Biblical Literacy Podcast

10-31-21 Mark taught today’s Biblical-Literacy class - The Key and the Secret - from Philippians 4:10-13 Faith demands more than tunnel vision. 1. Practice what you preach. Rejoice in the Lord always. 2. The blessing of relationship. Paul shows a 3-way bond: Christ, Paul, and the Philippians. Paul encourages us to be a giver and a good recipient. 3. The secret to joyful living. The secret of having plenty and hunger is joy in the Lord. Listen to Mark explain how Paul can say: I can do all things through Him who strengthens me, and in that I’m content.

Philippians, 4:7-8 Watch Me!: Speaker: Dr. David Capes Dr. Capes begins the lesson with a detailed discussion of what Paul tells us to think about in Philippians, 4:8. A summary of what Paul tells us to think about is, whatever is true, honorable, just, pure, lovely, commendable, if there is any excellence and if there is anything worthy of praise Dr. Capes focuses on what kind of things do you think about, what occupies your mind, what do you think about most, in order to dissect what actually influences your actions and thoughts in todays life. He provides correlations to the Greek translation to emphasize the meaning of the verses in today’s words. Continuing with his analysis of our language/communications, he breaks down the sequence of our phraseology through a discussion of Discourse Analysis. In conclusion he made several final points which included; Act, Think, Read, Write and live theologically Don’t Believe Everything you Think Referencing Philippians, 4:9 Paul set himself up as an example,” Watch Me” Points to ponder Fix your Mind on truth, goodness and beauty Find someone to Watch and do what they do (realize someone is watching you) Rejoice that God of Piece is with You

Mark continued his teachings from the book of Philippians by focusing on Chapter 4:4-6 titled Catch the Task . . . Catch the Theology. Paul was a “task theologian.” He wrote in a way that made the lessons of God memorable. He used assonance (related in sound) and chiasmus (a memorable structure). Mark shared three points in today’s lesson: 1. Rejoice: Philippians 4:4. Joy is the distinctive mark of the Christian 2. Be kind: Philippians 4:5. Paul tells us to let our reasonableness (sound judgement, fairness) be known by all. 3. Don't be anxious: Philippians 4:6. Take our worries and concerns to the Lord in faith and thanksgiving. Listen to Mark show through Scripture that the Lord is near, and we are to reflect Him as He transforms our lives. Find joy in the journey.

Biblical Literacy 10-3-21 Pastor Jarrett Stephens taught from Philippians 3:17 - An Example to Follow. The Apostle Paul warns the Philippians out of love to keep their joy in Christ. Paul urges the Philippians to follow him because Paul imitates Jesus. Pastor Jarret shares key things to look for during bible study: Promises to Claim, Blessings to Enjoy, teachings to Learn, Commands to Obey, Sins to Forsake & Examples to Follow. In application, he closes with these questions to ponder: What is or greatest spiritual achievement? What kind of a spiritual example are we? Where is our focus and attention?

09/26/2021, Paul on Target Mark’s class today focused on Paul’s message to the Gentiles, as described in Philippians 3:1- 14. Mark began by developing the necessity for Paul to identify and speak directly to his “target” audience, who were Gentiles hearing the call of the Judaizers. The Judaizers, with great zeal wanted Gentiles to accept and practice Jewish Law and practice Key Jewish rituals, having them believe that this would bring them more in tune with the covenant of Abraham. Todays lesson will address: The Challenge The Goal The process The Challenge: Phil. 3:1-8a Paul’s challenge was to convince the Gentiles that, after a life of persecution of them and a message of relying on the Law and Jewish rituals to the extreme, that he could let go of things of the flesh and focus on knowing Christ Jesus. This transformation began to unfold on the experience Paul had on the Damascus road. The Goal: Phil. 3: 8b-11 After Paul’s conversion, all that he had “gained” he counted as loss because of the surpassing worth of knowing Christ Jesus. Paul indicated, that for Christ sake, he had suffered the loss of all things and he counts them as rubbish, in order that I may gain Christ and be found in him, not having righteousness on my own. The Process: Phil. 3: 12 Paul admits that he has not already obtained his goal set forth in Phil 3: 8b-11 or that he is already perfect, but he emphatically emphasizes that he will press on in his pursuit to make Christ his own as Christ has done for him. The question is then, WHO ARE YOU CHASING AFTER? Points to Ponder: Paul had it all, and saw it as garbage Where am I finding value? Profits and Losses I want to re-examine my priorities I haven’t arrived yet … but I know what I am chasing But I’m pressing on to the higher calling of my Lord

