Lesson 26
1. Who is the author of Scripture?
“The prophets have inquired and searched carefully … searching what, or what manner of time, the Spirit of Christ who was in them was indicating when He testified beforehand the sufferings of Christ and the glories that would follow” (1 Peter 1:10, 11).
Answer: Virtually every book of the Bible refers to Jesus Christ—even the Old Testament books. Jesus created the world (John 1:1–3, 14; Colossians 1:13–17), wrote the Ten Commandments (Nehemiah 9:6, 13), was the God of the Israelites (1 Corinthians 10:1–4), and guided the writings of the prophets (1 Peter 1:10, 11). So, Jesus Christ is the author of Scripture.
2. What is Jesus’ attitude toward the people of earth?
“God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life” (John 3:16).
Answer: Jesus loves us all with an unfailing love that passes understanding.
Scripture taken from the New King James Version®. Copyright © 1982 by Thomas Nelson, Inc. Used by permission. All rights reserved.
3. Why do we love Jesus?
“While we were still sinners, Christ died for us” (Romans 5:8).
“We love Him because He first loved us” (1 John 4:19).
Answer: We love Him because He loved us enough to die for us—while we were yet His enemies.
4. In what respects are a successful marriage and the Christian life similar?
“Whatever we ask we receive from Him, because we keep His commandments and do those things that are pleasing in His sight” (1 John 3:22).
Answer: In a healthy marriage, certain things are absolutely essential, like staying faithful to your spouse. There are also other things that might not appear to be critical, but if they bring joy to your partner, they become important. On the flip side, if they upset your partner, it’s wise to stop doing them. The Christian life is quite similar. Obeying Jesus’ commands is non-negotiable. Yet, in the Scriptures, Jesus has also provided us with guidelines for behaviour that bring Him pleasure. Just as in a loving marriage, Christians discover joy in doing things that bring happiness to Jesus, the One we deeply care for. We gladly engage in these actions. Likewise, we steer clear of anything that displeases Him.
5. What does Jesus say are the results of doing the things that please Him?
“If you keep My commandments, you will abide in My love. … These things I have spoken to you, that My joy may remain in you, and that your joy may be full” (John 15:10, 11).
Answer: The devil claims that to follow Christian principles is drab, dull, demeaning, and legalistic. But Jesus says it brings fullness of joy—and a more abundant life (John 10:10). Believing the devil’s lies brings heartache and deprives people of life that is “really living.”
6. Why does Jesus give us specific principles for Christian living?
Answer: Because they:
A. Are “for our good always” (Deuteronomy 6:24). As good parents teach good principles to their children, so Jesus teaches good principles to His children.
B. Set for us a safeguard from sin (Psalm 119:11). Jesus’ principles protect us from entering the danger zones of Satan and sin.
C. Show us how to follow in Christ’s footsteps (1 Peter 2:21).
D. Bring us true joy (John 13:17).
E. Give us an opportunity to express our love for Him (John 15:10).
F. Help us be a good example to others (1 Corinthians 10:31–33; Matthew 5:16).
7. According to Jesus, how should Christians relate to the evil of the world and to worldliness?
Answer: His commands and counsels are clear and specific:
A. Don’t love the world or the things of the world. This includes (1) the lust of the flesh, (2) the lust of the eyes, and (3) the pride of life (1 John 2:16). All sin falls into one or more of these three categories. Satan uses these avenues to lure us into the love of the world. When we begin to love the world, we become an enemy of God (1 John 2:15, 16; James 4:4).
B. We must keep ourselves unspotted from the world (James 1:27).
8. What urgent warning does God give us regarding the world?
Answer: Jesus warns, us not to conform to the patterns of this world (Romans 12:2). It’s crucial to understand that the devil is not neutral; he continually exerts pressure on every Christian. By relying on Jesus (Philippians 4:13), we must firmly resist the devil’s temptations, and he will retreat (James 4:7). The moment we allow any other influence to affect our behaviour, we may start sliding into apostasy, often without even realizing it. Our conduct as Christians should not be determined by our emotions or what the majority does, but rather by the words of Jesus.
9. Why do we need to guard our thoughts?
“As he thinks in his heart, so is he” (Proverbs 23:7).
