Transcript Slide 1

1
Psalm 119:18
Open thou mine
eyes, that I may
behold wondrous
things out of thy
law.
18
2
The Christian
Faith
3
Outline
What is the Christian Faith?
The Christian Faith is not…
…Organization Founder’s/Leader’s ideas/beliefs
“man of God”
Mediator
…Church Organization Doctrines/Laws
…Bible combined with worldly wisdom
Trust in God
…Bible combined with cultural beliefs
…Bible combined with organizational culture
Reformer’s Fundamental Principles
Solar Scriptura
22
24
28
83
88
92
101
125
129
133
134
4
Outline
The Christian Faith is Christ-centred & Bible-based 140
Bible Only
177
Biblical reasons for Christ-centred messages
200
5
2 Peter 1:13 - 21 (NIV)
6
2 Peter 1:13 - 21 (NIV)
I think it is right to
refresh your memory
as long as I live in
the tent of this body,
13
7
2 Peter 1:13 - 21 (NIV)
because I know that
I will soon put it
aside, as our Lord
Jesus Christ has
made clear to me.
14
8
2 Peter 1:13 - 21 (NIV)
And I will make every
effort to see that after
my departure you will
always be able to
remember these
things.
15
9
2 Peter 1:13 - 21 (NIV)
For we did not follow
cleverly devised stories
when we told you about the
coming of our Lord Jesus
Christ in power, but we were
eyewitnesses of his
majesty.
16
10
2 Peter 1:13 - 21 (NIV)
He received honor and
glory from God the Father
when the voice came to him
from the Majestic Glory,
saying, "This is my Son,
whom I love; with him I am
well pleased."
17
11
2 Peter 1:13 - 21 (NIV)
We ourselves heard
this voice that came
from heaven when we
were with him on the
sacred mountain.
18
12
2 Peter 1:13 - 21 (NIV)
19 We
also have the prophetic
message as something
completely reliable, and you
will do well to pay attention
to it, as to a light shining in a
dark place, until the day dawns
and the morning star rises in
your hearts.
13
2 Peter 1:13 - 21 (NIV)
Above all, you must
understand that no
prophecy of Scripture
came about by the
prophet's own
interpretation of things.
20
14
2 Peter 1:13 - 21 (NIV)
For prophecy never had its
origin in the human will, but
prophets, though human,
spoke from God as they
were carried along by the
Holy Spirit.
21
New International Version
15
Jeremiah 10:23
16
Jeremiah 10:23
O LORD, I know that
the way of man is not
in himself: it is not in
man that walketh to
direct his steps.
23
17
2 Tim. 3:15 - 17
18
2 Timothy 3:15 - 17
And that from a child thou
hast known the holy
scriptures, which are able
to make thee wise unto
salvation through faith
which is in Christ Jesus.
15
19
2 Timothy 3:15 - 17
All scripture is given
by inspiration of God,
and is profitable for
doctrine, for reproof, for
correction, for instruction
in righteousness:
16
20
2 Timothy 3:15 - 17
That the man of
God may be
perfect, throughly
furnished unto all
good works.
17
21
What is the Christian
Faith?
22
What is the Christian
Faith?
(what do you really
believe?)
23
The Christian Faith is not
Organization
Founder’s/Leader’s
ideas/beliefs
24
Organization Founder’s/Leader’s Ideas/Beliefs
The founder/leader of each organization and
ministry is usually acknowledged by its
members as being “called by God” therefore
many/all of his/her words are accepted as
“divine truth.” These “divine truth” are usually
taught to the believers equally with the Word of
God which many believers accept as being part
of the Christian Faith. These doctrines may also
include the founder’s “revelation” to start a
denomination/ministry. God’s Divine Truth is
never diluted with man’s ideas/beliefs but will
always remain pure (Psalm 12:6 & 119:89). 25
Psalm 12:6
The words of the
Lord are pure
words: as silver tried
in a furnace of earth,
purified seven times.
6
26
Psalm 119:89
For ever, O
Lord, thy word is
settled in
heaven.
89
27
Organization Founder’s/Leader’s Ideas/Beliefs
“Man
of God”
During the Old Testament period various
individuals were God’s spokesmen known as
“men of God.” Since the New Testament times
this term applies to both leadership and the
membership (1 Tim. 6:11 & 2 Tim. 3:16, 17).
Therefore although leadership are to be
honored (1 Thess. 5:12 & 13) their position
must not be raised from a servant-leader (Matt.
20:20 – 28) to an infallible mediator which
belongs only to Jesus Christ (Col. 1:18, 1 Tim
28
2:5 & Heb. 10:1, 11, 12, 19 - 22).
1 Timothy 6:11
But thou, O man of
God, flee these things;
and follow after
righteousness, godliness,
faith, love, patience,
meekness.
11
29
2 Timothy 3:16 & 17
All scripture is given by
inspiration of God, and is
profitable for doctrine, for
reproof, for correction, for
instruction in
righteousness:
16
30
2 Timothy 3:16 & 17
That the man of
God may be
perfect, throughly
furnished unto all
good works.
17
31
Organization Founder’s/Leader’s Ideas/Beliefs
“Man
of God”
A God-called leader will instruct/remind the
membership that as a servant-leader (1 Cor. 3:1
– 9) it is God who is working through him/her
who freshly anoints (Psa. 92:10) and
empowering him/her to fulfil His will (Luke
24:49, Zech. 4:6, Matt. 6:10 & Phil. 2:13). To
avoid any misunderstanding if any focus is on
him/herself after miracles are performed he/she
must always redirect focus to Jesus Christ
(John 16:13, 14; Acts 3:1 – 16 & Eph. 3:20, 21).
32
Organization Founder’s/Leader’s Ideas/Beliefs
Many believers have never searched the
Scriptures for themselves (Acts 17:11) to know
God’s intention (Deut. 29:29) instead of man’s
invention (1 Cor. 2:1-5 & Col. 2:6 – 8). Many
members of some organizations and ministries
may not realize that some/all of the doctrines
and practices “given” by their founder (or
present leader) may have been interpreted
subjectively or eisegesisly. Personal
relationship with God is vital (Gen. 5:24;
17:1; 1 Chron. 28:9; Prov 3:5, 6; John 4:23, 24;
33
15:1 – 8; Col. 1:8 - 10 & 2:7).
