God - The new testament church

1. The New Testament
model for Church
The way The Apostles thought us
from Acts to Jude
JanEgil Gulbrandsen
2014
Updated
March
2015

2. The church is a fellowship of believers - the
body of Christ - made up of “people” - leaders
and lay-people, where all relate to each other
as brothers and sisters.
We love the Lord - and each other.
Together we reach out to the world with the
good news of Jesus.

3. The church is not a building,
not an institution, an organisation or a
denomination.
The church is always people – people that
believe in Jesus Christ and are born again.
This is the universal church.

4. We are a part of the body of Christ on earth.
Each one of us have a function that no other
body part has.
Every believer need to be connected with
other believers for mutual growth and
support.
This happens in the local church fellowship.

5. There are different ways to organise
the local church.
Some might be more biblical than
others. But the most important thing is
“the people” – and that Christ lives and
operates in each one of us.

6. Many churches around the world are
organised as large corporation with one
“CEO” pastor on the top.
Others are a democracy where every member
has an equal vote and elect elders and
deacons. (or a pastor and deacons)
Others again meet in smaller fellowships with
a little less structure but with a stronger focus
on individual spiritual expression.
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7. In this study we are going to try to find
“the objective truth”
what the Bible says about:
What happens at church?
How can we best organise church?
How shall we now live this Christian life?

8. In other words:
What does The New Testament and specially the
Apostle Paul ( God’s special ambassador to us
gentiles) teach about how to do church?

9. In the gospels – Matthew, Mark, Luke and
John, we learn about the life of Jesus – how
he died and rose again and in so doing gave
us the great exchange: Our sins for his
righteousness – for us who believe.
Our focus in this study will be on the post
cross writings – the writings that covers the
early church period. We find it in the books
from Acts to Jude.

10. We must assume that Paul’s model for church
activity, leadership and Christian life was
intended to be a guideline for all generations
to follow.
At the same time it is quite clear that some of
the things Paul wrote about was “specific for
the moment” and “culturally conditioned”.

11. In the bible books mentioned I have chosen
175 scriptures that covers these topics.
In your own studies you might find a few
more or a few less. But these chosen
scriptures should be more than sufficient to
“get the picture” of what church and the
Christian life should look like.

12. “This is the Apostolic
model for doing church.”
Any pastor or leader that want to see their
church fellowship grow strong and healthy,
can learn from these scriptures.
In the same way; any believer that want to
learn the basics for living the Christian life,
can benefit from this.

13. This upper part of the page will be used for
Bible scriptures.
The text might be direct quotes, paraphrased
or summarised.
This bottom part of the page will be used for my
comments.
I pray that The Holy Spirit has helped me to say and
write something “inspired” to explain and clarify the
scriptures even more in a simple language and to
connect it to our time.

14. 1) Acts 1:16
“Brothers and sisters…”
Paul – and the other writers from Acts to Jude, addresses
the church a total of 121 times with these words:
“Brothers and sisters”. This is not coincidental.
This wording indicates equality before the Lord, between
men and between the genders.
It also indicates there is no hierarchy between high-
ranking church leaders and lay-people. The modern
church has something to learn from this.
The elevated Doctor or Reverend titles that are so popular
in our time, are never mentioned. The days of spiritual
middlemen between God and man are over.

15. 2) Acts 1:22-26
“and they put forward two men. Lord
show which one of these to men you
have chosen. And they cast lots.”
Wow. What a way to start off. Not by
appointment. Not by election.
But “trusting God” by casting lots…
This is as far from a business model or
an majority election you can come…

16. 3) Acts 2:14
“But Peter – standing with the
eleven – lifted up his voice…”
So what does this have to do with anything?
Nothing but the fact that “the men stood
together”. Unity gives power. A single voice
is nothing but a single voice…
But Christian brothers standing shoulder to
shoulder is powerful.

17. 4) Acts 2:42
“and they (the believers in the
church) devoted themselves to the
apostles teaching (the Gospel), to
fellowship and prayer”
The church need to focus on what is
important: The Gospel of Jesus – and
to fellowship and to prayer.

18. 5) Acts 2:45
“and they were selling their
possessions – distributing proceeds
to all”
Radical! If you live by the Spirit and the
voice inside tells you to “sell” – do it! But it
is also possible that God has another plan
for your equity. But to share with the needy
is a “must”. This is practical love!

19. 6) Acts 2:46
“they were breaking bread in their
homes”
Breaking bread or communion was
practised in the homes. And you
thought “the elements” had to be
distributed by an ordained minister in a
church building…
The Catholics also believe that…

20. 7) Acts 4:32
“Those who believed were of one
heart and one soul”
Unity of heart – unity of soul!
This is only possible when “The Spirit”
gets hold of us and “mans will” is set
aside.

21. 8) Acts 4:34
“There was not a needy person
among them”
It is quit clear there was a transfer of
money and goods from rich to poor.
Some call this socialism. Not all are
convinced Jesus was a republican.

22. 9) Acts 5:42
“Every day the apostles were teaching “Jesus”
in the temple and from house to house”.
The message to the world is: Christ the
savior has come. This is the “good news”
our cities need. Teach it where you can – any
day you can - where the people are – and in
the homes.

23. 10) Acts 6:2
“It is not right that the apostles have to give
up teaching to serve at the tables”
There are different gifts. It is
important that each one serve in the
capacity he is called.

24. 11) Acts 6:3
“Therefor brothers: Pick out from among you
seven men of a) good reputation, b) full of
the Spirit, and of c) wisdom, whom we (Paul
and his team) will appoint to this duty.”
This is an interesting selection process:
You pick out from among yourself, and
we will appoint (approve) the men you
have selected.

25. 12) Acts 11:25
“The disciples were called
Christians”
At least we got than one right!

26. 13) Acts 12:5
“Peter was kept in prison, but the
church was eagerly praying to God
for him”
Eagerly prayer! Sounds like more then
liturgical reading. A prayer right into the
situation - not 300 year old written
manuscripts.

27. 14) Acts 13:1
“In the church there were prophets
and teachers”
Prophets and teachers are mentioned separately.
Obviously they have different functions or ministries.
Notices they are mentioned in plural. Meaning: There
were several persons with a prophetic gift and several
teachers. They were all allowed to speak. They had
no senior pastor (singular) that was the only person
allowed to say something from the pulpit…

28. 15) Acts 13:15
“Brothers, if you have any word of
encouragement for the people, say it”
Paul visiting the synagogue. He was
encouraged by the leaders to share in the
meeting. How often do we see visitors
being allowed to share in our churches?

29. 16) Acts 14:23
“Paul and Barnabas appointed
elders for them in each church and
with prayer and fasting committed
them to the Lord”
Elders were appointed from “the
top” – choosing elders (plural) was
not done by a majority elections.

30. 17) Acts 15:23
“The brothers – both apostles and
elders”
In a letter sent to Antioch, both apostles and elders
are described as brothers. The term “brothers,”
indicate there is no spiritual higharky in the church.
We are all equal like brothers. We might have
different functions (gifting's) but we are still to relate
to each other as brothers (and sisters).

