What Does the Bible Say?

Introduction

Spiritual truth and spiritual life go hand in hand. In the first four lessons we began to look at some very basic Christian teachings about God and ourselves. In this final lesson we set the stage to follow God's call on our lives to follow him. We are asking: Where do I go from here?

Note: Click on the Bible image to view a  PDF file* of the Bible references for this section.  You may also view them by clicking on the indivudal references within the study guide.

1. First, let's remind ourselves of God's ultimate plan for you and for everyone. Read 1 Timothy 2:3-6. What is God's desire for everyone?

2. During Jesus' trial before the Roman Governor Pontius Pilate, Pilate asked Jesus the question of questions. Read John 18:38. What was Pilate's question?

3. Earlier, in a prayer, Jesus had given the answer. Read John 17:17. What did Jesus say God's word is?

4. Read 2 Timothy 3:16-17. What is God's relationship to the Scriptures (Bible)?
What is the purpose of Scripture?

5. Spiritual truth binds people together with a spiritual bond. Read 1 Peter 2:5. What are the images for the church in this verse?

6. Read 1 Corinthians 1:2. Note carefully first how Paul describes the church of God in Corinth.  They are what?
With whom do they share that?

7. Yet those “saints” in Corinth had immorality, factions, lawsuits, hypocrites and pride running amok among them. The church has always been filled with sinful people on the way toward getting their lives in order. Read Revelation 1:5-6. For what is Jesus praised?

8. The Christian church is about forgiven sinners being found and carried home in Jesus' love. Read Luke 15:3-7. If you had been that sheep, how would you have felt when Jesus picked you up and carried you home?

9. There is nothing like being a forgiven child of God because of trusting in Jesus as your Savior. It is beyond description! Read Romans 8:37-39. What is God's promise to you?

10. Read Romans 10:9. What is God's promise to you?

Questions for thought/discussion:

1. It is common today to hear people say there is no such thing as absolute truth. How does a belief in God challenge that?

2. Have you had any past experiences with the Christian church? If so, have they been positive or negative? In what way? How does that past affect your decisions today?

3. If you were to continue your spiritual search, how could a church help you?

Suggested further activity:

1. Visit with people who are active in their church. Ask them how the church assists them in their spiritual journey.

2. For further reading. Read pages 153-168 in Luther's Small Catechism with Explanation, Concordia Publishing House, St. Louis, Mo.

About Lutheran Beliefs and Practice
Find a Church   Questions & Comments

In order to view PDF files, you need to have Adobe Acrobat Reader. This software can be downloaded for free from the Adobe Systems web site.