Landmarks of Baptist Doctrine PDF

Use the Bookmarks to Navigate READ THIS FIRST Your purchase of this eBook digital version of LANDMARKS OF BAPTIST DOCTRINE© includes the following qualifications and permissions: 1. The contents of this eBook, in whole or in part, may not be cop...

Use the Bookmarks to Navigate READ THIS FIRST Your purchase of this eBook digital version of LANDMARKS OF BAPTIST DOCTRINE© includes the following qualifications and permissions: 1. The contents of this eBook, in whole or in part, may not be copied or transferred to, or via, any electronic media without the express written permission of the copyright owner — except that one (1) back-up copy may be made by and for the purchaser, for safekeeping. 2. Under no circumstances may the eBook be published, circulated, or otherwise distributed — whether for sale or for gifting — beyond the original purchase and intended recipient without the express written permission of the copyright owner. 3. The contents of this file may not be translated into another language or dialect without the express written permission of the copyright owner. Thank you, and may you be blessed through reading this publication. © 1989 by Robert J. Sargent All rights reserved. Bible Baptist Church Publications 1701 Harns Road, Oak Harbor, Washington 98277 U.S.A. Telephone: 360.675.8311 E‐Mail: [email protected] Internet: www.baptistpublications.org  Preface to LANDMARKS of BAPTIST DOCTRINE “Remove not the ancient landmark, which thy fathers have set” — Proverbs 22:28. These notes are provided with the sincere desire to assist pastors in their God-given task of preparing men for the ministry. We do not claim them to be the “be-all and end-all” of Bible doctrine, and consequently have allowed plenty of margin space for the pastor/teacher to add his own material in order to develop a truly comprehensive teaching tool. We suggest these notes be supplied as a textbook to the student, and are happy to provide them to you for purchase. They are copyrighted and, because of the amount of time and effort which has gone into preparing this material, we would ask that you respect the work of the writer by not copying, recording, or translating them in any form or by any means without the express written permission of the author. Book I — the doctrines of the Bible & God Book II — the doctrines of Christ & the Holy Spirit Book III — the doctrines of Man, Sin, & Salvation Book IV — the doctrines of the Church, Angels, & Last Things © Robert J. Sargent, 1990 SECOND EDITION May, 2004  Order from: Bible Baptist Church Publications 1701 Harns Road, Oak Harbor, Washington 98277, U.S.A. Telephone: (360) 675-8311 u E-Mail: [email protected] Internet: www.baptistpublications.org Printed Books: Volume I: $16.00 (plus P&H) Volume II: $14.00 (plus P&H) Volume III: $14.00 (plus P&H) Volume IV: $20.00 (plus P&H) Complete set: $64.00 (plus P&H) Digital Edition: (All four volumes — printable) CD-ROM: $215.95 (plus P&H) Internet Download: $215.95 eBook Edition: (All four volumes — read only) CD-ROM: $64.00 (plus P&H) Internet Download: $64.00 BOOK ONE  AN INTRODUCTION TO BAPTIST DOCTRINE 1. The Objectives of the Course..................................................... 1 2. Grading the Course.................................................................... 1 3. Definition of Terms..................................................................... 2 4. Areas in the Discipline of Theology............................................. 3 5. Systematic Theology................................................................... 3 6. The Schools of Theology............................................................. 3 7. The Difference Between Baptist Doctrine and the Doctrine of Other Religious Groups............................................ 5 8. The Importance of Sound Doctrine............................................. 6 9. Some Rules Pertaining to Doctrinal Studies................................. 6  AN INTRODUCTION TO BAPTIST DOCTRINE Baptist Doctrine is a course of study in the great doctrines of the faith. It is a thorough examination of the historic Baptist faith. I. THE OBJECTIVES OF THE COURSE A. GENERAL OBJECTIVES: 1. To introduce the student to the field of systematic theology. 2. To give the student a general understanding of all the cardinal doctrines of the Word of God. B. SPECIFIC OBJECTIVES: 1. To enable the student to use the Bible skillfully through a sound understanding of basic doctrine. 2. To effect in the student a greater love for Christ, a greater desire to win the lost, and a greater appreciation of the necessity for evangelism to be undertaken from a doctrinal standpoint. 3. To see in the student evidence of a desire for continued growth in both the spiritual and intellectual realms. 4. To prepare the student for a life of total ministry of the Word of God. 5. To acquaint the student with various books and authors dealing with this field of study. 6. To stimulate the student and prepare him for continuing theological studies of the Word of God. 7. To help the student know why he is a Baptist, and to enable him to defend the faith once delivered unto the saints — Jude 3; Titus 1:9. II. GRADING THE COURSE Doctrine requires that a man of God know the Word of God. Therefore, student grades will comprise the following parts: Examinations & Tests — 50% Written Assignments — 30% Scripture memorization — 20% The entire course consists of ten divisions. Each division will conclude with a written examination and an oral examination (memorization), and a written assignment will be due. The student will be required to obtain a passing grade in An Introduction to Baptist Doctrine Page 1 LANDMARKS OF BAPTIST DOCTRINE © each of the ten divisions to obtain an aggregate passing grade for the entire course. III. DEFINITION OF TERMS A. DOCTRINE: The word “doctrine” simply means “teaching.” Any teaching of the Bible is Biblical doctrine. The English word “doctrine” comes from the Latin ‘docere,’ meaning “to teach.” The Greek word translated “doctrine” in the Bible is didaskw (‘didasko’), and also means “to teach.” B. THEOLOGY: The word “theology” is derived from two Greek words, QeoV (‘theos’) — “God;” and logoV (‘logos’) — “expression, rational expression.” Theology is the “science (or knowledge) of God.” C. DOGMA: The word “dogma” is a Greek word (dogma) that is translated as “ordinances” in the Authorized, King James Version. It is defined as an “established law.” In Christendom, the word dogma is used in much the same sense as doctrine. If there is a difference, it is that dogma refers to established CHURCH beliefs, whereas doctrine refers to established BIBLE beliefs. D. CREED: The word “creed” comes from the Latin ‘credo’ — “I believe.” A creed is a statement of personal or denominational belief. There are some well-known historic creeds recited by many over the centuries — e.g., the “Apostle’s Creed,” the “Nicene Creed,” and the “Athanasian Creed.” E. DOCTRINE, THEOLOGY, DOGMA, & CREED: These words are often used interchangeably, although there are some technical nuances distinguishing them. 1. Doctrine, Dogma, & Creed — are the FRUIT of theology. Theology asks “why?” — doctrines states “what.” To illustrate, in the field of biology (Grk. bios, ‘life’) there is a difference between stating that blood IS red and asking WHY blood is red. 2. Doctrine, Dogma, & Creed — are fruits from differing standpoints. l Doctrine = what the Bible teaches. l Dogma = what the ‘Church’ teaches. l Creed = what I believe. Page 2 An Introduction to Baptist Doctrine  LANDMARKS OF BAPTIST DOCTRINE © IV. AREAS IN THE DISCIPLINE OF THEOLOGY As a science, theology has many branches. For example, there is: l Ethnic Theology — the study of comparative religion. l Exegetical Theology — the study of Biblical languages & Biblical criticism. l Biblical Theology — a progressive, historical study through the Bible. l Systematic Theology — a doctrinal study of the Bible. l Practical Theology — church polity, pastoral theology, evangelism, etc. l Historical Theology — archæology, Church history, history of doctrines, etc. V. SYSTEMATIC THEOLOGY Systematic theology is the doctrinal study of the Bible. It is a method whereby the doctrines taught in the word of God are systematically collated — generally under ten divisions. These ten groups form the basis of this text and course of study. They are: l Bibliology — the doctrine of the Scriptures. l Theology Proper — the doctrine of God. l Christology — the doctrine of Christ. l Pneumatology — the doctrine of the Holy Spirit. l Anthropology — the doctrine of Man. l Harmartiology — the doctrine of Sin. l Soteriology — the doctrine of Salvation. l Ecclesiology — the doctrine of the Church. l Angelology — the doctrine of Angels & Satan. l Eschatology — the doctrine of Last Things. VI. THE SCHOOLS OF THEOLOGY Unfortunately, most theological study is biased. Usually it is colored by the personal views and foundational philosophies of the student. Some of the major theological “schools of thought” are: A. ROMAN CATHOLIC THEOLOGY: A theological system based upon the traditions of the ‘Church,’ the ex-cathedra decrees of the popes, the writings of the early fathers and the medieval