Ironic Paul Philippians 3: 1-3 In order to understand and appreciate “Ironic Paul” one must first have a very good understanding of what Irony is and what Ironic actually means. In the chapter and verses which are the subject of this lesson, Paul uses irony to communicate his teachings. What is the definition of irony? Irony (Websters) The use of words to express something other than and especially the opposite of the literal meaning Mark opens the lesson using the lyrics from a song by Alanis Morrisette’s Song “Ironic” to illustrate what is not ironic; “An old man turned ninety-eight He won the Lottery, and died the next day” This is not ironic for one might expect a man of 98 to die. This simply means what it says. “It’s a death row pardon two minutes too late” Once again this is not ironic it’s tragedy. Paul correctly uses irony in his writings which will be reflected in today’s lesson focusing On three points: Some things are worth repeating Beware of the dogs! Paul gets ironic Phil 3:1 Finally, my brothers, rejoice in the Lord. To write the same thing to you is no trouble to Me and is safe for you. To clearly understand the context and use of words and their meaning, Mark goes through an overview of two bible translation, ESV and the NIV. He reflects on the variations in the wording differences between the two in these verses. While the variation doesn’t really change the meaning of the passage and the target audience would likely understand the context in which the phrasing is used, both translations would carry basically the same meaning. Bible translators would likely agree that the best Bible translation is the one you will read. A major rule of translation is that you can’t take one word used in one place in the Bible and assume that the meaning of that word is the same throughout the Bible. Paul’s message: Paul in several verses, Mathew 5:12, 2: Cor 13-11, Phil 2:18, Phil 4:4, referenced the need to Rejoice and comfort one another regardless of the circumstances. Peter Thomas O’ Brien summarized it this way: “This was not an admonition to some kind of superficial cheerfulness that closes its eyes to the surrounding circumstances… It recognizes God’s mighty working in and through those circumstances to fulfill his own gracious purposes in Christ.” Pauls message to all, Life is not all Roses, there are great days and bad days, live through these circumstances and be joyful and trust in the Lord and REJOICE in the Lord Points to Ponder – Rejoice in the Lord Phil 3:2 Beware of the Dogs Phil 3:2, Look out for the dogs, lookout for the evildoers and look for those mutilators of the flesh. Dogs were scavengers detested by the Romans and gentiles were dogs to them. Paul warned the followers to beware of dogs, evildoers and those who mutilate the flesh. Irony of Paul the use of words to express something other than and especially the opposite of the literal meaning The Judaizers were trying to circumcise the Gentiles (dogs), but in the process the Jews were merely mutilating the flesh and becoming dogs themselves. Phil 3:3 Lookout For it is we who are the circumcision, who worship by the spirit of God, who glory in Christ Jesus, and who put no confidence in the flesh. Point to Ponder: Rejoice, Lookout, Glory in Christ Alone

In this week’s in-depth look into passages of Philippians, Paul’s writing gives a glimpse into everyday life. Mark explains that some people put life into 3 buckets: sin, spiritual, and normal. Paul doesn’t divide life into 3 buckets. Only two. We live either a sinful or spiritual life. Mark expands on 3 focus areas in today’s lesson extracting insights into living a spiritual life according to Philippians 2:19-30. 1. Friendship - Paul challenges us to walk in Christ with hope, a confident expectation of a future event. 2. Identity - Our identity in Christ is a brother/sister, fellow worker, and fellow solider in sharing the Gospel of Christ Jesus. 3. Sensitivity - The knowledge of Christ changes everything about our eternal life. Listen to Mark teach about the kindred spirit Paul had with Timothy and Epaphroditus, and how we can apply those characteristics to our lives.

Living by the Cross Mark continued his teaching on Philippians first with a contextual review of Chapter 1:27 thru Chapter 2:12-18. Paul’s theme statement throughout these verses is: Let your manner of life be worthy of the gospel of Christ (Philippians 1:27). Conduct your life like a citizen of the gospel. Mark focused on three points in these verses: 1. Paul’s Affection - He loved the Philippians. Love is faith experienced in action. 2. A Difficult Passage - Mark shares context for "work out our salvation with fear and trembling". God empowers us to grow in our faith through actions that demonstrate our love for Christ and others. 3. Final Thoughts - Do all things without grumbling - Avoid the grumbling, fussing, and fighting. Listen to Mark teach how Paul saw all of life through the prism of the Good News - the death burial and resurrection of Christ.

In today’s lesson, Mark examines Philippians 2:3-11—Christ: A Study in Contrasts. Three things to glean from these verses: 1. Jesus as God. He possessed the form of God, and He took on the form of man. Jesus is a model of humility. 2. Jesus as man. He took on the outward appearance of a man. Jesus is God’s divine love in selflessness. 3. Jesus as Lord. God raised Jesus to the highest place and gave Him the name above all names, because Jesus took the lowest place to save mankind. Listen to Mark share how Christ, LORD of all, is a role model for us in humility, selflessness. Join us Sundays at 9:30am CST! Links below: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCfoc... CFBC Website: https://www.championforest.org/worshi... Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Biblical-Lit...

