Koinonia Int`l church

Pastor JBellini

Biblical Doctrines

For
New Members

2023
Contents
Introduction...............................................................................................................5

I. The Doctrine of God, the Father.............................................................................6

II. Faith for Salvation.................................................................................................8

III. Baptism in the Water.........................................................................................13

IV. Baptism with the Holy Spirit...............................................................................15

V. Salvation by Grace.......................................................Error! Bookmark not defined.

VI. Achieving Holiness.............................................................................................17

VII. Jesus is God......................................................................................................19

VIII. Spiritual Gifts..................................................................................................21

XI. Tithe and Offering..............................................................................................22

Introduction
Pastor Jbellini wrote this book to provide an exploration of the essential doctrines and principles
of the Christian faith, articulated and cherished by millions of believers across the globe. With a
profound commitment to the Word of God, we delve into an assortment of topics that form the
bedrock of our belief system.
Beginning with the doctrine of God the Father, we contemplate His nature, His love, and His role
in our lives. Our journey then takes us through the vital theme of faith for salvation, a principle
central to the Christian narrative, followed by a careful examination of the sacraments of
Baptism - in water and in the Holy Spirit.
Next, we reflect upon the profound truth that our salvation is entirely by grace, a gift from God
that we can neither earn nor repay. We further explore the pursuit of holiness, the affirmation of
Jesus as God, and the gifts of the Spirit, invaluable tools for our spiritual growth and service in
the Kingdom of God.
Our commitment to the church forms another key subject of discussion. We assess the
significance of being a part of the body of Christ, and our roles and responsibilities as active
members of this community. Lastly, we consider the practice of tithing and giving offerings, a
biblical mandate that underscores our devotion to God and His work.
Each chapter in this book is augmented with relevant Biblical references, illustrations from the
Scriptures, and practical applications in life. To facilitate your understanding and encourage
personal reflection, we've included thought-provoking questions for each Biblical verse
mentioned.
As we embark on this journey together, it is my prayer that this book will illuminate your path,
deepen your faith, and bring you into a closer, more intimate relationship with God. May His
Word become a lamp to your feet and a light to your path (Psalm 119:105)

I- The Doctrine of God, the Father

We believe that there is one only God Father and there is no another divine God.

Biblical References: John 14:9; 2 Corinthians 1:3; 1 Corinthians 8:6

John 14:9 - What does Jesus mean when He says, "He who has seen Me has seen the Father"?
How does this enhance your understanding of God as a Father?

John 14:9 is part of Jesus' discourse to his disciples during the Last Supper, as narrated in the
Gospel of John. In these dialogues, Jesus is preparing his followers for his impending death and
departure from the world. The verse states, "Jesus said to him, 'Have I been with you so long,
and yet you have not known Me, Philip? He who has seen me has seen the Father; so how can
you say, "Show us the Father?'" (NKJV). In this passage, Jesus directly addresses Philip, one of
his disciples who had asked to see the Father.

Jesus' statement, "He who has seen Me has seen the Father," carries multiple layers of meaning.
First, it can be understood as a claim to his divinity and intimate relationship with God. Jesus is
saying that he is the perfect reflection, image, and manifestation of God the Father. They are
essentially one, sharing the same divine nature.

Second, in saying this, Jesus is hinting at the concept of the Holy Trinity—Father, Son, and
Holy Spirit—even though the term is not explicitly mentioned in the text. This oneness of Jesus
with God the Father suggests the presence of one divine essence among the three distinct persons
of the Trinity. This concept invented by the Catholic council church is perpetual in the roman
church. On the other hand, we in Koinonia church do not grasp this statement. We believe God
encarnated and lived among His creation. We can not adore three Gods because is offensive to
the Sovereign GOD. Jesus was/is GOD. The Bible was manipulated many times by copists to
state that the trinity is compound by three Gods.

The statement, "He who has seen me has seen the Father," offers a deeper understanding of the
nature of God as the Father. It underscores the loving, compassionate, and intimate relationship
between God the Father and His people. By connecting Himself with the Father, Jesus highlights
that the love, teachings, and works he manifested throughout his earthly ministry are a direct
representation of the Father's character.
The importance of Jesus as the revealer of the Father invites believers to study and understand
Jesus' life, teachings, and actions, as it leads to a better comprehension of God's nature. It also
reinforces the notion that access to God the Father is only possible through Jesus Christ, as Jesus
is the bridge between humanity and divinity.

