATION Evangelism: In building a natural house, you first father all the materials together. So in the spiritual, evangelism, personal or public is the gathering together of lively stones (people). The stones have to be cut, shaped, measured and then fitted together. E.g., Building of Solomon's Temple (1 Kings 5:17, 1816 ; 7 1. 1 Peter 2:5 9) The Church in the book of Acts, by Evangelism " multiplied" (Acts 6 : 1, 7; 9:3 1; 12:24) In Acts 7:17, the disciples were multiplied. In Acts 2:47 the Lord added to the Church. Evangelism is God's ordained strategy for church growth. It is simple gathering stones, rough and unshaped.

EDIFICATION: Assembling (through Discipleship) Multiplication should lead to edification. Edification is building up the body. One without the other is useless. There must be assembling together. Jesus said, "I will build my church" the individuals stones need to be cut, to fit together corporately, Acts 9:31 The churches were multiplied... and edified (strengthened). Thus to be placed or put in order, or be arranged through proper discipleship. (Heb. 10:25; 1 Cor. 11: 17 20, 33, 3 4)

THINGS THAT BUILD OR EDIFY :

There are number of things that edify both individually and corporately. Seek to edify the church (1 Thess. 5:11).

The Word of God hearing and doing the word builds the house.

Praying in the spirit.(Jude 20)

Love of God builds up (1 Cor. 8: 1)

The right kind of communication (Col. 4:6; Eph. 4:29)

Being rooted and established in the faith builds up(Eph. 2:2022; 4:11,12)

The members of the Body ministering to one another builds up (I Cor. 14:35)

The Lord desires to build His House or cause it to grow and to make it a glorious living edifice.

STRATEGIES FOR CHURCH GROWTH (TEXT: MATT. 25:14 19)

The Holy Spirit is the sole agent for growth. He causes the church to grow. He's the Administrator of the Church in this hour. All strategies must derive from and be inspired by Him.

GOD DESIRES GROWTH: The Kingdom of God is a Kingdom of growth. God's

Kingdom has within itself the power to grow. Any church that is stagnant for years and cannot grow has a problem.

GROWTH OR INCREASE IS GOD'S PRINCIPLE OF LIFE. There are parables in the teaching of Christ that specifically emphasized growth, or increase or interest. E.g.:the parable of the Talents (Matt. 25:14 19 Read)

In this parable, the master expected increase in the servants' talents. Two of the servants had increase/multiplied what was entrusted to their care. This tells us that God's desire of His Kingdom is first to grow and expand, increase (Gen. 1:28 Be fruitful and multiply)

Read the following parables: The Sower (Matt. 13:18 : 30), The mustard Seed ( Matt. 13:3132; The Growth of a Seed of grain (Mark 4:26 29), etc. All of these talk about the GROWTH OF GOD'S KINGDOM.

WHY CHURCHES DON'T GROW: There are many factors that cause churches not to grow. To name a few:

Lack of Vision to grow

Lack of passion for souls

Lack of proper leadership to motivate

Lack of determination and hard work

Lack of Biblical discipline

The problems of immature Leaders

STRATEGIES FOR GROWTH

Evangelism and Discipleship

The home cell/home church system (for proper discipleship)

Prayer

Training/Equipping the Saints for Body Ministry

HOME CELL GROUPS

WHAT IS THE HOME CELL GROUP?

It is a basic unit of a congregation.

They meet in the home

To provide warm friendly, nonthreatening atmosphere and leads to growth and multiplication

Which becomes a nucleus of revival in its neighborhood.

It fulfils at least seven key functions (Acts 2:42 47)

Teaching

Fellowship

Worship

Prayer

Evangelism

Ministry to one another

Study

It is characterized by growth

A Home Cell Group has an optimum size of about 15 persons

After the optimum number, the group divides to form two viable Home Cell Groups.

The process of growth and division must continue in every Home Cell Group

This multiplication process must be backed by proper conversion of souls and not just the addition of people.

It is therefore not just:

A social gathering even though people do socialize in cell groups.

A home meeting nor a center for charitable acts although these acts are carried out.

A prayer meeting although prayer is an essential part of home cell meetings.

The idea may be intended in peculiar cases to cell groups which meet at work places, in markets, apartments, etc., especially during rest hours.

WHY THE HOME CELL GROUPS?

They Are scriptural as in the life of Jesus and in the early Church. (Mark 2:1,2; 9:33 37; Acts 46; 12:12)

They are effective for evangelism and edification. They help believers grow to maturity in Christ (Acts 2:4247, 10:2224; 28:3 03 1.

They are essential for growth.

Members can work together in evangelism ministry and prayer. Enhances leadership training and the use of spiritual gifts and closer fellowship in the small group units.

Church growth Teaching and pastoral care can be done through the cell leaders. (Ex. 18: 1) It provides a strategic base for evangelism in a specific area (Matt. 5:1316)

Survival during Persecution. The pastors can be removed, church buildings closed and worship meetings banned but Home Cell groups can still continue(Acts 8 : I 8)

THE NEED FOR HOME CELL GROUPS IN THE CHURCH

The promise: Jesus said: When two or three are gathered in my name there I am in the midst of them. (Matt. 18:20). This gives us a basis for cell group meetings.

The past: The Early Church used homes for Christian gatherings, E.g., the home of Justus (Acts 18:7). The home of Priscilla and Aquilla (ROM. 16:5).

The Present: Tremendous Church growth have resulted through home cell groups E.g. In Korea: the Cell Group System of Pastor Yonggi Cho. China: Church growth through home cells during persecution.

QUALIFICATIONS AND ROLE OF CELL LEADERS AND COORDINATOR

QUALIFICATIONS

One who is born again and committed to personal spiritual development (John 3:35; 1 Peter 2: 13 ; 2 Peter 3:18)

One who is filled with the Holy Spirit (Acts 6:3; 10:38)

One who walks by the spirit. (Gal. 5:25)

One who leads a consistent Christian life. (I Tim. 3:113)

One who is humble and teachable. (I Peter 5:5)

One who is submitted to the leadership of the Church

One who is committed to the giving of one's resources. E.g.: Time and money

One who is committed to serving the people. (Mark 10:43,44)

One who has the ability to motivate, inspire and encourage others.

One who is gifted in teaching and shepherding. (Rom. 12:68)

One who has evangelistic zeal and potential for Home Cell Groups.

One with vision for Church Growth

One who is recognized by the Church and appointed by the Presbytery.

One who is committed to maintaining unit. (Eph. 4:3)

ROLE OF THE CELL GROUP LEADER

Plan and prepare each Cell Group Meeting

Maintain Regular Cell Group Meetings

Keep a record of attendance, etc

Arrange worship and prayer leaders roster

Followup new converts

Provide immediate pastoral care for all group members

Prepare for growth

Look our for new meeting place

Train the group members to lead

Discuss future plans with the coordinator

ROLE OF COORDINATOR

Helps Cell leaders to formulate goals and plans and monitors the implementation process.

Attends each cell meeting personally to determine effectiveness and growth,

Offers immediate Pastoral care to the Cell leaders

To assist in the training of cell leaders and the formation of new cell groups.

Reports regularly to the Local Monitoring Team.

May occasionally organize a fellowship meeting of the people in the Cell group unit.

CHRISTIAN COUNSELING

COURSE OBJECTIVES: THIS COURSE IS DESIGNED TO:

Help students with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder experienced over the years, in order to have peace, courage and wholeness as they prepare for ministry.

Prepare students to be able to adequately help others in their ministries.

INTRODUCTION:

We have all been hurt, betrayed, or bruised, or ignored during the course of our lives. And consciously or unconsciously our ability to trust the divine love and power of God in our depths may have been weakened. By learning to understand how our personality has been damaged and how our relationships with others have been hindered, we can again develop the courage to trust life and to trust ourselves, others and God.

Moreover, we are convinced that no matter how desperate or dark our lives seem to be, there are high quality elements divinely deposited within the innermost part of our personality that are extracted, maximized and utilized by ourselves through Biblical Counseling.

Biblical Counseling, therefore, is concerned with the actualization of the Christ-like potentials within an individual.

WHAT IS COUNSELING?

Counseling is a relationship in which a person is guided to see the true picture of the nature of his/her problem so that he/she becomes capable of solving said problem. According to 1 Corinthians 12:28, Counseling is a ministry of "Helps".

THE SCOPE OF COUNSELING

Counseling, in reality, is as old as the world of civilization because it was practiced by the traditional elders even before the universal perspective.

Counseling today is universal as a result of man's increasing need of guidance. (Prov. 11: 14)

THE NATURE OF COUNSELING

Counseling is about assisting individuals, families, groups, neighbors and the society in general with the decision making process of resolving interpersonal concerns and conflicts.

THE FUNCTION OF COUNSELING

The counselor's function is to offer counseling (help) services to individuals or groups in need

To enhance the helping relationship, the counselor must know that what is basic in helping others is his/her own attitude in working with them.

COUNSELING IN CHRIST

The characteristics of a Counselor:

The core of a Christcentered counseling lies in the following characteristics:

Confidentiality People need people to confide deep, dark, horrible secrets in.

Loving The expression of love makes a difference in any situation because man's emotion crave after love.

Godly When people have the courage to share something intimate, what they look for initially are acceptance and affirmation which are qualities of a godly person. (Heb. 4:1516)

Kind Pleasant manner

Nonjudgmental Be slow to conclude or decide things. Give sufficient chance.

Compassionate It is only by compassion that we will be able to help anybody.

Accepting God's love in us accepts people just as they are and does not judge or condemn.(Rom. 15:7)

Patience If you are not patient, do not enter this ministry because it requires patience, understanding and ability to help

Without these characteristics, we will only end up dealing with the symptoms of people's problems and not the root cause because without these characteristics, trust is in serious problem and without trust, we will never hear the whole story and if we don't hear the whole story, we don't know the unresolved conflicts or unbiblical beliefs that are at the root of other people's bondage’s and irresponsible behaviors.

LEARNING TO BE TRUSTWORTHY:

To be trustworthy, the counselor must learn to adapt an active listening skill and exercise patience throughout the whole story instead of being quick to give advice (Prov. 18 : 13)

THE LISTENING CYCLE

THE KIND OF PERSON GOD USES

The Christian Counselor must be the Lord's Bond Servant.

This is the difference between biblical Counseling and that of secular counseling;

Secular Counseling is based upon the combination of personal skills and the responses of the counselee to determine the end results, while biblical counseling depends solely upon the Holy Spirit.

We don't set anybody free. Only God can do that (Prov. 3:5 6).

If God isn't in the learning of techniques and skills, regardless of how well the person exercises, his/her skills will not work. But if God is in it, a good technique and a good personal skill will bear more fruit.

The Lord's bondservant must not be quarrelsome:

Arguing is nothing but a smoke screen to keep people on the defensive and at a distance. A poet says, "A man convinced against his will is of the same opinion still. (Prov. 18:2)Maintaining control and focus in counseling is a critical skill to learn.

The Lord's bondservant must be kind:

(Matt. 9:1213)compassion is a Hebrew word meaning "Lovingkindness. " It is the one prerequisite for ministry. In dealing with hurting people, one ounce of criticism or rejection is all that is needed to wreck the whole ministry.

The Lord's bond servant must be able to teach

There is no substitute for knowing the Word of God. We are up against the father of lies, and we can stand against him not by research nor reasoning, but by revelation. (John 17:15,17; 11 Tim. 2:15). It is only the truth(God's Word) that sets captives free.

(John.8:32)One important thing that counselors should realized is that people are in bondage to the lies they believe., and we have to be able to share the truth with them.

Some of the lies are:

God doesn't live me.

I'm different from others

I could never do that

That isn't going to work

I will get out of the and God won't help me.

The Lord's Bond Servant Must be Patient When Wrong:

Some don't want to bear the truth even if it is shared in love. This is why patience is a necessary virtue in counseling. Helping people resolve their personal and spiritual conflicts and find freedom in Christ is not a timed exercise.

The Lord's Bond Servant Must be Gentle

If a person was mighty in God's Spirit, the manifestation would be in gentleness. We cannot run roughly over people and push too fast for resolution. If you get ahead of God's timing, you will lost people.

The Lord's Bond Servant Must be Committed: You must be committed to the truth and know without question that God and only God can grant repentance that leads to a knowledge of the truth.

GUIDELINES FOR A WHOLESOME COUNSELING MINISTRY:

All of a counselor's teaching must be based on the Word of God

The Word is complete, it abound with guidance and direction for living. It deals with the same issues that counseling involves. There is no part of life, no problem that one will ever face in life no question with which you will ever be troubled that the Word of God does not address.

The most outstanding example of faith in God's word, that is, the most outstanding example of faith in God's Word and reliance on it in the midst of temptation is Jesus' use of the Word in the wilderness.

He encountered the same basic temptation to which Adam and Eve succumbed in the Garden of Eden. (Matt. 4:117).

Jesus used the Word to resist the temptations. He responded, "It is written" We should always rely upon the "Word" and focus on Jesus, the perfect expression of God's love.

A counselor must rely on the Holy Spirit for Guidance

The presence of the Holy Spirit is the inner resource and power of God as well as the personal presence of God.

As the counselor seeks the leading of the Holy Spirit, the Spirit will bring forth truth from the Word he has studied. (John 14:26)

We cannot rely on ourselves because we can do nothing by ourselves.

A counselor should have a good prayer life because biblical counseling is a spiritual warfare.

The Word of God and prayers go hand in hand

The Lord works wonders through prayer. It is therefore important to encourage the counselee to pray.

It is necessary to pray during counseling. You should remember that the goal in counseling is not to make the counselee happy but to help him/her move closer to God This means that we should teach biblical doctrine as truth to be lived instead of a fact to be known. (Col. 1:910)

A preacher teaches truth to change lives in ways that please God. You can help a counselee to change by telling him to practice what he/she has been taught in the counseling session. He/she can take it as an assignment.

There is no formula and time period for any given situation. Our personal involvement is important in teaching people. We can get involved by loving the counselee. He needs hope and courage. How can God use this problem so that not only this problem is solved but that this individual grows more like Jesus in the process?

APPROACH TO THE PROCESS

The approach you pursue to accomplish your objective will determine failure or success. Many people are helped by simply having objective people listen to them and bring clarity to their issues. Counselors must be capable of helping people get in touch with reality and suggesting responsible courses of action. A problem well stated is usually half solved. People often come to their own conclusions in the process of sharing their stories.

When counseling Christians, we have the privilege to start with the assurance of victory in Christ. Realize that people are starved for acceptance and affirmation. Life has beaten them, but who they are in Christ give them hope. The person who is accepted and affirmed will voluntarily be accountable to the authority figure. But when the authority figure demands accountability without acceptance and affirmation, he will never get it.

THE PROCESS

The First Interview:

Make the first session an Intake Interview. An Intake Interview is an interview through which information about the client is gathered. Be on time as a counselor. This communicates the counselor's respect.

The beginning point can be as simple as a smile along with a simple introduction and motion to show the client where to sit.

Commit the process to God in prayer (John 14:1617)

Encourage the client to talk.

The obvious beginning of counseling, after providing the initial structure, is to get your client to talk, to indicate his/her reasons for entering counseling.

A good invitation for client to talk is called an unstructured invitation or open ended lead.

The Purposes for the unstructured invitation are:

It gives the counselee an opportunity to talk.

It prevents the counselor from identifying the topic the client should discuss.

An unstructured invitation is a statement in which the counselor encourages the counselee to begin talking about whatever is of concern to them. Examples of such statements are:

"Please feel free to go ahead and begin."

"Where would you like to begin today?"

"You can talk about whatever you like."

"Perhaps there is something particular you want to discuss"

By contrast, a structured invitation specifies a topic. This does not give the client a chance to discuss what he/she has brought to counseling. Example: "Tell me about what careers you are considering". The counselee is tied to a discussion of careers by this invitation.

Sit quietly and listen to the whole story with full attention. Nod you head as a sign of understanding. Face the speaker and maintain eyetoeye contact. Restate the most important facts and feelings and ask questions to understand. Do not interrupt.

After the counselee's story, both of you set a goal and time for the next session.

In the counselee's absence, pray for God's wisdom in understanding the case to be able to apply the right therapy (treatment). Study the gathered information. Consult experienced people if you have a problem.

Do it in a way that you will not bridge the confidence between you and the counselee.

In the second session, go through whatever therapy you both agree on.

As you go through the therapy, evaluate the process to ensure that you are driving to your goal.

Keep records of each case you go through.

DEALING WITH ABUSE AND HARASSMENT

Abuse

There are times when husbands, wives or parents violate the laws of civil governments that are ordained by God to protect innocent people against abuse that threatens their well being. Abusive behavior comes in variety of forms, such as physical, sexual, spiritual, mental and emotional.

If counselees confide that they are experiencing abuse, counsel them as follows:

Stop the abuse. In case of spousal abuse, women are often confused concerning the biblical admonition of Ephesians 5:22.Likewise children are often confused concerning the commandment, found in Exodus 20:12.There is no biblical mandate for a person to submit to continuous abuse. These passages are guidelines for God's normal and ordained pattern for domestic life.

Seek legal protection. When necessary, appeal to civil authority, police officers or a child protection service. This allows God to place direct pressure on abusers to conform to justice. If an offender will not control his/her own behavior, then legal authority should intervene. Encourage a person to speak the truth and be willing to expose secrets when necessary to those who will provide the greatest protection and support.

Seek counsel from a local Church Pastor.

Seek a Christian support/care group.

Harassment

There are times when employers or fellow employees violate the laws of civil government and ordinary decency ordained by God to protect innocent people against degrading behavior. Submitting to the authority of an employer does not mean being obligated to degrading behaviors.

The principles for dealing with sexual harassment (eg. In the workplace) are the same as those for dealing with abuse. Encourage the person to appeal to a higher authority, such as the company's employee relations officer or the local government department that deals with these issues.

STRESS AND ITS MANAGEMENT

STRESS AND ITS MANAGEMENT

Life is full of experiences which can be good or bad.

Our inclination is towards experiences that make us feel good and happy.

The emotions when threatened by the environment is what is referred to as STRESS.

What is Stress?

It is tension, discomfort, uneasiness, strain, pressure, pain, worry force, etc. Stress is therefore an experience which a person feels when he/she:

Is unable to cope with the threats of the environment.

Faces a situation that threatens to harm physically or psychologically.

Begins to feel tense and uncomfortable.

We often assume that stress is bad, or that a complete lack of it is ideal. But to be total without stress is to be "DEAD" (Class & Singer, 1972)

Some Stressful events include:

Work Pressure Financial Problems Material Problems Promotion in job/ society Loss of Family Members Birth of a child in Family Loss of all properties War Marriage, preparation, etc.

What is a Stressor or How can I Identify its Source?