8-22-21 Biblical Literacy Dr. Robert J. Morgan, hymn historian, shard the teaching platform with Mark in an interview and discussion about the importance of hymns in private and corporate worship. The Apostle Paul instructed the early Christians to address each other in Psalms, hymns and spiritual songs. Dr. Morgan grew up as a lover of God and classic hymns. He believes hymns are a Bible lesson and filled with theology. He recommends using a hymnal during devotions and Bible study. Modern music is not to be discounted. Older Christians should take time to study modern music, and the younger generation to study hymns. Listen to the two expert teachers discuss hymns, hymn types, meaningful words, and the stories behind the lyricists.

Synopis Chapter 10 – Philippians; Christ – the Paradigm Ref: Philippians 2:5-11 This lesson begins with an understanding of “Christ- the Paradigm “, and how our individual thought process influences our understanding of our relationship with Christ. First of all, what is a paradigm and why is it important to understand. Paradigm (A set of assumptions, concepts, values, and practices that constitute a way of viewing reality for the community that shares them, especially in an intellectual discipline). This lesson focuses on the way we as individuals think and interpret the writings in the Bible, similar to the way the Philippians would have interpreted Paul’s letter in Philippians 2: 5-11. Mark points out that there are basically two ways people think. Most people are Silo Thinkers or specialist, if you will, and others are individuals whose knowledge spans substantive number of subjects, known as a Polymath. Aristotle was a Polymath and was very influential across a broad range of complex subject matter. The author of the letter to the Philippians, Paul, was also a Polymath. Most thinkers about Jesus are Silo thinkers and come in different forms of thought: A-Myth B- Good Man C- Created by The Church D- God as a Man As an example: the C: silo thinker would believe that the Church Created the stories and teachings about Jesus, but they were not reality, just stories. While Paul was a Polymath, he also was an ardent foe of Christ and did not believe Christ was the Messiah. This all changed when he had a face-to-face encounter with Christ. Paul’s life completely changed. Mark makes it clear that specialization is required but that our view and faith in the teachings of Jesus set forth in the Bible, should be manifested by living in the Gospel letting our manner of life be worthy of the Gospel of Christ. If not living based on the Gospel, dig into the gospel and learn how to live under the Cross of Christ. Only let your manner of life be worthy of Christ. Points to Ponder The saving gospel is tied to a well-lived life Follow Jesus, the model life Praise God

Biblical Literacy Class Chapter 9 - 08/01/2021 “ Philippians” Mark continued the study of Philippians and the theme of Philippians 1: 27-29, Only let your manner of life be worthy of the gospel of Christ. In this weeks lesson, Philippians 2:1-4, Mark addresses Paul explaining what is required to live a life worthy of the gospel of Christ. Such traits are manifested in common sharing in spirit, being liked minded, having love, being one in spirit and of one mind. Mark cited 2 Corinthians 1:5, for just as we share abundantly in the suffering of Christ, so also we share in the Victory. Continuing to Philippians 2:2, Mark addresses Christ’s joy being complete by being of the same mind, having love in full accord and being like minded.. Same love, translates to having same love for God and for each other. Be sure to watch the Abilene Music Montage which exemplifies all one, one sole. As the class ends Philippians 2: 3-4 drew focus on doing nothing out of selfish ambition but rather in humility value others above yourself. Don’t look to your own interest, but each of you to the interest of others. Points to Ponder Living in the ethics of the Cross Philippians 1:27, 2:1 The importance of Unity Philippians 2:2 The Importance of “Otherness” Philippians 2: 3-4

This week Mark taught Philippians 1:27-29 titled: Olympics, Horses, and Suffering - Connecting the Dots to Living the Gospel. Paul saw all of life through the prism of the death of Christ as shown in the following three verses: Verse 27: Olympics - the Gospel of working together as a team. We should conduct our lives as a citizen of the Gospel, one who follows Christ as though we are living in a kingdom outpost. Verse 28: Horses - horses can get spooked and run. Don’t be afraid to live for Christ. Verse 29: Suffering - Paul called it an honor to suffer for the Gospel. Give graciously for the sake of Christ. Listen to Mark expound on Paul’s beliefs that the church should be the most unified and powerful force on the planet. Join us Sundays at 9:30am CST! Links below: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCfoc... CFBC Website: https://www.championforest.org/worshi... Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Biblical-Lit...

Mark continued with his in-depth study of Philippians. This week, Paul gets personal in explaining his perspective in Philippians 1:20-26. “For me to live is Christ, and to die is gain.” Three concepts are evident in this verse. 1. To live or to die - The center of Paul’s life is Christ, who is his life’s purpose. Everything is Christ. Paul explains his reasoning further in Philippians 3:4-10. 2. The tough dilemma - Paul doesn’t earn Christ but gains Him. Paul is surrounded by stress; what is better for him and what is better for the Philippians. 3. The decision - Paul will remain and continue the work contending for the Gospel with the Philippians. Mark explains a meaning of J.O.Y. that fits this passage: Jesus first, Others second, and Yourself last.

