1. Who is the author of Scripture?
âThe prophets have inquired and searched carefully ... searching what, or what manner of time, the Spirit of Christ who was in them was indicating when He testified beforehand the sufferings of Christ and the glories that would followâ (1 Peter 1:10, 11).
Answer: Virtually every book of the Bible refers to Jesus Christâeven the Old Testament books. Jesus created the world (John 1:1â3, 14; Colossians 1:13â17), wrote the Ten Commandments (Nehemiah 9:6, 13), was the God of the Israelites (1 Corinthians 10:1â4), and guided the writings of the prophets (1 Peter 1:10, 11). So, Jesus Christ is the author of Scripture.
2. What is Jesusâ attitude toward the people of earth?
âGod so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting lifeâ (John 3:16).
Answer: Jesus loves us all with an unfailing love that passes understanding.Scripture taken from the New King James VersionŸ. Copyright © 1982 by Thomas Nelson, Inc. Used by permission. All rights reserved.
3. Why do we love Jesus?
âWhile we were still sinners, Christ died for usâ (Romans 5:8). âWe love Him because He first loved usâ (1 John 4:19).
Answer: We love Him because He loved us enough to die for usâwhile we were yet His enemies.
4. In what respects are a successful marriage and the Christian life similar?
âWhatever we ask we receive from Him, because we keep His commandments and do those things that are pleasing in His sightâ (1 John 3:22).
Answer: In a good marriage certain things are imperative, such as faithfulness to oneâs spouse. Other things may not seem major, but if they please a spouse they are necessary. If they displease, they should be discontinued. So it is with the Christian life. The commands of Jesus are imperative. But in Scripture Jesus has also outlined for us principles of conduct that please Him. As in a good marriage, Christians will find it a joy to do the things that make Jesus, the One we love, happy. We will also avoid things that displease Him.
5. What does Jesus say are the results of doing the things that please Him?
âIf you keep My commandments, you will abide in My love. ... These things I have spoken to you, that My joy may remain in you, and that your joy may be fullâ (John 15:10, 11).
Answer: The devil claims that to follow Christian principles is drab, dull, demeaning, and legalistic. But Jesus says it brings fullness of joyâand a more abundant life (John 10:10). Believing the devilâs lies brings heartache and deprives people of life that is âreally living.â
6. Why does Jesus give us specific principles for Christian living?
Answer: Because they:A. Are âfor our good alwaysâ (Deuteronomy 6:24). As good parents teach good principles to their children, so Jesus teaches good principles to His children.B. Set for us a safeguard from sin (Psalm 119:11). Jesusâ principles protect us from entering the danger zones of Satan and sin.C. Show us how to follow in Christâs footsteps (1 Peter 2:21).D. Bring us true joy (John 13:17).E. Give us an opportunity to express our love for Him (John 15:10).F. Help us be a good example to others (1 Corinthians 10:31â33; Matthew 5:16).
7. According to Jesus, how should Christians relate to the evil of the world and to worldliness?
Answer: His commands and counsels are clear and specific:A. Donât love the world or the things of the world. This includes (1) the lust of the flesh, (2) the lust of the eyes, and (3) the pride of life (1 John 2:16). All sin falls into one or more of these three categories. Satan uses these avenues to lure us into the love of the world. When we begin to love the world, we become an enemy of God (1 John 2:15, 16; James 4:4).B. We must keep ourselves unspotted from the world (James 1:27).
8. What urgent warning does God give us regarding the world?
Answer: Jesus warns, âDo not be conformed to this worldâ (Romans 12:2). The devil is not neutral. He presses every Christian constantly. Through Jesus (Philippians 4:13), we must firmly resist the devilâs suggestions, and he will flee from us (James 4:7). The minute we permit the âsqueezingâ of any other factor to influence our conduct, we, perhaps imperceptibly, begin slipping into apostasy. Christian behavior is not to be decided by feelings and the conduct of the majority, but by Jesusâ words.
