New Member Lessons -...

A Study of the Foundational Christian Faith From Hebrews 6

05 NOV 16

CROSSROAD CHRISTIAN CHURCH

Saint Leonard, Maryland

"..upon this rock I will build my church; and the gates of Hell shall not prevail against it.” Matthew 16.18

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NewMembers

TABLE of CONTENTS

Lesson 1 Repentance and Faith

Lesson 2 Water Baptism

Lesson 3 Holy Spirit Baptism

Lesson 4 Ministry of the Presbytery

Lesson 5 Resurrection of the Dead & Eternal Judgment

Lesson 6 Vision of the House &Trinity of Giving

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Lesson 1

Repentance and FaithRepentance from dead works and our faith toward God are two of the foundational truths mentioned in Hebrews 6:1-2. Repentance is the first step in building a firm foundation in the life of the believer, while faith toward God is the essence of the entire Christian walk. God commands that man repent (Acts 17:30). Both repen-tance and faith are gifts given to us by God - we turn from our ways to follow His Way. Likewise, both repentance and faith go beyond our initial experience of sal-vation and work actively throughout our walk of sanctification (being set apart in or-der to fulfill our divine purpose).

1. What does repentance mean?

It means a "change of mind," or a change of heart and attitude. It means to have a radical change in one's attitude toward sin and God. It means to change direction and go away from where you were going. There is the implication of conscious moral separation and a personal decision to forsake sin and to fellowship with God (Joshua 24:14-15).

2. What is the importance of repentance?

A. It is commanded by God (Acts 17:30).

B. It is essential for salvation (Mark 1: 15).

C. It is a gift from God (John 6:44, Acts 11: 18; 2 Timothy 2:25).

D. God desires it for all men (2 Peter 3:9).

3. Repentance calls for a renunciation of self-confidence and will initiate a confidence in God.

A. Our own way leads us astray (Isaiah 53:6).

B. We must confess our sin, turn from sin, and place our confidence in God (Judges 10:15-16).

C. We must repent and turn toward God (Acts 26:19-20).

D. We must turn from our idols and serve God (1 Thessalonians 1:8-9).

4. What does repentance provide for the believer?

A. It provides justification or right-standing with God. Justification is a change in man's standing or relation before God. It is an act of God which frees penitent sinners from the guilt and penalty of sin.

B. To justify means to declare righteousness. When God justifies a man, He acquits him - not on the grounds of man's innocence, but on His own love and grace (Romans 3:20-26).

5. Why we need justification.

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A. Adam rebelled against God and entered into sin. This caused a separation between God and mankind. All men are sinners by nature and are therefore condemned by a just, righteous, and holy God.

B. However, God transferred our guilt onto His account. The death of Jesus Christ made this transfer and forgiveness of sins possible (2 Corinthians 5:21).

6. How do we receive justification?

A. By the grace of God (Romans 3:24; Titus 3:7)

B. Through the blood of Jesus Christ (Romans 5:9; Hebrews 9:22)

C. By faith (Romans 5:1-2; Galatians 2:16)

7. What are the results of justification?

A. Removal of the penalty of sin (Romans 4:7-8; 2 Corinthians 5:19)

B. Condemnation is removed (Romans 8:1, 33-34)

C. Peace with God (Ephesians 2:14-17)

D. The righteousness of Christ becomes ours (Romans 4:5; 2 Corinthians 5:21)

8. What is faith?

A. Faith is belief, reliability, trust, confidence, firm persuasion, assurance or firm conviction.

B. "Now faith is the assurance (the confirmation) of things hoped for, the proof of the things not seen and the conviction of their reality-perceiving as real fact which is not revealed to the senses" Hebrews 11:1.

9. What causes faith to arise in our hearts?

A. The Word of God. "So then faith comes by hearing and hearing by the word of God" (Romans 17:11).

B. Through the preaching of the Gospel (Titus 1:3; Romans 10:14; 1 Thessalonians 2:13)

C. Through the written Word (Luke 24:45; Psalm 119:105)

D. In times of prayer (2 Corinthians 12:8-9; Isaiah 65:24; Jeremiah 33:3)

E. Through a word of exhortation by another Christian (Colossians 3:16)

F. In dreams and/or visions (Acts 2:17)

G. By the audible voice of God (Acts 9:4-6)

10. The importance of faith.

A. We are saved by faith (Ephesians 2:8; Romans 5:1).

B. The just shall live by faith (Ephesians 1:17; Hebrews 10:38).

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C. We are kept by faith (I Peter 1:5; 1 John 5:4).