A source of stress is any situation which leads to emotional imbalance. Eg., torture, tension, provocation, war, gunshots, death, sickness, fire, loss of property, disaster, rape, etc.

Sources Of Stress (Life Events)

Stress is experienced by every age group, i.e., children, adolescents, adults, the aged. Stress may be particularly damaging to children. If children are constantly exposed to stress, they become misfits. Hare are some sources of stress applicable to every age:

Exams

School

Study

Meeting deadlines

Living with alcoholism

Loss of Job

Lack of women/men friends

Separation or Divorce

Religious upbringing

Every work

Children upbringing

reparation & arrival of a new baby

Signs/Symptoms of Stress or How do I know when I am under stress?

One who is under stress experiences some of the following signs:

Anger

Fear

Headache

Negative selftalk

Avoidance

Dizziness

Confusion

Sleeplessness

Dryness of the throat

Trembling

Categories of Stress

Eustress (healthy)

It is beneficial to man because it brings out the best in people. Eg.,performers, athletes, students, executives or professionals.

It helps people look at the positive side of life and strive for excellence.

It helps people learn to adapt or adjust to the environment.

Distress (bad)

It makes the individual anxious and empty. It causes emotional damage to the victims, and prolonged distress, makes the individuals behave badly in society. Quite a number of such individuals are criminal in nature.

Traumatic Stress (Trauma is pain or shock) Painful experiences, most of which are unpredictable. It produces high intensity reactions in the individual which may be visible or repressed. It can diminish human capacity rather than enhance it.

Impact of Stress

Positive Effects: It stimulates an individual to master new skills and behavior pattern. It is because of stress that people learn to adjust or adapt to the environment.

Negative effects

Stressful life events produce negative emotions(sadness, anger, bitterness, etc)

Separation and loss mark the end of valued relationship

Time pressure can limit the quality of a completed job as deadline have to be met.

Roleconflict produces tension and anxiety.

Chronic stress is associated with the development of physical illness such as heart diseases and high blood pressure.

MANAGING/COPING WITH STRESS

What Coping Methods Can Help When I Or Some Is Under Stress, Either In The Home, Church, Or Organization Or The Community.

Exercise: Any full body exercise can be effective Eg., Swimming, dancing, jumping rope, walking, Jogging, cutting grass, etc.

Slow down Do things at a slower pace, especially when your pace has speeded up over the years.

Organize: disorganization creates stress,, get organize, setting priorities can be a real stress fighter.

Strike a balance: Your family, work, school, friends, interest, hobbies, recreation, community, church, etc., are all important elements o help you live a satisfying life. Damaging stress often comes from letting one element get blown out of proportion. Your goal should be quality in life not quantity. Try to keep a balance.

Recognize and accept your limits: Do not set unrealistic and perfectionist goals. Know that no one can ever be perfect. Also set realistic limits on what you try to do on any given day. Learn to say "No" to added demands or responsibilities.

Seek Social Support. Close positive relationships with others facilitate good health and moral wellbeing. This implies that support from families, friends, counselors, or clergyman serves to control stress. Talking out problems and expressing tension can be helpful.

Place upsetting. thoughts with copingStatements: Stress level is greatly affected by how individual perceives and interprets events. Negative thinking therefore affects one's stress level negatively. There is a need to fight fear and anxiety with an internal monologue of positive coping statements.

Make use of your faith. Have faith in the Almighty God. Note that hewho causes the rain to fall, makes the sun to shine. This shows that difficult days in one's life are natural; after those difficult days come days of smiling. Put your trust in God at all times. Read: Ps. 28:12, 23; Matt. 11:28 30, etc.

GETTING RESULTS IN COUNSELING

Proverbs 12:15 the way of a fool is right in his own eyes: but he that hearkeneth unto counsel is wise.

Webster's Dictionary defines the word "counsel" as advise given through consultation; a lawyer engaged in the management or trial of a court case.

Webster's Thesaurus gives other words for counsel such as guidance, counselor, hint, imply, opinion, advice, declare, dictate, insist.

In counseling people, our goal is never to tell people what to do but to give them advice based on the Word of God so that they are able to make the right choices for themselves. People are more apt to follow a path that they themselves had a part in discovering.

THE PLACE OF GOD'S WORD

As a believer our Number One source for all counsel should find its source in the Word of God not just knowledge of God's Word, but also wisdom in how to apply it to the situation at hand.

Psalm 33: 10,11 the counsel of the Lord standeth forever, the thoughts of his heart to all generations.

Proverbs 19:21 there are many devices in a man's heart; nevertheless the counsel of the Lord, that shall stand.

John 12:49,50 Jesus says, as I hear, I judge. If you want to be effective in counseling people, you need to have a working knowledge of the will of the Lord in areas that are plainly revealed in the Word. God's will is His Word. Areas such as the following are basic:

His Word in the area of the Authority of the Believer.

His Word in the area of Healing.

His Word in the area of Protection.

His Word in the area of Salvation.

His Word in the area of Righteousness.

His Word in the area of Marriage.

His Word in the area of Tithing.

His Word in the area of Unforgiveness.

His Word in the area of the Holy Spirit.

God's Word is truth John 17:17

God's Word is like an anchor that keeps a ship steady and secure. Some areas in counseling can be solved simply by knowing what the scriptures have to say about it.

On the other hand, not every situation you encounter with a person will be a matter of scripture specifically. The Word of God does not tell me how many children to have, where to live, where to go to school, etc. (These are areas of prayer, supplication, consecration, and walking in the Spirit.)

THE POWER OF LISTENING

We live in a society that doesn't like taking time to listen. Just call a bank or Customer Service Department sometime. You will be interrupted, you will be put on hold, and when you finally get to explain the situation, you have to repeat it three times because the clerk was not really listening.

John 5:30 as I hear, so I judge

Proverbs 12:25 Heaviness in the heart of man maketh it stoop: but a good word maketh it glad.

You must have two kinds of listening:

Listening with the natural ear (the problem)

Listening with your spiritual ear (the root cause)

Romans 8:14 for as many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are the sons of God.

Not everything that is spoken to you in counseling is necessarily the root of the problem. (Hear from your heart or spirit.)

THE SPIRIT AND THE WORD AGREE TOGETHER

The Holy Spirit and the Word of God are always in agreement. The Holy Spirit will never lead a person contrary to the Word of God. NEVER!

The Holy Spirit dwells in us. We are new creatures and our spirit is alive unto God. We can listen then to our human spirit. Romans 8:16.2 Corinthians 5:17

We have the Great Counselor dwelling in us.

Isaiah 11: 1,2 the spirit of counsel and might

Isaiah 9:6 Counselor

Isaiah 28:29 which is wonderful in counsel

GIFTS OF THE HOLY SPIRIT

There are times when the gifts of the spirit may operate in a counseling session: word of knowledge, word of wisdom, discerning of spirits. This happens as the Holy Spirit wills, but it does happen!

1 Corinthians 12:7 But the manifestation of the spirit is given to every man to profit withal

In a prophet or prophetess' ministry, it will happen more often and not always publicly. Many times this occurs in private. It is never to embarrass or humiliate but to set the person free.

PERCEPTION

Any believer can perceive certain things because they are born of God.

1 Peter 1:23 not of corruptible seed

Acts 27: 10 I perceive that this voyage will be with hurt

Matthew 22:18 But Jesus perceived their wickedness

Learn to trust the perception that is resident in your spirit.

Acts 8:23 for I perceive that thou art in the gall of bitterness

OPEN TO RECEIVE

in any case, whether by gifts of the Spirit, perception, or scripture, the person must be willing to receive counsel. Proverbs 20:5 Counsel in the heart of man is like deep water; but a man of understanding will draw it out. Proverbs 12:15 The way of a fool is right in his own eyes: but he that hearkeneth unto counsel is wise.

If they don't want to receive your counsel, send them somewhere else, where they can receive. Or, try rescheduling another time when they are ready to hear.

LET A PERSON TALK

In today's society, we are very impatient with people. We want them to get to the point! Quickly!

Learn to practice one of the fruits of the spirit which is: longsuffering (Gal 5:22)Do everything possible to give a person ample time to express themselves.

This is one of the reasons why people become so frustrated and discouraged in life. They cannot find anyone who wants to listen to them (their spouse, children, employer, parents, neighbor, pastor, etc.)

They begin to feel unimportant. God created man with human expression. When expression becomes smothered, darkness invades the soul.

Example: Communism in Russia

Half of some people's problems are solved just by having someone they can talk to. (Hollywood stars pay a lot of money to find people who will listen to them.)

KEEP FOCUSED

On the other hand, you have some people, if you give them an inch, they take a mile. You may have to redirect a counseling session so that it does not go way off track. Much time can be wasted in extraneous information that does not pertain to the issue at hand.

Example: "I am having problems with my sister. Her name is Mary. She was named Mary after my great aunt who lived in Ireland during World War II. Mother called her "Mar" for short. Father didn't like this nick name at all. He liked the name "Mary" because his Grandmother on his father's side was named Mary and on and on it goes."

You may have to interrupt with, "So, tell me about the problem you are having with your sister, Mary." You want to get back on track.

YOU CANNOT TACKLE EVERYTHING AT ONCE

There are some situations you may encounter with people that takes more than one counseling session. You cannot solve 18 years of problems in one day.

The thing that stands out in your spirit FIRST is what you should focus on. Then set up another time to address other areas you didn't have time to cover.

WISDOM OF THE PRACTICAL

Not every problem encountered by people is a spiritual problem or an evil spirit. A man without a job needs to find work. I can pray for him, encourage him, take authority over any hindrances, but the bottom line is he must look for work.

Proverbs 12: 11 He that tilleth the land shall be satisfied with bread: but he that followeth vain persons is void of understanding.

Proverbs 10:5 He that gathereth in summer is a wise son: but he that sleepeth in harvest is a son that causeth shame.

Some people will try to spiritualize everything. Like, "I saw a dove fly over my car! What does that mean?" It probably means you will need to wash your car when you get home!

MANIPULATION

Some people will try to manipulate you in such a way as to have you agree with them, even when it is contrary to the Word of God.

Example 1: Agree with me for the right spouse! Your response: Are you already married?

Example 2: Agree with me for financial breakthrough!! Your response: Do you tithe and give offerings?

Example 3: Agree with me for a job!! Your response: Are you looking for one?

THE HUMAN WILL

The human will is part of the soul.

Matthew 26:3642 ..not as I will, but as thou wilt.

We do not have authority over a person's will.

If we did, we could get every single person saved and set free.

We could make ever person pay their tithes.

In the final analysis, the decision to walk in godly counsel is up to the will of the individual receiving counsel.

The counselor cannot make anyone do anything.

1 Kings 12:18 Rehoboam forsook the counsel of the old men

Psalm 81:1012 they walked in their own counsel

Luke 7:29,30 Pharisees and lawyers rejected the counsel of God

JUST TELL ME WHAT TO DO?

On the other hand, some folks just want to be told what to do.

They want someone else to make the decisions for them.

They don't want to take the responsibility for their own decisions.

They walk in fear, thinking It might be the wrong decision.

They blame the counselor when their situation doesn't turn around for them.

Romans 14:22 Happy is he that condemneth not himself in that thing which he alloweth.

Hebrews 11:6 But without faith it is impossible to please Him (God)

Psalm 15:4 He that swears to his own hurt and changes not

Proverbs 3:25 be not afraid of sudden fear

2 Timothy 1:7 For God has not given me a spirit of fear...

All of us have to make daily decisions. No one is exempt. It is not always convenient or comfortable to make certain decisions, but they have to be made.

CALL ON THE GREATER ONE!

You are never left to yourself in a counseling situation. You have the Greater One living on the inside. 1 John 4:4.Learn to rely and lean on that Greater One. Christ dwells in you. Galatians 2:20

Throw yourself upon that Greater One for help.

WISDOM FROM ABOVE

The wisdom that we receive from God should come to us in this way:

James 3:17 it is pure, peaceable, gentle, easy to be entreated, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality or hypocrisy. (Read it)

DON'T BE MOVED BY WHAT YOU SEE OR HEAR

As you throw yourself upon the Greater One on the inside of you, you will learn not to be moved to minister to people by what your see or hear in the natural.

You have heard this expression before: "Don't judge a book by its cover". Similarly, don't counsel people by how you see them outwardly.

Outwardly, a person may appear humble, poor and innocent, but inwardly they could be prideful, arrogant, and greedy.

Matthew 7:15 beware of false prophets which come to you in sheep's clothing, but inwardly they are ravening wolves.

DISCERNING OF SPIRITS

The Discerning Of Spirits

Remember that discerning of spirits is not just demonic spirits, but God's Spirit, angelic spirits and human spirits. Sometimes the Holy Spirit will unveil the human spirit of a person so that you are aware of where that person really is walking spiritually. This has nothing to do with analysis or psychology. We are talking about one of the gifts of the Holy Spirit.

Example 1: Someone comes to you for counseling and they ask for ministry. Through the discerning of spirits and the word of knowledge, you know this person is a reporter for the Daily Chronicle and he is looking for ways to trap ministries and bring them down.

Example 2: Someone comes to you for prayer and you discern by the Holy Spirit that the person is not even born again. Acts 5:3 Peter knew by the Holy Spirit through discerning of spirits, that Ananias had lied.

Example 3: Matthew 26:25 Jesus knew that Judas was going to betray Him. Discerning of spirits and a word of knowledge work oftentimes together. You could perceive that something is not right. Nehemiah 6:12 I perceive that God had not sent him

DEMONIC SPIRITS

If a person is opressed, depressed, or repressed, you may need to take authority over the enemy. Be sure to move with the Holy Spirit because He alone reveals specifically what kind of bondage is taking place and that only as He wills. If it is demonic, all the counseling in the world will not help. 1 Corinthians 12: 10

PERMISSION IS REQUIRED

PERMISSION IS REQUIRED

If by the power of the Holy Spirit, you know what kind of demonic bondage has taken place, you must be sure that the person you are ministering to wants to be free. Some people may want to keep those evil spirits. They enjoy it. If this is the case, all the commanding in the world will not cause those spirits to leave.

You will need to work with that person to bring them to a place where they desire to be set free.

DEALING WITH PEOPLE'S FLESH

DEMONS OR FLESH?

In some cases, you will find that it is not a matter of a demonic spirit but the operation of unrestrained, uncrucified, ungodly flesh.

2 Corinthians 10:35 Casting down imaginations Romans 6:12 let not sin therefore reign in your mortal body 1 Corinthians 9:27 I keep under my body

THE WORKS OF THE FLESH

Galatians 5:1921 gives us a list of the works of the flesh.

Adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lasciviousness, idolatry, witchcraft, hatred, variance, emulations, wrath, strife, seditions, heresies, envyings, murders, drunkeness, revelings.

Most demonic oppression first starts out with the lust of the flesh.

Even if you were used by God to set a person free from demonic oppression, what would keep that person from yielding to that demonic spirit again?

Most of the people you will encounter in areas of counseling will not be issues of demons but issues involving the flesh such as, walking in love, forgiveness, worry, children, finances, marriage, etc. Don't look for a demon under every rock and behind every bush.

A SOFT ANSWER

Often times hard, pinpointing, direct and confrontive advice will be received if it is presented gently and respectfully.

Proverbs 15:1 a soft answer turns away wrath: but grievous words stir up anger.

Colossians 4:6 let your speech be always with grace, seasoned with salt, that you may know how ye ought to answer every man.

The tone of your voice should always be pastoral, not loud and irritating as if you were shouting at them.

SELF CONTROL

There is an old saying, "He who loses control, loses!"

Self control is a fruit of the spirit. Galatians 5:23 Temperance means self control.

Proverbs 16:18 a wrathful man stirreth up strife, but he that is slow to anger appeaseth strife.

No matter how provoking people can be in a counseling session, never lose control of yourself (If you lose control, quickly apologize.)

Remember, you are not responsible for folks who do not receive your counsel. You are only responsible to give it. You may have to practice not getting emotionally involved if people don't receive your counsel.

MULTIPLE COUNSELORS

Proverbs 11: 14 Where no counsel is, the people fall: but in the multitude of counselors, there is safety.

As we said earlier, counsel according to Webster means: advice. One person could not counsel someone on every topic concerning their life.

Example: You may be in a position to give advice according to the Word of God on marriage, but not necessarily on how to start your own business. It would take someone else with knowledge in that area to give advice. You may direct someone where to go to get good medical and legal advice.

Proverbs 15:22 Without counsel, purposes are disappointed: but in the multitude of counselors they are established.

I DON'T LIKE WHAT I HEAR

Some people use the previous scripture about many counselors so that they can reject counseling that they don't want to follow. They twist scripture so that they can run from person to person about the same problem hoping to find someone to agree with them!

We have a policy here in the ministry. We do not counsel a person who is already receiving counsel or ministry from another pastor on staff. Like I stated earlier, some people like to find counselors that will agree with them, even when it is unethical, unscriptural and immoral.

We see an example of this when the counsel of Ahithophel was rejected. 2 Samuel 17:715, also Rehoboam chose to listen to another opinion and selected the wrong advice. 2 Chronicles 10: 8. Psalm 1: 1 blessed is the man that walketh not in the counsel of the ungodly

HEARING THE COUNSEL

Proverbs 1:5 a wise man will hear, and will increase learning, and a man of understanding shall attain unto wise counsels.

A wise man will hear. This is where some people have problems. Some are so busy talking that they are not hearing the good counsel that is being given.

Example: When we had a phone prayer line we dealt with all kinds of calls. One particular woman made a practice of calling almost every day. She had her usual routine of conversation. She worked her web of trivia with every phone counselor who got her call.

CROSS COUNSELING

We do not encourage cross counseling. Cross counseling is counseling someone of the opposite sex alone.

It is better to have your spouse with you. To counsel the opposite sex without your spouse or someone else in the room can cause problems.

Matthew 10: 16 be wise as serpents, and harmless as doves.

serpents hide themselves from attack doves to not provoke

You need to hide yourself from the attack on your reputation as a minister. A person could falsely accuse you of some inappropriate behavior. With no witnesses, it is your word against theirs. They will have a hard time proving those accusations if someone else was in the room for the meeting.

Another reason for not cross counseling is that it does not have a very good appearance. I Thess 5:22 abstain from all appearance of evil.

Two people of the opposite sex, alone behind closed doors, leaves room for suspicion. It could even open the way to temptation. We hear of so many cases like this today. It is just simply better to NEVER open the door to that opportunity.

Colossians 4:5 Walk in wisdom toward them that are without, redeeming the time.

1 Timothy 3:7 moreover, he must have a good report of them which are without: lest he fall into reproach and the snare of the devil.

If you are a single pastor, you will need to set up some kind of appropriate structure so that you are not cornered alone with the opposite sex. If you are a single male pastor, it is suggested that you find a trusted female elder in your church who can keep things confidential. Also, having a woman present softens the atmosphere somewhat.