schoolmen — and the Bible. Catholics maintain that since the church is the “pillar and ground of the truth” (I Timothy 3:15), they (the ‘Church’) alone are the repository and sole interpreter of truth. An Introduction to Baptist Doctrine Page 3 LANDMARKS OF BAPTIST DOCTRINE © B. CONSERVATIVE PROTESTANT THEOLOGY: Protestant theology is based upon the “historic” beliefs and doctrines that were part of the Reformation and its aftermath. It is conservative in that it still holds to the historic creeds or confessions — Augustinian (Lutheran), Helvetic (Reformed), Westminster (Presbyterian), Thirty-Nine Articles (Anglican), etc. Protestant theology has found expression in the past as either orthodox (which can be quite formal and cold) or the more fervent evangelicalism (evangelistic). C. REFORMED PROTESTANT THEOLOGY: This is the theology that basically follows the philosophy of the French/Swiss reformer, John Calvin (1509-64 A.D.). Calvinism asserts the sovereignty of God beyond what the Bible teaches. D. ARMINIAN PROTESTANT THEOLOGY: This theological system arose as a reaction to the strict tenets of Calvinism. It is named after a Dutchman named Jacob Arminius (1560-1609 A.D.). Arminianism asserts the free will of man beyond what the Bible teaches. E. LIBERAL PROTESTANT THEOLOGY: Liberalism, or “modernism,” grew out of the 17TH and 18TH century “Enlightenment.” The great influence of this theology upon Protestantism came out of 18TH and 19TH century Germany and men such as Kant (1724-1804), Hegel (1770-1831), and others. It is based upon the reason of man (rationalism), and as such it is naturalistic (rather than being supernatural). As far as the Word of God is concerned, modernism is a theological system of doubt and unbelief. Liberalism is the practical outworking of modernism — the social ‘Gospel.’ F. NEO-ORTHODOX THEOLOGY: Standing between rank modernism (denial of the supernatural) and Conservatism (recognition of Biblical authority), this “new” (neo) theology acknowledges the supernatural, but seeks a relationship with God apart from the Bible. Its leading proponent was Karl Barth (1886-1968). This theology adopts an experiential approach to the Word of God. G. FUNDAMENTALISM: Fundamentalism is more of a movement than a theology. It arose as a reaction to the inroads of modernism and evolution within Protestantism at the end of the 19TH century and the first part of the 20TH century. It is so-named from “The Fundamentals” — an irreducible set of five (cardinal) doctrines which must be believed in order to be considered biblically orthodox. Fundamentalism developed across denominational lines to adopt other important doctrines (though not uniformly). It is interdenominational, and one of its greatest shortcomings is that it does not hold to the Biblical doctrine of the Church. Page 4 An Introduction to Baptist Doctrine  LANDMARKS OF BAPTIST DOCTRINE © H. NEW EVANGELICALISM: More of a position than a theology, new evangelicalism tends to be somewhat conservative in doctrine, but much more broad-minded and inclusive in practice. As a movement, it represents a break with fundamentalism primarily over the issue of ecclesiastical separation. New Evangelicalism began around 1950, and the term was probably first used by Harold Ockenga (1905-1985). I. BIBLE-BELIEVING THEOLOGY: This is the theology of believing what the Bible teaches — in ALL things. It stands for the “whole counsel of God,” and is where every true Baptist must be. IF IT’S BIBLE, IT’S BAPTIST: IF IT’S BAPTIST, IT’S BIBLE! VII. THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN BAPTIST DOCTRINE & THE DOCTRINES OF OTHER RELIGIOUS GROUPS In many instances, what Baptists believe the Bible teaches is identical to what many other Christians believe — especially conservatives. However, there are some key differences. These differences are mainly historic. All the mainline religious denominations trace their history back to a man (or men) and to a time when they came out of the ‘Church’ of Rome — usually at the time of the Protestant Reformation or shortly thereafter. When these denominations separated from the Roman Catholic system, they retained some of the Roman Catholic beliefs, customs, and practices. Some of the more obvious “Catholic hangovers” that are likely to continue among Protestant groups are: l Infant sprinkling (pædobaptism) l Baptismal regeneration or baptismal remission l A State–Church system l Hierarchical forms of ‘church’ government l Transubstantiation or consubstantiation l Formalism and ritualism BAPTIST doctrine is BIBLE doctrine. Baptists base their faith and order upon the scriptures of the apostles and prophets (Ephesians 2:20; 3:5; II Peter 3:2; Jude 17) rather than the traditions and philosophies of men (Matthew 15:9; Colossians 2:8). However, it must be kept in mind that Baptists and Baptist churches can and do drift into apostasy. The Roman Catholic church developed from what were once Bible-believing Baptist churches from the post-apostolic age on, and especially after the 4TH century A.D. Some doctrines are distinctively Baptist — notably those having to do with the doctrine of the Church (ecclesiology). An Introduction to Baptist Doctrine Page 5 LANDMARKS OF BAPTIST DOCTRINE © VIII.THE IMPORTANCE OF SOUND DOCTRINE The study of Bible doctrine is extremely important for the following reasons: A. IT IS A COMMAND OF GOD — II Timothy 2:15. B. IT IS REQUIRED OF PREACHERS — Titus 1:9; 2:1; Ephesians 4:11-16; I Timothy 4:6; 5:17; II Timothy 3:10. C. IT IS REQUIRED OF ALL BELIEVERS — I Peter 3:15; Proverbs 4:1,2. D. IT IS SORELY NEEDED IN THESE DAYS OF APOSTASY. See: I Timothy 4:1; II Timothy 3:1-5,13,14; 4:2,3; Jude 3; Romans 16:17; I Timothy 6:3,4; Hebrews 13:9; II John 9,10. E. IT PRODUCES MEN OF GOD — I Corinthians 16:13; II Timothy 3:17. F. IT MOLDS CHARACTER — Proverbs 23:7. “Sow a thought, reap an act; Sow an act, reap a habit; sow a habit, reap a character; sow a character, reap a destiny.” IX. SOME RULES PERTAINING TO DOCTRINAL STUDIES l “If the plain sense makes common sense, seek no other sense lest it all be- come nonsense.” l “Believe your beliefs and doubt your doubts. Never commit the blunder of believing your doubts and doubting your beliefs.” l “Make sure you major on the majors — don’t major on the minors!” l “To know things as they ARE is better than to believe things as they seem.” Proverbs 22:28 — “Remove not the ancient landmark, which thy fathers have set.” Jude 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.” Page 6 An Introduction to Baptist Doctrine  THE DOCTRINE OF THE SCRIPTURES (Bibliology) 1. The Nature of the Bible............................................................. 7 2. Revelation and the Bible............................................................ 13 3. The Inspiration of the Bible Defined.......................................... 17 4. The Inspiration of the Bible Demonstrated................................. 23 5. The Inspiration of the Bible Defended....................................... 31 6. The Canonization of the Bible................................................... 35 7. The Credibility of the Bible........................................................ 47 8. The Authority of the Bible......................................................... 53 9. The Preservation of the Bible.................................................... 59 10. The Translation of the Bible....................................................... 77 11. The Versions of the Bible........................................................... 83 12. The Student of the Bible............................................................ 95  THE NATURE OF THE BIBLE This lesson concerns itself with an overall survey of the English Bible, in preparation for a detailed study of the doctrine of the Scriptures. I. ITS NAMES AND TITLES Several names are used for the Christian’s Book, the “Holy Bible.” Some of the more common names and titles are: A. THE BOOK(S): See: Mark 12:26; Luke 3:4; 20:42; Acts 1:20; 7:42. The word “Bible” is an anglicization of the Greek words bibloV (‘biblos’), “book;” and biblia (‘biblia’), “books.” In time, the word came to refer to the sacred Books of scripture. The Bible is not a book, but THE Book! B. THE OLD AND NEW TESTAMENTS: See: Luke 22:20; I Corinthians 11:25; II Corinthians 3:6,14; Hebrews 9:15; 12:24. The word “testament” means a “covenant” or an “agreement.” The division of the Bible into the Old and New Testaments is the basic division of the Old Covenant of the LAW and the New Covenant of GRACE. C. THE SCRIPTURES: See: II Timothy 3:15,16. The word “scripture” is a translation of the Greek word grafh (‘graphé’), “writing.” The scriptures are the holy writings. D. THE WORD OF GOD: See: Romans 10:17; Hebrews 4:12. This is the most significant, pictorial, and complete name. It is a name that causes us to recognize the Bible as God’s Book. E. THE PSALTERIC TITLES: See: Psalm 19:7-9; 119:1,2,4-7. Psalm 119 is the “Word of God Psalm,” and it uses a number of names for the Bible: The Doctrine of the Scriptures Page 7 LECTURE 1 LANDMARKS OF BAPTIST DOCTRINE © 1. Law — verse 1. 2. Testimonies — verse 2. 3. Precepts — verse 4. 