Last updated: 2026, March 27 00:48:10
Total pages: 1363 www.jesuswalk.com Homepage

• /1 page
• Bible Study -- the JesusWalk Bible Study Series
  More than 30 free, e-mail-delivered, in-depth Internet Bible studies to designed to build Christian disciples. Topics include: Old & New Testament -- Abraham, Gideon, Jesus. Bible study of Gospel of Luke, Ephesians, Philippians, James, Revelation. Topics -- the Church, the Sermon on the Mount, Christ's atonement.
• • books/55 pages
  • Bible Study Books - JesusWalk® Publications
    JesusWalk Bible Study Books and E-books by Dr. Ralph F. Wilson
  • Humility: Disciple's Guide to a Humble Life (180 pages), by Dr. Ralph F. Wilson
    A 7-lesson study humility in the Old and New Testaments, focusing on Jesus' teaching in the Gospels.
  • Faith of Abraham, Discipleship Lessons from the Patriarch of Genesis, a book by Dr. Ralph F. Wilson on Ibrahim or Abraham
    A 172-page study of life of Abraham, friend of God and Sarah (Sarai) his wife. It traces lessons of faith that we can learn as we observe Yahewh revealing himself to Abraham. It discusses covenant, promises, faith, God's names, sacrifices, and righteousness by faith and provides discussion questions for group study.
  • Discipleship Lessons from the Life of Jacob, A Bible Study Commentary on Genesis 25-49, a book by Dr. Ralph F. Wilson
  • Moses the Reluctant Leader: Leadership and Discipleship Lessons and Bible Study Commentary, by Dr. Ralph F. Wilson
    This life of Moses Bible study focuses on lessons that Moses learned about leadership in Egypt and in the wilderness -- lessons that modern-day Christian leaders do well to emulate.
  • Joshua: Courageous Discipleship, 150-page book by Dr. Ralph F. Wilson
    Study of the Book of Joshua, looking for disciple principles of courage, faith, listening, and obedience. Includes stories of Rahab, Caleb, Othniel, and Acsah.
  • Gideon: Discipleship Lessons from the Bronze Age. A 77-page Bible study in 4 lessons
    A study of the life of Gideon from the standpoint of lessons of faith for disciples. Examines the story's context in the period of the Judges, the conquest of Canaan, Gideon's victory over the Midianites and Amalakites, and his final setting up of a gold ephod which became a snare to the Israelites and his own family.
  • Life of David: Discipleship Lessons from 1 and 2 Samuel, a Bible Study Commentary by Dr. Ralph F. Wilson
    David's life is encouraging and inspiring. This book will guide you through studying the highs and lows of David's life, great lessons of faith, and powerful warnings against self-centered arrogance.
  • Grace: Favor for the Undeserving (book formats), by Dr. Ralph F. Wilson
    A 9-lesson study of grace in the Old and New Testaments, often seen in acts of compassion, mercy, and love.
  • Elijah: Rebuilding Yahweh's Altar (book formats), by Dr. Ralph F. Wilson
    A 9-lesson study of the first 12 chapters of the Acts of the Apostles, with focus on recurring themes.
  • Experiencing the Psalms - 250 page Bible study on the Psalter
    A Bible study of the Book of Psalms, with an emphasis on experiencing the joy, prayer, praise, and power of the Psalter, rather than merely an intellectual understanding.
  • Songs of Ascent (Psalms 120-134)(book formats), by Dr. Ralph F. Wilson
    The Psalms of Ascent are thought to be the songs sung by Jewish pilgrims on their way ascending up to Jerusalm for feast days. This book provides a brief devotional study of each of these 15 psalms.
  • Isaiah: Discipleship Lessons from the Fifth Gospel, a Bible Study Commentary by Dr. Ralph F. Wilson
    Isaiah's prophecy, with special emphasis on Messianic passages and ethical and spiritual lessons.
  • 28 Advent Scriptures: Readings and Resources for the Christmas Season(book formats), by Dr. Ralph F. Wilson
    A 9-lesson study of the first 12 chapters of the Acts of the Apostles, with focus on recurring themes.
  • Daniel: Faithful Discipleship in a Foreign Land, by Dr. Ralph F. Wilson
    A Bible study on the Book of Daniel, with an emphasis on the lessons that Jesus' disciples can learn about practicing their faith in a foreign culture and exploring prophecies of the Last Days.
  • Rebuild & Renew: The Post-Exilic Books of Ezra, Nehemiah, Haggai, Zechariah, and Malachi, by Dr. Ralph F. Wilson
    A 10-lesson study of the books of the Bible written about the period following the Exile, both prophets and historical books.
  • Names and Titles of God, Exposition and Bible Study
    A comprehensive 220-page book that examines the names, titles, descriptors, and metaphors of God, such as Yahweh, El, Elohim, Most High God, El Shaddai, Almighty God, Shepherd, Rock. Includes about 120 core names, with 219 variations.
  • Discipleship Training in Luke's Gospel, by Dr. Ralph F. Wilson
    805-page book examines each event, teaching, and parable of Jesus in the Gospel of Luke. For personal use, class or small groups, or sermon preaching preparation.
  • Christmas Incarnation: Advent Bible Study of Jesus' Birth and of Mary, Joseph, Angels, and the Wise Men
    A four-week Advent Bible study on the major characters of the Christmas story -- Mary, Joseph, the shepherds, and the wisemen. Designed for small groups or as an interactive online Bible study
  • Sermon on the Mount: The Jesus Manifesto, Commentary on Matthew 5-7, by Dr. Ralph F. Wilson
    A 200-page e-book on Jesus' Sermon on the Mount from Matthew 5-7. Materials for personal study, small group discussion, and preaching preparation.
  • John's Gospel: A Discipleship Journey with Jesus, by Dr. Ralph F. Wilson
    A Bible study commentary that will cover the Fourth Gospel in about 40 lessons. For personal growth, classes and small groups, and for teachers and sermon preparation.
  • The 7 Last Words of Christ from the Cross - A Devotional sible Study book and meditation on the Seven Last Words for Lent, Holy Week, and Good Friday
    A devotional Bible study book and meditation on the Seven Last Words of Christ from the cross to help prepare your heart for Lent, Holy Week, Good Friday, and Easter.
  • Jesus' Parables for Disciples: Over 100 Stories, Analogies, and Figurative Sayings (book formats), by Dr. Ralph F. Wilson
    A 12-lesson study of Jesus' parables, intended to teach Kingdom truths to form his disciples.
  • Jesus and the Kingdom of God: Discipleship Lessons and Bible Study Commentary, by Dr. Ralph F. Wilson
    A book of discipleship lessons taught by Jesus as he introduced his followers to the Kingdom of God or Kingdom of Heaven. This is part of the JesusWalk Bible Study Series. It examines themes deliberate obedience, following, and commitment to the King and his Kingcom
  • Resurrection and Easter Faith, Lenten Bible study and Discipleship Lessons for sermons and teachers
    A 5-week Lenten study of Christ's resurrection as well as the resurrection of Christian believers at the Last Day. Considers the Old Testament and promises, John's account of Jesus' resurrection, proofs of the resurrection, the meaning and significance of Christ's rising again, and our hope of being raised after death.
  • Apostle Peter: Disciple Lessons from the Rock, by Dr. Ralph F. Wilson
    An 11-lesson study of the Apostle Peter's life and teachings.
  • Lord's Supper: Disciple's Guide to the Eucharist or Communion (book), by Ralph F. Wilson
    A Bible study on the Lord's Supper, known as Mass, the Eucharist, and Communion. We'll study such topics as Christ's body and blood as bread and wine, remembrance, proclaiming his death, koinonia, participation, sharing, broken body, blood poured out for many, the New Covenant, cup of blessing, one loaf, eating flesh, drinking blood, and the marriage supper of the lamb. We'll touch on transubstantiation.
  • Apostle Paul: Passionate Discipleship (book formats), by Dr. Ralph F. Wilson
    An 11-lesson study of the life and teachings of the Apostle Paul, using Acts as the chronological backbone, with supplements from Paul's letters
  • The Early Church: Acts 1-12 (book formats), by Dr. Ralph F. Wilson
    A 9-lesson study of the first 12 chapters of the Acts of the Apostles, with focus on recurring themes.
  • Ephesians: Discipleship Lessons (second edition), by Dr. Ralph F. Wilson
    A study of the Epistle of St. Paul to the Ephesian Church in Ephesus. This deep, spiritual letter discusses our position in Christ, the Body of Christ, salvation by grace through faith, our Christian inheritance, unity of the church, prayer, ministry, ethical right living, and instructions to fathers, husbands, wives, children, masters, employees, and employers. Concludes with spiritual warfare. Part of the JesusWalk Bible Study Series.
  • Christ Powered Life (Romans 5-8), a book by Dr. Ralph F. Wilson
    A 195-page e-book on the Christ Powered Life (Romans 5-8). Materials for personal study, small group discussion, and preaching preparation.
  • 1 Corinthians: Discipleship Lessons for a Troubled Church, by Dr. Ralph F. Wilson
    A commentary and Bible study on Paul's first epistle to the Corinthian church. This wide-ranging letter covers key areas of church life -- unity, the Lord's Supper, spiritual gifts, giving.
  • 2 Corinthians: Discipleship Lessons and Bible Study Commentary, by Dr. Ralph F. Wilson
    A commentary and Bible study on Paul's second epistle to the Corinthian church. It is the most personal of Paul's letters and contains powerful spiritual lessons for disciples.
  • Galatians: Discipleship Lessons, by Dr. Ralph F. Wilson
    A commentary and Bible study on Paul's epistle to the Galatian church. It is the most intense of Paul's letters and contains powerful spiritual lessons for disciples.
  • Philippians: Disciple Lessons, Exposition and Bible Study, by Dr. Ralph F. Wilson
    A 138-page book on the Epistle or Letter of Philippians. For personal use, class or small groups, or sermon preaching preparation.
  • Christ Is Supreme! Discipleship Lessons from Colossians and Philemon, A Bible Study Commentary by Dr. Ralph F. Wilson
    A Bible study commentary on Paul's Epistles or Letters to the Colossians and to Philemon, part of the JesusWalk Bible Study Series. It examines themes of Christ's supremacy, Christian freedom from legalism, and a healthy Christian lifestyle.
  • 1 and 2 Thessalonians: Discipleship Lessons, a Bible Study Commentary by Dr. Ralph F. Wilson
    Paul's letters to the church at Thessalonica, a Bible study commentary in 9 lessons.
  • 1 & 2 Timothy and Titus: Leadership and Discipleship Lessons from the Pastoral Epistles, by Dr. Ralph F. Wilson
    1 and 2 first leadership second Timothy Bible Study free disciple leaders Pauline Paul Ephesus
  • 1 and 2 Peter with Jude: Discipleship Lessons from the Fisherman, by Dr. Ralph F. Wilson.
    A 144-page e-book on the First Peter, the first New Testament epistle or letter of St. Peter. Materials for personal study and preaching preparation, with questions for small group discussion on 1st Peter.
  • Disciple Lessons from Hebrews, 205-page Bible study on the Epistle to the Hebrews in 13 lessons
    A Bible study on the Letter or Epistle to Hebrews, pointing to Jesus Christ and the New Covenant as superior to all that had come before under the Old Covenant. Jesus is seen as superior to angels, tasting death for everyone, the giver of a sabbath rest, and our high priest. The author argues that we have a better covenant, tabernacle, and sacrifice. He calls for boldness of faith, endurance, love, and looking unto Jesus.
  • James: Practical Discipleship, by Dr. Ralph F. Wilson
    A 106-page book on the Epistle or Letter of James. For personal use, class or small groups, or sermon preaching preparation.
  • John's Letters: Discipleship Lessons from First (1st), Second, and Third Epistles of St. John the Apostle and Evangelist, a book by Dr. Ralph F. Wilson
    1st 2nd 3rd first second third epistles letters Bible Study free discipleship apostle evangelist St. John Ephesus
  • Revelation: Disciple Lessons from the Book of Revelation, an book by Dr. Ralph F. Wilson
    A 113-page book on the Book of Revelation, the Apocalypse of St. John. Materials for personal study and preaching preparation, with charts and questions for small group discussion. Examines materials on the eschatalogical and apocalyptic.
  • Conquering Lamb of Revelation (book formats), by Dr. Ralph F. Wilson
  • Grace: Favor for the Undeserving (book formats), by Dr. Ralph F. Wilson
    A 9-lesson study of grace in the Old and New Testaments, often seen in acts of compassion, mercy, and love.
  • The Glorious Kingdom: A Disciple's Guide to Kingdom Glory and Authority, 104-page book by Dr. Ralph F. Wilson
    Study of the twin themes of Kingdom and Glory in the Old and New Testaments, with focus on the tabernacle in the wilderness, Daniel's prophecy of the Son of Man, glory in Jesus, being transformed by glory, and Christ's glorious return.
  • Great Prayers of the Bible: Discipleship Lessons in Petition and Intercession, by Dr. Ralph F. Wilson
    A 178-page book and Bible study, examining great prayers by Abraham, Moses, David, Hezekiah, Daniel, Nehemiah, Jesus, and Paul. For personal use, class or small groups, or sermon preaching preparation.
  • Disciple's Guide to the Holy Spirit (book formats), by Dr. Ralph F. Wilson
    An 11-lesson study of the Holy Spirit in the OT and Jesus' ministry, plus explorations of being born of the Spirit, the Spirit with, the baptism with the Spirit, gifts of the Spirit, Spirit vs. flesh, and living in the Spirit.
  • JesusWalk: Beginning the Journey, new believer discipleship and spiritual formation curriculum
    Explains how to implement the JesusWalk: Beginning the Journey program for discipleship and spiritual development of new believers within your church or group
  • Caminando con Jesús: Comenzando el Viaje. Discípulado y Lecciones de Formación Espiritual
    Esta cuidadosamente diseñado, 12- lecciónes para enseñar y comentar, un plan de estudios diseñados para ayudar a los nuevos creyentes a crecer saludablemente.
  • Lamb of God: Jesus' Atonement for our Sins Book and Bible Study (Agnes Dei)
    A 74-page, 5-week Bible study on Jesus as the Lamb of God (Agnus Dei), focusing on themes of redemption and atonement from sin through Christ's sacrifice on the cross.
  • Listening for God's Voice: A Disciple's Guide to a Closer Walk, a book by Dr. Ralph F. Wilson
    A 5-lesson study of Bible background and practical assignments designed to develop a sensitivity to discern the voice of God.
  • Escuchando la voz de Dios: Una guía para discípulos para un caminar más cercano, por Dr. Ralph F. Wilson
    A 5-lesson study of Bible background and practical assignments designed to develop a sensitivity to discern the voz of God.
  • Names and Titles of Jesus - A Discipleship Study, 190-page book
    Bible study on the names, titles, descriptors, and metaphors of Jesus Christ, with an emphasis on how disciples can both learn from them as well as make them a focus of meditation.
  • The Discipleship Process: Biblical Models for Spiritual Formation, by Dr. Ralph F. Wilson
    A six-lesson study of Biblical models of spiritual formation so we can (1) grow well ourselves as Jesus' disciples, and (2) be more effective in discipling others.
  • podcast/1 page
  • Podcasts - JesusWalk Bible Study Series
  • search/1 page
  • Search -- the JesusWalk Bible Study Series
    Search both jesuswalk.com and joyfulheart.com for key words.
  • menu/1 page
  • How to Improve Your Personal Bible Study
    Provides guidance in Bible study methods and an attitude and approach to personal Bible studies.
  • beginning/23 pages
  • JesusWalk® Beginning the Journey - new Christian discipleship training and spiritual formation curriculum for new believers and converts
    JesusWalk: Beginning the Journey is conceived as a mentor-based, spiritual formation and discipleship program for new Christians that will be available internationally to help new believers understand and begin to practice the basic disciplines of the Christian life.
  • Dr. Ralph F. Wilson was interviewed about discipleship on The Harvest Show, LeSEA Broadcasting Network, on October 21, 2010
    On October 21, 2010, Dr. Ralph F. Wilson, director of the JesusWalk Bible Series was interviewed on The Harvest Show on the LeSEA Broadcasting Network by hosts Valerie G. Lowe and Drew Sumrall on discipleship, JesusWalk: Beginning the Journey for new Christians, new believers.
  • Introduction to JesusWalk: Beginning the Journey discipleship curriculum for new Christian spiritual formation
    Introduces the basic conceptual framework and approach to a mentor-based teaching and discussing curriculum to disciple new Christians and provide spiritual formation.
  • 1. Rescue - Grace and Forgiveness. JesusWalk: Beginning the Journey, new believer discipleship and spiritual formation
    This lesson lays out the basics of salvation for a brand new Christian. It discusses concepts of salvation, love, forgiveness, acceptance, grace, and mercy. Then it introduces baptism. Part 1 of a discipleship or spiritual formation curriculum for new believers.
  • 2. Disciple - Following Jesus Daily. JesusWalk: Beginning the Journey, new believer discipleship and spiritual formation
    Designed for new believers, this lesson discusses the terms Christian, believer, disciple, and Christ-follower. Then it introduces the Bible, the basics of prayer, and beginning a quiet time or devotional time.
  • 3. Temptations - Getting Victory over Sin. JesusWalk: Beginning the Journey, new believer discipleship and spiritual formation
    Designed for new Christians, defines sin, introduces Satan, the adversary, the Holy Spirit, and strategies to resist temptation, plus repentance, confession, and forgiveness.
  • 4. Fellowship - Connecting to a Community of Christians. JesusWalk: Beginning the Journey, new believer discipleship and spiritual formation
    Explains to new Christians the need for fellowship with other believers, concepts of the church: family, body, and flock, sizes of churches, benefits of churches, and a warning against church-hopping
  • 5. Love - The Core of Christianity. JesusWalk: Beginning the Journey, new believer discipleship and spiritual formation
    Explains to new Christians the concept of love as the heart of God, the two greatest commandments, the need to forgive others, love as a strength, and the Love Chapter.
  • 6. Gospel - Understanding Christ's Story. JesusWalk: Beginning the Journey, new believer discipleship and spiritual formation
    Explains to new Christians the basic elements of the Gospel: (1) God's Love, (2) Jesus' Incarnation, (3) Jesus' Atonement on the cross and the Lord's Supper or Eucharist, (4) Jesus' resurrection from the dead, and (5) the indwelling presence of the Holy Spirit.
  • 7. Holy Spirit - The Power of God's Presence. JesusWalk: Beginning the Journey, new believer discipleship and spiritual formation
    For a new Christian, explains who the Holy Spirit is, his work of convincing and convicting, of giving life, and growing in us the fruit of the Spirit. Explains the gifts of the Spirit, and asserts that nothing is impossible.
  • 8. Witness - Learning to Share Your Faith. JesusWalk: Beginning the Journey, new believer discipleship and spiritual formation
    Designed for new Christians, explains the idea of being a witness, bearing one's testimony as part of the Great Commission. Explains the Holy Spirit's role in sharing your faith, provides some cautions, and emphasizes the centrality of love.
  • 9. Worship - Communing with God. JesusWalk: Beginning the Journey, new believer discipleship and spiritual formation
    For new believers, differentiates between external and heart worship, discusses worship styles and various ways of offering worship: praise, singing, thanksgiving, confession, prayers, tithes, offerings, and the conduct of one's life. Explains various postures in worship, as well as what we receive during worship.
  • 10. Generosity and Service - Love in Action. JesusWalk: Beginning the Journey, new believer discipleship and spiritual formation
    For new believers, explains that love motivates our generosity and service. Explains the importance of helping the poor, promoting justice for all. Discusses tithing and the concept that we are managers and stewards, not owners.
  • 11. Bible - Guidebook for Living. JesusWalk: Beginning the Journey, new believer discipleship and spiritual formation
    For new believers, explains what is meant by the inspiration of the Bible, the authority of Scripture, and the illumination by the Spirit. Explains how love fulfills the law and the prophets, reasons why we should read the Bible. provides information on the New Testament books, translations, study Bibles, Scripture memory, and daily Bible reading plans.
  • 12. Lord - Obedient Servants of the King. JesusWalk: Beginning the Journey, new believer discipleship and spiritual formation
    For new believers, discusses the role of disciples to follow Jesus and obey him. Explains the priority he demands, and his position as Lord, Christ, Messiah, and King. We are his humble, servants, but are also called to be his friends.
  • beginning-handouts.pdf
  • Role of the Mentor - JesusWalk: Beginning the Journey new believer discipleship and spiritual formation curriculum
    Explains how to select and train mentors for the JesusWalk: Beginning the Journey program for discipleship and spiritual development of new believers within your church or group
  • For Pastors and Church Leaders, explaining JesusWalk: Beginning the Journey new believer discipleship and spiritual formation curriculum
    Explains how to implement the JesusWalk: Beginning the Journey program for discipleship and spiritual development of new believers within your church or group.
  • How to Select a Bible - JesusWalk: Beginning the Journey new believer discipleship and spiritual formation curriculum
    Describes the various types of translations and then recommends several popular English Bible translations. Also gives features available in a study Bible.
  • Bible Reading Plans
  • Discipleship Resources, recommended in JesusWalk: Beginning the Journey discipleship and spiritual formation curriculum for new believers
    Here are some excellent books and magazines on discipleship and spiritual formation.
  • Reprint Guidelines for JesusWalk: Beginning the Journey
  • Evaluation for JesusWalk: Beginning the Journey
  • comenzando/19 pages
  • Caminando con Jesús: Comenzando el Viaje. Discípulado y Lecciones de Formación Espiritual
    Esta cuidadosamente diseñado, 12- lecciónes para enseñar y comentar, un plan de estudios diseñados para ayudar a los nuevos creyentes a crecer saludablemente.
  • Autor y Traductor. Caminando con Jesús: Comenzando el Viaje. Discípulado y Lecciones de Formación Espiritual
  • Introducción. Caminando con Jesús: Comenzando el Viaje. Discípulado y Lecciones de Formación Espiritual
  • 1. Rescate - Gracia y Perdón. Caminando con Jesús: Comenzando el Viaje. Discípulado y Lecciones de Formación Espiritual
  • 2. Discípulos - Seguir a Jesús Diariamente. Caminando con Jesús: Comenzando el Viaje. Discípulado y Lecciones de Formación Espiritual
  • 3. Tentaciones - Victoria Sobre el Pecado. Caminando con Jesús: Comenzando el Viaje. Discípulado y Lecciones de Formación Espiritual
  • 4. Compañerismo - Conexión a una Comunidad de los Cristianos. Caminando con Jesús: Comenzando el Viaje. Discípulado y Lecciones de Formación Espiritual
  • 5. El Amor - el Núcleo del Cristianismo. Caminando con Jesús: Comenzando el Viaje. Discípulado y Lecciones de Formación Espiritual
  • 6. Evangelio - Comprendiendo la Historia de Cristo. Caminando con Jesús: Comenzando el Viaje. Discípulado y Lecciones de Formación Espiritual
  • 7. El Espíritu Santo - Poder de la Presencia de Dios. Caminando con Jesús: Comenzando el Viaje. Discípulado y Lecciones de Formación Espiritual
  • 8. Testificar - Compartiendo Su Fe. Caminando con Jesús: Comenzando el Viaje. Discípulado y Lecciones de Formación Espiritual
  • 9. Culto - Comunión con Dios. Caminando con Jesús: Comenzando el Viaje. Discípulado y Lecciones de Formación Espiritual
  • 10. La Generosidad y el Servicio - Amor en Acción. Caminando con Jesús: Comenzando el Viaje. Discípulado y Lecciones de Formación Espiritual
  • 11. Biblia - Guía para la Vida. Caminando con Jesús: Comenzando el Viaje. Discípulado y Lecciones de Formación Espiritual
  • 12. Señor - Siervos Obedientes del Rey. Caminando con Jesús: Comenzando el Viaje. Discípulado y Lecciones de Formación Espiritual
  • Apéndice 1. El Papel del Mentor. Caminando con Jesús: Comenzando el Viaje. Discípulado y Lecciones de Formación Espiritual
  • Apéndice 2. Para Pastores y Líderes de la Iglesia. Caminando con Jesús: Comenzando el Viaje. Discípulado y Lecciones de Formación Espiritual
  • Apéndice 3. Cómo Seleccionar una Biblia. Caminando con Jesús: Comenzando el Viaje. Discípulado y Lecciones de Formación Espiritual
  • caminando-con-jesus-comenzando-el-viaje.pdf
  • sitemap/3 pages
  • www.jesuswalk.com Site Map, Page 1 - Bible Study -- the JesusWalk Bible Study Series. Generated by www.xml-sitemaps.com
  • www.jesuswalk.com Site Map, Page 2 - Bible Study -- the JesusWalk Bible Study Series. Generated by www.xml-sitemaps.com
  • www.jesuswalk.com Site Map, Page 1 - Bible Study -- the JesusWalk Bible Study Series. Generated by www.xml-sitemaps.com
  • discipleship/14 pages
  • The Discipleship Process -- Exploring Biblical Models for Spiritual Formation, by Dr. Ralph F. Wilson
    A six-lesson study of Biblical models of spiritual formation so we can (1) grow well ourselves as Jesus' disciples, and (2) be more effective in discipling others.
  • The Discipleship Process (Linking page)
  • discipleship-lesson-handouts.pdf
  • Preface to The Discipleship Process: Biblical Models for Spiritual Formation
    Introduces the purpose of the study, and provides background to the author's approach.
  • 1. What Is a Disciple? -- The Discipleship Process
    Examines the Great Commission and considers four synonyms: disciple, follower, believer, and Christian. Three analogies of discipleship: abiding in the vine (John 15:1-9), sitting at Jesus' feet (Luke 10:39), and taking his yoke upon us (Matthew 11:23-30). What Jesus expects of his disciples -- doing, obeying, continuing, and holding firmly, with grace when we slip.
  • 2. Jesus' Discipling Strategy -- The Discipleship Process
    We study the Gospels carefully to analyze how Jesus worked with his disciples -- selecting, spending time, teaching them to pray, teaching publicly and privately, rebuking, involving in ministry, and building a community of disciples.