God the Father by showing that Jesus is the perfect representation and manifestation of the
Father's character. As Jesus embodies the love, grace, and compassion of God the Father, we can
better comprehend the Father through knowing and following Jesus. Furthermore, it introduces
the concept of the Holy Trinity and emphasizes that access to the Father is possible only through
Jesus Christ.

2 Corinthians 1:3 - What does this passage tell us about the nature of God as a Father? How
does God comfort us as a Father?

2 Corinthians 1:3 (NIV) states, "Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the
Father of compassion and the God of all comfort." In this passage, the Apostle Paul is writing to
the church in Corinth, offering praise and thanksgiving to God.

The nature of God as a Father is revealed through two main attributes in this verse: compassion
and comfort. The term "Father of compassion" signifies that God is the source and origin of all
compassion. Likewise, the phrase "God of all comfort" indicates that God is the ultimate
provider of comfort and solace in times of distress and suffering.

This passage tells us that God, as a Father, is characterized by compassion and comfort. As
believers in Christ, we can look to God as the ultimate source of love, understanding, and
empathy. His compassion is not limited to a select few but extends to all of His children.

God comforts us as a Father in various ways. First, He offers us His presence through the Holy
Spirit, who dwells within us and provides guidance, strength, and peace in times of need (John
14:16-17). Second, God's Word, serves as a source of comfort and encouragement, providing
wisdom, hope, and direction for our lives (Psalm 119:105). Third, God often uses other believers
as instruments of His comfort, as they empathize with our struggles, offer support, and help carry
our burdens (Galatians 6:2).
Furthermore, God's comfort as a Father is not only for our benefit but also to enable us to
comfort others who are experiencing difficulties (2 Corinthians 1:4). As we experience God's
compassion and comfort, we become better equipped to extend the same love and care to those
around us, reflecting the heart of our Heavenly Father.

The nature of God as a Father who is compassionate and comforting. He is the source of all
comfort and solace in times of distress and suffering. As believers, we can rely on God's
presence, His Word, and the support of fellow believers to experience His comfort and, in turn,
extend it to others in need.

1 Corinthians 8:6 - How does this verse articulate the Father's role in Creation? What does it
mean for us?

II. Faith for Salvation

Biblical References: Ephesians 2:8-9; Romans 10:9-10

Ephesians 2:8-9 - How do these verses differentiate between faith and works? What does
salvation by grace through faith mean to you?

"For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the
gift of God—not by works, so that no one can boast." (NIV)

In these verses, Paul is addressing the issue of how salvation is obtained. He emphasizes that
salvation is a gift from God, not something that can be earned through good deeds or works. This
passage is a key component in understanding the doctrine of justification by faith alone, which is
a central tenet of Protestant Christianity.

The primary message of Ephesians 2:8-9 is the distinction between faith and works in the
context of salvation. Faith is defined as a complete trust or confidence in God, while works refer
to the actions and deeds performed by an individual. In this passage, Paul asserts that salvation is
a result of God's grace, which is an unmerited and undeserved favor or blessing. This grace is
received through faith, not through one's own efforts or good deeds.
The concept of salvation by grace through faith is significant because it emphasizes the
importance of relying on God for salvation, rather than attempting to earn it through one's own
merit. This idea is meant to humble believers and remind them that they are not capable of
saving themselves, and that it is only through God's grace and mercy that they can be saved.

In my understanding, salvation by grace through faith means that I can trust in God's love and
mercy to save me from the consequences of my sins, rather than trying to earn my way into
heaven through good deeds. It is a reminder that I am not perfect and that I cannot save myself,
but that God's grace is sufficient to cover my imperfections and grant me salvation. This belief
encourages me to put my faith in God and rely on His grace, rather than relying on my own
abilities or accomplishments.

In conclusion, Ephesians 2:8-9 teaches that salvation is a gift from God, received through faith
and not by works. This passage emphasizes the importance of trusting in God's grace for
salvation, rather than attempting to earn it through one's own efforts. This understanding of
salvation by grace through faith serves to humble believers and remind them of their dependence
on God for their salvation.

