03. The Teachings of Jesus

Jesus’ First Teaching to the Sermon on the Mount

(LK 2:49, MT 3-7 & parallel passages)

My primary intent in the this lesson is to compile a comprehensive survey of the teachings of Jesus (TOJ) rather than to conduct an exhaustive discussion of each one.  In fact, I try to be very succinct and abbreviate the verbiage by sometimes citing information in previous lessons.  I begin by following the order of the TOJ in the Gospel of Matthew supplemented by unique (non-parallel) teachings in the other two synoptic (similar) gospels by Mark and Luke.  Typically, the first instance of a TOJ in Matthew is stated simply, and the reference with any parallel verses (denoted by //) is given in the brackets [ ] that immediately follow.  For TOJ which are also taught in the gospel of John or on more than one (non-parallel) occasion in the synoptic gospels, the other passages are cited in rounded brackets { } either at an appropriate place in the discussion or at the conclusion of my comments.  Although I am not very concerned about the order of Jesus’ teachings, apparently Luke’s account contains the earliest and latest (in ACTS 1:8) statements of Jesus, so I begin and conclude with these.  After analyzing the synoptic gospels, I consider teachings that are unique or clearest from John’s gospel.

The most difficult aspect of the present endeavor is deciding whether a later statement by Jesus should be considered a new teaching or a nuance of a previously cited teaching.  Where the nuance or wording seems significant, I list it separately (e.g., TOJ #10 & #81).  Some of Jesus’ statements (such as MT 4:19//MK 1:17, MK 1:41-43//LK 5:13-14, MK 4:35, 5:8-9&30) do not seem to be for the purpose of teaching, so they are not mentioned.  Other statements that do communicate teachings (such as MK 6:8-11, 11:17 & JN 6:70) seem to be meant or applicable only for that specific historical occasion, so they are not included in the enumeration, either.  I am aware that some scholars are skeptical that Jesus actually spoke all of the words attributed to Him by the gospel writers.  If there is no God, then it does not really/ultimately matter what Jesus said.   However, if God does exist, then it seems logical that He either caused or permitted the biblical canon (OT & NT) to be compiled in its extant form, since it has been the most influential witness for Deity in history.  Thus, in order to avoid the conclusion that God is tricky, it would seem prudent to accept the Bible’s authenticity until and unless there is very good reason to question a portion, such as Mark 16:9-20, which the NIV and other versions question.  I do not accept the teachings in verses 16-17 as authentic, because two elements are incompatible or unable to be harmonized with the rest of the NT, namely:  water baptism is required to be saved, and the sign/evidence of saving Faith/Belief (denoted by the capital “F” and “B”) is miracle-working rather than love. (See TOJ #4, #74 & #148.)

Since the NT record of the TOJ does not always communicate clearly, I humbly offer my commentary, which incorporates common sense or logic as well as teachings found elsewhere in the Bible, hoping that it is inspired sufficiently enough to provide helpful solutions rather than contribute to confusion.

 

TOJ #1:  Jesus is the Son of God.  [LK 2:49]  Jesus’ first pupils were His parents.  By the age of twelve Jesus realized that God was His heavenly Father (in fulfillment of Psalm 2:7).  John 1:14 states that God’s Word/Spirit was incarnate in Jesus.  Hebrews 1:3 says that Jesus is God’s Son, “the exact representation of his being.”  Insofar as it is possible for the almighty, immortal and invisible God (1TM 1:17) to reveal Himself in a mortal human (RM 1:3), that person is Jesus (1TM 2:5).  Jesus is the fullest possible revelation of the superhuman God (CL 1:19) in the human dimension (PHP 2:7-8).  And with God all things are possible that do not contradict who He is (MT 19:26, HB 6:18).  The “insofar” of this theophany is sufficient, so that the Son of God (MT 3:17, 17:5) or Messiah/Christ may be considered as Immanuel (MT 1:23) or God the Son {JN 5:17-27, 10:25-38, 14:9f., 17:1-5}.  This means that God may be understood as a Triunity (Lesson 1; see TOJ #7, #49, #52 & #178).

Regarding Jesus’ humanity the NT story indicates that in order to fulfill a prophecy (IS 7:14) the Holy Spirit implanted a specially created embryo in the virgin Mary, who had not yet consummated her marriage to the virginal Joseph (MT 1:18&25).  Jesus’ earthly parents did not understand His relationship with His heavenly Father at first, but at least His birth-mother “treasured all these things in her heart”—as we all should (LK 2:50-52).  Of course, every time Jesus referred to God as Father could be cited as teaching this concept, but I will cite only two more passages from John’s gospel {JN 6:32-46, 10:25-38}.

TOJ #2:  Obey God’s will. [MT 3:15]  Notice that the accounts of Jesus’ baptism in the other gospels (MK 1:9-11, LK 3:21-22, JN 1:31-34) omit this teaching.  However, it is a major theme in John’s gospel. {JN 5:17, 17:4}  (See TOJ #34 & #153.)  By being baptized Jesus taught John and others present that He obeyed God’s will for Messiah to identify with sinful humanity.  In John’s gospel Jesus called doing his Father’s will/work His “food” {JN 4:34}.  It included giving eternal life {JN 5:19-21,36}.  The work of dying Jesus called His “cup” {JN 18:11}, which surely is what was “finished” on the cross {JN 19:30}.  Jesus also spoke of His coming obedience unto death (TOJ #54) as a “baptism”. {LK 12:50, MK 10:38-39, 14:36}  Obeying God’s will as codified in the Ten Commandments is TOJ #107.  Peter taught this truth via a negative example {in MT 16:23//MK 8:33}.

TOJ #3:  Learn God’s Word (LGW). [MT 4:4//LK 4:4]  This is the first of three truths Jesus tried to teach the devil during a period of testing in the desert (MK 1:12-13).  Satan first tempted Jesus to perform a miracle; just like he tempts us to want to walk by proof rather than by Faith (MT 24:24).  However, Jesus indicated that God’s Word is the fuel, food {JN 6:26-27} and medicine for souls, so if we do not LGW, then we will run out of gas, fail to grow and be spiritually sick.  Or, in terms of another passage, our house (life) will be destroyed. {MT 7:24-27//LK 6:47-49}  This TOJ prompts the question:  what is God’s Word?  The NT affirms most of the books in the OT, and most Christians affirm the books in the NT.  The next TOJ indicates that “truth” is God’s Word.  Some people identify every word in the Bible with truth, but this view ignores the need for an infallible interpretation in order to establish an inerrant canon and to explain discrepancies, such as one instruction to pray for God’s will to be done (TOJ #34) and another to ask for anything (TOJ #51).  A perfect revelation might also be expected to have included teachings to head off future controversies, such as “Thou shalt not murder babies in the womb,” (discussed in Lesson 8) or to answer crucial issues, like “God does not prove His will to humanity because doing so would abrogate volition.” (Cf. the next TOJ.)

TOJ #4:  Harmonize all truth. [MT 4:7a]  Jesus implied this important logical principle to apply when seeking the correct understanding of GW by saying, “It is also written”.  If the Spirit of God inspired the biblical writers (2PT 1:20-21) and created the world (GN 1:1-3), then the best interpretation of a TOJ should harmonize the totality of revealed and scientific knowledge (Lesson 1).  In his second temptation the devil quoted Scripture (PS 91:11-12) as though he were heeding the TOJ about LGW, but he attempted to deceive Jesus with a false interpretation so He would perform a miracle.  Although Jesus did perform miracles, it was only as necessary in order to establish His church so that Christians could preach salvation via saving Faith in the Gospel/kerygma.  (See TOJ #77 & #78.)

TOJ #5:  Life is God’s test. [MT 4:7b//LK 4:12b]  The verse of Scripture to which Jesus alluded (DT 6:16) shows that it is human souls who must prove to God whom they will serve (JSH 24:15).

TOJ #6:  Worship only God. [MT 4:10//LK 4:8]  The account of the third temptation is slightly fuller in Luke (where it is mentioned second).  What Satan claimed in verses six and seven (in LK) are lies.  God has not given all authority to Satan; Satan tries to usurp it (RM 13:1-5).  The only power Satan and people have is permission to disobey and rebel against God’s authority within limits (GN 2:16-17, 3:22-24, 6:3, 11:6-9, JOB 1:12, 2:6; TOJ #136).

TOJ #7:  Accept Jesus as the Lord’s Messiah/Christ. [LK 4:18-22, 43]  This event is omitted in Matthew and Mark.  By saying the prophecy of Isaiah 61:1-2 (cf. IS 49:5-7, 52:13) was fulfilled, Jesus was teaching that He is God’s Messiah {MT 16:16a//MK 8:29//LK 9:20}, whose mission is the next TOJ. Jesus asserted this teaching directly {in JN 4:25-26}, and it was also taught by the miraculous resurrection of Lazarus. {JN 11:25-44}  Another term for Messiah is Son (TOJ #1), which may be why those who doubted asked, “Isn’t this Joseph’s son?”  Although Jesus’ role as God’s Messiah is equivalent to His role as God’s Son {MT 16:16-18}, both terms are significant enough to justify listing these teachings separately.  (Also see TOJ #49, #52 & #131.)

TOJ #8:  Repent of Sin/Believe GRFS. [MT 4:17//MK 1:15 & LK 4:43]  Jesus was sent for the purpose of proclaiming the Gospel (good news) about how to be saved from death and hell to eternal life in the kingdom of God/heaven.  The way to be saved is to repent of the sin of unbelief or atheism (2PT 3:10-13), and believe—not merely in God’s existence (JM 2:19), but—in the way that satisfies GRFS (Lesson 2).  Repentance or saving Faith was the central theme of Jesus’ preaching. {MK 1:38}  Salvation/heaven was signified by freedom from poverty, captivity, infirmity, sins and their just (miserable) consequences {MT 11:4-6//LK 7:22-23}.  Many people scoff at this imperative invitation of Jesus, because “everything goes on as it has since the beginning” (2PT 3:3-4).  Unfortunately for them, the miraculous proof they demand will be the second coming of Christ in judgment, when it will be too late to repent of sin/evil that results in the opposite of heaven (TOJ #195).

TOJ #9:  Blessed are Believers. [MT 5:3-12]  Jesus’ Sermon on the Mount (MT 5-7) begins with a series of blessings called the Beatitudes. (The verb “beatify” means to bless or make happy.)  Believers have the Faith implied by “because of me” (v.11).  Peter’s confession {MT 16:16-17} showed his Faith in Jesus as Messiah/Christ/Son of God.  Although Believers experience many blessings in the midst of earthly troubles, God’s ultimate blessing is eternal life in heaven (TOJ #154), which is the proper reason or motivation for obeying God’s will, beginning with TOJ #7 & #8 {JN 13:17}.  (See TOJ #198.)  The Beatitudes might be viewed as one general teaching comprised of eight specific examples of ways all true Believers will be blessed, but we will consider each beatitude separately.

TOJ #10:  Believers are humble/teachable. [MT 5:3//LK 6:20]  The term “poor in spirit” is associated with being contrite or repentant (in IS 57:15).  It is the opposite of the sin of pride that precedes a fall from Eden (GN 3:23-24) to destruction (PR 16:18).  It does not refer simply to physical poverty, because nowhere does the Bible teach that destitution is a virtue, merely that reliance on wealth can be tempting.  The equivalence of humility and willingness to learn is indicated later by Jesus (TOJ #81; also see TOJ #31).

TOJ #11:  Believers are comforted (by God’s Holy Spirit). [MT 5:4//LK 6:21b]  The means of comfort is stated by Jesus in John 14:26-27.  God’s comfort was prophesied in Isaiah 61:2 and Revelation 21:4.  Paul also found comfort in the realization that our grief is brief (1CR 7:29-30)!  The term “mourn” connotes grief in response to the death of a loved one, but Paul connected “comfort” with suffering due to various troubles (in 2CR 1:3-7), and Peter tied the blessing of comfort to suffering for what is right (1PT 3:14) and for the sake of Christ (1PT 4:13-14) as in the eighth beatitude (TOJ #18).  Ultimately, Believers will rejoice in heaven with the beggar, Lazarus {LK 16:25}.

TOJ #12:  Believers are meek. [MT 5:5]  Although the OT passage Jesus seems to have in mind (PS 37:9-34) probably envisioned an earthly fulfillment of this prophecy, the ultimate promised land (NM 14:16) will be heavenly (JN 14:2-3, RV 21:1-3).  Meekness describes a moral quality akin to love rather than a personality type, such as introversion.  It is also related to humility (TOJ #10) and peacemaking (TOJ #16).

TOJ #13:  Believers’ craving  for  righteousness  will  be  satisfied. [MT 5:6//LK 6:21a]  Luke’s wording appears to refer to physical hunger. They will be filled with “good things” (PS 107:9) or the Holy (Righteous) Spirit {LK 11:13}.  TOJ #15 is a significant restatement of this truth, and a major component of righteousness is the subject of the next beatitude.

TOJ #14:  Believers manifest Faith by showing mercy. [MT 5:7]  This teaching is stated in other words {in MT 6:14-15, 9:13, MK 11:25, LK 6:36-38, 17:3-4} and negatively in James 2:13.  Jesus illustrated this principle with the Parable of the Unmerciful Servant {MT 18:21-35}, and He exemplified it while on the cross with a prayer for forgiveness {LK 23:34}.  Mercy can be appropriated only by those who repent of their wrong attitudes and actions (MT 18:15-17).  See TOJ #114.  Reflecting God’s love is the normative sign of saving Faith (TOJ #148).  The distinction between love and mercy parallels that between Faith and faithful works.  Showing mercy does not mean allowing anarchy (RM 13:4b); there is a time for leniency and a time for logical consequences (ECC 3:3; cf. TOJ #30).

