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<strong>Chaplains</strong> H<strong>and</strong> Book<br />
by Peter Hammond<br />
FRONTLINE FELLOWSHIP<br />
PO Box 74 Newl<strong>and</strong>s 7725<br />
Cape Town<br />
South Africa<br />
www.frontline.org.za
<strong>Chaplains</strong> H<strong>and</strong> Book<br />
by Peter Hammond<br />
Permission is hereby granted to any mission, church, magazine<br />
or other periodical to reprint, or quote from,<br />
any portion of this book, so long as two conditions are met:<br />
(I) the passage must be reprinted, or quoted, in context, in full, word for word;<br />
(2)full acknowledgement must be given in the following words:<br />
This article is taken from<br />
the Frontline Fellowship <strong>Chaplains</strong> H<strong>and</strong> Book,<br />
by Peter Hammond.<br />
Scripture quotations taken from the Holy Bible,<br />
New King James Version,<br />
Copyright © 1982 by Thomas Nelson,<br />
used with permission<br />
Copyright ©2017 by Peter Hammood<br />
ISBN 978-0-9946971-3-4<br />
Published by: <br />
FRONTLINE FELLOWSHIP<br />
<br />
PO Box 74 Newl<strong>and</strong>s<br />
<br />
7725 Cape Town<br />
<br />
South Africa<br />
Tel: +(27-21) 689-4480<br />
Fax: +(27-21) 685-5884<br />
admin@frontline.org.za<br />
www.frontline.org.za
Introduction<br />
As a chaplain, you have many serious <strong>and</strong> solemn duties <strong>and</strong> responsibilities.<br />
This H<strong>and</strong> Book, which includes the supplementary <strong>Chaplains</strong> Prayer<br />
Book, is designed to assist <strong>and</strong> empower you to carry out your duties<br />
more effectively.<br />
As a chaplain you are responsible for the spiritual well being of all in<br />
your unit. In the army, the chaplain is to be the pastor of the soldiers,<br />
non-commissioned officers <strong>and</strong> the officers, of all ranks. In the police, a<br />
chaplain is to care for all the officers <strong>and</strong> constables. In a prison, a prison<br />
chaplain is to care not only for the prisoners, but also for the wardens.<br />
Hospital chaplains are responsible for the spiritual care of the patients,<br />
<strong>and</strong> also of the medical staff. In addition, chaplains are frequently called<br />
upon to care for the families <strong>and</strong> relatives of those they are primarily<br />
responsible for.<br />
<strong>Chaplains</strong> are of course responsible to the government officials under<br />
whom they serve. <strong>Chaplains</strong> have a dual responsibility, to the church <strong>and</strong><br />
to the state. The state is a minister of justice answerable to Almighty God,<br />
the King of kings <strong>and</strong> Lord of lords. <strong>Chaplains</strong> are also ministers of the<br />
Church, which is a minister of grace under our Redeemer, the Lord Jesus<br />
Christ.<br />
In all these duties, your authority is grounded in Scripture, your<br />
responsibilities are clearly shown in Scripture <strong>and</strong> the Holy Bible is your<br />
most important equipment.<br />
"All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, <strong>and</strong> is profitable for<br />
doctrine, for reproof, for correction,for instruction in righteousness,<br />
that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every<br />
good work. I charge you therefore before God <strong>and</strong> the Lord Jesus<br />
Christ, who will Judge the living <strong>and</strong> the dead at His appearing <strong>and</strong><br />
His Kingdom: Preach the Word! Be ready in season <strong>and</strong> out of season.<br />
Convince, rebuke, exhort with all long suffering <strong>and</strong> teaching. " <br />
2 Timothy 3:16- 4:2<br />
Dr. Peter Hammond<br />
i
<strong>Chaplains</strong> H<strong>and</strong> Book<br />
ContentsPage<br />
Introductioni<br />
Guidelines for Church Services 2<br />
Prayers of Confession 3<br />
The Nicene Creed 6<br />
The Apostles’ Creed 7<br />
Church Service 8<br />
Prayers of Intercession 9<br />
The General Supplication 13<br />
Morning Prayer 16<br />
The Apostles Creed 17<br />
The Lord's Prayer 17<br />
Funeral Service 19<br />
Dedication Service (for Young Children) 24<br />
Baptism Service (for Adults <strong>and</strong> Responsible Children) 28<br />
Benedictions30<br />
The Creed of Athanasius 31<br />
The Art of Preaching 33<br />
Motives for Missions 36<br />
Evangelism45<br />
Leading People to Christ 49<br />
The Roman Road 50<br />
The Gospel in John 51<br />
The ABC’s of Salvation 51<br />
Evangelism Explosion 52<br />
The Facts of the Faith<br />
The Adventure of Discipleship<br />
55<br />
59<br />
What is a Christian? 60<br />
Principles for Discipleship 63<br />
Biblical Character 65<br />
Suffering67<br />
The Testimony of the Twelve Apostles 69<br />
The Suffering of Christ 72<br />
War in the Bible 74<br />
All Out War 79<br />
Spiritual Warfare 81<br />
Called to Conquest 83<br />
Hatred of Evil 84<br />
Praying Against Evil 85<br />
Verses of Victory 87<br />
St<strong>and</strong>ing Orders from our Comm<strong>and</strong>ing Officer 88<br />
A Time For War 89<br />
God’s Army<br />
The Thirty-Nine Articles of Religion<br />
91<br />
92<br />
The Westminster Confession 103<br />
Evangelising in the War Zones 133<br />
Teaching that Transforms 135
Guidelines for Church<br />
Services<br />
"I charge you therefore before God <strong>and</strong> the Lord Jesus Christ, who will<br />
judge the living <strong>and</strong> the dead at His appearing <strong>and</strong> His kingdom: Preach<br />
the Word! Be ready in season <strong>and</strong> out of season. Convince, rebuke,<br />
exhort, with all longsuffering <strong>and</strong> teaching." 2 Timothy 4: 1-2<br />
<strong>Chaplains</strong> are to seek to maintain a high st<strong>and</strong>ard of Bible teaching,<br />
inspiring Christian concern for the suffering, the weak <strong>and</strong> the needy <strong>and</strong><br />
missionary vision for the unreached. We need to give suitable priority to<br />
both education <strong>and</strong> evangelism, to work <strong>and</strong> worship, to moral issues<br />
<strong>and</strong> missionary outreach, in spiritual zeal <strong>and</strong> social concerns. We<br />
need to be committed to working for Biblical Reformation <strong>and</strong> praying for<br />
Revival. This includes praying for justice according to the Psalms.<br />
Suggested Order of Service<br />
CALL TO WORSHIP Open the service with a suitable Scripture (e.g.: 1<br />
Chronicles 16:8-12; 16:23-29; 16:31-36; Psalm l; 2; 8; 22:27-31; 24; 27:1-<br />
4;29: 12;46: 1-4; 47; 63:1-5; 95; 96; 97; 98:1-2; 99:l-5;100; 101; 112; 113;<br />
117;121; 122; 125; 127; 134; 146; 149;Revelation 4; 5:6-13).<br />
CALL TO WORSHIP<br />
"Oh, give thanks to the Lord! Call upon His Name; make known His<br />
deeds among the peoples! Sing to Him, sing Psalms to Him; Talk of all<br />
His wondrous works! Glory in His holy Name; Let the hearts of those<br />
rejoice who seek the Lord! Seek the Lord <strong>and</strong> His strength; Seek<br />
His face evermore! Remember His marvelous works which He has done,<br />
His wonders, <strong>and</strong> the judgments of His mouth." 1 Chronicles 16: 8-12<br />
"Sing to the Lord, all the earth; Proclaim the good news of His salvation<br />
from day to day.Declare His glory among the nations, His wonders among<br />
all peoples. For the Lord is great <strong>and</strong> greatly to be praised; He is also<br />
to be feared above all gods.For all the gods of the peoples are idols, But the<br />
Lord made the heavens. Honor <strong>and</strong> majesty are before Him; Strength <strong>and</strong><br />
gladness are in His place. Give to the Lord, O families of the peoples, Give<br />
to the Lord glory <strong>and</strong> strength.Give to the Lord the glory due His Name..." <br />
1 Chronicles 16:23-2 9<br />
"Let the heavens rejoice, <strong>and</strong> let the earth be glad; And let them say among<br />
the nations, 'The Lord reigns.' Let the sea roar, <strong>and</strong> all its fullness;Let the<br />
field rejoice, <strong>and</strong> all that is in it. Then the trees of the woods shall rejoice<br />
2
<strong>Chaplains</strong> <strong>H<strong>and</strong>book</strong><br />
before the Lord,For He is coming to judge the earth. Oh, give thanks to<br />
the Lord, for He is good! For His mercy endures forever. And say, 'Save<br />
us, O God of our salvation;Gather us together, <strong>and</strong> deliver us from the<br />
Gentiles, To give thanks to Your holy Name,To triumph in Your praise.'<br />
Blessed be the Lord God of IsraelFrom everlasting to everlasting!" <br />
1 Chronicles 16:31-36<br />
"Make a joyful shout to the Lord, all you l<strong>and</strong>s! Serve the Lord with gladness;<br />
Come before His presence with singing. Know that the Lord, He is God; It<br />
is He Who has made us, <strong>and</strong> not we ourselves; We are His people <strong>and</strong> the<br />
sheep of His pasture. Enter into His gates with thanksgiving, <strong>and</strong><br />
into His courts with praise. Be thankful to Him <strong>and</strong> bless His Name.<br />
For the Lord is good; His mercy is everlasting, <strong>and</strong> His truth endures to<br />
all generations. " Psalm 100<br />
Opening PRAYER of worship, adoration <strong>and</strong> praise<br />
Hymn<br />
READING of some aspect of the Law of God (e.g.: Exodus 20:1-17;<br />
Deuteronomy 5; Deuteronomy 27:15-26; 28:1-25, 58-63; 30:15-20;<br />
Joshua 1:6-9; Matthew 5:3-12; 7:21-27; Mark 10:19; Luke 6:20-26, 46-<br />
49; 9:23-26; Ephesians 4:17-32; 5:1-21; Philippians 4:4-8; Colossians<br />
3:1-23;Revelation 20: 1 1-15;21:7-8).<br />
PRAYERS OF CONFESSION<br />
Exhortations to Repentance:<br />
The Scriptures urge us to acknowledge our wickedness before Almighty<br />
God our Heavenly Father <strong>and</strong> to confess our many sins to Him, that they<br />
may be forgiven through His infinite goodness <strong>and</strong> mercy in Jesus Christ<br />
our Lord.<br />
"We have sinned <strong>and</strong> committed iniquity, we have done wickedly <strong>and</strong><br />
rebelled, even by departing from Your precepts <strong>and</strong> Your judgments. Neither<br />
have we heeded Your servants the prophets, who spoke in Your Name to our<br />
kings <strong>and</strong> our princes, to our fathers <strong>and</strong> all the people of the l<strong>and</strong>." <br />
Daniel 9:5, 6<br />
"For I acknowledge my transgressions, And my sin is always before me. "<br />
Psalm 51:3<br />
"Hide Your face from my sins, <strong>and</strong> blot out all my iniquities." Psalm 51:9<br />
"Do not enter into judgment with Your servant, For in Your sight no one<br />
living is righteous." Psalm 143:2<br />
3
Guidelines for Church Service<br />
"So rend your heart, <strong>and</strong> not your garments; Return to the Lord your God,<br />
For He is gracious <strong>and</strong> merciful, Slow to anger, <strong>and</strong> of great kindness; And<br />
He relents from doing harm. " Joel 2: 13<br />
"To the Lord our God belong mercy <strong>and</strong> forgiveness, though we have rebelled<br />
against Him. We have not obeyed the voice of the Lord our God, to walk in<br />
His laws, which He set before us by His servants the prophets." <br />
Daniel 9:9, 10<br />
"If we claim to be without sin, we deceive ourselves <strong>and</strong> the truth is not in<br />
us. If we confess our sins, He is faithful <strong>and</strong> just <strong>and</strong> will forgive us our sins,<br />
<strong>and</strong> purify us from all unrighteousness." 1 John 1:8,9<br />
Chaplain:<br />
We should always humbly admit our sins before God, but especially when<br />
we meet together to give thanks for the great benefits we have received<br />
from Him, to praise <strong>and</strong> worship Him, to hear His holy Word <strong>and</strong> to ask<br />
what is necessary for our bodies <strong>and</strong> souls. Therefore let us come before<br />
the throne of our gracious God <strong>and</strong> pray together:<br />
Congregation:<br />
Almighty <strong>and</strong> most merciful Father;<br />
we have strayed from Your ways like lost sheep,<br />
we have left undone what we ought to have done,<br />
<strong>and</strong> we have done what we ought not to have done.<br />
We have followed our own ways <strong>and</strong> our own desires<br />
<strong>and</strong> we have neglected <strong>and</strong> broken Your holy Laws.<br />
Have mercy on us Lord.<br />
Restore those who repent <strong>and</strong> confess their sins according<br />
to Your promises declared in Jesus Christ our Lord.<br />
Grant, merciful Father, for His sake, that hereafter<br />
we may live righteous <strong>and</strong> obedient lives,<br />
to the glory of Your holy Name. Amen.<br />
Chaplain:<br />
Almighty God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ,<br />
does not desire the death of a sinner, but rather that<br />
he should turn from his wickedness <strong>and</strong> live.<br />
He has given authority <strong>and</strong> comm<strong>and</strong>ment to His<br />
ministers to declare to His people that He pardons<br />
<strong>and</strong> forgives the sins of all who truly repent <strong>and</strong><br />
believe His Holy Gospel.<br />
Therefore, let us ask Him to grant us true<br />
repentance <strong>and</strong> His Holy Spirit, that we may please<br />
4
<strong>Chaplains</strong> <strong>H<strong>and</strong>book</strong><br />
Him now, <strong>and</strong> that the rest of our life may be pure<br />
<strong>and</strong> holy so that at the last we may come to His<br />
eternal joy through Jesus Christ our Lord.<br />
Congregation:<br />
Almighty God, heavenly Father, we confess that we<br />
have failed You in our thoughts <strong>and</strong> words <strong>and</strong> deeds.<br />
Because we are sinners by nature we have strayed<br />
from Your ways <strong>and</strong> not only have we done wrong<br />
but we have failed to do right. Lord, You alone can<br />
forgive sin. Have mercy on us, pardon our sins <strong>and</strong><br />
help us to serve You not only with our lips, but with<br />
our lives, through Jesus Christ our Lord.<br />
Amen.<br />
Responsive Reading <strong>and</strong> Prayer:<br />
Lord, remember not our offences, nor the offences of our forefathers;<br />
punish us not for our sins. Spare Your people whom You have redeemed<br />
with Your precious blood. Spare us good Lord.<br />
From all evil <strong>and</strong> harm, from sin, from the cunning attacks of the devil;<br />
<strong>and</strong> from everlasting condemnation. Lord deliver us.<br />
From all spiritual blindness; from pride, vanity <strong>and</strong> hypocrisy; from envy,<br />
hatred, malice <strong>and</strong> all uncharitableness. Lord deliver us.<br />
From sexual <strong>and</strong> all other deadly sin; <strong>and</strong> from the deceits of the world,<br />
The flesh, <strong>and</strong> the devil. Lord deliver us.<br />
From fire <strong>and</strong> storm, drought <strong>and</strong> flood, from epidemic <strong>and</strong> famine, from<br />
strife <strong>and</strong> violence, from bombs <strong>and</strong> bullets, from rebellion <strong>and</strong> violence<br />
<strong>and</strong> from dying suddenly <strong>and</strong> unprepared. Lord deliver us.<br />
From all false doctrine, heresy <strong>and</strong> schism; from hardness of heart <strong>and</strong><br />
contempt of Your Word <strong>and</strong> Comm<strong>and</strong>ments. Lord deliver us.<br />
In all times of misery, in all times of prosperity, in the hour of death <strong>and</strong><br />
on the day of judgement. Lord deliver us.<br />
By the mystery of Your holy Incarnation; by Your holy birth, life <strong>and</strong><br />
obedience to the Law. Lord deliver us.<br />
By Your agony <strong>and</strong> anguish, by Your cross <strong>and</strong> suffering, by Your precious<br />
death <strong>and</strong> Atonement, by Your glorious Resurrection <strong>and</strong> Ascension <strong>and</strong><br />
by the coming of the Holy Spirit. Lord deliver us.<br />
STATEMENT OF FAITH (e.g.:The Apostles Creed, The Nicene Creed,<br />
The Athanasian Creed, or excerpts from the Thirty Nine Articles, or the<br />
Westminster Confession of Faith, or any other suitable historical, Biblical<br />
Confession of Faith)<br />
5
THE NICENE CREED<br />
Let us st<strong>and</strong> <strong>and</strong> recite our common Faith. What do we believe?<br />
I believe in one God, the Father, Almighty,<br />
maker of Heaven <strong>and</strong> earth<br />
<strong>and</strong> of all that is, seen <strong>and</strong> unseen.<br />
I believe in one Lord Jesus Christ,<br />
the only begotten Son of God,<br />
begotten of the Father before all worlds,<br />
God, from God; Light, from Light;<br />
True God, from True God; begotten not made,<br />
of one substance with the Father.<br />
Through Him all things were made,<br />
Who for us men <strong>and</strong> for our salvation came down from Heaven,<br />
Was incarnate by the Holy Spirit of the virgin Mary,<br />
<strong>and</strong> was made man.<br />
For us He was crucified under Pontius Pilate,<br />
He suffered, died <strong>and</strong> was buried.<br />
On the third day He rose again, in accordance with the Scriptures;<br />
He ascended into Heaven <strong>and</strong> is seated at the right h<strong>and</strong> of the Father.<br />
He will come again with glory to judge the living <strong>and</strong> the dead<br />
And His Kingdom will have no end.<br />
I believe in the Holy Spirit, the Lord, the giver of life,<br />
who proceeds from the Father <strong>and</strong> the Son.<br />
With the Father <strong>and</strong> the Son together He is worshipped <strong>and</strong> glorified.<br />
He spoke through the prophets.<br />
I believe in Christ's holy universal <strong>and</strong> apostolic Church.<br />
I acknowledge one baptism for the forgiveness of sins<br />
<strong>and</strong> I look for the resurrection of the dead,<br />
<strong>and</strong> the life of the world to come. Amen.<br />
6
<strong>Chaplains</strong> <strong>H<strong>and</strong>book</strong><br />
THE APOSTLES' CREED<br />
I believe in God, the Father Almighty,<br />
maker of Heaven <strong>and</strong> earth,<br />
<strong>and</strong> in Jesus Christ, His only Son our Lord,<br />
who was conceived by the Holy Spirit,<br />
born of the virgin Mary,<br />
suffered under Pontius Pilate,<br />
was crucified, He died <strong>and</strong> was buried.<br />
He descended into hell.<br />
The third day He rose again from the dead.<br />
He ascended into Heaven,<br />
<strong>and</strong> is seated at the right h<strong>and</strong> of God,<br />
the Father Almighty;<br />
from there He shall come to judge<br />
the living <strong>and</strong> the dead.<br />
I believe in the Holy Spirit;<br />
Christ's holy universal Church,<br />
the fellowship of Christians,<br />
the forgiveness of sins,<br />
the resurrection of the body,<br />
<strong>and</strong> the life everlasting. Amen.<br />
NOTICES of upcoming events, outreaches, items for prayer <strong>and</strong> testimonies of<br />
answered prayer.<br />
(If an Offering is to be taken up, it can also be taken up at this time.)<br />
PRAYERS OF THANKSGIVING AND INTERCESSION<br />
(including for members of the unit in need, comm<strong>and</strong>ers, persecuted Christians,<br />
church <strong>and</strong> civil leaders <strong>and</strong> imprecatory prayers against the wicked where<br />
appropriate.)<br />
SCRIPTURE READING(S)<br />
HYMN<br />
SERMON<br />
HYMN<br />
BENEDICTION<br />
7
Church Service<br />
The Chaplain reads a Psalm <strong>and</strong> greets the congregation.<br />
He announces the first Hymn.<br />
After the Hymn has been sung, while the congregation remains st<strong>and</strong>ing, he<br />
reads one or more of these, or other suitable verses from the Bible, followed by<br />
the exhortation.<br />
"We have sinned <strong>and</strong> committed iniquity, we have done wickedly<br />
<strong>and</strong> rebelled, even by departing from Your precepts <strong>and</strong> Your<br />
judgments. Neither have we heeded Your servants the prophets,<br />
who spoke in Your Name to our kings <strong>and</strong> our princes, to our<br />
fathers <strong>and</strong> all the people of the l<strong>and</strong>." Daniel 9:5-6<br />
"For I acknowledge my transgressions, <strong>and</strong> my sin is always before<br />
me." Psalm 51:3<br />
"Hide Your face from my sins <strong>and</strong> blot out all my iniquities." Psalm 51:9<br />
"Do not enter into judgment with Your servant, For in Your sight<br />
no one living is righteous." Psalm 143:2<br />
"So rend your heart, <strong>and</strong> not your garments; Return to the Lord<br />
your God, For He is gracious <strong>and</strong> merciful, Slow to anger, <strong>and</strong> of<br />
great kindness; And He relents from doing harm." Joel 2:13<br />
"To the Lord our God belong mercy <strong>and</strong> forgiveness, though we<br />
have rebelled against Him. We have not obeyed the voice of the<br />
Lord our God, to walk in His Laws, which He set before us by His<br />
servants the prophets." Daniel 9:9, 10<br />
"The time is fulfilled, <strong>and</strong> the Kingdom of God is at h<strong>and</strong>. Repent,<br />
<strong>and</strong> believe in the Gospel." Mark 1:15<br />
"I will arise <strong>and</strong> go to my father, <strong>and</strong> will say to him, “Father, I have<br />
sinned against Heaven <strong>and</strong> before you, <strong>and</strong> I am no longer worthy<br />
to be called your son." Luke 15:18, 19<br />
"If we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, <strong>and</strong> the truth<br />
is not in us. If we confess our sins, He is faithful <strong>and</strong> just to forgive<br />
us our sins <strong>and</strong> to cleanse us from all unrighteousness." 1 John 1:8, 9<br />
Exhortation<br />
The Scriptures urge us to acknowledge our wickedness before Almighty<br />
God our heavenly Father <strong>and</strong> to confess our many sins to Him, that they<br />
may be forgiven through His infinite goodness <strong>and</strong> mercy in Jesus Christ<br />
our Lord.<br />
8
<strong>Chaplains</strong> <strong>H<strong>and</strong>book</strong><br />
We should always humbly admit our sins before God, but especially when<br />
we meet together to give thanks for the great benefits we have received<br />
from Him, to praise <strong>and</strong> worship Him, to hear His holy Word <strong>and</strong> to ask<br />
what is necessary for our bodies <strong>and</strong> souls. Therefore let us come before<br />
the throne of our gracious God <strong>and</strong> say together:<br />
General Confession said together:<br />
Almighty <strong>and</strong> most merciful Father,<br />
we have strayed from Your ways like lost sheep,<br />
we have left undone what we ought to have done,<br />
<strong>and</strong> we have done what we ought not to have done.<br />
We have followed our own ways <strong>and</strong> our own desires<br />
<strong>and</strong> we have neglected <strong>and</strong> broken Your holy Laws.<br />
Have mercy on us Lord.<br />
Restore us who repent <strong>and</strong> confess our sins<br />
according to Your promises declared in Jesus Christ our Lord.<br />
Grant, merciful Father, for His sake, that hereafter<br />
we may live righteous <strong>and</strong> obedient lives<br />
to the glory of Your holy Name. Amen.<br />
Assurance of forgiveness said by the Chaplain st<strong>and</strong>ing:<br />
Almighty God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, does not desire the death<br />
of a sinner, but rather that he should turn from his wickedness <strong>and</strong> live.<br />
He has given authority <strong>and</strong> comm<strong>and</strong>ment to His ministers to declare to<br />
His people that He pardons <strong>and</strong> forgives the sins of all who truly repent<br />
<strong>and</strong> believe His holy Gospel.<br />
Therefore, let us ask Him to grant us true repentance <strong>and</strong> His Holy<br />
Spirit, that we may please Him now, <strong>and</strong> that the rest of our lives be pure<br />
<strong>and</strong> holy - so that at the last we may come to His eternal joy through<br />
Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.<br />
The Lord's Prayer said together:<br />
Our Father,which art in Heaven.<br />
hallowed be Thy Name,<br />
Thy Kingdom come,<br />
Thy will be done,<br />
in earth as it is in Heaven.<br />
Give us this day our daily bread;<br />
<strong>and</strong> forgive us our trespasses,<br />
as we forgive them that trespass against us;<br />
<strong>and</strong> lead us not into temptation.<br />
but deliver us from evil.<br />
For Thine is the Kingdom, the power, <strong>and</strong> the glory,<br />
for ever <strong>and</strong> ever. Amen.<br />
9
Church Service<br />
The Chaplain can then lead the congregation in a time of intercession,<br />
using two or three of the following prayers:<br />
Prayer for our L<strong>and</strong><br />
Almighty,everlasting God, bless our l<strong>and</strong>, its rulers <strong>and</strong> people. Grant<br />
that all of us may live in obedience to Your Word <strong>and</strong> follow after<br />
truth, righteousness <strong>and</strong> justice. Lord, give peace in our time, peace<br />
with justice, <strong>and</strong> with lasting freedom - to the glory of Your holy Name<br />
through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.<br />
Prayer for all in need<br />
Almighty,merciful Father, You have told us not to think of ourselves<br />
only, but to remember the needs of others. We pray for all in want or<br />
need, for the sick in body or mind,for the poor <strong>and</strong> lonely,for those in<br />
distress <strong>and</strong> despair <strong>and</strong> for all who have strayed from Your way. Merciful<br />
Lord, deliver them, strengthen <strong>and</strong> restore their faith, bless <strong>and</strong> help<br />
them through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.<br />
In time of disaster<br />
Heavenly Father; we thank you for the reminder that power belongs to<br />
God <strong>and</strong> not to man. Look in mercy on Your people, forgive our sins <strong>and</strong><br />
give relief to all those suffering from the disaster of...<br />
Grant also healing <strong>and</strong> restoration to Your wonderful creation to the<br />
praise of your great Name. Through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.<br />
A general intercession<br />
God, the Creator <strong>and</strong> Preserver of all mankind, we humbly implore You<br />
for all people everywhere, that You would be pleased to make Your ways<br />
known to them, Your saving power to all nations.<br />
Especially we pray for Christ's holy Church, that it may be so guided <strong>and</strong><br />
governed by Your Spirit, that all who call themselves Christians may be<br />
led by the Word of God <strong>and</strong> hold to the Faith in unity of spirit, in the<br />
bond of peace, <strong>and</strong> in righteousness of life.<br />
Finally,we commend to Your Fatherly goodness all those who are in any<br />
way afflicted, or distressed, in mind, body or circumstances, especially<br />
those known to us, or for whom our prayers are asked, that it may please<br />
You to comfort <strong>and</strong> deliver them, according to their different needs,<br />
giving them patience in their sufferings, <strong>and</strong> a blessed end to all their<br />
troubles.<br />
All this we ask in the Name of Jesus Christ. Amen.<br />
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A general thanksgiving<br />
Almighty God, Father of all mercies, we Your unworthy servants give You<br />
most humble <strong>and</strong> hearty thanks, for all Your goodness <strong>and</strong> loving kindness<br />
to us <strong>and</strong> to all men. We bless You for our creation, preservation, <strong>and</strong> all<br />
the blessings of this life. But above all for Your immeasurable love in the<br />
redemption of the world by our Lord Jesus Christ, for the means of grace,<br />
<strong>and</strong> for the hope of glory. Give us, we pray,such a deep sense of all your<br />
mercies, that we may be truly thankful <strong>and</strong> praise You not only with our<br />
lips, but with our lives, by giving ourselves to Your service, <strong>and</strong> by walking<br />
before You in holiness <strong>and</strong> righteousness all our days. Through Jesus<br />
Christ, our Lord, to whom, with You <strong>and</strong> the Holy Spirit be all honour <strong>and</strong><br />
glory forever <strong>and</strong> ever. Amen.<br />
For the Church<br />
Almighty God, the great Shepherd of Your people, bless those who are<br />
called to the ministry of Your Word <strong>and</strong> the congregations to whom they<br />
minister. Fill them with the love of Your Truth <strong>and</strong> clothe them with<br />
holiness. Give grace to our bishops, pastors <strong>and</strong> chaplains, <strong>and</strong> all other<br />
ministers, that their lives <strong>and</strong> teaching will witness to Your true <strong>and</strong> living<br />
Word through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.<br />
For the extension of Christ's Kingdom<br />
God of all the nations of the earth, we pray to You to remember the<br />
multitude of men <strong>and</strong> women who, though created in Your image are<br />
ignorant of Your love <strong>and</strong> salvation. Grant that by the witness of those<br />
missionaries <strong>and</strong> evangelists who serve our Lord Jesus Christ, that<br />
wherever they minister Your Word, perishing souls may be saved, the<br />
church revived, <strong>and</strong> the Name of our Saviour magnified. In Christ's Name<br />
we ask it. Amen.<br />
For protection<br />
Almighty God we look to You for protection. Protect us from bombs,<br />
l<strong>and</strong>mines, artillery <strong>and</strong> other weapons of the enemy. Keep us alert. Guide<br />
our footsteps. Keep us sensitive to Your still small voice. May You cause the<br />
enemies' weapons to misfire <strong>and</strong> their bombs to miss their targets or fall to<br />
explode. May their pilots fall sick, may their Antonovs <strong>and</strong> Migs develop<br />
engine failure. May they get lost. May Every weapon formed against us fail<br />
to have effect. Protect us we pray. In Jesus Mighty Name. Amen.<br />
For victory in battle<br />
Lord God,Almighty,You are the Lord of lords <strong>and</strong> the King of kings. Grant<br />
us steadfast hearts to love, trust <strong>and</strong> obey You. Strengthen us that we may<br />
serve Your cause <strong>and</strong> people with courage <strong>and</strong> resilience. Be merciful to<br />
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us. Forgive us our sins <strong>and</strong> cleanse us from all unrighteousness. Make us<br />
quick <strong>and</strong> accurate. Guide our h<strong>and</strong>s <strong>and</strong> feet. Make us alert to danger <strong>and</strong><br />
swift to respond. Help us to work effectively together -for we pray all this<br />
in <strong>and</strong> through our Lord Jesus Christ. Amen.<br />
Prayer for help<br />
Lighten our darkness Lord we pray,<strong>and</strong> in Your great mercy defend us<br />
from all perils <strong>and</strong> danger of this night, for the love of Your only Son, our<br />
Saviour Jesus Christ. Amen.<br />
Prayer for those in authority<br />
Almighty God, who rules over the nations of the world, we commend<br />
to Your merciful care the people of this l<strong>and</strong>, that being guided by Your<br />
providence we may dwell secure in Your peace. Grant to our leaders <strong>and</strong> to<br />
all in authority,wisdom <strong>and</strong> strength to underst<strong>and</strong> Your Word <strong>and</strong> to do<br />
Your will. Fill them with the love of truth, justice <strong>and</strong> righteousness, that<br />
they may serve Your people faithfully -to Your honour <strong>and</strong> glory: through<br />
Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.<br />
Prayer for clergy <strong>and</strong> people<br />
Almighty <strong>and</strong> everlasting God send down your gracious Holy Spirit on<br />
our bishop, pastors, chaplains <strong>and</strong> other ministers <strong>and</strong> all congregations<br />
of our church. That they may truly please You, refresh, protect <strong>and</strong> bless<br />
them continually,to the honour of our Advocate <strong>and</strong> Mediator Jesus<br />
Christ our Lord. Amen.<br />
Prayer of St. Chrysostom<br />
Almighty God, who has given us grace at this time with one accord to<br />
make our common supplications to You; <strong>and</strong> has promised that when two<br />
or three are gathered together in Your Name You will grant their requests;<br />
fulfil now Lord the desires <strong>and</strong> petitions of Your servants, as may be most<br />
expedient for them; granting us in this world knowledge of Your truth,<br />
<strong>and</strong> in the world to come, life everlasting. Amen.<br />
For ourselves<br />
Go before us Lord, in all our doings with Your most gracious favour, <strong>and</strong><br />
grant us Your constant help, that in all our works, begun, continued <strong>and</strong><br />
ended in You we may glorify Your holy Name, <strong>and</strong> by Your mercy receive<br />
everlasting life, through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.<br />
At end of day<br />
Be present, merciful God <strong>and</strong> protect us through the hours of this night,<br />
that we, who are wearied by the changes <strong>and</strong> chances of this fleeting<br />
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world, many rest on your eternal changelessness, through Jesus Christ<br />
our Lord. Amen.<br />
The Grace said together<br />
The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, the love of God, <strong>and</strong> the<br />
fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with us all evermore. Amen.<br />
The General Supplication or Litany - Responsive Prayer<br />
For Mercy<br />
God the Father, Creator of all,<br />
have mercy on us sinners.<br />
God the Son, Redeemer of the world,<br />
have mercy on us sinners.<br />
God the Holy Spirit proceeding from the Father <strong>and</strong> the Son<br />
have mercy on us sinners.<br />
Holy, blessed, <strong>and</strong> glorious Trinity,three Persons <strong>and</strong> one God,<br />
have mercy on us sinners. Amen.<br />
For Deliverance<br />
Lord, remember not our offences, nor the offences of our forefathers;<br />
punish us not for our sins, spare Your people whom You have redeemed<br />
with Your precious blood <strong>and</strong> be not angry with us forever.<br />
Spare us good Lord.<br />
From all evil <strong>and</strong> harm, from sin, from the cunning attacks of the devil;<br />
from Your wrath <strong>and</strong> from everlasting condemnation,<br />
good Lord deliver us.<br />
From all spiritual blindness; from pride, vanity <strong>and</strong> hypocrisy; from envy,<br />
hatred, malice <strong>and</strong> all uncharitableness,<br />
good Lord deliver us.<br />
From sexual <strong>and</strong> all other deadly sin; <strong>and</strong> from the deceits of the world,the<br />
flesh, <strong>and</strong> the devil,<br />
good Lord deliver us.<br />
From fire <strong>and</strong> storm, drought <strong>and</strong> flood, from pestilence <strong>and</strong> famine, from<br />
strife <strong>and</strong> violence, from bombs <strong>and</strong> l<strong>and</strong>mines, from rebellion <strong>and</strong> war<br />
<strong>and</strong> from dying suddenly <strong>and</strong> unready,<br />
good Lord deliver us.<br />
From all false doctrine, heresy <strong>and</strong> schism; from hardness of heart <strong>and</strong><br />
contempt of Your Word <strong>and</strong> comm<strong>and</strong>ments,<br />
good Lord deliver us.<br />
In all times of misery, in all times of plenty, in the hour of death <strong>and</strong> on<br />
the Day of Judgment,<br />
good Lord deliver us.<br />
By the mystery of Your holy Incarnation; by Your holy birth, by Your<br />
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circumcision <strong>and</strong> obedience to the Law; by Your baptism, fasting, <strong>and</strong><br />
temptation,<br />
good Lord deliver us.<br />
By Your agony <strong>and</strong> anguish, by Your Cross <strong>and</strong> suffering, by Your precious<br />
death <strong>and</strong> burial, by Your glorious Resurrection <strong>and</strong> Ascension <strong>and</strong> by the<br />
coming of the Holy Spirit,<br />
good Lord deliver us. Amen.<br />
For Help<br />
Lord God we sinners ask you to hear us <strong>and</strong> to rule <strong>and</strong> direct Your holy<br />
Church in the right way.<br />
Hear us good Lord.<br />
Enlighten all bishops <strong>and</strong> other ministers with true knowledge <strong>and</strong><br />
underst<strong>and</strong>ing of Your Word <strong>and</strong> let their preaching <strong>and</strong> life clearly show it.<br />
Hear us good Lord.<br />
Grant wisdom <strong>and</strong> strength to our leaders <strong>and</strong> all in authority, <strong>and</strong> that<br />
they may first seek Your honour <strong>and</strong> glory.<br />
Hear us good Lord.<br />
Give grace to the judges <strong>and</strong> magistrates to discern the truth <strong>and</strong> give<br />
right judgement.<br />
Hear us good Lord.<br />
Help us to love <strong>and</strong> revere You, to hear <strong>and</strong> receive Your Word, to live by<br />
it, <strong>and</strong> to bring forth the fruit of the Spirit.<br />
Hear us good Lord.<br />
Bring to the truth all who have gone wrong, or been deceived,strengthen<br />
those who st<strong>and</strong> firm in the Faith, encourage the faint hearted, lift the<br />
fallen, <strong>and</strong> finally beat down satan under our feet.<br />
Hear us good Lord.<br />
Help <strong>and</strong> undertake for all in danger,or any kind of suffering or persecution,<br />
need, or trouble, the poor,the hungry <strong>and</strong> the homeless; protect all who<br />
travel by l<strong>and</strong>, water, or air <strong>and</strong> have pity on all prisoners.<br />
Hear us good Lord.<br />
Bless the widows <strong>and</strong> fatherless children, all women in childbirth, all who are<br />
sick, all young children <strong>and</strong> the aged, the lonely <strong>and</strong> all who fear <strong>and</strong> despair.<br />
Hear us good Lord.<br />
Forgive our enemies, persecutors <strong>and</strong> sl<strong>and</strong>erers <strong>and</strong> turn their hearts.<br />
Hear us good Lord.<br />
Grant us true repentance; forgive our sins, indifference <strong>and</strong> ignorance,<br />
<strong>and</strong> fill us with Your Holy Spirit to amend our lives according to Your holy<br />
Word.<br />
Hear us good Lord.<br />
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Protect the earth, <strong>and</strong> all your creatures, grant us plentiful harvests <strong>and</strong><br />
make us truly thankful for all you provide.<br />
Hear us good Lord. Amen.<br />
Closing prayers<br />
Son of God we ask You to hear us.<br />
Son of God we ask You to hear us.<br />
Lamb of God who takes away the sins of the world,<br />
grant us Your peace.<br />
Lord have mercy on us.<br />
Christ, have mercy on us.<br />
Lord deal not with us according to our sins,<br />
Nor reward us according to our wickedness.<br />
Lord we have heard with our ears, <strong>and</strong> our fathers have told us of the great<br />
works that You did in their days <strong>and</strong> in the old times before them.<br />
Lord arise, help <strong>and</strong> deliver us for Your honour.<br />
Glory to God, Father,Son <strong>and</strong> Holy Spirit<br />
as in the beginning so now <strong>and</strong> for ever .Amen.<br />
Then follow:<br />
The announcements.<br />
Scripture Readings<br />
The Hymn before the sermon.<br />
*The Sermon<br />
The closing Hymn (during which the collection may be taken).<br />
The blessing/benediction.<br />
Blessing/Benediction:<br />
"The Lord bless you <strong>and</strong> keep you, the Lord make His face shine upon<br />
you <strong>and</strong> be gracious to you, the Lord lift up His countenance upon you<br />
<strong>and</strong> give you peace." Numbers 6:24-26<br />
or<br />
"Now to Him who is able to do exceedingly abundantly above all that<br />
we ask or think, according to the power that works in us, to Him be<br />
glory in the Church by Christ Jesus to all generations, forever <strong>and</strong><br />
ever." Ephesians 3:20, 21<br />
Amen<br />
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Morning Prayer<br />
The Chaplain welcomes the congregation.<br />
He announces the first Hymn.<br />
After the hymn has been sung he reads one or more of the following (or other<br />
suitable) verses from the Bible:<br />
"This is the day the Lord has made; let us rejoice <strong>and</strong> be glad in it."<br />
Psalm 118:24<br />
"Blessed is the Lord God of Israel, for He has visited <strong>and</strong> redeemed His<br />
people, <strong>and</strong> has raised up a Horn of Salvation for us in the house of His<br />
servant David." Luke 1:68, 69<br />
"Holy, Holy, Holy is the Lord of hosts, the whole earth is full of His<br />
Glory." Isaiah 6:3<br />
"You are worthy, O Lord,to receive glory <strong>and</strong> honor <strong>and</strong> power; For<br />
You created all things, <strong>and</strong> by Your Will they exist <strong>and</strong> were created."<br />
Revelation 4:11<br />
The Chaplain says:<br />