If you are a single female pastor, it might be a good idea to cultivate an older, mature, trusted male elder and let him handle counseling the men in your congregation.

If you truly care about people, you will make every effort to put no stumbling block in front of someone.

Romans 14:13 That no man put a stumbling block or an occassion to fall in his brother's way.

SECULAR COUNSELING

Not all secular counseling is necessarily bad. Some are Christian counselors. But, if the counselee is not born again it is like trying to put a BandAid on a deep cut that needs stitches.

Psychology

Psychology may offer some help so we don't want to rule it out completely.

Psychology deals mostly with the soul area of man: the mind, the will and the emotions. Some folks can be helped by getting their souls under control.

Psychology however, can never take the place of living a life in obedience to the Word of God, prayer, praise and walking in the spirit.

Professional Help

Some folks may need professional help or care. The state hospital is filled with folks who need watchful care. The commitment and demand that certain people require may be more than what you are able to provide. Don't feel bad if you need to turn someone over to those who provide more consistent care.

Government Agencies

It would be to your advantage to find out about your local government agencies, shelters, clinics, hotlines and help centers.

Make a copy from your phone directory and put it on your desk or a place where you have easy access to it.

Charities

Not all counseling is a matter of prayer and a scripture. I have learned from experience that some people need food, shelter, hospitalization, clothing, medical attention, etc. Become familiar with the charitable organizations in your city.

Some nonprofit organizations provide different services. Like anything else in life, people can abuse these charities.

Example: Years ago we had a man who really abused our charity here at the church. He knew all the food banks in Delaware. He abused the system.

Giving Direction

Counseling can simply be helping people find the answer to the particular problem. Directing people to where they can get the best help is a way of really ministering to people at the point of their need.

Medicine

Never tell people to stop taking their medicine(s). If they believe they are healed, encourage them to go to their doctor and have him take them off their medicines. Of course, you believe that when you lay hands on the sick, they recover, but let doctors take them off their medication(s).

If they should die, their family could come back and sue you. You could lose your church or ministry over something like this.

DIVORCE

Never tell someone to divorce their spouse. If a wife is being battered, there are hotlines they can call and shelters they can escape to. You may have to stand there while they make the call for help, but don't tell them to get a divorce.

We don't want to encourage someone to hang around a person who is beating them up. On the other hand, we don't want to make the decision for people to divorce either.

Marital solutions are not always a cutanddried situation. Two hours of counseling will not solve 18 years of a bad marriage. Counseling, prayer, patience, hard work and commitment will be needed.

CHILD ABUSE

We are required by state law to report child abuse. If a person tells you they would like to have some counseling, you need to tell them up front that if they are going to reveal that they are child abusers, past or present, that you need to report it.

If a child tells you they are being abused, by law you must report it to the authorities. In some cases, if you suspect child abuse, you must report it. Failure on your part to report it could cause you to be liable. Children are considered unable to defend and protect themselves therefore teachers, ministers, care providers, etc., need to look out for them.

Don't go out and look for a child in distress. Just be sensitive to situations involving children or suspected abuse.

CONFIDENTIALITY

When people come to you for counseling they are trusting that nothing they tell you leaves that room. Anything said to you in confidence should not be repeated or blabbed around the church.

If you counsel oneonone, client privilege laws are in effect meaning that you are not required to testify against them concerning what they tell you. If more than one person is in the room, it is considered common knowledge, so the client privilege laws do not apply. You could be summoned to testify about the information shared.

Proverbs 27:9 Ointment and perfume rejoice the heart: so doth the sweetness of a man's friend by hearty counsel.

Proverbs 17:9 He that covereth a transgression seeketh love: but he that repeateth a matter separateth very friends.

HOMEWORK

You may sense that in certain cases people need to have some recourse of action. Perhaps they need to listen to a tape series or video or read a particular book that would help them. Make sure that before you counsel with them again, they have done their "homework".

Did you listen to that cassette series? Did you watch that video? Did you read that book?

Effort must be taken seriously. Your time is precious. Don't let people waste it. You are an investor. Invest wisely in people who will take your counsel. Drop people who waste your time. Tell them to contact you when they have done what you instructed them to do.

Luke 16: 10 He that is faithful in that which is least is faithful also in much.

LEECHES

Some people are like leeches. They think nothing of calling you morning, noon or night.

Example: Someone named "Bill" calls you at 3:00 am. "Pastor, I am having problems with my marriage!"

“Bill, can you call me back at a better time or I'll be having trouble with mine!”

If it is your day off with your spouse, don't spend it with someone who needs marriage counseling or your marriage will end up like theirs, Your actions will speak for themselves.

If you believe in good marriages, then make it a priority. Be the example. (I am not talking about an emergency.)

Mark 10:9 what therefore God has Joined together, let no man put asunder.

Let there be no room for anyone else to come between you. We tell people, "Don't interrupt us on our day off!"

SETTING UP APPOINTMENTS

Begin to enforce a scheduling calendar. People need to understand that they must make an appointment for counseling. Everyone understands this except church people. The world understands this better than some Christians.

Church people think you ought to drop what you are doing when they arrive for an unscheduled counseling appointment. They get huffy when you cannot see them. Again, I am not talking about an emergency, something that is life and death.

When you start out, you may have quite a bit of counseling.

You will need to set aside certain times [blocks] for counseling.

Don't do counseling every day. Keep a balance.

Schedule a break between sessions.

Be sure to shake yourself free from serious sessions. Oppression can

Linger after the appointment has concluded. You need to release yourself

From the cares of the person being counseled.

REPORT LOG

It is wise to keep a ministry report log. (See sample.) A log gives information about the person, the problem, and your suggestions for resolution. This log should be done immediately after the session so you don't forget what course of action you recommended.

You may not see them again for a few months, and you can refresh your memory by reviewing their previous appointment. You will also probably counsel many others in between, and you will most likely forget if you don't write it down.

TIME

How long you take with a counselee is determined by how severe the problem is AND how much time you have. I would not encourage long counseling sessions. You should set the time limit. From 30 60 minutes is recommended. Some may extend to 2 hours. I try to end after one hour if possible.

Remember, the person you are ministering to has other obligations, too, home, spouse, chores, etc.

Example: One lady who called the prayer line said she was having marital problems. Her husband was angry with her. When I asked why, she replied that her husband was upset that the telephone bill was $600.00 that month. When I asked her what accounted for the high bill, she said, " I am calling long distance a lot for prayer."

COUNSELING MARRIED COUPLES

If you are counseling a person in the area of their marriage, it is good to have both the husband and wife present. One side always seems correct until the other side is presented. Proverbs 18:17

It is good to hear both sides. There are ALWAYS three sides to a story: his side, her side, and the truth!

Make sure that you stay free to be the referee! Sometimes these sessions get hot and heavy blame shifting, frustration, pentup emotion, embarrassment at being exposed, false accusation, misunderstandings revealed, behavioral patterns / destructive repetitive cycles surfaced makes for an interesting and intense session!

DON'T GET EMOTIONALLY INVOLVED!

DON'T TAKE SIDES even if one partner really is in the wrong.

Remember, these two people are in covenant with each other. The goal should be to help enhance the covenant relationship. Don't do anything to tear it apart.

Suggest two or three areas they should work on. Don't lay out everything wrong with the marriage and 14 items to change. Two or three will be sufficient for starters.

Have them come back in two or three weeks. Discuss how things are coming along. Suggest good marriage books, tape series to help them learn how to overcome these areas of weakness. (Begin now developing a list of good materials to recommend. Use your concordance or some books and develop some sheets of scriptures on pertinent subjects: healing, marriage, love, righteousness, etc.)

Don't make a practice of loaning your resource materials. Most people do not bring them back. Let them invest something of value, like money and time, to improve their relationship.

HELPFUL TIPS

You are not a miracle worker.

You cannot make people like your counsel.

You cannot make people follow your counsel.

You cannot take on the cares of the "world" or your congregation.

You cannot be responsible for decisions people make.

Pray before and after each session: ask for wisdom when you begin, speak blessing on them before they leave.

Do not counsel members of another pastor's congregation.

COUNSELING

Primarily deals with delving into past. This creates a neurotic group very introspective. They have no revelation of righteousness.

Ex: One church focuses on abused women. Encourages women to go back into their childhood experiences, reliving, discussing, analyzing, forgiving, confronting, etc. It is full of dysfunctional women. They are counseled to withhold sex to work through sexual abuses, They don't want to hear about being set free and moving on in God.

They become dependent on the counselor always needing more help. It leaves them with no hope to resolve it. Inner healing and emotional healing are soul dominated arenas.

Take them from their past (where they live) to who they are in Christ. They can be set free in Christ.

People have a real need but they should not become dependent or have someone else be the control or guide.

Fundamentally the Word is the standard for all counseling.

They need the opportunity to hear the solutions from the Word.

Who should be responsible to counsel them?

Trust factor. Building a relationship with people.

Keep a matter Don't talk about it with others

Counsel them by the Word

Create a safe environment for them to get help

Most people do not reach out for help.

They are in denial

They don't feel comfortable talking about it

They feel hopeless

They have tried and failed before

LEADERSHIP

Some leaders you can follow their example, but not the Word that they preach.

Some leaders you can follow the Word that they teach, but not their example.

EVERY LEADER WILL BE WILLING TO SERVE

John 13:17 Jesus washed the feet of His disciples.

Vs 14 "If then, your Lord and master, have washed your feet, ye also ought to wash one another's feet."

Vs 15 "For I have given you an example, that you should do as I have done to YOU."

Five fold ministry gifts are to serve the body of Christ Eph 4: 11

RESPONSIBILITY, ACCOUNTABILITY, AND AUTHORITY

Qualities of a good leader

A leader will take on responsibility.

Jesus knew He had to go to the cross and He accepted His task. (Heb 12:2)

A leader will count the cost and pay the price.

Ex: Paul being a Jew was persecuted by the Jews because he preached a liberating gospel. Gal 6:12 Judaizers didn't want to suffer for the gospel's sake.

A leader is able to submit and yet not be controlled

The Apostle Paul when in Jerusalem, submitted himself to the apostles in love, but he did not submit to doctrines he did not believe.

Example in Word and deed 1 Tim 3:113

Married to one person at a time

Sober

Well behaved

Hospitable

Teachable

Free from the love of money

Patient

Not a brawler given to fighting

Free from covetousness

Free from major discipline problems in the home

Not a new convert or a novice (one who is mature in the Word)

Fellowship with strong believers Prov 13:20

Well spoken of at home, by friends, neighbors, associates, business persons, credit companies, hospitals, doctors, utilities, etc.

Grace or serious in attitude 1 Tim 3:8

Not double tongued (gossiper)

Not given to much wine

Not greedy of filthy lucre (money)

Can be bribed

Can hold back a church from blessing because of poverty mentality

Having a pure conscience

Having a wife with fine spiritual qualities

In control of passions

Not a slanderer

Sober

Faithful

Husband of one wife at a time.

A LEADER GOES THE EXTRA MILE

Gal 6:9 "Let us not be weary in well doing, for in due season we shall reap if we faint not."

LEADERS ARE MADE. HOW ARE THEY MADE?

Not everyone is born a leader. Leaders are made or developed. You can be an inspiring leader.

Have confidence that you hear God's voice. John 10:10 My sheep hear My voice. 2 Cor 5:7 we walk by faith and not by sight.

Realize the True Leader is in your spirit man not your flesh shell.

Ex: It doesn't matter how big or small you are, or what kind of background you have had. Jesus told His disciples the Kingdom of God was within them. 1 Cor 5:17 old things are passed away, all things are become new.

Step out in faith. 2 Cor 5:7 we walk by faith and not by sight. Heb 11:6 Without faith it is impossible to please God. Men will follow your faith.

Overcome the fear of public speaking. Moses was afraid. The disciples were afraid. A lot of times because of challenges in the past, we do not feel we can publicly speak. It is not eloquent words that stir faith in people, but the Word of God. Study the Word of God and you will have something to talk about.

Believe in yourself. If God believes 'in you, you should believe in yourself. If God trusts in you, you should trust yourself. Phil 4:13 I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me. 1 John 4:4 Greater is He that is in me than he that is in the world.

Deal with fear.

We, as believers, are hit with all kinds of fears. Fear will rob your faith. Fear is faith in the Devil's kingdom of darkness. We have been translated out of the kingdom of darkness.

FEARS TO AVOID:

A true leader will not be afraid of other ministry gifts fulfilling their God given vision.

A true leader looks for ways to bring peace without compromise of doctrine.

A true leader brings out the best in other people.

A true leader will not fight for position or recognition but for the pleasing of the Holy Spirit.

A true leader is concerned for others.

A true leader will be a man or woman of character and integrity.

A true leader will not be controlled by the devil, man, or his/her own family.

A true leader acts and talks just like Jesus.

CONFESSION SCRIPTURES

I am more than a conqueror. (Romans 8:37)

I am a world overcomer. (1 John 5:4)

I am the head and not the tail. (Deut 28:13)

I am above only and not beneath. (Deut 28:13)

I am a king and priest. (Rev 1:6)

I am reigning in life through Jesus Christ. (Romans 5:17)

I am free from fear. (2 Tim 1:7)

I am courageous. (Joshua 1:7)

I am strong in the Lord and the power of His might. (Eph 6.10)

I am seated in heavenly places in Christ Jesus. (Eph 2:6)

I am faithful. (Prov 28:20)

I am a doer of God's Word. (James 1:25)

I am a giver. (Luke 6:38)

I am a member of the body of Christ. (I Cor 12:27)

I am running to obtain the prize. (I Cor 9:24,25)

I am the salt of the earth. (Matt 5:13)

I am the light of the world. (Matt 5:14)

I am filled with God's Spirit. (Acts 1:8)

I am willing and obedient. (Is 1: 19)

God is for me. (Romans 8:3 1)

Greater is He that is in me. (1 John 4:4)

I can do all things. (Phil 4:13)

God has given me the victory. (1 John 5:4)

God is my source of supply. (Phil 4:19)

I will walk in love, (Eph 5:12)

God always causes me to triumph. (1 Cor 15:57)

I have authority over Satan. (Mark 16:1618, Luke 10: 19)

I walk by faith. (2 Cor 5:7)

I meditate in God's Word. (Joshua 1:8)

I delight in the Lord. (Ps 37:4)

I trust in the Lord. (Prov 28:25)

Jesus is my wisdom. (I Cor 1:30)

My spirit is life because of righteousness. (Romans 8: 10)

Christ is my wisdom, righteousness, sanctification and redemption. (I Cor 1:30)

I put on the new man. (Eph 4:24)

I am the righteousness of God in Christ. (11 Cor 5:2 1)

I am as bold as a lion. (Prov 28: 1)

My children are delivered. (Prov. 11:21)

I flourish like a palm tree. (Ps. 92:12)

I am free from sin nature. (Rom 6:18)

My prayers avail much. (James 5:16)

The Lord loves me. (Ps. 146:8; John 3:16)

The Lord is my strength. (Ps 37:39)

I am strong in the Lord and in the power of His might. (Eph. 6: 10)

God is my refuge and strength. (Ps 46: 1)

The joy of the Lord is my strength. (Nehemiah 8: 10)

The fruit of my spirit is love. (Gal 5:22)

God loved me first. (1 John 4:19)

I walk in love. (Eph. 5:2)

I let love continue. (Heb 13: 1)

I let the peace of God rule in my heart. (Cor 3:15)

I follow after peace. (Rom 14:19)

I have the peace of God in me. (John 20:21)

I am blessed with all spiritual blessings in Christ. (Eph 1:3)

I am seated with Jesus in heavenly places. (Eph 1:6)

I have an inheritance in Christ. (Eph 1: 11)

I am a seed of Abraham in Christ. (Gal 3:29)

God supplies all my need by Christ. (Phil 4:19)

I am a jointheir with Christ. (Rom 8:17)

My life is hid with Christ in God. (Col 3:3)

I am a child of light and of the day. (I Thes 5:5)

I have the Godkind of faith. (Mark 11:22)

I walk by faith and not by sight. (I Cor 5:7)

I am a doer of the Word. (James 1:22)

I hide the Word in my heart. (Ps 119:11)

The Word is a lamp to my feet. (Ps 119:105)

Christ's Word dwells in me richly. (Col 3:16)

I lay hands on the sick and they recover. (Mark 16:18)

I was healed 2,000 years ago. (Isaiah 53:4,5)

I am strong. (Joel 3: 10)

I have authority over all the power of the enemy. (Luke 10: 19)

I have authority in the Name of Jesus. (Matthew 28:18; Mark 16:16)

I resist the devil and he flees from me. (James 4:7)

I put on the armor of God. (Eph 6:12)

I cast out devils in Jesus' Name. (Mark 16:18)

Whatever I sow, that is what I will reap. (Gal 6:7)

I bring my tithe to the storehouse. (Mal 3:8)

God pours out a blessing on me because I tithe. (Mal 3:8)

God teaches me to profit. (Isaiah 48:17)

I receive freely all things. (Rom 8:32)

I give and it is given back to me even more. (Luke 6:38)

Through His poverty, I was made rich. (I Cor 8:9)

I Honor the Lord with my money. (Prov 3:9)

God rebukes the devourer. (Mal. 3:8)

I am prosperous and in good health. (111 John 2)

It is more blessed to give. (Acts 20:35)

My lips shall not speak wickedness. (Job 27:4)

I have what I say. (Mark 11:23)

My tongue is a tree of life. (Prov 15:4)

I hold fast the confession of my faith. (Heb 10:23)

Death and life are in the power of my tongue. Prov 18:21)

I order my conversation aright. (Isaiah 50:23)

I let the Lord carry my burdens. (Ps 68:19)

Bless the Lord 0 my soul. (Ps 103: 1)

I delight myself in the Lord. (Ps 37:4)

I will sing of His mercies and lovingkindness. (Ps 89: 1)

By Jesus, I offer the sacrifice of praise to God continually. (Heb 13:5)

Great is the Lord and highly to be praised. (Ps 48: 1)

Holy, Holy, Holy Lord God almighty. (Rev. 4:8)

worship God in spirit and in truth. (John 4:24)

MAKING A DREAM COME TRUE

This lesson is designed to inspire you to new heights, to pour fresh life on that which seems dry and put you out in front where you belong.

EVERY LEADER HAS A DREAM OR VISION

A dream come true.

A dream is a vision. Your godly desire is like a vision.

A "vision" is having the ability to see something not actually visible, having the ability to see beyond what is and cause to come about what should be.

A "dream" is to think upon something or to see.

HOW TO MAKE IT COME TRUE.

A dream comes to pass through diligent effort on our part as well as the Lord's.

Eccl. 5:3 For a dream cometh through the multitude of business.

It doesn't fall out of the sky. You play a certain part.

Prov 21:5 “The thoughts of the diligent tend only to plenteousness.”

