becomes new (II Cor. 5:17.) Becoming a Christian, is like a
becomes new (II Cor. 5:17.) Becoming a Christian, is like a
caterpillar becoming a butterfly. We go through a
“metamorphosis.” This is precisely the word used in Rom. 12::2,
and I Cor. 3:18, to describe what happens to a sinner who is
converted to Jesus Christ.
If you are a Christian, the Scriptures quoted in this book will have special meaning for you. Please prayerfully consider:
“And ye shall seek me, and find me, when ye shall search for me with all your heart (Jer. 29:13.)
“Jesus answered and said unto him, Verily, verily,
I say unto thee, Except a man be born again, he cannot see
the kingdom of God” (John 3:3.)
“But their minds were blinded: for until this day
remaineth the same vail untaken away in the reading of the
old testament; which vail is done away in Christ” (II Cor.
3:14.)
“Therefore, if any man be in Christ, he is a new
creature: old things are passed away; behold all things are
become new” (II Cor. 5:17.)
“My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me” (John 10:27.)
“If God so loved us; we ought also to love one another” (I Jn. 4:11.)
MANUAL FOR LEADERS
INTRODUCTION
INTRODUCTION
T
hank you for your interest in Christian ministry. We
hope this material will help you to serve the Lord
more effectively. Please remember to be like the noble
Bereans. “These were more noble than those in
Thessalonica, in that they received the word with all
readiness of mind, and searched the scriptures daily,
whether those things were so (Acts 17:11.)
The Scriptures teach that the Kingdom of God is different from earthly kingdoms:
“The Kings of the Gentiles exercise lordship over
them; and they that exercise authority upon them are called
benefactors. But ye shall not be so: but he that is greatest
among you, let him be as the younger, and he that is chief,
as he that doth serve. For whether is greater, he that sitteth
at meat, or he that serveth? Is not he that sitteth at meat?
But I am among you as he that serveth” (Lk. 22:25-27.)
Jesus came to serve. He gave us an example that we
should follow. Spiritual people are restoring others in a spirit of
meekness (Gal. 6:1-2.) The Kingdom of God is so different from
earthly kingdoms, that you must be born again in order to see it
(John 3:3.) When you receive Jesus Christ into your heart you
are a “new creation.” Old things pass away, and everything
“If God so loved us; we ought also to love one another” (I Jn. 4:11.)
MANUAL FOR LEADERS
“But the anointing which ye have received of him
abideth in you, and ye need not that any man teach you: but
as the same anointing teacheth you of all things, and is
truth, and is no lie, and even as it hath taught you, ye shall
abide in him (I John 2:27.)
“Consider what I say; and the Lord shall give thee understanding in all things” (II Tim. 2:7.)
God, and His angels, want to help you understand the
Bible. The devil and his angels want to bring confusion and
error. Please consider these scriptures also:
“Beloved, believe not every spirit, but try the spirits whether they are of God” ( I Jn. 4:1.)
“Satan himself is transformed into an angel of light” (II Cor. 11:14.)
“Prove all things; hold fast that which is good. Abstain from every appearance of evil” (I Thess. 5:21-22.)
“But there were false prophets also among the
people, even as there shall be false teacher among you” (II
Pet. 2:1.)
“If God so loved us; we ought also to love one another” (I Jn. 4:11.)
MANUAL FOR LEADERS
A WORD OF CAUTION
“But a stranger will they not follow, but will flee
from him: for they know not the voice of strangers” (John
10:5.)
“But the natural man receiveth not the things of the
Spirit of God: for they are foolishness unto him: neither can
he know them, because they are spiritually discerned” (I
Cor. 2:14.)
“For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are the sons of God “ (Rom. 8:14.)
“For this cause also thank we God without ceasing,
because, when ye received the word of God, which ye heard
of us, ye received it not as the word of man, but as it is in
truth, the word of God, which effectually worketh also in you
that believe” (I Thess. 2:13.)
“Finally, brethren, pray for us, that the word of the
Lord may have free course and be glorified, even as it is
with you (II Thess. 3:1.)
“For this cause we also, since the day we heard it,
do not cease to pray for you, and to desire that ye might be
filled with the knowledge of his will in all wisdom and
spiritual understanding” (Col. 1:9.)
“If God so loved us; we ought also to love one another” (I Jn. 4:11.)
MANUAL FOR LEADERS
#
God is a Spirit (John 4:24; 2 Cor. 3:17)
#
There was none before Him and there will be none after
Him (Is. 43:10.)
#
There is none beside Him (Deut. 4:35; Is. 44:6.)
#
There is none like Him (Ex. 8:14; Deut. 33:26; 2 Sam.
7:22; Is. 46:5, 9; Jer. 10:6.)
#
He is the only One who is good (Matt. 19:17.)
#
He fills the heaven and earth (I Ki. 8:27; Jer. 23:24.)
#
He is Invisible (Job 23:8,9; John 1:18; 5:27; Col. 1:15;
I Tim. 1:17.)
#
He is Light (Is. 60:19; Ja. 1:27; I John 1:5.)
#
He is Love (I John 4:8, 16.)
#
He is Incorruptible (Rom. 1:23.)
#
He is eternal (Deut. 33:27; Ps. 90:2; Rev. 4:8-10.)
#
He is immortal (I Tim. 1:17; 6:16.)
#
He is almighty (Gen. 17:1; Ex. 6:3.)
#
He knows everything (Ps. 139:1-6.)
#
He is everywhere (Ps. 139:7-10.)
#
He is perfect (Matt. 5:48.)
#
He is holy (Ps. 99:9; Is. 5:16.)
#
He is glorious (Ex. 15:11; Ps. 145:5.)
#
He is just (Deut. 32:4, Is. 45:21.)
#
He is true (Jer. 10:10; John 17:3.)
#
He is upright (Ps. 25:8; 92:15.)
#
He is righteous (Ezra 9:15; Ps. 145:17.)
“If God so loved us; we ought also to love one another” (I Jn. 4:11.)
THE NATURE OF GOD THE NATURE OF GOD
MANUAL FOR LEADERS
“For there shall arise false Christs, and false
prophets, and shall show great signs and wonders;
insomuch, that, if it were possible, they shall deceive the
very elect” (Matt. 24:24.)
“See then that ye walk circumspectly, not as fools,
but as wise, redeeming the time, because the days are evil”
(Eph. 5:15-16.)
“If God so loved us; we ought also to love one another” (I Jn. 4:11.)
“Take heed that ye be not deceived” (Lk. 212:8)
MANUAL FOR LEADERS
even the night shall be light about me. Yea the darkness
hideth not from tdhee; but the night shineth as the day: the
darkness and the light are both alike to thee. For thou hast
possessed my reins: thou hast covered me in my mother's
womb. I will praise thee; for I am fearfully and wonderfully
made: marvellous are thy works; and that my soul knoweth
right well. My substance was not hid from thee, when I was
made in secret, and curiously wrought in the lowest parts of
the earth. Thine eyes did see my substance, yet being
unperfect; and in thy book all my members were written,
which in continuance were fashioned, when as yet there was
none of them. How precious also are thy thoughts unto me,
O God! how great is the sum of them! If I should count
them, they are more in number than the sand: when I awake,
I am still with thee.
“If God so loved us; we ought also to love one another” (I Jn. 4:11.)
MANUAL FOR LEADERS
God not only knows your name, and where you live, He
has even numbered the hairs of your head (Matt. 10:30.) Please
consider these inspired words:
O LORD, thou hast searched me, and known me.
Thou knowest my downsitting and mine uprising, thou
understandest my thought afar off. Thou compassest my
path and my lying down, and art acquainted with all my
ways. For there is not a word in my tongue, but, lo, O LORD,
thou knowest it altogether. Thou hast beset me behind and
before, and laid thine hand upon me. Such knowledge is too
wonderful for me; it is high, I cannot attain unto it. Whither
shall I go from thy spirit? or whither shall I flee from thy
presence? If I ascend up into heaven, thou art there: if I
make my bed in hell, behold, thou art there. If I take the
wings of the morning, and dwell in the uttermost parts of the
sea; Even there shall thy hand lead me, and thy right hand
shall hold me. If I say, Surely the darkness shall cover me;
#
He is good (Ps. 25:8; 119:68.)
#
He is great (2 Chron 2:5; Ps. 86:10.)
#
He is gracious (Ex. 34:6; Ps. 116:5.)
#
He is faithful (I Cor. 10:13; I Pet. 4:19.)
#
He is merciful (Ex. 34:6-7; Ps. 86:5.)
#
He is compassionate (2 Ki. 13:23.)
#
He is jealous (Ex. 20:5; 34:14; Josh. 24:19; Nah. 1:2.)
#
He is a consuming fire (Heb. 12:29.)
“If God so loved us; we ought also to love one another” (I Jn. 4:11.)
MANUAL FOR LEADERS
The word "declared," means to "make known." Jesus
came to explain God, or make Him known. He is God manifest
in the flesh (I Tim. 3:16.) Jesus is also called the "Word" of God
(John 1:1,) A word is a vehicle of communication. Jesus,
therefore, became the vehicle by which God communicates His
nature to His people. Jesus revealed and explained God. In
Jesus dwells all the fulness of the Godhead in a body, and you
are complete in Him (Col. 2:9-10,) The very essence of
Christianity involves the realization that God became flesh and
dwelt among us. His name is "Emmanuel," which means, "God
with us."
This point is so important that it needs to be
demonstrated in greater detail. No man can follow God, without
following Jesus. Jesus is the way, the truth, and the life, and no
man can come unto the Father except by Him (John 14:6.)
There is one God, and one mediator between God and men, the
man, Christ Jesus (I Tim. 2:5.) Note that everything which the
Bible represents as pertaining to the nature of God, is also
attributed to Jesus.
#
Both are the great "I Am" (Ex. 3:14, John 8:58)
#
Both are the "First and the Last" (Is. 44:6, Rev. 1:11)
#
Both are "Lord of Lords" (Deut. 10:17, Rev. 17:14)
“If God so loved us; we ought also to love one another” (I Jn. 4:11.)
MANUAL FOR LEADERS
Consider:
T
he people of the world have sought for God in
every generation (Acts 17:27) One reason we do
so, is that God has placed a god shaped vacuum in every human
heart (Eccl. 3:11.) Though God is not far from any one of us,
most people have no idea what He is like. The pagans, for
example, pictured God by means of crude images and idols. In
their ignorance, they did not know God. Even the Jewish people
did not have a clear concept of God. This is why they crucified
Jesus. The Law had only a "shadow" of good things to come,
and not substance (Heb. 10:1.) God is substance and not a
shadow (Ja. 1:17.) No one can have an accurate view of God,
or anyone else, from a shadow. Shadows are ever changing, but
God is never changing.
Therefore, God determined to manifest Himself to
mankind in the person of Jesus Christ. Understanding this is
essential to discipleship. We cannot accurately understand or
follow a God whom we cannot see. Jesus made God visible. He
came to leave us an example that we should follow in His steps
(I Pet. 2:21.) John, the disciple whom Jesus loved, explained the
miracle of the incarnation in these words:
"No man hath seen God at any time: the only
begotten Son, which is in the bosom of the Father, he hath
declared him" (John 1:18.)
“If God so loved us; we ought also to love one another” (I Jn. 4:11.)
MANUAL FOR LEADERS
JESUS IS GOD JESUS IS GOD
"Follow Me!" was the principal command which Jesus
gave to His disciples. Jesus obtained His first disciples at
Bethabara beyond Jordan, where John was baptizing. John
identified Jesus as the "Lamb of God," and two of his disciples
heard him speak, and "they followed Jesus" (John 1:37.)
"The day following Jesus would go forth into
Galilee, and findeth Philip, and saith unto him, follow me"
(John 1:45.)
"And Jesus, walking by the sea of Galilee, saw two
brethren, Simon called Peter, and Andrew his brother,
casting a net into the sea: for they were fishers. And he
saith unto them, Follow me, and I will make you fishers of
men. And they straightway left their nets, and followed him"
(Matt. 4:18-19.)
"And as Jesus passed forth from thence, he saw a
man named Matthew, sitting at the receipt of custom: and he
saith unto him, follow me. And he arose and followed him"
(Matt. 9:9.)
"Then said Jesus unto His disciples, if any man will
come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross,
and follow me" (Matt. 16:24.)
“If God so loved us; we ought also to love one another” (I Jn. 4:11.)
MANUAL FOR LEADERS
FOLLOW ME
#
Both fill the heavens and the earth (Jer. 23:24, Eph.
1:20-23)
#
Both do not change (Mal. 3:6, Heb. 13:8)
#
Both are Creators (Gen. 1:1, Col. 1:16)
#
Both are Judges (Rev. 20:12, II Cor. 5:10)
#
Both are to be worshiped (Matt. 4:10, Rev. 5:12-14)
#
Etc.
Truly, Jesus is "God manifest in the flesh" (I Tim. 3:16)
God is faithful and merciful. He proved this to us in the
person of Jesus Christ. Jesus was tempted in all points like as
we are, yet without sin. He is the very personification of love. It
is the ultimate joy to surrender to this kind of a God. We have a
God who loves little children. We have a God who has
compassion on the sick. We have a God who is willing to save
to the uttermost all who come unto Him by faith. Nevertheless,
we must remind you again, there is no way to avoid or evade
total surrender. Jesus said:
"So likewise, whosoever he be of you that forsaketh not all that he hath, he cannot be my disciple" (Lk. 14:33.)
Our commitment to Christ is to be so all encompassing
and complete, that it is like taking up a cross. It is like "dying to
self" so that Christ might live in us (Gal. 2:20.)
“If God so loved us; we ought also to love one another” (I Jn. 4:11.)
MANUAL FOR LEADERS
There was something refreshing and simple about the
words of Jesus. He spoke differently than did the scribes.
Anyone who wanted to could follow Him.
Following Jesus was both easy and hard. It was easy
from the standpoint that all someone had to do was keep him in
sight. It was hard because it required self denial.
In order to follow Jesus, the disciples had to "deny
themselves." Peter, for example, was a fisherman. He also had
a family. He undoubtedly had a hobby, or something which he
did for recreation. Following Jesus required that he place the
Lord's will before his own.
Peter once said:
"Lo, we have left all, and followed thee. And he said
unto them, Verily I say unto you, There is no man that hath
left house, or parents, or brethren, or wife, or children, for
the kingdom of God's sake, who shall not receive manifold
more in this present time, and in the world to come life
everlasting" (Lk. 18:28-30.)
After the resurrection, Peter and other of the disciples,
went fishing. Jesus appeared to them on the shore, and
instructed them where to throw the net. Because of His
“If God so loved us; we ought also to love one another” (I Jn. 4:11.)
MANUAL FOR LEADERS
BOTH EASY AND HARD
It is much easier to follow someone, than to follow
directions. A man carrying a pitcher of water would be easy to
find, for this normally was considered as women's work. Once
discovered, it would be a simple matter for the disciples to follow
him to the appropriate place.
"My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me" (John 10:27.)
"If any man serve me, let him follow me . . . " (John 12:26.)
There are 77 references in the Gospels to following
Jesus. Only once did Jesus say to follow someone else. The
single exception is found in Mark 14:13. In this passage, Jesus
sent two of His disciples into Jerusalem to make provisions for
the Passover. Note, that he did not give them an address, or a
map, he gave them a guide to follow:
"And he sendeth forth two of his disciples, and
saith unto them, Go ye into the city, and there shall meet
you a man bearing a pitcher of water: follow him. And
wheresoever he shall go in, say ye to the goodman of the
house, The Master saith, Where is the guest chamber, where
I shall eat the Passover with my disciples?" (Mark 14:13-14)
“If God so loved us; we ought also to love one another” (I Jn. 4:11.)