We have come here to take part in the worship of God;<br />
to confess our sins to Him <strong>and</strong> to ask for His forgiveness; to thank Him for<br />
making us <strong>and</strong> protecting us; to praise Him for His love <strong>and</strong> mercy; to hear<br />
from His holy Word, <strong>and</strong> to pray for our needs <strong>and</strong> the needs of others.<br />
But, first, let us confess our sins <strong>and</strong> pray together:<br />
Almighty God, heavenly Father,we confess that we have sinned<br />
against You, in our thoughts, words, <strong>and</strong> deeds <strong>and</strong> in what we<br />
have left undone. Lord have mercy on us, forgive us our sins <strong>and</strong><br />
help us that we may serve You better <strong>and</strong> please You more through<br />
Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.<br />
Chaplain: Almighty God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, does not wish<br />
the death of a sinner,but that he should turn from sin <strong>and</strong> trust in Christ.<br />
God's Word declares that He forgives the sins of all Who truly repent <strong>and</strong><br />
believe the Gospel. God gave His Son Jesus Christ to die that we could be<br />
forgiven <strong>and</strong> have everlasting life through Him. Let us therefore worship<br />
God saying:<br />
Congregation: Lord, we worship You for Your wonderful plan of<br />
salvation <strong>and</strong> Your great love that while we were lost sinners<br />
Christ died for us to give us eternal life.<br />
Chaplain: Glory be to God, Father, Son <strong>and</strong> Holy Spirit.<br />
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Congregation: As it was in the beginning, so now <strong>and</strong> for ever.<br />
Chaplain: Let us st<strong>and</strong> as we recite our common Faith in the words of:<br />
The Apostles Creed:<br />
I believe in God, the Father Almighty,<br />
Maker of Heaven <strong>and</strong> earth,<br />
<strong>and</strong> in Jesus Christ, His only Son our Lord,<br />
who was conceived by the Holy Spirit,<br />
born of the virgin Mary,<br />
suffered under Pontius Pilate,<br />
was crucified, He died <strong>and</strong> was buried.<br />
He descended into hell.<br />
The third day He rose again from the dead.<br />
He ascended into Heaven,<br />
<strong>and</strong> is seated at the right h<strong>and</strong> of God, the Father Almighty.<br />
From there He shall come to Judge the living <strong>and</strong> the dead.<br />
I believe in the Holy Spirit;<br />
Christ's holy universal Church;<br />
the fellowship of Christians,<br />
the forgiveness of sins,<br />
the resurrection of the body,<br />
<strong>and</strong> the life everlasting. Amen.<br />
The Chaplain says:<br />
Let us pray The Lord's Prayer together:<br />
Our Father,which art in Heaven,<br />
hallowed be Thy Name,<br />
Thy Kingdom come,<br />
Thy will be done,<br />
In earth as it is in Heaven.<br />
Give us this day our daily bread;<br />
<strong>and</strong> forgive us our trespasses,<br />
as we forgive them that trespass against us;<br />
<strong>and</strong> lead us not into temptation,<br />
but deliver us from evil.<br />
For Thine is the Kingdom,<br />
the power,<strong>and</strong> the glory,<br />
for ever <strong>and</strong> ever. Amen.<br />
Prayer for our L<strong>and</strong><br />
Almighty, everlasting God, bless our l<strong>and</strong>, our leaders <strong>and</strong> people. Grant<br />
that all of us may live in obedience to Your Word <strong>and</strong> follow after truth,<br />
righteousness <strong>and</strong> justice. Lord, give peace -with justice <strong>and</strong> freedom -in our<br />
time, to the glory of Your holy Name through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.<br />
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Prayer for our Church<br />
Heavenly Father, You have called us to be living members of Christ's<br />
holy Church. Bless the fellowship of the churches, its bishops, pastors,<br />
chaplains <strong>and</strong> other ministers <strong>and</strong> those in responsible positions. Grant<br />
to all who belong to Your Church sure faith in Your holy Word <strong>and</strong> lives<br />
obedient to it. May we always serve You <strong>and</strong> each other in prayer <strong>and</strong> love,<br />
through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.<br />
Prayer for all in need<br />
Almighty,merciful Father, You have told us not to think of ourselves only,<br />
but to remember the needs of others. We pray for all in want or need, for<br />
the sick in body or mind,for the poor <strong>and</strong> lonely, for those in distress <strong>and</strong><br />
despair <strong>and</strong> for all who have strayed from Your way. Merciful Lord, deliver<br />
them, strengthen <strong>and</strong> restore their faith, bless <strong>and</strong> help them through<br />
Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.<br />
Then follows:<br />
The Scripture readings.<br />
*Bible message.<br />
A closing Hymn.<br />
The blessing.<br />
The Grace:<br />
The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, <strong>and</strong> the love of God, <strong>and</strong> the<br />
fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with us all for ever more. Amen.<br />
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Funeral Service<br />
The Chaplain begins the service saying:<br />
Listen to God's Word.<br />
The Lord Jesus Christ said:<br />
"I am the Resurrection <strong>and</strong> the Life. He who believes in Me, though he<br />
may die, he shall live." John 11:25<br />
The Apostle Paul wrote:<br />
"For I am persuaded that neither death nor life, nor angels nor<br />
principalities nor powers, nor things present nor things to come,<br />
nor height nor depth, nor any other created thing, shall be able to<br />
separate us from the love of God which is in Christ Jesus our Lord."<br />
Romans 8:38-39<br />
Psalm 23<br />
A Psalm of David<br />
1. The Lord is my Shepherd,<br />
I shall not be in want.<br />
2. He makes me lie down in green pastures,<br />
He leads me beside quiet waters.<br />
3. He restores my soul.<br />
He leads me in paths of righteousness<br />
for His Name's sake.<br />
4. Yea, though I walk<br />
through the valley of the shadow of death.<br />
I will fear no evil,<br />
for You are with me;<br />
Your rod <strong>and</strong> Your staff,<br />
they comfort me.<br />
5. You prepare a table before me<br />
in the presence of my enemies.<br />
You anoint my head with oil;<br />
my cup runs over.<br />
6. Surely goodness <strong>and</strong> mercy shall follow me<br />
All the days of my life,<br />
<strong>and</strong> I will dwell in the house<br />
of the Lord forever.<br />
Other appropriate Psalms that could be read include: Psalm 103; 130; 139.<br />
At the burial of a child, passages from Lamentations 3:22-26; 3:31-33;<br />
John 6.37-40; 1John 3:1-2 <strong>and</strong> Psalm 23 could be read.<br />
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The Chaplain shall lead the congregation in prayer:<br />
At the Burial of an Adult<br />
O God, who by the glorious Resurrection of Your Son Jesus Christ<br />
destroyed death, <strong>and</strong> brought life <strong>and</strong> immortality to light: Grant that<br />
Your servant (name), being raised with Him, may know the strength of<br />
His presence, <strong>and</strong> rejoice in His eternal glory; who with You <strong>and</strong> the Holy<br />
Spirit lives <strong>and</strong> reigns, one God, for ever <strong>and</strong> ever. Amen.<br />
Or<br />
O God, whose mercies cannot be numbered: Accept our prayers on behalf<br />
of Your servant (name), <strong>and</strong> grant him an entrance into Your heavenly<br />
l<strong>and</strong> of light <strong>and</strong> joy, in the fellowship of Your saints; through Jesus Christ<br />
our Lord, Who lives <strong>and</strong> reigns with You <strong>and</strong> the Holy Spirit, one God,<br />
now <strong>and</strong> for ever. Amen.<br />
Or<br />
O God of grace <strong>and</strong> glory,we remember before you this day our brother<br />
(sister) (name). We thank you for giving him to us, his family <strong>and</strong> friends,<br />
to know <strong>and</strong> to love as a companion on our earthly pilgrimage. In Your<br />
boundless compassion, console us who mourn. Give us faith to see in<br />
death the gate of eternal life, so that in quiet confidence we may continue<br />
our course on earth, until, by Your call, we are reunited with those who<br />
have gone before; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.<br />
At the Burial of a Child<br />
O God, whose beloved Son took children into His arms <strong>and</strong> blessed them:<br />
Give us grace to entrust (name) to your never failing care <strong>and</strong> love, <strong>and</strong><br />
bring us all to Your Heavenly kingdom; through Jesus Christ our Lord,<br />
Who lives <strong>and</strong> reigns with You <strong>and</strong> the Holy Spirit, one God, now <strong>and</strong> for<br />
ever. Amen.<br />
The Chaplain may add the following prayer:<br />
Most merciful God, whose wisdom is beyond our underst<strong>and</strong>ing: deal<br />
graciously with (name) in their grief. Surround them with your love, that<br />
they may not be overwhelmed by their loss, but have confidence in your<br />
goodness, <strong>and</strong> strength to meet the days to come; through Jesus Christ<br />
our Lord. Amen.<br />
Scripture readings can be read from any of the the following:<br />
From the Old Testament<br />
Isaiah 25:6-9 (He will swallow up death for ever)<br />
Isaiah 61:1-3 (To comfort those who mourn).<br />
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Lamentations3:22-26, 31-33 (The Lord is good to those who wait for Him).<br />
Job 19:21-27a (I know that my Redeemer lives).<br />
Appropriate Psalms: are also: 42:1 -7 ,46,90:1-12 , 121, 130, 139:1-11.<br />
From the New Testament<br />
Romans 8:14-19, 34-35, 37-39 (The glory that shall be revealed).<br />
1Corinthians 15:20:26, 35-38, 42-44, 53-58 (The resurrection body).<br />
2 Corinthians 4:16-5:9 (Things that are unseen are eternal).<br />
1 John 3:1-2 (We shall be like Him).<br />
Revelation 7:9-17 (God will wipe away every tear).<br />
Revelation 21:2-7 (Behold, I make all things new).<br />
The Gospel<br />
John 5:24-27 (He who believes has everlasting life).<br />
John 6:37-40 (All that the Father gives Me will come to Me).<br />
John 10:11-16 (I am the Good Shepherd).<br />
John 11:21-27 (I am the Resurrection <strong>and</strong> the Life).<br />
John 14:1-6 (In My Father's house are many rooms).<br />
At the end of the Scripture readings the Reader says:<br />
This is the Word of God.<br />
The Chaplain should then lead the congregation in prayer:<br />
For our brother (sister) (name), let us pray to our Lord Jesus Christ Who<br />
said, "I am the Resurrection <strong>and</strong> the Life."<br />
Lord, You consoled Martha <strong>and</strong> Mary in their distress; draw near to us<br />
who mourn for (name), <strong>and</strong> dry the tears of those who weep.<br />
Hear us, Lord.<br />
You wept at the grave of Lazarus, Your friend; comfort us now in our<br />
sorrow.<br />
Hear us, Lord.<br />
You raised the dead to life; give to our brother (sister) eternal life.<br />
Hear us Lord.<br />
You promised paradise to the thief who repented; bring our brother (sister)<br />
to the joys of Heaven.<br />
Hear us Lord.<br />
Our brother (sister) was washed in Baptism <strong>and</strong> anointed with the Holy<br />
Spirit; give him fellowship with all Your saints.<br />
Hear us Lord.<br />
He was nourished with Your Body <strong>and</strong> Blood in the Eucharist; grant him a<br />
place at the table in Your heavenly Kingdom.<br />
Hear us Lord.<br />
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Funeral Service<br />
Comfort us in our sorrows at the death of our brother (sister); let our Faith<br />
be our consolation, <strong>and</strong> eternal life our hope.<br />
*Then follows the sermon<br />
Thereafter one or more of the following prayers may be offered:<br />
Our loving heavenly Father,You did not spare Your beloved only Son our<br />
Lord Jesus Christ, but gave Him to redeem us by His death on the Cross;<br />
comfort <strong>and</strong> support those who mourn here before You, let them not<br />
doubt Your love but bring them through their sorrow to a fuller knowledge<br />
of Your divine wisdom <strong>and</strong> purpose <strong>and</strong> that all things work for the good<br />
of those who love You, through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.<br />
Lord Jesus Christ, Your heart went out to the widow of Nain who had<br />
lost her only son <strong>and</strong> You restored him to her; You were deeply moved<br />
by the grief of those who mourned over Lazarus death <strong>and</strong> You wept <strong>and</strong><br />
restored him to life; have compassion on Your servants in their loss <strong>and</strong><br />
grief. Be to them a very present help in trouble, give them eyes of faith<br />
that they may see that the eternal God is their refuge <strong>and</strong> that underneath<br />
are the everlasting arms; we ask it in Your Name. Amen.<br />
Lord, merciful Father, You have promised not to break a bruised reed <strong>and</strong><br />
You do not despise any one crushed by sorrow; most mercifully answer<br />
our prayers for those who are bruised <strong>and</strong> distressed; calm the storm <strong>and</strong><br />
scatter the clouds, that they may praise <strong>and</strong> bless You, through Jesus<br />
Christ our Lord. Amen.<br />
The Grace- said together:<br />
The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, <strong>and</strong> the love of God, <strong>and</strong> the<br />
fellowship of the Holy Spirit, be with us all ever more. Amen.<br />
The first part of the service concludes here. Then follows the Committal<br />
or burial.<br />
The chaplain says:<br />
Man that is born of a woman is of few days <strong>and</strong> full of trouble. He comes<br />
up, <strong>and</strong> is cut down like a flower; he disappears like a shadow <strong>and</strong> does not<br />
stay. In the midst of life we are in death.<br />
To whom can we turn for help but to You Lord God, most holy,most<br />
mighty?<br />
Although You are justly angered by our sins, deliver us not to the terror<br />
of eternal death. Hear our prayers most merciful God for Jesus Christ's<br />
sake. Amen.<br />
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<strong>Chaplains</strong> <strong>H<strong>and</strong>book</strong><br />
Almighty God our heavenly Father,with you are the souls of all who have<br />
died in the Faith of Christ, here we commit the body of our dear brother<br />
earth to earth, dust to dust, ashes to ashes, in the Name of our Lord Jesus<br />
Christ Who will transform our lowly bodies, that they may be like His<br />
glorious body, by the power that enables Him to bring everything under<br />
His control. Amen.<br />
"Everyone the Father gives to Me will come to Me;<br />
I will never turn away anyone who believes in Me."<br />
He who raised Jesus Christ from the dead will also give new life to our<br />
mortal bodies through His indwelling Spirit.<br />
My heart, therefore, is glad, <strong>and</strong> my spirit rejoices; my body also shall rest<br />
in hope.<br />
You will show me the path of life; in Your presence there is fullness of<br />
joy,<strong>and</strong> in Your right h<strong>and</strong> are pleasures for evermore.<br />
Then, while earth is cast upon the coffin, the Chaplain says these Words:<br />
In sure <strong>and</strong> certain hope of the resurrection to eternal life through our<br />
Lord Jesus Christ, we commend to Almighty God our brother (sister)<br />
(name), <strong>and</strong> we commit his body to the ground; earth to earth, ashes to<br />
ashes, dust to dust. The Lord bless him <strong>and</strong> keep him, the Lord make<br />
His face to shine upon him <strong>and</strong> be gracious to him, the Lord lift up His<br />
countenance upon him <strong>and</strong> give him peace. Amen.<br />
Suitable Hymns for Funeral Services<br />
"A Mighty Fortress is our God"<br />
"Abide with Me"<br />
"All Glory Be to God on High"<br />
"All People That on Earth Do Dwell"<br />
"Be Thou My Vision"<br />
"Breathe on Me, Breath of God"<br />
"Cast Thy Burden on the Lord"<br />
"Christ the Lord Is Risen Again"<br />
"Faith of Our Fathers"<br />
"For All the Saints"<br />
"Glorious Things of Thee Are Spoken"<br />
"God Moves in a Mysterious Way''<br />
"God of Grace <strong>and</strong> God of Glory''<br />
"Guide Me, O Thou Great Jehovah"<br />
"I know That My Redeemer Lives"<br />
"Immortal, Invisible, God Only Wise"<br />
"O God, Our Help in Ages Past"<br />
"The Church's One Foundation"<br />
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Funeral Service<br />
The Benediction<br />
The God of peace, who brought again from the dead our Lord Jesus Christ,<br />
the great Shepherd of the sheep, through the blood of the everlasting<br />
Covenant: Make you perfect in every good work to do His will, working<br />
in you that which is well-pleasing in His sight; through Jesus Christ, to<br />
Whom be glory for ever <strong>and</strong> ever. Amen.<br />
Dedication Service (for young children)<br />
Our Lord Jesus Christ said:<br />
"Let the little children come to Me, <strong>and</strong> do not forbid them; for of such<br />
is the Kingdom of God." Mark 10:14<br />
The Apostle Peter said:<br />
"Repent, <strong>and</strong> let every one of you be baptised in the Name of Jesus Christ<br />
for the remission of sins; <strong>and</strong> you shall receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.<br />
For the promise is to you <strong>and</strong> to your children..." Acts 2:38, 39<br />
Moses said:<br />
"Hear, O Israel: The Lord our God, the Lord is one! You shall love the<br />
Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, <strong>and</strong> with all your<br />
strength. And these words which I comm<strong>and</strong> you today shall be in your<br />
heart. You shall teach them diligently to your children, <strong>and</strong> shall talk<br />
of them when you sit in your house, when you walk by the way, when<br />
you lie down, <strong>and</strong> when you rise up." Deuteronomy 6:4-7<br />
Then the Chaplain says:<br />
Christian friends, seeing that everyone is born with a sinful nature <strong>and</strong><br />
because our Saviour said that no one can enter God's Kingdom unless he<br />
is born again from above, let us together earnestly pray to God our Father,<br />
through our Lord Jesus Christ, that He will mercifully grant this child<br />
that which by nature he (or she) cannot have; that he (or she) may be born<br />
of the Holy Spirit <strong>and</strong> be made a living member of Christ's holy Church.<br />
Let us pray together:<br />
Almighty <strong>and</strong> everlasting God, as you saved Noah <strong>and</strong> his family in<br />
the Ark from perishing in the judgement of the flood, we pray You,<br />
in Your infinite mercy,to look graciously upon this child, wash him<br />
(or her) <strong>and</strong> sanctify him (or her) with the Holy Spirit, that he (or<br />
she), delivered from Your righteous anger may be received into the<br />
ark of Christ's Church, <strong>and</strong> grant that firm in faith, joyful through<br />
hope, <strong>and</strong> rooted in love, he (or she) may so pass over the waves of<br />
this troubled world, that finally he (or she) may come to the l<strong>and</strong> of<br />
everlasting life, there to reign with You for ever <strong>and</strong> ever,through<br />
Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.<br />
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<strong>Chaplains</strong> <strong>H<strong>and</strong>book</strong><br />
Hear the Word of God as it is written in the tenth chapter of Mark's<br />
Gospel, beginning at verse thirteen:<br />
"Then they brought little children to Him, that He might touch them;<br />
but the disciples rebuked those who brought them. But when Jesus<br />
saw it, He was greatly displeased <strong>and</strong> said to them, 'Let the little<br />
children come to Me, <strong>and</strong> do not forbid them; for of such is the kingdom<br />
of God. Assuredly, I say to you, whoever does not receive the kingdom<br />
of God as a little child will by no means enter it.' And He took them up<br />
in His arms, laid His h<strong>and</strong>s on them, <strong>and</strong> blessed them."<br />
You have heard in this reading from God's Word that Jesus gladly received<br />
the children of God's people, that He commended them, that He rebuked<br />
those that kept them from Him, that He openly showed His love for them,<br />
when He embraced them in His arms, laid His h<strong>and</strong>s on them <strong>and</strong> blessed<br />
them. We need therefore not doubt, but confidently believe, that He will<br />
receive this child which we bring to Him in prayer; that He will embrace<br />
him (or her) with the arms of His mercy; that He will give him (or her) the<br />
blessing of eternal life <strong>and</strong> make him(or her) a partaker of His everlasting<br />
Kingdom. Therefore, let us give thanks to God, <strong>and</strong> say together:<br />
Almighty <strong>and</strong> everlasting God, heavenly Father, we give You humble<br />
thanks that you have called us to the knowledge of your grace <strong>and</strong> to faith<br />
in You. Increase this knowledge <strong>and</strong> confirm this Faith in us more <strong>and</strong><br />
more. Give Your Holy Spirit to this child that he (or she) may be born again<br />
<strong>and</strong> be made an heir of everlasting salvation, through our Lord Jesus<br />
Christ, Who lives <strong>and</strong> reigns with You <strong>and</strong> the Holy Spirit, now <strong>and</strong> for<br />
ever. Amen.<br />
The Chaplain says to the parents <strong>and</strong> godparents:<br />
Christian friends, you have prayed that our Lord Jesus Christ will<br />
graciously receive this child, deliver him (or her) from his(or her) sins,fill<br />
him(or her) with the Holy Spirit <strong>and</strong> give him (or her) the Kingdom of<br />
Heaven <strong>and</strong> everlasting life.<br />
Our Lord has promised to answer prayers which we offer in His Name, <strong>and</strong><br />
this promise He will surely keep. For your part you must live in conformity<br />
with your prayers by setting this child the example of Christian lives <strong>and</strong><br />
Christian homes. You must continue in your prayers for him(or her) in the<br />
years ahead <strong>and</strong> instruct him (or her) in the Word of God <strong>and</strong> Christian<br />
faith <strong>and</strong> hope. Will you do this?<br />
Answer: By God's grace, we will.<br />
Chaplain: This child, for his(or her) part, must also faithfully promise by<br />
25
Funeral Service<br />
you today dedicating yourselves to bringing this child up in the Faith,<br />
until he (or she) comes of age to take the promise for himself (or herself),<br />
that he (or she) will renounce the devil <strong>and</strong> all his works, firmly believe<br />
God's holy Word <strong>and</strong> Obediently keep His comm<strong>and</strong>ments.<br />
I ask therefore:<br />
Do you in the name of this child renounce the devil <strong>and</strong> all his works, the<br />
greed <strong>and</strong> deceit of the world, <strong>and</strong> the sinful desires of the flesh, so that<br />
you will not follow them or be led by them?<br />
Answer: I renounce them all.<br />
Chaplain: Do you believe in God the Father Almighty, Maker of heaven<br />
<strong>and</strong> earth? And in Jesus Christ His only begotten Son our Lord? And that<br />
He was conceived by the Holy Spirit, born of the virgin Mary; that He<br />
suffered under Pontius Pilate, was crucified, died <strong>and</strong> was buried; that He<br />
went down into hell, <strong>and</strong> also rose again the third day; that He ascended<br />
into Heaven, <strong>and</strong> sits at the right h<strong>and</strong> of God the Father Almighty, <strong>and</strong><br />
from there will come again at the end of the world, to judge the living <strong>and</strong><br />
the dead? Do you believe in Christ's holy universal Church; the fellowship<br />
of Christians; the forgiveness of sins; the resurrection of the body; <strong>and</strong><br />
everlasting life after death?<br />
Answer: All this I firmly believe.<br />
Chaplain: Will you dedicate this child to our Lord Jesus Christ?<br />
Answer: This is our desire.<br />
Chaplain: Will you then obediently teach God's holy Word <strong>and</strong><br />
comm<strong>and</strong>ments to this child so that he (or she) may love <strong>and</strong> serve Him<br />
faithfully all his(or her) life?<br />
Answer: I will.<br />
Chaplain: Merciful God, grant that the old nature in this child may be so<br />
buried that the new man may be raised up in him (or her.)<br />
Congregation: Amen.<br />
Chaplain: Grant that all sinful desires may die in him or her <strong>and</strong> that all<br />
things belonging to the Spirit may live <strong>and</strong> grow in him (or her.)<br />
Congregation: Amen.<br />
Chaplain: Grant that he (or she) who is here dedicated to you may be<br />
granted heavenly grace <strong>and</strong> be everlastingly rewarded, through Your<br />
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<strong>Chaplains</strong> <strong>H<strong>and</strong>book</strong><br />
mercy,blessed Lord God Who governs all things for ever <strong>and</strong> ever.<br />
Congregation: Amen.<br />
The Chaplain takes the child <strong>and</strong> asks the parents his (or her) name. He<br />
first names it <strong>and</strong> then dedicates the child to God:<br />
I dedicate you in the Name of the Father <strong>and</strong> of the Son <strong>and</strong> of the Holy<br />
Spirit. Amen.<br />
We receive this child in to the congregation of Christ's Church <strong>and</strong> sign<br />
him(or her) with the sign of the cross (here the minister makes a cross on the<br />
child's forehead) to show that he (or she) will not be ashamed to confess the<br />
faith of Christ crucified <strong>and</strong> fight bravely against sin, the world <strong>and</strong> the<br />
devil <strong>and</strong> continue to be Christ's faithful follower <strong>and</strong> servant till his (or<br />
her) life's end. Amen.<br />
Let us pray together<br />
We give you heartfelt thanks, most merciful Father that you hear our<br />
prayers made in the Name of our Lord Jesus Christ to regenerate this<br />
child with Your Holy Spirit, to receive him(or her) for Your own child by<br />
adoption <strong>and</strong> to include him (or her) in Your holy Church. We pray that<br />
he (or she) may die to sin <strong>and</strong> live to righteousness , being crucified with<br />
Christ <strong>and</strong> raised with Him, <strong>and</strong> that with the rest of Christ's holy Church,<br />
he (or she) may inherit Your everlasting Kingdom, through Jesus Christ<br />
our Lord. Amen.<br />
Almighty God, our heavenly Father, your Son Jesus shared at Nazareth<br />
the life of a godly home; may this child be brought up in the training <strong>and</strong><br />
instruction of the Lord. Bless every family here. Help parents to teach the<br />
knowledge of Your Word <strong>and</strong> righteousness . Help children to respond<br />
with love <strong>and</strong> obedience . May our homes be blessed with Your presence,<br />
<strong>and</strong> filled with faith, hope <strong>and</strong> love, through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.<br />
The Grace said together:<br />
The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, the love of God <strong>and</strong> the<br />
fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with us all, evermore Amen.<br />
27
Baptism Service<br />
(Adults <strong>and</strong> Responsible children)<br />
"Then I will sprinkle clean water on you, <strong>and</strong> you shall be clean;<br />
I will cleanse you from all your filthiness <strong>and</strong> from all your idols.<br />
I will give you a new heart <strong>and</strong> put a new spirit within you; I will<br />
take the heart of stone out of your flesh <strong>and</strong> give you a heart of<br />
flesh. I will put My Spirit within you <strong>and</strong> cause you to walk in My<br />
statutes, <strong>and</strong> you will keep My Judgments <strong>and</strong> do them." <br />
Ezekiel 36:25-27<br />
"Repent, <strong>and</strong> let every one of you be baptised in the Name of Jesus<br />
Christ for the remission of sins; <strong>and</strong> you shall receive the gift of the<br />
Holy Spirit. For the promise is to you <strong>and</strong> to your children <strong>and</strong> to<br />
all who are afar off, as many as the Lord our God will call." <br />
Acts 2:38, 39<br />
The Chaplain says:<br />
God's Word tells us that everyone is born with a sinful nature, that all<br />
have sinned <strong>and</strong> fall short of the glory of God.<br />
Our Lord Jesus Christ said that no one can naturally enter the Kingdom of<br />
Heaven, but must be born again. Baptism is the external <strong>and</strong> visible sign<br />
of the new birth, of the washing away of sin <strong>and</strong> of becoming a member<br />
of God's family. But, it is of no effect without the inward <strong>and</strong> spiritual<br />
work of the Holy Spirit who first brings us to repentance <strong>and</strong> then to trust<br />
in the perfect sacrifice for sins made on the cross by our Saviour Jesus<br />
Christ. Therefore, let us pray that God will graciously grant our brother(s)<br />
(<strong>and</strong> sisters(s)) who have come here for baptism that which by their sinful<br />
nature they cannot have, that they may be born of the Holy Spirit <strong>and</strong><br />
made living members of Christ's holy Church. Amen.<br />
Chaplain: Almighty God, heavenly Father, You sent Your Son into the world<br />
to save sinners, by living a life of perfect obedience to Your holy Law, by<br />
suffering <strong>and</strong> dying upon the cross, by rising from the dead <strong>and</strong> ascending<br />
into Heaven; mercifully grant to these Your servants, who have come to<br />
baptism, to be cleansed from their sins, born again to everlasting life, <strong>and</strong><br />
that they may be filled with Your Holy Spirit, through Jesus Christ our Lord.<br />
Then follows:<br />
The Scripture Readings (e.g. 1 Corinthians 10:1-6; Romans 6:1-4; <strong>and</strong><br />
Mark 1:4-11) should now be read.<br />
*Sermon<br />
Hymn<br />
28
<strong>Chaplains</strong> <strong>H<strong>and</strong>book</strong><br />
Chaplain: Brothers <strong>and</strong> sisters in Christ, in the presence of God <strong>and</strong> this<br />
congregation do you renounce the devil <strong>and</strong> all his works, the deceit of the<br />
world <strong>and</strong> the sinful desires of the flesh so that you will not follow them<br />
or be led by them?<br />
Answer: I renounce them all.<br />
Chaplain: Do you believe in God the Father Almighty, Creator of heaven<br />
<strong>and</strong> earth?<br />
Answer: I do believe in Him.<br />
Chaplain: Do you believe in Jesus Christ His only Son our Lord? He was<br />
conceived by the power of the Holy Spirit <strong>and</strong> was born of the virgin Mary.<br />
He suffered under Pontius Pilate, was crucified, died <strong>and</strong> was buried. He<br />
descended into hell <strong>and</strong> on the third day He rose again. He ascended into<br />
Heaven <strong>and</strong> is seated at the right h<strong>and</strong> of God the Father Almighty. He<br />
will come again to judge the living <strong>and</strong> the dead.<br />
Answer: I do.<br />
Chaplain: Do you believe in God the Holy Spirit, Christ's holy universal<br />
Church, the fellowship of Christians, the forgiveness of sins, the<br />
resurrection of the body <strong>and</strong> the life everlasting?<br />
Answer: All this I firmly believe.<br />
Chaplain: Will you then obediently keep God's holy Word <strong>and</strong><br />
comm<strong>and</strong>ments <strong>and</strong> serve Him faithfully all your life?<br />
Answer: I will.<br />
Chaplain: May our merciful God grant that your old nature may be buried<br />
<strong>and</strong> that the new nature will grow in its place.<br />
Congregation: Amen.<br />
Chaplain: Grant that your sinful desires may die <strong>and</strong> Christian values live<br />
in their place.<br />
Congregation: Amen.<br />
Chaplain: Grant that you may have strength <strong>and</strong> endurance to win the<br />
victory over the devil, the world <strong>and</strong> your sinful nature.<br />
Congregation: Amen.<br />
29
Baptism Service<br />
The Chaplain baptises them in water saying:<br />
Chaplain: . ..I baptise you in the Name of the Father, <strong>and</strong> of the Son, <strong>and</strong><br />
of the Holy Spirit. Amen.<br />
We receive you into the congregation of Christ's Church <strong>and</strong> sign you with<br />
the sign of the cross (here the minister makes a cross on their foreheads) to<br />
show that you will not be ashamed to confess the faith of Christ crucified<br />
<strong>and</strong> to fight bravely under His Name against sin, the world, <strong>and</strong> the devil,<br />
<strong>and</strong> to continue as Christ's faithful soldier <strong>and</strong> servant to your life's end.<br />
Amen.<br />
Chaplain: Let us pray together:<br />
Heavenly Father, we thank You that You hear our prayers made in the<br />
Name of Your Son Jesus Christ for these our brothers (or sisters) who<br />
according to Your Word have been baptised in Your Name; that they<br />
might receive new birth by your Holy Spirit, become Your own children by<br />
adoption, <strong>and</strong> living members of your holy Church. Grant that they may<br />
die to sin <strong>and</strong> live to righteousness, being crucified with Christ <strong>and</strong> raised<br />
with Him, <strong>and</strong> that they,with the rest of your children may inherit Your<br />
eternal Kingdom; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.<br />
Benediction:<br />
To God's gracious mercy <strong>and</strong> protection we commit you. The Lord bless<br />
<strong>and</strong> keep you. The Lord make His face to shine on you <strong>and</strong> be gracious to<br />
you. The Lord give you peace both now <strong>and</strong> for ever. Amen.<br />
"Now to Him Who is able to keep you from stumbling, <strong>and</strong> to present<br />
you faultless before the presence of His glory with exceeding joy, to<br />
God our Savior, Who alone is wise, be glory <strong>and</strong> majesty, dominion<br />
<strong>and</strong> power, both now <strong>and</strong> forever. Amen." Jude 24 - 25<br />
"The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, <strong>and</strong> the love of God, <strong>and</strong> the<br />
communion of the Holy Spirit be with you all." 2 Corinthians 13: 14<br />
"May the Lord Himself, Who is our source of peace, give you peace at<br />
all times <strong>and</strong> in every way. The Lord be with you all." <br />
2 Thessalonians 3:16<br />
"Now may the God of peace who brought up our Lord Jesus from the<br />
dead, that great Shepherd of the sheep, through the Blood of the<br />
everlasting covenant, make you complete in every good work to do His<br />
will, working in you what is well pleasing in His sight, through Jesus<br />
Christ, to whom be glory forever <strong>and</strong> ever. Amen." Hebrews 13:20-21<br />
30
<strong>Chaplains</strong> <strong>H<strong>and</strong>book</strong><br />
The Creed of Athanasius<br />
The Athanasian Creed composed between AD 381-428, based on the<br />
work of St. Athanasius, Bishop of Alex<strong>and</strong>ria AD 329-373, affirms<br />
<strong>and</strong> defines the fundamental Christian doctrine of God the Holy Trinity.<br />
1. Whoever will be saved: before all things it is necessary that he hold the<br />
Holy Christian Faith.<br />
2. Which faith except everyone do keep whole <strong>and</strong> undefiled: without<br />
doubt he shall perish everlastingly.<br />
3. And the Holy Christian Faith is this: that we worship one God in<br />
Trinity, <strong>and</strong> the Trinity in Unity;<br />
4. Neither confounding the Persons: nor dividing the Substance.<br />
5. For there is one Person of the Father, another of the Son; <strong>and</strong> another<br />
of the Holy Spirit.<br />
6. But the Godhead of the Father, of the Son, <strong>and</strong> of the Holy Spirit, is all<br />
one: the Glory equal, the Majesty co-eternal.<br />
7. Such as the Father is, such is the Son; <strong>and</strong> such is the Holy Spirit.<br />
8. The Father uncreate, the Son uncreate; <strong>and</strong> the Holy Spirit uncreate.<br />
9. The Father incomprehensible, the Son incomprehensible; <strong>and</strong> the<br />
Holy Spirit incomprehensible.<br />
10. The Father eternal, the Son eternal; <strong>and</strong> the Holy Spirit eternal.<br />
11. And yet they are not three eternals; but one eternal.<br />
12. As also there are not three incomprehensibles, nor three untreated;<br />
but one untreated <strong>and</strong> one incomprehensible.<br />
13. So likewise the Father is Almighty, the Son Almighty; <strong>and</strong> the Holy<br />
Spirit Almighty.<br />
14. And yet they are not three Almighties; but one Almighty.<br />
15. So the Father is God, the Son is God: <strong>and</strong> the Holy Spirit is God.<br />
16. And yet they are not three Gods; but one God.<br />
17. So likewise the Father is Lord, the Son Lord; <strong>and</strong> the Holy Spirit Lord.<br />
18. And yet not three Lords; but one Lord.<br />
19. For like as we are compelled by the Christian verity: to acknowledge<br />
every Person by Himself to be God <strong>and</strong> Lord;<br />
20. So we are forbidden by the Holy Christian Faith: to say there be three<br />
Gods or three Lords.<br />
21. The Father is made of none: neither created nor begotten.<br />
22. The Son is of the Father alone: not made, nor created, but begotten.<br />
23. The Holy Spirit is of the Father <strong>and</strong> of the Son: neither made, nor<br />
created, nor begotten, but proceeding.<br />
24. So there is one Father, not three Fathers; one Son, not three Sons; one<br />
Holy Spirit, not three Holy Spirits.<br />
25. And in this Trinity none is before, or after another: none is greater, or<br />
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The Creed of Athanasius<br />
less than another;<br />
26. But the whole three Persons are co-eternal together: <strong>and</strong> coequal.<br />
27. So that in all things, as is aforesaid: the Unity in Trinity, <strong>and</strong> the<br />
Trinity in Unity is to be worshipped.<br />
28. He therefore that will be saved: must thus think of the Trinity.<br />
29. Furthermore, it is necessary to everlasting salvation: that he also<br />
believes rightly in the Incarnation of our Lord Jesus Christ.<br />
30. For the right Faith is, that we believe <strong>and</strong> confess: that our Lord Jesus<br />
Christ, the Son of God, is God <strong>and</strong> Man.<br />
31. God of the Substance of the Father, begotten before the worlds: <strong>and</strong><br />
Man, of the Substance of His mother, born in the world;<br />
32. Perfect God, <strong>and</strong> perfect Man: of a reasonable soul <strong>and</strong> human flesh<br />
subsisting;<br />
33. Equal to the Father, as touching His Godhead: <strong>and</strong> inferior to the<br />
Father, as touching His Manhood.<br />
34. Who although He be God <strong>and</strong> Man: yet He is not two, but one Christ;<br />
35. One; not by conversion of the Godhead into flesh: but by taking of<br />
the Manhood into God;<br />
36. One altogether; not by confusion of substance: but by unity of Person.<br />
37. For as the reasonable soul <strong>and</strong> flesh is one man: so God <strong>and</strong> Man is<br />
one Christ;<br />
38. Who suffered for our salvation: descended into hell, rose again the<br />
third day from the dead.<br />
39. He ascended into Heaven, He sits on the right h<strong>and</strong> of the Father,<br />
God Almighty: from where He shall come to judge the living <strong>and</strong> the<br />
dead.<br />
40. At whose coming all men shall rise again with their bodies; <strong>and</strong> shall<br />
give account for their own works.<br />
41. And they that have done good shall go into life everlasting: <strong>and</strong> they<br />
that have done evil into everlasting fire.<br />
42. This is the Faith of Christ's Holy Universal Church: which except a<br />
man believes faithfully, he cannot be saved.<br />
Glory to God, Father, Son <strong>and</strong> Holy Spirit<br />
as in the beginning so now <strong>and</strong> forever. Amen.<br />
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The Art of Preaching<br />
INTRODUCTION<br />
We all need to learn how to preach/speak in public. The ability to<br />
communicate or teach is a gift that needs cultivating <strong>and</strong> practice. Most<br />
important, we each need a relationship/experience with the Holy Spirit<br />
(Acts 1:8) to equip us for service.<br />
A. BIBLICAL BASIS (2 Timothy 3:16, 17; 4:2)<br />
There is a distinct difference between:<br />
Preaching, Proclaiming, Teaching, Testimony, Instructing,<br />
Evangelising, Witnessing, <strong>and</strong> each has their time <strong>and</strong> place in a<br />
chaplain's life.<br />
B. THREE BASIC REQUIREMENTS FOR PREACHING<br />
