ETCF IV.32. THE GLORY OF CHRIST

From  Essential Truths of the Christian Faith by R.C. Sproul (c) 1992 R. C. Sproul Published by Tyndale ISBN 0-8423-2006-1

Biblical passages for reflection:
[Links to ESV]:

Matthew 17:1-9; Mark 13:24-27; Hebrews 1:1-3; Revelation 22:4-5;

Summary:
1. The glory of Christ was revealed at His transfiguration.
2. The transfiguration of Christ was a change in form, a crossing of the natural into the supernatural.
3. Christ’s glory is not merely a reflection of God’s glory but the very glory of God Himself.

Mike's Notes: 

Best Verse! Revelation 22:4-5; cf. Revelation 21.23
Additional Verse: 2 Corinthians 3:18

ETCF IV.31. THE BAPTISM OF CHRIST

From  Essential Truths of the Christian Faith by R.C. Sproul (c) 1992 R. C. Sproul Published by Tyndale ISBN 0-8423-2006-1

Part IV. Jesus Christ ~ 31. The Baptism of Christ

Biblical passages for reflection
[Links to the ESV Bible]:

Isaiah 40:3; Matthew 3:13-17; Mark 1:1-5; 2 Corinthians 5:21;

Summary:

1. John’s baptism was preparation for the coming of the Messiah.
2. John’s baptism was insulting to the Jewish officials because it meant they were “unclean.”
3. Jesus was baptized not for His own sins but to identify with the sinners He came to save.
4. Jesus was ordained or anointed at His baptism.

My Reflections:
John correctly (again) identified Jesus as the *remover* of sin. "I need to be baptized by you."...this speaks again to Jesus divinity: Luke 5.21 "...who can *forgive* sins but God alone?"

2 Corinthians 5:21...is helpful in understanding summary point #3.

ETCF IV. 29 The Virgin Birth

From Essential Truths of the Christian Faith by R.C. Sproul (c) 1992 R. C. Sproul Published by Tyndale ISBN 0-8423-2006-1

Part IV. Jesus Christ ~ 29 The Virgin Birth

Biblical passages for reflection [Links to the ESV Bible]:

Isaiah 07.10-16; Matthew 01.23; Romans 01.03-04; 1Corinthians 15.45-49; Galatians 04.04;

Summary:

1. The Bible plainly and unambiguously teaches the Virgin Birth.
2. The birth of Jesus from a woman points to His humanity and His appearance as the new or second Adam.
3. That Jesus was born apart from human fatherhood points to His divine nature as the Son of God.
4. The denial of the Virgin Birth is usually linked to the denial of the supernatural or miraculous elements of Scripture.

My Notes:

ECTF>"overshadowing" echoes original account of Holy Spirit's work in creation ... reveals baby will be a special creation with His father being God Himself...

ECTF>Those who do not believe in the Virgin Birth usually do not believe that Jesus is the true Son of God.

Another link to all the audio:
http://bit.ly/ETCF_29_THE_VIRGIN_BIRTH_wpl

ETCF IV. 27 The Humanity of Christ

From Essential Truths of the Christian Faith by R.C. Sproul (c) 1992 R. C. Sproul Published by Tyndale ISBN 0-8423-2006-1

Part IV. Jesus Christ ~ 27 The Humanity of Christ

Biblical passages for reflection
[Links to the ESV Bible]:

John 01.01-14; Galatians 04.04; Philippians 02.05-11; Hebrews 02.14-18; Hebrews 04.15;

Summary:

1. Jesus had a true human nature that was perfectly united with His divine nature.
2. Docetism said that Jesus did not have a real physical body.
3. The monophysite heresy involves the deification of the human nature by which His humanity is eclipsed by His deity.
4. Christ's humanity is the basis of His identification with us.
5. Jesus took our sins upon Himself and imparts His righteousness to us.
6. Jesus' human nature had the limitations of normal humanity except that He was without sin.

Another Link to all the Audio:
http://bit.ly/ETCF_27_WPL

My thoughts/reflections:

Suggestions from back of book:

'Beginning'

Lloyd-Jones, D. M. The Cross of Christ. Downers Grove, Ill.: IVP, 1986.
McDowell, Josh, More Than a Carpenter. Weaton, Ill: Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., 1980.
Sproul, R. C., Following Christ. Weaton, Ill: Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., 1991.