D. We are healed by faith (James 5:15).

E. We cannot please God without faith (Hebrews 11:5-7, 23).

F. We overcome difficulties by faith (Ephesians 6:16; 1 John 5:4).

Proverbs 28:13 encourages the believer to not only confess his sins but forsake them. We are unable to fully rely on the Lord as long as we are trusting in our own efforts. Repentance prepares us to believe, trust, or have faith to -ward God. Faith is the key; it opens the door to pleasing our Lord. Without faith we can never become firmly estab-lished in the ways of God (Isaiah 7:9). Our attempts toward making ourselves acceptable to God are futile. It is God who turns our hearts from self-confidence and places within us a desire to serve Him, the true living God (He -brews 9:14)!

Study Questions - Lesson 1

1. What is the meaning of repentance?

2. Why is repentance important?

3. What is justification?

4. How do we become justified?

5. What are the results of justification?

6. What is faith?

7. Why is faith important?

Lesson 2Water Baptism

Water baptism, as instituted in the New Testament, is the means by which a believer is united with Christ (Galatians 3:27-28). It is more than a mere ritual or ceremony. In the New Testament, it is never mentioned as an act alone. Rather, its meaning always includes the entire redemptive work of the Lord Jesus Christ (Acts 8:12, 2:38-41).

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A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A

1. What does "baptize" mean?

Baptize means to "immerse,” to be completely submerged in water as a symbolic act of obedience.

2. Water baptism is not optional.

A. Jesus commanded it for all believers (Mark 16:16).

B. Jesus Himself was baptized (Matthew 3:13-17).

C. Peter commanded it (Acts 10:47-48).

D. Paul baptized believers (Acts 19:1-5).

3. What are the requirements for baptism?

A. Hearing and obeying God's Word (Acts 2:41; John 14:15; Acts 16:14-15)

B. Conviction of sin (Acts 2:37-39)

C. Repentance (Acts 2:38)

D. Faith (Mark 16:16; Acts 8:12, 36, 37)

4. What happens to the believer in water baptism?

In water baptism, there is a definite inward work which takes place within the heart of the believer. The Holy Spirit performs a spiritual operation known as circumcision.

A. Circumcision in the Old Testament was a command given by God (Genesis 17:10). It was a foreshadow-ing

of the circumcision of the heart (Deuteronomy 30:5-6; 10:16-17).

1. It was a sign and seal of the covenant relationship between God and Abraham (Genesis 17:11).

2. It marked the Israelites as God's chosen people and set them apart as His personal property (Genesis 17:13).

3. The Israelites’ relationship was maintained with God through their obedience to His command of cir -cumcision.

B. Circumcision of the heart.

As circumcision of the foreskin was a sign of the Old Covenant, so water baptism is the sign of the New Covenant. The true sign of the New Covenant believer is a circumcised heart. Our "old nature" is cut away, with all its desires and lusts.

1. Our new covenant relationship is declared (Hebrews 8:6-10).

2. This relationship is sealed through water baptism (Romans 2:28-29).

3. Circumcision done without hands (heart circumcision) is performed in water baptism (Colossians 2:11-12).

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5. What else takes place in water baptism?

We are baptized into the Lord's:

A. Death (Romans 6:3-11).

B. Burial (Colossians 2:12; Romans 6:4).

C. Resurrection (Colossians 3:1; Romans 6:4-5).

6. In whose name are we to be baptized?

A. We are baptized in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit (Matthew 28:19).

1. What is the Father's name?

a. The Lord (Exodus 3:15).

b. The Lord is His Name (Exodus 15:3; Jeremiah 33:2; Amos 5:8).

c. I am the Lord (Isaiah 42:8).

2. What is the Son's name?

a. "And she shall bring forth a son, and thou shall call his name Jesus” (Matthew 1:21).

b. Jesus is the "Son of God" (1 John 4:15; 1 John 5:5).

3. What is the Holy Spirit's name?

The Holy Spirit's name is taken from the Greek word "Christos," translated as Christ, meaning the "anointing."

a. Jesus was anointed with the Holy Spirit (Acts 10:38).

b. The Spirit descended upon Jesus at His baptism. Until this time He was know as Jesus of Nazareth. Here he became Jesus Christ, the "anointed one" (Matthew 3:16-17).

c. The Holy Spirit is spoken of as the "anointing" (1 John 2:20, NIV).

B. The New Testament believer is baptized in the NAME of the LORD JESUS CHRIST.

1. The fullness of the Deity is Christ (Colossians 2:9).

2. The apostles understood Matthew 28:19 to mean they were to baptize in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ:

a. Acts 2:38: in the name of Jesus Christ.

b. Acts 8:12: in the name of Jesus Christ.

c. Acts 10:48: commanded baptism in the name of the Lord.

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3. In water baptism we receive the NAME of the LORD JESUS CHRIST and are clothed in Him (Gala -tians 3:27).