1. Have something Worthwhile, Important <strong>and</strong> Relevant to say.<br />
2. Explain <strong>and</strong> illustrate what you say.<br />
3. Know how to start <strong>and</strong> how (<strong>and</strong> when) to finish.<br />
C. WHERE DO I GET MY MESSAGES FROM?<br />
1. Directly from the Word of God, the Bible (Jeremiah 1:9, 17; 2:2;<br />
2 Timothy 3:16, 17).<br />
2. As Truths we know to be appropriate for the occasion (Acts 20:<br />
18-35).<br />
3. As Lessons which we know our audience needs to know (2 Timothy<br />
4:2).<br />
4. Systematic Bible Study of Topics, Books, People, Miracles,<br />
Parables, Doctrines.<br />
5. A vibrant Relationship with God through the Holy Spirit.<br />
6. The Renewing of our Minds by the Holy Spirit (Romans 12:2).<br />
7. Underst<strong>and</strong>ing Vital Truths.<br />
8. Genuine Knowledge of our Listeners' Needs (insights into a<br />
truth <strong>and</strong> how it relates to life experiences from daily relationships).<br />
Sensitivity <strong>and</strong> relevance to listeners' needs.<br />
ALL PREACHING MUST BE CLEAR. RELEVANT AND SCRIPTURAL.<br />
D. HOW DO I PREPARE MY MESSAGES<br />
1. Choose your SUBJECT <strong>and</strong> topic carefully <strong>and</strong> prayerfully in the<br />
light of your AIM.<br />
2. Define your THEME clearly.<br />
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The Art of Preaching<br />
3. Collect all the necessary MATERIALS <strong>and</strong> find all relevant<br />
SCRIPTURES.<br />
4. Discover SOURCES <strong>and</strong> resources for material. Be well read. Do<br />
your homework.<br />
5. Develop <strong>and</strong> THINK over the theme.<br />
6. VALUE TEST it: is it Important?<br />
Relevant?<br />
Appropriate to that group?<br />
7. QUALITY CONTROL:<br />
Are the Facts correct?<br />
Are the Principles sound?<br />
Is the argument Clear?<br />
Is the progression Logical?<br />
Are the Illustrations suitable?<br />
Are the sentences Clear, Complete <strong>and</strong> Concise?<br />
Will it be Interesting <strong>and</strong> easy to listen to?<br />
8. Make an OUTLINE: Title:<br />
Scripture text:<br />
Theme:<br />
Aim:<br />
Introduction:<br />
Headings:<br />
Conclusion:<br />
9. In any service, aim for a spirit of worship, edification<br />
(encouragement, correction, warning, or instruction), intercession<br />
<strong>and</strong> participation/fellowship. Aim for RESULTS. Motivate<br />
people to action! Inspire, inform <strong>and</strong> involve; educate <strong>and</strong> enlist;<br />
motivate <strong>and</strong> mobilise your listeners to repent of their sins, to<br />
trust in Christ <strong>and</strong> to obey God's Law in Scripture.<br />
E. COMMUNICATING IDEAS<br />
1. HO HUM? (Wake me up). Start a fire in your first sentence.<br />
2. WHY BRING THAT UP? (Relevance).<br />
3. FOR INSTANCE? (Example <strong>and</strong> evidence).<br />
4. SO WHAT? (What can I do about it?)<br />
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F. LAWS OF COMMUNICATION<br />
1. Listeners like STORIES.<br />
2. Listeners like EXAMPLES (especially from the lives or lips of<br />
famous people).<br />
3. Listeners like VISUAL AIDS (like Jeremiah's or Ezekiel's).<br />
4. Listeners like CLEAR STRUCTURE <strong>and</strong> order/progression.<br />
5. Listeners like STATISTICS - IF DRAMATISED.<br />
6. Listeners like examples that make HISTORY COME ALIVE.<br />
7. Listeners like speakers who keep to their TIME LIMIT.<br />
G. CONCLUSIONS are to Sum Up, to Clarify <strong>and</strong> to Conclude<br />
(Never to introduce new material!)<br />
H. BASIC GUIDELINES FOR ALL PREACHING<br />
• St<strong>and</strong> up to be seen!<br />
• Speak up to be heard!<br />
• Shut up to be appreciated!<br />
Your personal appearance, cleanliness, neatness <strong>and</strong> clothing are an<br />
important part of your message. Your posture, gestures, eye contact,<br />
facial expressions <strong>and</strong> tone of voice can enhance or undermine your<br />
message.<br />
Beware of wasted words <strong>and</strong> never wafile! (Well, ah, like, urn, ah, you<br />
know!)<br />
Never preach without prayer. Do not preach in your prayers!<br />
Be natural.<br />
Identify with your audience. Respect the integrity of your audience<br />
(do not insult them).<br />
Back up your message with your life.<br />
" Let your speech always be with grace, seasoned with salt, that you<br />
may know how you ought to answer each one." Colossians 4:6<br />
"Preach the Word!" 2 Timothy 4:2<br />
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MOTIVES FOR MISSIONS<br />
Wrong Motives <strong>and</strong> False Calls<br />
Because of human depravity, even the best of us can do some of the finest<br />
ministry with mixed Motives.<br />
You must not wait for your motives to be 100% pure before launching out<br />
into missions - or you will never get there. But once in the mission field<br />
you can expect God to thoroughly purify your motives.<br />
Those who go to the mission field for predominantly wrong motives can<br />
cause a lot of grief - to themselves <strong>and</strong> those around them. These are some<br />
examples of wrong reasons for involvement in missions:<br />
1. The desire to escape problems at home or work - boredom, job<br />
dissatisfaction, in-law problems, etc. ("Escaping" to the mission field<br />
does not work because you tend to take your problems with you.)<br />
2. The desire to impress other people. Missionary children who feel<br />
obligated to follow in their parent's footsteps. Fear of disappointing<br />
college teachers, pastor, or church friends. A desire to be more holy<br />
<strong>and</strong> dedicated than one's peers. (God's Will is more important than<br />
what people think of you.)<br />
3. The desire to prove something to yourself. (The mission field is<br />
not the place to go for an ego trip).<br />
4. The desire to earn favour with God. A "salvation by works" mentality.<br />
5. Feelings of guilt <strong>and</strong> pity for being better off than the "downtrodden<br />
masses" who have been "exploited <strong>and</strong> oppressed."<br />
6. Emotionalism. Human emotions are God-given, <strong>and</strong> essential, but<br />
emotion is not a good enough basis for a call.<br />
What is Holding You Back?<br />
1. Are you in debt? You must pay it off!<br />
2. Are you getting too much education?<br />
3. Are you falling in love with someone who is not committed to missions?<br />
4. Are your parents opposed to your going?<br />
5. Are you worried about your safety?<br />
6. Are you afraid of failing?<br />
7. Are you afraid of dirt, disease <strong>and</strong> discomfort?<br />
8. Are you worried about your children?<br />
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<strong>Chaplains</strong> <strong>H<strong>and</strong>book</strong><br />
The greatest hindrance to missionary work is self. Self that refuses<br />
to sacrifice. Self that refuses to give. Self that refuses to go. "Go ye<br />
therefore..."<br />
Why Many Resist the Call to Missions<br />
1. The Myth of the Super-Spiritual Missionary<br />
Unrealistic estimation of the spiritual qualifications required. (Missionaries<br />
are ordinary Christians who face the same struggles <strong>and</strong> infirmities as<br />
other Christians, yet are responding to the Great Commission).<br />
2. The Burden of Deputation<br />
The hard work of promoting missions, recruiting prayer supporters,<br />
inspiring others into missions <strong>and</strong> getting one's home church involved is<br />
essential but daunting.<br />
3. The Reluctance to Make a Life Time Commitment<br />
The most efficient expenditure of resources is career commitment. Yet<br />
the existentialism of the "now generation" militates against long-term<br />
commitment. We need to be committed for life to do God's Will <strong>and</strong> be<br />
flexible as to where <strong>and</strong> how God may direct us to accomplish it.<br />
4. The Reticence to Learn another Language<br />
The negative experiences of many in foreign language classes at school<br />
discourage them from attempting to learn how to communicate the<br />
Gospel in the field though a foreign language. (Yet there are many mission<br />
fields where English, French, or Portuguese is needed.) Actually, language<br />
learning in the field while communicating the Gospel is a far more<br />
enjoyable <strong>and</strong> workable experience.<br />
5. The Fear of Failure<br />
Many fear that they might fail to raise enough support, or fail to adjust<br />
to a new culture, or fail to learn a new language. The fear of a tough,<br />
dem<strong>and</strong>ing, dangerous, or difficult job in unfamiliar surroundings. The<br />
fear of the unknown deters many from launching out in obedience <strong>and</strong><br />
faith. "Nothing ventured - nothing gained." (Example of John Mark – failed<br />
<strong>and</strong> deserted Paul but later returned, repented <strong>and</strong> recovered to become<br />
an assistant to Paul <strong>and</strong> Peter <strong>and</strong> author of the Gospel of Mark.) There<br />
is a general lack of direction <strong>and</strong> commitment. A paralysing passivity <strong>and</strong><br />
inertia. "Look at the Fields" John 4:35. Commitment <strong>and</strong> obedience will<br />
open up God's blessings.<br />
Why Many Who Respond to the Call are Sidetracked<br />
1. Love <strong>and</strong> Marriage<br />
Many prospective missionaries get sidetracked by marrying someone who<br />
is not willing to be a missionary.<br />
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Motives for Missions<br />
2. Parental Opposition<br />
The tension between honouring our parents <strong>and</strong> obeying the Lord<br />
(Matthew 10:37).<br />
3. Financial Debts<br />
Good intentions crippled by unwise choices <strong>and</strong> enslaving debt.<br />
But Christ must come first.<br />
Why Should the Heathen be Evangelised?<br />
1. The Bible is True<br />
"for prophecy never came by the will of man, but holy men of God<br />
spoke as they were moved by the Holy Spirit." 2 Peter 1:21<br />
"All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, <strong>and</strong> is profitable for<br />
doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness."<br />
2 Timothy 3:16<br />
"For I am not ashamed of the Gospel of Christ, for it is the power of<br />
God to salvation for everyone who believes, for the Jew first <strong>and</strong> also<br />
for the Greek." Romans 1:16<br />
2. All Mankind is Lost<br />
"As it is written: 'There is none righteous, no, not one; there is none who<br />
underst<strong>and</strong>s; there is none who seeks after God. They have all turned<br />
aside; they have together become unprofitable; there is none who does<br />
good, no, not one'. 'Their throat is an open tomb; with their tongues<br />
they have practiced deceit'; 'The poison of asps is under their lips';<br />
'Whose mouth is full of cursing <strong>and</strong> bitterness'. Their 'feet are swift to<br />
shed blood; destruction <strong>and</strong> misery are in their ways; <strong>and</strong> the way of<br />
peace they have not known'. 'There is no fear of God before their eyes.'<br />
Now we know that whatever the Law says, it says to those who are<br />
under the Law, that every mouth may be stopped, <strong>and</strong> all the world<br />
may become guilty before God. Therefore by the deeds of the Law no<br />
flesh will be justified in His sight, for by the Law is the knowledge of<br />
sin. But now the righteousness of God apart from the Law is revealed,<br />
being witnessed by the Law <strong>and</strong> the Prophets, even the righteousness<br />
of God, through faith in Jesus Christ, to all <strong>and</strong> on all who believe. For<br />
there is no difference; for all have sinned <strong>and</strong> fall short of the glory of<br />
God," Romans 3:10-23<br />
"He who believes in Him is not condemned; but he who does not believe<br />
is condemned already, because he has not believed in the Name of the<br />
only begotten Son of God." John 3:18<br />
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<strong>Chaplains</strong> <strong>H<strong>and</strong>book</strong><br />
3. Death is Inevitable<br />
"And as it is appointed for men to die once, but after this the<br />
Judgement" Hebrews 9:27<br />
4. Judgement is Certain<br />
"because He has appointed a Day on which He will Judge the world<br />
in righteousness by the Man whom He has ordained. He has given<br />
assurance of this to all by raising Him from the dead." Acts 17:31<br />
"For as many as have sinned without Law will also perish without Law,<br />
<strong>and</strong> as many as have sinned in the Law will be Judged by the Law (for<br />
not the hearers of the Law are just in the sight of God, but the doers of<br />
the Law will be justified; for when Gentiles, who do not have the Law,<br />
by nature do the things in the Law, these, although not having the<br />
Law, are a law to themselves, who show the work of the Law written<br />
in their hearts, their conscience also bearing witness, <strong>and</strong> between<br />
themselves their thoughts accusing or else excusing them) in the Day<br />
when God will Judge the secrets of men by Jesus Christ, according to<br />
my Gospel." Romans 2:12-16<br />
5. Hell is Real<br />
"Enter by the narrow gate; for wide is the gate <strong>and</strong> broad is the<br />
way that leads to destruction, <strong>and</strong> there are many who go in by it."<br />
Matthew 7:13<br />
"And these will go away into everlasting punishment, but the<br />
righteous into eternal life." Matthew 25:46<br />
"Then I saw a great white Throne <strong>and</strong> Him who sat on it, from whose<br />
face the earth <strong>and</strong> the Heaven fled away. And there was found no place<br />
for them. And I saw the dead, small <strong>and</strong> great, st<strong>and</strong>ing before God,<br />
<strong>and</strong> books were opened. And another book was opened, which is the<br />
Book of Life. And the dead were Judged according to their works, by<br />
the things which were written in the books. The sea gave up the dead<br />
who were in it, <strong>and</strong> Death <strong>and</strong> Hades delivered up the dead who were<br />
in them. And they were Judged, each one according to his works. Then<br />
Death <strong>and</strong> Hades were cast into the lake of fire. This is the second<br />
death. And anyone not found written in the Book of Life was cast into<br />
the lake of fire." Revelation 20:11-15<br />
6. There is Only One God<br />
"One Lord, one faith, one baptism; one God <strong>and</strong> Father of all,<br />
who is above all, <strong>and</strong> through all, <strong>and</strong> in you all." Ephesians 4:5-6<br />
"Look to Me, <strong>and</strong> be saved, All you ends of the earth! For I am God,<br />
<strong>and</strong> there is no other." Isaiah 45:22<br />
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Motives for Missions<br />
7. God Loves the Whole World<br />
"For this is good <strong>and</strong> acceptable in the sight of God our Saviour, who<br />
desires all men to be saved <strong>and</strong> to come to the knowledge of the truth."<br />
1 Timothy 2:3- 4<br />
"For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that<br />
whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life."<br />
John 3:16<br />
8. The Whole World Belongs to God<br />
"The earth is the Lord's, <strong>and</strong> all its fullness, The world <strong>and</strong> those who<br />
dwell therein." Psalm 24:1<br />
"If I were hungry, I would not tell you; for the world is Mine, <strong>and</strong> all its<br />
fullness." Psalm 50:12<br />
9. The Nations are the Inheritance of the Messiah<br />
"I will declare the decree: The Lord has said to Me, 'you are My<br />
Son, today I have begotten You. Ask of Me, <strong>and</strong> I will give You the<br />
nations for Your inheritance, <strong>and</strong> the ends of the earth for Your<br />
possession.'" Psalm 2:7- 8<br />
"A light to bring revelation to the Gentiles, <strong>and</strong> the glory of Your<br />
people Israel." Luke 2:32<br />
"For to which of the angels did He ever say: 'You are My Son, today I<br />
have begotten You'? And again: 'I will be to Him a Father, <strong>and</strong> He shall<br />
be to Me a Son'?" Hebrews 1:5<br />
10. Jesus Died for All Mankind<br />
"The next day John saw Jesus coming toward him, <strong>and</strong> said, “Behold!<br />
The Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world!" John 1:29<br />
"All the ends of the world shall remember <strong>and</strong> turn to the Lord,<br />
<strong>and</strong> all the families of the nations shall worship before You. For<br />
the Kingdom is the Lord's, <strong>and</strong> He rules over the nations. All the<br />
prosperous of the earth shall eat <strong>and</strong> worship; all those who go down<br />
to the dust shall bow before Him, even he who cannot keep himself<br />
alive. A posterity shall serve Him. It will be recounted of the Lord to<br />
the next generation, they will come <strong>and</strong> declare His righteousness to a<br />
people who will be born, that He has done this." Psalm 22:27-31<br />
"And He Himself is the propitiation for our sins, <strong>and</strong> not for ours only<br />
but also for the whole world." 1 John 2:2<br />
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11. Jesus Saves<br />
"Therefore He is also able to save to the uttermost those who come<br />
to God through Him, since He always lives to make intercession for<br />
them." Hebrews 7:25<br />
"This is a faithful saying <strong>and</strong> worthy of all acceptance, that Christ<br />
Jesus came into the world to save sinners, of whom I am chief." <br />
1 Timothy 1:15<br />
"Then they said to the woman, 'Now we believe, not because of what<br />
you said, for we ourselves have heard Him <strong>and</strong> we know that this is<br />
indeed the Christ, the Saviour of the world'." John 4:42<br />
12. Jesus is The Only Way to God<br />
"For there is one God <strong>and</strong> one Mediator between God <strong>and</strong> men, the<br />
Man Christ Jesus, Who gave Himself a ransom for all." 1 Timothy 2:5-6<br />
"This is a faithful saying <strong>and</strong> worthy of all acceptance, that Christ<br />
Jesus came into the world to save sinners, of whom I am chief." <br />
1 Timothy 1:15<br />
"Jesus said to him, 'I am the Way, the Truth, <strong>and</strong> the Life. No one<br />
comes to the Father except through Me'." John 14:6<br />
13. There is No Salvation Outside of Jesus<br />
"If we receive the witness of men, the witness of God is greater; for this<br />
is the witness of God which He has testified of His Son. He who believes<br />
in the Son of God has the witness in himself; he who does not believe<br />
God has made Him a liar, because he has not believed the testimony that<br />
God has given of His Son. And this is the testimony: that God has given<br />
us eternal life, <strong>and</strong> this life is in His Son. He who has the Son has life; he<br />
who does not have the Son of God does not have life." 1 John 5:9-12<br />
"Nor is there salvation in any other, for there is no other Name under<br />
Heaven given among men by which we must be saved." Acts 4:12<br />
14. Jesus Left Us an Example<br />
"But He said to them, 'Let us go into the next towns, that I may preach<br />
there also, because for this purpose I have come forth.'" Mark 1:38<br />
"Then Jesus went about all the cities <strong>and</strong> villages, teaching in their<br />
synagogues, preaching the Gospel of the Kingdom, <strong>and</strong> healing every<br />
sickness <strong>and</strong> every disease among the people. But when He saw the<br />
multitudes, He was moved with compassion for them, because they<br />
were weary <strong>and</strong> scattered, like sheep having no shepherd."<br />
Matthew 9:35-36<br />
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Motives for Missions<br />
"but He said to them, 'I must preach the Kingdom of God to the other<br />
cities also, because for this purpose I have been sent.'" Luke 4:43<br />
"So Jesus said to them again, 'Peace to you! As the Father has sent Me,<br />
I also send you.'" John 20:21<br />
15. Jesus Comm<strong>and</strong>s Us<br />
"And Jesus came <strong>and</strong> spoke to them, saying, 'All authority has been<br />
given to Me in Heaven <strong>and</strong> on earth. Go therefore <strong>and</strong> make disciples<br />
of all the nations, baptising them in the Name of the Father <strong>and</strong> of the<br />
Son <strong>and</strong> of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all things that I<br />
have comm<strong>and</strong>ed you; <strong>and</strong> lo, I am with you always, even to the end of<br />
the age.' Amen." Matthew 28:18-20<br />
"And He said to them, 'Go into all the world <strong>and</strong> preach the Gospel to<br />
every creature.'" Mark 16:15<br />
"<strong>and</strong> that repentance <strong>and</strong> remission of sins should be preached in His<br />
Name to all nations, beginning at Jerusalem." Luke 24:47<br />
"So Jesus said to them again, 'Peace to you! As the Father has sent Me,<br />
I also send you.'" John 20:21<br />
16. The Love of Christ Compels Us<br />
"So, affectionately longing for you, we were well pleased to impart to<br />
you not only the Gospel of God, but also our own lives, because you<br />
had become dear to us." 1 Thessalonians 2:8<br />
"And you shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all<br />
your soul, with all your mind, <strong>and</strong> with all your strength. 'This is the<br />
first comm<strong>and</strong>ment. And the second, like it, is this: ‘You shall love<br />
your neighbour as yourself.' There is no other comm<strong>and</strong>ment greater<br />
than these." Mark 12:30-31<br />
"For the love of Christ compels us, because we judge thus: that if<br />
One died for all, then all died; <strong>and</strong> He died for all, that those who live<br />
should live no longer for themselves, but for Him who died for them<br />
<strong>and</strong> rose again." 2 Corinthians 5:14-15<br />
17. The Lord is Worthy of All Praise, Worship <strong>and</strong> Honour<br />
"saying with a loud voice: 'Worthy is the Lamb who was slain to receive<br />
power <strong>and</strong> riches <strong>and</strong> wisdom, <strong>and</strong> strength <strong>and</strong> honour <strong>and</strong> glory <strong>and</strong><br />
blessing!' And every creature which is in Heaven <strong>and</strong> on the earth <strong>and</strong><br />
under the earth <strong>and</strong> such as are in the sea, <strong>and</strong> all that are in them,<br />
I heard saying: 'Blessing <strong>and</strong> honour <strong>and</strong> glory <strong>and</strong> power be to Him<br />
who sits on the Throne, <strong>and</strong> to the Lamb, forever <strong>and</strong> ever!'" <br />
Revelation 5:12-13<br />
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"Oh, give thanks to the Lord! Call upon His Name; make known His<br />
deeds among the peoples! Declare His glory among the nations, His<br />
wonders among all peoples. For the Lord is great <strong>and</strong> greatly to be<br />
praised; He is also to be feared above all gods. 1 Chronicles 16:8, 24-25<br />
18. The Holy Spirit Impels Us<br />
"And when He has come, He will convict the world of sin, <strong>and</strong> of<br />
righteousness, <strong>and</strong> of Judgement." John 16:8<br />
"But you shall receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you;<br />
<strong>and</strong> you shall be witnesses to Me in Jerusalem, <strong>and</strong> in all Judea <strong>and</strong><br />
Samaria, <strong>and</strong> to the end of the earth." Acts 1:8<br />
19. The Prophecies Must be Fulfilled<br />
"And this Gospel of the Kingdom will be preached in all the world as a<br />
witness to all the nations, <strong>and</strong> then the end will come." Matthew 24:14<br />
"After these things I looked, <strong>and</strong> behold, a great multitude which<br />
no one could number, of all nations, tribes, peoples, <strong>and</strong> tongues,<br />
st<strong>and</strong>ing before the Throne <strong>and</strong> before the Lamb, clothed with white<br />
robes, with palm branches in their h<strong>and</strong>s." Revelation 7:9<br />
20. To Speed His Return<br />
"And the Gospel must first be preached to all the nations." Mark 13:10<br />
"looking for <strong>and</strong> hastening the coming of the Day of God, because of<br />
which the Heavens will be dissolved, being on fire, <strong>and</strong> the elements<br />
will melt with fervent heat?" 2 Peter 3:12<br />
21. God's Will Must be Done<br />
"Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake, for<br />
theirs is the Kingdom of Heaven." Matthew 5:10<br />
"Be still, <strong>and</strong> know that I am God; will be exalted among the nations,<br />
I will be exalted in the earth!" Psalm 46:10<br />
"The Lord is not slack concerning His promise, as some count slackness,<br />
but is longsuffering toward us, not willing that any should perish but<br />
that all should come to repentance." 2 Peter 3:9<br />
22. The Need is Great<br />
"Then He said to His disciples, 'The harvest truly is plentiful, but the<br />
labourers are few.'" Matthew 9:37<br />
23. The Opportunities are Unprecedented<br />
"Do you not say, ‘There are still four months <strong>and</strong> then comes the<br />
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Motives for Missions<br />
harvest’? Behold, I say to you, lift up your eyes <strong>and</strong> look at the fields,<br />
for they are already white for harvest!" John 4:35<br />
24. Our Personal Responsibility<br />
"When I say to the wicked, 'You shall surely die,' <strong>and</strong> you give him no<br />
warning, nor speak to warn the wicked from his wicked way, to save<br />
his life, that same wicked man shall die in his iniquity; but his blood I<br />
will require at your h<strong>and</strong>." Ezekiel 3:18<br />
"For if I preach the Gospel, I have nothing to boast of, for necessity is<br />
laid upon me; yes, woe is me if I do not preach the Gospel!" <br />
1 Corinthians 9:16<br />
"For 'whoever calls on the Name of the Lord shall be saved.' How then<br />
shall they call on Him in whom they have not believed? And how shall<br />
they believe in Him of whom they have not heard? And how shall they<br />
hear without a preacher? And how shall they preach unless they are<br />
sent? As it is written: 'How beautiful are the feet of those who preach<br />
the Gospel of peace, who bring glad tidings of good things!'" <br />
Romans 10:13-15<br />
"May Your ways be known on earth, Your Salvation among all nations.<br />
May the peoples praise You, O God; may all the peoples praise You." <br />
Psalm 67:2-3<br />
CHRIST HIMSELF<br />
Once it was the blessing, now it is Lord;<br />
Once it was the feeling, now it is His Word.<br />
Once His gifts I wanted, now the giver own;<br />
Once I sought for healing, now Himself alone.<br />
Once it was painful trying - now it is perfect trust;<br />
Once a half salvation - now the uttermost.<br />
Once it was ceaseless holding - now He holds me fast;<br />
Once it was constant drifting - now my anchor's cast.<br />
Once it was busy planning - now it is trusting prayer;<br />
Once it was anxious worrying - now He has the care.<br />
Once it was what I wanted - now what Jesus says,<br />
Once it was constant asking - now it is ceaseless praise.<br />
Once it was my working - His it hence shall be.<br />
Once I tried to use Him - now He uses me.<br />
Once the power I wanted - now the Mighty One.<br />
Once it was for self I laboured - now for Him alone.<br />
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Evangelism<br />
DEFINITIONS OF EVANGELISM<br />
"Evangelism, in the strict sense, is proclaiming the Good News of salvation<br />
to men with a view to their conversion to Christ <strong>and</strong> incorporation in His<br />
Church" - Michael Green, Evangelism in the Early Church.<br />
"The Mission of the Church is to so incarnate itself in the world that the Gospel<br />
of Christ is effectively communicated by word <strong>and</strong> deed toward the end that<br />
all men <strong>and</strong> women become faithful disciples of Christ <strong>and</strong> responsible<br />
members of His Church." - Peter Wagner, Frontiers in Missionary Strategy.<br />
"According to the New Testament, evangelism is just preaching the Gospel, the<br />
Evangel. It is a work of communication in which Christians make themselves<br />
mouthpieces of God's message of mercy to sinners. The way to tell whether in<br />
fact you are evangelizing or not is to ask whether conversions are known to<br />
have resulted from your witness. It is to ask whether you are faithfully making<br />
known the Gospel message." - J. I. Packer, Evangelism <strong>and</strong> the Sovereignty of<br />
God.<br />
"Evangelism is the proclamation of the Gospel of the crucified <strong>and</strong> risen<br />
Christ, the only redeemer of men, according to the Scriptures, with the<br />
purpose of persuading condemned <strong>and</strong> lost sinners to put their trust in God<br />
by receiving <strong>and</strong> accepting Christ as Lord in every calling of life <strong>and</strong> in the<br />
fellowship of His Church, looking forward to the day of His coming Glory." -<br />
Stanly Mooneyham, Berlin World Congress of Evangelism.<br />
"Evangelism is the bringing of persons to Christ as Saviour <strong>and</strong> Lord<br />
that they may share His eternal life. Here is the heart of the matter. There<br />
must be a personal encounter with Christ. For on this relationship to God in<br />
Christ depends the eternal destiny of man. This <strong>and</strong> this alone is the purpose of<br />
evangelism." Samuel Moffett, Korea.<br />
"Personal evangelism is definite prayer <strong>and</strong> personal effort to bring a<br />
fellow sinner to accept Jesus Christ as His Saviour <strong>and</strong> to follow Him as his<br />
Lord." Roger Voke, SouthAfrica.<br />
"To evangelise is to present Jesus Christ in the power of the Holy<br />
Spirit that men come to put their faith in God through Him, to accept Him as<br />
their Saviour <strong>and</strong> to serve Him as their King in the fellowship of His Church." -<br />
Archbishop William Temple.<br />
Evangelism is the passing on of Good News. It is bringing someone face to<br />
face with the claims <strong>and</strong> comm<strong>and</strong>s of Jesus Christ.<br />
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Evangelism<br />
The Four Essentials of Evangelism<br />
1. The only foundation laid is the foundation of PRAYER.<br />
(Acts 4:31; Colossians 4:2-4; 2 Thessalonians 3:1-2).<br />
2. The only Authority relied on is THE WORD OF GOD.<br />
(Isaiah 55:11; Romans 1:16; 10:17; 2Timothy3:16-17).<br />
3. The only power trusted is the power of THE HOLY SPIRIT.<br />
(Romans 15:18-19, 1 Corinthians 2:4; 1 Thessalonians 1:5; Acts 1:8).<br />
4. The only Saviour proclaimed is THE LORD JESUS CHRIST.<br />
(Acts 4:12; 8:5, 35; 2 Corinthians 4:5; Hebrews 12:2).<br />
The Characteristics of an Evangelistic Message<br />
1. It Must be SIMPLE<br />
Do not preach over people's heads. It must be clear. Easy to underst<strong>and</strong>.<br />
Easy to remember.<br />
2. It Must be SCRIPTURAL<br />
The Word of God is our source, authority <strong>and</strong> power. Preach Biblebased<br />
messages.<br />
3. It Must be SUITABLE<br />
Relevant <strong>and</strong> applicable to the situation, times <strong>and</strong> thought patterns<br />
of the audience.<br />
4. It Should be SERIOUS<br />
Humour is a useful tool but it should not be improperly used.<br />
The Gospel is a serious matter. Eternal destinies are at stake. There are<br />
heartbroken people out there.<br />
5. It Should be STIRRING<br />
Not artificial or forced but presented with conviction, warmth <strong>and</strong><br />
concern. Either put fire into your sermons or put your sermons into<br />
the fire.<br />
6. It Should be SPECIFIC<br />
Dem<strong>and</strong> a decision. Preach for a verdict. Require a response. Be specific<br />
<strong>and</strong> clear as to what the Gospel is <strong>and</strong> what it requires.<br />
"Preach as a dying man to dying men,"<br />
Preach as though this was the last message you will preach <strong>and</strong> the last<br />
message your hearers will ever hear. Make your message count - for<br />
eternity.<br />
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<strong>Chaplains</strong> <strong>H<strong>and</strong>book</strong><br />
New Testament Evangelism<br />
The early Church's advantages included: a common (lingua franca -<br />
Greek) language, Roman peace <strong>and</strong> good roads.<br />
Their difficulties included: there were so few of them (120 to start with);<br />
they had no learning, no organisation, (no printing presses, radio stations,<br />
films, tapes, etc., obviously). They had to contend with tremendous racial<br />
barriers, class structures, religious pluralism, extreme decadence in<br />
society, political suspicion (<strong>and</strong> persecution later) from Rome, <strong>and</strong> general<br />
cynicism of Pagan society.<br />
Yet they succeeded in conquering the Roman Empire because: they<br />
lived their message <strong>and</strong> were transformed by it; their dedication<br />
<strong>and</strong> willingness led them to obey no matter what the cost; their<br />
obvious love for one another; their enthusiasm <strong>and</strong> joyful sense of<br />
discovery; their endurance; their concern for non-Christians, their<br />
priorities of ''prayer <strong>and</strong> the Word", were evidence of the overflowing, life<br />
changing, character transforming power of the Spirit.<br />
They exercised an every-member-ministry; they had shared<br />
leadership, dynamic, fresh <strong>and</strong> varied worship, they emphasised<br />
teaching <strong>and</strong> obedience to God's revealed Word.<br />
The Message of New Testament Evangelism<br />
1. They preached a PERSON. Their message was Christ centred,<br />
emphasising His death <strong>and</strong> glorious Resurrection.<br />
2. They proclaimed a GIFT - the gift of forgiveness, of the Holy Spirit, of<br />
adoption <strong>and</strong> reconciliation with God.<br />
3. They looked for a RESPONSE - repentance, Faith in Christ, <strong>and</strong><br />
baptism.<br />
4. The INCARNATION. "God has become man." Historic <strong>and</strong> unique event.<br />
5. FORGIVENESS of sins. Striking at the heart of our problems.<br />
6. The CROSS. God has acted. The Lord Jesus has been crucified. He is<br />
our Atonement, guilt-bearer <strong>and</strong> expiation of our sins.<br />
7. The RESURRECTION. Christ Jesus is alive. He is Lord <strong>and</strong> reigning<br />
on High.<br />
8. The evangelist preaches CHRIST. A person - not a system. An<br />
experience of vital relationship to Christ is needed.<br />
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Evangelism<br />
Evangelistic preaching must always centre upon:<br />
1. The person <strong>and</strong> character of Jesus Christ as God incarnate.<br />
2. The Teaching of Jesus Christ on God, life, the Kingdom <strong>and</strong> eternal<br />
destiny<br />
3. The Death of Jesus Christ as the Atonement for sin.<br />
4. The Resurrection of Jesus Christ. He is our living Lord.<br />
New Testament Methods of Evangelism<br />
Every member evangelism (Jude 23; 1Thess. 1:8; Acts 8:1, 4).<br />
Spontaneous, natural, continuous, joyful sharing of the Gospel.<br />
They worked from where they were (Jerusalem) outwards, in ever widening<br />
ripples (Acts 1:8).<br />
They concentrated on those who were most responsive - the "God fearing<br />
fringe". (e.g. Acts 10; 13, etc.).<br />
They ran a lot of home meetings (Acts 17:5; 18:7; 21:8; 12:12; 20:7; 2:46;<br />
5:42;28:17; 16:32; 10:22) informal, relaxed gatherings for fellowship,<br />
prayer, communion, follow-up, evangelism, etc.<br />
They often held discussions on neutral ground (Acts 3; 22; 28).<br />
They wrote <strong>and</strong> used the Scriptures <strong>and</strong> literature.<br />
They engaged in missionary journeys (e.g. Acts 13-14; 16-20, etc.).<br />
They relied on personal conversations.<br />
"Then He said to them, 'Follow Me <strong>and</strong> I will make you fishers of men.'"<br />
Matthew 4:19<br />
"He who sows with tears shall reap with joy." Psalm. 126:5<br />
"Go therefore <strong>and</strong> make disciples." Matthew 28:19<br />
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Leading People to Christ<br />
1. God is Sovereign. He rules our lives. We cannot accomplish anything<br />
of eternal value except that He chooses to work through us. (Ephesians<br />
2:8-10)<br />
2. We are comm<strong>and</strong>ed to witness (Acts 1:8).<br />
3. As in agriculture, the more seeds we sow the more we will reap.<br />
Not everyone you encounter will want to hear the Gospel. You need to<br />
witness to many in order to win a few (2 Corinthians 9:6).<br />
4. Make your witness early. Let people know you are different <strong>and</strong> why<br />
you are different. If we dilute the Gospel message, or seem embarrassed<br />
about presenting the claims of Christ, then it diminishes the perceived<br />
value of a relationship with the Lord Jesus. (Luke 9:26)<br />
5. Do not wait until you feel right or ready. Usually people spend too<br />
much time evaluating their feelings instead of doing their duty. Accept<br />
that you will probably feel awkward <strong>and</strong> nervous about your first<br />
witnessing. Plunge into the new challenge! (2 Timothy 1:7).<br />
6. Every relationship <strong>and</strong> interaction is an opportunity for<br />
witness (John 4: 10-26).<br />
7. Plan, prepare, select <strong>and</strong> rehearse. Make an appointment to discuss<br />
our relationship to God. Choose a quiet place where you can speak<br />
without interruptions. Be punctual. Open with prayer. Use an open<br />
Bible.<br />
8. One way you could explain the way of salvation is through the Roman<br />
Road. Mark these verses in your Bible so that you can easily find <strong>and</strong><br />
explain them.<br />
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The Roman Road<br />
1. "As it is written: 'There is none righteous, not not one.'" <br />
Romans 3:10<br />
2. "For all have sinned <strong>and</strong> fall short of the glory of God" Romans 3:23<br />
3. "For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in<br />
Christ Jesus our Lord." Romans 6:23<br />
4. "But God demonstrates His own love for us in this: While we were<br />
still sinners, Christ died for us." Romans 5:8<br />
5. "if you confess with your mouth the Lord Jesus <strong>and</strong> believe in your<br />
heart that God has raised Him from the dead, you will be saved."<br />
Romans 10:9<br />
6. "For 'whoever calls on the Name of the Lord shall be saved.'"<br />
Romans 10:13<br />
7. "I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that<br />
you present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God,<br />
which is your reasonable service. And do not be conformed to this<br />
world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you<br />
may prove what is that good <strong>and</strong> acceptable <strong>and</strong> perfect Will of<br />
God." Romans 12:1-2<br />
8. "Therefore, having been justified by faith, we have peace with God<br />
through our Lord Jesus Christ" Romans 5:1<br />
9. "There is therefore now no condemnation to those who are in<br />
Christ Jesus." Romans 8:1<br />
10. "Now may the God of hope fill you with all joy <strong>and</strong> peace in<br />
believing, that you may abound in hope by the power of the Holy<br />
Spirit." Romans 15:13<br />
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The Gospel in John<br />
John 1:11-12; 3:16-17; 3:36; 1:29; 3:3,5; 3:16; 4:24; 7:37-38; 8:12; 8:32,<br />
36; 10:9-11: 11:25-26; 14:6; 20:31.<br />
The 3-S's<br />
Ensure that you clearly explain sin, salvation <strong>and</strong> the Saviour.<br />
• We must admit our sin.<br />
• We must acknowledge that our sins have separated us from God.<br />
• We must submit to Jesus Christ as Saviour <strong>and</strong> Lord.<br />
The ABC's of Salvation<br />
A. ADMIT YOU ARE A SINNER<br />
Acknowledge your sin. Repent <strong>and</strong> confess your sins to God.<br />
"If we claim to be without sin, we deceive ourselves <strong>and</strong> the truth<br />
is not in us. If we confess our sins, He is faithful <strong>and</strong> just <strong>and</strong> will<br />
forgive us our sins <strong>and</strong> purify us from all unrighteousness. " <br />
1 John 1:8,9<br />
B. BELIEVE THAT JESUS DIED FOR SINNERS<br />
"For Christ died for sins once for all, the righteous for the<br />
unrighteous, to bring you to God. " 1 Peter 3:18<br />
C. COMMIT YOUR LIFE TO CHRIST<br />
"Jesus answered, 'I am the way <strong>and</strong> the truth <strong>and</strong> the life. No one<br />
comes to the Father except through Me." John 14:6<br />
D. DEDICATE YOURSELF TO BEING A DISCIPLE OF CHRIST<br />
"Therefore, I urge you, brothers, in view of God's mercy, to offer<br />
your bodies as living sacrifices, holy <strong>and</strong> pleasing to God which is<br />
your spiritual worship." Romans 12:1<br />
Follow Up<br />
After presenting the Gospel message we must draw back <strong>and</strong> give the<br />
person a chance to think over what we have said. Keep the channels<br />
of communication open by not being forceful <strong>and</strong> pushing them to make<br />
a decision. Motivate them without manipulating them!<br />