What was Paul Thinking in Philippians 1:18(b)-19. What illuminated his mind? Throughout the lesson, Mark taught an understanding of Greek by applying the present, future and perfect verb “enses. Three considerations for Paul’s confidence while he was imprisoned in Rome: 1. Paul’s confidence – Confidence in the future because of what he’s seen in the past through knowledge and experience with hope for the future. Psalm 42-43. 2. Paul’s source of confidence – Personal prayer and intercessory prayer. God honors prayer through the help of the Spirit of Jesus. 3. Paul’s language – Paul quotes a passage from Job 13:16 to show his heart. He knows life's circumstances will glorify God and be to his benefit. Mark challenges us to re-up our commitment to pray specifically. Listen to Mark share Paul’s confidence of how we can apply the past, present, and future relationship with God to our lives.

Pastor David Fleming was the guest teacher for today’s Biblical-Literacy class on Philippians 1:12-18. In Paul’s letter to the Philippians, dark things happened to him. But Paul rejoiced in it all because it glorified God. While we may ask the question “why,” Paul offered a road map as the answer. 1. Kingdom mindset. A faith perspective in how we think. Attitude determines altitude. Readers of his letter knew what had happened to Paul. Feared for him. God was in the process. Romans 8:28 is a promise from God. As children of God, all things are God filtered. Wait and see what God will do. 2. Eyes of faith. See the happenings through the lens of God. Paul was a prisoner of Christ which was the sole reason he was a prisoner in Rome. 3. Christ centered priorities. Paul shared that his friends know who he was, why he was in the prison situation - for God’s glory. Paul models what our response should be with dark happenings in our lives. As we relate to others, we should not devalue what we value the most—that Christ be glorified.

Mark continued with the study of Philippians by detailing Philippians 1:3-9 titled: The Macros and the Micros of the Gospel. Mark expanded on both the big and the small/individual picture of Paul’s writings with 3 focus areas: 1. Fellowship of the Gospel. Believers are partners in the Gospel or Good News to humans, and the roots of our foundation is in Christ. Mark compares the partnership to an aspen grove. 2. The fruition of the Gospel. Philippians 1:6, "He who began a good work in you will bring it to completion." God is working in all believers, and He will finish it. 3. Life in the gospel. The key is living in relationship with Christ Jesus and others. Listen to Mark detail the biblical teachings in Philippians that show we share the cross in our mindset, disposition, and attitude. We are commonly rooted in the Gospel through the cross of Christ Jesus.

Mark taught from Philippians 1:1-3—Paul’s Thank You note. Paul had been sentenced to Roman imprisonment under house arrest, which meant the Philippian church was paying to keep him out of the horrible conditions of prison. Paul thanked God for using the Philippians to meet his needs, emphasizing the word always. Listen to Mark detail the contents of Paul’s joyful letter and how his example inspires us to always thank God for what He has given us.

Mark continues the series Galatians: A Letter of Grace, with Part II of Chapter 15, “Spiritual Living”. Today’s lesson covers Galatians 5:16–26. For context, the Apostle Paul, who wrote many of the books in the New Testament as letters, wrote the Book of Galatians as a letter to the Church of Galatia. Mark, picks up from last week, and covers two points: the “Spirit and Flesh Explained” (v5:17-19); and “The Evidence” (v5:20-26); and then asks [us] the question “What is Spiritual living?” Mark references other New Testament passages written by Paul in Romans (Romans (Rm) 5:5, Rm 8:4, Rm 8:14, Rm 8:6, and Rm 7:6), because the Holy Spirit was given to us from Christ Jesus, through God our Father. Paul understood there is a tension we live with between the Spirit and the Flesh. This was present then and is present now. By walking in the Spirit, we can put to death the flesh, and give root to the Fruit of the Spirit. We should aspire to walk by faith, and not by sight, and trust God in this journey. Join us Sundays at 9:30am CST! Links below: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCfocCxLc8BFCta-NO4JkTcA?view_as=subscriber CFBC Website: https://www.championforest.org/worship/watch/biblit.php Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Biblical-Literacy-195629981890/

Mark continues his study in the book of Philippians with Chapter 2, Paul’s Unique Mindset. For context, the Apostle Paul, who wrote many of the books in the New Testament, wrote the Book of Philippians as a letter to the Church in Philippi. Today’s lesson reviews Phil 1:1, and three different attitudes Paul expresses within this first verse. Mark discusses Paul’s attitude toward God, to see how it aligns with ours, and what we can draw as inspiration. Mark also explains Paul’s attitude toward the church, as Paul is a God-inspired writer, and God has secured this scripture for the church and his saints. Last, is Paul’s relationship attitude, because as saints we are in Christ Jesus.