31. 18) Acts 15:35
“Paul and Barnabas remained in Antioch, teaching
and preaching the word of the Lord; with many
others also”
The lesson here is:
Teaching and preaching is shared by many in the church…
(church is not a one man show – the anointed one)
(singular)
That’s why it is not appropriate for a pastor to talk about
“my church” and “my pulpit”…

32. 19) Acts 20:17+28
To the elders of the church: Pay careful
attention to yourselves and to all of the flock
the Holy Spirit has made you overseers – to
care for the church of God”
Notice one important detail: Elders –
pastors – overseers are always in plural.
Leadership is never a one person job.

33. 20) Acts 20: 33-35
“ I coveted no ones silver of gold”
“My own hands have supplied my
own needs”
Paul makes a strong point that he chose “to work” for
a living in addition to being a church planting Apostle.
Many a pastor have not considered this option. A few
have in fact used their communication skills to become
very rich “in silver and gold” by selling “health and
wealth” as Gods blessing if you only give enough in the
offering.

34. 21) Acts 21:9
“Philip the evangelist had four
unmarried daughters who
prophesied”
Four unmarried woman – possibly in their teens
– prophesied.
I guess the lesson here is that you don’t have to
be an old man to be recognised with a gift of
prophesy.

35. 22) Rom. 1:12
“…that we may be mutually
encouraged by each others faith…”
“I encourage you – you encourage me.”
Christian life is a two way street – a two
way dialog - by equal partners in the
kingdom.

36. 23) Rom. 12:3
“do not thing of yourself more highly
then you ought”
This ties in with our previous scriptures.
Don’t think you are “superior” or
“special” above your brothers and
sisters. Humility by all is the way to go.

37. 24) Rom. 12:4-5
“the members of the body (of Christ) have
different functions. We are one body and
individually member one of another”
Different function. Different gifting.
But one.
We are important to one another.

38. 25) Rom. 12:6
“Having gifts that differ: Prophecy, serving,
teaching, to encourage, giving, to lead, to
show mercy”.
Through prayer and fasting every
Christian should find out his gift
(or gifts) – so it can be used actively.
It’s also helpful to know what’s not
your gift… and leave that to others.

39. 26) Rom. 12:10
“Love one another with brotherly
affection. Outdo one another in
showing honor.”
We are to “like” each other. Like
“like” on facebook… Plus a little
honor and respect.

40. 27) Rom. 12:13A
“share with the Lord’s people that
are in need”
The world is full of needs. We see it
every day on TV. And there are
hundreds of good causes to support.
But first look after the Lord’s people –
your own brothers and sisters.

41. 28) Rom. 12:13B
“Practise hospitality”
Invite people over for a meal.
…or for a cup of coffee.
Have a good conversation.
And give them a bed for the night if they need
one.
This is almost a lost art in our modern society.
Including the church…

42. 29) Rom. 12:16
“Do not be proud. Associate with
people of lower position (social
status)”
Don’t only hang out with the “cool”,
trendy and successful. But also make
friends among the “poor and weak”
that might need your support.

43. 30) Rom. 12:17
“Do not repay evil for evil”
Commentary should be unnecessary.
This is our opportunity to practise
agape-love.
(I love you “in spite of” what you did to me.)
Pre-emptive bomb attacks find no support in
this bible verse…

44. 31) Rom. 12:19
“Do not take revenge”
Again: Practise agape-love.

45. 32) Rom. 13:1
“Subject to the governing
authorities”
But what if they implement ungodly
laws???
Even then!

46. 33) Rom. 13:6
“Pay your taxes”
…but the taxes are too high.
I believe they should be lower.
Well, if you cheat – you brake this
regulation.

47. 34) Rom. 13:19
“Love your neighbor as (or in the
same way as) yourself”
Love yourself – because of Christ you
are worthy. Love all the people around
you – because they are also worthy –
for the same reason.

48. 35) Rom. 14:1
“Accept the one whose faith
(understanding) is weak”
Don’t only hang out with people that
think like you - that is strong like you.
Be a mentor to the unlearned…

49. 36) Rom. 14:10
Don’t judge your brother or sister”
Leave the judgment to the Lord…
May be you don’t even have all the
facts… In stead: Pray for him – support
him – guide him – encourage him. And
show him God’s way in love.
But don’t judge.

50. 37) Rom. 14:22
“…so whatever you believe about food and
drink – keep it between yourself and God”
Different people (Christians) believe
different things regarding what to eat and
what to drink. What’s wrong for one is ok
for another. You do what you do – but don’t
offend the other and tell him what to do…

51. 38) Rom. 15:7
“accept one another as Christ has
accepted you”
I’m starting to get it now.
I’m to sweep before my own door only.
And let Christ himself change my
brother – by his Holy Spirit. From the
inside out. In his own timing.

52. 39) Rom. 16:1
“… a greeting to a sister (in the Lord)
– a deaconess”
If you ever were in doubt: a woman can
be a deacon. (or a deaconess)
“Help her when she comes to visit you
in Rome.”

53. 40) Rom. 16:5
“Greet also the church that meet in
their home”
Home churches in our generation are by
some portrayed as cultish and viard. But the
fact is: They made up the majority of
Christian assemblies in the early years. This
was – and is – totally normal!
And not only in addition to the “big church
gathering” – but instead of…

54. 41) Rom. 16:16
“Great one another with a holy kiss”
When did you great someone - male and female - with a
holy kiss at church? Not! Because it is not a part of our
culture.
So inspite of the fact that Paul instructs the church he
writes to to do so four times in his writings, we don’t do it
- because of culture!
Many of Paul’s instructions are culturally conditioned –
like what he says about woman – and slaves – and kissing!
We have to recognise the fact that the Bible gives
“commands” that are not applicable in our time and
culture.

55. 42) Rom. 16:17
“keep away from those who cause
division and teach contrary to the
teaching you have learned (from
me)”
Paul thought the pure gospel of grace… This
is the good news of the gospel. Any other
teaching that requires mans performance
for salvation is “mixture” and heresy.

56. 43) Rom. 16:18
“for such people (the ones that
teach contrary to me) are not
serving our Lord – they deceive the
minds of naïve people”
Paul shows absolutely no tolerance for a
Gospel of “mixture” – like in “one portion
Christianity and one portion Judaism.”
Unfortunately many churches have ministers
practising this theology - very often because
they don’t know any better.

57. 44) 1 Cor. 1:2
“To those sanctified in Christ Jesus
and called to be his Holy People”
Gentiles in Corinth – called to be his holy
people! Saints! Always Saints! Not Saints
one day and sinners the next. Not Saints
and sinners. Only Saints. Holy people!

58. 45) 1 Cor. 1:10
“agree with one another – no
divisions among you – but be of the
same mind”
Really what Paul is saying here is:
Believe like I do! I have set the standard!
And adjust your mind to mine.
There is really no room for any theology
except what I have thought you!

59. 46) 1 Cor. 2:1
“I did not come to you with
eloquence or human wisdom”
Again, what Paul is saying is:
What I have been teaching you is not my
wisdom – But Gods!
That’s why you really need to pay attention to
what I’m telling you!
This is Gods wisdom!