Do not despise honest scepticism. Help sincere seekers to find peace with<br />
God. Do not rush the process. You may only be a link in the witness chain.<br />
Once a person has prayed <strong>and</strong> made a commitment to Christ get him<br />
involved in regular Bible study, prayer, fellowship <strong>and</strong> worship.<br />
Encourage him to tell others about what God has done in his life.<br />
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Evangelism Explosion<br />
1. Every Christian is a Witness.<br />
2. Pastors must train their members to Evangelise.<br />
3. The best training is On-the-Job.<br />
The 5 Laws of Persuasion in John 4<br />
1. Attention. "Will you give Me a drink?" Jesus began where she was <strong>and</strong><br />
got her attention.<br />
2. Interest. "If you knew the gift of God <strong>and</strong> Who it is that asks you for a<br />
drink, you would have asked. . . living water:" Now she was interested.<br />
3. Desire. "Everyone who drinks this water will be thirsty again, but whoever<br />
drinks the water I give him will never thirst. . . a spring of water welling up<br />
to eternal life." Now she ardently desired what Jesus was offering.<br />
4. Conviction of Sin. (Truthfulness of claims). "Go, call your husb<strong>and</strong>....<br />
you have had five husb<strong>and</strong>s." He put His finger on her situation. She<br />
tried to divert the conversation <strong>and</strong> avoid the issue. "Our fathers<br />
worshipped on this mountain but.. "<br />
5. Commitment. Jesus used her digression to pull her back to the main<br />
subject <strong>and</strong> confronted her with the decision she must make: "God is<br />
Spirit, <strong>and</strong> His worshippers must worship in spirit <strong>and</strong> in truth... I who<br />
speak to you am He!"<br />
Now the woman at the well was confronted by the Living Word of God.<br />
She had to either submit to Him or reject Him.<br />
Springboards to evangelism: the meaning of people's names ("Grace'',<br />
"Timothy", "Christopher", etc.), Special events: Christmas <strong>and</strong> Easter <strong>and</strong><br />
their significance, the Seasons as symbolic of our spiritual condition, news<br />
headlines, etc. Witnessing should be a way of life, not a programme.<br />
First find out their backgrounds <strong>and</strong> beliefs.<br />
Three Questions:<br />
1. If you were to die today, do you know where you would go?<br />
2. If you were to die <strong>and</strong> st<strong>and</strong> before God <strong>and</strong> He were to ask you<br />
'Why should I let you into My Heaven?' What would you say?<br />
3. If God was to judge you on the basis of His Ten Comm<strong>and</strong>ments<br />
- would you be innocent or guilty?<br />
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The Gospel Outline<br />
<strong>Chaplains</strong> <strong>H<strong>and</strong>book</strong><br />
a. GRACE<br />
1. Heaven is a free gift. (Romans 6:23)<br />
2. It is not earned or deserved. (Ephesians 2:8-9)<br />
b. MAN<br />
a. Is a sinner. (Romans 3:23)<br />
b. Cannot save himself. (Matthew 5:48)<br />
c. GOD<br />
a. Is merciful - therefore He doesn't want to punish us. (Joel 2:13)<br />
b. Is just - therefore He must punish sin. (Nahum 1:3)<br />
d. CHRIST<br />
a. Who He is - the infinite God-Man. (John 1:1, 14)<br />
b. What He did - He died on the Cross <strong>and</strong> rose from the dead to pay<br />
the penalty for our sins <strong>and</strong> to purchase a place in Heaven for us,<br />
which He offers as a gift. (1 Corinthians 15:35)<br />
e. FAITH<br />
1. What it is not - mere intellectual assent. (James 2:19)<br />
2. What it is - trusting in Jesus Christ alone for eternal life. (Acts<br />
16:31)<br />
The Commitment<br />
a. The Qualifying question: "Does this make sense to you? "<br />
b. The Commitment question: "Would you like to receive the gift of eternal<br />
life? "<br />
c. The Clarification of Commitment: "Let me explain this more clearly . . ."<br />
d. The Prayer of Commitment.<br />
e. The Assurance of salvation.<br />
The Immediate Follow up<br />
a. Welcome to the family of God!<br />
b. Provide booklet/literature<br />
c. The means of growth: 1. Bible Study<br />
2. Prayer<br />
3. Worship<br />
4. Fellowship<br />
5. Witness<br />
d. Make appointment for him to attend the next chaplain's service.<br />
e. Closing Prayer<br />
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Evangelism Explosion<br />
Some general guidelines:<br />
• Do not intimidate people.<br />
• Do not give the reference when you quote Scripture (but know where<br />
it is if asked).<br />
• Do quote just the relevant portion of the verse.<br />
• Do ask your prospect's opinion <strong>and</strong> listen respectfully to his views.<br />
• Do start where the person is - do not assume that he knows much<br />
about the Bible.<br />
• Do not ask misleading questions.<br />
• Do not criticise other churches or Christians.<br />
• Do not be too intense - smile; do not make the person feel they're<br />
being pinned down.<br />
• Do ensure that your grooming, cleanliness, neatness <strong>and</strong> clothing is<br />
modest <strong>and</strong> God-honouring <strong>and</strong> not distracting.<br />
• Do not feel you need to secure a commitment. High pressure tactics<br />
are to be avoided.<br />
• Do make your exit pleasant - even if the Gospel is rejected.<br />
• He may still be wrestling with the Gospel challenge.<br />
(Source: Adapted from Evangelism Explosion by Dr. D. James Kennedy)<br />
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The Bible is the Word of God<br />
<strong>Chaplains</strong> <strong>H<strong>and</strong>book</strong><br />
The Facts of the Faith<br />
The Bible itself teaches its divine origin <strong>and</strong> authority:<br />
• "No prophecy of Scripture is of any private interpretation." 2 Peter 1:20<br />
• All Scripture was written as "Holy men of God spoke as they were<br />
moved by the Holy Spirit." 2 Peter 1:21<br />
• "God Spoke . . . by the prophets . . . <strong>and</strong> by His Son." Hebrews 1.1-2<br />
• The Word of God, once given <strong>and</strong> written, is exact in all details down<br />
to each letter <strong>and</strong> stroke of the pen. Matthew 5:18<br />
• "The Scripture cannot be broken. " John 10:35<br />
• "The Word of the Lord endures forever" 1 Peter 1:25<br />
• The Gospel accounts are based on careful research, historical facts <strong>and</strong><br />
eyewitness testimonies:<br />
"just as those who from the beginning were eyewitnesses <strong>and</strong> ministers<br />
of the word delivered them to us, it seemed good to me also, having had<br />
perfect underst<strong>and</strong>ing of all things from the very first, to write to you<br />
an orderly account, ... that you may know the certainty of those things<br />
in which you were instructed." Luke 1:2-4<br />
"That which was from the beginning, which we have heard, which we<br />
have seen with our eyes, which we have looked upon, <strong>and</strong> our h<strong>and</strong>s have<br />
h<strong>and</strong>led, concerning the Word of life - the life was manifested, <strong>and</strong> we have<br />
seen, <strong>and</strong> bear witness ... that which we have seen <strong>and</strong> heard we declare<br />
to you." 1 John 1:1-3<br />
The Bible presents itself as God's revealed Word. On almost every page we<br />
find "The Lord said. . . ", "God spoke.. .", "The Word of the Lord came. . ." The<br />
Apostles believed that they were speaking under the inspiration of The<br />
Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 2:4; 15:3, 1 Thessalonians 2:13; 4:15; 2 Peter<br />
3:2; Galatians 1:6-12, Revelation 22:18, 19). Jesus regarded the Old<br />
Testament as the Authoritative Word of God (Matthew 4:4; Mark<br />
14:27; Matthew 19:4; Mark 7:11-13; John 10:34, 35; Luke 24:25-27, 44).<br />
Jesus also taught that His Words had a unique power <strong>and</strong> life (John 6:63;<br />
15:3), that they would not pass away (Mark 13:31) <strong>and</strong> that they must be<br />
heard <strong>and</strong> obeyed (Matthew 5:17-48; 7:24; John 8:31-38; 14:23).<br />
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The Facts of the Faith<br />
We cannot accept the authority of Jesus without a the authority of the<br />
Old Testament which He lived, taught, appealed to <strong>and</strong> fulfilled. We also<br />
have to recognise that Jesus deliberately chose <strong>and</strong> trained certain men<br />
to be His Apostles (Luke 5:27; 6:12-16; John 17:6) <strong>and</strong> gave them a special<br />
anointing with the Holy Spirit (John 20:2 1; Acts 1:8), promising them<br />
the Holy Spirit to guide their teaching (John 14:26; 15:26; 16:13). This<br />
compels one to also accept the authority of the New Testament.<br />
We can also appeal to fulfilled prophecy, archaeological discoveries,<br />
manuscript evidence <strong>and</strong> historical records to support these internal<br />
evidences to the accuracy <strong>and</strong> uniqueness of the Bible.<br />
Most powerfully, however, we can point to the unique impact of the<br />
Bible on millions of lives throughout the centuries <strong>and</strong> on our own as<br />
well. Some sceptics may not believe that the Bible is the Word of God, but<br />
they are choosing to ignore a lot of accumulative evidence to do this.<br />
Jesus is The Only Way to God<br />
The Bible teaches that there is only one way of salvation:<br />
"For there is one God <strong>and</strong> one mediator between God <strong>and</strong> men, the man Christ<br />
Jesus, who gave Himself as a ransom for all ..." 1 Timothy 2:5-6<br />
Our Lord Jesus Himself declared that there is only one way to God:<br />
"Jesus said to him, 'I am the Way <strong>and</strong> the Truth <strong>and</strong> the Life. No one comes to<br />
the Father except through Me'" John 14:6<br />
This has been the Apostolic Message from the very beginning:<br />
"Nor is there salvation in any other, for there is no other Name under heaven<br />
given among men by which we must be saved. " Acts 4: 12<br />
Jesus is God in Human Form<br />
The first disciples of Christ, being Hebrews, had the highest regard for the<br />
Old Testament Scriptures. It was the Word of God. Yet it was definitely<br />
incomplete: it spoke of a day when God would judge the earth; of a<br />
king from David's line whose kingdom would never end. It spoke of all<br />
the families of mankind being blessed by Abraham's seed. It spoke of a<br />
prophet like Moses arising from among the people, whose teaching would<br />
be unparalleled. It spoke of a Servant of the Lord, whose death would<br />
atone for the sins of the people, of one who would make a New Covenant<br />
between God <strong>and</strong> men; one who would put the Spirit of the Lord into<br />
the hearts of men so that they could know God personally <strong>and</strong> have their<br />
sins wiped out. It spoke of a stone, despised by the builders, which would<br />
become the keystone. It spoke of one like a Son of Man, who would receive<br />
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authority, honour <strong>and</strong> royal power so that people of all nations, races<br />
<strong>and</strong> languages would serve Him. It spoke of a priest like the legendary<br />
Melchizedek, whom the Almighty would call Lord <strong>and</strong> welcome to His<br />
throne. It spoke of a coming Messiah, who would be born of the tribe of<br />
Judah, from David's line, in Bethlehem. He would be despised <strong>and</strong> rejected<br />
by the very people He came to rescue. He would die among wicked men<br />
<strong>and</strong> His tomb would be supplied by a rich man. Yet, He would live again,<br />
forever, <strong>and</strong> the Lord's purpose would succeed through Him.<br />
All of this was fulfilled by Jesus! Not some, or much of it. All of it!<br />
Prophecies made by many prophets over a thous<strong>and</strong> years <strong>and</strong> more were<br />
all fulfilled by one historical person. And what mighty prophecies<br />
they were too!<br />
1. In the Old Testament, Yahweh is the only Saviour there is -<br />
"I, even I, am the Lord <strong>and</strong> besides Me there is no Saviour" <br />
Isaiah 43: 11<br />
"... And there is no other God besides Me, a just God <strong>and</strong> a Savior;<br />
There is none besides Me." Isaiah 45:21<br />
Yet in the New Testament, Jesus is hailed as "Our Great God <strong>and</strong><br />
Saviour, Jesus Christ." Titus 2: 13<br />
His very Name, Jesus, means "Yahweh saves"<br />
"You shall call His Name Jesus, because He will save His people<br />
from their sins." Matthew 1:21<br />
Both God's role <strong>and</strong> His Name as Saviour are attributed to Jesus in the<br />
New Testament. Jesus claimed the power to forgive sins (Mark 2:7-10;<br />
Luke 7:48) <strong>and</strong> He is seen as the Saviour of sinners (John 3:17, Acts<br />
4:12; Galatians 1:4; Hebrews. 9:26). He raised the dead (Mark 5:35-<br />
43; Luke 7.11-17, 22; John 11) <strong>and</strong> He gives eternal life to all who now<br />
believe in Him (Mark 10:21; John 3:16; 5:24; 1 John 5:11, 12).<br />
2. In the Old Testament Yahweh alone is the Judge (Daniel 7:9,10;<br />
Psalm 99; Deuteronomy 32). Yet Jesus claimed this uniquely Divine<br />
function in the New Testament (Matthew 25:31-46; John 5:22-30).<br />
" For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ, that<br />
each one may receive the things done in the body, according to<br />
what he has done, whether good or bad." 2 Corinthians 5:10<br />
3. That Yahweh alone is the Creator of all things is basic to the<br />
Old Testament (Genesis l; Psalm 33:6-9; Isaiah 42:5). Yet the New<br />
Testament reveals that through Jesus all things came into being (John<br />
1:1-3; Hebrews. 1:2; 1 John 1:1), <strong>and</strong> that Jesus is the Sustainer <strong>and</strong><br />
Upholder of all things (Matthew 28: 18; 1 Corinthians 8:6).<br />
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The Facts of the Faith<br />
4. Yahweh alone is worthy of worship, <strong>and</strong> to worship any other<br />
being than the Lord God would be the worst <strong>and</strong> most fundamental<br />
of all sins (Exodus 20.3-6; Deuteronomy 6:4-15). Yet prayers are<br />
addressed to Christ (Acts 7:59; 9:13, 1 Corinthians 16:22; Revelation<br />
22-20); Doxologies are ascribed to Him (Romans 9:5; 2 Timothy 4:18;<br />
2 Peter 3:18, Revelation 1:5,6); Old Testament worship passages are<br />
transferred from Yahweh to Christ (e.g. Isaiah 8:13-15 in Romans<br />
9.33; 1 Peter 2:7-9; 3:15). The disciples worshipped Jesus (Matthew<br />
28:17; Luke 24:52), <strong>and</strong> when Thomas said to Him: "My Lord <strong>and</strong> my<br />
God!" (John 20:28), far from rebuking him, Jesus merely suggested<br />
that he should have believed earlier. The book of Revelation also<br />
presents the most unambiguous assertion of Deity when it records<br />
the great worship of Christ in heaven "Worthy is the Lamb, who was<br />
slain to receive power <strong>and</strong> riches <strong>and</strong> wisdom <strong>and</strong> strength <strong>and</strong><br />
honour <strong>and</strong> glory <strong>and</strong> blessing!" Revelation 5:12<br />
5. Even the Name of Yahweh is ascribed to Christ. When the Old<br />
Testament was translated into Greek in the 2nd Century B.C. the Sacred<br />
Name of God, YHWH, usually rendered Yahweh, was translated into<br />
the Greek word Kyrios (Lord), There are about 7000 instances of this<br />
in the Septuagint, so when this exalted Name is attributed directly to<br />
Christ (Romans 10:9; 1 Corinthians 12:3; Philippians 2:11, etc.), it is a<br />
clear statement of Christ's Deity. The confession "Jesus is Lord" tells<br />
it all. Certainly the title "Lord of Lords" (1 Timothy 6: 15; Revelation<br />
17:14; 19:16) cannot be interpreted any other way than that Jesus is<br />
God incarnate. There are also many occasions where the New Testament<br />
applies Old Testament passages concerning Yahweh directly to Jesus<br />
- e.g. Psalm 110:1 in Acts 2:34, 35; Romans 8:38; Hebrews 10:12, 13;<br />
1 Peter 3:22; Isaiah 6:10 in John 12:41; Isaiah 45:23 in Philippians<br />
2:9-11; Joel 2:32 in Romans 10:13 <strong>and</strong> Psalm 68:18 in Ephesians 4:8).<br />
A supreme example of this is John the Baptist's ministry to "Prepare<br />
the way for the Lord (Yahweh)" Matthew 3:3, which is a direct quote<br />
from Isaiah 40:3, which unmistakably refers to God Himself. Of great<br />
significance is Jesus' self designations as the I AM (John 6:35;8:12,<br />
24, 58; 11:25; 14;6; 15:1, 5 18:5). This is a deliberate identification<br />
with God's revelation of Himself in Exodus 3:14 as "I AM".<br />
All this is conclusive <strong>and</strong> the accumulative proof of all these evidences of<br />
the Deity of Christ is overwhelming. Yet even further proof could be sought<br />
in the Resurrection (Romans 1:4). The atheists have yet to explain away<br />
the hard historical facts of The empty tomb, The eyewitness accounts<br />
of those hundreds who saw Christ alive again (1 Corinthians 15:4-8), The<br />
transformation of the disciples <strong>and</strong> even the existence of the Church<br />
(represented by over two million church buildings <strong>and</strong> over 2 billion members).<br />
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The very Names of Jesus (Yahweh Saves), Messiah (God's Anointed<br />
One), Son of Man (the Lord <strong>and</strong> Judge of all revealed in Daniel 7:13, 14),<br />
Emmanuel (God with us), <strong>and</strong> The Son of God, point to His Deity. His<br />
uniquely perfect <strong>and</strong> sinless life, <strong>and</strong> His teaching - which are unsurpassed<br />
in authority, clarity, insight <strong>and</strong> power - all this can only support the<br />
Biblical claims for the Deity of Christ.<br />
It is upon this solid foundation of accumulative evidence that the Church<br />
of Christ based its great ecumenical creed of Nicea:<br />
"We believe in one Lord Jesus Christ, the Son of God, begotten of the Father;<br />
only begotten, that is of the substance of the Father; God of God, Light of Light,<br />
true God of true God, begotten not made, of one substance with the Father;<br />
through Whom all things were made, things in heaven <strong>and</strong> things on the earth;<br />
who for us men <strong>and</strong> for our salvation came down <strong>and</strong> was made flesh <strong>and</strong><br />
became man, suffered <strong>and</strong> rose on the third day, ascended into the heavens, is<br />
coming to Judge the living <strong>and</strong> the dead."<br />
What does this mean for us?<br />
The glorious truth of the Incarnation is that God has made Himself<br />
known personally, specifically <strong>and</strong> fully by taking our human nature unto<br />
Himself, by coming amongst us as a particular man, yet without ceasing<br />
to be the infinite, transcendent <strong>and</strong> eternal God.<br />
God has in Christ taken upon Himself the responsibility <strong>and</strong> penalty for<br />
the sins of the world, God has borne the brunt of suffering <strong>and</strong> evil by<br />
subjecting Himself to its cruelty <strong>and</strong> horror. The Incarnation reveals the<br />
reality <strong>and</strong> depth <strong>and</strong> costly nature of His Love, Holiness, Justice <strong>and</strong><br />
Mercy.<br />
Jesus is the Eternal Son of God, who became incarnate to reveal God to<br />
us <strong>and</strong> to reconcile us to Himself. He is the second person of the Trinity,<br />
God revealed in human form. Jesus is God, <strong>and</strong> so we have a full <strong>and</strong> final<br />
revelation <strong>and</strong> redemption in <strong>and</strong> through Him.<br />
The Adventure of Discipleship (Romans 12:1-2)<br />
Salvation - "Brothers"<br />
* Come to Christ - Repentance <strong>and</strong> Faith<br />
Repentance involves: Contrition - a change of heart<br />
Conviction - a change of mind<br />
Conversion - a change of life<br />
Dedication - "Present your bodies a living sacrifice"<br />
* Go for Christ - Sacrifice <strong>and</strong> service<br />
missions <strong>and</strong> evangelism<br />
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The Facts of the Faith<br />
Worship is not so much what we say as what we do. Worship is more than<br />
words <strong>and</strong> songs - it's our whole life. It involves wholehearted sacrifice<br />
<strong>and</strong> service (Mark 12:30-31).<br />
Separation - "Do not conform any longer to the patterns of this world"<br />
* Set apart for Christ - separated from sin <strong>and</strong> sanctified - holiness<br />
- spiritual health - holy lifestyle.<br />
"Blessed is the man who walks not in the counsel of the<br />
ungodly, nor st<strong>and</strong>s in the path of sinners, nor sits in the<br />
seat of the scornful" Psalm 1:1<br />
Transformation - "Be transformed by the renewing of your mind"<br />
* Be filled with the Spirit (Ephesians 5:18-20)<br />
The Battle for the mind (Colossians 2:8)<br />
Bible-based Christ-centred Spirit-led<br />
"But his delight is in the Law of the Lord, <strong>and</strong> in His Law he<br />
meditates day <strong>and</strong> night" Psalm 1:2<br />
Reformation - "Then you will be able to test <strong>and</strong> approve what God's<br />
Will is - His good pleasing <strong>and</strong> perfect Will"<br />
* Applying God's Word to all areas of life: economic, social,<br />
education, civil, judicial, moral, ethical, entertainment, arts <strong>and</strong><br />
sciences (2 Chronicles 14 & 15; Isaiah 33:22, Matthew 28:19).<br />
What is a Christian?<br />
The Bible teaches us that a Christian is:<br />
1. A SAINT 1 Corinthians 1:2; 1 Peter 1:15; Hebrews 13:12<br />
Be Holy - set apart for the exclusive use of God.<br />
2. A FREE MAN 1 John 3:8; Ephesians 1:7; Galatians 1:4; Hebrews 2:14, 15<br />
The Word of God is the truth (John 17:17) that sets us free (John<br />
8:32) <strong>and</strong> a Christian is one who has surrendered to the Word of God<br />
(James I :21-25) <strong>and</strong> received the freedom that God gives (John 8:36).<br />
"St<strong>and</strong> fast therefore in the liberty by which Christ has made<br />
us free, <strong>and</strong> do not be entangled again with a yoke of bondage."<br />
Galatians 5:1 (see also Ezekiel 34:27)<br />
3. A SERVANT Matthew 20:26-28; Mark 9:35; John 13:15; Luke 17:10<br />
Jesus came to serve to serve God <strong>and</strong> to serve others. We are to follow<br />
His example <strong>and</strong> be concerned above all else with serving God <strong>and</strong><br />
meeting the needs of others (1 John 3:18). (See also: Matthew<br />
25:34-40; Luke 12:47, 48; 1 Corinthians 15:58).<br />
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4. An ATHLETE<br />
Keep yourself in training for a godly life. Do spiritual exercises (1<br />
Timothy 4:7, 8). Rid yourself of all unnecessary weight. Free yourself<br />
of all known sin, throw aside every encumbrance <strong>and</strong> run with<br />
determination <strong>and</strong> endurance (Hebrews 12:1). Obey the rules (2<br />
Tim 2:5). Run to win, submit to strict discipline, run straight, harden<br />
your body, control your movements (1 Corinthians 9:24-27). Run your<br />
best, run the full distance (2 Timothy 4:7).<br />
5. A SOLDIER 2 Timothy 2:3,4<br />
We have a spiritual enemy to fight (Ephesians 6:12,13). We have a<br />
spiritual war to win (Romans 13:12,14). We have spiritual weapons<br />
that are powerful to the destroying of strongholds, to destroying false<br />
arguments, <strong>and</strong> to pulling down every proud obstacle raised against<br />
the knowledge of God (2 Corinthians 10:35).<br />
Therefore: Be disciplined (2 Timothy 2:4): Be motivated (Acts<br />
20:24): Be obedient (1 Tim 6:14); Be prepared (Ephesians 6:10-12);<br />
Be alert (1 Peter 5:8,9); <strong>and</strong> Use the Sword of the Spirit (Ephesians<br />
6:17), the Word of God (Hebrews 4: 12); to spread the truth that sets<br />
people free (John 8:32); fight evil (Romans 12:21); resist the devil<br />
(James 4:7); bind the powers of evil (Matthew 1:29; 18:18); enforce<br />
the victory of the Cross (Colossians 2:15); attack the strongholds<br />
of the enemy (2 Corinthians 10:4); storm the gates of hell (Matthew<br />
18:19); set prisoners free (Isaiah 61:1); win the victory in Jesus'<br />
Name (1 Corinthians 15:57).<br />
"Yet in all these things we are more than conquerors through Him<br />
who loved us." Romans 8:37<br />
6. A WORKER Matthew 20:16<br />
As workers for the Lord (Col 3:23) we are to always do our best<br />
(2 Timothy 2:15) <strong>and</strong> everything we do is to be done in Love (1<br />
Corinthians 6:14). "Therefore, my beloved brethren, be steadfast,<br />
immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing<br />
that your labor is not in vain in the Lord." 1 Corinthians 15:58 (see<br />
also Hebrews 5:10,11 <strong>and</strong> Matthew 6:33).<br />
7. A VESSEL 2 Corinthians 4:7<br />
Don't be polluted with wrong thoughts <strong>and</strong> wrong desires (Colossians<br />
3:8). Don't be empty (Ephesians 3:17 19). Be filled with the Holy<br />
Spirit (Ephesians 5:18). (Galatians 5:22 <strong>and</strong> Matthew 5:8).<br />
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The Facts of the Faith<br />
8. A DISCIPLE<br />
A disciple is one who gives up everything (Luke 14:33); denies<br />
himself (Matthew 16:24); takes up his cross (Mark 8:34) <strong>and</strong><br />
follows the example of Jesus (1 Peter 2:21). It is a life characterised<br />
by dedication to the Word of God (John 8:31) <strong>and</strong> love for the people<br />
of God (John 8:34).<br />
9. A PILGRIM<br />
People with a call, people of persistence, travellers seeking after the<br />
best that God has for them, people with a vision who proclaim their<br />
faith (Hebrews 11). Strangers to this world, (1 Peter 2: 11) refugees (1<br />
Peter 1:1), foreigners. You do not belong to the world (John 15:18,19)<br />
<strong>and</strong> are just passing through. You belong to a heavenly country <strong>and</strong> as<br />
pilgrims you must press on towards it, forsaking the world. Don't look<br />
back. Never turn back (Hebrews 11:13-16). Look for something far<br />
better (Jeremiah 29:13).<br />
10. A FARMER Matthew 2 1:28-32<br />
As a Christian you are like a farmer in God's vineyard (Matthew 20:1).<br />
You must sow (John 4:37) the seed of the Gospel (Mark 4:14) which<br />
will accomplish (Isaiah 55:11) the task of salvation (Romans 1:16). We<br />
must plough up the hard ground <strong>and</strong> water the soil with much prayer<br />
(1 Corinthians 3:8) <strong>and</strong> reap the harvest (John 4:38).<br />
Remember that the person who sows few seeds will have a small crop;<br />
the one who sows many seeds will have a large crop (2 Corinthians<br />
9:6). (see also Proverbs 10:5 <strong>and</strong> Matthew 9:37-38)<br />
11. The SALT OF THE EARTH Matt 5:13; Luke 14:34,35<br />
Salt preserves - we should preserve that which is holy <strong>and</strong> good <strong>and</strong><br />
right.<br />
Salt heals - we should heal the broken-hearted with encouragement,<br />
comfort, love <strong>and</strong> prayer.<br />
Salt melts - we should melt the cold hearts of sinners with the warmth<br />
of our love <strong>and</strong> the enthusiasm of our faith.<br />
Salt creates thirst - we should make sinners thirst after the spiritual<br />
life in Jesus - The Living Waters.<br />
12. The LIGHT FOR THE WORLD<br />
Jesus is the light of the world (John 8:12)<br />
Jesus is in the believer (Colossians 1:27)<br />
We are now light for the world (Matt 5: 14-16).<br />
So SHINE for Jesus!<br />
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PRINCIPLES FOR DISCIPLESHIP<br />
"... All authority has been given to Me in Heaven <strong>and</strong> on earth. Go therefore <strong>and</strong><br />
make disciples of all the nations, baptising them in the Name of the Father<br />
<strong>and</strong> of the Son <strong>and</strong> of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all things<br />
that I have comm<strong>and</strong>ed you; <strong>and</strong> lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the<br />
Age." Matthew 28:18-20<br />
A Great Claim:<br />
"All authority has been given to Me in heaven <strong>and</strong><br />
on earth."<br />
(The Lordship of Christ in all areas of life.)<br />
A Great Commission: "Go therefore <strong>and</strong> make disciples of all the nations"<br />
(The whole Church taking the whole Gospel to<br />
the whole world.)<br />
A Great Comm<strong>and</strong>:<br />
A Great Promise:<br />
"teaching them to observe all things that<br />
I have comm<strong>and</strong>ed you"<br />
"<strong>and</strong> lo, I am with you always, even to the<br />
end of the Age."<br />
"... commit these to faithful men who will be able to teach others also."<br />
2 Timothy 2:2<br />
Discipleship is not complete until the disciple is discipling. A disciple is a<br />
learner. Discipleship is the process of following the Lord in relationships of<br />
accountability with other believers. It involves discovering <strong>and</strong> practising<br />
what it means to follow Christ.<br />
"He who follows Me shall not walk in darkness, but have the light of life."<br />
John 8:12<br />
"If you abide in My Word, you are My disciples indeed." John 8:31<br />
"My sheep hear My voice <strong>and</strong> I know them, <strong>and</strong> they follow Me." John 10:27<br />
"If anyone serves Me, let him follow Me; <strong>and</strong> where I am, there My servant<br />
will be also. If anyone serves Me, him My Father will honour." John 12:26<br />
"By this My Father is glorified, that you bear much fruit; so you will be My<br />
disciples." John 15:8<br />
"So likewise, whoever of you does not forsake all that he has cannot be My<br />
disciple." Luke 14:33<br />
"Then Jesus said to His disciples, 'If anyone desires to come after Me, let him<br />
deny himself, <strong>and</strong> take up his cross, <strong>and</strong> follow Me.'" Matthew 16:24<br />
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Principles for Discipleship<br />
"By this all will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one<br />
another." John 13:35<br />
"For to this you were called, because Christ also suffered for us, leaving us an<br />
example, that you should follow His steps." 1 Peter 2:21<br />
"Therefore if anyone cleanses himself from the latter, he will be a vessel for<br />
honor, sanctified <strong>and</strong> useful for the Master, prepared for every good work."<br />
2 Timothy 2:21<br />
PRAYER<br />
Prayer Praise<br />
We speak to God<br />
(2 wings)<br />
(2 arms)<br />
Responsibilty to <br />
believers<br />
Responsibility to<br />
unbelievers<br />
FELLOWSHIP WORSHIP EVANGELISM<br />
God speaks to us<br />
BIBLE<br />
OT & NT<br />
(2 legs)<br />
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ALERTNESS<br />
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Biblical Character<br />
We must be sober, watchful <strong>and</strong> alert.<br />
We must watch over: ourselves (Deuteronomy 4:15-23, Exodus 34:12)<br />
our relationships (Exodus 34:12)<br />
our hearts (Proverbs 4:23)<br />
our lips (Psalm 141:3)<br />
our paths (Proverbs 4:26)<br />
We are to be alert to: the call of Christ (Ephesians 5: 14-17)<br />
the judgement of Christ (Micah 7:7)<br />
the coming of Christ (Matthew 24:42-44)<br />
spiritual warfare (Ephesians 6:12-18)<br />
the snares of our enemy (1 Peter 5:8)<br />
"Therefore let us not sleep as others do, but let us watch <strong>and</strong> be sober."<br />
1 Thessalonians 5:6<br />
STEADFASTNESS<br />
We must be steadfast, faithful <strong>and</strong> unwavering.<br />
We must st<strong>and</strong> firm: in the faith (2 Thessalonians 2:25)<br />
in the midst of suffering (1 Peter 5:9)<br />
in the face of false teaching (Hebrews 13:9)<br />
in times of trial (James 1: 12)<br />
We are to be steadfast: in good works (Galatians 6:9)<br />
in enduring love (Hosea 6:4)<br />
in moral conduct (Philippians 1:27)<br />
in absolute loyalty to God (Proverbs 24:21)<br />
"Therefore, my beloved brethren, be steadfast, immovable, always<br />
abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that your labour is not in<br />
vain in the Lord." 1 Corinthians 15:58<br />
COURAGE<br />
We must be courageous, fearless <strong>and</strong> brave.<br />
We are called to: be fearless in the Lord (Isaiah 12:2)<br />
trust in God's Power (2 Chronicles 32:7-8)<br />
trust in God's Will (Psalm 139:13-19)<br />
trust in God's presence (Psalm 118:6)<br />
be brave in the face of our enemies (Deuteronomy 3 1:6)<br />
be brave in the midst of punishment (Job 5:17-24)<br />
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Bible Character<br />
be brave for the sake of God's people (2 Samuel 10:12)<br />
be brave in all our service (1 Chronicles 28:20)<br />
"For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power <strong>and</strong> of love <strong>and</strong><br />
of a sound mind." 2 Timothy 1:7<br />
STRENGTH<br />
We must be dynamic, stalwart <strong>and</strong> strong.<br />
We are called to be strong in Christ (2 Corinthians 10:3-6) The Gospel comes<br />
in power (1 Thessalonians 1:5) Salvation comes in power (Romans 1:16).<br />
Every believer should receive power from above (Luke 24:49) Believers are<br />
empowered for evangelism (Acts 1:8).<br />
Christ has promised us the strength of His might (Ephesians 1:9).<br />
We are able to do all things through Christ who strengthens us. (Philippians<br />
4: 13).<br />
"He gives power to the weak <strong>and</strong> to those who have no might He increases<br />
strength. Even the youths shall faint <strong>and</strong> be weary <strong>and</strong> the young men shall<br />
utterly fall, but those who wait on the Lord shall renew their strength; They<br />
shall mount up with wings like eagles, they shall run <strong>and</strong> not be weary,<br />
they shall walk <strong>and</strong> not faint." Isaiah 40:29-31<br />
LOVE<br />
We must be kind-hearted, loving <strong>and</strong> unselfish.<br />
We are to love: strangers <strong>and</strong> refugees (Deuteronomy 10:19)<br />
our neighbours (Leviticus 19:18)<br />
our enemies (Matthew 5:44)<br />
our brethren (1 Peter 3:8)<br />
We are to: live in love (Ephesians 5:1-12)<br />
abound in love (Philippians 1:9)<br />
encourage one another in love (Hebrews 10:24-25)<br />
be an example of love (1 Timothy 4:12)<br />
"Remembering without ceasing your work of faith, labour of love, <strong>and</strong><br />
patience of hope in our Lord Jesus Christ in the sight of our God <strong>and</strong><br />
Father" 1 Thessalonians 1:3<br />
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Suffering<br />
"You therefore must endure HARDSHIP as a good soldier of Jesus<br />
Christ." 2 Timothy 2:3<br />
"Yes, <strong>and</strong> ALL who desire to live godly in Christ Jesus will suffer<br />
persecution." 2 Timothy 3:12<br />
"We are HARD-PRESSED on every side, yet not crushed; we are<br />
perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not forsaken; struck<br />
down, but not destroyed" 2 Corinthians 4.8,9<br />
"For to this you were called, because Christ also suffered for us,<br />
leaving us an example, that you should follow His steps" 1 Peter 2:21<br />
What is the Purpose of Suffering in the Christian Life?<br />
"In this you greatly rejoice, though now for a little while, if need be, you have<br />
been grieved by various trials, that the genuineness of your faith, being<br />
much more precious than gold that perishes, though it is tested by fire, may<br />
be found to praise, honor, <strong>and</strong> glory at the revelation of Jesus Christ" <br />
<br />
1 Peter1:6,7<br />
"My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into various trials, knowing that<br />
the testing of your faith produces patience. But let patience have its<br />
perfect work, that you may be perfect <strong>and</strong> complete, lacking nothing." <br />
James 1:2-4<br />
"Blessed is the man who ENDURES temptation; for when he has been approved,<br />
he will receive the CROWN of life which the Lord has promised to those who<br />
LOVE Him" James 1:12<br />
"<strong>and</strong> if children, then heirs—heirs of God <strong>and</strong> joint heirs with Christ, if indeed<br />
we suffer with Him, that we may also be glorified together." <br />
Romans 8:17<br />
"Beloved, do not think it strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as<br />
though some strange thing happened to you; but rejoice to the extent that you<br />
partake of Christ’s sufferings, that when His glory is revealed, you may also be<br />
glad with exceeding joy. 1 Peter 4: 12-13<br />
"And we know that all things work together for good to those who<br />
love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose." <br />
Romans 8:28<br />
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Suffering<br />
SUFFERING PURIFIES us <strong>and</strong> PREPARES us for special service. All of<br />
God's great men knew great suffering while God PURGED <strong>and</strong> PREPARED<br />
them for His service. Joseph experienced 12 years in slavery <strong>and</strong> prison<br />
before becoming governor of Egypt. Moses was 40 years in the desert before<br />
becoming the deliverer of Israel. David was an outlaw <strong>and</strong> a fugitive for years<br />
before becoming King of Israel. The Bible is full of examples of great men of<br />
faith enduring suffering for the Lord. There is no short cut to maturity.<br />
Realistic preaching is always encouraging. One does not strengthen people<br />
by telling them what they want to hear. Fairy tales <strong>and</strong> fantasies about<br />
endless blessings is not only cruelly false, but destructively self indulgent.<br />
Comfort softens us, but hardship strengthens us. Wealth often breeds<br />
selfishness <strong>and</strong> greed, but suffering can encourage sharing <strong>and</strong> love.<br />
The Apostles Testimony<br />
Many may consider teaching on suffering to be negative. It is not<br />
negative. To teach on suffering is to recognise the reality of everyday life.<br />
To recognise that suffering is inevitable is not discouraging at all. Notice<br />
what sort of message the apostles of the early church taught:<br />
"Strengthening the souls of the disciples, exhorting them to continue<br />
in the faith, <strong>and</strong> saying, 'WE MUST THROUGH MANY TRIBULATIONS<br />
ENTER THE KINGDOM OF GOD.'" Acts 14:22<br />
What was the experience of Christians in the early Church?<br />
The Apostle Paul, that great "Apostle of Faith'', wrote about some of his<br />
experiences:<br />
"I am more: in labours more abundant, in stripes above measure, in<br />
prisons more frequently, in deaths often. From the Jews five times I<br />
received forty stripes minus one. Three times I was beaten with rods;<br />
once I was stoned; three times I was shipwrecked; a night <strong>and</strong> a day I<br />
have been in the deep; in journeys often, in perils of waters, in perils<br />
of robbers, in perils of my own countrymen, in perils of the Gentiles,<br />
in perils in the city, in perils in the wilderness, in perils in the sea,<br />
in perils among false brethren; in weariness <strong>and</strong> toil, in sleeplessness<br />
often, in hunger <strong>and</strong> thirst, in fastings often, in cold <strong>and</strong> nakedness -<br />
besides the other things. . . " 2 Corinthians 11:23-33<br />
It is always a privilege to suffer for Jesus. The suffering is temporary, but<br />
the Glory is eternal.<br />
Note the testimony of the Apostles who, rather than claim comfort, safety<br />
<strong>and</strong> luxury at home, chose rather to suffer for Christ whilst obeying the<br />
Great Commission:<br />
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THe Testimony of the<br />
Twelve Apostles<br />
"…These who have turned the world upside down have come here<br />
too." Acts 17:6<br />
Peter<br />
Simon, whom the Lord Jesus renamed Peter, was born in Bethsaida,<br />
in Galilee. He was a fisherman, the son of Jonah. His brother, Andrew<br />
brought him to the Lord. It was Peter who preached so powerfully on the<br />
Day of Pentecost in Jerusalem, winning over 3,000 to Christ. After being<br />
imprisoned several times in Jerusalem, Peter <strong>and</strong> his wife ministered in<br />
Babylon, from where he wrote his first Epistle (1 Peter). While ministering<br />
in Rome, John Mark (the writer of the Gospel of Mark), served as his<br />
translator. Mark wrote his Gospel under the apostolic authority of Peter,<br />
who was eyewitness to much of what was recorded. The emperor Nero<br />
personally condemned the Apostle Peter to death in AD68. Peter insisted<br />
that he was not worthy to be crucified in the same manner as His Lord <strong>and</strong><br />
was thus crucified upside down. Before he met his death at the h<strong>and</strong>s of<br />
the Romans, he converted his jailers, Processus <strong>and</strong> Martinianus, <strong>and</strong> 47<br />
others in the prison, to the Lord.<br />
Andrew<br />
Andrew was the first of the Apostles to follow Jesus. Throughout the<br />
Gospels we see him bringing people to the Lord, including the little boy<br />
with the five loaves <strong>and</strong> two fish. After the Day of Pentecost, Andrew<br />
engaged in widespread missions to the Caucasian Mountains, (present<br />
day Georgia), to the Scythians on the Caspian Sea, to Byzantium (which<br />