'Intermediate'

Bruce, F.F. Jesus: Lord and Savior. Downers Grove, Ill.: IVP, 1986.
Sproul, R. C. The Glory of Christ. Weaton, Ill.: Tyndale House Publicatoins, Inc., 1990.
Stott, John. The Cross of Christ. Downers Grove, Ill.: IVP, 1986.

Last updated: 2010-04-07 07:36

ETCF IV. 26 The Subordination of Christ

From Essential Truths of the Christian Faith by R.C. Sproul
(c) 1992 R. C. Sproul Published by Tyndale ISBN 0-8423-2006-1

Part IV. Jesus Christ ~ 26 The Subordination of Christ

Biblical passages for reflection
[Links to the ESV Bible]:

John 04.34; John 05.30; Philippians 02.05-08; Hebrews 05.08-10; Hebrews 10.05-10;

Summary:

1. Although Christ is equal to the Father in terms of His divine nature, He is subordinate to the Father in His role in redemption.
2. Subordination does not mean "inferior."
   
3. Christ's subordination is voluntary.
4. Christ's perfect obedience qualifed Him to be the sin bearer for His people and earned the rewards of heven promised to the redeemed.

Michael T. Bee's thoughts/reflections:

The cited reference to Christ's work from Westminster Confession seems a valuable summary:

It pleased God, in His eternal purpose, to choose
and ordain the Lord Jesus, His only begotten Son,
to be the Mediator between God and man, the Prophet,
Priest, and King, the Head and Savior of His Church,
the Heir of all things, and Judge of the world: unto whom
He did from all eternity give a people, to be His seed,
and to be by Him in time redeemed, called, justified,
sanctified, and glorified.

-Chapter VIII. Of Christ the Mediator

Last updated: 2008-03-21 13:25

ETCF IV. 25 The Deity of Christ

From Essential Truths of the Christian Faith by R.C. Sproul (c) 1992 R. C. Sproul Published by Tyndale ISBN 0-8423-2006-1

Part IV. Jesus Christ ~ 25 The Deity of Christ

Biblical passages for reflection
[Links to the ESV Bible]:

Mark 02.28; John 01.01-14; John 08.58; Philippians 02.09-11; Colossians 01.19;

Summary:

1. The deity of Christ is a doctrine essential to Christianity.
2. The church has had crises of heresy regarding Christ's deity in the fourth, fifth, nineteenth, and twentieth centuries.
3. The Council of Nicea (A.D. 325) affirmed the deity of Christ, declaring that He is of the same substance or essence as the Father and that He was not a created being.
4. The New Testament clearly affirms the deity of Christ.
5. The Council of Chalcedon (A.D. 451) declared that Jesus was truly God.

Another Link to all the Audio:
http://bit.ly/9jwzOd

Last updated: 2010-03-23 2:42

ECTF III.24 Covenant of Works

From Essential Truths of the Christian Faith by R.C. Sproul

(c) 1992 R. C. Sproul Published by Tyndale ISBN 0-8423-2006-1

Part III. The Works and Decress of God ~ 24. COVENANT OF WORKS.

Biblical passages for reflection
[Links to the ESV Bible]:

Genesis 2:17; Romans 3:20-26;; Romans 10:5-13; Galatians 3:10-14;

Summary:

1. God entered into a covenant of works with Adam and Eve.

2. All humans are inescapably related to God’s covenant of works.

3. All human beings are violators of the covenant of works.

4. Jesus fulfilled the covenant of works.

5. The covenant of grace provides us with the merits of Christ by which the terms of the covenant of works are satisfied.

Additional Link to All the Audio:

http://bit.ly/9jw9aQ

Last updated: 2018-03-22 21:16

ETCF III.23 Covenant

From Essential Truths of the Christian Faith by R.C. Sproul

(c) 1992 R. C. Sproul Published by Tyndale ISBN 0-8423-2006-1

Part III. The Works and Decress of God ~ 23. Covenant

Biblical passages for reflection
[Links to the ESV Bible]:

Genesis 15; Exodus 20; Jeremiah 31.31-34; Luke 22.20; Hebrews 08; Hebrews 13.20-21;

Summary:

Elements of a covenant:

1. Preamble: identifies the sovereign.
2. Historical prologue: rehearses the history of the relationship between the parties.
3. Stipulations outline the terms of the convenant.
4. Oaths/Vows: the promises that bind the parties to the terms.
5. Sanctions: the blessings and curses (rewards and punishments) to be enacted for keeping or breaking the covenant.
6. Ratification: the sealing of the convenant by blood, i.e., animal sacrifice or the death of Christ.
   