For the believer, the new covenant relationship, which God promises, becomes tangible through water baptism. As the "old man" is figuratively cut away and buried, we experience "newness of life" in Christ (2 Corinthians 5:17; He -brews 8:6-13).

Study Questions – Lesson 2

1. What is water baptism?

2. What preparation is necessary for baptism?

3. What is accomplished in water baptism?

4. What is "circumcision of the heart?"

5. What is the "old nature?"

6. What is meant by the term "newness of life?"

7. What does it mean to be baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ?

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Lesson 3Holy Spirit Baptism

The Baptism in the Holy Spirit is a Biblical theme that has suffered much abuse at the hands of many teachers. It is hoped that this lesson will as - sist the believer in coming to a clear understanding of the witness of the Scriptures concerning the ministry of the Holy Spirit in the Church today. The Baptism in the Holy Spirit is a complete immersion of the believer and endowment from on high (Acts 1:8; Luke 24:49).

1. Who is the Holy Spirit?

A. The Holy Spirit is not a mere influence or power. He is the third personality of the Godhead (1John 5:7).

B. He is a person (Romans 8:26 “… but the Spirit Himself intercedes for us”).

The Holy Spirit:

1. Speaks (Acts 13:2)

2. Works (1 Corinthians 12:11)

3. Teaches (John 14:26)

4. Guides (John 16:13)

C. He has characteristics that we can identify with such as:

1. Mind (Romans 8:27)

2. Will (1 Corinthians 12)

3. Intelligence (Nehemiah 9:20)

4. Love (Romans 15:30)

5. Grief (Ephesians 4:30)

2. How is the Holy Spirit symbolically represented in the Scriptures?

A. Dove (Matthew 3:16)

B. Water (John 4:14; John 7:38-39; Isaiah 44:3)

C. Rain (Joel 2:23, vs. 28-29)

D. Oil (Psalm 89:20)

E. Wind (John 3:8; Acts 2:2)

F. Fire (Luke 3:16; Isaiah 4:4)

3. What other names are used for the Holy Spirit?

A. Spirit of the Lord, Spirit of Wisdom, Spirit of Understanding, Spirit of Counsel, Spirit of Might, Spirit of

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“…the Spirit of God de-scending like a dove…” Matthew 3:16
















































Knowledge, and Spirit of the Fear of the Lord (Isaiah 11:2)

B. Spirit of Christ (1 Peter 1:11)

C. Spirit of Prophecy (Revelation 19:10)

D. Spirit of Glory (1 Peter 4:14)

E. Comforter (John 14:26)

F. Eternal Spirit (Hebrews 9:14)

G. Spirit of Promise (Ephesians 1:13)

4. The Old Testament verifies that the Holy Spirit did not just appear on the day of Pentecost.

A. People were used by the Holy Spirit under the Old Covenant:

1. Bezaleel (Exodus 35:30-31)

2. Samson (Judges 15:14)

3. David (Matthew 22:43)

4. The Old Testament prophets (2 Peter 1:21)

5. God promised His Holy Spirit to Moses’ elders (Numbers 11:16-17, vs 24-25)

B. The promise was not intended just for the early Church (Acts 2:38-39):

1. It was a promise unto you (those present)

2. To your children (future generation)

3. To all who are afar off (Acts 2:39).

5. How does the believer receive the Baptism of the Holy Spirit?

A. There are two distinct methods by which the Holy Spirit was imparted:

1. Sovereign act of God (Acts 2:2-4; Acts 10:44-46)

2. Laying on of hands (Acts 8:14-19)

B. Through these two methods of receiving the Holy Spirit, the believer must:

1. Believe that Holy Spirit Baptism is God's promise (Luke 11:13).

2. Prepare his heart through repentance (Acts 2:38).

3. Ask (Luke 11:13).

4. Have faith to receive (John 7:38-39; Galatians 3:2).

6. What is the evidence of the Holy Spirit Baptism?

A. On the day of Pentecost, believers spoke in tongues (Acts 2:4). Jesus said we would speak with new tongues, if we believe (Mark 16:17).

B. The Ephesian elders spoke with other tongues and prophesied (Acts 19:1-6).

C. The Samaritans received power that was visible (Acts 8:14-25).

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7. Why speak in tongues?

A. Tongues is a means of communication and a sign of God's presence in our lives (1 Corinthians 14:2).

B. God used tongues as a means of restoration and as a uniting factor to the church on the day of Pentecost (Acts 2:1-4, vs. 6).

C. “Since we do not know what we ought to pray for, the Spirit intercedes for us with groans that words cannot express” (Romans 8:26).