60. 47) 1 Cor. 2:4
“My message were not with wise
word – but a demonstration of the
Spirits Power”
Do the test: Is the speaker speaking
from his “brain” or from a heart fueled
by the passion of The Holy Spirit that
lives within him?

61. 48) 1 Cor. 3:18
“Don’t think you are wise…”
But does not our universities and bible schools
have as a goal to make their students wise?
Aren't the fancy titles the human proof that we
have earned our degree in wisdom and
deserves a little respect over and above
everybody else?
It looks like Paul was more concerned about one
thing: Has the Holy Spirit got hold of you?

62. 49) 1 Cor. 3:21
“Don’t boast in men. That being
Paul, Apollos or Cephas.”
So our boasting is not in the man of
flesh and blood.
But praise God for The Holy Spirit that
have got hold of him.

63. 50) 1 Cor. 4:1
“How to regard church leaders: As
servants of Christ and stewards of
the mystery of God”
The Gospel is a mystery.
(it is hard to understand how simple it is…)
Our teachers are the once that by the Spirit
can explain this mystery for the people to
understand.
But God also speaks directly to you when
you take time to read the word and to pray.

64. 51) 1 Cor. 4:18-19
“Some of you are arrogant talkers
without power”
Paul was a no non-sense guy.
He was not afraid to confront “the talkers”. If
they did not operate in the power of the Spirit,
he would confront them. Not many in our time
has the guts to confront religious non-sense in
fear of being accused of attacking “the man of
God”. So we let them go on unopposed…

65. 52) 1 Cor. 5:1
“there is sexual immorality among
you. Put the man out of your
fellowship”
A man has his fathers wife. Disgusting. From the
text it sounds like this was an ongoing thing that
nobody bothered to deal with. This was not a “one
time falling in sin” with regret and restoration.
Action was required. ( the man was later invited
back into the fellowship. 2 Cor. 2:5-8)
He must have ended his sinful relationship.

66. 53) 1 Cor. 5:10
“association with sinning people of the world
(unbelievers) is a part of life – otherwise you
would have to be taken out of the world”
This text is really self-explanatory.
Jesus associated a lot with sinners. In fact to
the point he called them “friends”. (PS. He was
majorly criticised for it…) But his association
always had a motive: To lead them to salvation.

67. 54) 1 Cor. 5:11
“…but don’t associate with “a brother” that
live sexually immoral, uses to much alcohol or
is a swindler”
It sounds like this verse contradicts Rom 14:10 – Don't
judge your brother. But this scripture is talking about
association – not judging. According to Paul judging
and not associating is not the same thing.
What is Paul really saying here: By associating with this
so-called “brother in Christ” you approve of his lifestyle.
Question 1: Should homosexuals be ordained as
ministers? The answer should be obvious.
Question 2: Should we associate with homosexuals in
the world (unbelievers) in an attempt to lead them “to
the light” (Jesus)? The answer is YES.

68. 55) 1 Cor. 5:12
“It is not our business to judge those
outside the church (the world)”
To many Christians have got this one totally
wrong. They “love” to judge their neighbor,
their local politicians and national leaders. Yes,
we can work in our communities to improve
them. But we are not to judge them.
Like Jesus says in John 3:17 – “God did not send
his Son to the world to judge it…” So if Jesus
did not come to judge, we should not either…

69. 56) 1 Cor. 7:7
“But each (and every one) of you
has his own gift from God”
God has gifted each of us to ministry. You
gift is usually connected to your interests
and passions - what you are good at - what
you feel deep in your heart to do for the
Lord: Do it!

70. 57) 1 Cor. 9:4-6
“the apostles have the right to
refrain from “working for a living”
Working for a living in this context is talking
about work outside of the ministry. So if you
are an apostle: This can apply to you. But Paul
and Barnabas did not make use of this right.
They worked as tentmakers on the side.

71. 58) 1 Cor. 9:14
“The Lord has commanded that
those who “preach the gospel”
should get their living by the gospel”
So preachers (pastors) are allowed to collect
their pay cheque at the church. But
“preachers of the gospel” - like evangelists
that go out to the world, often have a
harder time making a living at it… One of the
reasons is that many pastors don’t like to
share “their” pulpit…

72. 59) 1 Cor. 12:8-10
Gifts given to us by the Spirit: wisdom,
knowledge, faith, healing, working of
miracles, prophesy, distinguishing between
spirits, various kinds of tongues,
interpretation of tongues.
Here Paul is mentioning 9 gift – there might be more…
Regarding distinguishing between spirits: Is it God speaking (to
my)? Or is it the enemy?
Let me give you an example: The Holy Spirit does not point out
all the sins in a believer life – that’s what the accuser (Satan)
does…
The Holy Spirit came to convict us of our righteousness!!! (John
16:10)
(The Holy Spirit does this to offset the enemies accusations that
we are “no good” and even “out of fellowship” with the Father)

73. 60) 1 Cor. 12:21
“The eye can’t say to the hand:
I don’t need you”
Different people (and denomination)
focus on different gifts. But no
matter “your favorites”: You can not
say I don’t need this brother or
sister….

74. 61) 1 Cor. 12:25
“There should be no division in the
body. All parts have equal
importance”
The church is the family of God.
His own personal family.
Every family member has it’s place and is
loved by the father. No sibling can belittle or
cast out his brother or sister.

75. 62) 1 Cor. 12:27
“God has placed in the church: Apostles,
prophets, teachers, miracles, healing, helping,
guidance, tongues.
Paul mentions here 8 functions or positions
in the church. The church leadership should
be aver of all these and try to identify the
people that have these “gifts”, so the
congregation can be complete and grow to
it’s spiritual and numerical potential.

76. 63) 1 Cor. 14:26
“This is what you should do when you come
together: each has a song (hymn), a word of
instruction (lesson), a revelation, a tongue or
an interpretation. All with one goal: to build
up the church”
Here we read about 5 “activities” that should take place
when the church get together. When did you last
experience this? Notice it says “each one”. That means
“all of us”. We all take part.
My experience is that the paid worship leader picks the
songs and the same paid teacher – usually the senior
pastor – teaches EVERY week.
…Who far we have come away from the early church.

77. 64) 1 Cor. 14:34
“The woman should……”
Here Paul gives an instruction to the woman
that I choose to call a cultural instruction for
it’s time.
Since Paul at other times is totally clear that
there no longer are “male of female, slave or
free” before the Lord, it should be safe to
bypass this recommendations regarding
woman (and slaves – and about kissing) and
still be in tune with Gods will.

78. 65) 1 Cor. 13:39
“Be eager to prophecy – and do not
forbid speaking in tongues”
The prophetic gift has been stifled in many
churches and denominations.
Even back then some tried to stop people from
speaking in tongues – therefore this instruction
from Paul. May be we should take this serious.