MANUAL FOR LEADERS
Etc.
someone else does, or does not do, we are to follow Jesus. We are to concentrate on what Jesus leads us to do.
“If God so loved us; we ought also to love one another” (I Jn. 4:11.)
MANUAL FOR LEADERS
guidance, they caught one hundred fifty three big fish without breaking the net.
It was on this occasion, before a fire, that Jesus
challenged Peter to confess Him three times. (A short time
before, also by a fire, Peter had denied Him three times.) Jesus
said: "Simon, son of Jonas, lovest thou me more than
these?" (John 21:16.) What did Jesus mean by "these?" Some
have suggested that when Jesus spoke these words He
beckoned with His hand. Nearby were those objects of earthly
sentiment to which Peter had once dedicated his life. Did Peter
love Jesus more than he loved his boat, and his net, and his
profession? Three times Peter confessed that he loved Jesus.
Each time, in response, Jesus admonished him to take care of
His sheep. Then Jesus said to Peter, "Follow me!" These
words assume a new significance when it is remembered that
they came from the resurrected Christ who would soon return to
Peter, like so many of us, wanted to know what
someone else was supposed to do. He turned to John and said:
"And what shall this man do?" Jesus said: "If I will that he
tarry till I come, what is that to thee? Follow thou me" (John
21:22.)
It is a common temptation for us to take our eyes off Jesus and focus on someone else. It does not matter what
“If God so loved us; we ought also to love one another” (I Jn. 4:11.)
MANUAL FOR LEADERS
heaven.
commanded them that they should not depart from
Jerusalem, but wait for the promise of the Father, which,
saith he, ye have heard of me . . . but ye shall receive power
after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be
witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judea, and
in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth" (Acts
1:4,8.)
#
The book of Acts is a record of the way that the Holy
Spirit guided the Apostles.
#
He is Eternal - Heb. 9:14
#
He creates - Job 33:4, Ps. 104:30.
#
He knows what God knows - I Cor. 2:11.
#
He has the power of God - Luke 1:35; Acts 1:8; Micah
3:8.
#
He is everywhere - Ps. 139:7-10.
#
He gives life - Rom. 8:11, John 6:63
#
He inspired the prophets - 2 Pet. 1:21.
#
He works miracles - I Cor. 12:9-11.
#
He speaks - I Tim. 4:1; Rev. 2:7.
#
He teaches - John 14:26; I Cor. 2:13.
#
He searches and reveals - I Cor. 2:10.
#
He leads and forbids - Acts 16:6,7.
#
He can be grieved - Eph. 4:30
The Holy Spirit also bears the characteristics of God.
“If God so loved us; we ought also to love one another” (I Jn. 4:11.)
MANUAL FOR LEADERS
! It is obvious that the disciples followed Jesus while He was with them upon the earth.
! It is equally obvious that Jesus went away to a place
where they could not follow. He said: "Whither I go, thou canst
not follow me now . . . " (John 13:36.)
! Jesus, however, promised to come back to His
disciples as a Spirit and continue to guide them. This is a central
theme of His message to them in the upper room the night
before He died, He was not going to leave them like orphans.
He was going to come back to be with them. (John 13:31 - 16:33,
etc.)
! The book of Acts begins by affirming that the
Gospels only record what Jesus "began" to do and teach (Acts
1:1.) Luke's inspired history contains the continuation of Christ's
ministry by means of the Holy Spirit.
! Jesus specifically commanded His Apostles not to
depart from Jerusalem
until they have received the promise of the Father (Acts 1:4.)
Luke wrote:
"And being assembled together with them,
“If God so loved us; we ought also to love one another” (I Jn. 4:11.)
THE HOLY SPIRIT THE HOLY SPIRIT
MANUAL FOR LEADERS
in heavenly places observe with amazement the manifold wisdom of God (Eph. 3:10.)
Jesus alluded to our perennial source of power in His conversation with the Samaritan woman at Jacob's well:
"Whosoever drinketh of this water shall thirst again:
But whosoever drinketh of the water that I shall give him,
shall never thirst; but the water that I shall give him shall be
in him a well of water springing up into everlasting life"
(John 4:13-14.)
Later, He spoke about it again at the Feast of Tabernacles:
"He that believeth on me, as the scripture hath said,
out of his belly shall flow rivers of living water. (But this
spake he of the Spirit, which they that believe on him should
receive: for the Holy Ghost was not yet given; because that
Jesus was not yet glorified)" (John 7:38-39.)
"Christ in you," is not a peripheral issue. This is the
hope of Glory (Col. 1:27.) This is the way that God provides us
with Eternal Life.
“A new heart also will I give you, and a new spirit will I put within you: and I will take away the stony heart out
“If God so loved us; we ought also to love one another” (I Jn. 4:11.)
MANUAL FOR LEADERS
#
He can be resisted - Acts 7:51.
#
He can be lied to - Acts 5:3.
#
Those who despise Him will be punished - Heb. 10:29.
CHRIST IN YOU
CHRIST IN YOU
I
n Old Testament times, God is represented as
separate from man. When Moses, for example, was
in the presence of God, his face would glow. When he left the
presence of God, the glory, would fade (II Cor. 3:13.)
The Tabernacle anticipated a transition to the New
Testament. It featured a portable altar. This was, perhaps, the
first such altar in the world. Man no longer had to go great
distances to worship. The Tabernacle was in their midst. God
was dwelling in the midst of His people.
The genius of the New Covenant, however, is far more
wonderful than this. Now, God does not dwell in the midst of a
nation, he dwells personally in every believer. Now, our bodies
are temples of the Holy Spirit (I Cor. 6:19.) Now, the glory of
God need never fade from our face. Now, we don't have to go
to a special place to worship. Now, we can worship God
wherever we are, for true worship is in spirit and in truth. This
message is so radical and revolutionary that no eye had seen it,
no ear had heard it, and it had never entered into the heart of
man (I Cor.2:9.) Angels desired to look into this matter but were
not permitted to do so (I Pet.2:12.) The principalities and powers
“If God so loved us; we ought also to love one another” (I Jn. 4:11.)
MANUAL FOR LEADERS
#
We are sanctified in Christ Jesus - I Cor. 1:2.
#
God gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ -
I Cor. 15:57.
#
We always triumph in Christ - 2 Cor. 2:14.
#
In Christ we are new creatures - 2 Cor. 5:17.
#
We have liberty in Christ Jesus - Gal. 2:4.
#
Through Christ we receive the blessings of Abraham -
Gal. 3:14.
#
In Christ all people can become one - Gal. 3:28.
#
All spiritual blessings are in Christ - Eph. 1:3.
#
Christians sit together in heavenly places in Christ
Jesus - Eph. 2:6.
#
In Christ we come near to God - Eph. 2:13.
#
We rejoice in Christ Jesus - Phil. 3:3.
#
Every man will be presented perfect in Christ Jesus -
Col. 1:28.
#
Our work of faith, labor of love, and patience of hope is
in Christ - I Thess. 1`:3.
#
The dead in Christ shall rise first - I Thess. 4:16.
#
In Christ there is exceeding abundant grace with faith
and love - I Tim. 1:14.
#
Salvation with eternal glory is in Christ - 2 Tim. 2:10.
Heb. 6:4-6 For it is impossible for those who were once enlightened, and have tasted of the heavenly gift, and
“If God so loved us; we ought also to love one another” (I Jn. 4:11.)
WARNINGS ABOUT LEAVING CHRIST
MANUAL FOR LEADERS
of your flesh, and I will give you an heart of flesh. And I will
put my spirit within you, and cause you to walk in my
statutes, and ye shall keep my judgments, and do them.”
(Ez. 36:26-27)
“Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have
entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath
prepared from them that love Him. But God hath revealed
them unto us by His Spirit: for the Spirit searcheth all things,
yea, the deep things of God” (I Cor. 2:9-10.)
#
Redemption is in Jesus Christ - Rom. 3:24.
#
We have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ
- Rom. 5:1
#
We are alive unto God through Jesus Christ our Lord -
Rom. 6:11.
#
Eternal life is through Jesus Christ our Lord - Rom.
6:23.
#
There is no condemnation in Christ Jesus - Rom. 8:1.
#
In Christ we are free from the law of sin and death -
Rom. 8:2.
#
In Christ we are heirs of God and joint heirs with Christ
- Rom. 8:17.
#
Nothing can separate us from the love of God which is
in Christ Jesus - Rom. 8:39.
“If God so loved us; we ought also to love one another” (I Jn. 4:11.)
BLESSINGS IN CHRIST BLESSINGS IN CHRIST
MANUAL FOR LEADERS
turn from the holy commandment delivered unto them. But
it is happened unto them according to the true proverb, The
dog is turned to his own vomit again; and the sow that was
washed to her wallowing in the mire.
Rev. 2:5 “Remember therefore from whence thou art
fallen, and repent, and do the first works; or else I will come
unto thee quickly, and will remove thy candlestick out of his
place, except thou repent.”
Rev. 2:16 “Repent; or else I will come unto thee
quickly, and will fight against them with the sword of my
mouth.”
Rev. 2:20-23 “Notwithstanding I have a few things
against thee, because thou sufferest that woman Jezebel,
which calleth herself a prophetess, to teach and to seduce
my servants to commit fornication, and to eat things
sacrificed unto idols. And I gave her space to repent of her
fornication; and she repented not. Behold, I will cast her into
a bed, and them that commit adultery with her into great
“If God so loved us; we ought also to love one another” (I Jn. 4:11.)
TO THE CHURCH AT PERGAMOS
TO THE CHURCH AT THYATIRA
TO THE CHURCH AT EPHESUS
MANUAL FOR LEADERS
were made partakers of the Holy Ghost, And have tasted the
good word of God, and the powers of the world to come, If
they shall fall away, to renew them again unto repentance;
seeing they crucify to themselves the Son of God afresh,
and put him to an open shame.”
Heb. 10:28-31 “ He that despised Moses' law died
without mercy under two or three witnesses: Of how much
sorer punishment, suppose ye, shall he be thought worthy,
who hath trodden under foot the Son of God, and hath
counted the blood of the covenant, wherewith he was
sanctified, an unholy thing, and hath done despite unto the
Spirit of grace? For we know him that hath said, Vengeance
belongeth unto me, I will recompense, saith the Lord. And
again, The Lord shall judge his people. It is a fearful thing to
fall into the hands of the living God.
Gal. 5:4 “ Christ is become of no effect unto you,
whosoever of you are justified by the law; ye are fallen from
grace.”
2 Pet. 2: 20 - 22 “For if after they have escaped the
pollutions of the world through the knowledge of the Lord
and Saviour Jesus Christ, they are again entangled therein,
and overcome, the latter end is worse with them than the
beginning. For it had been better for them not to have known
the way of righteousness, than, after they have known it, to
“If God so loved us; we ought also to love one another” (I Jn. 4:11.)
MANUAL FOR LEADERS
#
NO ONE MAN MAKE YOU LEAVE CHRIST - (See
Rom. 8:35-39)
#
YOU CAN, HOWEVER, DO SO IF YOU CHOOSE TO
DO SO!
#
BECAUSE OF THE POWER OF THE HOLY SPIRIT
WE ARE OPTIMISTIC
Phil. 1:6 Being confident of this very thing, that he
which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the
day of Jesus Christ:”
“If God so loved us; we ought also to love one another” (I Jn. 4:11.)
MANUAL FOR LEADERS
tribulation, except they repent of their deeds. And I will kill
her children with death; and all the churches shall know that
I am he which searcheth the reins and hearts: and I will give
unto every one of you according to your works.”
Rev. 3:3 “Remember therefore how thou hast
received and heard, and hold fast, and repent. If therefore
thou shalt not watch, I will come on thee as a thief, and thou
shalt not know what hour I will come upon thee.”
Rev. 3:15-19 “I know thy works, that thou art neither
cold nor hot: I would thou wert cold or hot. So then because
thou art lukewarm, and neither cold nor hot, I will spue thee
out of my mouth. Because thou sayest, I am rich, and
increased with goods, and have need of nothing; and
knowest not that thou art wretched, and miserable, and
poor, and blind, and naked: I counsel thee to buy of me gold
tried in the fire, that thou mayest be rich; and white raiment,
that thou mayest be clothed, and that the shame of thy
nakedness do not appear; and anoint thine eyes with
eyesalve, that thou mayest see. As many as I love, I rebuke
and chasten: be zealous therefore, and repent.”
“If God so loved us; we ought also to love one another” (I Jn. 4:11.)
TO THE CHURCH AT LAODICEA
TO THE CHURCH AT SARDIS
MANUAL FOR LEADERS
How then, can there be “no condemnation” in Christ?
God began giving us an answer to this
question in the Garden of Eden. When Adam and
Eve sinned they were no longer able to stand in the
presence of God without a covering. Therefore God
made coats of skins and clothed them (Gen. 3:21.)
God wanted us to know that we needed a “covering” to appear in His presence.
This beautiful teaching about approaching God is
illustrated by the Ark of the Covenant. Instructions regarding the
Ark of the Covenant are first found in Exodus 25:10-22.)
The Old Covenant was the Ten Commandments. They
were written on two tablets of stone (See Deut. 4:13.) The box,
or “ark” was called the Ark of the Covenant because it contained
the Ten Commandments. The Ten Commandments were also
called the “Law” (Ex. 24:12.)
The Law was not given to save, but to make us aware of our sins. Consider:
“If God so loved us; we ought also to love one another” (I Jn. 4:11.)
THE ARK OF THE COVENANT
MANUAL FOR LEADERS
“There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus . . .” Rom. 8:1
“For all have sinned and come short of the glory of God.” Rom. 3:23
Even though we are born again, we still continue to make mistakes:
I John 1:8 - 2:2 “If we say that we have no sin,
we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us. If we
confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us
our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.
If we say that we have not sinned, we make him a liar,
and his word is not in us. My little children, these
things write I unto you, that ye sin not. And if any man
sin, we have an advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ
the righteous: And he is the propitiation for our sins:
and not for ours only, but also for the sins of the whole
world.”
THERE IS NO CONDEMNATION IN THERE IS NO CONDEMNATION IN
“If God so loved us; we ought also to love one another” (I Jn. 4:11.)
We were sinners before we became Christians:
MANUAL FOR LEADERS
CHRIST CHRIST
enter into the Holy Place and sprinkle blood on the Mercy Seat
(Lev. 16:14-15.) The Hebrew word for Atonement means “to
cover.”
Jesus is our covering. He is our “Mercy Seat.” No one can keep us from the Tree of Life because our sins are covered.
When Mary came to the tomb of Jesus, she stooped
down and looked inside. There she saw two angels in white
sitting, the one at the head, and the other at the feet where the
body of Jesus had lain. Jesus is our Mercy Seat!
John wrote that Christians should not sin (I John 2:1.)
If we do sin, however, he promised that we have Jesus Christ as
an “Advocate.” An Advocate is someone who pleads for another.
Jesus, however is not only our Advocate, He is also our
Propitiation. This is the same word translated as “Mercy Seat”
in Ex. 25:17
David was a sinner:
#
He lied to Ahimelech the priest (I Sam. 21:2.)
#
This lie caused many innocent people to die (I Sam.
22:17-22.)
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He ate the show bread, which was not lawful (I Sam.