Mark begins a new series on the book of Philippians with Chapter 1, an Introduction. For context, the Apostle Paul, who wrote many of the books in the New Testament, wrote the Book of Philippians as a letter to the Church in Philippi. In this first lesson Mark provides the background and history of the colony of Philippi. He then discusses the Greek word koinonia, which Paul uses often in the letter, and he also begins to show us how God is at work. Join us Sundays at 9:30am CST! Links below: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCfocCxLc8BFCta-NO4JkTcA?view_as=subscriber CFBC Website: https://www.championforest.org/worship/watch/biblit.php Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Biblical-Literacy-195629981890/

Dr. David Fleming, Director of the Lanier Foundation, delivers the final lesson of the Biblical Literacy series Galatians: A Letter of Grace, with Chapter 17, “Closing Arguments”. Today’s lesson covers Galatians 6:11-18. For context, the Apostle Paul, who wrote (or dictated) many of the books in the New Testament as letters, wrote the Book of Galatians as a letter to the Church of Galatia. Paul begins this final passage with a closing argument directed at the people trying to distort the gospel; he has addressed them throughout the entire book of Galatians. The tone and language are strong in the passage (v11), and he even states that he himself is writing the passage by hand in large letters (perhaps in ALL CAPS, like we would), for emphasis. Paul makes five accusations against them, because they continually attack the Gospel to discredit the message of the cross and grace. Join us Sundays at 9:30am CST! Links below: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCfocCxLc8BFCta-NO4JkTcA?view_as=subscriber CFBC Website: https://www.championforest.org/worship/watch/biblit.php Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Biblical-Literacy-195629981890/

Mark continues the series Galatians: A Letter of Grace, with Chapter 16, “Family Talk”. Today’s lesson covers Galatians 6:1-10. For context, the Apostle Paul, who wrote many of the books in the New Testament as letters, wrote the Book of Galatians as a letter to the Church of Galatia. Moving into Chapter 6, Mark chose this title because we are going to read what Paul says about families (about the idea of a family). In the lesson Mark explains the passage with three ideas: ‘Family talk’ (Gal 6:1-6), ‘God talk’ (6:7-8), and ‘Pep talk’ (6:9-10). As a family, we are to do to others as we would have done to us, to forgive others, and to bear one another’s burdens. We know a healthy family helps create the backbone of society, however not all families are healthy. But as the body of Christ, we are a family, and as Paul guides us, we need to see ourselves as such to help build a healthy body and family. Join us Sundays at 9:30am CST! Links below: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCfocCxLc8BFCta-NO4JkTcA?view_as=subscriber CFBC Website: https://www.championforest.org/worship/watch/biblit.php Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Biblical-Literacy-195629981890/

Mark continues the series Galatians: A Letter of Grace, with Chapter 15, “Spiritual Living”. Today’s lesson covers Galatians 5:16-26. The Apostle Paul, who wrote many of the books in the New Testament as letters, wrote the Book of Galatians as a letter to the Church of Galatia. In Galatians, Paul addresses living with and without the Law because he is writing to both Jews and Gentiles in the Church of Galatia, and the Gentiles have not lived under the Law. The church needs practical guidance about what Laws to live by in their walk with God. In this passage, Mark looks at three important points. First, he discusses “Daily Life” (v5:16), looking at how do we live day by day? Second, is the “Spirit and Flesh Explained” (v5:17-19), where Paul explains the difference between walking after the spirit and walking after the flesh. Last, he begins discussing “The Evidence” (v5:20-26), of how we know if we are living the way we should live. Join us Sundays at 9:30am CST! Links below: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCfocCxLc8BFCta-NO4JkTcA?view_as=subscriber CFBC Website: https://www.championforest.org/worship/watch/biblit.php Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Biblical-Literacy-195629981890/

The Apostle Paul, who wrote many of the books in the New Testament as letters, wrote the Book of Galatians as a letter to the Church of Galatia. In this lesson, Mark emphasizes three points about “freedom” from Paul’s letter. The first point, ‘The Seduction of self-justification’ (Galatians 5:7 – 5:12), Paul notes that the Galatians were running well, but also noticed they have been “hindered from obeying the truth (v7)”. He sees the subtle influence of the enemy and the law, and how they are missing living under the joy of the Lord. Mark’s second point ‘Freedom to live is a freedom to love’ (Galatian 5:13 – 5:15), is because of the freedom we receive under the cross, and to love one another. We are called to freedom and are not to use it as an opportunity for the flesh (v13). And third, ‘The key community teaching’ (5:14 – 5:15), as we have practical love for our community, and for ourselves

Mark continues the series Galatians: A Letter of Grace with Chapter 13, “Can one fall from Grace?”. In today’s lesson Mark looks at the practical side of Paul’s letter, covering Galatians 5:2-6. The Apostle Paul, who wrote many of the books in the New Testament as letters, wrote the Book of Galatians as a letter to the Church of Galatia. In this passage, Paul reminds the Galatians to “pay attention”, and be careful about using circumcision to exemplify the idea of following the law to be right with God. With this mindset, we are severed from Christ, and he died for no reason. Their (our) relationship to God is not based upon our performance before God, but is based on our faith and God’s grace, not on following the law.