  • 3. Paul the Disciple Maker -- The Discipleship Process
    Paul worked differently from Jesus, but quite effectively. We'll consider various passages on maturity in Christ; being 'formed in Christ'; correcting, rebuking, and exhorting; portraits of a disciple maker; use of his personal example; praying; mentoring; and writing letters.
  • 4. Elements of Discipleship Training -- The Discipleship Process
    Turning to making disciples in our day, we examine the essential elements of the gospel, various disciple-training curricula, and the roles of mentors and influencers.
  • 5. Spiritual Disciplines (part 1) -- The Discipleship Process
    We continue our study of spiritual disciplines with those that are typically practiced weekly, monthly, and annually. We'll also discuss developing a personal rule of life or spiritual trellis, as well as temptations to avoid.
  • 6. Spiritual Disciplines (part 2) -- The Discipleship Process
    We continue our study of spiritual disciplines with those that are typically practiced weekly, monthly, and annually. We'll also discuss developing a personal rule of life or spiritual trellis, as well as temptations to avoid.
  • 7. Becoming Both Disciple and Disciple Maker -- The Discipleship Process
    We conclude with the practicalities of growing as disciples ourselves and of discipling individuals, in small groups or classes.
  • Appendix 2. Various Approaches to Discipling (a conversation) -- The Discipleship Process
    A group of eleven active disciplers talk about how they approach discipling in groups and with individuals. Explain how spiritual disciplines or practices help form one's spiritual life and bring growth.
  • References and Abbreviations
    Full bibliographical references.
  • Reprint Guidelines
  • luke/139 pages
  • The 7 Essential Elements for Growing as Disciples, by Dr. Ralph F. Wilson
    Outlines the 7 essential elements needed to become a well-rounded, balanced, obedient disciple. All are vital; leave out one or two and you are lop-sided.
  • Discipleship Training in Luke's Gospel
    Dr. Wilson explains the purpose and focus of this 120-lesson, in-depth study of Luke's Gospel with an emphasis on how Jesus makes disciple -- then and now.
  • Artwork of Events in Jesus' Life
  • Portraits of Jesus Christ of Nazareth
    Portraits of Jesus of Nazareth, Christ the Son of God in the flesh.
  • Maps of Palestine in the New Testament
    Maps of Galilee, Judea, Samaria, Jerusalem, and a diagram of the Temple in the time of Jesus.
  • Discipleship Training in Luke's Gospel
    Links to the 120 lessons in this in-depth study of Jesus' instruction of his disciples as told in Luke's Gospel
  • What people are saying about Discipleship Lessons from Luke's Gospel
  • James J. Tissot Paintings on the Life of Christ
  • Preface to Discipleship Training in Luke's Gospel
    Dr. Wilson explains the purpose and focus of this 120-lesson, in-depth study of Luke's Gospel with an emphasis on how Jesus makes disciple -- then and now.
  • Introduction and Prologue to Luke's Gospel (Luke 1:1-4)
    Explains assumptions about Luke's Gospel, and the first four verses where Luke lays out his plan.
  • 1. A Voice Calling "Prepare" (Luke 3:1-6). Discipleship Training in Luke's Gospel
    Focuses on John the Baptist's origin, and revival ministry in the desert lands of Judea around the Jordan River.
  • 2. Produce the Fruit of Repentance (Luke 3:7-14). Discipleship Training in Luke's Gospel
    John the Baptist calls crowds to repentance, and gives specific guidance for what this repentance looks like in the lives of tax collectors and soldiers. He focuses on contentment vs. greed.
  • 3. Baptized with the Holy Spirit and Fire (Luke 3:15-18)
    Discusses John's statement that the Messiah will baptize with the Spirit and with fire, that is judgment.
  • 4. Baptism of Jesus and Anointing with the Holy Spirit (Luke 3:18-23a)
    Discusses the reasons for Jesus' water baptism, his anointing by the Holy Spirit, and the Father's words about his 'Beloved Son.'
  • 5. Jesus' Temptation (Luke 4:1-13)
    Explains the types of temptations Jesus faced, and how we experience similar temptations.
  • 6. Jesus' Commission (Luke 4:14-21)
    Jesus reads from the scroll of Isaiah in the Nazareth synagogue and announces his mission to heal the sick and set the captives free.
  • 7. Jesus' Rejection at Nazareth (Luke 4:22-30)
    Nazareth can't believe that their famous hometown boy is really the Messiah, so they don't receive his words, and try to kill him.
  • 8. Confronting Demons at Capernaum (Luke 4:31-37, 41)
    A demon-possessed or -oppressed man recognizes Jesus in the Capernaum synagogue. Jesus silences him and casts out the demon.
  • 9. Healing the Sick at Capernaum (Luke 4:38-44)
    Jesus heals Peter's mother-in-law in Capernaum, then all the sick in the whole town who come to his door that night.
  • 10. The Call of Peter, James, and John (Luke 5:1-11)
    Describes fishing in Jesus' time and the nature of the call to 'catch men alive,', to be 'fishers of men.'
  • Catch and Release. A Short Story based on Luke 5:1-11
    When Jesus calls Peter and Andrew he uses a Greek word that means 'to capture men alive' that inspired this short story.
  • 11. The Will to Make Lepers Whole (Luke 5:12-16)
    We believe Jesus CAN heal, but WILL he? That is the question raised by this passage about the leper.
  • 12. Healing the Paralyzed Man (Luke 5:17-26)
    Jesus heals the paralytic man let down from the roof by his friends to illustrate that he has authority not only to heal, but to forgive sins.
  • Appendix C. Religious Leaders in Jesus' Day - Discipleship Training in Luke's Gospel
    Survey of the various religious leaders in Jesus' day -- Pharisees, high priests, Sadducees, scribes, teachers of the law, lawyers, rabbi, teacher, and master.
  • Appendix D. The Son of Man, of Discipleship Lessons in Luke's Gospel
    Explains Jesus' use of the title Son of Man from Daniel 7:14 in preferenc over Christ or Messiah.
  • 13. Calling Levi the Tax Collector (Luke 5:27-32)
    Discusses the role of publicans or tax collectors in Roman Palestine, and the radical nature of Jesus calling Levi to be a disciple.
  • 14. New Wine in Old Wineskins (Luke 5:33-39)
    Jesus teaches that we can't combine his way of life, with the old traditions or old way of life, using images of old clothes and of brittle wineskins.
  • 15. Lord of the Sabbath (Luke 6:1-11)
    Discusses legalism vs. freedom, and Jesus healing the man with the withered hand.
  • 16. Selection of the Twelve Apostles (Luke 6:12-19)
    Describes traditions concerning the various apostles, and the sentence: 'Power was present to heal.'
  • 17. Blessings and Woes (Luke 6:20-26)
    Begins the Sermon on the Plain (which echoes the Sermon on the Mount in Matthew), 'Blessed are the poor ... woe to the rich.'
  • 18. Love Your Enemies (Luke 6:27-36)
    Jesus describes his radical way of life -- loving, not just friends but enemies and those who seek to do us harm.
  • 19. Forgiveness over Judgment (Luke 6:37-42)
    You will be judged with the same degree of strictness with which you judge others. Mercy is better!
  • 20. Good Tree, Good Fruit, Good Foundation (Luke 6:43-49)
    The importance of taking time to build our spiritual foundations deep and strong, so that when the trials come, we both endure and flourish.
  • 21. A Man with Authority (Luke 7:1-10)
    Jesus' heals the servant of a centurion in Capernaum, who understands the extent of Jesus' authority to heal, even at a distance.
  • 22. Raising the Widow's Son at Nain (Luke 7:11-17)
    We see Jesus' compassion as he brings back to life a grieving widow's son at Nain.
  • 23. Are You the One Who Is to Come? (Luke 7:18-28a)
    John the Baptist, now in Herod's prison, sends two disciples to inquire if Jesus is the Messiah they were looking for. Jesus responds by pointing to his messianic acts.
  • 24. The Least in the Kingdom Are Greater than John (Luke 7:28b-35)
    Jesus praises John the Baptist as the greatest prophet. But notes that those in the New Covenant are even greater -- because they have the Spirit.
  • 25. Anointing by a Sinful Woman (Luke 7:36-50)
    A sinful woman out of great love anoints Jesus feet with both tears and expensive perfume. She shows more love than the Pharisee host, and Jesus says that her obvious faith saves her.
  • 26. Women in Jesus' Traveling Band (Luke 8:1-3)
    Luke describes several women by name who travel with the disciples and support Jesus out of their means -- Mary Magdalene, Joanna, Susanna, and other.
  • 27. The Parable of the Soils, Part 1 (Luke 8:4-10)
    Discusses the nature of parables, how they are hidden to unbelievers, and outlines the soil types Jesus uses in his Parable of the Sower.
  • 28. The Parable of the Soils, Part 2 (Luke 8:11-15)
    Explains the meaning of the four soil types. Discusses whether some categories are saved, and what the 'thorns' might represent in our lives.
  • 29. Lamps Belong on Lampstands (Luke 8:16-21).
    Our light and testimony is to be displayed and given to all, not hidden secretively.
  • 30. Calming the Storm (Luke 8:22-25)
    When Jesus is in the boat, our lives, we won't drown. He will protect us.
  • 31. The Demonized Man of the Garasenes (Luke 8:26-39)
    Jesus goes out of his way to deliver a severely demon-possessed man who is a Gentile, and hows his power of thousands of demons.
  • 32. Touching the Hem of Jesus' Garment (Luke 8:40-48)
    A hemmorhaging woman has faith to believe that she will be healed if she touches Jesus.
  • 33. Raising of Jairus's Daughter (Luke 8:40-42, 49-56)
    Jairus, ruler of Capernaum's synagogue, implores Jesus to heal his daughter. When he gets there, the girl is dead, but he raises her up.
  • 34. Sending Out the Twelve (Luke 9:1-10)
    Jesus sends the Twelve on a training mission, preaching and healing in Galilee.
  • 35. Feeding the Five Thousand (Luke 9:10-17)
    To train the disciples, Jesus feeds the 5,000, asking first what the disciples had on hand, then having them pick up all the baskets of pieces remaining.
  • 36. Peter's Great Confession (Luke 9:18-21)
    Jesus asks the disciples who others say he is, then asks him directly. Peter answers for them: the Christ, the Messsiah!
  • 37. Taking Up Your Cross Daily (Luke 9:22-26)
    Jesus teaches his disciples the necessity of self-denial, sacrifice, being crucified, dying to our old life -- and do it on an everyday basis.
  • Appendix E. What Crucifixion Was Like in Jesus' Day. Discipleship Training in Luke's Gospel
    Explains details of the process of crucifixion by Romans in Jesus' time.
  • 38. The Transfiguration (Luke 9:27-36)
  • 39. Jesus Sternly Rebukes His Disciples (Luke 9:37-56)
    Being rebuked, sharply corrected, is part of being a disciple. Traces several rebukes in succession to train the disciples.
  • 40. Confronting the Disciples' Pride (Luke 9:46-56)
    Jesus confronts the discples' pride in seeking status, in a feeling of superiority over 'outsiders,' and calling down fire on a Samaritan village, a racial pride.
  • 41. The Priority of Following Jesus (Luke 9:57-62)
    Jesus' reaction to the excuses people give to not immediately following.
  • 42. The Harvest is Plentiful but the Laborers Few (Luke 10:1-8)
    Jesus sends out the 70 on a mission and gives clear instructions for this training exercise. Describes the harvest as 'plentiful.'
  • 43. The Thin Line between Receiving and Rejecting (Luke 10:5-16)
    Jesus' instructions on which towns to preach in, which to pass through. Says to look for a 'man of peace' who is receptive to stay with.
  • 44. I Saw Satan Fall from Heaven (Luke 10:17-20)
    Jesus debriefs the Twelve after their mission. They were impressed with power over demons, but Jesus tells them to be thankful for their salvation, their names written in heaven.
  • 45. Joy Inspired by the Holy Spirit (Luke 10:20-24)
    Jesus marvels at the Father revealing his plan to 'little children,' his disciples, while hiding them from the 'wise.' Notes that no one knows the Father except those Jesus choose to reveal him to.
  • 46. The Parable of the Good Samaritan (Luke 10:25-37)
    When an opponent seeks to justify discrimination against non-Jews, Jesus tells the story of the Good Samaritan, defining a neighbor as anyone who is in need.
  • 47. Mary Listens while Martha Labors (Luke 10:38-42)
    Jesus teaches that learning from Jesus and following him takes priority over everything, even helping with the housework.
  • 48. The Lord's Prayer (Luke 11:1-4)
    Jesus gives his disciples a pattern prayer that teaches them the important elements of a prayer.
  • 49. Ask, Seek, Knock in Your Praying (Luke 11:5-13)
    Jesus teaches the disciples to pray boldly, persistently, expecting an answer. Contrast with passive prayers.
  • 50. Jesus vs. Beelzebub: Overpowering the Strong Man (Luke 11:14-28)
    Jesus is accused of Satan or Beelzebub Beelzebul (Lord of the Flies) as his power source. Jesus says that demons are driven out by a stronger man (himself) overpowering Satan who has held people captive.
  • 51. Good Eyes, Bad Eyes (Luke 11:29-36)
    Jesus challenges people to see with discernment with 'good eyes,' rather than faulty discernment of 'bad eyes.' The foreign people in the days of Jonah and Solomon could see God's truth, but Jesus' generation cannot.
  • 52. Woe to the Pharisees (Luke 11:37-44)
    Jesus chastises the Pharisees for their emphasis on tiny observances, but neglecting justice and the love of God. They are corrupt, unclean, driven by pride.
  • 53. Guard Against Hypocrisy (Luke 11:45-12:3)
    Jesus chastises the hypocricy of the scribes or teachers of the law. They have prevented others from faith and are the type that have killed the prophets, then built their tombs.
  • 54. Preparing for Martyrdom and Judgment (Luke 12:4-12)
    Jesus warns people not to fear those who can kill them, but God who can send them to hell. He promises that his disciples will be preserved through death, and the Holy Spirit will show them what to say in their final hours.
  • 55. Parable of the Rich Fool (Luke 12:13-21)
    Jesus warns against greed, always desiring more. He tells the parable of the rich farmer who tore down his barns and built more, only to die that same nite, not rich towards God.
  • 56. Winning the War against Worry (Luke 12:22-34)
    Jesus encourages disciples not to seek the necessities of life first, but his kingdom. God will take care of them. And he gives them the Kingdom of God.
  • 57. Waiting for the Master, Watching for the Thief (Luke 12:35-40)
    Jesus tells his disciles to ready and spiritually alert when he returns. They are to be like servants who stay awake and keep the lights on for their master who is expected to arive late, to stay awake so a thief doesn't break into the house undetected.
  • 58. Faithful Head Servants (Luke 12:41-48)
    Jesus' parable teaches that servants placed over others must faithfully fulfill their duties, even if it is a long time. Servants who stop caring will be punished. Punishment will be related to the previous knowledge we have had.
  • 59. Repent before Judgment Falls (Luke 12:49-13:9)
    All are in need of repentance, not just bad people, says Jesus. Standing for Jesus will bring division.
  • 60. Healing the Woman with a Bent Back (Luke 13:10-17)
    Jesus heals a woman with sciolosis and rebukes those who resent him healing on the Sabbath. Discusses whether sickness is always caused by sin.
  • 61. Parables of the Mustard Seed and the Yeast (Luke 13:18-21)
    Jesus uses a mustard seed and a lump of yeast to illustrate that, though the Kingdom of God seems small now, it will grow into a great and visible entity.
  • 62. Strive to Enter the Narrow Door (Luke 13:22-35)
    Jesus urges people to enter the Kingdom now, because later the opportunity will have passed. Laments Jerusalem's rejection and desolation, and the ouster of unbelieving Jews from the heavenly feast.
  • 63. Presuming Places of Honor (Luke 14:1-14)
    When Jesus is invited to a Pharisee's house for Sabbath dinner, he heals a man with dropsy, then teaches regarding humility in both where you seat yourself and in inviting guests to your own banquet.
  • 64. Parable of the Great Banquet (Luke 14:12-24)
  • 65. Cost of Discipleship (Luke 14:25-35)
    Jesus demands that his disciples consider whether they are willing to pay the price of discipleship before entering upon it -- giving up all!
  • 66. Parables of the Lost Sheep and Coin (Luke 15:1-10)
    Jesus illustrates the Father's seeking love and rejoicing over sinners being saved by telling parables of the Lost Sheep and the Lost Coin.
  • 67. Parable of the Prodigal Son (Luke 15:11-24)
    Jesus tells the story of the Lost Son to underscore the heavenly Father's love, seeking heart, and mercy towards sinners who stray, and his joy over them when they are found.
  • 68. Parable of the Elder Brother (Luke 15:25-32)
    The elder brother who resents his father's forgiveness and celebration of the returned prodigal son, illustrates the resentment of the scribes and Pharisees towards the tax collectors and sinners who are repenting.
  • 69. Parable of the Dishonest Steward (Luke 16:1-15)
    Jesus teaches about money -- using your money now to lay up treasures in heaven, not serving both God and Mammon, trustworthiness in handling money.
  • 70. Pressing Forcibly into the Kingdom (Luke 16:16-18)
    Jesus observes that those who enter the kingdom enter forcibly, seeking, pushing, striving to enter. Also discusses the endurance of the Mosaic Law.
  • 71. The Rich Man and Lazarus (Luke 16:19-31)
    Jesus tells a story to illustrate how materialism can send you to hell -- like Dives, while the poor in this life can go to heaven ('Abraham's bosom')
  • 72. Sin, Forgiveness, and Faith (Luke 17:1-6)
    Jesus teaches judgment on those who cause others to sin, and instructs his disciples to forgive whenever a person repents, even 7 times 70 times.
  • 73. Dutiful Servants (Luke 17:7-10)
    Jesus' disciples shouldn't expect God to pamper them, but to serve dutifully, without expecting special treatment.
  • 74. The Thankful Leper (Luke 17:11-19)
    Jesus healed 10 lepers, but only one came back to thank him, a Samaritan.
  • 75. The Kingdom in Your Midst (Luke 17:20-25)
    Jesus taught the Pharisees that the Kingdom was not to be observed, but was in their midst, in the Person of Jesus the King himself.
  • 76. One Is Taken, the Other Left (Luke 17:26-37)
    When Jesus comes, there won't be time to gather possessions. From people side-by-side, one will be taken, the other left.
  • 77. The Widow and the Unjust Judge (Luke 18:1-8)
    Jesus teaches persistence in prayer through the Parable of a Widow who keeps pestering an unjust judge until he gives her what she is entitled to.
  • 78. The Pharisee and the Tax Collector (Luke 18:9-14)
    Contrasts the humility of the publican to the pride of the Pharisee, in regard to justification and answered prayer.
  • 79. Little Children Come to Jesus (Luke 18:15-17)
    Jesus little children to teach his disciples about the humility necessary to saving face.
  • 80. The Rich Young Ruler (Luke 18:18-23)
    Being a disciple requires giving up everything to follow Jesus -- which the rich young ruler was not willing to do, since he was a wealthy man.
  • 81. Leaving All to Follow (Luke 18:24-34)
    It is impossible for the rich to enter the kingdom; only God can make it possible. But self-sacrifice will be rewarded in this life and the next.
  • 82. A Blind Man's Insight and Insistence (Luke 18:35-43)
    Story of the healing of blind Bartimaeus outside of Jericho, seeing his great faith.
  • 83. Saving Zacchaeus (Luke 19:1-10)
    Jesus invites himself to Zacchaeus house for dinner in Jericho, while the chief tax collector repents and offers to give to the poor and restore those he cheated.
  • 84. Parable of the Ten Minas or Pounds (Luke 19:11-27)
    Similar to the Parable of the Talents, in this parable each servant receives the same modest amount of money to do business with in the king's long absence.
  • 85. The Triumphal Entry (Luke 19:28-40)
    Tells the story of Jesus securing a donkey, and then riding into Jerusalm to sounds of 'Hosanna to the Son of David', thus fulfilling prophecy.
  • 86. Weeping over Jerusalem and Cleansing the Temple (Luke 19:41-20:8)
    Jesus weeps as he sees Jerusalem's destruction in 70 AD. Then he cleanses the temple, throwing out the moneychangers.
  • 87. Parable of the Tenants and the Vineyard (Luke 20:9-19)
    Jesus' parable is an allegory, of God sending prophets and apostles, and finally his Son, to Israel, his vineyard, only to be rejected.
  • 88. Rendering to Caesar and to God (Luke 20:19-26)
    Jesus' enemies try to trick him into treason against Rome. Rather than falling for their trap, Jesus tells them to render to Caesar what is his.
  • 89. Marriage, the Resurrection, and the Christ (Luke 20:27-44)
    Discusses Jesus' answer to the Sadduccee's trick question concerning levirite marriage and the resurrection.
  • 90. The Poor Widow's Offering (Luke 20:45-21:4)
    Observing a widow give two mites or pennies to the offering, Jesus teaches the principles of proportional, sacrificial, and faith-filled giving.
  • 91. Nation Shall Rise against Nation (Luke 21:5-19)
    Jesus predicts the destruction of the temple, wars, famines, and epidemics before the end comes.
  • Appendix G. Introduction to Eschatology. Discipleship Training in Luke's Gospel
    Outlines one approach to understanding the End Times by conflating Jesus' teaching, Paul's teaching, and the Book of Revelation.
  • 92. Coming with Power and Great Glory (Luke 21:20-28)
    Jesus' coontinued teaching about the End Time, including the judgment upon Jerusalem, described later by Josephus, and the coming of the Son of Man in great glory and power.
  • 93. Watch and Pray (Luke 21:29-36)
    Conclusion of Jesus' teaching on the end time, with the Parable of the Fig Tree and an assurance of Jesus' coming in 'this generation,' with an exhortation to be alert and pray.
  • 94. Judas' Betrayal (Luke 21:37-22:6)
    Explores Judas' possible motives to betray Jesus, including greed, frustration, unbelief, pride, etc. And the role of Satan, whether or not Judas acted freely.
  • 95. The Last Supper (Luke 22:7-20)
    Explores Luke's unique insights into the Passover meal and Jesus last supper with his disciples, the Lord's Supper.
  • The Chronology of Holy Week. Appendix H in Discipleship Training in Luke's Gospel
    Lays out order and days of events during Holy Week.
  • 96. The Greatest among You Serves (Luke 22:21-30)
    Discusses Jesus' teaching on servant leadership and how he taught the position-seeking proud disciples humility and service.
  • 97. Simon, Strengthen Your Brothers (Luke 22:31-34)
    Tells Peter and the other disciples that he has prayed for them to survive Satan's sifting and persecution. Encourges Peter to strengthen his brothers, when he has recovered from his betrayal before the rooster crows in the morning.
  • 98. New Provisions for the Future (Luke 22:35-38)
    Jesus changes the instructions. Instead of going on mission trips with no provisions (which he used to teach them), Jesus now tells them to go fully prepared, with money, bag, sandals and sword.
  • 99. The Garden of Gethsemane (Luke 22:39-46)
    Jesus prays in agony in an olive grove in which he and his disciples had been staying during days preceding Passover. Pray that you don't fall to temptation, he tells his disciples.
  • 100. Jesus' Arrest (Luke 22:47-54)
    Describes Judas' kiss to identify Jesus to the temple soldiers, Peter cutting off the ear of Malchus the high priest's servant, and Jesus arrest.
  • 101. Peter's Denial (Luke 22:54-62)
    Places Peter in the high priest's courtyard, denying Jesus' three times, Jesus looking directly at him, the cock's crow, and Peter's bitter weeping.
  • 102. Jesus before the Sanhedrin (Luke 22:63-71)
    Chronicles Jesus being taken from the high priest's house to the meeting of the Sanhedrin, where Jesus is mocked and insulted. He declars they will see the Son of Man seated at the right hand of God, and declares himself the Son of God.
  • 103. Jesus before Pilate and Herod (Luke 23:1-25)
    Tells of Pilate's questioning of Jesus, and his appearance before Herod Agrippa. Pilate, under pressure from the Jewish leaders, releases Barabbas, and turns Jesus over to be crucified.
  • 104. Crucifixion: Father, Forgive Them (Luke 23:26-38)
    Tells of Simon of Cyrene carrying the cross, Jesus warning to the daughters of Jerusalem concerning terrible destruction, execution by crucifixion, mocking, wine vinegar, and the placard: This is the King of the Jews.
  • 105. The Thief on the Cross (Luke 23:39-43)
    Tells of the believing thief on the adjoining cross who asks to be remembered when Jesus comes into his heavenly kingdom. Jesus promises him paradise this very day.
  • 106. Darkness and Death (Luke 23:44-49)
    Describes the darkness, the curtain of the temple torn, Jesus' last words: 'Into your hands I commit my spirit,' and the words of the centurion that he was a righteous man.
  • 107. Burial in Joseph's Tomb (Luke 23:50-56)
    Describes Joseph of Arimathea as a rightous man, member of the Sanhedrin, his courage in asking Pilate for Jesus' body, and him placing Jesus body in his newly carved out tomb, with the women looking on.
  • 108. The Resurrection of Jesus Christ (Luke 24:1-12)
    Tells the account of the resurrection from the womens' perspective: missing body, stone rolled away, angels announcing that he has risen, telling the Elven apostles, and Peter's observation of the position of the grave clothes.
  • 109. Appearance on the Road to Emmaus (Luke 24:13-35)
    Jesus appears to Cleopas and another disciple on the road to the town of Emmaeus, explains the scriptures concerning him, breaks bread with them, disappears, and they return to Jerusalem to tell the apostles.
  • 110. Jesus Appears to His Disciples (Luke 24:36-46)
    In the upper room, Jesus appears to his disciples, and proves to them he is flesh and blood by showing them his wounds and eating some fish. Then he explains how the Scriptures are fulfilled in him.
  • 111. Mission and Power (Luke 24:47-49)
    Jesus gives his disciples the Great Commission, and tells them to wait in Jerusalem until they empowered by the Holy Spirit.