Romans 10:9-10 - What are the two key components of faith outlined in this passage? Why are
both components necessary for salvation?

Romans 10:9-10 is a passage from the New Testament, written by the Apostle Paul to the
Christian community in Rome. This passage is part of a larger discourse on the righteousness
that comes from faith in Christ, as opposed to the righteousness based on the works of the Law
of Moses. The passage reads as follows:

"9 If you declare with your mouth, 'Jesus is Lord,' and believe in your heart that God raised him
from the dead, you will be saved. 10 For it is with your heart that you believe and are justified,
and it is with your mouth that you profess your faith and are saved." (NIV)

The two key components of faith outlined in this passage are:

1. Belief in the heart: This refers to an inner conviction that Jesus is the risen Lord, and that God
raised Him from the dead. This belief is not merely intellectual, but a deep and personal
acceptance of the truth of Jesus' resurrection and lordship.

2. Confession with the mouth: This refers to the outward expression of one's faith in Jesus as
Lord. It is a public declaration of one's allegiance to Christ and a testimony of one's faith to
others.

Both components, belief in the heart and confession with the mouth, are necessary for salvation
because they represent the internal and external aspects of faith. Salvation is not just about an
individual's personal belief, but also about being part of a community of believers who share the
same faith and support one another in their spiritual journey.

Belief in the heart is the foundation of faith, as it is through this belief that a person is justified
before God. Justification is the act of being declared righteous by God, and it is based on faith in
Jesus Christ and His work on the cross. Without this inner conviction, a person cannot be
justified and therefore cannot be saved.

Confession with the mouth, on the other hand, is the outward expression of the faith that resides
in the heart. It is a public declaration that Jesus is Lord and that one is committed to following
Him. This confession serves as a testimony to others and helps to strengthen the faith of both the
individual and the community of believers. It also serves as a way to identify oneself as a
follower of Christ and to be held accountable for one's commitment to Him.

In conclusion, Romans 10:9-10 highlights the two key components of faith: belief in the heart
and confession with the mouth. Both components are necessary for salvation because they
represent the internal and external aspects of faith. Belief in the heart is essential for justification
before God, while confession with the mouth is vital for the testimony and growth of the
Christian community.

V. Salvation by Grace
Biblical References: Ephesians 2:8-9; Romans 11:6

How do these verses emphasize the gift of God's grace? Why can't works save us?
Ephesians 2:8-9 is a part of Paul's letter to the Ephesians, a group of early Christians in the city
of Ephesus. The passage reads:

"For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the
gift of God—not by works, so that no one can boast."

In these verses, Paul emphasizes the idea that salvation is a gift from God, given to believers
through His grace. Grace, in this context, refers to the unmerited favor and love that God
bestows upon humanity, despite their sinful nature.

The passage emphasizes that salvation is not something that can be earned or achieved through
good deeds or works. Instead, it is a gift that is freely given by God to those who have faith in
Jesus Christ. This concept is central to the Christian doctrine of salvation, which teaches that
human beings are incapable of earning their way into heaven through their own efforts.

The key message of Ephesians 2:8-9 is that salvation is a gift from God, given through His grace
and received through faith in Jesus Christ. This passage emphasizes the importance of
recognizing our dependence on God's grace for our salvation, rather than relying on our own
merits or works.

In a broader context, this passage serves as a reminder that the Christian faith is not about
earning God's favor through our actions, but rather about recognizing our need for His grace and
accepting the gift of salvation through faith in Jesus Christ. This understanding of salvation
encourages humility, as believers recognize that they are not saved by their own efforts, but by
the grace and mercy of God.

The passage also serves as a warning against self-righteousness and pride, as it teaches that no
one can boast about their salvation, since it is not something that they have earned through their
own works. This message is particularly relevant in a world where people often seek validation
and worth through their achievements and accomplishments.