9. Why do we need to guard our thoughts?
"As he thinks in his heart, so is heâ (Proverbs 23:7).
Answer: We must guard our thoughts because thoughts dictate our behavior. God wants to help us bring âevery thought into captivity to the obedience of Christâ (2 Corinthians 10:5). But Satan desperately wants to bring âthe worldâ into our thoughts. He can do this only through our five sensesâespecially sight and hearing. He presses his sights and sounds upon us and, unless we consistently refuse what he offers, he will direct us into the broad way that leads to destruction. The Bible is clear: We become like the things we repeatedly see and hear (2 Corinthians 3:18).
10. What are some principles for Christian living?
âWhatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthyâmeditate on these thingsâ (Philippians 4:8).
11. What list does Jesus give us that we could use as a guide for watching television?
âThe works of the flesh are evident, which are: adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lewdness, idolatry, sorcery, hatred, contentions, jealousies, outbursts of wrath, selfish ambitions, dissensions, heresies, envy, murders, drunkenness, revelries, and the like; of which I tell you beforehand ... those who practice such things will not inherit the kingdom of Godâ (Galatians 5:19â21).
Answer: Scripture is too clear to misunderstand. If a family should ban all TV programs that exhibit or condone any of the above sins, there would be very little to watch. If Jesus came to visit you, what TV shows would you feel comfortable asking Him to view with you? All other shows are probably unfit for Christian viewing.
12. Many today feel capable of making spiritual decisions without input from anyone, including Jesus. What does Jesus say about such people?
Answer: Listen to Jesusâ unequivocal statements: âYou shall not at all do as we are doing here todayâevery man doing whatever is right in his own eyesâ (Deuteronomy 12:8). âThere is a way that seems right to a man, but its end is the way of deathâ (Proverbs 16:25). âThe way of a fool is right in his own eyes, but he who heeds counsel is wiseâ (Proverbs 12:15). âHe who trusts in his own heart [mind] is a foolâ (Proverbs 28:26).
13. What solemn warnings does Jesus give about the example and influence of our lives?
âWhoever causes one of these little ones who believe in Me to sin, it would be better for him if a millstone were hung around his neck, and he were drowned in the depth of the seaâ (Matthew 18:6). Let no man âput a stumbling block or a cause to fall in our brotherâs wayâ (Romans 14:13). âNone of us lives to himselfâ (Romans 14:7).
Answer: We all expect leaders, people of influence, and celebrities to set a good example and use their influence wisely. But in todayâs world, we are often disillusioned by the repugnant, irresponsible actions of these prominent individuals. Likewise, Jesus solemnly warns that Christians who disregard their own influence and example are in danger of leading people away from His kingdom!
14. What are Jesusâ principles of conduct regarding clothing and jewelry?
15. How do conduct and obedience relate to salvation?
Answer: Christian obedience and conduct are the evidences that we have been saved by Jesus Christ (James 2:20â26). The fact is that unless oneâs lifestyle changes, the conversion most likely was not genuine. Converted people will find their greatest joy in discovering Jesusâ will in everything and in joyously following where He leads.Beware of IdolatryThe first epistle of John talks about Christian conduct. At its close (1 John 5:21), Jesus warns us through His servant John to keep ourselves from idols. The Master here is referring to anything that interferes with or lessens our love for Himâsuch as fashion, possessions, adornment, evil forms of entertainment, etc. The natural fruit, or result, of a true conversion is to follow Jesus happily and adopt His lifestyle.
16. Should we expect everyone to look with approval upon the Christian lifestyle?
Answer: No. Jesus said that the things of God are foolishness to the world because people lack spiritual discernment (1 Corinthians 2:14). When Jesus refers to conduct, He is laying down principles for those who are seeking to be led by His Spirit. His people will be grateful and will joyously follow His counsel. Others may not understand or approve.