TOJ #15:  Believers will become pure/righteous. [MT 5:8]  Purity is synonymous with moral perfection, which is a goal not attained in this lifetime (PHP 3:12-16) except vicariously by spiritual union with God’s perfect Son, the author or source of salvation (HB 2:10, 4:14-15, 5:8-9, TOJ #21).  However, those who were with Jesus did see God the Son {JN 14:8-10}.  The process of becoming perfect or like Christ is called sanctification. {JN 17:17}.  In heaven all saints will be pure and behold Him in His Shekinah or glorified body (PS 11:7, 15:1-2, 24:3-5, RV 22:3-5).

TOJ #16:  Believers are peacemakers. [MT 5:9a]  All souls should strive for peace (RM 12:16-18) and unity (EPH 4:3).  An application of this teaching is made by Jesus later in His sermon. {MT 5:23-24}  This attribute should not be equated or confused with antinomianism (not having criminal laws) or pacifism (not resisting aggressor nations), but it does correlate with TOJ #14 & #29.  Slogans advocating peace should always include a reference to freedom and justice.  (Also see ECC 3:8 & RV 12:7, 19:11.)  The opposite of this truth is TOJ #157.

TOJ #17:  Believers are spiritual children of God. [MT 5:9b]  Paul (in RM 8:15-17) and John (in 1JN 5:2) called Christians (including Messianic Jews) the children of God, and Moses described the Israelites by this phrase (DT 14:1).  The writer of Hebrews said, “Both the one who makes men holy and those who are made holy are of the same family.” (HB 2:11-14)  (Cf. Lesson 5.)

 TOJ #18:  Believers may be persecuted. [MT 5:10-12//LK 6:22-23, JN 15:18]  Jesus’ crucifixion is the paradigm (1PT 2:21), but Believers also may be martyred because of their faith.  History teaches that persecution may occur in some nations and eras more than in others. {MT 24:9-10&12//MK 13:9//LK 21:12-13}  It may be in the form of ostracism or excommunication (cf. TOJ #102) by family. {MT 10:35-36//LK 12:52-53, JN 16:2a}  The persecutors may threaten physical harm or death. {MT 10:21//MK 13:12//LK 21:16}  If possible, Believers should “flee”. {MT 10:23}  (See TOJ #63.)  Of course, Believers should not be intolerant persecutors when they are the majority or in powerful positions.  Although all Believers have the hope of heaven whether or not they suffer persecution, it may be that those who experience greater suffering develop an increased capacity for enjoying the good life both on earth and in heaven.  This would be comparable to the fact that those who have studied a subject such as art or mathematics have a deeper appreciation for artistic or mathematical endeavors than those less experienced or knowledgeable.

TOJ #19:  Believers teach the value of LGW and obeying GRFS to the world. [MT 5:13-16]  Whereas salt seasons and preserves food, Believers (who manifest the beatific attributes) make the world a better place to live and save converts from moral corruption. {MK 9:49-50//LK 14:34-35}  Believers not only are blessed but also are a blessing to others.  However, the possibility of becoming “no longer good for anything” implies the need for perseverance (1TM 1:18-20, cf. TOJ #60 & Lesson 2).  “Light”, which symbolizes God (PS 27:1, 1JN 1:5), is reflected by Jesus (JN 9:5) and Believers (EPH 5:8-9).  Just as the purpose of lighting a lamp is to illuminate a room, so the reason Believers remain in this world is to provide spiritual light {LK 11:33, 12:35}.  This TOJ is almost the same as #65.  The light symbol is found also in TOJ #39 & #171.

TOJ #20:  Jesus fulfilled the Mosaic Covenant. [MT 5:17-18]  This fact was emphasized by Luke. {LK 16:17, 18:31, 22:37, 24:25-27&44-47}  An apparent purpose of the writer of Hebrews was to explain how this fact laid the foundation for the New Covenant (HB 1:1-2, 3:1-6, 7:22, 9:15).  The reason God chose the Jews (OT) was to prepare the way for all people to choose Jesus as Messiah/Lord (NT).  (See TOJ #177; IS 40:3//MT 3:3.)

TOJ #21:  GRFS is moral perfection. [MT 5:19-20&48//LK 6:32-34]  And no one is perfect (RM 3:22; Adam & Eve were created merely innocent/good).  The Pharisees were criticized by Jesus for being self-righteous hypocrites (TOJ #134), who did not practice what they preached, which was a superficial and legalistic understanding of God’s will that stressed traditions and laws over loving relationships (TOJ #87).  The way to achieve perfection or purity (TOJ #15) or the “fullness of Christ” is explained in Romans 3:21-5:1.  The key is Faith in Jesus (God as revealed, cf. Lesson 2) or repenting of the Sin of unbelief, which are opposite sides of the same coin (cf. TOJ #8).

TOJ #22:  Do not rage. [MT 5:21-24]  The TOJ against rage or unrighteous anger combines lessons from the Beatitudes:  the meek allow God’s love to conquer rage, the merciful replace rage with forgiveness, and the peacemakers try to resolve the rage in others.  Jesus taught that rage is as wrong as murder because it leads to murder and is morally equivalent to murder (JM 2:10).  Paul spoke of righteous anger in Ephesians 4:26, and Jesus expressed it in John 2:13-16.  Jesus wants conflicts between Believers resolved before presuming to worship God (ASAP).  The correct way to resolve conflicts is indicated by TOJ #100.

TOJ #23:  Avoid lawsuits. [MT 5:25-26//LK 12:58-59]  Paul found the fact that two Believers would go to court to be an extreme embarrassment to the gospel of peace (1CR 6:1-9a), even though the civil legal system should be an extension of the divine moral command to rebuke and isolate sinners.  This is another application of TOJ #16.

TOJ #24:  Do not desire to fornicate. [MT 5:27-30]  God intends for sexual union to express marital commitment.  Lust is not merely admiring physical beauty.  It is possible to admire a flower without wanting to pick its petals.  Neither is lust being tempted to fornicate or commit adultery.  Jesus Himself may have been tempted in this way (HB 2:18).  Lust is the desire to have extra-marital sexual intercourse, so that you would if you could “get away with it” or not experience negative consequences, such as disease, unwanted pregnancy and divorce.  Pornography is that which encourages, recommends or promotes fornication or lust.  It is immoral because it subverts happy marriages and family values.  Jesus sought to convey the severity of the sin of lust by saying it would be better to lose the offending part of the body.  (See the next TOJ.)  However, many people seem to view masturbation as worse than fornication or even rape.  The misery resulting from sexual immorality includes horrible illnesses, but ungodly people prefer to cure the physical disease rather than their spiritual sickness.

TOJ #25:  Do not be complacent about sins. [MT 5:29-30, 18:7-9//MK 9:43-48]  A soul who seems apathetic about striving for perfection may be a pseudo-Christian (TOJ #48) or a carnal Christian, who is likely to commit apostasy (TOJ #75). {JN 5:14}  If they do, they will be “cut off” {JN 15:2} and “thrown into the fire” {JN 15:6}.  Actually, they cut off themselves and jump to their eternal death (RM 1:18-32).  Moral character is the crucial aspect of our humanity {LK 13:27}.  It is better to be beautiful morally than physically.  An attractive person with an ugly personality is “like a gold ring in a pig’s snout” (PR 11:22).

TOJ #26:  You should not divorce. [MT 5:31-32a//MK 10:11//LK 16:18a]  Jesus said that the only permissible reason for legal divorce is marital unfaithfulness or when the sin of spiritual divorce signified by adultery has already occurred. {MT 19:6-9//MK 10:6-9}  See TOJ #104 on the meaning of marriage.  The divine viewpoint, which all humans need to acquire, is that sexual intimacy should mean marriage, that divorce is a spiritual disaster before it leads to a legal dissolution, and that neither divorce nor a miserable marriage are moral options.  This leaves only celibacy or a happy marriage as permissible alternatives.

TOJ #27:  Do not remarry except for godly reasons. [MT 5:32b//MK 10:12//LK 16:18b]  Jesus probably prohibits remarriage in hope that reconciliation will occur, but understanding this statement as a blanket command that admits no exceptions is very problematic, because it would contradict other biblical teachings.  Discerning whether spiritual remarriage is psychologically possible and legal remarriage morally permissible requires harmonizing several biblical passages:

1. Divorce and even adultery are not unforgivable (MT 12:31-32),
2. Not everyone has the gift of celibacy, the ability to live happily very long without a sexual partner (MT 19:11-12, 1CR 7:9).
3. We know that God desires reconciliation (1CR 7:10-11, 2CR 5:18-19),
4. Paul indicated (in 1CR 7:15) that it is permissible for a Christian divorcee (unjustly so) to remarry if an unbelieving spouse was the divorcer (and, presumably, if reconciliation attempts have failed, because the “ex” has remarried or committed adultery/fornication).
5. We also know that many sins including divorce are committed before a person believes the gospel and becomes a mature Believer by LGW and the TOJ.  When people repent of Sin and confess their sins, then God forgives them (1JN 1:9) and views them as sharing the perfection of Christ (PHP 3:9, cf. Lesson 3).

Thus, my conclusion is that this TOJ is not meant to be a blanket prohibition, but rather that a truly repentant divorcer (and even adulterer) whose former spouse has remarried may also remarry after some period (probably at least a year is reasonable) of counseling, celibacy and spiritual maturation, so that a successful (lifelong and happy) second marriage seems very likely.  We must assume God gives the gift of celibacy to such a person long enough to accomplish this goal, because He does not let people be tempted beyond what they can resist (1CR 10:13).  However, if a second try is barely permissible, then serial “marriages” border on legalized lust, which is an abomination that mocks this sacred union.  The serial sinner would do well to obey TOJ #24 & #26 or pray for the gift of permanent celibacy.

TOJ #28:  Be trustworthy. [MT 5:33-37]  This TOJ against swearing concerns a person’s reputation for integrity.  Oaths should not be necessary to bind a promise. {MT 23:16-22}

TOJ #29:  Do good even to evil-doers. [MT 5:38-42//LK 6:29-30]  The principle Jesus wants to supersede that of limited vengeance or “eye for eye” (EX 21:24, LV 24:20, DT 19:21) is found in Proverbs 25:21-22.  Whenever we are insulted, we should consider the source of lies (EPH 6:12).  We should be more concerned about our good witness than legal rights (2TM 2:23-26).  Paul affirmed this ideal in Romans 12:17-21.  This TOJ is elaborated in the next one.

TOJ #30:  Love and pray for God’s/your enemies. [MT 5:43-47//LK 6:27-28&32-36]  God’s agape/love is unconditional (RM 5:6-8).  We should “hate what is evil” (RM 12:9) while loving people we dislike.  This teaching is akin to TOJ #14, #16 & #29.  However, God’s forgiveness of Sin is conditional upon repentance (TOJ #8 & #114).  Some people have interpreted Matthew 5:38-48 as teaching pacifism, as though Jesus would say “And if someone murders your spouse, offer them your children”.  I believe such a view fails to harmonize with Romans 13:2-4, which teaches that God works through godly governments to execute, if necessary, murderers and other evil aggressors.  Like God’s mercy, Believers’ forgiveness of other sinners is conditional upon their contrition (MT 18:26&29), or else they would be abetting immoral behavior.   Thus, forgiving apparently remorseful criminals does not mean canceling the appropriate consequence for their immoral behavior.  The best penal policy would seem to be along the lines of enforcing work and restitution to the victims (cf. LK 19:8), and to incarcerate violent criminals until they have demonstrated the fruit of God’s Spirit (MT 18:30-34, GL 5:22-23) long enough to engender confidence in their rehabilitation (cf. Lesson 8).

TOJ #31:  Have humility. [MT 6:1-8&16-18, 23:5-12]  An OT scripture Jesus might have in mind is Amos 4:4-5.  He is concerned with why we give or pray more than with how much we contribute or talk.  Perhaps the greatest temptation for mature Believers is feeling proud of their moral progress (PR 16:18, 29:23).  The satisfaction of pleasing our Lord should be the only reward we desire as we look forward to heaven (MT 25:21&23).  Jesus illustrated this trait in the Parable of the Two Prayers {LK 18:10-14}.  Jesus cited young children as examples of humility {MT 18:3-4//LK 18:16-17}.  At this time Jesus did not command Believers to give alms or fast or pray, although perhaps He assumed these would be done (MT 9:15).  (Notice in the MT 18 passage that v.3, like TOJ #10, is kerygmatic, whereas v.4 is didachaic, cf. Lesson 2.)  However, on other occasions Jesus either commanded prayer (MT 26:41, LK 18:1) or modeled the need to pray (MT 14:23, 26:36).  Paul also encouraged Believers to pray (EPH 6:18, 1THS 5:17).