21:3-7, Matt. 12:4.)
“If God so loved us; we ought also to love one another” (I Jn. 4:11.)
SINS ARE NOT IMPUTED TO CHRISTIANS
MANUAL FOR LEADERS
Rom. 3:19-20 “Now we know that what
things soever the law saith, it saith to them who
are under the law: that every mouth may be
stopped, and all the world may become guilty
before God. Therefore by the deeds of the law
there shall no flesh be justified in his sight: for by
the law is the knowledge of sin.”
Cherubim are first mentioned in the Bible in
connection with the Garden of Eden. Adam and Eve
were driven from the Garden and God placed
Cherubim at the gate of the Garden to keep them
away from the Tree of Life.
Gen. 3:24 “So he drove out the man; and
he placed at the east of the garden of Eden
Cherubims, and a flaming sword which turned
every way, to keep the way of the tree of life.”
God gave instructions for Cherubim to be on top of the
Ark of the Covenant. These Cherubim were facing each other
with their wings outstretched over the Ark. They could not,
however, see the Law because it was “covered.” The “covering”
was made of gold, and sprinkled with blood. It was called “The
Mercy Seat.” On the Day of Atonement, the High Priest would
“If God so loved us; we ought also to love one another” (I Jn. 4:11.)
MANUAL FOR LEADERS
THE CHERUBIM
AS LONG AS YOU ARE IN CHRIST YOUR SINS ARE COVERED TOO!
THERE IS NO CONDEMNATION TO THOSE WHO ARE IN CHRIST JESUS!
“If God so loved us; we ought also to love one another” (I Jn. 4:11.)
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DAVID UNDERSTOOD THAT GOD COULD COVER HIS SINS! HE WROTE:
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He lied to Achish (I Sam. 27:8-12.)
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He committed adultery with Bathsheba (II Sam. 11:1-5.)
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He had Uriah the Hittite killed (II Sam. 11:14-25.)
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He numbered Israel (II Sam. 24:10.)
#
Etc.
Ps. 32:1-2 “Blessed is he whose transgression is
forgiven, whose sin is covered. Blessed is the man unto
whom the LORD imputeth not iniquity, and in whose spirit
there is no guile.”
“Even
as
David
also
describeth
the
blessedness of the man, unto whom God imputeth
righteousness without works, Saying, Blessed are they
whose iniquities are forgiven, and whose sins are
covered. Blessed is the man to whom the Lord will not
impute sin.”
David was happy and blessed, not because he never sinned, but because His sins were “covered.”
“If God so loved us; we ought also to love one another” (I Jn. 4:11.)
These words are quoted by Paul in Romans 4:6-8:
MANUAL FOR LEADERS
the pains of death: because it was not possible that he should be holden of it.
Acts 2:31-32 He seeing this before spake of the
resurrection of Christ, that his soul was not left in hell,
neither his flesh did see corruption. This Jesus hath God
raised up, whereof we all are witnesses.
Acts 3:15 And killed the Prince of life, whom God hath raised from the dead; whereof we are witnesses.
Acts 3:26 Unto you first God, having raised up his
Son Jesus, sent him to bless you, in turning away every one
of you from his iniquities.
Acts 4:2 Being grieved that they taught the people, and preached through Jesus the resurrection from the dead.
Acts 4:10 Be it known unto you all, and to all the
people of Israel, that by the name of Jesus Christ of
Nazareth, whom ye crucified, whom God raised from the
dead, even by him doth this man stand here before you
whole.
Acts 5:30 The God of our fathers raised up Jesus, whom ye slew and hanged on a tree.
“If God so loved us; we ought also to love one another” (I Jn. 4:11.)
MANUAL FOR LEADERS
The word “gospel” means “good news.” It is defined by Paul in these words:
Moreover, brethren, I declare unto you the gospel which
I preached unto you, which also ye have received, and wherein
ye stand; By which also ye are saved, if ye keep in memory what
I preached unto you, unless ye have believed in vain. For I
delivered unto you first of all that which I also received, how that
Christ died for our sins according to the scriptures; And that he
was buried, and that he rose again the third day according to the
scriptures: (I Cor. 15:1-4)
T
he “good news” is that Jesus Christ was raised from
the dead, according to the Scriptures. The facts
about Jesus were written by the prophets centuries before they
came to pass.
Note that the apostles made constant reference to the resurrection of Jesus
Acts 1:22 Beginning from the baptism of John, unto
that same day that he was taken up from us, must one be
ordained to be a witness with us of his resurrection.
Acts 2:24 Whom God hath raised up, having loosed
“If God so loved us; we ought also to love one another” (I Jn. 4:11.)
MANUAL FOR LEADERS
THE GOSPEL THE GOSPEL
unto all men, in that he hath raised him from the dead.
Acts 23:6 But when Paul perceived that the one part
were Sadducees, and the other Pharisees, he cried out in the
council, Men and brethren, I am a Pharisee, the son of a
Pharisee: of the hope and resurrection of the dead I am
called in question.
Acts 24:15 And have hope toward God, which they
themselves also allow, that there shall be a resurrection of
the dead, both of the just and unjust.
Acts 24:21 Except it be for this one voice, that I
cried standing among them, Touching the resurrection of
the dead I am called in question by you this day.
Wherefore I also, after I heard of your faith in the
Lord Jesus, and love unto all the saints, Cease not to give
thanks for you, making mention of you in my prayers; That
the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may
give unto you the spirit of wisdom and revelation in the
knowledge of him: The eyes of your understanding being
THE POWER OF THE RESURRECTION IS AVAILABLE TO ALL BELIEVERS
“If God so loved us; we ought also to love one another” (I Jn. 4:11.)
MANUAL FOR LEADERS
Etc.
Acts 10:40 Him God raised up the third day, and shewed him openly;
Acts 13:23 Of this man's seed hath God according to his promise raised unto Israel a Saviour, Jesus:
Acts 13:33-34 God hath fulfilled the same unto us
their children, in that he hath raised up Jesus again; as it is
also written in the second psalm, Thou art my Son, this day
have I begotten thee. And as concerning that he raised him
up from the dead, now no more to return to corruption, he
said on this wise, I will give you the sure mercies of David.
Acts 13:37 But he, whom God raised again, saw no corruption.
Acts 17:18 Then certain philosophers of the
Epicureans, and of the Stoicks, encountered him. And some
said, What will this babbler say? other some, He seemeth to
be a setter forth of strange gods: because he preached unto
them Jesus, and the resurrection.
Acts 17:31 Because he hath appointed a day, in the
which he will judge the world in righteousness by that man
whom he hath ordained; whereof he hath given assurance
“If God so loved us; we ought also to love one another” (I Jn. 4:11.)
Acts 13:30 But God raised him from the dead:
MANUAL FOR LEADERS
THE OLD COVENANT
THE OLD COVENANT
I
t is important for every Christian to understand the
difference between the Old Covenant, and the New
Covenant.
‘
The Bible makes reference to many covenants. Such
as: The covenant with Adam (Hos. 6:7.) The covenant with Noah
(Gen. 9:9,) The covenant with Abram (Gen. 15:18,) The
covenant of circumcision (Acts 7:8,) The covenant of the day and
night (Jer. 33:20,) The covenant with David (Jer. 33:21,) etc.
When the Scriptures, however, speak of the “new
covenant,” and the “old covenant,” it is a comparison between
Christianity and Judaism. These two approaches to God are so
different that they cannot be combined. Attempting to do so
would be like putting new wine in old skins, or new cloth in an old
garment (Matt. 9:16-17.)
The Scriptures teach that the Old Covenant was
the Ten Commandments.
Please consider:
#
Moses received a covenant while he was on Mt. Horeb
(Deut 5:2.)
#
This covenant was called the Ten Commandments, and
written on two tablets of stone (Deut. 4:13.)
#
Once the Ten Commandments were completed, God
“If God so loved us; we ought also to love one another” (I Jn. 4:11.)
MANUAL FOR LEADERS
enlightened; that ye may know what is the hope of his
calling, and what the riches of the glory of his inheritance in
the saints, And what is the exceeding greatness of his
power to us-ward who believe, according to the working of
his mighty power, Which he wrought in Christ, when he
raised him from the dead, and set him at his own right hand
in the heavenly places, Far above all principality, 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: And
hath put all things under his feet, and gave him to be the
head over all things to the church, Which is his body, the
fulness of him that filleth all in all. (Eph. 1:15-23)
“If God so loved us; we ought also to love one another” (I Jn. 4:11.)
MANUAL FOR LEADERS
army and kill in defense of your country? Is it wrong to be a
policeman and kill a criminal who is killing others.? Is it wrong to
kill someone to defend your family? Is it wrong to kill someone
to protect your possessions? Is it every “lawful” to kill anyone for
any reason? If so, what is that reason?
God found fault with the Old Covenant, which was
written in stone, and decided to write a New Covenant in the
minds and hearts of believers! The Old Covenant tried to stop
murder by law. The New Covenant would succeed in stopping
murder by giving a new nature to the people of God. We are not
“conformed,” we are “transformed.”
“If God so loved us; we ought also to love one another” (I Jn. 4:11.)
MANUAL FOR LEADERS
added no more to them (Deut. 5:22.)
#
The Ten Commandments were kept in a receptacle
which was called the “Ark of the Covenant” (Nu. 10:33.)
#
The Ark of the Covenant was usually kept in the
Tabernacle, or Temple (I Ki. 8:6.)
#
This covenant was made when God brought His people
out of Egypt (Jer. 31:32.)
#
This covenant was like Hagar and Ishmael and
produced bondage (Gal. 4:24.)
#
God found fault with the Old Covenant (Heb. 8:7-8.)
#
God decided to write a New Covenant (Heb. 8:8-13.)
Remember, the Old Testament was like Hagar and
Ishmael (Gal. 4:24.) Ishmael was described by God as a “wild
man.” Then the Scriptures continue: “ his hand will be against
every man, and ever man’s hand against him . . . ” (Gen.
16:12.) Ishmael would always be in the midst of controversy.
This is the way the Ten Commandments are. They too
have always been a source of controversy. Take, for example,
the commandment: “Thou shalt not kill” (Ex. 20:13.) What
does this commandment mean? Is it wrong to kill animals and
birds? Millions of people in India would say “yes..” They believe
it is wrong to kill any living creature. Is it wrong to enlist in the
“If God so loved us; we ought also to love one another” (I Jn. 4:11.)
LEGALISM HAS CAUSED MUCH OF THE DIVISION IN
MANUAL FOR LEADERS
CHRISTIANITY TODAY!
#
They have the mind of Christ (I Cor. 2:16.)
#
They are not “conformed” by law, but “transformed “ by
their new minds (Rom. 12:2.)
#
They are justified without the deeds of the Law (Rom.
3:28.)
#
Their bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit (I Cor. 6:19.)
#
They can worship God in spirit and in truth at any time
and any place (John 4:24.)
The Old Covenant unified the Hebrew people as a
nation. The ark, which contained this covenant, was in the
center of their camp when they slept. It went before them when
they traveled. No matter where they lived, they returned to this
ark to worship.
The New Covenant also unifies the people of God as a
nation. Those who are born again are described as: “A chosen
generation, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for
God’s own possession” (I Pet. 2:9.)
The New Covenant (or testament) became effective
after Christ died:
“For where a testament is, there must also of
necessity by tdhe death of the testator. For a testament is
of force after men are dead; otherwise it is of no strength at
all while the testator liveth” (Heb. 9:16-17.)
“If God so loved us; we ought also to love one another” (I Jn. 4:11.)
MANUAL FOR LEADERS
“ . . . Behold the days come, saith the Lord, when I
will make a new covenant with the house of Israel and with
the house of Judah: Not according to the covenant that I
made with their fathers in the day when I took them by the
hand to lead them out of the land of Egypt; because they
continued not in my covenant, and I regarded them not,
saith the Lord. For this is the covenant that I will make with
the house of Israel after those days, saith the Lord: I will put
my laws into their mind, and write them in their hearts: and
I will be to them a God, and they shall be to me a people.
And they shall not teach every man his neighbor, and every
man his brother, saying, Know the Lord: for all shall know,
from the least to the greatest. For I will be merciful to their
unrighteousness, and their sins and their iniquities will I
remember no more. In that he saith, A new covenant, he
hath made the first old. Now that which decayeth, and
waxeth old, is ready to vanish away” (Heb. 8:8-13.)
Those who are born again experience the New
Covenant:
#
They become new creatures (II Cor. 5:17.)
#
Their sins and iniquities are remembered no more
(Heb. 8:12.)
#
God writes His laws on their minds and hearts (Heb.
8:10.)
“If God so loved us; we ought also to love one another” (I Jn. 4:11.)
THE NEW COVENANT THE NEW COVENANT
MANUAL FOR LEADERS
“But now God hath set the members every one of them in the body, as it hath pleased Him (I Cor. 12:18.)
“But unto every one of us is given grace according to the measure of the gift of Christ” (Eph. 4:7.)
“From whom the whole body fitaly joined together
and compactded by that which every joint supplieth,
according to the effectual working in the measure of every
part, maketh increase of the body unto the edifying of itself
in love (Eph. 4:16.)
“As every man hath received the gift, even so minister the same (I Pet. 4:10.)
It is the will of God that every member of His Body
minister. It is better to get one hundred people working, than to
try and do the work of one hundred people.
“If God so loved us; we ought also to love one another” (I Jn. 4:11.)
MANUAL FOR LEADERS
Etc.
7:7.)
MEMBERS OF HIS BODY
MEMBERS OF HIS BODY
E
very person who becomes a Christian also becomes
a member of the Body of Christ, which is the
Church (Col. 1:18.)
“For by one Spirit are we all baptized into one body,
whether we be Jews or Gentiles, whether we be bond or
free: and have been made to drink into one Spirit” (I Cor.
12:13.)
There are, of course, different members in the Body of
Christ, just as there are different members in your body. Every
member of the body is designed by God to do a special work.
You have a special gift, or ability, and so do all believers. It is
the desire of God that every member of His Body minister.
“For the Son of man is as a man taking a far
journey, who left his house, and gave authority to his
servants, and to every man his work . . .” (Mk. 13:34.)
“For as we have many members in one body, and all
members have not the same office, So we, being many, are
one body in Christ, and every one members one of another”
(Rom. 12:4-5.)
“Every man has his proper gift of God . . . “ (I Cor.
“If God so loved us; we ought also to love one another” (I Jn. 4:11.)
MANUAL FOR LEADERS
“By this shall all men know that you are my disciples, if ye have love one to another” (John 13:35.)
“Owe no man anything, but to love one another: for he that loveth another hath fulfilled the law” (Rom. 13:8.)
“And now abideth faith, hope, love, these three; but the greatest of these is love” (I Cor. 13:13.)
“For all the law is fulfilled in one word, even in this; Thou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself” (Gal. 5:14.)
“And above all these things put on love which is the bond of perfectness” (Col. 3:14.)
“If ye fulfil the royal law according to the scripture, Thou shal love thy neighbor as thyself, ye do well” (Ja. 2:8.)
“And above all things have fervent love among
yourselves; for love shall cover the multitude of sins” (I Pet.
4:8.)
“For this is the message that ye heard from the beginning, that we should love one another” (I John 3:11.)
“Beloved, let us love one another: for love is of God; and every one that loveth is born of God, and knoweth God.
“If God so loved us; we ought also to love one another” (I Jn. 4:11.)