Romans 11:6 - What does it mean that grace is no longer grace if works are involved? How does
this deepen your understanding of grace?
Romans 11:6 reads, "And if by grace, then it cannot be based on works; if it were, grace would
no longer be grace." This verse is part of a larger passage in which the Apostle Paul is discussing
the relationship between the Jewish people and the Gentiles in God's plan of salvation.
Specifically, Paul is addressing the fact that although many Jews have rejected Jesus as the
Messiah, God's grace is still available to them, as well as to the Gentiles.

In this verse, Paul is making a clear distinction between grace and works. Grace, as understood
in Christian theology, is the unmerited favor of God. It is a gift given to humanity by God, not
because of anything we have done to deserve it, but simply because of God's love and mercy.
Works, on the other hand, refer to the actions and deeds that people perform in response to their
faith.

Paul is arguing that if grace were based on works, it would no longer be grace. The very nature
of grace is that it is undeserved and unearned. If it were dependent on our actions or our ability to
live up to a certain standard, it would not be a gift but rather a reward or payment for our efforts

The key to understanding Romans 11:6 lies in recognizing the distinction between grace and
works, and the implications of this distinction for our understanding of salvation. This verse
teaches us that grace is a gift from God, and it is not something that we can earn or achieve
through our own efforts.

This understanding of grace has significant implications for how we approach our relationship
with God. First, it underscores the importance of humility, as we recognize that we are not
deserving of God's favor and cannot earn it through our own efforts. Second, it emphasizes the
need for faith, as we trust in God's grace to save us, rather than relying on our own actions or
abilities.

Furthermore, this verse challenges any notion that we can somehow earn our salvation or
manipulate God into granting it to us. It reminds us that our standing before God is not based on
our own merits, but on the grace that He has freely given us through Jesus Christ.
III. Baptism in the Water
Biblical References: Matthew 28:19-20; Acts 2:38

Matthew 28:19-20 - Why does Jesus command us to baptize in the name of the Father, Son, and
Holy Spirit? What significance does this have in your understanding of baptism? Is acceptable if
the baptism is done only in the name of the Lord?

"19 Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and
of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, 20 and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded
you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age."

In this passage, Jesus commands his disciples to go out into the world and make disciples of all
nations. He specifically instructs them to baptize new believers in the name of the Father, Son,
and Holy Spirit. This directive highlights the importance of baptism in the Christian faith and
emphasizes the Trinitarian nature of God.

The command to baptize in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit holds significant
theological implications. First and foremost, it underscores the belief in the Holy Trinity – that
God exists in three persons, yet is one God. This Trinitarian formula is essential to the Christian
faith, as it affirms the divinity of Jesus and the Holy Spirit, as well as their distinct roles within
the Godhead.

Baptism serves as a public declaration of one's faith in Jesus Christ and a commitment to follow
him. By baptizing in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, believers are identifying
themselves with the entire Godhead, acknowledging their submission to God's authority and their
inclusion in the family of God.

The question of whether baptism is acceptable if done only in the name of the Lord stems from
passages such as Acts 2:38 and Acts 8:16, where baptism is mentioned in connection with the
name of Jesus Christ. However, it is essential to recognize that these passages do not negate or
contradict Jesus' command in Matthew 28:19-20. Instead, they highlight the importance of Jesus'
name, authority, and work in the process of salvation and baptism.
Acts 2:38 - How does this verse link repentance and baptism? What is the role of baptism
according to this verse?

Acts 2:38 states, "Peter replied, 'Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of
Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. And you will receive the gift of the Holy
Spirit.'" John the Batist also baptised for forgiveness of sins, but he did not baptised in name of
Jesus.

In this verse, Peter is addressing a crowd of people who had gathered in Jerusalem to witness the
outpouring of the Holy Spirit on the apostles during the day of Pentecost. These people, upon
hearing the apostles speaking in their languages and understanding the miraculous event, were
convicted of their sins and asked Peter and the other apostles what they should do.

Peter's response in Acts 2:38 links repentance and baptism as essential components of the
process of salvation. Repentance, which means turning away from one's sins and turning towards
God, is the first step in the process. Baptism, which is the outward expression of one's faith in
Jesus Christ, is the next step. Both repentance and baptism are necessary for the forgiveness of
sins and the reception of the Holy Spirit.