17. How would a person who rejects Jesusâ standards for conduct view heaven?
Answer: Such people would be miserable in heaven. They would complain that there were no nightclubs, liquor, pornographic material, prostitutes, sensual music, profanity, nor gambling. Heaven would be âhellâ for those who have not formed a true love relationship with Jesus. Christian standards simply make no sense to them (2 Corinthians 6:14â17).
18. How can I follow these Bible guidelines without appearing judgmental or legalistic?
Answer: All that we do should be with one motivation: to express love for Jesus (1 John 3:22). When Jesus is exalted and revealed to people through our lives (John 12:32), many will be drawn to Him. Our one question should always be, âWill this [music, drink, TV show, movie, book, etc.] honor Jesus?â We must sense Jesusâ presence in every facet and activity of our lives. When we spend time with Him, we become like Him (2 Corinthians 3:18)âand the people weâre around will respond to us as they did to the disciples of old: âThey marveled. And they realized that they had been with Jesusâ (Acts 4:13). Christians who live like that will never become pharisaical, judgmental, or legalistic. In Old Testament days, Godâs people were in almost constant apostasy because they chose to live as their heathen neighbors rather than follow the distinctive lifestyle God outlined for them (Deuteronomy 31:16; Judges 2:17; 1 Chronicles 5:25; Ezekiel 23:30). It is true today as well. No one can serve two masters (Matthew 6:24). Those who cling to the world and its lifestyle will be slowly molded by Satan to adopt his desires and thus be programmed to reject heaven and be lost. In contrast, those who follow Jesusâ principles for conduct will be changed into His image and prepared for heaven. There is no middle ground.
19. Do you want to love Christ so much that to follow His principles for Christian living will be a joy and delight?
Answer:
Thought Questions
1. I know what God would have me do concerning my lifestyle, but I donât feel Iâm ready to begin doing it. What do you suggest?Begin doing it today! Never depend on feelings. God guides through the words of Scripture (Isaiah 8:20). Feelings often lead us astray. The Jewish leaders felt they should crucify Jesus, but they were wrong. Many will feel saved before Jesusâ second coming, but they will instead be lost (Matthew 7:21â23). The devil influences feelings. If we depend on our feelings, he will lead us to destruction.
2. I want very much to do a certain thing. I realize, however, that because of its appearance, some might feel I am doing evil. What should I do?The Bible says, âAbstain from every form of evilâ (1 Thessalonians 5:22). And the apostle Paul said that if his eating of foods offered to idols offended somebody, heâd never touch those foods again (1 Corinthians 8:13). He also said that if he ignored the offended personâs feelings and continued eating flesh foods, he would be sinning.
3. It seems to me that churches list too many things I must do and too many things I must not do. It drives me up the wall. Isnât following Jesus what really matters?Yesâfollowing Jesus is what matters. However, following Jesus means one thing to one person and something quite different to another. The only safe way to know what following Jesus means is to discover what Jesus says in the Bible on any question. Those who lovingly follow Jesusâ commands will one day soon enter His kingdom (Revelation 22:14). Those who follow man-made rules could be led away from His kingdom (Matthew 15:3â9).
4. A few of Godâs requirements seem unreasonable and unnecessary. Why are they so important? Children often feel that some of their parentsâ requirements (e.g. ,âDonât play in the streetâ) are unreasonable. But in later years, the child will thank the parents for the requirement! We are âchildrenâ in dealing with God, because His thoughts are as high above ours as the heavens are above the earth (Isaiah 55:8, 9). We need to trust our loving heavenly Father in the few areas we might not understand and stop âplaying in the streetâ if He so requires. He will never withhold anything good from us (Psalm 84:11). When we truly love Jesus, we will give Him the benefit of the doubt and do His will even if we do not always understand why. The new birth is the key. The Bible says when we are born again, overcoming the world will not be a problem because a converted person will have the trust to happily follow Jesus in everything (1 John 5:4). Refusing to follow Him because we are not clear on His reasons displays a lack of trust in our Savior.