4. Statutes — verse 5. The statutes are the life applications of the Law. 5. Commandments — verse 6. 6. Judgments — verse 7. The judgments are defined in I Kings 3:9,11. II. ITS CONTENTS A. THE BIBLE CONSISTS OF SIXTY-SIX BOOKS: 1. The Old Testament has 39 Books. 2. The New Testament has 27 Books. B. YET THE BIBLE IS ONE BOOK: 1. It bears witness of ONE God. 2. It forms ONE continuous story. 3. It has ONE plan of salvation. 4. It has ONE central theme — Jesus Christ. Augustine (354-430 A.D.) made at least one true statement: “The NEW is in the OLD concealed — the OLD is in the NEW revealed.” III. ITS COMPOSITION A. ITS WRITERS: Approximately 40 human writers were used to pen the Word of God. These men were separated by time and their station in life. The Bible writers included prophets, kings, statesmen, herdsmen, fishermen, pastors, soldiers, ex-Pharisees, &c. B. ITS PERIOD OF WRITING: The Bible was written down over a period of approximately 1,600 years: from Moses (c.1500 B.C.) to John (c.100 A.D.). Page 8 The Doctrine of the Scriptures LECTURE 1  LANDMARKS OF BAPTIST DOCTRINE © C. ITS LANGUAGES: 1. Generally speaking, the OLD Testament was written in HEBREW, and the NEW Testament in koiné (common) GREEK. 2. Some parts of Daniel were written in Syriac or Aramaic. 3. Some words and expressions in the New Testament are paraphrased Hebrew and Aramaic. For example, our Lord’s ninth hour cry from the cross is paraphrased from the Hebrew in Matthew 27:46 and from the Aramaic in Mark 15:34. IV. ITS CONSTRUCTION The three divisions of the Old Testament are given in Luke 24:44. Luke 24:44-45 — “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. Then opened he their understanding, that they might understand the scriptures.” A. MOSES — “The Torah.” The five Books of the Law: Genesis–Deuteronomy. B. THE PROPHETS — “The Nebhiim.” 1. Former Prophets. What we generally refer to as the historical Books: Joshua–Kings, except Ruth. See: Zechariah 1:4; 7:7,12. 2. Latter Prophets. The prophetic Books: Isaiah–Malachi, except Daniel and Lamentations. C. THE PSALMS — “The Kethubhim.” The sacred writings: Chronicles–Canticles (Song of Solomon), plus the exceptions noted above. The Megilloth (“The Scrolls”) consists of five of books of the Kethubhim — namely: The Song of Solomon, Ruth, Lamentations, Ecclesiastes, and Esther. In dividing the Books of the Bible in our English Bibles, we generally use the “4 x 4 Construction,” as follows: The Doctrine of the Scriptures Page 9 LECTURE 1 LANDMARKS OF BAPTIST DOCTRINE © LAW Genesis – Deuteronomy HISTORY Joshua – Esther OLD TESTAMENT WISDOM Job – Song Of Solomon MAJOR Isaiah – Daniel PROPHECY MINOR Hosea – Malachi From the close of the Old Testament (Malachi) to the birth of Jesus Christ (Matthew), approximately 400 years transpired. These are termed the Four Hundred Silent Years. GOSPELS Matthew – John HISTORY Acts NEW TESTAMENT PAULINE Romans – Philemon EPISTLES GENERAL Hebrews – Jude PROPHECY The Revelation V. ITS SYMBOLS A number of symbols are used to describe the Bible: A. A MIRROR: Revealing power — James 1:23-25. B. A SEED: Regenerative power — I Peter 1:23. C. A LAMP: Illuminating power — Psalm 119:105,130; Proverbs 6:23; II Peter 1:19. D. A SWORD: Convicting power — Ephesians 6:17; Hebrews 4:12. E. A HAMMER: Destructive power — Jeremiah 23:29. F. A TREE: Flourishing power — Proverbs 3:18; 4:7-9. Page 10 The Doctrine of the Scriptures LECTURE 1  LANDMARKS OF BAPTIST DOCTRINE © G. WATER: Cleansing power — John 15:3; Ephesians 5:25-27; Psalm 119:9,11. H. MILK, MEAT, BREAD, AND HONEY: Nourishing, sustaining, and satisfying power — I Peter 2:2; I Corinthians 3:1,2; Hebrews 5:12-14; Psalm 19:10; 34:8; 119:103; Amos 8:11; Matthew 4:3,4. VI. ITS THEME The theme of the Bible is the Lord Jesus Christ, John 5:39. The following chart shows how this theme unfolds: LAW Foundation for Christ OLD HISTORY Preparation for Christ TESTAMENT (Anticipation) POETRY Aspiration for Christ PROPHECY Expectation of Christ CHRIST 1 GOSPELS Manifestation of Christ HISTORY Propagation of Christ NEW TESTAMENT (Realization) EPISTLES Interpretation of Christ PROPHECY Consummation in Christ 1 This chart was adapted from: Geisler, N. L. & Nix, W. E. From God to Us: Chicago, Illinois, Moody Press, 1981: pg.11. The Doctrine of the Scriptures Page 11 LECTURE 1 LANDMARKS OF BAPTIST DOCTRINE © VII. BIBLE STATISTICS The following interesting statistics apply to the English Authorized, King James Version: l There are 1189 chapters in the Bible — 929 in the Old Testament and 260 in the New Testament. l The shortest chapter is Psalm 117. l The longest chapter is Psalm 119. l The middle chapter of the Bible is Psalm 117. There are 594 chapters before it, and 594 chapters after it. Significantly, it reads: O Praise the LORD, all ye nations: praise him, all ye people. For his merciful kindness is great toward us: and the truth of the LORD endureth for ever. Praise ye the LORD. l There are 31,174 verses in the Bible. l The middle verses in the Bible (#s 15,587 & 15,588) are Psalm 118:8,9. Significantly, they read: It is better to trust in the LORD than to put confidence in man. It is better to trust in the LORD than to put confidence in princes. l The longest verse is Esther 8:9. l The shortest verse is John 11:35. l There are 774,746 words in the Bible. l The shortest Book in the Bible is II John. Obadiah is the shortest Book of the Old Testament. DOCTRINAL VERSE MEMORIZATION: — # 1: John 5:39 “Search the scriptures; for in them ye think ye have eternal life: and they are they which testify of me.” Page 12 The Doctrine of the Scriptures LECTURE 1  REVELATION AND THE BIBLE The word “revelation” simply means a revealing, and in theology is applied to God’s revealing of Himself to mankind. Without revelation, we wouldn’t know anything about God — or that there even was a God. Therefore we begin this study with the premise that God desires to make Himself known to man, and has in fact revealed Himself at various times and in different ways. See: Hebrews 1:1,2; 2:1-4. I. REVELATION DEFINED Revelation is the unveiling of something previously hidden so that it may be seen for what it is. All revelation is supernatural in that it has God for its source and truth as its end. See: Deuteronomy 29:29. II. REVELATION EXPLAINED The revelation of God to man falls into two basic categories: GOD GENERAL SPECIAL REVELATION REVELATION MAN A. GENERAL REVELATION: General (or natural) revelation is the knowledge of God that is derived from the light of natural things. General revelation is accessible to all men and is addressed to all intelligent creatures. It is the revelation of God to man in: 1. Creation — Psalm 19:1-6. See also: Isaiah 40:12,26; Acts 14:17; Psalm 8:1; 104:24. 2. History — Psalm 9:16a. 3. Conscience — Romans 2:15. The Doctrine of the Scriptures Page 13 LECTURE 2  LANDMARKS OF BAPTIST DOCTRINE © General revelation bears witness to the existence of God, the power of God, and the need for God. However, it does not testify to the personality of God or the plan of salvation. According to Romans 1:18-20, the effect of general revelation is to condemn man. Why? See: Romans 1:21. General revelation alone is inadequate to save man for two reasons: a. Creation has been affected by the entrance of sin. See: Genesis 3:17; Romans 8:22. The witness is marred and blurred, and is now a monument to God’s curse upon sin. b. Man himself has also been affected by sin, to the extent that he is not able to read the evidences of God afforded in nature aright. B. SPECIAL REVELATION: Special revelation is the direct intervention of God in the affairs of this world. It is God revealing Himself through special acts done by His Person. This kind of revelation has come to man by various means at various times: 1. Through dreams — Genesis 37:5-10. 2. Through visions — Daniel 8:1. 3. Through the Urim and Thummin — Numbers 27:21. 4. Through audible voices — I Samuel 3:1-10. 5. Through animals — Numbers 22:28. 6. Through angels — Luke 1:26-37. etc. The “crown” of God’s special revelation of Himself to man was in the coming to earth of the Lord Jesus Christ, the Living Word. See: John 1:14; 14:9. The “completion” of God’s special revelation of Himself to man is the BIBLE, the written Word. See: II Peter 1:3,4. “According as his divine power hath GIVEN unto us ALL THINGS that pertain unto life and godliness, through the knowledge of him that hath called us to glory and virtue: Whereby are GIVEN unto us exceeding great and precious PROMISES: that by these ye might be partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust.” According to Psalm 19:7-14, the effect of special Biblical revelation is to save man. Thus this kind of revelation is redemptive and remedial. Special revelation is necessary because of: a. The Deadening Effects of Sin (as outlined above). b. The Transcendence of God (the fact that He is so separated and holy that man could not find Him). Page 14 The Doctrine of the Scriptures LECTURE 2 LANDMARKS OF BAPTIST DOCTRINE © c. The Personality of God (the fact that He is a God of love Who desires fellowship with man). “Without special revelation, general revelation would be for sinful men incomplete and ineffective, and could issue, as in fact it has issued wherever it alone has been accessible, only in leaving them without excuse (Romans 1:20). “Without general revelation, special revelation would lack that basis in the fundamental knowledge of God as the mighty and wise, righteous and good, Maker and Ruler of all things, apart from which the further revelation of this great God’s interventions in the world for the salvation of sinners could not be either intelligible, credible, or operative.” (1) III. REVELATION COMPARED & CONTRASTED A number of terms are frequently associated with any discussion on the doctrine of the Bible. As an aid to understanding what is meant by “revelation,” these terms are contrasted below: A. REVELATION VS. INSPIRATION: 1. Revelation makes truth known – whereas – inspiration provides for its inerrant recording. 