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1.0 What Is Baptism Baptism is one of the two sacraments that Jesus gave to his disciples (and to the church) when he left. It signifies repentance from sin, faith in Christ, and union with His death and resurrection (Romans 6:3–4; Colossians 2:12) .​ It symbolizes the incorporation of believers into the body of Christ through participation in His death and resurrection. Baptism is one of the first things a believer needs to do to show their position as a member of the body, the church. Matthew 28:19; Acts 2:38-41. Over the millennia, there have been two main views on the sacrament of baptism – baptism as an infant (Paedobaptism) and baptism as a believer (Credobaptism). Respected theologians and various church denominations fall on either side of this divide. What is the biblical basis for these two lines of thinking? 2.0 Paedobaptism Arguments in favor of paedobaptism (infant baptism) are drawn from the Bible, covenant theology, church tradition, and theological reasoning within both Catholic and Reformed frameworks. Those who advocate this practice believe that baptism should be administered to the children of believers as a sign of inclusion in God’s covenant community. These are the different arguments that have been mentioned.   2.1 Covenant Continuity Paedobaptists argue that God’s covenant with His people has always included believers and their children. In the Old Testament, the covenant with Abraham included both adults and infants through circumcision (Genesis 17:7–12). Since baptism has replaced circumcision as the covenant sign (Colossians 2:11–12), the same pattern of inclusion applies under the New Covenant. Thus, just as children of believers were marked by the Old Covenant sign of circumcision, they should now be baptized under the New Covenant.   Difference between Covenant Continuity and New Covenant Renewal There is continuity between the Old and New Covenants but there is a discontinuity in membership requirements.  Inclusion in the New Covenant is through personal faith, not physical birth. Therefore, baptism cannot correspond exactly to circumcision, since the New Covenant is made only with those who are forgiven and regenerated (Jeremiah 31:31–34; Hebrews 8:6–13). To baptize unbelieving infants would confuse natural descent (Abraham’s lineage) with spiritual rebirth (John 3:3–6). Logical Inconsistency There are logical inconsistencies in Paedobaptism. If baptism replaces circumcision and applies to all members of the covenant household, then paedobaptists should also baptize unbelieving spouses, servants, and adult children—as circumcision applied to all in Abraham’s house. Since they do not, their argument based on “household continuity” fails. Paedobaptism thus inconsistently applies its own covenant premise.​     2.2 Household Principle Several New Testament passages describe entire households being baptized when the head of the family believed (Acts 16:15, 33; 1 Corinthians 1:16). Paedobaptists claim that households in the Greco-Roman world naturally included infants and children. This continues the biblical pattern of corporate, familial faith rather than individualized religion.​ Belief and Household Baptisms Even though entire households were baptized in the New Testament, in every one of these examples (Acts 16:15, 33; 1 Corinthians 1:16), the households are explicitly said to have believed the gospel or rejoiced in faith. Thus, there is no clear case of an unbelieving or infant household member being baptized. Each baptism follows preaching, belief, and repentance. Regulative Principle of Worship Under the Reformed regulative principle, only what Scripture commands in worship is permitted. Baptism of infants is not instituted in the New Testament. Since no command or explicit example exists, it cannot be introduced as an element of worship. The only people that have been explicitly commanded to be baptized are disciples who believe and repent (Matthew 28:19; Acts 8:12) .​   2.3 The Promise to Believers and Their Children In Acts 2:39, Peter says, “The promise is for you and your children and for all who are far off.” Paedobaptists view this statement as proof that God’s covenant blessings—including baptism as the covenant sign—extend to believers’ children. Without explicit New Testament negation of the household covenant principle, there is no reason to exclude children.​ The Future Believers Who Are Called The verse that is used (Acts 2:39) does not end there. It continues, “and for all who are far off, everyone whom the Lord our God calls to himself.” This means that although the promise extends to future generations, it is still restricted to those who are called and believe. The phrase “for your children” parallels “those who are far off” — meaning future believers, not unbelieving infants.   2.4 Children as Covenant Members 1 Corinthians 7:14 describes the children of a believing parent as “holy,” meaning set apart in a covenantal sense. While not automatically saved, such children belong visibly to the Church community and should receive its identifying sign—baptism. This holiness reflects their membership in the visible Church, just as circumcised infants were visibly included in Israel.​   Relational Sanctity 1 Corinthians 7:14 refers to relational sanctity, not spiritual regeneration. The child is “holy” in the sense of being set apart within the believing household—not because of personal salvation or covenant membership. Since it does not imply personal salvation, the verse does not necessitate the administration of baptism.   2.5 Infants Can Be Recipients of Grace Scripture presents examples of spiritual life within the unborn (John the Baptist leaping in Elizabeth’s womb, Luke 1:41) and of infants receiving promises (Psalm 22:9–10). These are seen as evidence that God’s Spirit can work faith in infants, allowing them to be legitimate subjects of baptism. While infants cannot profess faith, they can still receive God’s covenant grace, with faith expected to mature as they grow.​   Christ’s Mediation in Regeneration However, confusing Old Covenant membership with New Covenant salvation undermines the atonement. If infants are “in the covenant” without faith, then Christ would be their mediator without regenerating them, which diminishes His saving efficacy. The covenant of grace, which brings salvation, includes only the elect who are effectually called and redeemed through faith.​ Connection Between Salvation and Baptism While paedobaptists emphasize baptism’s connection to regeneration (John 3:5; Titus 3:5), regeneration is a work of the Spirit preceding and enabling true faith, not the result of baptism. Any teaching implying baptismal regeneration risks turning baptism into a “work of righteousness” contrary to grace (Ephesians 2:8–9). 3.0 Credobaptism Credobaptism, or believer’s baptism, is the conviction that baptism should only be administered to those who have personally repented and believed the gospel. The explicit testimony of Scripture supports this position. 1. Baptism Follows Personal Faith and Repentance In the New Testament, baptism is only administered to those who have first repented and believed: Acts 2:38 — “Repent and be baptized every one of you…” Acts 8:12 — “When they believed…they were baptized, both men and women.” Acts 8:36–38 — The Ethiopian eunuch professes belief before baptism. Acts 16:31–33 — The Philippian jailer believes, then is baptized. Additional examples: Acts 9:18; 10:47–48; 18:8. This pattern suggests that baptism is a response to faith, rather than a precursor to it. No examples exist of baptism without explicit personal belief.   2. Baptism Symbolizes Union with Christ Baptism signifies the believer’s union with Christ in His death and resurrection: Romans 6:3–4 — “We were buried therefore with him by baptism into death…” Colossians 2:12 — “…having been buried with him in baptism, in which you were also raised with him through faith…” Only true believers, those united to Christ, receive this sign.   3. The Pattern of the Great Commission Jesus commands the church: Matthew 28:19–20 — “Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them…” Disciples are first made through preaching and faith, then baptized as a sign of their commitment.   4. New Covenant Membership Is for Believers The New Covenant community described in the New Testament consists exclusively of those who “know the Lord” and who are regenerated. Hebrews 8:10–12 — “…they shall all know me, from the least of them to the greatest.” Jeremiah 31:31–34 — “…I will put my law within them…they shall all know me…” Membership is based on personal faith, not family lineage or birth, as it was under the Old Covenant in the Old Testament.   5. Distinction Between Baptism and Salvation Salvation is by grace through faith and not from work, including baptism. Justification is by faith and not by works. Romans 5:8–9; Galatians 2:16. The path to salvation is simple, based on faith, and does not include baptism. Romans 10:9–10 — “If you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord…you will be saved.” A great example is the thief on the cross who was saved without being baptized. Luke 23:43 Baptism does not cause salvation, but rather is a response to it and outwardly demonstrates the inner reality. 6. Baptism is a Public Testimony and Obedience Baptism represents a public confession of allegiance to Christ. Romans 6:3–5 and Colossians 2:12 portray baptism as dying and rising with Christ. This is not a symbol that anyone other than a believer can show. Many times, people ask, 'Why should I get baptized if baptism is not salvation?' Well, the simple answer is that we do it to obey God. Jesus established two sacraments, baptism and communion. Neither of them causes salvation. But both are for those who have already received salvation. Both in their own way symbolize and remind us of the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus. A question that may come up is, "What if I was already baptised as a child, should I be baptised as a believer"? Since the baptism you received as an infant did not follow faith and belief, you should get baptised again as a believer, in obedience to the commands of Scripture.

