KGD-45

990428WE

I find my Lord in the Book,
Wherever I chance to Look
He’s the theme of the Bible
The center and heart of the Book.
He’s the Rose of Sharon,
He’s the Lilly fair,
Wherever I open my Bible,
The Lord of the Book is there.
He at the Book’s beginning gave the Earth its form
He is the Ark of Shelter bearing the brunt of the storm
He is the burning bush of the desert, the budding of Aaron’s rod
Wherever I look in the Bible, I see the Son of God.
The Ram upon Mt. Moriah, the ladder from Earth to sky.
The scarlet cord in the window, and the serpent lifted high,
The smitten rock in the desert, the Shepherd with staff and crook,
The face of my Lord I discover, wherever I open the Book.
He is the Seed of the Woman, the Savior virgin born,
He is the Son of David of whom men rejected with scorn,
His garments of Grace and of beauty, the stately Aaron Deck,
Yet He is a Priest forever, for He is Melchizedek.
Lord of eternal glory, whom John the Apostle saw,
Light of eternal glory, whom John the Apostle saw,
Light of the golden city, Lamb without spot or flaw,
Bridegroom coming at midnight for whom the virgins look,
Wherever I open my Bible, I find my Lord in the Book.
AN ARCHITECTS VIEW OF THE SCRIPTURES
The Bible is like a majestic palace constructed with precious oriental stone
comprising 66 stately chambers, each an individual room, yet a part of the
whole ediface: incomprehensible, majestic, glorious and sublime.
As we go into the vestibule, the book of Genesis, and find recorded the mighty
works of God in creation this vestibule, has access to the law courts. Which,
when passing thru come to the picture gallery of the historical books in which
hung wall scenes, battles, portraits of men of valor. Battles and valiant heros
line the walls.
On to the philosophers chamber Job. Then into the music room (Psalms)
where we linger to hear the grandest harmonies ever that fell on human ears.
Pressing on into the business office of Proverbs where very center hangs the
motto “Righteousness exalts a nation”, sin reproach any people. Then, the
research department Ecclessiastes, into the conservatory of Song of Solomon
where the fragrant aroma of the sweetest fruits and flowers and sweetest
songs of birds greet us.
On to the observatory where we find prophets busy with strong telescopes
looking for the appearing of the bright and morning star, the Son of
Righteousness.
Walking across we enter the audience chamber of the King, the Gospels,
where hang four lifelike portraits of the King himself in the perfections of His
Beauty.
On to the workroom of the Holy Spirit – Acts, then into the correspondence
room where we find Peter, James, John, Paul and Jude bending busy over
their writing tables under the supervision of Holy Spirit of truth.
Finally into the throne room where echo the grandest praise and honor to the
King enthroned fills vast chambers with portraits of solemn scenes of doom on
walls but all associated with the King of Kings and Lord of Lords.
From creation to culmination. THE NEW TESTAMENT begins and ends with
Christ. It opens with His arrival, moves to His ministry of three years, His death,
His glorious resurrection, His ministering for 40 days. (We know this because
it says in Acts that he remained alive after His passion for 40 days). His
ascension, and then ten days the apostles were left along, fearful, waiting for
the promise that Christ gave; that promise does come in the day of Pentecost,
which “pentecost” means 50 days — after 50 days Christ sent His Spirit as he
promised. Just as He promised, the Spirit came and poured out His Spirit on
the fiftieth day. After the day of Pentecost was fully come, the birth of the
church. Acts – l-8 deals primarily with Peter. Then starting in Acts 9 Saul
comes on the scene. Paul is the focal point as God moves his redemptive
program out to the Gentile world in particular. Then after letters (Epistles) of
comfort and instruction, Jesus closes the book of history as He takes back His
wayward creation in the Revelation.
ACTS: “Christ our Mission” (1:8)
Acts 1:8 “But you shall receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you;
and you shall be witnesses to Me in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria,
and to the end of the earth.” (NKJV)
This book is the bridge taking Christ to the whole world. In it we see the lessons Christ taught His
disciples in secret now proclaimed in Holy Spirit empowered boldness. The key verse outlines the
book:
ü witnesses in Jerusalem (1-8:3);
ü Judea and Samaria (8:4-12:25);
ü and to the ends of the earth (13-28). Within Acts we find the background
introductions to epistles of I and II Corinthians, Galatians, Ephesians,
Philippians, Colossians and Philemon (prison epistles);
ROMANS: “CHRIST OUR RIGHTEOUSNESS” (1:16-17)
Romans 1:16-17 For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ, for it is the
power of God to salvation for everyone who believes, for the Jew first and also
for the Greek. 17 For in it the righteousness of God is revealed from faith to
faith; as it is written, “The just shall live by faith.” (NKJV)
From about AD 57-58 written looking out the window at Corinth on Paul’s 3rd journey. Paul’s letter
to Rome is better known in the church than any other, and is probably the singly most important
book in the N.T. because it lays down the great doctrines of justification by faith alone. The key
verse outlines the message of the entire book as:
THE PERSON OF THE GOSPEL IS CHRIST;
THE POWER OF THE GOSPEL IS GOD;
THE PURPOSE OF THE GOSPEL IS SALVATION;
THE PEOPLE OF THE GOSPEL ARE ALL;
THE PLAN OF THE GOSPEL IS BELIEF AND
THE RESULT OF THE GOSPEL IS LIVING BY FAITH!
Paul uses the expression “in Christ” to describe the new life of a believer. This
term is found no less than 164 times, as justified in Christ ” (Gal. 2:17), ” God’s
righteousness in him ” (2 Cor 5: 21). This blessed, life-penetrating secret is
central to all his letters. Thus:
Ü IN ROMANS -JUSTIFICATION IN CHRIST;
Ü IN CORINTHIANS -SANCTIFICATION IN CHRIST;
Ü IN GALATIANS -FREEDOM IN CHRIST;
Ü IN EPHESIANS-ONENESS IN CHRIST;
Ü IN PHILIPPIANS-JOY IN CHRIST;
Ü IN COLOSSIANS-FULNESS IN CHRIST;
Ü IN THESSALONIANS – GLORIFICATION IN CHRIST.
I CORINTHIANS: “CHRIST OUR SOLUTION TO
SPIRITUAL PROBLEMS” (2:6-8)
1 Corinthians 2:6-7 However, we speak wisdom among those who are mature, yet not the
wisdom of this age, nor of the rulers of this age, who are coming to nothing. 7 But we speak the
wisdom of God in a mystery, the hidden [wisdom] which God ordained before the ages for our
glory, (NKJV).
This letter comes about AD 57 from Ephesus on Paul’s 3rd journey. At Corinth, Paul spent oneand-one-half
years developing the church. His longest letters and most impassioned
correspondence were to those trouble believers. Their affluent and fast-growing port town brought
them an inordinate amount of contact with immorality, pagan religion, and philosophy. Their
problems with arrogance, leader-worshiping cliques, immorality, divorce, and misunderstandings
of spiritual gifts are systematically addressed in response to their questions.
II CORINTHIANS: “CHRIST OUR SUFFICIENCY” (3:5)
2 Corinthians 3:5 Not that we are sufficient of ourselves to think of anything as
[being] from ourselves, but our sufficiency [is] from God, (NKJV)
In AD 57 Paul writes again to his beloved Corinthian church from Macedonia just after leaving
Philippi.
GALATIANS: “CHRIST OUR LIBERTY” (5:1)
Galatians 5:1 Stand fast therefore in the liberty by which Christ has made us free, and do not be
entangled again with a yoke of bondage. (NKJV)
About AD 45 from Jerusalem Council. Galatians was written to counter false
teaching about Christianity and the law and the relationship between faith and
works. When the grace of God through His Spirit is rooted in our lives we find
His fruit. This fruit reaches into:
ü our walk with God (love, joy and peace),
ü our walk with others (gentleness, goodness and patience), and finally into
ü our personal walk (faith, meekness and self-control).
EPHESIANS: “CHRIST OUR SOURCE OF ALL” (3:20-21)
Ephesians 3:20-21 Now to Him who is able to do exceedingly abundantly
above all that we ask or think, according to the power that works in us, 21 to
Him [be] glory in the church by Christ Jesus to all generations, forever and
ever. Amen. (NKJV)
Shortly after Paul returned to Jerusalem from his third missionary journey (A.D.
57), he was arrested in the Temple courtyard, imprisoned in Caesarea for two
years, and tried by Felix and Festus. He then appealed to Agippa to be sent
to Rome for trial before Caesar. Though Agippa comments to Festus that
Paul might have been freed except for that appeal (Acts 26:32), Scripture
indicates it was clearly in God’s plan to send him to the empire’s capital, as yet
untouched by the apostles. While under house arrest in rented quarters in
Rome (about A.D. 59 to 61 or 62), Paul wrote four letters known as the prison
epistles. Of those, Ephesians is the best known for its tremendous theological
content, which seems to drift in long, flowing statements of praise for God’s
work in Christ.
PHILIPPIANS: “CHRIST OUR SOURCE OF JOY” (1:6)
Philippians 1:6 being confident of this very thing, that He who has begun a good work in you will
complete [it] until the day of Jesus Christ; (NKJV)
Paul and Silas visited Philippi, their first Macedonian contact, on their second
missionary journey in A.D. 52. To the saints and leadership of the church, Paul
writes of joyful submission to the will of God, regardless of the circumstances,
and uses the aweinspiring example of Christ Jesus as the model of humility
and mutual submission within the church.
COLOSSIANS: “CHRIST OUR LIFE” (2:10)
Colossians 2:10 and you are complete in Him, who is the head of all principality and power.
(NKJV)
Paul never ministered in nor even visited Colossae as he had Ephesus,
though one of his converts, Epaphras, had planted the church (1:7-8). Unique
to Colossians, is Paul’s attack against a local heresy that depreciated the
person of Christ and promoted ritualism, asceticism, and special, hidden
knowledge.
To counter that, Paul praises Jesus as the center and substance of the
universe. He presents:
ü the “deeper” life (1:22-23),
ü the “higher” life (2:6-7),
ü the “inner” life (3:12,16) and
ü the “outward” life (4:5).
I THESSALONIANS: “CHRIST OUR HOPE” (3:13)
1 Thessalonians 3:13 so that He may establish your hearts blameless in holiness before our God
and Father at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ with all His saints. (NKJV)
Addressed to one of Paul’s first churches in Greece, 1 Thessalonians
encourage the young believers to endure persecution, resist false teaching,
and live full and productive lives as they await Christ’s certain return.
In fact, each of 1 Thessalonians’ five chapters ends with encouragement based on the Rapture.
Through Christ’s Promised Coming We Have:
ü 1:10 = Present Hope Of Salvation
ü 2:19 = Future Joy Of Homegoing
ü 3:13 = Constant Cause For Holy Living
ü 4:17,18 = Constant Source Of Comfort
ü5:23 = Promise Of Completed Salvation
Now, we can finish our survey of the last 14 New Testament books. We start with Paul’s final letter
to his beloved Thessalonian Christians.
II THESSALONIANS: “CHRIST OUR CALLING” (1:11-12)
Therefore we also pray always for you that our God would count you worthy of
this calling, and fulfill all the good pleasure of His goodness and the work of
faith with power, 12 that the name of our Lord Jesus Christ may be glorified in
you, and you in Him, according to the grace of our God and the Lord Jesus
Christ. (NKJV)
Remember, the return of Christ is mentioned 318x in the 260 chapters of the
New Testament. And so, to these troubled saints Paul presents Christ as our
Security:
Ø when Suffering (1),
Ø when doubting (2) and
Ø when serving (3).
I TIMOTHY : “CHRIST OUR EXAMPLE” (4:12)
Let no one despise your youth, but be an example to the believers in word, in
conduct, in love, in spirit, in faith, in purity. (NKJV)
Timothy was a special disciples in whom Paul invested much time and to
whom he entrusted great responsibility. His letters to him are usually dated
after the events of Acts 28; tradition tells us Paul was then released from
prison and that he embarked on further missionary ventures from AD 62 to 67,
until his final imprisonment, trial, and execution.
II TIMOTHY: “CHRIST OUR GOAL” (4:7-8)
I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. 8
Finally, there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the
righteous Judge, will give to me on that Day, and not to me only but also to all
who have loved His appearing. (NKJV)
Sometime in the year AD 64, Paul the apostle looked out of the tiny grate that let in light to his
subterranean dungeon. The mamertinum prison was only a stones throw from the epicenter of the
world, the Roman Forum. Outside could be heard the crowds surging to the circus maximus, the
games and the great festivals. The mighty legions returned from victory after victory with dazzling
displays of plunder and captives. But in that solitary dungeon of dampness, deprivation and
discomfort, once again the spirit overshadowed the great apostle and began to breathe through
him the very Word of God. What is amazing is that with a shamelessly professed homosexual
emperor and a bloodthirsty mob of Romans behind him in self gratifying lust, Paul would write: “in
the last days … Men will…”he was saying, this is only the prelude. The fallen ego is evident but will
come to full bloom in days ahead.
Finally, in the late Autumn of life sits the Apostle who dominates the early years of the
church. Here awaiting execution in this most undesirable spot, is Saint Paul. Look at his last
words from this very spot. How did he make through so many terrible situations? Six secrets
we would do well to hear and learn from II Timothy 4:6-8
üHis Contentment was from God “For I am now ready to be offered”
üHis Confidence was in God “and the time of my departure is at hand”
üHis Courage was for God “I have fought a good fight”
üHis Faithfulness was to God “I have finished my course”
üHis Fidelity was of God “I have kept the faith”
üHis Focus was on God “Henceforth there is laid up”
TITUS: “CHRIST OUR BLESSED HOPE” (2:10-11)
Adorn the doctrine of God our Savior in all things. For the grace of God that
brings salvation has appeared to all men, (NKJV)
PHILEMON: “CHRIST OUR SOURCE OF
FORGIVENESS” (1:18)
But if he has wronged you or owes anything, put that on my account. (NKJV)
One of the shortest New Testament letters was written to a member of the
Colossian church, Philemon, to encourage him to act more like a Christian
than a Roman in accepting back his runaway slave.
HEBREWS: “CHRIST THE BEST OF ALL” (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 has sat
down at the right hand of the throne of God. (NKJV)
Sometime in the AD 60’s before the Temple was destroyed, some was
inspired by God to write Hebrews. Who? We cannot be sure. But the
anonymity of the author does not detract from the letter`s authority. Hebrews
speaks powerfully of the superiority of Christ, exalting Him over:
üthe angels (1-2),
ü Moses (3-4) and
üthe Aaronic priesthood (5-7), as well as
üthe superiority of His New Covenant and sacrifice over the old (8-10).