Mark continues the series Galatians: A Letter of Grace with Chapter 12, “Finishing Theology”, which covers Galatians 4:12-22 -5:1. The Apostle Paul wrote many of the books in the New Testament as letters. The Book of Galatians is one such letter written to the Church of Galatia. Paul typically divides his letters into two parts: the first part - theology, and the second part - practical. Mark’s lesson today discusses, “The Reality of the Letter” (4:12-20), “An Allegory” (4:21-27), and “The Summation” (4:28-5:1), to complete the ‘theology’ of Paul’s letter. In the next lesson, Mark moves into the ‘practical’ part of Galatians. Join us Sundays at 9:30am CST! Links below: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCfocCxLc8BFCta-NO4JkTcA?view_as=subscriber CFBC Website: https://www.championforest.org/worship/watch/biblit.php Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Biblical-Literacy-195629981890/

Mark continues the series Galatians: A Letter of Grace, with Chapter 11, “Mr. Analogy” aka Paul. The Apostle Paul, who wrote the Book of Galatians to the Church of Galatia, was a master at using metaphors and analogies in his writing. Galatians is built around the question, “how are we ‘okay’ with God?”. Mark takes us through Galatians 4: 1-11 and shows us some of Paul’s analogies to help answer this question. Join us Sundays at 9:30am CST! Links below: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCfocCxLc8BFCta-NO4JkTcA?view_as=subscriber CFBC Website: https://www.championforest.org/worship/watch/biblit.php Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Biblical-Literacy-195629981890/

Mark continues the series Galatians: A Letter of Grace with Chapter 10, Review. Up to this point, Mark has looked at Galatians, Chapter 1-3, by examining the nuances of the language and Greek translation used in the chapter. Paul wrote to the Church of Galatia with a strong reminder of the Gospel message. Jesus Christ died for our sins, was buried, and was resurrected - this overwrites the law. In this week’s lesson, Mark steps back to look at the chapters and provide a broader view of Paul’s writing in Galatians. Mark also discusses how the message of the Gospel is always applicable as we see trends, even today, to interpret the Gospel. Join us Sundays at 9:30am CST! Links below: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCfocCxLc8BFCta-NO4JkTcA?view_as=subscriber CFBC Website: https://www.championforest.org/worship/watch/biblit.php Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Biblical-Literacy-195629981890/

Mark continues the series Galatians: A Letter of Grace with Chapter 9, Three Pictures of the Law, Galatians 3:21–29. Mark provides a brief review because in Galatians, Paul is writing to the Church of Galatia. He reminds the Galatians of the Gospel meaning; Jesus Christ died for our sins, was buried, and was resurrected. The context for this lesson is to understand that all the laws and rules we follow or think you should follow, do not make us righteous before God. With that said, then, “what’s the whole point of the Law?!” Mark explains how Paul uses three word-pictures to answer this question and help us put the Law in the proper perspective. It was a guardian until Christ came, in order that we might be justified by faith. Join us Sundays at 9:30am CST! Links below: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCfocCxLc8BFCta-NO4JkTcA?view_as=subscriber CFBC Website: https://www.championforest.org/worship/watch/biblit.php Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Biblical-Literacy-195629981890/

Mark continues the series Galatians: A Letter of Grace with Chapter 8, The Just Gospel, Galatians 3: 10-20. Mark provides a brief contextual review because Paul is writing to the Church of Galatia to remind the Galatians of what the Gospel is; Jesus Christ died for our sins, was buried, and was resurrected. Paul states (Gal 3:10) everyone who exists out of works of the law from the Old Testament, lives under a curse (Dt. 27: 15-26). The Gospel redeems us, and applies justice to the curse, and we can live out our faith. Join us Sundays at 9:30am CST! Links below: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCfocCxLc8BFCta-NO4JkTcA?view_as=subscriber CFBC Website: https://www.championforest.org/worship/watch/biblit.php Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Biblical-Literacy-195629981890/

Dr. David Fleming, Director of the Lanier Foundation, continues Mark’s series Galatians: A Letter of Grace, with Chapter 7, The Gospel or Foolishness, Galatians 3:1-9. David provides a short contextual review as Paul is writing to the Church of Galatia to remind them of what the Gospel is; Jesus Christ died for our sins, was buried, and was resurrected. In this series we have talked about the power, priority, practice and especially how the Gospel is personal. In today’s lesson David looks at how the Galatians acted foolishly and let themselves be “bewitched” by outside influences who undermined and distorted the Gospel. They were not staying true to the salvation they had received by faith.

Mark continues the series Galatians: A Letter of Grace, with Chapter 6, A Personal Gospel. First, Mark reviews the opening of Galatians, Chapter 2 for context to remind us of the Gospel Paul was entrusted with - Jesus Christ died for our sins, was buried, and was resurrected; this is the same yesterday, today and forever. Since this lesson is a personal Gospel, Mark also invites us to think of the areas of our life (our list) where we might feel we do not measure up. He then discusses Galatians 2:15-20 where Paul states how the Gospel is personal, and Christ took all our sins (our list) with him to the cross.