79. 66) 1 Cor. 16:1-2
“Now concerning the collection (of money)
for the Lord’s people (meaning: The Saints
and leaders in Jerusalem): On the first day of
every week set SOME MONEY aside
(according to your income and ability), so
there will be no collection when I come.”
The Christians did give money to finance the
church. It does not specify how much.
Since the Spirit lives within us, ask him how
much to give. A life full of love for God and
man, will naturally trigger big giving.

80. 67) 1 Cor. 16:2
“Give – as you may prosper…”
It looks like there is a connection between
giving – how much or little you give – and
prospering in your own life.
But we don’t give to get. And we can not
buy God’s blessing. But a person giving
nothing, can not expect to prosper himself.

81. 68) 1 Cor. 16:19
“…Aquila and Prisca sends you
greetings – and the church in their
house (home)...”
Still a little uncertain about house churches?
Well, her is another example. After reading
1 Corinthians and all the activities a church
meeting should include, a smaller house
church seems more and more ideal…

82. 69) 2 Cor. 1:24
“We (Paul and his team)don’t Lord
over your faith, but we work with
you for your joy…”
Paul as the leading apostle at the time, did
not dictate “his” followers. He knew the
Spirit was in each of them and spoke to men
directly. But he worked “along side” men to
teach, inspire and guide them.

83. 70) 2 Cor. 2:6-7
“…reaffirm your love for him.”
Remember that man in 1 Cor.5:1 that slept
with his father wife and was thrown out of
the church? Here he is taken back and the
love for him is reaffirmed.
This was approx. 1 ½ years later.
Obviously the man had put en end to his
sinful relationship.

84. 71) 2 Cor. 2:17
“unlike so many we do not peddle
the word of God for money or
profit”
Even back then “many” was in the ministry
for the money’s sake.
Be aver.
Thank God that most leaders have pure
motives for their service for the kingdom.

85. 72) 2 Cor. 3:6
“God has made us ministers of
a new covenant”
In other words: Not ministers of the old covenant.
But only the new!
Many pastors / ministers have not understood that
the new covenant replaces the old.
They believe “since the whole Bible is inspired by
God” they are to teach “a mixture” of the old and the
new covenant. This is a dangerous poison that leads
people into spiritual confusion. If your “leader”
teaches this – challenge him on it…

86. 73) 2 Cor. 5:16
“from now on we regard no one
according to the flesh”
We can chose to look at our brothers and
sisters according to their “fleshly” behavior
or according to the Spirit – who they really
are in Christ! Paul is clear what he thinks
about it.

87. 74) 2 Cor. 8: 8-15
I say this not as a command, but a way for
you to show that your love is genuine: “ Your
abundance at this time should supply their
needs… that there may be fairness”
WOW! The rich giving to the poor to create
fairness… Paul’s recommendation sure
sounds like socialism. Like it or not! Transfer
of wealth is happening…

88. 75) 2 Cor. 9:6
“Sow (give) sparingly = reap
sparingly. Sow (give) generously =
reap generously.”
Yes, God loves everybody the same. And
he is good and blesses everybody.
But your giving determents “how
blessed” you will be…

89. 76) Gal. 1:6
“Don’t turn to a different gospel”
So what is this “different Gospel” Paul is
warning against?
It is a gospel that includes the work of Christ
+ your own work. Salvation becomes a joint
venture. This is “no gospel at all” Paul says.

90. 77) Gal. 1:7
“…there are some who trouble you
and want to distort the Gospel of
Christ”
Who are these people that want to
change “the pure Gospel” ?
Are they among us today?
Any “mixer” is a distorter…

91. 78) Gal. 2:10
“…The Apostles in Jerusalem ask
Paul to “remember the poor”
So it looks like all the Apostles are in
unity regarding remembering the
poor… “Giving” was alive and well in
the early church.

92. 79) Gal. 2:16
“A person is justified by faith in Jesus
– not by the works of the law (trying
to fulfill the law)”
This is what distorting the gospel means.
Justification is not a work in progress but a
gift from God when you have faith in Jesus.

93. 80) Gal. 2:21
“for if righteousness could be
obtained by the law ( fully or partly),
Christ died for nothing”
People. “Mixture” is serious business.
It is like if Christ died in vain.
We can not take this lightly.

94. 81) Gal. 3:10
“all who rely on the work of the law,
are under a curse”
Did you get that: Believing that salvation
partly by works, put you under a curse… I
can not stress enough the seriousness of
trusting this “faulty gospel.”
It makes you cursed by God himself.

95. 82) Gal. 3:11
“no one who rely on the law
(fulfilling the law - fully or partly) is
justified before God.”
You are not even saved (justified) if you
believe upholding the law is the way to go…
This could be a timely warning to some of
us: Wake up from your ignorance…

96. 83) Gal. 3: 24-25
“now that Christ has come, we are
no longer under the law”
Free from the law! But what does it mean? It
means that upholding the law can not save you.
So are we now free to brake the law like we
please? Absolutely not. The Holy Spirit that now
lives within us will teach us right from wrong and
how to live. But our salvation is secure in believing
in Christ’s complete work. His righteousness for
our sin. What an exchange!

97. 84) Gal. 3:26-28
“In Jesus we are all children of God through
faith – there is no longer Jew or gentile –
slave or free – male or female – for you are all
one (equal) in Christ”
What happened to the Jews “special
place” before God?
We are now – all of us – included in
Abraham's promise.

98. 85) Gal. 4:4
“God sent his Son to redeem those
under the law (the Jews) so that we
(all mankind) could receive (by faith
in Jesus) adoption as sons”
If you are God’s adopted son, you can
not get un-adopted!
You are “in” to stay…

99. 86) Gal. 4:6
“ the Spirit of his Son is in us, crying:
ABBA Father”
There are many names for God in the Bible.
But now with Christ in us we can address
him as “DADDY”. He is or loving father!
That implies closeness and mutual love and
friendship. There is no distance anymore.

100. 87) Gal.4:21
“Tell me – you who desire to be
under the law – do you not listen to
the law?
Paul gives the Gentiles a lesson on
“Abrahams household” verses 21 - 31. Cast
out the slave woman (representing the law).
In other words: Law and grace can not co-
exist. The law has to go as way to salvation.

101. 88) Gal. 5:1
“Christ has set us free. Do not again
submit yourself to a yoke of slavery
(the law).”
I think we should be starting to get
this now…

102. 89) Gal. 5:17
“For the descries of the flesh is
against the Spirit. They are apposed
to each other.”
Paul lists 15 things that the flesh does. This is what
unbelievers under the control of the flesh practises.
They will not inherit the kingdom of God.
By we – the believers - are lead by the Spirit. v/18.

103. 90) Gal. 5:22
“But the fruit of the Spirit is…”
Paul lists 9 wonderful character trades
that should describe a believer.
These are not our “works” but the Spirit
that lives in us.

104. 91) Gal. 6:1
“Brothers – anyone caught in sin –
restore him in gentleness”
Yes – believers can trip and fall in sin.
Restore them. Get them up on their feet
ASAP. Move forward. The reward is still
ahead…

105. 92) Gal. 6:2
“Carry each others burdens…”
Help your brother that fell in sin…
Carry his burden if you can…
As a member of his “pit crew”, get him back
in the race…
Next time it is him helping you. That’s why
it says: Each others… It’s a two way street.