There is a common misconception that the Old Testament condones or even commands rape. In a recent discussion with several atheists, this was a common accusation made against the Bible. Does a careful examination of the biblical text show the claims of the atheist to be true? First, we will look at what the Bible says about rape. Several verses in the Bible clearly show that rape is condemned in the Law of Moses and in biblical narratives. “But if a man finds a betrothed woman in the field, and the man forces her and lies with her, then only the man who lay with her shall die. But you shall do nothing to the woman; there is no sin in the woman worthy of death, for just as a man rises against his neighbor and murders him, so is this case. When he found her in the field, the engaged woman cried out, but there was no one to save her.” Deuteronomy 22:25-27 Here, rape is clearly identified by the use of the word "forces" and is punished by death for the perpetrator, while the woman is deemed blameless. Genesis 34:1-7 (Dinah’s Case): Shechem rapes Dinah and is subsequently punished by her brothers. The narrative shows their outrage and direct action against Shechem and his family. 2 Samuel 13 (Tamar’s Case): Tamar is raped by Amnon, who is then killed by Absalom in retribution. The passage depicts the act as shameful and deserving of punishment. Judges 19:25-30 (The Levite’s Concubine): The rape and murder of the Levite’s concubine leads to war between Israel and the tribe of Benjamin, demonstrating Israel’s abhorrence of the crime. Second, let’s look at the main accusation. The key verses that atheists often cite are found in Deuteronomy 22:28-29. What is this verse talking about? The claim is made that these verses command a rape victim to marry her assailant. This interpretation is based on faulty readings and translation confusion. 25 “But if the man finds the girl who is betrothed in the field, and the man seizes her and rapes her, then only the man who raped her shall die.
28 “If a man finds a girl who is a virgin, who is not betrothed, and he seizes her and has sexual relations with her, and they are discovered, 29 then the man who had sexual relations with her shall give the girl’s father fifty shekels of silver, and she shall become his wife, because he has violated her; he is not allowed to divorce her all his days.
Deuteronomy 22:25, 28-29 NASB 25 “But if in the open country a man meets a young woman who is betrothed, and the man seizes her and lies with her, then only the man who lay with her shall die.
28 “If a man meets a virgin who is not betrothed, and seizes her and lies with her, and they are found, 29 then the man who lay with her shall give to the father of the young woman fifty shekels of silver, and she shall be his wife, because he has violated her. He may not divorce her all his days.
Deuteronomy 22:25, 28-29 ESV 25 But if out in the country a man happens to meet a young woman pledged to be married and rapes her, only the man who has done this shall die.
28 If a man happens to meet a virgin who is not pledged to be married and rapes her and they are discovered, 29 he shall pay her father fifty shekels of silver. He must marry the young woman, for he has violated her. He can never divorce her as long as he lives.
