Study Guides The Apostles’ Creed Thirdmill 316 Live Oaks Boulevard Casselberry, FL 32707 USA ************************************* STUDY GUIDE 1.1 Lesson 1: The Articles of Faith Section 1: History OUTLINE FOR TAKING NOTES Introduction I. History A. Development B. Purpose 1. Scripture 2. Traditional Teachings 3. Apostles’ Creed REVIEW QUESTIONS 1. What is the importance of the Apostles' Creed, according to the lesson? 2. What is the probable origin of the Apostles' Creed? 3. When was the form of the Apostles' Creed as we know it today standardized? In what language? 4. What was the "Old Roman Creed"? Explain its history and importance. 5. What authority does the Apostles' Creed have for the church? 6. What was the view of Origen, Hyppolytus and Basil, Christian writers from the third and fourth centuries, regarding the authority of the Scriptures and the authority of traditional church teachings? 7. What are some of the explanations given by theologians in the lesson that show why there was a need for the Apostles' Creed? 8. Explain the illustration of the "links of chain" with regard to infallibility. 9. What were Cyprian's views of the authority of the traditional teachings of the church? 10. What were Augustine's views about the importance of the creeds of the Church, especially the Nicene Creed? QUESTIONS FOR APPLICATION AND REFLECTION 1. What is your view of the importance of the Apostles' Creed? How should we use it? For example, should we cite it together in our worship services as a statement of our faith? Should we use it to teach church members? Should we use it to evaluate the faith of new members? Explain your ideas. 2. Do you think it is important to believe all the doctrines in the Apostles’ Creed to be saved? Why or why not? 3. How would you answer someone who said that all we need is the Bible, and that creeds such as the Apostles' Creed are unnecessary? ************************************* STUDY GUIDE 1.2 Lesson 1: The Articles of Faith Section 2: Overview OUTLINE FOR TAKING NOTES II. Overview A. God 1. Trinity 2. Persons B. Church 1. Participation 2. Preservation C. Salvation REVIEW QUESTIONS 1. What are the three main themes of the Apostles’ Creed? 2. What are the three statements that introduce each main section of the Apostles’ Creed? 3. Is the word "Trinity" in the Bible or in the Apostles’ Creed? 4. Explain the teaching of the Apostles' Creed on the Trinity. 5. What does the Islamic religion teach about Jesus? 6. What does the Apostles' Creed teach about the Holy Spirit? 7. When the Apostles’ Creed speaks of the "holy catholic church," what does it mean? 8. Make sure you are familiar with the content of each of the following Bible passages: Hebrews 10:25, Jude 3-4, John 3:16-17, and John 5:28-29. 9. When the Creed mentions the phrase "(I believe in) the resurrection of the body," to what is it referring? QUESTIONS FOR APPLICATION AND REFLECTION 1. Why do you think it is important to believe in the Trinity? Is it necessary to believe in the doctrine of the Trinity to be saved? If we were not to accept the doctrine of the Trinity, how would it affect other doctrines? How would it affect our Christian lives? 2. If the doctrine of the Trinity is so important, why is it not expressed more explicitly in the Bible? 3. If the doctrine of the Trinity is so important, why did the early church take so long to clarify it in the first centuries? 4. Do you believe it is necessary to be able to express the doctrine of the Trinity in such precise terms as they have done in the creeds and theology texts? If not, what are the theological concepts that really are important in order to avoid a serious heresy? 5. Can you honestly say that you believe the doctrines surveyed in this section of the lesson? Explain. 6. Are you actively participating in a local church? If not, why not? If so, how has it been helpful for you in your Christian walk? 7. Why do you think more attention is not given to the topic of the Holy Spirit in the Apostles' Creed? What importance do you give to the role of the Holy Spirit in your own spiritual walk? ************************************* STUDY GUIDE 1.3 Lesson 1: The Articles of Faith Section 3: Importance OUTLINE FOR TAKING NOTES III. Importance A. Foundational 1. Standard 2. Logical Basis B. Universal 1. New Testament 2. Church History 3. Present C. Unifying Conclusion REVIEW QUESTIONS 1. In what sense is the Apostles’ Creed "foundational"? 2. What belief of Gnosticism was corrected in the Apostles’ Creed? 3. In what way do the doctrines of the Apostles’ Creed logically lead to other valid doctrines? 4. What does the lesson mean when it says that the Apostles’ Creed is "universal"? 5. What historical creeds were primarily based on the Apostles’ Creed? 6. What organizations are considered "cults," according to the lesson, because they do not hold to the doctrines of the Apostles’ Creed? 7. How should striving for unity be related to striving for pure doctrine? 