Genesis 5:24 (NLT)
He enjoyed a close
relationship with God
throughout his life.
Then suddenly, he
disappeared because
God took him.
24
New Living Translation
34
1 Chron. 28:9 (NLT)
9 "And Solomon, my son, learn to
know the God of your ancestors
intimately. Worship and serve him
with your whole heart and a willing
mind. For the LORD sees every
heart and knows every plan and
thought. If you seek him, you will
find him. But if you forsake him, he
will reject you forever.
New Living Translation
35
Colossians 1:9 & 10 (NLT)
So we have not stopped
praying for you since we first
heard about you. We ask
God to give you complete
knowledge of his will and
to give you spiritual
wisdom and
understanding.
9
36
Colossians 1:9 & 10 (NLT)
Then the way you live will
always honor and please the
Lord, and your lives will
produce every kind of good
fruit. All the while, you will
grow as you learn to know
God better and better.
10
New Living Translation
37
Colossians 2:7 (NLT)
7 Let
your roots grow down into him
and draw up nourishment from
him, so you will grow in faith,
strong and vigorous in the truth
you were taught. Let your lives
overflow with thanksgiving for all
he has done.
New Living Translation
38
Organization Founder’s/Leader’s Ideas/Beliefs
Some organizations/local churches interpret
Moses as a type of their founder/present leader
instead of Jesus Christ (Deut. 18:15, Acts 3:1 22 & Heb. 3:1-6). The main problem of
misinterpreting Moses as a type of any other
leader is that too much emphasis is on the
leader’s ministry and not on the Ministry of
Jesus Christ which according to God’s divine
purpose is to be manifested through the whole
Body of Christ under the direction of the Spirit
(John 3:30; 1 Cor. 3:1 – 9; 12:1 – 31; Gal. 2:20;
39
Eph. 4:11, 12; Col. 1:18 & 1 Tim. 1:12).
Organization Founder’s/Leader’s Ideas/Beliefs
This misinterpretation also causes certain
leaders to be viewed (or portrayed by the
leader) as an infallible mediator based on
Number 12:1 – 16 & 1 Samuel 26:1 – 25.
Its possible that just as the brazen serpent
became an object of worship (Numbers
21:4 – 9 & 2 Kings 18:1 - 4) the
founder/leader can also become an object
of worship if Christ is not truly
acknowledged for who He is (John 3:14;
Exo. 34:14; Isaiah 48:11 & Eph. 3:20, 21).
40
Deut. 18:15 (NLT)
15
Moses continued, “The
Lord your God will raise up
for you a prophet like me
from among your fellow
Israelites. You must listen
to him.
New Living Translation
41
Acts 3:20 – 22 (NLT)
20
Then times of
refreshment will come
from the presence of the
Lord, and he will again
send you Jesus, your
appointed Messiah.
42
Acts 3:20 – 22 (NLT)
21
For he must remain in
heaven until the time for
the final restoration of all
things, as God promised
long ago through his
holy prophets
43
Acts 3:20 – 22 (NLT)
22
Moses said, ‘The Lord your
God will raise up for you a
Prophet like me from
among your own people.
Listen carefully to
everything he tells you.’
New Living Translation
44
Eph. 4:11 & 12 (NLT)
11
Now these are the
gifts Christ gave to the
church: the apostles,
the prophets, the
evangelists, and the
pastors and teachers.
45
Eph. 4:11 & 12 (NLT)
12
Their responsibility is
to equip God’s people
to do his work and
build up the church,
the body of Christ.
New Living Translation
46
Col. 1:18 (NIV)
12
And he is the head of the
body, the church; he is the
beginning and the firstborn
from among the dead, so that
in everything he might have
the supremacy.
New International Version
47
Organization Founder’s/Leader’s Ideas/Beliefs
The Ministry of Jesus Christ needs to be
manifested through each member (1 Cor. 12:7
& 18) in the Body of Christ as the Spirit inspires,
empowers and direct (Zech. 4:6; Gal. 3:20, 21;
Phil. 2:13 & 1 Peter 4:10, 11). When only one
person leads an organization there is a
tendency for all its beliefs to be bias based on
his personality. Without advice, instructions and
correction the leader will impart his ideas/beliefs
to the membership as it seems “right in his own
eyes” (Judges 21:25) who without verification
48
(Acts 17:11) will be accepted as “divine truth.”
Organization Founder’s/Leader’s Ideas/Beliefs
According to the New Testament pattern
each local church is to be led by a plurality
of God-appointed leaders (Mark 3:13 – 19;
Acts 13:1, 2; 14:23; 20:17; Philippians 1:1
& 1 Tim. 5:17) who will also encourage
and support each other (Prov 27:17; Eccl.
4:9 – 12; Prov. 11:14 & 15:22). Decisionmaking is also by a plurality of leaders
(Acts 1:12 – 26; 6:1 – 6 & 15:1 – 29).
49
Organization Founder’s/Leader’s Ideas/Beliefs
Jesus by virtue of His deity (John 1:1) which
includes His omnipresence (Psa. 139:7-11),
omnipotence (Rev. 19:6) and omniscience (Job
37:16), is the only Bishop who has the ability to
oversee every local church all at the same time
(Prov. 15:3). He alone is the General
Overseer (Bishop) of the whole Church
(Peter 2:25). Each overseer (elder) is only able
to oversee one local church at a time (Acts
20:17 & 28). Jesus, the Head (Col. 1:18) is in
every local church simultaneously (Matt. 28:20
50
& Acts 17:27).
Organization Founder’s/Leader’s Ideas/Beliefs
Is it possible for God to
reveal different doctrines
and give different direction
to each denomination and
ministry founder/leader
which contradict each other
and are inconsistent with
His Word?