MANUAL FOR LEADERS
ESTABLISHING PRIORITIES
ESTABLISHING PRIORITIES
A
ll truths are equally true, but not all truths are
equally important. Your ministry will certainly be
more pleasing to God if you have the same priorities that Jesus
did.
A lawyer once asked Jesus, “Which is the great
commandment in the law?” There were, of course, Ten
Commandments written in stone. In addition to these, there
were also over six hundred other commandments in the Law of
Moses. Jesus answer:
“Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart,
and with all thysoul, and with all thy mind. This is the first
and great commandment. And the second is like untop it,
Thou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself. On these two
commandments hang all the law and the prophets” (Matt.
22:37-40.)
Love is the most important teaching in all the Bible.
Please consider the following verses as they relate to the
priorities of the Apostles:
“Therefore all things whatsoever ye would that men
should do to you, do ye even so to them: for this is the law
and the prophets (Matt. 7:12.)
“If God so loved us; we ought also to love one another” (I Jn. 4:11.)
MANUAL FOR LEADERS
The church in Jerusalem continued steadfastly in “the
apostles’ teaching, and fellowship, and in breaking of bread,
and in prayers” (Acts 2:42.)
Jesus said: “Where two or three are gathered
together in my name, there am I in the midst of them” (Matt.
18:20.)
There is a spiritual aspect to worship which non-
Christian people cannot see. Remember that the church is an
assembly of people. It is not a physical building made of stones,
or wood. Even if only two or three are gathered together, Jesus
has promised to be there in our midst. Christian worship not only
involves fellowship with Jesus, but also with a host of other
spiritual realities. Consider :
“Ye are come unto mount Sion, and unto the city of
the living God, the heavenly Jerusalem, and to an
innumerable company of angels. To the general assembly
and church of the firstborn, which are written in heaven, and
to God the Judge of all, and to the spirits of just men made
perfect. And to Jesus the mediator of the new covenant, and
to the blood of sprinkling that speaketh better things that of
“If God so loved us; we ought also to love one another” (I Jn. 4:11.)
JESUS IN THE MIDST OF THE ASSEMBLY
MANUAL FOR LEADERS
Spirit (Eph. 2:19-22.)
He that loveth not knoweth not God; for God is love” (I John 4:7-8.)
THE CHURCH
THE CHURCH
E
very living thing needs an environment to survive.
Before God created a fish, for example, he had to
have water for the fish to live in, and food for it to eat. This is
true of every living thing. It is also true of the Christian, who is “a
new creation .” God has provided the church for those who are
born again. It is God’s special environment where we can
develop and grow.
The Bible word for church refers to people. It is an
“assembly” where people gather to worship Jesus. The early
church first assembled in the Jewish Temple (Acts 2:46.) They
also met in houses (See Acts 8:3; Rom. 16:5; fI Cor. 16:19; Col.
4:15; Philemon 2, etc.) It is important to remember that the
Church of Jesus Christ is people.
“Now therefore ye are no more strangers and
foreigners, but fellow citizens with the saints, and of the
household of God; and are built upon the foundation of the
apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ himself being the chief
corner stone; In whom all the building fitly framed together
groweth unto an holy temple in the Lord: In whom ye also
are builded together for an habitation of God through the
“If God so loved us; we ought also to love one another” (I Jn. 4:11.)
MANUAL FOR LEADERS
J
ewish people worshiped God on the seventh day of
the week, or Saturday. This day was also known as
the “Sabbath” which means “rest.” Christians worshiped God on
the first day of the week, or Sunday. This day is also called “The
Lord’s Day” (Rev. 1:10.) These days of worship became a
source of controversy and division in the early church, but it
should not be so among us.
The first time the Scriptures refer to man observing the
seventh day as a day of rest is in Ex. 16:23. The children of
Israel had just escaped from Egypt and were in the wilderness.
God sent them food from heaven called “manna,” and
commanded them to gather only as much as they could eat each
day. If they gathered more than they could eat, it “bred worms
and stank,” (Ex. 16:20.
On the sixth day, however, they could gather twice as much and the food did not spoil. Moses said:
This is that which the LORD hath said, To morrow is the rest of the holy sabbath unto the LORD: bake that
“If God so loved us; we ought also to love one another” (I Jn. 4:11.)
THE SEVENTH DAY, AND THE THE SEVENTH DAY, AND THE
MANUAL FOR LEADERS
FIRST DAY FIRST DAY
THE SABBATH
“Likewise, I say unto you, there is joy in the
presence of the angels of God over one sinner that
repenteth” (Lk. 15:10.)
Meeting to worship Jesus is a magnificent spiritual
experience.. It is by means of the church that the manifold
wisdom of God is manifest unto the principalities and powers in
heavenly places (Eph. 3:18.) Here are a few principles for you
to prayerfully consider. Christian worship is to:
#
Emphasize love (John 13:35, I Cor. 13:)
#
Be decent and in order (I Cor. 14:26)
#
Allow gifted people to minister (I Cor. 14:26-40
#
Provide edification, exhortation, and comfort (I Cor.
14:3.)
#
Not discriminate against the poor (Ja. 2:1-10.)
#
Follow peace and edification (Rom. 14:19.)
“Now we exhort you, brethren, warm them that are
unruly, comfort the feebleminded, support the weak, be
patient toward all men (I Thess. 5:14.)
“If God so loved us; we ought also to love one another” (I Jn. 4:11.)
MANUAL FOR LEADERS
Abel” (Heb. 12:22-24.)
When the children of Israel found a man gathering
sticks on the Sabbath, they put him in jail until the Lord told them
what to do with him.
And the LORD said unto Moses, The man shall be
surely put to death: all the congregation shall stone him with
stones without the camp. (Nu. 15:35)
The Jews also observed other days of rest, other than
the seventh day. For example, the first and last days of certain
feasts were also days of rest (Lev. 23:7-8, 39) The Feast of
Trumpets and the Day of Atonement were also days of rest (Lev.
23:23-32, etc.)
For the law was given by Moses, but grace and truth
came by Jesus Christ.
(John 1:17)
The difference between the Law of Moses and
Christianity is so distinct that the two cannot be combined. To
attempt to do so would be like trying to put new wine in old skins,
or new cloth in an old garment (Matt. 9:16-17) Jesus brought
“grace and truth.” Jesus taught His disciples that He was “Lord
of the Sabbath” (Matt. 12:8.) He taught them that “The
Sabbath was made for man, and not man for the Sabbath”
“If God so loved us; we ought also to love one another” (I Jn. 4:11.)
JESUS AND THE SABBATH
MANUAL FOR LEADERS
Remember the sabbath day, to keep it holy. Six
days shalt thou labour, and do all thy work: But the seventh
day is the sabbath of the LORD thy God: in it thou shalt not
do any work, thou, nor thy son, nor thy daughter, thy
manservant, nor thy maidservant, nor thy cattle, nor thy
stranger that is within thy gates: For in six days the LORD
made heaven and earth, the sea, and all that in them is, and
rested the seventh day: wherefore the LORD blessed the
sabbath day, and hallowed it. (Exodus 20:8-11)
which ye will bake to day, and seethe that ye will seethe; and
that which remaineth over lay up for you to be kept until the
morning. And they laid it up till the morning, as Moses bade:
and it did not stink, neither was there any worm therein.
(Exodus 16:23-24)
A few days later, Moses received the Ten Commandments. The fourth commandment was:
The Sabbath, as well as all other aspects of Jewish law, was to be enforced without mercy.
Six days may work be done; but in the seventh is
the sabbath of rest, holy to the LORD: whosoever doeth any
work in the sabbath day, he shall surely be put to death.
(Exodus 31:15)
“If God so loved us; we ought also to love one another” (I Jn. 4:11.)
MANUAL FOR LEADERS
1. Jesus had broken the Sabbath.
2. Jesus claimed to be equal with God.
Since Jesus IS God, He has the right to do whatever He
wants to do on the Sabbath!
A brief review of the following Scriptures will help you
to understand why Christians meet to worship on the first day of
the week.
In the end of the Sabbath, as it began to dawn
toward the first day of the week, came Mary Magdalene and
the other Mary to see the sepulchre.(Matt. 28:1)
And very early in the morning the first day of the
week, they came unto the sepulchre at the rising of the sun.
(Mark 16:2)
Now upon the first day of the week, very early in the
morning, they came unto the sepulchre, bringing the spices
which they had prepared, and certain others with them.
(Luke 24:1)
JESUS WAS RAISED FROM THE DEAD ON THE FIRST DAY OF THE WEEK:
“If God so loved us; we ought also to love one another” (I Jn. 4:11.)
THE FIRST DAY OF THE WEEK
MANUAL FOR LEADERS
(Mark 2:27.) Here are some things which Jesus and His disciples did on the Sabbath.
#
They plucked ears of corn and ate them (Matt. 12:1-8)
#
Jesus healed a man with a withered hand (Matt. 12:13.)
#
He healed a woman who had been sick for eighteen
years (Luke 13:12.)
#
He healed a man with the dropsy (Luke 14:4.)
#
He healed a man that had been sick for thirty-eight
years (John 5:8)
#
He healed a blind man (John 9:14.)
#
Etc.
The healing in John 5: provides insight into the way
that Jesus challenged the Law of the Sabbath. Jesus went into
the midst of a multitude of sick and impotent people, but only
healed one. Even though Jesus knew it was the Sabbath, he
commanded the man to take up his bed and walk. The
Scriptures record:
Therefore the Jews sought the more to kill him,
because he not only had broken the Sabbath, but said also
that God was his Father, making himself equal with God.
(John 5:18.)
It seems that the Jews were correct in their understanding of what had happened.
“If God so loved us; we ought also to love one another” (I Jn. 4:11.)
MANUAL FOR LEADERS
And ye shall count unto you from the morrow after
the sabbath, from the day that ye brought the sheaf of the
wave offering; seven sabbaths shall be complete: Even unto
the morrow after the seventh sabbath shall ye number fifty
days; and ye shall offer a new meat offering unto the LORD.
(Lev. 23:15-16)
means that a week had gone by and Jesus again appeared to His disciples on the first day of the week.
The church began on the Day of Pentecost. The word
“Pentecost” means “fifty.” The day of the feast was determined
by beginning with the Sabbath of the Passover, and counting
seven Sabbaths complete. On the next day, the fiftieth day, was
the Feast of Pentecost. The day after the Sabbath, of course, is
the first day of the week.
The Jews believed that Pentecost was also the day that Moses received the Law on Mt. Sinai.
The first converts to Jesus were Jewish. They not only
rested on the Sabbath, but continued to worship in the temple,
and observe Jewish Feasts. For several years after the church
began, the Gospel was preached to none but Jews only (Acts
“If God so loved us; we ought also to love one another” (I Jn. 4:11.)
THE CHURCH WAS STARTED ON THE FIRST DAY OF THE WEEK
MANUAL FOR LEADERS
The first day of the week cometh Mary Magdalene
early, when it was yet dark, unto the sepulchre, and seeth
the stone taken away from the sepulchre. (John 20:1)
Luke 24:1 states that Jesus was raised from the dead
on the first day of the week. Luke 24:13 states that on the
“same day” two men were walking to the village of Emmaus.
On that same day Jesus appeared to them and taught them from
the Scriptures about Himself (Luke 24:27.)
It was also on the first day of the week that Jesus
appeared to Mary (John 20:11-18.) to Simon (Luke 24:34.;and to
a group of women (Matt. 28:9,)
John records that Jesus appeared to all of His disciples but Thomas on the first day of the week:
Then the same day at evening, being the first day of
the week, when the doors were shut where the disciples
were assembled for fear of the Jews, came Jesus and stood
in the midst, and saith unto them, Peace be unto you. (John
20:19)
The Scriptures teach that “after eight days” Jesus appeared again, and Thomas was present (John 20:26-29) This
“If God so loved us; we ought also to love one another” (I Jn. 4:11.)
JESUS APPEARED ON THE FIRST DAY OF THE WEEK
MANUAL FOR LEADERS
The Jewish Christians could continue to rest on the
Sabbath, and observe other Jewish customs. THEY COULD
NOT, HOWEVER, REQUIRE ANYONE ELSE TO DO SO.
Peter, as you know, was directed by God to preach to
Gentiles (Acts 10:) These new converts, who were not Jewish,
did not circumcise their sons, rest on the Sabbath, or keep other
Jewish traditions. There was a great dispute over this matter at
Antioch (Acts 15:1-2) and they decided to go up to Jerusalem to
the Apostles and elders about this question.
The Holy Spirit guided them to a decision that brought unity (Acts 15:28-29) There were only four necessary things:
Paul, for example, circumcised Timothy (Acts 16:3)
Titus, however, who was a Greek, could not be compelled to be
circumcised (Gal. 2:3.) “For in Jesus Christ neither
circumcision availeth any thing, no uncircumsicion,; but
faith which worketh by love” (Gal. 5:6.)
Paul knew that we are saved by faith in Jesus Christ, and not by keeping Jewish laws. Nevertheless, Paul kept the
“If God so loved us; we ought also to love one another” (I Jn. 4:11.)
#
To abstain from things offered to idols
#
From blood
#
From things strangled
#
And from fornication
MANUAL FOR LEADERS
11:19.) Even the Jewish Christians, however, met on the first
day of the week to worship Jesus. They were assembled on this
day when Jesus first appeared to them, and they continued to
assemble on this day.
And upon the first day of the week, when the
disciples came together to break bread, Paul preached unto
them, ready to depart on the morrow; and continued his
speech until midnight. (Acts 20:7)
Now concerning the collection for the saints, as I
have given order to the churches of Galatia, even so do ye.
Upon the first day of the week let every one of you lay by
him in store, as God hath prospered him, that there be no
gatherings when I come. (I Cor. 16:1-2)
It is obvious from these Scriptures, and also from
church history, that the Christians met regularly for worship on
the first day of the week.
“If God so loved us; we ought also to love one another” (I Jn. 4:11.)
OFFERINGS WERE RECEIVED ON THE FIRST DAY OF THE WEEK
AN IMPORTANT MEETING IN JERUSALEM
COMMUNION AND PREACHING WERE ON THE FIRST DAY OF THE WEEK
MANUAL FOR LEADERS
For the kingdom of God is not meat and drink; but
righteousness, and peace, and joy in the Holy Ghost. For he
that in these things serveth Christ is acceptable to God, and
approved of men. Let us therefore follow after the things
which make for peace, and things wherewith one may edify
another. (Rom. 14:17-19)
“If God so loved us; we ought also to love one another” (I Jn. 4:11.)
MANUAL FOR LEADERS
(Rom. 14:1-7)
Him that is weak in the faith receive ye, but not to
doubtful disputations. For one believeth that he may eat all
things: another, who is weak, eateth herbs. Let not him that
eateth despise him that eateth not; and let not him which
eateth not judge him that eateth: for God hath received him.
Who art thou that judgest another man's servant? to his own
master he standeth or falleth. Yea, he shall be holden up: for
God is able to make him stand. One man esteemeth one day
above another: another esteemeth every day alike. Let every
man be fully persuaded in his own mind. He that regardeth
the day, regardeth it unto the Lord; and he that regardeth not
the day, to the Lord he doth not regard it. He that eateth,
eateth to the Lord, for he giveth God thanks; and he that
eateth not, to the Lord he eateth not, and giveth God thanks.
For none of us liveth to himself, and no man dieth to himself.
Jewish Law that he might win his Jewish brothers to Jesus Christ
(I Cor. 9:20.) Jewish Christians had a right to continue in Jewish
traditions, if they wanted to, but they could not compel others to
do so. (See Acts 21:15-25.)
