New Testament Survey

NEW TESTAMENT SURVEY

The New Testament Era

Johnny Ramsey

In Romans 5:6 and Galatians 4:4 we learn that Jehovah sent Christ "in due time" or "in the fulness of time." All history is divided into two categories: Before Christ and "anno domini"--in the year our Lord was born! A great gospel song tells us:

"Out of the ivory palaces,
Into a world of woe,
Only His great eternal love
Made my Savior go."

As we open the New Testament, the Roman Empire rules the world, the Herod family dominates Judea, Synagogues cover Palestinian soil, Pharisees and Sadducees are popular Jewish sects and Greek is the language of the masses of men. "All roads lead to Rome" is an accurate statement. How did all of these things happen to be? What background material produced the dramatic scenery for the advent of Christ?

Five centuries before Jesus was born in Bethlehem (as Micah 5 had foretold) the children of Israel, Abraham's seed, were returning from 70 years of Babylonian Captivity. While in bondage, due to their own sin, the Jews had begun to erect synagogues as temporary "places of assembly" until they could return to Jerusalem and rebuild the Temple which Nebuchadnezzar had destroyed. They faced these synagogues toward Jerusalem. About 60 years ago an ancient synagogue was uncovered by historians who were amazed to find three murals on the walls of the building. Each mural reflected thoughts of the Messiah:

The anointing of David as King
The Scape-Goat on the Day of Atonement
Ezekiel's Valley of Dry Bones

In 2 Samuel 7 we learn that Christ came out of the loins of David. In John 1:29 Jesus is called "the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world." The fruition of Ezekiel's vision was the restoration of God's people after captivity which resulted, finally in the coming of the Savior. The synagogue movement kept Judaism alive until the Redeemer came "to seek and save the lost" (Luke 19:10). Since the majority of the Jews never returned to Judea but scattered throughout Babylon, Persia, Greece and then, later, in Roman territories they built these synagogues wherever they were dispersed. Often Greeks would attach themselves to these assembly halls. After the Septuagint translation of the Old Testament wherein the ancient, dead language of Hebrew was translated into the common vernacular of Greek, in 280 B.C., the Gentiles could understand clearly--and without prejudice--the Messianic passages. These "devout Greeks" (Acts 17) often gave the apostles a fair hearing while the biased Jews would attempt to kill God's servants (read Acts 13:41-46). Remember three words, each beginning with the letter S, as a reminder of the days prior to the Coming of Christ.

SCATTERING SYNAGOGUE SEPTUAGINT

At the close of Babylonian Captivity the Medo-Persian empire conquered Babylon. Some of the last Old Testament books have their setting in the days of the Persian rulers. Esther, Ezra, Nehemiah, Haggai and Malachi are some of those books. But, on the horizon loomed a character that would reshape the destiny of millions of people in the political arena at least. The son of Philip of Macedonia, Alexander the Great, conquered Persia and from 330 B.C. till Rome overthrew Carthage in 146 B.C. the dominant factor in world affairs would be Greek culture. The influence of Alexander lived on long after his early death--due to immorality--because of the benefits of his emphasis upon educating the minds of men. For instance, the Septuagint translation of the Scriptures came from the scholarly efforts of men attached to the tremendous Library in Alexandria.

There were three great philosophers that contributed mightily to the background of the New Testament Era. From 375 B.C. onward the teachings of Socrates, Plato and Aristotle made monumental strides in a state-dominated existence. Socrates was put to death for instilling within men the desire to Think for Themselves. His influence broke the shackles of robot-like living for millions captivated by governmental tyranny! Finally, due to Socrates' courageous message, men were thinking for themselves. Plato taught men to Think Spiritually. Aristotle gave to the world great rules of logic and thereby taught men how to think. Today his material on logic is used in universities and debating societies. These three brilliant teachers left a rich legacy for the first century preaching of the Apostles of Christ. Every sermon of theirs, recorded in the New Testament, demanded that the audience think for themselves, think spiritually and react logically to the arguments presented. In due time God sent His Son!