Thoughts a renewed mind heading in the right direction. (Rom 12: 1)

Prov 10:4 the hand of the diligent maketh rich.

There is no place for laziness in a man or woman of dreams

A vision in front of you. Without a vision the people perish. A man without a dream is like a ship without a sail.

Make practical steps to see your dream come true. Plan for success.

Those that fall to plan, plan to fail. It is not unscriptural to make Spirit led plans for your dream to come to pass. Luke 14:2830 When you go to build, sit down and figure out the cost!

Nehemiah had a plan to ask the King for certain letters so he could rebuild the walls. Neh 2:48.

King Solomon had a blueprint for the reconstruction of the temple.

Noah was given specific directions on how to build the ark.

Jesus had a plan to repopulate the face of the earth with a new kind of species.

Heb 12:2 for the joy that was set before Him. 1 John 3:8 for this purpose was the son of God manifest

Goal Setting

Your dream can come to pass by making small goals that are obtainable and will help you reach your higher goals. A dream or vision just does not happen overnight.

Begin goal setting by:

Spiritual life

Worship, praise unto God, prayer, reading the Word

Family goals

Concerning spouse, children and extended family

Ministry goals

What are my goals concerning the church/ministry I am in?

Job goals/Career goals

It is okay to be successful in a career.

Example: If you know you are called into the ministry:

Attend Bible School

Work in the church in some area, paid or volunteer

Be teachable

Financial Goals

Have a figure in mind of what you would like to give.

Have a figure in mind of what you would like to make.

Begin to find scriptures on finances and speak them over yourself and your money.

Think big while you are in a small place.

Numbers 13:1733 Moses sent out 12 spies into the promised land to see if it was as God had promised; one leader from each tribe. After 40 days the men came back, 10 men confirmed that the land was good but then they said they were unable to take it because of the giants.

They saw themselves as grasshoppers in their own sight and so they were.

Joshua and Caleb gave the correct report.

It is not how big the giants are in your life that will stop you, but how small you see yourself before them.

How you see yourself is critical.

Proverbs 23:7 As a man thinks within himself, so is he.

Everyone starts small. There is nothing wrong with starting small. Everyone starts life as a small baby.

Job 8:7 Though thy beginning be small, your latter end shall be great. Men who started out small:

The Wright brothers

Abraham Lincoln

King David

Abraham Heb 11 looked beyond the circumstances

The Lord Jesus

It's not what you are that holds you back, it is what you think you are not. It is okay to be in a small place, just don't let a small place be in you.

How do we think big?

Get God's view on your life.

Concentrate on your assets and you will conquer self depreciation.

Tell yourself there is a way.

Admit your weaknesses and correct them.

Be persistent, but don't beat your head against the wall.

See yourself already there.

Get rid of fear of failure.

Fear is the short circuit of faith.

Fear originated in the garden. Gen 3: 10

Fear will cause:

Sickness Prov 17:22

Bondage Prov 29:25

Torment 1 John 4:18

Failure Deut 20:8

Death Luke 21:26

The answer:

Have faith in your faith. 1 John 5:5, Romans 8:37,38

Go to the Word Prov 4:2023, Romans 10: 17

Confess what the Word says about fear no longer having dominion over you. – 2 Timothy 17, Col 1:1314, 11 Cor 10:35

In conclusion, to recap: The steps to seeing your dream come true are:

Diligent effort on your part.

Keep a vision 'in front of you.

Make practical steps toward that vision or dream.

Small goals lead to big ones.

Think big while you are in a small place.

Get rid of the fear of failure.

EXAMPLES OF GOOD AND BAD LEADERS IN THE BIBLE

The Bible is full of examples that we can glean from concerning our every day life. In this class we will be laying out many examples so that you yourself can see what things to avoid in life. We believe that you will be able to learn from the mistakes of others.

OLD TESTAMENT EXAMPLES OF BAD LEADERS

CAIN (GEN 4:18) - Cain the brother of Abel is an example of doing it man's way.

Not acknowledging the true sacrifice that was pleasing to God (Jesus)

Was jealous of his brother which led to murder.

A person who is absorbed in his own self efforts and his own selfmade plans can easily be tempted to jealousy concerning the man or woman who trusts in the Lord God for his ministry and leans on the already finished work of the cross as his basis for every work.

SAMSON JUDGES 16:1- 32) -A mighty man of God" He had everything a man could ever want:

A strong anointing the spirit of God would come upon him.

He was a man of position, he was a judge in Israel.

He could have had any women he wanted.

He had a supernatural strength.

He was a man of wealth.

Yet, in all of this, he lacked character. Samson was a man led by his body or flesh and is a picture of the carnal believer today. He that sows to the flesh, shall reap death. Gal 5:17.

Every true leader is to have the character of his or her own life developed in the person of Jesus Christ. Many anointed preachers have fallen because of sin in their lives.

Samson had a weakness for women. Samson compromised everything to satisfy his sexual or emotional desires.

The end result of Samson he died an early death. Even though God used him after he repented, he suffered many unnecessary harms and early death.

We can also compare him to one who is weak 'in his stand on doctrine:

His wife was taken away.

His anointing and strength left him.

He died with his eyes gouged out.

He was powerless and penniless to his death.

KING AHAB (1 KINGS 16:3033, 1 KINGS 21:15)

He was a man ruled by his family. His wife, Jezebel, deceived and manipulated this king away from the truth of God's Word. You cannot follow God and obey all the plans of your family for your life.

It was not that Jezebel was so evil, as it was that Ahab was so spineless. Had he become fearless of man, and feared God, he would have followed the plan of God for him and Israel and would have loved his wife the proper way turning her towards the covenant God.

ELEAZAR THE HIGH PRIEST (I SAMUEL 2:29, 1 SAMUEL 4: 11)

He is an Old Testament picture of failure to pass it on to the next generation. He himself was an upright man, following after the commandments of God, but he failed to make his children follow the same precepts as himself

Leaders you are to see that those children who are placed under your authority, respect and have reverence for God, His people, and His presence. Your lack of commitment could destroy the next generation.

KING SAUL (I SAMUEL 9, 1 SAMUEL 13:15, 1 SAMUEL 14:35)

He is an example of disobedience.

King Saul starts his ministry as a humble young man, a man of natural ability; a man of great potential. King Saul did at one time have a holy awe for the Lord God.

King Saul got to a place in ministry where he was very big; with a very well known name. Kingdoms were in fear of him, but something happened. He intruded into another office. With fame, popularity, power, and prestige, King Saul disobeyed the Spirit of God, twice who gave him direct commands.

Sometimes as ministries begin to grow, you think you are bigger than God, and that you can take His place on earth. Somehow pride begins to grow instead of being put away.

It gets to the place where:

You look for the Bible to back up your every whim.

No one dares to disagree with you.

The presence and need for God becomes less and less.

You begin to take the place of Jesus for your congregation.

NEW TESTAMENT EXAMPLES OF BAD LEADERS

JUDAS ISCARIOT (JOHN 6:71, JOHN 13:2,26,29, JOHN 18:3,5)

A leader that was consumed by greed.

Greed can destroy your ministry.

You do not need to have a lot of money to get caught up in greed.

There are many poor people who are greedy.

Greed was so strong in Judas' life that he betrayed and lied on Jesus.

Judas died not long after. (committed suicide)

ANANIAS AND SAPPHIRA (ACTS 5:15)

They committed the sin of lying to the Holy Spirit. Both were leaders in the Jerusalem Church. They lied to the apostles about the amount of money they received for the selling of their extra property.

It was their house to sell and they were under no obligation to give it all. They could have kept any portion of it for themselves. No specific amount was required. This was out of their abundance that they were to give. They sold property and lied about the amount they received. They said they gave it all. Peter said, "You don't lie to us, you lie to the Holy Spirit." White lies are as bad as black lies.

Be bold and be truthful where morals, ethics and the Word of God is concerned.

OLD TESTAMENT EXAMPLES OF GOOD LEADERS

ABEL (GEN 4:18)

He gave the sacrifice that pleased God a blood sacrifice.

Jesus' death and resurrection adding nothing to it.

Did not get side tracked by his own good works.

DEBORAH (JUDGES 4:15

She was a judge in Israel. She was not like Samson.

She was a woman with developed character.

She was a woman whose word and example a man could follow.

She was a female prophet and a judge. The children of Israel came to Deborah to be judged or for her to make judgments in situations, just like Moses. She was the military head of 10,000 men. Deborah was married but her husband was not the military head of the army.

KING DAVID (1 KINGS 15:3)

All though King David made mistakes in his ministry, King David repented and bore the consequences himself for the mistakes.

He acted presumptuously with the ark.

He committed adultery.

He committed murder.

Because of David's sin, many unnecessary evils and harms came upon his whole family. Rape, murder, infant death, loss of the kingdom, and family feuding to name some. David had a heart after God. He turned, acknowledged his guilt and then moved on. If you have made mistakes or have fallen into a sin acknowledge it, repent, and move on again.

NEW TESTAMENT EXAMPLES OF GOOD LEADERS

PETER (JOHN 18:1127, JOHN 21:220)

Peter, like King David made mistakes. Peter denied the Lord. Peter, unlike Judas, repented and turned towards the Lord and not away from Him.

PAUL (NEW TESTAMENT) Paul is probably the best example next to Jesus. Paul was tried in almost every area of life. The Apostle Paul was someone you could follow in:

Revelation of Jesus

Revelation of the Word of God

Doctrine

Examples of love, patience, and long suffering, persecutions, endurance, and stability.

JESUS OUR GREATEST EXAMPLE

Jesus loved His Father.

Jesus loved mankind.

Jesus loved little children.

Jesus lifted up women.

Jesus respected faith, not lineage.

Jesus knew the Holy Scriptures.

Jesus walked in obedience to His Father.

Jesus healed the sick, cleansed the lepers, and raised the dead.

Jesus overcame every temptation known to man, yet without sin.

Jesus was led by the Holy Spirit and the Holy Spirit had a major place in His life.

Jesus died because of HIS faith in HIS Father.

Jesus resisted the Devil.

LEADERS AND DELEGATION

Every effective leader must learn how to delegate to others around him. Most pastors never get the congregation to a level of maturity because they do not delegate to others. Many pastors or leaders do not believe that anyone can do anything besides themselves.

The pastor preaches the sermon, prints the bulletin, visits the sick, cleans out the church, takes care of the youth and children and is completely exhausted, and the congregation never matures.

Ephesians 4:11 We are to equip the believers to do the work of the ministry not do it all ourselves Moses was a man of delegation.

Exodus 18:1327 Moses is in the wilderness with a million Hebrews taking care of all the disputes between the people. Verse 18 Jethro gives godly counsel to Moses and states that Moses and the people will both be worn out.

THE BREAKDOWN OF DELEGATION

Verse 21 one man was over a total of one thousand people and then 10 judges were placed under him, each being responsible for one hundred people each. Two judges were placed under each of the ten judges who were responsible for fifty people and each of these had five judges that were responsible for ten people each.

This is how all the people were cared for and helped.

Verse 22 All the great matters were brought to Moses, but the lesser cases they settled themselves.

Jesus pours everything into the 12 apostles. He sends them out to preach and heal, then He appoints 70 more and sends them out to preach and to heal. (Luke 10:111,1720) Then in Mark 16:1518, Jesus gives responsibility and authority to all believers through His Name.

All believers should be preaching good news, healing the sick, casting out demons. Signs should follow all believers.

We have made the pastor do everything. We have denied our own authority through Christ. We have made a religion out of the pastor.

Acts 2:1418 His Spirit is poured out on all believers.

Acts 6:18 it is not reason that we should leave the Word of God and serve tables

Verse 4 We will give ourselves continually to prayer and to the ministry of the Word.

Verse 7 The Word of God increased.

RESPONSIBILITY

Each department has a responsibility

Numbers 2 God tells Moses how to organize the camp. The camp is divided into four groups, with three tribes in each group. All are numbered and leaders put in charge.

Numbers 3 The Levites are in the middle and they are put into groups each having its own function of work on the tabernacle. Each group had responsibilities.

This is a picture of the body of Christ. Each member has its particular function in the body. We all, however, are to witness, lay hands on the sick, cast out demons, and preach. But, in the local church, we all have a particular function.

Romans 12:48 each believer has different motivational gifts to function in the church.

Prophecy spiritual gift serving maintenance, ushering, food teaching teaching classes, Sunday School exhorting preaching or evangelism administration organization

Let's find out from the Holy Spirit what particular job He wants us to be involved with in the local church, and then, be faithful.

HOW TO THINK BIG IN A SMALL PLACE

Each department in the church is affected by the leader of the department. The growth of the department depends on the leader. If the leader thinks small, so will the people in his department and your department will stay small.

This lesson is to help you think of ways to make your department grow.

THERE ARE THREE TYPES OF LEADERS:

Those who never really accomplish even the basics.

Accomplishes the basics and is content to stay where they are.

Accomplishes the basics and reaches out to become better and bigger, doing more than what is expected of them.

HOW TO THINK BIG IN A SMALL PLACE.

Numbers 13:1733

Moses sent out 12 spies into the promised land, one man from each tribe. After 40 days, the men came back and said it was good land. Ten of the men said they were not able to take it They saw themselves as grasshoppers and so they were in their own sight.

Joshua and Caleb gave the correct report.

How you see yourself is critical

It is not how big the giants are in your life that will stop you, but how small you see yourself before them. Proverbs 23:7 as a man thinks, so is he. It is not what you are that hold you back, it is what you think you are not.

Nothing wrong with starting small

Job 8:7 though your beginnings be small, your latter end shall be great. Make plans for growth. It is okay to be in a small place, just don't let a small place be in you

Make plans to grow in your department.

Don't let the cares of the world knock you off course.

Get other people involved in your department.

Think of ways to make your department the best.

Write on paper your goals for your department.

Modernize your department. It is not 1969, it is 1999!

Be sure to have goals for your ministry/department

Write them down on paper

What do you want your department/ministry to accomplish this year? How can you make it better and more efficient? What supplies do you need?

Does every leader have a copy of the church/ministry vision? Does every leader have guidelines for your areas of ministry?

MAKING PLANS FOR THE FUTURE

There has been a mentality in the body of Christ that says it is wrong to make any plans for the future. They take the scripture in Matthew 6:34 which says, "Take therefore no thought for tomorrow, for tomorrow shall take thought for the things of itself."

Christians have used this scripture out of context. Jesus was teaching about putting trust in our heavenly Father, and not to be anxious or worried about tomorrow. He was referring to natural things food, clothing, shelter. He was not teaching that we should have no direction or plans made in our life.

Christians say, "I'll take one day at a time" and they make no plans for the future. We are not to be worried about tomorrow, but we are to have plans.

"If we fail to plan, we plan to fail."

Another scripture taken out of context is James 4:13, 14.James is talking about the wealthy man. One who is too busy making plans to be even more rich. He has made plans for business, and yet, hasn't even sought what the will of the Lord is for his life. In this letter, James is addressing the Jews who where only looking at material gain.

We are to be a people who make plans and not wait to the very last minute and then it is often too late.

Jesus was a man of planning. Many times we think of Jesus as a wandering nomad who had no plans but just went from place to place taking each day only as it came, with no thought or planning for tomorrow.

Matthew 4:1316 Jesus leaves the Galilean area and goes to Capernaum. This was not by accident. Jesus fulfilled Bible prophecy. Verse 14 that it might be fulfilled (Isaiah 9:1,2)Jesus knew the scriptures and He had made plans to fulfill them.

Luke 24:44 Read Jesus knew the Word, knew who He was, and had a plan to fulfill prophecy.

Matthew 10:511 go in the way of the Gentiles. First, go to the house of Israel, Jesus had made plans for the Apostles to go to the Jews first, and then to the Gentiles.

Jesus had a plan of evangelizing and gave instructions to them. Jesus even tells them how to behave themselves in the future when they stand before governors.

Matthew 14:22 Jesus sends His disciples over to the other side which was Gannesaret, while He sent the multitudes away.

Matthew 16:21 Jesus knew His purpose. He knew He was to go to Jerusalem. He knew He would rise again. (Matthew 17:22,23)

Matthew 21:1,2 Jesus sends His disciples to get a colt for His entry into Jerusalem.

Matthew 26:2 He knew where He had to be for Passover because He was that Passover Lamb that was to be sacrificed.

Matthew 26:1719 Jesus prepared for the next day Passover.

Verse 32 Jesus knew where He was going after the Resurrection.

Matthew 26:53,54 Jesus had to fulfill the scriptures.

John 19:2527 Jesus made sure His mother was taken care of before He died.

John 21:8,9,13 Jesus prepares a meal while the disciples fish. Jesus took time to prepare a meal for them. Jesus, the man, like any other Jew, had certain days that had to be observed, which meant planning ahead of time.

Each department head/leader must begin to plan ahead. Sometimes poor planning has to do with the culture we are in, and what the enemy is trying to do in that nation. Wise planning will help you to reach those goals you have set for yourself If you have special events, plan ahead.

Plan your meetings then put them on the calendar. Make an effort not to cancel your meetings once they have been made. People like dependability. Set deadlines when you expect to have a job done or event finished.

Do a lot more thinking. Sit down at a table with a pen and paper and a calendar and begin to write down ways to organize yourself, your department, your ministry.

List your goals, responsibilities, and how you realistically plan to get the job done. Fifteen minutes of thinking may save you 3 4 hours of last minute work.

Begin to get out of the habit of living day to day. Think month to month, plan two or three months in advance. That is good. It is all right to plan for the future. It is better to have planned and failed, that to have failed because you did not plan.

The reason some of us are so worn out and tired is because we spend our day putting out fires. Running around and trying to solve problems caused because we did not plan properly. Why not figure out what causes the "fires" and stop it before it starts.

Table of Contents

Third Year Bible School Curriculum

PREFACE

CHURCH GOVERNMENT

God The Supreme Authority

TRUTH

Men who believed the Truth.

LOGOS AND RHEMA

The Holy Spirit bears witness with both logos and rhema.

Scriptures for Rhema:

Scriptures for Logos

Book of Acts

How the Logos and Rhema Operate

I Must Hear It Personally To Believe

Reproof – correction

How to walk and not walk as a Christian, Crucify the flesh, lie not one to another, keep the unity of the Spirit, prefer one another, walk in the Spirit, renew your mind, not getting drunk on wine.

Jesus Christ Above All Men

What Has Been Done Through Christ?

CONSCIENCE, DELEGATED AUTHORITY AND CUSTOM

Authority of the Conscience

Scriptures that deal with the conscience of man.