51
Acts 17:11
“…they received the word with all readiness of
mind, and searched the scriptures daily,
whether those things were so.”
52
1 Cor. 14:33
33
For God is not the
author of
confusion, but of
peace, as in all
churches of the
saints.
53
2 Timothy 2:13
13
If we believe
not, yet he
abideth faithful:
he cannot deny
himself.
54
Organization Founder’s/Leader’s Ideas/Beliefs
Are there any New
Testament examples of God
speaking to any
individual/church
only/mainly through “a man
of God” as He spoke to His
people during the Old
Testament period?
55
Acts 17:11
“…they received the word with all readiness of
mind, and searched the scriptures daily,
whether those things were so.”
56
Organization Founder’s/Leader’s Ideas/Beliefs
Does God speak to various denominations
and ministries today only/mainly through
their “man/woman of God” similar as He
did to His people through the Old
Testament prophets?
According to Heb 1:1, 2; John 16:12 – 14;
Heb. 10:1 – 22 & 1 Peter 2:5, 9 there is
definitely a difference in the way God
communicates with individuals/His people
today.
57
Hebrews 10:1, 11, 12 & 19 – 22 (NLT)
1
The old system under the law of
Moses was only a shadow, a dim
preview of the good things to come,
not the good things themselves. The
sacrifices under that system were
repeated again and again, year after
year, but they were never able to
provide perfect cleansing for those
who came to worship.
58
Hebrews 10:1, 11, 12 & 19 – 22 (NLT)
11
Under the old covenant,
the priest stands and
ministers before the altar
day after day, offering the
same sacrifices again and
again, which can never
take away sins.
59
Hebrews 10:1, 11, 12 & 19 – 22 (NLT)
12
But our High Priest
offered himself to God
as a single sacrifice for
sins, good for all time.
Then he sat down in the
place of honor at God’s
right hand.
60
Hebrews 10:1, 11, 12 & 19 – 22 (NLT)
19
And so, dear brothers
and sisters, we can
boldly enter
heaven’s Most Holy
Place because of the
blood of Jesus.
61
Hebrews 10:1, 11, 12 & 19 – 22 (NLT)
20
By his death, Jesus
opened a new and
life-giving way
through the curtain
into the Most Holy
Place.
62
Hebrews 10:1, 11, 12 & 19 – 22 (NLT)
21
And since we
have a great
High Priest who
rules over God’s
house,
63
Hebrews 10:1, 11, 12 & 19 – 22 (NLT)
22 let us go right into the
presence of God with sincere
hearts fully trusting him. For our
guilty consciences have been
sprinkled with Christ’s blood to
make us clean, and our bodies
have been washed with pure
water.
New Living Translation
64
1 Peter 2:5 (NLT)
5 And you are living stones that
God is building into his
spiritual temple. What's more,
you are his holy priests.
Through the mediation of
Jesus Christ, you offer
spiritual sacrifices that please
God.
New Living Translation
65
Organization Founder’s/Leader’s Ideas/Beliefs
There are some denominations, ministries and
local church today who esteem the words
(including the books) of their “man/woman of
God” above the Word of God. For example
instead of saying “the Word/Bible says…” they
usually say at least one of the following,
“the Pope said/says…”
“the man of God said/says…”
“the Bishop said/says…”
“the Pastor said/says…”
“it must be true because the man of God said
so.”
66
Acts 17:11
“…they received the word with all readiness of
mind, and searched the scriptures daily,
whether those things were so.”
67
Hebrews 1:1 & 2 (NIV)
1
In the past God
spoke to our
ancestors through
the prophets at
many times and in
various ways,
68
Hebrews 1:1 & 2 (NIV)
but in these last days he
has spoken to us by his
Son, whom he appointed
heir of all things, and through
whom also he made the
universe.
2
New International Version)
69
John 16:12 – 14 (ISV)
12
"I still have a lot
to say to you,
but you cannot
bear it now.
70
John 16:12 – 14 (ISV)
13
Yet when the Spirit of
Truth comes, he'll guide
you into all truth. He
won't speak on his own
accord, but he'll speak
whatever he hears and
will declare to you the
things that are to come.
71
John 16:12 – 14 (ISV)
He will glorify me,
because he will take
what is mine and
declare it to you.
14
(International Standard Version)
72
Organization Founder’s/Leader’s Ideas/Beliefs
Servant-leaders are not mediators/managers (1
Tim. 2:5; Matt. 28:20 – 28; & 1 Peter 5:1 – 3)
and should never be viewed “beyond what the
scriptures says…” (1 Cor. 4:6). A God-called
leader (1 Sam. 16:1-13) will encourage each
believer to have a personal relationship with
God (1 Chron. 28:9 & John 15:1 – 5, 7) and
without hesitation is very comfortable whenever
any member verify his word/instruction by
searching the scriptures for him/herself (Heb.
13:7 & Acts 17:11). He/she will always make
sure members say “God/the Bible says…”
rather than quote him/her (John 3:30; 1 Cor. 73
10:31; Eph. 3:20, 21 & 1 Peter 4:11).
1 Cor. 4:6 (ISV)
6
Brothers, I have applied all this to
Apollos and myself for your
benefit, so that you may learn
from us not to go beyond what
the Scriptures say. Then you
will stop boasting about one
person at the expense of another.
International Standard Version
74
Organization Founder’s/Leader’s Ideas/Beliefs
The Spirit-led servant-leader will also
encourage members to follow God’s will for
him/herself (Matt. 6:10, Rom. 8:14 & Col. 1:18)
which will include allowing the Spirit to manifest
the Ministry of Jesus Christ (Gal. 2:20, 1
Peter 4:11 & 2 Peter 1:4) by various ministries
and gifts through various members as He
inspires, direct and empowers (John 16:13; 1
Cor. 12:7, 11 & Eph. 4:1, 11, 12). The
emphasis and focus will always be on Jesus
Christ (John 16:12 – 14 & Col. 1:25 – 29).
75
Col. 1:25 - 29 (NLT)
25
God has given me the
responsibility of
serving his church by
proclaiming his entire
message to you.