üChapters 11 to 13 plead for lives of faith in light of Christ’s work and
examples from the faithful of old.
JAMES: “CHRIST OUR TRUE FAITH ” (1:22)
But be doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves. (NKJV)
The earthly brother of Jesus who grew up with the boy
Jesus was saved after the resurrection of his brother. He
becomes one of the key leaders of the church. In about AD
45 as a pastor, he writes from Jerusalem. Some read James
as a counter to Paul when he says, “Faith, if it has no works,
is dead (2:17, NASB). But far from contradicting Paul, James
was talking about life-style. He draws from a rich heritage of
wisdom, the prophets, and his half-brother’s Sermon on the
Mount, to write about the life of faith that looks theologically
correct.
I PETER: “CHRIST OUR VICTORY” (1:3)
Blessed [be] the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who according to
His abundant mercy has begotten us again to a living hope through the
resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, (NKJV)
Some time around AD 61 Peter writes his letter encouraging all Christians to
live holy and faithful lives and to be willing to suffer unjust persecution after the
example of Christ. Peter challenges wives, husbands, elders, and young men
to exercise humility, service, and self-control.
II PETER: “CHRIST OUR TRUTH” (1:16)
For we did not follow cunningly devised fables when we made known to you
the power and coming of our Lord Jesus Christ, but were eyewitnesses of His
majesty. (NKJV)
Second Peter and Jude are so alike many have wondered why both are needed in the New
Testament. Because the Spirit inspired both they require careful study. Both deal urgently with an
insidious and dangerous heresy that threatens the very lives of believers. Peter says the key to
stability and growth is knowing God (1:5-11).
I JOHN: “CHRIST OUR FELLOWSHIP” (1:3)
that which we have seen and heard we declare to you, that you also may have
fellowship with us; and truly our fellowship [is] with the Father and with His Son
Jesus Christ. (NKJV)
John exhorts believers to show God’s love Christ, by individually and sacrificially meeting the
needs of others. He also commands us to turn from the world to love the Father. He stresses the
danger of false teachers and false (anti-) christs. He emphasizes the apostles’ teaching and the
witness of the Spirit.
II JOHN: “CHRIST OUR SEPARTION” (1:10-11)
If anyone comes to you and does not bring this doctrine, do not receive him
into your house nor greet him; for he who greets him shares in his evil deeds.
(NKJV)
III JOHN: “CHRIST OUR PROSPERITY” (1:2-3)
Beloved, I pray that you may prosper in all things and be in health, just as your
soul prospers. For I rejoiced greatly when brethren came and testified of the
truth [that is] in you, just as you walk in the truth. (NKJV)
JUDE: “CHRIST OUR SALVATION” (1:3)
Beloved, while I was very diligent to write to you concerning our common
salvation, I found it necessary to write to you exhorting you to contend earnestly
for the faith which was once for all delivered to the saints. (NKJV)
Jude was a second brother of Joseph and Mary in the earthly family of Jesus, who wrote a New
Testament book after coming to Christ. Jude uses images stretching from before the Flood to the
depths of the Pit where imprisoned fiends of unholy service wait in chains. He gives insight into
colorful Old Testament personages like Lot, Balaam, Korah, Enoch and Michael. Ending with one
of the strongest verses on our secure salvation, this book is a must read!
REVELATION: “CHRIST OURS TO WORSHIP” (19:10)
And I fell at his feet to worship him. But he said to me, “See [that you do] not
[do that!] I am your fellow servant, and of your brethren who have the testimony
of Jesus. Worship God! For the testimony of Jesus is the spirit of
prophecy.” (NKJV)
From the exile of Patmos, John gives a revelation of the character of the Lamb and the sovereignty
of God, both of which should encourage believers of all ages-not just the last-to “overcome the
world” with their faith and faithfulness toward God. Revelation contains more hymns of praise,
more words of adoration to the Lamb, the Father, and the Spirit than any other New Testament
book. Rather than try to identify the dragon and his beast, adore the true Trinity, sovereign over
space and time. The book is also outlined by Revelation 1:19 “Write:
üthe things which you have seen (the vision of Christ in His glory- chapter
1), and
üthe things which are (the vision of Christ and His church – chapters 2-3),
and
üthe things which will take place after this. (the vision of Christ and the
Universe, chapters 4-22).
In chapter 1 = He is the Eternal One.
In chapter 2-3 = He is the Refiner of His Body and the ChurIn chapter
In chapter 4-20 = He is the Judge of the Universe as He restores His people:
Israel.
In chapter 21-22 = He is the Lord of Eternity as He invites all His own to His
Kingdom.
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I find my Lord in the Book,
Wherever I chance to Look
He’s the theme of the Bible
The center and heart of the Book.
He’s the Rose of Sharon,
He’s the Lilly fair,
Wherever I open my Bible,
The Lord of the Book is there.
He at the Book’s beginning gave the Earth its form
He is the Ark of Shelter bearing the brunt of the storm
He is the burning bush of the desert, the budding of Aaron’s rod
Wherever I look in the Bible, I see the Son of God.
The Ram upon Mt. Moriah, the ladder from Earth to sky.
The scarlet cord in the window, and the serpent lifted high,
The smitten rock in the desert, the Shepherd with staff and crook,
The face of my Lord I discover, wherever I open the Book.
He is the Seed of the Woman, the Savior virgin born,
He is the Son of David of whom men rejected with scorn,
His garments of Grace and of beauty, the stately Aaron Deck,
Yet He is a Priest forever, for He is Melchizedek.
Lord of eternal glory, whom John the Apostle saw,
Light of eternal glory, whom John the Apostle saw,
Light of the golden city, Lamb without spot or flaw,
Bridegroom coming at midnight for whom the virgins look,
Wherever I open my Bible, I find my Lord in the Book.
AN ARCHITECTS VIEW OF THE SCRIPTURES
The Bible is like a majestic palace constructed with precious oriental stone
comprising 66 stately chambers, each an individual room, yet a part of the
whole ediface: incomprehensible, majestic, glorious and sublime.
As we go into the vestibule, the book of Genesis, and find recorded the mighty
works of God in creation this vestibule, has access to the law courts. Which,
when passing thru come to the picture gallery of the historical books in which
hung wall scenes, battles, portraits of men of valor. Battles and valiant heros
line the walls.
On to the philosophers chamber Job. Then into the music room (Psalms)
where we linger to hear the grandest harmonies ever that fell on human ears.
Pressing on into the business office of Proverbs where very center hangs the
motto “Righteousness exalts a nation”, sin reproach any people. Then, the
research department Ecclessiastes, into the conservatory of Song of Solomon
where the fragrant aroma of the sweetest fruits and flowers and sweetest
songs of birds greet us.
On to the observatory where we find prophets busy with strong telescopes
looking for the appearing of the bright and morning star, the Son of
Righteousness.
Walking across we enter the audience chamber of the King, the Gospels,
where hang four lifelike portraits of the King himself in the perfections of His
Beauty.
On to the workroom of the Holy Spirit – Acts, then into the correspondence
room where we find Peter, James, John, Paul and Jude bending busy over
their writing tables under the supervision of Holy Spirit of truth.
Finally into the throne room where echo the grandest praise and honor to the
King enthroned fills vast chambers with portraits of solemn scenes of doom on
walls but all associated with the King of Kings and Lord of Lords.
From creation to culmination. THE NEW TESTAMENT begins and ends with
Christ. It opens with His arrival, moves to His ministry of three years, His death,
His glorious resurrection, His ministering for 40 days. (We know this because
it says in Acts that he remained alive after His passion for 40 days). His
ascension, and then ten days the apostles were left along, fearful, waiting for
the promise that Christ gave; that promise does come in the day of Pentecost,
which “pentecost” means 50 days — after 50 days Christ sent His Spirit as he
promised. Just as He promised, the Spirit came and poured out His Spirit on
the fiftieth day. After the day of Pentecost was fully come, the birth of the
church. Acts – l-8 deals primarily with Peter. Then starting in Acts 9 Saul
comes on the scene. Paul is the focal point as God moves his redemptive
program out to the Gentile world in particular. Then after letters (Epistles) of
comfort and instruction, Jesus closes the book of history as He takes back His
wayward creation in the Revelation.
ACTS: “Christ our Mission” (1:8)
Acts 1:8 “But you shall receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you;
and you shall be witnesses to Me in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria,
and to the end of the earth.” (NKJV)
This book is the bridge taking Christ to the whole world. In it we see the lessons Christ taught His
disciples in secret now proclaimed in Holy Spirit empowered boldness. The key verse outlines the
book:
ü witnesses in Jerusalem (1-8:3);
ü Judea and Samaria (8:4-12:25);
ü and to the ends of the earth (13-28). Within Acts we find the background
introductions to epistles of I and II Corinthians, Galatians, Ephesians,
Philippians, Colossians and Philemon (prison epistles);
ROMANS: “CHRIST OUR RIGHTEOUSNESS” (1:16-17)
Romans 1:16-17 For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ, for it is the
power of God to salvation for everyone who believes, for the Jew first and also
for the Greek. 17 For in it the righteousness of God is revealed from faith to
faith; as it is written, “The just shall live by faith.” (NKJV)
From about AD 57-58 written looking out the window at Corinth on Paul’s 3rd journey. Paul’s letter
to Rome is better known in the church than any other, and is probably the singly most important
book in the N.T. because it lays down the great doctrines of justification by faith alone. The key
verse outlines the message of the entire book as:
THE PERSON OF THE GOSPEL IS CHRIST;
THE POWER OF THE GOSPEL IS GOD;
THE PURPOSE OF THE GOSPEL IS SALVATION;
THE PEOPLE OF THE GOSPEL ARE ALL;
THE PLAN OF THE GOSPEL IS BELIEF AND
THE RESULT OF THE GOSPEL IS LIVING BY FAITH!
Paul uses the expression “in Christ” to describe the new life of a believer. This
term is found no less than 164 times, as justified in Christ ” (Gal. 2:17), ” God’s
righteousness in him ” (2 Cor 5: 21). This blessed, life-penetrating secret is
central to all his letters. Thus:
Ü IN ROMANS -JUSTIFICATION IN CHRIST;
Ü IN CORINTHIANS -SANCTIFICATION IN CHRIST;
Ü IN GALATIANS -FREEDOM IN CHRIST;
Ü IN EPHESIANS-ONENESS IN CHRIST;
Ü IN PHILIPPIANS-JOY IN CHRIST;
Ü IN COLOSSIANS-FULNESS IN CHRIST;
Ü IN THESSALONIANS – GLORIFICATION IN CHRIST.
I CORINTHIANS: “CHRIST OUR SOLUTION TO
SPIRITUAL PROBLEMS” (2:6-8)
1 Corinthians 2:6-7 However, we speak wisdom among those who are mature, yet not the
wisdom of this age, nor of the rulers of this age, who are coming to nothing. 7 But we speak the
wisdom of God in a mystery, the hidden [wisdom] which God ordained before the ages for our
glory, (NKJV).
This letter comes about AD 57 from Ephesus on Paul’s 3rd journey. At Corinth, Paul spent oneand-one-half
years developing the church. His longest letters and most impassioned
correspondence were to those trouble believers. Their affluent and fast-growing port town brought
them an inordinate amount of contact with immorality, pagan religion, and philosophy. Their
problems with arrogance, leader-worshiping cliques, immorality, divorce, and misunderstandings
of spiritual gifts are systematically addressed in response to their questions.
II CORINTHIANS: “CHRIST OUR SUFFICIENCY” (3:5)
2 Corinthians 3:5 Not that we are sufficient of ourselves to think of anything as
[being] from ourselves, but our sufficiency [is] from God, (NKJV)
In AD 57 Paul writes again to his beloved Corinthian church from Macedonia just after leaving
Philippi.
GALATIANS: “CHRIST OUR LIBERTY” (5:1)
Galatians 5:1 Stand fast therefore in the liberty by which Christ has made us free, and do not be
entangled again with a yoke of bondage. (NKJV)
About AD 45 from Jerusalem Council. Galatians was written to counter false
teaching about Christianity and the law and the relationship between faith and
works. When the grace of God through His Spirit is rooted in our lives we find
His fruit. This fruit reaches into:
ü our walk with God (love, joy and peace),
ü our walk with others (gentleness, goodness and patience), and finally into
ü our personal walk (faith, meekness and self-control).
EPHESIANS: “CHRIST OUR SOURCE OF ALL” (3:20-21)
Ephesians 3:20-21 Now to Him who is able to do exceedingly abundantly
above all that we ask or think, according to the power that works in us, 21 to
Him [be] glory in the church by Christ Jesus to all generations, forever and
ever. Amen. (NKJV)
Shortly after Paul returned to Jerusalem from his third missionary journey (A.D.
57), he was arrested in the Temple courtyard, imprisoned in Caesarea for two
years, and tried by Felix and Festus. He then appealed to Agippa to be sent
to Rome for trial before Caesar. Though Agippa comments to Festus that
Paul might have been freed except for that appeal (Acts 26:32), Scripture
indicates it was clearly in God’s plan to send him to the empire’s capital, as yet
untouched by the apostles. While under house arrest in rented quarters in
Rome (about A.D. 59 to 61 or 62), Paul wrote four letters known as the prison
epistles. Of those, Ephesians is the best known for its tremendous theological
content, which seems to drift in long, flowing statements of praise for God’s
work in Christ.
PHILIPPIANS: “CHRIST OUR SOURCE OF JOY” (1:6)
Philippians 1:6 being confident of this very thing, that He who has begun a good work in you will
complete [it] until the day of Jesus Christ; (NKJV)
Paul and Silas visited Philippi, their first Macedonian contact, on their second
missionary journey in A.D. 52. To the saints and leadership of the church, Paul
writes of joyful submission to the will of God, regardless of the circumstances,
and uses the aweinspiring example of Christ Jesus as the model of humility
and mutual submission within the church.
COLOSSIANS: “CHRIST OUR LIFE” (2:10)
Colossians 2:10 and you are complete in Him, who is the head of all principality and power.
(NKJV)
Paul never ministered in nor even visited Colossae as he had Ephesus,
though one of his converts, Epaphras, had planted the church (1:7-8). Unique
to Colossians, is Paul’s attack against a local heresy that depreciated the
person of Christ and promoted ritualism, asceticism, and special, hidden
knowledge.
