Dec20-26: Atonement and Universal Harmony

Universal Cleansing

1. Read Daniel 8:13, 14. What happens at the end of 2300 days?

• Dan. 8:13 Then I heard one saint speaking, and another saint said unto that certain saint which spake, How long shall be the vision concerning the daily sacrifice, and the transgression of desolation, to give both the sanctuary and the host to be trodden under foot?

• Dan. 8:14 And he said unto me, Unto two thousand and three hundred days; then shall the sanctuary be cleansed.

OBSERVATIONS:

• God’s sanctuary and the people are being “trodden under foot” until the end of “two thousand and three hundred days”

• The end of 2300 days is the beginning of the restoration of God’s sanctuary and His people.

• According to the earthly service on the day of atonement, the “cleansing of the sanctuary” means the final cleansing of sin from God’s people and the camp. This cleansing represents the process of cleansing of sin from God’s people and from the universe begins at the end of 2300 days.

ANSWER:

• Beginning process of cleansing of sin from God’s people and from the universe.

2. What is the Hebrew meaning of “Cleansed” in Dan. 8:14?

ANSWER:

• 6663. tsadaq, tsaw-dak´; a primitive root; to be (causatively, make) right (in a moral or forensic sense):—cleanse, clear self, (be, do) just(-ice, -ify, -ify self), (be turn to) righteous(-ness).

3. Observe how this Hebrew word, tsadaq (6663) has been used in the Old Testament.

• Gen. 38:26 And Judah acknowledged them, and said, She hath been more righteous than I; because that I gave her not to Shelah my son. And he knew her again no more.

• Gen. 44:16 And Judah said, What shall we say unto my lord? what shall we speak? or how shall we clear ourselves? God hath found out the iniquity of thy servants: behold, we are my lord’s servants, both we, and he also with whom the cup is found.

• Ex. 23:7 Keep thee far from a false matter; and the innocent and righteous slay thou not: for I will not justify the wicked.

• Deut. 25:1 If there be a controversy between men, and they come unto judgment, that the judges may judge them; then they shall justify the righteous, and condemn the wicked.

• 2Sam. 15:4 Absalom said moreover, Oh that I were made judge in the land, that every man which hath any suit or cause might come unto me, and I would do him justice!

• 1Kings 8:32 Then hear thou in heaven, and do, and judge thy servants, condemning the wicked, to bring his way upon his head; and justifying the righteous, to give him according to his righteousness.

• 2Chr. 6:23 Then hear thou from heaven, and do, and judge thy servants, by requiting the wicked, by recompensing his way upon his own head; and by justifying the righteous, by giving him according to his righteousness.

• Job 4:17 Shall mortal man be more just than God? shall a man be more pure than his maker?

• Job 9:2 I know it is so of a truth: but how should man be just with God?

• Job 9:15 Whom, though I were righteous, yet would I not answer, but I would make supplication to my judge.

• Job 9:20 If I justify myself, mine own mouth shall condemn me: if I say, I am perfect, it shall also prove me perverse.

• Job 10:15 If I be wicked, woe unto me; and if I be righteous, yet will I not lift up my head. I am full of confusion; therefore see thou mine affliction;

• Job 11:2 Should not the multitude of words be answered? and should a man full of talk be justified?

• Job 13:18 Behold now, I have ordered my cause; I know that I shall be justified.

• Job 15:14 What is man, that he should be clean? and he which is born of a woman, that he should be righteous?

• Job 22:3 Is it any pleasure to the Almighty, that thou art righteous? or is it gain to him, that thou makest thy ways perfect?

• Job 25:4 How then can man be justified with God? or how can he be clean that is born of a woman?

• Job 27:5 God forbid that I should justify you: till I die I will not remove mine integrity from me.

• Job 32:2 Then was kindled the wrath of Elihu the son of Barachel the Buzite, of the kindred of Ram: against Job was his wrath kindled, because he justified himself rather than God.

• Job 33:12 Behold, in this thou art not just: I will answer thee, that God is greater than man.

• Job 33:32 If thou hast any thing to say, answer me: speak, for I desire to justify thee.

• Job 34:5 For Job hath said, I am righteous: and God hath taken away my judgment.

• Job 35:7 If thou be righteous, what givest thou him? or what receiveth he of thine hand?

• Job 40:8 Wilt thou also disannul my judgment? wilt thou condemn me, that thou mayest be righteous?

• Psa. 19:9 The fear of the LORD is clean, enduring for ever: the judgments of the LORD are true and righteous altogether.

• Psa. 51:4 Against thee, thee only, have I sinned, and done this evil in thy sight: that thou mightest be justified when thou speakest, and be clear when thou judgest.

• Psa. 82:3 Defend the poor and fatherless: do justice to the afflicted and needy.

• Psa. 143:2 And enter not into judgment with thy servant: for in thy sight shall no man living be justified.

• Prov. 17:15 He that justifieth the wicked, and he that condemneth the just, even they both are abomination to the LORD.

• Is. 5:23 Which justify the wicked for reward, and take away the righteousness of the righteous from him!

• Is. 43:9 Let all the nations be gathered together, and let the people be assembled: who among them can declare this, and shew us former things? let them bring forth their witnesses, that they may be justified: or let them hear, and say, It is truth.

• Is. 43:26 Put me in remembrance: let us plead together: declare thou, that thou mayest be justified.

• Is. 45:25 In the LORD shall all the seed of Israel be justified, and shall glory.

• Is. 50:8 He is near that justifieth me; who will contend with me? let us stand together: who is mine adversary? let him come near to me.

• Is. 53:11 He shall see of the travail of his soul, and shall be satisfied: by his knowledge shall my righteous servant justify many; for he shall bear their iniquities.

• Jer. 3:11 And the LORD said unto me, The backsliding Israel hath justified herself more than treacherous Judah.

• Ezek. 16:51 Neither hath Samaria committed half of thy sins; but thou hast multiplied thine abominations more than they, and hast justified thy sisters in all thine abominations which thou hast done.

• Ezek. 16:52 Thou also, which hast judged thy sisters, bear thine own shame for thy sins that thou hast committed more abominable than they: they are more righteous than thou: yea, be thou confounded also, and bear thy shame, in that thou hast justified thy sisters.

• Dan. 8:14 And he said unto me, Unto two thousand and three hundred days; then shall the sanctuary be cleansed.

• Dan. 12:3 And they that be wise shall shine as the brightness of the firmament; and they that turn many to righteousness as the stars for ever and ever.