  • 112. Jesus' Ascension (Luke 24:50-53 with Acts 1:9-12)
    Jesus ascends into the clouds at Bethany on the Mount of Olives after blessing his disciples. The promise from angels is that he will appear in the clouds when he returns in the Second Coming.
  • A. Zechariah's Vision in the Temple (Luke 1:5-25)
    Luke's Gospel begins with a vision the priest Zechariah has in the temple, where an angel tells him he and his elderly wife will bear a son, who is John the Baptist.
  • B. Mary's First Lesson in Discipleship (Luke 1:26-38)
    The story of the anunciation to Mary by the Angel Gabriel, and her amazing response, 'I am the Lord's handmaiden, servant, may it be.'
  • C. Mary Visits Elizabeth (Luke 1:39-56)
    Mary visits her relative Elizabeth in Judea, who prophesies of Jesus. Mary prophesies the Magnificat, and Elizabeth serves as Mary's mentor.
  • D. Birth of John the Baptist (Luke 1:57-80)
    Records the birth and naming of John the Baptist, and Zechariah's prophecy of John's ministry.
  • E. Jesus' Birth in Bethlehem (Luke 2:1-7)
    Records Jesus' birth in a stable in Bethlehem, the hometown of Jesus' ancestor David. He lies in a manger.
  • F. Shepherds in Bethlehem (Luke 2:8-20)
    The Bethlehem shepherds watching their flocks, suddenly saw great light, heard and angel's announcement of the Messiah, and went into the town to find the child in a manger.
  • G. Meeting Simeon and Anna in the Temple (Luke 2:21-38)
    Recounts the encounter between the baby Messiah and an old prophet Simeon and an old prophetess Anna.
  • H. The Boy Jesus in the Temple (Luke 2:39-52)
    The boy Jesus stays behind in the temple engages the teachers about Scripture. But he submits to his parents and returns to Nazareth, to grow in wisdom, stature, and favor with God and man.
  • References and Abbreviations in 'Discipleship Lessons in Luke's Gospel
    A list of the standard reference books and commentaries referred to in the footnotes to the lessons from Luke's Gospel.
  • Reprint Guidelines. Discipleship Lessons in Luke's Gospel
    Guidelines for printing a single lesson or all the lessons in the Luke study.
  • Gentle Jesus (Matthew 11:28-30), an expostion by Dr. Ralph F. Wilson
    A call to reject legalism, and accept Jesus' loving, easy yoke and rest.
  • • series1/1 page
    • Luke's Gospel. Series 1. Jesus Early and Galilean Ministries (part 1; Luke 3:1-6:49)
      Series 1 of an e-mail deliveried studies series on Luke's Gospel, covering Luke 3:1-6:49, part of Discipleship Training in Luke's Gospel.
    • series2/1 page
    • Luke's Gospel: Series 2. Jesus' Galilee Ministry (part 2; Luke 7:1-9:50)
    • series3/1 page
    • Luke's Gospel: Series 3. From Galilee to Jerusalem (part 1) (Luke 9:51-14:35)
    • series4/1 page
    • Luke's Gospel: Series 4. From Galilee to Jerusalem (part 2) (Luke 15:1-19:27)
    • series5/1 page
    • Luke's Gospel: Series 5. Jesus in Jerusalem; Crucifixion and Resurrection (Luke 19:28-24:53)
    • series6/1 page
    • Luke's Gospel: Series 6. Infancy Narratives (Luke 1:5-2:52)
  • bible-study/8 pages
  • How to Improve Your Personal Bible Study
    Provides guidance in Bible study methods and an attitude and approach to personal Bible studies.
  • What Is a Bible Study Journal?
    Defines a Bible study journal, lists benefits, and outlines steps to begin a journal.
  • Bible Study Is Aided by a Good Study Bible
    Bible study is aided by having a good study Bible. This article explains the importance of the features contained in a study Bible: cross references, Bible book introductions, study notes or annotations, a concordance, a topical index, and maps. Sometimes study Bibles also include articles, a Bible dictionary, outlines, time lines, etc.
  • How Bible Study Differs from Bible Reading
    Bible study differs from Bible reading in that it involves longer study to get at the real meaning of a text. While daily devotions, a quiet time with God, has prime importance, extended time and focus is required to learn the Bible and see how to apply its teachings to your life.
  • Bible Study Is About Asking Questions -- Pure and Simple
    Bible study is primarily learning to ask questions of the Bible text your are studying. The obvious starter questions, of course, are who, when, where, to whom, what, why, and how. Any question will do as you seek answers. An inquiring mind that asks and seeks will receive and learn.
  • Bible Study Begins by Selecting a Bible Translation
    For careful Bible study, selecting a good translation is important. In this article the author outlines some of the differences between the King James Version (KJV), New King James Version (NKJV), New International Version (NIV), New American Standard Bible (NASB, NASV), and the New Revised Standard Version (NRSV).
  • Bible Study Tools that You'll Eventually Want to Have
    Bible study is easier with the right tools. After you get a good study Bible, consider obtaining a Bible handbook, Bible dictionary, a concordance, Bible commentaries, a topical Bible, a Bible atlas, and word study tools that help you get to the underlying Hebrew and Greek words.
  • Online Bible Study Forum
    Explains how each lesson connects to the Joyful Heart Forum via URLs that follow each discussion question.
  • abraham/19 pages
  • Faith of Abraham: Disciples Lessons from the Patriarch of Genesis
    A Bible study on the life of Abraham, friend of God and Sarah (Sarai) his wife. Traces lessons of faith that can be learned from Yahewh teaching Abraham about himself. Discusses covenant, promises, faith, God's names, sacrifices, and righteousness by faith.
  • Artwork Depicting Scenes from Abraham's Life
    A Bible study on the life of Abraham, friend of God and Sarah (Sarai) his wife. Traces lessons of faith that can be learned from Yahewh teaching Abraham about himself. Discusses covenant, promises, faith, God's names, sacrifices, and righteousness by faith.
  • An Introduction to Abraham's Life and Times
    This introduces Abraham's geographical location, chronology, religion, and the composition of Genesis and the Pentateuch.
  • References and Abbreviations -- Faith of Abraham Bible Study
    A Bible study on the life of Abraham, friend of God and Sarah (Sarai) his wife. Traces lessons of faith that can be learned from Yahewh teaching Abraham about himself. Discusses covenant, promises, faith, God's names, sacrifices, and righteousness by faith.
  • abraham-lesson-handouts.pdf
  • Faith of Abraham: Disciple Lessons from the Patriarch of Genesis (linking)
    A Bible study on the life of Abraham, friend of God and Sarah (Sarai) his wife. Traces lessons of faith that can be learned from Yahewh teaching Abraham about himself. Discusses covenant, promises, faith, God's names, sacrifices, and righteousness by faith.
  • Reprint Guidelines
    A Bible study on the life of Abraham, friend of God and Sarah (Sarai) his wife. Traces lessons of faith that can be learned from Yahewh teaching Abraham about himself. Discusses covenant, promises, faith, God's names, sacrifices, and righteousness by faith.
  • 1. The Call of Abraham (Genesis 11:27-12:9)
    Abraham (Abram) is called by God out of Ur of the Chaldees, stops in Haran, and then travels with his wife Sarai (Sarah) to Canaan.
  • 2. Sarah's Abduction and Abraham's Deceit (Genesis 12:10-20 and 20:1-18)
    Sarah's beauty causes her to be abducted by both Pharaoah and a Abimelech, king of Gerar. God shows Abraham or Abram how he will protect him -- and Sarai -- through all circumstances.
  • 3. Abraham Rescues His Nephew Lot (Genesis 13-14)
    Abraham's nephew Lot is kidnapped when Mesopotamian kings attack Sodom and other settlements. Abraham raises his own personal army, rescues Lot and other captives during a night attack, and presents part of the plunder to Melchizedek, priest of the Most High God, as a tithe.
  • 4. God's Covenant with Abraham (Genesis 15)
    God promises Abraham descendents and the land of Canaan. The covenant is sealed with a sacrifice. Abraham believes God and it is counted to him as righteousness.
  • 5. God Speaks to Hagar, Abraham's Other Wife (Genesis 16)
    Frustrated that they can't bear a child, Sarah gives her slave Hagar to Abraham. God speaks to Hagar, who bears Ishamel.
  • 6. The Covenant of Circumcision with Abraham (Genesis 17)
    God appears to Abraham to make a covenant with him. The sign of the covenant is circumcision.
  • 7. Abraham Intercedes for Sodom (Genesis 18)
    Three angels appear to Abraham and promise him that next year Sarah will bear a son. Sarah laughs, but Abraham believes God.
  • 8. The Destruction of Sodom (Genesis 19)
    The angels visit Sodom to rescue Lot, but are propositioned by the townsmen for homosexual acts. The angels lead Lot and his wife and daughters out of Sodom, but Lot's wife looks back and is turned to a pillar of salt. The city is destroyed with fire and brimstone.
  • 9. Isaac Born, Ishmael Banished (Genesis 21)
    Sarah finally give birth to Isaac according to God's promise. Afraid that Ishmael will take her son's inheritance, Sarah insists that Hagar and Ishmael are driven away from the family encampment.
  • #10. Abraham Offers Isaac on Mt. Moriah (Genesis 22:1-19)
    God tells Abraham to take his only son Isaac and sacrifice him to Yahweh on Mt. Moriah. Abraham tells Isaac, 'The Lord will provide.' Just before he kills his son on the altar, God provides a lamb for the sacrifice.
  • 11. Death of Sarah and Abraham (Genesis 22:20 - 25:1-11)
    Abraham purchases a burial plot for Sarah in the field in Machpelah near Mamre, procures a Wife for Isaac, marries a concubine Keturah and protects Isaac's inheritance, and finally dies and is buried.
  • Preface to Faith of Abraham
    This introduces to Abraham's geographical location, chronology, religion, and the composition of Genesis and the Pentateuch.
  • • images/1 page
    • abe_genealogy.pdf
    • maps/1 page
    • abe_genealogy.pdf
  • jacob/16 pages
  • Life of Jacob: Disciple Lessons (Genesis 25-49)
  • Preface. Discipleship Lessons from the Life of Jacob the Patriarch
  • Introduction to Jacob's Life and Times. Discipleship Lessons from the Life of Jacob the Patriarch
  • jacob-lesson-handouts.pdf
  • References and Abbreviations. Discipleship Lessons from the Life of Jacob the Patriarch
  • Artwork and Paintings of Jacob and Esau
  • Reprint Guidelines for Discipleship Lessons from the Life of Jacob
  • Life of Jacob: Disciple Lessons (Genesis 25-49). Lesson linking page.
  • 1. Jacob the Deceiver (Genesis 25:19-34; 27:1-41). Discipleship Lessons from the Life of Jacob
    Jacob tricks his brother Esau into giving him the birthright of the firstborn. Then he decieves his father Isaac into giving him the blessing. Then he flees for his life.
  • 2. Jacob Meets God (Genesis 27:41-28:22). Discipleship Lessons from the Life of Jacob
    Jacob, fleeing from Esau's threats of murder, stops at Bethel, and sleeps with his head on a rock. In the night he dreams of angels ascending and descending on a ladder to heaven. He worships God and calls the place Bethel, that is, House of God.
  • 3. Jacob and Laban, Rachel and Leah (Genesis 29-31). Discipleship Lessons from the Life of Jacob
    Jacob is welcomed by Isaac's family in Haran. There he falls in love with Rachel, but is given Leah by Laban after seven years of work. He finally gets his bride and escapes from Laban's family with great wealth in flocks.
  • 4. Jacob Wrestles with God and Man (Genesis 32-33). Discipleship Lessons from the Life of Jacob
    After escaping from Laban, and faced with Esau and 400 men, Jacob seeks to appease Esau. He wrestles with an angel of God all night at the ford of the Jabbok river. Finally, he reconciles with Esau.
  • 5. Jacob Returns to Bethel (Genesis 33:17-35:29)
    After reconciling with Esau, Jacob settles in Succoth, east of the Jordan. Then he moves to Shechem. There his daughter Dinah is raped and his sons retaliate by destroying the men of Shechem. Jacob now moves to Bethel and renews his vow before God.
  • 6. Jacob's Depression, Fear, and Hope (Genesis 37-47). Discipleship Lessons from the Life of Jacob.
    When Jacob's sons sell his favorite son Joseph into slavery out of jealousy, he falls into depression when he believes Joseph is dead. Joseph rises to second in Egypt to Pharaoh. When the brothers come to buy food during a famine, Joseph recognizes them. After testing them he reveals himself to them and brings the entire family to Egypt to live in Goshen.
  • 7. Jacob Offers Blessings (Genesis 46:28-49:33). Discipleship Lessons from the Life of Jacob
    Jacob travels to Goshen in Egypt. There he meets and blesses Pharaoh, Joseph's sons Ephraim and Manasseh, and his twelve sons. Finally he dies and his bones are taken to be buried in Canaan.
  • Why Did This Happen to Me? (Genesis 50:20), by Dr. Ralph F. Wilson.
    Considers God's working unknown to us to mold us and prepare us for future ministry and events, worked out through trusting Him.
  • moses/21 pages
  • Moses the Reluctant Leader - Discipleship and Leadership Lessons
    This life of Moses Bible study focuses on lessons that Moses learned about leadership in Egypt and in the wilderness. This 9-lesson Bible study will stimulate growth in both discipleship and leadership.
  • Preface to Moses, the Reluctant Leader Bible Study
  • Reprint Guidelines for Moses Bible Study
  • References and Abbreviations in the Moses Bible Study
  • Introduction to the Moses and the Exodus, from Moses the Reluctant Leader Bible Study
  • moses-lesson-handouts.pdf
  • Appendix 2. The Route of the Exodus. Moses Bible Study
  • Appendix 3. References to Moses in the New Testament. Moses Bible Study.
  • Graphics and Maps of the Exodus and Tabernacle. Moses Bible Study
  • Paintings of Moses and the Exodus featuring watercolors of James J. Tissot
  • Moses the Reluctant Leader linking page
  • 1. The Birth and Call of Moses (Exodus 1-4), from Moses the Reluctant Leader Bible Study
  • 2. Finding Courage to Stand (Exodus 5-11), in Moses the Reluctant Leader Bible Study
  • 3. Passover and Crossing the Red Sea (Exodus 12-15), in Moses the Reluctant Leader Bible Study
  • 4. Grumbling, Rebuke, Battle, and Delegation (Exodus 15-18) in Moses the Reluctant Leader Bible Study
  • 5. The Covenant at Mount Sinai (Exodus 19-24). Moses Bible Study.
  • 6. The Golden Calf and Moses' Intercession (Exodus 32-34). Moses Bible Study.
  • 7. The Tabernacle, Priesthood, and Sacrifices (Exodus 20-31, 35-40; Leviticus 1-17; Numbers 6-10). Moses Bible Study
  • 8. Rebellion against Moses' Leadership (Numbers 11-17). Moses Bible Study.
  • 9. Conquering the Transjordan and Moses' Death (Numbers 20-27; Deuteronomy 32, 34). Moses Bible Study.
  • Epilogue: Moses' Leadership Legacy. Moses Bible Study
  • joshua/22 pages
  • Joshua: Courageous Discipleship. JesusWalk Bible Study Series.
    This is an 8-lesson Bible study of the book of Joshua. It includes 9 maps, many illustrations, and helpful discussion/thought questions to help you dig deeper into the lessons found in Joshua.
  • joshua-lesson-handouts.pdf
  • References and Abbreviations. Joshua: Courageous Discipleship
    Overview of reference books used to prepare this study.
  • Maps for the Book of Joshua -- JesusWalk Bible Study Series
  • Joshua and the Conquest - Paintings and Artwork
  • Reprint Guidelines. Joshua: Courageous Discipleship
  • Joshua: Courageous Discipleship. JesusWalk Bible Study Series.
    This is an 8-lesson Bible study of the book of Joshua. It includes 9 maps, many illustrations, and helpful discussion/thought questions to help you dig deeper into the lessons found in Joshua.
  • Appendix 5. Canaanite Religions and Baal Worship. Joshua: Courageous Discipleship. JesusWalk Bible Study Series.
    Describes Canaanite beliefs about their chief gods -- Baal and Asherah or Astarte.
  • Appendix 2. The Peoples of Canaan. Joshua: Courageous Discipleship. JesusWalk Bible Study Series.
    Describes what scholars can tell us about the people of Canaan -- the Canaanites, Hittites, Hivites, Perizzites, Girgashites, Amorites and Jebusites.
  • Appendix 4. Weapons in Joshua's Time. Joshua: Courageous Discipleship. JesusWalk Bible Study Series.
    Brief descriptions of the weapons of the Late Bronze Age: club, battle axe, spear, sword, sickle sword, bow and arrow, sling and stone, shield, armor, helmet, and chariot.
  • 0_preface.htm
    The author notes the difficulties with Joshua for modern readers, but then outlines its important lessons of faith, courage, and obedience.
  • Introduction to the Book of Joshua. JesusWalk Bible Study Series
  • 1. Be Strong and Very Courageous (Joshua 1). Joshua: Courageous Discipleship. JesusWalk Bible Study Series
    We meet Joshua, his background, his present circumstances, and God's exhortation to be strong and courageous in the face of the challenge.
  • 2. Rahab Hides the Spies (Joshua 2). Joshua: Courageous Discipleship. JesusWalk Bible Study Series
    Spies sent to survey strengths and weaknesses of Jericho shelter with Rahab, a prostitute. She believes Yahweh is stronger than Jericho's gods, and deals with the spies to save her life and the lives of her family.
  • 3. Entering the Promised Land (Joshua 3:1-5:12). Joshua: Courageous Discipleship. JesusWalk Bible Study Series
    The Israelites cross the Jordan without getting their feet wet, and Joshua orders a monument of 12 stones from the riverbed to commemmorate the occassion.
  • 4. The Walls Fall Down (Joshua 5:13-6:27). Joshua: Courageous Discipleship. JesusWalk Bible Study Series
    Joshua follow's God's 7-day battle plan of marching silently, then shouting. The walls fall, the city is taken, and Rahab's family rescued.
  • 5. Sin in the Camp (Joshua 7-9)
    Achan's sin of taking plunder from the devoted things at Jericho brings defeat to Israel at Ai. Achan is found, confessess, and is punished.
  • 6. Possessing the Land (Joshua 10-22). Joshua: Courageous Discipleship. JesusWalk Bible Study Series
    Recounts the various battles to subdue the Canaanites, and division of the land according to tribal boundaries.
  • 7. Caleb: Give Me This Mountain (Joshua 14:6-15). Joshua: Courageous Discipleship. JesusWalk Bible Study Series
    Recounts the faith of Caleb, one of the original spies, Othniel, his son-in-law, who took Debir to win his bride, and Acsah, who pressed Caleb for deeper wells to sustain life in a desert city.
  • 8. As for Me and My House (Joshua 23-24). Joshua: Courageous Discipleship. JesusWalk Bible Study Series
    Now an old man, Joshua challenges the Israelites to put away their foreign gods and serve Yahweh. 'As for me and my house, we will serve the Lord.'
  • Appendix 3. Whose Land Is the Promised Land? Joshua: Courageous Discipleship. JesusWalk Bible Study Series
    Discusses the moral issues of the Israelites taking -- or receiving -- the Promised Land.
  • app6_herem.htm
    Helps the reader understand the ancient practice of herem, devoting to destruction, giving wholly to God, rather than taking plunder.
  • gideon/6 pages
  • Gideon: Disciple Lessons from the Bronze Age (Judges 6-8)
    A study of the life of Gideon from the standpoint of lessons of faith for disciples. Examines the story's context in the period of the Judges, the conquest of Canaan, Gideon's victory over the Midianites and Amalakites, and his final setting up of a gold ephod which became a snare to the Israelites and his own family.
  • Introduction to Gideon and the Period of the Judges
    A study of the life of Gideon from the standpoint of lessons of faith for disciples. Examines the story's context in the period of the Judges, the conquest of Canaan, Gideon's victory over the Midianites and Amalakites, and his final setting up of a gold ephod which became a snare to the Israelites and his own family.
  • gideon-lesson-handouts.pdf
  • Paintings and Artwork of Gideon
    A study of the life of Gideon from the standpoint of lessons of faith for disciples. Examines the story's context in the period of the Judges, the conquest of Canaan, Gideon's victory over the Midianites and Amalakites, and his final setting up of a gold ephod which became a snare to the Israelites and his own family.
  • References used in the Gideon Bible Study
    A study of the life of Gideon from the standpoint of lessons of faith for disciples. Examines the story's context in the period of the Judges, the conquest of Canaan, Gideon's victory over the Midianites and Amalakites, and his final setting up of a gold ephod which became a snare to the Israelites and his own family.
  • Reprint Guidelines -- Gideon: Disciple Lessons from the Bronze Age
  • david/33 pages
  • Life of David: 1 and 2 Samuel Bible Study Free study
    A an e-mail Bible study on The Life of David. It covers 1 Samuel 15 through 1 Kings 2
  • Preface to the Life of David, by Dr. Ralph F. Wilson. JesusWalk Bible Study Series.
    Here's why David's story is loved -- and strengthens us in Christ.
  • Introduction to the Life of David
  • A Chronology of David's Life
    Suggests dates for David's reign of 1010 to 970 BC, along with relative ages at different incidents in his life.
  • Paintings and Artwork of David the King (plus Saul and Goliath)
    A virtual collection of paintings and artwork of King David, Saul, and Goliath, including a number of striking stained glass windows.
  • Life of David: Maps and Graphics
  • References and Abbreviations, Life of David: Discipleship Lessons, by Dr. Ralph F. Wilson
    Commentaries, Bible dictionaries, and Hebrew lexicons used in the Life of David Bible study.
  • Reprint Guidelines
  • david-lesson-handouts.pdf
  • Life of David (links to lessons)
  • Preface to the Life of David, by Dr. Ralph F. Wilson. JesusWalk Bible Study Series.
    Here's why David's story is loved -- and strengthens us in Christ.
  • 1. Samuel Anoints David as King (1 Samuel 15-16) - Life of David: Discipleship Lessons, by Dr. Ralph F. Wilson
    Saul, previously anointed king by the prophet Samuel is rejected by God for disobedience. In his place, David, the shepherd son of Jesse, is anointed king and filled with the Spirit. David plays his harp at Saul's court to soothe the troubled king with his music.
  • 2. David and Goliath: Bold Faith (1 Samuel 17). Life of David: Discipleship Lessons, by Dr. Ralph F. Wilson
    David's bold faith contrasts with the fear and low morale of the Israelite army when they are challenged by the Philistine champion Goliath. David rejects the offer of Saul's armor, but slays Goliath with a well-placed sling stone in the name of Yahweh and cuts off his head.
  • 3. Jonathan's Friendship, Saul's Jealousy (1 Samuel 18-20). Life of David: Discipleship Lessons, by Dr. Ralph F. Wilson
    David and Saul's oldest son Jonathan become fast friends, but Saul grows increasingly jealous of David's popularity. He seeks to kill him with his spear and at the hand of the Philistines. Jonathan warns David and the two covenant with each others
  • 4. David Flees from Saul (1 Samuel 21-23). Life of David: Discipleship Lessons, by Dr. Ralph F. Wilson
    David visits the tabernacle at Nob in his flight and receives help from Ahimelech the high priest. But Ahimelech and the priests are slain by the paranoid King Saul; only Abiathar flees to David with 400 might men. David and his men hide in the cave of Adullam and in the desert of Ziph.
  • 5. David Spares the Lord's Anointed (1 Samuel 24-28). Life of David: Discipleship Lessons, by Dr. Ralph F. Wilson
    David hides from Saul in the Wilderness, and providentially has two opportunities to kill Saul, but refuses since Saul is 'the Lord's anointed.' He also spares Nabal, takes Abigail as wife, seeks asylum from Saul with the Philistines, but is spared going into battle with Saul. Finally, Saul seeks a medium to seek guidance from Samuel, but receives condemnation instead.
  • 6. David Strengthens Himself in the Lord at Ziklag (1 Samuel 29-2 Samuel 1). Life of David: Discipleship Lessons, by Dr. Ralph F. Wilson
    While Saul and Jonathan are slain at the battle of Gilboa, David and his men attack the Amalekites and recover their families who had been captured at Ziklag. David sends plunder to the elders of Judah.
  • 7. David Becomes King and Conquers Jerusalem (2 Samuel 2-5). Life of David: Discipleship Lessons, by Dr. Ralph F. Wilson
    David moves to Hebron where the elders of Judah anoint him king over them. Later Saul's son Ish-Bosheth is assassinated and David is anointed king over all of Israel. He captures Jerusalem, makes it his capital.
  • 8. David Brings the Ark to Jerusalem (2 Samuel 6). Life of David: Discipleship Lessons, by Dr. Ralph F. Wilson
    Now David seeks to make Jerusalem both the political center and the worship center of the kingdom. He brings the ark into Jerusalem -- on his second try.
  • 9. The Davidic Covenant (2 Samuel 7). Life of David: Discipleship Lessons, by Dr. Ralph F. Wilson
    David sought to build a
  • 10. David's Rise, Fall, and Punishment (2 Samuel 8-12). Life of David: Discipleship Lessons, by Dr. Ralph F. Wilson
    David has established the kingdom and subjugated the neighboring kingdoms. But then he commits adultery with Bathsheba and murders her husband, and tries to cover it up. However, he is confronted by Nathan and finds forgiveness from the Lord and a contrite heart (Psalm 51).
  • 11. Rape, Murder, and Conspiracy in David's Family (2 Samuel 13:1-15:13). Life of David: Discipleship Lessons, by Dr. Ralph F. Wilson
    David's punishment involves family troubles. Amnon rapes Tamar. Absalom murders Amnon in retaliation, then conspires to steal David's throne forcing David to flee.
  • 12. David's Exile from Jerusalem (2 Samuel 15:14-20:26). Life of David: Discipleship Lessons, by Dr. Ralph F. Wilson
    David flees from Jerusalem, joined by loyalists. Absalom is killed by Joab and mourned by David, who returns to Jerusalem and puts down Sheba's rebellion.