Answer: We must guard our thoughts because thoughts dictate our behaviour. God wants to help us bring “every thought into captivity to the obedience of Christ” (2 Corinthians 10:5). But Satan desperately wants to bring “the world” into our thoughts. He can do this only through our five senses—especially sight and hearing. He presses his sights and sounds upon us and, unless we consistently refuse what he offers, he will direct us into the broad way that leads to destruction. The Bible is clear: We become like the things we repeatedly see and hear (2 Corinthians 3:18).
10. What are some principles for Christian living?
“Whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy—meditate on these things” (Philippians 4:8).
Answer: Christians must separate themselves from all things that are not true, honest, just, pure, lovely, and of good report. They will avoid:
A. Dishonesty of every kind—cheating, lying, stealing, being unfair, intent to deceive, slander, and betrayal.
B. Impurity of every kind—fornication, adultery, incest, homosexuality, pornography, profanity, filthy conversation, off-colour jokes, degenerate songs, music, dance, and
most of what is shown on television and in movie theators.
C. Places where we would never invite Jesus to accompany us, such as nightclubs, taverns, casinos, racetracks, etc.
Let’s take a few minutes to understand the dangers of popular music and dancing, television, and the theator.
Music and Song
Various forms of secular music, like rap, country, pop, rock, heavy metal, and dance music, have often been influenced by negative forces. The lyrics in such music often glorify vice and can diminish a person’s inclination toward spiritual matters. Researchers have found some intriguing aspects of music: (1) It reaches the brain through emotions, bypassing rational thought; (2) It affects every aspect of the body; (3) It can change pulse, breathing rates, and reflexes without the listener realising it; (4) Certain rhythms can alter moods and induce a kind of hypnosis in the listener. Even without lyrics, music can impact a person’s feelings, desires, and thoughts. Many famous rock stars have openly acknowledged this. Mick Jagger, the leader of the Rolling Stones, said, “You can feel the adrenaline going through your body. It’s sort of sexual.” John Oates of Hall and Oates fame stated, “Rock ‘n’ Roll is 99% sex.” Such music doesn’t align with the teachings of Jesus. Former pagans from other cultures have mentioned that our modern secular music is similar to what they used in witchcraft and devil worship. So, it’s important to ask ourselves, “If Jesus were to visit me, what kind of music would I be comfortable listening to with Him?” If you’re unsure about certain music, it’s best to let it go. When we fall in love with Jesus, our musical tastes often change. “He has put a new song in my mouth—praise to our God; many will see it and fear, and will trust in the Lord” (Psalm 40:3). God has provided plenty of uplifting and spiritually nourishing music for His people. Those who accept degrading music as a substitute are missing out on one of life’s great blessings.
Worldly Dancing
Worldly, sexually suggestive dancing often leads us away from Jesus and genuine spirituality. In the Bible, we see examples like the Israelites dancing around the golden calf, which amounted to idol worship because they had forgotten God (Exodus 32:17–24). Another example is the daughter of Herodias, who danced before a drunken King Herod, leading to the beheading of John the Baptist (Matthew 14:6–10).
TV, Videos, and Theator
Consider the content you watch on TV, in theators, and on the Internet. Does it appeal to your lower instincts or higher values? Does it draw you closer to Jesus or steer you toward worldly desires? Does it glorify Jesus or promote sinful behaviour? Even individuals who aren’t Christians often criticise many TV and film productions. Satan has influenced billions through visual and auditory media, contributing to the proliferation of immorality, crime, and despair. Studies even suggest that without TV, there would be significantly fewer crimes like murders, rapes, and assaults. In light of this, Jesus, who loves you, encourages you to shift your focus away from media that promote negative influences and instead turn your attention to Him. As Isaiah 45:22 states, “Look to Me, and be saved, all you ends of the earth!”
11. What list does Jesus give us that we could use as a guide for watching television?
“The works of the flesh are evident, which are: adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lewdness, idolatry, sorcery, hatred, contentions, jealousies, outbursts of wrath, selfish ambitions, dissensions, heresies, envy, murders, drunkenness, revelries, and the like; of which I tell you beforehand … those who practice such things will not inherit the kingdom of God” (Galatians 5:19–21).