76
Col. 1:25 - 29 (NLT)
26
This message was kept
secret for centuries and
generations past, but
now it has been
revealed to God’s
people.
77
Col. 1:25 - 29 (NLT)
27
For God wanted them to know
that the riches and glory of
Christ are for you Gentiles,
too. And this is the secret:
Christ lives in you. This gives
you assurance of sharing his
glory.
78
Col. 1:25 - 29 (NLT)
28
So we tell others about
Christ, warning everyone
and teaching everyone with
all the wisdom God has
given us. We want to
present them to God,
perfect in their
relationship to Christ.
79
Col. 1:25 - 29 (NLT)
29
That’s why I work and
struggle so hard,
depending on Christ’s
mighty power that
works within me.
(New Living Translation)
80
1 Peter 4:11 (NLT)
Do you have the gift of speaking?
Then speak as though God himself
were speaking through you. Do you
have the gift of helping others? Do it
with all the strength and energy that
God supplies. Then everything you do
will bring glory to God through Jesus
Christ. All glory and power to him
forever and ever! Amen.
11
(New Living Translation)
81
2 Peter 1:4 (NLT)
And because of his glory and
excellence, he has given us
great and precious promises.
These are the promises that
enable you to share his divine
nature and escape the world's
corruption caused by human
desires.
4
(New Living Translation)
82
Old Testament System
God
(an example)
Moses the Mediator
(Exo. 19:3 – 8)
God’s people
(Exo. 19:6 & 8)
83
“New and Living Way”
God
Jesus Christ the Mediator
(1 Tim. 2:5)
God’s leaders & members
(Heb. 10:1, 11, 12, 19 – 22 & 1 Peter 2:5, 9)84
1 Timothy 2:5
7
For there is one God,
and one mediator
between God and
men, the man Christ
Jesus;
85
Acts 17:11
“…they received the word with all readiness of
mind, and searched the scriptures daily,
whether those things were so.”
86
The Standard
87
The Christian Faith is not
Church Organization
Doctrines/Laws
88
Church Organization Doctrines/Laws
The worldwide Church was founded by Jesus
Christ (Matt. 16:18) but is now divided into
numerous organizations, ministries and selfgoverning local churches mainly because of
various doctrines/laws. Since “God is not the
author of confusion” (John 17:20,21; 1 Cor. 1:10
& 14:33), man is the cause of this division
which also includes many doctrines being
interpreted subjectively (eisegesisly). Some
doctrines of these organizations and ministries
have been adopted from tradition, other
organizations or ministries without being
biblically verified (Acts 17:11). Therefore church
doctrines (which are changeable) can never be
the standard (2 Tim. 3:16, 17 & 1 Cor. 2:1-5).89
Acts 17:11
“…they received the word with all readiness of
mind, and searched the scriptures daily,
whether those things were so.”
90
The Standard
91
The Christian Faith is not
The Bible combined with
worldly wisdom
92
The Bible + Worldly Wisdom forbidden
Our God is awesome (Psalm 33:8). According
to His Infinite Wisdom He always chooses the
best method in every situation to fulfill His
foreordained purpose (Isaiah 46:9, 10; Rom.
11:33; Eph. 1:5, 11 & Jude 1:25). According to
His foreknowledge (Job 37:16; 1 Cor. 2:10, 11 &
1 John 3:20) He foresees in every nation; every
generation; every situation that every believer
and every local church will face. He has given
us His guiding Spirit (John 16:13) and inspired
Scriptures (2 Timothy 3:16 & 17) which has
sufficient information (2 Tim. 3:15) to govern
every situation in every nation in every
generation. It is impossible for God to have left
93
out any necessary scripture (Luke 1:37).
The Bible + Worldly Wisdom forbidden
Many organizations and ministries use Acts 15
as an authority for church government and
organizational structure which is in fact very
similar to the American Government. Many of
these organizations have either adopted these
ideas from or were once a part of a certain
American church organization who started
these political ideas. Many organizations may
not realize that according to historical records
the founder of this certain organization was
once a political party leader before conversion
therefore many scriptures were interpreted
eisegesisly and are not purely biblical.
94
The Bible + Worldly Wisdom forbidden
There is no need for any philosophy (Col. 2:8) which
since not inspired by God can ever be considered as
Scriptures. Additional wisdom of this world indicates a
lack of trust in the infinite wisdom of God (Proverbs
3:5-7). Subjectively/eisegesisly some has interpreted
Luke 16:8 as an authority to be as wise as the world
which is a contradiction to Rom. 12:2. God’s infinite
understanding is boundless (Psa 147:5, Isaiah 55:8,9
& Rom. 11:33) therefore there is absolutely no need
for believers to include any additional wisdom of this
world (Rom. 12:2) which is a hindrance to knowing the
“…perfect, will of God.” Worldy wisdom can never
foresee future circumstances therefore it will always
“come to nought” (1 Cor. 2:6). A combination of
Scripture and worldly wisdom is the result of
reading/studying the Scriptures subjectively and
eisegesisly. Continual trusting relationship with 95
God is vital to fulfil His will (Prov 3:5 & 6).
Psalm 147:5
5
Great is our Lord,
and of great
power: his
understanding is
infinite.
96
Isaiah 55:8 & 9 (NLT)
8
"My thoughts are
nothing like your
thoughts," says the
LORD. "And my ways
are far beyond anything
you could imagine.
97
Isaiah 55:8 & 9 (NLT)
9
For just as the heavens
are higher than the
earth, so my ways are
higher than your ways
and my thoughts higher
than your thoughts.
New Living Translation
98
Romans 11:33
33
Oh, how inexhaustible are
God's resources and God's
wisdom and God's
knowledge! How
impossible it is to search
into His decrees or trace
His footsteps!
Weymouth New Testament
99
Trust
Firm reliance on the
integrity, ability, or
character of a person
or thing
100
Trust in God
Firm reliance on the
Integrity, Ability, and
Character of God
101
Psalm 121:1 & 2
1
I will lift up mine
eyes unto the hills,
from whence
cometh my help.