OBSERVATIONS:

• Tsadaq (6663) was used 41 times in total in the Old Testament

• Tsadaq was used as “cleansed” only one time

• Tsadaq was used as “clear” only one time

• Tsadaq was used as “justice” two times

• Tsadaq was used as “just”, “justified”, “justifieth”, “justify”, Justifying” 26 times in total

• Tsadaq was used as “righteous”, “righteousness” 10 times in total

• Tsadaq was used mostly as an idea of justification

• In Gen. 44:16, tsadaq is used as “clear”. In the text, “clear” means the opposite of “found out the iniquity”. Therefore, “clear” means cannot find iniquity. So we can also say “the sanctuary shall be” cleared which means cannot find iniquity in the sanctuary. This will become true when the sins of God’s people are blotted out from the sanctuary. Therefore the final justification takes place when our sins are blotted out. (Is. 43:25 I, even I, am he that blotteth out thy transgressions for mine own sake, and will not remember thy sins. Is. 43:26 Put me in remembrance: let us plead together: declare thou, that thou mayest be justified (tsadaq)).

• In Deut. 25:1, 1 King 8:32, 2 Chr. 6:23, Ps. 51:4, and Ps. 143:2, we can see the connection between the concept of judgment and the cleansing of the sanctuary.

• Therefore there is a connection between judgment and justification

• Tsadaq is used mostly in the book of Job. Therefore there might be a connection between the experience of Job and the experience of God’s people during the final hours of judgment.

• The death of Jesus made it possible to justify or tsadaq or cleanse or blotted out sins of many because Jesus bears the sins of many. Is. 53:11 He shall see of the travail of his soul, and shall be satisfied: by his knowledge shall my righteous servant justify many; for he shall bear their iniquities.

4. When will Christ not bear the sins of many?

• Heb. 9:28 So Christ was once offered to bear the sins of many; and unto them that look for him shall he appear the second time without sin unto salvation.

ANSWER:

• At the second coming of Christ

CONCLUSION:

• Jesus died to bear the sins of many to justify them. But at the second coming of Christ, He will not bear the sins of many because the work of blotting out of sin has already been completed before He comes back the second time.

• Therefore, before Jesus comes back the second time:

  • Sins of God’s people are blotted out from the heavenly sanctuary by the blood of Jesus.

  • God’s people will be declared as though they never sinned (justified) (Read Rev. 22:11)

  • And then their sins will be transferred to the scapegoat (Satan)

  • Satan will be blamed for all the sins of God’s people.

  • After 1000 years, Satan, all evil angels, and all wicked will be blotted out of the entire universe by fire of God.

• This is the ultimate result of the work of atonement.

APPLICATION QUESTION:

• Do you want the blood of Jesus or the fire of God to blot out your sin?

Vindication of God’s people

1. According to I Corinthians 15:51-54, what will happen “at the last trump”?

• 1Cor. 15:51 Behold, I shew you a mystery; We shall not all sleep, but we shall all be changed,

• 1Cor. 15:52 In a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trump: for the trumpet shall sound, and the dead shall be raised incorruptible, and we shall be changed.

• 1Cor. 15:53 For this corruptible must put on incorruption, and this mortal must put on immortality.

• 1Cor. 15:54 So when this corruptible shall have put on incorruption, and this mortal shall have put on immortality, then shall be brought to pass the saying that is written, Death is swallowed up in victory.

ANSWER:

• The dead shall be raised incorruptible and we (those who are alive ) shall be changed (put on immortality)

2. What made it possible for us to receive immortality?

• 2Tim. 1:10 But is now made manifest by the appearing of our Saviour Jesus Christ, who hath abolished death, and hath brought life and immortality to light through the gospel

ANSWER:

• The gospel of our Savior Jesus Christ

3. What is the purpose of the gospel besides receiving immortality?

• 2Th. 2:14 Whereunto he called you by our gospel, to the obtaining of the glory of our Lord Jesus Christ.

ANSWER:

• To obtain the glory of Jesus Christ

NOTE:

• Glory means character. This is true in many places in the Bible. For example- Ex. 33:18 And he said, I beseech thee, shew me thy glory. Ex. 33:19 And he said, I will make all my goodness pass before thee, and I will proclaim the name of the LORD before thee; and will be gracious to whom I will be gracious, and will shew mercy on whom I will shew mercy.

4. Read 2 Corinthians 3:18. Make observations regarding the glory of God and the believers?

• 2Cor. 3:18 But we all, with open face beholding as in a glass the glory of the Lord, are changed into the same image from glory to glory, even as by the Spirit of the Lord.

OBSERVATIONS:

• By beholding the glory of the Lord we become changed into the same image

• The change into the same image is from glory to glory, even by the Spirit of the Lord.

5. What does it mean “from glory to glory”?

NOTE: The answer to this question is found in the following chapter 4.

• 2Cor. 4:6 For God, who commanded the light to shine out of darkness, hath shined in our hearts, to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ.

• 2Cor. 4:16 For which cause we faint not; but though our outward man perish, yet the inward man is renewed day by day.

• 2Cor. 4:17 For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, worketh for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory;

• 2Cor. 4:18 While we look not at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen: for the things which are seen are temporal; but the things which are not seen are eternal.

• 2Cor. 5:4 For we that are in this tabernacle do groan, being burdened: not for that we would be unclothed, but clothed upon, that mortality might be swallowed up of life.

OBVERVATION:

• “From glory” – the light of the knowledge of the glory of God transforming our hearts (The inner change and this is possible now)

• “To glory” – the eternal weight of glory is the immortal body (The outer change and this will be the reality when Jesus comes back)

ANSWER:

• The gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ can change our minds into the same image of Christ (in the sense of character)

• The gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ can change our bodies into the same body of Christ (in the sense of immortal human body)

6. How were we made in the beginning?

• Gen. 1:26 And God said, Let us make man in our image, after our likeness: and let them have dominion over the fish of the sea, and over the fowl of the air, and over the cattle, and over all the earth, and over every creeping thing that creepeth upon the earth. Gen. 1:27 So God created man in his own image, in the image of God created he him; male and female created he them.

• Is. 43:7 Even every one that is called by my name: for I have created him for my glory, I have formed him; yea, I have made him.

• Psa. 8:4 What is man, that thou art mindful of him? and the son of man, that thou visitest him? Psa. 8:5 For thou hast made him a little lower than the angels, and hast crowned him with glory and honour.

ANSWER:

• Man was made in the image of God to reflect God’s glory - physically, mentally, and spiritually. “Man was the crowning act of God’s creation”

CONCLUSION:

• Through the gospel of Jesus Christ, the work of atonement, God is restoring the image of God back to man. The work of atonement makes it possible for the transformation of heart and of body. In order to receive the new heart, we need experience the justification by faith. In order to receive the new body, we need the final justification, which is the blotting out of sin. We will receive the promise of blotting out if we maintain our justification by faith experience.