2. The Bible contains revelation – whereas – the entire Bible is given by inspiration. The writers of the Bible drew from two different kinds of sources for their narrative: a. Special revelation — i.e. things that only God could make known (e.g. the account of creation, the fall of Satan, etc.). b. Personal observation — i.e. known facts resulting from what the writer saw (e.g. the crossing of the Red Sea), or from existing documents (e.g. Ezra 6:1-12). Both kinds of narrative are recorded for us in the Bible. Inspiration ensures both are recorded without error. 3. Revelation is progressive – whereas – inspiration is plenary. God did not reveal all the truth at the beginning. Much of it was revealed progressively over the centuries — see: I Peter 1:9-12. Some examples of progressive revelation may be seen in: a. The Names of God — from Elohim to Jehovah. 1 Warfield B. B. Inspiration and Authority of the Bible. Philadelphia, Pennsylvania: Baker Book House, 1948 The Doctrine of the Scriptures Page 15 LECTURE 2  LANDMARKS OF BAPTIST DOCTRINE © b. The Lineage of Messiah — from the seed of the woman, to the seed of Abraham, to the seed of Isaac, to the seed of Jacob, to the tribe of Judah, to the family of David, God progressively gave more detailed and specific information. On the contrary, there is NO SUCH THING as progressive inspiration. All parts of the Bible are inspired of God, and equally inspired. B. REVELATION VS. ILLUMINATION: Illumination is the Holy Spirit-given understanding of revelation or revealed truth. The believer enjoys this blessing today as he studies the Word of God — see: I John 2:20,21,27. The presence or absence of illumination with the writers of the Word of God had no bearing on the inspiration of the Bible. 1. Sometimes the words of the Biblical writers were the result of careful research — e.g. Luke 1:1-4. In this case, Luke had full understanding of what he was writing. 2. Sometimes the Biblical writers both understood what they were writing and recognized the words they were penning as coming directly from God — e.g. II Samuel 23:2. In such cases, the writers had full illumination as to what was being written. 3. Sometimes the Biblical writers did not know the importance of the words they penned, recognizing them as divine, but not understanding them — e.g. Daniel 12:8,9. 4. In some cases, the source of the words neither understood the words he was writing nor recognized them as divine — e.g. John 11:49-52. The point is, whether the writer had illumination or not, inspiration provided that God’s exact message was truthfully recorded. Note: I Corinthians 2:9,10 — REVELATION — “Disclosure” I Corinthians 2:12 — ILLUMINATION — “Discovery” I Corinthians 2:13 — INSPIRATION — “Documenting” Page 16 The Doctrine of the Scriptures LECTURE 2  THE INSPIRATION OF THE BIBLE — DEFINED Inspiration refers to the way in which God gave us the Bible. Having revealed Himself to man, God then had this revelation recorded in written form. There are a number of possibilities here. For example, God’s Word could have come to us via an angelic emissary; or, it could have been carved by divine lightning upon the highest mountains; or, it could even have been discovered on gold plates buried upon Cumorah hill...... BUT IT WASN’T! The Bible itself is very clear as to its origins and its inspiration. I. BIBLICAL STATEMENTS CONCERNING INSPIRATION The two outstanding scripture references regarding the doctrine of inspiration are: A. II Peter 1:21. This passage clearly teaches two key aspects of inspiration: 1. Human Penmanship — “...holy men of God spake...” 2. Divine Authorship — “...moved by the Holy Ghost.” An analysis of this particular verse makes it clear that God the Holy Spirit was the active Source of the scriptures. The Greek word translated “moved” is N,Do:,T) — “to purchase out of the market.” 3. “Lutroo” (8LJDÒT) — “to loose, or set free, by paying a price.” The sinner is enslaved by sin, but Jesus Christ has paid the price in full. We are bought by Him (“agorazo”) — therefore we are His; we are bought out of sin (“exagorazo”) — therefore we are no longer the servants of sin; and we are set free by Him (“lutroo”) — therefore we are no longer in bondage to sin. See: Matthew 20:28; Romans 3:24; 6:17,18; Galatians 3:13; 4:4,5; Ephesians 1:7,14; 4:30; Colossians 1:14; I Timothy 2:6; Titus 2:14; Hebrews 9:12,15,16; I Peter 1:18,19. Page 258 The Doctrine of Christ LECTURE 9  LANDMARKS OF BAPTIST DOCTRINE © E. RECONCILIATION: Through the death of Christ, man is reconciled (“restored”) to fellowship with God. (The Bible does not say that God is reconciled to man, for the offense came not from God.) Christ’s death removed the enmity existing between God and man — sin is a barrier to fellowship, Isaiah 59:1,2. Original State: GOD è ç MAN The Fall: ç GOD MAN è The Cross: GOD è MAN è The New Birth: GOD è ç MAN “For if, when we were enemies, we were reconciled to God by the death of his Son, much more, being reconciled, we shall be saved by his life” — Romans 5:10. “And all things are of God, who hath reconciled us to himself by Jesus Christ, and hath given to us the ministry of reconciliation; To wit, that God was in Christ, reconciling the world unto himself, not imputing their trespasses unto them; and hath committed unto us the word of reconciliation. Now then we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God did beseech you by us: we pray you in Christ’s stead, be ye reconciled to God” — II Corinthians 5:18-20. “And that he might reconcile both unto God in one body by the cross, having slain the enmity thereby” — Ephesians 2:16. “And, having made peace through the blood of his cross, by him to reconcile all things unto himself; by him, I say, whether they be things in earth, or things in heaven. And you, that were sometime alienated and enemies in your mind by wicked works, yet now hath he reconciled” — Colossians 1:20,21. Hebrews 2:17 - “Wherefore in all things it behoved him to be made like unto his brethren, that he might be a merciful and faithful high priest in things pertaining to God, to make reconciliation for the sins of the people.” II. THOSE TERMS THAT RELATE CHRIST’S DEATH TO GOD A. SACRIFICIAL: See: I Corinthians 5:7b; Ephesians 5:2; Hebrews 10:12. The death of Jesus Christ was an offering for sin — Isaiah 53:10. God’s holiness demands that sin be paid for and paid in full. Christ’s offering of Himself fully accomplished this, so that there remains no more sacrifice for sin. 1. It Was A Necessary Sacrifice. See: Luke 24:26,46; Galatians 3:21; Hebrews 2:10. The Doctrine of Christ Page 259 LECTURE 9 LANDMARKS OF BAPTIST DOCTRINE © 2. It Was A Voluntary Sacrifice. See: John 10:17,18; Galatians 2:20g; Ephesians 5:2; Hebrews 9:14; 10:7-9. 3. It Was A Bloody Sacrifice. See: Hebrews 9:11-23; I Peter 1:18,19; Matthew 26:28; Mark 14:24; Luke 22:20; Ephesians 1:7; 2:13; Colossians 1:14, 20; I John 1:7; Revelation 1:5; 5:9. 4. It Was An Acceptable Sacrifice. See: John 19:30c; Hebrews 9:26; 10:12,14. B. EXPIATION: Christ’s death was expiatory. This means that it appeased the Justice of God (in that sin was fully paid for), and satisfied the Law of God (for the death of Christ fulfilled the Law). His death removed the guilt of sin by canceling and purging it. See: John 1:29; Galatians 3:13; Hebrews 1:3; 9:14,26; I John 3:5. III. THE FINALITY OF THE ATONEMENT The atonement of Christ was: A. COMPLETE: “When Jesus therefore had received the vinegar, he said, IT IS FINISHED: and he bowed his head, and gave up the ghost” — John 19:30. “...there remaineth no more sacrifice for sins” — Hebrews 10:26. B. FINAL: “Who needeth not daily, as those high priests, to offer up sacrifice, first for his own sins, and then for the people’s: for this he did ONCE, when he offered up himself” — Hebrews 7:27. “...but now ONCE in the end of the world hath he appeared to PUT AWAY sin by the sacrifice of himself” — Hebrews 9:26. “But this man, after he had offered ONE sacrifice for sins FOR EVER, SAT DOWN on the right hand of God... For by ONE offering he hath PERFECTED FOR EVER them that are sanctified” — Hebrews 10:12,14. C. NEVER TO BE REPEATED: “Knowing that Christ being raised from the dead dieth NO MORE...” — Romans 6:9. “Who... when he had by himself purged our sins, SAT DOWN on the right hand of the Majesty on high” — Hebrews 1:3. Page 260 The Doctrine of Christ LECTURE 9  LANDMARKS OF BAPTIST DOCTRINE © IV. THE IMPORTANCE OF THE BLOOD Like Cain of old, man naturally wants