8. Make sure you are familiar with the contents of the following Bible passages: Ephesians 2:19-21, 1 Corinthians 13:2, Ephesians 4:11-13, and John 17:23. QUESTIONS FOR APPLICATION AND REFLECTION 1. What do you believe to be the most important or inspiring part of the Creed? Explain why. 2. What are the portions of the Creed that you find most challenging or difficult to grasp? Why? 3. How do you think the Apostles' Creed could be used to promote greater unity among Christian churches? 4. What teaching from this whole lesson has meant the most to you? Explain why. 5. Read the following quotes and select the religion you believe each one represents. After you make your choices, you may look at the sources of the quotes at the end of the last study guide. (See *) Quote A: "I am become as a demon apart, who dwelleth in matter and light is not in him, and I am become as a counterfeiting spirit, which is in a material body and light-power is not in it." ___ Christianity ___ Gnosticism ___ Jehovah's Witnesses ___ I'm not sure. Quote B: "Notice that Jesus prays to One whom he calls 'the only true God.' He points to God’s superior position when he continues: 'So now you, Father, glorify me alongside yourself with the glory that I had alongside you before the world was.' (John 17:5) Since Jesus prayed to God requesting to be alongside God, how could Jesus at the same time be 'the only true God'?" ___ Christianity ___ Gnosticism ___ Jehovah's Witnesses ___ I'm not sure. ************************************* STUDY GUIDE 2.1 Lesson 2: God the Father Section 1: God OUTLINE FOR TAKING NOTES Introduction I. God A. Singularity 1. Polytheism 2. Monotheism 3. Christianity B. Simplicity REVIEW QUESTIONS 1. Explain the meaning of the term "singularity" when used in reference to God? 2. Explain the meaning of polytheism, monotheism, atheism, and henotheism. 3. Explain the teaching of Romans 1:2-23 about how God has revealed Himself to all people. 4. Explain the basic differences between Christianity, Judaism and Islam, with regard to their understanding of God. 5. How did Mohammed confuse the Christian view of the Trinity? 6. How does the Bible sometimes use the name "god," when it is not referring to the one true God? 7. Give the meaning each biblical name of God: El Shaddai, El Elyon, Adonai, and Yahweh. 8. Explain the meaning of the term "simplicity" when used in reference to God. 9. Make sure you are familiar with the basic contents of the following Bible passages: Romans 1:20-23, 1 Kings 8:60, Luke 10:16, Exodus 3:13-14. QUESTIONS FOR APPLICATION AND REFLECTION 1. Does the concept of the Trinity sometimes confuse you? Why is it important to try to understand it and express it in words? 2. In general, how would you explain the most important differences between Christianity and other religions? 3. Do you think that other religions have some teachings in common with Christianity? If so, give some examples and explain how they came to hold these teachings. 4. How do you feel about other religions? Do you think the differences are important? 5. Outside of Christianity, what are the other religions with most adherents in your country? Why do you think they are popular? 6. Do you think someone can be saved if they believe in another religion? ************************************* STUDY GUIDE 2.2 Lesson 2: God the Father Section 2: Father Almighty OUTLINE FOR TAKING NOTES II. Father Almighty A. Name B. Person C. Fatherhood 1. Creator 2. King 3. Family Head D. Power 1. Unlimited 2. Matchless REVIEW QUESTIONS 1. What are the three principle meanings of "father" when the term is used in Scripture in reference to God? 2. What does the lesson teach about when the name "Father" refers to the first person of the Trinity in the Bible? 3. Explain the difference between "ontological Trinity" and "economic Trinity." 4. Explain the orthodox theology regarding the relation between the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit, both in terms of the "ontological Trinity" and in terms of the "economic Trinity." 5. Why did ancient people often refer to their king as "father"? 6. Explain the three aspects of the fatherhood of God as taught in the lesson: creator, king, and family head. 7. In what sense are there some things that God "cannot" do? 8. Make sure you are familiar with the basic contents of the following passages: John 14:16-17, Hosea 11:1, Jeremiah 10:10-16, and Isaiah 14:24-27. QUESTIONS FOR APPLICATION AND REFLECTION 1. When you think of God, what is the image that usually comes to mind? Do you imagine Him on a throne? Do you see Him smiling, or serious? Do you think of Him as happy or sad? Do you imagine Him old or young? Do you picture Him with a beard? Is the figure of a father key to the way you imagine Him? Do you think you are imagining Him as the Bible describes Him, or that you should change the way you think of Him? 2. What do you think of the idea of speaking of God as a woman? Are there some characteristics of God that reflect the positive qualities that tend to be strongest in women? If you think so, give examples. 3. In what ways does it help you to remember that God is your "father almighty"? How does it affect your prayer? How does it help you confront difficulties? Mention examples. 4. To whom should we direct our prayers? Only to God the Father? Defend your answer. 