  • 13. The Legacy of David (2 Samuel 21-1 Kings 2). Life of David: Discipleship Lessons, by Dr. Ralph F. Wilson
    Miscellaneous incidents are included: justice for the Gibeonites, David's disastrous census, and David's physical decline. David designates Solomon as his successor when Adonijah seeks to be crowned king. A final look at David's place in history and his ultimate successor, Jesus the Messiah, the Son of David.
  • Genealogy of the Priesthood in David’s Time
    Genealogy of the priests, descendents of Aaron, in David and Samuel's era, including Eli, Ichabod, Ahimelech, Ahitub, Abiathar, and Zadok.
  • Genealogy of the House of David
    Genealogy and family tree of Jesse, David, Zeruiah, Joab, Amnon, Absalom, Tamar, Solomon, and their kin.
  • Genealogy of the House of Saul
    Shows the genealogy and family tree of Saul, Abner, Jonathan, Michal, Ishbosheth, Mephibosheth, and their kin.
  • Appendix 5. The Tabernacle of David Today (2 Samuel 6:17; Acts 15:16). Life of David: Discipleship Lessons, by Dr. Ralph F. Wilson
  • Considering David's Deceit -- The Ethics of Lying. Life of David: Discipleship Lessons, by Dr. Ralph F. Wilson
  • Locations of the Ark and the Tabernacle. Life of David: Discipleship Lessons, by Dr. Ralph F. Wilson
  • David's Psalms of Repentance (Psalms 51 and 32)
    David learned how to repent before the Lord after his sin with Bathsheba and Uriah. Two penitential psalms show great insights about confession, repentance, and forgiveness.
  • davidic-psalms-with-historical-ascriptions.htm
    Several of the Davidic psalms tell us on what occasion he wrote the psalm. These ascriptions have a lesson for us.
  • It's Not Your Fight any More - The David and Goliath Story
    A short story account of David's defeat of Goliath, with application for our lives -- trusting in the Lord and not ourselves!
  • solomon/18 pages
  • Solomon: Wisdom, Wealth, and Weakness. A free e-mail Bible study
  • solomon-toc.pdf
  • solomon-lesson-handouts.pdf
  • davidic-covenant-parallels.pdf
  • Solomon: Wisdom, Wealth, and Weakness. A free e-mail Bible study
  • Art of King Solomon
  • Preface to King Solomon: Wisdom, Wealth and Weakness, by Ralph F. Wilson
    Gives the author's reasons for exploring Solomon's life from 1 Kings 1-11.
  • References and Abbreviations for King Solomon: Wisdom, Wealth, and Weakness.
    Reference materials used in the book.
  • Reprint Guidelines for King Solomon: Wisdom, Wealth, and Weakness
    Policies for making xerox copies of this Bible study.
  • Introduction to Solomon's Time. King Solomon: Wisdom, Wealth, and Weakness
    Provides background into political situation and world powers, an introduction to Kings and Chronicles, and a timeline of Solomon's era.
  • 1. Solomon's Path to Kingship (1 Kings 1-2). King Solomon: Wisdom, Wealth, and Weakness
    Outlines the provisions of the Davidic Covenant. Then traces Solomon from birth, through recognition as future king, accession to the throne after coup by brother Adonijah, and settling scores with enemies.
  • 2. Solomon's Wisdom (1 Kings 3-4). King Solomon: Wisdom, Wealth, and Weakness
    Discusses Solomon's sins of intermarriage and worship at the high places. Focuses on God's gifts to Solomon of wisdom of all kinds -- judicial, administrative, proverbs, songs, and writings. Concludes with discussion of natural and spiritual gifts.
  • 3. Building Solomon's Temple (1 Kings 5-7). King Solomon: Wisdom, Wealth, and Weakness
    Traces selection of the temple site, David's preparations, Solomon's building the structure, temple furnishings, temple sacrifices and worship, and worship for New Testament disciples.
  • 4. Dedicating Solomon's Temple (1 Kings 8-9). King Solomon: Wisdom, Wealth, and Weakness
    The ark is moved to the new temple, God's glory appears amidst an elaborate dedication and prayer by Solomon. Focus on 2 Chronicles 7:14, 'If my people...'
  • 5. Solomon's Splendor (1 Kings 9-10). King Solomon: Wisdom, Wealth, and Weakness
    Surveys the material wealth and prosperity God granted to Solomon -- palaces, construction projects, trading ships, fabulous wealth, glorious throne, visit by the Queen of Sheba. Concludes with discussion of a New Covenant view of almsgiving and wealth.
  • 6. Solomon's Legacy (1 Kings 11). King Solomon: Wisdom, Wealth, and Weakness
    Discusses Solomon's idolatry with foreign wives in his later years, with God's rebuke and consequences. Traces the dispersal of his legacy: wisdom, kingdom regional domination, wealth, pagan shrines, and the temple. Assesses Solomon's strengths and weaknesses, and points to his descendant: Jesus the Messiah.
  • Appendix 3. Five Kinds of Temple Sacrifices or Offerings. King Solomon: Wisdom, Wealth, and Weakness
    Surveys the five main types of temple sacrifices: burnt offering, grain offering, peace or fellowship offering, sin or purification offering, and gift or reparation offering. Outlines steps in offering a burnt offering in the temple.
  • Appendix 4. Archaeology of Solomon's Era. King Solomon: Wisdom, Wealth, and Weakness.
    Brief mention of sparse archaeological evidence for Solomon's era: Ophel inscription, city gates, clay seals, and copper mines.
  • elijah/16 pages
  • Elijah: Rebuilding Yahweh's Altar, a free e-mail Bible study
    This 7-lesson e-mail Bible study examines the lessons for present-day disciples from Elijah's life and ministry, his spectaular successes and deep failures. Part of the JesusWalk Bible Study Series.
  • elijah-lesson-handouts.pdf
  • What Others Have Said about Elijah: Rebuilding Yahweh's Altar
    Commends by people who have completed the study.
  • Elijah: Rebuilding Yahweh's Altar, linking page
  • Elijah: Faithful Discipleship, a free e-mail Bible study
  • Preface to Elijah: Rebuilding Yahweh's Altar
    Explains purpose for Bible study and approach to the materials in 1 and 2 Kings.
  • Introduction. Elijah: Rebuilding Yahweh's Altar
    Outlines the nature of 1 and 2 Kings, the theological purpose of the books, date and authorship, chronology, and historical situation.
  • 1. Elijah Declares a Drought (1 Kings 17)
    Elijah proclaims a drought, hides in the Kerith Ravine, is fed by ravens, and meets the widow at Zarephath whose supply of flour and oil remains through the famine.
  • 2. Elijah Challenges Baal on Mount Carmel (1 Kings 18)
    Elijah sets up a contest between the prophets of Baal (the Canaanite rain god) and Yahweh as to which will burn the sacrifice. Yahweh zaps Elijah's sacrifice and a heavy rain ensues.
  • 3. Elijah and the Still Small Voice (1 Kings 19)
    Elijah flees in fear to Mt. Horeb (Mt. Sinai), sustained by an angel. God speaks to him not in the earthquake, wind, or fire, but in a still small voice, restores him, and gives him new assignments.
  • 4. Ahab's Syrian Wars (1 Kings 20). Elijah: Rebuilding Yahweh's Altar
    Traces Elijah's prophecies concerning Ahab's wars with Syria (Aram) at Samaria and Aphek.
  • 5. Naboth's Vineyard: Judgment and Grace (1 Kings 21)
    Ahab covets Naboth's vineyard near his palace in Jezreel. Jezebel obtains it for him by suborning purjury against him in the council. Elijah meets him and pronounces doom, to which Ahab responds with repentance.
  • 6. Ahab and Micaiah the Prophet (1 Kings 22, 2 Kings 1, 2 Chronicles 21:12-15)
    Ahab and Jehoshaphat consult prophets concerning a new war against Syria at Ramoth Gilead. Miciah prophesies that Ahab will be killed, which comes to pass. Elijah confronts King Ahaziah when he seeks counsel from Baal, and writes a letter to Jehoram.
  • 7. Elijah and the Whirlwind (2 Kings 2:1-18)
    Elisha is with Elijah when the old prophet is taken up in a whirlwind accompanied by chariots and horsemen. Elisha takes up his mantle, then completes his assignments. Traces Elijah's legacy in the Old and New Testaments.
  • Reprint Guidelines. Elijah: Rebuilding Yahweh's Altar. JesusWalk Bible Study Series.
  • References and Abbreviations. Elijah: Rebuilding Yahweh's Altar
  • psalms/36 pages
  • Experiencing the Psalms (Bible Study) - A Disciple's Guide to the Songbook of God's People, Psalter
    An online interactive study of the Book of Psalms, with an emphasis on experiencing the joy, prayer, praise, and power of the Psalter, rather than merely an intellectual understanding.
  • Paintings and Artwork of David and the Psalms
  • Introduction to the Psalms -- Experiencing the Psalms (JesusWalk Bible Study Series)
    A discussion of the development of the Psalms, including Hebrew poetry, synoptic parallelism, and musical instruments such as the harp, kinnor, or lyre. It continues with types of psalms, structure of the Psalter, a discussion of the contribution of Gunkel, Mowinckel, and Dahood, Ugaritic, authorship, dating, technical terms such as Selah, and canonicity and authority of the Psalms.
  • Exercises to Help You Experience the Psalms
    Here are exercises to help you internalize the psalms, including praying a psalm, reading a psalm to a shut-in, singing a psalm, writing a psalm, memorizing a psalm, etc.
  • psalms-lesson-handouts.pdf
  • Psalms in Worship throughout the Centuries
    Traces the history of the use of psalms and the psalter in both corporate worship and private devotional use in the temple, synagogue, early church, monastery, reformation, and the twentieth century.
  • How Should We Understand the Imprecatory Psalms in which Enemies Are Cursed?
    Discusses the imprecatory psalms in which enemies are cursed and evil wished upon the unrighteous, in contrast to the love and forgiveness taught by Messiah Jesus.
  • References on the Psalms, Experiencing the Psalms (JesusWalk Bible Study Series)
  • New Testament Quotations from the Psalms
    Lists the New Testament quotations or citations from the Psalter, following the appendix in A.K. Kirkpatrick's The Book of Psalms in the Cambridge Bible.
  • Reprint Guidelines -- Experiencing the Psalms
  • Psalms Bible Study. Experiencing the Psalms (JesusWalk Bible Study Series)
    An online interactive study of the Book of Psalms, with an emphasis on experiencing the joy, prayer, praise, and power of the Psalter, rather than merely an intellectual understanding.
  • Psalms Resources Online
  • 1. Psalms: Marveling at God's Majesty in Creation (Psalms 8, 19, 139)
    Several psalms speak about God's creation -- awe at the stars, humility at the creation of man, wonder at the intricacy of the creation of a human embryo in the womb.
  • 2. Psalms: Thirsting for God (Psalms 27, 42-43, 63)
    Psalms 27, 42-43, and 63 speak of an intense hunger and thirst for God, a seeking of God's face, an earnest longing.
  • 3. Psalms: Choosing the Right Path (Psalms 1, 15, and 133)
    Discusses Psalms 1, 15, and 133, with contrasts between the righteous, upright, moral person and the wicked, unrighteous, sinner. Inducements and warnings to choose the right path or way to life.
  • 4. Psalms: Offering High Praises to God (Psalms 150, 95, and 98)
    A study of Psalm 150, Psalm 95, and Psalm 98 that explores intense praise and celebration before the Lord, shouting Hallelujah, and praising with musical instruments.
  • 5. Psalms: Crying Out for Rescue (Psalms 69, 40, 80)
    This studies psalms of laments, the cries of the psalmist from desperate circumstances, deep waters, the miry pit. It teaches God's mercy, honest prayer, and our need for revival, renewal, and restoration.
  • 6. Psalms: Trusting in God's Protection (Psalms 61, 91, 121)
    Psalms that explore God's protection for us when we are in trouble. God as Rock, Fortress, Shield, Buckler, Protector, Shadow, who protects us under his wings. An exposition of Psalms 61, 91, and 121.
  • Reader's Theater: Psalm 91 - A Dialogue with God
    A reading for 4 voices based on the theme of God assurance in the face of our terrors and fears. Based on the NIV translation of Psalm 91.
  • 7. Psalms: Resting in God's Care (Psalms 131, 23, 16, 3, 31, 46)
    Psalms with the theme resting, trusting, quieting one's soul. The 23rd Psalm, Psalm 131, 16, 3, 31, and 46
  • 8. Psalms: Exulting in God (Psalms 57, 96, 126, and 24)
    A Bible study of psalms of great exaltation or exulting in God, psalms full of praise, blessing, worship, and glory. Considers Psalms 57, 96, 126, and 24. Themes include sowing and reaping, ascribing to the Lord his true glory, the beauty of holiness, the reign of God, and the King of Glory.
  • 9. Psalms: Rejoicing in God's Character (Psalms 103, 145, and 117)
    A study of Psalm 103, Psalm 145, and Psalm 117 that examines Yahweh's character of love, compassion, and faithfulness. Because of this character believers are commanded to bless the Lord, praise the Lord.
  • 10. Psalms: Looking Forward to the Messiah (Psalms 2, 110, and 22)
    Messianic psalms either prophecy or have veiled references to Jesus the Messiah or Christ. In this chapter we study Psalm 2, Psalm 110, and Psalm 22.
  • 11. Psalms: Finding Forgiveness and Restoration (Psalms 32 and 51)
    Discusses forgiveness and restoration in the Psalms, with a special focus on Psalm 32 and Psalm 51. Many hymns and choruses come from these, including 'Create in Me a Clean Heart' and 'You Are My Hiding Place.'
  • 12. Psalms: Giving Thanks to Our Faithful God (Psalms 100, 107, 118, and 34)
    These psalms, Psalm 100, Psalm 107, and Psalm 118, explore themes of giving thanks, thanksgiving, thankfulness, and praise. Psalm 34 is a psalm of deliverance and confidence in the Lord through times of trouble.
  • Psalms: Epilogue (Psalms 47 and 119)
    Concluding the Bible study on the psalms with snatches of two final gems -- Psalms 47 and 119.
  • Becoming a Confidant of Yahweh (Psalm 25:14)
    A study of intimacy with God promised in Psalms and the NT, 'confidential conversation.' Explains how to enter into this place.
  • Joy in God's Secret Place (Psalm 32:6-11). An exposition.
    A verse by verse exposition of Psalm 32:6-11. The psalmist describes the protection of God's Hiding Place, his joy, his patient instruction, and his abundant steadfast love (hesed).
  • Psalm 61. Lead Me to the Rock that Is Higher than I (an exposition)
    A verse by verse exposition of Psalm 61, a psalm of finding God when we're in trouble, and seeking is presence and protection, his secret place.
  • God - Our Glory and Portion (Psalm 73:23-26, an exposition)
    A verse by verse exposition of Psalm 61, a psalm of finding God when we're in trouble, and seeking is presence and protection, his secret place.
  • Psalm 84. A Day in Your Courts (an exposition)
    A verse by verse exposition of Psalm 84, where the psalmist, a Levitical singer and gatekeeper in the temple, describes the temple courts he loves, and extols the God he loves even more.
  • (an exposition)
    A description of one's inner being set for a deliberate seeking of God's presence.
  • Psalm 86. Praying in the Day of Trouble (an exposition)
    A verse by verse exposition of Psalm 86, where the psalmist mixes prayer with praise in the midst of his ongoing trouble.
  • Psalm 103. Bless the Lord, O My Soul (an exposition)
    A verse by verse exposition of Psalm 103, a psalm of thanksgiving and praise for what God has done for us and who he is.
  • God Doesn't Admire Legs (Psalm 147:10-11) (an exposition)
    These verses teach that God isn't impressed with human achievement. Rather he takes pleasure in those who love and trust in his steadfast love.
  • Enter His Gates with Thanksgiving (Psalm 100, an exposition)
    A verse by verse exposition of Psalm 100, Old Hundredth, that teaches us to bring thanks before the Lord.
  • ascent/21 pages
  • Songs of Ascent (Psalms 120-134)- 15 Brief Devotional Studies, a free e-mail Bible study
    The Psalms of Ascent are thought to be the songs sung by Jewish pilgrims on their way ascending up to Jerusalm for feast days.
  • Preface to Songs of Ascent (Psalms 120-134)
    Dr. Wilson explains his approach to the Songs or Psalms of Ascent.
  • Introduction to the Songs of Ascent
    Describes some background on these psalms, the reason for their name, 'Songs of Ascent,' and information on how to understand the structure of Hebrew poetry, in particular, parallelism.
  • Reprint Guidelines
  • References and Abbreviations. Songs of Ascent.
  • Songs of Ascent linking pages
  • 1. Psalm 120. Calling on the Lord for Deliverance
    The psalmist is in distress, in a foreign land, among unbelievers, calling upon the Lord for help.
  • 2. Psalm 121. The Lord Is Your Keeper. Songs of Ascent.
    The psalmist looks to the danger of the hills, then to the protection of the Lord, who is his Keeper, his Shade, and his Help.
  • 3. Psalm 122. Let Us Go to the House of the Lord. Songs of Ascent
    This Davidic psalm delights in going to the temple, the Lord's house. And prays for the peace of Jerusalem.
  • 4. Psalm 123. Pleading for God's Mercy. Songs of Ascent.
    A lament that pictures the psalmast as a servant who looks to the hand of his master for assistance. He is tired of the scorn and contempt of his oppressors.
  • 5. Psalm 124. God Is Our Help in Trouble. Songs of Ascent.
    If the Lord hadn't been on our side, they would have destroyed us. But our help is in the name of the Lord, the Creator.
  • 6. Psalm 125. The Lord Surrounds His People. Songs of Ascent
    The Lord surrounds his people in the same way as the mountains surround Jerusalem. A call for righteous government, and an end to crooked ways.
  • 7. Psalm 126. Reaping with Shouts of Joy. Songs of Ascent
    God gave great joy when the Israelites returned from exile in Babylon. Now they ask God to deliver them again and restore their fortunes, like a flash flood in the desert.
  • 8. Psalm 127. Resting in God's Provision. Songs of Ascent
    Discusses the crucial work-rest balance, of working hard, then trusting the Lord for the results. A promise of the blessing of children.
  • 9. Psalm 128. The Blessings of Trusting in the Lord. Songs of Ascent.
    Blessings on those who fear the Lord and walk in his ways. The blessing of many children and peac on Israel.
  • 10. Psalm 129. Afflicted but Not Defeated. Songs of Ascent.
    The psalmist and Israel are afflicted, plowed backs from whipping, bonds of slavery, but the Lord 'cut the cords of the wicked.'
  • 11. Psalm 130. Waiting Expectantly for the Lord. Songs of Ascent.
    The psalmist is acutely aware of sin and forgiveness. He waits for deliverance more than a watchman waits for the morning, trusting in Yahweh's steadfast love.
  • 12. Psalm 131. Quieting Our Soul in the Lord. Songs of Ascent.
    Learning to trust Yahweh and quiet one's soul, like a weaned child, not demanding, but resting.
  • 13. Psalm 132. God's Promise to David. Songs of Ascent
    A recital of the David Covenant, that David's sons would always reign on the throne of Israel. And a call for God to fulfill it now, again. The promise points to Christ.
  • 14. Psalm 133. The Beauty of Unity. Songs of Ascent.
    A short psalm comparing unity and love of brothers to the anointing oil on a priest, and heavy dew on Zion.
  • 15. Psalm 134. Come, Bless the Lord. Songs of Ascent.
    A call to lift up hands and bless the Lord in his temple, and blessing from Yahweh from Zion.
  • isaiah/26 pages
  • Isaiah free Bible Study
    A an e-mail Bible study the book of Isaiah the Prophet: Discipleship Lessons from the Fifth Gospel
  • Preface - Isaiah: Discipleship Lessons from the Fifth Gospel
    In the preface, Dr. Wilson explains his understanding of the importance of Isaiah's prophecy.
  • Notes to Teachers, Small Group Leaders, and Online Students, Isaiah: Discipleship Lessons
  • Introduction to Isaiah
    Information on historical setting, authorship, etc.
  • isaiah-lesson-handouts.pdf
  • Appendix 2. Names, Titles, and Analogies of God in Isaiah - Isaiah: Discipleship Lessons from the Fifth Gospel
    A brief list of the many names and titles of God -- and the Messiah -- in Isaiah's prophecy.
  • Appendix 3. Messianic Prophecies in Isaiah. Discipleship Lessons from the Fifth Gospel
    A list of the primary messianic prophecies found in the Book of Isaiah.
  • Appendix 4. Timeline Related to Isaiah's Prophecies. Isaiah: Discipleship Lessons from the Fifth Gospel
    A timeline that gives the major events and approximate dates from Isaiah's ministry through the return from exile.
  • Appendix 5. New Testament Quotations from Isaiah. Isaiah: Discipleship Lessons from Luke's Gospel
    A list of all the New Testament references and quotations from Isaiah -- an impressive list!
  • Artwork and paintings of Isaiah the Prophet
    A an e-mail Bible study the book of Isaiah the Prophet: Discipleship Lessons from the Fifth Gospel
  • Maps Covering the Periods of Isaiah's Prophecies
    Maps of countries surrounding Judah in Isaiah's time, including the empires of Egypt, Assyria, and Babylon.
  • Isaiah: Discipleship Lessons from the Fifth Gospel - linking page
  • 6. Hezekiah's Reign (Isaiah 36-39; 2 Kings 18) - Isaiah: Discipleship Lessons from the Fifth Gospel
    During Hezekiah's reign Judah is attacked by Sennacherib, king of Assyria. Jerusalem is threatened. We study Hezekiah's faith and his prayer -- and his foolishness in showing Babylonian envoys his wealth.
  • References and Abbreviations - Isaiah: Discipleship Lessons from the Fifth Gospel
    Here are the common abbreviations for the reference works referred to.
  • Reprint Guidelines - Isaiah: Discipleship Lessons from the Fifth Gospel
    Guidelines for making copies of lessons.
  • 1. Early Messages (Isaiah 1-6) - Isaiah: Discipleship Lessons from the Fifth Gospel
    Isaiah introduces his themes and shares his vision of the Lord seated on a throne, and Isaiah's call to be a prophet.
  • 2. The Book of Immanuel (Isaiah 7-12) - Isaiah: Discipleship Lessons from the Fifth Gospel
    A series of prophecies that introduce children with prophetic names -- some of whom point to the Davidic Messiah who shall deliver Israel. Immanuel, the Root from the stump of Jesse, etc.
  • 3. Judgment upon the Nations (Isaiah 13-23) - Isaiah: Discipleship Lessons from the Fifth Gospel
    A series of prophecies concerning the various nations around Judah -- Assyria, Babylon, Edom, Moab, Philistine cities, etc. Discusses the prophecy concerning Lucifer or Day Star Son of Morning, sometimes attributed to Satan.
  • 4. God's Final Victory: Isaiah's Apocalypse (Isaiah 24-27) - Isaiah: Discipleship Lessons from the Fifth Gospel
    A series of prophecies about the Last Days that seem to parallel Jesus' and Paul's prophecies of the End Times.
  • 5. God's Help vs. Man's -- the Assyrian Crisis (Isaiah 28-35)
    Isaiah pronounces judgment on corrupt rulers, priests, and prophets. The government relies on Egypt to help them against the Assyrian threat, but it is a vain hope. Only the Messiah's reign and God's peace have any promise.
  • 7. Jerusalem's Warfare Is Over (Isaiah 40-48) - Isaiah: Discipleship Lessons from the Fifth Gospel
    A series of prophecies designed to bring comfort to a future Jerusalem -- in exile in Babylon, but to be redeemed and returned to their land. Prophesies Cyrus II to be God's instrument in delivering them.
  • 8. Jerusalem's Iniquity Is Pardoned (Isaiah 49-55, except 53) - Isaiah: Discipleship Lessons from the Fifth Gospel
    Discusses the mission of the Servant of Yahweh or Servant of the Lord, promise of an eternal covenant of peace, invitation to drink deeply of salvation, and a promise of help and healing. Excludes Isaiah 53 which is treated in the next chapter.
  • 9. The Suffering Servant (Isaiah 52:13-53:12)
    A detailed study of Isaiah 53, a prophecy of the Servant of the Lord submitting to pain, suffering, and death to die as a sacrifice of the sins of all. This is the basis of Jesus' own self-understanding of his role as a ransom for many and Paul's message of the cross.
  • 10. Finding True Righteousness and Devotion (Isaiah 56-59)
    Prophecies concerning the corruption of Israel's leaders, idolatry, and need for revival. Isaiah details both false and true worship, such as true fasting, which requires justice and ethical behavior to be accepted by God.
  • 11. The Glory of God's Reign (Isaiah 60-66). Isaiah: Discipleship Lessons from the Fifth Gospel
    The final section of Isaiah concludes with promises of the return of God's scattered peoples, the glory of the future Zion, the new heavens and the new earth, and the final reign of God. These passages are echoed strongly in the Book of Revelation.
  • I Am Doing a New Thing (Isaiah 43:18-21)
    A message of hope and encouragement to those who are crushed and hopeless. An exposition from the Hebrew.
  • advent/1 page
  • 28 Advent Scriptures: Readings and Resources for the Christmas Season, by Dr. Ralph F. Wilson
    Provides a brief Scripture exposition on messianic themes for each day of advent, plus readings for Advent Sundays and the lighting of advent candles.
  • daniel/21 pages
  • Daniel - Discipleship Lessons from a Foreign Culture, a free e-mail Bible study
    A an e-mail Bible study on the Book of Daniel, with an emphasis on the lessons that Jesus' disciples can learn about practicing their faith in a foreign culture.
  • daniel-lesson-handouts.pdf
  • Daniel: Faithful Discipleship in a Foreign Land. Linking page
  • Preface. Daniel: Faithful Discipleship in a Foreign Land
    Daniel is important to understanding the New Testament because of what it says about the Son of Man, the Kingdom of God, and eschatology.
  • Introduction to Daniel. Daniel: Faithful Discipleship in a Foreign Land
    Discusses the Book of Daniel's place in history, dating, genre of apocalyptic, and purpose.