The role of baptism in this verse is twofold. First, it serves as a public declaration of one's faith
in Jesus Christ and identification with His death, burial, and resurrection. Baptism symbolizes
the washing away of one's sins and the beginning of a new life in Christ. Second, baptism is
closely connected with the reception of the Holy Spirit. In this verse, Peter promises that those
who repent and are baptized will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit, which empowers believers to
live a transformed life and be witnesses for Christ.

In light of this passage, we can understand that both repentance and baptism are essential
aspects of the Christian faith. Repentance signifies a change of heart and mind, while baptism
represents a public commitment to follow Jesus Christ. Furthermore, the reception of the Holy
Spirit empowers believers to live a life that reflects their commitment to Christ and enables them
IV. Baptism with the Holy Spirit
Biblical References: Luke 24:49 John 14:15-26, John 20:21-22; Acts 1:4-5; 2:1-4, -
Contradiction because it had two moments of baptism

What is the promise of the Father that Jesus mentions? How is this connected to the Holy Spirit?

"On one occasion, while he was eating with them, John 14:16-17he gave them this command:
'Do not leave Jerusalem, but wait for the gift my Father promised, which you have heard me
speak about. For John baptized with water, but in a few days, you will be baptized with the
Holy Spirit.'"

In these verses, Jesus' followers are being instructed not to leave Jerusalem, but instead to wait
for the fulfillment of the promise from the Father. These passages can be considered in their
historical, literary, and religious contexts to better understand their meaning.

After of Jesus' crucifixion and resurrection, He appears to his disciples and spends time with
them for a period of 40 days. Acts 1:4-5 comes in the context of Jesus' final instructions to his
disciples prior to his ascension into heaven.

The book of Acts, written by Luke, serves as a transition from the Gospels to the development
of the early Christian church. It outlines the growth and expansion of the church, powered by the
Holy Spirit.

As part of the New Testament, Acts represents a shift from the Old Covenant to the New
Covenant, marked by the crucial role of the Holy Spirit in the lives of believers.

The "promise of the Father" that Jesus mentions in the passage relates to the coming of the
Holy Spirit. The Old Testament prophesied the coming of the Holy Spirit (e.g., Joel 2:28-29),
and Jesus himself promised the empowering presence of the Holy Spirit throughout his ministry
(e.g., John 14:16-17, John 16:7). The promise indicates a transformative power that will guide
and strengthen believers as they carry out Jesus' mission.

This promise is also reiterated by Jesus himself in the New Testament. In John 14:16-17, Jesus says,
"And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another advocate to help you and be with you
forever—the Spirit of truth. The world cannot accept him because it neither sees him nor knows him.
But you know him, for he lives with you and will be in you. But let`s see what happen in John 20:22.
"And when he had said this, he breathed on them and said to them, 'Receive the Holy Spirit.'" (John
20:22)

The connection between the Holy Spirit and the promise of the Father can be seen in
several ways:

1. Empowerment: The Holy Spirit would endow the disciples with the power necessary to
spread the Gospel and serve as the foundation for the early church.

2. Guidance: The Holy Spirit would guide believers in understanding and interpreting the
teachings of Jesus.

3. Unity among believers: The gift of the Holy Spirit would create a bond among Christians,
transcending cultural and social barriers.

4. Continuation: The presence of the Holy Spirit would ensure that Jesus' mission continues in
the world, with the Holy Spirit acting as the "Helper" that Jesus promised.

In conclusion, the promise of the Father in Acts 1:4-5, which Jesus describes as the gift of the
Holy Spirit, is a central element of Christian theology. Expected from Old Testament prophesies
and reaffirmed by Jesus himself, this gift serves as a source of empowerment, guidance, unity,
and continuation of Jesus' mission among believers.

Acts 2:1-4 - What happened at Pentecost? How does this event signify the baptism of the Holy
Spirit?
VI. Achieving Holiness
Biblical References: 1 Peter 1:15-16; 2 Corinthians 7:1

1 Peter 1:15-16 - What does it mean to be holy in all you do? How can we practically strive for
this holiness?

"But just as he who called you is holy, so be holy in all you do; for it is written: 'Be holy,
because I am holy.'"