Another Link to All the Audio(.wpl):
http://bit.ly/c4EtfV


GoogleBooks ~ Search ~ "Essential Truths of the Christian Faith ~ The prophets of the Old Testament were persons uniquely called of God

ETCF.006.THE_PROPHETS_OF_GOD.00a.mp3(secure file)



Last Updated: 2008-03-21 12:37

ECTF III.22 The Will of God

From Essential Truths of the Christian Faith by R.C. Sproul

(c) 1992 R. C. Sproul Published by Tyndale ISBN 0-8423-2006-1

Part III. The Works and Decress of God ~ 22. The Will of God.

Biblical passages for reflection
[Links to the ESV Bible]:

John 19.11; Romans 09.14-18; Ephesians 01.11; Colossians 01.09-14; Hebrews 06.13-18; 2Peter 03.09;

Summary:

1. The three meanings of he will of God:
   (a) Sovereign decretive will is the will by which God brings to pass whatsoever He decrees. This is hidden to us until it happens.
   (b) Preceptive will is God's reveled law or commandments, which we have the power but not the right to break.
   (c) Will of disposition describes God's attitude or disposition. It reveals what is pleasing to Him.
   
2. God's sovereign "permission" of human sin is not His moral approval.
   

Another Link to All the Audio(.wpl):
http://bit.ly/b1Jxzy


Personal(Michael.T.Bee) Reflections:

Example of 1a: "...you meant it for evil...God meant it for good" Genesis 50.20 (Joseph's troubles)
Example of 1b: "...Thou shalt not steal." Exodus 20.15
Example of 1c: "...God's not willing any should perish..." 2Peter 03.09 ...but some/many will)

Last Updated: 2008-03-21 12:04

ETCF III.21 Miracles

From Essential Truths of the Christian Faith by R.C. Sproul

(c) 1992 R. C. Sproul Published by Tyndale ISBN 0-8423-2006-1

Part III. The Works and Decress of God ~ 21 Miracles.

Biblical passages for reflection
[Links to the ESV Bible]:

Exodus 04.01-09; 1Kings 17.21-24; John 02.11; Hebrews 02.01-04;

Summary:

1. The Bible speaks of signs, powers, and wonders.
   
2. The Bible records different types of miracles.
3. All miracles are supernatural events, but not all supernatural events are miracles.
   

Additional Link to All the Audio(.wpl):
http://bit.ly/bRls5K

Personal(Michael.T.Bee) Reflections:

The purpose of miracles appears to be to confirm:
-God's prophet(s)
-Jesus

Last updated: 2008-03-21 12:20

ETCF III.20 Providence

From Essential Truths of the Christian Faith by R.C. Sproul

(c) 1992 R. C. Sproul Published by Tyndale ISBN 0-8423-2006-1

Part III. The Works and Decress of God ~ 20 Providence.

Biblical passages for reflection
[Links to the ESV Bible]:

Job 38.1-41.34; Daniel 04.34-35; Acts 02.22-24; Romans 11.33-36;

Summary:

1. The concept of divine providence is not generally believed in our day.
   
2. Providence includes God's work of sustaining His creation.
   
3. Providence refers chiefly to God's government of creation.
4. In light of divine providence there are no impersonal forces such as fortune, fate or chance.
5. Providence includes concurrence by which God works his divine will through the wills of His creatures

Another Link to All the Audio(.wpl):
http://bit.ly/cODaLr


Personal(Michael.T.Bee) Reflections:

I love the example Sprould cites for concurrence:
Genesis 50.20

I love to his contrast of the impersonal with the personal:

"...the key to this difference is found in
the personal character of God.
Fortune is blind while God is all-seeing.
Fate is impersonal while God is a Father.
Luck is dumb while God can speak. There
are no blind, impersonal forces at work in
human history. All is brought to pass by
the invisible hand of Providence."