  • 1. Four Hebrew Youths in Babylon (Daniel 1). Daniel: Faithful Discipleship in a Foreign Land
    Daniel and other young men are exiled to Babylon as teenagers, and make a tactful stand against eating defiled food.
  • 2. Nebuchadnezzar's Dream and Daniel's Interpretation (Daniel 2). Daniel: Faithful Discipleship in a Foreign Land
    Daniel interprets the king's dream which foretells four kingdoms, which are ultimately destroyed by a great rock -- the Kingdom of God.
  • 3. The Fiery Furnace and the Lions' Den (Daniel 3 and 6). Daniel: Faithful Discipleship in a Foreign Land
    Faithful disciples don't compromise their faith, even at pain of death. Tells the stories of the Hebrew children in the fiery furnace and Daniel in the lions' den.
  • 4. Humbling the Proud (Daniel 4-5). Daniel: Faithful Discipleship in a Foreign Land
    Nebuchadnezzar is humbled by mental illness or insanity, while Belshazzar sees the handwriting on the wall, refuses to repent, and is slain.
  • 5. Four Beasts and the Son of Man (Daniel 7). Daniel: Faithful Discipleship in a Foreign Land
    Daniel sees a vision of four beasts that represent four kingdoms. The Son of Man before the Ancient of Days underlies Jesus' use of the title.
  • 6. A Vision and a Mighty Prayer (Daniel 8:1-9:19). Daniel: Faithful Discipleship in a Foreign Land
    Daniel sees a vision of a ram and goat (Persia and Greece), then provides a wonderful example of intercessory prayer on behalf of Israel.
  • 7. Daniel's Vision of the Seventy Weeks (Daniel 9:20-27). Daniel: Faithful Discipleship in a Foreign Land
    A careful study of Daniel's vision of the so-called 'Seventy Weeks of Years' and a discussion of various interpretations of this controversial passage.
  • 8. The Kings of the North and South (Daniel 10:1-11:35). Daniel: Faithful Discipleship in a Foreign Land
    We survey Daniel's detailed prophecy of the battles between the kings of the north and south -- with their culmination with Antiochus Epiphanes and the abomination of desolation in the temple.
  • 9. Antichrist, Resurrection, and the Last Days (Daniel 11:36-12:13). Daniel: Faithful Discipleship in a Foreign Land
    Daniel's vision seems to describe the Antichrist who will appear at the end of the age. Here also is the clearest passage on resurrection found in the Old Testament.
  • The Medo-Persian Empire. Appendix 2 of Daniel: Faithful Discipleship in a Foreign Land
  • The Case for a Sixth Century Dating of Daniel. Appendix 3 of Daniel: Faithful Discipleship in a Foreign Land
    While most modern scholars assert that Daniel was written about 168-165 BC, an excellent case can be made for the books composition by 530 BC or a few years thereafter.
  • Important Dates for the Book of Daniel. Appendix 4 of Daniel: Faithful Discipleship in a Foreign Land
    Many, many heads of state and historical events are referred to in Daniel's life and visions. Here is a table of names and dates of the period from about 600 BC to 150 BC.
  • The Assyrian and Babylonian Exiles. Appendix 5 of Daniel: Faithful Discipleship in a Foreign Land
    Describes the various exiles from Israel by the Assyrians and from Judah by the Babylonians.
  • References and Abbreviations. Daniel: Faithful Discipleship in a Foreign Land
  • Reprint Guidelines. Daniel: Faithful Discipleship in a Foreign Land
  • daniel-lesson-handouts-part1.pdf
  • rebuild/20 pages
  • Rebuild and Renew: the Post-Exilic Books of Ezra, Nehemiah, Haggai, Zechariah, Malachi, a free e-mail Bible study
  • Rebuild and Renew: the Post-Exilic Books of Ezra, Nehemiah, Haggai, Zechariah, Malachi, links to lessons and audio
  • Preface to Rebuild & Renew: The Post Exilic Books, by Ralph F. Wilson
    Explains what the reader will find in this series of lessons on the Post-Exilic Bible Books of Ezra, Nehemiah, Haggai, Zechariah, and Malachi.
  • Introduction to the Post-Exilic Period. Rebuild & Renew: The Post-Exilic Books, by Ralph F. Wilson. JesusWalk Bible Study Series
    Overview of the period 539 to about 430 BC, when the Jews return from Babylon to Jerusalem and the Persian province of Yehud (Judah).
  • 1. Returning to Rebuild the Temple (Ezra 1-6). Rebuild & Renew: The Post-Exilic Books, by Ralph F. Wilson. JesusWalk Bible Study Series.
    This historical passage covers the period from Cyrus's proclamation, and includes the return of the first group from Babylon about 537 BC, the rebuilding of the temple, work stoppages due to enemies, and the completion and dedication of the temple about 515 BC.
  • 2. Realigning Priorities (Haggai 1-2). Rebuild & Renew: The Post-Exilic Books, by Ralph F. Wilson. JesusWalk Bible Study Series.
    This is a short prophetic book of four prophecies given about 520 BC designed to encourage the Jewish leaders to get started again on rebuilding the Second Temple.
  • 3. Encouragement for the Builders (Zechariah 1-6). Rebuild & Renew: The Post-Exilic Books, by Ralph F. Wilson. JesusWalk Bible Study Series.
    The first lesson contains prophecies given about 520 BC designed to encourage the Jews to complete the temple project. Zechariah's prophecies come with some rather bizarre images to interpret.
  • 4. Prophecies of the Messiah (Zechariah 7-14). Rebuild & Renew: The Post-Exilic Books, by Ralph F. Wilson. JesusWalk Bible Study Series.
    The second half of Zechariah contains four prophecies without a specific date. These point to the coming Messiah, a call to righteousness, an indictment of false shepherds, the final battle, and the New Jerusalem.
  • 5. Confession and Repentance (Ezra 7-10). Rebuild & Renew: The Post-Exilic Books, by Ralph F. Wilson. JesusWalk Bible Study Series.
    Ezra leads a new caravan of Jews from Babylon to Jerusalem about 458 BC. Then we see how Ezra deals with the people's sins of intermarrying with non-believers.
  • 6. Nehemiah's Prayer (Nehemiah 1:1-2:8). Rebuild & Renew: The Post-Exilic Books, by Ralph F. Wilson. JesusWalk Bible Study Series.
    Nehemiah hears of the plight of Jerusalem and offers a prayer to God that can serve as a model for us of a prayer of confession and intercession. We see a tough, spiritual leader in action.
  • 7. Restoring the Wall (Nehemiah 2:9-7:73). Rebuild & Renew: The Post-Exilic Books, by Ralph F. Wilson. JesusWalk Bible Study Series.
    Jerusalem's wall has been broken down. Nehemiah organizes resources and teams, then completes the task in 52 days -- all amidst stiff opposition from Judah's enemies. But Nehemiah has to deal with intermarriage with non-Jews -- again.
  • 8. Repentance and Revival (Nehemiah 8-13). Rebuild & Renew: The Post-Exilic Books, by Ralph F. Wilson. JesusWalk Bible Study Series.
    Ezra reads and explains God's law to the entire nation. The result is a genuine spiritual revival, and a final celebration of the completion of the wall.
  • 9. Love, Worship, and Marriage (Malachi 1-2). Rebuild & Renew: The Post-Exilic Books, by Ralph F. Wilson. JesusWalk Bible Study Series.
    The Prophet Malachi writes sometime between 460 and 430 BC. His first three prophecies concern the need for sincere worship, and faithfulness to a covenant of marriage, rather than easy divorces.
  • 10. Justice, Tithing, Purifying, and Judgment (Malachi 3-4). Rebuild & Renew: The Post-Exilic Books, by Ralph F. Wilson. JesusWalk Bible Study Series.
    Malachi's last three prophecies concern purifying God's people, faithfulness in tithing, and the future Day of Judgment when the wicked are punished and the righteous vindicated. A final promise looks forward to John the Baptist and Jesus the Messiah.
  • rebuild-lesson-handouts.pdf
  • app2-chronology-of-post-exilic-period.pdf
  • app3-main-characters-ezra-nehemiah.pdf
  • Appendix 4. The Medo-Persian Empire. Rebuild & Renew: The Post-Exilic Books, by Ralph F. Wilson. JesusWalk Bible Study Series.
    Brief overview of the origins and extent of the Medo-Persian Empire founded by Cyrus the Great.
  • References and Abbreviations. Rebuild & Renew: The Post-Exilic Books, by Ralph F. Wilson
  • Reprint Guidelines
  • names-god/34 pages
  • Names and Titles of God Online Bible Study -- JesusWalk Bible Study Series
    A Bible study of the various names by which God revealed himself -- El, Elohim, Yahweh, Jehovah, Father -- and the titles and descriptors with which His people refer to Him -- Rock, Shepherd, Lord of Glory, Merciful God, etc.
  • Artwork relating to the Names and Titles of God
    A Bible study of the various names by which God revealed himself -- El, Elohim, Yahweh, Jehovah, Father -- and the titles and descriptors with which His people refer to Him -- Rock, Shepherd, Lord of Glory, Merciful God, etc.
  • The 99 Beautiful Names of God for All the People of the Book (Allah)
    Bentley's book takes each of Islam's 99 Beautiful Names of Allah and provides devotional content from the Old and New Testaments. The Names are recited by devout Muslims using a rosary.
  • Introduction to Names and Titles of God
    A Bible study of the various names by which God revealed himself -- El, Elohim, Yahweh, Jehovah, Father -- and the titles and descriptors with which His people refer to Him -- Rock, Shepherd, Lord of Glory, Merciful God, etc.
  • names-god-participant-handouts.pdf
  • Names and Titles of God
    A Bible study of the various names by which God revealed himself -- El, Elohim, Yahweh, Jehovah, Father -- and the titles and descriptors with which His people refer to Him -- Rock, Shepherd, Lord of Glory, Merciful God, etc.
  • 1. God Most High (´El `Elyon), the Exalted God -- Names and Titles of God
    Most High God (´El `Elyon). We discuss ´El, the generic term for God and ´Elohim, the plural name used for the Israelite's God. In addition, we explore titles by which God's exalted nature is revealed: Most High God, Father of Glory, High and Lofty One, King of Glory, and My Glory. And we examine Abraham's encounter with Melchizedek
  • Who Is the Central Image in the Ghent Altarpiece?
    A Bible study of the various names by which God revealed himself -- El, Elohim, Yahweh, Jehovah, Father -- and the titles and descriptors with which His people refer to Him -- Rock, Shepherd, Lord of Glory, Merciful God, etc.
  • Introduction to Names and Titles of God, Audio (12:26).
    A Bible study of the various names by which God revealed himself -- El, Elohim, Yahweh, Jehovah, Father -- and the titles and descriptors with which His people refer to Him -- Rock, Shepherd, Lord of Glory, Merciful God, etc.
  • Reprint Guidelines
  • References and Standard Abbreviations -- Names and Titles of God
    A Bible study of the various names by which God revealed himself -- El, Elohim, Yahweh, Jehovah, Father -- and the titles and descriptors with which His people refer to Him -- Rock, Shepherd, Lord of Glory, Merciful God, etc.
  • Correct Spelling and Pronunciation of Yahweh vs. Jehovah -- Names and Titles of God
    A Bible study of the various names by which God revealed himself -- El, Elohim, Yahweh, Jehovah, Father -- and the titles and descriptors with which His people refer to Him -- Rock, Shepherd, Lord of Glory, Merciful God, etc.
  • 2. The God of Might (΄El Shaddai) -- Names and Titles of God
    We examine the names and metaphors of God that refer to his power and might, including military might as Almighty God, ´El Shaddai, the LORD of Hosts/Armies (Yahweh Sabaoth). Also Mighty Warrior and the LORD our Banner (Jehovah nissi).
  • 3. Yahweh, I AM, the Eternal God (´El `Olam) -- Names and Titles of God
    Yahweh, The Eternal God. This is God's unique, self-revealed name, sometimes given as Jehovah or YHWH. We also examine the eternal nature of God as the Ancient of Days, Alpha and Omega, First and the Last, Everlasting God (El Olam), I AM, Living God, and the One Who Lives Forever
  • 4. God Our Creator -- Names and Titles of God
    A Bible study of the various names by which God revealed himself -- El, Elohim, Yahweh, Jehovah, Father -- and the titles and descriptors with which His people refer to Him -- Rock, Shepherd, Lord of Glory, Merciful God, etc.
  • 5. The Holy and Righteous One -- Names and Titles of God
    He is known as Holy, Righteous One, the Judge of All the Earth, the Awe/Fear of Jacob. We'll also consider compound names: The LORD who Sanctifies You (Yahweh-M´Kaddesh) and the LORD our Righteousness (Yahweh-Tsidkenu).
  • 6. God Our Lord and King -- Names and Titles of God
    Here we examine God in his role as absolute sovereign, or Lord and King. We'll consider such titles as King of Glory, God of gods, and Lord of lords.
  • 7. God our Fortress and Protector -- Names and Titles of God
    A number of metaphors refer to God's protection for his people. He is our Shield, Fortress, Hiding Place, Keeper, Refuge, Rock, Shade, Shelter, and Stronghold.
  • 8. The Lord Our Provider and Shepherd -- Names and Titles of God
    A Bible study of the various names by which God revealed himself -- El, Elohim, Yahweh, Jehovah, Father -- and the titles and descriptors with which His people refer to Him -- Rock, Shepherd, Lord of Glory, Merciful God, etc.
  • 9. Abba, Father -- Names and Titles of God
    God Our Father. Jesus especially revealed God as our Heavenly Father, building on an Old Testament theme. We also consider God in relationships with his people as Husband, God of Israel, God of our Fathers, and the Portion of Jacob.
  • 10. The God of All Grace -- Names and Titles of God
    The Loving God. While the Old Testament revealed the Merciful God, the God of Love and Peace, and the God of My Mercy, the New Testament's special emphasis is on God's love and mercy.
  • 11. God Our Savior -- Names and Titles of God
    We conclude with a strong theme of God who rescues his people from trouble -- Deliverer, Redeemer, Savior, and Horn of Salvation. We'll also consider two compound titles: The LORD is Peace (Yahweh-Shalom, the name of Gideon's altar) and The LORD is Here (
  • 1. God Most High (´El `Elyon), the Exalted God, Audio (27:01).
    A Bible study of the various names by which God revealed himself -- El, Elohim, Yahweh, Jehovah, Father -- and the titles and descriptors with which His people refer to Him -- Rock, Shepherd, Lord of Glory, Merciful God, etc.
  • 2. The God of Might (´El Shaddai), Audio (27:01).
    A Bible study of the various names by which God revealed himself -- El, Elohim, Yahweh, Jehovah, Father -- and the titles and descriptors with which His people refer to Him -- Rock, Shepherd, Lord of Glory, Merciful God, etc.
  • 3. Yahweh, I AM, the Eternal God (´El `Olam), Audio (34:47).
    A Bible study of the various names by which God revealed himself -- El, Elohim, Yahweh, Jehovah, Father -- and the titles and descriptors with which His people refer to Him -- Rock, Shepherd, Lord of Glory, Merciful God, etc.
  • 4. God Our Creator, Audio (31:38).
    A Bible study of the various names by which God revealed himself -- El, Elohim, Yahweh, Jehovah, Father -- and the titles and descriptors with which His people refer to Him -- Rock, Shepherd, Lord of Glory, Merciful God, etc.
  • 5. The Holy and Righteous One, Audio (31:38).
    A Bible study of the various names by which God revealed himself -- El, Elohim, Yahweh, Jehovah, Father -- and the titles and descriptors with which His people refer to Him -- Rock, Shepherd, Lord of Glory, Merciful God, etc.
  • 6. God Our Lord and King, Audio (25:17)
    A Bible study of the various names by which God revealed himself -- El, Elohim, Yahweh, Jehovah, Father -- and the titles and descriptors with which His people refer to Him -- Rock, Shepherd, Lord of Glory, Merciful God, etc.
  • 7. God our Fortress and Protector, Audio (31:45)
    A Bible study of the various names by which God revealed himself -- El, Elohim, Yahweh, Jehovah, Father -- and the titles and descriptors with which His people refer to Him -- Rock, Shepherd, Lord of Glory, Merciful God, etc.
  • 8. The Lord Our Provider and Shepherd, Audio (34:59)
    A Bible study of the various names by which God revealed himself -- El, Elohim, Yahweh, Jehovah, Father -- and the titles and descriptors with which His people refer to Him -- Rock, Shepherd, Lord of Glory, Merciful God, etc.
  • 9. Abba, Father, Audio (39:35)
    A Bible study of the various names by which God revealed himself -- El, Elohim, Yahweh, Jehovah, Father -- and the titles and descriptors with which His people refer to Him -- Rock, Shepherd, Lord of Glory, Merciful God, etc.
  • 10. The God of All Grace, Audio (25:34)
    A Bible study of the various names by which God revealed himself -- El, Elohim, Yahweh, Jehovah, Father -- and the titles and descriptors with which His people refer to Him -- Rock, Shepherd, Lord of Glory, Merciful God, etc.
  • 11. God Our Savior and Redeemer, Audio ()
    A Bible study of the various names by which God revealed himself -- El, Elohim, Yahweh, Jehovah, Father -- and the titles and descriptors with which His people refer to Him -- Rock, Shepherd, Lord of Glory, Merciful God, etc.
  • Names and Titles of God Bible Study Evaluation
  • christmas-incarnation/9 pages
  • Christmas Incarnation -- A 4-week Advent Bible study series on the Birth of Christ
    A four-week Bible study on the major characters of the Christmas story -- Mary, Joseph, the shepherds, and the wisemen. Designed for small groups or as an interactive online Bible study
  • christmas-incarnation-questions.pdf
  • Reprint Guidelines
  • Christmas Incarnation -- A 4-week Advent Bible study series on the Birth of Christ
    A four-week Bible study on the major characters of the Christmas story -- Mary, Joseph, the shepherds, and the wisemen. Designed for small groups or as an interactive online Bible study
  • Mary, the Virgin Mother (Luke 1:26-45) -- Christmas Incarnation
    A Bible study on Mary and the Virgin Birth or Virgin Conception as part of the Christmas story. Examines the Annunciation and Mary's encounter with her cousin Elizabeth that forms the basis of the Ave Maria or Hail Mary prayer.
  • Joseph, the Stand-In Father (Matthew 1:18-25) -- Christmas Incarnation
    A study of the birth of Christ from St. Joseph's point of view, and a discussion of his role as a stand-in adoptive father, provider, protector, and carpenter for Jesus Christ, as part of the Christmas story.
  • The Shepherds' Sign of the Manger (Luke 2:1-20) -- Christmas Incarnation
    An interactive Bible study of the Christmas story of birth of Jesus Christ in Bethlehem, with emphasis on the angel's announcement to the shepherds, the manger, and Christ's birth in a stable.
  • The Wise Men (Magi) and the Christmas Star of Bethlehem (Matthew 2:1-12) -- Christmas Incarnation
    A study of the Magi, or Wise Men seeking out the Christ child guided by the Christmas star of Bethlehem.
  • References and Abbreviations -- Christmas Incarnation
  • manifesto/48 pages
  • Sermon on the Mount: Jesus' Manifesto of the Kingdom
    Part of an online inductive Bible study on the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus' Manifesto of the Kingdom.
  • Paintings and Artwork of Jesus Teaching Ministry
    Jesus, painting, artwork, art, teaching, ministry, Sermon on the Mount, temple
  • Preface to Sermon on the Mount: The Jesus Manifesto
    This preface to Jesus' Sermon on the Mount introduces the topic and invites the reader to prepare to be changed by these powerful words.
  • Introduction to the Sermon on the Mount: The Jesus Manifesto
    This introduction to the Sermon on the Mount considers some of the critical issues raised -- the purpose, form, structure, the Synoptic Problem, and the Jesus Seminar.
  • Introduction to the Religion of the Pharisees (Excursus 2) - Sermon on the Mount
    Provides an historical and theological introduction to the Pharisees, contemporaries of Jesus, and often the contrast to his teachings.
  • Songs and Hymns Based on the Sermon on the Mount and Related Themes (Appendix 2)
    The Sermon on the Mount has inspired thousands of songs and hymns. Here are some of the most popular of these tunes and lyrics.
  • manifesto-lesson-handouts.pdf
  • Sermon on the Mount: The Jesus' Manifesto (Matthew 5-7)
    Part of an online inductive Bible study on the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus' Manifesto of the Kingdom.
  • Abbreviations and References to Sermon on the Mount: The Jesus Manifesto
  • 1. Paradoxical People: The Beatitudes (Matthew 5:1-12)
    In the Beatitudes, the inner spirit of Kingdom citizens is contrasted with the world's values. Jesus speaks of the poor in spirit, mourners, meek, righteousness seekers, merciful, pure in heart, peacemakers, and the persecuted, and promises them heavenly rewards.
  • What Is the Kingdom of Heaven that Jesus Proclaims? (Excursus 1) -- Sermon on the Mount
    An essay on just what is the Kingdom of heaven or Kingdom of God that Jesus teaches about in the Sermon on the Mount.
  • 2. Witnessing People: Living as Salt and Light in the World (Matthew 5:13-16) - Sermon on the Mount
    Kingdom citizens carry on Israel's role of being a 'light to the nations' (Isaiah 42:6). They are to be witnesses to Christ, salt and light in their communities
  • 3. The Spirit of the Law and Reconciliation (Matthew 5:17-26) - Sermon on the Mount
    Does Jesus abolish the Law or fulfill it? He defines true righteousness. Murder can be prohibited by law, but its spirit is reconciliation, which requires a changed heart.
  • Excursus 3: Did Jesus Believe in Hell? - Sermon on the Mount
    A brief study of Jesus teaching on hell, ghenna, sheol, and hades.
  • 4. Adultery, Lust, and the Spirit of Marriage (Matthew 5:27-30) - Sermon on the Mount
    How adultery of the heart lies at the root of adultery, pornography, and sexual lust.
  • Homosexual Lust (Excursus 4) - Sermon on the Mount
    A discussion of the question of whether God accepts homosexual love.
  • Pornography -- What's Wrong with It? - Sermon on the Mount
    Is pornography truly 'victimless', as some contend. No. This brief essay lists 8 reasons why pornography is bad for society and what we can do to purify ourselves from its tentacles.
  • 5. The Spirit of Marriage. Jesus' Teaching on Divorce (Matthew 5:27-32 with 19:1-12) - Sermon on the Mount
    We seek to understand marriage and divorce in the First Century, Jesus' teaching on the heart and spirit of marriage, and its implications for Christians today.
  • 6. The Spirit of Truthfulness and Love (Matthew 5:33-48) - Sermon on the Mount
    The Pharisees had developed an elaborate system of oath-taking. Jesus calls his disciples to the true spirit of oath-taking, that is, truth-telling. The point, of course, is love for enemies, illustrating God's perfection.
  • Loving Your Enemies Case Study: Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. (Excursus 5) - Sermon on the Mount
    Part of an online inductive Bible study on the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus' Manifesto of the Kingdom.
  • 7. Giving, Prayer, and Fasting (Matthew 6:1-8, 16-18) - Sermon on the Mount
    How to give in a way that pleases the Father. The Pharisees' practice of prayer and fasting had lost the spirit of worship. Jesus brings a corrective.
  • Verses on How God Looks at the Poor
    Part of an online inductive Bible study on the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus' Manifesto of the Kingdom.
  • 8. The Lord's Prayer (Matthew 6:9-15) - Sermon on the Mount
    An online interactive Bible study of the great prayers of the Bible, as offered by Abraham, Moses, David, Psalms, Hezekiah, Daniel, Nehemiah, Jesus, and Paul. Includes intercessory prayers, as well as praise, confession, surrender, and thanksgiving.
  • 9. Temptation to Greed, that is, Idolatry (Matthew 6:19-24) - Sermon on the Mount
    It is possible to be possessed by getting ahead -- or greed. Americans, especially, are blind to this bondage. What would Jesus have us do? Serving God rather than Mammon.
  • Verses with the Word "Store*" -- Joyful Heart Ministries
    Part of an online inductive Bible study on the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus' Manifesto of the Kingdom.
  • 10. Materialism and Temptation to Worry (Matthew 6:25-34) - Sermon on the Mount
    If we aren't hoarding wealth, we can still be controlled by our worry about lack of possessions. Jesus' prescription for the poor. A call to seek first the Kingdom of God.
  • 11. Judging Self and Others (Matthew 7:1-6) - Sermon on the Mount
    'Judge not' is one of the most abused texts in the Bible. What did Jesus really mean?
  • 12. Prayer: Asking in Faith (Matthew 7:7-12) - Sermon on the Mount
    Asking, seeking, and knocking. Important lessons on praying with faith and persistence. Jesus' instruction for powerful disciples.
  • 13. Enter the Narrow Gate (Matthew 7:13-29) - Sermon on the Mount
    The broad way and the narrow or strait gate. All roads do not lead to heaven -- most lead to destruction. The Sermon concludes with warnings about obedient living and adequate life foundations.
  • manifesto-inductive-questions.pdf
  • manifesto-readers-theater-scripts.pdf
  • The Beatitudes, Matthew 5:1-12. Readers Theater
    Part of an online inductive Bible study on the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus' Manifesto of the Kingdom.
  • Salt and Light, Matthew 5:11-16, Readers Theater
    Part of an online inductive Bible study on the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus' Manifesto of the Kingdom.
  • The Faithfulness of God, Antiphonal Reading
    Part of an online inductive Bible study on the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus' Manifesto of the Kingdom.
  • Matthew 5:17-20, Fulfilling the Law, Readers Theater
    Part of an online inductive Bible study on the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus' Manifesto of the Kingdom.
  • Readers Theater - Reconciliation, Matthew 5:21-26
    Part of an online inductive Bible study on the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus' Manifesto of the Kingdom.
  • You Shall Not Commit Adultery, Readers Theater - Matthew 5:27-30
    Part of an online inductive Bible study on the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus' Manifesto of the Kingdom.
  • In the Beginning Was No Divorce, Readers Theater, Matthew 5:31-32; 19:3-11
    Part of an online inductive Bible study on the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus' Manifesto of the Kingdom.