In this passage, Peter is reminding the early Christians of their calling to live a life of holiness,
which is rooted in the character of God Himself. The phrase "he who called you is holy" refers to
God, who has called believers to be His people and to live a life that reflects His character. The
command to "be holy in all you do" is an exhortation for believers to live a life of moral purity
and spiritual devotion to God.

The quote "Be holy, because I am holy" is taken from the Old Testament, specifically from the
book of Leviticus (Leviticus 11:44-45; 19:2; 20:7). This command was given to the Israelites as
part of the Mosaic Law, which was meant to set them apart from the surrounding nations as
God's chosen people. By quoting this passage from Leviticus, Peter is drawing a parallel between
the call to holiness for the Israelites and the call to holiness for the early Christians.

To understand the meaning of this passage and apply it to our lives today, we must first grasp
the concept of holiness. In the biblical context, holiness means being set apart for God's
purposes, reflecting His character, and living in obedience to His commands. It is not merely
about following a set of rules, but rather about having a transformed heart and mind that desires
to please God and live in accordance with His will.

Being holy in all we do means that every aspect of our lives should be influenced by our
relationship with God and our desire to honor Him. This includes our thoughts, words, actions,
and relationships. Practically striving for this holiness involves several key elements:
1. Regularly engaging in spiritual disciplines: To grow in holiness, we need to consistently
spend time in prayer, Bible study, meditation, and worship. These practices help us to deepen our
relationship with God, understand His will, and draw on His strength to live a holy life.

2. Seeking accountability and fellowship with other believers: Living a holy life is not
something we can do on our own. We need the support, encouragement, and guidance of other
Christians who are also striving for holiness. By participating in a community of believers, we
can learn from one another, hold each other accountable, and spur one another on toward love
and good deeds (Hebrews 10:24-25).

3. Practicing repentance and confession: When we inevitably fall short of God's standard of
holiness, it is essential to acknowledge our sins, confess them to God, and seek His forgiveness
and cleansing (1 John 1:9). This process of repentance and confession helps us to maintain a
close relationship with God and remain sensitive to His leading in our lives.

4. Cultivating a heart of obedience: Holiness is not just about avoiding sin, but also about
actively pursuing righteousness and good works. As we grow in our relationship with God and
become more sensitive to His leading, we should seek to obey His commands and follow His
guidance in every area of our lives.

In conclusion, 1 Peter 1:15-16 calls believers to be holy in all they do, just as God is holy. This
means living a life that is set apart for God's purposes, reflecting His character, and obeying His
commands. Practically striving for holiness involves engaging in spiritual disciplines, seeking
accountability and fellowship with other believers, practicing repentance and confession, and
cultivating a heart of obedience.

2 Corinthians 7:1 - What does it mean to perfect holiness out of reverence for God? How can this
reverence lead us to holiness?

2 Corinthians 7:1 reads, "Therefore, since we have these promises, dear friends, let us purify
ourselves from everything that contaminates body and spirit, perfecting holiness out of reverence
for God." (NIV)

In this verse, the Apostle Paul is writing to the Corinthians, encouraging them to live a life of
holiness because of the promises God has given to them. The promises Paul is referring to are
found in the previous chapter (2 Corinthians 6:16-18), where God promises to dwell among His
people and be their God.

The verse emphasizes two main ideas: purification from contamination and perfecting holiness.
Purification refers to the process of cleansing oneself from anything that defiles the body and
spirit. This includes sinful actions, thoughts, and attitudes. Perfecting holiness, on the other hand,
is the ongoing process of becoming more like God in character and conduct.

To understand what it means to perfect holiness out of reverence for God, we must first
understand the concept of reverence. Reverence is a deep respect and awe for God, recognizing
His holiness, power, and authority. It is an attitude that acknowledges God's greatness and
submits to His will.

This reverence for God serves as the motivation for perfecting holiness. As we grow in our
understanding of who God is and the magnitude of His love for us, we are compelled to respond
by living a life that reflects His character. This means turning away from sin and striving to live
in accordance with His will.

In practical terms, perfecting holiness out of reverence for God involves a continuous process of
self-examination, repentance, and growth in godly character. This process is aided by engaging
in spiritual disciplines such as prayer, Bible study, worship, and fellowship with other believers.
As we draw closer to God through these practices, we become more aware of areas in our lives
that need purification and are empowered by the Holy Spirit to make the necessary changes.