Examples of matters of conscience:

AUTHORITY

Delegated Authority or authority given because of a specific function or responsibility

Stipulated Authority Only for a specific period of time

Custom

FUNCTIONAL AUTHORITY

WRONG USE OF AUTHORITY, SUBMISSION AND OBEDIENCE

Functional Authority

Exercising The Wrong Kind of Authority

Scriptural references to bad leadership:

Those Who Want To Exercise Authority Over You

Submission And Obedience

Ruling With Liberty

AUTHORITY OF THE BELIEVER, THE NAME OF JESUS

The Name of Jesus

We have a fourfold right to use the name:

What does the name mean to the Father, to the Church, and to Satan?

All authority has been given unto me in Heaven and in earth.

The Name of Jesus in many areas:

More on the name of Jesus:

TRADITIONAL FORMS OF CHURCH GOVERNMENT

CHURCH BOARD, PASTORAL ABUSE OF AUTHORITY

Episcopalian Church Government

Presbyterian Church Government

Congregational Church Government

Independent Church Government

What About Church Boards?

Pastoral Abuse of Authority

HOMILETICS

INTRODUCTION

UNDERSTANDING THE TASK

DEFINITION OF HOMILETICS

Rhetoric was developed by the Greeks during the intertestemental period the height. Rhetoric is a study of clear speech as a means of effective communication and persuasion.

Homiletics is the adaptation of the principles of Rhetoric to the demands and practice of preaching. It is the science of preparing and preaching, It is the science of preparing and preaching/delivering a discourse/speech/address based upon scripture.

THE DEVELOPMENT OF HOMILETICS

Early Christian preaching was founded upon Ancient oratory, Hebrew prophecy, and Gospel preaching.

The Rise of Rhetoric in Christian Preaching

THE SERMON IDEA

DEFINITION

SOURCES OF THE IDEA

FORMULATING THE STRUCTURE

THE TITLE OF THE SERMON (THEME)

Definition and Presentation

The Characteristics of a Good Title

Phrasing the Title

THE BODY OF THE SERMON (DISCUSSION)

Discussion (Main Ideas)

Outline

Transition

CONCLUSION

Types Of Conclusion

METHODS OF CONCLUDING

INTRODUCTION

OBJECTIVE

CONTENTS OF INTRODUCTION

QUALITIES OF A GOOD introduction

INVITATION

DEFINITION

Conduct of the Invitation

CLASSIFICATION OF SERMONS BY SUBJECTS

THEOLOGICAL SERMON (DOCTRINAL)

ETHICAL SERMONS

Content

SUGGESTIONS

Possible types of response may include public action (walking forward), personal private, talking with a counselor, etc.

CLASSIFICATION OF SERMONS BY SUBJECTS

THEOLOGICAL SERMON (DOCTRINAL)

CONTENT

REQUIREMENTS

SUGGESTIONS

ETHICAL SERMONS

Content

SUGGESTIONS

FUNCTIONAL ELEMENTS OF THE SERMON

The Necessity of Explanation

CAUTIONS CONCERNING EXPLANATION

EXPLANATION OF TEXTS

AN ESSENTIAL TASK

APPLICATIONS

DEFINITION:

EXPLANATION BY NARRATION

EXPLANATION BY DESCRIPTION

EXPLANATION OF SUBJECTS

The main subject or main Idea(s) may be unclear to the hearers.

Methods of explaining the subject include:

INTERPRETING THE TEXT

METHODS OF INTERPRETATION

Some Biblical passages do have allegorical meaning (John 15).

DOGMATIC INTERPRETATION

MYSTICAL INTERPRETATION

RATIONALISTIC INTERPRETATION

MODERN INTERPRETATION

PRINCIPLES OF INTERPRETATION

The interpreter must keep in mind that Scripture has a divine character as revelation and a human character as mediated through persons,

Scripture must be interpreted as a unified whole, especially centered in a message of redemption.

Passages which predict must be seen in the historical and intellectual context of their time. We begin with the author's expectation.

Miracle accounts must be approached as real possibilities and interpreted according to the author" purpose. (John "signs")

The author's interpretation is centered first, around/upon the author's intention, what the author mean to say (i.e.: Paul "flesh")

Secondly, interpretation asks what the passage means to the current reader (application). Most passages have a single obvious meaning which should be the focus interpretation.

Statements by a single author should be interpreted consistently with other statements by the same author, that is, (What Jesus said on the time of the Second coming).

The historical background/context must be considered in interpretation (Poetry, proverbs, apocalyptic literature must be interpreted as such).

STEPS IN INTERPRETATION

The Text in Historical Background

The Text in its Context

Analysis of the Text

WRITING SERMON MANUSCRIPTS

ADVANTAGES

DISADVANTAGES

CONCLUSION

METHODS OF DELIVERY

READING

RECITATION

Definition The sermon is written out in a full manuscript, then studied, and repeated from memory without notes.

Evaluation

FREE DELIVERY

This is delivery of the sermon without notes or manuscript in the pulpit.

Suggestions

Advantages

Disadvantages

IMAGINATION

I.THE NATURE OF IMAGINATION

FUNCTION OF IMAGINATION IN PREACHING

Construction of the Discourse(Arrangement)

A Display of Ideas in Revealing Familiar Images

Imagination Produces Understanding and Teaching Scripture

This Aids in Sharing Others Experience (Sympathetic imagination - speaking what the people feel as you conclude).

MEANS OF CULTIVATING IMAGINATION

The Study of Nature and Art

A Study of Literature, Prose and especially poetry and song - lyrics.

Identify closely with the congregation to know their needs.

It maintains your own spiritual vitality and relation to God who speaks through imagination.

Practice efforts at description, illustration imagination.

ILLUSTRATION

USES OF ILLUSTRATION

You use illustration to explain. It presents an example or analogy of an idea. It begins with people's present understanding,

You may use illustration to prove. An analogy is often used.

Illustrations can be used as an ornament 1.to make the truth attractive. Illustration do not obscure the truth.

Illustration can be used to gain attention.

Prepare the hearers emotionally for a crucial part. Care must be taken not to manipulate people's emotions.

Illustration can be used to persuade hearers to obey a biblical truth by showing someone who follows the command, This may be useful for you in completing an idea.

Include hearers by speaking to their context.

Illustration is used to aid the memory until the subject is understood and applied. This is more of preparing an idea.

TYPES OF ILLUSTRATION

Single Word a clear descriptive adjective or verbs(Eg.: grasshoppers)

Phrase a few words of memorable description ("salt of the earth").

Quotation a repetition or exact words, given the name of author whereever possible,

Detailed Example story, anecdote, biblical event, imagination. When you are using imagination, the invented nature of the story should be made clear. Be sensitive to the feelings of individuals.

SUGGESTIONS FOR ILLUSTRATION

Use illustrations only when they serve an idea and clearly make the point with little or no explanation.

Be accurate as possible concerning the facts.

Using variety of types of illustration: avoid repeating a single type often.

ELEMENTS OF AN ILLUSTRATION

The Climax This is a crucial statement or action which conveys the meaning or completes the purpose.

SPECIALIZED SERMONS

ACADEMIC/ANNIVERSARY SERMONS

CHILDREN’S SERMONS

REVIVAL SERMONS

Avoid long sermons since the meetings are frequent.

Vary the content and objectives of the sermon, so that you can appeal to a wide range of people.

Employ a series of messages in this general order of church renewal, demands of the law, the mercy of Christ, an appeal for decision. Seek for lasting commitment, not just immediate response.

FUNERAL SERMONS

OBSTACLES TO OVERCOME

CHARACTERISTICS OF EFFECTIVE FUNERAL SERMONS

FUNERAL SERVICE

All funeral services should share the message of Christ's Lordship, love and forgiveness, and life to come. The service must be Christian in its content.

The funeral is for the living, to provide comfort and gospel proclamation. It should not be used for other purpose.

Scripture

Poetry - choose on the basis of content and agreement with scripture.

Music favorite hymns are good. Beware of content.

Liturgy

Obituary (Life Sketch)

Tribute

CONTEMPORARY APPROACHES TO SERMON DELIVERY

A LETTER SERMON

The letters of Paul were publicly read as a part of early Church worship.

The sermon is prepared and presented to the congregation in the form of a letter.

This may be used as an introduction to a section of a sermon.

SHORT STORY/PARABLE SERMON

A sermon based upon or presented as a short story(Esther) or based upon a short story. Jesus taught in this way(Lazarus and the Rich Man)

A sermon based upon or presented as parable. Jesus does this in Lk. 15.These truths can be presented in a modern day application.

THE INTERVIEW SERMON

This is composed of an interview among several people (including the preacher) on some biblical issue or their lives.

AN OBJECT LESSON SERMON

It is often used with children, the sermon being built around some object.

DRAMATIC MONOLOGUE

The preacher portrays a biblical character/event in both action and speech. Costumes may be used.

DIALOGUE SERMON

The sermon is composed of a free discussion between the preacher and the congregation, or dialogue among individuals on the podium.

VOICES

THE ABILITIES AND DEVELOPMENT OF THE VOICE

The Compass this is the range or pitch(tone) the voice produces.

Volume This is a loudness of the voice/speech (volume is not the same as the pitch.)

Penetrating Power

Melody Sometimes called the "holy whine"

HERMENEUTICS

KINDS OF HERMENEUTICS

General Hermeneutics: This applies to the interpretation of all kinds of writings.

Specific Hermeneutics: definite kinds of literally productions, such as laws, history, prophecy, poetry etc.

Exegesis: A critical explanation of a passage of literature, especially the Bible. It

The Study of Hermeneutics

The Necessity of Hermeneutics

HISTORY OF HERMENEUTICS AMONG THE JEWS

Both Jews and Greeks developed some definite and distinct principles of interpreting their respective writings many years before the birth of Christ. Both of these groups influenced the views held by the early Christians.

HISTORY OF HERMENEUTICAL PRINCIPLES IN THE CHRISTIAN CHURCH

THE SCHOOL OF ANTIOCH

THE WESTERN SCHOOL OF INTERPRETATION OR EXEGETE:

THE PERIOD OF THE MIDDLE AGES, OR DARK AGES

THE PERIOD OF THE REFORMATION

The Renaissance

The Reformers believed the Bible to be the inspired Word of God.

The Reformers did not agree in every respect on how scriptures should be interpreted.

SOME APPROACHES TO SCRIPTURES

RATIONALISM - NATURALISTIC APPROACHES

Rationalism

Some Examples of the Rationalist:

Why Some People Chose To Become Rationalist?

EXISTENTIALISM

The predominant approach to understanding the Bible has been called existential.

CULTURAL RELATIVISM:

DOGMATIC APPROACHES TO THE BIBLE:

A dogmatic or dogma is a system of belief constructed by scholars and laymen and pastors through the ages to explain and interpret all passages of scripture on the basis of their systems.

When taken to an extreme, the dogmatic approach to scripture clearly has undesirable results. The Bible is no longer its own authority.

A RETURN TO FAITH

In every denomination people began to cry out for reality and life. Three streams of religious systems revived but only two had the real thing.

PROPER CONCEPTION OF THE BIBLE

THE INSPIRATION, INFALLIBILITY, AND REVELATION OF THE BIBLE.

Inspiration of the Bible: this occurs only twice in the entire Bible.

In the writing of scripture, inspiration is the divine guidance and central of the messenger in recording and delivering the message. Even though human beings were used by God, yet the words are exactly the ones that God wanted to say. So when we say the Bible is inspired, we mean that the Bible is Godbreathed.

THE INSPIRATION OF THE WRITERS

The Human Authors

The Inspiration of the Word

The Inspiration of the Interpreters

Theories of Inspiration

Verbal Inspiration applied to the Bible in the origin written, and claims that these writings were so inspired that the very words of scriptures were dictated by God.

THE LITERATURE OF THE BIBLE

THE LITERATURE OF THE OLD TESTAMENT

The OT is a collection of books. It is the sacred library of ancient Israel plus more. There are 39 books which are included in it. These were written over hundreds of years and represent many different kinds of literature.

There were numerous authors and compilers some being Kings, farmers, Business men etc., each with his individual point of view, his characteristic vocabulary and style, and his unique intellectual ability and spiritual insight.

The OT was divided into three sections by the ancient Hebrews.

THE LITERATURE OF THE NEW TESTAMENT

The literary problems of the NT are somewhat different from those of the OT. It is not useful dividing passages into prose and poetry for the NT interpreter, There are small portion of poetical reflection in the NT.

The NT can be classified into:

SOME EXAMPLES OF INTERPRETATION

THE ANTIQUITY OF THE OLD TESTAMENT

Ancient weights and measurements

The Language of the Old Testament

The Culture of the OT,

The Religion and Faith of the OT,

The Historical Background of the Old Testament

The PreChristian Outlook of the OT

THE ANTIQUITY OF THE NEW TESTAMENT

The NT like the OT, is also a collection of ancient books.

The Language of the New Testament

The Culture of the NT

The Religion and Faith of the New Testament

The Historical Background of the NT

TASK OF THE INTERPRETER

The Authority of the Bible

The Responsibilities of Interpretation

Personal Blessings of the Interpreter

TOOLS FOR INTERPRETING THE BIBLE

In selecting tools, several considerations must be taken into account.

Translations

Dictionaries

Concordances

Histories

Atlases

Archaeology Books

OT and NT Introductions

Commentaries

MINISTRY GIFTS

INTRODUCTION

Christ's Provision For The Church

Who gave these gifts?

He only gave the Evangelist?

When did He give them?

For what purpose did He give these ministry gifts?

For how long did He give the ministry gifts?

God Sets the Ministry Gifts In The Church

1 Corinthians 12:27,28 and God hath set the gifts. (Jesus gives them to the Church, God sets them where He wants them, not man. Man cannot call or set in anyone.) If a man or woman has no calling from God, we have no business setting them into offices.

Reasons For Not Going Into The Ministry

How You Can Tell A Divine Call

God Equips Those Ministers Who Are Called

Those people whom God calls, He equips with spiritual gifts. Education is good, but we need more than education. We need a ministry equipped with supernatural gifts. Let Christ do it.

Variety and Balance

One of the most fascinating things concerning the ministry gifts of Christ is their variety.

The divine plan is for each ministry which God has set in the Church to compliment the other, providing a check and balance.

Example:

A person can stand in more than one office, but we separate them to define them.

THE APOSTLE

aPOSTLE

OBJECTIVES:

There are four classes of apostles.

MINISTRY GIFT FIRST GIVEN TO THE CHURCH

Ephesians 4:11

Romans 12:48

1 Corinthians 12:28

DEVELOPMENT OF THE CHURCH

OVERSIGHT OF CHURCHES

Paul only had spiritual oversight of churches while he was establishing them. He had no oversight in the church at Jerusalem. Once he left a church he had established, he delegated that oversight to others. Acts 20:28

THE WORD, APOSTLE

FOURTH CLASS OF APOSTLES

MISSIONARIES

PASTORS WHO STAND IN THE APOSTOLIC OFFICE

CHARACTERISTICS OF THE APOSTOLIC CALL

Paul as an example

SIGNS OF A TRUE APOSTLE

Signs, wonders, mighty deeds 2 Corinthians 12:12

A very deep personal experience with the Lord, beyond the ordinary.

Acts 9:5,6

Acts 26:1310 the apostle Paul

QUALIFICATIONS FOR THE APOSTOLIC MINISTRY

Some ministers do not prepare themselves to stand in the ministry God has called them to. 1 Timothy 3:17 Read it all

These qualifications can be applied to all the ministry gifts.

verse 3 He must not be a lover of money insatiable desire for wealth and ready to obtain it by questionable means.

He must not use his office to extort money from people. We raise money to preach the gospel. We don't preach the gospel to raise money.

Example: Judas Iscariot He disqualified himself.

FALSE APOSTLES

A true apostle = plants and establishes new works in the Lord's name on a sound biblical foundation the Word of God

False apostles = counterfeits the real out of impure motives for reasons of personal gain.

MOTIVATION

One called to the apostolic office who has taken time to develop his character would rather hide himself and lift up Jesus.

He will make sure he bases his ministry solidly on the Word rather than on spiritual gifts or signs and wonders.

His concern is for the whole body of Christ.

PREPARE YOURSELF

Through studying the Word of God and preparing your heart.

THE PROPHET

OBJECTIVES:

What constitutes the office of a prophet?

The difference between the prophet's ministry in the OT and NT

The Holy Spirit versus Familiar Spirits

Visions and Revelations

What goes with a prophet's ministry?

PROPHET, PRIEST AND KING

NEW TESTAMENT SAINTS

HOW DOES GOD LEAD THE BELIEVER IN THE NEW TESTAMENT?

THERE ARE THREE TYPES OF VISIONS

PROPHETS ARE NOT GUIDES IN THE NEW TESTAMENT

WHAT IS A NEW TESTAMENT PROPHET?

NO FOUNDATIONAL PROPHETS

We do not have any foundational prophets today. Just like the apostle. If we had that kind of anointing, we would be able to add to the New Testament scriptures. Ephesians 2:19, 20

JESUS WAS A PROPHET

PRIVATE MANIFESTATIONS

OLD TESTAMENT PRIVATE MANIFESTATIONS

TRYING TO MAKE SOMETHING HAPPEN

OLD TESTAMENT PRIVATE MANIFESTATIONS

TRYING TO MAKE SOMETHING HAPPEN

PROPHETS CAN OPEN THEMSELVES UP TO FAMILIAR SPIRITS

MANY VOICES

By operating in the flesh without the anointing, you move into the realm where there are many spirits and many voices.

HOW CAN YOU LEARN THE DIFFERENCE?

HOW TO KEEP FROM GETTING OFF

JUDGING PROPHECIES

ANY SPIRITFILLED BELIEVER

YOU CANNOT CALL YOURSELF

NO PROPHETS IN THE LAITY

IMITATING A PROPHET

MISCONCEPTIONS CONCERNING PROPHETS

WHAT GOES WITH A PROPHET'S MINISTRY?

THE EVANGELIST

OBJECTIVES:

What Accompanies The Evangelist's Ministry?

The Purpose of Miracles and Healings

Preach The Word

The Need For Other Ministry Gift Offices

THE PASTOR

OBJECTIVES:

THE EARLY CHURCH

ELDERS

DEACONS

ORDINATION

GOVERNMENTS

APOSTLES MAY PASTOR FOR A SHORT TIME

The apostle may pastor for a while, but ultimately, he will turn it over and start new works.

An apostle should be a member of a local church.

THE WORD "SHEPHERD"

THE LOCAL CHURCH

THE SENIOR PASTOR

ATTACKS ON THE CHURCH

THE TITHE

THE MARKS OF A TRUE SHEPHERD

A shepherd's heart is a gift from God.

A pastor is stationary in the local church.

A pastor will either be a preacher or a teacher of the Word, but his main office is to pastor.

If a minister just has the teaching gift, then his ministry gift is teaching, not the pastoral office.

Just because a person can preach or teach does not make him a pastor.

A pastor would rather minister to the needs of the sheep than do anything else.