8. What are the advantages of receiving the Baptism of the Holy Spirit?

A. Causes us to be edified (Romans 8:26-27; 1 Corinthians 14:4)

B. Causes us to be effective witnesses for Christ (Acts 1:8)

C. Enables us to manifest the fruits of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22-23)

D. Transforms the life of the believer (Titus 3:5; 2 Corinthians 3:18)

The Baptism of the Holy Spirit is regarded as a distinct and separate experience from salvation and water baptism in New Testament Scriptures. The Word of God declares in John 1:33 that it is the ministry of Christ to baptize the believer in the Holy Spirit. It is important that our hearts be ready to receive that which Christ has purposed and de -signed for our lives.


1. Who is the Holy Spirit?

2. What human characteristics does the Holy Spirit have?

3. What are some other names for the Holy Spirit?

4. What is the Baptism of the Holy Spirit?

5. What must we do to receive the Baptism of the Holy Spirit?

6. What does the Baptism of the Holy Spirit do for the believer?

Lesson 4The Ministry of the PresbyteryThe ministry of the presbytery is vital in the church today. It is one way that God confirms ministry and places them in the body of Christ. Through the laying on of hands, prophecy and other revelation gifts, the presbyters impart spiritual gifts and confirm God's will in the lives of individuals. There is often spiritual empowerment for the person's ministry in the body of Christ.

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I. What is the doctrine of the “laying on of hands”?

A. It is one of the foundational truths found in Hebrews 6:1-2. It is the belief that divine power or qualities can be transferred from one believer to another by laying hands upon an individual.

B. Throughout the Bible the "hand" has important significance:

1. The priest laid his hands upon the scapegoat as a means of transferring personal guilt (Leviticus 1:4, 16:21-22).

2. It is a method of imparting spiritual of gifts.

a. Moses imparted a portion of his wisdom and authority to Joshua (Deuteronomy 34:9).

b. Jesus imparted healing (Matthew 8:3; Mark 5:23, 7:32).

3. It is the vehicle of blessing.

a. Jacob placed his hands upon Joseph's children to convey blessing (Genesis 48:14-16).

b. Jesus bestowed His blessing upon children (Matthew 19:13-15; Mark 10:13, 16).

4. It is a means by which God chooses to minister, communicate, and impart blessings to His church.

a. Healing (Acts 28:8)

b. Receiving the Holy Spirit (Acts 8:17, 9:17, 19:6)

c. Being set apart for specific ministry (Acts 6:6)

d. At times accompanied by prophecy (Acts 9:17, 13:2-3; 1 Timothy 4:14)

2. Who is a presbyter and what is a presbytery?

A. Presbyter: one of the five-fold ministry (apostles, prophets, evangelists, pastors, and teachers) placed in the body of God to edify and equip the saints (Ephesians 4:11-12)

B. Presbytery: a group of two or more presbyters called together by the pastor of a local church who move under the direction of the prophetic anointing to bring the direction of the Lord into focus when the need for such arises.

3. What is the purpose of prophecy and laying on of hands at presbytery?

The purpose of this ministry is to confirm the Lord's will for candidates and to impart empowerment for their calling. The Word of God clarifies the purpose of prophecy and laying on of hands.

A. Prophecy -

1. It is a gift to individuals which enables their ministry and placement by God to be witnessed by others (Numbers 27:18-23; Acts 13:2-4).

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a. To equip believers (Ephesians 4:11)

b. To edify the church (to strengthen and build up) (1 Corinthians 14:4)

c. To bring direction to the local church as a whole

2. It gives us a spiritual weapon for fighting “the good fight" (1 Timothy 1:18-19).

B. Laying on of hands -

1. It is a foundational stone (Hebrews 6:1-2).

2. It is a point of contact for the impartation of something from God (Deuteronomy 34:9; 1 Timothy 4:14; 2 Timothy 1:6).

3. The hands of the presbyter are used for divine and sovereign impartation from God to the candidate.

4. What preparation is needed for an individual or church for the ministry of the presbyter?

A. There should be a time of prayer and fasting for both the individual and the church.

B. There should be full participation on the part of the church in maintaining the proper atmosphere of wor -ship.

The laying on of hands with prophecy does not assure an individual a position in ministry. The individual must con -tinually yield himself to God. He must also be diligent in studying God’s Word and be faithful in his service to God.

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1. What is meant by "laying on of hands?"

2. Why is the hand significant?

3. What is presbytery?

4. What is prophecy?

5. How does a church prepare for presbytery?

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Lesson 5Resurrection of the Dead and Eternal Judgment Hebrews 6:1-2 lists six basic foundational truths. Among these are resurrection of the dead and eternal judgment. Belief in the resurrection is necessary in providing an ade-quate foundation in the life of the believer. It is faith in a resurrected Lord that gives meaning to our existence in God’s Kingdom. It is the basis of our hope, both present and future (1 Corinthians 15:12-17).