Judging the Evil Powers and the Wicked

1. What can we conclude from the following verses?

• 1Cor. 4:5 Therefore judge nothing before the time, until the Lord come, who both will bring to light the hidden things of darkness, and will make manifest the counsels of the hearts: and then shall every man have praise of God.

• 1Cor. 6:3 Know ye not that we shall judge angels? how much more things that pertain to this life?

• Rev. 20:1 And I saw an angel come down from heaven, having the key of the bottomless pit and a great chain in his hand.

• Rev. 20:2 And he laid hold on the dragon, that old serpent, which is the Devil, and Satan, and bound him a thousand years,

• Rev. 20:3 And cast him into the bottomless pit, and shut him up, and set a seal upon him, that he should deceive the nations no more, till the thousand years should be fulfilled: and after that he must be loosed a little season.

• Rev. 20:4 And I saw thrones, and they sat upon them, and judgment was given unto them: and I saw the souls of them that were beheaded for the witness of Jesus, and for the word of God, and which had not worshipped the beast, neither his image, neither had received his mark upon their foreheads, or in their hands; and they lived and reigned with Christ a thousand years.

ANSWER:

• During the millennium, the saved ones will judge the wicked and all evil angels.

• This judgment is not to change the judgment of God but to see the justice of God’s judgment.

• In order to take away any possibility of doubt entering into the minds of the saved ones, God reveals His judgment to all His saints.

• By reviewing the justice of God’s judgment, in this way, saints are taking a part in the destruction of the wicked

Cosmic Reconciliation

1. When will the devil, his angels, and all wicked be destroyed?

• Rev. 20:7 And when the thousand years are expired, Satan shall be loosed out of his prison,

• Rev. 20:8 And shall go out to deceive the nations which are in the four quarters of the earth, Gog and Magog, to gather them together to battle: the number of whom is as the sand of the sea.

• Rev. 20:9 And they went up on the breadth of the earth, and compassed the camp of the saints about, and the beloved city: and fire came down from God out of heaven, and devoured them.

• Rev. 20:10 And the devil that deceived them was cast into the lake of fire and brimstone, where the beast and the false prophet are, and shall be tormented day and night for ever and ever.

ANSWER:

• After the millennium

2. What will happen just before the wicked are cast into the lake of fire?

• Rev. 20:11 And I saw a great white throne, and him that sat on it, from whose face the earth and the heaven fled away; and there was found no place for them.

• Rev. 20:12 And I saw the dead, small and great, stand before God; and the books were opened: and another book was opened, which is the book of life: and the dead were judged out of those things which were written in the books, according to their works.

• Rev. 20:13 And the sea gave up the dead which were in it; and death and hell delivered up the dead which were in them: and they were judged every man according to their works.

• Rev. 20:14 And death and hell were cast into the lake of fire. This is the second death.

• Rev. 20:15 And whosoever was not found written in the book of life was cast into the lake of fire.

ANSWER:

• The wicked will be judged out of those things which were written in the books before the great white throne of God.

3. James 2:12 says that we “shall be judged by the law of liberty”. So then how is it that the wicked will be “judged out of those things which were written in the books”?

OBSERVATIONAL ANSWERS:

• The word “judged” in Rev. 20:12 means to distinguish, i.e. decide (mentally or judicially); by implication, to try, condemn, punish: — avenge, conclude, condemn, damn, decree, determine, esteem, judge, go to (sue at the) law, ordain, call in question, sentence to, think.

• Notice some of those definitions such as call in question and think.

• Because the books are open and the wicked are being judged out of those things which were written in the books, I can see that the wicked will have time to think and to question about why they are lost at the time of the judgment before the great white throne of God.

• God wants the wicked to think about why they are lost and how much God did to save them and how much they have rejected His salvation.

• I believe this is the reason why at the end of the judgment before the great white throne of God, “That at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of things in heaven, and things in earth, and things under the earth; And that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.” Phil. 2:10, 11

• Those books can be opened to the wicked because those books have been opened and so to speak, approved by the saints.

• In this way, everyone has no doubt about why saints are saved and why wicked are lost. God would not allow anyone to perish with a doubt of God’s judgment and justice. Therefore, mentally, all things will be reconciled in everyone’s mind both the saved and the lost.

The Triumph of God’s Love

1. Read 1 Corinthians 13:9-13.

• 1Cor. 13:9 For we know in part, and we prophesy in part.

• 1Cor. 13:10 But when that which is perfect is come, then that which is in part shall be done away.

• 1Cor. 13:11 When I was a child, I spake as a child, I understood as a child, I thought as a child: but when I became a man, I put away childish things.

• 1Cor. 13:12 For now we see through a glass, darkly; but then face to face: now I know in part; but then shall I know even as also I am known.

• 1Cor. 13:13 And now abideth faith, hope, charity, these three; but the greatest of these is charity.

OBSERVATIONS:

• We may not understand everything about the future.

• But the day will come when everything will become perfectly clear to us.

• Until then we abide in faith, hope and love.

2. What is faith, hope and love in the light of the atonement?

• Rom. 3:25 Whom God hath set forth to be a propitiation through faith in his blood, to declare his righteousness for the remission of sins that are past, through the forbearance of God

• 1Pet. 1:3 Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, which according to his abundant mercy hath begotten us again unto a lively hope by the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead

• 1John 4:17 Herein is our love made perfect, that we may have boldness in the day of judgment: because as he is, so are we in this world.

ANSWER:

• We put our faith in the blood of Jesus in order to enter into the process of atonement.

• We put our hope in the resurrection of Jesus in order to see the final result of the work of atonement for us.

• We continue to live in the love of Jesus in order to stand boldly in the Day of Judgment so that we may go through the climatic part of atonement.

APPLICATION QUESTION:

• Why love is the greatest of all?

Dec13-19: United to Christ

The Two Humanities

1. What did we receive from Adam without our choice?

• Rom. 5:12 Wherefore, as by one man sin entered into the world, and death by sin; and so death passed upon all men, for that all have sinned

• 1Cor. 15:22 For as in Adam all die, even so in Christ shall all be made alive.

ANSWER:

• Sin (Sinful nature)

• Death

2. How many were led to be sinners because Adam’s disobedience?

• Rom. 5:19 For as by one man’s disobedience many were made sinners, so by the obedience of one shall many be made righteous.