a bloodless gospel — a way of salvation based upon personal labor. The thought of the bloody cross is an offense to the sinner, because it (above all else) declares his true condition in the sight of a thrice-holy God. Bible-believers have long been ridiculed for their “slaughterhouse religion.” Several modern (per)versions of the Bible omit references to the blood of Christ, along with a number of the newer Hymn books produced by modernistic and contemporary organizations. Even within the more conservative ranks of Christendom there are those who deny the necessity of the blood per se, arguing that it was Christ’s death that was essential — the shed blood was just incidental. R. B. Thieme, Jr. and John MacArthur, Jr. both defame the precious blood of Christ by asserting that it was only the death of Christ which was important, the blood being incidental and non-essential. (1) According to the Bible, the shedding of the blood of Jesus Christ is absolutely essential to the atonement. A. THE BLOOD IS DEMANDED: Genesis 9:4 and Leviticus 17:11,14 speak of the importance of the blood to God. See also: Hebrews 9:22. Furthermore, God has plainly indicated that BOTH death and the shedding of blood are necessary and essential in atonement. The Passover Lamb illustrates this truth. In Exodus 12:13, God said, “...when I SEE the BLOOD, I will pass over you...,” not “when I see the death!” However, the shedding of blood also required the life of the lamb, for if the blood alone was all that was necessary then the lamb could have simply been bled. God’s prescribed penalty for sin is death by the shedding of blood. Jesus Christ had to bleed and die! (Romans 5:6-9 and Colossians 1:20-22 speak of both aspects.) He could not simply sweat blood — cf. Luke 22:44. B. THE BLOOD IS DETAILED: Like a crimson cord, the doctrine of the blood runs through the Bible. It begins immediately after the entrance of sin and the fall of man — Genesis 3:21, and continues through to the last Book — Revelation 1:5; 19:13. The offerings and sacrifices detailed in the Old Testament were blood sacrifices. The Book of Hebrews explains these to be types (shadows), pointing to God’s perfect sacrifice in His Son Jesus Christ. See: Genesis 4:4; 22:8,13; Leviticus 4:5-7; Hebrews 9:6-24; etc. 1 Thieme says the phrase “the blood of Christ” is a synonym the Bible uses to describe the spiritual death of Christ, declaring that “The red liquid that ran through the veins and arteries of Jesus’ mortal body is not related to our salvation.” MacArthur says “it is not His bleeding but His dying” that is important. The Doctrine of Christ Page 261 LECTURE 9 LANDMARKS OF BAPTIST DOCTRINE © C. THE BLOOD IS DEPICTED: The Lord gave to His churches the ordinance of the Lord’s Supper for perpetual observance “till He come.” In this memorial, the cup containing the fruit of the vine symbolizes His shed blood — Matthew 26:28; Mark 14:24; I Corinthians 11:25. If the blood were incidental and non-essential to the atonement, it might well be asked: 1. Why Have The Cup At All? The bread surely represents the [all essential] death of Christ! 2. Why Not Drink Water? Christ shed water as well as blood (John 19:34), and serving water at the Lord’s Table would be much easier! — not to mention the fact that it might have kept a lot of [deceived] people from becoming drunkards! D. THE BLOOD IS DECLARED: That the shed blood of the Lord Jesus Christ is central to the atonement is stated throughout the New Testament. For example: 1. We Are Justified Through The Blood — Romans 5:9. 2. We Are Propitiated By The Blood — Romans 3:25. 3. We Are Redeemed Through The Blood. See: Ephesians 1:7; Colossians 1:14; Hebrews 9:12; I Peter 1:18,19; Revelation 5:9. 4. We Are Cleansed (Washed) In The Blood. See: Hebrews 9:14,22; 10:4; I John 1:7; Revelation 1:5; 7:14. 5. We Are Reconciled By The Blood. See: Colossians 1:20; Ephesians 2:13. 6. We Are Sanctified Through The Blood. See: Hebrews 10:29; 13:12; I Peter 1:2. 7. We Have Victory Through The Blood — Revelation 12:11a. 8. We Come Before The Father Because Of The Blood. See: Hebrews 10:19-22. E. THE BLOOD IS DEFINED: We are informed in Hebrews 10:4 that not just any blood can atone for the sin of the world. All the blood shed in all the Levitical animal sacrifices (which were a shadow of the reality, the blood of Christ) was unable to take away sin permanently. Page 262 The Doctrine of Christ LECTURE 9  LANDMARKS OF BAPTIST DOCTRINE © A man cannot personally atone for his own sin by shedding his own blood (as per Mormonism), for the simple reason that his blood is sinful blood. Only the blood of Jesus Christ is sufficient and efficient to do these things. The Bible specifies what kind of shed blood purchases eternal salvation: 1. It Must Be Pure Blood. Only the God-Man, the Lord Jesus Christ, was sinless. a. Human blood is Adam’s blood — Acts 17:26a. b. Adam’s blood is tainted blood — Romans 5:12. c. Christ’s flesh is human, but not his blood — Hebrews 2:14. Jesus only took part of the composition of mankind. d. Christ’s blood is God’s blood — Acts 20:28. e. Christ’s blood is pure blood — Matthew 27:4; I Peter 1:18,19. Note: The student is encouraged to obtain a copy of The Blood of His Cross by Dr. Al Lacy (if at all possible) for a discussion on the physiological aspects of human blood and the transmittal of the bloodline through the father. 2. It Must Be Presented Blood. On the annual Day of Atonement, the high priest would present the blood inside the holy of holies by sprinkling it on the mercy seat. See: Leviticus 16:2,3,14-16; Hebrews 9:6,7,25. Since this was a shadow of what Christ did, we notice: a. The Tabernacle was patterned after the Temple in Heaven. See: Exodus 25:9; Hebrews 8:5; 9:23. b. Only the High Priest could enter the Holy of Holies. See: Hebrews 9:7. c. Christ is our Great High Priest. See: Hebrews 4:15; 7:24-8:2. d. Christ Offered His Blood before the Mercy Seat in Heaven. See: Hebrews 8:3; 9:24-26; Ephesians 5:2. e. It is Apparent Christ Ascended to Heaven to present His Blood immediately after His Resurrection. See: John 20:17; Hebrews 9:11,12. 3. It Must Be Preserved Blood. The Bible teaches very clearly that the blood of Jesus Christ is in Heaven — Hebrews 12:24. It is obvious that God has preserved it. a. The Blood of Christ is still efficacious today — I John 1:7,9. The Doctrine of Christ Page 263 LECTURE 9 LANDMARKS OF BAPTIST DOCTRINE © Believers are able to receive cleansing today — it is the blood that cleanses. b. Prophecies of future events speak of fresh blood. * Wounds, not scars — Zechariah 13:6. * A Lamb as it had been slain, not a carcass — Revelation 5:6. * A blood that speaketh, not spoke — Hebrews 12:24. Indeed, there is “power in the blood.” “And the priest shall put some of the blood upon the horns of the altar of sweet incense before the Lord” — Leviticus 4:7. The altar of incense is the place where saints present their prayers and praises; and it is delightful to think of it as sprinkled with the blood of the great sacrifice. This it is which makes all our worship acceptable with Jehovah: He sees the blood of His own Son and therefore accepts our homage. It is well for us to fix our eyes upon the blood of the one offering for sin. Sin mingles even with our holy things, and our best repentance, faith, prayer, and thanksgiving could not be received of God were it not for the merit of the atoning sacrifice. Many sneer at “the blood;” but to us it is the foundation of comfort and hope. That which is on the horns of the altar is meant to be prominently before our eyes when we draw near to God. The blood gives strength to prayer, and hence it is on the altar’s horns. It is “before the Lord,” and therefore it ought to be before us. It is on the altar before we bring the incense; it is there to sanctify our offerings and gifts. Come, let us pray with confidence, since the Victim is offered, the merit has been pleaded, the blood is within the veil, and the prayers of believers must be sweet unto the Lord. — C. H. Spurgeon DOCTRINAL VERSE MEMORIZATION # 11: — I Peter 3:18. Page 264 The Doctrine of Christ LECTURE 9  THE ATONEMENT OF CHRIST — APPLIED For centuries there has been much heated controversy over the “value” of Christ’s atoning death. Calvinists teach a “limited atonement”— holding the death of Christ to be sufficient only for the elect. (So-called “Four-point Calvinists” reject the notion of a limited atonement, but this is somewhat academic since they believe that only the elect can be saved.) Arminians hold that Christ died for all men in such a way that they can all be saved through their coöperation with God’s grace. During the 18TH and 19TH centuries, English Baptists were divided over this issue: the Particular Baptists believing in a limited atonement for a particular group (the elect), and the General Baptists holding to a general atonement. As always, the issue for us is: “What does the Bible teach?” When the Word of God is studied, the conclusion will be that neither Calvinism nor Arminianism is scriptural. They are man-made philosophical interpretations of the Word of God. I. THE SCOPE OF CHRIST’S ATONING DEATH The Bible knows nothing of a “limited atonement.” The atonement of Jesus Christ is unlimited