The theme for the Spring 2011 Bible conference in Phoenix is found both at the beginning and end of the book (1Ti 1:18, 1Ti 6:12). In each reference, different words and phrases are used. In the first, Paul speaks of the good fight of faith as an ongoing campaign, thus reminding us that we are part of a vast and great spiritual army. In the last, his words focus on our own personal struggle, a good reminder that no one can fight our battle for us. This scope and intensity will be captured as we follow Paul’s thought through the book.Gene Cunningham - April 8, 2000
Simplicity in Christ #3
2Co 11:3 Paul writes with dread or fear that Corinthian believers would be led astray and miss out on simplicity, purity in Christ—single-minded focus. Jesus thanks the Father that divine truth has been revealed to those who are dependent (i.e., "babes"). In Mat 11:25-30, Jesus asks those who are weary and heavy laden to come to Him. His "yoke"—or "school of learning"—is light, easy. Three factions united against Christ (Mat 22:15-46). The Pharisees thought keeping the law made you righteous and falsely thought they could gain salvation by works (Rom 8:3). Herodians believed that Herod Agrippa fulfilled the prophecies. Saducees believed there was no resurrection, and the body and soul die together.
Most Jews cared about their heritage (Mat 22:27-32). Saducees thought they could present a contradiction. Jesus responds by telling them "you do not know the scriptures, nor the power of God." We become "like angels"—not angels (Isa 6:3). Angels' focus is not on each other, but the Lord. In the resurrection we are totally devoted to Him (Mat 22:29-32; 1Co 15:12-58; 1Jo 3:2).
How did Jesus approach Scripture? This approach will greatly simplify our lives.
As the very Word of God (2Ti 3:16). Scripture is divine revelation;
It is inspired and accurately recorded. Jesus referred to Isaiah (Mat 13:14; 2Pe 1:21);
Scripture needs to be taken literally (Mat 21:42, Mat 4:4); it has authority over us;
The Word of God is eternal in nature (Joh 10:35; Mat 24:35);
The Bible has a united theme, namely, redemption (Luk 24:27);
The Word is powerful and relevant to us now (Joh 4:10, Joh 7:38; Heb 4:12).
It may appear contradictory to us; the problem is in us; it began with the Fall (Luk 8:11).
Jesus asks the Pharisees who the Christ is; He silenced them (Mat 22:34-46). We need to not question Him either.
Scripture References: John 4:10, Matthew 11:25-30, John 3:2, Luke 24:27, Matthew 22:29-32, Matthew 24:35, Matthew 22:34-46, Isaiah 6:3, John 10:35, Luke 8:11, Matthew 22:27-32, Matthew 4:4, Hebrews 4:12, Romans 8:3, Matthew 21:42, John 7:38, Matthew 22:15-46, Matthew 13:14
From Series: "2018 AYC Ladies Classes"
Nan Cunningham spoke to the ladies at the 2018 AYC Camp.