Last updated: 2010-03-07 08:54

ETCF III.19 Creation

From Essential Truths of the Christian Faith by R.C. Sproul

(c) 1992 R. C. Sproul Published by Tyndale ISBN 0-8423-2006-1

Part III. The Works and Decress of God ~ 19. Creation

Biblical passages for reflection
[Links to the ESV Bible]:

Genesis 01; Psalm 33.01-09; Psalm 104.24-26; Jeremiah 10.01-16; Hebrews 11.03;

Summary:

1. Everything in time and space has a beginning.
   
2. Something cannot come from nothing. Nothing cannot do anything.
   
3. If ever there was nothing then nothing could exist now.
4. Something exists now; therefore something must exist that has no beginning.
5. Things cannot create themselves because they would have to be before they are.
6. If some "part"of the universe is uncreated, then it is superior or transcendent to the parts that have a beginning.
7. An uncreated being is supreme(a higher order of being than created beings), regrdless of where it lives.
8. Transcendence refers to a level of being, not to geography.
   

Another Link to all the audio(.wpl):
http://bit.ly/djLPdN

My Reflections:
I think I have to read this a couple times more--the logic flows;but, the idea of transcendence is hard for my mind to comprehend.

Last updated: 2010-03-07 08:50

ETCF II.18 The Justice of God

From  Essential Truths of the Christian Faith by R.C. Sproul (c) 1992 R. C. Sproul Published by Tyndale ISBN 0-8423-2006-1

Part II. The Nature and Attributes of God ~ 18. The Justice of God

Biblical passages for reflection
[Links to the ESV Bible]:

Genesis 18.25; Exodus 34.06-07; Nehemiah 09.32-33; Psalm 145.17; Rom 09.14-33;

Summary:

1. Justice is giving what is due.
2. Biblical justice is linked to righteousness, to doing what is right.
3. Injustice is outside the category of justice and is a violation of justice. Mercy is also the category of justice but is not a violation of justice
   

Additional Link to all the Audio(.wpl):
http://bit.ly/dAIMRr

Personal(Michael.T.Bee) Reflections:

I found the contrast between Paul and Judas helpful. Paul received grace(received more than he deserved) - Judas did not(received what he deserved, i.e., justice).

ETCF II.17 The Goodness of God

From  Essential Truths of the Christian Faith by R.C. Sproul (c) 1992 R. C. Sproul Published by Tyndale ISBN 0-8423-2006-1

Part II. The Nature and Attributes of God ~ 17. The Goodness of God

Biblical passages for reflection
[Links to the ESV Bible]:

Exodus 34.06-07; Psalm 25.08-10; Psalm 100; Romans 08.28-39; James 01.17;

Summary:

1. Creatures have shadows cast by the darkness of sin.
   
2. There is no shadow side to God.
3. God is not under Law.
4. God is not apart from Law.
5. God is a Law unto Himself.
   

Additional Link to all the Audio(.wpl):
http://bit.ly/9OiIxH

ETCF II.16 The Holiness of God

From Essential Truths of the Christian Faith by R.C. Sproul (c) 1992 R. C. Sproul Published by Tyndale ISBN 0-8423-2006-1

Part II. The Nature and Attributes of God ~ 16. The Holiness of God

Biblical passages for reflection
[Links to the ESV Bible]:

Exodus 03.01-06; 1Samuel 02.02; Psalm 99.01-09; Isaiah 06.01-13; Revelation 04.01-11;

Summary:

1. Holiness has two distinct meanings: (1) "otherness" or being "set apart" and (2) "pure and righteous actions.
2. We are called to be holy - to reflect God's righteousness and purity.

Additional Link to Audio Summary and Scriptures:
http://bit.ly/aQwZGM

Personal(Michael.T.Bee) Reflections:

What place should the holiness have in our lives?

How does this / should relate to church life?

ETCF II.15 The Omniscience of God

From Essential Truths of the Christian Faith by R.C. Sproul (c) 1992 R. C. Sproul Published by Tyndale ISBN 0-8423-2006-1

Part II. The Nature and Attributes of God ~ 15 The Omniscience of God

Biblical passages for reflection
[Links to the ESV Bible]:

Psalm 147.5; Ezekiel 11.5; Acts 15.18; Romans 11.33-36; Hebrews 4.13;

Summary:

1. Omniscience means "all knowledge".
   
2. Only an infinite Being can possess infinite knowledge.
   
3. God has a higher degree of knowledge than His creatures, but it is of the same logical order.
4. To attribute a different kind of logic to God is fatal to Christianity.
   
5. God's omniscience is grounded in His infinity and his omnipotence.
6. God's omniscience is crucial to His role as the Judge of the world.
   

This post:
http://tinyurl.com/ygm5ba4

Audio summary and Biblical passages:
http://tinyurl.com/yz3gzsh

Personal(Michael.T.Bee) Reflections:

The degree vs. kind distinction is helpful. It addresses right understanding Christians need to appreciate and trust God's judgment.