TOJ #32:  Pray to God as heavenly Father. [MT 6:9a//LK11:2a].  I find six separate teachings in Jesus’ Sample Prayer (cf. Lesson 2).  First, addressing God as our heavenly Father connotes that we who pray are children of God, reborn of the Spirit (JN 3:3-8) through union by Faith with God’s Son (RM 8:9-17, 1JN 5:1-6).  James 2:19 says demons or ungodly souls may believe in God’s existence, so I suppose they might address God in order to curse Him (JOB 2:9). {JN 17:1}

TOJ #33:  Reverence the Creator. [MT 6:9b//LK 11:2b]  God’s name refers to His being or essence (Lesson 1) rather than to a particular word, whether Yahweh, Jehovah or Allah.  However, among the names for the personifications of God, Paul believes Jesus should be given preeminence (PHP 2:12-13; TOJ #196).

TOJ #34:  Desire God’s will to be done. [MT 6:10//LK 11:2c]  This is a significant restatement of TOJ #2.  “On earth” begins with the prayer’s own life.  Jesus exemplified this teaching when He prayed in Gethsemane before His crucifixion {MT 26:39-42//MK 14:36}.  God is not our genie; we are His ministers, who cooperate with His Holy Spirit (PHP 2:12-13) in doing His work (EPH 2:10).  Thus, there is an implicit condition in “whatever you ask for”, i.e., we must ask in accordance with God’s will (TOJ #51).  I understand that the word “Muslim” means “servant of God” in Arabic.  Thus, Christians are Muslims in this sense!  (Cf. Lesson 5.)

TOJ #35: You may request physical as well as spiritual necessities. [MT 6:11//LK 11:3]  God is the ultimate source of material blessings (JM 1:17), and He is concerned about our complete welfare, wanting everyone to be fed, clothed and sheltered {MT 6:32, 25:34-36} as well as saved.

TOJ #36:  Admit your faults as you forgive others theirs. [MT 6:12//LK 11:4a]  The second part of this teaching echoes #14.  Genuine saving Faith motivates loving forgiveness.  Confession is the key to having a right relationship with God (1JN 1:9), which is manifested by mercy (TOJ #148). {MK 11:25, MT 18:15-17}.

TOJ #37:  Pray for power to resist temptations. [MT 6:13//LK 11:4b]  This also was a major theme of Paul’s instruction about prayer (EPH 1:17-19, PHP 1:9-11, CL 1:10-12) as well as of James’ (JM 4:2, 1:5,12-13).  Jesus reiterated this teaching on the Mount of Olives before He was betrayed. {MT 27:41//MK 14:38//LK 22:40&46}  We know that God will always grant this prayer request (1CR 10:13).  This prayer seems equivalent to protection from the evil one {JN 17:15}.

TOJ #38:  Store your treasures in heaven. [MT 6:19-21//LK 9:58]  The point of this teaching is not so much the location but the definition of treasure {LK 12:32-34}.  Spiritual truths and moral virtues are more valuable than material possessions (EPH 1:18, 2:7, 3:9&16, CL 1:27, 2:2-3; TOJ #118).

TOJ #39:  Be filled with spiritual light/truth. [MT 6:22-23//LK 11:34-36]  This rather parenthetical analogy utilizing the light-darkness dichotomy seems to mean that our eyes are good and our souls enlightened if we see the glory of God and appreciate His truth (PS 119:105, JN 1:4-9&14).  Sharing our light with others was the emphasis in TOJ #19, and #186 teaches that Jesus is the light personified.

TOJ #40:  Accept God’s lordship. [MT 6:24//LK 16:13]  Lordship is a 100% loyalty that excludes idolatry (GL 5:20, EPH 5:5) or adoration of anything other than what God approves (RM 12:2).  If we do not decide to love the Lord, we hate Him.  There is no middle or third option.  If we hear the gospel and do not choose to believe in Jesus, then God knows that in our heart we are rejecting Him. {JN 3:18, 8:24}  (See TOJ #122.) {MT 12:30//LK 11:23}

TOJ #41:  Do not worry. [MT 6:25-34//LK 12:22-31]  Worry is wrong.  If we value eternal life highly, we will not worry greatly about troubles in this life.  See TOJ #85.  This truth is expressed in the Serenity Prayer:  “Lord, grant me courage to change what I can, patience to endure what I cannot change, and wisdom to know the difference.”  Note that Jesus did not say “do not work or sow or plan.” {JN 14:1&27}

TOJ #42:  Temper reproof with love so you will not be judgmental. [MT 7:1-5//LK 6:37, 38b, 41-42]  Jesus condemned hypocrisy (TOJ #134) or having a spiritual superiority complex (TOJ #31) more than any other sin (MT 23).  However, he did not condemn repentant sinners (TOJ #53), and saints/Believers should be very careful that their explanation of divine wrath does not impugn God’s love as taught by Paul in Romans 5:5-10.  (Cf. Lesson 2)  Jesus exemplified this teaching when He reproved the adulterous woman {JN 8:11}.  [Note that the NIV questions the reliability of MT 7:53-8:11, but the story certainly seems compatible with the character and TOJ.]  As John 3:17 states, “God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world.”  Note that this teaching does not mean saints should not be discerning or reproving (JN 7:24, 1CR 12:10, 2CR 13:6; cf. TOJ #101).

TOJ #43:  Do not fellowship with enemies. [MT 7:6]  Do not dance with demons.  All fields are not ripe for harvest.  In contrast with the situation in Matthew 9:37, some people are demonic and dangerous (MT 10:16-17).  Here such people are called dogs and pigs, and the gospel or TOJ are pearls of wisdom.  Jesus said whenever saints encounter demonic people to “shake the dust off your feet” and leave. {MT 10:14&23}

TOJ #44:  Ask/seek/knock. [MT 7:7-11/LK 11:9-13]  These three synonyms are three, four and five letter words for GRS (Lesson 2).  Ask what is true, seek salvation, and knock on heaven’s door.  (See HB 11:6)  The parallel passage in Luke makes this clear, because instead of “good gifts” it says the Holy Spirit will be given to those who ask.  (See TOJ #182.)  Thus, sincerely seeking salvation is regarded by God as righteousness (cf. RM 4:3), probably because God knows that were a seeker given the opportunity to hear the gospel, he/she would believe and be saved or sanctified {JN 17:17}.  A soul enters the path of salvation at the moment he/she decides to ask/seek/knock, but all primitive paths eventually converge onto the highway to heaven at the point of accepting Christ (TOJ #49).  James 1:5&17 teaches this truth in terms of wisdom.  Its converse is that those who are not truth-seekers will not LGW/satisfy GRFS. {MT 21:24-27//MK11:29-33//LK 20:3-8, MT 22:18//MK 12:15//LK 20:23-24}

TOJ #45:  Treat others like you want to be treated. [MT 7:12]  This “golden rule” is equivalent to the “law of love” (TOJ #129), but the wording is so famous that I think it should be listed separately. {LK 6:31}

TOJ #46:  Most people choose to reject GRFS. [MT 7:13-14]  One hopes that Jesus was using hyperbole for effect, but the tragic truth is that many people choose hell.  Why this is true, God only knows, but surely if it were possible to create souls any better than innocent and volitional, He would have done so.  Some passages {MT 22:14, LK 13:23-24, JN 6:44&65} state this teaching in deterministic wording that is not consistent with the clear NT doctrine that all are called (JN 3:16, 1TM 2:3-4, 2PT 3:9), though many choose not to accept God’s invitation (LK 13:34) to enter heaven.  The nearly identical twin of this truth is TOJ #67. {MT 24:12}

TOJ #47:  Beware of false teachers. [MT 7:15-20]  Many people allow themselves to be led astray by “wolves” (EZK 22:27) in sheepskins, who claim to be inspired by God—just as Satan masquerades as an angel of light (2CR 11:14)—because they do not evaluate their behavior {LK 6:43-45}.  Perhaps they are tricked by apparent miracles {MT 24:24} or fail to discern how their doctrine perverts GW. {MT 16:6-11//MK 8:15// LK 12:1}  Whatever the reason, they are blind followers of blind guides {MT 15:13-14}.  (See TOJ #138.)  Only Jesus is the good shepherd who gives His life to save anyone who wants to be His sheep {JN 10:11-13}.  He is the key to a correct understanding of reality. {LK 11:52}

TOJ #48:  Not everyone who claims to be a Christian really is one. [MT 7:21-23//LK 6:46]  A person’s words and deeds manifest his/her genuine Faith or values.  Many so-called Christians seem not to hunger to LGW.  (See TOJ #13.)  One hopes that they have not accepted a pseudo- or semi-gospel and become inoculated against the real thing or full gospel. {MT 12:33-35, LK 13:26-27}

At this point Jesus concludes the Sermon on the Mount with a parable (found also in LK 6:47-49 and already cited) that teaches again the importance of building our lives on God’s Word (TOJ #3).

 

Jesus’ Teachings in Galilee through His Spiritual Family
(MT 8:11-19:30 & // Passages)

Jesus’ statements in the eighth chapter of Matthew do not seem to contain teachings that are relevant or applicable generally until verses 11-12.

TOJ #49: God elects to save all who elect Jesus, whether Jew or Gentile. [MT 8:11-12]  Electing Jesus means accepting or believing in Him as Messiah/Christ/Son of Man/Son of God/God the Son/Lord. (See TOJ #131.)  {JN 3:16b&18, 8:24, 11:25-26, 16:27, 17:6}  Paul indicated this election or choice by the phrase “in Christ” (EPH 1:3-13).  Of course, this statement of GRFS assumes a soul has the opportunity to hear the NT gospel (Lesson 2).  Election does not mean determination (Calvinism; see TOJ #136).  Although Jesus’ primary mission as Messiah was to the Jews (TOJ #88), His ministry to the Canaanite woman {MT 15:21-28} and the Parables of the Tenants {MT 21:43//MK 12:9//LK 20:16} and of the Wedding Banquet {MT 22:8-10} showed that His church would also include the Gentiles.  He cited passages in the OT that indicate God’s plan of salvation has always encompassed all people {LK 4:25-27}. (See TOJ #53.) The last person who elected to accept Jesus during His earthly ministry was the thief on the cross {LK 23:43}.

This teaching was a major theme in the writings of Paul, who called it a mystery (RM 16:25-26, EPH 3:6, CL 1:26-27, 2:2 & 4:3) or secret wisdom (1CR 1:22-24).  There had been hints of God’s universal plan of salvation in several of the OT prophets, especially Isaiah (IS 42:6, 45:2, 49:6, 66:23).  However, after Israel returned to Judah from the Babylonian captivity, Ezra established a strict legalistic tradition that ignored such prophecies (NEH 8&9).  Thus, most Jews were not “primed and ready” to receive Jesus as even a prophet. (See TOJ #86.) {MT 10:18b, 11:28, LK 13:29-30}

TOJ #50: Love God more than anything or anyone. [MT 8:20-22//LK 8:60-62]  This is the greatest TOJ or commandment. {MT 22:37-38} Loving God more than money or material things (TOJ #38) seems to be the point of Jesus’ comment to the first man.  Regarding the second man, Jesus would have been unkind (LK 6:35) to deny him permission to attend his father’s funeral.  Thus, I agree with those who think his father was still alive, and he wanted to delay making a commitment to follow Jesus.  The account in Luke shows that perhaps Jesus detected a wavering desire to follow Him at all.  Such ambivalence is portrayed in the Parable of the Great Banquet {LK 14:16-24; also see v.26-33.}  As Paul wrote (in 2CR 6:2): “Now is the time of God’s favor, now is the day of salvation.” (See HB 3:15, 4:7 & TOJ #62.)  Another illustration of this truth is the brief allusion {in LK 10:41-42} to the different priorities of Mary (LGW) and Martha (housekeeping).  The woman who anointed Jesus with perfume also showed her great devotion {MT 26:10-13//MK 14:6-9//JN 12:7}.

TOJ #51: Also have working faith. [MT 8:10&26//MK 4:40//LK 8:25]  In addition to having saving Faith, Believers should trust God to provide for their earthly needs (TOJ #35).  Jesus commended the centurion for his great faith, but He reproved the disciples and later {MT 14:31-33} Peter in particular for having too little faith that He could save them from drowning.  Also, Jesus commended the sick woman {MT 9:22//MK 5:34; also see MT 15:28} and blind men {MT 9:27-29} for their faith that He would help them.  We see that ideally and eventually qualitative Faith in God or the kerygma (TOJ #8) includes a “great” quantity of faith in didachaic parts of God’s Word as it is learned. {MT 17:17-20, LK 17:6}  This truth is beautifully conveyed by a man’s prayer, “I do believe [have Faith]; help me overcome my unbelief [lack of faith]!” (MK 9:24)  Unbelief cannot limit God’s power, although it may blind one to perceiving it (MK 6:5), and illness is not necessarily due to a person’s sins or lack of faith (TOJ #190).

Jesus’ statement {in MT 17:20//MK 9:23} that nothing will be impossible is related to TOJ #119.  Regarding receiving “whatever you ask for” {MT 21:21-22//MK 11:23-24}, we should remember TOJ #34.  The type of miracle God desires to perform is not moving mountains into seas, but rather transforming souls (RM 12:2, EPH 3:14-20), so they may move into heaven.  Thus, Jesus encourages His disciples to ask for spiritual miracles {JN 14:14} such as the power to love {JN 15:7&16}, for resurrection to eternal joy {JN 16:24} and for true knowledge about God {JN 16:26}.