5. How do you think your relationship with your earthly father has affected the way you think of God your heavenly Father? If it was not a good relationship, how can you work toward developing a more biblical view of God? 6. DOSTOYEVSKI AND GOD AS FATHER On his deathbed, the famous Russian author, Fyodor Dostoyevski, summoned his wife and his children. He asked his wife to read the story of the prodigal son from the Bible. Then he said: "My children, never forget what you have just heard. Have absolute faith in God, and never doubt his forgiveness. I love you profoundly, but my love is nothing compared to the love of God. Even if you commit a horrendous crime and feel only bitterness, do not stray from God. You are his children. Humble yourselves before him as before a father; plead for his forgiveness, and he will rejoice in your repentance, as a father rejoiced in his prodigal son." ...In a few minutes, he died. What aspects of God the Father did Dostoyevski emphasize in this moment? [See Philip Yancey, The Jesus I Never Knew, (Grand Rapids: Zondervan, 1995), and Ruth Bell Graham, Prodigals and Those Who Love Them (Colorado Springs, Colorado: Focus on the Family, 1991), pp. 119-126.] 7. Read the following quote from J. I. Packer: "You sum up the whole of New Testament teaching in a single phrase, if you speak of it as a revelation of the Fatherhood of the holy Creator. In the same way, you sum up the whole of New Testament religion if you describe it as the knowledge of God as one's holy Father. If you want to judge how well a person understands Christianity, find out how much he makes of the thought of being God's chile, and having God as his Father." "Do I as a Christian understand myself? Do I know my own real identity? My own real destiny? I am a child of God. God is my Father; heaven is my home; every day is one day nearer. My Savior is my brother; every Christian is my brother too. Say it over and over to yourself first thing in the morning, last thing at night, as you wait for the bus, any time when your mind is free, and ask that you may be enabled to live as one who knows it is all utterly and completely true." [J. I. Packer, Knowing God (Downers Grove: InterVarsity Press, 1973), pp. 201, 228.] Do you agree? Explain why. ************************************* STUDY GUIDE 2.3 Lesson 2: God the Father Section 3: Maker OUTLINE FOR TAKING NOTES III. Maker A. Work of Creation B. Goodness of Creation C. Authority over Creation 1. Absolute 2. Exclusive 3. Exhaustive Conclusion REVIEW QUESTIONS 1. What does "ex nihilo" mean? 2. What was the view of the church during the first centuries after Christ regarding the "days" of creation, as manifested in the Apostles’ Creed? 3. Which person or persons of the Trinity were involved in the creation of the world? 4. Explain the view of the lesson regarding whether creation is still good after the Fall. 5. Write down the quote of John Wesley regarding creation. 6. Explain the meaning of the following terms used to describe God’s authority over creation: absolute, exclusive, and exhaustive. 7. What mistake do we often make in dividing the areas of our lives, according to the lesson? 8. Make sure you are familiar with the contents of the following passages: Genesis 1:1, Genesis 1:31, Genesis 3:7-19, Romans 8:20-22, 1 Timothy 4:4, Romans 9:20-21. QUESTIONS FOR APPLICATION AND REFLECTION 1. Is it important to you to know whether the "days" of creation were six literal 24 hour days? Why? What is your personal view? 2. In what ways do you observe the goodness of creation? What aspects of creation especially make you sense the presence of God? 3. In what ways do you observe the curse that is on the creation? What aspects make you especially aware of the consequences of the Fall? Give examples. 4. Do you think there is more beauty and goodness in creation, even after the Fall, or is there more corruption and pain? Explain your answer and give examples. 5. What is the most significant insight you have learned from the study of this whole lesson? Why? ************************************* STUDY GUIDE 3.1 Lesson 3: Jesus Christ Section 1: Divinity OUTLINE FOR TAKING NOTES Introduction I. Divinity A. Son of God B. Lord REVIEW QUESTIONS 1. How do the Scriptures use the phrase "son of God"? 2. Make sure you are familiar with the contents of the following passages regarding the divinity of Jesus: John 1:1-18 John 8:18-23 John 10:30 John 5:18 Hebrews 1:1-3 3. Make sure you are familiar with the contents of the following passages: John 6:38 John 8:28-29 John 15:26 1 Peter 1:11 4. Note the valid translations of the Greek word "kurios" (this is an English transliteration of the Greek word). 5. Which name of God is translated in the Septuagint (Greek translation of the Old Testament) as "kurios"? 6. Romans 10:9 teaches that if we confess that Jesus is _______ and believe in our heart that God raised Him from the dead, we will be saved. 7. Explain the nature of Jesus in terms of the "ontological" Trinity. 8. Explain the role of Jesus within the "economic" Trinity. 