A minister who doesn't want to be around the sheep is not a pastor.

A pastor won't want to leave after he preaches. He will greet the people.

A PASTOR IS NOT A DICTATOR

GOVERNING THE LOCAL BODY SPIRITUALLY AND NATURALLY

1 Corinthians 12:28 governments It has two sides: the spiritual and the natural.

TAKING OVER A CHURCH

SMALL CHURCHES

MINISTERIAL ACCOUNTABILITY

MINISTERIAL RESTORATION

FINANCIAL ACCOUNTABILITY

FALSE PASTORS

DISCOVER YOUR MEASURE AS A PASTOR AND LEADER

CAPTAINS OF TENS PASTORAL HOME GROUP LEADER

Measure: 1540 people including children

CAPTAIN OF TEN DEACON IN CHARGE OF A TASK

CAPTAINS OF FIFTIES LOCAL CONGREGATIONAL ELDER/PASTOR

Measure: 70200 people including children

CAPTAINS OF HUNDREDS LEADER OF THE LARGER CHURCH

Measure: 150500 people including children

CAPTAINS OF THOUSANDS CITY CHURCH

EPH. 4 MINISTRY Measure: 1000's

THE TEACHER

OBJECTIVES:

JESUS, OUR EXAMPLE OF A TEACHER

JESUS GIVES THE MINISTRY GIFTS

Purpose of the ministry Gifts

1 Corinthians 12:28,29 Ephesians 4:11 tells us that God has placed the ministry gift of a teacher in the church:

STANDING IN MORE THAN ONE OFFICE

One can stand in the office of a pastorteacher, evangelistteacher, prophetteacher, but we have separated the offices so that we can better define them.

Example: Acts 3:1 = names five men who were either prophets or teachers, or prophet teachers.

PROPHETS IN THE OLD TESTAMENT

WHAT ARE THE EVIDENCES OF A MINISTRY GIFT TEACHER?

THE WORK OF A TEACHER

CHARACTERISTICS OF A TEACHER

THE TEACHING MINISTRY IS IMPORTANT

THINGS TO AVOID AS A TEACHER

WHERE TO START?

If you feel called to the fivefold teaching ministry:

Teach the people God places in front of you TODAY. Start right were you are!

Step out in faith into new areas of opportunity.

FINAL THOUGHTS

Teachers are to be supported: Galatians 6:6 Communicate: to make one's necessity your own, so as to relieve them. Deut 18:17, Numbers 18:2032

Those that ministered full time were supported.

THE MINISTRY GIFT OF HELPS

OBJECTIVES:

Definition of ministry of helps

Understanding of deacons

Music ministry

Tongues and Interpretation

Becoming a better minister

Helpful hints in ministry

Helps - 1 Corinthians 12:2830

Romans 12:48 or ministering let us wait on our ministering

Deacons

You may sense the call of God and assume it is pastoring or an evangelist, but it may be 'in the helps ministry. In 1 Corinthians 12:28 the word "helper" = a helper or reliever. In Romans 12:7 or ministry, let us wait on our ministering. This is talking about deacons. The word "ministering or ministry" is diakonia it means relief, service or attendant.

Deacons are the men and women who serve in the ministry of helps. This word is also used in Philip 1: 1, 1 Timothy 3:8.It is the word used of Phebe in Romans 16:1 and it is translated "servant". The deacon's ministry in the early days of the church was having charge of the alms, and being an observer of the poor and sick.

The deacon's ministry is a divine call. Acts 6:16 describes the appointing of seven men.

THE MUSIC MINISTRY

TONGUES AND INTERPRETATION - 1 Corinthians 12:2830

This is not your devotional tongues between you and God. This is not just the gifts of the Spirit in the church. This is a real ministry of tongues and interpretation to the church. This is a gift ministering to others.

Do all speak with tongues? Paul is talking about the ministry gift of tongues to the church. All tongues, in essence, are the same but in purpose and use they are different.

Example Years ago a couple ministered to the public. He spoke messages in tongues and his wife interpreted.

FAITHFULNESS TO THE CALL

God did not plan any spiritual failures. God did not plan some to fail and some to succeed. So, ministers who fail either were never called or they are hopelessly unfaithful.

If you are a minister or going into the ministry you have to apply yourself to the calling of God upon your life. Just like you have to work at a marriage to make it the best, the same way you work on your ministry.

HOW DO I BECOME A BETTER MINISTER?

Study 2 Timothy 2:15

Study to show thyself approved unto God, a workman that needs not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the Word of truth. Rightly dividing cutting straight.

Dedicate some ministers fail because they are only half dedicated. Dedicate every area of your life to God.

Consecrate Even though you start at the bottom and not the top.

Submit to the Will of God Some ministers are like King Saul who thought it was better to sacrifice than to obey God. I Samuel 15:22,23

Remain faithful No matter how hard it may seem, or how much you have been suffering, remain faithful to the call. God rewards faithfulness, not offices. If you are just preaching to two people, remain faithful.

If you are in another man's ministry, remain faithful. If you are faithful in another's, God will give you your own. Matthew 25:2123. You might say, "But, it is only a few people".

Luke 16: 10 He that is faithful in that which is least, is faithful also in much. He that is unjust in that which is least, is unjust in that which is much. Why should God give you more if you are not faithful in the little he has given you?

FAITHFULNESS IS WHAT PROMOTES YOU

Some think because they are so gifted or talented they will be promoted but they usually are a loud horn just irritating to the ears. Why? Because they are unfaithful. Pastors look for faithful people to put into positions of leadership. I encourage you to look for every opportunity to minister no matter how small it may seem.

Be a person of integrity.

Develop / Mature Grow up

HELPFUL HINTS

CHURCH GROWTH

INTRODUCTION:

Christ's intention was to spread the Kingdom of God through the Church as the Instrument.

THE IMPORTANCE OF CHURCH GROWTH

GROWTH DEFINED: Becoming larger in size as a result of some natural process or the process of development.

THE CHURCH: Review on the nature and work of the Church will motivate and help us inour present study.

The CHURCH is the will of God. It is a living organism, not an organization, and has the power to grow. The Church is a living entity, the body of CHRIST. Therefore, it must grow. This is what makes church growth important.

Two main dimensions in which the church should grow:

WHAT THE CHURCH IS NOT:

THE CHURCH AND THE KINGDOM OF GOD

DEFINITION: The word "Church" is a translation of the Greek Word "EKKLESIA" which is made up of two other words: EK meaning "out of' and KALEO which means "to call".

WHAT THE CHURCH IS: It's the eternal purpose of God. This purpose or intention of God was planned before the foundation of the world. (Eph. 1:4,9 Titus 1.2,3)

There are two facets of building people

THINGS THAT BUILD OR EDIFY :

STRATEGIES FOR CHURCH GROWTH (TEXT: MATT. 25:14 19)

GOD DESIRES GROWTH: The Kingdom of God is a Kingdom of growth. God's

WHY CHURCHES DON'T GROW: There are many factors that cause churches not to grow. To name a few:

STRATEGIES FOR GROWTH

HOME CELL GROUPS

WHAT IS THE HOME CELL GROUP?

WHY THE HOME CELL GROUPS?

THE NEED FOR HOME CELL GROUPS IN THE CHURCH

QUALIFICATIONS AND ROLE OF CELL LEADERS AND COORDINATOR

CHRISTIAN COUNSELING

COURSE OBJECTIVES: This course is designed to:

Help students with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder experienced over the years, in order to have peace, courage and wholeness as they prepare for ministry.

Prepare students to be able to adequately help others in their ministries.

INTRODUCTION:

Biblical Counseling, therefore, is concerned with the actualization of the Christ-like potentials within an individual.

WHAT IS COUNSELING?

Counseling is a relationship in which a person is guided to see the true picture of the nature of his/her problem so that he/she becomes capable of solving said problem. According to 1 Corinthians 12:28, Counseling is a ministry of "Helps".

THE SCOPE OF COUNSELING

Counseling, in reality, is as old as the world of civilization because it was practiced by the traditional elders even before the universal perspective.

Counseling today is universal as a result of man's increasing need of guidance. (Prov. 11: 14)

THE NATURE OF COUNSELING

Counseling is about assisting individuals, families, groups, neighbors and the society in general with the decision making process of resolving interpersonal concerns and conflicts.

THE FUNCTION OF COUNSELING

The counselor's function is to offer counseling (help) services to individuals or groups in need

To enhance the helping relationship, the counselor must know that what is basic in helping others is his/her own attitude in working with them.

COUNSELING IN CHRIST

The characteristics of a Counselor:

LEARNING TO BE TRUSTWORTHY:

To be trustworthy, the counselor must learn to adapt an active listening skill and exercise patience throughout the whole story instead of being quick to give advice (Prov. 18 : 13)

THE LISTENING CYCLE

THE KIND OF PERSON GOD USES

The Christian Counselor must be the Lord's Bond Servant.

The Lord's bondservant must not be quarrelsome:

The Lord's bondservant must be kind:

The Lord's bond servant must be able to teach

Some of the lies are:

The Lord's Bond Servant Must be Patient When Wrong:

The Lord's Bond Servant Must be Gentle

The Lord's Bond Servant Must be Committed: You must be committed to the truth and know without question that God and only God can grant repentance that leads to a knowledge of the truth.

GUIDELINES FOR A WHOLESOME COUNSELING MINISTRY:

All of a counselor's teaching must be based on the Word of God

A counselor must rely on the Holy Spirit for Guidance

A counselor should have a good prayer life because biblical counseling is a spiritual warfare.

APPROACH TO THE PROCESS

THE PROCESS

The First Interview:

DEALING WITH ABUSE AND HARASSMENT

Abuse

Harassment

STRESS AND ITS MANAGEMENT

STRESS AND ITS MANAGEMENT

Life is full of experiences which can be good or bad.

What is Stress?

Some Stressful events include:

What is a Stressor or How can I Identify its Source?

Sources Of Stress (Life Events)

Signs/Symptoms of Stress or How do I know when I am under stress?

Categories of Stress

Impact of Stress

MANAGING/COPING WITH STRESS

What Coping Methods Can Help When I Or Some Is Under Stress, Either In The Home, Church, Or Organization Or The Community.

GETTING RESULTS IN COUNSELING

Proverbs 12:15 the way of a fool is right in his own eyes: but he that hearkeneth unto counsel is wise.

THE PLACE OF GOD'S WORD

THE POWER OF LISTENING

We live in a society that doesn't like taking time to listen. Just call a bank or Customer Service Department sometime. You will be interrupted, you will be put on hold, and when you finally get to explain the situation, you have to repeat it three times because the clerk was not really listening.

THE SPIRIT AND THE WORD AGREE TOGETHER

The Holy Spirit and the Word of God are always in agreement. The Holy Spirit will never lead a person contrary to the Word of God. NEVER!

The Holy Spirit dwells in us. We are new creatures and our spirit is alive unto God. We can listen then to our human spirit. Romans 8:16.2 Corinthians 5:17

We have the Great Counselor dwelling in us.

GIFTS OF THE HOLY SPIRIT

There are times when the gifts of the spirit may operate in a counseling session: word of knowledge, word of wisdom, discerning of spirits. This happens as the Holy Spirit wills, but it does happen!

In a prophet or prophetess' ministry, it will happen more often and not always publicly. Many times this occurs in private. It is never to embarrass or humiliate but to set the person free.

PERCEPTION

Any believer can perceive certain things because they are born of God.

Learn to trust the perception that is resident in your spirit.

OPEN TO RECEIVE

LET A PERSON TALK

In today's society, we are very impatient with people. We want them to get to the point! Quickly!

Learn to practice one of the fruits of the spirit which is: longsuffering (Gal 5:22)Do everything possible to give a person ample time to express themselves.

This is one of the reasons why people become so frustrated and discouraged in life. They cannot find anyone who wants to listen to them (their spouse, children, employer, parents, neighbor, pastor, etc.)

They begin to feel unimportant. God created man with human expression. When expression becomes smothered, darkness invades the soul.

Example: Communism in Russia

Half of some people's problems are solved just by having someone they can talk to. (Hollywood stars pay a lot of money to find people who will listen to them.)

KEEP FOCUSED

On the other hand, you have some people, if you give them an inch, they take a mile. You may have to redirect a counseling session so that it does not go way off track. Much time can be wasted in extraneous information that does not pertain to the issue at hand.

Example: "I am having problems with my sister. Her name is Mary. She was named Mary after my great aunt who lived in Ireland during World War II. Mother called her "Mar" for short. Father didn't like this nick name at all. He liked the name "Mary" because his Grandmother on his father's side was named Mary and on and on it goes."

YOU CANNOT TACKLE EVERYTHING AT ONCE

There are some situations you may encounter with people that takes more than one counseling session. You cannot solve 18 years of problems in one day.

The thing that stands out in your spirit FIRST is what you should focus on. Then set up another time to address other areas you didn't have time to cover.

WISDOM OF THE PRACTICAL

Not every problem encountered by people is a spiritual problem or an evil spirit. A man without a job needs to find work. I can pray for him, encourage him, take authority over any hindrances, but the bottom line is he must look for work.

Proverbs 12: 11 He that tilleth the land shall be satisfied with bread: but he that followeth vain persons is void of understanding.

Proverbs 10:5 He that gathereth in summer is a wise son: but he that sleepeth in harvest is a son that causeth shame.

Some people will try to spiritualize everything. Like, "I saw a dove fly over my car! What does that mean?" It probably means you will need to wash your car when you get home!

MANIPULATION

Some people will try to manipulate you in such a way as to have you agree with them, even when it is contrary to the Word of God.

THE HUMAN WILL

The human will is part of the soul.

JUST TELL ME WHAT TO DO?

On the other hand, some folks just want to be told what to do.

All of us have to make daily decisions. No one is exempt. It is not always convenient or comfortable to make certain decisions, but they have to be made.

CALL ON THE GREATER ONE!

You are never left to yourself in a counseling situation. You have the Greater One living on the inside. 1 John 4:4.Learn to rely and lean on that Greater One. Christ dwells in you. Galatians 2:20

Throw yourself upon that Greater One for help.

WISDOM FROM ABOVE

The wisdom that we receive from God should come to us in this way:

James 3:17 it is pure, peaceable, gentle, easy to be entreated, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality or hypocrisy. (Read it)

DON'T BE MOVED BY WHAT YOU SEE OR HEAR

As you throw yourself upon the Greater One on the inside of you, you will learn not to be moved to minister to people by what your see or hear in the natural.

You have heard this expression before: "Don't judge a book by its cover". Similarly, don't counsel people by how you see them outwardly.

DISCERNING OF SPIRITS

The Discerning Of Spirits

DEMONIC SPIRITS

If a person is opressed, depressed, or repressed, you may need to take authority over the enemy. Be sure to move with the Holy Spirit because He alone reveals specifically what kind of bondage is taking place and that only as He wills. If it is demonic, all the counseling in the world will not help. 1 Corinthians 12: 10

PERMISSION IS REQUIRED

PERMISSION IS REQUIRED

DEALING WITH PEOPLE'S FLESH

Demons or flesh?

THE WORKS OF THE FLESH

A SOFT ANSWER

SELF CONTROL

MULTIPLE COUNSELORS

Proverbs 11: 14 Where no counsel is, the people fall: but in the multitude of counselors, there is safety.

As we said earlier, counsel according to Webster means: advice. One person could not counsel someone on every topic concerning their life.

Proverbs 15:22 Without counsel, purposes are disappointed: but in the multitude of counselors they are established.

I DON'T LIKE WHAT I HEAR

HEARING THE COUNSEL

Proverbs 1:5 a wise man will hear, and will increase learning, and a man of understanding shall attain unto wise counsels.

A wise man will hear. This is where some people have problems. Some are so busy talking that they are not hearing the good counsel that is being given.

CROSS COUNSELING

SECULAR COUNSELING

Not all secular counseling is necessarily bad. Some are Christian counselors. But, if the counselee is not born again it is like trying to put a BandAid on a deep cut that needs stitches.

Psychology

Professional Help

Government Agencies

Charities

Giving Direction

Medicine

DIVORCE

CHILD ABUSE

CONFIDENTIALITY

HOMEWORK

LEECHES

Some people are like leeches. They think nothing of calling you morning, noon or night.

SETTING UP APPOINTMENTS

REPORT LOG

TIME

COUNSELING MARRIED COUPLES

HELPFUL TIPS

Counseling

LEADERSHIP

EVERY LEADER WILL BE WILLING TO SERVE

John 13:17 Jesus washed the feet of His disciples.

Five fold ministry gifts are to serve the body of Christ Eph 4: 11

RESPONSIBILITY, ACCOUNTABILITY, AND AUTHORITY

Qualities of a good leader

A Leader goes the extra mile

Leaders are made. How are they made?

Fears to avoid:

CONFESSION SCRIPTURES

MAKING A DREAM COME TRUE

EVERY LEADER HAS A DREAM OR VISION

A dream come true.

How to make it come true.

A dream comes to pass through diligent effort on our part as well as the Lord's.

A vision in front of you. Without a vision the people perish. A man without a dream is like a ship without a sail.

Make practical steps to see your dream come true. Plan for success.

Goal Setting

Think big while you are in a small place.

How do we think big?

In conclusion, to recap: The steps to seeing your dream come true are:

EXAMPLES OF GOOD AND BAD LEADERS IN THE BIBLE

The Bible is full of examples that we can glean from concerning our every day life. In this class we will be laying out many examples so that you yourself can see what things to avoid in life. We believe that you will be able to learn from the mistakes of others.

OLD TESTAMENT EXAMPLES OF BAD LEADERS

NEW TESTAMENT EXAMPLES OF BAD LEADERS

OLD TESTAMENT EXAMPLES OF GOOD LEADERS

NEW TESTAMENT EXAMPLES OF GOOD LEADERS

JESUS OUR GREATEST EXAMPLE

LEADERS AND DELEGATION

The Breakdown of Delegation

RESPONSIBILITY

HOW TO THINK BIG IN A SMALL PLACE

There are three types of leaders:

How to think big in a small place.

Numbers 13:1733

How you see yourself is critical

Nothing wrong with starting small

Make plans to grow in your department.

Be sure to have goals for your ministry/department

Does every leader have a copy of the church/ministry vision? Does every leader have guidelines for your areas of ministry?

MAKING PLANS FOR THE FUTURE

Table of Contents

Third Year Bible School Curriculum

PREFACE

CHURCH GOVERNMENT

God The Supreme Authority

TRUTH

Men who believed the Truth.

LOGOS AND RHEMA

The Holy Spirit bears witness with both logos and rhema.

Scriptures for Rhema:

Scriptures for Logos

Book of Acts

How the Logos and Rhema Operate

I Must Hear It Personally To Believe

Reproof – correction

How to walk and not walk as a Christian, Crucify the flesh, lie not one to another, keep the unity of the Spirit, prefer one another, walk in the Spirit, renew your mind, not getting drunk on wine.