  • Simply Tell the Truth - Matthew 5:33-37. Readers Theater
    Part of an online inductive Bible study on the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus' Manifesto of the Kingdom.
  • Do Not Retaliate, Matthew 5:38-48 -- Readers Theater
    Part of an online inductive Bible study on the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus' Manifesto of the Kingdom.
  • Readers Theater - Matthew 6:1-4. Give in Secret that You Might Receive Your True Reward
    Part of an online inductive Bible study on the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus' Manifesto of the Kingdom.
  • The Lord's Prayer (Matthew 6:9-13). Readers Theater
  • Your Treasure's Where Your Heart Is Found. Mt 6:19-24, Lk 12:16-21
    Part of an online inductive Bible study on the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus' Manifesto of the Kingdom.
  • Reading: Matthew 6:25-34, Seek First the Kingdom of God
    Part of an online inductive Bible study on the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus' Manifesto of the Kingdom.
  • Judging Righteously; Readers Theater - Matthew 7:1-6
    Part of an online inductive Bible study on the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus' Manifesto of the Kingdom.
  • Ask, Seek, Knock - Readers Theater, Matthew 7:7-12 with Luke 11:5-8
    Part of an online inductive Bible study on the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus' Manifesto of the Kingdom.
  • Narrow and Wide Gates, Readers Theater, Matthew 7:13-29
    Part of an online inductive Bible study on the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus' Manifesto of the Kingdom.
  • On Hating Your Enemies (Matthew 5:38-58; Romans 12:17-21)
    Both Jesus and the Apostle Paul taught very clearly that we must love our enemies, not hate them and seek revenge. Uses examples from Charlie Kirk memorial service.
  • mark/2 pages
  • Gospel of Mark: A Free Discipleship Discussion Guide. JesusWalk Bible Study Series
    The Israelites cross the Jordan without getting their feet wet, and Joshua orders a monument of 12 stones from the riverbed to commemmorate the occassion.
  • Gospel_of_Mark_Discussion_Questions_JesusWalk.pdf
  • john/57 pages
  • John's Gospel - A Discipleship Journey with Jesus, a free e-mail Bible study
    A an e-mail Bible study on the Gospel of John, with an emphasis on the lessons Jesus teaches his disciples about believing in him and following him.
  • Half-Healing at the Pool of Bethesda.
    This is a fictionalized account of an account of the healing of the crippled man at the Pool of Bethesda, found in John 5:1-18.
  • john-lesson-handouts.pdf
  • John's Gospel: A Discipleship Journey with Jesus. Links to Lessons
    Links to 34 lessons on John's Gospel, as well as appendices and maps.
  • Preface to John's Gospel: A Discipleship Journey with Jesus, by Ralph F. Wilson
    A personal introduction to studying John's Gospel online.
  • Introduction to John's Gospel: A Discipleship Journey with Jesus, by Ralph F. Wilson
    In this introduction we consider authorship, date, main themes, and distinctions of the Fourth Gospel.
  • Copying the Handouts
  • References and Abbreviations, from John's Gospel, by Dr. Ralph F. Wilson
  • 1. The Word Became Flesh (John 1:1-18), John's Gospel: A Discipleship Journey with Jesus
    John introduces Jesus as the Word or Logos, as God, as Light, as the Only-Begotten God.
  • Section II. The Signs and Public Discourses of Jesus (John 1:19 - 12:50)
    Describes the second division of John's Gospel, Jesus' seven signs and the discourses that follow them.
  • 2. John the Baptist's Witness to the Lamb of God (John 1:19-34). John's Gospel: A Discipleship Journey with Jesus
    This passage focuses on John the Baptist's witness to Jesus at his baptism, and as the Lamb of God.
  • 3. Disciples Direct Friends to Jesus (John 1:35-51). John's Gospel: A Discipleship Journey with Jesus
    Shows how the new disciples bring their friends and family members to meet Jesus -- and have their lives changed.
  • 4. Changing the Water into Wine (John 2:1-12). John's Gospel: A Discipleship Journey with Jesus
    Studies Jesus' first 'sign' at a wedding in Cana.
  • 5. Cleansing the Temple (John 2:13-25). John's Gospel: A Discipleship Journey with Jesus
    Jesus first act as Messiah in Jerusalem is to cleanse the temple of the moneychangers and merchants. Discusses relationship to accounts in the Synoptic Gospels.
  • 6. You Must Be Born Again (John 3:1-21). John's Gospel: A Discipleship Journey with Jesus
    Jesus' encounter with Nicodemus explores being born again, the new birth, water and spirit, as well as believing on Jesus to have eternal life.
  • 7. He Must Increase (John 3:22-4:3). John's Gospel: A Discipleship Journey with Jesus
    Shows John the Baptist's humility in willing to decrease in his following and not to resent Jesus who is increasing in influence and popularity.
  • 8. The Samaritan Woman at the Well (John 4:4-26). John's Gospel: A Discipleship Journey with Jesus
    Jesus meets a Samaritan woman at the well of Sychar. He speaks of living water that brings eternal life, speaks of the woman's history with men, and reveals himself as the Christ.
  • 9. The Fields Are Ripe for Harvest (John 4:27-42). John's Gospel: A Discipleship Journey with Jesus
    As the Samaritans stream out of Sychar to see the man the woman told them of, Jesus exhorts his disicples to open their eyes to see the spiritual harvest.
  • 10. Healing the Royal Official's Son (John 4:43-54). John's Gospel: A Discipleship Journey with Jesus
    Herod's official travels from Capernaum to Cana to find Jesus, pleading for him to heal his son back home. Jesus speaks the word and the son is healed remotely.
  • 11. Healing at the Pool of Bethesda (John 5:1-16). John's Gospel: A Discipleship Journey with Jesus
    In a show of pure grace, Jesus heals an undeserving crippled man at the Pool of Bethesda, and later confronts him about his sin.
  • 12. Life in the Son (John 5:17-47). John's Gospel: A Discipleship Journey with Jesus
    Discourse on Jesus' dependence upon and submission to his Father -- which is at the same time his source of authority to teach and to act.
  • 13. Feeding the Five Thousand, Walking on Water (John 6:1-21). John's Gospel: A Discipleship Journey with Jesus
    John tells us intimate details of Jesus' feeding of the 5,000, and his walking on the water.
  • 14. I Am the Bread of Life (John 6:22-71). John's Gospel -- A Discipleship Journey with Jesus
    Jesus' discourse on the Bread of Life, as well as eating his flesh and drinking his blood.
  • 15. Streams of Living Water (John 7:1-52). John's Gospel - A Discipleship Journey with Jesus
    Jesus visits Jerusalem for the Feast of Booths or Tabernacles, Sukkot, and delivers an important declaration on the indwelling Holy Spirit in the believer.
  • 16. Jesus and the Adulterous Woman (John 7:53-8:11). John's Gospel: A Discipleship Journey with Jesus
    Jesus' enemies bring a women taken in adultery to him in the temple. Jesus both convicts them of unrighteous testimony, as well as gently calling the woman to repentance.
  • 17. Truth that Sets You Free (John 8:12-59). John's Gospel - A Discipleship Journey with Jesus
    Jesus' discourse touches the importance of keeping Jesus' teachings to be true disciples, that his truth can set one free.
  • 18. Healing Blindness (John 9:1-41). John's Gospel - A Discipleship Journey with Jesus
    After Jesus heals a man born blind on the Sabbath, the Pharisees attack the man and Jesus. Jesus gives a discourse on spiritual blindness.
  • 19. I Am the Good Shepherd (John 10:1-42). John's Gospel - A Discipleship Journey with Jesus
    Jesus draws four teachings from the life of a shepherd, including laying down his life for the sheep and aboslute protection of them from thieves and Satan.
  • 20. I Am the Resurrection and the Life (John 11:1-54). John's Gospel - A Discipleship Journey with Jesus
    Jesus raises Lazarus from the dead, and speaks to Mary and Martha about resurrection and life found in him.
  • 21. Anointing at Bethany and Triumphal Entry (John 11:55-12:22). John's Gospel - A Discipleship Journey with Jesus
    Mary anoints Jesus at a dinner in Bethany, just before his triumphal entry into Jerusalem.
  • 22. The Hour Has Come to Be Glorified (John 12:23-50). John's Gospel - A Discipleship Journey with Jesus
  • Section III. The Farewell Discourses (John 13:1-17:26). John's Gospel - A Discipleship Journey with Jesus
  • 23. Washing the Disciples' Feet, Love One Another (John 13:1-38). John's Gospel - A Discipleship Journey with Jesus
    Breaking all social norms in an act of radical humility, Jesus washes his disciples' feet at the Last Supper and gives them a commandment to love one another -- a mark of discipleship.
  • 24. I Am the Way, the Truth, and the Life (John 14:1-14)
    Jesus comforts his disciples as part of the Farewell Discourses, teaches about heaven -- 'my Father's house,' and declares himself the only, exclusive way to the Father.
  • 25. I Will Give You Another Counselor (John 14:15-31). John's Gospel: A Discipleship Journey with Jesus
    Jesus ties love for him to obedience. Explains how the Holy Spirit will come as 'another' Paraclete. Prince of the world has no hold on Jesus.
  • 26. Abiding in the Vine (John 15:1-17). John's Gospel: A Discipleship Journey with Jesus
    Jesus uses the metaphor of a vine and branches to teach his disciples the importance of pruning or discipline, as well as staying close, abiding in the vine. That we can do nothing by ourselves, but in him will bear much fruit.
  • 27. The Spirit of Truth (John 15:18-16:11). John's Gospel: A Discipleship Journey with Jesus
    Jesus teaches on persecution, and the coming of the Paraclete, Counselor, Comforter who will convict the world of sin, righteousness, and judgment.
  • 28. The Spirit Will Guide You (John 16:12-33). John's Gospel: A Discipleship Journey with Jesus
    The Holy Spirit, Paraclete, Counselor, Comforter will guide the disciles into all truth, relaying what the Father is saying. Speaks of prayer to the Father in Jesus' name, and the peace in Jesus that overcomes the world.
  • 29. Jesus' Prayer for His Disciples (John 17:1-26). John's Gospel: A Discipleship Journey with Jesus
    Jesus' high priestly prayer discusses themes of glory, unity, sanctification through the word of truth. And a prayer for those who will believe in the future.
  • Section IV. The Crucifixion and Resurrection (John 18:1-20:31). John's Gospel: A Discipleship Journey with Jesus
  • 30. Jesus' Arrest and Trial (John 18:1-19:16). John's Gospel: A Discipleship Journey with Jesus
    Jesus is betrayed by Judas, arrested in the Garden of Gethsemane, taken to the high priests Annas and Caiaphas. Peter denies him three times. Jesus is tried before Pilate, who finds him innocent. Jesus speaks to him of his heavenly kingdom, of truth, and of God's sovereignty. Peter, buckling to pressure from the Jewish leaders, gives the order to crucify Jesus.
  • 31. Jesus' Death and Burial (John 19:17-42). John's Gospel: A Discipleship Journey with Jesus
    Jesus is crucified on Golgotha, the soldiers cast lots for his garments fulfilling scripture. In last words of Christ from the cross, he entrusts his mother to John's care, thirsts, drinks posca or vinegary wine, and says 'It is finished.' He is buried by Joseph of Arimathea and Nicodemus in a new tomb.
  • 32. Jesus Appears to Mary Magdalene (John 20:1-18). John's Gospel: A Discipleship Journey with Jesus
    On Sunday morning Mary goes to the tomb, finds it empty, and tells Peter and John. They find the graveclothes folded carefully, not scattered. Later, Jesus appears to Mary in the garden near the tomb.
  • 33. As the Father Sent Me, So I Send You (John 20:19-31). John's Gospel: A Discipleship Journey with Jesus
    Jesus appears to his disciples in the upper room. He commissions them and sends them, breathes upon them to receive the Holy Spirit, and gives them the power to remit sins. Doubting Thomas finally meets the risen Christ and confesses him to be 'My Lord and my God.'
  • Section V. Epilogue (John 21:1-25). John's Gospel: A Discipleship Journey with Jesus
  • 34. Feed My Sheep (John 21:1-25). John's Gospel: A Discipleship Journey with Jesus
    While Peter and other disciples are fishing, Jesus tells them to put ther nets on the other side, catching a great number of fish. Peter swims ashore. Jesus has breakfast fixed. Jesus restores Peter to ministry and prophesies his manner of death.
  • Appendix 2. "The Jews" in John's Gospel
    John isn't antisemitic. Usually his term 'the Jews' refers to his enemies, the leaders in Jerusalem.
  • Appendix 3. Religious Leaders in Jesus' Day. John's Gospel: A Discipleship Journey with Jesus
    Identifies the various religious and political leaders in Jesus' day.
  • Appendix 4. The "I Am" Passages in John's Gospel. John's Gospel - A Discipleship Journey with Jesus
  • Appendix 5. "Signs" in John's Gospel. John's Gospel - A Discipleship Journey with Jesus
    Discusses John's use of semeion, 'miraculous signs,' to describe how miracles point to who Jesus is.
  • Appendix 6. "Glory" and "Glorify" in John's Gospel - A Discipleship Journey with Jesus
    John develops the idea of seeing God's glory in Jesus, especially in his death, resurrection, and ascension.
  • Appendix 7. The Chronology of Holy Week in John's Gospel - A Discipleship Journey with Jesus
    Presents arguments for the observation that Jesus partook of the Last Supper on Thursday, Passover, despite some indications in John that he partook of the Last Supper on Wednesday.
  • Appendix 8. The Paraclete. John's Gospel: A Discipleship Journey with Jesus
    Explains what parakletos or Paraclete means. Then outlines the Spirit as a replacement for Jesus, as a Person, and a teacher, reminder, and guide to truth, who convicts the world of sin.
  • Appendix 9. The Sending of the Holy Spirit. John's Gospel: A Discipleship Journey with Jesus
    Explains the filoque controversy, whether the Spirit proceeds from the Father only (Eastern church), or from both the Father and Son (Western church).
  • Appendix 10. Harmony between John and the Synoptic Gospels. John's Gospel: A Discipleship Journey with Jesus
    Provides a harmony of passages in Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John for the accounts of Jesus' passion and resurrection.
  • Appendix 11. A Possible Harmonization of the Resurrection Accounts. John's Gospel: A Discipleship Journey with Jesus
    Provices a possible harmony of events of Resurrection Day, based on a reconstruction by George E. Ladd and Michael C. Perry
  • Maps related to John's Gospel, by Ralph F. Wilson
    Here are several maps and diagrams that will help you understand John's Gospel better.
  • 7-last-words/15 pages
  • The 7 Last Words of Christ from the Cross - A Devotional Bible Study on the Seven Last Words for Holy Week and Good Friday
    An e-mail Bible study on the Seven Last Words of Christ from the cross to help prepare your heart for Holy Week, Good Friday, and Easter.
  • Simple Harmony of the Crucifixion Accounts (NIV) - by Dr. Ralph F. Wilson - Seven 7 Last Words of Christ from the Cross
  • The 7 Last Words of Christ from the Cross - A Devotional Bible Study on the Seven Last Words
  • Preface to the 7 Last Words of Christ
  • 1. Father, Forgive Them (Luke 23:34) - Seven Last Words of Christ from the Cross
  • 2. This Day You Will Be with Me in Paradise (Luke 23:43) - Seven Last Words of Christ from the Cross
  • 3. Woman, Behold Your Son (John 19:26-27) - Seven Last Words of Christ from the Cross
  • 4. My God, My God, Why Have You Forsaken Me? (Mark 15:34) - Seven Last Words of Christ from the Cross
  • 5. I Thirst (John 19:28) - Seven Last Words from the Cross
  • 6. It Is Finished (John 19:30) - Seven Last Words of Christ from the Cross
  • 7. Father, Into Your Hands I Commit My Spirit (Luke 23:46) - Seven Last Words of Christ from the Cross
  • by Dr
  • 7-last-words-questions.pdf
  • References and Abbreviations for the Seven Last Words of Christ
  • Hymns and Songs Appropriate for Good Friday or Maundy Thursday Services
  • parables/26 pages
  • Parables of Jesus for Disciples, a free e-mail Bible study
  • parables-toc.pdf
  • parables-lesson-handouts.pdf
  • Parables of Jesus for Disciples (linking)
  • 1. Parables about God's Love. Parables of Jesus for Disciples
    Includes parables of the Lost Sheep, Lost Coin, Lost Son (Prodigal Son), Two Debtors, and the Unmerciful Servant.
  • 11. Parables about Disciple Practices. Parables of Jesus for Disciples
    Includes the Parables of the Dutiful Servant, Washing the Disciples' Feet, the Talents, the Minas or Pounds, and the Good Samaritan.
  • 12. Parables about Caring for the Lost. Parables of Jesus for Disciples
    Includes Parables of the Doctor and the Sick, the Lost Sheep, Harvest and Laborers, Sowers and Reapers, Sheep and Wolves, Fishers of Men, Savorless Salt, City on a Hill, Lamp under a Bushel, and Scribes of the Kingdom.
  • 7. Parables about the Nature of Christ's Kingdom. Parables of Jesus for Disciples
    Includes parables of the Mustard Seed, Yeast or Leaven, Unshrunk Cloth, Wineskins, Bridegroom's Guests, Good Shepherd and the Sheep Gate.
  • Appendix 6. Slavery in Jesus' Day. Parables of Jesus for Disciples
    First century customs of slavery and manumission.
  • References and Abbreviations. Parables of Jesus for Disciples
    Bibliographical references.
  • 9. Parables about Disciple Character. Parables of Jesus for Disciples
    Includes Parables of the Pharisee and Tax Collector, Little Children, Places at Table, Yeast of the Pharisees, Vine and Branches, Bread of Life, Eating Jesus' Flesh, and the Yoke.
  • 5. Parables about Readiness for Christ's Return. Parables of Jesus for Disciples
    Includes Parables of Weather Signs, Lightening, Vultures Gathering, the Budding Fig Tree, Watching Servants, Burglar, Wise and Foolish Virgins, and the Wise and Faithful Steward.
  • Appendix 5. The Great Messianic Banquet. Parables of Jesus for Disciples
  • 2. Parables about Israel's Unbelief. Parables of Jesus for Disciples
    Includes parables of the Barren Fig Tree, Hen and Chickens, Wedding Banquet, Great Banquet, and Wicked Tenants.
  • 8. Parables about Responding to the Kingdom. Parables of Jesus for Disciples
    Includes Parables of the Sower, the Narrow Door, Foxholes and Nests, Looking Back from the Plow, Tower-Builder, Warring King, Taking Up One's Cross, the Hidden Treasure, and the Pearl of Great Price.
  • 4. Parables about Final Judgment. Parables of Jesus for Disciples
    Includes Parables of the Rich Man and Lazarus, Sheep and Goats, the Net, the Weeds or Tares, and the Laborers in the Vineyard.
  • Appendix 4. Miscellaneous Parables, Analogies, and Sayings. Parables of Jesus for Disciples
    Includes Parables of the Light of the World; Physician, Heal Yourself; the Temple of Jesus' Body; the Sign of Jonah; the Slave and the Son; Children in the Marketplace; Rescuing from a Well; Peter the Rock; and the Keys of the Kingdom.
  • 10. Parables about Disciple Values. Parables of Jesus for Disciples
    Includes Parables of the Wolf in Sheep's Clothing, Tree and Fruit, Treasure Chest of the Heart, Unjust Steward, Rich Fool, Two Masters, Birds and the Lilies, Asking a Father for Bread, Friend at Midnight, Unjust Judge, and Faith of a Mustard Seed.
  • Appendix 3. A Vocabulary for Parables and Analogies. Parables of Jesus for Disciples
  • 3. Parables about Repentance. Parables of Jesus for Disciples
    Includes the parables of the Whitewashed Tombs, Defiling Heart of Man, the Guilty Defendant, Wise and Foolish Builders, Narrow and Wide Gates, the Two Sons, the Speck and the Beam, and the Good Eye.
  • 6. Parables about Salvation. Parables of Jesus for Disciples
    Includes Parables of the Spiritual Birth, Wind of the Spirit, Bread of Life, Streams of Living Water, Camel and the Needle, Bread and Wine, Kernel of Wheat, Rooms in the Father's House, Woman in Childbirth, and Plundering the Strongman's House.
  • Preface to Parables of Jesus for Disciples
  • Introduction to Jesus' Parables. Parables of Jesus for Disciples
    Covers definitions, John's Gospel, categories, purposes of parables, history of allegorizing, and rules of interpretation.
  • Reprint Guideline. Parables of Jesus for Disciples
    Reprint policy.
  • Appendix 2. List of Jesus' Parables, Analogies, and Sayings. Parables of Jesus for Disciples, a free e-mail Bible study
    When you see Jesus' parables as comparisons that teach spiritual truths, rather than just stories, you find over 100 parables, analogies, and sayings in the Gospels.
  • Appendix 2. List of Jesus' Parables, Analogies, and Sayings. Parables of Jesus for Disciples, a free e-mail Bible study
    When you see Jesus' parables as comparisons that teach spiritual truths, rather than just stories, you find over 100 parables, analogies, and sayings in the Gospels.
  • kingdom/18 pages
  • Jesus and the Kingdom of God Bible Study and Discipleship Lessons. JesusWalk Bible Study Series
    A free e-mail Bible study on discipleship lessons taught by Jesus as he introduced his followers to the Kingdom of God or Kingdom of Heaven. This is part of the JesusWalk Bible Study Series. It examines themes deliberate obedience, following, and commitment to the King and his Kingcom
  • Preface to Discipleship Lessons on Jesus and the Kingdom. JesusWalk Bible Study Series
    Here the author explains the reasons for this important study.
  • Introduction to the Kingdom of God from Discipleship Lessons on Jesus and the Kingdom of God
  • References and Abbreviations for Jesus and the Kingdom of God
  • Reprint Guidelines for Discipleship Lessons on Jesus and the Kingdom of God
  • kingdom-lesson-handouts.pdf
  • Jesus and the Kingdom of God Bible Study and Discipleship Lessons. JesusWalk Bible Study Series
    A free e-mail Bible study on discipleship lessons taught by Jesus as he introduced his followers to the Kingdom of God or Kingdom of Heaven. This is part of the JesusWalk Bible Study Series. It examines themes deliberate obedience, following, and commitment to the King and his Kingcom
  • Near Eastern Thrones and the Ark of the Covenant
  • 7. Forgiveness in the Kingdom (Matthew 18:21-35; 6:9-15). Jesus and the Kingdom of God. JesusWalk Bible Study Series.
  • 1. Preparing for the Kingdom (Matthew 3:1-17; 4:17), Jesus and the Kingdom of God Bible Study
    Jesus' preaching of the Kingdom of God picked up from where his cousin John the Baptist left off: Repent, for the Kingdom of God is at hand.
  • 2. Fertile Soil for the Kingdom (Matthew 13:1-9, 18-23). Jesus and the Kingdom of God. JesusWalk Bible Study Series.
  • 3. Pressing into the Kingdom (Matthew 6:24, 33; 7:7-8; 11:12). Jesus and the Kingdom of God. JesusWalk Bible Study Series.
  • 4. The Present and Future Kingdom (Luke 17:20-37). Jesus and the Kingdom of God. JesusWalk Bible Study Series.
  • 5. The Costliness of the Kingdom (Matthew 13:44-46; Mark 10:17-24. Jesus and the Kingdom of God. JesusWalk Bible Study Series.
  • 6. The Spirit and the Kingdom (John 3:1-21). Jesus and the Kingdom of God. JesusWalk Bible Study Series
  • 8. The Narrowness and Breadth of the Kingdom (Luke 13:18-30). Jesus and the Kingdom of God. JesusWalk Bible Study Series.
  • 9. Serving in the Kingdom (Matthew 25:14-30). Jesus and the Kingdom of God. JesusWalk Bible Study Series.
  • 10. Invitation to the Kingdom (Luke 14:12-24; 9:57-62). Jesus and the Kingdom of God. JesusWalk Bible Study Series.
  • resurrection/16 pages
  • Resurrection and Easter Faith -- a 5-week online Lenten Bible study of the resurrection.
    A 5-week study of Christ's resurrection as well as the resurrection of Christian believers at the Last Day. Considers the Old Testament hints and promises, John's account of Jesus' resurrection, proofs of the resurrection, the meaning and significance of Christ's rising again, and our hope of being raised after death.
  • Introduction to Resurrection and Easter Faith
    A 5-week study of Christ's resurrection as well as the resurrection of Christian believers at the Last Day. Considers the Old Testament hints and promises, John's account of Jesus' resurrection, proofs of the resurrection, the meaning and significance of Christ's rising again, and our hope of being raised after death.
  • Reprint Guidelines -- Resurrection and Easter Faith
    A 5-week study of Christ's resurrection as well as the resurrection of Christian believers at the Last Day. Considers the Old Testament hints and promises, John's account of Jesus' resurrection, proofs of the resurrection, the meaning and significance of Christ's rising again, and our hope of being raised after death.
  • References and Abbreviations -- Resurrection and Easter Faith
    A 5-week study of Christ's resurrection as well as the resurrection of Christian believers at the Last Day. Considers the Old Testament hints and promises, John's account of Jesus' resurrection, proofs of the resurrection, the meaning and significance of Christ's rising again, and our hope of being raised after death.
  • parallel-accounts-of-the-resurrection.pdf
  • resurrection-lesson-handouts.pdf
  • A Possible Harmonization of the Resurrection Accounts
    A 5-week study of Christ's resurrection as well as the resurrection of Christian believers at the Last Day. Considers the Old Testament hints and promises, John's account of Jesus' resurrection, proofs of the resurrection, the meaning and significance of Christ's rising again, and our hope of being raised after death.
  • Resurrection and Easter Hymns and Songs
    A 5-week study of Christ's resurrection as well as the resurrection of Christian believers at the Last Day. Considers the Old Testament hints and promises, John's account of Jesus' resurrection, proofs of the resurrection, the meaning and significance of Christ's rising again, and our hope of being raised after death.