1. What are the resurrections that the believer must believe?

A. PAST: The resurrection of Jesus Christ.

B. PRESENT: The spiritual resurrection of the believer (Colossians 2:12-13; Romans 6:4-7).

C. FUTURE: the final resurrection of all who are in the grave.

2. Did Jesus actually rise from the dead? Yes!

A. Both Old and New Testaments substantiate this (Psalm 16:8-11, 110:1; Matthew 28:6; Acts 3:15).

B. Jesus was seen after His resurrection (1 Corinthians 15:5-8; Luke 24:13-35; John 20:18-20).

C. Jesus was resurrected with the same body that was crucified (John 2:19-22; Luke 24:36-40; John 20:27-28).

3. What was declared in the resurrection of Jesus Christ?

A. Justification (Romans 4:25, 5:1; 2 Corinthians 5:15)

B. The defeat of death (Romans 6:9; 1 Corinthians 15:54-58)

C. Jesus as the Son of God (Romans 1:4)

D. Jesus as Lord of all (Ephesians 1:20-23; Colossians 1:16-20)

E. A new life (1 Peter 1:3)

4. How are we presently resurrected?

A. It is symbolically expressed through water baptism (Romans 6:4-5; Colossians 2:12-13).

B. We are quickened or "made alive together in Christ" (Ephesians 2:1, 4-6; 2 Corinthians 5:15; Romans 6:18).

C. Our lives reflect change.

1. We serve a new master (2 Corinthians 5:15; Romans 6:18).

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2. We have a new life (Romans 6:4, 7:6; Ephesians 4:22-24).

3. We have a new purpose (Colossians 3:1-2; Romans 8:28).

5. What does the Bible say about the future resurrection?

A. Only God knows when it will take place (I Thessalonians 4:16-17; John 6:39, 40, 44, 54).

B. All that are in the grave shall be resurrected (Acts 24:15).

C. We shall receive a glorious body (Philippians 3:21; 1 John 3:2; 1 Corinthians 15:29, 38, 49).

6. What is meant by eternal judgment?

Judgment means the "result of judging, trying or passing sentence upon; judicial decision." Eternal does not only mean everlasting, but also "final or that which has no appeal."

7. Why must there be a judgment? Because of:

A. Ungodliness (Jude 15; 2 Peter 2:6-9)

B. Disobedience (Romans 2.6-11; Jude 6; Hebrews 3:18; 2 Thessalonians 1:7-9)

C. Unbelief (John 3:18; Acts 4:12; John 5:24)

D. Sin (Romans 5:12; 1 Corinthians 15:21-22)

8. Who will judge and how?

A. God is the Judge of all (Hebrews 12:23).

B. God's throne has been established for judgment (Psalm 9:7-8).

C. Judgment will be administered by Christ.

1. The Father has given all the authority to judge to the Son (John 5:22, 27).

2. Jesus was ordained to be Judge (Acts 10:42).

3. Jesus will sit in the judgment seat (Romans 14:10-13).

9. When will the judgment take place?

Like the resurrection, eternal judgment has three aspects:

A. PAST -

1. Sin (Isaiah 53:4-6; Hebrews 10:1-14; John 1:29)

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2. Satan (John 16:11; Colossians 2:15)

3. Man (John 3:18, 5:24; Romans 5:9, 8:1)

B. PRESENT -

1. Sinners (Romans 1:18-31; Ephesians 5:6)

2. Believers (1 Corinthians 11:31-32; 1 Timothy 1:20; Hebrews 12:8-10)

C. FUTURE -

1. Believers will be judged for their works and rewarded (Revelation 11:18; Matthew 25:31-46; 1 Corinthians 3:15, 4:5)

2. Sinners will be judged for their sin and disobedience and punished (2 Thessalonians 1:8-9; Revelation

20:15)

10. When will the future judgment take place?

A. After death (Hebrews 9:27)

B. Last day (John 12:48)

C. The "Day of Judgment" (Matthew 10:15; 1 John 4:17; 2 Peter 2:9)

D. The Second Coming (Matthew 25:31; 2 Thessalonians 1:7-10; 2 Timothy 4:1)

11. What does the certainty of judgment produce?

A. A motive for repentance (Acts 17:31-32)

B. Holiness (2 Corinthians 5:9; 2 Peter 3:11,14)

C. Prayer and watchfulness (Mark 13:33)

D. Keeps us from judging one another (Romans 14:10-14)

Because Christ was raised from the dead, our faith is not in vain, and we receive salvation from our sins. It is His life that gives life to the living and shall yet quicken the dead!