in its invitation, but limited in its application. The atonement is sufficient for all men and efficient for all who believe. “Even the righteousness of God which is by faith of Jesus Christ UNTO ALL and UPON ALL them that believe: for there is no difference” — Romans 3:22. “...we trust in the living God, who is the Saviour of all men, specially of those that believe” b — I Timothy 4:10. Salvation is freely offered to all, but is only for all who trust Christ. There are two profound reasons why the Bible teaches an unlimited atonement: A. CHRIST DIED FOR THE WHOLE WORLD: Scripture does not teach that Christ died only for a chosen few. See: Isaiah 53:6; Luke 19:10; John 1:29; 3:16; Romans 5:6-8; II Corinthians 5:19; I Timothy 1:15; 2:6; Hebrews 2:9; I John 2:2; 4:14. B. SALVATION IS FREELY OFFERED TO ALL MEN: The Gospel invitation is to “whosoever will!” See: John 1:12; 6:37; Romans 10:13; Revelation 22:17. The Doctrine of Christ Page 265 LECTURE 10 LANDMARKS OF BAPTIST DOCTRINE © Note: An unlimited atonement does not mean an unlimited salvation — it must be appropriated personally to be effectual. Note: The standard Calvinist reasoning here is that if the atonement is unlimited, then Christ died in vain, since all will not [cannot] be saved. The fact is, that on the Day of Judgment no hell-bound sinner will be able to say, “No one died for me!” or, “There wasn’t enough blood to cover my sins!” An unlimited atonement only serves to magnify God’s justice. II. THE NATURE OF CHRIST’S ATONING DEATH A. CHRIST SUFFERED A PHYSICAL DEATH: He died physically, which meant there was a separation of His soul and spirit from His body. See: Luke 23:46. B. CHRIST SUFFERED A SPIRITUAL DEATH: He died spiritually, which meant He was cut off from God. “And about the ninth hour Jesus cried with a loud voice, saying, Eli, Eli, lama sabachthani? that is to say, My God, my God, why hast thou forsaken me?” — Matthew 27:46. He, Who from all eternity past was in the bosom of the Father, was at that point in history God-forsaken. Why? Read: Habakkuk 1:13a with II Corinthians 5:21. C. CHRIST SUFFERED A JUDICIAL DEATH: He paid the penalty (wages) for sin in full — I Corinthians 15:3. Note: Ezekiel 18:4e; Romans 6:23. D. CHRIST SUFFERED AN INTENSE DEATH: He was able to (and did) suffer for all the sins of the world — past, present, and future. “The next day John seeth Jesus coming unto him, and saith, Behold the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the WORLD” — John 1:29. “But we see Jesus, who was made a little lower than the angels for the suffering of death, crowned with glory and honour; that he by the grace of God should taste death for EVERY MAN” — Hebrews 2:9. III. THE VALUE OF CHRIST’S ATONING DEATH A. IN GENERAL: 1. A Day Of Salvation Was Initiated. A period of grace has come to the world — God’s hand of judgment is delayed, and all men everywhere have an opportunity to be saved. Page 266 The Doctrine of Christ LECTURE 10  LANDMARKS OF BAPTIST DOCTRINE © See: II Peter 3:9; II Corinthians 6:2; Hebrews 3:13-15. 2. A Propitiation Was Provided. The way of salvation is now made available to all men — John 12:32 (“all men” = “all races”) B. IN NATURE: God’s creation is marred by sin. Christ’s death now assures a “new creation” to come — Romans 8:19-23; Colossians 1:19,20; Revelation 20:11; 21:1. C. TO THE BELIEVER: 1. The power of sin has been broken — Romans 6:14. 2. The curse of the Law has been lifted — Galatians 3:13. 3. Deliverance from bondage is provided — Colossians 2:14. 4. The racial barrier is broken down — Ephesians 2:14-16; Colossians 3:11. 5. A new relationship with God is secured — Galatians 4:3-5. 6. Fellowship with God is restored — Ephesians 2:13. 7. Peace is made — Romans 5:1. 8. There is forgiveness of sins — Ephesians 1:7. 9. There is cleansing from sin — I John 1:7,9. 10. There is justification before God — Acts 13:39; Romans 5:9. 11. There is no more condemnation — Romans 8:1. 12. There is no more fear of death — Hebrews 2:14,15. 13. There is sanctification unto God — Hebrews 13:12. 14. There are spiritual blessings to be received — John 14:13; Romans 8:32; Galatians 3:14; Ephesians 1:3; Hebrews 9:15. 15. An eternal inheritance is promised — I Peter 1:4. D. TO SATAN: 1. Satan Is Defeated. Satan is not yet bound as he will be during the Millennial Kingdom (Revelation 20:2,3), but he is judged and his doom is sealed because of Calvary — John 12:31. The Doctrine of Christ Page 267 LECTURE 10 LANDMARKS OF BAPTIST DOCTRINE © The death and resurrection of the Lord Jesus Christ delivered a “death-blow” to the devil. He is mortally wounded — we now live in the days of his “death-throes.” See: Romans 16:20a. 2. Satan’s Hosts Are Defeated Hosts. “And having spoiled principalities and powers, he made a show of them openly, triumphing over them in it” — Colossians 2:15 IV. THE ATONEMENT AND HEALING One of the cornerstones of Pentecostal and charismatic theology is that there is physical healing in the atonement. These groups generally believe that the death of Christ provides both spiritual and physical salvation — primarily based upon: “Who his own self bare our sins in his own body on the tree, that we, being dead to sins, should live unto righteousness: by whose stripes ye were HEALED” — I Peter 2:24. which cites “But he was wounded for our transgressions, he was bruised for our iniquities: the chastisement of our peace was upon him; and with his stripes we are healed” — Isaiah 53:5. However, the atonement of Christ does not provide physical healing, and this is seen from: A. THE CONTEXT OF I PETER 2:24: The indication here is that “healing” refers to salvation. 1. “Ye WERE healed” — indicating a past event, not a continuing healing. 2. Verse 25 — advances the thought of verse 24, and indicates a healing from the effects of sin. B. THE FACT THAT MANY BELIEVERS ARE NOT HEALED: Paul, Epaphroditus, Timothy, and Trophimus are among the many dear saints of God who have suffered physically through much of their lives. See: II Corinthians 12:7-10; Philippians 2:26,27; I Timothy 5:23; II Timothy 4:20b. C. THE FACT OF THE GENERAL BIBLE TEACHING CONCERNING DIVINE HEALING: [This matter will be covered under Unit 4, “The Doctrine of the Holy Spirit.”] Page 268 The Doctrine of Christ LECTURE 10  THE RESURRECTION OF CHRIST The resurrection of the Lord Jesus Christ was the greatest demonstration of the power of God ever — Romans 1:4. Moreover, it is by this same power that a lost sinner is born again (Romans 1:16) and a believer enabled to live the Christian life (Philippians 3:10.) Without the resurrection of our Lord, His crucifixion would have been meaningless and a tragic defeat. If Christ did not rise from the dead we would NEVER KNOW if His sacrifice was sufficient to save — I Corinthians 15:14. But Christ DID rise! In fact, the resurrection is one of the best-authenticated facts of history. Over 100 times, the Word of God directly speaks of the resurrection of Christ. I. THE TESTIMONY FOR THE RESURRECTION OF JESUS CHRIST The account of the resurrection of Jesus Christ is given in each of the Gospels. This in itself is significant, because: A. THE GOSPELS GIVE EYEWITNESS ACCOUNTS: They are not second- or third- hand. They represent the most accurate form of narration. B. THE GOSPELS GIVE STRAIGHT-FORWARD ACCOUNTS: There is a remarkable absence of embellishment, coloring, or mysticism associated with this supernatural event. C. THE GOSPELS GIVE FOUR SEPARATE AND INDEPENDENT ACCOUNTS: If there were collusion between the writers, we would have four stories which, on the surface, would appear in precise harmony — they would need to be carefully studied to find discrepancies. In actual fact there are four accounts that, on the surface, appear to have discrepancies — they need to be carefully studied to find harmony! It is absolutely incredible that four men sitting down in four locations at four different times to write four accounts of an event which never happened could produce four stories which agree as they do. The only explanation is that the resurrection did happen. The Doctrine of Christ Page 269 LECTURE 11 LANDMARKS OF BAPTIST DOCTRINE © II. THE EVIDENCE FOR THE RESURRECTION OF JESUS CHRIST A. THE EMPTY TOMB: Read: Matthew 28:1-8; Mark 16:1-8; Luke 24:3; John 20:1-10. B. THE NUMEROUS POST-RESURRECTION APPEARANCES OF CHRIST: 1. To Mary — John 20:16. 2. To the women — Matthew 28:5-9. 3. To Peter — Luke 24:34. 4. To the two disciples on the Road to Emmaus — Luke 24:13-35. 5. To the disciples in the Upper Room — John 20:19. 6. To the disciples, with Thomas present — John 20:26-29. 7. To John and Peter — John 21:5-7. 8. To the Eleven — Matthew 28:16; Acts 1:4. 9. To a whole company of believers — I Corinthians 15:4-7. 