Let no man therefore judge you in meat, or in drink,
or in respect of an holyday, or of the new moon, or of the
sabbath days: Which are a shadow of things to come; but
the body is of Christ. (Col. 2:16-17)
“If God so loved us; we ought also to love one another” (I Jn. 4:11.)
A GOOD EXAMPLE FROM ROME
MANUAL FOR LEADERS
was baptized, came up straightway out of the water: and lo,
the heavens were opened unto him, and he saw the Spirit of
God descending like a dove, and lighting upon him: And lo
a voice from heaven saying, This is my beloved Son, in
whom I am well pleased (Matt. 3:14-17.)
It was also said that “ . . . Jesus made and baptized
more disciples than John, (though Jesus himself baptized
not, but his disciples) (John 4:1-2.)
#
The Jews dipped themselves many times, but
Christians are only baptized once (Eph. 4:5.)
#
Christian baptism is the only commandment given in
the name of (by the authority of) the Father, the Son,
and the Holy Spirit (Matt. 28:18-20.)
#
It is to be done until the end of the world (Matt. 28:20.)
#
It is associated with the forgiveness of sins (Acts 2:38;
22:16; I Pet. 3:21.)
#
It is associated with receiving the Holy Spirit (Acts 2:38;
5:32; 19:1-7.)
#
It is associated with putting on Christ (Gal. 27.)
#
It is associated with the death, burial, and resurrection
of Christ (Rom. 6:1-11.)
“If God so loved us; we ought also to love one another” (I Jn. 4:11.)
Christian baptism is unique in a number of ways.
MANUAL FOR LEADERS
CHRISTIAN BAPTISM
John the Baptist came preaching the baptism of
repentance for the remission of sins (Mark 1:4.) As we have
said, the idea of dipping in water and cleansing, was nothing new
to the devout Jew. A great many people received John’s
baptism. “And there went out to him, Jerusalem, and all
Judea, and all the region round about Jordan, and were
baptized of him in Jordan, confessing their sins” (Matt. 3:5-
6.)
BAPTISM
BAPTISM
T
he word “baptism” is a Greek word which means to
“dip” or “immerse.” The idea is found many times in
the Bible. Naaman, for example, was commanded to dip himself
seven times in the Jordan River to be cleansed of leprosy (II Ki.
5:14.) The Jewish priests washed themselves in a large pool
before entering into the Temple (II Chron. 4:6.) A person
cleansed of leprosy was to wash himself in water before being
allowed back into the camp (Lev. 14:8.) Those who touched any
unclean thing were required to wash their flesh with water (Lev.
22:6,) etc.
Jesus himself was baptized by John. “John forbad
him, saying, I have need to be baptized of thee, and comest
thou to me? And Jesus answering said unto him, Suffer it
to be so now: for thus it becometh us to fulfill all
righteousness. Then he suffered him. And Jesus, when he
“If God so loved us; we ought also to love one another” (I Jn. 4:11.)
MANUAL FOR LEADERS
God that he had only baptized a few of them(I Cor. 1:13-17.) All
believers are commanded to be baptized, but it doesn’t matter
who does it.
It is the plan of God to unite all the universe in Jesus
Christ (Eph. 1:10.) As we have mentioned before, “one baptism”
is something we can have in common. It doesn’t matter whether
we are rich, or poor, slave, or free, we have all become one in
the Body of Jesus Christ.
“If God so loved us; we ought also to love one another” (I Jn. 4:11.)
BAPTISM SHOULD NEVER BE A SOURCE OF DIVISION
MANUAL FOR LEADERS
#
It should be a source of unity among believers (I Cor.
12:13; Eph. 4:4-6.)
#
The examples of baptism in the book of Acts indicate
that people were baptized at the same time they
confessed their faith in Christ.
#
3,000 on the Dav of Pentecost (Acts 2:41.)
#
Simon the Sorcerer (Acts 8:13.)
#
The Ethopian Eunuch (Acts 8:38.)
#
Saul of Tarsus (Acts 9:18; 22:16.)
#
Cornelius and his household (Acts 10:48.)
#
Lydia and her household (Acts 16:15.)
#
The Philippian Jailer and his household (Acts 16:33.)
#
Crispus, his household, and other Corinthians (Acts
18:8>)
#
Twelve disciples of John the Baptist (Acts 19:5.)
Anyone can be baptized who confesses their faith in Jesus Christ (Acts 8:37,) and repents of their sins (Acts 2:38.)
Any Christian can baptize. The important thing is that
believers are baptized, not who does the baptizing. Consider,
for example, Paul at Corinth. All the Corinthians were baptized,
just as Jesus commanded (I Cor. 12:13.) Paul however, thanked
“If God so loved us; we ought also to love one another” (I Jn. 4:11.)
WHO MAY BE BAPTIZED?
MANUAL FOR LEADERS
WHO MAY BAPTIZE?
are divisions among you, and to some extent I believe it. No
doubt there have to be differences among you to show
which of you have God's approval. When you come
together, it is not the Lord's Supper you eat, for as you eat,
each of you goes ahead without waiting for anybody else.
One remains hungry, another gets drunk. Don't you have
homes to eat and drink in? Or do you despise the church of
God and humiliate those who have nothing? What shall I say
to you? Shall I praise you for this? Certainly not! For I
received from the Lord what I also passed on to you: The
Lord Jesus, on the night he was betrayed, took bread, and
when he had given thanks, he broke it and said, 'This is my
body, which is for you; do this in remembrance of me.' In the
same way, after supper he took the cup, saying, 'This cup is
the new covenant in my blood; do this, whenever you drink
it, in remembrance of me.' For whenever you eat this bread
and drink this cup, you proclaim the Lord's death until he
comes. Therefore, whoever eats the bread or drinks the cup
of the Lord in an unworthy manner will be guilty of sinning
against the body and blood of the Lord. A man ought to
examine himself before he eats of the bread and drinks of
the cup. For anyone who eats and drinks without
recognizing the body of the Lord eats and drinks judgment
on himself. That is why many among you are weak and sick,
and a number of you have fallen asleep. But if we judged
ourselves, we would not come under judgment. When we
are judged by the Lord, we are being disciplined so that we
“If God so loved us; we ought also to love one another” (I Jn. 4:11.)
MANUAL FOR LEADERS
"Is not the cup of thanksgiving for which we give
thanks a participation in the blood of Christ? And is not the
bread that we break a participation in the body of Christ?
Because there is one loaf, we, who are many, are one body,
for we all partake of the one loaf." I Cor. 10:16-17 (NIV)
I
t was a common practice in the early church to
partake of a loaf, and a cup, in memory of Jesus.
While this practice is mentioned several times in Scripture, the
expression "Lord's Supper," is only found once (I Cor. 11:20.)
The Lord's Supper is also called a "participation," or
"communion" (I Cor. 10:16,) In the book of Acts it is known as the
"breaking of bread" (Acts 20:7.) Observing the Lord's Supper
was apparently so obvious and simple, that the practice
continued for over twenty years without written instructions.
Teaching about the Lord's Supper is included in the Bible,
because the Corinthians had corrupted it. Their error provided
Paul with an opportunity to teach important lessons. The Holy
Spirit inspired him to write these words:
"In the following directives I have no praise for you,
for your meetings do more harm than good. In the first
place, I hear that when you come together as a church, there
“If God so loved us; we ought also to love one another” (I Jn. 4:11.)
THE LORD’S SUPPER THE LORD’S SUPPER
MANUAL FOR LEADERS
There is only "One Body" (Eph. 4:4.) The Church of
Jesus Christ is supposed to be "one," but the Corinthians were
divided. Division in the Body of Christ is a serious problem.
Jesus said: "All men shall know that you are my disciples, if
you love one another" (John 13:35.) Jesus prayed that all His
disciples would be "one," as He and the Father were one (John
17:21.) He associated this unity with world evangelism. He
wanted us to be "one," so that the world would believe. The unity
of believers, therefore, is not an insignificant issue. It is the very
heart of God's plan. It is the principal prayer of Jesus for His
Church. God has planned to unite all believers in Jesus Christ
(Eph. 1:10.) Anyone that divides believers does not have the
Holy Spirit (Jude 19.)
vs. 19
"No doubt there have to be differences among you
to show which of you have God's approval."
A living body needs some way to get rid of poison. The
Body of Christ is no exception. Divisive people are like poison
in the Body of Christ. They are characterized by "hatred,
discord, jealousy, fits of rage, selfish ambition, dissensions,
factions, and envy . . . (Gal. 5:19.) Those filled with the Holy
Spirit are known by "love, joy, peace, patience, kindness,
goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control . . . "
(Gal. 5:22-23.) Those who are approved love one another and
cling to Jesus. Those who are not approved will not love one
“If God so loved us; we ought also to love one another” (I Jn. 4:11.)
MANUAL FOR LEADERS
will not be condemned with the world. So then, my brothers,
when you come together to eat, wait for each other. If
anyone is hungry, he should eat at home, so that when you
meet together it may not result in judgment. And when I
come I will give further directions." I Corinthians 11:17-34
(NIV)
"The word of God is living and active. Sharper than
any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul
and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and
attitudes of the heart." Heb. 4:12 (NIV)
The Word of God is inspired. Man's comments about
the Word of God are not. Please keep this in mind as you
consider the following.
I Cor. 11:17
"In the following directives I have no praise for you,
for your meetings do more harm than good."
Their observance of the Lord's Supper was so bad, it did more harm than good.
vs. 18
"In the first place, I hear when you come together as
a church, there are divisions among you, and to some extent
I believe it."
“If God so loved us; we ought also to love one another” (I Jn. 4:11.)
MANUAL FOR LEADERS
Aquila, for example, had a church in their house (Rom. 16:5.)
When the church assembled in their house, they were obligated
to be kind and courteous to everyone. We are to treat others,
the same way we want to be treated (see James. 2:1-11.)
vss. 23-26
"For I received from the Lord what I also passed on
to you: The Lord Jesus, on the night he was betrayed, took
bread, and when he had given thanks, he broke it and said,
'This is my body, which is for you; do this in remembrance
of me.' In the same way, after supper he took the cup,
saying, 'This cup is the new covenant in my blood; do this,
whenever you drink it, in remembrance of me.' For whenever
you eat this bread and drink this cup, you proclaim the
Lord's death until he comes."
This same story is repeated three times in the Gospels
(Matt. 26:17-35; Mark 14:12-26; Luke 22:7-38.) Paul did not
receive this teaching, however, from Matthew, Mark, and Luke.
He received it directly from the Lord (Gal. 1:11-12.) Having
received it from the Lord, he passed in on to the Corinthians.
The Lord's Supper was instituted the night before Jesus
died on the cross. The sacrifice of Jesus is the most important
event that has ever taken place. We must never forget it! The
Jewish priests offered sacrifices every day that could never take
away sin. Jesus offered one sacrifice that cleansed forever
“If God so loved us; we ought also to love one another” (I Jn. 4:11.)
MANUAL FOR LEADERS
another. Their lack of love will be obvious. They will exalt
something else, or someone other than Jesus. "God is not a
God of disorder but of peace" (I Cor. 14:33.)
vss. 20 - 21
"When you come together, it is not the Lord's
Supper you eat, for as you eat, each of you goes ahead
without waiting for anybody else. One remains hungry,
another gets drunk."
It was a common practice for the early Christians to eat
together (Acts 2:42-47; 20:7-11; II Pet. 2:13; Jude 12, etc.)
Remember, Jesus instituted the "Lord's Supper," at a meal. The
early church sometimes observed the Lord's Supper at a meal
too. These meals were called "love feasts" (Jude 12.) The
Corinthians, however, came together to eat without love.
Consequently, the Lord did not recognize their supper as His
Supper. When they came together, the rich had too much to eat,
and the poor didn't have enough.
vs. 22
"Don't you have homes to eat and drink in? Or do
you despise the church of God and humiliate those who
have nothing? What shall I say to you? Shall I praise you
for this? Certainly not!"
The early church usually met in homes. Priscilla and
“If God so loved us; we ought also to love one another” (I Jn. 4:11.)
MANUAL FOR LEADERS
Jesus is the Head of His Body, which is the church (Col.
1:18) The Corinthians discriminated against their fellow
Christians, which was a sin against the Body of Christ. Those
who eat the Lord's Supper without recognizing the Body of
Christ, bring judgment upon themselves.
For anyone who eats and drinks without
recognizing the body of the Lord eats and drinks judgment
on himself.
The "Body of the Lord" was sacrificed on the cross for
our sins. We must never partake of the Lord's Supper without
remembering that. Christians however, also are the "Body of the
Lord." The Scriptures teach: "Because there is one loaf, we
who are many are one body . . ." (I Cor. 10:16.) Or consider
these words: "The body is a unit, though it is made up of
many parts; and though all its parts are many, they form one
body. So it is with Christ. For we were all baptized by one
Spirit into one body . . . " (I Cor. 12:12-13.)
vs. 30
That is why many among you are weak and sick,
and a number of you have fallen asleep.
Sin affects us both spiritually and physically. The
corruption of the Lord's Supper brought spiritual sickness and
death. It is also possible that it brought physical sickness and
“If God so loved us; we ought also to love one another” (I Jn. 4:11.)
MANUAL FOR LEADERS
those who are sanctified (Heb. 10:11-14.) He did not want His
followers to forget what He had done. Therefore He gave them
this memorial as a way to continually remember His Body, and
His Blood.
vs. 27
Therefore, whoever eats the bread or drinks the cup
of the Lord in an unworthy manner will be guilty of sinning
against the body and blood of the Lord.
Nobody is "worthy" to take the Lord's Supper. All have
sinned and fallen short of the glory of God (Rom. 3:23.) It is
possible, however, for sinful people to partake of this Supper in
a "worthy manner." Eating the Lord's Supper in an unworthy
manner is a sin against the body and blood of the Lord. The true
meaning of this Supper can be lost and destroyed by selfishness
and division.
vs. 28
A man ought to examine himself before he eats of
the bread and drinks of the cup.
Only you can decide if you should partake of the Lord's
Supper. It is a personal decision that cannot be made by anyone
else, or for anyone else.
“If God so loved us; we ought also to love one another” (I Jn. 4:11.)
MANUAL FOR LEADERS
vs. 29
The observance of the Lord's Supper involves loving
care and consideration of others. On the night Jesus instituted
this supper, he also washed His disciples feet (John 13:2-17.)
He gave them an example! His Kingdom would be different from
worldly kingdoms. In the world, people become great by
dominating one another. In the Kingdom of Christ, people
become great by serving others (Luke 22:24-27.) In humility, we
are to consider others better than ourselves (Phil. 2:3.) If
someone cannot wait to eat, he should eat something at home.
We must treat all of our brethren kindly!
Paul promised to give further directions when he came to Corinth.
Jesus told us to! This is reason enough for the child of
God. There are, of course, many other reasons to do so too. In
some way, for example, partaking of the loaf and cup, enable us
to participate in the body and blood of Jesus:
"Is not the cup of thanksgiving for which we give
“If God so loved us; we ought also to love one another” (I Jn. 4:11.)
judgment. And when I come I will give further directions.
IMPORTANT QUESTIONS!
MANUAL FOR LEADERS
1. Why eat the Lord's Supper?
vs. 31
But if we judged ourselves, we would not come
under judgment.
Self discipline is a pleasant alternative to spiritual suicide. Correcting ourselves than being condemned by God.
vs. 32
When we are judged by the Lord, we are being
disciplined so that we will not be condemned with the world.