Answer: Scripture is too clear to misunderstand. If a family should ban all TV programs that exhibit or condone any of the above sins, there would be very little to watch. If Jesus came to visit you, what TV shows would you feel comfortable asking Him to view with you? All other shows are probably unfit for Christian viewing.
12. Many today feel capable of making spiritual decisions without input from anyone, including Jesus. What does Jesus say about such people?
Answer: Listen to Jesus’ unequivocal statements:
“You shall not at all do as we are doing here today—every man doing whatever is right in his own eyes” (Deuteronomy 12:8).
“There is a way that seems right to a man, but its end is the way of death” (Proverbs 16:25).
“The way of a fool is right in his own eyes, but he who heeds counsel is wise” (Proverbs 12:15).
“He who trusts in his own heart [mind] is a fool” (Proverbs 28:26).
13. What solemn warnings does Jesus give about the example and influence of our lives?
“Whoever causes one of these little ones who believe in Me to sin, it would be better for him if a millstone were hung around his neck, and he were drowned in the depth of the sea” (Matthew 18:6).
Let no man “put a stumbling block or a cause to fall in our brother’s way” (Romans 14:13).
“None of us lives to himself” (Romans 14:7).
Answer: We all expect leaders, people of influence, and celebrities to set a good example and use their influence wisely. But in today’s world, we are often disillusioned by the repugnant, irresponsible actions of these prominent individuals. Likewise, Jesus solemnly warns that Christians who disregard their own influence and example are in danger of leading people away from His kingdom!
14. What are Jesus’ principles of conduct regarding clothing and jewelry?
Answer: A. Dress modestly. Dress modestly. See 1 Timothy 2:9, 10. Remember that the world’s vices are brought into our lives through the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life
(1 John 2:16). Immodest dress involves all three and is off-limits for a Christian.
B. Lay ornaments and jewellry aside. Pride of life” is the issue here. Jesus’ followers should look different. Their appearance sends light to others (Matthew 5:16). Jewellry draws attention to and exalts self. In the Bible, it is often a symbol of backsliding and apostasy. For instance, when Jacob’s family rededicated their lives to God, they buried their jewelry (Genesis 35:1, 2, 4). Before the Israelites entered the Promised Land, the Lord commanded them to remove their ornaments (Exodus 33:5, 6). God says, in Isaiah chapter 3 that in wearing jewelry (bracelets, rings, earrings, etc., as listed in verses 19–23), His people were sinning (verse 9). In Hosea 2:13, the Lord says that when Israel forsook Him, they began to wear jewellry. In 1 Timothy 2:9, 10 and 1 Peter 3:3, the apostles Paul and Peter both share that God’s people will not adorn themselves with gold, pearls, and costly array. Please notice that Peter and Paul speak of the ornaments God wants His people to wear: “A gentle and quiet spirit” (1 Peter 3:4) and “good works” (1 Timothy 2:10). Jesus sums it up by symbolizing His true church in Revelation 12:1 as a pure woman clothed with the sun (Jesus’ brightness and righteousness) and the apostate church as a harlot bedecked with gold, precious stones, and pearls (Revelation 17:3, 4). God asks His people to separate from Babylon (Revelation 18:2–4) and all it stands for—including jewels that draw attention to self—and instead clothe themselves with the righteousness of Jesus. When we love Jesus, it is a sheer joy and pleasure to live His lifestyle.
15. How do conduct and obedience relate to salvation?
Answer: Christian obedience and conduct are the evidences that we have been saved by Jesus Christ (James 2:20–26). The fact is that unless one’s lifestyle changes, the conversion most likely was not genuine. Converted people will find their greatest joy in discovering Jesus’ will in everything and in joyously following where He leads.
Beware of Idolatry
The first epistle of John talks about Christian conduct. At its close (1 John 5:21), Jesus warns us through His servant John to keep ourselves from idols. The Master here is referring to anything that interferes with or lessens our love for Him—such as fashion, possessions, adornment, evil forms of entertainment, etc. The natural fruit, or result, of a true conversion is to follow Jesus happily and adopt His lifestyle.