106. 93) Gal. 6:7
“A man reaps what he sows.
A life lived in the flesh leads to
destruction. A life lived by the Spirit
leads to eternal life”
So lead people to Christ. See them
go from death to life. Be filled by the
Spirit. And live by it…

107. 94) Gal. 6:10
“Do good to everyone. Especially to
the families of believers…”
Interesting. It’s almost like the
emergency procedure on a plane: “Put
on your own mask first – and then help
the one next to you…”

108. 95) Eph. 1:4
“God chose us (us that believe) in
Jesus Christ to be Holy and
blameless in his sight”
There are only two groups of people in the world:
unholy or Holy
unbelievers or believers
sinners or Saints
When you have gone over from death to life, you
don’t go back…

109. 96) Eph. 1:7
“In Him – Jesus – we have
forgiveness of sins”
We have forgiveness.
We don’t have to go to Jesus and receive new
forgiveness if we sin.
The new Testament does not have one example of
believers confessing their sins. Not one. (We’ll
explain 1 John 1:9 when we get there)
When we sin we can go to him and say: Thank you
Jesus that the sin I just committed is included in
the perfect sacrifice you brought for all the sins of
the world when you died on the cross.

110. 97) Eph. 2:10
“We are created in Christ Jesus to do
good works – which God prepared in
advance for us to do…”
Yes, we do good works!
But not to contribute to our salvation,
but because God prepared it for us.
How wonderful! We just go out and do
what he has prepared… Fantastic!

111. 98) Eph. 4:11
“Christ gave apostles, prophets,
evangelists – then pastors and
teachers to equip the Saints for
ministry”
Notice all the gifting's are in plural.
Equipping the Saint is never a one man job.
Never! Many churches have never
understood this. They have only one
teacher – the senior pastor – as “the
teacher” 52 weeks a year.

112. 99) Eph. 5:21
“submit one to another…”
We are all equal before the Lord.
And we all submit to one another.
Church is made up of equal partners.
At the same time we are to submit to our
leaders.
And they are as servants of the Lord submitting
to every member.
Hard to do and understand, you say.
Yes, but it works.

113. 100) Phil. 1:1
“To all the Saints in Christ - including
the overseers (pastors in plural) and
deacons (helpers in the church)
Paul addresses the letter to “the
people” – but he is kind enough to
include all the pastors and the deacons
in the greeting.

114. 101) Col. 1:18
“He – Jesus – is the head of the
church – the body of Christ.”
The head gives direction directly to
each body part. The elders and
teachers come alongside to help each
body part function as instructed and
planned.

115. 102) Col. 2:16
“Do not let anyone judge you by
what you eat and drink…”
You are free to eat and drink anything
you want in moderation.
But don’t do it to provoke the “weak”.

116. 103) Col. 2: 20-22
“Don’t submit to the rules (traditions) of the
world. Do this. Don’t do this. They are based
on human commands and teachings”
Be independent. Follow your heart.
Not the fashions. Not their idols.
Not their meaningless religious rituals. To
some rituals feels spiritual. This is often
rooted in lack of a real and personal
relationship with Him.

117. 104) Col. 3:12
“live in compassion, kindness,
humility, gentleness and patience”
In plain English: Always be nice!

118. 105) Col. 3:16
“Let the message of Christ dwell among you
as you teach and admonish one another with
all wisdom true psalms, hymns, songs from
the Spirit, singing to God with gratitude in
your hearth”
These are some of the church activities Paul
recommends.
It is probably most useful in a home group
setting… Not all people a crazy about
admonishing. (firm warnings or a reprimand)

119. 106) Col. 4:2
“devote yourself to prayer. Be
thankful. “
There it is again. Devotion to prayer.
But it is possible to talk to God all day
without closed eyes and bended knees.
After all – Christ lives within us and God is
our daddy.
How hard is it to talk to daddy?

120. 107) Col. 4:6
“let your conversation be full of
grace”
Be gentle.
You don’t have to raise your voice.
Listen with both ears.
Speak in love.
So when you talk to each other: Be nice!

121. 108) Col. 4:15
“Give my greetings to Nympha and
the church in her house”
This woman had a church in her house. It was
probably led by a man. And she was in charge
of the coffee.
(just kidding)
Woman are generally better then us men when
it comes to prayer, listening and “one on one”
conversation. I think God made us that way.

122. 109) 1 Thess. 4:3-6
Paul writing to the Christians in
Thessalonica: “The Lord will punish
all who commit sexual immorality”
…Not that he will take away your salvation and
send you to hell…
Punishment or discipline – it will not be
comfortable. But it will hopefully straiten you
out…

123. 110) 1 Thess. 4:11-12
“work with your hands as we instructed you
that your daily life might win the respect of
outsiders so you will not be dependant on
anyone”
These are instructions to the church
members. We have learned earlier that
teachers (pastors) can make a living from
their teaching. At the same time, Paul never
used this “right” but chose to support
himself as a tentmaker. “Good for him.”

124. 111) 1 Tess. 5:12
“live in peace with each other”
Church members! Brothers and sisters!
Make a strong effort to live in peace,
love and friendship with each other.

125. 112) 1 Thess. 5:16
“rejoice always”
Always means “always”.
Not only when things go well – but
when life is hard, challenging, difficult,
unfear and depressing.
The rejoicing will in fact help you out of
your difficulty.

126. 113) 1 Thess. 5:17
“pray continually”
We have read it before. But it is worth
repeating. We are not talking prayer on your
knees with eyes closed and hands folded. Then
we would not get anything done any day. We’re
talking: Have a conversation with Jesus (He lives
within you) when you are alone – out walking or
driving…

127. 114) 1 Thess. 5:18
“give thanks in all circumstance”
This is a hard one. But it is possible.
When you know that Christ is in you – that
you never get out of his will – that you are
yoked together with him – you can trust him
and give thanks in all situations.

128. 115) 1 Thess. 5:19
“do not quench the Spirit”
Don’t hold back or quench the Spirit
that lives within you and wants to grow
in you and “take over” your life.
Remember: when you came to Christ
you willingly accepted to lay down your
own life (control of your life) and let
Him be the Lord of your life.

129. 116) 1 Thess. 5:20
“Do not threat prophets with
contempt”
Let me speak straight: Prophets (or a person
with a prophetic gifting) do not have a lot of
acceptance or recognition in our “modern”
churches. The senior pastor is often controlling
the gatherings and is afraid of the prophetic.
This “contempt” must come to an end. At the
same time must the prophet learn to prophecy
within the framework of the scripture. Not hell
and fire – but guide and lift up the people.

130. 117) 1 Thess. 5:21
“Test the prophets – hold on to what
is good”
The prophet is not a “one man show”. We
are to test – with our spirit – if what he or
she is bringing is “sound” according to the
scripture. In other words: From the Lord.
If not: Spit it out! (and if necessary: Ask him
or her to leave)

131. 118) 2 Thess. 3:6
“keep away from every believer who
do not live according to the teaching
you received from us (me: Paul)”
A strong warning and command from Paul.
Paul hated wrong teaching.
He hated a diluted gospel full of “mixture”.
He warned strongly against sinful living.
This is not addressed to the every day Christian that
might have a “fall”, but to hardened advocates
of “wrong doing.”