is present day Turkey), to Greece, to Thrace <strong>and</strong> Macedonia. Church<br />
historian Eusebius records that Andrew preached to the Scythians,<br />
Sogdians <strong>and</strong> the Saxons. In Patros he was martyred, crucified on an X<br />
shaped cross which today is know as the St. Andrews cross. The governor<br />
of the Edessenes, Ageas, attempted to force all Christians to sacrifice to<br />
the Roman idols. Andrew publically confronted him <strong>and</strong> was condemned<br />
to death. Andrew declared: "I would not have preached the honour <strong>and</strong><br />
glory of the cross if I feared the death of the Cross." Andrew was martyred<br />
30 November AD80. Four countries claim Andrew as their patron Saint:<br />
Russia, Greece, Germany <strong>and</strong> Scotl<strong>and</strong>. 30 November is St. Andrews Day.<br />
The St. Andrews cross is the national flag of Scotl<strong>and</strong>.<br />
John<br />
The Apostle John was the son of Zebedee, a fisherman of Galilee. His<br />
mother, Salome, was the sister of Mary, the mother of Jesus. John, his<br />
brother James, <strong>and</strong> the Apostles Peter <strong>and</strong> Andrew, were all partners in<br />
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The Testimony of the Twelve Apostles<br />
a fishing business prior to their calls by the Lord. John's brother, James,<br />
was the first of the Apostles to die, John was the last. All of the Apostles<br />
except John, met a violent death. However, John lived a martyr’s life. The<br />
Lord Jesus entrusted His mother Mary to the care of John. John founded<br />
churches throughout Asia, wrote the Book of Revelation, the Gospel<br />
according to John <strong>and</strong> 1, 2 <strong>and</strong> 3 John.<br />
James<br />
James, the elder brother of the Apostle John, was the first Apostle to<br />
suffer martyrdom. By order of King Herod Agrippa, James was beheaded<br />
in Jerusalem in AD44.<br />
Matthew<br />
Matthew was a tax collector before being called by the Lord. He was a<br />
gifted writer, <strong>and</strong> perhaps the best educated of the Apostles. He is the<br />
writer of the Gospel according to Matthew. He undertook missions to<br />
Persia, Egypt <strong>and</strong> Ethiopia where he was martyred for Christ.<br />
Philip<br />
After the Ascension of Christ, Philip travelled into Scythia (in what is<br />
today Southern Russia) <strong>and</strong> ministered there for 20 years. Philip is also<br />
believed to have ministered as far as Gaul (present day France). After this<br />
he ministered in Asia Minor (what is today, Turkey), where, in Hierapolis,<br />
he was used of the Lord to heal the wife of the Roman proconsul. For this<br />
he was crucified.<br />
Bartholomew<br />
The Apostle Bartholomew ministered through Asia Minor, including in<br />
Hierapolis, Laodicea, <strong>and</strong> Colosse, in Armenia <strong>and</strong> in India. In AD68,<br />
Bartholomew was martyred in Albanopolis, (now Derbend in Azerbaijan),<br />
after he converted the king of Armenia to Christianity. The king's pagan<br />
brother murdered Bartholomew in retaliation.<br />
Thomas<br />
Thomas Didymas (the twin) was a fisherman from Galilee. After the<br />
Ascension, Thomas went as missionary to Babylon where he established<br />
the first Christian churches there. Thereafter he ministered in Persia<br />
<strong>and</strong> India, winning many converts. The Bar Thomas Church endures in<br />
India to this day. He was martyred in Mylapore (what today is a suburb of<br />
Madras), on 21 December.<br />
James the Younger<br />
James, (the son of Alpheus) was the brother of Matthew <strong>and</strong> the son of<br />
Mary, (the wife of Cleophas another follower of the Lord). James came<br />
from Capernaum. He established the churches in Syria. For preaching<br />
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Christ, he was thrown down from the Temple by the scribes <strong>and</strong> pharisees<br />
<strong>and</strong> then stoned to death, in Jerusalem.<br />
Jude (Thaddeus)<br />
The Apostle Jude took the Gospel to Armenia where he established the<br />
church in Edessa. Armenia became one of the first Christian kingdoms.<br />
Later he evangelised in Syria <strong>and</strong> Persia. Jude was martyred in Kara<br />
Kalisa, near the Caspian Sea, 40 miles from Tabriz (in what is today Iran).<br />
Simon<br />
Simon the Zealot ministered throughout North Africa, including in the<br />
great city of Carthage. He planted the Gospel in Spain <strong>and</strong> ministered in<br />
Britain where he was martyred 10 May, 61AD in Caistor, Lincolnshire.<br />
Matthias<br />
Matthias was chosen as an Apostle to replace the traitor Judas. Matthias<br />
evangelised in Armenia <strong>and</strong> the Ukraine, planting churches in Colchis <strong>and</strong><br />
Sebastopol. He was martyred in Adjure, in what is today Georgia, in the<br />
Caucasian Mountains.<br />
"Beloved, do not think it strange concerning the fiery trial which is<br />
to try you, as though some strange thing happened to you; but rejoice<br />
to the extent that you partake of Christ's sufferings, that when His<br />
glory is revealed, you may also be glad with exceeding joy." 1 Peter 4:12<br />
"For to this you were called because Christ also suffered for us, leaving<br />
us an example that you should follow in His steps." 1 Peter 2:21<br />
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The Sufferings of Christ<br />
"CHRIST ALSO SUFFERED FOR US, LEAVING US AN EXAMPLE. . ." <br />
1 Peter 2:21<br />
Jesus was misunderstood, sl<strong>and</strong>ered, falsely accused <strong>and</strong> lied about:<br />
"For they said, 'He is out of His mind.'" Mark 3:21<br />
"The people answered <strong>and</strong> said, 'You have a demon.'" John 7:20<br />
"Look, a glutton <strong>and</strong> a winebibber, a friend of tax collectors <strong>and</strong><br />
sinners!" Matthew 11:19<br />
"We found this fellow perverting the nation, <strong>and</strong> forbidding to<br />
pay taxes to Caesar... He stirs up the people, teaching throughout<br />
all Judea." Luke 23:2,5<br />
Jesus was hated <strong>and</strong> betrayed:<br />
"If the world hates you, you know that it hated Me before it<br />
hated you." John 15:18<br />
"Then, from that day on, they plotted to put Him to death." <br />
John 11:53<br />
"But Jesus said to him, 'Judas, are you betraying the Son of Man<br />
with a kiss?'"' Luke 22:48<br />
Jesus was forsaken by His friends:<br />
"From that time many of His disciples went back <strong>and</strong> walked<br />
with Him no more." John 6:66<br />
"Then they all forsook Him <strong>and</strong> fled." Mark 14:50<br />
Jesus was unjustly arrested, illegally tried <strong>and</strong> wrongly condemned:<br />
"Then Jesus answered <strong>and</strong> said to them, 'Have you come out, as<br />
against a robber, with swords <strong>and</strong> clubs to take Me?'" Mark 14:48<br />
"Now the chief priests <strong>and</strong> all the council sought testimony<br />
against Jesus to put Him to death, but found none. For many<br />
bore false witness against Him, but their testimonies did not<br />
agree." Mark 14:55, 56<br />
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"Pilate. . . said to them... 'I have found no fault in this Man<br />
concerning those things of which you accuse Him; no, neither did<br />
Herod, for I sent you back to him; <strong>and</strong> indeed nothing deserving<br />
of death has been done by Him. I will therefore chastise Him <strong>and</strong><br />
release Him'" Luke 23:13-16<br />
"But they cried out, “Away with Him, away with Him! Crucify<br />
Him!" John 19:15<br />
Jesus was mocked, beaten, whipped, insulted, slapped <strong>and</strong> crucified.<br />
"Then some began to spit on Him, <strong>and</strong> to blindfold Him, <strong>and</strong> to<br />
beat Him." Mark 14:65<br />
"Then Herod, with his men of war, treated Him with contempt."<br />
Luke 23:11<br />
"Then he released Barabbas to them; <strong>and</strong> when he had scourged<br />
Jesus, he delivered Him to be crucified." Matthew 27:26<br />
"And those who passed by blasphemed Him, wagging their<br />
heads." Matthew 27:39<br />
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Judges 3:1-2<br />
War in the Bible<br />
"Now these are the nations which the Lord left,<br />
that He might test Israel by them, that is, all<br />
who had not known any of the wars in Canaan<br />
(this was only so that the generations of the<br />
children of Israel might be taught to know war,<br />
at least those who had not formerly known it.)"<br />
God's strategy for complacency is to train His people through conflict.<br />
Taught to trust God in battle to be purged, purified <strong>and</strong> prepared as<br />
soldiers of Christ.<br />
Exodus 15:3, 4"<br />
Exodus 17:8-16<br />
"The Lord is a man of war; The Lord is His Name.<br />
Pharaoh’s chariots <strong>and</strong> his army He has cast into<br />
the sea."<br />
Victory over the Amalekites by prayer <strong>and</strong> the<br />
sword.<br />
Deuteronomy 20: 1-4 "When you go out to battle ... do not be afraid,<br />
<strong>and</strong> do not tremble or be terrified because of<br />
them; for the Lord your God is He who goes with<br />
you. .."<br />
Joshua 6:1-5<br />
Judges 5:16-18;23<br />
Judges 6 & 7<br />
God guided the Israelites to victory over Jericho.<br />
Deborah's song of victory rebuked those who failed<br />
to fight for freedom. "Why did you sit among the<br />
sheepfolds? ... 'Curse Meroz,' said the angel of<br />
the Lord,'Curse its inhabitants bitterly, because<br />
they did not come to the help of the Lord, to the<br />
help of the Lord against the mighty.'"<br />
God directed Gideon to defeat the Midianites <strong>and</strong><br />
rescue Israel from their power.<br />
1 Samuel 11 The Spirit of God led Saul <strong>and</strong> Israel to rescue the<br />
people of Jabesh Gilead.<br />
1 Samuel 14:6, 23 The Lord rescued Israel from the Philistines by the<br />
faith, courage <strong>and</strong> initiative of Jonathan.<br />
1 Samuel 15:2-3 The Lord comm<strong>and</strong>ed Saul to utterly destroy the<br />
Amalekites.<br />
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1 Samuel 17:45-47 David was enabled by the Lord to defeat Goliath.<br />
2 Samuel 5:19-20 David sought the Lord's will <strong>and</strong> was guided to<br />
attack the Philistines.<br />
Psalms<br />
Psalm 18:39-48<br />
Many of the Psalms are prayers to God for<br />
guidance in war, or hymns of thanksgiving to<br />
the Lord for victory in battle.<br />
"For You have armed me with strength for the<br />
battleYou have subdued under me those who<br />
rose up against me. You have also given me the<br />
necks of my enemies, so that I destroyed those<br />
who hated me... You have made me the head<br />
of the nations ... The Lord lives! Blessed be my<br />
Rock! Let the God of my salvation be exalted. It<br />
is God who avenges me, <strong>and</strong> subdues the peoples<br />
under me; He delivers me from my enemies."<br />
In the Bible wars were ordained as a means of restraining evil, judging<br />
wickedness, purging sin <strong>and</strong> purifying God's people.<br />
When God's people rebelled against His Law then God allowed them to be<br />
defeated <strong>and</strong> enslaved, or exiled, by the Midianites, Philistines, Assyrians,<br />
Babylonians, Romans or others.<br />
Deuteronomy 28:1,7 " If you diligently obey the voice of the Lord your<br />
God , to observe carefully all His comm<strong>and</strong>ments<br />
... the Lord your God will set you high above all<br />
nations of the earth."<br />
(Cf: Leviticus 26:7-8; Joshua 1:5)<br />
Leviticus 26:14-17 "But ... if you despise My statutes, or if your soul<br />
abhors My judgments, so that you do not perform<br />
all My comm<strong>and</strong>ments...you shall be defeated by<br />
your enemies. Those who hate you shall reign<br />
over you. " (cf: Deuteronomy 28:25; 43)<br />
The Scriptures reveal God as a God of war as well as a God of peace, because<br />
God is primarily a God of justice.<br />
Jeremiah 21: 12 "Execute judgment in the morning; And deliver<br />
him who is plundered out of the h<strong>and</strong> of the<br />
oppresor, lest My fury go forth like fire <strong>and</strong> burn<br />
so that no one can quench it, because of the evil<br />
of your doings...."<br />
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War in the Bible<br />
On certain occasions God has not only permitted war but has comm<strong>and</strong>ed<br />
it. In the Bible military defence against aggressor nations is given the<br />
same status as capital punishment for murderers.<br />
Proverbs 21:15 "It is a joy for the just to do justice, but<br />
destruction will come to the workers of<br />
iniquity."<br />
Many Men of God Have Been Soldiers<br />
Much of the Bible is written by soldiers <strong>and</strong> for soldiers.<br />
JOSHUA was a mighty man of God <strong>and</strong> a mighty soldier comm<strong>and</strong>ing the<br />
Israelite army in the battle with the Amalekites (Exodus 17:8-16), <strong>and</strong> in<br />
the conquest of the promised l<strong>and</strong> (Joshua).<br />
King DAVID was "a man after God's own heart," <strong>and</strong> the writer of much of<br />
the Psalms as well as a great soldier (1 Samuel 17:45, 47; 18:5; 7; 2 Samuel<br />
5:17-25;8:1-14; 10:12; 12:26-29). Hence David was able to say:<br />
"Blessed be the Lord my Rock,<br />
Who trains my h<strong>and</strong>s for war,<br />
And my fingers for battle.<br />
My lovingkindness <strong>and</strong> my fortress,<br />
My high tower <strong>and</strong> my deliverer,<br />
My shield <strong>and</strong> the One in whom I take refuge,<br />
Who subdues my people under me." Psalm 144:1,2<br />
ABRAHAM resorted to military action to rescue Lot from the four<br />
heathen kings (Genesis 14:11-16).<br />
DEBORAH <strong>and</strong> BARAK were led by the Lord to defeat Sisera <strong>and</strong> the<br />
Canaanite armies (Judges 4:14,15),<br />
GIDEON was comm<strong>and</strong>ed by God to defeat the Midianites <strong>and</strong> rescue<br />
Israel from their power (Judges 6:14, 15).<br />
God gave SAMSON the power to defeat the Philistines <strong>and</strong> keep Israel<br />
safe for twenty years (Judges 14:19; 15:14, 15,20; 16:28-30).<br />
The four CENTURIONS (Roman officers) mentioned in the New<br />
Testament are all commended in one way or another (Luke 7:9; 23:47;<br />
Acts 19:2: 27:43). The Centurion at Capernaum was praised for his faith.<br />
Cornelius <strong>and</strong> the Italian Regiment of the Roman Army had the great<br />
honour of being the first Gentiles to be baptised by the Holy Spirit into<br />
the body of Christ.<br />
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Throughout the Bible the work <strong>and</strong> calling of soldiers are frequently<br />
mentioned, yet never with any suggestion that it could be, in <strong>and</strong> of itself,<br />
dishonourable or unchristian. John the Baptist, in answering the soldiers'<br />
question of what they were to do, never suggested that they should leave<br />
the army. He merely replied, "Don't extort money <strong>and</strong> do not accuse<br />
people falsely .Be content with your pay." Luke 3:14. He told them how<br />
to be good soldiers.<br />
The Christian life is often likened to many acceptable <strong>and</strong> honourable<br />
occupations, such as that of a farmer, athlete, worker, citizen, pilgrim<br />
<strong>and</strong> soldier (1 Timothy 6:12; 2 Timothy 2:3, 4; Ephesians 6:11-17). Many<br />
of the aspects of a soldier's life are commended such as: self-sacrifice,<br />
discipline <strong>and</strong> loyalty.<br />
"What About Turning the Other Cheek?"<br />
Jesus said: "If someone slaps you on the right cheek, let him slap your<br />
left cheek too." Matthew 5:39. Let us not say more than what Jesus said.<br />
What He did NOT say was, "if someone stabs you in the one cheek let<br />
him stab you in the heart too!"; neither did Jesus suggest that if someone<br />
rapes your sister let him attack your mother too. Nor did Jesus dem<strong>and</strong><br />
that if the Arabs bomb Nairobi we should let them bomb Lusaka as well.<br />
These ridiculous things Jesus emphatically never taught! Yet that is how<br />
some pacifists are misinterpreting these verses.<br />
Jesus said, "If someone slaps you..." Let us not suggest more than what our<br />
Lord taught. Don't fight over an insult. Don't kill to preserve your pride.<br />
Don't retaliate just because of an insult. A slap can hardly be interpreted<br />
as a threat of bodily harm or fatal injury. A slap represents an insult.<br />
Matthew 5:39 was never meant to abolish national defence or self defence.<br />
It was never given that cowards could quote it as an excuse for not doing<br />
their duty in protecting their family. For the man who believes that God's<br />
comm<strong>and</strong>s of the Old Testament (which allow capital punishment for<br />
murderers <strong>and</strong> military defence for nations) could be abolished by the<br />
coming of our Lord, Jesus said:<br />
"Do not think that I came to destroy the Law or the Prophets. I did not<br />
come to destroy but to fulfill." Matthew 5:17<br />
"What About Loving Your Enemies?"<br />
To "love your enemies", Matthew 5:44, is a Christian obligation. So is to<br />
love your brother, to honour your parents, <strong>and</strong> to love your neighbour.<br />
Surely my priority must be to defend my family <strong>and</strong> neighbour against<br />
any aggressor - be it a criminal, terrorist or foreign invader.<br />
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War in the Bibl<br />
And I was never comm<strong>and</strong>ed to love God's enemies, who persecute His<br />
Church. Nor was I comm<strong>and</strong>ed to love my country's enemies. Personal<br />
vengeance <strong>and</strong> jealousies are forbidden. My enemies I must forgive. But<br />
my family must be protected, my country must be defended, <strong>and</strong> my<br />
neighbours must be saved from aggression <strong>and</strong> violence.<br />
I have personally taken the Gospel to marxist terrorists, Muslim Jihadists<br />
<strong>and</strong> to communist soldiers, over the border. But when they cross the<br />
border <strong>and</strong> threaten my neighbours, I must do my duty <strong>and</strong> take up arms<br />
to stop them.<br />
I will do everything in my power to bring the Word of God <strong>and</strong> the<br />
Gospel of Christ to the enemies of my l<strong>and</strong> <strong>and</strong> Faith. I will endeavour to<br />
bring as many as possible to repentance from sin <strong>and</strong> to faith in Christ.<br />
But when called up to serve my country, I will do my utmost to protect<br />
my fellow citizens from all foreign aggression or terrorism. Those who<br />
refuse to repent of their sins <strong>and</strong> turn away from the ways of terror,<br />
intimidation, fear <strong>and</strong> hate - those who endanger the lives of the innocent<br />
<strong>and</strong> defenceless - I will fight, kill or capture.<br />
Of course, any captured or wounded enemy will receive prompt<br />
medical care, humane treatment <strong>and</strong> the Gospel. That is Christian love<br />
demonstrated in a practical <strong>and</strong> balanced way.<br />
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All Out War<br />
The Bible makes it clear that the Christian life is real, serious warfare.<br />
Weapons are issued (2 Corinthians 10:4); Strategies are formulated (Luke<br />
14:26- 33); Espionage is exposed (Acts 20:29-30); Commissions are given<br />
(Matthew 28:19-20); Battle cries are sounded (Ezekiel 33:3-9); Opponents<br />
are disarmed (Colossians 2:15); Captives are taken (2 Corinthians 10:5);<br />
Prisoners are freed (Isaiah 51:14); <strong>and</strong> Victories are won (1 Corinthians<br />
15:57).<br />
We cannot have victory without a battle. We need to look beyond our<br />
problems to God's solutions, beyond our needs to God's provisions. I have<br />
the power to face all circumstances through Christ who strengthens me<br />
(Philippians 4:3). If God be for me who can be against me? (Romans 8:31).<br />
We are more than conquerors through Christ Who loves us (Romans 8:37).<br />
There is no sin so great but that God's Grace is greater still. There is no<br />
problem so large but that God's answer is greater still. There is no enemy<br />
so strong but that Jesus is stronger still.<br />
"He who is in you is greater than he who is in the world." <br />
1 John 4:4<br />
"Who will rise up for Me against the evildoers? Who will st<strong>and</strong><br />
up for Me against the workers of iniquity?" Psalm 94:16<br />
We are Christians. People with a message - a message of life <strong>and</strong> death.<br />
We are soldiers of Christ engaged in a spiritual world war. Let us wake up<br />
to the urgency of a world going to hell <strong>and</strong> a spiritual emergency in the<br />
Church. Truth is at stake as humanistic unchristian philosophies creep<br />
into the churches <strong>and</strong> sweep through the l<strong>and</strong>. Newspapers, films, tapes,<br />
videos, books, T.V. programmes <strong>and</strong> UNESCO textbooks are all too often<br />
promoting unBiblical st<strong>and</strong>ards <strong>and</strong> anti-Christian ideologies.<br />
"For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal but mighty in<br />
God for pulling down strongholds, casting down arguments <strong>and</strong><br />
every high thing that exalts itself against the knowledge of God,<br />
bringing every thought into captivity to the obedience of Christ."<br />
2 Corinthians 10:4, 5<br />
If we love the Lord then we must obey Him (John 14:15). If we love the<br />
lost then we must tell them the truth of the Scriptures:<br />
"And as it is appointed for men to die once, but after this the<br />
judgment." Hebrews 9:27<br />
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All Out War<br />
"I tell you, no; but unless you repent you will all likewise perish."<br />
Luke 13:3<br />
"he who does not believe the Son shall not see life, but the wrath of<br />
God abides on him. John 3:36<br />
The priority of our time is to love God with all our heart, soul, mind<br />
<strong>and</strong> strength (Mark 12:31). This will involve "the fear of the Lord is the<br />
beginning of knowledge." Proverbs 1:7.<br />
"The fear of the Lord is to hate evil." Proverbs 8:13.<br />
"Let love be without hypocrisy. Abhor what is evil. Cling to what<br />
is good." Romans 12:9.<br />
"Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good."<br />
Romans 12:21<br />
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Spiritual Warfare<br />
As Christians, we are all spiritual soldiers (2 Timothy 2:3, 4).<br />
The Soldier of Christ is to be: willing (Philippians 1:20).<br />
dedicated (2 Timothy 4:7)<br />
disciplined (2 Timothy 2:4)<br />
motivated (Acts 20:24)<br />
obedient (1 Timothy 6:14)<br />
prepared (Ephesians 6:10-18)<br />
alert (1 Peter 5:8)<br />
We have a spiritual enemy to fight (Ephesians 6:12, 13)<br />
We have a spiritual war to win (Romans 13:12, 14)<br />
We have spiritual weapons: that are powerful to the destroying of strong<br />
holds ,to destroying false arguments, <strong>and</strong><br />
to pulling down every proud obstacle raised<br />
against the knowledge of God.<br />
(2 Corinthians 10:3-5)<br />
These are God's Powerful Weapons<br />
1. Forgiveness conquers Evil<br />
(Matthew 5:44; Romans 12:20; Colossians 3:13; Luke 17:4;<br />
Proverbs 25:21)<br />
2. Love conquers Hatred<br />
(1 Corinthians 13:4-8; 1 John 3:18; 1 John 4:16-18; Luke 6:27-36;<br />
John 13:34, 35)<br />
3. Faith conquers Unbelief<br />
(Ephesians 6:16, Romans 10:17; James 2:26; 1 John 5;4;<br />
Hebrews 11:1 1 Thessalonians 5:8)<br />
4. The Holy Spirit conquers the Flesh<br />
(Galatians 5, Romans 8, John 6:63, 1 John 4:4; 2 Corinthians 3:17)<br />
5. The Word of God - the sword of the Spirit - is the Truth that<br />
sets us free.<br />
(Hebrews 4:12; Matt 10:34; Ephesians 6:17; John 8:32; John 15:3;<br />
John 17:17).<br />
6. The Power of the Blood of Jesus conquers Sin<br />
(1 John 1:7; Revelation 12:11)<br />
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Spiritual Warfare<br />
7. The Angelic Powers protect us<br />
(Acts 12:7: Psalm 91:11)<br />
8. Prayer changes things<br />
(Acts 4:31; Acts 12:5, 11; Daniel 9:3-19; John 17)<br />
9. Praise conquers Defeat<br />
(Joshua 6:20; 1 Kings 18:36-39)<br />
10. The Name of Jesus gives Victory<br />
(Luke 24:47-49; John 16:23, 24; 16:18; Colossians 3:17)<br />
"But thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our<br />
Lord Jesus Christ. Therefore, my beloved brethren, be steadfast,<br />
immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing<br />
that your labour is not in vain in the Lord." <br />
1 Corinthians 15:57-58<br />
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Psalm 24:1<br />
<strong>Chaplains</strong> <strong>H<strong>and</strong>book</strong><br />
Called to Conquest<br />
The Earth is the Lord's <strong>and</strong> everything in it.<br />
Matthew 28:18-20 The Church is to disciple the nations.<br />
Colossians 1:15-20 Jesus is Lord of all areas of life.<br />
Matthew 5:13-16<br />
Daniel 7:14<br />
Daniel 7:27<br />
Isaiah 11:9<br />
Christians are to confront, transform <strong>and</strong> lead the<br />
world (Genesis 1:27-28).<br />
The Kingdom <strong>and</strong> authority of Christ is over all<br />
nations (Revelation 11:15).<br />
The people of God are to rule over all the earth.<br />
The l<strong>and</strong> will be as full of the knowledge of the Lord<br />
as the seas are full of water (Isaiah 45:22).<br />
Isaiah 2:2-4 Many nations will come to God (Revelation 7-9).<br />
Psalm 2<br />
Psalm 22:27-31<br />
Daniel 2:34-45<br />
Matthew 24:14<br />
The nations plan rebellion <strong>and</strong> plot together against<br />
the Lord, but God will break them <strong>and</strong> subdue the<br />
whole earth under His rule (Matthew 16:18).<br />
All nations will turn to God. He will rule the nations<br />
(Psalm 67; Psalm 72:11; Psalm 86:9-10).<br />
God's Kingdom will destroy <strong>and</strong> conquer all previous<br />
empires <strong>and</strong> last forever (Haggai 2:7; Zephaniah 2:11;<br />
Zechariah 14:9).<br />
The Gospel will be preached throughout all the world<br />
as a witness to all mankind (Malachi 1:11;<br />
Revelation 5:9-10).<br />
1 John 5:4 Every child of God is able to defeat the world<br />
(John 16:33).<br />
1 John 4:4 Greater is He who is in us than he who is in the<br />
World (Ephesians 6:10-12).<br />
James 4:7<br />
Revelation 12:11<br />
Romans 8:37<br />
Submit to God, resist the devil <strong>and</strong> he will flee<br />
from you (1 John 3:8).<br />
Our brothers won the victory by the blood of<br />
the Lamb <strong>and</strong> by the truth which they proclaimed,<br />
<strong>and</strong> they were willing to give up their lives <strong>and</strong> die.<br />
We are more than conquerors through Christ<br />
(1 Corinthians 15:57).<br />
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Hatred of Evil<br />
"Let love be without hypocrisy. Abhor what is evil. Cling to what is<br />
good." Romans 12:9<br />
"The fear of the Lord is to hate evil." Proverbs 8:13<br />
"These six things the Lord hates, yes, seven are an abomination to<br />
Him: A proud look, a lying tongue, h<strong>and</strong>s that shed innocent blood,<br />
a heart that devises wicked plans, feet that are swift in running to<br />
evil, a false witness who speaks lies, <strong>and</strong> one who sows discord among<br />
brethren." Proverbs 6:16-19<br />
"Through Your precepts I get underst<strong>and</strong>ing; therefore I hate every<br />
false way." Psalms 119:104<br />
"You rebuke the proud - the cursed, who stray from Your<br />
comm<strong>and</strong>ments." Psalms 119:21<br />
"Indignation has taken hold of me because of the wicked, who forsake<br />
Your law." Psalm 119:53<br />
"I hate the double-minded, but I love Your law." Psalm 119:113<br />
"Do not let evil defeat you; instead, conquer evil with good." <br />
Romans 12:21<br />
"Who will rise up for Me against the evildoers? Who will st<strong>and</strong> up for<br />
Me against the workers of iniquity?" Psalm 94:16<br />
David, the shepherd king, was a man after God's own heart <strong>and</strong> the<br />
Psalms contain many of his heartfelt prayers <strong>and</strong> songs of praise to God.<br />
The Psalms flow with vibrant worship <strong>and</strong> love for God. The Psalms were<br />
the prayer book of our Lord Jesus <strong>and</strong> of the early Church.<br />
The Psalmists' love for nature comes through clearly. But most of all, the<br />
Psalms are full of a love for God's Law - for His Word. The Psalmists were<br />
jealous for the glory <strong>and</strong> honour of God. They hated evil <strong>and</strong> wanted justice<br />
to be done. We too must share the Psalmists' hatred of evil, their love<br />
for God's Law <strong>and</strong> their reverent <strong>and</strong> holy respect for God's holiness.<br />
"Holy, holy, holy is the Lord of Hosts." Isaiah 6:3<br />
"I heard the voice of the Lord, saying: 'Whom shall I send, <strong>and</strong> who<br />
will go for Us?' Then I said, 'Here am I! Send me.'" Isaiah 6:8<br />
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Praying Against Evil<br />
The Psalms are alive with a burning devotion to God, a refreshing<br />
appreciation of God's holiness, a zealous enthusiasm for God's Word <strong>and</strong><br />
an intense hatred of evil. The soldier/shepherd/king/Psalmist David was<br />
"a man after His own heart" 1 Samuel 13:14. We need to learn to fear<br />
<strong>and</strong> respect <strong>and</strong> love God as David did. And "The fear of the Lord is to<br />
hate evil." Proverbs 8:13<br />
"Pronounce them guilty, O God! Let them fall by their own counsels;<br />
Cast them out in the multitude of their transgressions, for they have<br />
rebelled against You." Psalm 5:10<br />
"Oh, let the wickedness of the wicked come to an end, but establish<br />
the just; for the righteous God tests the hearts <strong>and</strong> minds. My defense<br />
is of God, Who saves the upright in heart. God is a just judge, <strong>and</strong> God<br />
is angry with the wicked every day. If he does not turn back, He will<br />
sharpen His sword; He bends His bow <strong>and</strong> makes it ready ... Behold,<br />
the wicked brings forth iniquity; Yes, he conceives trouble <strong>and</strong> brings<br />
forth falsehood. He made a pit <strong>and</strong> dug it out, <strong>and</strong> has fallen into the<br />
ditch which he made. His trouble shall return upon his own head... I<br />
will praise the Lord according to His righteousness." Psalm 7:9-17<br />
"The wicked shall be turned into hell <strong>and</strong> all the nations that forget<br />
God." Psalm 9:17<br />
"O Lord, punish those wicked men! Remember those who are<br />
suffering." Psalm 10:12<br />
"Break the arm of the wicked <strong>and</strong> the evil man; Seek out his wickedness<br />
until You find none." Psalm 10:15<br />
"The righteous shall rejoice when he sees the vengeance; He shall wash<br />
his feet in the blood of the wicked, so that men will say, '... Surely He is<br />
God who judges in the earth.'"Psalm 58:10, 11<br />
"Scatter them by Your power, <strong>and</strong> bring them down, o Lord our shield<br />
For the sin of their mouth <strong>and</strong> the words of their lips. Let them even be<br />
taken in their pride, <strong>and</strong> for the cursing <strong>and</strong> lying which they speak.<br />
Consume them in wrath... And let them know that God rules in Jacob<br />
to the ends of the earth. " Psalm 59:11-13<br />
"But God will wound the head of His enemies, the hairy scalp of the<br />
one who still goes on in his trespasses." Psalm 68:21<br />
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Can we say, with the Psalmist, that we too are always praying against evil?<br />
How can evil be increasing if we are really resisting evil? Compromise<br />
<strong>and</strong> apathy, half-heartedness <strong>and</strong> a lukewarm response to God's Word is<br />
weakening us to accept evil instead of opposing it.<br />
The Lord Jesus has given His people, the Church, the keys of the Kingdom<br />
of Heaven; whatever we bind, limit or restrict, will be bound. Whatever<br />
we loose, release or disseminate will be loosed (Matthew 16:19). Those<br />
people who submit to God <strong>and</strong> who trust in Christ have the power <strong>and</strong><br />
authority to resist evil (James 4:7), oppose what is wrong (1 John 4:4) <strong>and</strong><br />
extend God's Kingdom (Matthew 28: 19) by prayer <strong>and</strong> practice, in faith<br />
<strong>and</strong> action.<br />
God is great <strong>and</strong> whoever is submitted to God's Word can say:<br />
"For by You I can run against a troop, by my God I can leap over a<br />
wall...For who is God, except the Lord?...It is God who arms me with<br />
strength... He teaches my h<strong>and</strong>s to make war... For You have armed<br />
me with strength for the battle...The Lord lives! Blessed be my Rock!<br />
Let the God of my salvation be exalted." Psalm 18:29-46<br />
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Verses of Victory<br />
"Salvation belongs to the Lord. Your blessing is upon Your people. "<br />
Psalm 3:8<br />
"Through God we will do valiantly, for it is He who shall tread down<br />
our enemies." Psalm 108:13<br />
"Thanks be to God who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus<br />
Christ!" 1 Corinthians 15:57<br />
"He who is in you is greater than he who is in the world." 1 John 4:4<br />
" And they overcame him by the Blood of the Lamb <strong>and</strong> by the Word<br />
of their testimony <strong>and</strong> they did not love their lives to the death."<br />
Revelation 12:11<br />
"He who overcomes shall inherit all things, <strong>and</strong> I will be his God<br />
<strong>and</strong> he shall be My son. But the cowardly, unbelieving, abominable,<br />
murderers, sexually immoral, sorcerers, idolaters, <strong>and</strong> all liars shall<br />
have their part in the lake which burns with fire <strong>and</strong> brimstone, which<br />
is the second death." Revelation 21: 7-8<br />
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St<strong>and</strong>ing Orders from<br />
our Comm<strong>and</strong>ing Officer<br />
"You therefore must endure hardship as a good soldier of Jesus Christ.<br />
No one engaged in warfare entangles himself with the affairs of this<br />
life, that he may please him who enlisted him as a soldier." <br />
2 Timothy 2:3-4<br />
"Do not be afraid of those who kill the body <strong>and</strong> after that have no<br />
more that they can do. But I will show you whom you should fear: Fear<br />
Him who, after He has killed, has power to cast into hell; yes, I say to<br />
you, fear Him!" Luke 12:4, 5<br />
"Have faith in God." Mark 11:22<br />
"'You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your<br />
soul, with all your strength, <strong>and</strong> with all your mind,' <strong>and</strong> 'your<br />
neighbour as yourself.'" Luke 10:27<br />
"And what does the Lord require of you but to do justly, to love mercy<br />
<strong>and</strong> to walk humbly with your God?" Micah 6:8<br />
"Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good." <br />
Romans 12:21<br />
"Only be strong <strong>and</strong> very courageous, that you may observe to do<br />
according to all the Law which Moses My servant comm<strong>and</strong>ed you;<br />
do not turn from it to the right h<strong>and</strong> or to the left, that you may<br />
prosper wherever you go. This Book of the Law shall not depart from<br />
your mouth, but you shall meditate in it day <strong>and</strong> night, that you may<br />
observe to do according to all that is written in it. For then you will<br />
make your way prosperous, <strong>and</strong> then you will have good success. Have<br />
I not comm<strong>and</strong>ed you? Be strong <strong>and</strong> of good courage; do not be afraid,<br />
nor be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go."<br />
Joshua 1:7-9<br />
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A Time for War<br />
As the Bible says, there is a time for war.<br />
"To everything there is a season,<br />
A time for every purpose under heaven:<br />
A time to be born, <strong>and</strong> a time to die;<br />
A time to plant, <strong>and</strong> a time to pluck what is planted;<br />
A time to kill, <strong>and</strong> a time to heal;<br />
A time to break down, <strong>and</strong> a time to build up;<br />
A time to weep, <strong>and</strong> a time to laugh;<br />
A time to mourn, <strong>and</strong> a time to dance;...<br />
A time to love, <strong>and</strong> a time to hate;<br />
A time of war, <strong>and</strong> a time of peace."<br />
Ecclesiastes 3:1-8<br />
A Soldier's Testimony<br />
Many Christians can testify of how God has protected them in combat<br />
situations. History <strong>and</strong> the Bible record many occasions when God has led<br />
His people to battle, strengthened them in defeat <strong>and</strong> led them to victory.<br />
"I will love You,<br />
O Lord, my strength.<br />
The Lord is my rock<br />
<strong>and</strong> my fortress <strong>and</strong> my deliverer;<br />
My God, my strength,<br />
in whom I will trust;<br />
My shield <strong>and</strong> the horn<br />
of my salvation, my stronghold.<br />
I will call upon the Lord,<br />
who is worthy to be praised;<br />
So shall I be saved from my enemies.<br />
The pangs of death surrounded me,<br />
And the floods of ungodliness made me afraid.<br />
The sorrows of Sheol surrounded me;<br />
The snares of death confronted me.<br />
In my distress I called upon the Lord,<br />
And cried out to my God;<br />
He heard my voice from His temple,<br />
And my cry came before Him, even to His ears....<br />
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A Time for War<br />
He sent from above,<br />
He took me;<br />
He drew me out of many waters.<br />
He delivered me from my strong enemy,<br />
From those who hated me,<br />
For they were too strong for me.<br />
They confronted me in the day of my calamity,<br />
But the Lord was my support.<br />
He also brought me out into a broad place;<br />
He delivered me because He delighted in me.<br />
The Lord rewarded me according to my righteousness;<br />
According to the cleanness of my h<strong>and</strong>s<br />
He has recompensed me.<br />
For I have kept the ways of the Lord,<br />
And have not wickedly departed from my God.<br />
For You will light my lamp;<br />
The Lord my God will enlighten my darkness.<br />
For by You I can run against a troop,<br />
By my God I can leap over a wall.<br />
As for God, His way is perfect;<br />
The word of the Lord is proven;<br />
He is a shield to all who trust in Him.<br />
For who is God, except the Lord?<br />
And who is a rock, except our God?<br />
It is God who arms me with strength,<br />
And makes my way perfect.....<br />
He teaches my h<strong>and</strong>s to make war,<br />
So that my arms can bend a bow of bronze...<br />
I have pursued my enemies <strong>and</strong> overtaken them;<br />
Neither did I turn back again till they were destroyed....<br />
For You have armed me with strength for the battle;<br />
You have subdued under me those who rose up against me...<br />
The Lord lives! Blessed be my Rock!<br />
Let the God of my salvation be exalted....<br />
You also lift me up... You have delivered me from the violent man.<br />
Therefore I will give thanks to You, O Lord, among the Gentiles,<br />
And sing praises to Your Name." Psalm 18<br />
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God's Army<br />
"Like a strong people<br />
set in battle array.<br />
Before them the people writhe in pain;<br />
All faces are drained of color.<br />
They run like mighty men,<br />
They climb the wall like men of war;<br />
Every one marches in formation,<br />
And they do not break ranks.<br />
They do not push one another;<br />
Every one marches in his own column.<br />
Though they lunge between the weapons,<br />
They are not cut down.<br />
They run to <strong>and</strong> fro in the city,<br />
They run on the wall;<br />
They climb into the houses,<br />
They enter at the windows like a thief.<br />
The earth quakes before them,<br />
The heavens tremble;<br />
The sun <strong>and</strong> moon grow dark,<br />
And the stars diminish their brightness.<br />
THE LORD GIVES VOICE BEFORE HIS ARMY,<br />
FOR HIS CAMP IS VERY GREAT;<br />
FOR STRONG IS THE ONE WHO EXECUTES HIS WORD.<br />
For the day of the Lord is great <strong>and</strong> very terrible;<br />
Who can endure it?"<br />
Now, therefore, says the Lord,<br />
'Turn to Me with all your heart,<br />
With fasting, with weeping, <strong>and</strong> with mourning."' Joel 2:5-12<br />
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The foundational statement of true doctrine <strong>and</strong> worship upon which<br />
all Episcopal churches were established. Originally agreed upon by the<br />
Archbishops, Bishops, <strong>and</strong> the whole clergy of the Church of Engl<strong>and</strong>, in<br />
London 1562.<br />
Subjects of the Articles<br />
1. The Holy Trinity<br />
2. Of the Word or Son of God<br />
3. Christ's Descent into Hell<br />