Deuteronomy 22:25, 28-29 NIV The Hebrew word used for "seizes" in verses 28-29 is not the same as the term for "force" found in verse 25, which unambiguously describes rape. Scholars note that the context and linguistic difference mean verses 28-29 are describing an act of seduction—sex outside marriage discovered after the fact—rather than sexual assault. In Deuteronomy 22:25 , the Hebrew words used are: • chazaq (חָזַק): meaning "to force" or "to overpower" • shakab (שָׁכַב): meaning "to lie with" (often used in the context of sexual intercourse) In Deuteronomy 22:28-29 , the Hebrew words used are: • taphas (תָּפַשׂ): meaning "to seize" or "to lay hold of" • shakab (שָׁכַב): again, meaning "to lie with" The key distinction is that 22:25 uses chazaq , a word specifically indicating force or violence (commonly translated as "rape"), while 22:28-29 uses taphas , which does not inherently imply violent force in the context. Both verses use shakab for "lie with her", but the preceding verb changes the implication of consent or coercion. Consequences Additionally, there is a difference in the consequences in the two verse sections, showing that they are different scenarios and not rape in both settings. The penalty (payment and mandatory marriage) is focused on the man's responsibility for the social and economic consequences of his act, rather than as punishment for a crime. In cases of rape, the punishment is far stricter: execution for the rapist, and no blame for the victim (as shown in verses 25-27). Protection When this passage is viewed in the context of the ancient Near East and ancient patriarchal Israel, one can understand the reason behind this particular punishment. In that context, loss of virginity outside of marriage could leave a woman vulnerable. The law in Deuteronomy 22:28-29 aims to prevent men from abandoning women after consensual sex by obligating the man to compensate the woman's family and marry her, if the father permits. The parallel law in Exodus 22:16-17 also deals with consensual sex, supporting that Deuteronomy 22:28-29 is not about rape but about protecting economic and social rights after premarital relations. The claim that God commands or condones rape in the Old Testament is inconsistent with the text and with scholarly interpretations. The Bible contains explicit condemnations of rape, always describing it as a crime deserving punishment. Deuteronomy 22:28-29 describes the consequences of consensual premarital sex, not rape, and the surrounding context and language make this clear. Ancient Israelite law aimed to protect vulnerable women and uphold justice, not perpetuate abuse. In contrast, thirdly, what do atheism and evolutionary theories say about rape? Evolutionary psychology has sometimes hypothesized that sexual aggression, including rape, may have biological roots as a conditional reproductive strategy observed in certain animal species when normal mating is unavailable. Several researchers have argued that males may have evolved psychological or anatomical mechanisms that facilitate rape under certain conditions. For example: Randy Thornhill and Craig T. Palmer, A Natural History of Rape: Biological Bases of Sexual Coercion (Cambridge, MA: MIT Press, 2000). Randy Thornhill and Nancy Thornhill, Human Rape: An Evolutionary Analysis , Ethology and Sociobiology 4, no. 3 (1983): 137–173. Vernon L. Quinsey, Martin L. Lalumière, and Gordon T. Harris, Evolutionary Perspectives on Sexual Coercion in Human and Nonhuman Animals , in Sexual Coercion in Primates and Humans: An Evolutionary Perspective on Male Aggression Against Females, eds. Martin N. Muller and Richard W. Wrangham (Cambridge, MA: Harvard University Press, 2009). Robin Baker and Mark A. Bellis, Human Sperm Competition: Copulation, Masturbation and Infidelity (London: Chapman & Hall, 1995). Of course, no (reasonable) atheist would agree ethically that rape is acceptable. However, rape seems to fit better into an atheistic, evolutionary world that evolved from matter and progresses via the survival of the fittest, than in a theistic Christian world where humans were created in the image of God and therefore have worth and value.

Arguments for the Immaterial Mind I recently had a conversation with an atheist who wondered if only the material world exists. Materialism — the view that only physical matter exists — is not a new idea. It has its origins around 600 BCE (India) and continued in the 5th century BCE (Greece). It has shaped science and modern philosophy for centuries. It reemerged in Europe during the 17th and 18th centuries and influenced Karl Marx's concept of "historical materialism" in the 19th century. But can everything about the human experience be reduced to brain chemistry and quantum interactions? A variety of diverse philosophical thoughts say no. Here are several arguments showing that there may be more to reality — and to us — than matter alone. 1. The Argument from Phenomenal Consciousness In  The Conscious Mind , philosopher David Chalmers distinguishes between the “easy problems” of explaining brain function and the “hard problem” of explaining  why  we have inner experiences at all (Chalmers 1996, 4–6). Measuring brain waves tells us  how  neurons fire, but not  why  it feels like something to be you. As Thomas Nagel famously put it, science can describe what a bat’s brain does, but not what it is  like  to be a bat (Nagel 1974, 439). This subjective quality of awareness — called  qualia  — seems irreducible to physical explanation. 2. The Argument from Intentionality Philosopher John Searle has shown that thoughts possess  intentionality : they are always  about  something — an object, concept, or truth (Searle 1983, 27–30). No purely physical process is “about” anything; a neuron doesn’t mean or represent the Eiffel Tower, yet our thoughts clearly do. This suggests that mental content has a different ontological status from matter. 3. The Argument from Rational Insight C. S. Lewis, in  Miracles , provides an epistemological critique of naturalism, noting that reasoning depends on logical relations—not on mere physical causation (Lewis 1947, 19–21). If all our thoughts were the result of atoms colliding, there would be no guarantee that those collisions produced true beliefs rather than random associations. Alvin Plantinga later reinforced this in  Warrant and Proper Function , arguing that materialism is self-defeating since it undermines confidence in human rationality (Plantinga 1993, 217–220). 4. The Argument from Doubt and Indivisibility Rene Descartes’ famous  Meditations on First Philosophy  concluded that while one can doubt the body, one cannot doubt the reality of one’s own thought:  cogito, ergo sum  — “I think, therefore I am” (Descartes 1641, 17). The mind, then, exists as a distinct reality — a “thinking substance” capable of existing without matter. The mind, an unextended thinking substance, possesses properties (unity, indivisibility, incorrigibility) that are absent in matter. For Descartes, this was proof of the soul’s immaterial nature. 5. The Argument from the Unity of Consciousness Long before Descartes, the Islamic philosopher Mulla Sadra argued that the human soul must be immaterial because consciousness unites diverse experiences into a unified, self-aware whole. A single thought can integrate vision, memory, emotion, and language — a feat no divisible material entity can claim (Nasr,  History of Islamic Philosophy , 114–116). 6. The Argument from the Simplicity of Consciousness Another Islamic philosopher, Avicenna, argued along this vein. Avicenna’s  floating man  thought experiment posits that self-awareness persists even in sensory deprivation, thus revealing the soul’s independence from bodily mediation (Nasr,  History of Islamic Philosophy , 114–116). 7. The Mystery of Free Will If neurochemical laws determined every human choice, freedom would be an illusion. In  Four Views on Free Will , Robert Kane argues that our lived experience of genuine responsibility points toward a form of agency that cannot be fully explained by deterministic physics (Kane 2011, 43–45). Free will, like consciousness (mentioned earlier), suggests there is more to the person than atoms.   None of these arguments rejects science; instead, they  extend  one’s inquiry beyond the physical. Science describes the  what and how  of the brain; philosophy probes the  why  of consciousness, thought, and freedom. To claim that there may be an immaterial component to reality is not to deny material existence, but to ask what it cannot explain. Ironically, in rejecting the fact that the immaterial exists, a materialist is rationalizing, intentional about his belief, and freely choosing it – all the components that point one in the direction of there being an immaterial reality and not just a material one. If the immaterial exists, as argued above, theories that are based on evolution is then faced with an acute difficulty. How can evolution explain the existence of the immaterial when the universe began with only the material? Atheistic philosopher, JL Mackie, said that any theory claiming that evolution or physical processes can explain how “objective” immaterial moral values affect behavior faces a deep metaphysical problem: how the immaterial could causally interact with the material. “The hypothesis that there are objective values or obligations involves entities or relations of a very strange sort, utterly different from anything else in the universe. The claim that these moral qualities can somehow ‘supervene’ upon natural facts, or that evolution has equipped us to apprehend them, leaves us with the difficulty of how such immaterial entities could have any influence on the physical world.”