After Alexander the Great died his kingdom was divided into four parts. A careful reading of Daniel bears out these points, incidentally. Actually, two of the groups came to the top of the heap and dominated the Greek scene for nearly two centuries. The Ptolemy regime was gracious and cultured. They furnished the Alexandrian Library, for instance. This group was kind to the Jews. Conversely, the Seleucidans were coarse and warlike people who eventually became the bitter enemies of the Jewish people. Their most infamous ruler was Antiochus Epiphanes whom Israel referred to as The Mad Dog! Deep, mutual hatred existed between Antiochus and the inhabitants of Judea. On December 25, 168 B.C. that evil, unprincipled warmonger defiled the Temple in Jerusalem and demanded swine's flesh be offered on the altar. Since this was strictly forbidden by the Levitical system of the Jewish Nation the people of God called this occasion,

The Abomination of Desolation

just as Daniel 11:31 predicted. Due to this blasphemous action by Antiochus and his tenacity in spreading such abominations even into the rural areas, the famous Maccabean revolt ensued. An aged priest in the little village of Modin refused to defile the altar--even at the demand of Epiphanes' soldiers--and thus began fierce warfare in the Judean hills led by the sons of the priest at Modin. One of his sons was "The Hammerer"--Judas Maccabees. In three years--on December 25, 165 B.C.--Antiochus was purged, the Temple cleansed and the glorious moment was called: "The Feast of Dedication" (John 10:22).

But, alas, human nature struggles to maintain balance. Out of this great victory came unwise decisions. The high priest's office was given or sold to the military hero of the day. Of course the Mosaical law demanded that only descendants of Aaron occupy such positions. Naturally a group of pure ones arose to cry out for a return to God's will. They were called the Hasidim. From this group came the Pharisees (Separate Ones) who demanded a clear-cut separation of "church and state." The compromising sect that remained neutral was the sophisticated Sadducee group.

Greece had ruled for well over a century and a half but Rome was gaining ground. From 200 B.C. onward a brilliant Roman Senator named Cato began an incessant plea which he shouted each year as he closed the governmental meetings:

"Carthage Must Be Destroyed"

Finally, after 54 years Rome took him seriously and conquered that last outpost of Grecian power. In 146 B.C. the Roman era began. However, it would be exactly a century before the actual Roman Empire blossomed. This came about through the struggle for power between Pompey and Julius Caesar. An astute Idumean named Antipater--a descendant of Esau--observed the power-struggle of the two men. On a strategic day Antipater assisted Julius in defeating his foe and the balance of power fell to Caesar. He was so grateful to Antipater that he offered a rich reward to the half-breed Jew. Antipater and his seed received Judea as a vassal state. Thus began the strange lucrative alliance between the Caesars and the Herods for Antipater's son was none other than Herod the Great!

So, the stage was set for the fullness of time. In due time Christ did come! On the first page of the New Testament we see the virgin Mary (Isaiah 7:14) in Bethlehem (Micah 5:2) giving birth to "Jesus, for he shall save his people from their sin" (Matthew 1:21).

The New Testament is carefully divided into four sections:

Matthew--John: The Life of Christ
Acts: How To Become A Christian
Romans--Jude: How To Live As A Christian
Revelation: The Hope of A Christian

REVIEW OF THE NEW TESTAMENT

There has never been a more logical piece of literature than the New Testament. The 27 books form a four-fold story:

The Life of Christ (Matthew--John)
How To Become A Christian (Acts)
How To Live The Christian Life (Romans--Jude)
The Hope Of A Christian (Revelation)

This comprehensive view of the gospel age (or Christian System) is thrilling to study. God has been very good to us to reveal His everlasting love to us in such graphic lessons. Let us briefly give a synopsis of each of the 27 New Testament books.

Matthew:

Stresses the kingdom of Christ as a spiritual rule and reign in the hearts and lives of men instead of a carnal, earthly power with the temporal benefits. In Matthew 25 we learn the urgency of serving the Lord faithfully now in view of the fact that no one knows when the Savior will come. When the door of Heaven is forever shut it will then be too late to utilize our talents, help others and obey the Truth we refused to accept on earth.

Mark:

The emphasis in this book has to do with the power and majesty of the Son of God. His brilliant actions tower above His great teachings as Mark 7:37 exclaims:

"He hath done all things well."