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1. How many resurrections does the Bible mention?

2. What does the believer receive through the resurrection of Jesus Christ?

3. What is "eternal judgment"?

4. Who will be judged? By whom shall they be judged?

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Lesson 6aVision of the House & Trinity of Giving

Vision of the HouseThe Scriptures tell us, "Do two walk together unless they have agreed to do so?" (Amos 3:3). It is our desire that we will join together to do all that God has planned and purposed for our church. Therefore, our vision is to train and equip believers to serve under this ministry. Completion of this series, based on the studying of the principles found in Hebrews 6:1-2, and the subsequent covenant thereby are required for church membership.

1. How is our church organized?

A. Leadership:

1. Pastors:

a. They feed and have oversight of God's flock.

b. They give direction to the church as they hear from God.

c. They preside as chairman at all church business meetings and board meetings, or appoint any church officer to preside over the meeting for them in the case of their absence. The Senior Pastor functions as the Corporate President, as well as a Trustee, in accordance with our by-laws.

d. All business transactions or spending of church funds must be reviewed by the Pastors af -ter review and approval by a combination of Department head, Director, and Director of Fi -nance through a Check Requisition or Purchase Requisition. The Senior Pastor is the fi -nal approval authority.

2. Elders:Elders are under-shepherds who, under the leadership and in support of the Pastor, with the other Elders, exercise governorship over the local assembly, as the Ministry of the church.

3. Deacons (who serve as Care Group Leaders):These Deacons, who function as Care Group Leaders, work in cooperation with the Pastors and Elders, as under-shepherds (I Timothy 3:1-7), having oversight of ten or more families.

4. Deacons: All Deacons are servants of the church in temporal matters, often being Department Heads

or Directors.

B. Other Church Positions -

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1. Administrator:

The Administrator oversees and negotiates the business affairs of the church and super-vises the church staff as well as the divisions and departments of the church. The Admin -istrator can also function as the Corporate Secretary and a Trustee, keeping all minutes of the church business meetings and being responsible for issuing notices of said meetings.

2. Treasurer:

The Treasurer is a corporate officer, and a Trustee. He shall receive and be entrusted with the finances and securities of the church. He/she keeps account of receipts and disburse-ments of all monies and prepares periodic financial reports for the Pastors and other El -ders as well as for the annual business meeting.

3. Trustees:

Trustees attend to all legal business in connection with the property of the church as in -structed by the Senior Pastor of the church who, in conjunction with the other Elders, forms the Ministry of the church, in accordance with our by-laws. They own all property of the church for the benefit of the fellowship. They approve, and often sign, all deeds or docu-ments dealing with real estate or loans of the church. There are the three corporate offi -cers who are permanent Trustees, and the remaining Trustees each serve a four year term on a staggered basis.

C. Church Organizational Structure -

1. Directors:

Directors are heads of the major divisions on the "Organizational Chart" which answer to the Administrator or Pastors. Currently, there are 6 divisions, each with its own director, namely, Pastoral, Administration & Personnel, Logistics, Education, Communications, & Finance. In addition, there are Elders who serve to support and cover each of these divisions.

2. Department Heads:

Department Heads are heads of the departments established under each division. They answer to the Director of their division.

2. What is the "Vision of the House?”

A. Our Vision Statement:

“To be a dynamic, non-compromising, Spirit-filled church that is committed to relevancy and pro-vides our generation with a source of meaningful direction which impacts our county and beyond.”

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* Dynamic church describes our commitment to be a people who are marked by productive activity and creative energy in bringing people to Jesus Christ. * Non-compromising describes our commitment to our vision and to the underlying biblical principles that have given our fellowship its meaning and life. * Spirit-filled identifies our belief that the inspiration of the Spirit of God is essential in every sphere of life and ministry, to ensure excellence, motivation, and success.* Committed to relevancy means that we are dedicated to communicating the Gospel in ways that are sig-nificant and pertinent within our own cultural context.* Provides our generation with a source of meaningful direction indicates out commitment to help each individual find fulfillment in their Christianity and function in their God-given gifts. * Impacts our county and beyond describes our belief that what grows out of our own understanding as a community of faith will have prophetic implications in our own county and around the world.

B. Ministries and Departments:

The prophetic Word has been instrumental in directing the steps of the pastors and the congrega-tion of Crossroad Christian Church. The church is active in many areas of ministry,. We also have dozens of other practical departments in which the members of the body can serve and grow. This benefits the individual believer, the body of Christ, our community, and beyond.