— J. L. Mackie, Ethics: Inventing Right and Wrong (London: Penguin Books, 1977), 38–42. Christian theism answers both the existence of the immaterial and explains how it came to be. It states that the material world was created by God, who is outside of time, space, and matter, and that the immaterial aspect of humans was placed there by God Himself. Bibliography Chalmers, David J.  The Conscious Mind: In Search of a Fundamental Theory.  New York: Oxford University Press, 1996. Descartes, René.  Meditations on First Philosophy.  2nd ed. Translated by Donald A. Cress. Indianapolis: Hackett Publishing, 1993. Kane, Robert.  Four Views on Free Will.  2nd ed. Oxford: Blackwell, 2011. Lewis, C. S.  Miracles.  London: Geoffrey Bles, 1947. Mackie, J. L.  Ethics: Inventing Right and Wrong. London: Penguin Books, 1977, 38–42. Nagel, Thomas. “What Is It Like to Be a Bat?”  The Philosophical Review  83, no. 4 (1974): 435–450. Nasr, Seyyed Hossein, ed.  History of Islamic Philosophy.  Vol. 2. London: Routledge, 2020. Plantinga, Alvin.  Warrant and Proper Function.  New York: Oxford University Press, 1993. Searle, John R.  Intentionality: An Essay in the Philosophy of Mind.  Cambridge: Cambridge University Press, 1983.

Chiang Mai, Thailand October 2025 1.0 Spiritual Gifts 1.1 Background: Num 11:29 But Moses said to him, “Are you jealous for my sake? Would that all the Lord's people were prophets, that the Lord would put his Spirit on them!” ESV Joel 2:28-29 “And it shall come to pass afterward, that I will pour out my Spirit on all flesh; your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, your old men shall dream dreams, and your young men shall see visions. Even on the male and female servants in those days I will pour out my Spirit. ESV Matt 10:20 For it is not you who speak, but the Spirit of your Father speaking through you. Jesus told them to wait for it. Acts 1:5 for John baptized with water, but you will be baptized with the Holy Spirit not many days from now.” A spiritual gift is any ability that is empowered by the Holy Spirit and used in any ministry of the church. (Wayne Grudem) Broad definition, includes natural abilities and miraculous abilities. Empowered by the spirit for the building up of the church until Jesus returns. 1 Cor. 12:7; 14:12, 26; Eph. 4:12; 1 Cor. 1:7; 1 Cor. 13:10; Acts 1:8 1.2 Classification of Gifts Level Prophet Role Priest Role King Role Examples / Notes 1. Messianic Christ as final Prophet Heb. 1:1–3; John 1:1; 20:28 Christ as perfect High Priest Heb. 1:3; 4:14–16 Christ as ultimate King Eph. 5:24; Rev. 19:16 Jesus Christ alone—fullness of the Spirit, unrepeatable, inspired authority 2. Apostolic / Foundational Apostles as inspired witnesses Acts 1:21–22; 1 Cor. 14:37; 1 Thess. 2:13 Apostles as founders/shepherds Acts 6:1–7; 8:14–17 Apostles as foundational rulers Acts 15:6–21; 20:17–38 Apostles, apostolic men (Mark, Luke, Jude), their witness closes canon 3. Special Office (Repeatable) Elders/deacons lead mercy Phil. 1:1; 1 Tim. 3:8–13 Elders/deacons lead mercy Phil. 1:1; 1 Tim. 3:8–13 Elders/teachers govern 1 Tim. 3:1–7; 1 Tim. 5:17 Recognized church leaders: pastors, teachers, elders, deacons 4. Every Believer All proclaim truth/exhort Col. 4:6; Heb. 3:13 All pray, serve, intercede 1 Pet. 2:5; Gal. 6:10 All exercise stewardship, leadership Rev. 1:6; 1 Pet. 2:9 All Christians are prophets/priests/kings in a broad sense; fallible, checked by Scripture 1. Christ: Heb 1:1-3 Long ago, at many times and in many ways, God spoke to our fathers by the prophets, 2 but in these last days he has spoken to us by his Son, whom he appointed the heir of all things, through whom also he created the world. 3 He is the radiance of the glory of God and the exact imprint of his nature, and he upholds the universe by the word of his power. After making purification for sins, he sat down at the right hand of the Majesty on high. 2. Apostles Acts 1:21–22 So one of the men who have accompanied us during all the time that the Lord Jesus went in and out among us, 22 beginning from the baptism of John until the day when he was taken up from us—one of these men must become with us a witness to his resurrection.” 4. Believer: Colossians 3:16 "Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly, teaching and admonishing one another in all wisdom… priests who serve one another 1 John 3:16 "By this we know love, that he laid down his life for us, and we ought to lay down our lives for the brothers." Ephesians 2:6 "And raised us up with him and seated us with him in the heavenly places in Christ Jesus." Ephesians 4:11 "And he gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the shepherds and teachers." Acts 2:33 "Being therefore exalted at the right hand of God, and having received from the Father the promise of the Holy Spirit, he has poured out this that you yourselves are seeing and hearing." Ephesians 4:7 "But grace was given to each one of us according to the measure of Christ's gift." 3. Leaders+those with spiritual gifts 1.3 Using Spiritual Gifts Find your spiritual gift 1.3.1 Non Gifted Use 1.3.2 Gifts for Growth and Spiritual Maturity 1 Cor. 14 1 Pursue love, and earnestly desire the spiritual gifts, especially that you may prophesy. ESV 12 So with yourselves, since you are eager for manifestations of the Spirit, strive to excel in building up the church. 1.3.3 Grow the Gift Divine component: 1 Cor. 12:11 ESV All these are empowered by one and the same Spirit, who apportions to each one individually as he wills. Rom 12:6 Having gifts that differ according to the grace given to us, let us use them: if prophecy, in proportion to our faith ESV Human component: Ephesians 5:18 And do not get drunk with wine, for that is debauchery, but be filled with the Spirit. Acts 4:31. they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and continued to speak the word of God with boldness. ESV 1 Tim. 4:14 Do not neglect the gift you have…. 2 Tim. 1:6 For this reason I remind you to fan into flame the gift of God, which is in you … 1.3.4 Have Gifts Ceased? 1 Cor 13:8-10 Love never ends. As for prophecies, they will pass away; as for tongues, they will cease; as for knowledge, it will pass away. 9 For we know in part and we prophesy in part, 10 but when the perfect comes, the partial will pass away. 1.3.5 Context of Using Spiritual Gifts 2.0 Metaphors for the Church 3.0 The Church As A Body 3.1 Members as Parts of the Body (Body of Christ) 1 Corinthians 12:12–27 Everyone needs to use their spiritual gifts or natural abilities Every member of a church is important and interdependent, needs care and deserves respect 3.2 Christ as Head (Body of Christ) Ephesians 1:22–23; 4:15–16; Colossians 2:19 Ephesians 4:15-16 Rather, speaking the truth in love, we are to grow up in every way into him who is the head, into Christ, 16 from whom the whole body, joined and held together by every joint with which it is equipped, when each part is working properly, makes the body grow so that it builds itself up in love. Phil 2:5-11 Christ Jesus, 6 who, though he was in the form of God, did not count equality with God a thing to be grasped, 7 but emptied himself, by taking the form of a servant, being born in the likeness of men. 8 And being found in human form, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross. 9 Therefore God has highly exalted him and bestowed on him the name that is above every name, 10 so that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, 11 and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father. Isaiah 45:23 By myself I have sworn; from my mouth has gone out in righteousness a word that shall not return: ‘To me every knee shall bow, every tongue shall swear allegiance.’