102
Psalm 121:1 & 2
2
My help cometh
from the LORD,
which made
heaven and
earth.
103
Proverbs 3:5 & 6
5
Trust in the LORD
with all thine
heart; and lean
not unto thine own
understanding.
104
Proverbs 3:5 & 6
In all thy ways
acknowledge
him, and he shall
direct thy paths.
6
105
Trusting in…
… GOD
Leaning on my
own
understanding
10%
90%
Result = trusting in myself
106
Trusting in…
… GOD
Leaning on my
own
understanding
20%
80%
Result = trusting in myself
107
Trusting in…
… GOD
Leaning on my
own
understanding
25%
75%
Result = trusting in myself
108
Trusting in…
… GOD
Leaning on my
own
understanding
30%
70%
Result = trusting in myself
109
Trusting in…
… GOD
Leaning on my
own
understanding
40%
60%
Result = trusting in myself
110
Trusting in…
… GOD
Leaning on my
own
understanding
50%
50%
Result = trusting in myself
111
Trusting in…
… GOD
Leaning on my
own
understanding
60%
40%
Result = trusting in myself
112
Trusting in…
… GOD
Leaning on my
own
understanding
70%
30%
Result = trusting in myself
113
Trusting in…
… GOD
Leaning on my
own
understanding
75%
25%
Result = trusting in myself
114
Trusting in…
… GOD
Leaning on my
own
understanding
80%
20%
Result = trusting in myself
115
Trusting in…
… GOD
Leaning on my
own
understanding
90%
10%
Result = trusting in myself
116
Trusting in…
… GOD
Leaning on my
own
understanding
99%
1%
Result = trusting in myself
117
Trusting in…
… GOD
Leaning on my
own
understanding
99.99% 0.01%
Result = trusting in myself
118
Trusting in…
… GOD
Lean on my
own
understanding
100%
0%
Result = Trusting Relationship
with GOD
119
The more we trust the Wisdom of God
the more our faith grows in Him.
Continually forsake everything that
causes doubt on the Word of God…
Forsaking All I Trust Him
FAITH
120
Proverbs 3:5 & 6
5
Trust in the LORD
with all thine
heart; and lean
not unto thine own
understanding.
121
Proverbs 3:5 (Darby)
5
Confide in Jehovah
with all thy heart,
and lean not unto
thine own
intelligence;
Darby
122
Acts 17:11
“…they received the word with all readiness of
mind, and searched the scriptures daily,
whether those things were so.”
123
The Standard
124
The Christian Faith is not
The Bible combined with
cultural beliefs
125
The Bible + Cultural Beliefs
Culture is defined as the set of behaviors,
norms, beliefs and customs that exist within a
nation. The blood of Jesus is able to redeem
souls in every nation (John 3:16; Matt. 28:19 &
Acts 10:34, 35) and transcends every culture.
Therefore individual members within a local
church of the same national culture needs
freedom to embrace their culture which is part
of their upbringing (unless any part conflict with
scripture) but it must not be taught
(subjectively/eisegesisly) as a belief (doctrine)
to individuals of a different culture. The Bible
transcends every culture (2 Tim. 3:16 & 17).126
Acts 17:11
“…they received the word with all readiness of
mind, and searched the scriptures daily,
whether those things were so.”
127
The Standard
128
The Christian Faith is not
The Bible combined with
Church organization
culture
129
The Bible + Church organisation culture
Organisation and Ministries needs to be aware
that the nation which they are based (HQ)
should not include their national culture with
their doctrine & practices. Neither should these
“cultural doctrines & practices” be promoted to
their membership in other nations. Although this
may be done unintentionally, this will be a
subjective and eisegesis interpretation of the
Scriptures. Each believer needs freedom to
embrace their own national culture as long as it
doesn’t conflict with Scriptures (Acts 17:11).
Each local church is unique under the Headship
of Jesus Christ (Col. 1:18).
130
Acts 17:11
“…they received the word with all readiness of
mind, and searched the scriptures daily,
whether those things were so.”
131
The Standard
132
The Reformers’ Fundamental Principles
Latin
Definition
Sola Scriptura
“by Scripture alone”
Sola Fide
“by faith alone”
Sola Gratia
“by grace alone”
Solus Christus
“Christ alone”
Soli Deo gloria
“glory to God alone” 133
Sola Scriptura
Sola Scriptura is a Latin phrase used by the
Reformers during the 16th Century which
emphasis that the Scriptures are the only
inspired authority. This was one of their
fundamental principles in contrast to the
Roman Catholic Church doctrine (which is still
their present belief) that the Christian Faith
was based on the Scripture and Tradition. The
Reformers believe that the Scripture alone is
sufficient for Christian Faith and practices
(Acts 17:11). This is biblical principle (2 Tim.
3:16 & 17). No other written material or human
words can ever divinely effect our souls. 134
2 Timothy 3:16 & 17
All scripture is given by
inspiration of God, and is
profitable for doctrine, for
reproof, for correction, for
instruction in
righteousness:
16
135
2 Timothy 3:16 & 17
That the man of
God may be
perfect, throughly
furnished unto all
good works.
17
136
Acts 17:11
“…they received the word with all readiness of
mind, and searched the scriptures daily,
whether those things were so.”
137
The Standard
138
The Christian Faith is not…
Organisation Founder’s ideas/beliefs
Church Organisation Doctrines
The Bible combined with worldly
wisdom
The Bible combined with cultural
beliefs
The Bible combined with Church
organisation culture
139
The Christian Faith is
The Christ-centred, Biblebased Doctrines, “…the
faith which was once
delivered unto the
saints” (Jude 1:3)
140
Psalm 40:7
7
Then said I, Lo, I
come: in the
volume of the
book it is
written of me,
141
Luke 24:27 & 44
And beginning at Moses
and all the prophets, he
expounded unto them in
all the scriptures the
things concerning
himself.
27
142
Luke 24:27 & 44
And he said unto them, These
are the words which I spake
unto you, while I was yet with
you, that all things must be
fulfilled, which were written in
the law of Moses, and in the
prophets, and in the psalms,
concerning me.