16. Should we expect everyone to look with approval upon the Christian lifestyle?
Answer: No. Jesus said that the things of God are foolishness to the world because people lack spiritual discernment (1 Corinthians 2:14). When Jesus refers to conduct, He is laying down principles for those who are seeking to be led by His Spirit. His people will be grateful and will joyously follow His counsel. Others may not understand or approve.
17. How would a person who rejects Jesus’ standards for conduct view heaven?
Answer: Such people would be miserable in heaven. They would complain that there were no nightclubs, liquor, pornographic material, prostitutes, sensual music, profanity, nor gambling. Heaven would be “hell” for those who have not formed a true love relationship with Jesus. Christian standards simply make no sense to them
(2 Corinthians 6:14–17).
18. How can I follow these Bible guidelines without appearing judgmental or legalistic?
Answer: Everything we do should be motivated by our love for Jesus (1 John 3:22). When we prioritize exalting and revealing Jesus through our lives (John 12:32), many will be drawn to Him. We should constantly ask ourselves, “Will this [music, drink, TV show, movie, book, etc.] honour Jesus?” We should strive to sense Jesus’ presence in every aspect of our lives. Spending time with Him helps us become more like Him (2 Corinthians 3:18). People will recognize that we’ve been with Jesus, just as they did with the disciples of old (Acts 4:13).
Living in this way keeps us from becoming judgmental, legalistic, or pharisaical. In the Old Testament, God’s people often fell into apostasy because they adopted the lifestyle of their heathen neighbours instead of following the distinctive lifestyle God outlined for them (Deuteronomy 31:16; Judges 2:17; 1 Chronicles 5:25; Ezekiel 23:30). This remains true today. We cannot serve both the world and God (Matthew 6:24). Those who hold onto worldly ways will gradually be shaped by Satan, making them inclined to reject heaven and be lost. Conversely, those who follow Jesus’ conduct principles will be transformed into His likeness and prepared for heaven. There’s no middle ground.
19. Do you want to love Christ so much that to follow His principles for Christian living will be a joy and delight?
Answer:
Thought Questions
1. I know what God would have me do concerning my lifestyle, but I don’t feel I’m ready to begin doing it. What do you suggest?
Begin doing it today! Never depend on feelings. God guides through the words of Scripture (Isaiah 8:20). Feelings often lead us astray. The Jewish leaders felt they should crucify Jesus, but they were wrong. Many will feel saved before Jesus’ second coming, but they will instead be lost (Matthew 7:21–23). The devil influences feelings. If we depend on our feelings, he will lead us to destruction.
2. I want very much to do a certain thing. I realize, however, that because of its appearance, some might feel I am doing evil. What should I do?
The Bible says, “Abstain from every form of evil” (1 Thessalonians 5:22). And the apostle Paul said that if his eating of foods offered to idols offended somebody, he’d never touch those foods again (1 Corinthians 8:13). He also said that if he ignored the offended person’s feelings and continued eating flesh foods, he would be sinning.
3. It seems to me that churches list too many things I must do and too many things I must not do. It drives me up the wall. Isn’t following Jesus what really matters?
Yes—following Jesus is what matters. However, following Jesus means one thing to one person and something quite different to another. The only safe way to know what following Jesus means is to discover what Jesus says in the Bible on any question. Those who lovingly follow Jesus’ commands will one day soon enter His kingdom (Revelation 22:14). Those who follow man-made rules could be led away from His kingdom (Matthew 15:3–9).
4. A few of God’s requirements seem unreasonable and unnecessary. Why are they so important?
Children often perceive some of their parents’ rules (e.g., “Don’t play in the street”) as unreasonable. However, as they grow older, they often come to appreciate those rules. Similarly, we are like children when it comes to our relationship with God because His ways and thoughts are far beyond our own (Isaiah 55:8-9). Sometimes, we may not fully understand God’s requirements, but we should trust our loving heavenly Father and obey His will. He always has our best interests at heart (Psalm 84:11).
When we truly love Jesus, we will give Him the benefit of the doubt and follow His guidance even when we don’t fully comprehend it. The key to this is the new birth, which transforms our hearts and gives us the trust and willingness to follow Jesus in everything (1 John 5:4). Refusing to obey Him due to a lack of understanding displays a lack of trust in our Saviour.