  • Resurrection Morning -- Readers Theater based on John 20:1-18 (NIV) for four readers
    A dramatic choral readers theater for four readers telling the Easter story of Christ's resurrection through the eyes of Mary Magdalene and John's Gospel, based on John 20:1-18.
  • Resurrection and Easter Faith -- a 5-week online Bible study of the resurrection.
    A 5-week study of Christ's resurrection as well as the resurrection of Christian believers at the Last Day. Considers the Old Testament hints and promises, John's account of Jesus' resurrection, proofs of the resurrection, the meaning and significance of Christ's rising again, and our hope of being raised after death.
  • 1. The Promise of Resurrection -- Resurrection and Easter Faith
    An examination of the Old Testament expectation of the resurrection of the dead and Jesus' own teaching on resurrection in the context of the beliefs of the Pharisees and the Sadducees.
  • 2. The Gospel Accounts of Christ's Resurrection from the Dead
    A 5-week study of Christ's resurrection as well as the resurrection of Christian believers at the Last Day. Considers the Old Testament hints and promises, John's account of Jesus' resurrection, proofs of the resurrection, the meaning and significance of Christ's rising again, and our hope of being raised after death.
  • 3. Convincing Evidence of Christ's Bodily Resurrection
    Examines the historical basis of Christ's resurrection, and the various alternate theories: swoon, theft, wrong tomb, vision, spiritual metaphor. Then it proposes five strong facts of the resurrection: the empty tomb, the undisturbed grave clothes, the disciples' psychological state, the appearances of Jesus, and the growth of Christianity.
  • 4. The Present-Day Significance of Christ's Resurrection
    Christ's resurrection has present-day significance for Christians, by validating Jesus' message and divinity, by guaranteeing our salvation and forgiveness, by typifying our spirtual union with Christ, and by serving as a harbinger or precusor of our own bodily resurrection.
  • 5. The Christian Hope of Resurrection at the Last Day
    A 5-week study of Christ's resurrection as well as the resurrection of Christian believers at the Last Day. Considers the Old Testament hints and promises, John's account of Jesus' resurrection, proofs of the resurrection, the meaning and significance of Christ's rising again, and our hope of being raised after death.
  • Parallel Accounts of the Resurrection (NIV)
    Gospel parallels of the resurrection accounts from Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John.
  • peter/25 pages
  • Apostle Peter: Disciple Lessons from the Rock
    A Bible study of Peter's growth as a disciple and ministry as a lead apostle.
  • peter-toc.pdf
  • Peter: Disciple Lessons from the Fisherman (Linking page)
  • peter-lesson-handouts.pdf
  • Preface to Apostle Peter: Disciple Lessons from the Rock
    Outlines the scope and purpose of this study of the Apostle Peter – especially to learn from Peter’s experiences as recorded in the New Testament to help form in us lives of authentic disciples today.
  • References and Abbreviations
  • Reprint Guidelines
  • 1. The Call of Peter (in each Gospel)
    xplores Peter’s meeting with Jesus in Judea, and his interest in John the Baptist’s phrase ‘Lamb of God.’ Looks at Simon Peter’s various names, then studies accounts of his call in the Synoptic Gospels to be ‘fishers of men.’ Concludes with the healing of Peter’s mother-in-law, and Peter’s search for the missing Master.
  • 2. Peter's Growth as a Disciple (Matthew 14-18)
    Considers Peter as the lead apostle and spokesman for the Twelve, and a member of Jesus’ inner circle. Explores Peter walking on the water, finding the temple tax in a fish’s mouth, and learning from Jesus the extent to which we must forgive those who sin against us.
  • 3. Peter's Confession and the Keys to the Kingdom (Matthew 16:13-27)
    Jesus gets away with his disciples. Peter confesses, ‘You are the Christ, the Son of the Living God.’ He is blessed for his faith, but is soon after rebuked as ‘Satan’ for resisting Jesus’ teachings about his eventual violent death and resurrection. Explores Peter as the rock, the recipient of the keys of the kingdom, and one given authority to bind and loose sins.
  • 4. Peter's Glory and Humiliation (Luke 9:27-36; John 13:1-17)
    Observes Peter glimpsing the glory of Jesus’ transfiguration during a mountain meeting with Elijah and Moses, and Peter’s inane suggestion to build three shelters. When Jesus humbly washes the disciples’ feet, Peter first resists, then asks for a full bath. Also explores Peter’s teaching on humbling yourself in 1 Peter 5.
  • 5. Peter's Crisis and Denial (Luke 22; Mark 14)
    Observes Peter glimpsing the glory of Jesus’ transfiguration during a mountain meeting with Elijah and Moses, and Peter’s inane suggestion to build three shelters. When Jesus humbly washes the disciples’ feet, Peter first resists, then asks for a full bath. Also explores Peter’s teaching on humbling yourself in 1 Peter 5. Reviews Jesus’ prediction to Peter’s denial, that the disciples will be sifted like wheat, and Peter’s bravado. We see Peter sleeping in the Garden of Gethsemane, cutting off the servant Malchus’s ear at Jesus’ arrest, and Peter’s denial in the high priest’s courtyard. Compares Peter’s denial to Judas’s betrayal.
  • 6. Peter and the Risen Christ (Luke 24; John 20-21)
    On Easter Sunday morning we explore Peter running to the tomb and finding carefully folded graveclothes, Jesus’ appearance to Peter, and Jesus’ appearance to his disciples in Galilee with the miracle of catching a net-full of fish. Jesus restores Peter: “Do you love me? Feed my sheep.” Examines Jesus prophesy of Peter’s crucifixion.
  • 7. Peter's Leadership in the Early Church (Acts 1-4)
    After Jesus’ ascension, Peter begins to take charge of the group of 120 disciples, leading them to select as twelfth disciple to take Judas’ place. Examines Peter’s sermon on Pentecost that wins 3,000 converts, his ministry preparation, healing the lame beggar at the temple. Explores Peter’s sermon after the healing and his declaration Christ before the Sanhedrin. We consider a passage from 1 Peter 3 on giving testimony.
  • 8. Peter's Authority and Power (Acts 5-8)
    Explores Peter’s powerful handling of the lying of Annanias and Sapphira, how his shadow heals people, and the power of holy people and objects. Recounts the apostles’ arrest, Peter’s clear testimony and Gamaliel’s counsel. Examines Peter’s and John’s ministry in Samaria to see the Holy Spirit fall on believers there, and Peter’s rebuke of Simon Magus the sorcerer who seeks to buy spiritual power.
  • 9. Peter's Ministry to the Gentiles (Acts 9-11)
    Explores Peter’s outreach to the Gentiles in Lydda and Joppa with the healing of Aeneas and the raising of Dorcas and Peter’s sojourn at the smelly house of Simon the Tanner. Examines Peter leading the Christian movement to break into Gentile circles with the Spirit falling at the house of Cornelius in Caesarea, and its implications.
  • 10. Peter's Escape, Hypocrisy, and Counsel (Acts 12-15)
    Considers Peter’s arrest by Herod Agrippa and the angel releasing him from prison. Explores a passage on rejoicing in suffering from 1 Peter 1. Examines Peter’s hypocrisy and confrontation with Paul in Antioch, and Peter’s testimony at the Council of Jerusalem that sways the meeting to accept Gentiles as full Christians.
  • 11. Peter's Death and Legacy (John 21:18--19; 1 and 2 Peter)
    Details what we know of Peter’s extended ministry in Antioch, Asia Minor, and Corinth. Explores various early Christian references to Peter’s ministry in Rome, his relationship to Mark as his interpreter, as well as his evangelistic ministry there. We consider his opposition to false teachers, and his teachings on practical Christian living – priesthood, holiness, and submission, and following in Jesus’ steps. Considers Peter’s death by crucifixion, and three passages of Peter’s view of Jesus as Lamb of God, sin-bearer, and atoning sacrifice from 1 Peter).
  • References to Peter in the New Testament. Appendix 2 in Apostle Peter
    Complete list of references to Simon Peter in the New Testament.
  • Chronology of the Apostle Peter's Life. Appendix 3 to Apostle Peter
    Explores approximate dates for the main events in Peter’s life and in the early church.
  • The Synoptic Problem. Appendix 4 to Apostle Peter
    Reviews the Synoptic Problem of common sources for Matthew, Mark, and Luke, and the interrelation between these three Gospels.
  • Primacy of Peter vs. Papal Primacy. Appendix 5 to Apostle Peter
    Traces leaders in the early church from elders to a monarchial episcopacy, the terms “father,” “pope,” and “pontiff.” Differentiates between the primacy of Peter which is clear in Matthew 16, and the primacy of the Roman bishop or Pope which evolved gradually.
  • The Legend of Peter's Upside-Down Crucifixion. Appendix 6 to Apostle Peter
    Explores accounts of Peter being crucified upside down. Concludes that while Peter was clearly crucified, that only later sources claim him his head-down crucifixion.
  • Can a Human Minister Forgive or Absolve from Sin? Appendix 7 to Apostle Peter
    Peter is given the keys to the kingdom and the power to bind and loose, that is, to forgive and not forgive sins. Explores the power of absolution and the need for repentance or penitence for it to take place. Concludes that human minister forgiving sin consists of announcing God’s forgiveness based on his promises, that only God actually forgives sin.
  • Worship as Incense, a meditation of prayer by Dr. Ralph F. Wilson
    Thoughts on how prayer and good works (Acts 10:4) bring pleasure to God, in the same way that burning incense delights the senses.
  • early-church/12 pages
  • The Early Church: Acts 1-12, a free e-mail Bible study
    A study of Acts 1-12 designed to develop disciples and teach the basics of the Christian faith.
  • Preface to The Early Church: Acts 1-12
    Describes the seven major themes in the first 12 chapters of Acts, as well as features to help disciples grow.
  • The Early Church: Acts 1-12, links
    A study of Acts 1-12 designed to develop disciples and teach the basics of the Christian faith.
  • early-church-lesson-handouts.pdf
  • 2. The Holy Spirit Comes (Acts 2) - The Early Church: Acts 1-12
    Here's the pouring out of the Spirit on Pentecost with wind, fire, and speaking in other languages. We review Peter's sermon and call to repentance, and glimpse the simple fellowship of the primitive church.
  • 3. Powerful Healing, Bold Testimony (Acts 3:1-4:22) - The Early Church: Acts 1-12
    From the healing of a lame man in the temple, comes powerful testimony, interrogation before the Sanhedrin, and the declaration of salvation only through Jesus' name.
  • 1. The Promise of Power (Acts 1) - The Early Church: Acts 1-12
    We witness Jesus' ascension, his promise of the Spirit, his commission to witness to the world, and the selection of the twelfth apostle.
  • 6. Philip Evangelizes Samaria and Baptizes an Ethiopian (Acts 8) - The Early Church: Acts 1-12
    Persecution drives Greek-speaking Jews from Jerusalem into the hinterland where Philip preaches to a receptive Samaria and the Holy Spirit falls. Philip goes on to meet an Ethiopian treasurer on the road to Gaza and wins him to Christ.
  • 8. The Spirit Falls on Gentiles (Acts 10:1-11:18) - The Early Church: Acts 1-12
    Peter has a rooftop vision that teaches him nothing and no one are common or unclean. Then he goes to the house of a Gentile in Caesarea, preaches, and sees the Spirit come upon them. Finally, he returns to Jerusalem to answer criticism for fellowshipping with Gentiles.
  • 4. Power and Fellowship in Jerusalem (Acts 4:23-5:42) - The Early Church: Acts 1-12
    Fresh from a scourging, the believers pray for boldness, sell property to give to the needy, see the consequences of lying to the Holy Spirit, and share a powerful witness in Jerusalem.
  • References and Abbreviations in The Early Church: Acts 1-12
  • 9. Revival in Antioch, Persecution in Jerusalem (Acts 11:19-12:25) - The Early Church: Acts 1-12
    The gospel moves from Jews exclusively to rapid growth among Gentiles in Antioch. Barnabas find Saul to help him. Meanwhile Herod Agrippa kills the Apostle James and imprisons Peter, who miraculously escapes.
  • paul/22 pages
  • Apostle Paul - Passionate Discipleship, a free e-mail Bible study
  • Preface to Apostle Paul: Passionate Discipleship
    Author's preface to the approach of studying the Apostle Paul.
  • References and Abbreviations in Apostle Paul: Passionate Discipleship
  • Theological and Practical Themes in Apostle Paul: Passionate Discipleship
  • Appendix 2. Chronology of Paul's Life. Apostle Paul: Passionate Discipleship
    Inclues approximate dates for Paul's ministry.
  • Apostle Paul - Maps of His Journeys
  • Reprint Guidelines. Listening for God's Voice. JesusWalk Bible Study Series.
  • paul-lesson-handouts.pdf
  • Apostle Paul -- Passionate Discipleship (linking page)
  • 1. Saul of Tarsus Meets Jesus (Acts 8:1-9:18, 33 AD) - Apostle Paul: Passionate Discipleship
    Paul's Jewish background, passion, conversion on the road to Damascus, and Ananias's visit. Also Paul's teaching on righteousness by faith (Acts 8:1-9:18; Philippians 3:3-11).
  • 2. Paul in Arabia, Tarsus, and Antioch (33-46 AD) -- Apostle Paul: Passionate Discipleship
    Paul's preparation in the Arabian desert, revelations, and decade in Tarsus. Then Barnabas's call to share the ministry in Antioch of Syria. We'll examine Paul's apostleship and the subject of spiritual gifts and callings (Acts 9:19b-25; 11:19-13:3, 33-46 AD).
  • 3. Paul in Cyprus, Antioch of Pisidia, and Galatia (Acts 13-14, 47-49 AD) - Apostle Paul: Passionate Discipleship
    In the First Missionary Journey, Paul and Barnabas travel to Cyprus, then cities of the province of Galatia -- Antioch of Pisidia, Iconium, Lystra, and Derbe. Paul experiences signs and wonders as well as intense persecution. Examines differences in preaching to Jews vs. Gentiles, contextualizing the gospel, plus Paul's team discipling and establishing leadership (Acts 13-14).
  • 4. Law, Grace, and the New Israel (Acts 15:1-35, 49 AD) - Apostle Paul: Passionate Discipleship
    Judaizers try to force Gentile believers to be circumcised, precipitating the Council of Jerusalem, where salvation by grace rather than by law is clarified. We explore grace, predestination, and the New Israel of God (Acts 15:1-35; Ephesians 2:8-9).
  • 5. Paul in Macedonia (Acts 15:36-18:22, 49-50 AD) -- Apostle Paul: Passsionate Discipleship
    Paul begins the Second Missionary Journey with Silas, strengthening the Galatian churches, then travelling to Macedonia, where they evangelize Philippi, Thessalonica, and Berea. We examine the power of praise, and the importance of preaching the message of the cross -- Christ crucified (Acts 15:36-18:22; Philippians 4:4-9).
  • 6. Paul in Greece (Acts 17:16-18:22, 50-52 AD) - Apostle Paul: Passionate Discipleship
    Paul preaches in Athens, then travels to Corinth for a long and successful ministry. We focus on how God deals with those who have never heard; Paul's tent-making, bi-vocational ministry; and the power of the resurrection (1 Corinthians 15; Acts 17:16-18:22).
  • 7. Paul in Ephesus (Acts 18:23-19:41, 52-55 AD) - Apostle Paul: Passionate Discipleship
    The Third Missionary Journey centers on Ephesus. Paul baptizes disciples of John the Baptist, teaches for two years, and sees extraordinary miracles. Yet he experiences intense persecution and pressure, and perhaps imprisonment. We learn how Paul deals with such struggles (Acts 18:23-19:41; 2 Corinthians 1:8-10; 4:8-12).
  • 8. Spiritual Warfare - Paul Fights the Good Fight of Faith. Apostle Paul: Passionate Discipleship
    We depart from the Acts narrative to explore the nature of Paul's fight, the dimensions of the dominion of darkness, Paul's gospel as a spiritual weapon to dispel darkness and deception, and other weapons in the armory: prayer and praise, signs and wonders, exorcisms, and the whole armor of God (Philippians 4:4-9; Ephesians 6:10-18)
  • 9. Paul Presses on to Jerusalem (Acts 20:1-23:35, 57 AD) - Apostle Paul: Passionate Discipleship
    Paul feels called to return to Jerusalem where he is imprisoned. We explore worship on Sunday, prophets in the early church, and Christian witness. We conclude with detailed study of Paul's address to the Ephesian elders on the beach at Miletus where Paul shows us what utter commitment to Christ looks like (Acts 20:1-23:35).
  • 10. Paul's Imprisonment, Release, and Death (Acts 24-28, 57-65 AD). Apostle Paul: Passionate Discipleship
    We review of Paul's imprisonment in Caesarea, voyage to Rome, apparent release in 62 AD and further ministry in Spain and the Aegean, before final imprisonment and death about 64-65 AD. We explore a Christian view of death (Acts 24-28; 2 Timothy 4:6-8; 2 Corinthians 5:6-10; Philippians 1:19-25).
  • 11. Paul's Passion: Knowing the Exalted Christ - Apostle Paul: Passionate Discipleship
    We conclude with Paul's revelations that give him a unique understanding of the humiliation and exaltation of Christ (Philippians 2:5-11), Christ's supremacy (Colossians 1:15-20), union with Christ (
  • Appendix 3. Were the Prison Epistles Written from Ephesus? Apostle Paul: Passionate Discipleship
    Concludes that some of the prison epistles were likely written when Paul was in prison in Ephesus, but that Philippians was written from Rome.
  • Metaphors of Salvation. Apostle Paul: Passionate Discipleship
  • christ-power/6 pages
  • The Christ Powered Life, Romans 5-8. The Christ-centered, Spirit-filled Life. An 8-lesson JesusWalk Bible Study Series unit -
  • Abbreviations and References -- Christ Powered Life, Romans 5-8 - Christ Powered Life Bible Study (Romans 5-8)
  • Appendix 1. Big Concepts in Romans 5-8. Christ Powered Life Bible Study
  • Songs and Hymns based on Romans 5-8 - Christ Powered Life Bible Study (Romans 5-8)
  • christ-power-lesson-handouts.pdf
  • 5. Struggling with Sin in Our Own Strength (Romans 7:1-25) - Christ Powered Life Bible Study (Romans 5-8)
    The law, the knowledge of right and wrong is good, but it doesn't have the power to keep us from sinning. Even will power is inadequate to keep us from sin. We only end up frustrated. The problem lies with our corrupt human nature. Fortunately, there is help in the Spirit.
  • 1corinthians/31 pages
  • 1 Corinthians - Discipleship Lessons from a Troubled Church, a 15-lesson free e-mail Bible study
    A an e-mail Bible study on Paul's first epistle to the Corinthian church in 15 lessons. The problems of this church provide rich teaching to keep our own churches on track.
  • Preface to 1 Corinthians: Discipleship Lessons from a Troubled Church
    Preface introducing Dr. Wilson's approach to studying 1 Corinthians.
  • Reprint Guidelines for 1 Corinthians Bible Study
    Here are how you get permission to use parts of this study in your church or small group
  • References and Abbreviations for 1 Corinthians: Discipleship Lessons from a Troubled Church
    Here are the abbreviations used for the most common works cited in this Bible study.
  • Introduction to 1 Corinthians: Discipleship Lessons from a Troubled Church
  • Excursus on the Meaning of "That Which Is Perfect" (1 Corinthians 13:10). 1 Corinthians: Discipleship Lessons from a Troubled Church, by Ralph F. Wilson
    Discusses various views of the 1 Cor 13:10, which has been used by those who teach the cessation of the supernatural gifts of the Spirit.
  • 1corinthians-lesson-handouts.pdf
  • Appendix 2. The Author's Personal Experience. 1 Corinthians: Discipleship Lessons from a Troubled Church
    Because a person’s interpretation is often strongly influenced by their experience – or lack of experience – let me share something about my own experience with gifts of the Spirit.
  • Appendix 3. Tentative Chronology of Paul and the Corinthians (50-56 AD)
    I have  tried to outline in order what we can piece together of Paul’s contacts with the Corinthian church
  • 1 Corinthians - Discipleship Lessons from a Troubled Church, Links to lessons
    A an e-mail Bible study on Paul's first epistle to the Corinthian church in 15 lessons. The problems of this church provide rich teaching to keep our own churches on track.
  • I. Healing a Divided Church (1 Corinthians 1-4) - 1 Corinthians: Lessons from a Troubled Church
    One of the saddest conditions for any church is schism or division. Love is not being practiced by one or more groups in the church and pride is a serious problem.
  • 1. Healing Church Divisions (1 Corinthians 1:1-17a) - 1 Corinthians: Discipleship Lessons from a Troubled Church, by Dr. Ralph F. Wilson
    Paul begins his letter with greetings and a thanksgiving. Then he begins to address the serious church divisions at Corinth, especially the shallow honoring of leaders (Paul, Cephas, Apollos) rather than Christ himself.
  • 2. Human vs. Spiritual Wisdom (1 Corinthians 1:17b-2:16) - 1 Corinthians: Discipleship Lessons from a Troubled Church, by Dr. Ralph F. Wilson
    The Greeks were honored their sophisticated philosophies and rhetoric. Paul seeks to show how the wisdom of God, mediated by the Holy Spirit, is far superior.
  • 3. Building a Healthy Church on Christ's Foundation (1 Corinthians 3) -- 1 Corinthians: Discipleship Lessons from a Troubled Church, by Dr. Ralph F. Wilson
    Paul reminds this immature church that their preference of men is carnal. Rather the foundation is Christ himself. Christian leaders will be judged by how carefully they build on that foundation.
  • 4. The Struggles and Joys of Christian Leaders (1 Corinthians 4) - 1 Corinthians: Discipleship Lessons from a Troubled Church, by Dr. Ralph F. Wilson
    Under criticism from influential members in Corinth, Paul defends his apostolic authority and shares the suffering he has endured for the gospel.
  • II. A Christian View of Sex and Marriage (1 Corinthians 5:1-7:40) - 1 Corinthians: Discipleship Lessons from a Troubled Church, by Dr. Ralph F. Wilson
    Paul moves to issues that center on the Corinthians' views of sex and marriage. They lived in a sexually-loose culture and needed apostolic input to get their lives in balance.
  • 5. Confronting Immorality in a Cleansed Church (5) - 1 Corinthians: Discipleship Lessons from a Troubled Church, by Dr. Ralph F. Wilson
    Sexual morals in Corinth -- as in Western cities -- were bad. Paul confronts the church's tolerance of incest in their congregation and demands church discipline for the unrepentant member.
  • 6. An Exhortation against Sexual Sin (1 Corinthians 6) - 1 Corinthians: Discipleship Lessons from a Troubled Church, by Dr. Ralph F. Wilson
    Paul insists that men going to prostitutes, very common in the church, was immoral and would result in damnation. He says, 'You were like this, but you have been cleansed.'
  • 7. Marriage and Divorce at the End of the Age (1 Corinthians 7) - 1 Corinthians: Discipleship Lessons from a Troubled Church, by Dr. Ralph F. Wilson
    Some 'super-spiritual' Corinthians thought themselves too spiritual for sex and marriage. Paul discusses marriage, grounds for divorce, and advantages of celibacy.
  • III. Idolatry and Christian Freedom (1 Corinthians 8-10) - 1 Corinthians: Discipleship Lessons from a Troubled Church, by Dr. Ralph F. Wilson
    One of the most severe problems Paul must deal with is to convince believers to cut off their ties with idolatry completely. In this section Paul argues why they need to cut off any involement with idols -- and bolsters his apostolic credentials.
  • 8. The Case for Spiritual Purity (1 Corinthians 8 and 10) - 1 Corinthians: Discipleship Lessons from a Troubled Church, by Dr. Ralph F. Wilson
    Since temples were a social center for family celebrations, Christians were strongly tempted to eat with their families there -- but that practice was hurting new believers struggling to forsake idolatry.
  • 9. Understanding a Leader's Passion (1 Corinthians 9) - 1 Corinthians: Discipleship Lessons from a Troubled Church, by Dr. Ralph F. Wilson
    Since many readers disrespect Paul's authority as an apostle. To be successful to get them to stop attending feasts in pagan temples, he must convince them that his word is authoritative.
  • IV. Public Worship and Its Worthy Conduct (1 Corinthians 11-14) - 1 Corinthians: Discipleship Lessons from a Troubled Church, by Dr. Ralph F. Wilson
    Paul now moves to regulate the wild and selfish worship forms in the Corinthian congregation, in chapters 11-14.
  • 10. Worship and Communion in the Early Church (1 Corinthians 11) - 1 Corinthians: Discipleship Lessons from a Troubled Church, by Dr. Ralph F. Wilson
    This chapter discusses two topics -- (1) that women should be properly attired during worship (1 Corinthians 11:3-16) and (2) the proper practice of the Lord's Supper (1 Corinthians 11:17-34).
  • 11. Diverse and Unifying Gifts in the Church (1 Corinthians 12) - 1 Corinthians: Discipleship Lessons from a Troubled Church, by Dr. Ralph F. Wilson
    The Corinthians had fixed on tongues as the most-practiced spiritual gift. Here Paul tries to help them see gifts as members of a healthy body -- variety and function is important and must be appreciated.
  • 12. Love - A More Excellent Way (1 Corinthians 13) - 1 Corinthians: Discipleship Lessons from a Troubled Church, by Dr. Ralph F. Wilson
  • 13. Prophecy and Ministry by the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 14) - 1 Corinthians: Discipleship Lessons from a Troubled Church, by Dr. Ralph F. Wilson
    Instead of speaking in tongues -- out of order and disturbing to outsiders -- Paul encourages the church to prophecy. Everything should be done decently and order.
  • V. The Resurrection and Conclusion (1 Corinthians 15-16) - 1 Corinthians: Discipleship Lessons from a Troubled Church, by Dr. Ralph F. Wilson
    In the final section of 1 Corinthians, Paul teaches on the resurrection of the body and concludes with personal comments.
  • 14. Resurrection and the Coming of Christ (1 Corinthians 15) - 1 Corinthians: Discipleship Lessons from a Troubled Church, by Dr. Ralph F. Wilson
    The Corinthians face a logical inconsistency. They do believe in Christ's resurrection, but not the resurrection at the end of the age. Paul teaches that they are both logically consistent and necessary.