5. Will I benefit from Jesusâ loving principles, laws, and commands?Absolutely! Every principle, rule, law, or command of Jesus provides unbelievable blessings. The biggest lottery win in history pales into insignificance when compared to Godâs rich blessings to His obedient children. Here are just a few benefits that come from following Jesusâ rules: 1. Jesus as a personal friend 2. Jesus as a partner in business 3. Freedom from guilt 4. Peace of mind 5. Freedom from fear 6. Indescribable joy 7. Longer life 8. Assurance of a home in heaven 9. Better health10. No hangoversTalk about riches! The true Christian receives benefits from his heavenly Father that even the richest people on earth can never purchase.
6. In regard to standards and lifestyle, do I have a responsibility to convict other people about them?The best rule for us to follow is to be concerned about our own lifestyle. âExamine yourselves,â the Bible says in 2 Corinthians 13:5. When our lifestyle is as it should be, our example serves as a silent witness and we donât need to lecture anyone. Of course, parents do have a special responsibility to help their children understand how to follow Jesus.
7. What are some of the greatest dangers for Christians today?Among the greatest dangers are divided loyalties. Many Christians have two loves that divide the heart: a love for Jesus and a love for the world and its sinful practices. Many wish to see how closely they can follow the world and still be considered Christians. It wonât work. Jesus warned that no one âcan serve two mastersâ (Matthew 6:24).
8. But isnât it legalism to follow these rules of conduct?Not unless a person is doing it in order to be saved. Salvation comes only as a miraculous, free gift from Jesus. Salvation by works (or conduct) is no salvation at all. However, following Jesusâ standards of conduct because we have been saved and love Him is never legalism.
9. Are Christian standards involved with Jesusâ command to let our lights shine?Definitely! Jesus said that a true Christian is a light (Matthew 5:14). He said, âLet your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heavenâ (Matthew 5:16). You donât hear a light; you see it! People will see a Christian shine by his or her conductâdress, diet, conversation, attitude, sympathy, purity, kindness, and honestyâand will often inquire about such a lifestyle and may even be led to Christ.
10. Arenât Christian standards cultural? Shouldnât they change with the times? Customs may change, but Bible standards endure. âThe word of our God stands foreverâ (Isaiah 40:8). Christâs church must lead, not follow. It must not be programmed by culture, humanism, or the trends of the day. We are not to bring the church down to erring human standards, but rather, up to Jesusâ pure standards. When a church lives, speaks, looks, and behaves like the world, who would ever go to it for help? Jesus sends a clarion call to His people and church, saying, âCome out from among them and be separate. ... Do not touch what is unclean, and I will receive youâ (2 Corinthians 6:17). Jesusâ church is not to imitate the world, but rather to overcome it. The âworldâ has ravaged billions of people. The church must not join in its mayhem. The church must stand tall and, with a gracious voice, call people to listen to Jesus and come up to His standards. When a hearer falls in love with Jesus and asks Him to control his life, the Savior will work the miracles needed to change him and safely escort him to Godâs eternal kingdom. There is no other way to heaven.
11. Surely not all dancing is evil. Didnât David dance before the Lord?Trueânot all dancing is evil. David leaped and danced before the Lord as an expression of praise for His blessings (2 Samuel 6:14, 15). He was also dancing by himself. Davidâs dance was similar to that of the crippled man who leaped for joy after being healed by Peter in Jesusâ name (Acts 3:8â10). Such dancing, or leaping, is encouraged by Jesus to those who are being persecuted (Luke 6:22, 23). Dancing with those of the opposite sex (which can lead to immorality and broken homes) and lewd dancing (such as strippers) are the kinds of dancing condemned by the Bible.