John 2.24-25 ...Jesus knew what was in a man...because? He was God:

Colossians 1.16 For by him all things were created: things in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or powers or rulers or authorities; all things were created by him and for him. 17 He is before all things, and in him all things hold together.

ECTF II.14 The Omnipresence of God

From Essential Truths of the Christian Faith by R.C. Sproul (c) 1992 R. C. Sproul Published by Tyndale ISBN 0-8423-2006-1

Part II. The Nature and Attributes of God ~ 14 The Omnipresence of God

Biblical passages for reflection
[Links to the ESV Bible]:

1Kings 8.27; Job 11.7-9; Jeremiah 23.23-24; Acts 17.22-31;

Summary:

1. Only an infinite Spirit can be omnipresent.
   
2. God is not bound by time or space. His being transcends time and space.
   
3. God's omnipresence includes his immensity by which He is able to present in His fullness at all times and in all places.
   
4. God's omnipresence is a comfort to the believer and a terror to the unbeliever.
   

Another audio link to these summary points and the scriptures:
http://tinyurl.com/yle6ly5

Personal(Michael.T.Bee) Reflections:

Acts 17:28 for “‘In him we live and move and have our being’...

ETCF II.13 The Omnipotence of God

From Essential Truths of the Christian Faith by R.C. Sproul (c) 1992 R. C. Sproul Published by Tyndale ISBN 0-8423-2006-1

Part II. The Nature and Attributes of God ~ 13 The Omnipotence of God

Biblical passages for reflection
[Links to the ESV Bible]:

Genesis 17.1; Psalm 115.3; Romans 11.36; Ephesians 1.11; Hebrews 1.3;

Summary:

1. Omnipotence does not mean that God can do anything. He cannot act against His nature.
2. Omnipotence refers to God's sovereign power, authority, and control over the created order.
3. Omnipotence, though a threat to the wicked, is a source of comfort to the believer.
4. The same power God exhibited in creation is displayed in our redemption.
5. Nothing in the universe can thwart or frustrate God's plans.

Personal(Michael.T.Bee) Reflections:

Revelation 1:8 “I am the Alpha and the Omega,” says the Lord God, “who is and who was and who is to come, the Almighty.”

Here's another link to all the Scriptures:
http://tinyurl.com/yfavxks

ECTF II.12 The Self-existence of God

From Essential Truths of the Christian Faith by R.C. Sproul (c) 1992 R. C. Sproul Published by Tyndale ISBN 0-8423-2006-1

Part II. The Nature and Attributes of God ~ 12 The Self-Existence of God

Biblical passages for reflection
[Links to the ESV Bible]:

Psalm 90.2; John 1.1-5; Acts 17.22-31; Colossians 1.15-20; Revelation 1.8;

Summary:

1. Every effect must have a cause.
2. God is not an effect; He has no cause.
3. Self-creation is an irrational concept.
4. Self-existence is a rational concept.
5. Self-existence is not only rationally possible, but, rationally necessary.
   

Personal(Michael.T.Bee) Reflections:

This is another verse, perhaps, for self-existence: Exodus 3.14

Other relevant links:

Thoughts of St. Thomas
...explores the idea of self-existence and unchangeableness

Another link to all of the scriptures:
http://tinyurl.com/yzgrwoj

ETCF II.11 The Triunity of God

From Essential Truths of the Christian Faith by R.C. Sproul (c) 1992 R. C. Sproul Published by Tyndale ISBN 0-8423-2006-1

Part II. The Nature and Attributes of God ~ 11 The Triunity of God

Biblical passages for reflection
[Links to the ESV Bible]:

Deuteronomy 6.4; Matthew 3.16-17; Matthew 28.19; 2Corinthians 13.14; 1Peter 1.2;

Summary:

1. The doctrine of the Trinity affirms the triunity of God.
2. The doctrine of the Trinity is not a contradiction: God is one in essence and three in person.
3. The Bible affirms both the oneness of God and the deity of Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.
4. The Trinity is distinguished by the work assumed by the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.
5. The doctrine of the Trinity sets the limits of human speculation about the nature of God.
   

Googlebooks link:

Google books ~ Essential Truths...Doctrine of the Trinity

Personal(Michael.T.Bee) Reflections:

The doctrine of the Trinity is strong medicine for heresy: Isa 42.1-7 is followed by... Isa 42.8 & ... the servant has many names: Isa 9.6 ...