Jesus Christ Above All Men

What Has Been Done Through Christ?

CONSCIENCE, DELEGATED AUTHORITY AND CUSTOM

Authority of the Conscience

Scriptures that deal with the conscience of man.

Examples of matters of conscience:

AUTHORITY

Delegated Authority or authority given because of a specific function or responsibility

Stipulated Authority Only for a specific period of time

Custom

FUNCTIONAL AUTHORITY

WRONG USE OF AUTHORITY, SUBMISSION AND OBEDIENCE

Functional Authority

Exercising The Wrong Kind of Authority

Scriptural references to bad leadership:

Those Who Want To Exercise Authority Over You

Submission And Obedience

Ruling With Liberty

AUTHORITY OF THE BELIEVER, THE NAME OF JESUS

The Name of Jesus

We have a fourfold right to use the name:

What does the name mean to the Father, to the Church, and to Satan?

All authority has been given unto me in Heaven and in earth.

The Name of Jesus in many areas:

More on the name of Jesus:

TRADITIONAL FORMS OF CHURCH GOVERNMENT

CHURCH BOARD, PASTORAL ABUSE OF AUTHORITY

Episcopalian Church Government

Presbyterian Church Government

Congregational Church Government

Independent Church Government

What About Church Boards?

Pastoral Abuse of Authority

HOMILETICS

INTRODUCTION

UNDERSTANDING THE TASK

DEFINITION OF HOMILETICS

Rhetoric was developed by the Greeks during the intertestemental period the height. Rhetoric is a study of clear speech as a means of effective communication and persuasion.

Homiletics is the adaptation of the principles of Rhetoric to the demands and practice of preaching. It is the science of preparing and preaching, It is the science of preparing and preaching/delivering a discourse/speech/address based upon scripture.

THE DEVELOPMENT OF HOMILETICS

Early Christian preaching was founded upon Ancient oratory, Hebrew prophecy, and Gospel preaching.

The Rise of Rhetoric in Christian Preaching

THE SERMON IDEA

DEFINITION

SOURCES OF THE IDEA

FORMULATING THE STRUCTURE

THE TITLE OF THE SERMON (THEME)

Definition and Presentation

The Characteristics of a Good Title

Phrasing the Title

THE BODY OF THE SERMON (DISCUSSION)

Discussion (Main Ideas)

Outline

Transition

CONCLUSION

Types Of Conclusion

METHODS OF CONCLUDING

INTRODUCTION

OBJECTIVE

CONTENTS OF INTRODUCTION

QUALITIES OF A GOOD introduction

INVITATION

DEFINITION

Conduct of the Invitation

CLASSIFICATION OF SERMONS BY SUBJECTS

THEOLOGICAL SERMON (DOCTRINAL)

ETHICAL SERMONS

Content

SUGGESTIONS

Possible types of response may include public action (walking forward), personal private, talking with a counselor, etc.

CLASSIFICATION OF SERMONS BY SUBJECTS

THEOLOGICAL SERMON (DOCTRINAL)

CONTENT

REQUIREMENTS

SUGGESTIONS

ETHICAL SERMONS

Content

SUGGESTIONS

FUNCTIONAL ELEMENTS OF THE SERMON

The Necessity of Explanation

CAUTIONS CONCERNING EXPLANATION

EXPLANATION OF TEXTS

AN ESSENTIAL TASK

APPLICATIONS

DEFINITION:

EXPLANATION BY NARRATION

EXPLANATION BY DESCRIPTION

EXPLANATION OF SUBJECTS

The main subject or main Idea(s) may be unclear to the hearers.

Methods of explaining the subject include:

INTERPRETING THE TEXT

METHODS OF INTERPRETATION

Some Biblical passages do have allegorical meaning (John 15).

DOGMATIC INTERPRETATION

MYSTICAL INTERPRETATION

RATIONALISTIC INTERPRETATION

MODERN INTERPRETATION

PRINCIPLES OF INTERPRETATION

The interpreter must keep in mind that Scripture has a divine character as revelation and a human character as mediated through persons,

Scripture must be interpreted as a unified whole, especially centered in a message of redemption.

Passages which predict must be seen in the historical and intellectual context of their time. We begin with the author's expectation.

Miracle accounts must be approached as real possibilities and interpreted according to the author" purpose. (John "signs")

The author's interpretation is centered first, around/upon the author's intention, what the author mean to say (i.e.: Paul "flesh")

Secondly, interpretation asks what the passage means to the current reader (application). Most passages have a single obvious meaning which should be the focus interpretation.

Statements by a single author should be interpreted consistently with other statements by the same author, that is, (What Jesus said on the time of the Second coming).

The historical background/context must be considered in interpretation (Poetry, proverbs, apocalyptic literature must be interpreted as such).

STEPS IN INTERPRETATION

The Text in Historical Background

The Text in its Context

Analysis of the Text

WRITING SERMON MANUSCRIPTS

ADVANTAGES

DISADVANTAGES

CONCLUSION

METHODS OF DELIVERY

READING

RECITATION

Definition The sermon is written out in a full manuscript, then studied, and repeated from memory without notes.

Evaluation

FREE DELIVERY

This is delivery of the sermon without notes or manuscript in the pulpit.

Suggestions

Advantages

Disadvantages

IMAGINATION

I.THE NATURE OF IMAGINATION

FUNCTION OF IMAGINATION IN PREACHING

Construction of the Discourse(Arrangement)

A Display of Ideas in Revealing Familiar Images

Imagination Produces Understanding and Teaching Scripture

This Aids in Sharing Others Experience (Sympathetic imagination - speaking what the people feel as you conclude).

MEANS OF CULTIVATING IMAGINATION

The Study of Nature and Art

A Study of Literature, Prose and especially poetry and song - lyrics.

Identify closely with the congregation to know their needs.

It maintains your own spiritual vitality and relation to God who speaks through imagination.

Practice efforts at description, illustration imagination.

ILLUSTRATION

USES OF ILLUSTRATION

You use illustration to explain. It presents an example or analogy of an idea. It begins with people's present understanding,

You may use illustration to prove. An analogy is often used.

Illustrations can be used as an ornament 1.to make the truth attractive. Illustration do not obscure the truth.

Illustration can be used to gain attention.

Prepare the hearers emotionally for a crucial part. Care must be taken not to manipulate people's emotions.

Illustration can be used to persuade hearers to obey a biblical truth by showing someone who follows the command, This may be useful for you in completing an idea.

Include hearers by speaking to their context.

Illustration is used to aid the memory until the subject is understood and applied. This is more of preparing an idea.

TYPES OF ILLUSTRATION

Single Word a clear descriptive adjective or verbs(Eg.: grasshoppers)

Phrase a few words of memorable description ("salt of the earth").

Quotation a repetition or exact words, given the name of author whereever possible,

Detailed Example story, anecdote, biblical event, imagination. When you are using imagination, the invented nature of the story should be made clear. Be sensitive to the feelings of individuals.

SUGGESTIONS FOR ILLUSTRATION

Use illustrations only when they serve an idea and clearly make the point with little or no explanation.

Be accurate as possible concerning the facts.

Using variety of types of illustration: avoid repeating a single type often.

ELEMENTS OF AN ILLUSTRATION

The Climax This is a crucial statement or action which conveys the meaning or completes the purpose.

SPECIALIZED SERMONS

ACADEMIC/ANNIVERSARY SERMONS

CHILDREN’S SERMONS

REVIVAL SERMONS

Avoid long sermons since the meetings are frequent.

Vary the content and objectives of the sermon, so that you can appeal to a wide range of people.

Employ a series of messages in this general order of church renewal, demands of the law, the mercy of Christ, an appeal for decision. Seek for lasting commitment, not just immediate response.

FUNERAL SERMONS

OBSTACLES TO OVERCOME

CHARACTERISTICS OF EFFECTIVE FUNERAL SERMONS

FUNERAL SERVICE

All funeral services should share the message of Christ's Lordship, love and forgiveness, and life to come. The service must be Christian in its content.

The funeral is for the living, to provide comfort and gospel proclamation. It should not be used for other purpose.

Scripture

Poetry - choose on the basis of content and agreement with scripture.

Music favorite hymns are good. Beware of content.

Liturgy

Obituary (Life Sketch)

Tribute

CONTEMPORARY APPROACHES TO SERMON DELIVERY

A LETTER SERMON

The letters of Paul were publicly read as a part of early Church worship.

The sermon is prepared and presented to the congregation in the form of a letter.

This may be used as an introduction to a section of a sermon.

SHORT STORY/PARABLE SERMON

A sermon based upon or presented as a short story(Esther) or based upon a short story. Jesus taught in this way(Lazarus and the Rich Man)

A sermon based upon or presented as parable. Jesus does this in Lk. 15.These truths can be presented in a modern day application.

THE INTERVIEW SERMON

This is composed of an interview among several people (including the preacher) on some biblical issue or their lives.

AN OBJECT LESSON SERMON

It is often used with children, the sermon being built around some object.

DRAMATIC MONOLOGUE

The preacher portrays a biblical character/event in both action and speech. Costumes may be used.

DIALOGUE SERMON

The sermon is composed of a free discussion between the preacher and the congregation, or dialogue among individuals on the podium.

VOICES

THE ABILITIES AND DEVELOPMENT OF THE VOICE

The Compass this is the range or pitch(tone) the voice produces.

Volume This is a loudness of the voice/speech (volume is not the same as the pitch.)

Penetrating Power

Melody Sometimes called the "holy whine"

HERMENEUTICS

KINDS OF HERMENEUTICS

General Hermeneutics: This applies to the interpretation of all kinds of writings.

Specific Hermeneutics: definite kinds of literally productions, such as laws, history, prophecy, poetry etc.

Exegesis: A critical explanation of a passage of literature, especially the Bible. It

The Study of Hermeneutics

The Necessity of Hermeneutics

HISTORY OF HERMENEUTICS AMONG THE JEWS

Both Jews and Greeks developed some definite and distinct principles of interpreting their respective writings many years before the birth of Christ. Both of these groups influenced the views held by the early Christians.

HISTORY OF HERMENEUTICAL PRINCIPLES IN THE CHRISTIAN CHURCH

THE SCHOOL OF ANTIOCH

THE WESTERN SCHOOL OF INTERPRETATION OR EXEGETE:

THE PERIOD OF THE MIDDLE AGES, OR DARK AGES

THE PERIOD OF THE REFORMATION

The Renaissance

The Reformers believed the Bible to be the inspired Word of God.

The Reformers did not agree in every respect on how scriptures should be interpreted.

SOME APPROACHES TO SCRIPTURES

RATIONALISM - NATURALISTIC APPROACHES

Rationalism

Some Examples of the Rationalist:

Why Some People Chose To Become Rationalist?

EXISTENTIALISM

The predominant approach to understanding the Bible has been called existential.

CULTURAL RELATIVISM:

DOGMATIC APPROACHES TO THE BIBLE:

A dogmatic or dogma is a system of belief constructed by scholars and laymen and pastors through the ages to explain and interpret all passages of scripture on the basis of their systems.

When taken to an extreme, the dogmatic approach to scripture clearly has undesirable results. The Bible is no longer its own authority.

A RETURN TO FAITH

In every denomination people began to cry out for reality and life. Three streams of religious systems revived but only two had the real thing.

PROPER CONCEPTION OF THE BIBLE

THE INSPIRATION, INFALLIBILITY, AND REVELATION OF THE BIBLE.

Inspiration of the Bible: this occurs only twice in the entire Bible.

In the writing of scripture, inspiration is the divine guidance and central of the messenger in recording and delivering the message. Even though human beings were used by God, yet the words are exactly the ones that God wanted to say. So when we say the Bible is inspired, we mean that the Bible is Godbreathed.

THE INSPIRATION OF THE WRITERS

The Human Authors

The Inspiration of the Word

The Inspiration of the Interpreters

Theories of Inspiration

Verbal Inspiration applied to the Bible in the origin written, and claims that these writings were so inspired that the very words of scriptures were dictated by God.

THE LITERATURE OF THE BIBLE

THE LITERATURE OF THE OLD TESTAMENT

The OT is a collection of books. It is the sacred library of ancient Israel plus more. There are 39 books which are included in it. These were written over hundreds of years and represent many different kinds of literature.

There were numerous authors and compilers some being Kings, farmers, Business men etc., each with his individual point of view, his characteristic vocabulary and style, and his unique intellectual ability and spiritual insight.

The OT was divided into three sections by the ancient Hebrews.

THE LITERATURE OF THE NEW TESTAMENT

The literary problems of the NT are somewhat different from those of the OT. It is not useful dividing passages into prose and poetry for the NT interpreter, There are small portion of poetical reflection in the NT.

The NT can be classified into:

SOME EXAMPLES OF INTERPRETATION

THE ANTIQUITY OF THE OLD TESTAMENT

Ancient weights and measurements

The Language of the Old Testament

The Culture of the OT,

The Religion and Faith of the OT,

The Historical Background of the Old Testament

The PreChristian Outlook of the OT

THE ANTIQUITY OF THE NEW TESTAMENT

The NT like the OT, is also a collection of ancient books.

The Language of the New Testament

The Culture of the NT

The Religion and Faith of the New Testament

The Historical Background of the NT

TASK OF THE INTERPRETER

The Authority of the Bible

The Responsibilities of Interpretation

Personal Blessings of the Interpreter

TOOLS FOR INTERPRETING THE BIBLE

In selecting tools, several considerations must be taken into account.

Translations

Dictionaries

Concordances

Histories

Atlases

Archaeology Books

OT and NT Introductions

Commentaries

MINISTRY GIFTS

INTRODUCTION

Christ's Provision For The Church

Who gave these gifts?

He only gave the Evangelist?

When did He give them?

For what purpose did He give these ministry gifts?

For how long did He give the ministry gifts?

God Sets the Ministry Gifts In The Church

1 Corinthians 12:27,28 and God hath set the gifts. (Jesus gives them to the Church, God sets them where He wants them, not man. Man cannot call or set in anyone.) If a man or woman has no calling from God, we have no business setting them into offices.

Reasons For Not Going Into The Ministry

How You Can Tell A Divine Call

God Equips Those Ministers Who Are Called

Those people whom God calls, He equips with spiritual gifts. Education is good, but we need more than education. We need a ministry equipped with supernatural gifts. Let Christ do it.

Variety and Balance

One of the most fascinating things concerning the ministry gifts of Christ is their variety.

The divine plan is for each ministry which God has set in the Church to compliment the other, providing a check and balance.

Example:

A person can stand in more than one office, but we separate them to define them.

THE APOSTLE

aPOSTLE

OBJECTIVES:

There are four classes of apostles.

MINISTRY GIFT FIRST GIVEN TO THE CHURCH

Ephesians 4:11

Romans 12:48

1 Corinthians 12:28

DEVELOPMENT OF THE CHURCH

OVERSIGHT OF CHURCHES

Paul only had spiritual oversight of churches while he was establishing them. He had no oversight in the church at Jerusalem. Once he left a church he had established, he delegated that oversight to others. Acts 20:28

THE WORD, APOSTLE

FOURTH CLASS OF APOSTLES

MISSIONARIES

PASTORS WHO STAND IN THE APOSTOLIC OFFICE

CHARACTERISTICS OF THE APOSTOLIC CALL

Paul as an example

SIGNS OF A TRUE APOSTLE

Signs, wonders, mighty deeds 2 Corinthians 12:12

A very deep personal experience with the Lord, beyond the ordinary.

Acts 9:5,6

Acts 26:1310 the apostle Paul

QUALIFICATIONS FOR THE APOSTOLIC MINISTRY

Some ministers do not prepare themselves to stand in the ministry God has called them to. 1 Timothy 3:17 Read it all

These qualifications can be applied to all the ministry gifts.

verse 3 He must not be a lover of money insatiable desire for wealth and ready to obtain it by questionable means.

He must not use his office to extort money from people. We raise money to preach the gospel. We don't preach the gospel to raise money.

Example: Judas Iscariot He disqualified himself.

FALSE APOSTLES

A true apostle = plants and establishes new works in the Lord's name on a sound biblical foundation the Word of God

False apostles = counterfeits the real out of impure motives for reasons of personal gain.

MOTIVATION

One called to the apostolic office who has taken time to develop his character would rather hide himself and lift up Jesus.

He will make sure he bases his ministry solidly on the Word rather than on spiritual gifts or signs and wonders.

His concern is for the whole body of Christ.

PREPARE YOURSELF

Through studying the Word of God and preparing your heart.

THE PROPHET

OBJECTIVES:

What constitutes the office of a prophet?

The difference between the prophet's ministry in the OT and NT

The Holy Spirit versus Familiar Spirits

Visions and Revelations

What goes with a prophet's ministry?

PROPHET, PRIEST AND KING

NEW TESTAMENT SAINTS

HOW DOES GOD LEAD THE BELIEVER IN THE NEW TESTAMENT?

THERE ARE THREE TYPES OF VISIONS

PROPHETS ARE NOT GUIDES IN THE NEW TESTAMENT

WHAT IS A NEW TESTAMENT PROPHET?

NO FOUNDATIONAL PROPHETS

We do not have any foundational prophets today. Just like the apostle. If we had that kind of anointing, we would be able to add to the New Testament scriptures. Ephesians 2:19, 20

JESUS WAS A PROPHET

PRIVATE MANIFESTATIONS

OLD TESTAMENT PRIVATE MANIFESTATIONS

TRYING TO MAKE SOMETHING HAPPEN

OLD TESTAMENT PRIVATE MANIFESTATIONS

TRYING TO MAKE SOMETHING HAPPEN

PROPHETS CAN OPEN THEMSELVES UP TO FAMILIAR SPIRITS

MANY VOICES

By operating in the flesh without the anointing, you move into the realm where there are many spirits and many voices.

HOW CAN YOU LEARN THE DIFFERENCE?

HOW TO KEEP FROM GETTING OFF

JUDGING PROPHECIES

ANY SPIRITFILLED BELIEVER

YOU CANNOT CALL YOURSELF

NO PROPHETS IN THE LAITY

IMITATING A PROPHET

MISCONCEPTIONS CONCERNING PROPHETS

WHAT GOES WITH A PROPHET'S MINISTRY?

THE EVANGELIST

OBJECTIVES:

What Accompanies The Evangelist's Ministry?

The Purpose of Miracles and Healings

Preach The Word

The Need For Other Ministry Gift Offices

THE PASTOR

OBJECTIVES:

THE EARLY CHURCH

ELDERS

DEACONS

ORDINATION

GOVERNMENTS

APOSTLES MAY PASTOR FOR A SHORT TIME

The apostle may pastor for a while, but ultimately, he will turn it over and start new works.

An apostle should be a member of a local church.