Chiang Mai, Thailand October 2025 1.0 What is the Authority of Scripture 2.0 Basis for the Authority of Scripture 2.1 Self-Attestation of Scripture a. Repeated biblical formulas: “Thus says the Lord,” “The word of the Lord came…” b. God is seen as a King: a king’s word is binding; c. OT: Scripture is called both “law” and “prophecy.” d. NT: Apostles recognized their writings as God’s Word and Jesus promised the Spirit would inspire their teaching and writings (John 14–16). 2.2 Confirmation by the Holy Spirit John 10:27 ESV "My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me." 2.3 The Divine Origin of Scripture Heb 4:12: For the word of God is living and active ESV ‘I have to believe that Jesus was (and is) God. And it seems plain as a matter of history that He taught His followers that the new life was communicated in this way. In other words, I believe it on His authority. Do not be scared by the word authority. Believing things on authority only means believing them because you have been told them by someone you think trustworthy. Ninety-nine per cent of the things you believe are believed on authority. I believe there is such a place as New York. I have not seen it myself. I could not prove by abstract reasoning that there must be such a place. I believe it because reliable people have told me so. The ordinary man believes in the Solar System, atoms … and the circulation of the blood on authority—because the scientists say so. Every historical statement in the world is believed on authority. None of us has seen the Norman Conquest or the defeat of the Armada. None of us could prove them by pure logic as you prove a thing in mathematics. We believe them simply because people who did see them have left writings that tell us about them: in fact, on authority. A man who jibbed at authority in other things as some people do in religion would have to be content to know nothing all his life.
CS Lewis, Mere Christianity 2.4 Inspiration Of Scripture 2 Peter 1:21 For no prophecy was ever produced by the will of man, but men spoke from God as they were carried along by the Holy Spirit. ESV Scripture Divine Claim Mode of Transmission Source of Authority Buddhist Texts Teachings of Buddha Oral then written, centuries of transmission Buddha’s enlightenment (not a deity) Quran Direct word of God Dictated to Prophet Muhammed Personal, direct dictation Bible Inspired by God Written by prophets/apostles Personal guidance, inspiration Hindu Vedas (Shruti) Heard divine truth Received by rishis, oral tradition Impersonal, cosmic revelation 2 Tim 3:16: All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness ESV 2.5 Inerrancy of Scripture Authority vs Inerrancy Authority answers the question: Does the Bible have the right to tell us what to believe and how to live? Inerrancy answers the question: Is the Bible true in everything it teaches? Inerrancy vs infallibility: A text is inerrant if it has no errors. A text is infallible if it can have no errors in it. Inerrancy and Truth (1) metaphysical truth John 17:3 the only true God ESV (2) propositional truth Malachi 3:6 (ESV): "For I the Lord do not change (3) ethical truth Involves statements about what is morally right, good, or obligatory 1 John 1:6 "If we say we have fellowship with him while we walk in darkness, we lie and do not practice the truth." ESV Inerrancy and Precision The Bible is true but not necessarily precise. The Bible does not need to be precise to be true. Inerrancy means that the Bible is true, not that is it completely precise. It is precise enough to be true. The inerrancy of Scripture means that Scripture in the original manuscripts does not affirm anything that is contrary to fact. Bible Difficulty Categories 2.6 The Unity (Content) Of Scripture Biblical Section Covenantal Relationship Books of Law Show what God expects of his covenant people. Books of History Indicate man’s actual response. Psalms Contain the praise, laments, questionings, blessings, and cursings that should be on the lips of a covenant people. Wisdom Books Contain applications of the covenant law to human problems. Prophets Bring God’s covenant lawsuit against the covenant-breakers while also promising covenant renewal. Gospels and Acts Present the history of the new covenant. Epistles and Revelation Apply the new covenant to believers and to world history. 2.7 Credibility Of Scripture 2.7.1 Historicity. 2.7.2 Truthful. Is the Christian Faith Relevant Today? Dallas, TX, October 2022 2.7.3 Prophecy Can I Trust the Bible? Timonium, MD, January 2023 2.7.4 Archaeology Archaeological Credibility of the Bible , Bangalore, India, August 2024 Matthew 26:14-16 14 Then one of the twelve, whose name was Judas Iscariot, went to the chief priests and said, “What will you give me if I deliver him over to you?” And they paid him thirty pieces of silver. And from that moment he sought an opportunity to betray him. 1. The Last King of Babylon Daniel 5:1 ff King Belshazzar made a great feast for a thousand of his lords and drank wine in front of the thousand. 5 Immediately the fingers of a human hand appeared and wrote on the plaster of the wall of the king's palace, opposite the lampstand. And the king saw the hand as it wrote. 29 Then Belshazzar gave the command, and Daniel was clothed with purple, a chain of gold was put around his neck, and a proclamation was made about him, that he should be the third ruler in the kingdom. 30 That very night Belshazzar the Chaldean king was killed. 31 And Darius the Mede received the kingdom, being about sixty-two years old. 2. Pool of Bethesda John 5:2 Now there is in Jerusalem by the Sheep Gate a pool, in Aramaic called Bethesda, which has five roofed colonnades. 3. Fractured legs John 19:32-34: So the soldiers came and broke the legs of the first, and of the other who had been crucified with him. But when they came to Jesus and saw that he was already dead, they did not break his legs. But one of the soldiers pierced his side with a spear, and at once there came out blood and water. 4. Widow at Nain Luke 7:11-15: Soon afterward he went to a town called Nain, and his disciples and a great crowd went with him. As he drew near to the gate of the town, behold, a man who had died was being carried out, the only son of his mother, and she was a widow, and a considerable crowd from the town was with her. And when the Lord saw her, he had compassion on her and said to her, “Do not weep.” Then he came up and touched the [casket], and the bearers stood still. And he said, “Young man, I say to you, arise.” And the dead man sat up and began to speak, and Jesus gave him to his mother. 5. Cost of a Slave Gen 37:28: Then Midianite traders passed by. And they drew Joseph up and lifted him out of the pit and sold him to the Ishmaelites for twenty shekels of silver. They took Joseph to Egypt. Exod 21:32: If the ox gores a slave, … the owner shall give to their master thirty shekels of silver, and the ox shall be stoned. Matthew 26:14-15 14 Then one of the twelve, whose name was Judas Iscariot, went to the chief priests 15 and said, “What will you give me if I deliver him over to you?” And they paid him thirty pieces of silver. L&G, Judas sold his master for 1/4th the cost of a common slave. 3.0 Responses to The Authority Of Scripture 3.1 ________ - Hinduism 3.2 ________ - Buddhism 3.3 ________ - Atheism 3.4 ________ - Islam 4.0 Ramifications Of The Authority Of Scripture