In conclusion, 2 Corinthians 7:1 calls believers to a life of holiness, motivated by reverence for
God. This reverence leads us to a continuous process of purification from sin and growth in
godly character. As we engage in spiritual disciplines and submit to the transforming work of the
Holy Spirit, we become more like Christ, reflecting His holiness in our lives.

VII. Jesus is God

Biblical References: John 1:1-14; Colossians 2:9

John 1:1-14 - How does this passage assert the divinity of Jesus? What does it mean for Jesus to
be "the Word"? Jesus is GOD.
John 1:1-14 - The Divinity of Jesus and the Concept of the Word

The Gospel of John starts with a profound theological statement that establishes the divinity of
Jesus (John 1:1-14). This passage is pivotal in asserting Jesus as both human and divine, and it
highlights the concept of the Word (Logos) as the creative principle of God. This exegesis and
hermeneutic will explore the divinity of Jesus in the passage and the meaning of Jesus as "the
Word."

John 1:1 begins with "In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the
Word was God." This verse indicates that Jesus, the Word, always existed and implies a
partnership between Jesus and God. The unity between the Word and God is further emphasized
through the assertion that the Word was both with God and was God simultaneously.

In John 1:2-3, the text proceeds to demonstrate the role of the Word in the creation of
everything, asserting that "all things were made through him, and without him was not any thing
made that was made." This identification of Jesus, the Word, as the agent of creation
consolidates Jesus’ divine role in the biblical narrative.

The passage then transitions from the divinity of Jesus to his incarnation as a human in John
1:14, stating that "The Word became flesh and dwelt among us." Thus, the text clearly
establishes the divine and human nature of Jesus.

In the context of this passage, Jesus being "the Word" carries various meanings. "Logos" or "the
Word" signifies the creative expression of God, embodying the very essence, knowledge, and
wisdom of the divine. The Word's role in creation is connected to the act of speaking, living, and
carrying out God's plan. In this sense, the Word becomes the living link between God and
humanity.

Jesus as "the Word" represents communication between the divine and human realms, as it is
through Jesus that humans understand God. Since the Word became flesh, Jesus' life, teachings,
and actions can be seen as the practical embodiment of divine wisdom, love, and grace - further
asserting his divinity.
Colossians 2:9 - What does it mean that in Jesus the whole fullness of deity dwells bodily? How
does this inform your understanding of Jesus?

Colossians 2:9 is a verse from the New Testament, specifically from one of the letters of the
Apostle Paul to the Colossians. The verse states: "For in him [Jesus] the whole fullness of deity
dwells bodily." To understand the meaning of this verse, it is essential to examine its context and
the original Greek words used.

The letter to the Colossians was written by Paul to address certain issues that were arising in the
Colossian church, such as false teachings and the influence of Gnosticism. Gnosticism was a
religious movement that promoted the idea that salvation comes through secret knowledge and
that the material world was evil. This belief led some Gnostics to deny the deity of Jesus Christ
and his physical incarnation.

In this context, Paul emphasizes the supremacy and sufficiency of Jesus Christ in all things,
including his divine nature and his work of salvation. In the previous verses (Colossians 2:6-8),
Paul exhorts the Colossians to remain rooted in their faith in Christ and not to be deceived by
human traditions and philosophies.

Original Greek words:

The key Greek words in this verse are "πλήρωμα" (plērōma), which means "fullness," and
"θεότητος" (theotētos), which means "deity" or "divine nature." The phrase "dwells bodily"
comes from the Greek words "σωματικῶς" (sōmatikōs) and "κατοικεῖ" (katoikei), which mean
"in bodily form" and "to dwell" or "to inhabit," respectively.

The verse Colossians 2:9 asserts that Jesus Christ is not just a human being but also fully divine,
possessing the entire fullness of God's nature in his physical body.

VIII. Spiritual Gifts

Biblical References: 1 Corinthians 12:4-11; Romans 12:6-8

1 Corinthians 12:4-11 - How does this passage describe the variety and purpose of spiritual gifts?
How can you identify and use your spiritual gifts?
Romans 12:6-8 - How are these gifts meant to function within the church? How can you cultivate
your spiritual gifts for the benefit of the church?