Here's another link for all the scriptures:
http://tinyurl.com/yjlrs8y

ETCF II.10 The Incomprehensibility of God

From Essential Truths of the Christian Faith by R.C. Sproul (c) 1992 R. C. Sproul Published by Tyndale ISBN 0-8423-2006-1

Part II. The Nature and Attributes of God ~ 10 The Incomprehensibility of God

Biblical passages for reflection
[Links to the ESV Bible]:

Job 38.1-41.34; Psalm 139.1-18; Isaiah 55.8-9; Romans 11.33-36; 1Corinthians 2.6-16;

Summary:

1. There is profound meaning in even the simplest of Christian truths.
2. No matter how deep our knowledge of theology, there will always be much about the nature and character of God that will remain a mystery to us.
3. No human being can have a comprehensive knowledge of God.
4. The doctrine of the incomprehensibility of God does not mean that we can know nothing about God. It means that our knowledge is limited, bounded by our humanity.
   

Personal(Michael.T.Bee) Reflections:

I liked this study particularly. I think there's a great beauty in God's condescension toward us.

I liked, too, the additional scripture mentioned in the text: Deuteronomy 29.29

Here's another link to all the scriptures for this study:

http://tinyurl.com/yjlatyo

ECTF I.9 Private Interpretation

From Essential Truths of the Christian Faith by R.C. Sproul (c) 1992 R. C. Sproul Published by Tyndale ISBN 0-8423-2006-1

Part I. Revelation ~ 9. Private Interpretation

Biblical passages for reflection
[Links to the ESV Bible] [Links to all the Audio]:

Nehemiah 08.08; 2Timothy 02.15; 2Timothy 03.14-17; Hebrews 01.01-04; 2Peter 01.20-21;

Summary:

1. The Reformation gave to the church a translation of the Bible in the common language, and to each believer, the right and responsibility of private interpretation of the Bible.
2. Church tradition, though instructive as a guide does not have equal authority with Scripture.
3. Private interpration is not a license for subjectivism.
4. The principle of private interpration carries swith it the obligation to seek the correct interpretation of the Bible.

Though each biblical text may have multiple applicatons, it has only one correct meaning.

Personal(Michael.T.Bee) Reflections:

First Scripture (and following) encourage right division of Scripture -- they also are an encouragement for non-private discussion and examination of what Scripture says.

Last Scripture quote was to(?) - show it Scripture isn't wasn't created from personal desire but from the Holy Spirit's guidance and God's design?

Here's another link to all the scriptures:
http://tinyurl.com/ykhfnys

ETCF I.8 Interpreting the Bible

From Essential Truths of the Christian Faith by R.C. Sproul (c) 1992 R. C. Sproul Published by Tyndale ISBN 0-8423-2006-1

Part I. Revelation ~ 8. Interpreting the Bible

Biblical passages for reflection
[Links to the ESV Bible][Links to All the Audio]:

Acts 15.15-16; Ephesians 4.11-16; 2Peter 01.16-21; 2Peter 03.14-18;

Summary:

1. The Bible is its own interpreter.
2. We must interpret the Bible literally--as it is written.
3. The bible is to be interpreted like any other book.
4. Obscure parts of the Bible are to be interpreted by the clearer parts.
5. The implicit is to be interpreted in light of the explicit.
6. The rules of logic govern what can be reasonable be drawn or deduced from Scripture.

Personal(Michael.T.Bee) Reflections:

Word definitions: perenially

Quotes / other references:
God is His own interpreter
...the devil can quote Scripture

Sproul writes:
"...What is obscure in one part of Scripture may be made clear in another..." and "...Each text must be understood ... in light of ... immediate context but also ... context of the whole of Scripture."

This is encouragement to stay with the "through the Bible" reading programs.