4. Of the Resurrection of Christ<br />
5. The Holy Spirit<br />
6. The Sufficiency of Holy Scripture for Our Salvation<br />
7. The Old Testament<br />
8. The Three Creeds<br />
9. Original Sin<br />
10. Free will<br />
11. Justification<br />
12. Good Works<br />
13. Works before Justification<br />
14. Works of Supererogation<br />
15. Christ Alone Without Sin<br />
16. Sin after Baptism<br />
17. Predestination <strong>and</strong> Election<br />
18. Salvation in Christ alone<br />
19. The Church<br />
20. Authority of the Church<br />
21. Authority of General Councils<br />
22. Purgatory<br />
23. Ministryin The Congregation<br />
24. The Language of Public Worship<br />
25. The Sacraments<br />
26. The Unworthiness of Ministers<br />
27. Baptism<br />
28. The Lord's Supper<br />
29. The Participation of Unbelievers<br />
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30. Communion in Both Kinds<br />
31. The One Offering of Christ Finished on The Cross<br />
32. Marriage of Presbyters<br />
33. Excommunicated Persons<br />
34. The Traditions of The Church<br />
35. The Homilies<br />
36. The Consecration of Bischops <strong>and</strong> Ministers<br />
37. Civil Magistrates<br />
38. Private Property<br />
39. Oath-taking<br />
1. The Holy Trinity<br />
There is only one living <strong>and</strong> true God. His existence is everlasting, without<br />
beginning or end. As a spiritual being, not limited by a body <strong>and</strong> bodily<br />
members, <strong>and</strong> free from bodily desires <strong>and</strong> impulses, His power,wisdom,<br />
<strong>and</strong> goodness are infinite. He is the Creator <strong>and</strong> Preserver of all things<br />
whether seen or unseen. In the unity of this one true God there are three<br />
Persons, the Father, the Son, <strong>and</strong> the Holy Spirit, Who are one in being,<br />
power <strong>and</strong> eternity.<br />
2. Of the Word or Son of God<br />
The Son, who is the Word of the Father (John. 1:1), is the Son of the Father<br />
from everlasting to everlasting. He is truly <strong>and</strong> eternally God, one with<br />
the Father in being. He took our human nature to Himself in the womb of<br />
the Virgin Mary,so that two full <strong>and</strong> perfect natures,<br />
His divine <strong>and</strong> our human nature, were united in the one person of the<br />
incarnate Son, never to be divided. There is therefore one Christ who is<br />
truly God <strong>and</strong> truly man, <strong>and</strong> who truly suffered, was crucified, died <strong>and</strong><br />
was buried. By Christ's sacrifice of Himself, not only for original guilt but<br />
also for all actual sins of men, God was reconciling the world to Himself<br />
(2 Corinthians. 5:19).<br />
3. Christ's Descent into Hell<br />
As Christ died for us <strong>and</strong> was buried, so also it is to be believed that He<br />
went down into hell.<br />
4. Of The Resurrection of Christ<br />
Christ truly rose again from the dead. His was a bodily Resurrection, with<br />
flesh, bones <strong>and</strong> all things that belong to the perfection of our human<br />
nature. His Ascension was a bodily ascension into heaven, where He is<br />
now enthroned until the last day,when He will return to Judge all men.<br />
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5. The Holy Spirit<br />
The Holy Spirit who proceeds from the Father <strong>and</strong> the Son is one in being,<br />
majesty <strong>and</strong> glory with the Father <strong>and</strong> the Son, <strong>and</strong> thus is truly <strong>and</strong><br />
eternally God.<br />
6. The Sufficiency of Holy Scripture for Our Salvation<br />
Holy Scripture sets forth everything that is necessary for our salvation.<br />
Consequently, nobody should be required to believe as an article of the<br />
Christian faith, or to regard as necessary for salvation, anything that is<br />
not found in Scripture or that cannot be proved from Scripture. By the<br />
term Holy Scripture we mean the canonical books of the Old <strong>and</strong> New<br />
Testaments, namely:<br />
Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, Deuteronomy, Joshua, Judges,<br />
Ruth, 1 <strong>and</strong> 2 Samuel, 1 <strong>and</strong> 2 Kings, 1<strong>and</strong> 2 Chronicles, Ezra, Nehemiah,<br />
Esther, Job, Psalms, Proverbs, Ecclesiastes, Song of Songs, Isaiah,<br />
Jeremiah, Lamentations, Ezekiel, Daniel, Hosea, Joel, Amos, Obadiah,<br />
Jonah, Micah, Nahum, Habakkuk, Zephaniah, Haggai, Zechariah,<br />
Malachi. Matthew, Mark, Luke, John, Acts, Romans, 1 <strong>and</strong> 2 Corinthians,<br />
Galatians, Ephesians, Philippians, Colossians, 1 <strong>and</strong> 2 Thessalonians, 1<br />
<strong>and</strong> 2 Timothy, Titus, Philemon, Hebrews, James, 1 <strong>and</strong> 2 Peter, 1, 2 <strong>and</strong><br />
3 John, Jude, Revelation. The books known as the Apocrypha are read<br />
by the Church, as Jerome said, because of the examples they provide of<br />
heroic lives <strong>and</strong> faithful conduct; but the Church does not use these books<br />
to establish any doctrine.<br />
7. The Old Testament<br />
The Old Testament is not contrary to the New Testament. In the Old<br />
as well as in the New Testament, everlasting life is offered to mankind<br />
through Christ; for Christ, who is both God <strong>and</strong> man, is the only Mediator<br />
between God <strong>and</strong> man. Therefore we must not pay attention to any who<br />
say that in the Old Testament the patriarchs <strong>and</strong> others were limited in<br />
their expectation to transitory promises.<br />
Although the ceremonies <strong>and</strong> rites of the Law which God gave through<br />
Moses are not binding on Christians, <strong>and</strong> the civil precepts of the Law are not<br />
essential for the organisation of any state or commonwealth, yet no Christian<br />
at all is free from obedience to the comm<strong>and</strong>ments known as moral.<br />
8. The Three Creeds<br />
The three creeds, namely the Nicene Creed, the Athanasian Creed, <strong>and</strong><br />
what is commonly called the Apostles' Creed, should be received <strong>and</strong><br />
believed without reservation, because they may be proved from Holy<br />
Scripture.<br />
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9. Original Sin<br />
Original sin does not consist in imitating the sin of Adam (as the Pelagians<br />
wrongly teach), but is the fault <strong>and</strong> corruption of the nature with which<br />
all the descendants of Adam are born. It is due to original sin that we<br />
have departed very far from the original righteousness in which we were<br />
created, <strong>and</strong> are naturally inclined to evil, with the result that there is a<br />
constant war between the flesh <strong>and</strong> the spirit.<br />
Accordingly in every person born into this world, original sin is deserving<br />
of God's wrath <strong>and</strong> condemnation. This infection of our nature remains<br />
even in those who in Christ are reborn. Because of it the desire of the<br />
flesh is not submissive to the Law of God. True though it is that there is<br />
no condemnation awaiting those who believe <strong>and</strong> are baptised, yet the<br />
Apostle asserts that all ungodly desires are in themselves sinful.<br />
10. Free Will<br />
Since the fall of Adam man's state is such that he is unable, by his own<br />
natural strength <strong>and</strong> good works, to turn <strong>and</strong> dispose himself to believe<br />
<strong>and</strong> call upon God. Consequently,we have no power of our own to do good<br />
works that are pleasing <strong>and</strong> acceptable to God, unless the grace of God is<br />
first given through Christ, so that we may have a good will, <strong>and</strong> that same<br />
grace continues at work within us to maintain that good will.<br />
11. Justification<br />
It is not because of any good works or deservings on our part, but only<br />
by faith which rests on the merit of our Lord <strong>and</strong> Saviour Jesus Christ,<br />
that we are accounted righteous before God. Therefore the doctrine of our<br />
justification by faith alone is most edifying <strong>and</strong> full of strength <strong>and</strong> comfort.<br />
12. Good Works<br />
Although good works, which are the fruits of faith <strong>and</strong> follow after our<br />
justification, cannot put away our sins, <strong>and</strong> are subject to the severity of<br />
God's judgement, yet, inasmuch as they are done in Christ <strong>and</strong> for His<br />
sake, they are pleasing <strong>and</strong> acceptable to God; for they spring necessarily<br />
from a true <strong>and</strong> vital faith, <strong>and</strong> are indeed the evidence of a vital faith, just<br />
as a tree is recognised by its fruit.<br />
13. Works before Justification<br />
Works that are done before receiving the grace of Christ <strong>and</strong> the indwelling<br />
of his Spirit are not pleasing to God, because they do not spring from<br />
faith in Jesus Christ; nor is it true (as some say) that they render us fit to<br />
receive grace or are deserving of grace. On the contrary, the fact that such<br />
works are not done as God has willed <strong>and</strong> comm<strong>and</strong>ed them to be done<br />
can only mean that they have the nature of sin.<br />
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14. Works of Supererogation<br />
Works which are supposedly done voluntarily beyond <strong>and</strong> in excess of what<br />
is required by God's comm<strong>and</strong>ments (known as works of supererogation)<br />
cannot be taught without self-centred arrogance <strong>and</strong> irreverence; for it<br />
is claimed that persons who perform such works render to God not only<br />
as much as it is their duty to render, but actually do for God more than is<br />
of bounden duty required; whereas Christ plainly stated, "When you have<br />
done all that is comm<strong>and</strong>ed, say, 'We are unprofitable servants'." (Luke 17:10).<br />
15. Christ Alone Without Sin<br />
As our true fellow man Christ was like us in all respects, with the exception<br />
only of sin, from which He was completely free, both in His flesh <strong>and</strong> in<br />
His spirit. He came into the world to be the Lamb without spot or blemish,<br />
<strong>and</strong> by His once-for-all sacrifice of Himself to take away the sins of the<br />
world as the One in whom, as St John says, there was no sin (John 1:29;<br />
1John 3:5). But all the rest of us, even though we have been baptised <strong>and</strong><br />
born again in Christ, continue to offend in many things; <strong>and</strong> "if we say we<br />
have no sin we deceive ourselves <strong>and</strong> the truth is not in us". (1 John 1:8).<br />
16. Sin After Baptism<br />
Not every serious sin committed after our baptism is an unpardonable sin<br />
against the Holy Spirit. Therefore persons who fall into sin after baptism<br />
should be encouraged to repent. After we have received the Holy Spirit<br />
it is possible for us to turn away from the grace we have experienced <strong>and</strong><br />
to fall into sin, <strong>and</strong> it is possible for us who have fallen to rise again <strong>and</strong><br />
amend our lives by the grace of God.<br />
Therefore persons who say that they cannot sin any more as long as they<br />
continue in this life (claiming to have attained sinless perfection), or who<br />
deny any opportunity of forgiveness to those who truly repent, are to be<br />
condemned.<br />
17. Predestination <strong>and</strong> Election<br />
Predestination to life belongs to God's everlasting purpose. By this is<br />
meant that before the foundation of the world, it is His unchangeable<br />
decree, in accordance with His secret counsel to deliver from the curse<br />
<strong>and</strong> damnation those whom He has chosen in Christ, <strong>and</strong> to bring them<br />
by Him to everlasting salvation, as vessels of His mercy (Romans 9:21).<br />
Therefore, those on whom such an excellent blessing of God is bestowed<br />
are called according to God's purpose by the Holy Spirit working in them<br />
in God's good time; through grace they obey this calling <strong>and</strong> are freely<br />
justified by God; they become the sons of God by adoption (Romans 3:24;<br />
8:150; they are conformed to the image of His only Son Jesus Christ; they<br />
lead holy lives that are given to good works to the glory of God; <strong>and</strong> at last,<br />
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by God's mercy, they attain to everlasting bliss (Romans 8:29f; Ephesians<br />
2:8-10).<br />
The reverent consideration of our predestination <strong>and</strong> election in Christ<br />
is full of sweet, pleasant <strong>and</strong> unspeakable strength <strong>and</strong> comfort to godly<br />
persons, who feel the working in themselves of the Spirit of Christ,<br />
mortifying the works of the flesh <strong>and</strong> their earthly passions <strong>and</strong> drawing<br />
their thoughts upward to high <strong>and</strong> heavenly realities. This teaching is<br />
welcome to us both because it strongly establishes <strong>and</strong> confirms our<br />
assurance of eternal salvation to be enjoyed through Christ <strong>and</strong> also<br />
because it kindles in us a fervent love to God. For unregenerate persons,<br />
however, who are moved by idle curiosity <strong>and</strong> who do not have the<br />
Spirit of Christ, to be constantly confronted with the doctrine of God's<br />
predestination is dangerous <strong>and</strong> disastrous, since the devil uses it to drive<br />
them either to despair or to ab<strong>and</strong>on themselves to immoral <strong>and</strong> ungodly<br />
living, which is no less perilous than despair.<br />
Furthermore, we must accept God's promises in the way in which they are<br />
ordinarily presented to us in Holy Scripture, <strong>and</strong> in all that we do the will<br />
of God is to be followed precisely as it is revealed to us in the Word of God.<br />
18. Salvation in Christ Alone<br />
They are to be condemned as false teachers who assert that persons Will<br />
be saved no matter what beliefs they hold or what sect they belong to,<br />
provided they sincerely lead their lives according to those beliefs <strong>and</strong> to<br />
the light of nature; for Holy Scripture insists that it is only by the Name of<br />
Jesus Christ that we may be saved (Acts 4:12).<br />
19. The Church<br />
The visible Church of Christ is a gathering of believing people in which<br />
the pure Word of God is preached <strong>and</strong> the sacraments are ministered<br />
with due order <strong>and</strong> discipline as ordained by Christ. Together with other<br />
churches, the Church of Rome has erred, not only in matters of conduct<br />
<strong>and</strong> ceremonial but also in matters of doctrine.<br />
20. The Authority of the Church<br />
The Church has power to prescribe rites <strong>and</strong> ceremonies <strong>and</strong> has authority<br />
in theological controversies; but it is not lawful for the Church to prescribe<br />
anything that is contrary to God's written Word, or to expound one<br />
passage of Scripture in such a way that it disagrees with another. Therefore,<br />
although the Church is a witness <strong>and</strong> a guardian of Holy Scripture, yet it<br />
is not open to it to prescribe anything contrary to Scripture, or to enforce<br />
anything not found in Scripture to be believed as necessary to salvation.<br />
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21. The Authority of General Councils<br />
General Councils may err when they meet, <strong>and</strong> sometimes have erred,<br />
even in issues of theological importance - for such councils are composed<br />
of men, not all of whom may be governed by the Spirit <strong>and</strong> the Word<br />
of God. Therefore, nothing declared by such councils as necessary for<br />
salvation has binding power or authority unless it is plainly taught in<br />
Holy Scripture.<br />
22. Purgatory<br />
The Romish teaching about purgatory, pardons, the worship <strong>and</strong> adoration<br />
of images <strong>and</strong> relics, <strong>and</strong> also the practice of praying to saints, is a futile<br />
deception, which, far from being grounded in Scripture, is repugnant to<br />
the Word of God.<br />
23. Ministering in The Congregation<br />
No man is permitted to take upon himself the office of public preaching or<br />
ministration of the sacraments before he has been called <strong>and</strong> appointed<br />
to fulfil this office. Those persons should be accepted as lawfully called<br />
<strong>and</strong> appointed who have been selected <strong>and</strong> called to this work by men<br />
entrusted with public authority in the Church to call <strong>and</strong> send ministers<br />
into the Lord's vineyard.<br />
24. The Language of Public Worship<br />
It is plainly incompatible with the Word of God <strong>and</strong> with the custom of the<br />
primitive Church to conduct public worship or to minister the sacraments<br />
in the Church in a language the people do not underst<strong>and</strong>.<br />
25. The Sacraments<br />
The sacraments prescribed by Christ are badges <strong>and</strong> tokens of our<br />
profession as Christians, <strong>and</strong>, more particularly,they are trustworthy<br />
witnesses <strong>and</strong> effectual signs of God's grace <strong>and</strong> good will to us. By them<br />
God works invisibly in us, both arousing <strong>and</strong> also strengthening <strong>and</strong><br />
confirming our faith in Him.<br />
Christ our Lord has ordained two Gospel sacraments, namely Baptism<br />
<strong>and</strong> the Lord's Supper.<br />
The five that are commonly called sacraments, namely,confirmation,<br />
penance, ordination, matrimony,<strong>and</strong> extreme unction are not to be<br />
received as sacraments of the Gospel, since they have in part developed<br />
from a false underst<strong>and</strong>ing of apostolic practice <strong>and</strong> in part represent<br />
states of life allowed in the Scriptures. Moreover, because they have no<br />
visible sign or ceremony comm<strong>and</strong>ed by God, they do not belong in the<br />
same category as the sacraments of Baptism <strong>and</strong> the Lord's Supper.<br />
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The sacraments were not appointed by Christ to be a public spectacle or<br />
to be paraded for adoration, but to be used with due discipline. They have<br />
a beneficial effect or working only in those who receive them worthily;<br />
whereas those who receive them unworthily bring Condemnation on<br />
themselves, as St Paul teaches (1 Corinthians 11:27).<br />
26. The Unworthiness of Ministers<br />
Although in the visible Church there is always a mingling of evil with<br />
good, <strong>and</strong> at times evil persons hold the chief positions in the ministry<br />
of the Word <strong>and</strong> sacraments, yet, because they do so not in their own<br />
but in Christ's Name <strong>and</strong> perform their ministry by His commission <strong>and</strong><br />
authority,we may avail ourselves of their ministry both in hearing the<br />
Word of God <strong>and</strong> in receiving the sacraments.<br />
The effect of Christ's ordinance is not taken away by their wickedness,<br />
nor is the grace of God's gifts diminished in the case of those who receive<br />
the sacraments rightly <strong>and</strong> by faith; for,although ministered by evil men,<br />
these are effectual on account of Christ's institution <strong>and</strong> promise.<br />
Nevertheless, it belongs to the discipline of the Church that evil ministers<br />
should be investigated <strong>and</strong> that they should be accused by those who have<br />
knowledge of their offences, <strong>and</strong>, further,that on being found guilty,they<br />
should by just judgement be deposed.<br />
27. Baptism<br />
Baptism is a sign of the Faith we profess <strong>and</strong> a mark that differentiates<br />
Christian persons from those who are unbaptised; <strong>and</strong> it is also a sign of<br />
regeneration or new birth by which, as by an instrument, those who receive<br />
baptism rightly are grafted into the Church, the promises of forgiveness<br />
of sin <strong>and</strong> of our adoption to be the sons of God are visibly signified <strong>and</strong><br />
sealed, <strong>and</strong> faith is confirmed <strong>and</strong> grace increased by virtue of prayer<br />
to God. The baptism of young children is under all circumstances to be<br />
retained in the Church as a practice fully agreeable with the institution of<br />
Christ.<br />
28. The Lord's Supper<br />
The supper of the Lord is not only a sign of the love that Christians<br />
ought to have among themselves for each other,but is especially a<br />
sacrament of our redemption by Christ's death. Accordingly,for those<br />
who rightly,worthily,<strong>and</strong> with faith receive it the bread that is broken is<br />
a partaking of the body of Christ <strong>and</strong> the cup of blessing is a partaking of<br />
the blood of Christ (1Corinthians 10:16).<br />
Transubstantiation (the teaching that the substance of the bread <strong>and</strong><br />
wine is changed into the actual flesh <strong>and</strong> blood of Christ) in the supper<br />
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of the Lord cannot be proved by Holy Scripture, but is repugnant to the<br />
plain words of Scripture, overthrows the nature of a sacrament, <strong>and</strong> has<br />
given rise to many superstitions. In the Lord's supper the body of Christ is<br />
given, taken <strong>and</strong> eaten only in a heavenly or spiritual manner,<strong>and</strong> faith is<br />
the means by which the body of Christ is received <strong>and</strong> eaten in the supper.<br />
The sacrament of the Lord's supper was not comm<strong>and</strong>ed by Christ to be<br />
reserved, carried about, lifted up or worshipped.<br />
29. The Participation of Unbelievers<br />
Though wicked persons, <strong>and</strong> all in whom a vital faith is absent, physically<br />
<strong>and</strong> visibly press the sacrament of the body <strong>and</strong> blood of Christ with<br />
their teeth (as Saint Augustine says), yet in no sense are they partakers<br />
of Christ; on the contrary,they eat <strong>and</strong> drink the sign or sacrament of so<br />
great a reality to their own condemnation.<br />
30. Communion in Both Kinds<br />
The cup of the Lord is not to be denied to the laity,for both parts of the<br />
Lord's sacrament, the wine as well as the bread, ought by Christ's ordinance<br />
<strong>and</strong> comm<strong>and</strong>ment to be ministered alike to all Christian persons.<br />
31. The One Offering of Christ Finished on The Cross<br />
Christ's offering of Himself on the Cross, once for all, is the perfect<br />
redemption, propitiation, <strong>and</strong> satisfaction for all the sins of the whole<br />
world, both original <strong>and</strong> actual, <strong>and</strong> there is no other satisfaction for sin,<br />
but that alone. Therefore the sacrifices of masses, in which it is commonly<br />
said that the priest offers Christ for the living <strong>and</strong> the dead, to obtain<br />
the remission of their punishment or guilt, are blasphemous fables <strong>and</strong><br />
dangerous deceits.<br />
32. The Marriage of Presbyters<br />
Bishops, presbyters <strong>and</strong> deacons are not comm<strong>and</strong>ed by God's Law to take<br />
vows of celibacy or to abstain from marriage; therefore it is lawful for<br />
them, as for all other Christian persons, to marry at their own discretion,<br />
where they judge that it serves better to godliness for them to do so.<br />
33. Excommunicated Persons<br />
Any person who by open denunciation of the Church is rightly cut off<br />
from the unity of the Church <strong>and</strong> excommunicated ought to be treated<br />
by the whole company of the faithful as a heathen <strong>and</strong> a traitor,until such<br />
time as he is reconciled by penitence <strong>and</strong> received back into the Church by<br />
a judge with authority to do so (cf. Matthew 18:17).<br />
34. The Traditions of The Church<br />
It is not necessary that traditions <strong>and</strong> ceremonies should be uniform<br />
<strong>and</strong> identical in every place; for these have at all times been diversified,<br />
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<strong>and</strong> they may be changed to accord with the diversities of countries,<br />
times, <strong>and</strong> human customs, provided that nothing be ordained contrary<br />
to God's Word. Anyone who by his private judgement willingly <strong>and</strong><br />
deliberately breaks the traditions <strong>and</strong> ceremonies of the Church which are<br />
not repugnant to the Word of God, <strong>and</strong> are appointed <strong>and</strong> approved by<br />
common authority, ought to be openly rebuked (so that others may fear<br />
to follow his example) as one who offends against the common order of<br />
the Church, undermines authority,<strong>and</strong> wounds the consciences of weak<br />
fellow Christians.<br />
Every particular or national church has authority to prescribe, change <strong>and</strong><br />
abolish ceremonies or rites of the Church which have been ordered only<br />
by human authority,providing all things are done for edification.<br />
35. The Homilies<br />
The two books of Homilies, which were set forth in the times of Edward<br />
VI <strong>and</strong> Elizabeth I respectively, contain godly <strong>and</strong> wholesome teaching.<br />
36. The Consecration of Bishops <strong>and</strong> Ministers<br />
The form of consecration of archbishops <strong>and</strong> bishops <strong>and</strong> the ordering<br />
of priests <strong>and</strong> deacons, set forth in the time of Edward VI, contain all<br />
things necessary for such consecration <strong>and</strong> ordering <strong>and</strong> nothing that of<br />
itself is superstitious <strong>and</strong> ungodly. Therefore anyone who is consecrated<br />
or ordained according to these rites we declare to be rightly,orderly <strong>and</strong><br />
lawfully consecrated <strong>and</strong> ordained.<br />
37. Civil Magistrates<br />
We do not give to our princes or rulers the right to minister either God's<br />
Word or the sacraments. The only prerogative which we recognise as<br />
having been given by God himself in Holy Scripture to all godly rulers is<br />
that they should rule all states <strong>and</strong> classes committed to their charge by<br />
God, whether ecclesiastical or secular, <strong>and</strong> restrain with the civil sword<br />
stubborn persons <strong>and</strong> evildoers.<br />
The Bishop of Rome has no jurisdiction in this realm. Christians may be<br />
punished by the laws of the realm with death for heinous <strong>and</strong> grievous<br />
offences. It is lawful for Christian men to carry weapons <strong>and</strong> serve inwars<br />
at the comm<strong>and</strong> of the civil ruler.<br />
38. Private Property<br />
The wealth <strong>and</strong> possessions of Christians are not common to all nor is<br />
their right <strong>and</strong> title to own private property to be questioned.<br />
Nevertheless, every person ought to give liberally <strong>and</strong> according to his<br />
ability from the things he possesses to the poor.<br />
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39. Oath-Taking<br />
While we acknowledge that vain <strong>and</strong> rash swearing is forbidden to<br />
Christians by our Lord Jesus Christ <strong>and</strong> by St James (Matthew 5:34-37;<br />
James 5:12),we judge that our Christian religion does not prohibit us<br />
from swearing an oath when it is required by the magistrate in the cause<br />
of good faith <strong>and</strong> charity, providing it is done according to the prophet's<br />
teaching injustice, judgement <strong>and</strong> truth.<br />
The WESTMINSTER STANDARDS<br />
In 1643, during a time of political turmoil, military conflict <strong>and</strong> threats to<br />
religious freedom, the English Parliament called upon 121 "learned, Godly<br />
<strong>and</strong> judicious" pastors, teachers <strong>and</strong> Theologians, to meet at Westminster<br />
Abby to provide considered guidance on issues of Faith <strong>and</strong> conduct,<br />
doctrine <strong>and</strong> devotion, applying the Lordship of Christ to all areas of life.<br />
The Westminster Assembly produced what has been described as the finest,<br />
most Biblical description <strong>and</strong> definition of Christian life, faith <strong>and</strong> practise.<br />
The Westminster Confession, The Larger Catechism <strong>and</strong> The Shorter<br />
Catechism, have been adopted as the st<strong>and</strong>ards for most Reformed Churches.<br />
The Westminster Confession was adopted by Act of the English Parliament<br />
in 1648 <strong>and</strong> by the Scottish Parliament in 1649.<br />
The Westminster St<strong>and</strong>ards have been adopted, with minor modifications,<br />
by the Congregational Churches in the form of The Savoy Declaration (1658),<br />
by the Baptists, in the London Confession of Faith (1689), <strong>and</strong> others.<br />
The Westminster Catechism is built on the earlier Reformation Heidelberg<br />
Catechism, of 1563, which along with The Belgic Confession <strong>and</strong> The Canons<br />
of Dort form the Three Forms of Unity of the Dutch Reformed Churches.<br />
The Westminster St<strong>and</strong>ards present succinct summaries of the Faith that<br />
are thoroughly <strong>and</strong> consistently Biblical. The Westminster Catechism has<br />
guided pastors <strong>and</strong> Sunday School teachers for over three centuries as an<br />
excellent teaching tool to encourage students to ask critical questions <strong>and</strong><br />
to seek the truth from the Scripture as our ultimate authority. It is the<br />
duty of the Church to clearly define, defend, proclaim <strong>and</strong> teach the whole<br />
counsel of God to a world of doubt <strong>and</strong> confusion.<br />
"As far as I am able to judge, the Christian world, since the days of the Apostles,<br />
had never a synod of more excellent divines than the Westminster Assembly."<br />
Rev. Richard Baxter<br />
"The Westminster St<strong>and</strong>ards …are the richest <strong>and</strong> most precise <strong>and</strong> best guarded<br />
statement ever penned… <strong>and</strong> of all that must be safeguarded if Evangelical<br />
Faith is to persist in the world." Dr. B.B. Warfield<br />
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The<br />
Westminster<br />
Confession of<br />
Faith<br />
CHAPTER I<br />
Of the Holy Scripture.<br />
I. Although the light of nature, <strong>and</strong> the works of creation <strong>and</strong> providence,<br />
do so far manifest the goodness, wisdom, <strong>and</strong> power of God, as to leave men<br />
inexcusable; yet they are not sufficient to give that knowledge of God, <strong>and</strong><br />
of his will, which is necessary unto salvation: therefore it pleased the Lord,<br />
at sundry times, <strong>and</strong> in divers manners, to reveal himself, <strong>and</strong> to declare<br />
that his will unto his church; <strong>and</strong> afterwards, for the better preserving<br />
<strong>and</strong> propagating of the truth, <strong>and</strong> for the more sure establishment <strong>and</strong><br />
comfort of the Church against the corruption of the flesh, <strong>and</strong> the malice<br />
of Satan <strong>and</strong> of the world, to commit the same wholly unto writing; which<br />
maketh the holy scripture to be most necessary; those former ways of<br />
God’s revealing his will unto his people being now ceased.<br />
II. Under the name of Holy Scripture, or the Word of God written, are<br />
now contained all the Books of the Old <strong>and</strong> New Testaments, which are<br />
these:<br />
Of the Old Testament<br />
Of the New Testament<br />
All which are given by inspiration of God, to be the rule of faith <strong>and</strong> life.<br />
III. The Books commonly called Apocrypha, not being of divine<br />
inspiration, are no part of the canon of the scripture; <strong>and</strong> therefore are of<br />
no authority in the Church of God, nor to be anyother wise approved, or<br />
made use of, than other human writings.<br />
IV. The authority of the holy scripture, for which it ought to be believed<br />
<strong>and</strong> obeyed, dependeth not upon the testimony of any man or church, but<br />
wholly upon God (who is truth itself), the author thereof; <strong>and</strong> therefore it<br />
is to be received, because it is the word of God.<br />
V. We may be moved <strong>and</strong> induced by the testimony of the Church to<br />
an high <strong>and</strong> reverend esteem of the holy scripture, <strong>and</strong> the heavenliness<br />
of the matter, the efficacy of the doctrine, the majesty of the style, the<br />
consent of all the parts, the scope of the whole (which is to give all glory<br />
to God), the full discovery it makes of the only way of man’s salvation, the<br />
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many other incomparable excellencies, <strong>and</strong> the entire perfection thereof,<br />
are arguments whereby it doth abundantly evidence itself to be the word<br />
of God; yet notwithst<strong>and</strong>ing our full persuasion <strong>and</strong> assurance of the<br />
infallible truth, <strong>and</strong> divine authority thereof, is from the inward work of<br />
the Holy Spirit, bearing witness by <strong>and</strong> with the word in our hearts.<br />
VI. The whole counsel of God, concerning all things necessary for his<br />
own glory, man’s salvation, faith, <strong>and</strong> life, is either expressly set down<br />
in scripture, or by good <strong>and</strong> necessary consequence may be deduced<br />
from scripture: unto which nothing at any time is to be added, whether<br />
by new revelations of the Spirit, or traditions of men. Nevertheless, we<br />
acknowledge the inward illumination of the Spirit of God to be necessary<br />
for the saving underst<strong>and</strong>ing of such things as are revealed in the word;<br />
<strong>and</strong> that there are some circumstances concerning the worship of God,<br />
<strong>and</strong> government of the Church, common to human actions <strong>and</strong> societies,<br />
which are to be ordered by the light of nature <strong>and</strong> Christian prudence,<br />
according to the general rules of the word, which are always to be observed.<br />
VII. All things in scripture are not alike plain in themselves, nor alike<br />
clear unto all; yet those things which are necessary to be known, believed,<br />
<strong>and</strong> observed, for salvation, are so clearly propounded <strong>and</strong> opened<br />
in some place of scripture or other, that not only the learned, but the<br />
unlearned, in a due use of the ordinary means, may attain unto a sufficient<br />
underst<strong>and</strong>ing of them.<br />
VIII. The Old Testament in Hebrew (which was the native language of<br />
the people of God of old), <strong>and</strong> the New Testament in Greek (which at the<br />
time of the writing of it was most generally known to the nations), being<br />
Genesis<br />
II Chronicles Daniel<br />
Exodus<br />
Leviticus<br />
Numbers<br />
Deuteronomy<br />
Joshua<br />
Judges<br />
Ruth<br />
I Samuel<br />
II Samuel<br />
I Kings<br />
II Kings<br />
I Chronicles<br />
Ezra<br />
Nehemiah<br />
Esther<br />
Job<br />
Psalms<br />
Proverbs<br />
Ecclesiastes<br />
The Song of Songs<br />
Isaiah<br />
Jeremiah<br />
Lamentations<br />
Ezekiel<br />
Hosea<br />
Joel<br />
Amos<br />
Obadiah<br />
Jonah<br />
Micah<br />
Nahum<br />
Habakkuk<br />
Zephaniah<br />
Haggai<br />
Zechariah<br />
Malachi<br />
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immediately inspired by God, <strong>and</strong> by his singular care <strong>and</strong> providence<br />
The Gospels<br />
according to<br />
Matthew<br />
Mark<br />
Luke<br />
John<br />
The Acts of the<br />
Apostles<br />
Paul's Epistles to<br />
the Romans<br />
the Corinthians I<br />
the Corinthians II<br />
the Galatians<br />
the Ephesians<br />
the Philippians<br />
the Colossians<br />
the Thessalonians I<br />
the Thessalonians II<br />
Timothy I<br />
Timothy II<br />
Titus<br />
Philemon<br />
The Epistles to<br />
the Hebrews<br />
The Epistle of<br />
James<br />
The first <strong>and</strong> second<br />
Epistles of<br />
Peter<br />
The first <strong>and</strong> second<br />
<strong>and</strong> third Epistles of<br />
John<br />
The Epistle<br />
of Jude<br />
The Revelation<br />
of John<br />
kept pure in all ages, are therefore authentical; so as in all controversies<br />
of religion, the Church is finally to appeal unto them. But because these<br />
original tongues are not known to all the people of God, who have right<br />
unto <strong>and</strong> interest in the scriptures, <strong>and</strong> are comm<strong>and</strong>ed, in the fear of<br />
God, to read <strong>and</strong> search them, therefore they are to be translated into<br />
the vulgar language of every nation unto which they come, that the word<br />
of God dwelling plentifully in all, they may worship him in an acceptable<br />
manner, <strong>and</strong>, through patience <strong>and</strong> comfort of the scriptures, may have<br />
hope.<br />
IX. The infallible rule of interpretation of scripture is the scripture itself;<br />
<strong>and</strong> therefore, when there is a question about the true <strong>and</strong> full sense of<br />
any scripture (which is not manifold, but one), it must be searched <strong>and</strong><br />
known by other places that speak more clearly.<br />
X. The supreme Judge, by which all controversies of religion are to<br />
be determined, <strong>and</strong> all decrees of councils, opinions of ancient writers,<br />
doctrines of men, <strong>and</strong> private spirits, are to be examined, <strong>and</strong> in whose<br />
sentence we are to rest, can be no other but the Holy Spirit speaking in<br />
the scripture.<br />
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CHAPTER II<br />
Of God, <strong>and</strong> of the Holy Trinity.<br />
I. There is but one only living <strong>and</strong> true God, who is infinite in being <strong>and</strong><br />
perfection, a most pure spirit, invisible, without body, parts, or passions,<br />
immutable, immense, eternal, incomprehensible, almighty, most wise,<br />
most holy, most free, most absolute, working all things according to the<br />
counsel of his own immutable <strong>and</strong> most righteous will, for his own glory;<br />
most loving, gracious, merciful, long-suffering, abundant in goodness <strong>and</strong><br />
truth, forgiving iniquity, transgression, <strong>and</strong> sin; the rewarder of them that<br />
diligently seek him; <strong>and</strong> withal most just <strong>and</strong> terrible in his judgements;<br />
hating all sin, <strong>and</strong> who will by no means clear the guilty.<br />
II. God hath all life, glory, goodness, blessedness, in <strong>and</strong> of himself; <strong>and</strong><br />
is alone in <strong>and</strong> unto himself all-sufficient, not st<strong>and</strong>ing in need of any<br />
creatures which he hath made, not deriving any glory from them, but only<br />
manifesting his own glory, in, by, unto, <strong>and</strong> upon them: he is the alone<br />
fountain of all being, of whom, through whom, <strong>and</strong> to whom, are all things;<br />
<strong>and</strong> hath most sovereign dominion over them, to do by them, for them, or<br />
upon them, whatsoever himself pleaseth. In his sight all things are open<br />
<strong>and</strong> manifest; his knowledge is infinite, infallible, <strong>and</strong> independent upon<br />
the creature, so as nothing is to him contingent or uncertain. He is most<br />
holy in all his counsels, in all his works, <strong>and</strong> in all his comm<strong>and</strong>s. To him is<br />
due from angels <strong>and</strong> men, <strong>and</strong> every other creature, whatsoever worship,<br />
service, or obedience, he is pleased to require of them.<br />
III. In the unity of the Godhead there be three persons, of one substance,<br />
power, <strong>and</strong> eternity; God the Father, God the Son, <strong>and</strong> God the Holy<br />
Ghost. The Father is of none, neither begotten nor proceeding; the Son<br />
is eternally begotten of the Father; the Holy Ghost eternally proceeding<br />
from the Father <strong>and</strong> the Son.<br />
CHAPTER III<br />
Of God’s Eternal Decree<br />
I. God from all eternity did, by the most wise <strong>and</strong> holy counsel of his<br />
own will, freely <strong>and</strong> unchangeably ordain whatsoever comes to pass: yet<br />
so, as thereby neither is God the author of sin, nor is violence offered to<br />
the will of the creatures, nor is the liberty or contingency of second causes<br />
taken away, but rather established.<br />
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II. Although God knows whatsoever may or can come to pass upon all<br />
supposed conditions; yet hath he not decreed any thing because he foresaw<br />