9. What is the significance of calling Jesus "Lord" in the context of the Apostles’ Creed? QUESTIONS FOR APPLICATION AND REFLECTION 1. Have you ever had the tendency to think of Jesus as somehow inferior to God the Father in His actual essence? If so, why do you think that happens? Mention Bible passages that can help avoid that tendency. 2. In your mind do you tend to confuse the roles of the three persons of the Trinity? If so, give an example. Why is it helpful and important to distinguish them? 3. Not only in the Trinity, but in general, does a difference in roles or a difference in authority necessarily imply a difference in honor or importance? Why or why not? How does your answer affect the way you think of human relations such as man and wife or boss and employee? 4. What are some of the important teachings about Jesus in John 1:1-18? 5. What are some of the important teachings about Jesus in Hebrews 1:1-14? 6. How would you answer someone who said that the fact that Jesus is the “son” of God means He is inferior to God the Father? ************************************* STUDY GUIDE 3.2 Lesson 3: Jesus Christ Section 2: Humanity OUTLINE FOR TAKING NOTES II. Humanity A. Experiences 1. Generation 2. Body 3. Soul 4. Resurrection B. Office 1. Old Testament Background 2. Fulfillment in Jesus C. Nature REVIEW QUESTIONS 1. In the early centuries after Christ, did people question mostly the divinity of Jesus or His humanity? 2. In what ways was the humanity of Christ manifested in His birth and in His sufferings? 3. Besides Jesus, what other human beings had no human father? 4. What does Hebrews 2:14-17 teach about why Jesus took on human flesh? 5. Explain the significance of Jesus being a descendant of David. 6. Explain the teaching of the lesson regarding the parts of man and the meaning of the human "soul." 7. What kind of body will believers receive in the final resurrection? 8. What is the linguistic origin of the name "Christ"? 9. Why was it important to note that Jesus was a descendant of David? 10. Explain the meaning of "hypostatic union." 11. Make sure you can state the orthodox position regarding the person and natures of Christ. 12. What does Philippians 2:5 teach about the change Jesus experienced when He became a man? Did He lose divine attributes? Did He give up His divine glory? 13. What does the Chalcedonian Creed say about Christ? 14. Make sure you are familiar with the contents of the following passages: 1 Corinthians 15:20-23 Jeremiah 23:5-6 John 4:25-26 Romans 3:10-12 QUESTIONS FOR APPLICATION AND REFLECTION 1. Why is it important to you in your daily life to remember that Jesus is not only divine, but also human? How does in help you confront difficulties and temptations, for example? How does it affect the way you pray? 2. What do you think? What is the most common tendency, to minimize the divinity of Jesus or to minimize His humanity? In your own life, have you tended to minimize one or the other? If so, which one? Explain an example of how this has happened to you. 3. What teaching of this lesson meant the most to you personally? Why? ************************************* STUDY GUIDE 3.3 Lesson 3: Jesus Christ Section 3: Work OUTLINE FOR TAKING NOTES III. Work A. Humiliation 1. Incarnation 2. Passion B. Exaltation 1. Resurrection 2. Ascension 3. Enthronement 4. Judgment Conclusion REVIEW QUESTIONS 1. Make sure you have memorized the section of the Apostles' Creed pertaining to the work of Christ. 2. What aspect or aspects of man did Jesus take on himself in the incarnation? 3. Why was it necessary for Jesus to become a man? 4. Why did Jesus qualify legally as a descendant of David? 5. What is the linguistic origin of the word "passion"? 6. What does it mean that Jesus was our "penal substitute"? 7. What was the Old Testament understanding of "Sheol"? 8. What was the New Testament understanding of "Hades"? 9. How does the lesson interpret the phrase in the Apostles’ Creed, "He descended into hell"? 10. The lesson teaches that the resurrection of Christ marks the beginning of a new ________. 11. Make sure you are familiar with the contents of the following Bible passages: Hebrews 2:17-18 Romans 5:18-19 Galatians 2:20-21 Luke 16:19-31 Romans 6:4-5 Hebrews 9:11-12 12. What is the meaning of the term "session," in reference to the work of Christ? 13. What does the lesson teach about who is condemned? QUESTIONS FOR APPLICATION AND REFLECTION 1. How does it affect you to reflect on Jesus' humiliation and suffering in your place? For example, does it make you sad? Does it make you want to ask forgiveness? Does it make you want to resist temptation? Does it give you joy? Does it make you realize how much He loves you? Explain. 2. In what ways does it encourage you to know that Jesus is seated at the right hand of the Father interceding for you? For example, does it help you pray with greater faith? Does it help you resist temptation? Explain. 3. Do you believe that Jesus literally descended into hell? How do you understand this? Why is it important to you? 4. What is the most important thing you have learned in this whole lesson about Jesus Christ? Explain. 