TOJ #52: Jesus has divine authority. [MT 9:5-6//MK 2:8-11//LK 5:20-24]  The Great Commission begins with this TOJ {MT 28:18}.  This authority includes forgiving sins and doing good work on the Sabbath {MT 12:8, LK 6:3-10}.  In John’s gospel this authority is described in terms of judgment {JN 5:22-30} or giving eternal life {JN 17:2}, which means that God the Father and Son are “one” {JN 10:18&30}.  The phrase “Son of Man” (MT 26:63-64) is another term signifying Messiah/Christ (TOJ #7).  It was first used by the prophets Daniel (DN 7:13) and Ezekiel (EZK 2:2, 3:1, etc.).  It is equivalent to Son of God or God the Son (TOJ #1). {LK 10:22}

TOJ #53: Jesus calls all sinners to be saved. [MT 9:12-13//MK 2:17//LK 5:31-32]  Here sinners are viewed as sick; elsewhere as blind. {JN 9:41} Although some may claim to be good, all have sinned (TOJ #185), even those who were raised by godly parents and never Sinned or rebelled against their Faith.  God saves all who respond to Jesus’ call {MT 11:28-29} by accepting His Lordship (TOJ #49).  Jesus likens lost souls to stray sheep {MT 18:12-14//LK 15:4-7} and to missing silver coins {LK 15:8-10}.  All were once little ones {MT 18:10} like Zacchaeus, who was considered to be one of the greatest sinners. {LK 19:9-10}

TOJ #54: Jesus died to atone for sinners. [MT 9:15//MK 2:20//LK 5:34-35]  Jesus showed an awareness that He would die {MT 26:1, LK 9:22, 17:25}, which is probably one reason He promised to send a Comforter for those who mourn (TOJ #11).  He spoke {in LK 12:50} of His impending suffering and death as a baptism.  His most complete statement was on the journey to Jerusalem {MT 20:18-19//MK 10:32-34//LK 18:31-33}. However, it remained for Paul to explain the rationale for Jesus’ death (in RM 5:6-11).  Paradoxically, although the death of Messiah seemed to be the devil’s victory, actually it was the moment when evil was judged (TOJ #195).  Christ died for all—for Hitler as well as for his victims—but only those who satisfy GRFS benefit from the atonement.  Jesus cited the story of Jonah as foreshadowing these events {MT 12:40}, and He connected them with the prophecy of Elijah’s reincarnation in Malachi 4:4-5 {MT 17:22-23}.  Jesus portrayed this teaching by means of the Lord’s Supper {MT 26:26-29//MK 14:22-25//LK 22:15-20}.  In John’s gospel references to being “lifted up” also speak of His crucifixion {JN 3:14-15, 8:28, 12:31-32}, as does the reference to a dying seed {JN 12:24}, this hour {JN 12:27} or time {JN 17:1}, going away {JN 13:33&36, 16:5-7,10,16a,17a,19a,20a,21a,22a} and night {JN 9:4} or darkness {JN 12:35}.  See TOJ #94 for the rest of the story!

TOJ #55: The NT supersedes the OT. [MT 9:16-17]  The unshrunken cloth and new wine signify the NT, and the old garment and wineskins represent the OT. The book of Hebrews explains how it does so in a way that completes rather than contradicts the OT (comparable to the logical method of Hegelian synthesis, Lesson 1). We need to be teachable or open to a new word from God (TOJ #10). We need to handle God’s Word correctly (2TM 2:15, TOJ #4). Messianic Jews are doubly blessed! {MT 13:52, MK 2:21-22, LK 5:36-39, 13:28} Messianic Muslims should interpret the Koran in a way that complements rather than contradicts the OT/NT synthesis. (See TOJ #87.)

TOJ #56: Realize the need for truth-teachers. [MT 9:38//LK 10:2]  The work is teaching GW, especially the Gospel/GRFS, so truth-seekers may learn how to be saved or “harvested”. (See EPH 4:11-16; TOJ #58).  Most of the instructions Jesus gave to the twelve disciples before sending them to preach (in MT 10) seem applicable only to their specific mission, such as going only to the Jews (v.5-6) and relying solely on hospitality (v.9-13).  However, there are a few principles that surely are appropriate also for those seeking to obey Christ’s Great Commission in modern times (TOJ #164).

TOJ #57: The end/kingdom of heaven is near. [MT 10:7]  Trying to ascertain the time of the end by deciphering Daniel and Revelation is futile, because even Jesus did not know (TOJ #144).  The prudent attitude is to assume it may occur at any moment (1THS 5:2).  For each person the judgment comes at the moment of death (HB 9:27, LK 12:19-20).  Thus, the need is to repent/Believe (TOJ #8) immediately. {LK 10:9&11}  This teaching occurs again with reference to Jesus’ Second Coming (TOJ #93).

TOJ #58: Evangelists/truth-teachers should be supported. [MT 10:9-11//LK 9:3-5]  Those who benefit from the Gospel ministry should contribute to it. This teaching was echoed by Paul (in 1CR 9:14 & 1TM 5:18). {LK 10:4-7}  The support envisioned by Jesus included meals and rooms in private homes, perhaps because public inns (LK 2:7) were not available. (See TOJ #56.)

TOJ #59: Be shrewd but innocent. [MT 10:16-17//LK 10:3]  Beware of wolves, especially those in sheepskins!  (See TOJ #47.)  Faith that fails to motivate love or good works is dead (JM 2:17) or not salvific, and a Christian who has saving Faith without wisdom (learning didachaic teachings) may wind up dead! Jesus knew that His disciples would find trouble even while seeking to avoid it (TOJ #18).  The need to be shrewd is the point of a parable in Luke. {LK 16:1-8}

TOJ #60: Stand firm to the end. [MT 10:17-22]  This passage teaches the need for perseverance rather than choosing to commit apostasy (Lesson 2). We must accept the risk of being rejected by anti-Christians without letting it quench our enthusiasm {MT 24:13, MK 13:13}.  Luke’s wording seems to imply a temporal benefit {LK 21:18-19}.  In John’s gospel the need for perseverance (and implicitly the possibility of apostasy) is indicated by the phrase “remain in me” {JN 15:4-10}.

TOJ #61: God intends for all truth to become evident. [MT 10:26-27//LK 12:2-3]  This TOJ is related to #19.  The revelation of spiritual truth is progressive in correlation to the evolution of history. {MK4:21-22, LK 8:16-17}  (See TOJ #201.)

TOJ #62: Fear rejection by God. [MT 10:28-33//LK 12:4-9]  Seek to please God rather than to be popular with unbelievers. {JN 5:41&44}  Jesus will be ashamed of those who are ashamed of Him {MK 8:38//LK 9:26}.  This TOJ (the “flip side” of #49) involves the paradox that those who fear (love) God need not fear (the wrath of) God (RM 8:1). {LK 9:26}  Jesus exemplified this courage and wisdom when He was persecuted and crucified {MK 10:35-36}.

TOJ #63: Love for God may “provoke” hatred by ungodly souls. [MT 10:22, 34-36//MK 13:12-13a//LK 12:49-53]  The sword of God’s Spirit (EPH 5:17) may “prompt” physical attacks by demonic people, which will result in fire or judgment upon themselves.  This is like TOJ #18, but stated in terms of love rather than faith. {LK 21:16-17, JN 15:18-25}

TOJ #64: Follow Christ’s example. [MT 10:24-25&38//LK 6:40]  Be willing to suffer persecution {JN 15:20} or to sacrifice oneself {JN 12:24-26} in order to help others (TOJ #199).  The “cross” may even include death as a martyr. {MT 16:24-25//MK 8:34-35//LK 9:23-24, 14:27, 18:22, JN 13:36}

TOJ #65: Spirit-filled Christians speak God’s Word. [MT 10:19-20//MK 13:11//LK 21:14-15, JN 15:20-21]  They are spiritually one {JN 17:20-26, LK 10:16} or walking with God, so they reflect the divine viewpoint {MT 16:19, JN 20:22-23}.  Paul (in 1 CR 4:1) seems to restate this point.  John said (in JN 3:34), “The one whom God has sent [Messiah] speaks the words of God; to him God gives the Spirit without limit.”  And Jesus said, “As you [God] sent me into the world, I have sent them [His disciples] into the world. . . . I pray also for those who will believe in me through their message.” (JN 17:18&20) The authority to trample on snakes {LK 10:19} surely is meant metaphorically! {MT 10:40-42}  The reverse corollary of this teaching is that those who reject God’s prophets or priests (RV 1:9, 1PT 2:9) reap the just condemnation of rebelling against God. {MT 18:18-20, LK 10:9-16, JN 13:20}

TOJ #66: John is the last OT prophet. [MT 11:4-15]  This literal truth is amplified by a metaphorical truth: John is Elijah, the harbinger of the Messiah (ML 3:1 & 4:5). {MT 17:11-13//MK 9:12-13, LK 7:18-28, 16:16}

TOJ #67: Many souls are not truth-seekers. [MT 11:15-19//LK 7:31-35]  They are deaf toward the truth, so they do not dance with joy at hearing the gospel; and they are hypercritical of GW, although they may be educated (1CR 1:18-25), so they will not learn no matter what teaching method is used. {MT 13:14-15, JN 8:43, 10:25a&26}  This is similar to TOJ #46.  Some statements {MT 11:25-26, MK 4:12//LK 10:21} sound as though Jesus or God wanted to prevent people from understanding the gospel, but since God is not tricky (TOJ #29, #30, #44, #53, etc.), we must infer that Jesus was employing irony.

TOJ #68: Woe to unbelievers! [MT 11:21-24//LK 10:13-15]  This is the other side of TOJ #9.  It is not a wish, but a tragic fact.  Woe refers to hell, the just/logical consequence of rejecting God’s heaven.  Unbelievers will lose all blessings and true knowledge. {MT 13:12, 18:6-9, 25:29, LK 6:24-26, 7:31-35, 17:1, JN 3:18}

TOJ #69: GRFS is simple enough for a child to satisfy. [MT 11:25-26//LK 10:21]  Thus, Jesus commanded parents/adults to let little children hear the gospel and accept Him {MT 19:14//MK 10:14//LK 18:16}.  Perhaps He had in mind Psalm 8:2. {MT 20:16}  He does not give an exact age, but moral/spiritual understanding and consequent accountability seems to develop around the age of ten or just prior to puberty.  The Bible does not reveal the destiny of pre-moral or unaccountable children, but certainly they would not be damned.  So, if a child accepts God/Christ as soon as he/she understands GRFS (Lesson 2) and remains Faithful until death, then there is no time when he/she is not saved. (See TOJ #99.) This is God’s “plan A”, although it might not make a very entertaining testimony!

TOJ #70: Genuine theists will become Christians. [MT 11:27//LK 10:22]  Whoever truly loves/worships God will accept Jesus as God’s Son/Messiah. {JN 5:42-43, 6:45, 17:3}  He/she will perceive that Jesus spoke the truth. {JN 7:16-17, 8:39,42&47}  They are His sheep {JN 10:27, 14:1b}.  This TOJ should be understood in conjunction with the fact that God desires to save or be known by all souls (v.28, JN 3:16, RM 5:8, PHP 2:10-11, 1TM 2:3-4).  The reverse side of this truth is that whoever does not acknowledge Moses and other prophets will not accept Jesus as more than a prophet. (See TOJ #177, #179 & #202.)  {LK 18:17, JN 8:42}

TOJ #71: Satisfying GRFS is as easy as an act of will. [MT 11:30]  The act of will/Faith is like opening one’s hand to receive a gift.  It is a condition for salvation, but it is not meritorious.  How God is able to equip souls with volition is a mystery, and why anyone would reject truth, love and eternal joy by choosing to doubt in the absence of disproof is also unfathomable. (See TOJ #69 & #136; also the PP in Lesson 1.)

TOJ #72: It is lawful to do good work on the Sabbath. [MT 12:9-13]  Jesus demonstrated this truth by healing a man with a shriveled hand {MK 3:4-5//LK 6:9-10} and a crippled woman {LK 13:10-17}.  It is lawful to do good work every day, but employers should let workers have at least one day of rest per week (MK 2:27).  Many people then and now have trouble distinguishing between man-made mores and divine virtues. Even many of the God-inspired rules taught by Moses were meant to be temporary.  Eternal moral laws are affirmed in the NT (GL 5:22-23).  Paul (in CL 2:16-23) and the author of Hebrews (HB 10:1-16) tried to explain that certain Mosaic doctrines had the purpose of preserving Jewish culture until Messiah was born (RM 9:5), at which time they were superseded by a new covenant based on the eternal law of love (TOJ #55). {JN 7:21-24}

TOJ #73: The worst sinner may become the best witness. [LK 7:37-47]  The most hateful persecutor can become the most loving disciple.  The apostle Paul felt himself to fit in this category (1CR 15:9-10). (This and the following teaching from Luke would seem to fit about here in Matthew’s record, because they precede the Parable of the Sower.)  This principle may be the basis for language about degrees of reward in heaven.  The difference is not so much how God treats saints as it is their varying capacity to appreciate His blessings.  (See TOJ #18.)