it as future, or as that which would come to pass upon such conditions.<br />
III. By the decree of God, for the manifestation of his glory, some men<br />
<strong>and</strong> angels are predestinated unto everlasting life, <strong>and</strong> others foreordained<br />
to everlasting death.<br />
IV. These angels <strong>and</strong> men, thus predestinated <strong>and</strong> foreordained, are<br />
particularly <strong>and</strong> unchangeably designed; <strong>and</strong> their number is so certain<br />
<strong>and</strong> definite, that it cannot be either increased or diminished.<br />
V. Those of mankind that are predestinated unto life, God, before the<br />
foundation of the world was laid, according to his eternal <strong>and</strong> immutable<br />
purpose, <strong>and</strong> the secret counsel <strong>and</strong> good pleasure of his will, hath chosen<br />
in Christ unto everlasting glory, out of his mere free grace <strong>and</strong> love,<br />
without any foresight of faith or good works, or perseverance in either of<br />
them, or any other thing in the creature, as conditions, or causes moving<br />
him thereunto; <strong>and</strong> all to the praise of his glorious grace.<br />
VI. As God hath appointed the elect unto glory, so hath he, by the eternal<br />
<strong>and</strong> most free purpose of his will, foreordained all the means thereunto.<br />
Wherefore they who are elected being fallen in Adam, are redeemed by<br />
Christ; are effectually called unto faith in Christ by his Spirit working<br />
in due season; are justified, adopted, sanctified, <strong>and</strong> kept by his power<br />
through faith unto salvation. Neither are any other redeemed by Christ,<br />
effectually called, justified, adopted, sanctified, <strong>and</strong> saved, but the elect<br />
only.<br />
VII. The rest of mankind, God was pleased, according to the unsearchable<br />
counsel of his own will, whereby he extendeth or withholdeth mercy as he<br />
pleaseth, for the glory of his sovereign power over his creatures, to pass<br />
by, <strong>and</strong> to ordain them to dishonour <strong>and</strong> wrath for their sin, to the praise<br />
of his glorious justice.<br />
VIII. The doctrine of this high mystery of predestination is to be<br />
h<strong>and</strong>led with special prudence <strong>and</strong> care, that men attending the will of<br />
God revealed in his word, <strong>and</strong> yielding obedience thereunto, may, from the<br />
certainty of their effectual vocation, be assured of their eternal election.<br />
So shall this doctrine afford matter of praise, reverence, <strong>and</strong> admiration<br />
of God, <strong>and</strong> of humility, diligence, <strong>and</strong> abundant consolation, to all that<br />
sincerely obey the Gospel.<br />
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CHAPTER IV<br />
Of Creation.<br />
I. It pleased God the Father, Son, <strong>and</strong> Holy Ghost, for the manifestation<br />
of the glory of his eternal power, wisdom, <strong>and</strong> goodness, in the beginning,<br />
to create, or make of nothing, the world, <strong>and</strong> all things therein, whether<br />
visible or invisible, in the space of six days, <strong>and</strong> all very good.<br />
II. After God had made all other creatures, he created man, male <strong>and</strong><br />
female, with reasonable <strong>and</strong> immortal souls, endued with knowledge,<br />
righteousness, <strong>and</strong> true holiness, after his own image, having the law<br />
of God written in their hearts, <strong>and</strong> power to fulfil it; <strong>and</strong> yet under a<br />
possibility of transgressing, being left to the liberty of their own will,<br />
which was subject unto change. Beside this law written in their hearts,<br />
they received a comm<strong>and</strong> not to eat of the tree of the knowledge of good<br />
<strong>and</strong> evil; which while they kept, they were happy in their communion with<br />
God, <strong>and</strong> had dominion over the creatures.<br />
CHAPTER V<br />
Of Providence.<br />
I. God, the great Creator of all things, doth uphold, direct, dispose, <strong>and</strong><br />
govern all creatures, actions, <strong>and</strong> things, from the greatest even to the<br />
least, by his most wise <strong>and</strong> holy providence, according to his infallible<br />
foreknowledge, <strong>and</strong> the free <strong>and</strong> immutable counsel of his own will, to<br />
the praise of the glory of his wisdom, power, justice, goodness, <strong>and</strong> mercy.<br />
II. Although, in relation to the foreknowledge <strong>and</strong> decree of God, the<br />
first cause, all things come to pass immutably <strong>and</strong> infallibly; yet, by the<br />
same providence, he ordereth them to fall out according to the nature of<br />
second causes, either necessarily, freely, or contingently.<br />
III. God in his ordinary providence maketh use of means, yet is free to<br />
work without, above, <strong>and</strong> against them, at his pleasure.<br />
IV. The almighty power, unsearchable wisdom, <strong>and</strong> infinite goodness<br />
of God, so far manifest themselves in his providence, that it extendeth<br />
itself even to the first fall, <strong>and</strong> all other sins of angels <strong>and</strong> men, <strong>and</strong> that<br />
not by a bare permission, but such as hath joined with it a most wise <strong>and</strong><br />
powerful bounding, <strong>and</strong> otherwise ordering <strong>and</strong> governing of them, in a<br />
manifold dispensation, tohis own holy ends; yet so a the sinfulness thereof<br />
proceedeth only from the creature, <strong>and</strong> not from God; who, being most<br />
holy <strong>and</strong> righteous, neither is nor can be the author or approver of sin.<br />
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V. The most wise, righteous, <strong>and</strong> gracious God, doth oftentimes leave for<br />
a season his own children to manifold temptations, <strong>and</strong> the corruption of<br />
their own hearts, to chastise them for their former sins, or to discover unto<br />
them the hidden strength of corruption, <strong>and</strong> deceitfulness of their hearts,<br />
that they may be humbled; <strong>and</strong> to raise them to a more close <strong>and</strong> constant<br />
dependence for their support upon himself, <strong>and</strong> to make them more watchful<br />
against all future occasions of sin, <strong>and</strong> for sundry other just <strong>and</strong> holy ends.<br />
VI. As for those wicked <strong>and</strong> ungodly men, whom God as a righteous<br />
judge, for former sins, doth blind <strong>and</strong> harden, from them he not only<br />
withholdeth his grace, whereby they might have been enlightened in their<br />
underst<strong>and</strong>ings, <strong>and</strong> wrought upon in their hearts; but sometimes also<br />
withdraweth the gifts which they had, <strong>and</strong> exposeth them to such objects<br />
as their corruption makes occasion of sin; <strong>and</strong> withal, gives them over to<br />
their own lusts, the temptations of the world, <strong>and</strong> the power of Satan:<br />
whereby it comes to pass, that they harden themselves, even under those<br />
means which God useth for the softening of others.<br />
VII. As the providence of God doth, in general, reach to all creatures;<br />
so, after a most special manner, it taketh care of his church, <strong>and</strong> disposeth<br />
all things to the good thereof.<br />
CHAPTER VI<br />
Of the Fall of Man, of Sin, <strong>and</strong> of the Punishment thereof.<br />
I. Our first parents being seduced by the subtlety <strong>and</strong> temptation of<br />
Satan, sinned in eating the forbidden fruit. This their sin God was pleased,<br />
according to his wise <strong>and</strong> holy counsel, to permit, having purposed to<br />
order it to his own glory.<br />
II. By this sin they fell from their original righteousness, <strong>and</strong> communion<br />
with God, <strong>and</strong> so became dead in sin, <strong>and</strong> wholly defiled in all the faculties<br />
<strong>and</strong> parts of soul <strong>and</strong> body.<br />
III. They being the root of all mankind, the guilt of this sin was imputed,<br />
<strong>and</strong> the same death in sin <strong>and</strong> corrupted nature conveyed to all their<br />
posterity, descending from them by ordinary generation.<br />
IV. From this original corruption, whereby we are utterly indisposed,<br />
disabled, <strong>and</strong> made opposite to all good, <strong>and</strong> wholly inclined to all evil, do<br />
proceed all actual transgressions.<br />
V. This corruption of nature, during this life, doth remain in those that<br />
are regenerated: <strong>and</strong> although it be through Christ pardoned <strong>and</strong> mortified,<br />
yet both itself, <strong>and</strong> all the motions thereof, are truly <strong>and</strong> properly sin.<br />
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VI. Every sin, both original <strong>and</strong> actual, being a transgression of the<br />
righteous law of God, <strong>and</strong> contrary thereunto, doth, in its own nature,<br />
bring guilt upon the sinner, whereby he is bound over to the wrath of<br />
God, <strong>and</strong> curse of the law, <strong>and</strong> so made subject to death, with all miseries<br />
spiritual, temporal, <strong>and</strong> eternal.<br />
CHAPTER VII<br />
Of God’s Covenant with Man<br />
I. The distance between God <strong>and</strong> the creature is so great, that although<br />
reasonable creatures do owe obedience unto him as their Creator, yet they<br />
could never have any fruition of him as their blessedness <strong>and</strong> reward,<br />
but by some voluntary condescension on God’s part, which he hath been<br />
pleased to express by way of covenant.<br />
II. The first covenant made with man was a covenant of works, wherein<br />
life was promised to Adam, <strong>and</strong> in him to his posterity, upon condition of<br />
perfect <strong>and</strong> personal obedience.<br />
III. Man by his fall having made himself incapable of life by that covenant,<br />
the Lord was pleased to make a second, commonly called the Covenant<br />
of Grace: whereby he freely offereth unto sinners life <strong>and</strong> salvation by<br />
Jesus Christ, requiring of them faith in him, that they may be saved; <strong>and</strong><br />
promising to give unto all those that are ordained unto life his Holy Spirit,<br />
to make them willing <strong>and</strong> able to believe.<br />
IV. This covenant of grace is frequently set forth in the scripture by<br />
the name of a Testament, in reference to the death of Jesus Christ the<br />
testator, <strong>and</strong> to the everlasting inheritance, with all things belonging to<br />
it, therein bequeathed.<br />
V. This covenant was differently administered in the time of the law, <strong>and</strong><br />
in the time of the Gospel: under the law it was administered by promises,<br />
prophecies, sacrifices, circumcision, the paschal lamb, <strong>and</strong> other types <strong>and</strong><br />
ordinances delivered to the people of the Jews, all fore-signifying Christ<br />
to come, which were for that time sufficient <strong>and</strong> efficacious, through the<br />
operation of the Spirit, to instruct <strong>and</strong> build up the elect in faith in the<br />
promised Messiah, by whom they had full remission of sins, <strong>and</strong> eternal<br />
salvation; <strong>and</strong> is called the Old Testament.<br />
VI. Under the Gospel, when Christ the substance was exhibited, the<br />
ordinances in which this covenant is dispensed are the preaching of<br />
the word, <strong>and</strong> the administration of the sacraments of Baptism <strong>and</strong> the<br />
Lord’s Supper; which, though fewer in number, <strong>and</strong> administered with<br />
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more simplicity <strong>and</strong> less outward glory, yet in them it is held forth in<br />
more fullness, evidence <strong>and</strong> spiritual efficacy, to all nations, both Jews<br />
<strong>and</strong> Gentiles; <strong>and</strong> is called the New Testament. There are not therefore<br />
two covenants of grace differing in substance, but one <strong>and</strong> the same under<br />
various dispensations.<br />
CHAPTER VIII<br />
Of Christ the Mediator.<br />
I. It pleased God, in his eternal purpose, to choose <strong>and</strong> ordain the Lord<br />
Jesus his only begotten Son, to be the Mediator between God <strong>and</strong> man;<br />
the Prophet, Priest, <strong>and</strong> King; the Head <strong>and</strong> Saviour of his Church; the<br />
heir of all things; <strong>and</strong> Judge of the world: unto whom he did from all<br />
eternity give a people to be his seed, <strong>and</strong> to be by him in time redeemed,<br />
called, justified, sanctified, <strong>and</strong> glorified.<br />
II. The Son of God, the second person in the Trinity, being very <strong>and</strong><br />
eternal God, of one substance, <strong>and</strong> equal with the Father, did, when<br />
the fullness of time was come, take upon him man’s nature, with all the<br />
essential properties <strong>and</strong> common infirmities thereof, yet without sin;<br />
being conceived by the power of the Holy Ghost, in the womb of the Virgin<br />
Mary, of her substance. So that two whole, perfect, <strong>and</strong> distinct natures,<br />
the Godhead <strong>and</strong> the manhood, were inseparably joined together in one<br />
person, without conversion, composition, or confusion. Which person is<br />
very God <strong>and</strong> very man, yet one Christ, the only Mediator between God<br />
<strong>and</strong> man.<br />
III. The Lord Jesus, in his human nature thus united to the divine, was<br />
sanctified <strong>and</strong> anointed with the Holy Spirit above measure; having in<br />
him all the treasures of wisdom <strong>and</strong> knowledge; in whom it pleased the<br />
Father that all fullness should dwell: to the end, that being holy, harmless,<br />
undefiled, <strong>and</strong> full of grace <strong>and</strong> truth, he might be thoroughly furnished<br />
to execute the office of a Mediator <strong>and</strong> Surety. Which office he took not<br />
unto himself, but was thereunto called by his Father; who put all power<br />
<strong>and</strong> judgement into his h<strong>and</strong>, <strong>and</strong> gave him comm<strong>and</strong>ment to execute the<br />
same.<br />
IV. This office the Lord Jesus did most willingly undertake; which that<br />
he might discharge, he was made under the law <strong>and</strong> did perfectly fulfil<br />
it; endured most grievous torments immediately in his soul, <strong>and</strong> most<br />
painful sufferings in his body; was crucified, <strong>and</strong> died; was buried, <strong>and</strong><br />
remained under the power of death, yet saw no corruption. On the third<br />
day he arose from the dead, with the same body in which he suffered; with<br />
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which also he ascended into heaven, <strong>and</strong> there sitteth at the right h<strong>and</strong> of<br />
his Father, making intercession; <strong>and</strong> shall return to judge men <strong>and</strong> angels<br />
at the end of the world.<br />
V. The Lord Jesus, by his perfect obedience <strong>and</strong> sacrifice of himself,<br />
which he through the eternal Spirit once offered up unto God, hath fully<br />
satisfied the justice of his Father; <strong>and</strong> purchased not only reconciliation,<br />
but an everlasting inheritance in the kingdom of heaven, for all those<br />
whom the Father hath given unto him.<br />
VI. Although the work of redemption was not actually wrought by Christ<br />
till after his incarnation, yet the virtue, efficacy, <strong>and</strong> benefits thereof, were<br />
communicated unto the elect in all ages successively from the beginning<br />
of the world, in <strong>and</strong> by those promises, types, <strong>and</strong> sacrifices, wherein he<br />
was revealed <strong>and</strong> signified to be the Seed of the woman, which should<br />
bruise the serpent’s head, <strong>and</strong> the Lamb slain from the beginning of the<br />
world, being yesterday <strong>and</strong> to-day the same, <strong>and</strong> for ever.<br />
VII. Christ, in the work of mediation, acteth according to both natures;<br />
by each nature doing that which is proper to itself: yet, by reason of the<br />
unity of the person, that which is proper to one nature is sometimes in<br />
scripture attributed to the person dominated by the other nature.<br />
VIII. To all those for whom Christ hath purchased redemption, he<br />
doth certainly <strong>and</strong> effectually apply <strong>and</strong> communicate the same; making<br />
intercession for them; <strong>and</strong> revealing unto them, in <strong>and</strong> by the word, the<br />
mysteries of salvation; effectually persuading them by his Spirit to believe<br />
<strong>and</strong> obey; <strong>and</strong> governing their hearts by his word <strong>and</strong> Spirit; overcoming<br />
all their enemies by his almighty power <strong>and</strong> wisdom, in such manner<br />
<strong>and</strong> ways as are most consonant to his wonderful <strong>and</strong> unsearchable<br />
dispensation.<br />
CHAPTER IX<br />
Of Free Will.<br />
I. God hath endued the will of man with that natural liberty, that it is<br />
neither forced, nor by any absolute necessity of nature determined, to<br />
good or evil.<br />
II. Man, in his state of innocency, had freedom <strong>and</strong> power to will <strong>and</strong> to<br />
do that which is good <strong>and</strong> well pleasing to God; but yet mutably, so that<br />
he might fall from it.<br />
III. Man, by his fall into a state of sin, hath wholly lost all ability of will<br />
to any spiritual good accompanying salvation; so as a natural man, being<br />
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altogether averse from that good, <strong>and</strong> dead in sin, is not able, by his own<br />
strength, to convert himself, or to prepare himself thereunto.<br />
IV. When God converts a sinner, <strong>and</strong> translates him into the state of<br />
grace, he freeth him from his natural bondage under sin, <strong>and</strong> by his grace<br />
alone enables him freely to will <strong>and</strong> to do that whichis spiritually good; yet<br />
so as that, by reason of his remaining corruption, he doth not perfectly<br />
nor only will that which is good, but doth also will that which is evil.<br />
V. The will of man is made perfectly <strong>and</strong> immutably free to do good<br />
alone in the state of glory only.<br />
CHAPTER X<br />
Of Effectual Calling.<br />
I. All those whom God hath predestinated unto life, <strong>and</strong> those only, he<br />
is pleased, in his appointed <strong>and</strong> accepted time, effectually to call, by his<br />
word <strong>and</strong> Spirit, out of that state of sin <strong>and</strong> death in which they are by<br />
nature, to grace <strong>and</strong> salvation by Jesus Christ; enlightening their minds<br />
spiritually <strong>and</strong> savingly to underst<strong>and</strong> the things of God; taking away<br />
their heart of stone, <strong>and</strong> giving unto them an heart of flesh; renewing<br />
their wills, <strong>and</strong> by his almighty power determining them to that which is<br />
good; <strong>and</strong> effectually drawing them to Jesus Christ; yet so as they come<br />
most freely, being made willing by his grace.<br />
II. This effectual call is of God’s free <strong>and</strong> special grace alone, not from<br />
any thing at all foreseen in man; who is altogether passive therein, until,<br />
being quickened <strong>and</strong> renewed by the Holy Spirit, he is thereby enabled to<br />
answer this call, <strong>and</strong> to embrace the grace offered <strong>and</strong> conveyed in it.<br />
III. Elect infants, dying in infancy, are regenerated <strong>and</strong> saved by Christ<br />
through the Spirit, who worketh when, <strong>and</strong> where, <strong>and</strong> how he pleaseth.<br />
So also are all other elect persons, who are incapable of being outwardly<br />
called by the ministry of the word.<br />
IV. Others not elected, although they may be called by the ministry of<br />
the word, <strong>and</strong> may have some common operations of the Spirit, yet they<br />
never truly come unto Christ, <strong>and</strong> therefore cannot be saved: much less<br />
can men not professing the Christian religion be saved in any other way<br />
whatsoever, be they ever so diligent to frame their lives according to the<br />
light of nature, <strong>and</strong> the law of that religion they do profess; <strong>and</strong> to assert<br />
<strong>and</strong> maintain that they may, is very pernicious, <strong>and</strong> to be detested.<br />
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CHAPTER XI<br />
Of Justification.<br />
I. Those whom God effectually calleth he also freely justifieth; not by<br />
infusing righteousness into them, but by pardoning their sins, <strong>and</strong> by<br />
accounting <strong>and</strong> accepting their persons as righteous: not for any thing<br />
wrought in them, or done by them, but for Christ’s sake alone: not by<br />
imputing faith itself, the act of believing, or any other evangelical<br />
obedience, to them as their righteousness; but by imputing the obedience<br />
<strong>and</strong> satisfaction of Christ unto them, they receiving <strong>and</strong> resting on him<br />
<strong>and</strong> his righteousness by faith: which faith they have not of themselves;<br />
it is the gift of God.<br />
II. Faith, thus receiving <strong>and</strong> resting on Christ <strong>and</strong> his righteousness,<br />
is the alone instrument of justification; yet it is not alone in the person<br />
justified, but is ever accompanied with all other saving graces, <strong>and</strong> is no<br />
dead faith, but worketh by love.<br />
III. Christ, by his obedience <strong>and</strong> death, did fully discharge the debt of<br />
all those that are thus justified, <strong>and</strong> did make a proper, real, <strong>and</strong> full<br />
satisfaction to his Father’s justice in their behalf. Yet, in as much as he<br />
was given by the Father for them, <strong>and</strong> his obedience <strong>and</strong> satisfaction<br />
accepted in their stead, <strong>and</strong> both freely, not for any thing in them, their<br />
justification is only of free grace; that both the exact justice <strong>and</strong> rich grace<br />
of God might be glorified in the justification of sinners.<br />
IV. God did, from all eternity, decree to justify all the elect; <strong>and</strong> Christ<br />
did, in the fulness of time, die for their sins, <strong>and</strong> rise again for their<br />
justification: nevertheless they are not justified, until the Holy Spirit doth<br />
in due time actually apply Christ unto them.<br />
V. God doth continue to forgive the sins of those that are justified: <strong>and</strong><br />
although they can never fall from the state of justification, yet they may<br />
by their sins fall under God’s fatherly displeasure, <strong>and</strong> not have the light<br />
of his countenance restored unto them, until they humble themselves,<br />
confess their sins, beg pardon, <strong>and</strong> renew their faith <strong>and</strong> repentance.<br />
VI. The justification of believers under the Old Testament was, in all<br />
these respects, one <strong>and</strong> the same with the justification of believers under<br />
the New Testament.<br />
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CHAPTER XII<br />
Of Adoption.<br />
I. All those that are justified, God vouchsafeth, in <strong>and</strong> for his only Son<br />
Jesus Christ, to make partakers of the grace of adoption: by which they<br />
are taken into the number, <strong>and</strong> enjoy the liberties <strong>and</strong> privileges of the<br />
children of God; have His Name put upon them, receive the Spirit of<br />
adoption; have access to the throne of grace with boldness; are enabled<br />
to cry, Abba, Father; are pitied, protected, provided for, <strong>and</strong> chastened by<br />
him as by a father; yet never cast off, but sealed to the day of redemption,<br />
<strong>and</strong> inherit the promises, as heirs of everlasting salvation.<br />
CHAPTER XIII<br />
Of Sanctification.<br />
I. They who are effectually called <strong>and</strong> regenerated, having a new<br />
heart <strong>and</strong> a new spirit created in them, are farther sanctified really <strong>and</strong><br />
personally, through the virtue of Christ’s death <strong>and</strong> resurrection, by his<br />
word <strong>and</strong> Spirit dwelling in them; the dominion of the whole body of sin<br />
is destroyed, <strong>and</strong> the several lusts thereof are more <strong>and</strong> more weakened<br />
<strong>and</strong> mortified, <strong>and</strong> they more <strong>and</strong> more quickened <strong>and</strong> strengthened in<br />
all saving graces, to the practice of true holiness, without which no man<br />
shall see the Lord.<br />
II. This sanctification is throughout in the whole man, yet imperfect in<br />
this life; there abideth still some remnants of corruption in every part:<br />
whence ariseth a continual <strong>and</strong> irreconcilable war; the flesh lusting against<br />
the Spirit, <strong>and</strong> the Spirit against the flesh.<br />
III. In which war, although the remaining corruption for a time may<br />
much prevail, yet, through the continual supply of strength from the<br />
sanctifying Spirit of Christ, the regenerate part doth overcome: <strong>and</strong> so<br />
the saints grow in grace, perfecting holiness in the fear of God.<br />
CHAPTER XIV<br />
Of Saving Faith.<br />
I. The grace of faith, whereby the elect are enabled to believe to the saving of<br />
their souls, is the work of the Spirit of Christ in their hearts, <strong>and</strong> is ordinarily<br />
wrought by the ministry of the word: bywhich also, <strong>and</strong> by the administration<br />
of the sacraments, <strong>and</strong> prayer, it is increased <strong>and</strong> strengthened.<br />
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II. By this faith, a Christian believeth to be true whatsoever is revealed<br />
in the word, for the authority of God himself speaking therein; <strong>and</strong> acteth<br />
differently upon that which each particular passage thereof containeth;<br />
yielding obedience to the comm<strong>and</strong>s, trembling at the threatenings, <strong>and</strong><br />
embracing the promises of God for this life <strong>and</strong> that which is to come.<br />
But the principal acts of saving faith are, accepting, receiving, <strong>and</strong> resting<br />
upon Christ alone for justification, sanctification, <strong>and</strong> eternal life, by<br />
virtue of the covenant of grace.<br />
III. This faith is different in degrees, weak or strong; may be often <strong>and</strong><br />
many ways assailed <strong>and</strong> weakened, but gets the victory; growing up in<br />
many to the attainment of a full assurance through Christ, who is both<br />
the author <strong>and</strong> finisher of our faith.<br />
CHAPTER XV<br />
Of Repentance unto Life.<br />
I. Repentance unto life is an evangelical grace, the doctrine whereof is<br />
to be preached by every minister of the Gospel, as well a that of faith in<br />
Christ.<br />
II. By it a sinner, out of the sight <strong>and</strong> sense, not only of the danger, but<br />
also of the filthiness <strong>and</strong> odiousness of his sins, as contrary to the holy<br />
nature <strong>and</strong> righteous law of God, <strong>and</strong> upon the apprehension of his mercy<br />
in Christ to such as are penitent, so grieves for <strong>and</strong> hates his sins, as to<br />
turn from them all unto God, purposing <strong>and</strong> endeavouring to walk with<br />
him in all the ways of his comm<strong>and</strong>ments.<br />
III. Although repentance be not to be rested in, as any satisfaction for<br />
sin, or any cause of the pardon thereof, which is the act of God’s free grace<br />
in Christ; yet is it of such necessity to all sinners, that none may expect<br />
pardon without it.<br />
IV. As there is no sin so small but it deserves damnation; so there is<br />
no sin so great, that it can bring damnation upon those who truly repent.<br />
V. Men ought not to content themselves with a general repentance,<br />
but it is every man’s duty to endeavour to repent of his particular sins<br />
particularly.<br />
VI. As every man is bound to make private confession of his sins to God,<br />
praying for the pardon thereof; upon which, <strong>and</strong> the forsaking of them,<br />
he shall find mercy; so he that sc<strong>and</strong>alizeth his brother, or the church of<br />
Christ, ought to be willing, by a private or public confession <strong>and</strong> sorrow<br />
for his sin, to declare his repentance to those that are offended; who are<br />
thereupon to be reconciled to him, <strong>and</strong> in love to receive him.<br />
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CHAPTER XVI<br />
Of Good Works.<br />
I. Good works are only such as God hath comm<strong>and</strong>ed in his holy word,<br />
<strong>and</strong> not such as, without the warrant thereof, are devised by men, out of<br />
blind zeal, or upon any pretence of good intention.<br />
II. These good works, done in obedience to God’s comm<strong>and</strong>ments, are<br />
the fruits <strong>and</strong> evidences of a true <strong>and</strong> lively faith: <strong>and</strong> by them believers<br />
manifest their thankfulness, strengthen their assurance, edify their<br />
brethren, adorn the profession of the Gospel, stop the mouths of the<br />
adversaries, <strong>and</strong> glorify God, whose workmanship they are, created in<br />
Christ Jesus thereunto; that, having their fruit unto holiness, they may<br />
have the end eternal life.<br />
III. Their ability to do good works is not at all of themselves, but wholly<br />
from the Spirit of Christ. And that they may be enabled thereunto, besides<br />
the graces they have already received, there is required an actual influence<br />
of the same Holy Spirit to work in them to will <strong>and</strong> to do of his good<br />
pleasure: yet are they not hereupon to grow negligent, as if they were not<br />
bound to perform any duty unless upon a special motion of the Spirit; but<br />
they ought to be diligent in stirring up the grace of God that is in them.<br />
IV. They who in their obedience attain to the greatest height which is<br />
possible in this life, are so far from being able to supererogate, <strong>and</strong> to do<br />
more than God requires, as that they fall short of much which in duty they<br />
are bound to do.<br />
V. We cannot, by our best works merit pardon of sin, or eternal life, at<br />
the h<strong>and</strong> of God, by reason of the great disproportion that is between<br />
them <strong>and</strong> the glory to come, <strong>and</strong> the infinite distance that is between us<br />
<strong>and</strong> God, whom by them we can neither profit nor satisfy for the debt of<br />
our former sins; but when we have done all we can, we have done but our<br />
duty, <strong>and</strong> are unprofitable servants; <strong>and</strong> because, as they are good, they<br />
proceed from his Spirit; <strong>and</strong> as they are wrought by us, they are defiled<br />
<strong>and</strong> mixed with so much weakness <strong>and</strong> imperfection, that they cannot<br />
endure the severity of God’s judgement.<br />
VI. Yet notwithst<strong>and</strong>ing, the persons of believers being accepted<br />
through Christ, their good works also are accepted in him; not as though<br />
they were in this life wholly unblameable <strong>and</strong> unreproveable in God’s sight;<br />
but that he, looking upon them in his Son, is pleased to accept <strong>and</strong> reward<br />
that which is sincere, although accompanied with many weaknesses <strong>and</strong><br />
imperfections.<br />
VII.<br />
Works done by unregenerate men, although, for the matter of<br />
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them, they may be things which God comm<strong>and</strong>s, <strong>and</strong> of good use both<br />
to themselves <strong>and</strong> others; yet, because they proceed not from an heart<br />
purified by faith; nor are done in a right manner, according to the word;<br />
nor to a right end, the glory of God; they are therefore sinful, <strong>and</strong> cannot<br />
please God, or make a man meet to receive grace from God. And yet their<br />
neglect of them is more sinful, <strong>and</strong> displeasing unto God.<br />
CHAPTER XVII<br />
Of the Perseverance of the Saints.<br />
I. They whom God hath accepted in his Beloved, effectually called <strong>and</strong><br />
sanctified by his Spirit, can neither totally nor finally fall away from the<br />
state of grace; but shall certainly persevere therein to the end, <strong>and</strong> be<br />
eternally saved.<br />
II. This perseverance of the saints depends not upon their own free will,<br />
but upon the immutability of the decree of election, flowing from the free<br />
<strong>and</strong> unchangeable love of God the Father; upon the efficacy of the merit<br />
<strong>and</strong> intercession of Jesus Christ; the abiding of the Spirit, <strong>and</strong> of the seed<br />
of God within them; <strong>and</strong> the nature of the covenant of grace: from all<br />
which ariseth also the certainty <strong>and</strong> infallibility thereof.<br />
III. Nevertheless they may, through the temptations of Satan <strong>and</strong> of the<br />
world, the prevalency of corruption remaining in them, <strong>and</strong> the neglect<br />
of the means of their preservation, fall into grievous sins; <strong>and</strong> for a time<br />
continue therein: whereby they incur God’s displeasure, <strong>and</strong> grieve his Holy<br />
Spirit; come to be deprived of some measure of their graces <strong>and</strong> comforts;<br />
have their hearts hardened, <strong>and</strong> their consciences wounded; hurt <strong>and</strong><br />
sc<strong>and</strong>alize others, <strong>and</strong> bring temporal judgements upon themselves.<br />
CHAPTER XVIII<br />
Of Assurance of Grace <strong>and</strong> Salvation.<br />
I. Although hypocrites, <strong>and</strong> other unregenerate men, may vainly<br />
deceive themselves with false hopes <strong>and</strong> carnal presumptions of being<br />
in the favour of God <strong>and</strong> estate of salvation; which hope of theirs shall<br />
perish; yet such as truly believe in the Lord Jesus, <strong>and</strong> love him in sincerity,<br />
endeavouring to walk in all good conscience before him, may in this life<br />
be certainly assured that they are in the state of grace, <strong>and</strong> may rejoice in<br />
the hope of the glory of God; which hope shall never make them ashamed.<br />
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II. This certainty is not a bare conjectural <strong>and</strong> probable persuasion,<br />
grounded upon a fallible hope; but an infallible assurance of faith, founded<br />
upon the divine truth of the promises of salvation, the inward evidence<br />
of those graces unto which these promises are made, the testimony of the<br />
Spirit of adoption witnessing with our spirits that we are the children of<br />
God: which Spirit is the earnest of our inheritance, whereby we are sealed<br />
to the day of redemption.<br />
III. This infallible assurance doth not so belong to the essence of faith,<br />
but that a true believer may wait long, <strong>and</strong> conflict with many difficulties,<br />
before he be partaker of it: yet, being enabled by the Spirit to know the<br />
things which are freely given him of God, he may, without extraordinary<br />
revelation, in the right use of ordinary means, attain thereunto. And<br />
therefore it is the duty of every one to give all diligence to make his calling<br />
<strong>and</strong> election sure; that thereby his heart may be enlarged in peace <strong>and</strong> joy<br />
in the Holy Ghost, in love <strong>and</strong> thankfulness to God, <strong>and</strong> in strength <strong>and</strong><br />
cheerfulness in the duties of obedience, the proper fruits of this assurance:<br />
so far is it from inclining men to looseness.<br />
IV. True believers may have the assurance of their salvation divers<br />
ways shaken, diminished, <strong>and</strong> intermitted; as, by negligence in preserving<br />
of it; by falling into some special sin, which woundeth the conscience, <strong>and</strong><br />
grieveth the Spirit; by some sudden or vehement temptation; by God’s<br />
withdrawing the light of his countenance, <strong>and</strong> suffering even such as fear<br />
him to walk in darkness, <strong>and</strong> to have no light: yet are they never utterly<br />
destitute of that seed of God, <strong>and</strong> life of faith, that love of Christ <strong>and</strong> the<br />
brethren, that sincerity of heart <strong>and</strong> conscience of duty, out of which, by<br />
the operation of the Spirit, this assurance may in due time be revived, <strong>and</strong><br />
by the which, in the mean time, they are supported from utter despair.<br />
CHAPTER XIX<br />
Of the Love of God.<br />
I. God gave to Adam a law, as a covenant of works, by which he bound<br />
him, <strong>and</strong> all his posterity, to personal, entire, exact, <strong>and</strong> perpetual<br />
obedience; promised life upon the fulfilling, <strong>and</strong> threatened death upon<br />
the breach of it; <strong>and</strong> endued him with power <strong>and</strong> ability to keep it.<br />
II. This law, after his fall, continued to be a perfect rule of righteousness;<br />
<strong>and</strong>, as such, was delivered by God upon mount Sinai in ten comm<strong>and</strong>ments,<br />
<strong>and</strong> written in two tables; the first four comm<strong>and</strong>ments containing our<br />
duty towards God, <strong>and</strong> the other six our duty to man.<br />
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III. Besides this law, commonly called Moral, God was pleased to give to<br />
the people of Israel, as a church under age, ceremonial laws, containing<br />
several typical ordinances; partly of worship,prefiguring Christ, his<br />
graces, actions, sufferings, <strong>and</strong> benefits; <strong>and</strong> partly holding forth divers<br />
instructions of moral duties. All which ceremonial laws are now abrogated<br />
under the new testament.<br />
IV. To them also, as a body politick, he gave sundry judicial laws, which<br />
expired together with the state of that people, not obliging any other now,<br />
further than the general equity thereof may require.<br />
V. The moral law doth for ever bind all, as well justified persons as<br />
others, to the obedience thereof; <strong>and</strong> that not only in regard of the matter<br />
contained in it, but also in respect of the authority of God, the Creator,<br />
who gave it. Neither doth Christ in the Gospel any way dissolve, but much<br />
strengthen this obligation.<br />
VI. Although true believers be not under the law as a covenant of works,<br />
to be thereby justified or condemned; yet is it of great use to them, as well<br />
as to others; in that, as a rule of life, informing them of the will of God<br />
<strong>and</strong> their duty, it directs <strong>and</strong> binds them to walk accordingly; discovering<br />
also the sinful pollutions of their nature, hearts, <strong>and</strong> lives; so a, examining<br />
themselves thereby, they may come to further conviction of, humiliation<br />
for, <strong>and</strong> hatred against sin; together with a clearer sight of the need they<br />
have of Christ, <strong>and</strong> the perfection of his obedience. It is likewise of use to<br />
the regenerate, to restrain their corruptions, in that it forbids sin; <strong>and</strong> the<br />
threatenings of it serve to show what even their sins deserve, <strong>and</strong> what<br />
afflictions in this life they may expect for them, although freed from the<br />
curse thereof threatened in the law. The promises of it, in like manner,<br />
show them God’s approbation of obedience, <strong>and</strong> what blessings they may<br />
expect upon the performance thereof, although not as due to them by<br />
the law as a covenant of works: so as a man’s doing good, <strong>and</strong> refraining<br />
from evil, because the law encourageth to the one, <strong>and</strong> deterreth from the<br />
other, is no evidence of his being under the law, <strong>and</strong> not under grace.<br />
VII. Neither are the forementioned uses of the law contrary to the<br />
grace of the Gospel, but do sweetly comply with it; the Spirit of Christ<br />
subduing <strong>and</strong> enabling the will of man to do that freely <strong>and</strong> cheerfully<br />
which the will of God revealed in the law requireth to be done.<br />