44
143
John 16:13 & 14
Howbeit when he, the Spirit of
truth, is come, he will guide
you into all truth: for he shall
not speak of himself; but
whatsoever he shall hear, that
shall he speak: and he will
shew you things to come.
13
144
John 16:13 & 14
He shall glorify
me: for he shall
receive of mine,
and shall shew it
unto you.
14
145
Acts 5:42
And daily in the
temple, and in every
house, they ceased
not to teach and
preach Jesus Christ.
42
146
Acts 8:5, 34 & 35
5
Then Philip went
down to Samaria,
and preached
Christ unto them.
147
Acts 8:5, 34 & 35
And the eunuch
answered Philip, and
said, I pray thee, of
whom speaketh the
prophet this? of himself,
or of some other man?
34
148
Acts 8:5, 34 & 35
Then Philip opened
his mouth, and began
at the same
scripture, and
preached unto him
Jesus.
35
149
Acts 28:30 & 31
And Paul dwelt two
whole years in his
own hired house,
and received all that
came in unto him,
30
150
Acts 28:30 & 31
Preaching the kingdom
of God, and teaching
those things which
concern the Lord Jesus
Christ, with all
confidence, no man
forbidding him.
31
151
1 Corinthians 2:1 & 2
1
And I, brethren, when I
came to you, came not
with excellency of
speech or of wisdom,
declaring unto you the
testimony of God.
152
1 Corinthians 2:1 & 2
2
For I determined not
to know any thing
among you, save
Jesus Christ, and
him crucified.
153
1 Corinthians 2:2
2
For I decided to
concentrate only
on Jesus Christ
and his death on
the cross.
New Living Translation
154
Ephesians 3:8
8
Unto me, who am less than
the least of all saints, is this
grace given, that I should
preach among the Gentiles
the unsearchable riches
of Christ;
155
Colossians 1:27 & 28
To whom God would
make known what is the
riches of the glory of this
mystery among the
Gentiles; which is
Christ in you, the hope
of glory:
27
156
Colossians 1:27 & 28
Whom we preach,
warning every man, and
teaching every man in all
wisdom; that we may
present every man
perfect in Christ Jesus:
28
157
Hebrews 10:4 - 7
4
For it is not
possible that the
blood of bulls and
of goats should
take away sins.
158
Hebrews 10:4 - 7
5
Wherefore when he
cometh into the world, he
saith, Sacrifice and
offering thou wouldest
not, but a body hast thou
prepared me:
159
Hebrews 10:4 - 7
6
In burnt offerings
and sacrifices for
sin thou hast had
no pleasure.
160
Hebrews 10:4 - 7
7
Then said I, Lo, I
come (in the
volume of the book
it is written of me,)
to do thy will, O God.
161
2 Timothy 1:12 (HCS)
12 And
that is why I suffer these
things. But I am not ashamed,
because I know the One I
have believed in and am
persuaded that He is able to
guard what has been entrusted
to me until that day.
Holman Christian Standard Bible
162
Jude 1:3
3
Beloved, when I gave all
diligence to write unto you of
the common salvation, it was
needful for me to write unto
you, and exhort you that ye
should earnestly contend for
the faith which was once
delivered unto the saints.
163
Jude 1:3 (NLT)
3 Dearly loved friends, I had been
eagerly planning to write to you
about the salvation we all share. But
now I find that I must write about
something else, urging you to
defend the truth of the Good
News. God gave this unchanging
truth once for all time to his holy
people.
New Living Translation
164
Jude 1:3
3
Beloved, when I gave all
diligence to write unto you of
the common salvation, it was
needful for me to write unto
you, and exhort you that ye
should earnestly contend for
the faith which was once
delivered unto the saints.
165
Jude 1:3 (NCV)
3
Dear friends, I wanted very much
to write you about the salvation
we all share. But I felt the need to
write you about something else: I
want to encourage you to fight
hard for the faith that was given
the holy people of God once and
for all time.
New Century Version
166
The Christian Faith
Any message or lesson which is not Christcentred and Bible-based (John 16:13, 14
& Acts 17:11) is “another gospel” which
should be rejected by believers (Rom.
16:17; Gal. 1:6 – 9; Col. 2:6 – 8 & 1 Tim.
6:3, 4). These “doctrine of men” (Matt.
15:9) has no benefit for our souls (1
Thess. 2:13) but will lead believers away
from “the truth of the gospel” (Gal. 2:14 &
1 Tim. 2:1 - 7).
167
Gal. 1: 6 - 9 (NIV)
6
I am shocked that you are
turning away so soon from
God, who called you to
himself through the loving
mercy of Christ. You are
following a different way
that pretends to be the
Good News
168
Gal. 1: 6 - 9 (NIV)
7
but is not the Good
News at all. You are
being fooled by those
who deliberately twist
the truth concerning
Christ.
169
Gal. 1: 6 - 9 (NIV)
8
Let God’s curse fall on
anyone, including us or
even an angel from
heaven, who preaches a
different kind of Good
News than the one we
preached to you.
170
Gal. 1: 6 - 9 (NIV)
I say again what we
have said before: If
anyone preaches any
other Good News than the
one you welcomed, let
that person be cursed.
9
New Living Translation
171
Matt. 15:9 (NLT)
Their worship is a
farce, for they teach
man-made ideas as
commands from
God.'“
9
New Living Translation
172
Colossians 2:8
8
Beware lest any man
spoil you through
philosophy and vain
deceit, after the tradition
of men, after the
rudiments of the world,
and not after Christ.
173
Jude 1:3 (NCV)
3
Dear friends, I wanted very much
to write you about the salvation
we all share. But I felt the need to
write you about something else: I
want to encourage you to fight
hard for the faith that was given
the holy people of God once
and for all time.
New Century Version
174
1 Thessalonians 2:13
13
For this cause also thank we God
without ceasing, because, when
ye received the word of God
which ye heard of us, ye received
it not as the word of men, but as
it is in truth, the word of God,
which effectually worketh also
in you that believe.