10. To Paul — I Corinthians 15:8. C. THE CHANGED LIVES OF THE APOSTLES: For example, Peter the “denier of Christ” became the great “preacher of Christ.” “And with great power gave the apostles witness of the resurrection of the Lord Jesus: and great grace was upon them all” — Acts 4:33. D. THE RESURRECTION PREACHING OF THE APOSTLES: The resurrection of Jesus Christ was central to all the Gospel preaching recorded in the Book of Acts. “This Jesus hath God raised up, whereof we all are witnesses” — Acts 2:32. “And killed the Prince of life, whom God hath raised from the dead; whereof we are witnesses” — Acts 3:15. “Being grieved that they taught the people, and preached through Jesus the resurrection from the dead... Be it known unto you all, and to all the people of Israel, that by the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, whom ye crucified, whom God raised from the dead, even by him doth this man stand here before you whole” — Acts 4:2,10. “Him hath God exalted with his right hand to be a Prince and a Saviour, for to give repentance to Israel, and forgiveness of sins” — Acts 5:31. “Him God raised up the third day, and showed him openly” — Acts 10:40. “But God raised him from the dead... But he, whom God raised again, saw no corruption” — Acts 13:30,37. Page 270 The Doctrine of Christ LECTURE 11  LANDMARKS OF BAPTIST DOCTRINE © “Because he hath appointed a day, in the which he will judge the world in righteousness by that man whom he hath ordained; whereof he hath given assurance unto all men, in that he hath raised him from the dead. And when they heard of the resurrection of the dead, some mocked: and others said, We will hear thee again of this matter" — Acts 17:31-32. E. THE INSTITUTION OF THE FIRST DAY OF THE WEEK: The first day of the week, Sunday, or the “Lord’s Day” is the resurrection day. The “Sabbath” (the day of cessation, rest) is the seventh day — and still is!! i.e. Saturday! Nobody changed the Sabbath. Christians do not hold to Sunday as the “Christian Sabbath,” but it is evident that the early churches began meeting on this day. “And upon the first day of the week, when the disciples came together to break bread, Paul preached unto them, ready to depart on the morrow; and continued his speech until midnight” — Acts 20:7. “Upon the first day of the week let every one of you lay by him in store, as God hath prospered him, that there be no gatherings when I come” — I Corinthians 16:2. F. THE WITNESS OF JESUS CHRIST HIMSELF: “I am he that liveth, and was dead; and, behold, I am alive for evermore, Amen; and have the keys of hell and of death” — Revelation 1:18. III. THE NATURE OF THE RESURRECTION OF JESUS CHRIST A. NEGATIVELY CONSIDERED: 1. It Was Not A Resuscitation. Some believe Christ merely “swooned” (fainted) on the cross and was subsequently revived by the coolness of the tomb. The Bible gives abundant evidence that He was dead. l The death cry — Mark 15:37,39. l The centurion (who certainly would have known a dead man when he saw one) — Mark 15:43-45. l The water and the blood — John 19:31-35; I John 5:8. l The preparation of the body for burial — John 19:38-40. Furthermore, how could a man who had been beaten and physically abused to the point of being unrecognizable (Isaiah 52:14) and then nailed to the cross ever have the strength to free Himself from the grave clothes, then roll away a large stone — from the inside of a dark tomb? The Doctrine of Christ Page 271 LECTURE 11 LANDMARKS OF BAPTIST DOCTRINE © 2. It Was Not An Hallucination. The disciples had not been eating mushrooms. Mary Magdalene went to the tomb expecting to anoint a dead body — she did not expect to meet her risen Savior. See: Mark 16:9; John 20:1-18. 3. It Was Not A Spiritual Materialization. No “séance” was involved. Christ rose bodily from the dead — Luke 24:39; John 20:24-29. 4. It Was Not A Myth. The Jews at first did everything to prevent a “religious myth” from eventuating — Matthew 27:62-66; then later attempted to perpetrate a myth — Matthew 28:12-14. 5. It Was Not A Removal Of Christ’s Body. Some hold that the dead body of the Lord Jesus Christ was removed, and the “resurrection” was subsequently concocted. If this were the case, the question must then be asked, “Who took the body?” There are only five possibilities: a. The Disciples Took It. This theory claims that the disciples over-powered or sneaked past the guards, removed the body of Christ from the tomb, and disposed of it elsewhere. Three things make this a fanciful assumption — Matthew 27:64-66: l The “sentinels” — guards on the lookout for such an act l The “seal” — that would show evidence of tampering l The “stone” — called a great stone, very heavy. Besides, the Bible says the disciples were dispersed immediately after the crucifixion — Matthew 26:56,58. When the resurrected Savior did appear to them, they were amazed, some in unbelief — Luke 24:9-12; John 20:8,9. b. The Two Marys Took It. Some claim these two women executed an early Sunday morning “sting!” According to Matthew 27:60, the stone was “great” in size. Historians say such a stone would require several men to move it. Two women were physically unable to perform such a feat — Mark 16:1-4. c. Joseph of Arimathea Took It. Others theorize that Joseph decided not to keep Jesus in his tomb, and so removed the body. It is interesting to note that Joseph, along with Nicodemus, was both a secret disciple of Christ’s and a member of the Jewish Page 272 The Doctrine of Christ LECTURE 11  LANDMARKS OF BAPTIST DOCTRINE © Sanhedrin — Matthew 27:57; Mark 15:43. According to Luke 23:50, he was also a “good man, and a just...” If he had removed the body, he would have said so to — either the Jews or the disciples. Joseph had gone to a lot of trouble — John 19:38-40 — it would seem strange for him to change his mind. d. The Jews Took It. Of all people who would want the body of Jesus, it would have been the Jewish religious leaders. However, we note that: i. They did make every attempt to secure the body — Matthew 27:64,66. ii. Upon learning of the empty tomb they then concocted a story — Matthew 28:12,13. Why not call for the arrest and interrogation of the disciples, and why pay out a lot of money in bribes if they knew where the body was? iii. Why didn’t they produce the body when, seven weeks later, the apostles were winning thousands of converts to this Christ by preaching the resurrection??? e. The Roman Soldiers Took It. Some would have us believe that the disciples bribed the soldiers who were guarding the tomb. To this theory, there are three answers: i. The disciples were probably too poor to pay a bribe. ii. For the soldiers to remove the body, it meant direct disobedience to their orders — Roman army discipline for sleeping at their posts, accepting bribes, or breaking the seal would mean summary execution. iii. The Romans were out to keep the peace — why be the cause of a civil uproar?? The only conclusion is that Jesus Christ IS RISEN from the dead, AS HE SAID!!! B. POSITIVELY CONSIDERED: The resurrection of Jesus Christ was personal, bodily, and visible. 1. Jesus Rose Personally From The Dead. “HE is not here: for HE is risen, as he said. Come, see the place where the Lord lay” — Matthew 28:6. “Therefore that disciple whom Jesus loved saith unto Peter, It IS the Lord...” — John 21:7. 2. Jesus Rose Bodily From The Dead. “And as they went to tell his disciples, behold, Jesus met them, saying, All hail. And they came and held him by the feet, and worshiped him” — Matthew 28:9. The Doctrine of Christ Page 273 LECTURE 11 LANDMARKS OF BAPTIST DOCTRINE © “And when he had so said, he showed unto them his hands and his side. Then were the disciples glad, when they saw the Lord... Then saith he to Thomas, Reach hither thy finger, and behold my hands; and reach hither thy hand, and thrust it into my side: and be not faithless, but believing” — John 20:20,27. 3. Jesus Rose Visibly From The Dead. “Now when Jesus was risen early the first day of the week, he appeared first to Mary Magdalene, out of whom he had cast seven devils... After that he appeared in another form unto two of them, as they walked, and went into the country... Afterward he appeared unto the eleven as they sat at meat, and upbraided them with their unbelief and hardness of heart, because they believed not them which had seen him after he was risen” — Mark 16:9,12,14. “Saying, The Lord is risen indeed, and hath appeared to Simon” — Luke 24:34. “Mary Magdalene came and told the disciples that she had seen the Lord, and that he had spoken these things unto her” — John 20:18. IV. THE MEANS OF THE RESURRECTION OF JESUS CHRIST The resurrection of the Lord Jesus Christ was accomplished by the power of the triune God: A. HE WAS RAISED BY THE FATHER: “Therefore we are buried with him by baptism into death: that like as Christ was raised up from the dead BY THE GLORY OF THE FATHER, even so we also should walk in newness of life” — Romans 6:4. “That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that GOD HATH RAISED HIM from the dead, thou shalt be saved” — Romans 10:9. “That the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the FATHER of glory, may give unto you the spirit of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of him: The eyes of your understanding being enlightened; that ye may know what is the hope of his calling, and what the riches of the glory of his inheritance in the saints, And what is the exceeding greatness of his power to us-ward who believe, according to the working of his mighty power, Which he wrought in Christ, when HE RAISED HIM from the dead, and set him at his own right hand in the heavenly places” — Ephesians 1:17-20. B. HE AROSE BY HIS OWN POWER: “No man taketh it from me, but I lay it down of myself. I have power to lay it down, and I have power to take it again. This commandment have I received of my Father” — John 10:18. C. HE WAS QUICKENED BY THE HOLY GHOST: “But if the SPIRIT OF HIM THAT RAISED UP JESUS from the dead dwell in you, he that raised up Christ from the dead shall also quicken your mortal bodies by his Spirit that dwelleth in you” — Romans 8:11. “For Christ also hath once suffered for sins, the just for the unjust, that he might bring us to God, being put to death in the flesh, but QUICKENED BY THE SPIRIT” — I Peter 3:18. Page 274 The Doctrine of Christ LECTURE 11  LANDMARKS OF BAPTIST DOCTRINE © V. THE RESURRECTION BODY OF JESUS CHRIST A. IN SOME WAYS IT WAS DIFFERENT FROM HIS FORMER BODY: 1. Mary Did Not Recognize Him Immediately. “Jesus saith unto her, Woman, why weepest thou? whom seekest thou? She, supposing him to be the gardener, saith unto him, Sir, if thou have borne him hence, tell me where thou hast laid him, and I will take him away” — John 20:15. 