Chiang Mai, Thailand October 2025 1.0 What is Spiritual Maturity Spiritual maturity is when a person becomes like Jesus Christ. Spiritual growth is a movement from spiritual infancy to spiritual maturity. Philippians 3:12–14 12 Not that I have already obtained this or am already perfect, but I press on to make it my own, because Christ Jesus has made me his own. 13 Brothers, I do not consider that I have made it my own. But one thing I do: forgetting what lies behind and straining forward to what lies ahead, 14 I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus. 2.0 Prerequisites to Spiritual Maturity 2.1 ________ 2 Peter 1:3 His divine power has granted to us all things that pertain to life and godliness, through the knowledge of him who called us to his own glory and excellence ESV 2 Peter 1:5–8 For this very reason, make every effort to supplement your faith with virtue, and virtue with knowledge, 6 and knowledge with self-control, and self-control with steadfastness, and steadfastness with godliness, 7 and godliness with brotherly affection, and brotherly affection with love. 8 For if these qualities are yours and are increasing, they keep you from being ineffective or unfruitful in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. 2.2 Filling of the Spirit Galatians 5:16: But I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh. ESV 3.0 Characteristics of Spiritual Maturity 3.1 Christlike Character and the Fruit of the Spirit Galatians 5:22–23 22 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 23 gentleness, self-control… 3.2 ________ James 1:2–4 2 Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, 3 for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. 4 And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing. ESV 1 Peter 2:23 When he was reviled, he did not revile in return; when he suffered, he did not threaten, but continued entrusting himself to him who judges justly. ESV 3.3 ________ Hebrews 5:14 But solid food is for the mature, for those who have their powers of discernment trained by constant practice to distinguish good from evil. ESV 3.4 Humility and Meekness Colossians 3:10-12 and have put on the new self, which is being renewed in knowledge after the image of its creator. 12 Put on then… compassionate hearts, kindness, humility, meekness, and patience, ESV 3.5 Increasing Love and Service Love for God Mark 12:30: And you shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength.’ ESV Love for Others Ephesians 3:16-17 Paul prays, 16 that according to the riches of his glory he may grant you to be strengthened with power through his Spirit in your inner being, 17 so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith—that you, being rooted and grounded in love… ESV 4.0 Tools for Spiritual Maturity 4.1 Bible Reading and Meditation 2 Timothy 3:16–17 All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, 17 that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work. 4.2 Prayer and Worship Acts 2:42 (ESV) "And they devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching and the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and the prayers. 4.3 Active Fellowship Acts 2:42 (ESV) "And they devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching and the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and the prayers. Hebrews 10:24-25 (ESV) "And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near." 4.4 Stewardship and Service Ephesians 4:13–16 (ESV): 13 until we all attain to the unity of the faith and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to mature manhood, to the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ, …15 we are to grow up in every way into him who is the head, into Christ, 16 from whom the whole body, joined and held together by every joint with which it is equipped, when each part is working properly, makes the body grow so that it builds itself up in love. 4.5 Abstinence 5.0 Evaluation of Progress

Chiang Mai, Thailand October 2025 1 Timothy 3:1–7 ESV The saying is trustworthy: If anyone aspires to the office of overseer, he desires a noble task. 2 Therefore an overseer must be above reproach, the husband of one wife, sober-minded, self-controlled, respectable, hospitable, able to teach, 3 not a drunkard, not violent but gentle, not quarrelsome, not a lover of money. 4 He must manage his own household well, with all dignity keeping his children submissive, 5 for if someone does not know how to manage his own household, how will he care for God's church? 6 He must not be a recent convert, or he may become puffed up with conceit and fall into the condemnation of the devil. 7 Moreover, he must be well thought of by outsiders, so that he may not fall into disgrace, into a snare of the devil. ESV 8-13 ESV Deacons likewise must be dignified, not double-tongued, not addicted to much wine, not greedy for dishonest gain. 9 They must hold the mystery of the faith with a clear conscience. 10 And let them also be tested first; then let them serve as deacons if they prove themselves blameless. 11 Their wives likewise must be dignified, not slanderers, but sober-minded, faithful in all things. 12 Let deacons each be the husband of one wife, managing their children and their own households well. 13 For those who serve well as deacons gain a good standing for themselves and also great confidence in the faith that is in Christ Jesus. ESV Titus 1:5–9 ESV This is why I left you in Crete, so that you might put what remained into order, and appoint elders in every town as I directed you— 6 if anyone is above reproach, the husband of one wife, and his children are believers and not open to the charge of debauchery or insubordination. 7 For an overseer, as God's steward, must be above reproach. He must not be arrogant or quick-tempered or a drunkard or violent or greedy for gain, 8 but hospitable, a lover of good, self-controlled, upright, holy, and disciplined. 