To counter that, Paul praises Jesus as the center and substance of the
universe. He presents:
ü the “deeper” life (1:22-23),
ü the “higher” life (2:6-7),
ü the “inner” life (3:12,16) and
ü the “outward” life (4:5).
I THESSALONIANS: “CHRIST OUR HOPE” (3:13)
1 Thessalonians 3:13 so that He may establish your hearts blameless in holiness before our God
and Father at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ with all His saints. (NKJV)
Addressed to one of Paul’s first churches in Greece, 1 Thessalonians
encourage the young believers to endure persecution, resist false teaching,
and live full and productive lives as they await Christ’s certain return.
In fact, each of 1 Thessalonians’ five chapters ends with encouragement based on the Rapture.
Through Christ’s Promised Coming We Have:
ü 1:10 = Present Hope Of Salvation
ü 2:19 = Future Joy Of Homegoing
ü 3:13 = Constant Cause For Holy Living
ü 4:17,18 = Constant Source Of Comfort
ü5:23 = Promise Of Completed Salvation
Now, we can finish our survey of the last 14 New Testament books. We start with Paul’s final letter
to his beloved Thessalonian Christians.
II THESSALONIANS: “CHRIST OUR CALLING” (1:11-12)
Therefore we also pray always for you that our God would count you worthy of
this calling, and fulfill all the good pleasure of His goodness and the work of
faith with power, 12 that the name of our Lord Jesus Christ may be glorified in
you, and you in Him, according to the grace of our God and the Lord Jesus
Christ. (NKJV)
Remember, the return of Christ is mentioned 318x in the 260 chapters of the
New Testament. And so, to these troubled saints Paul presents Christ as our
Security:
Ø when Suffering (1),
Ø when doubting (2) and
Ø when serving (3).
I TIMOTHY : “CHRIST OUR EXAMPLE” (4:12)
Let no one despise your youth, but be an example to the believers in word, in
conduct, in love, in spirit, in faith, in purity. (NKJV)
Timothy was a special disciples in whom Paul invested much time and to
whom he entrusted great responsibility. His letters to him are usually dated
after the events of Acts 28; tradition tells us Paul was then released from
prison and that he embarked on further missionary ventures from AD 62 to 67,
until his final imprisonment, trial, and execution.
II TIMOTHY: “CHRIST OUR GOAL” (4:7-8)
I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. 8
Finally, there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the
righteous Judge, will give to me on that Day, and not to me only but also to all
who have loved His appearing. (NKJV)
Sometime in the year AD 64, Paul the apostle looked out of the tiny grate that let in light to his
subterranean dungeon. The mamertinum prison was only a stones throw from the epicenter of the
world, the Roman Forum. Outside could be heard the crowds surging to the circus maximus, the
games and the great festivals. The mighty legions returned from victory after victory with dazzling
displays of plunder and captives. But in that solitary dungeon of dampness, deprivation and
discomfort, once again the spirit overshadowed the great apostle and began to breathe through
him the very Word of God. What is amazing is that with a shamelessly professed homosexual
emperor and a bloodthirsty mob of Romans behind him in self gratifying lust, Paul would write: “in
the last days … Men will…”he was saying, this is only the prelude. The fallen ego is evident but will
come to full bloom in days ahead.
Finally, in the late Autumn of life sits the Apostle who dominates the early years of the
church. Here awaiting execution in this most undesirable spot, is Saint Paul. Look at his last
words from this very spot. How did he make through so many terrible situations? Six secrets
we would do well to hear and learn from II Timothy 4:6-8
üHis Contentment was from God “For I am now ready to be offered”
üHis Confidence was in God “and the time of my departure is at hand”
üHis Courage was for God “I have fought a good fight”
üHis Faithfulness was to God “I have finished my course”
üHis Fidelity was of God “I have kept the faith”
üHis Focus was on God “Henceforth there is laid up”
TITUS: “CHRIST OUR BLESSED HOPE” (2:10-11)
Adorn the doctrine of God our Savior in all things. For the grace of God that
brings salvation has appeared to all men, (NKJV)
PHILEMON: “CHRIST OUR SOURCE OF
FORGIVENESS” (1:18)
But if he has wronged you or owes anything, put that on my account. (NKJV)
One of the shortest New Testament letters was written to a member of the
Colossian church, Philemon, to encourage him to act more like a Christian
than a Roman in accepting back his runaway slave.
HEBREWS: “CHRIST THE BEST OF ALL” (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 has sat
down at the right hand of the throne of God. (NKJV)
Sometime in the AD 60’s before the Temple was destroyed, some was
inspired by God to write Hebrews. Who? We cannot be sure. But the
anonymity of the author does not detract from the letter`s authority. Hebrews
speaks powerfully of the superiority of Christ, exalting Him over:
üthe angels (1-2),
ü Moses (3-4) and
üthe Aaronic priesthood (5-7), as well as
üthe superiority of His New Covenant and sacrifice over the old (8-10).
üChapters 11 to 13 plead for lives of faith in light of Christ’s work and
examples from the faithful of old.
JAMES: “CHRIST OUR TRUE FAITH ” (1:22)
But be doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves. (NKJV)
The earthly brother of Jesus who grew up with the boy
Jesus was saved after the resurrection of his brother. He
becomes one of the key leaders of the church. In about AD
45 as a pastor, he writes from Jerusalem. Some read James
as a counter to Paul when he says, “Faith, if it has no works,
is dead (2:17, NASB). But far from contradicting Paul, James
was talking about life-style. He draws from a rich heritage of
wisdom, the prophets, and his half-brother’s Sermon on the
Mount, to write about the life of faith that looks theologically
correct.
I PETER: “CHRIST OUR VICTORY” (1:3)
Blessed [be] the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who according to
His abundant mercy has begotten us again to a living hope through the
resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, (NKJV)
Some time around AD 61 Peter writes his letter encouraging all Christians to
live holy and faithful lives and to be willing to suffer unjust persecution after the
example of Christ. Peter challenges wives, husbands, elders, and young men
to exercise humility, service, and self-control.
II PETER: “CHRIST OUR TRUTH” (1:16)
For we did not follow cunningly devised fables when we made known to you
the power and coming of our Lord Jesus Christ, but were eyewitnesses of His
majesty. (NKJV)
Second Peter and Jude are so alike many have wondered why both are needed in the New
Testament. Because the Spirit inspired both they require careful study. Both deal urgently with an
insidious and dangerous heresy that threatens the very lives of believers. Peter says the key to
stability and growth is knowing God (1:5-11).
I JOHN: “CHRIST OUR FELLOWSHIP” (1:3)
that which we have seen and heard we declare to you, that you also may have
fellowship with us; and truly our fellowship [is] with the Father and with His Son
Jesus Christ. (NKJV)
John exhorts believers to show God’s love Christ, by individually and sacrificially meeting the
needs of others. He also commands us to turn from the world to love the Father. He stresses the
danger of false teachers and false (anti-) christs. He emphasizes the apostles’ teaching and the
witness of the Spirit.
II JOHN: “CHRIST OUR SEPARTION” (1:10-11)
If anyone comes to you and does not bring this doctrine, do not receive him
into your house nor greet him; for he who greets him shares in his evil deeds.
(NKJV)
III JOHN: “CHRIST OUR PROSPERITY” (1:2-3)
Beloved, I pray that you may prosper in all things and be in health, just as your
soul prospers. For I rejoiced greatly when brethren came and testified of the
truth [that is] in you, just as you walk in the truth. (NKJV)
JUDE: “CHRIST OUR SALVATION” (1:3)
Beloved, while I was very diligent to write to you concerning our common
salvation, I found it necessary to write to you exhorting you to contend earnestly
for the faith which was once for all delivered to the saints. (NKJV)
Jude was a second brother of Joseph and Mary in the earthly family of Jesus, who wrote a New
Testament book after coming to Christ. Jude uses images stretching from before the Flood to the
depths of the Pit where imprisoned fiends of unholy service wait in chains. He gives insight into
colorful Old Testament personages like Lot, Balaam, Korah, Enoch and Michael. Ending with one
of the strongest verses on our secure salvation, this book is a must read!
REVELATION: “CHRIST OURS TO WORSHIP” (19:10)
And I fell at his feet to worship him. But he said to me, “See [that you do] not
[do that!] I am your fellow servant, and of your brethren who have the testimony
of Jesus. Worship God! For the testimony of Jesus is the spirit of
prophecy.” (NKJV)
From the exile of Patmos, John gives a revelation of the character of the Lamb and the sovereignty
of God, both of which should encourage believers of all ages-not just the last-to “overcome the
world” with their faith and faithfulness toward God. Revelation contains more hymns of praise,
more words of adoration to the Lamb, the Father, and the Spirit than any other New Testament
book. Rather than try to identify the dragon and his beast, adore the true Trinity, sovereign over
space and time. The book is also outlined by Revelation 1:19 “Write:
üthe things which you have seen (the vision of Christ in His glory- chapter
1), and
üthe things which are (the vision of Christ and His church – chapters 2-3),
and
üthe things which will take place after this. (the vision of Christ and the
Universe, chapters 4-22).
In chapter 1 = He is the Eternal One.
In chapter 2-3 = He is the Refiner of His Body and the ChurIn chapter
In chapter 4-20 = He is the Judge of the Universe as He restores His people:
Israel.
In chapter 21-22 = He is the Lord of Eternity as He invites all His own to His
Kingdom.
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Series CD/DVD
Sermons in this series
(click to see details):
KGD-Knowing
God—Walking
Through the Book
of Books (MP3 CD)
If you have always wanted to
feel that you had a grasp on the
Message of the Whole Bible–
you can. If you always wanted to
see the Big Picture of God’s
Word–its possible. If you
always feel like you never can
put it all together–you can. This
CD pulls all of the overviews and
surveys of the Bible–into One
Journey through the Book of
Books. This CD represents over
twenty years of study reduced to
40 lessons each of which leads
to one goal–Knowing God. This
CD contains 40 MP3 maudio
messages and almost 400
pages of study guides.
Product Code: ISBN1933561076
Price: $19.99
Part: 45 Survey from Acts to I
Thessalonians
Part: 44 Gospel Survey
Part: 43 Books of Prophecy
(OT)
Part: 42 Books of Poetry
Part: 41 The Historical BooksGenesis
to Esther
Part: 40 Ephesus – Keys to a
Life of Godly
Influence
Part: 39 Corinth – Standing
Before His Judgment
Seat
Part: 38 Corinth – the Bema
Seat
Part: 37 Athens – Mars Hill and
Seekers
Part: 36 The Good Heart Bears
Fruit
Part: 35 Good Heart
Part: 34 Crowded Heart
Part: 33 Shallow Hearts
Part: 32 Hard Hearts
Part: 31 Four Hearts – One Soil
Part: 30 Finding the Seven
Key Days of Christ’s
Life
Part: 29 Finding Christ in
Genesis
Part: 28 The Power of the
Gospel
Part: 27 Seven Reasons Why I
Believe the Bible
Part: 26 Do You See Christ in
the Old Testament?
Part: 25 The Scriptures Are
Christ-Centered
Part: 24 Survey From II
Thessalonians to
Revelation
Part: 23 Seeing Christ From
Acts to Thessalonians
Part: 22 Testimony-Have You
Changed?
Part: 21 Seeing Christ in the
Book of Acts
Part: 20 Christ in John
Part: 19 Seeing Christ in the
Gospel by Luke
Part: 18 Seeing Christ in the
Gospel by Mark
Part: 17 Seeing Christ in the
Gospel by Matthew
Part: 16 Hearing Christ’s Voice
Part: 15 The Seven Greatest
Days of Christ’s
Ministry
Part: 14 Finding Christ in ALL
the Gospels
Part: 13 A Jet Tour of the
Gospels
Part: 12 Finding Christ
Between the
Testaments
Part: 11 Seeing Christ
Through the Prophets
Part: 10 Seeing Christ
Through the Books of
Poetry
Part: 9 Finding Christ in the
Books of History
Part: 8 Are You In?
Part: 7 Do You Believe and
Have This Life?
Part: 6 Believers Are Word
Receiving
Part: 5 They (OT Scriptures)
Speak of ME
Part: 4 Good Hearts Accept
the Word: Part II
Part: 3 Good Hearts Accept
the Word
Part: 2 Seeing the Bible as
Whole in Christ
Part: 1 Christ – the Key to
Scripture
Survey from Acts to I Thessalonians

Part 45 (990428WE)
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I find my Lord in the Book,
Wherever I chance to Look
He’s the theme of the Bible
The center and heart of the Book.
He’s the Rose of Sharon,
He’s the Lilly fair,
Wherever I open my Bible,
The Lord of the Book is there.
He at the Book’s beginning gave the Earth its form
He is the Ark of Shelter bearing the brunt of the storm
He is the burning bush of the desert, the budding of Aaron’s rod
Wherever I look in the Bible, I see the Son of God.
The Ram upon Mt. Moriah, the ladder from Earth to sky.
The scarlet cord in the window, and the serpent lifted high,
The smitten rock in the desert, the Shepherd with staff and crook,
The face of my Lord I discover, wherever I open the Book.
He is the Seed of the Woman, the Savior virgin born,
He is the Son of David of whom men rejected with scorn,
His garments of Grace and of beauty, the stately Aaron Deck,
Yet He is a Priest forever, for He is Melchizedek.
Lord of eternal glory, whom John the Apostle saw,
Light of eternal glory, whom John the Apostle saw,
Light of the golden city, Lamb without spot or flaw,
Bridegroom coming at midnight for whom the virgins look,
Wherever I open my Bible, I find my Lord in the Book.
AN ARCHITECTS VIEW OF THE SCRIPTURES
The Bible is like a majestic palace constructed with precious oriental stone
comprising 66 stately chambers, each an individual room, yet a part of the
whole ediface: incomprehensible, majestic, glorious and sublime.
As we go into the vestibule, the book of Genesis, and find recorded the mighty
works of God in creation this vestibule, has access to the law courts. Which,
when passing thru come to the picture gallery of the historical books in which
hung wall scenes, battles, portraits of men of valor. Battles and valiant heros
line the walls.
On to the philosophers chamber Job. Then into the music room (Psalms)
where we linger to hear the grandest harmonies ever that fell on human ears.
Pressing on into the business office of Proverbs where very center hangs the
motto “Righteousness exalts a nation”, sin reproach any people. Then, the
research department Ecclessiastes, into the conservatory of Song of Solomon
where the fragrant aroma of the sweetest fruits and flowers and sweetest
songs of birds greet us.
On to the observatory where we find prophets busy with strong telescopes
looking for the appearing of the bright and morning star, the Son of
Righteousness.