ANSWER:

• Many

3. How many people have sinned?

• Rom. 3:23 For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God

ANSWER:

• All

4. How did Jesus describe those who sinned?

• John 8:34 Jesus answered them, Verily, verily, I say unto you, Whosoever committeth sin is the servant of sin.

ANSWER:

• Servant of sin

CONCLUSION:

• All became subject to dominion of sin and death through Adam’s sin

5. Who or what can free us from the bondage of sin and death?

• Rom. 8:2 For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus hath made me free from the law of sin and death.

ANSWER:

• The law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus

NOTE:

• “The Spirit of life” has to do with the power of resurrection Rev. 11:11 “And after three days and an half the Spirit of life from God entered into them, and they stood upon their feet; and great fear fell upon them which saw them.”

6. How did Jesus make it possible to free us from the dominion of sin?

• Rom. 6:14 For sin shall not have dominion over you: for ye are not under the law, but under grace.

• Rom. 6:15 What then? shall we sin, because we are not under the law, but under grace? God forbid.

ANSWER:

• Putting us under grace. BUT this does not mean we are free to commit sin.

7. How did Jesus make it possible to free us from the dominion of death?

• Rom. 6:8 Now if we be dead with Christ, we believe that we shall also live with him:

• Rom. 6:9 Knowing that Christ being raised from the dead dieth no more; death hath no more dominion over him.

ANSWER:

• Through His resurrection.

CONCLUSION:

• Adam gave us the bondage of sin and death but Jesus gave us the freedom from sin and death through the resurrecting power of Jesus. Jesus offers this gift freely to us by His grace.

EXTRA NOTE:

• Observe the early apostolic movement and see their central power of witnessing.

• Acts 4:31 And when they had prayed, the place was shaken where they were assembled together; and they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and they spake the word of God with boldness.

• Acts 4:33 And with great power gave the apostles witness of the resurrection of the Lord Jesus: and great grace was upon them all.

Making All Things New: A New Humanity

1. According to Romans 8:1-4, what did Jesus had to do in order to deliver us from condemnation which is the bondage to the law of sin and death?

• Rom. 8:1 There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit.

• Rom. 8:2 For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus hath made me free from the law of sin and death.

• Rom. 8:3 For what the law could not do, in that it was weak through the flesh, God sending his own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh, and for sin, condemned sin in the flesh:

• Rom. 8:4 That the righteousness of the law might be fulfilled in us, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit.

ANSWER:

• Jesus took upon the “likeness of sinful flesh, and for sin, condemned sin in the flesh (sinful flesh)”

2. According to Romans 8:1-4, what is the result for us when Jesus took the “likeness of sinful flesh”?

• Rom. 8:1 There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit.

• Rom. 8:2 For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus hath made me free from the law of sin and death.

• Rom. 8:3 For what the law could not do, in that it was weak through the flesh, God sending his own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh, and for sin, condemned sin in the flesh:

• Rom. 8:4 That the righteousness of the law might be fulfilled in us, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit.

ANSWER:

• “No condemnation” (Which means justification and no second death)

• “That the righteousness of the law might be fulfilled in us” (Which means overcoming sin)

3. What is the condition for “no condemnation” and “the righteousness of the law” to “be fulfilled in us”?

ANSWER:

• If we are “in Christ Jesus” (Which means to believe in Jesus by faith)

• If we “walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit” (Which means surrender to Jesus by faith)

4. According to the book of Romans, what is the characteristic of “sinful flesh”?

• Rom. 7:18 For I know that in me (that is, in my flesh,) dwelleth no good thing: for to will is present with me; but how to perform that which is good I find not.

ANSWER:

• “Sinful flesh” cannot “perform that which is good”

5. Then how could Jesus condemn sin in the flesh?

• John 8:7 So when they continued asking him, he lifted up himself, and said unto them, He that is without sin among you, let him first cast a stone at her.

• John 8:11 She said, No man, Lord. And Jesus said unto her, Neither do I condemn thee: go, and sin no more.

OBSERVATION:

• In order to condemn sin you need to be “without sin” according to the above story from John chapter 8.

ANSWER:

• Because Jesus committed no sin

6. Was Jesus tempted? And how did Jesus overcome sin?

• Heb. 4:15 For we have not an high priest which cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities; but was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin.

• Matt. 4:1 Then was Jesus led up of the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted of the devil.

• Matt. 4:4 But he answered and said, It is written, Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of God.

ANSWER:

• Jesus was tempted in “all points” “like as we are”

• Jesus surrendered to the word of God.

7. How could we “perform that which is good” in our sinful flesh?

• Rom. 4:18 Who against hope believed in hope, that he might become the father of many nations, according to that which was spoken, So shall thy seed be.

• Rom. 4:19 And being not weak in faith, he considered not his own body now dead, when he was about an hundred years old, neither yet the deadness of Sara’s womb:

• Rom. 4:20 He staggered not at the promise of God through unbelief; but was strong in faith, giving glory to God;

• Rom. 4:21 And being fully persuaded that, what he had promised, he was able also to perform.

• Rom. 4:22 And therefore it was imputed to him for righteousness.

OBSERVATIONS:

• Abraham and Sara could not depend upon their body (sinful flesh) to produce a child.

• Abraham and Sara had only one way in order to produce a child, a new life.

• That only way was having strong faith in God’s promise that God was able to perform.

ANSWER:

• We cannot depend upon our sinful flesh to produce a new spiritual life.

• There is only one way to have a new life.

• That only way is having a strong faith in God’s promise (God’s word) that He is able to perform that which is good in us.

8. What kind of experience do we need in order to live in our “flesh” by faith?

• Gal. 2:20 I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me.

ANSWER:

• Dying to self, surrender of self

9. What needs to be “crucified” in order to experience the new life according to the book of Romans?

• Rom. 6:3 Know ye not, that so many of us as were baptized into Jesus Christ were baptized into his death?

• Rom. 6:4 Therefore we are buried with him by baptism into death: that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life.

• Rom. 6:5 For if we have been planted together in the likeness of his death, we shall be also in the likeness of his resurrection:

• Rom. 6:6 Knowing this, that our old man is crucified with him, that the body of sin might be destroyed, that henceforth we should not serve sin.

• Rom. 6:7 For he that is dead is freed from sin.

ANSWER:

• “Our old man”.

CONCLUSION:

• Jesus came in the likeness of sinful flesh to condemn sin in His flesh.

• Therefore if we are in Christ then we are free from condemnation.

• And if we walk after the spirit by faith and not depend or follow our own flesh then the righteousness of the law can be fulfilled in us.