This account of Christ's life is more practical. In chapter ten, for instance, our Lord made it very clear to James, John and their mother that following closely to the Savior meant being overwhelmed in suffering. The nature of His kingdom was service (10:45) and surrender and not glory, fame or earthly honor.

Luke:

The Greeks had emphasized "the ideal specimen of humanity" for years. They left it to the State to develop their sons ideally in mental, social and physical areas of life. Jesus came along and added a fourth dimension--perfection in spirituality! Luke 2:52 states it well:

"Jesus increased in wisdom
and stature and in favor with God and man."

Because He was about His Father's business (2:49) Christ chose the divine above the carnal. In fact, the entire book of Luke deals with the clear-cut distinction between spiritual and material matters. In 10:38-42 we can discern between mundane affairs and eternal values. Jesus shows us how to choose those values that are excellent (Philippians 1:10) as over against situations that are not exceedingly wicked but nonetheless secondary. Such perception is essential if we would truly seek first the kingdom!

John:

Christ, the divine friend of the individual soul, is the key thought in this glorious book of faith-building lessons. He is the light of the world (8:12), the giver of abundant life (10:10) and "the resurrection and the life" (11:24-26). Even doubting Thomas said to Jesus in John 20:28--

"My Lord and my God."

The Redeemer of us all took time to be a friend to Andrew, Simon Peter, Philip, Nathaniel, Nicodemus, the woman at the well, the lame man, the woman taken in adultery, the man born blind, Lazarus--and even to wash the apostles' feet (John 13). Surely He will take time for us, too! These things are written that we might truly believe (John 20:31).

Acts:

No review of the New Testament could ever be genuine unless extra care was given to spotlight the events and message of the powerful section known as Acts of the Apostles. What a dramatic and dynamic book! One just cannot be the same, ever again, after a careful journey through its pages. We learn of the establishment of the Lord's church (Matthew 16:18; Acts 2:41) which was purchased with Christ's precious blood (Acts 20:28) and its tremendous growth:

5:14--"More than ever believers were added"
6:7--"A great company of the priests obeyed"
8:4--"They went everywhere preaching the word"
12:24--"The word of God grew and multiplied"
14:1--"A great multitude believed"
19:20--"Mightily grew the word...and prevailed"

The spirits of faithful saints stirred within themselves as they viewed the idolatry of the Roman Empire (Acts 17:16). But, bold preaching of the gospel caused even many in Corinth to hear, believe and be baptized (18:8). Elders of the church of the Lord were told to closely adhere to God and His Holy Word (20:32) in order to strengthen the flock of the Savior and withstand teachers of error. From Jerusalem, Judea, Samaria and the uttermost parts of the Roman Empire the gospel went!

Romans:

The gospel or good news of Christ's willingness to die for us (Romans 1:16). This valuable system of faith must be obeyed (Romans 1:5; 16:26) and both Jew and Greek stand in desperate need of it. True seed of Abraham are inwardly tied to his spiritual seed through Isaac and not his physical seed by Hagar and Ishmael (Romans 2; Romans 9). God's severity is poured out upon those who fall away through stubborn pride (11:22) while unfathomed love and mercy come to those who present themselves, through spiritual service unto the Lord (12:1-2).

I Corinthians:

There were serious problems in the church at Corinth. Some of the situations arose out of the shameful debris of carnality in the city of Corinth. Citizens of that well-known metropolis were known far and wide for drunken brawls, lying tongues and loose morals of every sort. When the gospel of Christ came to Corinth changes had to be made. But, it was not easy! Immorality had to be purged out (I Corinthians 5), brotherly love had to grow (chapter 6) and stern lessons on marriage had to be taught. Attitudes, motives and conduct improved--slowly--by the power of Christianity!

II Corinthians:

This seldom studied section of the Bible is rich in its defense of Paul's Apostleship. Many of the Jewish leaders hated Paul for converting to Christianity. Everywhere he went the Judaizers tried to offset Paul's influence. Some even tried to kill him. Of all the false teachers who worked against the gospel of Christ none were so active as the biased Hebrews! The contents of 2 Corinthians shed much light on Paul's personality and especially on his deep love for the Lord. He refers to "the God of all comfort" (1:3), victory in Christ (2:14), sufficiency in the Lord (3:5) and the One who died for all (5:14). His gratitude for the inexpressible gift of God was deep (9:15). The benediction of 13:14 mentions the grace, love and communion of the Godhead in our lives. Truly, 2 Corinthians is a marvelous book!