Walking across we enter the audience chamber of the King, the Gospels,
where hang four lifelike portraits of the King himself in the perfections of His
Beauty.
On to the workroom of the Holy Spirit – Acts, then into the correspondence
room where we find Peter, James, John, Paul and Jude bending busy over
their writing tables under the supervision of Holy Spirit of truth.
Finally into the throne room where echo the grandest praise and honor to the
King enthroned fills vast chambers with portraits of solemn scenes of doom on
walls but all associated with the King of Kings and Lord of Lords.
From creation to culmination. THE NEW TESTAMENT begins and ends with
Christ. It opens with His arrival, moves to His ministry of three years, His death,
His glorious resurrection, His ministering for 40 days. (We know this because
it says in Acts that he remained alive after His passion for 40 days). His
ascension, and then ten days the apostles were left along, fearful, waiting for
the promise that Christ gave; that promise does come in the day of Pentecost,
which “pentecost” means 50 days — after 50 days Christ sent His Spirit as he
promised. Just as He promised, the Spirit came and poured out His Spirit on
the fiftieth day. After the day of Pentecost was fully come, the birth of the
church. Acts – l-8 deals primarily with Peter. Then starting in Acts 9 Saul
comes on the scene. Paul is the focal point as God moves his redemptive
program out to the Gentile world in particular. Then after letters (Epistles) of
comfort and instruction, Jesus closes the book of history as He takes back His
wayward creation in the Revelation.
ACTS: “Christ our Mission” (1:8)
Acts 1:8 “But you shall receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you;
and you shall be witnesses to Me in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria,
and to the end of the earth.” (NKJV)
This book is the bridge taking Christ to the whole world. In it we see the lessons Christ taught His
disciples in secret now proclaimed in Holy Spirit empowered boldness. The key verse outlines the
book:
ü witnesses in Jerusalem (1-8:3);
ü Judea and Samaria (8:4-12:25);
ü and to the ends of the earth (13-28). Within Acts we find the background
introductions to epistles of I and II Corinthians, Galatians, Ephesians,
Philippians, Colossians and Philemon (prison epistles);
ROMANS: “CHRIST OUR RIGHTEOUSNESS” (1:16-17)
Romans 1:16-17 For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ, for it is the
power of God to salvation for everyone who believes, for the Jew first and also
for the Greek. 17 For in it the righteousness of God is revealed from faith to
faith; as it is written, “The just shall live by faith.” (NKJV)
From about AD 57-58 written looking out the window at Corinth on Paul’s 3rd journey. Paul’s letter
to Rome is better known in the church than any other, and is probably the singly most important
book in the N.T. because it lays down the great doctrines of justification by faith alone. The key
verse outlines the message of the entire book as:
THE PERSON OF THE GOSPEL IS CHRIST;
THE POWER OF THE GOSPEL IS GOD;
THE PURPOSE OF THE GOSPEL IS SALVATION;
THE PEOPLE OF THE GOSPEL ARE ALL;
THE PLAN OF THE GOSPEL IS BELIEF AND
THE RESULT OF THE GOSPEL IS LIVING BY FAITH!
Paul uses the expression “in Christ” to describe the new life of a believer. This
term is found no less than 164 times, as justified in Christ ” (Gal. 2:17), ” God’s
righteousness in him ” (2 Cor 5: 21). This blessed, life-penetrating secret is
central to all his letters. Thus:
Ü IN ROMANS -JUSTIFICATION IN CHRIST;
Ü IN CORINTHIANS -SANCTIFICATION IN CHRIST;
Ü IN GALATIANS -FREEDOM IN CHRIST;
Ü IN EPHESIANS-ONENESS IN CHRIST;
Ü IN PHILIPPIANS-JOY IN CHRIST;
Ü IN COLOSSIANS-FULNESS IN CHRIST;
Ü IN THESSALONIANS – GLORIFICATION IN CHRIST.
I CORINTHIANS: “CHRIST OUR SOLUTION TO
SPIRITUAL PROBLEMS” (2:6-8)
1 Corinthians 2:6-7 However, we speak wisdom among those who are mature, yet not the
wisdom of this age, nor of the rulers of this age, who are coming to nothing. 7 But we speak the
wisdom of God in a mystery, the hidden [wisdom] which God ordained before the ages for our
glory, (NKJV).
This letter comes about AD 57 from Ephesus on Paul’s 3rd journey. At Corinth, Paul spent oneand-one-half
years developing the church. His longest letters and most impassioned
correspondence were to those trouble believers. Their affluent and fast-growing port town brought
them an inordinate amount of contact with immorality, pagan religion, and philosophy. Their
problems with arrogance, leader-worshiping cliques, immorality, divorce, and misunderstandings
of spiritual gifts are systematically addressed in response to their questions.
II CORINTHIANS: “CHRIST OUR SUFFICIENCY” (3:5)
2 Corinthians 3:5 Not that we are sufficient of ourselves to think of anything as
[being] from ourselves, but our sufficiency [is] from God, (NKJV)
In AD 57 Paul writes again to his beloved Corinthian church from Macedonia just after leaving
Philippi.
GALATIANS: “CHRIST OUR LIBERTY” (5:1)
Galatians 5:1 Stand fast therefore in the liberty by which Christ has made us free, and do not be
entangled again with a yoke of bondage. (NKJV)
About AD 45 from Jerusalem Council. Galatians was written to counter false
teaching about Christianity and the law and the relationship between faith and
works. When the grace of God through His Spirit is rooted in our lives we find
His fruit. This fruit reaches into:
ü our walk with God (love, joy and peace),
ü our walk with others (gentleness, goodness and patience), and fina
Privacy Policy | Contact Us | We Believe | About Us | Support DTBM
SEARCH: go
HOME BROADCAST PODCASTS VIDEOS SERMONS SERMON SERIES PDF LIBRARY SHOP HOLY LAND TRIPS
John’s Schedule
Subscribe to Living Hope daily devotionals
Check out our daily Living Hope devotional
message in both print and audio link. Start
your day or add to your day a moment in
God’s Word! The archived devotional
messages are here.
• Current Broadcast
• Previous Broadcasts
• Podcasts
• Featured Series
• All Series
• This Week’s Sermon
• All Sermons
• Tell A Friend
• Ask A Question
Series CD/DVD
Sermons in this series
(click to see details):
KGD-Knowing
God—Walking
Through the Book
of Books (MP3 CD)
If you have always wanted to
feel that you had a grasp on the
Message of the Whole Bible–
you can. If you always wanted to
see the Big Picture of God’s
Word–its possible. If you
always feel like you never can
put it all together–you can. This
CD pulls all of the overviews and
surveys of the Bible–into One
Journey through the Book of
Books. This CD represents over
twenty years of study reduced to
40 lessons each of which leads
to one goal–Knowing God. This
CD contains 40 MP3 maudio
messages and almost 400
pages of study guides.
Product Code: ISBN1933561076
Price: $19.99
Part: 45 Survey from Acts to I
Thessalonians
Part: 44 Gospel Survey
Part: 43 Books of Prophecy
(OT)
Part: 42 Books of Poetry
Part: 41 The Historical BooksGenesis
to Esther
Part: 40 Ephesus – Keys to a
Life of Godly
Influence
Part: 39 Corinth – Standing
Before His Judgment
Seat
Part: 38 Corinth – the Bema
Seat
Part: 37 Athens – Mars Hill and
Seekers
Part: 36 The Good Heart Bears
Fruit
Part: 35 Good Heart
Part: 34 Crowded Heart
Part: 33 Shallow Hearts
Part: 32 Hard Hearts
Part: 31 Four Hearts – One Soil
Part: 30 Finding the Seven
Key Days of Christ’s
Life
Part: 29 Finding Christ in
Genesis
Part: 28 The Power of the
Gospel
Part: 27 Seven Reasons Why I
Believe the Bible
Part: 26 Do You See Christ in
the Old Testament?
Part: 25 The Scriptures Are
Christ-Centered
Part: 24 Survey From II
Thessalonians to
Revelation
Part: 23 Seeing Christ From
Acts to Thessalonians
Part: 22 Testimony-Have You
Changed?
Part: 21 Seeing Christ in the
Book of Acts
Part: 20 Christ in John
Part: 19 Seeing Christ in the
Gospel by Luke
Part: 18 Seeing Christ in the
Gospel by Mark
Part: 17 Seeing Christ in the
Gospel by Matthew
Part: 16 Hearing Christ’s Voice
Part: 15 The Seven Greatest
Days of Christ’s
Ministry
Part: 14 Finding Christ in ALL
the Gospels
Part: 13 A Jet Tour of the
Gospels
Part: 12 Finding Christ
Between the
Testaments
Part: 11 Seeing Christ
Through the Prophets
Part: 10 Seeing Christ
Through the Books of
Poetry
Part: 9 Finding Christ in the
Books of History
Part: 8 Are You In?
Part: 7 Do You Believe and
Have This Life?
Part: 6 Believers Are Word
Receiving
Part: 5 They (OT Scriptures)
Speak of ME
Part: 4 Good Hearts Accept
the Word: Part II
Part: 3 Good Hearts Accept
the Word
Part: 2 Seeing the Bible as
Whole in Christ
Part: 1 Christ – the Key to
Scripture
Survey from Acts to I Thessalonians

Part 45 (990428WE)
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I find my Lord in the Book,
Wherever I chance to Look
He’s the theme of the Bible
The center and heart of the Book.
He’s the Rose of Sharon,
He’s the Lilly fair,
Wherever I open my Bible,
The Lord of the Book is there.
He at the Book’s beginning gave the Earth its form
He is the Ark of Shelter bearing the brunt of the storm
He is the burning bush of the desert, the budding of Aaron’s rod
Wherever I look in the Bible, I see the Son of God.
The Ram upon Mt. Moriah, the ladder from Earth to sky.
The scarlet cord in the window, and the serpent lifted high,
The smitten rock in the desert, the Shepherd with staff and crook,
The face of my Lord I discover, wherever I open the Book.
He is the Seed of the Woman, the Savior virgin born,
He is the Son of David of whom men rejected with scorn,
His garments of Grace and of beauty, the stately Aaron Deck,
Yet He is a Priest forever, for He is Melchizedek.
Lord of eternal glory, whom John the Apostle saw,
Light of eternal glory, whom John the Apostle saw,
Light of the golden city, Lamb without spot or flaw,
Bridegroom coming at midnight for whom the virgins look,
Wherever I open my Bible, I find my Lord in the Book.
AN ARCHITECTS VIEW OF THE SCRIPTURES
The Bible is like a majestic palace constructed with precious oriental stone
comprising 66 stately chambers, each an individual room, yet a part of the
whole ediface: incomprehensible, majestic, glorious and sublime.
As we go into the vestibule, the book of Genesis, and find recorded the mighty
works of God in creation this vestibule, has access to the law courts. Which,
when passing thru come to the picture gallery of the historical books in which
hung wall scenes, battles, portraits of men of valor. Battles and valiant heros
line the walls.
On to the philosophers chamber Job. Then into the music room (Psalms)
where we linger to hear the grandest harmonies ever that fell on human ears.
Pressing on into the business office of Proverbs where very center hangs the
motto “Righteousness exalts a nation”, sin reproach any people. Then, the
research department Ecclessiastes, into the conservatory of Song of Solomon
where the fragrant aroma of the sweetest fruits and flowers and sweetest
songs of birds greet us.
On to the observatory where we find prophets busy with strong telescopes
looking for the appearing of the bright and morning star, the Son of
Righteousness.
Walking across we enter the audience chamber of the King, the Gospels,
where hang four lifelike portraits of the King himself in the perfections of His
Beauty.
On to the workroom of the Holy Spirit – Acts, then into the correspondence
room where we find Peter, James, John, Paul and Jude bending busy over
their writing tables under the supervision of Holy Spirit of truth.
Finally into the throne room where echo the grandest praise and honor to the
King enthroned fills vast chambers with portraits of solemn scenes of doom on
walls but all associated with the King of Kings and Lord of Lords.
From creation to culmination. THE NEW TESTAMENT begins and ends with
Christ. It opens with His arrival, moves to His ministry of three years, His death,
His glorious resurrection, His ministering for 40 days. (We know this because
it says in Acts that he remained alive after His passion for 40 days). His
ascension, and then ten days the apostles were left along, fearful, waiting for
the promise that Christ gave; that promise does come in the day of Pentecost,
which “pentecost” means 50 days — after 50 days Christ sent His Spirit as he
promised. Just as He promised, the Spirit came and poured out His Spirit on
the fiftieth day. After the day of Pentecost was fully come, the birth of the
church. Acts – l-8 deals primarily with Peter. Then starting in Acts 9 Saul
comes on the scene. Paul is the focal point as God moves his redemptive
program out to the Gentile world in particular. Then after letters (Epistles) of
comfort and instruction, Jesus closes the book of history as He takes back His
wayward creation in the Revelation.
ACTS: “Christ our Mission” (1:8)
Acts 1:8 “But you shall receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you;
and you shall be witnesses to Me in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria,
and to the end of the earth.” (NKJV)
This book is the bridge taking Christ to the whole world. In it we see the lessons Christ taught His
disciples in secret now proclaimed in Holy Spirit empowered boldness. The key verse outlines the
book:
ü witnesses in Jerusalem (1-8:3);
ü Judea and Samaria (8:4-12:25);
ü and to the ends of the earth (13-28). Within Acts we find the background
introductions to epistles of I and II Corinthians, Galatians, Ephesians,
Philippians, Colossians and Philemon (prison epistles);
ROMANS: “CHRIST OUR RIGHTEOUSNESS” (1:16-17)
Romans 1:16-17 For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ, for it is the
power of God to salvation for everyone who believes, for the Jew first and also
for the Greek. 17 For in it the righteousness of God is revealed from faith to
faith; as it is written, “The just shall live by faith.” (NKJV)
From about AD 57-58 written looking out the window at Corinth on Paul’s 3rd journey. Paul’s letter
to Rome is better known in the church than any other, and is probably the singly most important
book in the N.T. because it lays down the great doctrines of justification by faith alone. The key
verse outlines the message of the entire book as:
THE PERSON OF THE GOSPEL IS CHRIST;
THE POWER OF THE GOSPEL IS GOD;
THE PURPOSE OF THE GOSPEL IS SALVATION;
THE PEOPLE OF THE GOSPEL ARE ALL;
THE PLAN OF THE GOSPEL IS BELIEF AND
THE RESULT OF THE GOSPEL IS LIVING BY FAITH!