9 He must hold firm to the trustworthy word as taught, so that he may be able to give instruction in sound doctrine and also to rebuke those who contradict it. 1.0 Exclusion of Recent Converts 1 Tim 3:6 He must not be a recent convert, or he may become puffed up with conceit and fall into the condemnation of the devil. Acts 14:23: And when they had appointed elders for them in every church, with prayer and fasting they committed them to the Lord in whom they had believed. ESV 1.1 ________ of the Believer 1.2 ________ of the Body Deuteronomy 1:28: Where are we going up? Our brothers have made our hearts melt, saying, “The people are greater and taller than we. The cities are great and fortified up to heaven. And besides, we have seen the sons of the Anakim there.”’ ESV 2.0 Reputation with Outsiders 1 Tim 3:7 Moreover, he must be well thought of by outsiders, so that he may not fall into disgrace, into a snare of the devil. 2.1 Accusation 1 Timothy 5:19–20 “Do not admit a charge against an elder except on the evidence of two or three witnesses. As for those who persist in sin, rebuke them in the presence of all, so that the rest may stand in fear.” 2.2 False Accusation 1 Timothy 5:19–20: “Do not admit a charge against an elder except on the evidence of two or three witnesses. As for those who persist in sin, rebuke them in the presence of all, so that the rest may stand in fear.” 2.3 Accusation of the Faith 1 Peter 3:15: but in your hearts honor Christ the Lord as holy, always being prepared to make a defense to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you; yet do it with gentleness and respect. ESV 3.0 Specific Character Traits 4.0 Ability to Teach and Defend Doctrine 1 Timothy 3:2 (ESV) “Therefore an overseer must be … able to teach.” 4.1 Teaching Doctrine - Theology How to Study the Bible 4.2 Defending the Faith - Apologetics Titus 1:9: “He must hold firm to the trustworthy word as taught, so that he may be able to give instruction in sound doctrine and also to rebuke those who contradict it.” ESV 1 Peter 3:15 but in your hearts honor Christ the Lord as holy, always being prepared to make a defense to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you; yet do it with gentleness and respect ESV [See the section on Apologetics ] 5.0 Management of the Household (as a Leadership Test) 5.1 Steward at Home 1 Timothy 3:4–5: He must manage his own household well, with all dignity keeping his children submissive, 5 for if someone does not know how to manage his own household, how will he care for God's church? ESV 5.2 Parenting Titus 1:6 if anyone is above reproach, the husband of one wife, and his children are believers and not open to the charge of debauchery or insubordination. ESV Characteristics Current Rating 1-5 Concrete Steps to Improve Overcoming Pride Reputation with Outsiders Developing Positive Character Traits Controlling Negative Character Traits Teaching Scripture Defending Scripture Management of the Home

The SHAPE assessment is a Christian tool designed to help individuals discover their unique spiritual gifts and how they can serve in their faith communities. SHAPE stands for: Spiritual Gifts: Special abilities given by God to believers. Heart: Your passions and what you care deeply about. Abilities: Your natural talents and skills. Personality: The unique way you interact with the world. Experiences: Life events that shape your perspective and growth. The assessment usually includes multiple-choice and rating scale questions to help you reflect on each of these areas and gain insight into where you might best serve others. Many churches and Christian organizations use SHAPE as a framework for personal growth and finding purposeful involvement in ministry. This was initially designed by Rick Warren, Saddleback Church, California. https://www.freeshapetest.com/ Below is a list of sample questions to consider. Spiritual Gifts Rate each statement from 1 "Never" to 5 "Always": I feel called to lead people to where God wants them to go. I love helping others when they have problems. I enjoy sharing with others what God has done in my life. I believe anything is possible and encourage others to believe this too. I consider everything I own a gift from God. I love learning from discussions in church or small group. I step up to organize when things seem unorganized. I enjoy spending time with those who are sick or in need. I prefer doing “behind-the-scenes” tasks. I excel at making plans and making things happen. I feel fulfilled by helping others through hardships. Others grow interested when I talk about my faith. I trust God can do the impossible even when others doubt. I am cheerful about giving to support good causes. People turn to me for help understanding the Bible. Others seem to naturally follow my lead. I help others without seeking anything in return. I step in when something needs to be done. I sense God may be calling me to missionary work. I see the positive in bad situations. I feel deeply for those who don’t know Jesus. I am typically more optimistic than those around me. I give even when it requires sacrifice because I trust God will provide. I perform well academically or in relevant areas. I enjoy leading in certain situations. I cheer up people going through tough times. I prefer serving in quiet ways. Heart (Passion) Reflect and answer: What three activities bring you the most joy or fulfillment? What type of people do you enjoy spending time with or serving? What kinds of roles or volunteer jobs excite you? What is a pressing social or human issue you want to change, and how would you address it? Abilities Multiple choice and reflection: What is your best or favorite subject in school or life? What’s something you excel at? What activities or hobbies do you most enjoy? (Select from: sports, music, cooking, tech, leadership, reading, photography, drama, teaching, decorating, etc.) Rate your confidence and enjoyment in each area from 1 "Not at all" to 5 "Very much". Personality (Temperament) On each line, rank the four words as follows: 4 = Best describes me, 3 = Next best, 2 = Next, 1 = Least. Enthusiastic Likes authority Sensitive Likes instruction Takes risks Takes charge Loyal Accurate Visionary Determined Calm Consistent Talkative Takes initiative Enjoys routine Predictable Promoter Competitive Dislikes change Practical Experiences Reflect and briefly describe: How did you come to faith in Jesus? Which three positive life moments most shaped who you are today? Which three challenges or negative experiences made a lasting impact? Where have you volunteered or served in the past? What family or cultural background influences your views and how? Using all this information, think of the top 3 things that you would like to do. Then, find a church that will enable you to do them and persevere in using your gifts.