Some of our ministries include:

1. First Principles

2. Educational Departments, such as Nursery, Children's Ministries, Youth Ministries

3. Men's and Women's Fellowships (Monthly Breakfasts, Annual Retreats, etc.)

4. Men's and Women's Jail Ministries

5. Music Ministry

6. Missions trips: Since our first adult missions trip to Cherkassy, Ukraine in 1991, we have ex -panded our outreach to include youth missions trips.

3. What are our church’s values?

A. TRUTH:God is the source of all truth and His truth has been given to us in His Holy Word, the Bible. We can be illuminated in His truth by the Holy Spirit who indwells every believer in Jesus Christ. If ideas professing to be truth contradict the Holy Scriptures, they are not truth. (Psalms 117:2, 119:60,160; Proverbs. 21:28; John. 14:6)

B. LOVE:God is Love and has demonstrated His love toward us in sending His only Son, Jesus Christ, to die for us on a cross while we were yet in our sin (John 3:16). Jesus, being the example of God’s love, demonstrated for us the two greatest commandments of (1) loving God the Father and (2) loving our neighbor. We are commanded to demonstrate this same love in all aspects of our daily lives,

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toward God, and toward all people. (Matthew 22:37-40; Romans 14, I Corinthians 13; Galatians 5:22)

C. GRACE:Our salvation from God is solely through His grace. Grace can never be obtained through anything we have done or will ever do because it is a gift from God. In light of God extending grace to us daily, likewise we are to extend grace to all. We are to believe the best in all people, realizing that we never fully understand everything about a person or their situation. (John 1:16, Ephesians 2:8-10, 2 Corinthians 9:8)

D. CHANGE:In accepting Christ as our Lord and Savior, we are declared to be new creations, old things having passed away. We are told that we are buried into Christ’s death and are to be raised into Christ’s resurrection. Consequently we are called to continually present our bodies as living and holy sacri -fices to be transformed by the renewing of our minds. The Scriptures tell us that we have the “mind of Christ.” Christ told His disciples that they would do greater works than He. As His present- day disciples, we are to allow the indwelling Holy Spirit to have influence upon us, causing us to be transformed into the expressed image of Christ. As such, we will ultimately exhibit all the fruit of the Spirit. (2 Corinthians 5:17; Romans 6: 3-4, 8:29, 12:1-2; 1 Corinthians 2:16; John 14:12; Galatians 5:22-23)

4. How do we accomplish this vision?

A. We are to build God’s Kingdom with balance. The total ministry of Jesus is represented in these three men mentioned in the Scripture (Matthew 16:13-19):

1. John the Baptist: political reformer who confronted the government of his day with a new message: “The Kingdom of God is at hand!” (A message of repentance)

2. Elijah: man of faith, miracles, a prophet of the law and judgment.

3. Jeremiah: prophet weeping over the people. Desired to see God's people shepherded.

B. We are to build God’s Kingdom by listening to the Master Carpenter who speaks, guides, and directs us through sources which should not conflict with each other:

1. Both the written and spoken Word of God (Joshua 1:8; 2 Timothy 3:16-17)

2. The five-fold ministry (Ephesians 4:11-13)

3. The example and direction of those who are in spiritual authority over us (2 Thessalonians 2:15; 3:7- 9; Hebrews 3:1-4, 13:17)

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Tithes, Offerings, and Alms: Lesson 6b The Trinity of Giving

The tithe is the most often misunderstood of the three acts of giving. The principle of tithing is one that can be traced throughout the entire Bible. In actuality, it was involved in the Garden of Eden when mankind took of something which belonged to, or was de-signed, for God (Genesis 2:16-17:3:6).

1. What is the tithe?The tithe is the tenth of all things dedicated to sacred use. The Scripture declares that the Lord owns every -thing. This includes all possessions (Psalm 24:1). By tithing, (giving a tenth to the Lord) we acknowledge the ownership of God over all we possess. As one pays rent to the owner of a house to acknowledge his owner -ship, we tithe to acknowledge God and His ownership. Leviticus 27:30 tells us that the tithe is holy. Holy means "set apart unto God." We must be conscientious to set apart that which belongs to God for His use. Tithing places everyone in the Body on an even plain and brings equality on the basis of obedience to the Word, never based on the amount of the tithe.