TOJ #74: Souls are saved by faith in God. [LK 7:48-50]  Implicit in this teaching is that saving Faith is in God and His Messiah.  Although Jesus spoke of Faith (vs. Sin) and working faith (vs. sins, see TOJ #51), He did not specify which type He meant {in MK 10:52//LK 18:42, LK 8:48, 17:19, JN 5:14}.  Paul clarified the relation between them in passages such as Romans 3:21-4:16 and Ephesians 2:8-10. {JN 3:16, 6:29}

TOJ #75: Blasphemy against the Holy Spirit is unforgivable. [MT 12:25-32//MK 3:29//LK 12:10, LK 11:17-22]  Jesus attempted (in v.25-29) to show the Pharisees how their logic was perverted.  The meaning of “blasphemy” is speaking against, and speaking comes from the heart (see the next TOJ).  Speaking against the Spirit of love is a symptom of hatred for God/Good.  Repentance and forgiveness is possible before death (TOJ #57) except for Believers who intentionally commit apostasy (HB 6:4-6) or repudiate their Faith, after which there is no reason for reconversion (HB 10:26-29), so God’s Spirit no longer convicts them of Sin (PS 53:11).  Thus, “the final condition of that man is worse than the first.” {MT 12:45} (See TOJ #79.)

TOJ #76: What you say and do manifests who you are. [MT 12:33-37//LK 6:43-45]  Jesus described vulgar language and immoral behavior as making a person unclean {MT 15:10&17-20//MK 7:14-23}.  Paul also spoke against obscene language (EPH 5:4).  We should say what we mean and mean what we say.  Shooting off one’s mouth is as irresponsible and potentially harmful as firing a loose cannon.  James compared evil words to fire and poison (JM 3:5-12).  Words are deeds.  Sin may precede sins, and Faith motivates faith (PR 16:2).

TOJ #77: Do not expect God to prove Himself by means of miracles. [MT 12:39//MK 8:12//LK 11:29-32]  Jesus characterized sign-seekers as wicked and adulterous {MT 16:2-4}.  The reason is because evil people want proof.  However, proof would be tantamount to being forced to follow God’s will from fear of damnation, which would not be free and genuine cooperation.  Of course, only those who saw the miracle would be persuaded, and then only until the memory faded, so Jesus would have to work miracles for everyone now and then from then on if that way (rather than teaching the gospel/GW) were to be His “SOP” or normative method of conversion.  (See TOJ #4.)  Thus, God’s typical mode of operation is not performing miracles {MT 24:24}. (TOJ #78)  This is the point of Abraham’s discussion with Lazarus {LK 16:29-31}.  God wants souls to live by Faith (2CR 5:7) and to freely reflect His love (1JN 4:10-11), although He did perform deniable miracles in order to enable Moses to free the Israelites from Egypt (EX 7:3-5) and in order to establish the New Covenant (JN 2:11, 10:38, 11:4, 14:11, 20:30-31).  These miracles include prophesying {JN 13:19, 14:29, 16:4}.  We need to ponder this doctrine for several reasons: first, because we may tend to assume the improbability of a spiritual dimension; second, we products of modern science demand demonstrable evidence that something is true (cf. JN 4:48); third, we may wonder why God does not zap evildoers and disprove false preachers (cf. Lesson 1).  [We can hope to learn the answers to such questions when we arrive in Heaven; cf. TOJ #92 :]

TOJ #78: God normatively communicates via human teachers. [MT 12:41-42]  (See TOJ #3 & #77.)  The apostle Paul taught this truth (in 1CR 1:22-23) and indicated that some form of preaching/teaching of GW is available worldwide (via general revelation, RM 10:14-18).  As Peter wrote (2PT 1:5-15), I find myself in need of continual reminding of this truth and others that will add goodness to my faith. {LK 11:31-32, JN 20:29}

TOJ #79: Remain filled with the Holy Spirit. [MT 12:43-45//LK 11:24-26]  Paul clarifies (in EPH 5:18) what Jesus implies.  A new Believer grows spiritually by LGW and remaining Spirit-filled more and more of the time until his/her life is characterized by love as a mature Believer. (See EPH 4:11-15)  Jesus taught this truth again by saying (in JN 8:11), “Leave your life of sin.”  A Believer who becomes complacent about evil is in danger of committing apostasy. (See TOJ #60 & #75.)

TOJ #80: Christians are spiritual siblings. [MT 12:48-50//MK 34-35//LK 8:21]  Christian spouses are siblings, and Christian parents are siblings of their believing children.  Thus, teachings regarding relationships with fellow Believers are applicable to family.  The brotherhood of mankind is an ideal that can only be made real by souls becoming children of God. {LK 11:28}

TOJ #81: Be teachable/humble. [MT 13:3-23//MK 4:3-9&13-20//LK 8:5-8&11-15]  In Matthew 11:29 the word “yoke” represents humility, while teachability is literally denoted by Jesus’ command to learn (cf. PR 11:2).  The Parable of the Sower is a fictional story that conveys a literal truth related to several other TOJ: on LGW (TOJ #3), on perseverance (#60), on worry (#40), and on humility (#10).  Three attitudes opposed to teachability include: a hard heart or closed mind (v.11-15), a shallow or insincere desire to learn, and worries or materialism. {MT 18:4//MK 9:37}

TOJ #82: Disciples of Jesus are wise. [MT 13:11-17//MK 4:11-12&24-25//LK 8:10, 10:23-24]  They are truly wise in the virtuous sense found in the Proverbs (PR 1:1-7, etc.), which is described by Paul as the mind of Christ (1CR 2:6-16).  Unbelievers are foolish or deluded by lies disguised as wisdom (MT 11:25, RM 1:22, 1CR 1:17-25, 2CR 4:4, 11:14; cf. TOJ #59 & #89). {MT 25:29-30}

TOJ #83: There will be a final judgment. [MT 13:24-30, 37-43 & 47-50]  At the moment “believing is seeing”, uncoerced conversion is not possible and fearful “faith” (MK 5:36, LK 2:10, 1JN 4:18) would negate the purpose of this mortal life. (See Lesson 1.)  Without the Day of the Lord (1THS 5:2, RV 16:14) faith in Christ would be futile and life would be a farce. {MT 16:27-28, 22:13} (See TOJ #195.)

TOJ #84: The kingdom of heaven will be universal. [MT 13:31-33//MK 4:30-32//LK 13:18-21]  The promise made to Abraham (GN 22:17-18, RM 4:16-18) is relevant in this regard.  This teaching is similar to #49, but it emphasizes the extent rather than the content of faith.  Jesus will become the head of one flock or body of Believers {JN 10:16}. (See TOJ #191.)  Paul referred to this universal mission (EPH 1:9-10) and catholic church (CL 1:18-20).

TOJ #85: Heaven is worth everything. [MT 13:44-45//MK 10:29-30//LK 18:29-30]  It is well worth the wait and the cost of every earthly pain or sacrifice or persecution for admitting Faith in Christ (PHP3:7-8). {MT 10:32-33, 16:25-27, 19:28-29, MK 8:36, LK 9:25-26}  (See TOJ #38.)

TOJ #86: A prophet’s message tends to be demeaned by his/her family and friends. [MT 13:57//MK 6:4//LK 4:24]  Stating this in terms of a well-known saying: Do not let familiarity with a truth-teacher breed contempt for his/her true teaching.

TOJ #87: Legalists cite tradition as an excuse for subverting morality. [MT 15:3-9//MK 7:6-13]  Jesus cited the fact that traditionalists would water or rescue an animal on the Sabbath while prohibiting healing a human {LK 14:5, JN 7:23-24}.  (See TOJ #72.)  He connected this sin with hypocrisy (TOJ #134).  Ungodly legalism is usually the case when people fight in the name of God.  If Jews and Muslims truly worshipped the one true God, they would unite in Christian fellowship as Messianic Jews/Muslims (GL 3:28-29, EPH 2:19-22, TOJ #160; Lesson 5).  Whoever does not teach the truth is a blind guide {MT 15:13-14}, Pharisee {LK 11:39-44} and hypocrite {LK 13:15-16}.

TOJ #88: Jesus’ primary mission was to Israel. [MT 15:24//MK 7:27]  However, Jesus commissioned Paul to focus on the Gentiles (ACTS 9:15, GL 2:9), who may be the “other sheep” Jesus cites in John 10:16 (TOJ #49).  The persistent Gentile woman of Matthew 15:25-28 may be an example of the “forceful men” Jesus mentioned in 11:12. {Also, see MT 10:5-6.}  The Koran is mistaken in teaching that God intends for Jews and Muslims to follow Moses and Mohammed rather than to fellowship in Christ Jesus.  (See Lesson 5 & TOJ #84.)

TOJ #89: Be wise as well as educated. [MT 16:2-3, LK 12:54-57]  We need to heed spiritual storm warnings, too, and to learn about spiritual reality {JN 3:10-12}.  We must not let genius blind us to common sense {JN 9:39}, so that we become foolish.  (See TOJ #59 & #82.)

TOJ #90: Ultimate truth may be expressed by figurative (non-literal) language. [MT 16:11-12//MK 8:15-17//LK 12:1]  Yeast symbolizes teaching (cf. TOJ #95 for another example).  In John’s gospel Jesus spoke of His flesh as the bread of life {JN 6:48-58}, and He also stated this truth literally {in JN 16:25}.

TOJ #91: The church of Christ and the kingdom of God are equivalent. [MT 16:18-19a]  This truth is evident in Revelation (1:6, 21:2).  This passage contains metaphorical language (cf. previous TOJ) meaning that Christ will build his church on the “rock” (petra) of faith (pistis) like that of Peter (petros) in the Gospel, which is signified by “keys”.  Being “bound” (cf. MT 18:18) is equivalent to being “sealed” in EPH 1:13.

TOJ #92: God’s plan of salvation may not always seem logical. [MT 16:23-25//MK 8:35//LK 9:24]  Paul discussed this point (in 1CR1:18-25). God’s thoughts may not be perfectly comprehensible now (IS 55:8-9, 1CR 2:14), but they are perfectly rational and will become clear in heaven (1CR 13:9-12). {MT 10:39, LK 14:8-11, JN 12:25}

TOJ #93: The “Second Coming” of Christ will be soon. [MT 16:28//MK 9:1]  This is a significant reiteration of TOJ #57.  Apparently, Jesus thought it would occur before some of His disciples died {MT 10:23, 24:34//MK 13:30//LK 21:32, MK 9:13}, although He asserted that only God the Father knows the time (TOJ #143).  Peter (in 2PT 3:9) stated that God delayed Judgment Day in order to enable more souls to be saved, although presumably more souls might choose not to Repent, too.  We should be ready at any time (MT 24:42), so we can say, “Amen. Come, Lord Jesus.” (RV 22:20) {LK 9:27}

TOJ #94: Jesus would be resurrected. [MT 17:9&22-23//MK 10:34]  This teaching builds on TOJ #4 and rekindles the hope that was dashed in TOJ #54. {MT 28:9-10, MK 9:9}  Paul indicated (in 1CR 15:17-19) that this is the only biblical miracle which is necessary to believe in order to be saved (in other words, that may be a test of orthodoxy versus heresy). {JN 2:19}.  Going to heaven afterward must have been what Jesus meant when He said “I go to the one who sent me” {JN 7:33-34, 8:21, 13:33&36, 16:16b, 20b, 22b}. (See TOJ #128.) {LK 26:32}

At this point I will rather arbitrarily include teachings in Mark and Luke that apparently occurred before the Transfiguration event.

TOJ #95: LGW prepares souls for Judgment Day. [MK 4:26-29]  The seed symbolizes GW (MK 4:14, LK 8:11), the grain is Christ-like moral maturity (GL 5:22, 6:7-9), and the harvest is the end of the world (MT 13:30, MK 4:26-29), when truth-seekers will be separated from ungodly souls.

TOJ #96: Be kind to all without prejudice. [LK 10:29-37]  This is the point of the Parable of the Good Samaritan (which is located before the Sample Prayer).  Kindness is akin to love (GL 5:22, CL 3:12). {LK 6:35b}  (See TOJ #113.)

TOJ #97: Be persistent in prayer/Faith. [LK 11:5-8, MT 15:23&28] (This teaching immediately follows the Sample Prayer.)  Righteous prayer is a manifestation of both saving Faith and working faith (TOJ #51).  God is not bothered by Believers’ reasonable concerns, and His answer may be “not yet” rather than “no” (cf. TOJ #92). {LK 18:1-8}

After the Transfiguration, Jesus concluded His ministry in Galilee and moved toward Judea (MT 19:1) in preparation for the final events of His earthly mission.

TOJ #98: Pay appropriate taxes. [MT 17:27]  How much is appropriate is not specified, but the principal “no taxation without representation” seems to be a logical check on government excess. {MT 22:21// MK 12:17//LK 20:25}  I wonder if it is right for a (non-voluntary) tax to government to exceed the (cheerfully given, 2CR 9:7) biblical tithe (tenth of a person’s income) to ministry (MAL 3:10).  Although it seems fair for wealthy persons to contribute a greater percentage than poor folks, determining an equitable scale requires having the wisdom of Solomon.

TOJ #99: Be good stewards of children. [MT 18:5-6&10//LK 17:1-2]  All adults are responsible to be good witnesses, who encourage children (one of life’s most wonderful blessings) to accept GRFS (EPH 6:4; TOJ #69). {MK 9:37&42}  The logical or implicit corollary of this TOJ is that parents who will not be good stewards/witnesses should not procreate.  Of course, discerning unqualified people and enforcing this principle is very problematic, but at least we should realize that parenthood is not an unconditional divine right.  At least hindsight should be able to indicate some people (e.g., child abusers), who definitely should be discouraged and perhaps prohibited from producing more children.