Annapolis, Maryland, USA September 2025 1 Tim 2:1-6
First of all, then, I urge that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings be made for all people, 2 for kings and all who are in high positions, that we may lead a peaceful and quiet life, godly and dignified in every way. 3 This is good, and it is pleasing in the sight of God our Savior, 4 who desires all people to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth. 5 For there is one God, and there is one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus, 6 who gave himself as a ransom for all, which is the testimony given at the proper time. ESV 1. Pray For Leaders Rom 13:1-2 Let every person be subject to the governing authorities. … whoever resists the authorities resists what God has appointed, and those who resist will incur judgment. ESV Prov 21:1 "The king’s heart is a stream of water in the hand of the LORD; he turns it wherever he will" (ESV). 2. Pray For All People Mark 8:36 (ESV): "For what does it profit a man to gain the whole world and forfeit his soul?" 3. Why Do We Need To Pray For People? 3.1 God ________ it 1 Samuel 12:23: “Far be it from me that I should sin against the Lord by failing to pray for you… 3.2 God ________ It Hebrews 7:25 says: Consequently, he is able to save to the uttermost those who draw near to God through him, since he always lives to make intercession for them. ESV. 3.3 Builds ________ James 5:16: Therefore, confess your sins to one another and pray for one another, that you may be healed. ESV 3.4 People Need the Gospel Luke 10:2: "And he said to them, 'The harvest is plentiful, but the laborers are few. Therefore pray earnestly to the Lord of the harvest to send out laborers into his harvest.'" ESV. 3.5 The Price Has Already Been Paid Galatians 2:20: I have been crucified with Christ. It is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me. And the life I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me. ESV

Bangalore, India August 2025 Genesis 6-9 1.0 His Character Gen 6:8-9 But Noah found favor in the eyes of the Lord. 9 ….. Noah was a righteous man, blameless in his generation. Noah walked with God. The He was righteous in the sight of God. First time in the bible the word “righteous” is used. Genesis 6:5-8 5 The Lord saw that the wickedness of man was great in the earth, and that every intention of the thoughts of his heart was only evil continually. 6 And the Lord regretted that he had made man on the earth, and it grieved him to his heart. 7 So the Lord said, “I will blot out man whom I have created from the face of the land, man and animals and creeping things and birds of the heavens, for I am sorry that I have made them.” 8 But Noah found favor in the eyes of the Lord. Genesis 6:18: But I will establish my covenant with you, and you shall come into the ark, you, your sons, your wife, and your sons' wives with you. 2.0 His Ministry 2 Peter 2:5: if he did not spare the ancient world, but preserved Noah, a herald of righteousness, … Gen 6:3 Then the Lord said, “My Spirit shall not abide in man forever, for he is flesh: his days shall be 120 years.” 3.0 His Obedience Gen 6:14: Make yourself an ark of gopher wood. Make rooms in the ark, and cover it inside and out with pitch. 15 This is how you are to make it: the length of the ark 300 cubits, its breadth 50 cubits, and its height 30 cubits. Hebrews 11:7: By faith Noah, being warned by God concerning events as yet unseen, in reverent fear constructed an ark for the saving of his household. By this he condemned the world and became an heir of the righteousness that comes by faith. 4.0 His Rescue Gen 7:11: In the six hundredth year of Noah's life, in the second month, on the seventeenth day of the month, on that day all the fountains of the great deep burst forth, and the windows of the heavens were opened. 4.1 Cultural Evidence 4.2 Geological Evidence Gen 8:4: and on the seventeenth day of the seventh month the ark came to rest on the mountains of Ararat. 1 Peter 3:20: because they formerly did not obey, when God's patience waited in the days of Noah, while the ark was being prepared, in which a few, that is, eight persons, were brought safely through water.

Annapolis, Maryland, USA June 2025 1 John 4:1-21 Beloved, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see whether they are from God, for many false prophets have gone out into the world. 2 By this you know the Spirit of God: every spirit that confesses that Jesus Christ has come in the flesh is from God, 3 and every spirit that does not confess Jesus is not from God. This is the spirit of the antichrist, which you heard was coming and now is in the world already. 4 Little children, you are from God and have overcome them, for he who is in you is greater than he who is in the world. 5 They are from the world; therefore they speak from the world, and the world listens to them. 6 We are from God. Whoever knows God listens to us; whoever is not from God does not listen to us. By this we know the Spirit of truth and the spirit of error. 7 Beloved, let us love one another, for love is from God, and whoever loves has been born of God and knows God. 8 Anyone who does not love does not know God, because God is love. 9 In this the love of God was made manifest among us, that God sent his only Son into the world, so that we might live through him. 10 In this is love, not that we have loved God but that he loved us and sent his Son to be the propitiation for our sins. 11 Beloved, if God so loved us, we also ought to love one another. 12 No one has ever seen God; if we love one another, God abides in us and his love is perfected in us. 13 By this we know that we abide in him and he in us, because he has given us of his Spirit. 14 And we have seen and testify that the Father has sent his Son to be the Savior of the world. 15 Whoever confesses that Jesus is the Son of God, God abides in him, and he in God. 16 So we have come to know and to believe the love that God has for us. God is love, and whoever abides in love abides in God, and God abides in him. 17 By this is love perfected with us, so that we may have confidence for the day of judgment, because as he is so also are we in this world. 18 There is no fear in love, but perfect love casts out fear. For fear has to do with punishment, and whoever fears has not been perfected in love. 19 We love because he first loved us. 20 If anyone says, “I love God,” and hates his brother, he is a liar; for he who does not love his brother whom he has seen cannot love God whom he has not seen. 21 And this commandment we have from him: whoever loves God must also love his brother. 1.0 Characteristics of True Love 1.1 True Love Is _____________ (independent of reciprocity). v.10, 19 Romans 5:8,10 (ESV): But God shows his love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us." "For if while we were enemies we were reconciled to God by the death of his Son… 1.2 True Love is ____________ (in giving) v10. 2.0 Effects of Loving (Others) 2.1 God ________ in Us 2.2 God is ______________ 3.0 The Objects of Love 3.1 The Family of ________ v.20-21 3.2 The Army of _________ v.4-6 Matt. 5:43-44 “You have heard that it was said, ‘You shall love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’ But I say to you, Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you.

Baltimore, Maryland, USA June 2025 1.0 What is Hope? Hope (Websters): to cherish a desire with anticipation : to want something to happen or be true. Hope is the promise of actual goodness for the present and the future, based on actions in the past and the present. 2.0 The Need For Hope And Its Basis 2.1 The Need For Hope 2.2 The Need For The Basis Of Hope Isaiah 29:7-8
…shall be like a dream, a vision of the night. As when a hungry man dreams, and behold, he is eating, and awakes with his hunger not satisfied, or as when a thirsty man dreams, and behold, he is drinking, and awakes faint, with his thirst not quenched… 3.0 Hope Offered in Some Worldviews 4.0 The Christian Hope and Its Basis 4.1 The Christian hope Hope is the promise of actual goodness
for the present and the future,
based on actions in the past and the present. What is Christian hope?
It is a confidence of (God’s) actual goodness for the present and the future, based on (God’s) actions in the past and in the present. Rom 8:28 And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose. Eph 3:20 Now to him who is able to do far more abundantly than all that we ask or think, according to the power at work within us Romans 8:1 There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus John 3:16 “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life. 4.2 Basis of the Christian Hope John 2:19-22 Jesus answered them, “Destroy this temple, and in three days I will raise it up.” The Jews then said, “It has taken forty-six years to build this temple, and will you raise it up in three days?” But he was speaking about the temple of his body. When therefore he was raised from the dead, his disciples remembered that he had said this, and they believed the Scripture and the word that Jesus had spoken.