"The Lord disciplines those he loves" (Heb. 12:6.)
Just as a loving father disciplines his children, the Lord
disciplines His children. " . . . no discipline seems pleasant at
the time, but painful. Later on, however, it produces a
harvest of righteousness and peace for those who have
been trained by it" (Heb. 12:11.)
The chastening of the Lord keeps us from being condemned with the world.
vss. 33 - 34
So then, my brothers, when you come together to
eat, wait for each other. If anyone is hungry, he should eat
at home, so that when you meet together it may not result in
“If God so loved us; we ought also to love one another” (I Jn. 4:11.)
MANUAL FOR LEADERS
death. (See Acts 5:3-11; 13:11-12, etc.)
Anyone who belongs to Jesus can partake of His
Supper. Since it is the Lord's Supper, He is the one who invites
people to partake. Jesus invites all who are weary and burdened
to come unto Him for rest (Matt. 11:28-30.) He promises that
those who come will never be driven away (John 6:37.) We are
to examine ourselves, not others, before partaking of the Lord's
Supper.
There was a time when the people of God had to
journey to Jerusalem to worship. Jesus did away with all this!
He said that true worshipers would worship Him in "spirit and in
truth" (John 4:23-24.) The Lord's Supper can therefore be
observed anywhere someone worships Jesus in spirit and in
truth.
5. How many have to be present to observe the Lord's Supper?
Jesus promised that "Where two or three come
together in my name, there am I with them" (Matt. 18:20.) It
is not necessary to have a large crowd to take the Lord's Supper.
Sometimes those who have been imprisoned for Christ, have
had to observe the Lord's Supper all by themselves.
“If God so loved us; we ought also to love one another” (I Jn. 4:11.)
4. Where is the Lord's Supper to be served?
MANUAL FOR LEADERS
6. What kind of bread is to be used?
thanks a participation in the blood of Christ? And is not he
bread that we break a participation in the body of Christ?
Because there is one loaf, we, who are many, are one body,
for we all partake of the one loaf" (I Cor. 10:16-17.)
Today there are millions of believers around the world.
Most of these believers are isolated from their brethren by
circumstances beyond their control. No matter where these
Christians meet, however, they can be one in the breaking of
bread. The Lord's Supper provides a sense of communion and
unity with the whole church in the whole world.
"You also, like living stones, are being built into a
spiritual house to be a holy priesthood, offering spiritual
sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ . . . But
you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation,
a people belonging to God, that you may declare the praises
of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful
light" (I Peter 2:5,9.)
Every Christian has the right to serve the Lord's Supper!
“If God so loved us; we ought also to love one another” (I Jn. 4:11.)
MANUAL FOR LEADERS
3. Who may partake of the Lord's Supper?
2. Who may serve the Lord's Supper?
Every Christian is a priest:
communion every day (Acts 2:46.) The Scriptures teach:
"Whenever you eat this bread and drink this cup, you
proclaim the Lord's death until He comes" (I Cor. 11:26.)
God is a jealous God! He will not tolerate those who
trivialize His truth, or trample the blood of His beloved Son.
Those who eat and drink the Lord's Supper in an unworthy
manner bring condemnation upon themselves (I Cor. 11:29.)
10. How can I be sure I am observing the Lord's Supper in the right way?
The answer to this question is to simply focus on Jesus.
No matter how hard we try, we will still make mistakes. Even if
we could do everything we were told to do, we would still be
unworthy servants (Lk. 17:10.) The secret to salvation is not our
righteousness, but His.
Consider this example from Hebrew history. The
people of God were being bitten by poisonous snakes (Numbers
21:6-9.) Many of them died. God commanded Moses to make
a serpent of bronze, and lift it above the people. Everyone who
looked on this serpent, lived. Jesus said:
"Just as Moses lifted up the snake in the desert, so
9. Why are there warnings associated with the Lord's Supper?
“If God so loved us; we ought also to love one another” (I Jn. 4:11.)
MANUAL FOR LEADERS
Jesus instituted this supper at the Passover. No
leavened bread was allowed at this feast. Therefore, Jesus
broke unleavened bread. This bread was made from barley or
wheat. In many parts of the world, however, people do not grow
barley or wheat. Over a billion people, for example, live in China.
Most of these people have never seen barley or wheat. They eat
rice. It is still possible for them, however, to observe the Lord's
Supper. The attitude of the heart is more important than the kind
of bread which is used.
Jesus instituted His Supper with the "fruit of the vine"
(Matt. 26:29, Mark 14:25, and Luke 22:18.) This was grape
juice. Again, however, millions of people have no access to
grape juice. This, of course, does not keep them from
communing with Christ. As long as people have something to
eat, and something to drink, they can remember the death of
Christ until He comes again.
The early church did so at least every week. In fact,
this seems to be the primary purpose for their assembly. Acts
20:7 states that they came together on the first day of the week
to "break bread." The first day of the week, as you know, is
Sunday. Some feel that the church in Jerusalem took
“If God so loved us; we ought also to love one another” (I Jn. 4:11.)
8. When is the Lord's Supper to be observed?
MANUAL FOR LEADERS
7. What kind of drink is to be used?
The Scriptures teach us to examine ourselves when we
partake of the Lord's Supper. There will always be other people,
in other places, who do it differently. We are to judge ourselves,
not them.
"Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it
does not boast, it is not proud. It is not rude, it is not self-
seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of
wrongs. Loves does not delight in evil but rejoices with the
truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes,
always perseveres. Love never fails . . . " (I Cor. 13:4-8.)
“If God so loved us; we ought also to love one another” (I Jn. 4:11.)
MANUAL FOR LEADERS
PLEASE DON'T ALLOW THE DEVIL TO DIVIDE THE BODY OF CHRIST!
the Son of Man must be lifted up, that everyone who
believes in him may have eternal life. For God so loved the
world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever
believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. For
God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the
world, but to save the world through him (John 3:14-17.)
Those who keep their eyes on Jesus have nothing to fear from the Lord's Supper, or anything else!
The Lord may have had many reasons to institute His
Supper. One reason, however, was to promote unity among all
the members of His Body. The church began in Jerusalem, but
was soon scattered by persecution. The fact that all believers
were breaking bread on the same day, gave them a sense of
oneness. No matter where they lived, they came together on the
first day of the week to break bread. Wherever they were they
would always have something to eat, and something to drink.
Consequently, they could always remember Jesus as He
instructed them.
The Devil, however, has twisted this beautiful memorial
into a tool of division. Jesus instituted the Lord's Supper to unite
us, and the Devil has deceived us into dividing over it.
“If God so loved us; we ought also to love one another” (I Jn. 4:11.)
MANUAL FOR LEADERS
“Moreover if thy brother shall trespass against
thee, go and tell him his fault between thee and him alone:
if he shall hear thee, thou hast gained thy brother. 16 But if
he will not hear thee, then take with thee one or two more,
that in the mouth of two or three witnesses every word may
be established. 17 And if he shall neglect to hear them, tell
it unto the church: but if he neglect to hear the church, let
him be unto thee as an heathen man and a publican” (Matt.
18:15-17.)
“Fornication” is a general word which refers to any kind
of sexual immorality. Here are Paul’s instructions regarding a
fornicator in the Church at Corinth.
But them that are without God judgeth. Therefore put away from among yourselves that wicked person.
“ It is reported commonly that there is fornication
among you, and such fornication as is not so much as
named among the Gentiles, that one should have his father's
wife. And ye are puffed up, and have not rather mourned,
that he that hath done this deed might be taken away from
“If God so loved us; we ought also to love one another” (I Jn. 4:11.)
WHEN SOMEONE IN THE CHURCH COMMITS FORNICATION
WHEN SOMEONE TRESPASSES AGAINST YOU
MANUAL FOR LEADERS
“My son, despise not thou the chastening of the
Lord, nor faint when thou art rebuked of him: for whom the
Lord loveth he chasteneth, and scourgeth every son whom
he receiveth. If ye endure chastening, God dealeth with you
as with sons; for what son is he whom the father chasteneth
not? But if ye be without chastisement, whereof all are
partakers, then are ye bastards and not sons. Furthermore,
we have had fathers of our flesh which corrected us, and we
gave them reverence: shall we know much rather be in
subjection unto the Father of spirits, and live. For they verily
for a few days chasteneth us after their own pleasure; but he
for our profit, that we might be partakers of his holiness.
Now no chastening for the present seemeth to be joyous,
but grievous; nevertheless afterward it yeildeth the
peaceable fruit of righteousness unto them which are
exercised thereby” (Heb. 12:5-11.)
E
very family needs discipline. So does the Family of
God. The word “disciple” and the word “discipline”
are associated. Every disciple of Jesus needs discipline. The
purpose of discipline, or chastening, is positive. It should always
be designed to help, and not to hinder. (See II Cor. 10:8; 13:18,
etc.)
“If God so loved us; we ought also to love one another” (I Jn. 4:11.)
THE CHASTENING OF THE LORD THE CHASTENING OF THE LORD
Here are some Scriptures for you to consider.
MANUAL FOR LEADERS
The Church in Thessalonica had lazy people, who
would not work. These people were to be treated differently than
those who were sexually immoral. Immoral people were to be
“delivered unto Satan,” or “put away.” Lazy people are to be left
alone. We are to “withdraw” from them.
Now we command you, brethren, in the name of our
Lord Jesus Christ, that ye withdraw yourselves from every
brother that walketh disorderly, and not after the tradition
which he received of us. For yourselves know how ye ought
to follow us: for we behaved not ourselves disorderly among
you; Neither did we eat any man's bread for nought; but
wrought with labour and travail night and day, that we might
not be chargeable to any of you: Not because we have not
power, but to make ourselves an ensample unto you to
follow us. For even when we were with you, this we
commanded you, that if any would not work, neither should
he eat. For we hear that there are some which walk among
you disorderly, working not at all, but are busybodies. Now
them that are such we command and exhort by our Lord
Jesus Christ, that with quietness they work, and eat their
own bread. But ye, brethren, be not weary in well doing.
And if any man obey not our word by this epistle, note that
“If God so loved us; we ought also to love one another” (I Jn. 4:11.)
MANUAL FOR LEADERS
IN THE CHURCH
Consider this Scripture:
among you. For I verily, as absent in body, but present in
spirit, have judged already, as though I were present,
concerning him that hath so done this deed, In the name of
our Lord Jesus Christ, when ye are gathered together, and
my spirit, with the power of our Lord Jesus Christ, To deliver
such an one unto Satan for the destruction of the flesh, that
the spirit may be saved in the day of the Lord Jesus. Your
glorying is not good. Know ye not that a little leaven
leaveneth the whole lump? Purge out therefore the old
leaven, that ye may be a new lump, as ye are unleavened.
For even Christ our passover is sacrificed for us: Therefore
let us keep the feast, not with old leaven, neither with the
leaven of malice and wickedness; but with the unleavened
bread of sincerity and truth. I wrote unto you in an epistle
not to company with fornicators: Yet not altogether with the
fornicators of this world, or with the covetous, or
extortioners, or with idolaters; for then must ye needs go out
of the world. But now I have written unto you not to keep
company, if any man that is called a brother be a fornicator,
or covetous, or an idolater, or a railer, or a drunkard, or an
extortioner; with such an one no not to eat. For what have I
to do to judge them also that are without? do not ye judge
them that are within? But them that are without God
judgeth. Therefore put away from among yourselves that
wicked person” (I Cor. 5:1-13.)
“If God so loved us; we ought also to love one another” (I Jn. 4:11.)
INSTRUCTIONS REGARDING DISORDERLY PEOPLE
MANUAL FOR LEADERS
#
The Bible does not tell how to conduct a wedding.
#
It does teach, however, to do everything decently, and
in order (I Cor. 15:40.)
#
It does teach us to be submissive to civil government
(Rom. 13:1-2.)
#
The relationship of husband and wife is like Christ and
the church (Eph. 5::31-32.)
#
The first marriage was between Adam and Eve (Gen.
2:23-24.)
#
The last marriage will be between Christ and His church
(Rev. 19:7-9.)
#
Those who do not understand marriage, cannot
understand the church.
#
Those who do not understand the church, cannot
understand marriage.
P
lease consider these similarities between Adam,
and Jesus. Both were created in the image of God.
Both were given dominion over the earth. Both begat a race of
people. Adam begat a physical race. Jesus begat a spiritual
race. Both are described in Scripture as bridegrooms. Adam’s
side was opened when God created his bride. Jesus’ side was
opened when God created His bride. Adam is called in Rom.
5:14 a “figure” of Him who was to come. Adam was a figure of
“If God so loved us; we ought also to love one another” (I Jn. 4:11.)
MANUAL FOR LEADERS
WEDDINGS WEDDINGS
man, and have no company with him, that he may be ashamed (II Thess. 3:6-14.)
“Love worketh no ill to his neighbor: therefore love is the fulfilling of the law” (Rom. 13:10.)
Brethren, if a man be overtaken in a fault, ye which
are spiritual, restore such an one in the spirit of meekness;
considering thyself lest thou also be tempted. Bear ye one
another’s burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ (Gal. 6:1-2.)
“Now we exhort you, brethren, warn them that are
unruly, comfort the feebleminded, support the weak, be
patient toward all men. See that none render evil for evil
unto any man; but ever follow that which is good, both
among yourselves, and to all men” (I Thess. 5:14-15.)
“Let us follow after the things which make for
peace, and things wherewith one may edify another” (Rom.
14:19.)
“Do all things without murmuring and disputings” (Phil. 2:14.)
“If God so loved us; we ought also to love one another” (I Jn. 4:11.)
GENERAL INSTRUCTIONS
MANUAL FOR LEADERS
giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be
given him. But let him ask in faith, nothing wavering. For he
that wavereth is like a wave of the sea driven with the wind
and tossed. “For let not that man think that he shall receive
any thing of the Lord. A double minded man is unstable in
all his ways” (Ja. 1:5-8.)
Jesus once helped a Samaritan woman who had been
married five times, and was living with a man to whom she was
not married (John 4:17-18,) You too will meet people like this as
you minister for Jesus. When you are faced with a problem
about marriage, first consult the Word of God. It is a lamp unto
our feet, and a light unto our path (Ps. 119:105.) please pray to
God for wisdom. Do not hesitate to seek the advice of spiritual
leaders whom you respect. Do not do anything that violates your
conscience. Whatsoever is not of faith, is sin (Rom. 14:23.)
We are to let the “peace of Christ rule in our hearts (Col. 3:15.)
We should not do anything about which we do not have peace.
Since the Bible does not provide us with a wedding
ceremony, we are free to plan one which meets the needs of
everyone concerned.. As we mentioned before, every effort
should be made to conform to the laws of the land, as well as the
laws of God.
“If God so loved us; we ought also to love one another” (I Jn. 4:11.)
THE WEDDING CEREMONY
MANUAL FOR LEADERS
Christ. Adam is called the “First Adam,” and Jesus is called the “Last Adam (I Cor. 15:45.)
The Scriptures teach that Adam “knew” his wife and she
conceived and bare Cain. “To know,” means that Adam became
intimate with his wife so that a new life was produced. In a
spiritual sense, we also have a new life when we come to “know”
Jesus. God designed the institution of marriage to teach us
about new life in Christ and His Church.
Marriage is a voluntary relationship between a man and
a woman. It is not just a physical relationship, but a spiritual and
emotional union as well. No one can be forced into marriage,
just as no one can be forced to become a Christian.