• In order for us to be in Christ and to live by faith, our old man needs to be crucified.

• This is the way God makes all things new in us and we become a new humanity.

Union With Christ

1. Observe the following verses. What experiences do we need have “with Christ” and why?

• Rom. 6:8 Now if we be dead with Christ, we believe that we shall also live with him

• Rom. 8:17 And if children, then heirs; heirs of God, and joint-heirs with Christ; if so be that we suffer with him, that we may be also glorified together.

• Gal. 2:20 I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me.

• Eph. 2:5 Even when we were dead in sins, hath quickened us together with Christ, (by grace ye are saved;)

• Col. 3:1 If ye then be risen with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ sitteth on the right hand of God.

• Col. 3:3 For ye are dead, and your life is hid with Christ in God.

• Rev. 20:4 And I saw thrones, and they sat upon them, and judgment was given unto them: and I saw the souls of them that were beheaded for the witness of Jesus, and for the word of God, and which had not worshipped the beast, neither his image, neither had received his mark upon their foreheads, or in their hands; and they lived and reigned with Christ a thousand years.

ANSWER:

• We need to die “with Christ” that we may live with Him.

• We need to suffer with Him that we may have joint-heirs with Christ.

• We need to be crucified “with Christ” that Christ may live in us.

• We can be quickened together “with Christ”. And this is the work of salvation by His grace.

• We need to seek Christ sitting on the right hand of God if we have been risen “with Christ”

• We need to die “with Christ” that our life may be hid “with Christ” in God.

• We need to be willing to die for Christ that we may reign “with Christ” in heaven.

CONCLUSION:

• 2Tim. 2:11 It is a faithful saying: For if we be dead with him, we shall also live with him:

• 2Tim. 2:12 If we suffer, we shall also reign with him: if we deny him, he also will deny us:

• Life is promised to those who die for Christ. Crown is promised to those who suffer for Christ. Therefore our part is death and suffering. But God’s response is the crown of life.

2. Practically speaking, how do we experience spiritual death and suffering with Christ that we may receive the crown of life?

• James 1:12 Blessed is the man that endureth temptation: for when he is tried, he shall receive the crown of life, which the Lord hath promised to them that love him.

ANSWER:

• Enduring temptation

3. What experience did Jesus have when He endured His temptations?

• Heb. 2:18 For in that he himself hath suffered being tempted, he is able to succour them that are tempted.

ANSWER:

• Suffering

4. What did apostle Peter say about the suffering of Christ?

• 1Pet. 4:1 Forasmuch then as Christ hath suffered for us in the flesh, arm yourselves likewise with the same mind: for he that hath suffered in the flesh hath ceased from sin

• 1Pet. 2:21 For even hereunto were ye called: because Christ also suffered for us, leaving us an example, that ye should follow his steps:

• 1Pet. 2:22 Who did no sin, neither was guile found in his mouth:

• 1Pet. 2:23 Who, when he was reviled, reviled not again; when he suffered, he threatened not; but committed himself to him that judgeth righteously:

ANSWER:

• We should have the same mind of Christ because He was willing to suffer the flesh in order to overcome temptation.

CONCLUSION:

• What does it mean to be with Christ? It means we can only surrender our will with Christ. Without Christ it is impossible to “crucified” self. It means we can only endure temptations with Christ. Without Christ it is impossible to “suffer” our flesh in order to overcome temptation. Therefore we need to be “with Christ” to die and to suffer so that we may live and reign with Christ with the crown of life on our heads.

“In Christ”

1. What is “in Christ”?

• Rom. 3:24 Being justified freely by his grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus

• Rom. 8:1 There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit.

• Rom. 8:2 For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus hath made me free from the law of sin and death.

• Rom. 8:39 Nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.

• 1Cor. 1:2 Unto the church of God which is at Corinth, to them that are sanctified in Christ Jesus, called to be saints, with all that in every place call upon the name of Jesus Christ our Lord, both theirs and ours:

• 1Cor. 1:30 But of him are ye in Christ Jesus, who of God is made unto us wisdom, and righteousness, and sanctification, and redemption:

• 1Cor. 15:22 For as in Adam all die, even so in Christ shall all be made alive.

• 2Cor. 2:14 Now thanks be unto God, which always causeth us to triumph in Christ, and maketh manifest the savour of his knowledge by us in every place.

• 2Cor. 5:17 Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.

• 2Cor. 5:19 To wit, that God was in Christ, reconciling the world unto himself, not imputing their trespasses unto them; and hath committed unto us the word of reconciliation.

• 2Cor. 11:3 But I fear, lest by any means, as the serpent beguiled Eve through his subtilty, so your minds should be corrupted from the simplicity that is in Christ.

• Gal. 2:4 And that because of false brethren unawares brought in, who came in privily to spy out our liberty which we have in Christ Jesus, that they might bring us into bondage:

• Gal. 3:17 And this I say, that the covenant, that was confirmed before of God in Christ, the law, which was four hundred and thirty years after, cannot disannul, that it should make the promise of none effect.

• Eph. 1:3 Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who hath blessed us with all spiritual blessings in heavenly places in Christ:

• Eph. 1:10 That in the dispensation of the fulness of times he might gather together in one all things in Christ, both which are in heaven, and which are on earth; even in him:

• Phil. 2:5 Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus:

• Phil. 3:14 I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus.

• 2Tim. 1:13 Hold fast the form of sound words, which thou hast heard of me, in faith and love which is in Christ Jesus.

• 2Tim. 2:10 Therefore I endure all things for the elect’s sakes, that they may also obtain the salvation which is in Christ Jesus with eternal glory.

ANSWER:

• Justification and Redemption

• No condemnation

• The Spirit of Life

• The love of God

• Sanctification

• Wisdom, righteousness, sanctification, and redemption

• Resurrection

• Triumph

• New creation

• Reconciliation

• Simplicity

• Liberty

• Covenant

• All spiritual blessings

• Unity of all things

• Humility and Obedience

• The high calling of God

• Faith and Love

• Salvation

2. What is promised to us when Christ (including above list) is in us?

• Col. 1:27 To whom God would make known what is the riches of the glory of this mystery among the Gentiles; which is Christ in you, the hope of glory

ANSWER:

• We have the hope of glory

3. Could the experience of ‘we in Christ and ‘Christ in us’ be separated?

• John 15:4 Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, except it abide in the vine; no more can ye, except ye abide in me

• John 15:7 If ye abide in me, and my words abide in you, ye shall ask what ye will, and it shall be done unto you.

• John 14:20 At that day ye shall know that I am in my Father, and ye in me, and I in you.