132. 119) 2 Thess. 3:10
“The one who is unwilling to work,
let him not eat”
The key word here is unwilling.
A person sick and unable is not effected by this.
But unwillingness demonstrates a attitude
problem and laziness. Paul that worked “two
jobs” hated laziness.
Therefore: Let them not eat! (and they will
eventually come to their senses)

133. 120) 1 Tim. 2:8
“I want the men everywhere, to pray
and lift up holy hands – without
anger and dispute”
Many men say: Nobody is going to tell me
when, how or if to lift my hands in prayer
and worship in church.
Well – you are not the Lord of your life.
When Paul says to do this, let go your ego
and lift your hands is praise to the Lord.
(don’t be such a stubborn ass)

134. 121) 1 Tim. 2:9
“I want the woman to dress
modestly”
Christian woman can be beautiful inside and
outside. But they are not to dress according to
the world – sexy in public.
May be it is ok at a small party with their
husbands – but not on the platform of the
church.
Why not? Men can not help to get turned on
and undress them with their eyes. Please help
us!

135. 122) 1 Tim. 2:12
“a woman should not assume
authority over a man”
This is a very misunderstood and misused scripture.
A woman president, governor, chief of police or judge assume
authority over men and everybody else. Get used to it.
But what about in the church?
Woman missionaries – Sunday school teachers – evangelists,
pastors and teachers??
No problem. None of these functions give any authority over a
man. They can not say: You have to do this or do that…
They simple serve as teachers of the word. Only Christ is the
head and authority over the church. So woman – take your
rightful place and use the gifting God have given you!

136. 123) 1 Tim. 3:2-7
Qualifications for an overseer (bishop, elder
or pastor): “Faithful to his wife, tempered,
show self-control, respectable, hospitable,
able to teach, not a drunkard, gentle, not
quarrelsome, not a lover of money, mange his
own family well, not a resent convert and
well thought of by outsiders”
Paul lists 13 “recommended” qualifications for a pastor. I say
recommended because in a smaller fellowship it might be difficult
to find this “perfect” man. What is equally import is the
qualifications Paul does not list: He does not need to be educated,
hold a doctorate, being a reverend or have gone to bible school.
In this particular listing Paul does not mention any “spiritual
gifting” except “able to teach”.

137. 124) 1 Tim. 3:12-13
Qualifications for a deacon:
very much the same as for a pastor –
but they do not need to be able to
teach.
In many churches deacons are tradespeople
that take care of the practical jobs in the
church. Good for them. But who is there to
give the pastor spiritual advise? What
happened to the spiritual support team
called elders – elders in plural?

138. Where the church is lacking according to
Paul’s leadership model, is on the overseer
level.
Many churches has chosen a leadership
model with one person on the top. With al
due respect: This is not a biblical model.
Elders (pastors or overseers) are always
mention in plural. They work as a spiritual
leadership team. Listening to each other and
leaning on each other. And then they try to
come to an united decision. If thy can’t they
pray and meditate on the “word” for another
week until the Spirit has united them.

139. One more thing:
The church should not be lead by “the pastor’s
vision”. The vision of the church comes from
Jesus and the scriptures. Not from one man.
And in the case they are planning anything for
the future it should be the vision and decision
of the leadership in plural.
It’s not about having the right man at the helm
- it’s about having the right men. (and woman)

140. 125) 1 Tim. 5:17
“Elders (or pastors) should be
worthy of double honor (respect)”
Absolutely. Double honor and respect.
But don’t confuse this with double pay
like some like to believe…

141. 126) 1 Tim. 6:10
“the love of money is the root of all
kinds of evil”
A prudent warning!
Money it self is not a problem – if you
can control it. But if to much money
leads to a sinful lifestyle – to arrogance
and selfishness, then it can destroy your
life.

142. 127) 2 Tim. 2:19
“Everyone confessing the name of
the Lord, must turn away from
wickedness.”
This is a command – you must!
If you say that you are a believer, you
must turn away from wickedness.
It’s kind of like “one or the other”…

143. 128) 2 Tim. 2:22
“Don’t be quarrelling but kind to
everyone”
Many of us love quarrelling. We fight to win a
discussion. It’s like a sport.
But it is not nice. This scripture tells us to be
kind to one another. Remember that next time
your sinful lust of quarrelling raises up in you…

144. 129) 2 Tim. 2:25
“bible teachers must correct their
opponents with gentle instruction”
It can be helpful (and fun) sometimes to
discuss theology.
But if you have to correct your brother,
do it in a gentle way. Don’t be arrogant
or supperior…

145. 130) 2 Tim. 3:5
“in the last days people will have a
form of godliness – but denying it’s
power. Have nothing to do with
such people”
Look around you! People are religious. They call
them self spiritual. They even believe that Jesus
was a good man and an example to us.
But they deny that he was God in flesh. They
deny the resurrection power.
These people are not our Christian brothers and
sister.
Paul says: Have nothing to do with them.

146. 131) Titus 1:5-9
“Titus appoints elders in every town…”
Again: Notice there were no democratic
elections for leadership – as in “one member
one vote”. The leadership was chosen by the
leadership.
One reason can be that the leadership had
better insight in to what it takes to lead –
practically and spiritually.
Secondly: It does not make sense that the vote
of a new believer that got saved and came in to
the church “yesterday, “ should count as much
as the vote of the elders that have been doing
this for 20 years…

147. 132) Titus 1:10-14
“There are many rebellious people in the
church (like the “re-introduce circumcism”
group).
They must be silenced.
They pay attention to Jewish myths and
human commands of unbelievers. They
disturb whole households (house churches)”

148. It is not only Paul that take action
against false teaching in the church. So
does Titus. Obviously this must be of
some importance.
There has always been attempts to
hijack the church and lead it away from
sound doctrine and the pure gospel.
Even in our time the local church
leadership have to watch out for this
type of infiltration.

149. 133) Titus 2:3
“Teach the older woman to be
reverend in the way they live – not
to be slanders and addicted to much
wine”
It’s not only the woman this apply to.
Be careful with the wine drinking.
Like the old saying goes: When the wine
goes in, the mind goes out.”
Remember: Not to much alcohol…

150. 134) Titus 2:9
“ teach slaves…”
Since slavery now is abolished, we can safely
conclude that this recommendation from
Titus fall in to the category: “Culturally
conditioned writings in the Bible” that does
not apply to Christians or anyone else…
They can be ignored.

151. 135) Philemon 1:8
Paul is writing to Philemon: “In Christ I could
be bold and order you to do what you ought
to do, but I prefer to appeal to you on the
basis of love”
Ordering people around in the church is
not always a good strategy. An appeal
rooted in love will most likely work
much better…

152. 137) Hebrews 2:11
“Jesus and the holy ones are the
same family” “Jesus is not ashamed
to call us brothers and sisters”
Well, If it is good enough for Jesus it
should be good enough for Reverend
so and so… or doctor so and so.