IX. Commitment to the Church

Biblical References: Hebrews 10:24-25; Acts 2:42

Hebrews 10:24-25 - Why is it important to meet together as believers? How can you encourage
others and spur them on to love and good deeds?

Acts 2:42 - What were the four commitments of the early church? How can these commitments
be practiced in your church today?

X. Roles and Responsibilities of a Church Member

Biblical References: 1 Corinthians 12:27; Romans 12:4-5

1 Corinthians 12:27 - How does this verse describe the church? How can you contribute as a
member of the body?

Romans 12:4-5 - How does this passage depict the interconnectedness of the church members?
What does it mean for you to be a part of this body?

XI. Tithe and Offering

Biblical References: Malachi 3:10; 2 Corinthians 9:7

Malachi 3:10 - What promise does God make if we bring our tithes into His storehouse? How
has tithing impacted your faith?
Malachi 3:10 is a verse from the Old Testament, in which the prophet Malachi conveys a
message from God to the Israelites. The verse reads: "Bring the whole tithe into the storehouse,
so that there may be food in my house. Test me in this,” says the LORD Almighty, “and see if I
will not throw open the floodgates of heaven and pour out so much blessing that there will not be
room enough to store it."

In this passage, God is addressing the issue of tithing, which is the practice of giving a tenth of
one's income or produce to support the temple and its priests. The Israelites had been neglecting
this practice, and as a result, they were experiencing a lack of blessings and prosperity. God is
essentially challenging the Israelites to bring their tithes into the storehouse (the temple), and in
return, He promises to bless them abundantly.

Literally, God is instructing the Israelites to bring their tithes to the temple in order to receive His
blessings. This can be seen as practical instruction for the people of that time, as tithing was a
way to support the religious institution and ensure its continued operation.

On a metaphorical level, this passage can be seen as a reminder of the importance of putting
God first in our lives and being obedient to His commands. When we prioritize God and follow
His instructions, we can expect to receive His blessings and provision in our lives.

In terms of personal application, tithing can have a significant impact on one's faith. By giving a
portion of our income or resources to support the work of the church or other religious
organizations, we demonstrate our trust in God's provision and our commitment to His kingdom.
This act of faith can lead to a deeper relationship with God and an increased awareness of His
presence and guidance in our lives.

In conclusion, Malachi 3:10 serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of tithing and
putting God first in our lives. Through the practice of tithing, we can demonstrate our faith in
God's provision and experience the blessings that come from obedience to His commands.

2 Corinthians 9:7 - How does this verse guide our attitude towards giving? How can you
cultivate a cheerful heart when giving?
1 Corinthians 9:7 states, "Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give,
not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver." This verse is part of a larger
passage in which the Apostle Paul is addressing the issue of financial support for Christian
ministers and the importance of giving to support the work of the church.

In this verse, Paul is offering guidance to the Corinthians on how to approach giving. He
emphasizes that giving should be a personal decision, made in one's heart, rather than something
done out of reluctance or obligation. This suggests that giving should be a voluntary act,
motivated by genuine love and concern for others.
Furthermore, Paul highlights that God loves a cheerful giver. This indicates that the attitude with
which one gives is of great importance to God. Giving with a joyful and generous spirit pleases
God and contributes to a deeper sense of spiritual fulfillment.

This verse provides valuable guidance on how to approach giving in our own lives. It teaches us
that giving should be a personal decision, made with a joyful and generous heart. This can be
applied not only to financial giving but also to giving our time, talents, and resources to others in
need.

To cultivate a cheerful heart when giving, consider the following steps:

1. Reflect on your motivations: Before giving, take a moment to consider your reasons for doing
so. Are you giving out of love and compassion, or are you giving out of a sense of obligation or
guilt? Strive to give for the right reasons, with a genuine desire to help others.

2. Pray for a joyful spirit: Ask God to fill your heart with joy and generosity as you give. Pray
for the ability to see the needs of others and to respond with love and kindness.

3. Focus on the impact of your giving: Rather than dwelling on the sacrifices you are making,
think about the positive impact your giving will have on others. Consider the ways in which your
contributions can make a difference in the lives