12. What does the Bible say about people condemning and judging each other?Judge not, that you be not judged. For with what judgment you judge, you will be judgedâ (Matthew 7:1, 2). âTherefore you are inexcusable, O man, whoever you are who judge, for in whatever you judge another you condemn yourself; for you who judge practice the same thingsâ (Romans 2:1). How could this be clearer? There is no excuse or justification for Christians to judge anyone. Jesus is the Judge (John 5:22). When we pass judgment on others, we usurp Christâs role as judge and become a miniature antichrist (1 John 2:18)âa solemn thought, indeed!
Quiz Questions
1. Jesus' loving principles for conduct become a pleasure to follow when I fall in love with Him. (1)_____ Yes. _____ No.
2. Following Jesus' standards of conduct because I have been saved and love Him is legalism. (1)_____ Yes. _____ No.
3. The real author of the Bible is Jesus. (1)_____ Yes. _____ No.
4. âDo not love the worldâ means that we shouldnât love (1)_____ Our country. _____ The world as our planet. _____ The sinful, wicked, and ungodly ways and things of this world.
5. Why does Jesus give us specific commands, laws, and rules? (5)_____ For our good always. _____ So we will know how to set a good example for others. _____ To take away our freedom. _____ So we can follow in Christ's footsteps. _____ To safeguard us from sin. _____ To keep us under His thumb. _____ To bring us true joy.
6. Two good rules for deciding what is proper Christian conduct are as follows: (2)_____ Discover what the Bible says. _____ Watch to see what church members do. _____ Consult a ouija board. _____ Go by your feelings. _____ Ask yourself what Jesus would do.
7. Satan has access to us only through our five senses. (1)_____ Yes. _____ No.
8. For which facets of Christian conduct listed below does Jesus provide some specific counsel and guidelines? (5)_____ How we dress. _____ Healthful living. _____ Ornamenting the body. _____ Olympic skiing. _____ Eating and drinking. _____ Flying a plane. _____ Buying a house. _____ Example and influence.
9. How do conduct and obedience relate to salvation? (1)_____ We are saved by our conduct and obedience. _____ A saved person can ignore conduct and obedience and still be ready for heaven. _____ Conduct and obedience are the evidence that one has been converted, or born again.
10. If I refuse to forsake something Jesus asks me to forsake—such as jewelry, rock music, or watching evil TV shows—God considers that unforsaken thing an idol. (1)_____ Yes. _____ No.
11. A Christian life is like a good marriage in that success comes when our aim is to please the one we love. (1)_____ Yes. _____ No.
12. Satan leads people into sin by which three of the avenues listed below? (3)_____ Hiding their Bibles from them. _____ Pride of life. _____ Writing messages in the sky. _____ Lust of the flesh. _____ Lust of the eyes.
13. Guarding our thoughts is crucial, because thoughts become actions. (1)_____ Yes. _____ No.
14. Some promised benefits of faithfully following Jesus are as follows: (7)_____ You will know how to prophesy. _____ You will live a longer life. _____ You will enjoy indescribable happiness. _____ You will have better health. _____ Your hair will not turn gray. _____ You will be a millionaire. _____ You will be assured of a home in heaven. _____ You will have freedom from fear. _____ You will have Jesus as a personal friend. _____ You will enjoy peace of mind.
15. If my conduct offends a Christian brother, what should I do? (1)_____ Ignore it. No one can please everybody. _____ Fight it out, one to one. _____ Try to get the brother disfellowshipped. _____ Tell everybody so church members can choose sides. _____ Stop doing the offending thing.
16. What does Jesus call a person who is determined to have his own way rather than listen to Bible counsel? (1)_____ An independent thinker. _____ A wise person. _____ A fool.
17. A person who rejects Jesus' standards for Christian living would (1)_____ Suddenly begin to love spiritual things when he gets to heaven. _____ Be repentant for his hardness of heart after a few days in the holy city. _____ Be miserable in heaven.
18. I want to love Christ so much that to follow His principles for Christian living will be a joy and delight._____ Yes._____ No.