  • 15. Giving and Personal Matters (1 Corinthians 16) - 1 Corinthians: Discipleship Lessons from a Troubled Church, by Dr. Ralph F. Wilson
    Paul concludes the letter with direction about preparing for an offering for the poor Jerusalem saints, travel plans, and personal greetings.
  • Don't Give Up! A brief exposition of 1 Corinthians 15:58
    Paul exhorts the Corinthians, 'Be steadfast, immoveable, always abounding in the work of the Lord.' Your service is remembered by God.
  • 2corinthians/21 pages
  • 2 Corinthians - Discipleship Lessons, an 11-lesson free e-mail Bible study
    A careful study of Paul's second epistle to the Corinthian church. It is the most personal of Paul's letters and contains powerful spiritual lessons for disciples.
  • 2corinthians-lesson-handouts.pdf
  • Songs and Hymns from 2 Corinthians
  • 2 Corinthians - Discipleship Lessons, linking page
  • Preface to 2 Corinthians: Discipleship Lessons
  • References and Abbreviations in 2 Corinthians: Discipleship Lessons
  • Reprint Guidelines
  • Introduction to 2 Corinthians. Second Corinthians: Discipleship Lessons
  • 1. The God of All Comfort (2 Corinthians 1:1-11)
  • 2. Tension with the Corinthians (2 Corinthians 1:12-2:11)
  • 3. The Fragrance of Christ's Ministering People (2 Corinthians 2:12-3:6)
  • 4. Being Changed by God's Glory (2 Corinthians 3:7-18)
  • 5. Treasures in Clay Pots (2 Corinthians 4:1-18)
  • 6. Walking by Faith, Not by Sight (2 Corinthians 5:1-16)
  • 7. A Ministry of Reconciliation (2 Corinthians 5:17-6:2)
  • 8. Hardships, Holiness, and Joy (2 Corinthians 6:3-7:16)
  • 9. Generosity Modeled and Encouraged (2 Corinthians 8:1-9:5)
  • 10. Sowing Generously (2 Corinthians 9:6-15)
  • A Brief Critique of the Prosperity Message
  • 11. Paul's Defense of His Ministry (2 Corinthians 10-11)
  • 12. Paul's Vision, Thorn, and Final Words (2 Corinthians 12-13)
  • galatians/18 pages
  • Galatians - Discipleship Lessons and Bible Study Commentary, a 9-lesson free e-mail Bible study
    A an e-mail Bible study on Paul's epistle to the Galatian church in nine lessons. It is the most intense of Paul's letters and contains powerful spiritual lessons for disciples.
  • Preface to Galatians: Discipleship Lessons
  • References and Abbreviations. Galatians: Discipleship Lessons
  • Introduction to Galatians
    Introduction to Paul's Letter to the Galatians, discussing the location Galatia and of the Galatian churches, the North Galatian theory, the South Galatian theory, Paul's missionary journeys, the early dating theory, and the late dating theory.
  • Chronology of St. Paul's Ministry with relation to the Galatians. Galatians: Discipleship Lessons (Appendix 2)
  • galatians-lesson-handouts.pdf
  • Songs and Hymns from Galatians
    Here are a number of songs and hymns I found that are based primarily on verses from Galatians
  • Reprint Guidelines
  • Galatians: Discipleship Lessons and Bible Study
  • 1. No Other Gospel (Galatians 1:1-10). Galatians: Discipleship Lessons
    A brief study of the first chapter of Galatians, outlining the progress of the Gospel to the Gentiles, Christ's 'rescue mission,' and Paul's concern that Jewish-Christian Judaizer teachers are presenting 'another gospel' or 'different gospel' that what he had taught them.
  • 2. The Independence of Paul's Gospel (Galatians 1:11-2:10). Galatians: Discipleship Lessons
    In this lesson, Paul seeks to show his independence from the Jerusalem church - that his message had been approved by the Jerusalem leaders there, but had been independently revealed to him by revelation from Jesus Christ.
  • 3. Justified by Faith in Christ (Galatians 2:11-21). Galatians: Discipleship Lessons
    Confronts Peter at Antioch in order to protect the Gentiles from being viewed as second class citizens by their Jewish Christian brothers. He argues that we're all saved by faith in Christ's death for our sins, not by observance of the law.
  • 4. Faith Is the Key, not Law (Galatians 3:1-25). Galatians: Discipleship Lessons
    Paul provides five arguments to the effect that faith, not law, is the key to justification. He argues from (1) receiving the Spirit, (2) from Abraham, (3) from the curse of the law, (4) from the nature of a covenant, and (5) from the purpose of the law.
  • 5. By the Spirit We Cry, 'Abba, Father'(Galatians 3:26-4:7). Galatians: Discipleship Lessons
    Paul assures the Galatians that they are not inferior to circumcised Jews, but are full sons of God, filled with the Holy Spirit, with full adoption rights as natural-born sons.
  • 6. Freedom from the Law by the Spirit (Galatians 4:8-5:12). Galatians: Discipleship Lessons
    Paul characterizes the Jews position under the law as slavery or bondage, and urges the Galatians to embrace the freedom of the Spirit. He argues from the Allegory of Hagar and Sarah and the two Jerusalems that the Gentiles are free and superior to those under the law.
  • 7. The Spirit and the Flesh (Galatians 5:13-21). Galatians: Discipleship Lessons
    Paul contends that trying to keep the law fully in order to be justified is impossible due to the weakness of the flesh, or corrupt sinful nature. He expounds on typical sins or works of the flesh.
  • 8. The Spirit and Character (Galatians 5:22-26). Fruit of the Spirit. Galatians: Discipleship Lessons
    After explaining the works of the flesh, Paul spells out the fruit or manifestations of the Holy Spirit's work in our character in our sanctification: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control.
  • 9. Sowing to the Spirit (Galatians 6:1-18). Galatians: Discipleship Lessons
    Paul wraps up his letter to the Galatians with instructions on restoring a fallen brother, humility, and sowing and reaping with the Spirit, rather than with the flesh, doing good, and the offense of the cross.
  • ephesians/23 pages
  • Ephesians: Discipleship Lessons -- an Online Bible Study
    A study of the Epistle of St. Paul to the Ephesian Church in Ephesus. This deep, spiritual letter discusses our position in Christ, the Body of Christ, salvation by grace through faith, our Christian inheritance, unity of the church, prayer, ministry, ethical right living, and instructions to fathers, husbands, wives, children, masters, employees, and employers. Concludes with spiritual warfare. Part of the JesusWalk Bible Study Series.
  • ephesians-lesson-options.htm
  • Preface to Ephesians: Discipleship Lessons
  • ephesians-lesson-handouts.pdf
  • Disciple Lessons from Ephesians -- JesusWalk Bible Study Series
  • Introduction to Paul's Letter to the Ephesians
    Discusses authorship, date, recipients, geography, map of Asia Minor, and other critical questions.
  • 1. Secure in Christ our Lord (Ephesians 1:1-23)
    Paul explains how wonderful are the blessings found in Jesus and God's ultimate purpose for Jesus coming to the earth.
  • 2. Salvation Full and Free (Ephesians 2:1-10)
    Discusses how unbelievers are dead in sin and totally lost. Contrasts this with the salvation we have in Christ by grace.
  • 3. The New People of God (Ephesians 2:22-3:21)
    Bringing salvation to the Gentiles and making them a full part of the people of God has always been God's plan, a mystery hidden from everyone until God reveals it through the Church. Finally, Paul concludes this section of the letter with a marvelous prayer and doxology
  • 4. The Unity and Gifts of the Church (Ephesians 4:1-16)
    Paul discusses the elements we Christians all have in common. Then he explains how even different spiritual gifts work together to produce a mature body of believers through the Holy Spirit
  • 5. A New Way of Life in Christ (Ephesians 4:17-5:20)
    Gentile believers still held onto the pagan lifestyles that dominated the culture. Christians live by a new standard, says Paul. You’re different. Imitate your Father, rather than the world around you. Discusses morality, lifestyle, holiness.
  • 6. Christ's Love in All our Relationships (Ephesians 5:21-6:9)
    Paul discusses proper relationships with the Haustafel, wives, husbands, children, parents, servants, masters, employees.
  • 7. Our Present Spiritual Warfare (Ephesians 6:10-24)
    Paul explains how to prepare oneself for spiritual battles and temptations, using examples from a Roman soldier's equipment. Then he speaks of the power of prevailing prayer.
  • Appendix 2. Were the Prison Epistles Written from Ephesus?
  • Ephesians Inductive Bible Study Questions.
    Here a questions that can help you lead a Bible study by asking questions and having students find the answers in the text.
  • References and Abbreviations. Ephesians: Discipleship Lessons
    Lists a bibliography of sources and abbreviations.
  • Reprint Guidelines. Ephesians: Discipleship Lessons
  • Headship (kephalē) and Submission (hupotassomai) in Ephesians 5:21-33 -- Disciple Lessons from Ephesians
    This technical paper traces the relationships between word meanings of key concepts in Ephesians and Colossians -- headship and submission, kephale and hupotassomai, dealing with the relationships of Christian husbands and wives, patterned after the relationship of Christ and his Church, his Bride.
  • Spiritual Warfare Songs, Hymns, and Scriptures
  • Prayer for a New Year: Open Our Eyes (Ephesians 1:18-19)
    Paul's prayer is for the Ephesians spiritual eyes to be opened so they might comprehend their hope and expectation, their inheritance, and their power in Christ. As we grasp this, our lives change
  • Photos of Ephesus -- Disciple Lessons from Ephesians
    Photos from Ephesus.
  • ephesians-lesson-handouts-7.pdf
  • ephesians-lesson-handouts-16.pdf
  • church/10 pages
  • Vision for the Church, an Internet Bible Study, Regaining a Vision for Christ's Church from Paul's Letter to the Ephesians
    Vision for the Church is a 5-week Internet Bible study designed to help Christians regain a vision for Christ's Church from Paul's Letter to the Ephesians. From JesusWalk and Joyful Heart Renewal Ministries
  • Introduction to Ephesians and Vision for the Church
    Vision for the Church is a 5-week Internet Bible study designed to help Christians regain a vision for Christ's Church from Paul's Letter to the Ephesians. From JesusWalk and Joyful Heart Renewal Ministries
  • Vision for the Church (linking page)
    Vision for the Church is a 5-week Internet Bible study designed to help Christians regain a vision for Christ's Church from Paul's Letter to the Ephesians. From JesusWalk and Joyful Heart Renewal Ministries
  • References and Abbreviations -- Vision for the Church
    Vision for the Church is a 5-week Internet Bible study designed to help Christians regain a vision for Christ's Church from Paul's Letter to the Ephesians. From JesusWalk and Joyful Heart Renewal Ministries
  • Introduction to the Vision for the Church Internet Bible Study
    Vision for the Church is a 5-week Internet Bible study designed to help Christians regain a vision for Christ's Church from Paul's Letter to the Ephesians. From JesusWalk and Joyful Heart Renewal Ministries
  • #1. Power in the Church (Ephesians 1:16-23; 2:6; 3:20-21)
    Vision for the Church is a 5-week Internet Bible study designed to help Christians regain a vision for Christ's Church from Paul's Letter to the Ephesians. From JesusWalk and Joyful Heart Renewal Ministries
  • #2. God's Presence in the Church (Ephesians 2:11-22)
    Vision for the Church is a 5-week Internet Bible study designed to help Christians regain a vision for Christ's Church from Paul's Letter to the Ephesians. From JesusWalk and Joyful Heart Renewal Ministries
  • #3. Unity in the Church (Ephesians 4:1-6)
    Vision for the Church is a 5-week Internet Bible study designed to help Christians regain a vision for the essential oneness or unity of Christ's Church from Paul's Letter to the Ephesians. From JesusWalk and Joyful Heart Renewal Ministries
  • #4. Ministry in the Church (Ephesians 4:7-16) -- Vision for the Church
    Vision for the Church is a 5-week Internet Bible study designed to help Christians regain a vision for Christ's Church from Paul's Letter to the Ephesians. From JesusWalk and Joyful Heart Renewal Ministries
  • #5. Holiness in the Church (Ephesians 5:21-32)
    Vision for the Church is a 5-week Internet Bible study designed to help Christians regain a vision for Christ's Church from Paul's Letter to the Ephesians. From JesusWalk and Joyful Heart Renewal Ministries
  • philippians/6 pages
  • Disciple Lessons from Philippians
    A study of the Epistle of St. Paul to the Philippian Church, in Philippi. A prison letter, it contains a Christological hymn about Christ's humility and exaltation, a glimpse into Paul's passion to know Christ, and a reflection on prayer and the peace it brings in the midst of stress, conflict, and opponents. Part of the JesusWalk Bible Study Series.
  • Artwork Depicting St. Paul the Apostle
    Pictures of St. Paul the Apostle are found widely. Not as widely as those of St. Peter, perhaps, but still portraits and statues of this great church planting apostle are widespread, especially in Europe, Most popular works show a portrait, his conversion, in prison, and his martyrdom. Part of the JesusWalk Bible Study Series.
  • Introduction to St. Paul's Letter to the Philippians
    A study of the Epistle of St. Paul to the Philippian Church, in Philippi. A prison letter, it contains a Christological hymn about Christ's humility and exaltation, a glimpse into Paul's passion to know Christ, and a reflection on prayer and the peace it brings in the midst of stress, conflict, and opponents. Part of the JesusWalk Bible Study Series.
  • Philippians: Discipleship Lessons
    A study of the Epistle of St. Paul to the Philippian Church, in Philippi. A prison letter, it contains a Christological hymn about Christ's humility and exaltation, a glimpse into Paul's passion to know Christ, and a reflection on prayer and the peace it brings in the midst of stress, conflict, and opponents. Part of the JesusWalk Bible Study Series.
  • philippians-inductive-questions.pdf
  • 3. He Emptied Himself (Philippians 2:1-11)
    A study of the Epistle of St. Paul to the Philippian Church, in Philippi. A prison letter, it contains a Christological hymn about Christ's humility and exaltation, a glimpse into Paul's passion to know Christ, and a reflection on prayer and the peace it brings in the midst of stress, conflict, and opponents. Part of the JesusWalk Bible Study Series.
  • colossians/1 page
  • Bible Study: Discipleship Lessons from Colossians and Philemon. Christ Is Supreme! JesusWalk Bible Study Series
    A free e-mail Bible study on Paul's Epistle or Letter to the Colossians and to Philemon, part of the JesusWalk Bible Study Series. It examines themes of Christ's supremacy, Christian freedom from legalism, and a healthy Christian lifestyle.
  • thessalonians/18 pages
  • 1 and 2 Thessalonians Bible Study Free study
    A an e-mail Bible study on Paul's letter to the church at Thessalonica in 50 AD.
  • References and Abbreviations in the 1 and Thessalonians Bible Study
    Commentaries, Bible dictionaries, and Hebrew lexicons used in the 1 and 2 Thessalonians Bible study.
  • Reprint Guidelines
  • thessalonians-lesson-handouts.pdf
  • 1 and Thessalonians Bible Study - Linking Page
  • Preface to 1 and 2 Thessalonians: Discipleship Lessons, by Dr. Ralph F. Wilson
    A personal preface and explanation beginning the 1 and 2 Thessalonians Bible study.
  • Introduction to 1 and 2 Thessalonians: Discipleship Lessons, by Dr. Ralph F. Wilson
    Discusses the history of Thessalonica, the founding of the church, the date and time of writing, the historical situation in the church, authorship, and background on the lives of Silas (Silvanus) and Timothy.
  • 1. The Secret of Bountiful Believers (1 Thessalonians 1:1-10). 1 and 2 Thessalonians: Discipleship Lessons, by Dr. Ralph F. Wilson
    Discusses how receptive the Thessalonians were to the gospel, their calling, election, and predestination, imitation of Paul and Christ, their joy in suffering, and their conversion from paganism.
  • 2. The Character of a Disciple-Maker (1 Thessalonians 2:1-16). 1 and 2 Thessalonians: Discipleship Lessons, by Dr. Ralph F. Wilson
    Paul defends his character, discussing his courage, honest motives, and tent-making so as not to be a financial burden. He compares himself to a mother and father to the church, and encourages them in persecution.
  • 3. The Warm Heart of a Disciple-Maker (1 Thessalonians 2:17-3:13). 1 and 2 Thessalonians: Discipleship Lessons, by Dr. Ralph F. Wilson
    You can see Paul's love in his desire to see the Thessalonians again, prevention from coming, rewards for service, and his delight in their faith.
  • 4. The Command and Blessing of Holy Sex (1 Thessalonians 4:1-12). 1 and 2 Thessalonians: Discipleship Lessons, by Dr. Ralph F. Wilson
    Pleasing God is behind Christian ethics. The lessons discusses sexual mores in the Greco-Roman world, immorality, adultery, and fornication, as well as sanctification and holiness. Strong warnings against immorality.
  • 5. The Wonder and Warning of Christ's Return (1 Thessalonians 4:13-5:11). 1 and 2 Thessalonians: Discipleship Lessons, by Dr. Ralph F. Wilson
    Due to the church's concern that some believers had died before Christ's return, Paul outlines the Second Coming (Parousia), day of the Lord, rapture, resurrection, and the need to remain alert and self-controlled.
  • 6. Keys to a Healthy Christian Community (1 Thessalonians 5:12-28) -- 1 and 2 Thessalonians: Discipleship Lessons, by Dr. Ralph F. Wilson
    Paul urges the church to respect its leaders, minister faithfully, avoid taking vengeance, testing prophetic utterances, and God's keeping power.
  • 7. Awesome Judgment at Christ's Coming (2 Thessalonians 1:1-12). 1 and 2 Thessalonians: Discipleship Lessons, by Dr. Ralph F. Wilson
    In this second letter, Paul discusses the terrible judgment that will come upon the church's persecutors at Christ coming. A discussion of judgment, vengeance, punishment, retribution, and the nature of everlasting, conscious punishment in hell.
  • 8. The Coming Antichrist (2 Thessalonians 2:1-3:5) -- 1 and 2 Thessalonians: Discipleship Lessons, by Dr. Ralph F. Wilson
    When some members thought Christ had already returned, Paul explains that the Antichrist must come first. Discusses the revealing, restraint, deceit, and overthrow of the Antichrist, plus encouragement of God's protection for his people.
  • 9. Warning against Idleness (2 Thessalonians 3:6-18). 1 and 2 Thessalonians: Discipleship Lessons, by Dr. Ralph F. Wilson
    Since some members refused to work, but were dependent upon other members, Paul sternly rebukes them and tells the church not to associate with such people -- while treating them as brothers and sisters.
  • Can Heathen Who Have Never Heard the Gospel Be Saved? Appendix 1 of 1 and 2 Thessalonians: Discipleship Lessons, by Dr. Ralph F. Wilson
    Outlines how God has revealed himself to the heathen through general revelation and the conscience. Explains why preaching the gospel is still needed.
  • How Can There Be a Hell Like the Bible Describes? Appendix 2 of 1 and 2 Thessalonians: Discipleship Lessons, by Dr. Ralph F. Wilson
    How can a loving God punish people in hell for eternity. Considers the teaching of the Bible, and provides a rationale for understanding such everlasting punishment.
  • timothy/27 pages
  • First and Second Timothy Bible Study (1 and 2 Timothy). A free, 11-lesson JesusWalk Bible Study Series unit
    1 and 2 first second Timothy Bible Study free disciple Pauline Paul
  • Pictures of St. Timothy or Timotheus -- Leadership Lessons from 1 and 2 Timothy
  • timothy-lesson-handouts.pdf
  • Appendix 2. Qualifications of Church Leaders (1 Timothy 3:2-12; Titus 1:6-9)
    A chart compares the qualifications for elders and deacons found in 1 Timothy 3:2-12 and Titus 1:6-9
  • qualifications_of_church_leaders.pdf
  • Inspiration, Inerrancy, and Authority of Holy Scripture
    In this lesson we discuss briefly the doctrine of the Inspiration of Scripture and its implications for the inerrancy and authority of Scripture.
  • 1 & 2 Timothy and Titus - linking pag
  • References and Abbreviations -1 & 2 Timothy and Titus
  • Preface to 1 and 2 Timothy and Titus
    Timothy Paul Apostle Ephesus teaching heresy false doctrine courage Great Commission godliness leadership home groups cell hardship suffer evangelism morals mores
  • Introduction to the Pastoral Epistles: 1 and 2 Timothy and Titus
    This introduction to First and Second Timothy and Titus covers matters of authorship, date, historical background at Ephesus and in Paul's ministry, theories of a release and Paul's second Roman imprisonment, and and execution.
  • 1. God's Grace and Calling (1 Timothy 1:1-20) -1 & 2 Timothy and Titus
    Paul commissions his protege and associate Timothy to stay in Ephesus to stop the false teachers that are hurting the church with false doctrine. He describes the false teaching and then talks about his own experience of God's grace and salvation.
  • 2. Men and Women in God's Household (1 Timothy 2:1-15) -1 & 2 Timothy and Titus
    Paul gives specifics for setting in order problems caused by the false teachers at Ephesus. (1) an exclusivism and neglect of evangelism, (2) men worshipping in anger, and (3) women ursurping authority and teaching in the church meetings.
  • 3. Selecting Leaders in God's Household (1 Timothy 3:1-16; Titus 1:6-9) -1 & 2 Timothy and Titus
    To help stop the false teachers who have crept in among the elders, Paul outlines guidelines for selection of overseers or bishops and deacons and deaconesses.
  • 4. Setting a Godly Example (1 Timothy 4:1-16) -1 & 2 Timothy and Titus
    Paul teaches Timothy about the power of an example and life of godliness and godly living -- contrasted with the ungodliness of the false teachers and their disciples at Ephesus.
  • Godliness - A Forgotten Christian Virtue
    We explore what a life of godliness and godly living consists of, in contrast to the ungodliness. Godliness involves loving God and seeking to please him.
  • 5. Advice about Widows, Elders, and Slaves (1 Timothy 5:1-25; 6:1-2)
    Paul instructs Timothy in how to relate to various types of people in the church: Old men, young men, Old women, young women, Older widows, younger widows, Sound elders, sinning elders, and Slaves.
  • 6. Reject Greed, Pursue Godliness (1 Timothy 6:3-21)
    The false teachers at Ephesus taught that by being godly one could become wealthy, that has some touchpoints with the Health and Propserity Doctrine taught in our day. Instead, Timothy is told to pursue contentment, righteousness, and godliness.
  • 7. Teaching Christians the Godly Life (Titus 1:1-2:12) - Pastoral Epistles
    Paul instructs Titus on the island of Crete with guidelines for selecting elders for the newly formed congregations, and teaching points in godly living for various groups of people in the churches.
  • 8. Christ's Return and Redemption (Titus 2:13-3:15) - Pastoral Epistles
    Paul instructs Titus about washing and renewal or rebirth by the Holy Spirit, as well as Christ's redemption -- all by God's grace.
  • 9. Be Neither Intimidated nor Ashamed (2 Timothy 1:1-17) - Pastoral Epistles
    Timothy has been hesitating to fulfill his duties completely in Ephesus -- probably out of timidity, cowardice, shame, and fear. Paul exhorts him not to be ashamed of suffering.
  • 10. Endure Hardship for Christ (2 Timothy 2:1-19) - Pastoral Epistles
    Paul's associate Timothy was tending to avoid the suffering and hardship that came with setting the Ephesian church in order. Paul exhorts him to endure as would a soldier, athlete, and farmer.
  • Skilled Workers in God's Word (2 Timothy 2:15))
  • 11. Fit for the Master's Use (2 Timothy 2:20-3:14a) - Pastoral Epistles
    Using the example of fine tableware vs. common pots, Paul exhorts Timothy to cleans himself from the evil desires of youth in order to pursue righteousness, faith, love, and peace. He reminds him that all who want to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will suffer persecution.
  • 12. Preachers, Teachers, and Holy Scripture (2 Timothy 3:14-4:5) - Pastoral Epistles
    In this lesson we discuss Paul's classic passage on the Inspiration of Scripture, that Scripture is 'God-breathed.' We consider inerrancy and authority of Scripture as well as Paul's charge to Timothy to preach the word persistently, in season and out of season.
  • 13. I Have Fought the Good Fight (2 Timothy 4:6-22) - Pastoral Epistles
    This passage includes Paul's final words to Timothy and to the church, just before his execution in Rome about 65 AD. He has fought the good fight, finished the race, kept the faith, and now looks forward to a crown of righteousness. There are personal references to Demas, Luke, Mark, Tychicus, Priscilla and Quilla, Linus, and Trophimus.
  • Reprint Guidelines -1 & 2 Timothy and Titus. JesusWalk Bible Study Series
    Guidelines for reprinting Bible study materials for use in groups and classes.
  • Songs based on 1 and 2 Timothy and Titus Letters, the Pastoral Epistles
    songs hymns Timothy Epistle Letter Titus Pastoral
  • hebrews/27 pages
  • Hebrews:Discipleship Lessons, Online Bible Study by Ralph F. Wilson
    A 13-week online interactive Bible study on the Letter or Epistle to Hebrews, pointing to Jesus Christ and the New Covenant as superior to all that had come before under the Old Covenant. Jesus is seen as superior to angels, tasting death for everyone, the giver of a sabbath rest, and our high priest. The author argues that we have a better covenant, tabernacle, and sacrifice. He calls for boldness of faith, endurance, love, and looking unto Jesus.
  • Hebrew-Jewish Art and Paintings -- Hebrews: Discipleship Lessons
  • Introduction to Hebrews-- Hebrews: Discipleship Lessons
  • Abbreviations and References on Hebrews -- Hebrews: Discipleship Lessons
  • Reprint Guidelines-- Hebrews: Discipleship Lessons
  • The Five Warning Passages of Hebrews -- Hebrews: Discipleship Lessons
    Gives the text of each of the five warning passages in the Letter to the Hebrews.

Page generated by XML-Sitemaps.com - Google sitemaps and html sitemap generator