5. In the video called "A Man in a Hole," different people pass by to give suggestions to a man who has fallen into a pit and cannot climb out by himself. 1) The first one suggests that he meditate to purify his mind, that when he reaches "Nirvana," all suffering will cease. He tries, but remains in the hole. 2) The second passerby argues that the hole does not really exist, and in fact the man himself does not exist. It is just an illusion. Nevertheless, he is real and he remains stuck in the real hole. 3) A third person tells him that he should do good works to accumulate good "kharma." He would remain in the hole, but would possibly be eventually reincarnated as something magnificent. 4) Another recommends praying five times a day facing east, and following five important tasks. If he is faithful, one day he might be set free. But he simply loses his strength and collapses. 5) Finally, when he is losing all hope, another man appears who is different. He calls down and asks him if he really wants to be free. This man throws a rope down, climbs down into the pit, and carries him out to the light. ["A Man in a Hole" as seen in YouTube: http://youtu.be/OEpoHO_Ox6A (August 1, 2013)] What do you think is the message of this video? What does it teach us about other religions? About Jesus Christ? Can you identify with the "man in the hole"? Have you accepted the fact that you cannot overcome your own sin? Have you asked Jesus to take you out of the "hole" of sin? Have you asked Him to save you? ************************************* STUDY GUIDE 4.1 Lesson 4: The Holy Spirit Section 1: Divinity OUTLINE FOR TAKING NOTES Introduction I. Divinity A. Apostles’ Creed 1. Structure 2. Jesus’ Conception B. Biblical Basis 1. Names 2. Attributes 3. Work 4. Formulas REVIEW QUESTIONS 1. According to the lesson, which creed clarified more completely the divinity of the Holy Spirit? 2. According to the lesson, the Apostles’ Creed implies the divinity of the Holy Spirit in two ways. What are they? 3. How did Hippolytus (A.D. 170 – 236) describe early baptismal ceremonies? What does it teach us about their belief in the Trinity? 4. Mention the categories of biblical evidence of the divinity of the Holy Spirit that are used in the lesson, and give examples of each. 5. Mention the "incommunicable" attributes of God that the Holy Spirit possesses. 6. Make sure you are familiar with the contents of the following Bible passages: 1 Corinthians 2:11 Acts 5:3-4 Psalm 139:7-10 2 Peter 1:20-21 Matthew 28:19 2 Corinthians 13:14 QUESTIONS FOR APPLICATION AND REFLECTION 1. What are the areas of most confusion or debate regarding the Holy Spirit in evangelical churches? What are some of the practical consequences? Do you think the differences should be resolved? What areas would you like to understand better? 2. Why is it important to you to recognize the divinity of the Holy Spirit? What difference would it make if He were not divine? 2. How does it affect you personally to know that the Holy Spirit is omnipresent, omniscient, and omnipotent? ************************************* STUDY GUIDE 4.2 Lesson 4: The Holy Spirit Section 2: Personhood OUTLINE FOR TAKING NOTES II. Personhood A. Attributes B. Distinction C. Relationship REVIEW QUESTIONS 1. What evidence is given in the lesson to show that the Holy Spirit is a person, and not just an impersonal power? Explain the categories and give examples. 2. What evidence is given in the lesson to show that the Holy Spirit is a distinct person? 3. To which person or persons of the Godhead should we pray, according to the lesson? 4. In the "economic" sense of the Trinity, what is the role of the Holy Spirit? 5. What is the difference between the Eastern Orthodox view of the Holy Spirit and the traditional view held by the western Church? 6. Make sure you are familiar with the contents of the following Bible passages: 1 Corinthians 12:11 Romans 6:26-27 John 16:7 QUESTIONS FOR APPLICATION AND REFLECTION 1. Why is it important to you personally to recognize that the Holy Spirit is a person? What difference would it make in your life if He were only an impersonal power? 2. Romans 8:26-27 tells us that the Holy Spirit is interceding for us "with groans that words cannot express." How does that make you feel? How does it affect your prayer life? 3. What aspects or attributes of the Holy Spirit encourage you most? Why? ************************************* STUDY GUIDE 4.3 Lesson 4: The Holy Spirit Section 3: Work OUTLINE FOR TAKING NOTES III. Work A. Creative power 1. Natural World 2. Spiritual Gifts 3. Personal Renewal B. Sanctification C. Grace 1. Common Grace 2. Covenant Grace 3. Saving Grace D. Revelation 1. General Revelation 2. Special Revelation 3. Illumination and Inward Leading Conclusion REVIEW QUESTIONS 1. Which aspects of the work of the Holy Spirit does this lesson mention? Explain each and give examples of each. 2. There is only one miracle mentioned in the Apostles’ Creed as being realized particularly by the Holy Spirit. What is it? 3. How does the lesson define the spiritual gifts? 4. Explain the different views of the continuation of spiritual gifts. 