The Scriptures teach that believers are not to be
unequally yoked together with unbelievers (II Cor. 6:14.) This
forbids the marriage of Christians to non-Christians, as well as
other inappropriate relationships with non-believers. If a man
dies, his widow is free to remarry, but only in the Lord (I Cor.
7:39.)
“If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that
“If God so loved us; we ought also to love one another” (I Jn. 4:11.)
ASKING GOD FOR WISDOM
WHO CAN GET MARRIED?
MANUAL FOR LEADERS
These are only suggestions. You are free to plan a
wedding as God leads. Please prayerfully plan every wedding,
for what we teach about husbands and wives is also about Christ
and the Church (Eph. 5:32.)
“If God so loved us; we ought also to love one another” (I Jn. 4:11.)
Titus 2:1-8 - Instructions to Titus
I Pet. 3:1-7 - Instructions to husbands and wives
I Cor. 13: - A chapter about love
MANUAL FOR LEADERS
#
Begin with prayer
#
Welcome those who have come, and thank them for
their prayers, gifts, and help.
#
If the parents of the bride and groom are present, they
can be introduced.
#
Sometimes, as a part of the service, parents are asked
to express their approval of the marriage.
#
Present what the Scriptures teach about marriage.
#
Challenge the husband with his responsibilities.
#
Challenge the wife with her responsibilities.
#
Both husband and wife should promise to be faithful to
each other, and to God.
#
The pastor pronounces them husband and wife.
#
Conclude with prayer.
Gen. 2:18-25 - the first marriage.
Song of Solomon - a book about the love of husband and wife.
Matt. 19:1-12 - Some teaching of Jesus about marriage
John 2:1-11 - Jesus’ first miracle performed at a wedding
I Cor. 7: - Instructions about marriage to the Corinthians
Eph. 5:21-33 - Instructions about marriage to the Ephesians
Col. 3:17-21 - Instructions to husbands, wives, and children
I Tim. 5:1-16 - Instructions to Timothy
“If God so loved us; we ought also to love one another” (I Jn. 4:11.)
SOME SCRIPTURES FOR YOUR CONSIDERATION
MANUAL FOR LEADERS
Here are a few suggestions:
Since the Bible does not give specific instructions on
how we are to bury our dead, we have freedom to do whatever
is appropriate.
Here are some suggestions which may help if you are called upon to help in a time of death.
“As it is appointed unto men once to die, but after this the judgement” (Heb. 9:27.)
When a person dies, they are in the hands of a just a
merciful God. A funeral service does not change their eternal
destiny. Jesus told the story of the rich man and Lazarus (Lk.
16:19-31.) The rich man died and went to a place of torment.
Lazarus died and went to a place of reward. Jesus quoted
Abraham as saying “Between us and you there is a great gulf
fixed: so that they which would pass from hence to you
cannot; neither can they pass to us, that would come from
thence” (Lk. 16:26.) The Bible does not mention prayers for the
dead. What we say at a funeral does not save, or condemn the
dead person. God is the Judge! The funeral service is for the
living, not for the dead.
There are several practical reasons for a funeral, or memorial service.
“If God so loved us; we ought also to love one another” (I Jn. 4:11.)
OUR SERVICES ARE NOT FOR THE DEAD
MANUAL FOR LEADERS
FUNERALS
FUNERALS
T
he word “funeral” is not found in the Bible. It was
common, however, for godly people to mourn the
death of their loved ones, and to treat their bodies with great
respect..
#
Abraham mourned the death of Sarah (Gen. 23:2.) He
purchased a place to bury her for four hundred shekels
of silver (Gen. 23:15-20.)
#
When Abraham died his sons, Ishmael and Isaac
buried him with his wife (Gen. 25:8-10.)
#
When Isaac died his sons Esau and Jacob buried him
(Gen. 35:29.)
#
When Jacob died the Egyptians took 40 days to
embalm him, and they mourned for him for 70 days.
After this they took his body to Canaan to bury him with
Abraham and Sarah (Gen. 50:1-13.)
#
When Joseph died he made them promise to bury his
bones in the land of Canaan (Gen. 50:24-26; Josh.
24:32.)
#
The body of Jesus was buried with great reverence
(John 19:38-42.)
#
The body of Stephen was buried with great lamentation
(Acts 8:2.)
#
Etc.
“If God so loved us; we ought also to love one another” (I Jn. 4:11.)
MANUAL FOR LEADERS
Remember, God has promised to give wisdom to those
who ask for it in faith (Ja. 1:5.) God may lead you to give new
life and meaning to an old funeral tradition. He may lead you to
change tradition and do something new. Whatever we do,
however, should always be done in the name of the Lord Jesus,
giving thanks to God and the Father by him (Col. 3:17.)
“If God so loved us; we ought also to love one another” (I Jn. 4:11.)
5. It reminds everyone that someday we will also die.
PRAY TO GOD FOR WISDOM
MANUAL FOR LEADERS
1. Christian people believe in the resurrection of the dead.
This resurrection is both for the “just, and the unjust”
(Acts 24:15.) We treat the bodies of our loved ones with respect,
because we believe they are going to be raised from the dead.
Christians experience sorrow at the death of a loved
one, but we do not sorrow like those without hope (I Thess.
4:13.) We are specifically told to “comfort one another” (I Thess.
4:18,.) and to “weep with them that weep” (Rom. 12:15.)
3. It gives family, friends, and the church, and opportunity to help.
When someone dies it often leaves the family in need
of help. The family may need money, or food, or help with the
crops. They may need advice in facing difficult decisions.
Helping the fatherless and widows is described in Scripture as
“pure religion” (Ja. 1:27.)
There are unsaved people at almost every funeral. Sometimes people have received Christ at funeral services.
“If God so loved us; we ought also to love one another” (I Jn. 4:11.)
4. It provides an opportunity to preach the gospel.
2. It provides comfort for those who mourn.
MANUAL FOR LEADERS
Here is a brief overview of what the Bible says about the priesthood.
The word "patriarch" refers to rule by fathers. In the
infancy of the world, the fathers served as prophet, priest, and
king. For example, Abram was a patriarch. God spoke to him,
therefore he was a prophet. Abram built altars and made
sacrifices, therefore he was also a priest. But Abram was also
a king. He could command his household to go to war, or even
sacrifice his son on an altar without asking anybody. Thus we
see that Abram, the patriarch, was prophet, priest, and king.
Upon the death of the patriarch, these responsibilities
were assumed by the firstborn son. Throughout the age of the
Patriarchs, the firstborn son assumed the role of priest upon the
death of his father. Esau despised his birthright. Therefore he
is called “profane,” or “irreligious” (Heb. 12:16.)
In the third month after the children of Israel were
delivered from Egyptian bondage, they came into the wilderness
of Sinai. At this time God expressed His desire to make His
“If God so loved us; we ought also to love one another” (I Jn. 4:11.)
THE AGE OF THE PATRIARCHS
THE LEVITICAL PRIESTHOOD
MANUAL FOR LEADERS
clergy, and His clergy are His people.
THE CLERGY
THE CLERGY
I
t is important for you to understand what the Bible
says about the word “clergy." Today, many people
use this word to refer to men who are ordained for religious
service, such as ministers, priests, etc. This is not the way the
word is used in the Bible.
The word "clergy" comes from the Greek word "kleros."
It means "to cast lots, or choose by lot." After Judas fell away,
for example, two men were put forward to take his place. They
cast lots to determine which one God had chosen, and the "lot"
fell on Matthias (Acts 1:26.) The word translated as "lot" in this
passage is the Greek word "kleros." The New Testament
Scriptures, as you know, were originally written in the Greek
language
During the Age of Moses, God chose only the sons of
Aaron to serve as priests. Today, however, every Christian is a
priest (I Peter 2:5-9.) Peter told the elders not to “Lord it over
God’s heritage” (I Pet. 5:3.) The word translated as “heritage”
in this passage is the Greek word “kleros” or “clergy.” All God’s
people are His chosen ones today. All God’s people are “clergy.”
The word “laity” comes from the Greek word “laos,”
which means “people.” The Bible does not make a distinction
between “clergy” and “laity.” The people of the God are His
“If God so loved us; we ought also to love one another” (I Jn. 4:11.)
MANUAL FOR LEADERS
"The hour cometh, and now is, when the true
worshipers shall worship the Father is spirit and in truth: For
the Father seeketh such to worship Him. God is a spirit: and
they that worship Him must worship Him in spirit and in
Not all Levites, however, could serve as priests. This
privilege was reserved for an exclusive elite from the family of
Aaron. Aaron, of course, was a Levite. He, and his sons were
set apart by a special service of consecration (Lev. 8:) They were
commanded to wear special clothing (Ex 28:1-43.) In addition to
these genealogical restrictions, no one could serve as a Levitical
priest who had any physical deformity (Lev. 21:18-21.) No priest
was allowed to shave the edges of his beard, or make any
cuttings on his flesh (Lev. 21:5.) Neither could he marry a
widow, divorcee, nor prostitute (Lev. 21:7,13,14 etc.)
As we said before, God expressed His desire that His
people be a "kingdom of priests, and an holy nation" in the days
of Moses (Ex. 19:6.) This grand design became reality in the
days of Jesus. Jesus was born in the "fulness of time." Jesus
made the priesthood of believers possible! Jesus said to the
Samaritan woman:
The Levitical priesthood was a temporary, but still an integral part of worship during the Mosaic Dispensation.
“If God so loved us; we ought also to love one another” (I Jn. 4:11.)
THE PRIESTHOOD OF ALL BELIEVERS
MANUAL FOR LEADERS
"Now therefore, if ye will obey my voice indeed, and
keep my covenant, then ye shall be a peculiar treasure unto
me above all people: for all the earth is mine: And ye shall
be unto me a kingdom of priests, and an holy nation" (Ex.
19:5-6.)
The time, however, for a "kingdom of priests" had not
yet arrived. Neither was Israel "an holy nation." In a few short
days Israel would be naked before a golden calf in an idolatrous
orgy. The people needed a schoolmaster to bring them unto
Christ and thus prepare them for the ministry of priesthood.
Therefore God ordained the tribe of Levi to serve as priests until
the fulness of time would come. The Scriptures state explicitly
that the Levites were to take the place of the firstborn.
"And I, behold, I have taken the Levites from among
the children of Israel instead of all the firstborn that openeth
the matrix among the children of Israel: therefore the
Levites shall be mine . . . " (Nu. 3:12.)
The same truth is repeated in Nu. 3:41; 3:45; 8:16, etc.
The Levitical Priesthood was not he ultimate aim of God, but it
was a necessary step toward that goal. At a future time, the
ministry of Jesus would create that long awaited "kingdom of
priests, and holy nation."
“If God so loved us; we ought also to love one another” (I Jn. 4:11.)
MANUAL FOR LEADERS
people into a Kingdom of Priests.
Scriptures encourage us to enter boldly into the holiest by the blood of Jesus (Heb. 10:19-20.)
A special priesthood, with special garments, was not the
ultimate aim of God. God wanted to create a spiritual kingdom
that would be like a body. This kingdom became a reality in the
church of Jesus Christ. Christ is the Head, and every believer is
a member of this Body. The gifts God gave this body were
designed to equip every member for ministering.
"And he gave some apostles; and some prophets;
and some evangelists; and some pastors and teachers; for
the perfecting of the saints for the work of the ministry, for
the edifying of the body of Christ . . . " (Eph. 4:11-12.)
As we have said, there was no distinction between
clergy, and laity. Every Christian was to minister for the building
up of the Body.
#
Every Christian preached Christ (Acts 8:4.)
#
Every man was given a measure of faith (Rom. 12:3.)
#
Every man received a gift (I Pet. 4:10.)
#
Everyone was given a work (Mk. 13:34)
#
Every branch was to bear fruit (John 15:2.)
#
Everyone was given talents according to his ability
“If God so loved us; we ought also to love one another” (I Jn. 4:11.)
EVERY BELIEVER IS TO MINISTER
MANUAL FOR LEADERS
True worship was, and is, in "spirit" and in "truth." True
worshipers do not have to journey to Jerusalem, or anywhere
else, to worship God. Every true believer is a priest and can
worship at any time and any place. This truth is repeated often
in Scripture.
"Ye also as lively stones, are built up a spiritual
house, an holy priesthood, to offer up spiritual sacrifices
acceptable to God by Jesus Christ" (I Pet. 2:5.)
"But ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood,
an holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should show forth
the praises of him who hath called you out of darkness into
his marvellous light" (I Pet. 2:9.)
"And hath made us kings and priests unto God and His Father" (Rev. 1:6.)
"And hast made us unto our God kings and priests": (Rev. 5:10.)
When Jesus died, the veil of the Temple was rent, and the Holy of Holies became accessible to all believers. In fact, the
“If God so loved us; we ought also to love one another” (I Jn. 4:11.)
MANUAL FOR LEADERS
truth" (John 4:23-24.)
Etc.
The people of God did not immediately lose their
privileges as priests of God. This tragic loss came gradually
over many years.
Philip Schaff, the historian, states that a preacher
named Tertullian (A.D. 160-220) was the first to claim special
priestly privileges for the Christian ministry. He still claimed,
however, to believe in the priesthood of all believers. During the
third century the term "priest" was applied directly to Christian
ministers. A special, elite class of priests was emerging, and the
people of God were losing their privileges to minister.
Jesus spent most of His time with the common people
(Mk. 12:37.) He chose common folk as His apostles. By means
of the Holy Spirit, these common people were empowered to do
uncommon things. They were not "officers" in an organization.
They were members of a Living Body.
Unfortunately, the spiritual Body of Christ was becoming
a carnal organization. At the same time, a special "clergy" was
developing which would reverse the plan of God. They would
proclaim themselves priests, and deny to common people their
privilege ministering.
The fourth general council at Carthage (A.D. 398,)
prohibited "laymen" from teaching in the presence of "clergymen"
without their consent.
“If God so loved us; we ought also to love one another” (I Jn. 4:11.)
MANUAL FOR LEADERS
(Matt. 25:15.)
#
Everyone was given grace (Eph. 4:7.)
#
Everyone contributed according to his ability (Acts
11:29.)
#
Everyone is to please his neighbor for his own good
(Rom. 15:2.)
#
Every man's work will be made manifest (I Cor. 3:13.)
#
Every man will give account of himself to God (Rom.
14:12.)
#
Etc.
Philip Schaff speaks to this point in his HISTORY OF
THE CHRISTIAN CHURCH, Vol. II, page 124.
"In the apostolic church preaching and teaching were
not confined to a particular class, but every convert could
proclaim the gospel to unbelievers, and every Christian who had
the gift could pray and teach and exhort in the congregation.
The New Testament knows no spiritual aristocracy or nobility, but
calls all believers 'saints,' though many fell far short of their
vocation. Nor does it recognize a special priesthood, as well as
universal kingship of believers. It does this in a far deeper and
larger sense than the Old; in a sense too, which even to this day
is not yet fully realized. The entire body of Christians is called
'clergy' (kleroi,) a peculiar people, a heritage of God."
“If God so loved us; we ought also to love one another” (I Jn. 4:11.)
MANUAL FOR LEADERS
CHURCH HISTORY
the age was so dark. John Foxe documents the death of
thousands of believers in his book, CHRISTIAN MARTYRS OF
THE WORLD. One famous martyr was William Tyndale. He
was strangled and burned at the stake on October 6, 1536. His
was killed for the "crime" of translating the Bible into the English
language.
