|
Rightly Dividing the Word of Truth 05Introduction:
1. As we study and teach the Scriptures we are responsible for "rightly dividing [accurately handling] the word of truth" (2 Timothy 2:15). 2. We are examining several principles that will help us to fulfill this responsibility. 3. The Scriptures teach that we must: a. consider all that the Bible teaches on a subject to know the truth (Psalm 119:160) b. not participate in activities just because they seem right to us (Proverbs 14:12) c. avoid human traditions and commandments (Titus 1:13-14) d. avoid questions that contradict the truth (Titus 3:9). 4. The theme for this lesson: The New Testament has replaced the Old Testament. Discussion: I. THIS PRINCIPLE IS ADDRESSED IN A NUMBER OF PASSAGES A. The Old Testament is the inspired Word of God (2 Timothy 3:16), and it was written for our benefit (Romans 15:4); however, . . . B. The Old Testament stated that it would be replaced (Jeremiah 31:31-34). 1. The new covenant would be greater than the old one. 2. The new covenant would provide the complete removal of sins. C. The Bible explains why the establishment of the new covenant was necessary. 1. (Hebrews 9:1-10) The service performed under the first covenant "could not make him that did the service perfect, as pertaining to the conscience." 2. (Hebrews 10:1-4) The animal sacrifices that were offered under the old covenant could not take away sins. D. The covenant of Christ fulfilled Jeremiah's prophecy (Hebrews 8:6-13; 10:15-17). E. Additional passages teach that the old covenant is no longer in effect (Romans 7:4; Galatians 3:23-28; Ephesians 2:14-16; Colossians 2:13-14). II. THE NEED TO STUDY THIS PRINCIPLE IS ALSO ADDRESSED IN A NUMBER OF PASSAGES A. Some teachers in the early church taught Christians to keep the Law of Moses (Acts 15:1-5). B. This problem also affected the churches in Galatia (Galatians 4:21; 5:1-3) and the church in Colosse (Colossians 2:16-17). Conclusion: 1. Because the New Testament is in effect today, we must not seek to be justified by the law (Galatians 5:4). 2. Rather, let us follow the instructions given in James 1:25. | ||