ETCF I.7 The Canon of Scripture

From  Essential Truths of the Christian Faith by R.C. Sproul (c) 1992 R. C. Sproul Published by Tyndale ISBN 0-8423-2006-1

Part I. Revelation ~ 7. The Canon of Scripture

Biblical passages for reflection
[Links to the ESV Bible] [Links to All the Audio]:

Luke 24.44-45; 1Corinthians 15.03-08; 2Timothy 03.16-17; 2Peter 01.19-21; 2Peter 03.14-16;

Summary:

1. The term canon is derived from Greek, and it means "norm" or "standard." Canon is used to describe the authoritative list of books that the church acknowledged as sacred Scripture and thus the "rule" for faith and practice.
2. In addition to the sixty-six books of the Bible accepted by Protestants, Roman Catholics also accept the Apocrypha as authoritative Scripture.
3. To combat heresy, the church found it necessary to declare which books had been recognized as authoritative.
4. There were a few books in the Canon that were a matter of dispute(Hebrews, James, 2 Peter, 2 and 3 John, Jude, and Revelation) and some books that were considered for inclusion that were not admitted to the Canon, including 1 Clement , The Shepherd of Hermas , and The Didache .
5. The church did not create the Canon but merely recognized the books that bore the marks of canonicity and were therefore authoritative within the church.

Personal(Micheal.T.Bee) Reflections:

The historic beliefs of Christianity (1Cor 15.03-08) are supported by both the Protestant and Roman Catholic Canons. However, the difference between them is worth more elaboration/review. The Protestant view of Canonicity is based on 'receiving' Scripture. From ETCF (italics mine) : "...The so-called marks of canonicity include... 1. apostolic authorship/endorsement, 2. ...received as authoritative by the early church 3) ...harmony with books about which there is no doubt." In contrast, the Roman Catholic church believes itself infallibile, therefore, they have authority to choose the Canon.

Questions(Michael.T.Bee):

Why use the phrase so-called? This implies there is question or doubt(fallible list of infallible books).

What are the books about which there is no doubt?

Historically, has the Roman Catholic church expanded the Canon to justify/explain some of their dogmas?

ETCF IV. 30 Jesus Christ as the Only Begotten

From Essential Truths of the Christian Faith by R.C. Sproul
(c) 1992 R. C. Sproul Published by Tyndale ISBN 0-8423-2006-1

Part IV. Jesus Christ ~ 30 Jesus Christ as the Only Begotten

Biblical passages for reflection[links to ESV]:

John 01.01-18; Colossians 01.15-19; Hebrews 01.01-14;

Summary

1. That Jesus is called “the only begotten of the Father” and “firstborn over all creation” has sparked controversy in church history over the deity of Christ.

2. Jehovah’s Witnesses and Mormons use these passages to deny the deity of Christ.

3. The Nicene Creed clearly spelled out that Jesus was “begotten, not made.” This careful distinction was a reflection of the New Testament’s affirmation of Christ’s deity.

4. Jesus is called “the only begotten” of the Father. Jesus is uniquely begotten of the Father, not as a creature, but as the eternal Son of God, the Second Person of the Trinity.

5. The term firstborn must be understood from a first-century Jewish background. Jesus is the “firstborn over all creation” in the sense that He is the heir of all that belongs to the Father.


ETCF 4.30 Googlebooks

Another Link to all the Audio:

http://bit.ly/ETCF_030_JESUS_CHRIST_AS_THE_ONLY_BEGOTTEN_wpl

ETCF IV. 28 The Sinlessness of Christ

From Essential Truths of the Christian Faith by R.C. Sproul
(c) 1992 R. C. Sproul Published by Tyndale ISBN 0-8423-2006-1

Part IV. Jesus Christ ~ 28

The Sinlessness of Christ

Biblical passages for reflection

[Links to the ESV Bible]:

Matthew 03.15; Romans 05.18-21; 2Corinthians 05.21; Hebrews 07.26; 1Peter 03.18;

Summary:

1. The sinlessness of Christ is necessary for our salvation.
2. Jesus made atonement as the Lamb without blemish.
3. Christ was not tempted by sinful desires.
4. By his perfect obedience Jesus supplied the righteousness (merit) we require to be saved.

Another link to all the audio:
http://bit.ly/ETCF_28_wpl

ETCF IV. 27 The Humanity of Christ

From Essential Truths of the Christian Faith by R.C. Sproul
(c) 1992 R. C. Sproul Published by Tyndale ISBN 0-8423-2006-1

Part IV. Jesus Christ ~ 27 The Humanity of Christ

Biblical passages for reflection
[Links to the ESV Bible]:

John 01.01-14; Galatians 04.04; Philippians 02.05-11; Hebrews 02.14-18; Hebrews 04.15;

Summary:

1. Jesus had a true human nature that was perfectly united with His divine nature.
2. Docetism saidt that Jesus did not have a real physical body.
   