153. 138) Hebrews 5:11
“you no longer try to understand”
Here we are talking about “falling asleep” in our
old ways and beliefs…
It’s like the old expression: It is hard to teach an
old dog new tricks.
It also say’s something about a bad attitude
towards learning new thing!
We are to grow constantly in understanding…
Until the Lord takes us home!

154. 139) Hebrews 5:12
“In fact, you need someone to teach
you the elementary truths all over
again…”
Can you imagine: Old believers forgetting the
important things…
…which is Jesus and his salvation and grace given
freely to all mankind!
And we got caught up in some religious nonsense…

155. 140) Hebrews 12:7
“…endure hardship as discipline”
Many believers experience hardship in life.
And very often Satan our enemy is blamed
for it…
While in fact it is God disciplining us for our
own good…. …so he can get us where he
wants us. Gods discipline is good for us!

156. 141) Hebrews 12:14
“make every effort to live in peace
with each other”
Peace takes effort.
But sometime peace becomes impossible.
Then you might end in war…
…that be on a national level or a personal
level.

157. 142) Hebrews 13:3
“remember those in prison”
What the writer here is referring to is:
Remember all the Christians that are
suffering for the Gospel’s sake – in
prison or other types of persecution.
Yes – it still happens in our time…

158. 143) Hebrews 13:4
“keep the marriage bed pure”
Sleeping around is sin.
Sin has consequences.
The consequences could make you very
unhappy.
Unhappiness makes life painful…
To much pain can kill you.

159. 144) Hebrews 13:5a
“keep your lives free from love of
money”
Notice it says: love of money.
Money is convenient to pay bills with.
But if you crave more money so you can
have more ad more “stuff”, it can
become a killer like to much alcohol or
to much drugs…

160. 145) Hebrews 13:5b
“be content with what you have”
Don’t strive and stress to have more “stuff”.
Be content! God in his love will provide your
needs. And sometimes he will give you
more then you need… …so you can share
with the once that don’t have.
Our north American Christian culture has a
long way to go on this one…

161. 146) Hebrews 13:7
“submit to the authorities”
I don’t like to submit. I like to be the
boss. But the scriptures says the
authorities are put there by God.
But I don’t like what they do and
believe.
Again, trust them to the Lord.

162. 147) Hebrews 13:17
“Have confidence in your leaders”
It is hard to trust someone else. Because “I”
know so much better…
But trust them to the Lord.
It is amazing what God can get done without
my help.
I’ll choose to trust Him.

163. 148) Hebrews 13:17b
“the leaders keep watch over you”
The local elders in the church are Jesus’ under-
shepherds..
They are there to help you if (when) you get
lost…
You might not like to be “watched”.
But this is a good thing.
Everybody need to answer to someone…

164. 149) James 1:19
“Be quick to listen – slow to speak –
and slow to become angry”
This is godly wisdom that applies to
most relationships we deal with – at
home – at work – among friends.
It is good to be reminded of this.

165. 150) James 2:1-4
“Show no favoritism toward rich or
poor. The persons attending your
“meetings” deserves the same
treatment”
Unfortunately the social ladder is well
developed in many churches.
And if you are lucky you might get invited in to
the VIP room at church after the service to
shake hands with the “pulpit people”…

166. 151) James 4:6
“God opposes the proud – but
shows favour to the humble”
Don’t think to highly of yourself just
because God allowed you to have
some success.

167. 152) James 4:13-15
“Don’t say: Tomorrow we will do this
or that. But say: If it is the Lord will,
tomorrow we will do this”
Yes – I’m all for planning and budgeting. But
remember: Our plans are only possible to
implement when the Lord is in it… “He
plans our tomorrow – He ordains our steps.”
That is a better way to live…

168. 153) James 5:1-4
You rich people: “The wages you failed to pay
your workers cry out against you. Weep and
wail for the misery that is coming against you!
Don’t underpay your people just because you
can get away with it.
Give a man (or a woman) “fair pay” so they can
make a living and don’t have to live in poverty.
If not, God will allow misery to come your way.
I did not say it – James did. Consider yourself
warned.

169. 154) James 5:13
“Are you in trouble? Pray.
Are you happy? Sing songs of praise.
Are you sick? Call on the elders to pray and to
be anointed with oil in the name of the Lord”
Good practical advise.
Anointing with oil and prayer in the
name of Jesus – by the elders (pastors),
just might be the way to go if you are
sick.

170. 155) James 5:16
“confess your sins to each other –
and pray for each other – so that
you may be healed”
First: In this verse there is no mention of confession of sins to the
Lord. The reason is that he has already forgiven us when he took all
the sins of the world on himself. So His forgiveness is a “done del”.
But we are to confess to each other!!!
If I have sinned against my brother – and he against me, we need to
“clear the air - forgive each other – cry together – pray for each other”.
…so that you can be healed. Emotionally healed.
Unsolved issues between brothers can “eat you up”.
Clear the air – and be healed!

171. 156) 1 Peter 1:1-2
“To Gods elect – grace and peace be
yours in abundance”
Question 1: If God himself elected you – can you
be un-elected?
Question 2: If you have Grace abundance – which
means “more the you need” – is it then possible
that if you should “fall in sin” you can be
separated from your fellowship with God?
I don’t think so!

172. 157) 1 Peter 2:5
“You – like living stones – are built into a
spiritual house – to be a holy priesthood –
God’s special possession – the people of God”
We are a holy priesthood!
We are all priests.
Not only the pastor and the deacons.
It sounds like we are all important stones in
Gods spiritual house. Lift your head. You
are important . You are a priest in His
kingdom.

173. 158) 1 Peter 2:13
“submit yourself to every human
authority – honor the emperor
(president)”
Many Christians don’t like these words from
cretezy and “put down” the highest elected
leaders of the land if he comes from the
wrong political party. Not so.

174. 159) 1 Peter 3:8
“be likeminded – be sympathetic –
love one another – compassionate
and humble”
Are you getting it?
Christians are suppose to be kind, helpful
and loving.
If that is not you, you need to smarten up!

175. 160) 1 Peter 5:1-3
To the elders (pastors) among you: “Be
shepherds of God’s flock that is under your
care. Watching over them. Not pursuing
dishonest gain. Not Lording over them.”
What does it mean to Shepard?
To look after – to protect – to care for – to help out
of trouble – to bring back – to put on a bandage.
What does it mean to Lord over people?
You tell people: do this – and do that… They are like
your personal servants. Like slaves…
Pastors should not hold slaves!

176. 161) 1 Peter 5:5
“you who are younger – submit
yourselves to your elders (pastors)”
Many “younger” don’t like to do this.
They feel they are the once that should be the leaders – since they
often have more education, are more relevant and can work harder.
This is much the same mindset as in the corporate world.
People over 40-50 are not relevant and “over the hill...”
The word of God does not teach this.
Elders have more life experience.
They have walked longer with the Lord…
May be it’s time for the “adults” to take back the church leadership…

177. 162) 2 Peter 2:2+21
“There will be false teachers among you –
introducing false and destructive heresies – even
denying the savarin Lord (or: denying the Master who
bought them). They will be paid back with harm for
the harm they have done. It would have been better
for them not to have known the way of
righteousness”
Listen to this statement of Peter: Not to have known Christ is
better than to have known him and later deny him.
Un-saved people are better of than these people? Talk about
serious consequences.
At the same time we also know that Peter himself denied Jesus –
but this was more of a “one time - falling in sin” that there is
forgiveness for.