• 1John 3:24 And he that keepeth his commandments dwelleth in him, and he in him. And hereby we know that he abideth in us, by the Spirit which he hath given us.3

ANSWER:

• No

CONCLUSION:

• God the Father put all the gifts of heaven in Christ therefore if we are “in Christ” then we have access to all the gifts of heaven and the reality of the gift is experienced through Christ in us. This union of Christ in us and we in Him is the work of atonement.

In Christ: The Spirit and the Church

1. Read Romans 8:9. How to be a part of Christ?

• Rom. 8:9 But ye are not in the flesh, but in the Spirit, if so be that the Spirit of God dwell in you. Now if any man have not the Spirit of Christ, he is none of his.

ANSWER:

• To be in the Spirit, the Spirit of Christ needs to dwell in us.

2. What happens when “the Spirit of Christ” dwells in us?

• Rom. 8:10 And if Christ be in you, the body is dead because of sin; but the Spirit is life because of righteousness.

ANSWER:

• Death to sin and alive to righteousness.

3. What other promise is given to us when “the Spirit of Christ dwell in us?

• Rom. 8:11 But if the Spirit of him that raised up Jesus from the dead dwell in you, he that raised up Christ from the dead shall also quicken your mortal bodies by his Spirit that dwelleth in you.

ANSWER:

• Resurrection and translation: Immortality.

4. What is the result of those who are led by the “Spirit of God”?

• Rom. 8:14 For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are the sons of God.

ANSWR:

• They become sons of God.

5. Read Hebrews 2:10-12.Who are the sons of God?

• Heb. 2:10 For it became him, for whom are all things, and by whom are all things, in bringing many sons unto glory, to make the captain of their salvation perfect through sufferings.

• Heb. 2:11 For both he that sanctifieth and they who are sanctified are all of one: for which cause he is not ashamed to call them brethren,

• Heb. 2:12 Saying, I will declare thy name unto my brethren, in the midst of the church will I sing praise unto thee.

ANSWER:

• Sons of God are the sanctified ones. Sanctified ones are called “brethren”. “Brethren” are called “the church”.

CONCLUSION

• Through the Spirit of God dwelling in us, we can die to self, live unto righteousness, and wait for the hope of immortality. The church of God is made up with those who have the Spirit of God dwelling in them.

APPLICATION QUESTION:

• What does it mean to be a part of God’s church in the light of the “in Christ” theme?

Dec6-12: Benefits of Christ’s Atoning Sacrifice

Resurrection and Ascension

1. What would not be possible if Jesus was not raised from the dead?

• 1Cor. 15:16 For if the dead rise not, then is not Christ raised:

• 1Cor. 15:17 And if Christ be not raised, your faith is vain; ye are yet in your sins.

• 1Cor. 15:18 Then they also which are fallen asleep in Christ are perished.

ANSWER:

• Atonement (pardon and blotting out of sin).
• Resurrection.

2. Where did Jesus go after His resurrection in order to complete the work of salvation?

• 1Pet. 3:21 The like figure whereunto even baptism doth also now save us (not the putting away of the filth of the flesh, but the answer of a good conscience toward God,) by the resurrection of Jesus Christ:

• 1Pet. 3:22 Who is gone into heaven, and is on the right hand of God; angels and authorities and powers being made subject unto him.

ANSWER:

• To “the right hand of God.”

3. What is Jesus doing at the right of God in heaven?

• Rom. 8:34 Who is he that condemneth? It is Christ that died, yea rather, that is risen again, who is even at the right hand of God, who also maketh intercession for us.

ANSWER:

• Intercession.

4. What is Jesus’ role at the right hand of the throne of the Majesty in the heavens?

• Heb. 8:1 Now of the things which we have spoken this is the sum: We have such an high priest, who is set on the right hand of the throne of the Majesty in the heavens;

ANSWER:

• High Priest.

5. What is the work of a high priest?

• Heb. 7:25 Wherefore he is able also to save them to the uttermost that come unto God by him, seeing he ever liveth to make intercession for them.

• Heb. 7:26 For such an high priest became us, who is holy, harmless, undefiled, separate from sinners, and made higher than the heavens

ANSWER:

• Intercession.

6. What would be the ultimate purpose of the work of intercession?

• Rom. 8:34 Who is he that condemneth? It is Christ that died, yea rather, that is risen again, who is even at the right hand of God, who also maketh intercession for us.

OBSERVATION:

• Notice how the work of intercession protects us from condemnation.

• Condemnation and justification are opposites.

  • Matt. 12:37 For by thy words thou shalt be justified, and by thy words thou shalt be condemned.

  • Rom. 5:18 Therefore as by the offence of one judgment came upon all men to condemnation; even so by the righteousness of one the free gift came upon all men unto justification of life.

ANSWER:

• To justify the believers.

7. Why was Jesus resurrected from the dead according to Romans 4:25?

• Rom. 4:25 Who was delivered for our offences, and was raised again for our justification.

ANSWER:

• For our justification.

CONCLUSION:

• Jesus was resurrected from the dead in order to intercede for us so that we might receive justification which is both pardon and blotting out of our sins which is the work of atonement.

Mediation of Christ and Atonement

1. What does God required in order for Him to justify us?

• Rom. 5:9 Much more then, being now justified by his blood, we shall be saved from wrath through him.

• Heb. 9:22 And almost all things are by the law purged with blood; and without shedding of blood is no remission.

• Rom. 3:24 Being justified freely by his grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus: Rom. 3:25 Whom God hath set forth to be a propitiation through faith in his blood, to declare his righteousness for the remission of sins that are past, through the forbearance of God;

ANSWER:

• The blood of Jesus.

2. What can the blood of Jesus do for our sin?

• 1John 1:7 But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship one with another, and the blood of Jesus Christ his Son cleanseth us from all sin.

ANSWER:

• “Cleanseth us from all sin” (Same as justification).

3. What is the condition for our sins to be cleansed?

• 1John 1:9 If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.

ANSWER:

• “If we confess our sins.”

4. Who stands and listens to us when we confess our sins?

• 1John 2:1 My little children, these things write I unto you, that ye sin not. And if any man sin, we have an advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous:

• 1John 2:2 And he is the propitiation for our sins: and not for ours only, but also for the sins of the whole world.

ANSWER:

• “Advocate” – Intercessor or Mediator. Notice that the word “propitiation” means atonement.

5. How many mediators do we have for our salvation?

• 1Tim. 2:5 For there is one God, and one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus

ANSWER:

• One Mediator, Jesus Christ.