2. His Disciples Did Not Recognize Him At The Sea Shore. “But when the morning was now come, Jesus stood on the shore: but the disciples knew not that it was Jesus. Then Jesus saith unto them, Children, have ye any meat? They answered him, No. And he said unto them, Cast the net on the right side of the ship, and ye shall find. They cast therefore, and now they were not able to draw it for the multitude of fishes. Therefore that disciple whom Jesus loved saith unto Peter, It is the Lord...” — John 21:4-7. 3. It Evidently Had Some Variableness In Form. “After that he appeared in ANOTHER FORM unto two of them, as they walked, and went into the country” — Mark 16:12. B. IN SOME WAYS IT WAS SIMILAR TO HIS FORMER BODY: 1. It Was Flesh And Bone — not flesh and blood. “Behold my hands and my feet, that it is I myself: handle me, and see; for a spirit hath not flesh and bones, as ye see me have” — Luke 24:39. 2. He Could Partake Of Food. “And they gave him a piece of a broiled fish, and of an honeycomb. And he took it, and did eat before them” — Luke 24:42,43. 3. He Could Be Recognized At Times. “And Thomas answered and said unto him, My Lord and my God” — John 20:28. C. IT WAS NOT HINDERED BY THE NATURAL LAWS: 1. He Could Pass Through Solid Matter. “Then the same day at evening, being the first day of the week, when the doors were shut where the disciples were assembled for fear of the Jews, came Jesus and stood in the midst, and saith unto them, Peace be unto you” — John 20:19. 2. He Could Disappear. “And their eyes were opened, and they knew him; and he vanished out of their sight” — Luke 24:31. 3. He Was Not Limited By Natural Laws. “And when he had spoken these things, while they beheld, he was taken up; and a cloud received him out of their sight” — Acts 1:9. The Doctrine of Christ Page 275 LECTURE 11 LANDMARKS OF BAPTIST DOCTRINE © VI. THE CONSEQUENCES OF THE RESURRECTION OF JESUS CHRIST A. WITH REFERENCE TO JESUS CHRIST: 1. It Affirmed His Deity — Romans 1:4. 2. It Vindicated His Sinless Life — Romans 5:12,19. 3. It Made His Intercessory Work Possible — Romans 8:34. B. WITH REFERENCE TO THE WORD OF GOD: Christ’s resurrection fulfilled Old Testament prophecies that Christ would rise again. “For I know that my redeemer liveth, and that he shall stand at the latter day upon the earth” — Job 19:25. “For thou wilt not leave my soul in hell; neither wilt thou suffer thine Holy One to see corruption” — Psalms 16:10. “Yet it pleased the LORD to bruise him; he hath put him to grief: when thou shalt make his soul an offering for sin, he shall see his seed, he shall prolong his days, and the pleasure of the LORD shall prosper in his hand. He shall see of the travail of his soul, and shall be satisfied: by his knowledge shall my righteous servant justify many; for he shall bear their iniquities. Therefore will I divide him a portion with the great, and he shall divide the spoil with the strong; because he hath poured out his soul unto death: and he was numbered with the transgressors; and he bare the sin of many, and made intercession for the transgressors” — Isaiah 53:10-12. See also: Matthew 16:21; 26:32; Mark 8:31-34; 9:9; John 2:19-22. C. WITH REFERENCE TO THE LOST: 1. It Is God’s Token Of Judgment — Acts 17:31. 2. It Offers Salvation — Romans 4:25; 10:9. D. WITH REFERENCE TO ISRAEL: It fulfills the promise of God to the nation of Israel. “And we declare unto you glad tidings, how that the promise which was made unto the fathers, God hath fulfilled the same unto us their children, in that he hath raised up Jesus again; as it is also written in the second psalm, Thou art my Son, this day have I begotten thee” — Acts 13:32,33. E. WITH REFERENCE TO THE BELIEVER: 1. It Is Proof Of Our Justification. “...if we believe on him that raised up Jesus our Lord from the dead; Who was delivered for our offences, and was RAISED AGAIN FOR OUR JUSTIFICATION” — Romans 4:24,25. 2. It Is The Hope Of Our Own Resurrection. “But now is Christ risen from the dead, and become the firstfruits of them that slept. For since by man came death, by man came also the resurrection of the Page 276 The Doctrine of Christ LECTURE 11  LANDMARKS OF BAPTIST DOCTRINE © dead. For as in Adam all die, even so in Christ SHALL all be made alive” — I Corinthians 15:20-22. “KNOWING that he which raised up the Lord Jesus shall raise up us also by Jesus, and SHALL present us with you” — II Corinthians 4:14. “Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, which according to his abundant mercy hath begotten us again unto a lively hope by the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, To an inheritance incorruptible, and undefiled, and that fadeth not away, reserved in heaven for you” — I Peter 1:3,4. 3. It Is The Basis Of Our New Life In Christ. “Therefore we are buried with him by baptism into death: that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life. For if we have been planted together in the likeness of his death, we shall be also in the likeness of his resurrection: Knowing this, that our old man is crucified with him, that the body of sin might be destroyed, that henceforth we should not serve sin. For he that is dead is freed from sin. Now if we be dead with Christ, we believe that we shall also live with him: Knowing that Christ being raised from the dead dieth no more; death hath no more dominion over him. For in that he died, he died unto sin once: but in that he liveth, he liveth unto God” — Romans 6:4-10. See also: Romans 8:1-4. 4. It Gives Us Power For Fruitful, Victorious Christian Living. “That I may know him, and the power of his resurrection...” — Philippians 3:10. 5. It Reveals The Nature Of OUR Resurrection Body. “Who shall change our vile body, that it may be fashioned like unto his glorious body...” — Philippians 3:21. “Beloved, now are we the sons of God, and it doth not yet appear what we shall be: but we know that, when he shall appear, we shall be like him; for we shall see him as he is” — I John 3:2. 6. It Authenticates Our Witness. “Now if Christ be preached that he rose from the dead, how say some among you that there is no resurrection of the dead? But if there be no resurrection of the dead, then is Christ not risen: And if Christ be not risen, then is our preaching vain, and your faith is also vain. Yea, and we are found false witnesses of God; because we have testified of God that he raised up Christ: whom he raised not up, if so be that the dead rise not” — I Corinthians 15:12-15. The Doctrine of Christ Page 277 LECTURE 11 LANDMARKS OF BAPTIST DOCTRINE © NOTES Page 278 The Doctrine of Christ LECTURE 11  THE PRESENT WORK OF CHRIST While the Bible gives much attention to the past work of the Lord Jesus Christ, His present ministry in Heaven is of great importance and comfort to the believer. This ministry began with the ascension of Christ, and will conclude with His second coming. I. THE ASCENSION OF THE LORD JESUS CHRIST A. THE TIME OF HIS ASCENSION: The Lord remained on earth for 40 days after His resurrection — Acts 1:3. During this period He conducted what is usually termed His “post- resurrection ministry.” Most of this time was spent with His church, teaching it about its: l Purpose — the kingdom of God — Acts 1:3. l Power — the Spirit of God — Acts 1:4. l Plan — the Great Commission — Acts 1:8. B. THE MANNER OF HIS ASCENSION: “And when he had spoken these things, while they beheld, he was taken up; and a cloud received him out of their sight. And while they looked stedfastly toward heaven as he went up, behold, two men stood by them in white apparel; Which also said, Ye men of Galilee, why stand ye gazing up into heaven? this same Jesus, which is taken up from you into heaven, shall so come in like manner as ye have seen him go into heaven” — Acts 1:9-11. From this we note it was: 1. Bodily, Personal, And Visible. 2. A Preview Of His Second Coming In Glory — Zechariah 14:4. C. THE SIGNIFICANCE OF HIS ASCENSION: 1. It Demonstrated The Completeness Of Christ’s Atonement. The fact that He was received of the Father is evidence that His earthly ministry was accepted. Note: There were actually two ascensions of Christ. John 20:17 indicates that Christ ascended to His Father right after His resurrection. He said to