5. Make sure you are familiar with the contents of the following Bible passages: Galatians 5:22-23 1 Corinthians 3:16-17 1 Corinthians 6:9-11 1 John 5:6 2 Peter 1:20-21 6. What is sanctification? 7. Explain the difference between common grace, covenant grace, and saving grace. 8. Explain the view of John Calvin regarding the truth among non believers. 9. Explain the differences between general revelation, special revelation, illumination, and inward leading. QUESTIONS FOR APPLICATION AND REFLECTION 1. How have you experienced the work of the Holy Spirit in your life? 2. What spiritual gifts do you have? 3. In the past, what has your attitude been regarding truth that may come through non believers? Did this lesson cause you to change your attitude in any way? Explain. 4. How have you experienced the illumination and the inward leading of the Holy Spirit in your life? 5. How do you understand the “fullness of the Spirit”? 6. How do you understand “baptism in the Holy Spirit”’ 7. What is the most significant insight you have learned from this lesson on the Holy Spirit? Explain why. 8. Read the following quote by Francis Chan: "And this is the question I just can't get around: If it's true that the Spirit of God dwells in us and that our bodies are the Holy Spirit's temple, then shouldn't there be a huge difference between the person who has the Spirit of God living inside him or her and the person who does not? "This may be a silly illustration, but if I told you I had an encounter with God where He entered my body and gave me a supernatural ability to play basketball, wouldn't you expect to see an amazing improvement in my jump shot, my defense, and my speed on the court? After all, this is God we are talking about. And if you saw no change in my athleticism, wouldn't you question the validity of my 'encounter'?" [Francis Chan, Forgotten God (Colorado Springs, CO: David C. Cook, 2009), p. 32] Do you agree? Why or why not? ************************************* STUDY GUIDE 5.1 Lesson 5: The Church Section 1: Sanction OUTLINE FOR TAKING NOTES Introduction I. Sanction A. Old Testament B. Jesus C. Implications REVIEW QUESTIONS 1. Explain the meaning of the "church." Give the definition of the Greek word "ekklesia" (this is the English transliteration). 2. Explain what the Apostle's Creed means when it says, "I believe in the ...church." 3. Explain the relationship between the Old Testament people of God and the New Testament people of God, according to the lesson. 4. When did the Church start, according to the lesson? 5. Make sure you are familiar with the contents of the following Bible passages: 1 Peter 2:9 Matthew 16:18 2 Corinthians 13:5 Matthew 28:19 6. Explain the two figures used in Romans 11:16 to represent the relationship between the Old Testament Jewish nation and the New Testament Church, including Gentile believers. Explain the implications of this verse for understanding the relationship between the Old Testament nation of Israel and the New Testament Church. 7. Explain Jesus' comments in Matthew 18:17 and what this teaches us about the church 8. Explain the teaching of the lesson regarding the use of the Old Testament law today. QUESTIONS FOR APPLICATION AND REFLECTION 1. What are some of the practical implications of the fact that the New Testament Church is a development of the Old Testament nation of Israel? How does this affect the way you interpret the covenant promises of the Old Testament? How does it affect the way you think of modern political Israel today? How does it affect the way you interpret prophecy regarding Israel? 2. Do you believe that it is important to participate in a local congregation? Are you a member of a local church? Why or why not? 3. How could you improve your participation in the church? ************************************* STUDY GUIDE 5.2 Lesson 1: The Church Section 2: Holy OUTLINE FOR NOTES II. Holy A. Definition B. People 1. Visible Church 2. Invisible Church REVIEW QUESTIONS 1. Explain the different meanings of the word "holy" as used in the Bible. 2. What is the root Greek word for "holy"? The root Hebrew word? (Write the English transliterations.) 3. Explain the difference between the "visible" church and the "invisible" church. 4. What does it mean to be in the covenant? Are all people in the covenant saved? 5. In what sense does the Apostles' Creed use the word "holy" in reference to the Church? 6. How does the lesson interpret Hebrews 10:29? 7. Make sure you are familiar with contents of the following Bible passages: Isaiah 6:3-7 1 Corinthians 7:14 Hebrews 10:29 QUESTIONS FOR APPLICATION AND REFLECTION 1. How do you feel when you think about the "holiness" of God? Of the Church? 2. What do you think are the most serious problems in the Church today in general? 3. How does it affect your attitude toward the church and its members to know that the Bible calls it (and them) "holy"? 4. What makes you want to be more holy? 5. How do you understand Hebrews 10:29? What does it mean to you personally? ************************************* STUDY GUIDE 5.3 Lesson 5: The Church Section 3: Catholic OUTLINE FOR TAKING NOTES III. Catholic A. Definition B. Visible Catholic Church C. Invisible Catholic Church 1. One Savior 2. One Religion REVIEW QUESTIONS 1. What does the word "catholic" mean in the context of the Apostles’ Creed? 