175
Acts 17:11
“…they received the word with all readiness
of mind, and searched the scriptures
daily, whether those things were so.”
176
The Bible Only
The Christian Faith consist of only
the Christ-centred, Bible-based
teachings and doctrines (Psalm
40:7 & Acts 5:42), excluding “…the
law of Moses…(Matt. 28:20; Acts 2:42
& 15:5, 24) without any additional
teachings, doctrines, creeds, decrees,
advice, Articles of Faith, rules, etc
given after the Bible was written
(Jude 1:3).
177
The Bible Only
Only the Bible is inspired and inerrant. All other
literatures (including Christian devotionals) are
never to be considered as inspired and those
which contain scriptures should only be
accepted as biblical references. None of these
should ever be considered as extra-biblical
revelation that we hold as authoritative. The
Bible alone is our only Standard (Acts 17:11).
The Bible transcend every General Meetings,
Creeds, Councils (including historical Councils),
Christian literatures, religious traditions, man178
made laws and opinions.
The Bible Only
Since our understanding are finite in
comparison to the infinite understanding of
the Almighty God (Psalm 147:5 & Isaiah
55:8, 9) any decisions from any previous
Church Councils, religious traditions or
opinions must always if necessary be
open to reconsideration. With much prayer
and humility the Spirit must be allowed to
continually open the eyes of our
understanding (Psa. 119:18; John 16:13 &
Eph. 1:18) to rectify any mistakes.
179
The Bible Only
It is vital that the Bible alone be the only
Standard in order for the Church (which
includes each believer) be continuously
changed “…from glory to glory…” (2 Cor.
3:18). The Bible must always be left
opened to the progressive work of
illumination by the Spirit (Prov. 4:18; John
16:13 & 1 Cor. 2:9, 10). This will keep
the Word of God at its rightful place of
authority in the Church.
180
The Bible Only
Only the Word of God which is alive and
powerful (1 Thess. 2:13 & Heb. 4:12, 13)
is inspired and sufficient for every soul
by being “.. profitable for doctrine, for
reproof, for correction, for instruction in
righteousness.”(2 Tim. 3:16). No other
written material is inspired and has this
powerful effect and there will never be
any (Jude 1:3). Every past, present and
future idea, vision and dream needs to
be biblically verified (Acts 17:11).
181
The Bible Only
The Christian Faith is correctly understood by
reading or studying the Bible objectively
(exegesisly) under the influence of the Spirit
(Psalm 119:18; John 16:13 & 14 & 1 Cor. 2:9,
10). Biblically there is One Church (Matt.
16:18, John 17:20, 21 & Col. 1:18) with “…one
faith…(Eph. 4:4 & 5), not a divided Church with
various beliefs (1 Cor. 1:10 & 14:33). Additional
teachings, doctrines, creeds, decrees, advice,
rules, etc are the result of certain individuals,
Ministries and Denominations reading/studying
the Bible subjectively or eisegesisly (mainly
unintentionly) and missing God’s original 182
purpose and meaning for each scripture.
Matthew 28:20
20
Teaching them to
observe all things
whatsoever I have
commanded you: and
lo, I am with you always,
even unto the end of the
world. Amen.
183
Acts 2:42
42
And they continued
steadfast in the
apostle’s doctrine
and fellowship, and in
breaking of bread,
and in prayers.
184
Acts 15:5 & 24
5
But there arose up
certain of the sect of the
Pharisees which
believed saying, That it
was needful to
circumcise them, and to
keep the law of Moses.
185
Acts 15:5 & 24
24
Forasmuch as we have heard
that certain which went from
us have troubled you with
words, subverting your souls,
saying, Ye must be
circumcised, and keep the
law: to whom we gave no
such commandment:
186
Acts 15:5 & 24 (AB)
5
But some who believed [who
acknowledged Jesus as their Savior
and devoted themselves to Him]
belonged to the sect of the
Pharisees, and they rose up and
said, It is necessary to circumcise
[the Gentile converts] and to charge
them to obey the Law of Moses.
(Amplified Bible)
187
Acts 15:5 & 24 (AB)
24
As we have heard that some
persons from our number have
disturbed you with their
teaching, unsettling your minds
and throwing you into confusion,
although we gave them no
express orders or instructions
[on the points in question],
(Amplified Bible)
188
Jude 1:3 (NCV)
3
Dear friends, I wanted very much
to write you about the salvation
we all share. But I felt the need to
write you about something else: I
want to encourage you to fight
hard for the faith that was given
the holy people of God once
and for all time.
New Century Version
189
Jude 1:3 (NLT)
3 Dearly loved friends, I had been
eagerly planning to write to you
about the salvation we all share. But
now I find that I must write about
something else, urging you to defend
the truth of the Good News. God
gave this unchanging truth once
for all time to his holy people.
New Living Translation
190
Jude 1:3 (GWT)
3 Dear friends, I had intended to write
to you about the salvation we
share. But something has come up.
It demands that I write to you and
encourage you to continue your
fight for the Christian faith that was
entrusted to God's holy people once
for all time.
God’s Word Translation
191
1 Thessalonians 2:13
13
For this cause also thank we God
without ceasing, because, when
ye received the word of God
which ye heard of us, ye received
it not as the word of men, but as
it is in truth, the word of God,
which effectually worketh also
in you that believe.
192
Hebrews 4:12 & 13 (NLT)
12
For the word of God is alive
and powerful. It is sharper
than the sharpest two-edged
sword, cutting between soul
and spirit, between joint and
marrow. It exposes our
innermost thoughts and
desires.
193
Hebrews 4:12 & 13 (NLT)
13
Nothing in all creation is
hidden from God.
Everything is naked and
exposed before his eyes,
and he is the one to whom
we are accountable.
New Living Translation
194
2 Timothy 3:16 & 17
All scripture is given by
inspiration of God, and is
profitable for doctrine, for
reproof, for correction, for
instruction in
righteousness:
16
195
2 Timothy 3:16 & 17
That the man of
God may be
perfect, throughly
furnished unto all
good works. *
17
196
1 Corinthians 11:23
23
For I have received of
the Lord that which
also I delivered unto
you, That the Lord
Jesus the same night in
which he was betrayed
took bread:
197
2 Peter 1:20 & 21
20
Knowing this first,
that no prophecy
of the scripture is
of any private
interpretation.