TOJ #100: Communicate! [MT 18:15-17a]  Or in the words of Paul, speak the truth in love (EPH 4:15).  This TOJ is closely related to the next one.  Communication is the method for converting Sinners (RM 10:14) and for maturing saved sinners (HB 5:11-6:1).  Note the four steps for resolving disagreements: talk privately, include a neutral third party to facilitate the discussion, enlist mature church representatives to act in lieu of a court, and then excommunicate the person who is acting like a pagan (TOJ #102).

TOJ #101: Watch yourself before rebuking fellow sinners. [LK 17:3a]  The location of this TOJ, found in the gospels only in Luke, seems to fit between the TOJ regarding communication and excommunication.  Those who obey this command should first be sure they are obeying Jesus’ commands not to be judgmental (MT 7:3-5, TOJ #42) and to forgive (v.17:3b, TOJ #14), lest they become hypercritical and hypocritical.  Paul also taught self-examination (2CR 13:5-8, cf. Lesson 2) and rebuking (in his “pastoral” epistles, 1TM 5:20, 2TM 4:2, TIT 2:15). The motive for a rebuke must be divine love (RV 3:19), so the words conveying reproof should be gentle or redemptive (GL 6:1).

TOJ #102: Excommunicate fruitless “Christians”. [MT 18:17-18]  Although saints are not perfect, someone who typically exhibits sinful fruit (GL 5:19-21) apparently is not a genuine Believer (TOJ #48 & #148).  The reference to binding and loosing {also in MT 16:19 & 18:18-20} is problematic, because it can be applied incorrectly, as it was most notably by the Roman popes against Martin Luther and the Protestants.  Jesus does seem to say {also in JN 20:23} that, if Believers represent God’s will on earth rightly, then their disfellowship reflects the ultimate status of the excommunicant.  (See TOJ #65, #123 & #152.)  However, this is a big “if”, so the danger of committing the sin of judgmentalism should lead us to adopt the view that disfellowship does not mean Christians cease all interaction with a sinning or carnal person (1CR 3:1-3), but rather that they change the nature of the relationship from fellowshipping to witnessing and reproving.  Paul once advocated this doctrine (in 1CR 5:1-13).

TOJ #103: Worship and pray with fellow Christians. [MT 18:20]  The first two or three worshippers form the nucleus of a local congregation or church. The writer of Hebrews affirmed this command (in HB 10:25).

TOJ #104: Marriage is a spiritual union until death. [MT 19:4-6]  The phrase about leaving one’s father and mother means that a man—and a woman—should be ready for marriage by attaining a sufficient degree of independence from their parents, both financial and psychological.  They should be prepared to become parents themselves, even if they hope not to have a child for awhile, which means they should be rather spiritually mature, having the same love for each other as Christ has for His bride, the church.  The marital commitment is (or should be, cf. TOJ #109) signified by sexual union or becoming “one flesh” (GN 2:24), although it may be proper to fulfill legal and traditional expectations such as licenses and ceremonies for the purpose of avoiding being “a stumbling block to the weak” (1CR 8:9), who do not understand the essence of marriage. Obviously, that which must not be separated is the spiritual unity, so the sin of divorce also is a spiritual event and reality before it becomes a legal one.  This realization should motivate spouses to work on the quality of their communication before serious problems develop in their relationship. (See TOJ #26.)

TOJ #105: It may be best not to marry if you have the gift of celibacy. [MT 19:11-12]  This teaching is related to TOJ #27 & #109.  God grants some (but not many) people celibacy so they may focus their time and energy on other ways of serving God (1CR 7:1,7-9,25-28&32-38), although requiring celibacy for clergy who do not have that gift can contribute to sexual immorality.

TOJ #106: Only God is good (loving/perfect). [MT 19:17//MK 10:18//LK 18:19]  Created souls are innocent until their first sin and volitional (GN 3:6-13) after the age of accountability (TOJ #69).  They may share God’s goodness if they accept His Lordship and reflect His love (1JN 4:10-17; TOJ #19, 21 & #148).

TOJ #107: Obey the moral commandments. [MT 19:18-19]  Jesus implicitly affirmed two of the Ten Commandments against murder and adultery in the Sermon on the Mount, but His answer to the man’s question here specifically affirms these and three more of the Decalogue.  Each of these is significant enough to warrant separate enumeration and discussion.

TOJ #108: Do not murder. [MT 19:18]  Society has clearly understood this to mean that it is wrong to terminate a human life after birth.  The question being debated currently is whether a fetus has the divine right to life. The Bible does not provide the answer to this issue, (discussed in Lesson 8). {MK 10:19, LK 18:20}

TOJ #109: Do not commit adultery. [MT 19:18]  Certainly, this teaching could be viewed as part of TOJ #24, but our society stresses (idolizes?) sexuality so much that it is needful to reiterate that sexual intercourse is the act of marriage in the eyes of God (TOJ #104), so that anyone who has sex with a second partner commits both fornication (extra-marital sex) and adultery.  Much of secular society (music, movies, etc.) normalizes (and almost requires via peer pressure) sexual sins (“playboys”, “responsible sex”, “alternative lifestyles”, etc.).  Such morally weak people should hope someone invents a pill (called “Cold Shower”?) that diminishes their libido and temptation to be promiscuous! {MK 10:19, LK 18:20}

TOJ #110: Do not steal. [MT 19:18, 15:19]  Paul wrote (in EPH 4:28) that believers (and everyone should believe) ought to earn their living (necessities) plus something extra that may be shared with those in need, thus eliminating any compelling reason to steal. {MK 10:19, LK 18:20}

TOJ #111: Do not lie. [MT 19:18, 15:19]  It is better to say nothing than to allow the devil to speak through us (JN 8:44).  Paul also echoed this commandment (in EPH 4:25).  Lying kills the truth and is akin to physical murder (TOJ #135). {MK 10:19, LK 18:20}

TOJ #112: Honor your parents. [MT 19:19]  Godly parents represent God our heavenly parent, and their godly discipline promotes obedience of God’s laws. (See EPH 6:1-4.)  Hopefully, children are not more spiritually mature than their parents, although this sometimes happens (in which case MT 7:3 applies)!  Believing parents are spiritual siblings of their Christian children (TOJ #80). {MK 10:19, LK 18:20}

TOJ #113: Love your fellow human beings. [MT 19:19] (See TOJ #129.)  The power to love is the miracle Believers should perform (EPH 3:16-19).  They are wise to pray for this along with the power to resist sin (TOJ #37).  The purpose of LGW includes knowing how to apply this principle. Applications are given in TOJ #96 & #117. {MT 22:39}

The following unique teachings from Luke 15-17 are included at this point because the next teachings in Matthew 19 are parallel with verses in Luke 18.

TOJ #114: God forgives those who repent. [LK 15:11-32]  In the Parable of the Lost Son, notice that every sin was forgiven (1JN 1:9).  Surely we will leave jealousy and other sinful attitudes behind when we graduate to heaven.  The heavenly or holy saint is described by Paul in several places (such as CL 3:1-14; cf. TOJ #8, #29 & #74).

TOJ #115: Utilize material assets in order to witness for God. [LK 16:9-12]  This is Jesus’ second teaching about shrewdness (TOJ #59).  Paul refers to “true riches” or spiritual wealth several times (EPH 1:18, 2:7, 3:8& 16, CL 2:2-3).

TOJ #116: Be grateful for God’s grace. [LK 17:17-18]  Thankfulness is near to godliness (1THS 5:18).  The Greek word for grace (charis) also means “gift”, so see TOJ #121.

TOJ #117: Give to the poor. [MT 19:21//MK 10:21//LK 18:22]  How much a person should share is not specified.  The OT taught that a tithe should be given to the Lord’s “storehouse” (ML 3:8-10), but the NT teaches that people are stewards of the Lord’s property (MT 25:14) and that the Lord wants saints to give cheerfully (2CR 9:7).  They should be happy to contribute a fair share, and the OT tithe seems to be a reasonable percentage (cf. TOJ #98).  The goal should be for everyone to be able to earn a living (2CR 8:13-15, 2THS 3:10). {LK 12:33, 14:12-14}

TOJ #118: Materialism is anathema. [MT 19:23-24//MK 10:23-25//LK 18:24-25]  It is the sin of greed that Paul equated with idolatry (CL 3:5, EPH 5:5), which is antithetical to satisfying GRS (1CR 6:10).  Jesus {in LK 12:16-21} told the Parable of the Rich Young Fool to illustrate this truth.  (Also see TOJ #41, 50, & 85.)

TOJ #119: God is almighty. [MT 19:26//MK 10:27//LK 18:27]  He can do anything that does not contradict who He is (Lesson 1). He chooses not to prevent evil behavior in order to preserve humanity.  Statements that appear to ascribe power to prayer or faith {MT 21:22, MK 10:52, LK 17:19, 18:42} mean that God may answer prayer or work through Believers. {MT 17:20//MK 9:23}

TOJ #120: Heavenly society is the opposite of earthly vanity. [MT 19:30//MK 10:31//LK 13:30]  Galatians 3:28 and James 2:1-5 give us a glimpse.  Instead of a divine dictator, we will find heaven ruled by a suffering servant {MT 21:31-32, MK 12:38-40, LK 16:15, 22:25-27}.  Jesus made this point when He went to eat at a Pharisee’s house {LK 14:11} and in the Parable of the Two Prayers {LK 18:14}.  A memorable portrayal of this teaching is when Jesus washed His disciple’s feet {JN 13:5-17}. {MT 11:8-19//LK 7:33-35}  (Also see TOJ #125.)

TOJ #121: Salvation is God’s gift. [MT 20:1-16&23//MK 10:35-45]  Eternal life is given to all who believe, and it is wrong to seek a superior status (TOJ #116).

TOJ #122: Whoever is not against Christ is on God’s side. [MK 9:40//LK 9:50]  Morality is a duality.  Reality is designed so there are only two spiritual/moral poles or sides (not an ethical Yin-Yang).  The phrase “in my/your name” indicates that the person was a Believer but was not one of the Twelve.  Perhaps one could consider him as foreshadowing denominations in the Church.  Different flavors of Christianity are fine (as are truth-seeking souls at different places along the pilgrim path between God-consciousness and hearing the Gospel of Jesus), and various Christian organizations working in harmony is a great witness, but the sin of denominationalism begins when factional strife develops (1CR 3:3-9). Comparing this TOJ with #40, perhaps the synthesis is that if we do not decide, God will know why, so we should have a good reason for not being with Jesus (and there is none). {JN 3:18}

Jesus’ Teachings in Judea through His Ascension
(MT 20:1-ACTS 1:8 & // passages plus JN)

Jesus’ “Triumphal Entry” into Jerusalem (MT 21:1, MK 11:1, LK 19:28) is recorded in all three synoptic gospels.

TOJ #123: Bear good fruit. [MT 21:19//MK 11:14]  We can be confident that the Master of the universe was not concerned about an unfruitful tree, but rather He wanted to teach unfruitful people, specifically the Jewish leaders, their destiny. He did this more elaborately in the next TOJ. Also see TOJ #102 & #152.  His prayer regarding them is found in John 15:1-8.

TOJ #124: God will reject Jews who reject Jesus as Messiah. [MT 21:33-44//MK 12:1-10//LK 20:9-18]  Jesus taught this truth in the Parable of the Tenants and in the Parable of the Wedding or Great Banquet {MT 22:1-8//LK 14:16-24}.  The “people who will produce” (21:4) and “anyone you find” (22:9) are Believers, both Jews and Gentiles (RM 2:9-11; cf. TOJ #49 & #84).  God chose the nation of Israel for the purpose of procreating Messiah, but ironically and tragically they did not recognize Jesus (JN 1:11) as the fulfillment of Messianic prophecies (MT 23:37-39; TOJ #137).

TOJ #125: Social status is irrelevant in God’s kingdom. [MT 22:9-10]  “Good” refers to the “in crowd” and “bad” to the “dregs of society”. {MT 21:28-32, MK 12:43-44, LK 18:9-14, 21:1-4}  This is a significant alternate wording of TOJ #120.

TOJ #126: Sinners/Unbelievers will not be allowed in heaven. [MT 22:11-13]  This rather vague statement is made clear by two OT passages (ZPH 1:8, ZCH 3:4). A couple of NT passages are also relevant (CL 3:12, 1PT 5:5).  Only saved sinners or saints (who share the righteousness of Christ) will be in Paradise (PHP 3:8-14; TOJ #74, #114).

TOJ #127: Marriage is an earthly institution. [MT 22:29-30]  Procreation will be passe, and genetic families will be superseded by the spiritual and universal family of God. People who idolize sex (see TOJ #109) will be enslaved by this passion until their minds are renewed (RM 1:24-32, 12:2).

TOJ #128: Believers will be resurrected. [MT 22:31-32//MK 12:27]  Jesus was the first-fruits (1CR 15:20-23), who provides hope that this brief and often tragic existence on earth is not a farce {JN 6:39-40, 14:1-4}.  (See TOJ #94.)

TOJ #129: The law of love summarizes God’s moral will. [MT 22:37-39//MK 12:29-31]  Although this law has two applications (love for God and love for people, including oneself), these are combined and enumerated as one to show that they coexist (1JN 4:20-21).  This law (DT 6:5, LV 19:18) summarizes all of God’s moral commandments as Paul also taught (GL 5:14).  Jesus commanded His disciples to love {JN 13:34, 15:12&17}.  Love is the sign that a soul is a Spirit-filled Christian (TOJ #148, cf. #113).  Elsewhere (PR 6:16, RM 12:9) it is taught that God and godly people should hate evil.  Of course, Jesus’ instruction to “hate” one’s own life and family (LK 14:26) means to love God foremost (TOJ #50).