6. What promise does the Mediator have for us?

• Heb. 8:6 But now hath he obtained a more excellent ministry, by how much also he is the mediator of a better covenant, which was established upon better promises.

• Heb. 12:24 And to Jesus the mediator of the new covenant, and to the blood of sprinkling, that speaketh better things than that of Abel.

• Heb. 9:15 And for this cause he is the mediator of the new testament, that by means of death, for the redemption of the transgressions that were under the first testament, they which are called might receive the promise of eternal inheritance.

ANSWER:

• Better covenant – the new covenant.

7. What is the new covenant?

• Heb. 10:16 This is the covenant that I will make with them after those days, saith the Lord, I will put my laws into their hearts, and in their minds will I write them;

• Heb. 10:17 And their sins and iniquities will I remember no more.

ANSWER:

• “I will put my laws into their hearts, and in their minds will I write them.”

  “And their sins and iniquities will I remember no more.”

8. What does God need to do for us in order for Him to write the law in our hearts?

• Psa. 51:10 Create in me a clean heart, O God; and renew a right spirit within me.

ANSWER:

• Create a clean heart.

9. What does God need to do with our sin in order for Him to not remember our sins?

• Is. 43:25 I, even I, am he that blotteth out thy transgressions for mine own sake, and will not remember thy sins.

ANSWER:

• Blot out our sins.

10. What can God declare about us when our sins are blotted out?

• Is. 43:25 I, even I, am he that blotteth out thy transgressions for mine own sake, and will not remember thy sins.

• Is. 43:26 Put me in remembrance: let us plead together: declare thou, that thou mayest be justified.

ANSWER:

• Justified.

CONCLUSION:

• Jesus is the Mediator of the new covenant.

• Jesus is the Mediator because He shed His own blood.

• Jesus is mediating in our behalf so that we may receive:

  • Forgiveness of sins.

  • Cleansing of our sins.

  • A clean heart.

  • A heart that follows God’s law.

  • Blotting out of our sins.

  • The complete and final justification, the final work of the atonement.

• Until then we are justified by faith. Rom. 4:25 Who was delivered for our offences, and was raised again for our justification. Rom. 5:1 Therefore being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ: Rom. 5:2 By whom also we have access by faith into this grace wherein we stand, and rejoice in hope of the glory of God.

Mediation of Christ in the Heavenly Sanctuary

1. Where did Jesus go after His death and ascension?

• Heb. 12:2 Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God.

ANSWER:

• Jesus “set down at the right hand of the throne of God.”

2. What is Jesus doing at the right hand of God?

• Acts 5:31 Him hath God exalted with his right hand to be a Prince and a Saviour, for to give repentance to Israel, and forgiveness of sins.

ANSWER:

• To give repentance and forgiveness of sins.

EXTRA OBSERVATION:

• Jesus was exalted as “a Prince and a Saviour.” Jesus, as a Prince, is called Michael in the Bible. (Dan. 12:1 And at that time shall Michael stand up, the great prince).

3. Besides a Prince and a Savior what is the other title for Jesus when He sat at the right hand of God?

• Heb. 8:1 Now of the things which we have spoken this is the sum: We have such an high priest, who is set on the right hand of the throne of the Majesty in the heavens

ANSWER:

• High Priest.

4. Where does Jesus minister in our behalf as our High Priest?

• Heb. 8:1 Now of the things which we have spoken this is the sum: We have such an high priest, who is set on the right hand of the throne of the Majesty in the heavens;

• Heb. 8:2 A minister of the sanctuary, and of the true tabernacle, which the Lord pitched, and not man.

• Heb. 9:24 For Christ is not entered into the holy places made with hands, which are the figures of the true; but into heaven itself, now to appear in the presence of God for us

ANSWER:

• Heavenly sanctuary.

NOTE:

• Heb. 8:3 For every high priest is ordained to offer gifts and sacrifices: wherefore it is of necessity that this man have somewhat also to offer.

• Heb. 8:4 For if he were on earth, he should not be a priest, seeing that there are priests that offer gifts according to the law:

• Heb. 8:5 Who serve unto the example and shadow of heavenly things, as Moses was admonished of God when he was about to make the tabernacle: for, See, saith he, that thou make all things according to the pattern shewed to thee in the mount.

• The earthly sanctuary was a “shadow” of the heavenly sanctuary.

5. Based upon the “shadow” in the earthly sanctuary, what was the ultimate work of a high priest in the sanctuary?

• Heb. 9:7 But into the second went the high priest alone once every year, not without blood, which he offered for himself, and for the errors of the people:

• Lev. 16:30 For on that day shall the priest make an atonement for you, to cleanse you, that ye may be clean from all your sins before the LORD.

• Lev. 16:31 It shall be a sabbath of rest unto you, and ye shall afflict your souls, by a statute for ever.

• Lev. 16:32 And the priest, whom he shall anoint, and whom he shall consecrate to minister in the priest’s office in his father’s stead, shall make the atonement, and shall put on the linen clothes, even the holy garments:

• Lev. 16:33 And he shall make an atonement for the holy sanctuary, and he shall make an atonement for the tabernacle of the congregation, and for the altar, and he shall make an atonement for the priests, and for all the people of the congregation.

ANSWER:

• To make an atonement, “to cleanse” the people, which is the blotting out of sin.

6. Read the following verses.

• Rev. 1:12 And I turned to see the voice that spake with me. And being turned, I saw seven golden candlesticks; Rev. 1:13 And in the midst of the seven candlesticks one like unto the Son of man, clothed with a garment down to the foot, and girt about the paps with a golden girdle.

• Rev. 8:3 And another angel came and stood at the altar, having a golden censer; and there was given unto him much incense, that he should offer it with the prayers of all saints upon the golden altar which was before the throne. Rev. 8:4 And the smoke of the incense, which came with the prayers of the saints, ascended up before God out of the angel’s hand.

• Rev. 11:19 And the temple of God was opened in heaven, and there was seen in his temple the ark of his testament: and there were lightnings, and voices, and thunderings, and an earthquake, and great hail.

CONCLUSION:

• The book of Revelation shows that Jesus worked and is working as our High Priest in the heavenly sanctuary. The true atonement will be completed in the heavenly sanctuary with the blood of Jesus in the most holy place. Here we see the connection between the mediation work of Jesus and the heavenly sanctuary. Therefore the work of salvation was not done at the cross. The shedding of blood was completed at the cross but not the whole work of salvation. Salvation was secured at the cross but the work needed to go on into the heavenly sanctuary by Jesus as our High Priest.