THE WORD "SHEPHERD"

THE LOCAL CHURCH

THE SENIOR PASTOR

ATTACKS ON THE CHURCH

THE TITHE

THE MARKS OF A TRUE SHEPHERD

A shepherd's heart is a gift from God.

A pastor is stationary in the local church.

A pastor will either be a preacher or a teacher of the Word, but his main office is to pastor.

If a minister just has the teaching gift, then his ministry gift is teaching, not the pastoral office.

Just because a person can preach or teach does not make him a pastor.

A pastor would rather minister to the needs of the sheep than do anything else.

A minister who doesn't want to be around the sheep is not a pastor.

A pastor won't want to leave after he preaches. He will greet the people.

A PASTOR IS NOT A DICTATOR

GOVERNING THE LOCAL BODY SPIRITUALLY AND NATURALLY

1 Corinthians 12:28 governments It has two sides: the spiritual and the natural.

TAKING OVER A CHURCH

SMALL CHURCHES

MINISTERIAL ACCOUNTABILITY

MINISTERIAL RESTORATION

FINANCIAL ACCOUNTABILITY

FALSE PASTORS

DISCOVER YOUR MEASURE AS A PASTOR AND LEADER

CAPTAINS OF TENS PASTORAL HOME GROUP LEADER

Measure: 1540 people including children

CAPTAIN OF TEN DEACON IN CHARGE OF A TASK

CAPTAINS OF FIFTIES LOCAL CONGREGATIONAL ELDER/PASTOR

Measure: 70200 people including children

CAPTAINS OF HUNDREDS LEADER OF THE LARGER CHURCH

Measure: 150500 people including children

CAPTAINS OF THOUSANDS CITY CHURCH

EPH. 4 MINISTRY Measure: 1000's

THE TEACHER

OBJECTIVES:

JESUS, OUR EXAMPLE OF A TEACHER

JESUS GIVES THE MINISTRY GIFTS

Purpose of the ministry Gifts

1 Corinthians 12:28,29 Ephesians 4:11 tells us that God has placed the ministry gift of a teacher in the church:

STANDING IN MORE THAN ONE OFFICE

One can stand in the office of a pastorteacher, evangelistteacher, prophetteacher, but we have separated the offices so that we can better define them.

Example: Acts 3:1 = names five men who were either prophets or teachers, or prophet teachers.

PROPHETS IN THE OLD TESTAMENT

WHAT ARE THE EVIDENCES OF A MINISTRY GIFT TEACHER?

THE WORK OF A TEACHER

CHARACTERISTICS OF A TEACHER

THE TEACHING MINISTRY IS IMPORTANT

THINGS TO AVOID AS A TEACHER

WHERE TO START?

If you feel called to the fivefold teaching ministry:

Teach the people God places in front of you TODAY. Start right were you are!

Step out in faith into new areas of opportunity.

FINAL THOUGHTS

Teachers are to be supported: Galatians 6:6 Communicate: to make one's necessity your own, so as to relieve them. Deut 18:17, Numbers 18:2032

Those that ministered full time were supported.

THE MINISTRY GIFT OF HELPS

OBJECTIVES:

Definition of ministry of helps

Understanding of deacons

Music ministry

Tongues and Interpretation

Becoming a better minister

Helpful hints in ministry

Helps - 1 Corinthians 12:2830

Romans 12:48 or ministering let us wait on our ministering

Deacons

You may sense the call of God and assume it is pastoring or an evangelist, but it may be 'in the helps ministry. In 1 Corinthians 12:28 the word "helper" = a helper or reliever. In Romans 12:7 or ministry, let us wait on our ministering. This is talking about deacons. The word "ministering or ministry" is diakonia it means relief, service or attendant.

Deacons are the men and women who serve in the ministry of helps. This word is also used in Philip 1: 1, 1 Timothy 3:8.It is the word used of Phebe in Romans 16:1 and it is translated "servant". The deacon's ministry in the early days of the church was having charge of the alms, and being an observer of the poor and sick.

The deacon's ministry is a divine call. Acts 6:16 describes the appointing of seven men.

THE MUSIC MINISTRY

TONGUES AND INTERPRETATION - 1 Corinthians 12:2830

This is not your devotional tongues between you and God. This is not just the gifts of the Spirit in the church. This is a real ministry of tongues and interpretation to the church. This is a gift ministering to others.

Do all speak with tongues? Paul is talking about the ministry gift of tongues to the church. All tongues, in essence, are the same but in purpose and use they are different.

Example Years ago a couple ministered to the public. He spoke messages in tongues and his wife interpreted.

FAITHFULNESS TO THE CALL

God did not plan any spiritual failures. God did not plan some to fail and some to succeed. So, ministers who fail either were never called or they are hopelessly unfaithful.

If you are a minister or going into the ministry you have to apply yourself to the calling of God upon your life. Just like you have to work at a marriage to make it the best, the same way you work on your ministry.

HOW DO I BECOME A BETTER MINISTER?

Study 2 Timothy 2:15

Study to show thyself approved unto God, a workman that needs not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the Word of truth. Rightly dividing cutting straight.

Dedicate some ministers fail because they are only half dedicated. Dedicate every area of your life to God.

Consecrate Even though you start at the bottom and not the top.

Submit to the Will of God Some ministers are like King Saul who thought it was better to sacrifice than to obey God. I Samuel 15:22,23

Remain faithful No matter how hard it may seem, or how much you have been suffering, remain faithful to the call. God rewards faithfulness, not offices. If you are just preaching to two people, remain faithful.

If you are in another man's ministry, remain faithful. If you are faithful in another's, God will give you your own. Matthew 25:2123. You might say, "But, it is only a few people".

Luke 16: 10 He that is faithful in that which is least, is faithful also in much. He that is unjust in that which is least, is unjust in that which is much. Why should God give you more if you are not faithful in the little he has given you?

FAITHFULNESS IS WHAT PROMOTES YOU

Some think because they are so gifted or talented they will be promoted but they usually are a loud horn just irritating to the ears. Why? Because they are unfaithful. Pastors look for faithful people to put into positions of leadership. I encourage you to look for every opportunity to minister no matter how small it may seem.

Be a person of integrity.

Develop / Mature Grow up

HELPFUL HINTS

CHURCH GROWTH

INTRODUCTION:

Christ's intention was to spread the Kingdom of God through the Church as the Instrument.

THE IMPORTANCE OF CHURCH GROWTH

GROWTH DEFINED: Becoming larger in size as a result of some natural process or the process of development.

THE CHURCH: Review on the nature and work of the Church will motivate and help us inour present study.

The CHURCH is the will of God. It is a living organism, not an organization, and has the power to grow. The Church is a living entity, the body of CHRIST. Therefore, it must grow. This is what makes church growth important.

Two main dimensions in which the church should grow:

WHAT THE CHURCH IS NOT:

THE CHURCH AND THE KINGDOM OF GOD

DEFINITION: The word "Church" is a translation of the Greek Word "EKKLESIA" which is made up of two other words: EK meaning "out of' and KALEO which means "to call".

WHAT THE CHURCH IS: It's the eternal purpose of God. This purpose or intention of God was planned before the foundation of the world. (Eph. 1:4,9 Titus 1.2,3)

There are two facets of building people

THINGS THAT BUILD OR EDIFY :

STRATEGIES FOR CHURCH GROWTH (TEXT: MATT. 25:14 19)

GOD DESIRES GROWTH: The Kingdom of God is a Kingdom of growth. God's

WHY CHURCHES DON'T GROW: There are many factors that cause churches not to grow. To name a few:

STRATEGIES FOR GROWTH

HOME CELL GROUPS

WHAT IS THE HOME CELL GROUP?

WHY THE HOME CELL GROUPS?

THE NEED FOR HOME CELL GROUPS IN THE CHURCH

QUALIFICATIONS AND ROLE OF CELL LEADERS AND COORDINATOR

CHRISTIAN COUNSELING

COURSE OBJECTIVES: This course is designed to:

Help students with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder experienced over the years, in order to have peace, courage and wholeness as they prepare for ministry.

Prepare students to be able to adequately help others in their ministries.

INTRODUCTION:

Biblical Counseling, therefore, is concerned with the actualization of the Christ-like potentials within an individual.

WHAT IS COUNSELING?

Counseling is a relationship in which a person is guided to see the true picture of the nature of his/her problem so that he/she becomes capable of solving said problem. According to 1 Corinthians 12:28, Counseling is a ministry of "Helps".

THE SCOPE OF COUNSELING

Counseling, in reality, is as old as the world of civilization because it was practiced by the traditional elders even before the universal perspective.

Counseling today is universal as a result of man's increasing need of guidance. (Prov. 11: 14)

THE NATURE OF COUNSELING

Counseling is about assisting individuals, families, groups, neighbors and the society in general with the decision making process of resolving interpersonal concerns and conflicts.

THE FUNCTION OF COUNSELING

The counselor's function is to offer counseling (help) services to individuals or groups in need

To enhance the helping relationship, the counselor must know that what is basic in helping others is his/her own attitude in working with them.

COUNSELING IN CHRIST

The characteristics of a Counselor:

LEARNING TO BE TRUSTWORTHY:

To be trustworthy, the counselor must learn to adapt an active listening skill and exercise patience throughout the whole story instead of being quick to give advice (Prov. 18 : 13)

THE LISTENING CYCLE

THE KIND OF PERSON GOD USES

The Christian Counselor must be the Lord's Bond Servant.

The Lord's bondservant must not be quarrelsome:

The Lord's bondservant must be kind:

The Lord's bond servant must be able to teach

Some of the lies are:

The Lord's Bond Servant Must be Patient When Wrong:

The Lord's Bond Servant Must be Gentle

The Lord's Bond Servant Must be Committed: You must be committed to the truth and know without question that God and only God can grant repentance that leads to a knowledge of the truth.

GUIDELINES FOR A WHOLESOME COUNSELING MINISTRY:

All of a counselor's teaching must be based on the Word of God

A counselor must rely on the Holy Spirit for Guidance

A counselor should have a good prayer life because biblical counseling is a spiritual warfare.

APPROACH TO THE PROCESS

THE PROCESS

The First Interview:

DEALING WITH ABUSE AND HARASSMENT

Abuse

Harassment

STRESS AND ITS MANAGEMENT

STRESS AND ITS MANAGEMENT

Life is full of experiences which can be good or bad.

What is Stress?

Some Stressful events include:

What is a Stressor or How can I Identify its Source?

Sources Of Stress (Life Events)

Signs/Symptoms of Stress or How do I know when I am under stress?

Categories of Stress

Impact of Stress

MANAGING/COPING WITH STRESS

What Coping Methods Can Help When I Or Some Is Under Stress, Either In The Home, Church, Or Organization Or The Community.

GETTING RESULTS IN COUNSELING

Proverbs 12:15 the way of a fool is right in his own eyes: but he that hearkeneth unto counsel is wise.

THE PLACE OF GOD'S WORD

THE POWER OF LISTENING

We live in a society that doesn't like taking time to listen. Just call a bank or Customer Service Department sometime. You will be interrupted, you will be put on hold, and when you finally get to explain the situation, you have to repeat it three times because the clerk was not really listening.

THE SPIRIT AND THE WORD AGREE TOGETHER

The Holy Spirit and the Word of God are always in agreement. The Holy Spirit will never lead a person contrary to the Word of God. NEVER!

The Holy Spirit dwells in us. We are new creatures and our spirit is alive unto God. We can listen then to our human spirit. Romans 8:16.2 Corinthians 5:17

We have the Great Counselor dwelling in us.

GIFTS OF THE HOLY SPIRIT

There are times when the gifts of the spirit may operate in a counseling session: word of knowledge, word of wisdom, discerning of spirits. This happens as the Holy Spirit wills, but it does happen!

In a prophet or prophetess' ministry, it will happen more often and not always publicly. Many times this occurs in private. It is never to embarrass or humiliate but to set the person free.

PERCEPTION

Any believer can perceive certain things because they are born of God.

Learn to trust the perception that is resident in your spirit.

OPEN TO RECEIVE

LET A PERSON TALK

In today's society, we are very impatient with people. We want them to get to the point! Quickly!

Learn to practice one of the fruits of the spirit which is: longsuffering (Gal 5:22)Do everything possible to give a person ample time to express themselves.

This is one of the reasons why people become so frustrated and discouraged in life. They cannot find anyone who wants to listen to them (their spouse, children, employer, parents, neighbor, pastor, etc.)

They begin to feel unimportant. God created man with human expression. When expression becomes smothered, darkness invades the soul.

Example: Communism in Russia

Half of some people's problems are solved just by having someone they can talk to. (Hollywood stars pay a lot of money to find people who will listen to them.)

KEEP FOCUSED

On the other hand, you have some people, if you give them an inch, they take a mile. You may have to redirect a counseling session so that it does not go way off track. Much time can be wasted in extraneous information that does not pertain to the issue at hand.

Example: "I am having problems with my sister. Her name is Mary. She was named Mary after my great aunt who lived in Ireland during World War II. Mother called her "Mar" for short. Father didn't like this nick name at all. He liked the name "Mary" because his Grandmother on his father's side was named Mary and on and on it goes."

YOU CANNOT TACKLE EVERYTHING AT ONCE

There are some situations you may encounter with people that takes more than one counseling session. You cannot solve 18 years of problems in one day.

The thing that stands out in your spirit FIRST is what you should focus on. Then set up another time to address other areas you didn't have time to cover.

WISDOM OF THE PRACTICAL

Not every problem encountered by people is a spiritual problem or an evil spirit. A man without a job needs to find work. I can pray for him, encourage him, take authority over any hindrances, but the bottom line is he must look for work.

Proverbs 12: 11 He that tilleth the land shall be satisfied with bread: but he that followeth vain persons is void of understanding.

Proverbs 10:5 He that gathereth in summer is a wise son: but he that sleepeth in harvest is a son that causeth shame.

Some people will try to spiritualize everything. Like, "I saw a dove fly over my car! What does that mean?" It probably means you will need to wash your car when you get home!

MANIPULATION

Some people will try to manipulate you in such a way as to have you agree with them, even when it is contrary to the Word of God.

THE HUMAN WILL

The human will is part of the soul.

JUST TELL ME WHAT TO DO?

On the other hand, some folks just want to be told what to do.

All of us have to make daily decisions. No one is exempt. It is not always convenient or comfortable to make certain decisions, but they have to be made.

CALL ON THE GREATER ONE!

You are never left to yourself in a counseling situation. You have the Greater One living on the inside. 1 John 4:4.Learn to rely and lean on that Greater One. Christ dwells in you. Galatians 2:20

Throw yourself upon that Greater One for help.

WISDOM FROM ABOVE

The wisdom that we receive from God should come to us in this way:

James 3:17 it is pure, peaceable, gentle, easy to be entreated, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality or hypocrisy. (Read it)

DON'T BE MOVED BY WHAT YOU SEE OR HEAR

As you throw yourself upon the Greater One on the inside of you, you will learn not to be moved to minister to people by what your see or hear in the natural.

You have heard this expression before: "Don't judge a book by its cover". Similarly, don't counsel people by how you see them outwardly.

DISCERNING OF SPIRITS

The Discerning Of Spirits

DEMONIC SPIRITS

If a person is opressed, depressed, or repressed, you may need to take authority over the enemy. Be sure to move with the Holy Spirit because He alone reveals specifically what kind of bondage is taking place and that only as He wills. If it is demonic, all the counseling in the world will not help. 1 Corinthians 12: 10

PERMISSION IS REQUIRED

PERMISSION IS REQUIRED

DEALING WITH PEOPLE'S FLESH

Demons or flesh?

THE WORKS OF THE FLESH

A SOFT ANSWER

SELF CONTROL

MULTIPLE COUNSELORS

Proverbs 11: 14 Where no counsel is, the people fall: but in the multitude of counselors, there is safety.

As we said earlier, counsel according to Webster means: advice. One person could not counsel someone on every topic concerning their life.

Proverbs 15:22 Without counsel, purposes are disappointed: but in the multitude of counselors they are established.

I DON'T LIKE WHAT I HEAR

HEARING THE COUNSEL

Proverbs 1:5 a wise man will hear, and will increase learning, and a man of understanding shall attain unto wise counsels.

A wise man will hear. This is where some people have problems. Some are so busy talking that they are not hearing the good counsel that is being given.

CROSS COUNSELING

SECULAR COUNSELING

Not all secular counseling is necessarily bad. Some are Christian counselors. But, if the counselee is not born again it is like trying to put a BandAid on a deep cut that needs stitches.

Psychology

Professional Help

Government Agencies

Charities

Giving Direction

Medicine

DIVORCE

CHILD ABUSE

CONFIDENTIALITY

HOMEWORK

LEECHES

Some people are like leeches. They think nothing of calling you morning, noon or night.

SETTING UP APPOINTMENTS

REPORT LOG

TIME

COUNSELING MARRIED COUPLES

HELPFUL TIPS

Counseling

LEADERSHIP

EVERY LEADER WILL BE WILLING TO SERVE

John 13:17 Jesus washed the feet of His disciples.

Five fold ministry gifts are to serve the body of Christ Eph 4: 11

RESPONSIBILITY, ACCOUNTABILITY, AND AUTHORITY

Qualities of a good leader

A Leader goes the extra mile

Leaders are made. How are they made?

Fears to avoid:

CONFESSION SCRIPTURES

MAKING A DREAM COME TRUE

EVERY LEADER HAS A DREAM OR VISION

A dream come true.

How to make it come true.

A dream comes to pass through diligent effort on our part as well as the Lord's.

A vision in front of you. Without a vision the people perish. A man without a dream is like a ship without a sail.

Make practical steps to see your dream come true. Plan for success.

Goal Setting

Think big while you are in a small place.

How do we think big?

In conclusion, to recap: The steps to seeing your dream come true are:

EXAMPLES OF GOOD AND BAD LEADERS IN THE BIBLE

The Bible is full of examples that we can glean from concerning our every day life. In this class we will be laying out many examples so that you yourself can see what things to avoid in life. We believe that you will be able to learn from the mistakes of others.

OLD TESTAMENT EXAMPLES OF BAD LEADERS

NEW TESTAMENT EXAMPLES OF BAD LEADERS

OLD TESTAMENT EXAMPLES OF GOOD LEADERS

NEW TESTAMENT EXAMPLES OF GOOD LEADERS

JESUS OUR GREATEST EXAMPLE

LEADERS AND DELEGATION

The Breakdown of Delegation

RESPONSIBILITY

HOW TO THINK BIG IN A SMALL PLACE

There are three types of leaders:

How to think big in a small place.

Numbers 13:1733

How you see yourself is critical

Nothing wrong with starting small

Make plans to grow in your department.

Be sure to have goals for your ministry/department

Does every leader have a copy of the church/ministry vision? Does every leader have guidelines for your areas of ministry?

MAKING PLANS FOR THE FUTURE