TOJ #130: Love is the key to understanding GW/truth. {MT 22:40}  And the key to comprehending God’s love is Jesus (JN 3:16, RM 5:8, 1JN 4:10-5:5; TOJ #47).

TOJ #131: Messiah/Christ is Lord/God the Son. [MT 22:43-45]  (See TOJ #1, #7 & #52.)  We can see that several TOJ comprise this complex concept, which is meant by such phrases as “accept Jesus” or “believe in Him”. {JN 3:15-18}  Jesus affirmed His Lordship {JN 13:13}, and this belief became the normative way to satisfy GRFS in Paul’s writings (RM 10:9, 2CR 4:5).

TOJ #132: Do not reject truth because of unworthy teachers. [MT 23:2-4]  Jesus is the only sinless person (HB 4:8-10), but only teachers who typically practice what they preach are qualified to be spiritual leaders (1TM 3:1-13).  The devil himself can “masquerade as an angel of light” (2CR 11:14), so we must learn to discern between the message and the messenger.

TOJ #133: Do not view anyone as an intercessor between you and God. [MT 23:8-10]  All Believers are saints and priests (1PT 2:9, RV 1:6, see TOJ #126), but only Jesus is worthy to be revered as Rabbi and Father.  This also applies when praying (TOJ #32) and LGW.  It is wrong for a pastor to presume that he/she is the only person in a church who has the proper understanding of GW, but many preachers do not encourage feedback or constructive criticism of their sermons.

TOJ #134: Woe to hypocrites! [MT 23:13-39, 16:6]  Although this is certainly related to TOJ #68 & #87, Jesus denounced this particular sin so forcefully that we ought to list it separately.  Hypocrisy is pretending or claiming (falsely) to be righteous or godly or Christian.  Such people have trees in their eyes (MT 7:3) and camels in their stomachs (MT 23:24)!  They are spiritually blind and morally foolish. {LK 11:37-52, 12:1, 20:45-46, MK 12:38-39}

TOJ #135: Killing the truth results in evil behavior. [MT 23:29-36//LK 11:47-51]  This TOJ amplifies #111.  Jesus prophesied that evil behavior would include murdering His disciples/apostles as well as Him. {JN 3:20, 7:19}  (See TOJ #18.)  Historical examples of this fact include the Inquisition and Nazism.

TOJ #136: Souls have free will. [MT 23:37//LK 13:34]  They may choose to understand God’s Word or not, to their own blessing or misery. God permits people to resists His will {JN 19:11}.  Although souls are influenced by both heredity and environment, they remain free/responsible to choose the curse of rejecting God (DT 30:19, MT 23:37), which grieves Him greatly (EPH 4:30). {JN 7:17}.  (See TOJ #71.)

TOJ #137: Those who reject Jesus will be destroyed. [MT 24:2//LK 21:6]  Jesus indicated that death would be one consequence of the Jews rejecting Him as Messiah {LK 19:41-44, 21:20-24}.  This seems to be why Jesus told the “daughters of Jerusalem” to weep for themselves {LK 23:28-31}. (See TOJ #124.)

TOJ #138: False teachers will deceive many people. [MT 24:4-5, 11&23-24a//MK 13:5-6]  This TOJ is an extension of #47.  The deceivers will include people who claim to be Christ or a prophet greater than Him.  Some may even perform apparent miracles {MT 24:24b-25}.  They will try to distract Believers’ focus from LGW {MT 24:26, LK 17:23}.

TOJ #139: The end of the world will be catastrophic. [MT 24:6-7a//MK 13:7-8a//LK 21:9-10]  There will be wars and natural disasters {MT 24:7b, 21//MK 13:8b, 19//LK 21:11, 23-26} that threaten the survival of the human species {MT 24:22//MK 13:20}.  The enigmatic reference to Isaiah {in MT 24:29//MK 13:24-25//LK 21:25} might describe a cosmic collision.

TOJ #140: The gospel will be proclaimed throughout the world before the end. [MT 24:14//MK 13:10]  Although believers should seek to evangelize the world and work to bring God’s peace on earth, Jesus indicates most people will reject their efforts (TOJ #46).

TOJ #141: The “abomination that causes desolation” will be the final blow. [MT 24:15-20//MK 13:14-18] This sounds like it might be a nuclear bomb in Jerusalem, in which case the only hope for survival would be to find shelter in mountain caves before it was detonated.  The wording in Luke {LK 21:20-24} seems to describe this event in terms of the sack of Jerusalem by the Romans in 70 A.D.  Perhaps what occurred then will happen again and extend around the world in the future.

TOJ #142: Christ’s second coming will be visible and instantaneous. [MT 24:27-28//MK 13:26//LK 21:27]  The connection with judgment is found in Hebrews 9:27-28.  The reference to vultures could be literal, or it might signify the arrival of hell’s angels to collect the demonic souls who remain behind after Believers are raptured (the next TOJ).

TOJ #143: Believers living at the time of the end will be raptured. [MT 24:31&40-41//LK 17:30-35]  “Raptured” means translated to heaven without experiencing death.  Paul also mentioned this phenomenon (in 1CR 15:51 & 1THS 4:17).

TOJ #144: Only God the Father knows when the end will come. [MT 24:36//MK 13:32]  Some people might find it disconcerting that Jesus could be mistaken or ignorant about the exact time salvation history will end, but they should realize that He was human (1TM 2:5) and had finite capabilities, which is the reason His moral perfection qualified Him to be Messiah (HB 2:17-18, 4:15, 5:7-9).  If Jesus did not know, Believers in Him certainly should not be concerned with the date {ACTS 1:7}.  (See TOJ #57.)

TOJ #145: The omega event will be unexpected. [MT 24:27&37-39//LK 17:24&26-27, LK 12:39-40, 17:28-29]  Paul also taught this (in 1THS 5:2-6).  Thus, the need for the next TOJ.

TOJ #146: Be prepared. [MT 24:42-44//MK 13:33-37, LK 12:35-40, 21:34-36]  This is the explicit significance of the previous TOJ, and how to be ready is explained in the next one.  Readiness is signified by oil in the Parable of the Ten Virgins. {MT 25:1-13}

TOJ #147: Readiness consists of being good stewards of God’s gifts. [MT 24:45-51]  In the Parable of the Ten Virgins, readiness is signified by having lamp oil, which might symbolize good deeds (JM 2:17, EPH 2:10) {MT 25:1-13, LK 12:35}, and in the Parable of the Talents, the monetary talents represent any resource, ability or opportunity a person possesses. {MT 25:14-30//LK 19:12-27}  The “more” that is given to the person who does well with what he/she “has” may include temporal blessings, but it certainly refers to blessings in heaven.

TOJ #148: Faith in/love for God is manifested by loving behavior toward people. [MT 25:31-46]  The evidence of saving Faith is loving behavior. {JN 13:35, 15:12-13}  It is the fruit of the Spirit {JN 15:4-8} (also see GL 5:22-23), rather than ability to work miracles (MT 24:24).  This love is the basis for essential unity among all Christians {JN 15:17, 17:20-23}.  Faith without love is counterfeit (JM 2:17).  Satisfying GRFS is manifested by any type of personality (introverted, extroverted, etc.) as long as one is loving, but no good work merits salvation (EPH 2:8-9), because no one is perfect (PHP 3:12) except God (HB 5:7-9; TOJ #106).

At this point I will include teachings from Mark and Luke that apparently occurred before the events in Matthew 26.

TOJ #149: Inner motive is the basis for God’s judgment. [MK 12:43-44]  God knows our heart or thoughts (PR 16:2, HB 4:12).  The point is not necessarily that the rich should become poor, but that they should share God’s blessings to help the poor so that no one is destitute (2CR 8:13-15). See TOJ #117 & the next TOJ.

TOJ #150: God’s judgment is just. [LK 12:47-48]  God judges souls on the basis of what they freely choose to do with the opportunities they had to LGW and satisfy GRFS (Lesson 2).  These opportunities are symbolized by the talents in the Parable of the Talents. {MT 25:14-30}  (See TOJ #149.)

TOJ #151: The result of Sin is death. [LK 13:2-9]  Paul also taught this (in RM 6:23).  The parable bears a resemblance to the incident when Jesus cursed the fruit tree (TOJ #123, cf. #137).

TOJ #152: The eternal result of Sin is misery/hell. [LK 16:19-28]  This consequence is logical and just (Lesson 1; TOJ #102).

TOJ #153: Do your duty to God. [LK 17:7-10]  Creatures are responsible to their Creator.  Fulfilling this obligation is non-meritorious (TOJ #2).

TOJ #154: Reality includes a spiritual dimension known as the kingdom of God/heaven. [LK 17:20-21]  It is invisible to scientific exploration (Lesson 1), but it will become apparent at the end of earthly history (RV 21:1-2). {JN 18:36}

TOJ #155: Damnation is worse than never having existed. [MT 26:24//MK 14:21//LK 22:22]  There may be degrees of suffering (LK 12:47-48), but the least misery is not almost heaven (Lesson 1). Given this fact, we must believe in the perfect love, justice and wisdom of God’s decision to create free souls.  Antichrists should ponder this verse.  Do they have good reason for Unbelief?

TOJ #156: We should do what is right despite bodily weaknesses. [MT 26:41//MK 14:30]  Instead, some people add physical addictions to natural desires.  Paul’s prayer in Romans 7:24 is relevant.

TOJ #157: All who initiate violence will be punished. [MT 26:52]  Jihad must be defensive to be holy war, and vengeance is not defense.  If peacemakers are blessed (TOJ #16), then war-mongers are cursed.

TOJ #158: Jesus voluntarily allowed Himself to be crucified. [MT 26:53-54]  He was free to disobey the Father’s will (HB 5:7-9).  John’s gospel also teaches this {JN 10:17-18}. Thus, He is worthy of all honor and praise as our Lord and Savior (Lesson 1; cf. TOJ #54).

TOJ #159: Various OT prophets foretold the Messiah would suffer and die. [MT 26:54&56//MK 14:48] {MT 26:31//MK 14:27//LK 22:36-37} Jesus even taught this fact after His resurrection {LK 24:25-26&44-46}.  (See TOJ #177.)

TOJ #160: Jesus will return as Judge. [MT 26:64//MK 14:62//LK 22:69]  This truth is taught in Hebrews 9:26-28 and John 5:21-23.  If the disciples of Moses, Buddha, Mohammed or whoever enter heaven, it will be because they somehow/sometime are taught the gospel and become Messianic or acknowledge Jesus as Lord (PHP 2:11-13, cf. 1PT 3:18-19; TOJ #167 & #195).

TOJ #161: Jesus is the Davidic king of the Jews. [MT 27:11//MK 15:2//LK 23:3]  He is the heir of God’s covenant with David to establish his throne forever (2SM 7:12-16). {JN 18:37}

TOJ #162: Jesus’ resurrection was physical or bodily. [LK 24:38-43]  In heaven saved souls will have immortal bodies (1CR 15:35-50).  One way Christianity could be disproved is if the body of Jesus were found in a tomb in Palestine.  (See Lesson 1.)

TOJ #163: Jesus suffered. [MT 27:46//MK 15:34]  He even felt abandoned by God the Father.  In this way He showed us the importance of keeping our faith alive even when we feel like God is dead (IS 54:7-8, HB 2:9-10). {JN 16:32}

TOJ #164: Make disciples of all people. [MT 28:18-20a]  This TOJ is known as the Great Commission (Lesson 2).  Failure to obey it is the sin of great omission (JM 4:17)!  Another wording is found in ACTS 1:8 (TOJ #205).  This book is one way I hope to persuade people to become/remain disciples of Jesus.  May God bless your efforts to fulfill His purpose for your life as well (JN 17:18)!

TOJ #165: Jesus is with believers always. [MT 28:20b, JN 14:18-20]  This is possible because of the operation of God as the Holy Spirit, which proceeds from both the Father and the Son (TOJ #178).  This truth is taught by Jesus before His ascension, which will conclude our progression through the synoptic gospels.

TOJ #166: The Holy Spirit empowers Believers. [ACTS 1:2-9, LK 12:12, MK 1:8]  The dynamics of this relationship is described in Lesson 2.

 

The Teachings of Jesus in the Gospel of John

John’s gospel is more philosophical than the synoptic gospels.  It skips Jesus’ birth and begins by describing Jesus as the divine Logos incarnate (JN 1:1&14).  His first teaching apparently referred to Jacob’s dream (in GN 28:12-13), in which a stairway reached between heaven and earth.

TOJ # 167: Jesus is the (door)way to heaven. [JN 1:51, 14:6] He is the “gate” {JN 10:7-10}.  This is true even for those who never had an opportunity to know Jesus during their earthly life, of course, or else God would be unloving/tricky (Lesson 2).  Buddha or Mohammed or anyone else is in heaven will acknowledge Jesus as Christ the Lord (PHP 2:9-11; cf. TOJ #160, #169 & #173).

TOJ #168: You must be born again or of the Spirit. [JN 3:3-7]  Jesus describes GRS in terms of the baptism with the Spirit that occurs when a person becomes saved.