Paul uses the expression “in Christ” to describe the new life of a believer. This
term is found no less than 164 times, as justified in Christ ” (Gal. 2:17), ” God’s
righteousness in him ” (2 Cor 5: 21). This blessed, life-penetrating secret is
central to all his letters. Thus:
Ü IN ROMANS -JUSTIFICATION IN CHRIST;
Ü IN CORINTHIANS -SANCTIFICATION IN CHRIST;
Ü IN GALATIANS -FREEDOM IN CHRIST;
Ü IN EPHESIANS-ONENESS IN CHRIST;
Ü IN PHILIPPIANS-JOY IN CHRIST;
Ü IN COLOSSIANS-FULNESS IN CHRIST;
Ü IN THESSALONIANS – GLORIFICATION IN CHRIST.
I CORINTHIANS: “CHRIST OUR SOLUTION TO
SPIRITUAL PROBLEMS” (2:6-8)
1 Corinthians 2:6-7 However, we speak wisdom among those who are mature, yet not the
wisdom of this age, nor of the rulers of this age, who are coming to nothing. 7 But we speak the
wisdom of God in a mystery, the hidden [wisdom] which God ordained before the ages for our
glory, (NKJV).
This letter comes about AD 57 from Ephesus on Paul’s 3rd journey. At Corinth, Paul spent oneand-one-half
years developing the church. His longest letters and most impassioned
correspondence were to those trouble believers. Their affluent and fast-growing port town brought
them an inordinate amount of contact with immorality, pagan religion, and philosophy. Their
problems with arrogance, leader-worshiping cliques, immorality, divorce, and misunderstandings
of spiritual gifts are systematically addressed in response to their questions.
II CORINTHIANS: “CHRIST OUR SUFFICIENCY” (3:5)
2 Corinthians 3:5 Not that we are sufficient of ourselves to think of anything as
[being] from ourselves, but our sufficiency [is] from God, (NKJV)
In AD 57 Paul writes again to his beloved Corinthian church from Macedonia just after leaving
Philippi.
GALATIANS: “CHRIST OUR LIBERTY” (5:1)
Galatians 5:1 Stand fast therefore in the liberty by which Christ has made us free, and do not be
entangled again with a yoke of bondage. (NKJV)
About AD 45 from Jerusalem Council. Galatians was written to counter false
teaching about Christianity and the law and the relationship between faith and
works. When the grace of God through His Spirit is rooted in our lives we find
His fruit. This fruit reaches into:
ü our walk with God (love, joy and peace),
ü our walk with others (gentleness, goodness and patience), and finally into
ü our personal walk (faith, meekness and self-control).
EPHESIANS: “CHRIST OUR SOURCE OF ALL” (3:20-21)
Ephesians 3:20-21 Now to Him who is able to do exceedingly abundantly
above all that we ask or think, according to the power that works in us, 21 to
Him [be] glory in the church by Christ Jesus to all generations, forever and
ever. Amen. (NKJV)
Shortly after Paul returned to Jerusalem from his third missionary journey (A.D.
57), he was arrested in the Temple courtyard, imprisoned in Caesarea for two
years, and tried by Felix and Festus. He then appealed to Agippa to be sent
to Rome for trial before Caesar. Though Agippa comments to Festus that
Paul might have been freed except for that appeal (Acts 26:32), Scripture
indicates it was clearly in God’s plan to send him to the empire’s capital, as yet
untouched by the apostles. While under house arrest in rented quarters in
Rome (about A.D. 59 to 61 or 62), Paul wrote four letters known as the prison
epistles. Of those, Ephesians is the best known for its tremendous theological
content, which seems to drift in long, flowing statements of praise for God’s
work in Christ.
PHILIPPIANS: “CHRIST OUR SOURCE OF JOY” (1:6)
Philippians 1:6 being confident of this very thing, that He who has begun a good work in you will
complete [it] until the day of Jesus Christ; (NKJV)
Paul and Silas visited Philippi, their first Macedonian contact, on their second
missionary journey in A.D. 52. To the saints and leadership of the church, Paul
writes of joyful submission to the will of God, regardless of the circumstances,
and uses the aweinspiring example of Christ Jesus as the model of humility
and mutual submission within the church.
COLOSSIANS: “CHRIST OUR LIFE” (2:10)
Colossians 2:10 and you are complete in Him, who is the head of all principality and power.
(NKJV)
Paul never ministered in nor even visited Colossae as he had Ephesus,
though one of his converts, Epaphras, had planted the church (1:7-8). Unique
to Colossians, is Paul’s attack against a local heresy that depreciated the
person of Christ and promoted ritualism, asceticism, and special, hidden
knowledge.
To counter that, Paul praises Jesus as the center and substance of the
universe. He presents:
ü the “deeper” life (1:22-23),
ü the “higher” life (2:6-7),
ü the “inner” life (3:12,16) and
ü the “outward” life (4:5).
I THESSALONIANS: “CHRIST OUR HOPE” (3:13)
1 Thessalonians 3:13 so that He may establish your hearts blameless in holiness before our God
and Father at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ with all His saints. (NKJV)
Addressed to one of Paul’s first churches in Greece, 1 Thessalonians
encourage the young believers to endure persecution, resist false teaching,
and live full and productive lives as they await Christ’s certain return.
In fact, each of 1 Thessalonians’ five chapters ends with encouragement based on the Rapture.
Through Christ’s Promised Coming We Have:
ü 1:10 = Present Hope Of Salvation
ü 2:19 = Future Joy Of Homegoing
ü 3:13 = Constant Cause For Holy Living
ü 4:17,18 = Constant Source Of Comfort
ü5:23 = Promise Of Completed Salvation
Now, we can finish our survey of the last 14 New Testament books. We start with Paul’s final letter
to his beloved Thessalonian Christians.
II THESSALONIANS: “CHRIST OUR CALLING” (1:11-12)
Therefore we also pray always for you that our God would count you worthy of
this calling, and fulfill all the good pleasure of His goodness and the work of
faith with power, 12 that the name of our Lord Jesus Christ may be glorified in
you, and you in Him, according to the grace of our God and the Lord Jesus
Christ. (NKJV)
Remember, the return of Christ is mentioned 318x in the 260 chapters of the
New Testament. And so, to these troubled saints Paul presents Christ as our
Security:
Ø when Suffering (1),
Ø when doubting (2) and
Ø when serving (3).
I TIMOTHY : “CHRIST OUR EXAMPLE” (4:12)
Let no one despise your youth, but be an example to the believers in word, in
conduct, in love, in spirit, in faith, in purity. (NKJV)
Timothy was a special disciples in whom Paul invested much time and to
whom he entrusted great responsibility. His letters to him are usually dated
after the events of Acts 28; tradition tells us Paul was then released from
prison and that he embarked on further missionary ventures from AD 62 to 67,
until his final imprisonment, trial, and execution.
II TIMOTHY: “CHRIST OUR GOAL” (4:7-8)
I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. 8
Finally, there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the
righteous Judge, will give to me on that Day, and not to me only but also to all
who have loved His appearing. (NKJV)
Sometime in the year AD 64, Paul the apostle looked out of the tiny grate that let in light to his
subterranean dungeon. The mamertinum prison was only a stones throw from the epicenter of the
world, the Roman Forum. Outside could be heard the crowds surging to the circus maximus, the
games and the great festivals. The mighty legions returned from victory after victory with dazzling
displays of plunder and captives. But in that solitary dungeon of dampness, deprivation and
discomfort, once again the spirit overshadowed the great apostle and began to breathe through
him the very Word of God. What is amazing is that with a shamelessly professed homosexual
emperor and a bloodthirsty mob of Romans behind him in self gratifying lust, Paul would write: “in
the last days … Men will…”he was saying, this is only the prelude. The fallen ego is evident but will
come to full bloom in days ahead.
Finally, in the late Autumn of life sits the Apostle who dominates the early years of the
church. Here awaiting execution in this most undesirable spot, is Saint Paul. Look at his last
words from this very spot. How did he make through so many terrible situations? Six secrets
we would do well to hear and learn from II Timothy 4:6-8
üHis Contentment was from God “For I am now ready to be offered”
üHis Confidence was in God “and the time of my departure is at hand”
üHis Courage was for God “I have fought a good fight”
üHis Faithfulness was to God “I have finished my course”
üHis Fidelity was of God “I have kept the faith”
üHis Focus was on God “Henceforth there is laid up”
TITUS: “CHRIST OUR BLESSED HOPE” (2:10-11)
Adorn the doctrine of God our Savior in all things. For the grace of God that
brings salvation has appeared to all men, (NKJV)
PHILEMON: “CHRIST OUR SOURCE OF
FORGIVENESS” (1:18)
But if he has wronged you or owes anything, put that on my account. (NKJV)
One of the shortest New Testament letters was written to a member of the
Colossian church, Philemon, to encourage him to act more like a Christian
than a Roman in accepting back his runaway slave.
HEBREWS: “CHRIST THE BEST OF ALL” (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 has sat
down at the right hand of the throne of God. (NKJV)
Sometime in the AD 60’s before the Temple was destroyed, some was
inspired by God to write Hebrews. Who? We cannot be sure. But the
anonymity of the author does not detract from the letter`s authority. Hebrews
speaks powerfully of the superiority of Christ, exalting Him over:
üthe angels (1-2),
ü Moses (3-4) and
üthe Aaronic priesthood (5-7), as well as
üthe superiority of His New Covenant and sacrifice over the old (8-10).
üChapters 11 to 13 plead for lives of faith in light of Christ’s work and
examples from the faithful of old.
JAMES: “CHRIST OUR TRUE FAITH ” (1:22)
But be doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves. (NKJV)
The earthly brother of Jesus who grew up with the boy
Jesus was saved after the resurrection of his brother. He
becomes one of the key leaders of the church. In about AD
45 as a pastor, he writes from Jerusalem. Some read James
as a counter to Paul when he says, “Faith, if it has no works,
is dead (2:17, NASB). But far from contradicting Paul, James
was talking about life-style. He draws from a rich heritage of
wisdom, the prophets, and his half-brother’s Sermon on the
Mount, to write about the life of faith that looks theologically
correct.
I PETER: “CHRIST OUR VICTORY” (1:3)
Blessed [be] the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who according to
His abundant mercy has begotten us again to a living hope through the
resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, (NKJV)
Some time around AD 61 Peter writes his letter encouraging all Christians to
live holy and faithful lives and to be willing to suffer unjust persecution after the
example of Christ. Peter challenges wives, husbands, elders, and young men
to exercise humility, service, and self-control.
II PETER: “CHRIST OUR TRUTH” (1:16)
For we did not follow cunningly devised fables when we made known to you
the power and coming of our Lord Jesus Christ, but were eyewitnesses of His
majesty. (NKJV)
Second Peter and Jude are so alike many have wondered why both are needed in the New
Testament. Because the Spirit inspired both they require careful study. Both deal urgently with an
insidious and dangerous heresy that threatens the very lives of believers. Peter says the key to
stability and growth is knowing God (1:5-11).
I JOHN: “CHRIST OUR FELLOWSHIP” (1:3)
that which we have seen and heard we declare to you, that you also may have
fellowship with us; and truly our fellowship [is] with the Father and with His Son
Jesus Christ. (NKJV)
John exhorts believers to show God’s love Christ, by individually and sacrificially meeting the
needs of others. He also commands us to turn from the world to love the Father. He stresses the
danger of false teachers and false (anti-) christs. He emphasizes the apostles’ teaching and the
witness of the Spirit.
II JOHN: “CHRIST OUR SEPARTION” (1:10-11)
If anyone comes to you and does not bring this doctrine, do not receive him
into your house nor greet him; for he who greets him shares in his evil deeds.
(NKJV)
III JOHN: “CHRIST OUR PROSPERITY” (1:2-3)
Beloved, I pray that you may prosper in all things and be in health, just as your
soul prospers. For I rejoiced greatly when brethren came and testified of the
truth [that is] in you, just as you walk in the truth. (NKJV)
JUDE: “CHRIST OUR SALVATION” (1:3)
Beloved, while I was very diligent to write to you concerning our common
salvation, I found it necessary to write to you exhorting you to contend earnestly
for the faith which was once for all delivered to the saints. (NKJV)
Jude was a second brother of Joseph and Mary in the earthly family of Jesus, who wrote a New
Testament book after coming to Christ. Jude uses images stretching from before the Flood to the
depths of the Pit where imprisoned fiends of unholy service wait in chains. He gives insight into
colorful Old Testament personages like Lot, Balaam, Korah, Enoch and Michael. Ending with one
of the strongest verses on our secure salvation, this book is a must read!
REVELATION: “CHRIST OURS TO WORSHIP” (19:10)
And I fell at his feet to worship him. But he said to me, “See [that you do] not
[do that!] I am your fellow servant, and of your brethren who have the testimony
of Jesus. Worship God! For the testimony of Jesus is the spirit of
prophecy.” (NKJV)
From the exile of Patmos, John gives a revelation of the character of the Lamb and the sovereignty
of God, both of which should encourage believers of all ages-not just the last-to “overcome the
world” with their faith and faithfulness toward God. Revelation contains more hymns of praise,
more words of adoration to the Lamb, the Father, and the Spirit than any other New Testament
book. Rather than try to identify the dragon and his beast, adore the true Trinity, sovereign over
space and time. The book is also outlined by Revelation 1:19 “Write:
üthe things which you have seen (the vision of Christ in His glory- chapter
1), and
üthe things which are (the vision of Christ and His church – chapters 2-3),
and
üthe things which will take place after this. (the vision of Christ and the
Universe, chapters 4-22).
In chapter 1 = He is the Eternal One.
In chapter 2-3 = He is the Refiner of His Body and the ChurIn chapter
In chapter 4-20 = He is the Judge of the Universe as He restores His people:
Israel.
In chapter 21-22 = He is the Lord of Eternity as He invites all His own to His
Kingdom.