178. 163) 2 Peter 3:14
Peter conclusion: “Make every effort
to be found spotless, blameless and
at peace with him (Jesus)”
It does take effort to be found
blameless. The effort is that “your
mindset” and heart must be to say no
to sin. But as believers we do have a
spokesman (Jesus), that covers us and
picks us up, if we should fall…

179. 164) 1 John 1:5-7
“God is light. If we walk in him, the
blood of Jesus purifies us
(constantly) from all sin”
Jesus carried (past tense) our sins on the cross almost 2000
years ago.
At the same time: His blood purifies us (present tense)
constantly from all sin.
“It’s like always being in the shower”. This purification is not
triggered by our constant or regular confession of sin. If you
are “saved” this cleansing is automatic. So in stead of listing
and confessing sins, you can now praise him for his constant
cleansing. Hallelujah!

180. 165) 1 John 1:8
“ if we (you) claim to be without sin or never
have sinned, we (you) deceive your self and
“the truth” (Jesus) is not in us (you)”
First: Here Paul uses the term “we” to be including
and in an attempt to see these people “change their
mind”.
But he is really addressing them only and could have
been more precise and used the term “you”.
If you say you have never sinned (are sin-free), Jesus
Christ is not in you. Then you are not saved.
So here John is speaking to unbelievers.
This is very important to understand before we move
on to the next verse.

181. 166) 1 John 1:9
“if we (you) confess your sin
(or more precisely: “acknowledge that you have sin”
(or have sinned), or “agree with God what He says”
(that you have sinned); then he is faithful and just
and will forgive us (you)and purify us(you) from all
righteousness”
When an unbeliever acknowledge he has sinned and
believe and receive Jesus as his savior from all sin, he is
born again and becomes a Christian.
This verse is only referring to becoming a Christian
for the first time.
This verse is not an instruction for daily or weekly
confession.

182. 167) 1 John 1:10
“If we (you) claim that you have not
sinned, His word (Jesus) is not in
you”
This verse is almost like verse 8.
Who is “the word” ? Jesus!
People that claim that they have not sinned,
do not have Jesus in them.
This is another “proof” that these scriptures
are talking about unbelievers only.

183. To understand 1. John 1 is of outmost
importance. Many churches and ministries are
“founded” on misinterpreting these scriptures.
You might be in “shock” right now. This is not
what you have been “told” to believe.
These scriptures have for centuries been used as
instruction for Christians to confess their sin and
receive forgiveness for their weekly (or daily)
sins.
This is what has brought people back to church
week after week. It has kept the “church
machine” going. Confession – forgiveness –
tiding – new confession – new forgiveness –
more tiding. Over and over and over again.

184. In the old days when people could not read or
write, they had no way of understanding these
scriptures. They were told by the church priest
what they meant. And they were mislead.
Today we can read for ourselves. No one needs
to be mislead anymore. The institutional church
with its religious rituals can now be examined.
You can choose to continue with these practises.
Or you can study the scriptures for yourself and
be exposed to the truth.
But I can tell you from my own experience:
“When the truth sets you free, you are free
indeed!”

185. 168) 1 John 2:1
“I wrote this to you so that you will not sin.
But if anyone does sin we have and advocate
(Jesus) – he is the atoning sacrifice for our sin”
“Will not” is talking about our will or
choice… We have a choice not to sin.
But if anyone in spite of his will – attitude –
commitment to not sin, should sin anyway;
don’t worry – you are still covered by our
advocate Jesus.
He is our security net.

186. 169) 1 John 2:2
“…and not only for our sins, but for
the sins of all the world.”
It sounds like if we read verse 1 and 2 together:
The “security net” that Jesus has for us (verse1) also
is extended to include not only our sin but also the
sin of the whole world.
In other words: Every person in the world have their
sin “taken care of” (forgiven). There is no sin that
separates us (or anyone) from God anymore.
But it is still required for every person to “access“
this forgiveness: What did you do with Jesus?
Do you choose to receive him as your savior?

187. 170) 1 John 2:3
“if we keep his commandments, we
know we have come to know him”
So how can we determine if a person “know him”
( has received him and is saved)?
If they keep his commandments! Both of them.
Not the commandments of the law, but the
commandments of Jesus.
And these commandments are – you find them in
chapter 3 verse 23:
Believe in Jesus and love one another!

188. 171) 1 John 2:9
“anyone that claims to be in the light
(in Christ) but hates his brother, is
still in darkness”
Just like in verse 3, here is a measuring stick if
you really are “saved”: If you say you are a
believer (saved) but hate your brother ( brother
refers to your fellow brother in the church), you
are still in darkness (unsaved) and the light of
the Lord has not reached you. (yet)

189. 172) 1 John 2:15
“Do not love the world or anything
in it”
Loving the world does not mean caring for the
world – loving birds, trees, whales, mountains
and the tropical rain forest.
Loving the world is explained in verse 16 and is :
the lust of the flesh, lust of eyes and pride of life.
You say: “I want all this and I’m proud of it”

190. 173) 1 John 3:6
“no one who lives in him keeps on
sinning”
“Christ in you - you in him – one with
Christ”. John say’s when this is the
case, you don’t keep on sinning (like
you used to do).
A life in sin as a lifestyle is over. But can
you trip and fall? If so, get up and move
on with Him.

191. 174) 1 John 5:13
“This is his commandments: Believe
in Jesus and love one another”
Believe in Jesus – love God – love one
another (in the church) – love you
neighbor. That’s it.

192. 175) Jude 1:2
“Keep yourself in the love of God”
This is it!
This is the conclusion of all we have read.
We can sum it up in one sentence:
“Keep yourself in the love of God”

193. Closing comments:
This presentation and comments are written by JanEgil
Gulbrandsen, Victoria BC, Canada
co-director of Grace Camp Ministries.
Send any comments to: gulbrandsen@islandnet.com
I has been married to Beverly Joy, my Canadian wife for 37 years.
She certainly is “my Joy.” We have 5 adult children and several
grand children.
I grew up in Norway and am a co-founder and CEO (ret.) of a major
Norwegian retail chain that now counts over 210 stores, have
hundreds of employees and over a billion dollars in yearly sales.
I have education from Norwegian School of Management. (B.I. -
Oslo)
I work now as an international investor – primarily with real estate
projects in Canada, Norway and Brazil.
After 40 years as member of an institutional church and a life of
theological “mixture”, I am now on a “pure Grace journey” –
inspired by teachers like Joseph Prince, Bob George, Andrew
Farley, Andrew Wommack, Frank Viola and Age Aleskjaer.
“Thanks be to God that it is newer to late to get out of confusion
and into understanding and freedom.”