2. What is the history of tithing?

A. Tithing existed before the law (Old Testament):

1. Abraham (Genesis 14:18-20)

2. Jacob (Genesis 28:22)

B. Tithing existed under the law: the nation of Israel (Leviticus 27:30-33; Numbers 18:20-32)

C. Tithing exists today under grace (New Testament):

1. Jesus confirmed tithing (Matthew 23:23; Luke 11:42).

2. Tithing was not created under the law, but prior to it (Hebrews 7:1-21).

3. Is it necessary for believers to tithe?

A. Yes. God admonishes us to tithe (Leviticus 27:30; Proverbs 3:9-10).

B. If a person does not tithe and present offerings to God, he is robbing God (Malachi 3:8-10).

C. The tithe is not ours to give; it is already God's possession. If a person only tithes and does not present offerings, he is not giving anything at all to God. "Will a man rob God? Yet you have robbed me! But you say, In what way have we robbed You? In tithes and offerings. You are cursed with a curse, For you have robbed Me, even this whole nation. Bring all the tithes into the store-house, that there may be food in My house, and try Me now in this, says the Lord of hosts, if I will not open for you the windows of heaven, and pour out for you such a blessing that there will not be room enough to receive it." (Malachi 3:8-10)

4. Where is the tithe to be given? To the storehouse of God (Malachi 3:10)

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A. The storehouse is where you receive spiritual nourishment.B. The storehouse to Israel was the Tabernacle.C. The storehouse to the New Covenant believer is the local church.

5. Is the offering the same thing as a tithe? No!

A. The offering is a gift to God in excess of our regular tithe.B. It is given above and beyond that which is required.C. A distinction is made between the two in the Word of God (Malachi 3:8).

6. What are the different Scriptural ways of giving?

A. Tithes: - A tenth portion given to God into the storehouse (the local assembly). The tithe is to be used for support of the Levites (full-time church staff), and for the operation of the church.

B. Offerings: - That which is given to support other ministries, within the church or outside, and includes

building offerings, Ukraine missions, Christian radio, Salvation Army, Red Cross, etc.

C. Alms: - That which is given as a gift to an individual.

7. What attitudes are to be present in the hearts of those who give unto God?

A. Give "willingly" (2 Corinthians 8:3,12)B. Give "cheerfully" (2 Corinthians 9:7)C. Give "lovingly" (2 Corinthians 8:24)D. Give "thankfully" (2 Corinthians 9:11-12)E. Give with "pure" motives (Matthew 6:24)

8. What principles are we to follow in giving?

A. First, we are to give ourselves to the Lord (2 Corinthians 8:5)B. Give according to our ability (Acts 11:29; 2 Corinthians 8:5)C. Give regularly (1 Corinthians 16:1-2)D. Give systematically (2 Corinthians 9:7)E. Give as a ministry to the Lord and His saints (2 Corinthians 9:12-13)F. Give as unto the Lord and not to be noticed by men (Matthew 6:2-4)

There is a principle of blessing in that God desires that we might give in order to release His blessing upon us. Our attitude always affects the situation we are involved in, so we must be ever mindful to give from a cheerful and will -ing heart. God desires us to give in a manner that will bring glory to Him.

Crossroad Christian Church Covenant of Confirmation

Ministry: We, the ministry of this church, desire to make covenant with you as faithful members of this local as -sembly and the body of Christ.

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Will you pledge to be faithful in your attendance of church services as stated in Hebrews 10:25? (“And let us not neglect our meeting together, as some people do, but encourage and warn each other, especially now that the day of his coming again is drawing near.)

Class:Ministry: Will you be diligent to study the Word of God as written in 2 Timothy 2:15? (Work hard so God can

approve you. Be a good worker, one who does not need to be ashamed and who correctly explains the word of truth.”)

Class:Ministry: Will you faithfully pray for this ministry and for those in leadership of our nation in accordance with 1

Timothy 2:1-2? (“I urge you, first of all, to pray for all people. As you make your requests, plead for God’s mercy upon them, and give thanks. Pray this way for kings and all others who are in author-ity, so that we can live in peace and quietness, in godliness and dignity.”)

Class:Ministry: Will you, to the best of your ability, conduct your life to the glory of God, following the teachings of

Christ? (1 John 2:6: "Those who say they live in God should live their lives as Christ did.)

Ministry: Will you be faithful in your giving of tithes and offerings as found in Malachi 3:10? (“Bring all the tithes into the storehouse so there will be enough food in my Temple. If you do, says the Lord Almighty, I will open the windows of heaven for you, I will pour out a blessing so great you won’t have enough room to take it in!)

Ministry: In turn, we, the ministry of this church, pledge to care for you according to 1 Peter 5:2-3. (“Care for the flock of God entrusted to you. Watch over it willingly, not grudgingly – not for what you will get out of it, but because you are eager to serve God. Don’t lord it over the people assigned to your care, but lead them by your good example.”)We will teach you in the ways of the Lord, in the Word, Spirit, and in the counsel as Paul exhorted Tim-othy in 2 Timothy 2:2. (“You have heard me teach many things that have been confirmed by many re-liable witnesses. Teach these great truths to trustworthy people who are able to pass them on to oth-ers.”)

(NLT)

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