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KGD-Knowing
God—Walking
Through the Book
of Books (MP3 CD)
If you have always wanted to
feel that you had a grasp on the
Message of the Whole Bible–
you can. If you always wanted to
see the Big Picture of God’s
Word–its possible. If you
always feel like you never can
put it all together–you can. This
CD pulls all of the overviews and
surveys of the Bible–into One
Journey through the Book of
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40 lessons each of which leads
to one goal–Knowing God. This
CD contains 40 MP3 maudio
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Product Code: ISBN1933561076
Price: $19.99
Part: 45 Survey from Acts to I
Thessalonians
Part: 44 Gospel Survey
Part: 43 Books of Prophecy
(OT)
Part: 42 Books of Poetry
Part: 41 The Historical BooksGenesis
to Esther
Part: 40 Ephesus – Keys to a
Life of Godly
Influence
Part: 39 Corinth – Standing
Before His Judgment
Seat
Part: 38 Corinth – the Bema
Seat
Part: 37 Athens – Mars Hill and
Seekers
Part: 36 The Good Heart Bears
Fruit
Part: 35 Good Heart
Part: 34 Crowded Heart
Part: 33 Shallow Hearts
Part: 32 Hard Hearts
Part: 31 Four Hearts – One Soil
Part: 30 Finding the Seven
Key Days of Christ’s
Life
Part: 29 Finding Christ in
Genesis
Part: 28 The Power of the
Gospel
Part: 27 Seven Reasons Why I
Believe the Bible
Part: 26 Do You See Christ in
the Old Testament?
Part: 25 The Scriptures Are
Christ-Centered
Part: 24 Survey From II
Thessalonians to
Revelation
Part: 23 Seeing Christ From
Acts to Thessalonians
Part: 22 Testimony-Have You
Changed?
Part: 21 Seeing Christ in the
Book of Acts
Part: 20 Christ in John
Part: 19 Seeing Christ in the
Gospel by Luke
Part: 18 Seeing Christ in the
Gospel by Mark
Part: 17 Seeing Christ in the
Gospel by Matthew
Part: 16 Hearing Christ’s Voice
Part: 15 The Seven Greatest
Days of Christ’s
Ministry
Part: 14 Finding Christ in ALL
the Gospels
Part: 13 A Jet Tour of the
Gospels
Part: 12 Finding Christ
Between the
Testaments
Part: 11 Seeing Christ
Through the Prophets
Part: 10 Seeing Christ
Through the Books of
Poetry
Part: 9 Finding Christ in the
Books of History
Part: 8 Are You In?
Part: 7 Do You Believe and
Have This Life?
Part: 6 Believers Are Word
Receiving
Part: 5 They (OT Scriptures)
Speak of ME
Part: 4 Good Hearts Accept
the Word: Part II
Part: 3 Good Hearts Accept
the Word
Part: 2 Seeing the Bible as
Whole in Christ
Part: 1 Christ – the Key to
Scripture
Survey from Acts to I Thessalonians

Part 45 (990428WE)
Return to previous Page | Print
Listen:
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Purchase this single sermon on CD
I find my Lord in the Book,
Wherever I chance to Look
He’s the theme of the Bible
The center and heart of the Book.
He’s the Rose of Sharon,
He’s the Lilly fair,
Wherever I open my Bible,
The Lord of the Book is there.
He at the Book’s beginning gave the Earth its form
He is the Ark of Shelter bearing the brunt of the storm
He is the burning bush of the desert, the budding of Aaron’s rod
Wherever I look in the Bible, I see the Son of God.
The Ram upon Mt. Moriah, the ladder from Earth to sky.
The scarlet cord in the window, and the serpent lifted high,
The smitten rock in the desert, the Shepherd with staff and crook,
The face of my Lord I discover, wherever I open the Book.
He is the Seed of the Woman, the Savior virgin born,
He is the Son of David of whom men rejected with scorn,
His garments of Grace and of beauty, the stately Aaron Deck,
Yet He is a Priest forever, for He is Melchizedek.
Lord of eternal glory, whom John the Apostle saw,
Light of eternal glory, whom John the Apostle saw,
Light of the golden city, Lamb without spot or flaw,
Bridegroom coming at midnight for whom the virgins look,
Wherever I open my Bible, I find my Lord in the Book.
AN ARCHITECTS VIEW OF THE SCRIPTURES
The Bible is like a majestic palace constructed with precious oriental stone
comprising 66 stately chambers, each an individual room, yet a part of the
whole ediface: incomprehensible, majestic, glorious and sublime.
As we go into the vestibule, the book of Genesis, and find recorded the mighty
works of God in creation this vestibule, has access to the law courts. Which,
when passing thru come to the picture gallery of the historical books in which
hung wall scenes, battles, portraits of men of valor. Battles and valiant heros
line the walls.
On to the philosophers chamber Job. Then into the music room (Psalms)
where we linger to hear the grandest harmonies ever that fell on human ears.
Pressing on into the business office of Proverbs where very center hangs the
motto “Righteousness exalts a nation”, sin reproach any people. Then, the
research department Ecclessiastes, into the conservatory of Song of Solomon
where the fragrant aroma of the sweetest fruits and flowers and sweetest
songs of birds greet us.
On to the observatory where we find prophets busy with strong telescopes
looking for the appearing of the bright and morning star, the Son of
Righteousness.
Walking across we enter the audience chamber of the King, the Gospels,
where hang four lifelike portraits of the King himself in the perfections of His
Beauty.
On to the workroom of the Holy Spirit – Acts, then into the correspondence
room where we find Peter, James, John, Paul and Jude bending busy over
their writing tables under the supervision of Holy Spirit of truth.
Finally into the throne room where echo the grandest praise and honor to the
King enthroned fills vast chambers with portraits of solemn scenes of doom on
walls but all associated with the King of Kings and Lord of Lords.
From creation to culmination. THE NEW TESTAMENT begins and ends with
Christ. It opens with His arrival, moves to His ministry of three years, His death,
His glorious resurrection, His ministering for 40 days. (We know this because
it says in Acts that he remained alive after His passion for 40 days). His
ascension, and then ten days the apostles were left along, fearful, waiting for
the promise that Christ gave; that promise does come in the day of Pentecost,
which “pentecost” means 50 days — after 50 days Christ sent His Spirit as he
promised. Just as He promised, the Spirit came and poured out His Spirit on
the fiftieth day. After the day of Pentecost was fully come, the birth of the
church. Acts – l-8 deals primarily with Peter. Then starting in Acts 9 Saul
comes on the scene. Paul is the focal point as God moves his redemptive
program out to the Gentile world in particular. Then after letters (Epistles) of
comfort and instruction, Jesus closes the book of history as He takes back His
wayward creation in the Revelation.
ACTS: “Christ our Mission” (1:8)
Acts 1:8 “But you shall receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you;
and you shall be witnesses to Me in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria,
and to the end of the earth.” (NKJV)
This book is the bridge taking Christ to the whole world. In it we see the lessons Christ taught His
disciples in secret now proclaimed in Holy Spirit empowered boldness. The key verse outlines the
book:
ü witnesses in Jerusalem (1-8:3);
ü Judea and Samaria (8:4-12:25);
ü and to the ends of the earth (13-28). Within Acts we find the background
introductions to epistles of I and II Corinthians, Galatians, Ephesians,
Philippians, Colossians and Philemon (prison epistles);
ROMANS: “CHRIST OUR RIGHTEOUSNESS” (1:16-17)
Romans 1:16-17 For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ, for it is the
power of God to salvation for everyone who believes, for the Jew first and also
for the Greek. 17 For in it the righteousness of God is revealed from faith to
faith; as it is written, “The just shall live by faith.” (NKJV)
From about AD 57-58 written looking out the window at Corinth on Paul’s 3rd journey. Paul’s letter
to Rome is better known in the church than any other, and is probably the singly most important
book in the N.T. because it lays down the great doctrines of justification by faith alone. The key
verse outlines the message of the entire book as:
THE PERSON OF THE GOSPEL IS CHRIST;
THE POWER OF THE GOSPEL IS GOD;
THE PURPOSE OF THE GOSPEL IS SALVATION;
THE PEOPLE OF THE GOSPEL ARE ALL;
THE PLAN OF THE GOSPEL IS BELIEF AND
THE RESULT OF THE GOSPEL IS LIVING BY FAITH!
Paul uses the expression “in Christ” to describe the new life of a believer. This
term is found no less than 164 times, as justified in Christ ” (Gal. 2:17), ” God’s
righteousness in him ” (2 Cor 5: 21). This blessed, life-penetrating secret is
central to all his letters. Thus:
Ü IN ROMANS -JUSTIFICATION IN CHRIST;
Ü IN CORINTHIANS -SANCTIFICATION IN CHRIST;
Ü IN GALATIANS -FREEDOM IN CHRIST;
Ü IN EPHESIANS-ONENESS IN CHRIST;
Ü IN PHILIPPIANS-JOY IN CHRIST;
Ü IN COLOSSIANS-FULNESS IN CHRIST;
Ü IN THESSALONIANS – GLORIFICATION IN CHRIST.
I CORINTHIANS: “CHRIST OUR SOLUTION TO
SPIRITUAL PROBLEMS” (2:6-8)
1 Corinthians 2:6-7 However, we speak wisdom among those who are mature, yet not the
wisdom of this age, nor of the rulers of this age, who are coming to nothing. 7 But we speak the
wisdom of God in a mystery, the hidden [wisdom] which God ordained before the ages for our
glory, (NKJV).
This letter comes about AD 57 from Ephesus on Paul’s 3rd journey. At Corinth, Paul spent oneand-one-half
years developing the church. His longest letters and most impassioned
correspondence were to those trouble believers. Their affluent and fast-growing port town brought
them an inordinate amount of contact with immorality, pagan religion, and philosophy. Their
problems with arrogance, leader-worshiping cliques, immorality, divorce, and misunderstandings
of spiritual gifts are systematically addressed in response to their questions.
II CORINTHIANS: “CHRIST OUR SUFFICIENCY” (3:5)
2 Corinthians 3:5 Not that we are sufficient of ourselves to think of anything as
[being] from ourselves, but our sufficiency [is] from God, (NKJV)
In AD 57 Paul writes again to his beloved Corinthian church from Macedonia just after leaving
Philippi.
GALATIANS: “CHRIST OUR LIBERTY” (5:1)
Galatians 5:1 Stand fast therefore in the liberty by which Christ has made us free, and do not be
entangled again with a yoke of bondage. (NKJV)
About AD 45 from Jerusalem Council. Galatians was written to counter false
teaching about Christianity and the law and the relationship between faith and
works. When the grace of God through His Spirit is rooted in our lives we find
His fruit. This fruit reaches into:
ü our walk with God (love, joy and peace),
ü our walk with others (gentleness, goodness and patience), and finally into
ü our personal walk (faith, meekness and self-control).
EPHESIANS: “CHRIST OUR SOURCE OF ALL” (3:20-21)
Ephesians 3:20-21 Now to Him who is able to do exceedingly abundantly
above all that we ask or think, according to the power that works in us, 21 to
Him [be] glory in the church by Christ Jesus to all generations, forever and
ever. Amen. (NKJV)
Shortly after Paul returned to Jerusalem from his third missionary journey (A.D.
57), he was arrested in the Temple courtyard, imprisoned in Caesarea for two
years, and tried by Felix and Festus. He then appealed to Agippa to be sent
to Rome for trial before Caesar. Though Agippa comments to Festus that
Paul might have been freed except for that appeal (Acts 26:32), Scripture
indicates it was clearly in God’s plan to send him to the empire’s capital, as yet
untouched by the apostles. While under house arrest in rented quarters in
Rome (about A.D. 59 to 61 or 62), Paul wrote four letters known as the prison
epistles. Of those, Ephesians is the best known for its tremendous theological
content, which seems to drift in long, flowing statements of praise for God’s
work in Christ.
PHILIPPIANS: “CHRIST OUR SOURCE OF JOY” (1:6)
Philippians 1:6 being confident of this very thing, that He who has begun a good work in you will
complete [it] until the day of Jesus Christ; (NKJV)
Paul and Silas visited Philippi, their first Macedonian contact, on their second
missionary journey in A.D. 52. To the saints and leadership of the church, Paul
writes of joyful submission to the will of God, regardless of the circumstances,
and uses the aweinspiring example of Christ Jesus as the model of humility
and mutual submission within the church.
COLOSSIANS: “CHRIST OUR LIFE” (2:10)
Colossians 2:10 and you are complete in Him, who is the head of all principality and power.
(NKJV)
Paul never ministered in nor even visited Colossae as he had Ephesus,
though one of his converts, Epaphras, had planted the church (1:7-8). Unique
to Colossians, is Paul’s attack against a local heresy that depreciated the
person of Christ and promoted ritualism, asceticism, and special, hidden
knowledge.
To counter that, Paul praises Jesus as the center and substance of the
universe. He presents:
ü the “deeper” life (1:22-23),
ü the “higher” life (2:6-7),
ü the “inner” life (3:12,16) and
ü the “outward” life (4:5).
I THESSALONIANS: “CHRIST OUR HOPE” (3:13)
1 Thessalonians 3:13 so that He may establish your hearts blameless in holiness before our God
and Father at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ with all His saints. (NKJV)
Addressed to one of Paul’s first churches in Greece, 1 Thessalonians
encourage the young believers to endure persecution, resist false teaching,
and live full and productive lives as they await Christ’s certain return.
In fact, each of 1 Thessalonians’ five chapters ends with encouragement based on the Rapture.
Through Christ’s Promised Coming We Have:
ü 1:10 = Present Hope Of Salvation
ü 2:19 = Future Joy Of Homegoing
ü 3:13 = Constant Cause For Holy Living
ü 4:17,18 = Constant Source Of Comfort
ü5:23 = Promise Of Completed Salvation
Now, we can finish our survey of the last 14 New Testament books. We start with Paul’s final letter
to his beloved Thessalonian Christians.
II THESSALONIANS: “CHRIST OUR CALLING” (1:11-12)
Therefore we also pray always for you that our God would count you worthy of
this calling, and fulfill all the good pleasure of His goodness and the work of
faith with power, 12 that the name of our Lord Jesus Christ may be glorified in
you, and you in Him, according to the grace of our God and the Lord Jesus
Christ. (NKJV)
Remember, the return of Christ is mentioned 318x in the 260 chapters of the
New Testament. And so, to these troubled saints Paul presents Christ as our
Security:
Ø when Suffering (1),
Ø when doubting (2) and
Ø when serving (3).
I TIMOTHY : “CHRIST OUR EXAMPLE” (4:12)
Let no one despise your youth, but be an example to the believers in word, in
conduct, in love, in spirit, in faith, in purity. (NKJV)
Timothy was a special disciples in whom Paul invested much time and to
whom he entrusted great responsibility. His letters to him are usually dated
after the events of Acts 28; tradition tells us Paul was then released from
prison and that he embarked on further missionary ventures from AD 62 to 67,
until his final imprisonment, trial, and execution.