198
2 Peter 1:20 & 21
21
For the prophecy came
not in old time by the will
of man: but holy men of
God spake as they were
moved by the Holy
Ghost.
199
Biblical Reasons for
Christ-centred,
Bible-based
messages & lessons
on the Christian
Faith
200
Acts 2:42
And they continued
stedfastly in the
apostles’ doctrine
and fellowship, and in
breaking of bread, and
in prayers.
42
201
Acts 2:42 (NRSV)
They devoted
themselves to the
apostles’ teaching and
fellowship, to the
breaking of bread and
the prayers.
42
New Revised Standard Version
202
1 Timothy 4:1
1
Now the Spirit speaketh
expressly, that in the
latter times some shall
depart from the faith,
giving heed to seducing
spirits, and doctrines of
devils;
203
1 Timothy 4:1 (NCV)
1
Now the Holy Spirit clearly
says that in the later times
some people will stop
believing the faith. They
will follow spirits that lie and
teachings of demons.
New Century Version
204
Galatians 1:6-8
6
I marvel that ye are so
soon removed from
him that called you into
the grace of Christ
unto another gospel:
205
Galatians 1:6-8
7
Which is not another;
but there be some that
trouble you, and
would pervert the
gospel of Christ.
206
Galatians 1:6-8
8
But though we, or an
angel from heaven,
preach any other
gospel unto you than
that which we have
preached unto you, let
him be accursed.
207
Colossians 1:9, 10 & 23
9
For this cause we also, since
the day we heard it, do not
cease to pray for you, and to
desire that ye might be filled
with the knowledge of his will
in all wisdom and spiritual
understanding;
208
Colossians 1:9, 10 & 23
That ye might walk
worthy of the Lord unto
all pleasing, being
fruitful in every good
work, and increasing in
the knowledge of God;
10
209
Colossians 1:9, 10 & 23
23 If
ye continue in the faith
grounded and settled, and be
not moved away from the
hope of the gospel, which ye
have heard, and which was
preached to every creature
which is under heaven; whereof
I Paul am made a minister;
210
Jude 1:3
3 Beloved,
when I gave all
diligence to write unto you of
the common salvation, it was
needful for me to write unto
you, and exhort you that ye
should earnestly contend for
the faith which was once
delivered unto the saints.
211
Jude 1:3 (NLT)
3
Dearly loved friends, I had been
eagerly planning to write to you
about the salvation we all share. But
now I find that I must write about
something else, urging you to
defend the truth of the Good
News. God gave this unchanging
truth once for all time to his holy
people.
New Living Translation
212
Colossians 2:6 & 7
6
As ye have
therefore received
Christ Jesus the
Lord, so walk ye
in him:
213
Colossians 2:6 & 7
7
Rooted and built up
in him, and
stablished in the
faith, as ye have been
taught, abounding
therein with
thanksgiving.
214
Colossians 2:7 (NLT)
7 Let
your roots grow down into him
and draw up nourishment from
him, so you will grow in faith,
strong and vigorous in the truth
you were taught. Let your lives
overflow with thanksgiving for all
he has done.
New Living Translation
215
2 Thessalonians 2:1 & 2
1
Now we beseech you,
brethren, by the
coming of our Lord
Jesus Christ, and by
our gathering together
unto him unto him:
216
2 Thessalonians 2:1 & 2
2
That ye be not soon
shaken in mind, or be
troubled, neither by
spirit, nor by word, nor
by letter as from us, as
that the day of Christ is
at hand.
217
Ephesians 4:14
That we henceforth be no
more children, tossed to and
fro, and carried about with
every wind of doctrine, by the
sleight of men, and cunning
craftiness, whereby they lie in
wait to deceive;
14
218
Colossians 2:8
8
Beware lest any man
spoil you through
philosophy and vain
deceit, after the tradition
of men, after the
rudiments of the world,
and not after Christ.
219
Colossians 2:8 (NLT)
8
Don’t let anyone lead you
astray with empty
philosophy and highsounding nonsense that
come from human
thinking and from the evil
powers of this world, and
not from Christ.
220
Matthew 15:9
9
But in vain they do
worship me,
teaching for
doctrines the
commandments of
men.
221
Matthew 15:9 (NLT)
9
Their worship is a
farce, for they teach
man-made ideas as
commands from
God.
New Living Translation
222
Biblical reasons for Christ-centred, Biblebased messages & lessons
Early Church pattern
To become “grounded and settled” in “the
Faith” (maturity)
To defend “the Faith” that was given to the
early Church
To avoid being “shaken in mind” or
“troubled” by false doctrine
To avoid departing “from the Faith”
223
The Christian Faith is
The Christ-centred, Biblebased Doctrines, “…the
faith which was once
delivered unto the
saints” (Jude 1:3)
224
225
2 Timothy 3:16 & 17
All scripture is given by
inspiration of God, and is
profitable for doctrine, for
reproof, for correction, for
instruction in
righteousness:
16
226
2 Timothy 3:16 & 17
That the man of
God may be
perfect, throughly
furnished unto all
good works.
17
227
John 16:13 & 14
Howbeit when he, the Spirit of
truth, is come, he will guide
you into all truth: for he shall
not speak of himself; but
whatsoever he shall hear, that
shall he speak: and he will
shew you things to come.
13
228
John 16:13 & 14
He shall glorify
me: for he shall
receive of mine,
and shall shew it
unto you.
14
229
Psalm 119:18
Open thou mine
eyes, that I may
behold wondrous
things out of thy
law.
18
230
Acts 17:11
“…they received the word with all readiness of
mind, and searched the scriptures daily, whether
those things were so.”
231
232
References
Various Bible Versions
Online parallel Bible (Biblehub.com)
Solar Scriptura
Wikipedia (Wikipedia.org)
233