The "Dark Ages" ended with the "Reformation." Surely
God was involved in this period of enlightenment. While Martin
Luther is generally given credit for leading the reformation, he
was only one of many that God used. John Wyclif, for example,
is known as the "Morning Star of the Reformation." He was the
first man to translate the Bible into the English language. Wyclif
wanted the Bible to be in the hands of the common man, a
concept that was greatly opposed by the clergy of his day.
Wyclif died December 31, 1384, almost one hundred years
before Martin Luther was born. Though he died a natural death,
he was later condemned as a heretic. His bones were dug up
and burned forty-four years after his death, and his ashes were
cast into the River swift.
Jesus has never been a Shepherd without sheep, or a
King without subjects. In every age He has directed the lives of
His people, and orchestrated human history. He is still doing so
today!
“If God so loved us; we ought also to love one another” (I Jn. 4:11.)
MANUAL FOR LEADERS
THE REFORMATION
The fourth canon of Nice directed that a bishop should
be instituted and consecrated by at least three bishops of the
province. Chrysostom lamented that bishops were not chosen
because of their spiritual fitness, but because of "noble birth, or
great wealth, or consanguinity and friendship." Consequently,
the priesthood became increasingly degenerate. By the time of
Sergius III (A.D. 904) the priests were said to be ruled by harlots.
This period of history is called the "pornocracy" and lasted until
A.D. 963.)
The Council of Florence (A.D. 1439,) formally
sanctioned seven sacraments. They were: baptism,
confirmation, extreme unction, the Lord's Supper, penance,
marriage, and ordination. The priest was an integral part of
every sacrament. The people of God were again in bondage to
a priesthood. They were taught that the priest stood between
them and God. Consequently, they needed the priest in order to
be saved. Since, in their eyes, he held the power of salvation
and damnation, he was called "Reverend." This indicates that he
was feared by the people. For the record, the word "reverend"
is only found once in the Bible (Ps. 111:9.) In this passage we
are informed that God "sent redemption unto his people: he
hath commanded his covenant for ever: holy and reverend
is His name." God is to be revered, not man!
During the Dark Ages, the people of God were dominated by an ungodly priesthood. That is one reason why
“If God so loved us; we ought also to love one another” (I Jn. 4:11.)
MANUAL FOR LEADERS
"laity." Such distinctions are contrary to the genius of Christianity and were never made by Christ, or His Apostles. The New
doctrine. For the scripture saith, Thou shalt not muzzle the
ox that treadeth out the corn. And, the laborer is worthy of
his reward. Against an elder receive not an accusation, but
before two or three witnesses. Them that sin, rebuke before
all, that others also may fear" (I Tim. 5:17-20.)
! "Let him that is taught in the word communicate unto him that teacheth in all good things" (Gal. 6:6.)
! (Regarding Epaphroditus) "Receive him therefore
in the Lord with all gladness; and hold such in reputation:
because for the work of Christ he was nigh unto death, not
regarding his life, to supply your lack of service toward me"
(Phil. 2:29-30.)
While it is important to honor our spiritual leaders, we
can do so without dividing the Body of Christ into "clergy" and
Testament Scriptures never make a distinction between clergy
“If God so loved us; we ought also to love one another” (I Jn. 4:11.)
MANUAL FOR LEADERS
WHAT ABOUT YOU?
! Etc.
and laity!
The Reformation certainly started the pendulum going
back in the right direction, but the task has not yet been
completed. The concept of the priesthood of all believers is still
an undiscovered truth for many people. In Luther's day a
movement was born to "protest" against the excesses of the
clergy. Unfortunately, most Protestant churches still maintained
an unbiblical distinction between clergy and laity.
Though the Scriptures do not make a distinction
between "clergy" and "laity," it is, nevertheless, important to
honor our spiritual leaders. Please consider these Scriptures:
! "Remember them which have the rule over you,
who have spoken unto you the word of God: Whose faith
follow, considering the end of their conversation" (Heb.
13:7.)
! "Obey them that have the rule over you, and
submit yourselves: for they watch for your souls, as they
that must give account, that they may do it with joy, and not
with grief: for that is unprofitable for you" (Heb. 13:17.)
! "Let the elders that rule well be counted worthy of double honor, especially they who labor in the word and
“If God so loved us; we ought also to love one another” (I Jn. 4:11.)
GOD STILL WANTS US TO HONOR OUR SPIRITUAL LEADERS
MANUAL FOR LEADERS
Jesus warned His disciples about false leaders. He said:
Matt. 15:14 Let them alone: they be blind leaders
of the blind. And if the blind lead the blind, both shall fall
into the ditch.
It is important for the church to have spiritual leaders.
Paul and Barnabas, for example, ordained elders in every
church. These men were mature Christians who would set a
good example for others.
Acts 14:23 And when they had ordained them
elders in every church, and had prayed with fasting,
they commended them to the Lord, on whom they
believed.
At a later time, when Paul was on his way to Jerusalem,
he stopped at Miletus and called for the elders of the church at
Ephesus. When the arrived he told them:
Take heed therefore unto yourselves, and to all the
flock, over the which the Holy Ghost hath made you
overseers, to feed the church of God, which he hath
purchased with his own blood. (Acts 20:28)
“If God so loved us; we ought also to love one another” (I Jn. 4:11.)
SPIRITUAL LEADERS SPIRITUAL LEADERS
MANUAL FOR LEADERS
God is the Great "I Am." He is "now," or eternally present in every generation.
Today God is accomplishing many miraculous things
around the world. Millions in Eastern Europe and Russia are
accepting Christ. Some believe the greatest revival of all time is
taking place in Communist China. Similar movements are
springing up in other Asian countries, Africa, Latin America, etc.
Many, if not most, of these gifted Christian leaders around the
world are common people, just like the original Twelve Apostles.
Yet God is using them in a mighty way.
The Body of Christ is most powerful when every
member is ministering. THAT INCLUDES YOU! For we, being
many, "Are one body in Christ, and every one members one
of another" (Rom. 12:5.) Please prayerfully consider
that God may be calling you to some special
work for His glory.
“If God so loved us; we ought also to love one another” (I Jn. 4:11.)
MANUAL FOR LEADERS
brawler, not covetous; One that ruleth well his own house,
having his children in subjection with all gravity; if a man
know not how to rule his own house, how shall he take care
of the church of God? Not a novice, lest being lifted up with
pride he fall into the condemnation of the devil. Moreover he
must have a good report of them which are without; lest he
fall into reproach and the snare of the devil. (I Tim. 3:1-7)
Likewise must the deacons be grave, not
doubletongued, not given to much wine, not greedy of filthy
lucre; Holding the mystery of the faith in a pure conscience.
And let these also first be proved; then let them use the
office of a deacon, being found blameless. Even so must
their wives be grave, not slanderers, sober, faithful in all
things. Let the deacons be the husbands of one wife, ruling
their children and their own houses well. For they that have
used the office of a deacon well purchase to themselves a
good degree, and great boldness in the faith which is in
Christ Jesus. (I Tim. 3:8-13)
Paul wrote to Titus that the older women were to teach the younger women:
Similar qualifications are also given for deacons. The word “deacon” means “servant.”
“If God so loved us; we ought also to love one another” (I Jn. 4:11.)
OLDER WOMEN AND WIDOWS
MANUAL FOR LEADERS
These “elders” were also known as “bishops” or
“overseers.” They were also told to “feed” or “pastor” the church
of God which He had purchased with His own blood.
These men met high spiritual qualifications. Consider these inspired instructions from Paul to Titus.
For this cause left I thee in Crete, that thou
shouldest set in order the things that are wanting, and
ordain elders in every city, as I had appointed thee: If any be
blameless, the husband of one wife, having faithful children
not accused of riot or unruly. For a bishop must be
blameless, as the steward of God; not selfwilled, not soon
angry, not given to wine, no striker, not given to filthy lucre;
But a lover of hospitality, a lover of good men, sober, just,
holy, temperate; Holding fast the faithful word as he hath
been taught, that he may be able by sound doctrine both to
exhort and to convince the gainsayers. (Titus 1:5-9)
This is a true saying, If a man desire the office of a
bishop, he desireth a good work. A bishop then must be
blameless, the husband of one wife, vigilant, sober, of good
behaviour, given to hospitality, apt to teach; Not given to
wine, no striker, not greedy of filthy lucre; but patient, not a
“If God so loved us; we ought also to love one another” (I Jn. 4:11.)
Paul wrote similar instructions to Timothy:
MANUAL FOR LEADERS
one man, Well reported of for good works; if she have
brought up children, if she have lodged strangers, if she
have washed the saints' feet, if she have relieved the
afflicted, if she have diligently followed every good work.
But the younger widows refuse: for when they have begun
to wax wanton against Christ, they will marry; Having
damnation, because they have cast off their first faith. And
withal they learn to be idle, wandering about from house to
house; and not only idle, but tattlers also and busybodies,
speaking things which they ought not. I will therefore that
the younger women marry, bear children, guide the house,
give none occasion to the adversary to speak reproachfully.
For some are already turned aside after Satan. If any man or
woman that believeth have widows, let them relieve them,
and let not the church be charged; that it may relieve them
that are widows indeed. (I Tim. 5:1-16)
Remember them which have the rule over you, who
have spoken unto you the word of God: whose faith follow,
considering the end of their conversation. (Heb. 13:7)
“If God so loved us; we ought also to love one another” (I Jn. 4:11.)
We are to remember them and imitate their faith.:
WE HAVE A RESPONSIBILITY TO OUR SPIRITUAL LEADERS
MANUAL FOR LEADERS
We are to obey them:
But speak thou the things which become sound
doctrine: That the aged men be sober, grave, temperate,
sound in faith, in charity, in patience. The aged women
likewise, that they be in behaviour as becometh holiness,
not false accusers, not given to much wine, teachers of
good things; That they may teach the young women to be
sober, to love their husbands, to love their children, To be
discreet, chaste, keepers at home, good, obedient to their
own husbands, that the word of God be not blasphemed.
(Titus 2:1-5)
Rebuke not an elder, but intreat him as a father; and
the younger men as brethren; The elder women as mothers;
the younger as sisters, with all purity. Honour widows that
are widows indeed. But if any widow have children or
nephews, let them learn first to shew piety at home, and to
requite their parents: for that is good and acceptable before
God. Now she that is a widow indeed, and desolate, trusteth
in God, and continueth in supplications and prayers night
and day. But she that liveth in pleasure is dead while she
liveth. And these things give in charge, that they may be
blameless. But if any provide not for his own, and specially
for those of his own house, he hath denied the faith, and is
worse than an infidel. Let not a widow be taken into the
number under threescore years old, having been the wife of
He wrote these instructions to Timothy about widows:
“If God so loved us; we ought also to love one another” (I Jn. 4:11.)
MANUAL FOR LEADERS
unto you spiritual things, is it a great thing if we shall reap your carnal things? (I Cor. 9:7-11)
“If God so loved us; we ought also to love one another” (I Jn. 4:11.)
MANUAL FOR LEADERS
Obey them that have the rule over you, and submit
yourselves: for they watch for your souls, as they that must
give account, that they may do it with joy, and not with grief:
for that is unprofitable for you. (Heb. 13:17)
Let the elders that rule well be counted worthy of
double honour, especially they who labour in the word and
doctrine. For the scripture saith, Thou shalt not muzzle the
ox that treadeth out the corn. And, The labourer is worthy of
his reward. Against an elder receive not an accusation, but
before two or three witnesses. Them that sin rebuke before
all, that others also may fear. (I Tim. 5:17-20)
Who goeth a warfare any time at his own charges?
who planteth a vineyard, and eateth not of the fruit thereof?
or who feedeth a flock, and eateth not of the milk of the
flock? Say I these things as a man? or saith not the law the
same also? For it is written in the law of Moses, Thou shalt
not muzzle the mouth of the ox that treadeth out the corn.
Doth God take care for oxen? Or saith he it altogether for
our sakes? For our sakes, no doubt, this is written: that he
that ploweth should plow in hope; and that he that thresheth
in hope should be partaker of his hope. If we have sown
“If God so loved us; we ought also to love one another” (I Jn. 4:11.)
We are to count them worthy of double honor:
MANUAL FOR LEADERS
They are to be paid:
#
Paul fully preached the Gospel from Jerusalem to
Illyricum (Rom. 15:19.)
#
Paul wrote to the Colossians that the Gospel had been
preached to the whole creation (Col. 1:23.)
Let us suppose, by way of illustration, that you were the
only Christian on earth. Let us also suppose that it took you one
year to make your first convert.
The population of the world had increased by millions
during that year, and you were further from evangelizing the
world than when you started.
If each of you were “faithful,” however. And if each of
you had the same limited success in evangelism, at the end of
the second year there would be four Christians. Even at this
“slow” rate, the whole world could easily be evangelized in only
33 years if each Christian was “faithful.”
At the end of the first year the number of Christians
would be 2
Year 2 - 4
Year 3 - 8
Year 4 - 16
Year 5 - 32
“If God so loved us; we ought also to love one another” (I Jn. 4:11.)
CONSIDER THIS REMARKABLE ILLUSTRATION
MANUAL FOR LEADERS
“And the things that thou hast heard of me among
many witnesses, the same commit thou to faithful men, who
shall be able to teach others also” (II Tim. 2:2.)
Timothy was not just to teach, he was to teach “faithful”
people. Faithful people would be good stewards of the Gospel.
They would teach others also.
The early church grew rapidly because everyone
preached the word. When the church was scattered by
persecution, after the death of Stephen, the Scriptures teach:
“Therefore, they that were scattered abroad went every
where preaching the word” (Acts 8:4.)
Please prayerfully consider these statements of Scripture about the growth of the early church.
#
The first sermon produced 3,000 converts (Acts 2:41.)
#
Soon the church numbered about 5,000 men (Acts 4:4.)
#
Then multitudes of both men and women were added
(Acts 5:14.)
#
Then a great company of the priests became obedient
tdo the faith (Acts 6:7.)
#
Soon everyone in Asia heard the word of the Lord
Jesus (Acts 19:10.)
“If God so loved us; we ought also to love one another” (I Jn. 4:11.)
TEACHING FAITHFUL PEOPLE TEACHING FAITHFUL PEOPLE
MANUAL FOR LEADERS
World population, as you know, is not nearly eight
billion. In this example, you would have won only 33 people to
Christ, in 33 years, and everyone else would have won less.
Yet, even in this example, the whole world could be won to Christ
in only 33 years.
This is what is possible when we teach “faithful” people who are able to teach others also!
“If God so loved us; we ought also to love one another” (I Jn. 4:11.)
MANUAL FOR LEADERS
Year 33 - 8,589,934,592
“If God so loved us; we ought also to love one another” (I Jn. 4:11.)
MANUAL FOR LEADERS
Year 6 - 64
Year 7 - 128
Year 8 - 256
Year 9 - 512
Year 10 - 1024
Year 11 - 2048
Year 12 - 4,096
Year 13 - 8,192
Year 14 - 16,384
Year 15 - 32,768
Year 16 - 65,536
Year 17 - 131,072
Year 18 - 262,144
Year 19 - 524,288
Year 20 - 1,048,576
Year 21 - 2,097,152
Year 22 - 4,194,304
Year 23 - 8,388,608
Year 24 - 16,777,216
Year 25 - 33,554,432
Year 26 - 67,108,864
Year 27 - 134,217,728
Year 28 - 268,435,436
Year 29 - 536,870,912
Year 30 - 1,073,741,824
Year 31 - 2,147,483,648
Year 32 - 4,294,967,296
“If God so loved us; we ought also to love one another” (I Jn. 4:11.)