II TIMOTHY: “CHRIST OUR GOAL” (4:7-8)
I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. 8
Finally, there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the
righteous Judge, will give to me on that Day, and not to me only but also to all
who have loved His appearing. (NKJV)
Sometime in the year AD 64, Paul the apostle looked out of the tiny grate that let in light to his
subterranean dungeon. The mamertinum prison was only a stones throw from the epicenter of the
world, the Roman Forum. Outside could be heard the crowds surging to the circus maximus, the
games and the great festivals. The mighty legions returned from victory after victory with dazzling
displays of plunder and captives. But in that solitary dungeon of dampness, deprivation and
discomfort, once again the spirit overshadowed the great apostle and began to breathe through
him the very Word of God. What is amazing is that with a shamelessly professed homosexual
emperor and a bloodthirsty mob of Romans behind him in self gratifying lust, Paul would write: “in
the last days … Men will…”he was saying, this is only the prelude. The fallen ego is evident but will
come to full bloom in days ahead.
Finally, in the late Autumn of life sits the Apostle who dominates the early years of the
church. Here awaiting execution in this most undesirable spot, is Saint Paul. Look at his last
words from this very spot. How did he make through so many terrible situations? Six secrets
we would do well to hear and learn from II Timothy 4:6-8
üHis Contentment was from God “For I am now ready to be offered”
üHis Confidence was in God “and the time of my departure is at hand”
üHis Courage was for God “I have fought a good fight”
üHis Faithfulness was to God “I have finished my course”
üHis Fidelity was of God “I have kept the faith”
üHis Focus was on God “Henceforth there is laid up”
TITUS: “CHRIST OUR BLESSED HOPE” (2:10-11)
Adorn the doctrine of God our Savior in all things. For the grace of God that
brings salvation has appeared to all men, (NKJV)
PHILEMON: “CHRIST OUR SOURCE OF
FORGIVENESS” (1:18)
But if he has wronged you or owes anything, put that on my account. (NKJV)
One of the shortest New Testament letters was written to a member of the
Colossian church, Philemon, to encourage him to act more like a Christian
than a Roman in accepting back his runaway slave.
HEBREWS: “CHRIST THE BEST OF ALL” (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 has sat
down at the right hand of the throne of God. (NKJV)
Sometime in the AD 60’s before the Temple was destroyed, some was
inspired by God to write Hebrews. Who? We cannot be sure. But the
anonymity of the author does not detract from the letter`s authority. Hebrews
speaks powerfully of the superiority of Christ, exalting Him over:
üthe angels (1-2),
ü Moses (3-4) and
üthe Aaronic priesthood (5-7), as well as
üthe superiority of His New Covenant and sacrifice over the old (8-10).
üChapters 11 to 13 plead for lives of faith in light of Christ’s work and
examples from the faithful of old.
JAMES: “CHRIST OUR TRUE FAITH ” (1:22)
But be doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves. (NKJV)
The earthly brother of Jesus who grew up with the boy
Jesus was saved after the resurrection of his brother. He
becomes one of the key leaders of the church. In about AD
45 as a pastor, he writes from Jerusalem. Some read James
as a counter to Paul when he says, “Faith, if it has no works,
is dead (2:17, NASB). But far from contradicting Paul, James
was talking about life-style. He draws from a rich heritage of
wisdom, the prophets, and his half-brother’s Sermon on the
Mount, to write about the life of faith that looks theologically
correct.
I PETER: “CHRIST OUR VICTORY” (1:3)
Blessed [be] the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who according to
His abundant mercy has begotten us again to a living hope through the
resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, (NKJV)
Some time around AD 61 Peter writes his letter encouraging all Christians to
live holy and faithful lives and to be willing to suffer unjust persecution after the
example of Christ. Peter challenges wives, husbands, elders, and young men
to exercise humility, service, and self-control.
II PETER: “CHRIST OUR TRUTH” (1:16)
For we did not follow cunningly devised fables when we made known to you
the power and coming of our Lord Jesus Christ, but were eyewitnesses of His
majesty. (NKJV)
Second Peter and Jude are so alike many have wondered why both are needed in the New
Testament. Because the Spirit inspired both they require careful study. Both deal urgently with an
insidious and dangerous heresy that threatens the very lives of believers. Peter says the key to
stability and growth is knowing God (1:5-11).
I JOHN: “CHRIST OUR FELLOWSHIP” (1:3)
that which we have seen and heard we declare to you, that you also may have
fellowship with us; and truly our fellowship [is] with the Father and with His Son
Jesus Christ. (NKJV)
John exhorts believers to show God’s love Christ, by individually and sacrificially meeting the
needs of others. He also commands us to turn from the world to love the Father. He stresses the
danger of false teachers and false (anti-) christs. He emphasizes the apostles’ teaching and the
witness of the Spirit.
II JOHN: “CHRIST OUR SEPARTION” (1:10-11)
If anyone comes to you and does not bring this doctrine, do not receive him
into your house nor greet him; for he who greets him shares in his evil deeds.
(NKJV)
III JOHN: “CHRIST OUR PROSPERITY” (1:2-3)
Beloved, I pray that you may prosper in all things and be in health, just as your
soul prospers. For I rejoiced greatly when brethren came and testified of the
truth [that is] in you, just as you walk in the truth. (NKJV)
JUDE: “CHRIST OUR SALVATION” (1:3)
Beloved, while I was very diligent to write to you concerning our common
salvation, I found it necessary to write to you exhorting you to contend earnestly
for the faith which was once for all delivered to the saints. (NKJV)
Jude was a second brother of Joseph and Mary in the earthly family of Jesus, who wrote a New
Testament book after coming to Christ. Jude uses images stretching from before the Flood to the
depths of the Pit where imprisoned fiends of unholy service wait in chains. He gives insight into
colorful Old Testament personages like Lot, Balaam, Korah, Enoch and Michael. Ending with one
of the strongest verses on our secure salvation, this book is a must read!
REVELATION: “CHRIST OURS TO WORSHIP” (19:10)
And I fell at his feet to worship him. But he said to me, “See [that you do] not
[do that!] I am your fellow servant, and of your brethren who have the testimony
of Jesus. Worship God! For the testimony of Jesus is the spirit of
prophecy.” (NKJV)
From the exile of Patmos, John gives a revelation of the character of the Lamb and the sovereignty
of God, both of which should encourage believers of all ages-not just the last-to “overcome the
world” with their faith and faithfulness toward God. Revelation contains more hymns of praise,
more words of adoration to the Lamb, the Father, and the Spirit than any other New Testament
book. Rather than try to identify the dragon and his beast, adore the true Trinity, sovereign over
space and time. The book is also outlined by Revelation 1:19 “Write:
üthe things which you have seen (the vision of Christ in His glory- chapter
1), and
üthe things which are (the vision of Christ and His church – chapters 2-3),
and
üthe things which will take place after this. (the vision of Christ and the
Universe, chapters 4-22).
In chapter 1 = He is the Eternal One.
In chapter 2-3 = He is the Refiner of His Body and the ChurIn chapter
In chapter 4-20 = He is the Judge of the Universe as He restores His people:
Israel.
In chapter 21-22 = He is the Lord of Eternity as He invites all His own to His
Kingdom.
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Series CD/DVD
Sermons in this series
(click to see details):
KGD-Knowing
God—Walking
Through the Book
of Books (MP3 CD)
If you have always wanted to
feel that you had a grasp on the
Message of the Whole Bible–
you can. If you always wanted to
see the Big Picture of God’s
Word–its possible. If you
always feel like you never can
put it all together–you can. This
CD pulls all of the overviews and
surveys of the Bible–into One
Journey through the Book of
Books. This CD represents over
twenty years of study reduced to
40 lessons each of which leads
to one goal–Knowing God. This
CD contains 40 MP3 maudio
messages and almost 400
pages of study guides.
Product Code: ISBN1933561076
Price: $19.99
Part: 45 Survey from Acts to I
Thessalonians
Part: 44 Gospel Survey
Part: 43 Books of Prophecy
(OT)
Part: 42 Books of Poetry
Part: 41 The Historical BooksGenesis
to Esther
Part: 40 Ephesus – Keys to a
Life of Godly
Influence
Part: 39 Corinth – Standing
Before His Judgment
Seat
Part: 38 Corinth – the Bema
Seat
Part: 37 Athens – Mars Hill and
Seekers
Part: 36 The Good Heart Bears
Fruit
Part: 35 Good Heart
Part: 34 Crowded Heart
Part: 33 Shallow Hearts
Part: 32 Hard Hearts
Part: 31 Four Hearts – One Soil
Part: 30 Finding the Seven
Key Days of Christ’s
Life
Part: 29 Finding Christ in
Genesis
Part: 28 The Power of the
Gospel
Part: 27 Seven Reasons Why I
Believe the Bible
Part: 26 Do You See Christ in
the Old Testament?
Part: 25 The Scriptures Are
Christ-Centered
Part: 24 Survey From II
Thessalonians to
Revelation
Part: 23 Seeing Christ From
Acts to Thessalonians
Part: 22 Testimony-Have You
Changed?
Part: 21 Seeing Christ in the
Book of Acts
Part: 20 Christ in John
Part: 19 Seeing Christ in the
Gospel by Luke
Part: 18 Seeing Christ in the
Gospel by Mark
Part: 17 Seeing Christ in the
Gospel by Matthew
Part: 16 Hearing Christ’s Voice
Part: 15 The Seven Greatest
Days of Christ’s
Ministry
Part: 14 Finding Christ in ALL
the Gospels
Part: 13 A Jet Tour of the
Gospels
Part: 12 Finding Christ
Between the
Testaments
Part: 11 Seeing Christ
Through the Prophets
Part: 10 Seeing Christ
Through the Books of
Poetry
Part: 9 Finding Christ in the
Books of History
Part: 8 Are You In?
Part: 7 Do You Believe and
Have This Life?
Part: 6 Believers Are Word
Receiving
Part: 5 They (OT Scriptures)
Speak of ME
Part: 4 Good Hearts Accept
the Word: Part II
Part: 3 Good Hearts Accept
the Word
Part: 2 Seeing the Bible as
Whole in Christ
Part: 1 Christ – the Key to
Scripture
Survey from Acts to I Thessalonians

Part 45 (990428WE)
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I find my Lord in the Book,
Wherever I chance to Look
He’s the theme of the Bible
The center and heart of the Book.
He’s the Rose of Sharon,
He’s the Lilly fair,
Wherever I open my Bible,
The Lord of the Book is there.
He at the Book’s beginning gave the Earth its form
He is the Ark of Shelter bearing the brunt of the storm
He is the burning bush of the desert, the budding of Aaron’s rod
Wherever I look in the Bible, I see the Son of God.
The Ram upon Mt. Moriah, the ladder from Earth to sky.
The scarlet cord in the window, and the serpent lifted high,
The smitten rock in the desert, the Shepherd with staff and crook,
The face of my Lord I discover, wherever I open the Book.
He is the Seed of the Woman, the Savior virgin born,
He is the Son of David of whom men rejected with scorn,
His garments of Grace and of beauty, the stately Aaron Deck,
Yet He is a Priest forever, for He is Melchizedek.
Lord of eternal glory, whom John the Apostle saw,
Light of eternal glory, whom John the Apostle saw,
Light of the golden city, Lamb without spot or flaw,
Bridegroom coming at midnight for whom the virgins look,
Wherever I open my Bible, I find my Lord in the Book.
AN ARCHITECTS VIEW OF THE SCRIPTURES
The Bible is like a majestic palace constructed with precious oriental stone
comprising 66 stately chambers, each an individual room, yet a part of the
whole ediface: incomprehensible, majestic, glorious and sublime.
As we go into the vestibule, the book of Genesis, and find recorded the mighty
works of God in creation this vestibule, has access to the law courts. Which,
when passing thru come to the picture gallery of the historical books in which
hung wall scenes, battles, portraits of men of valor. Battles and valiant heros
line the walls.
On to the philosophers chamber Job. Then into the music room (Psalms)
where we linger to hear the grandest harmonies ever that fell on human ears.
Pressing on into the business office of Proverbs where very center hangs the
motto “Righteousness exalts a nation”, sin reproach any people. Then, the
research department Ecclessiastes, into the conservatory of Song of Solomon
where the fragrant aroma of the sweetest fruits and flowers and sweetest
songs of birds greet us.
On to the observatory where we find prophets busy with strong telescopes
looking for the appearing of the bright and morning star, the Son of
Righteousness.
Walking across we enter the audience chamber of the King, the Gospels,
where hang four lifelike portraits of the King himself in the perfections of His
Beauty.
On to the workroom of the Holy Spirit – Acts, then into the correspondence
room where we find Peter, James, John, Paul and Jude bending busy over
their writing tables under the supervision of Holy Spirit of truth.
Finally into the throne room where echo the grandest praise and honor to the
King enthroned fills vast chambers with portraits of solemn scenes of doom on
walls but all associated with the King of Kings and Lord of Lords.
From creation to culmination. THE NEW TESTAMENT begins and ends with
Christ. It opens with His arrival, moves to His ministry of three years, His death,
His glorious resurrection, His ministering for 40 days. (We know this because
it says in Acts that he remained alive after His passion for 40 days). His
ascension, and then ten days the apostles were left along, fearful, waiting for
the promise that Christ gave; that promise does come in the day of Pentecost,
which “pentecost” means 50 days — after 50 days Christ sent His Spirit as he
promised. Just as He promised, the Spirit came and poured out His Spirit on
the fiftieth day. After the day of Pentecost was fully come, the birth of the
church. Acts – l-8 deals primarily with Peter. Then starting in Acts 9 Saul
comes on the scene. Paul is the focal point as God moves his redemptive
program out to the Gentile world in particular. Then after letters (Epistles) of
comfort and instruction, Jesus closes the book of history as He takes back His
wayward creation in the Revelation.
ACTS: “Christ our Mission” (1:8)
Acts 1:8 “But you shall receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you;
and you shall be witnesses to Me in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria,
and to the end of the earth.” (NKJV)
This book is the bridge taking Christ to the whole world. In it we see the lessons Christ taught His
disciples in secret now proclaimed in Holy Spirit empowered boldness. The key verse outlines the
book:
ü witnesses in Jerusalem (1-8:3);
ü Judea and Samaria (8:4-12:25);
ü and to the ends of the earth (13-28). Within Acts we find the background
introductions to epistles of I and II Corinthians, Galatians, Ephesians,
Philippians, Colossians and Philemon (prison epistles);
ROMANS: “CHRIST OUR RIGHTEOUSNESS” (1:16-17)
Romans 1:16-17 For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ, for it is the
power of God to salvation for everyone who believes, for the Jew first and also
for the Greek. 17 For in it the righteousness of God is revealed from faith to
faith; as it is written, “The just shall live by faith.” (NKJV)
From about AD 57-58 written looking out the window at Corinth on Paul’s 3rd journey. Paul’s letter
to Rome is better known in the church than any other, and is probably the singly most important
book in the N.T. because it lays down the great doctrines of justification by faith alone. The key
verse outlines the message of the entire book as:
THE PERSON OF THE GOSPEL IS CHRIST;
THE POWER OF THE GOSPEL IS GOD;
THE PURPOSE OF THE GOSPEL IS SALVATION;
THE PEOPLE OF THE GOSPEL ARE ALL;
THE PLAN OF THE GOSPEL IS BELIEF AND
THE RESULT OF THE GOSPEL IS LIVING BY FAITH!