TOJ #169: Jesus lived in heaven before being born on earth. [JN 3:13]  He is “from” heaven {JN 8:23}, thus He has “seen” God the Father {JN 6:46, 62, 8:38} or “knows” Him {JN 7:29, 8:55}.  He existed before Abraham {JN 8:58} and before creation {JN 17:5&24, also see 16:28}.  This TOJ indicates that God’s Triune relationship with Believers is somehow an eternal relationship within Himself as well.  The “somehow” of this doctrine is incomprehensible, but let anyone who tries to explain God’s “threeness” be sure to preserve His oneness (Lesson 1; cf. TOJ #167 & #192).

TOJ #170: God loves all souls. [JN 3:16a]  Therefore, God wants all to be saved or to accept Jesus. {JN 6:37&39-40}  Although God’s love was implicit in the synoptic gospels (especially TOJ #14, 29, 30, 106, 113 & 129), John’s gospel makes it explicit.  In John’s first epistle (4:7), he says that God is love and that God first loved us (4:19), which means that God is the source of love and that love manifests the Spirit of God (JN 13:35). Atheists can only imitate true/God’s love, since they do not love truth/GW.  (See the next TOJ.)  God demonstrated His love most fully through Jesus’ atonement (RM 5:8), which allows repentant sinners to be “at one” with God (JN 17:22).

TOJ #171: Evil-doers hate/avoid the light of GW. [JN 3:19-20]  Atheists hate God’s truth because it exposes their sinful attitudes and actions. Often they seek to justify or excuse their avoidance by noting the sins of so-called Christians, as though God will not judge them, too.  Jesus is that light personified {JN 7:7}.  (See TOJ #170 & #186.)

TOJ #172: Truth-seekers welcome the constructive criticism of GW. [JN 3:21]  They view reproof as a much needed slap in the face to get their attention, so they can learn how to become new and improved versions of themselves (TOJ #10).

TOJ #173: God provides salvation by means of Messiah. [JN 4:10,14&22, 14:6, 17:2-3]  Messiah is Jesus, the resurrection and the life. {JN 11:25-26}  (See TOJ #20.)  Here salvation is symbolized by water {as in JN 6:35b, 53-56, 7:37-38}, and elsewhere by bread {JN 6:27a, 32-33, 35a, 50-58} and yet again as a vine {JN 15:1-8}.

TOJ #174: God is Spirit. [JN 4:24a]  This word signifies God’s omni-attributes (Lesson 1).  How the invisible God (CL 1:15, 1TM 1:17) is manifested by the material world is a mystery (RM 1:20) as is the essence of matter scientifically (cf. TOJ #192).

TOJ #175: Worship God in spirit and truth. [JN 4:23-24]  The Bible employs various terms that upon evaluation seem almost synonymous, many of which are found in this Gospel.  One synonymous pairing is spirit and (=) truth (1JN 5:6). {JN 14:17, 15:26, 16:13}  (See TOJ #203.)

TOJ #176: Believers play various roles in doing GW. [JN 4:35-38]  One may plant the seed of truth in a soul, another may encourage it to grow, and yet another may be present when that soul decides to accept Jesus (1CR 3:5-10).

TOJ #177: John and Moses (the OT prophets) testified about Jesus. [JN 5:31-40,45-47, 8:56]  The correct interpretation of the OT points to Jesus as Messiah/Christ.  Paul also taught this (in ACTS 26:22-23; cf. TOJ #20 & #159).

TOJ #178: God the Father is revealed most fully by God the Son, who embodied God’s Holy Spirit. [JN 5:36-38, 6:27b&45, 8:19, 10:30, 16:14-15]  Thus, Jesus fulfilled the prophecy in Isaiah 54:13.  This nuance of TOJ #1 is so central in John’s gospel that I will state again the key concept:  Insofar as it is possible for God to reveal Himself as a human, that person is Jesus. {JN 12:44-45, 14:9-11, 17:6}  For practical/ redemptive purposes, they are One {JN 17:11}.  (See TOJ #70 & #186.)  Jesus said He would be with Believers as the Holy Spirit, who would continue to counsel or teach the truth. {JN 14:16-17, 15:26, 16:12-15}  The apostle Paul also taught that the Holy Spirit baptizes (1CR 12:13) and indwells Believers as God’s seal or deposit (EPH 1:13, 2CR 1:22), who is manifested whenever they speak the truth and love (RM 5:5, EPH 4:15). This TOJ reveals that God is known in three ways or as a Triunity.  (See TOJ #197; Lesson 1).

TOJ #179: The work/will of God is to believe in His Messiah. [JN 6:29]  This verse is very important, because it clarifies that saving Faith (TOJ #49) is prior to working faith (TOJ #51), and we should never reverse them.

TOJ #180: God enables souls to be volitional and loving. [JN 6:44]  Souls are not able/free to love by themselves apart from the initiating power/love of God (EPH 3:16-20), which Believers reflect (1JN 4:19).  Even the ability to work and produce physical goods is given by God (DT 8:17-18).

TOJ #181: Do not stumble because of Christ’s crucifixion. [JN 6:53-58&67]  (See TOJ #92.)  Just as many Israelites complained at having to eat manna (NM 11:4-6), sophisticates criticize God’s plan of salvation as barbaric (1CR 1:18-25), as though they were not equally in need of its efficacy.

TOJ #182: Words expressing God’s truth are God’s Spirit/Being. [JN 6:63, 14:10] (GW=life/being is another synonymous pairing.)  The spiritual realm is an invisible dimension that is partially revealed by right logic (see TOJ #203).

TOJ #183: God ordained when Jesus would die. [JN 7:6&8, 12:27]  Jesus recognized that the right time had come when He prayed in the Upper Room. {JN 17:1}  Paul said (in RM 5:6) that Christ died for sinners “at just the right time.”

TOJ #184: Whoever serves Satan will reject/hate/kill Jesus. [JN 7:19, 8:37, 39-41, 44]  They are not His sheep {JN 10:25-26}, but in fact they are wolves/demonic/antichrist.  (See TOJ #59, #63 & #202.)

TOJ #185: All souls sin (except One). [JN 8:7]  This truth is found in Psalm 53:1-3 and Romans 3:23.  The lone exception is Jesus, who always pleased God. {JN 8:29}  Hebrews 4:15 states that He was “tempted in every way, just as we are—yet was without sin.”  (See TOJ #24.)

TOJ #186: Jesus is the light or God/GW incarnate. [JN 8:12, 9:5, 14:6]  John’s gospel stated this in the opening section (JN 1:1&4-9).  Several OT verses spoke of light as representing God (PS 27:1, IS 60:19 MIC 7:8) or GW (PS 119:105).  Jesus spoke GW {JN 8:26, 12:49-50, 15:15} or truth {JN 18:37b}, and so He illuminates the right way to live {JN 12:35-36, 46}.  (See TOJ #19, #38, #178 & #203.)

TOJ #187: Jesus’ testimony is validated by God the Father. [JN 8:14-18]  Jesus showed concern to satisfy the Jewish law that required two witnesses (NM 35:30, DT 17:6, 19:15).  Jesus cited the miracles He performed as one form of validation {JN 10:25,32&36-38, 11:14}; OT prophecies {JN 13:18-19} and His own prophecies {JN 14:29, 16:1&4} were another form.  (See TOJ #177.)  He referred to God’s approval as glorification {JN 8:54, 11:4&40-42, 12:23, 13:31-32, 14:11, 17:1}.

TOJ #188: Jesus’ disciples obey His teachings. [JN 8:31, 14:15, 21, 23, 15:9-10, 14-15]  The Greek word for disciple (mathetes) means “learner”.

TOJ #189: The truth will set you free from slavery to sin. [JN 8:32-36&51]  The resurrection miracles, especially of Jesus, are the critical evidence.  (See TOJ #77 & #94.)

TOJ #190: The consequence of Sin or sins is not reaped (necessarily or justly) in this life. [JN 9:1-3]  Thus, we should not view sickness as symptomatic of an individual’s sinfulness or lack of faith.  (See TOJ #51.)

TOJ #191: Jesus is the shepherd/pastor of God’s people. [JN 10:1-5&10-15]  The OT spoke of God as the shepherd (GN 48:15, PS 23:1, IS 40:11, and the NT called church leaders pastors (ACTS 20:28, EPH 4:11), so Jesus is the great or chief Shepherd (HB 13:20, 1PT 5:4).

TOJ #192: No one can cause a believer to become unsaved. [JN 10:28]  However, a Believer should not become complacent, because numerous scriptures refer to the possibility of Believers choosing to become apostate.

TOJ #193: Knowledge of GW enlightens our way in this world. [JN 11:9-10]  This point was made by the Psalmist (PS 119:105; cf. TOJ #186). Jesus said not to take enlightenment for granted, because a soul may not have another opportunity to satisfy GRFS before death {JN 12:35-36}.

TOJ #194: The purpose of Jesus’ first coming was redemption. [JN 12:47]  Even so, those who reject GRFS condemn themselves (TOJ #195).  What God intends for good (GN 50:20), He allows sinful souls to pervert with evil consequences {JN 9:39, 12:31}.

TOJ #195: Judgment and condemnation will occur at the second coming of Jesus. [JN 12:48]  As the writer of Hebrews 9:27-28 stated, “Just as man is destined to die once, and after that to face judgment, so Christ was sacrificed once to take away the sins of many people [TOJ #194]; and he will appear a second time, not to bear sin, but to bring salvation to those who are waiting for him.”  Simultaneously, this will mean condemnation for those who are implicated in the crucifixion of Jesus (TOJ #54).  This doctrine, even though it is essentially the same point as TOJ #83 & #160, is the “bottom line” of the NT, so it warrants reemphasis.  If this is false, then life is a farce, and God is tricky.

TOJ #196: Pray in the name of Jesus. [JN 14:13-14, 16:23-24]  The name of the Lord revealed in the NT is Jesus (Joshua, the Lord saves), the “name that is above every name” (PHP 2:9-11).  Thus, we pray to the Father (Yahweh or Jehovah) in the name of the Son (EPH 5:20, CL 3:17), not because the word “Jesus” is magical, but to acknowledge that the reason we have the privilege of addressing God as Father is because of our saving relationship with Christ the Son.

TOJ #197: The Holy Spirit will indwell and guide truth-seekers until Christ returns. [JN 14:16-18,23&26, 15:26, 16:13-15]  The Holy Spirit has always been God’s connection with Believers (NM 11:25, DT 35:31-35, PS 51:11) and always will be in heaven. However, Jesus and the NT taught this truth more fully.

TOJ #198: Joy/peace is the God-given motivation for saving faith. [JN 14:27, 15:11, 16:20-24, 33 17:13]  Joy and peace speak of ultimate satisfaction rather than momentary emotion—the deep sense of fulfillment that will accompany the realization that life on earth was meaningful rather than a farce. Desiring happiness God’s way is self-love but not selfishness.

TOJ #199: Love is sacrificial. [JN 15:13]  It is unconditional concern for the eternal welfare of others to the point of willingness to risk death on behalf of others if necessary (RM 5:8).

TOJ #200: Jesus views His disciples as friends. [JN 15:14]  Another word for friendship is fellowship (1JN 1:3).  Conversely, fellowship with ungodly souls is hatred toward God (JM 4:4, 2CR 6:14).

TOJ #201: God’s revelation is progressive. [JN 15:22-25]  Theism per the OT satisfies GRFS only until a person learns the NT, at which time he/she becomes responsible for accepting its teaching about Jesus. There is no good/godly reason not to become a Christian (TOJ #61).  Later is not always better.  Many teachings of some popes, Mohammed and Joseph Smith are retrograde or steps backward toward OT legalism that contradict NT grace.

TOJ #202: Some so-called theists will think God wants Christians to be excommunicated or even killed. [JN 16:2-3]  “Theists” who have fulfilled Jesus’ prophecy include some “Jews” (the Sanhedrin, MT 27:1), “Christians” (e.g. medieval Roman Catholic popes) and fanatical “Muslims” (terrorists).  (See TOJ #70 & #184.)

TOJ #203: God’s Word is truth. [JN 17:17]  (See TOJ #175 & #182.)  Here are other biblical synonyms:
GW = Spirit = truth = light = life = wisdom = power = love = law
(JN 6:63) (1JN 5:6) (JN 1:4) (JN 1:4) (PR 8:1&35) (JR 10:12) (EPH 3:16f.) (GL 5:14)

TOJ #204: God wants all Believers to become perfectly unified or loving. [JN 17:11&23b]  Paul exhorted Believers (in EPH 4:3) “to keep the unity of the Spirit.”  Those who have received God’s Holy Spirit manifest an ecumenical mind.

TOJ #205: Witness for Jesus to the world. [ACTS 1:8]  Jesus told the apostles (minus Judas and before Paul) to wait for the gift of the Holy Spirit on the day of Pentecost (ACTS 1:4-5) before beginning to evangelize the world.  Unfortunately, only the ministry of Paul in the area westward to Asia Minor, Greece and Rome had a significant lasting effect.  The TOJ faded from memory in Palestine and were perverted into ascetic monasticism in Egypt.  Thus, there was a spiritual void that was filled by Mohammed’s Koran and campaign of conquest a few centuries later.  (See TOJ #164.)

This concludes my enumeration and commentary of the TOJ. May the reader find it helpful for understanding reality and for coping with life on earth. Amen. Now that we know the TOJ, we will be able to interpret the OT teachings in their light.