Today’s lesson is presented by guest instructor, Pastor Jarrett Stephens, Lead Pastor of Champion Forest Baptist Church. It is a continuation of the Galatians series: A Letter of Grace, with Chapter 5, Focused Living. Pastor Stephens continues Mark’s lesson from last week in Galatians 2:2-14, where Paul defends himself and the Gospel because false teachers were creeping into the church, attempting to discredit him, and distort the message of the Gospel. Paul is focused on and faithful to the Gospel, that Jesus Christ died for our sins, was buried, and resurrected. Pastor Stephens further discusses how what Paul and the early teachers taught applied to both Gentiles and Jews.

Mark continues the series Galatians: A Letter of Grace, with Chapter 4, the Centric Gospel (1:1-2:2). In this lecture, Mark varies the direction of the lesson after receiving an email from a class member who raised questions about some of the material Mark is teaching in this series. Mark reworked the lesson to be a Q & A session and address the questions he received. Paul’s Gospel writings are simple - Jesus Christ died for our sins, was buried, and resurrected (1 Corinthians 2:2). When we read his Gospel, Paul is saying that all things, past, present, and future flow from this truth.

Mark continues the series Galatians: A Letter of Grace, with Chapter 3, the Authentic Gospel, Galatians 1:11-24. We know the first four books of the New Testament are the Gospels, but Paul wrote his letters before the Gospel books were written. This passage in Galatians is Paul’s autobiography, where Paul shares his history as a scholar and a persecutor of the early Christians. It was during this period he had an encounter with Jesus Christ, and he received the Good News that Christ died for our sins and was resurrected. Those who put their faith in him will be resurrected with him. This was not taught to Paul but received as a divine revelation.

Mark continues the series Galatians: A Letter of Grace with Chapter 2, The Power and the Sanctity of the Gospel. In this lesson Mark focuses on Galatians 1:1-11. Beginning with Galatians 1:1-5, the opening of the letter is written to the Church of Galatia and is meant to establish Paul as an apostle, who has the authority to deliver a message of grace and peace. He is granted authority from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ who gave himself for our sins. Mark then in Galatians 1:6-11, discusses how the tone of the letter is more serious than letters Paul wrote in Romans or 1 Corinthians because, within the Galatian church, some are turning to a different gospel and want to distort the good news of the gospel that Jesus Christ died for all our sins.

Mark begins a new series Galatians: A Letter of Grace, with Chapter 1, an Introduction. In this series Mark takes us through a deep dive study into the Book of Galatians. The Book of Galatians is one of the many letters Paul wrote in the New Testament, this one to the churches of Galatia. The Book of Galatians is considered an epistle, which is a type of letter. Mark explains how we study an epistle is different than the study of a Psalm, a Prophet, or the Gospels. Mark gives us background to understand who the Galatians were and the purpose of the letter. Today’s lesson also includes Galatian 1:1-5.

Mark continues with A Trial Lawyer's Brief on Biblical Law: A Reflection of God’s Character with Chapter 7, Old Testament Laws That Speak To Us Today. In this lesson Mark discusses some of the known Laws people ask about in daily life, i.e., foods that should not be eaten, wearing clothing with mixed fibers. These Laws were written particularly for Israel because God made Israel distinct from other nations. Mark looks at the unique features of ancient Israel, “holiness” as it is key to the Laws, and then how God’s character and concerns apply to us.

Mark continues with A Trial Lawyer's Brief on Biblical Law: A Reflection of God’s Character with Chapter 6, The Atonement and the Meaning of Christmas. As Mark has been teaching about the Law, in this lesson he discusses "Atonement", an especially important word when we look at the Laws of Israel. Only Israel's Laws had Atonement because Atonement is about getting back in a right relationship with God. Christmas is the celebration of Christ's birth setting the way for the ultimate Atonement for Israel and all humanity. Join us Sundays at 9:30am CST! Links below: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCfocCxLc8BFCta-NO4JkTcA?view_as=subscriber CFBC Website: https://www.championforest.org/worship/watch/biblit.php Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Biblical-Literacy-195629981890/

Mark continues with A Trial Lawyer's Brief on Biblical Law: A Reflection of God’s Character with the seventh commandment: You shall not steal (Exodus 20:15). The word steal in Hebrew is "ganav", which means to steal or take by stealth, wrongfully or in trickery. Mark looks at this commandment from three perspectives; 1) face value, 2) how it is a reflection of God, the law giver, 3) how does it apply to me. How does it change the way I live? God says you are not to ganav because you are made in my image - you are to reflect me to the world. God does not take wrongfully, he gives rightfully.

Mark continues with A Trial Lawyer's Brief on Biblical Law: A Reflection of God’s Character with a focus on the fifth and sixth of the Ten Commandments. Mark dives deep into the fifth Commandment: Honor your Father and your Mother (Ex. 20:12), and the sixth Commandment: You shall not murder (Ex. 20:13). Mark looks at the kaved, or weightiness, of the commandments as a direct reflection of the Law Giver.