2. What is the linguistic origin of the word "catholic"? 3. What was Cyprian’s understanding of the term "catholic" (in the third century A.D.)? 4. What important event occurred in the Church in 1054 A.D.? 5. How did the Protestant churches understand the "catholicity" of the church at the time of the Reformation? 6. What were the three marks of the true Church, according to John Knox? 7. How does the lesson define the "invisible catholic church"? 8. What does the lesson teach about those who sincerely follow other non Christian religions? 9. What does the lesson teach about whether salvation is possible outside the visible Church? QUESTIONS FOR APPLICATION AND REFLECTION 1. What difference does it make to you that the Bible considers the Church "catholic"? 2. If the Church is "catholic," why are there so many different denominations? 3. What is your attitude toward those who belong to a denomination that is different from yours? What should your attitude be? 4. In what specific ways can you help show the world that the Church is united in Christ? ************************************* STUDY GUIDE 5.4 Lesson 5: The Church Section 4: Communion OUTLINE FOR TAKING NOTES IV. Communion A. Visible Church 1. Means of Grace 2. Spiritual Gifts 3. Material Goods B. Invisible Church 1. Union with Christ 2. Union with Believers Conclusion REVIEW QUESTIONS 1. What is the meaning of the Greek word "koinonia" (English transliteration) translated "communion"? 2. What are the "means of grace"? 3. According to the lesson, who participates in the spiritual gifts? 4. According to Clement, what did some early Christians do in order to give money to the poor? 5. What does it mean to be "in Christ"? 6. What is the theme of John 17:22-23? QUESTIONS FOR APPLICATION AND REFLECTION 1. Do you regularly have fellowship with other Christians? How can you improve this aspect of your spiritual life? 2. In what ways can you better make use of the means of grace? 3. What are your spiritual gifts? How are you using them to build up the Church? 4. Are you sharing with others of your finances and possessions? How could you improve in this area? 5. What is the most important thing you have learned in this whole lesson on the Church? 6. There is an unusual cathedral in Barcelona, Spain, called the Sagrada Familia [the Holy Family], which was planned by Antoni Gaudí at the end of the 19th century, and is still under construction. High steeples reach toward heaven with crosses and colorful fruit. Nature's geometry is mingled with the architecture, and Bible scenes are sculptured every place you look. Light is drawn into the sanctuary from above through cone shaped openings. You may look at more pictures of the cathedral on their web site: http://www.sagradafamilia.org/ Write your thoughts regarding the symbolism of the building. Of course, as the lesson has taught us, the Church is not really a building, but people. However, sometimes the architecture of a building represents biblical teachings about the real Church. For example: What does the light coming from above represent?   What do the high steeples represent? What does the fruit represent? What do you think the builders were trying to communicate? What teachings are represented, especially regarding the meaning and ministry of the Church? ************************************* STUDY GUIDE 6.1 Lesson 6: Salvation Section 1: Forgiveness OUTLINE FOR TAKING NOTES Introduction I. Forgiveness A. Problem of Sin 1. Definition of Sin 2. Origin of Sin 3. Consequences of Sin B. Divine Grace 1. Father 2. Son 3. Holy Spirit C. Individual Responsibility 1. Conditions 2. Means REVIEW QUESTIONS 1. What aspects of our salvation are mentioned in the Apostles’ Creed? 2. How does 1 John 3:4 define sin? 3. Explain the difference between sins of "commission" and sins of "omission." 4. On what are God's commands based? That is, what do they reflect? 5. What should motivate our obedience to God? 6. What are the consequences of sin and the Fall? 7. How does the lesson define God’s "grace"? 8. Explain the role of each person of the Trinity in salvation. 9. According to the lesson, what are the conditions for forgiveness? 10. Explain the aspects of saving faith. 11. What is the BASIS of our forgiveness? 12. What is the MEANS of our forgiveness? 13. What does the lesson teach about the role of the sacraments of baptism and the Lord´s Supper in our salvation? 14. Make sure you are familiar with the contents of the following Bible passages: 1 John 5:3 Romans 5:12-19 Romans 3:23-24 2 Thessalonians 2:13 Psalm 103:8-13 Psalm 51:16,17 1 John 1:9 QUESTIONS FOR APPLICATION AND REFLECTION 1. Have you personally recognized that you are a sinner deserving condemnation? Have you experienced "brokenness" and repentance for your sin? 2. Have you personally accepted the salvation that Christ purchased by His death and resurrection? Do you believe in His saving work for you? Have you asked God to forgive you? 3. How would you explain salvation to an unbeliever? Give an illustration that you could use to explain that salvation is only by grace. 