5. Will I benefit from Jesus’ loving principles, laws, and commands?
Absolutely! Every principle, rule, law, or command of Jesus provides unbelievable blessings. The biggest lottery win in history pales into insignificance when compared to God’s rich blessings to His obedient children. Here are just a few benefits that come from following Jesus’ rules:
1. Jesus as a personal friend
2. Jesus as a partner in business
3. Freedom from guilt
4. Peace of mind
5. Freedom from fear
6. Indescribable joy
7. Longer life
8. Assurance of a home in heaven
9. Better health
10. No hangovers
Talk about riches! The true Christian receives benefits from his heavenly Father that even the richest people on earth can never purchase.
6. In regard to standards and lifestyle, do I have a responsibility to convict other people about them?
The best rule for us to follow is to be concerned about our own lifestyle. “Examine yourselves,” the Bible says in 2 Corinthians 13:5. When our lifestyle is as it should be, our example serves as a silent witness and we don’t need to lecture anyone. Of course, parents do have a special responsibility to help their children understand how to follow Jesus.
7. What are some of the greatest dangers for Christians today?
Among the greatest dangers are divided loyalties. Many Christians have two loves that divide the heart: a love for Jesus and a love for the world and its sinful practices. Many wish to see how closely they can follow the world and still be considered Christians. It won’t work. Jesus warned that no one “can serve two masters” (Matthew 6:24).
8. But isn’t it legalism to follow these rules of conduct?
Not unless a person is doing it in order to be saved. Salvation comes only as a miraculous, free gift from Jesus. Salvation by works (or conduct) is no salvation at all. However, following Jesus’ standards of conduct because we have been saved and love Him is never legalism.
9. Are Christian standards involved with Jesus’ command to let our lights shine?
Definitely! Jesus said that a true Christian is a light (Matthew 5:14). He said, “Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven” (Matthew 5:16). You don’t hear a light; you see it! People will see a Christian shine by his or her conduct—dress, diet, conversation, attitude, sympathy, purity, kindness, and honesty—and will often inquire about such a lifestyle and may even be led to Christ.
10. Aren’t Christian standards cultural? Shouldn’t they change with the times?
Customs and trends in society may change, but the standards set by the Bible remain constant. “The word of our God stands forever” (Isaiah 40:8). The church of Christ should not simply follow the cultural currents and human ideologies of the day; rather, it should lead by adhering to Jesus’ pure standards. When the church mimics the world in its appearance, speech, behaviour, and values, it loses its unique identity and its ability to provide spiritual guidance.
Jesus calls upon His people and His church to be distinct from the world, urging them to “come out from among them and be separate… Do not touch what is unclean, and I will receive you” (2 Corinthians 6:17). Instead of imitating the world, the church should strive to overcome the world. The world has led many astray, and the church must not contribute to this confusion. Instead, it should stand resolutely, calling people to listen to Jesus and raise their standards to align with His.
When an individual falls in love with Jesus and surrenders their life to Him, He will work the necessary transformations and guide them safely to God’s eternal kingdom. This is the only path to heaven.
11. Surely not all dancing is evil. Didn’t David dance before the Lord?
True—not all dancing is evil. David leaped and danced before the Lord as an expression of praise for His blessings (2 Samuel 6:14, 15). He was also dancing by himself. David’s dance was similar to that of the crippled man who leaped for joy after being healed by Peter in Jesus’ name (Acts 3:8–10). Such dancing, or leaping, is encouraged by Jesus to those who are being persecuted (Luke 6:22, 23). Dancing with those of the opposite sex (which can lead to immorality and broken homes) and lewd dancing (such as strippers) are the kinds of dancing condemned by the Bible.
12. What does the Bible say about people condemning and judging each other?
Judge not, that you be not judged. For with what judgment you judge, you will be judged” (Matthew 7:1, 2). “Therefore you are inexcusable, O man, whoever you are who judge, for in whatever you judge another you condemn yourself; for you who judge practice the same things” (Romans 2:1). How could this be clearer? There is no excuse or justification for Christians to judge anyone. Jesus is the Judge (John 5:22). When we pass judgment on others, we usurp Christ’s role as judge and become a miniature antichrist (1 John 2:18)—a solemn thought, indeed!