Paul uses the expression “in Christ” to describe the new life of a believer. This
term is found no less than 164 times, as justified in Christ ” (Gal. 2:17), ” God’s
righteousness in him ” (2 Cor 5: 21). This blessed, life-penetrating secret is
central to all his letters. Thus:
Ü IN ROMANS -JUSTIFICATION IN CHRIST;
Ü IN CORINTHIANS -SANCTIFICATION IN CHRIST;
Ü IN GALATIANS -FREEDOM IN CHRIST;
Ü IN EPHESIANS-ONENESS IN CHRIST;
Ü IN PHILIPPIANS-JOY IN CHRIST;
Ü IN COLOSSIANS-FULNESS IN CHRIST;
Ü IN THESSALONIANS – GLORIFICATION IN CHRIST.
I CORINTHIANS: “CHRIST OUR SOLUTION TO
SPIRITUAL PROBLEMS” (2:6-8)
1 Corinthians 2:6-7 However, we speak wisdom among those who are mature, yet not the
wisdom of this age, nor of the rulers of this age, who are coming to nothing. 7 But we speak the
wisdom of God in a mystery, the hidden [wisdom] which God ordained before the ages for our
glory, (NKJV).
This letter comes about AD 57 from Ephesus on Paul’s 3rd journey. At Corinth, Paul spent oneand-one-half
years developing the church. His longest letters and most impassioned
correspondence were to those trouble believers. Their affluent and fast-growing port town brought
them an inordinate amount of contact with immorality, pagan religion, and philosophy. Their
problems with arrogance, leader-worshiping cliques, immorality, divorce, and misunderstandings
of spiritual gifts are systematically addressed in response to their questions.
II CORINTHIANS: “CHRIST OUR SUFFICIENCY” (3:5)
2 Corinthians 3:5 Not that we are sufficient of ourselves to think of anything as
[being] from ourselves, but our sufficiency [is] from God, (NKJV)
In AD 57 Paul writes again to his beloved Corinthian church from Macedonia just after leaving
Philippi.
GALATIANS: “CHRIST OUR LIBERTY” (5:1)
Galatians 5:1 Stand fast therefore in the liberty by which Christ has made us free, and do not be
entangled again with a yoke of bondage. (NKJV)
About AD 45 from Jerusalem Council. Galatians was written to counter false
teaching about Christianity and the law and the relationship between faith and
works. When the grace of God through His Spirit is rooted in our lives we find
His fruit. This fruit reaches into:
ü our walk with God (love, joy and peace),
ü our walk with others (gentleness, goodness and patience), and finally into
ü our personal walk (faith, meekness and self-control).
EPHESIANS: “CHRIST OUR SOURCE OF ALL” (3:20-21)
Ephesians 3:20-21 Now to Him who is able to do exceedingly abundantly
above all that we ask or think, according to the power that works in us, 21 to
Him [be] glory in the church by Christ Jesus to all generations, forever and
ever. Amen. (NKJV)
Shortly after Paul returned to Jerusalem from his third missionary journey (A.D.
57), he was arrested in the Temple courtyard, imprisoned in Caesarea for two
years, and tried by Felix and Festus. He then appealed to Agippa to be sent
to Rome for trial before Caesar. Though Agippa comments to Festus that
Paul might have been freed except for that appeal (Acts 26:32), Scripture
indicates it was clearly in God’s plan to send him to the empire’s capital, as yet
untouched by the apostles. While under house arrest in rented quarters in
Rome (about A.D. 59 to 61 or 62), Paul wrote four letters known as the prison
epistles. Of those, Ephesians is the best known for its tremendous theological
content, which seems to drift in long, flowing statements of praise for God’s
work in Christ.
PHILIPPIANS: “CHRIST OUR SOURCE OF JOY” (1:6)
Philippians 1:6 being confident of this very thing, that He who has begun a good work in you will
complete [it] until the day of Jesus Christ; (NKJV)
Paul and Silas visited Philippi, their first Macedonian contact, on their second
missionary journey in A.D. 52. To the saints and leadership of the church, Paul
writes of joyful submission to the will of God, regardless of the circumstances,
and uses the aweinspiring example of Christ Jesus as the model of humility
and mutual submission within the church.
COLOSSIANS: “CHRIST OUR LIFE” (2:10)
Colossians 2:10 and you are complete in Him, who is the head of all principality and power.
(NKJV)
Paul never ministered in nor even visited Colossae as he had Ephesus,
though one of his converts, Epaphras, had planted the church (1:7-8). Unique
to Colossians, is Paul’s attack against a local heresy that depreciated the
person of Christ and promoted ritualism, asceticism, and special, hidden
knowledge.
To counter that, Paul praises Jesus as the center and substance of the
universe. He presents:
ü the “deeper” life (1:22-23),
ü the “higher” life (2:6-7),
ü the “inner” life (3:12,16) and
ü the “outward” life (4:5).
I THESSALONIANS: “CHRIST OUR HOPE” (3:13)
1 Thessalonians 3:13 so that He may establish your hearts blameless in holiness before our God
and Father at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ with all His saints. (NKJV)
Addressed to one of Paul’s first churches in Greece, 1 Thessalonians
encourage the young believers to endure persecution, resist false teaching,
and live full and productive lives as they await Christ’s certain return.
In fact, each of 1 Thessalonians’ five chapters ends with encouragement based on the Rapture.
Through Christ’s Promised Coming We Have:
ü 1:10 = Present Hope Of Salvation
ü 2:19 = Future Joy Of Homegoing
ü 3:13 = Constant Cause For Holy Living
ü 4:17,18 = Constant Source Of Comfort
ü5:23 = Promise Of Completed Salvation
Now, we can finish our survey of the last 14 New Testament books. We start with Paul’s final letter
to his beloved Thessalonian Christians.
II THESSALONIANS: “CHRIST OUR CALLING” (1:11-12)
Therefore we also pray always for you that our God would count you worthy of
this calling, and fulfill all the good pleasure of His goodness and the work of
faith with power, 12 that the name of our Lord Jesus Christ may be glorified in
you, and you in Him, according to the grace of our God and the Lord Jesus
Christ. (NKJV)
Remember, the return of Christ is mentioned 318x in the 260 chapters of the
New Testament. And so, to these troubled saints Paul presents Christ as our
Security:
Ø when Suffering (1),
Ø when doubting (2) and
Ø when serving (3).
I TIMOTHY : “CHRIST OUR EXAMPLE” (4:12)
Let no one despise your youth, but be an example to the believers in word, in
conduct, in love, in spirit, in faith, in purity. (NKJV)
Timothy was a special disciples in whom Paul invested much time and to
whom he entrusted great responsibility. His letters to him are usually dated
after the events of Acts 28; tradition tells us Paul was then released from
prison and that he embarked on further missionary ventures from AD 62 to 67,
until his final imprisonment, trial, and execution.
II TIMOTHY: “CHRIST OUR GOAL” (4:7-8)
I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. 8
Finally, there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the
righteous Judge, will give to me on that Day, and not to me only but also to all
who have loved His appearing. (NKJV)
Sometime in the year AD 64, Paul the apostle looked out of the tiny grate that let in light to his
subterranean dungeon. The mamertinum prison was only a stones throw from the epicenter of the
world, the Roman Forum. Outside could be heard the crowds surging to the circus maximus, the
games and the great festivals. The mighty legions returned from victory after victory with dazzling
displays of plunder and captives. But in that solitary dungeon of dampness, deprivation and
discomfort, once again the spirit overshadowed the great apostle and began to breathe through
him the very Word of God. What is amazing is that with a shamelessly professed homosexual
emperor and a bloodthirsty mob of Romans behind him in self gratifying lust, Paul would write: “in
the last days … Men will…”he was saying, this is only the prelude. The fallen ego is evident but will
come to full bloom in days ahead.
Finally, in the late Autumn of life sits the Apostle who dominates the early years of the
church. Here awaiting execution in this most undesirable spot, is Saint Paul. Look at his last
words from this very spot. How did he make through so many terrible situations? Six secrets
we would do well to hear and learn from II Timothy 4:6-8
üHis Contentment was from God “For I am now ready to be offered”
üHis Confidence was in God “and the time of my departure is at hand”
üHis Courage was for God “I have fought a good fight”
üHis Faithfulness was to God “I have finished my course”
üHis Fidelity was of God “I have kept the faith”
üHis Focus was on God “Henceforth there is laid up”
TITUS: “CHRIST OUR BLESSED HOPE” (2:10-11)
Adorn the doctrine of God our Savior in all things. For the grace of God that
brings salvation has appeared to all men, (NKJV)
PHILEMON: “CHRIST OUR SOURCE OF
FORGIVENESS” (1:18)
But if he has wronged you or owes anything, put that on my account. (NKJV)
One of the shortest New Testament letters was written to a member of the
Colossian church, Philemon, to encourage him to act more like a Christian
than a Roman in accepting back his runaway slave.
HEBREWS: “CHRIST THE BEST OF ALL” (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 has sat
down at the right hand of the throne of God. (NKJV)
Sometime in the AD 60’s before the Temple was destroyed, some was
inspired by God to write Hebrews. Who? We cannot be sure. But the
anonymity of the author does not detract from the letter`s authority. Hebrews
speaks powerfully of the superiority of Christ, exalting Him over:
üthe angels (1-2),
ü Moses (3-4) and
üthe Aaronic priesthood (5-7), as well as
üthe superiority of His New Covenant and sacrifice over the old (8-10).
üChapters 11 to 13 plead for lives of faith in light of Christ’s work and
examples from the faithful of old.
JAMES: “CHRIST OUR TRUE FAITH ” (1:22)
But be doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves. (NKJV)
The earthly brother of Jesus who grew up with the boy
Jesus was saved after the resurrection of his brother. He
becomes one of the key leaders of the church. In about AD
45 as a pastor, he writes from Jerusalem. Some read James
as a counter to Paul when he says, “Faith, if it has no works,
is dead (2:17, NASB). But far from contradicting Paul, James
was talking about life-style. He draws from a rich heritage of
wisdom, the prophets, and his half-brother’s Sermon on the
Mount, to write about the life of faith that looks theologically
correct.
I PETER: “CHRIST OUR VICTORY” (1:3)
Blessed [be] the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who according to
His abundant mercy has begotten us again to a living hope through the
resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, (NKJV)
Some time around AD 61 Peter writes his letter encouraging all Christians to
live holy and faithful lives and to be willing to suffer unjust persecution after the
example of Christ. Peter challenges wives, husbands, elders, and young men
to exercise humility, service, and self-control.
II PETER: “CHRIST OUR TRUTH” (1:16)
For we did not follow cunningly devised fables when we made known to you
the power and coming of our Lord Jesus Christ, but were eyewitnesses of His
majesty. (NKJV)
Second Peter and Jude are so alike many have wondered why both are needed in the New
Testament. Because the Spirit inspired both they require careful study. Both deal urgently with an
insidious and dangerous heresy that threatens the very lives of believers. Peter says the key to
stability and growth is knowing God (1:5-11).
I JOHN: “CHRIST OUR FELLOWSHIP” (1:3)
that which we have seen and heard we declare to you, that you also may have
fellowship with us; and truly our fellowship [is] with the Father and with His Son
Jesus Christ. (NKJV)
John exhorts believers to show God’s love Christ, by individually and sacrificially meeting the
needs of others. He also commands us to turn from the world to love the Father. He stresses the
danger of false teachers and false (anti-) christs. He emphasizes the apostles’ teaching and the
witness of the Spirit.
II JOHN: “CHRIST OUR SEPARTION” (1:10-11)
If anyone comes to you and does not bring this doctrine, do not receive him
into your house nor greet him; for he who greets him shares in his evil deeds.
(NKJV)
III JOHN: “CHRIST OUR PROSPERITY” (1:2-3)
Beloved, I pray that you may prosper in all things and be in health, just as your
soul prospers. For I rejoiced greatly when brethren came and testified of the
truth [that is] in you, just as you walk in the truth. (NKJV)
JUDE: “CHRIST OUR SALVATION” (1:3)
Beloved, while I was very diligent to write to you concerning our common
salvation, I found it necessary to write to you exhorting you to contend earnestly
for the faith which was once for all delivered to the saints. (NKJV)
Jude was a second brother of Joseph and Mary in the earthly family of Jesus, who wrote a New
Testament book after coming to Christ. Jude uses images stretching from before the Flood to the
depths of the Pit where imprisoned fiends of unholy service wait in chains. He gives insight into
colorful Old Testament personages like Lot, Balaam, Korah, Enoch and Michael. Ending with one
of the strongest verses on our secure salvation, this book is a must read!
REVELATION: “CHRIST OURS TO WORSHIP” (19:10)
And I fell at his feet to worship him. But he said to me, “See [that you do] not
[do that!] I am your fellow servant, and of your brethren who have the testimony
of Jesus. Worship God! For the testimony of Jesus is the spirit of
prophecy.” (NKJV)
From the exile of Patmos, John gives a revelation of the character of the Lamb and the sovereignty
of God, both of which should encourage believers of all ages-not just the last-to “overcome the
world” with their faith and faithfulness toward God. Revelation contains more hymns of praise,
more words of adoration to the Lamb, the Father, and the Spirit than any other New Testament
book. Rather than try to identify the dragon and his beast, adore the true Trinity, sovereign over
space and time. The book is also outlined by Revelation 1:19 “Write:
üthe things which you have seen (the vision of Christ in His glory- chapter
1), and
üthe things which are (the vision of Christ and His church – chapters 2-3),
and
üthe things which will take place after this. (the vision of Christ and the
Universe, chapters 4-22).
In chapter 1 = He is the Eternal One.
In chapter 2-3 = He is the Refiner of His Body and the ChurIn chapter
In chapter 4-20 = He is the Judge of the Universe as He restores His people:
Israel.
In chapter 21-22 = He is the Lord of Eternity as He invites all His own to His
Kingdom.