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CHAPTER XX<br />
Of Christian Liberty, <strong>and</strong> Liberty of Conscience.<br />
I. The liberty which Christ hath purchased for believers under the<br />
Gospel, consists in their freedom from the guilt of sin, the condemning<br />
wrath of God, the curse of the moral law; <strong>and</strong> in their being delivered<br />
from this present evil world, bondage to Satan, <strong>and</strong> dominion of sin,<br />
from the evil of afflictions, the sting of death, the victory of the grave,<br />
<strong>and</strong> everlasting damnation; as also in their free access to God, <strong>and</strong> their<br />
yielding obedience unto him, not out of slavish fear, but a child-like love,<br />
<strong>and</strong> willing mind. All which were common also to believers under the law;<br />
but under the new testament, the liberty of Christians is further enlarged<br />
in their freedom from the yoke of the ceremonial law, to which the Jewish<br />
Church was subjected, <strong>and</strong> in greater boldness of access to the throne<br />
of grace, <strong>and</strong> in fuller communications of the free Spirit of God, than<br />
believers under the law did ordinarily partake of.<br />
II. God alone is Lord of the conscience, <strong>and</strong> hath left it free from the<br />
doctrines <strong>and</strong> comm<strong>and</strong>ments of men which are in any thing contrary<br />
to his word, or beside it, in matters of faith or worship. So that to believe<br />
such doctrines, or to obey such comm<strong>and</strong>ments out of conscience, is to<br />
betray true liberty of conscience; <strong>and</strong> the requiring of an implicit faith,<br />
<strong>and</strong> an absolute <strong>and</strong> blind obedience, is to destroy liberty of conscience,<br />
<strong>and</strong> reason also.<br />
III. They who, upon pretence of Christian liberty, do practise any sin, or<br />
cherish any lust, do thereby destroy the end of Christian liberty; which is,<br />
that, being delivered out of the h<strong>and</strong>s of our enemies, we might serve the<br />
Lord without fear, in holiness <strong>and</strong> righteousness before him, all the days<br />
of our life.<br />
IV. And because the powers which God hath ordained, <strong>and</strong> the liberty<br />
which Christ hath purchased, are not intended by God to destroy, but<br />
mutually to uphold <strong>and</strong> preserve one another; they who, upon pretence of<br />
Christian liberty, shall oppose any lawful power, or the lawful exercise of<br />
it, whether it be civil or ecclesiastical, resist the ordinance of God. And for<br />
their publishing of such opinions, or maintaining of such practices, as are<br />
contrary to the light of nature, or to the known principles of Christianity,<br />
whether concerning faith, worship, or conversation; or to the power of<br />
godliness; or such erroneous opinions or practices, as either in their own<br />
nature, or in the manner of publishing or maintaining them, are destructive<br />
to the external peace <strong>and</strong> order which Christ hath established in the<br />
church; they may lawfully be called to account, <strong>and</strong> proceeded against by<br />
the censures of the church, <strong>and</strong> by the power of the civil magistrate.<br />
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CHAPTER XXI<br />
Of Religious Worship, <strong>and</strong> the Sabbath-day<br />
I. The light of nature showeth that there is a God, who hath lordship<br />
<strong>and</strong> sovereignty over all; is good, <strong>and</strong> doeth good unto all; <strong>and</strong> is therefore<br />
to be feared, loved, praised, called upon, trusted in, <strong>and</strong> served, with all<br />
the heart, <strong>and</strong> with all the soul, <strong>and</strong> with all the might. But the acceptable<br />
way of worshipping the true God is instituted by himself, <strong>and</strong> so limited<br />
by his own revealed will, that he may not be worshipped according to<br />
the imaginations <strong>and</strong> devices of men, or the suggestions of Satan, under<br />
any visible representation, or any other way not prescribed in the holy<br />
scripture.<br />
II. Religious worship is to be given to God, the Father, Son, <strong>and</strong> Holy<br />
Ghost; <strong>and</strong> to him alone; not to angels, saints, or any other creature: <strong>and</strong>,<br />
since the fall, not without a Mediator; nor in the mediation of any other<br />
but of Christ alone.<br />
III. Prayer, with thanksgiving, being one special part of religious worship,<br />
is by God required of all men; <strong>and</strong>, that it may be accepted, it is to be<br />
made in the Name of the Son, by the help of his Spirit, according to his<br />
will, with underst<strong>and</strong>ing, reverence, humility, fervency, faith, love, <strong>and</strong><br />
perseverance; <strong>and</strong>, if vocal, in a known tongue.<br />
IV. Prayer is to be made for things lawful, <strong>and</strong> for all sorts of men<br />
living, or that shall live hereafter; but not for the dead, nor for those of<br />
whom it may be known that they have sinned the sin unto death.<br />
V. The reading of the scriptures with godly fear; the sound preaching,<br />
<strong>and</strong> conscionable hearing of the word, in obedience unto God, with<br />
underst<strong>and</strong>ing, faith, <strong>and</strong> reverence: singing of psalms with grace in<br />
the heart; as also the due administration <strong>and</strong> worthy receiving of the<br />
sacraments instituted by Christ; are all parts of the ordinary religious<br />
worship of God: besides religious oaths <strong>and</strong> vows, solemn fastings, <strong>and</strong><br />
thanksgivings upon special occasions, which are, in their several times<br />
<strong>and</strong> seasons, to be used in an holy <strong>and</strong> religious manner.<br />
VI. Neither prayer, nor any other part of religious worship, is, now<br />
under the Gospel, either tied unto, or made more acceptable by, any place<br />
in which it is performed, or towards which it is directed: but God is to<br />
be worshipped everywhere in spirit <strong>and</strong> in truth; as in private families<br />
daily, <strong>and</strong> in secret each one by himself; so more solemnly in the public<br />
assemblies, which are not carelessly or wilfully to be neglected or forsaken,<br />
when God, by his word or providence, calleth thereunto.<br />
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VII. As it is of the law of nature, that, in general, a due proportion of<br />
time be set apart for the worship of God; so, in his word, by a positive,<br />
moral, <strong>and</strong> perpetual comm<strong>and</strong>ment, binding all men in all ages, he hath<br />
particularly appointed one day in seven for a Sabbath, to be kept holy<br />
unto him: which, from the beginning of the world to the resurrection of<br />
Christ, was the last day of the week; <strong>and</strong>, from the resurrection of Christ,<br />
was changed into the first day of the week, which in scripture is called the<br />
Lord’s Day, <strong>and</strong> is to be continued to the end of the world, as the Christian<br />
Sabbath.<br />
VIII. This Sabbath is then kept holy unto the Lord, when men, after<br />
a due preparing of their hearts, <strong>and</strong> ordering of their common affairs<br />
beforeh<strong>and</strong>, do not only observe an holy rest all the day from their<br />
own works, words, <strong>and</strong> thoughts about their worldly employments <strong>and</strong><br />
recreations; but also are taken up the whole time in the public <strong>and</strong> private<br />
exercises of his worship, <strong>and</strong> in the duties of necessity <strong>and</strong> mercy.<br />
CHAPTER XXII<br />
Of lawful Oaths <strong>and</strong> Vows.<br />
I. A lawful oath is a part of religious worship, wherein, upon just<br />
occasion, the person swearing solemnly calleth God to witness what<br />
he asserteth or promiseth; <strong>and</strong> to judge him according to the truth or<br />
falsehood of what he sweareth.<br />
II. The Name of God only is that by which men ought to swear <strong>and</strong><br />
therein it is to be used with all holy fear <strong>and</strong> reverence; therefore to swear<br />
vainly or rashly by that glorious <strong>and</strong> dreadful name, or to swear at all by<br />
any other thing, is sinful, <strong>and</strong> to be abhorred. Yet as, in matters of weight<br />
<strong>and</strong> moment, an oath is warranted by the word of God under the New<br />
Testament, as well as under the Old; so a lawful oath being imposed by<br />
lawful authority, in such matters, ought to be taken.<br />
III. Whosoever taketh an oath, ought duly to consider the weightiness<br />
of so solemn an act, <strong>and</strong> therein to avouch nothing but what he is fully<br />
persuaded is the truth. Neither may any man bind himself by each to any<br />
thing but what is good <strong>and</strong> just, <strong>and</strong> what he believeth so to be, <strong>and</strong> what<br />
he is able <strong>and</strong> resolved to perform. Yet it is a sin to refuse an oath touching<br />
any thing that is good <strong>and</strong> just, being imposed by lawful authority.<br />
IV. An oath is to be taken in the plain <strong>and</strong> common sense of the words,<br />
without equivocation or mental reservation. It cannot oblige to sin; but in<br />
anything not sinful, being taken, it binds to performance, although to a<br />
man’s own hurt; nor is it to be violated, although made to heretics or infidels.<br />
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V. A vow is of the like nature with a promissory oath, <strong>and</strong> ought to<br />
be made with the like religious care, <strong>and</strong> to be performed with the like<br />
faithfulness.<br />
VI. It is not to be made to any creature, but to God alone: <strong>and</strong> that it<br />
may be accepted, it is to be made voluntarily, out of faith, <strong>and</strong> conscience<br />
of duty, in way of thankfulness for mercy received, or for the obtaining<br />
of what we want; whereby we more strictly bind ourselves to necessary<br />
duties, or to other things, so far <strong>and</strong> so long as they may fitly conduce<br />
thereunto.<br />
VII. No man may vow to do any thing forbidden in the word of God,<br />
or what would hinder any duty therein comm<strong>and</strong>ed, or which is not in<br />
his own power, <strong>and</strong> for the performance whereof he hath no promise or<br />
ability from God. In which respects, Popish monastical vows of perpetual<br />
single life, professed poverty, <strong>and</strong> regular obedience, are so far from being<br />
degrees of higher perfection, that they are superstitious <strong>and</strong> sinful snares,<br />
in which no Christian may entangle himself. [See introductory note.]<br />
CHAPTER XXIII<br />
Of the Civil Magistrate.<br />
I. God, the supreme Lord <strong>and</strong> King of all the world, hath ordained civil<br />
magistrates to be under him over the people, for his own glory, <strong>and</strong> the<br />
public good; <strong>and</strong>, to this end, hath armed them with the power of the<br />
sword, for the defence <strong>and</strong> encouragement of them that are good, <strong>and</strong> for<br />
the punishment of evil-doers.<br />
II. It is lawful for Christians to accept <strong>and</strong> execute the office of a magistrate,<br />
when called thereunto: in the managing whereof, as they ought especially<br />
to maintain piety, justice, <strong>and</strong> peace, according to the wholesome laws of<br />
each commonwealth; so, for that end, they may lawfully, now under the<br />
New Testament, wage war upon just <strong>and</strong> necessary occasions.<br />
III. The civil magistrate may not assume to himself the administration<br />
of the word <strong>and</strong> sacraments, or the power of the keys of the kingdom<br />
of heaven: yet he hath authority, <strong>and</strong> it is his duty, to take order, that<br />
unity <strong>and</strong> peace be preserved in the church, that the truth of God be<br />
kept pure <strong>and</strong> entire, that all blasphemies <strong>and</strong> heresies be suppressed, all<br />
corruptions <strong>and</strong> abuses in worship <strong>and</strong> discipline prevented or reformed,<br />
<strong>and</strong> all the ordinances of God duly settled, administered, <strong>and</strong> observed.<br />
For the better effecting whereof, he hath power to call synods, to be<br />
present at them, <strong>and</strong> to provide that whatsoever is transacted in them be<br />
according to the mind of God.<br />
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IV. It is the duty of people to pray for magistrates, to honour their<br />
persons, to pay them tribute <strong>and</strong> other dues, to obey their lawful<br />
comm<strong>and</strong>s, <strong>and</strong> to be subject to their authority for conscience’ sake.<br />
Infidelity, or difference in religion, doth not make void the magistrate’s<br />
just <strong>and</strong> legal authority, nor free the people from their due obedience to<br />
him: from which ecclesiastical persons are not exempted; much less hath<br />
the Pope any power of jurisdiction over them in their dominions, or over<br />
any of their people; <strong>and</strong> least of all to deprive them of their dominions<br />
or lives, if he shall judge them to be heretics, or upon any other pretence<br />
whatsoever.<br />
CHAPTER XXIV<br />
Of Marriage <strong>and</strong> Divorce.<br />
I. Marriage is to be between one man <strong>and</strong> one woman: neither is it<br />
lawful for any man to have more than one wife, nor for any woman to<br />
have more than one husb<strong>and</strong> at the same time.<br />
II. Marriage was ordained for the mutual help of husb<strong>and</strong> <strong>and</strong> wife; for<br />
the increase of mankind with a legitimate issue, <strong>and</strong> of the church with an<br />
holy seed; <strong>and</strong> for prevention of uncleanness.<br />
III. It is lawful for all sorts of people to marry who are able with judgement<br />
to give their consent; yet it is the duty of Christians to marry only in the<br />
Lord. And therefore such as profess the true reformed religion should not<br />
marry with infidels, Papists, or other idolaters: neither should such as are<br />
godly be unequally yoked, by marrying with such as are notoriously wicked<br />
in their life, or maintain damnable heresies. [See introductory note.]<br />
IV. Marriage ought not to be within the degrees of consanguinity or<br />
affinity forbidden in the word; nor can such incestuous marriages ever be<br />
made lawful by any law of man, or consent of parties, so as those persons<br />
may live together as man <strong>and</strong> wife. The man may not marry any of his<br />
wife’s kindred nearer in blood than he may of his own, nor the woman of<br />
her husb<strong>and</strong>’s kindred nearer in blood than of her own.<br />
V. Adultery or fornication committed after a contract, being detected<br />
before marriage, giveth just occasion to the innocent party to dissolve<br />
that contract. In the case of adultery after marriage, it is lawful for the<br />
innocent party to sue out a divorce, <strong>and</strong>, after the divorce, to marry<br />
another, as if the offending party were dead.<br />
VI. Although the corruption of man be such as is apt to study arguments,<br />
unduly to put asunder those whom God hath joined together in marriage;<br />
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yet nothing but adultery, or such wilful desertion as can no way be<br />
remedied by the church or civil magistrate, is cause sufficient of dissolving<br />
the bond of marriage: wherein a public <strong>and</strong> orderly course of proceeding is<br />
to be observed, <strong>and</strong> the persons concerned in it not left to their own wills<br />
<strong>and</strong> discretion in their own case.<br />
CHAPTER XXV<br />
Of the Church.<br />
I. The catholic or universal church, which is invisible, consists of the<br />
whole number of the elect that have been, are, or shall be gathered into<br />
one, under Christ the head thereof; <strong>and</strong> is the spouse, the body, the<br />
fullness of him that filleth all in all.<br />
II. The visible church, which is also catholic or universal under the<br />
Gospel, (not confined to one nation, as before under the law), consists of<br />
all these throughout the world that profess the true religion, together with<br />
their children; <strong>and</strong> is the kingdom of the Lord Jesus Christ, the house <strong>and</strong><br />
family of God, out of which there is no ordinary possibility of salvation.<br />
III. Unto this catholic visible church Christ hath given the ministry,<br />
oracles, <strong>and</strong> ordinances of God, for the gathering <strong>and</strong> perfecting of the<br />
saints in this life, to the end of the world; <strong>and</strong> doth by his own presence<br />
<strong>and</strong> Spirit, according to his promise, make them effectual thereunto.<br />
IV. The catholic church hath been sometimes more, sometimes less<br />
visible. And particular churches, which are members thereof, are more or<br />
less pure, according as the doctrine of the Gospel is taught <strong>and</strong> embraced,<br />
ordinances administered, <strong>and</strong> public worship performed more or less<br />
purely in them.<br />
V. The purest churches under heaven are subject both to mixture <strong>and</strong><br />
error; <strong>and</strong> some have so degenerated as to become no churches of Christ,<br />
but synagogues of Satan. Nevertheless, there shall be always a church on<br />
earth to worship God according to his will.<br />
VI. There is no other head of the church but the Lord Jesus Christ: nor<br />
can the Pope of Rome in any sense be head thereof; but is that antichrist,<br />
that man of sin, <strong>and</strong> son of perdition, that exalteth himself in the church<br />
against Christ, <strong>and</strong> all that is called God. [See introductory note.]<br />
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CHAPTER XXVI<br />
Of Communion of Saints<br />
I. All saints that are united to Jesus Christ their head by his Spirit,<br />
<strong>and</strong> by faith, have fellowship with him in his graces, sufferings, death,<br />
resurrection, <strong>and</strong> glory. And being united to one another in love, they<br />
have communion in each other’s gifts <strong>and</strong> graces; <strong>and</strong> are obliged to the<br />
performance of such duties, public <strong>and</strong> private, as do conduce to their<br />
mutual good, both in the inward <strong>and</strong> outward man.<br />
II. Saints, by profession, are bound to maintain an holy fellowship <strong>and</strong><br />
communion in the worship of God, <strong>and</strong> in performing such other spiritual<br />
services as tend to their mutual edification; as also in relieving each other<br />
in outward things, according to their several abilities <strong>and</strong> necessities.<br />
Which communion, as God offereth opportunity, is to be extended unto<br />
all those who in every place call upon the Name of the Lord Jesus.<br />
III. This communion which the saints have with Christ, doth not make<br />
them in any wise partakers of the substance of his Godhead, or to be<br />
equal with Christ in any respect: either of which to affirm is impious <strong>and</strong><br />
blasphemous. Nor doth their communion one with another, as saints,<br />
take away or infringe the title or property which each man hath in his<br />
goods <strong>and</strong> possessions.<br />
CHAPTER XXVII<br />
Of the Sacraments<br />
I. Sacraments are holy signs <strong>and</strong> seals of the covenant of grace,<br />
immediately instituted by God, to represent Christ <strong>and</strong> his benefits, <strong>and</strong><br />
to confirm our interest in him; as also to put a visible difference between<br />
those that belong unto the church <strong>and</strong> the rest of the world; <strong>and</strong> solemnly<br />
to engage them to the service of God in Christ, according to his word.<br />
II. There is in every sacrament a spiritual relation, or sacramental union,<br />
between the sign <strong>and</strong> the thing signified; whence it comes to pass, that<br />
the names <strong>and</strong> effects of the one are attributed to the other.<br />
III. The grace which is exhibited in or by the sacraments, rightly used,<br />
is not conferred by any power in them; neither doth the efficacy of a<br />
sacrament depend upon the piety or intention of him that doth administer<br />
it, but upon the work of the Spirit, <strong>and</strong> the word of institution; which<br />
contains, together with a precept authorising the use thereof, a promise<br />
of benefit to worthy receivers.<br />
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IV. There be only two sacraments ordained by Christ our Lord in the<br />
Gospel, that is to say, Baptism, <strong>and</strong> the Supper of the Lord; neither of<br />
which may be dispensed by any but by a minister of the word, lawfully<br />
ordained.<br />
V. The sacraments of the Old Testament, in regard of the spiritual<br />
things thereby signified <strong>and</strong> exhibited, were, for substance, the same with<br />
those of the New.<br />
CHAPTER XXVIII<br />
Of Baptism<br />
I. Baptism is a sacrament of the New Testament, ordained by Jesus<br />
Christ, not only for the solemn admission of the party baptised into the<br />
visible church, but also to be unto him a sign <strong>and</strong> seal of the covenant of<br />
grace, of his ingrafting into Christ, of regeneration, of remission of sins,<br />
<strong>and</strong> of his giving up unto God through Jesus Christ, to walk in newness of<br />
life: which sacrament is, by Christ’s own appointment, to be continued in<br />
his church until the end of the world.<br />
II. The outward element to be used in this sacrament is water, wherewith<br />
the party is to be baptised in the Name of the Father, <strong>and</strong> of the Son, <strong>and</strong><br />
of the Holy Ghost, by a minister of the Gospel, lawfully called thereunto.<br />
III. Dipping of the person into the water is not necessary; but baptism<br />
is rightly administered by pouring or sprinkling water upon the person.<br />
IV. Not only those that do actually profess faith in <strong>and</strong> obedience unto<br />
Christ, but also the infants of one or both believing parents are to be<br />
baptised.<br />
V. Although it be a great sin to contemn or neglect this ordinance, yet<br />
grace <strong>and</strong> salvation are not so inseparably annexed unto it, as that no<br />
person can be regenerated or saved without it, or that all that are baptised<br />
are undoubtedly regenerated.<br />
VI. The efficacy of baptism is not tied to that moment of time wherein it is<br />
administered; yet notwithst<strong>and</strong>ing, by the right use of this ordinance, the<br />
grace promised is not only offered, but really exhibited <strong>and</strong> conferred by<br />
the Holy Ghost, to such (whether of age or infants) as that grace belongeth<br />
unto, according to the counsel of God’s own will, in his appointed time.<br />
VII. The sacrament of baptism is but once to be administered to any<br />
person.<br />
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CHAPTER XXIX<br />
Of the Lord’s Supper.<br />
I. Our Lord Jesus, in the night wherein he was betrayed, instituted the<br />
sacrament of his body <strong>and</strong> blood, called the Lord’s Supper, to be observed<br />
in his church unto the end of the world, for the perpetual remembrance<br />
of the sacrifice of himself in his death, the sealing all benefits thereof<br />
unto true believers, their spiritual nourishment <strong>and</strong> growth in him, their<br />
further engagement in <strong>and</strong> to all duties which they owe unto him, <strong>and</strong> to<br />
be a bond <strong>and</strong> pledge of their communion with him, <strong>and</strong> with each other,<br />
as members of his mystical body.<br />
II. In this sacrament Christ is not offered up to his Father, nor any real<br />
sacrifice made at all for remission of sins of the quick or dead; but only<br />
a commemoration of that one offering up of himself, by himself, upon<br />
the cross, once for all, <strong>and</strong> a spiritual oblation of all possible praise unto<br />
God for the same; so that the Popish sacrifice of the mass, as they call<br />
it, is most abominably injurious to Christ’s one only sacrifice, the alone<br />
propitiation for all the sins of the elect. [See introductory note.]<br />
III. The Lord Jesus hath, in this ordinance, appointed his ministers<br />
to declare his word of institution to the people, to pray, <strong>and</strong> bless the<br />
elements of bread <strong>and</strong> wine, <strong>and</strong> thereby to set them apart from a common<br />
to an holy use; <strong>and</strong> to take <strong>and</strong> break the bread, to take the cup, <strong>and</strong> (they<br />
communicating also themselves) to give both to the communicants; but<br />
to none who are not then present in the congregation.<br />
IV. Private masses, or receiving this sacrament by a priest, or any other,<br />
alone; as likewise the denial of the cup to the people; worshipping the<br />
elements, the lifting them up, or carrying them about for adoration, <strong>and</strong><br />
the reserving them for any pretended religious use; are all contrary to the<br />
nature of this sacrament, <strong>and</strong> to the institution of Christ.<br />
V. The outward elements in this sacrament, duly set apart to the uses<br />
ordained by Christ, have such relation to him crucified, as that truly, yet<br />
sacramentally only, they are sometimes called by the name of the things<br />
they represent, to wit, the body <strong>and</strong> blood of Christ; albeit, in substance <strong>and</strong><br />
nature, they still remain truly <strong>and</strong> only bread <strong>and</strong> wine, as they were before.<br />
VI. That doctrine which maintains a change of the substance of bread<br />
<strong>and</strong> wine into the substance of Christ’s body <strong>and</strong> blood (commonly called<br />
Transubstantiation) by consecration of a priest, or by any other way, is<br />
repugnant not to scripture alone, but even to common sense <strong>and</strong> reason;<br />
overthroweth the nature of the sacrament; <strong>and</strong> hath been <strong>and</strong> is the cause<br />
of manifold superstitions, yea, of gross idolatries.<br />
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VII. Worthy receivers, outwardly partaking of the visible elements<br />
in this sacrament, do then also inwardly by faith, really <strong>and</strong> indeed, yet<br />
not carnally <strong>and</strong> corporally, but spiritually, receive <strong>and</strong> feed upon Christ<br />
crucified, <strong>and</strong> all benefits of his death: the body <strong>and</strong> blood of Christ being<br />
then not corporally or carnally in, with, or under the bread <strong>and</strong> wine; yet<br />
as really, but spiritually, present to the faith of believers in that ordinance,<br />
as the elements themselves are to their outward senses.<br />
VIII. Although ignorant <strong>and</strong> wicked men receive the outward elements in<br />
this sacrament, yet they receive not the thing signified thereby; but by their<br />
unworthy coming thereunto are guilty of the body <strong>and</strong> blood of the Lord,<br />
to their own damnation. Wherefore all ignorant <strong>and</strong> ungodly persons, as<br />
they are unfit to enjoy communion with him, so are they unworthy of<br />
the Lord’s table, <strong>and</strong> cannot, without great sin against Christ, while they<br />
remain such, partake of these holy mysteries, or be admitted thereunto.<br />
CHAPTER XXX<br />
Of Church Censures<br />
I. The Lord Jesus, as king <strong>and</strong> head of his church, hath therein<br />
appointed a government in the h<strong>and</strong> of church-officers, distinct from the<br />
civil magistrate.<br />
II. To these officers the keys of the kingdom of heaven are committed,<br />
by virtue whereof they have power respectively to retain <strong>and</strong> remit sins, to<br />
shut that kingdom against the impenitent, both by the word <strong>and</strong> censures;<br />
<strong>and</strong> to open it unto penitent sinners, by the ministry of the Gospel, <strong>and</strong><br />
by absolution from censures, as occasion shall require.<br />
III. Church censures are necessary for the reclaiming <strong>and</strong> gaining<br />
of offending brethren; for deterring of others from the like offences;<br />
for purging out of that leaven which might infect the whole lump; for<br />
vindicating the honour of Christ, <strong>and</strong> the holy profession of the Gospel;<br />
<strong>and</strong> for preventing the wrath of God, which might justly fall upon the<br />
church, if they should suffer his covenant, <strong>and</strong> the seals thereof, to be<br />
profaned by notorious <strong>and</strong> obstinate offenders.<br />
IV. For the better attaining of these ends, the officers of the church are<br />
to proceed by admonition, suspension from the sacrament of the Lord’s<br />
Supper for a season, <strong>and</strong> by excommunication from the church, according<br />
to the nature of the crime, <strong>and</strong> demerit of the person.<br />
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CHAPTER XXXI<br />
Of Synods <strong>and</strong> Councils.<br />
I. For the better government, <strong>and</strong> further edification of the church,<br />
there ought to be such assemblies as are commonly called Synods or<br />
Councils.<br />
II. As magistrates may lawfully call a synod of ministers, <strong>and</strong> other<br />
fit persons, to consult <strong>and</strong> advise with about matters of religion; so if<br />
magistrates be open enemies to the church, the ministers of Christ, of<br />
themselves, by virtue of their office, or they, with other fit persons upon<br />
delegation from their churches, may meet together in such assemblies.<br />
III. It belongeth to synods <strong>and</strong> councils ministerially to determine<br />
controversies of faith, <strong>and</strong> cases of conscience; to set down rules<br />
<strong>and</strong> directions for the better ordering of the public worship of God,<br />
<strong>and</strong> government of his church; to receive complaints in cases of<br />
maladministration, <strong>and</strong> authoritatively to determine the same: which<br />
decrees <strong>and</strong> determinations, if consonant to the word of God, are to be<br />
received with reverence <strong>and</strong> submission, not only for their agreement<br />
with the word, but also for the power whereby they are made, as being an<br />
ordinance of God, appointed thereunto in his word.<br />
IV. All synods or councils since the apostles’ times, whether general<br />
or particular, may err, <strong>and</strong> many have erred; therefore they are not to be<br />
made the rule of faith or practice, but to be used as an help in both.<br />
V. Synods <strong>and</strong> councils are to h<strong>and</strong>le or conclude nothing but that<br />
which is ecclesiastical; <strong>and</strong> are not to intermeddle with civil affairs, which<br />
concern the commonwealth, unless by way of humble petition, in cases<br />
extraordinary; or by way of advice for satisfaction of conscience, if they be<br />
thereunto required by the civil magistrate.<br />
CHAPTER XXXII<br />
Of the State of Men after Death, <strong>and</strong> of the Resurrection of the Dead.<br />
I. The bodies of men after death return to dust, <strong>and</strong> see corruption; but<br />
their souls (which neither die nor sleep), having an immortal subsistence,<br />
immediately return to God who gave them. The souls of the righteous,<br />
being then made perfect in holiness, are received into the highest heavens,<br />
where they behold the face of God in light <strong>and</strong> glory, waiting for the full<br />
redemption of their bodies; <strong>and</strong> the souls of the wicked are cast into<br />
hell, where they remain in torments <strong>and</strong> utter darkness, reserved to the<br />
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judgement of the great day. Besides these two places for souls separated<br />
from their bodies, the scripture acknowledgeth none.<br />
II. At the last day, such as are found alive shall not die, but be changed:<br />
<strong>and</strong> all the dead shall be raised up with the self-same bodies, <strong>and</strong> none<br />
other, although with different qualities, which shall be united again to<br />
their souls for ever.<br />
III. The bodies of the unjust shall, by the power of Christ, be raised to<br />
dishonour; the bodies of the just, by his Spirit, unto honour, <strong>and</strong> be made<br />
conformable to his own glorious body.<br />
CHAPTER XXXIII<br />
Of the Last Judgement.<br />
I. God hath appointed a day wherein He will judge the world in<br />
righteousness by Jesus Christ, to whom all power <strong>and</strong> judgement is given<br />
of the Father. In which day, not only the apostate angels shall be judged,<br />
but likewise all persons that have lived upon earth shall appear before the<br />
tribunal of Christ, to give an account of their thoughts, words, <strong>and</strong> deeds,<br />
<strong>and</strong> to receive according to what they have done in the body, whether<br />
good or evil.<br />
II. The end of God’s appointing this day is for the manifestation of the<br />
glory of his mercy in the eternal salvation of the elect, <strong>and</strong> of his justice<br />
in the damnation of the reprobate, who are wicked <strong>and</strong> disobedient. For<br />
then shall the righteous go into everlasting life, <strong>and</strong> receive that fulness<br />
of joy <strong>and</strong> refreshing which shall come from the presence of the Lord: but<br />
the wicked, who know not God, <strong>and</strong> obey not the Gospel of Jesus Christ,<br />
shall be cast into eternal torments, <strong>and</strong> be punished with everlasting<br />
destruction from the presence of the Lord, <strong>and</strong> from the glory of his<br />
power.<br />
III. As Christ would have us to be certainly persuaded that there shall<br />
be a day of judgment, both to deter all men from sin, <strong>and</strong> for the greater<br />
consolation of the godly in their adversity; so will he have that day<br />
unknown to men, that they may shake off all carnal security, <strong>and</strong> be always<br />
watchful, because they known not at what hour the Lord will come; <strong>and</strong><br />
may be ever prepared to say, Come, Lord Jesus, come quickly. Amen.<br />
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Evangelising in the War Zones<br />
Frontline Fellowship is a Bible based mission that has pioneered<br />
missionary work into neglected <strong>and</strong> resistant areas in Africa. Since 1982<br />
Frontline missionaries have travelled many hundreds of thous<strong>and</strong>s of<br />
kilometres by foot, by motorbikes, by dugout canoes, trucks <strong>and</strong> aircraft<br />
to boldly proclaim the Gospel of repentance <strong>and</strong> faith in Christ to soldiers,<br />
guerrillas, resistance fighters <strong>and</strong> civilians on all sides ofmany conflicts in<br />
Africa.<br />
The Founder of Frontline Fellowship, Dr. Peter Hammond, has personally<br />
carried out over 140 missions in the war zones <strong>and</strong> presented over 15000<br />
sermons <strong>and</strong> lectures in 36 countries.<br />
In the course of their missionary activities some Frontline missionaries<br />
have been ambushed, come under mortar fire, been strafed by helicopter<br />
gunships, been stabbed, shot at, beaten by mobs, arrested <strong>and</strong> imprisoned.<br />
Over the years, 18 people involved in Frontline Fellowship outreaches<br />
have been imprisoned in Marxist countries. Yet, by the grace of God, every<br />
one was freed in response to persistent prayer <strong>and</strong> pressure (Luke 18:1-5).<br />
Assisting Persecuted Churches<br />
Frontline Fellowship has been in the forefront of:<br />
*Pioneering missionary work into war-ravaged Mozambique, Angola<br />
<strong>and</strong> Sudan;<br />
*Researching neglected areas;<br />
*Opening up "closed areas" <strong>and</strong> forbidden territories;<br />
*Assisting persecuted Christians <strong>and</strong> prisoners with Bibles, Christian<br />
literature, hymn books, school textbooks, emergency<br />
relief aid (including tons of medicines, clothes, food, seed<br />
<strong>and</strong> tools), encouragement <strong>and</strong> Bible teaching;<br />
*Developing a network of couriers <strong>and</strong> evangelists to distribute many<br />
tons of Bibles in 100 languages, to suffering Christians;<br />
*Providing in depth leadership training for thous<strong>and</strong>s of pastors,<br />
evangelists <strong>and</strong> chaplains, teachers, nurses <strong>and</strong> civil<br />
leaders in neglected areas;<br />
*Speaking up for the persecuted, publishing the sufferings <strong>and</strong><br />
testimonies of believers in print, through the Internet <strong>and</strong><br />
email, on radio <strong>and</strong> TV <strong>and</strong> in hundreds of international<br />
meetings every year.<br />
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Working for Reformation <strong>and</strong> Revival<br />
Frontline Fellowship is a leading force in leadership training, networking<br />
<strong>and</strong> co-ordinating a united Christian st<strong>and</strong> for righteousness <strong>and</strong> truth.<br />
Frontline Fellowship <strong>and</strong> its sister ministries, Africa Christian Action, The<br />
Christian Action Network, Literature 4 Africa, The Reformation Society <strong>and</strong><br />
Christian Liberty Books, publish over 100 items a year <strong>and</strong> distribute well<br />
over a million copies of Gospel leaflets, booklets, books <strong>and</strong> Bibles in up to<br />
100 languages, over 180 tonnes throughout Africa each year.<br />
Together with its related ministries, Frontline Fellowship conducts an<br />
average of 70 seminars, conferences or workshops each year. Through<br />
literature <strong>and</strong> leadership training, Frontline Fellowship is educating <strong>and</strong><br />
enlisting tens of thous<strong>and</strong>s of Christians to "disciple the nations.., teaching<br />
obedience." Hundreds of Bible study <strong>and</strong> prayer groups have been mobilised<br />
to study, proclaim <strong>and</strong> obey the Word of God in all areas of life.<br />
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Teaching that Transforms<br />
Frontline Fellowship missionaries have developed a series of life changing<br />
courses to enrich the life of local churches <strong>and</strong> ministries. These include<br />
the:<br />
Evangelism Workshops<br />
Discipleship Training Course<br />
Biblical Woridview Seminar<br />
Triumph Amidst Tribulation Seminar<br />
God <strong>and</strong> Government Seminar<br />
Reformation <strong>and</strong> Revival Seminar<br />
Muslim Evangelism Workshop<br />
Great Commission Course<br />
These courses have been conducted in America, Angola, Congo, Denmark,<br />
Kenya, Malawi, Mozambique, Nigeria, Zambia, Namibia, South Africa,<br />
Sweden, Romania, Albania <strong>and</strong> Sudan. Participants of these courses have<br />
written the following responses: "Biblically based"; "Refreshing"; "Practical<br />
<strong>and</strong> relevant"; "a necessity for every Christian"; "All the lectures made me<br />
rethink everything"; "Very professionally presented"; "Very uplifting <strong>and</strong><br />
rewarding"; "It was life changing"; "The best course I have ever attended! ";<br />
"Excellent! Worthwhile! Every Christian needs to attend courses like these. "<br />
These <strong>and</strong> other courses are available by correspondence <strong>and</strong> online<br />
through the William Carey Bible Institute. www.WilliamCareyBI.com.<br />
Frontline Resources<br />
Frontline Fellowship News is a unique resource, presenting first h<strong>and</strong><br />
research reports, photography <strong>and</strong> testimonies from the frontline. It is a<br />
voice for the persecuted church <strong>and</strong> an inspiring challenge to prayer <strong>and</strong><br />
action, for Reformation, revival <strong>and</strong> missions. Available online at www.<br />
frontline.org.za <strong>and</strong> by e-mail: mission@frontline.org.za<br />
www.SermonAudio.com, www.Slideshare.net <strong>and</strong> www.Soundcloud.com<br />
Special Reports, Country Updates <strong>and</strong> Information for Intercessors,<br />
Prayer <strong>and</strong> Praise Updates are available to supporters by email upon request.<br />
Digital Evangelism <strong>and</strong> Discipleship Resources are available online:<br />
www.Livingstonefellowship.org www.WilliamCareyBI.com<br />
www.Gospeldefenceleague.org www.ReformationSA.org<br />
www.Reform500.org<br />
www.ChristianAction.org.za<br />
www.Livingstone200.org www.IDOP-Africa.org<br />
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