Quiz Questions
1. Jesus’ loving principles for conduct become a pleasure to follow when I fall in love with Him. (1)
_____ Yes.
_____ No.
2. Following Jesus’ standards of conduct because I have been saved and love Him is legalism. (1)
_____ Yes.
_____ No.
3. The real author of the Bible is Jesus. (1)
_____ Yes.
_____ No.
4. “Do not love the world” means that we shouldn’t love (1)
_____ Our country.
_____ The world as our planet.
_____ The sinful, wicked, and ungodly ways and things of this world.
5. Why does Jesus give us specific commands, laws, and rules? (5)
_____ For our good always.
_____ So we will know how to set a good example for others.
_____ To take away our freedom.
_____ So we can follow in Christ’s footsteps.
_____ To safeguard us from sin.
_____ To keep us under His thumb.
_____ To bring us true joy.
6. Two good rules for deciding what is proper Christian conduct are as follows: (2)
_____ Discover what the Bible says.
_____ Watch to see what church members do.
_____ Consult a ouija board.
_____ Go by your feelings.
_____ Ask yourself what Jesus would do.
7. Satan has access to us only through our five senses. (1)
_____ Yes.
_____ No.
8. For which facets of Christian conduct listed below does Jesus provide some specific counsel and guidelines? (5)
_____ How we dress.
_____ Healthful living.
_____ Ornamenting the body.
_____ Olympic skiing.
_____ Eating and drinking.
_____ Flying a plane.
_____ Buying a house.
_____ Example and influence.
9. How do conduct and obedience relate to salvation? (1)
_____ We are saved by our conduct and obedience.
_____ A saved person can ignore conduct and obedience and still be ready for heaven.
_____ Conduct and obedience are the evidence that one has been converted, or born again.
10. If I refuse to forsake something Jesus asks me to forsake—such as jewelry, rock music, or watching evil TV shows—God considers that unforsaken thing an idol. (1)
_____ Yes.
_____ No.
11. A Christian life is like a good marriage in that success comes when our aim is to please the one we love. (1)
_____ Yes.
_____ No.
12. Satan leads people into sin by which three of the avenues listed below? (3)
_____ Hiding their Bibles from them.
_____ Pride of life.
_____ Writing messages in the sky.
_____ Lust of the flesh.
_____ Lust of the eyes.
13. Guarding our thoughts is crucial, because thoughts become actions. (1)
_____ Yes.
_____ No.
14. Some promised benefits of faithfully following Jesus are as follows: (7)
_____ You will know how to prophesy.
_____ You will live a longer life.
_____ You will enjoy indescribable happiness.
_____ You will have better health.
_____ Your hair will not turn gray.
_____ You will be a millionaire.
_____ You will be assured of a home in heaven.
_____ You will have freedom from fear.
_____ You will have Jesus as a personal friend.
_____ You will enjoy peace of mind.
15. If my conduct offends a Christian brother, what should I do? (1)
_____ Ignore it. No one can please everybody.
_____ Fight it out, one to one.
_____ Try to get the brother disfellowshipped.
_____ Tell everybody so church members can choose sides.
_____ Stop doing the offending thing.
16. What does Jesus call a person who is determined to have his own way rather than listen to Bible counsel? (1)
_____ An independent thinker.
_____ A wise person.
_____ A fool.
17. A person who rejects Jesus’ standards for Christian living would (1)
_____ Suddenly begin to love spiritual things when he gets to heaven.
_____ Be repentant for his hardness of heart after a few days in the holy city.
_____ Be miserable in heaven.
18. I want to love Christ so much that to follow His principles for Christian living will be a joy and delight.
_____ Yes.
_____ No.Answer: We all expect leaders, people of influence, and celebrities to set a good example and use their influence wisely. But in today’s world, we are often disillusioned by the repugnant, irresponsible actions of these prominent individuals. Likewise, Jesus solemnly warns that Christians who disregard their own influence and example are in danger of leading people away from His kingdom!