Mediation of Christ and the Work of the Spirit

1. What reason did Jesus give to His disciples regarding why He is going back to heaven?

• John 14:1 Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in me.

• John 14:2 In my Father’s house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you.

• John 14:3 And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, there ye may be also.

ANSWER:

• “To prepare a place for you.”

  “That where I am, there ye may be also.”

OBSERVATION:

• The final result of the work of atonement is to be one with Christ and God.

2. Read John 14:4. Why did Jesus say that His disciples knew the way where He was going?

• John 14:4 And whither I go ye know, and the way ye know.

• John 14:5 Thomas saith unto him, Lord, we know not whither thou goest; and how can we know the way?

• John 14:6 Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.

• Psa. 77:13 Thy way, O God, is in the sanctuary: who is so great a God as our God?

ANSWER:

• Because they know Jesus.

• Because they know sanctuary.

• Jesus wanted the disciples to put together the work of the Messiah and the sanctuary service.

EXTRA OBSERVATIONS:

• The way – entering into the sanctuary through the altar of burnt sacrifice: The Cross of Jesus

• The truth – John 17:17 “Thy word is truth”. Word of God is the “bread of Life”: The table of shewbread in the holy place.

• The life – Heb. 9:4 “the ark of the covenant overlaid round about with gold, wherein was the golden pot that had manna, and Aaron’s rod that budded, and the tables of the covenant.”

  • Manna is connected to the Sabbath and the Sabbath is connected to the creation of life. Aaron’s rod that budded represents the resurrected life through recreation of life. The Ten Commandments are connected to life (Read Matt. 19:16, 17; Rev. 22:14).

3. What did Christ promise the disciples?

• John 14:16 And I will pray the Father, and he shall give you another Comforter, that he may abide with you for ever;

• John 14:17 Even the Spirit of truth; whom the world cannot receive, because it seeth him not, neither knoweth him: but ye know him; for he dwelleth with you, and shall be in you.

ANSWER:

• The Comforter – the Spirit of truth.

4. What is the Greek meaning of the word “comforter?”

• 3875. parakletos, par-ak´-lay-tos; an intercessor, consoler: — advocate, comforter.

ANSWER:

• An intercessor, advocate.

OBSERVATION:

• The Holy Spirit is also involved in the work of intercession.

• Rom. 8:26 Likewise the Spirit also helpeth our infirmities: for we know not what we should pray for as we ought: but the Spirit itself maketh intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered.

• Rom. 8:27 And he that searcheth the hearts knoweth what is the mind of the Spirit, because he maketh intercession for the saints according to the will of God.

5. What is the function of the Spirit of truth?

• John 16:7 Nevertheless I tell you the truth; It is expedient for you that I go away: for if I go not away, the Comforter will not come unto you; but if I depart, I will send him unto you.

• John 16:8 And when he is come, he will reprove the world of sin, and of righteousness, and of judgment:

• John 16:9 Of sin, because they believe not on me;

• John 16:10 Of righteousness, because I go to my Father, and ye see me no more;

• John 16:11 Of judgment, because the prince of this world is judged.

ANSWER:

• He will reprove the world of sin, and of righteousness, and of judgment.

6. What does it mean when Jesus said, “of sin, because they believe not on me?”

• John 1:12 But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name:

• John 1:13 Which were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God.

• John 1:14 And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth.

• John 1:29 The next day John seeth Jesus coming unto him, and saith, Behold the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world.

• John 3:14 And as Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, even so must the Son of man be lifted up:

• John 3:15 That whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have eternal life.

• John 3:16 For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.

ANSWER:

• According to the book of John, Jesus is the Word of God who came in our flesh to be offered as the Lamb of God on the cross so that those that believe in Him should have everlasting life. Therefore the Spirit will convict us of our sin because we need the dying Savior on the cross. This was already revealed through the altar of burnt sacrifice in the sanctuary.

7. What does it mean when Jesus said, “of righteousness, because I go to my Father, and ye see me no more?”

• Righteousness means 1343. dikaiosune, dik-ah-yos-oo´-nay; from 1342; equity (of character or act); specially (Christian) justification: — righteousness.

• Rom. 4:25 Who was delivered for our offences, and was raised again for our justification.

• Mark 16:19 So then after the Lord had spoken unto them, he was received up into heaven, and sat on the right hand of God.

• Heb. 8:1 Now of the things which we have spoken this is the sum: We have such an high priest, who is set on the right hand of the throne of the Majesty in the heavens; Heb. 8:2 A minister of the sanctuary, and of the true tabernacle, which the Lord pitched, and not man.

ANSWR:

• Righteousness for the believer is based upon the work of Jesus in the heavenly sanctuary. Jesus was raised from the dead and went to the sanctuary in heaven for our justification (righteousness). Therefore the Spirit will convict us of righteousness because our own righteousness will not get us to heaven but only the mediation work of Jesus in the heavenly sanctuary will make us righteous in the sight of God. This was already revealed through the Holy Place service in the sanctuary.

8. What does it mean when Jesus said, “of judgment, because the prince of this world is judged?”

ANSWER:

• The prince of this world is Satan:

  • Eph. 2:2 Wherein in time past ye walked according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the power of the air, the spirit that now worketh in the children of disobedience.

  • 1 John 3:10 In this the children of God are manifest, and the children of the devil: whosoever doeth not righteousness is not of God, neither he that loveth not his brother.

• During the judgment of the world, the prince of this world was cast out when Jesus died on the cross. (Read John 12:31, 32).

• “Judged” means 2919. krino, kree´-no; properly, to distinguish, i.e. decide (mentally or judicially); by implication, to try, condemn, punish: — avenge, conclude, condemn, damn, decree, determine, esteem, judge, go to (sue at the) law, ordain, call in question, sentence to, think.

  However Satan will not be punished until the work of judgment is finished in heaven.

  In other words, judgment was already announced at the cross for Satan but it will be carried at the end of the investigative judgment. This was already revealed through the “scapegoat” on the Day of Atonement in the sanctuary.

9. Read Acts 17:31. Compare it with John 16:7-11.

• Acts 17:31 Because he hath appointed a day, in the which he will judge the world in righteousness by that man whom he hath ordained; whereof he hath given assurance unto all men, in that he hath raised him from the dead.

COMPARISON:

• Jesus died and resurrected for our sin.

• Jesus went up to heavenly sanctuary to offer the gift of righteousness to us.

• Therefore we may be prepared when the world will be judged in righteousness.

CONCLUSION

• The Comforters role is to help us to understand and to experience the complete work of atonement:

  • Jesus died for our sin.

  • Jesus offers His righteousness.

  • Jesus judges to declare us just.