3. The monophysite heresy invovles the deification of the human nature by which His humanity is eclipsed by His deity.
4. Christ's humanity is the basis of His identification with us.
5. Jesus took our sins upon Himself and imparts His righteousness to us.
6. Jesus' human nature had the limitations of normal humanity except that He was without sin.
   

Michael T. Bee's thoughts/reflections:

I wonder if it would help to read more on this?

Suggestions from back of book:

'Beginning'

Lloyd-Jones, D. M. The Cross of Christ. Downers Grove, Ill.: IVP, 1986.
McDowell, Josh, More Than a Carpenter. Weaton, Ill: Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., 1980.
Sproul, R. C., Following Christ. Weaton, Ill: Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., 1991.

'Intermediate'

Bruce, F.F. Jesus: Lord and Savior. Downers Grove, Ill.: IVP, 1986.
Sproul, R. C. The Glory of Christ. Weaton, Ill.: Tyndale House Publicatoins, Inc., 1990.
Stott, John. The Cross of Christ. Downers Grove, Ill.: IVP, 1986.

Last updated: 2008-03-21 13:25

ETCF IV. 26 The Subordination of Christ

From Essential Truths of the Christian Faith by R.C. Sproul
(c) 1992 R. C. Sproul Published by Tyndale ISBN 0-8423-2006-1

Part IV. Jesus Christ ~ 26 The Subordination of Christ

Biblical passages for reflection
[Links to the ESV Bible]:

John 04.34; John 05.30; Philippians 02.05-08; Hebrews 05.08-10; Hebrews 10.05-10;

Summary:

1. Although Christ is equal to the Father in terms of His divine nature, He is subordinate to the Father in His role in redemption.
2. Subordination does not mean "inferior."
   
3. Christ's subordination is voluntary.
4. Christ's perfect obedience qualifed Him to be the sin bearer for His people and earned the rewards of heven promised to the redeemed.

Michael T. Bee's thoughts/reflections:

The cited reference to Christ's work from Westminster Confession seems a valuable summary:

It pleased God, in His eternal purpose, to choose
and ordain the Lord Jesus, His only begotten Son,
to be the Mediator between God and man, the Prophet,
Priest, and King, the Head and Savior of His Church,
the Heir of all things, and Judge of the world: unto whom
He did from all eternity give a people, to be His seed,
and to be by Him in time redeemed, called, justified,
sanctified, and glorified.

-Chapter VIII. Of Christ the Mediator

Last updated: 2008-03-21 13:25

ETCF IV. 25 The Deity of Christ

From Essential Truths of the Christian Faith by R.C. Sproul
(c) 1992 R. C. Sproul Published by Tyndale ISBN 0-8423-2006-1

Part IV. Jesus Christ ~ 25 The Deity of Christ

Biblical passages for reflection
[Links to the ESV Bible]:

Mark 02.28; John 01.01-14; John 08.58; Philippians 02.09-11; 

Colossians 01.19;

Summary:

1. The deity of Christ is a doctrine essential to Christianity.
2. The church has had crises of heresy regarding Christ's deity in the fourth, fifth, nineteenth, and twentieth centuries.
3. The Council of Nicea (A.D. 325) affirmed the deity of Christ, declaring that He is of the same substance or essence as the Father and that He was not a created being.
4. The New Testament clearly affirms the deity of Christ.
5. The Council of Chalcedon (A.D. 451) declared that Jesus was truly God.

GoogleBooks ~ Search ~ "Essential Truths of the Christian Faith ~ The Deity of Christ

ETCF.025.THE_DEITY_OF_CHRIST.00a.mp3(secure file)

What would you say?

To gain clarity on spiritual matters these questions have often been helpful?

1. If you were to die tonight do you know for certain you would go to heaven?


Yes

No

Maybe

No one can no for sure

Say what?!




2. How woud you reply if God were to ask you, "Why should I let you into my heaven?"


I'm a good person

I've obeyed the 10 commandments

I've not got a clue

I know it has something to do with Jesus

I know it has something to do with the Bible

If you'd like to know more try:

http://www.eeinternational.org/pages/page.asp?page_id=31469

Psalms & Proverbs

Psalms to memorize...1,23,16,40,121,130

 Day of Month

01	02	03	04	05	06
07	08	09	10	11	12
13	14	15	16	17	18
19	20	21	22	23	24
25	26	27	28 a	29	30
31

...this is worth the time for the encouragment and wisdom to be found. They're links by day to five psalms and a proverb.