Mark continues with A Trial Lawyer's Brief on Biblical Law: A Reflection of God’s Character with a focus on the fifth and sixth of the Ten Commandments. Mark dives deep into the fifth Commandment: Honor your Father and your Mother (Ex. 20:12), and the sixth Commandment: You shall not murder (Ex. 20:13). Mark looks at the kaved, or weightiness, of the commandments as a direct reflection of the Law Giver.

Mark continues with A Trial Lawyer's Brief on Biblical Law: A Reflection of God’s Character with a focus on the third of the Ten Commandments. Mark looks in depth at the third commandment "Thou shall not take the name of the Lord your God in vain for the LORD will not hold him guiltless who takes his name in vain", and the question, "what's in a name?". Mark shows throughout scripture how the word "name", translated from the Hebrew word "shem", is often used as a label or identifier reflecting a person's life experiences, skill set, references or reputation, such as 'where you've been' or 'what you've done' – leading us back to “..shall not take the name of the Lord your God in vain…” and the most mis-understood of the Ten Commandments.

Mark continued with Lesson 5 in A Trial Lawyer's Brief on Biblical Law: AReflection of God’s Character with a focus on the first 2 of the Ten Commandments. Mark explained in referencing documented laws from the ages how law has always been a reflection of its author(s), and the Ten Commandments area reflection of God’s character. Commandment 1-I am the LORDyour God...You shall have no other gods before me. Commandment 2-You shall not make for yourself a carved image... God is not only everywhere, but he is also all powerful. The Israelites didn’t need to worry about their problems being greater than what the LORD could handle. The LORD was the only God Israel would ever need.

Mark continued with Lesson 4, How Does the Law of God Reflect God’s Character, in the Series: A Trial Lawyer's Brief on Biblical Law: A Reflection of God’s Character. Law is a system of principles which are ordained or established rules of conduct as regulating the actions of its member and enforced by penalties. God gave the biblical law to the Israelites. God was Israel’s king. God gave the people what they needed to know His character: infinite, personal, and moral. We find God through His law. Mark provided a review on the first three classes then continued with this emphasis: Biblical law reflects holy ethics in a way that would guide Israel in its time and place in history to fulfill God's purpose by walking in God’s holiness. His people are set apart by reflecting His character.

Mark continued with Lesson 3, How Does the Law of God Reflect God’s Character, in the Series: A Trial Lawyer's Brief on Biblical Law: A Reflection of God’s Character. God gave Israel signs to show they were separate from the nations. This showed the national identity of Gods people. Common questions arise: 1) Is the Old Testament Law applicable to Christians today? 2) What parts of the Old Testament are applicable today? 3) What is the justification for accepting parts of the Old Testament as binding, but not others? Mark began to share various answers and positions of people, with two covered in this lesson. Bad answer #1: The law doesn’t apply to Christians because it was nailed to the cross. But they belong together. Paul wrote in 2nd Timothy 3:16-17 confirming OT laws. The law was never given for people to be saved by it. Because it’s Impossible. We need to read the law with understanding. Jesus came to fulfill the law. God's law never becomes void. Bad answer #2: “The moral section of the Old Testament Law is binding on believers, but not the ‘other’ sections.” What sections are moral? Who determines this? Too often we decide what is appropriate by what we feel instead of God. Listen to Mark discuss the various types of law and how the Bible addresses them. Biblical law reflected God's holy ways that would guide Israel to fulfill Gods purposes.

Mark taught week two in the new series, "A Trial Lawyer's Brief on Biblical Law: A Reflection of God’s Character,” focused on Biblical Law in Cultural Context. Was anything unique about Biblical Law? Mark used the following process to compare and contrast legal codes from that era and area: Define the approach: How the question will be answered. — Time and location to other legal codes before and after Sinai Compare and contrast the other legal systems/codes with Biblical Law. The earliest known law dates back to 2100BC, and Biblical Law dates 1400-1200 BC. Mark shows us the laws that governed people were dictated by man. But God gave the Law of Sinai to Moses. Implications: What does Biblical Law mean for us? — God gave the Law of Sinai to Moses. These are God’s commandments. He called the Israelites and us to be like Him, to be holy. God made you and me to be in His image: we share His moral makeup. What is right and good and holy to God is to be the same with us. (Num. 15:40). Listen to Mark expound on how God wrote the Biblical Law as a reflection of Him.

Mark introduced a new series that focuses on the law as found in the Torah. After giving an overview of different types of law, Mark explained that Biblical law is more than a rule of conduct or action prescribed by a controlling authority; God reveals Himself through the law. By the time of Jesus, the law held a central place in Jewish life. Biblical law can tell us what to do, but it doesn’t give us life. And the law wasn’t the source of eternal life. God reveals himself as gracious through the Biblical law. He calls us to be holy like He is holy. Listen to Mark explain the Greek meaning of “law” and how Jesus fulfills the Law perfectly. In the weeks ahead, we will see God and Jesus revealed in greater detail through the study of the Law.