4. Did this lesson make you think about any aspect of salvation in a new way? Explain. ************************************* STUDY GUIDE 6.2 Lesson 6: Salvation Section 2: Resurrection OUTLINE FOR TAKING NOTES II. Resurrection A. Curse B. Gospel 1. Old Testament 2. New Testament 3. Resurrection of Jesus C. Redemption 1. Present Life 2. Intermediate State 3. New Life REVIEW QUESTIONS 1. When the Apostles’ Creed speaks of the "resurrection of the body," to what is it referring? 2. What is the teaching of the lesson regarding whether there is a biblical distinction between the "soul" and the "spirit" of man? 3. Was man's body affected by the Fall? 4. According to the lesson, is human death normal? 5. Will we spend eternity in heaven as spirits without bodies? 6. According to the lesson, when will the "Last Judgment" occur? 7. Was the teaching about the resurrection of the body taught in the Old Testament? 8. Which Jewish group did NOT believe in the resurrection? 9. Is there a difference in the teaching of the Old and New Testaments regarding the way of salvation? 10. What is the best guarantee that believers will be resurrected? 11. When does the sanctification of the body begin for those who believe in Christ? 12. According to the lesson, what happens to a believer in the intermediate state, after his death, but before the final resurrection? 13. What will change in our relation to sin in the intermediate state? 14. What does the Westminster Shorter Catechism say about the intermediate state? 15. In the theology of salvation, what is "glorification"? 16. Make sure you are familiar with the contents of the following Bible passages: Genesis 3:19 Daniel 12:1-2 Isaiah 16:19-21 Romans 6:4-5 1 Corinthians 15:20-23 Romans 8:23 QUESTIONS FOR APPLICATION AND REFLECTION 1. Have you ever wondered about what happens to people when they die? Has this lesson helped you understand the intermediate stage better? Has it helped you understand the final eternal stage better? Explain. 2. How does the teaching of this lesson help you deal with the loss of loved ones who have already passed away? 3. How does the teaching of this lesson affect the way you feel about your body even now on earth? ************************************* STUDY GUIDE 6.3 Lesson 6: Salvation Section 3: Everlasting Life OUTLINE FOR TAKING NOTES III. Everlasting Life A. Timing B. Quality C. Location Conclusion REVIEW QUESTIONS 1. When does our "eternal life" begin? 2. What is the meaning of "eternal life"? 3. Will there be rewards and punishments for works done in this life? 4. Who will be raised from the dead in bodily form? Only believers? 5. According to the lesson, when we receive our resurrected glorified bodies, where will we dwell eternally? 6. The lesson teaches that life here on earth now is a foretaste of what? 7. Make sure you are familiar with the contents of the following Bible passages: John 5:24 John 6:40 John 17:3 2 Corinthians 12:2-4 Revelation 21:1-5 QUESTIONS FOR APPLICATION AND REFLECTION 1. How does it affect you to know that you will spend eternity on a renewed earth, and not another realm? 2. In what ways do you sense that you have already begun to experience "eternal life"? 3. What was the most encouraging thing you learned in the complete lesson on salvation? 4. What was the most important thing you learned in the whole course? 5. Which doctrines of the Apostles' Creed were clarified most for you in this course? 6. Do you sincerely believe the doctrines taught in the Apostles’ Creed? Do you have any doubts? If so, what are they? 7. What changes do you expect to make in your life as a result of studying this course? ___ I plan to study the Scriptures more. ___ I plan to read more books in the area of theology. ___ I plan to pray more often for wisdom as I study the Word. ___ I plan to re-examine my theology to make sure it is biblical. ___ I plan to reflect more on how to apply my theology to my life. ___ I plan to share my faith with others more. ___ I plan to strengthen my commitment to my church. ___ I plan to teach the doctrines of the Apostles' Creed in my church. ___ Other 8. Are you trusting only in the grace of God for your salvation, or do you still think that your own efforts and merits contribute somehow to your salvation? * Sources of the quotes for application question from Study Guide 1.3: A. "I am become as a demon apart, ..." Taken from "Pistis Sophia" from the Gnostic Society Library. http://www.gnosis.org/library/pistis-sophia/ps043.htm B. "Notice that Jesus prays to One whom he calls 'the only true God.' ...." Taken from "Who is the Only True God?" from the Jehovah's Witnesses Official Web Site. http://www.watchtower.org/e/20050422/article_02.htm © 2018 by Third Millennium Ministries. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced in any form or by any means for profit, except in brief quotations for the purposes of review, comment, or scholarship, without written permission from the publisher, Third Millennium Ministries, Inc., 316 Live Oaks Boulevard, Casselberry, FL 32707 USA.