Galatians:

Glory Only In The Cross (6:14)

The purpose and passing of the Old Law is the major thrust of this book. If we are still under the law, Paul said, "Christ died in vain" (2:21). The Old Testament brought us to the Lord and the system of faith (3:19-25) as it checked sin until Christ arrived as the end of the law (Romans 10:4). Now we live because we are crucified with Him (2:20).

Ephesians:

Glorify God In The Church by Christ

That statement, from 3:21, is the gist of the vibrant book of Ephesians. The church is the body of Christ (1:20-23), the bride of the Lord (5:32-33) and the army of God (6:9-11). The church is not a substitute nor after thought arrangement as premillennial preachers say.

Philippians:

The Joy of Christianity!

Even though Paul was in prison he could rejoice (4:4) because Christ was his hope and purpose in life or death (1:21-23). Because he had "the mind of Christ" (2:5) Paul was pressing on to the heavenly prize before him (3:14). God supplied every need and empowered Paul every step of the way. Knowing the Lord and sharing His suffering gave reality to Paul's heavenly citizenship (3:10-20).

Colossians:

Christ In You, The Hope of Glory!

Jesus is supposed to be the center of our lives if we are followers of the Savior. All that we say or do or think must radiate from Him. By the authority of Christ, who dwells in us, we act and react (3:16-17). We are absolutely complete in Him (2:10). Rooted and grounded in the richness of Truth we reject human philosophy (2:6-8).

I and II Thessalonians:

"Christ Is Coming"

Both of these books, written to the church mentioned first in Acts 17, put the spotlight on the coming of the Lord. He will come suddenly--as a thief in the night--(1 Thessalonians 5:2). Prior to His arrival apostasy would come. In fact, Paul stated that such lawlessness had already begun in the first century (2 Thessalonians 2:7). In view of these truths Paul exhorts the brethren to be faithful so that whenever Christ comes and whoever goes into error they will be loyal to God!

I and II Timothy and Titus:

"Preach the Word"

These 3 evangelistic epistles tell us the qualifications of elders, the work of preachers, the necessity of rebuking false teachers, the urgency of personal example and the duty of keeping the church pure and holy. Timothy, a close personal friend of Paul labored in Ephesus for the cause of the Lord while Titus was sent to the evil island of Crete to establish God's church and to get Christians "to maintain good works." Timothy, though young, was to be an example of the believers (1 Timothy 4:12) and to preach the word always (2 Timothy 4:2). Titus 2:11-14 challenges us "to live soberly, righteously and godly. "

Philemon:

"The Story of a Runaway Slave"

Onesimus, a servant of Philemon, ran away from home (Colosse) and went to Rome. There he met Paul, who previously had converted Philemon. Now Paul teaches Onesimus the gospel and sends that new Christian back to his master. Philemon is urged to treat Onesimus with kindness. This is a beautiful book on the providence of God.

Hebrews:

The Supremacy of Christ

No book is so pulsatingly beautiful as the 13 chapter epistle of Hebrews. Exquisite wording sets forth the superior nature of Christianity. It is indeed a better way filled with better promises (8:6-7; 10:19-20). It provides a better hope because of a better sacrifice as 7:22 tells us:

"Christ is the surety of a better Testament."

Hebrew Christians, due to intense persecution, were about to leave the Lord and return to Judaism. The writer of this glorious section of Scripture pleads with them to reconsider their decision because:

Christianity superseded the Law
The Old System had been removed
Even Moses died short of the Promised Land
Christ Is Our Forerunner To Heaven
A Life of Fidelity Would Reward Them

Christ Suffered For Us Anyway!

James Through Jude:

In the epistles of James through Jude we see the practical nature of the pure religion of Christ as well as the persecution that surrounded the saints of the first century. The love of God shed abroad in the hearts of Christians (Romans 5:5; 1 John 4:8) caused them to endure affliction and to even grow spiritually (2 Peter 3:18) as they longed for the beautiful home of the soul (1 Peter 2:11; 2 Peter 3;11). They kept themselves in the love of God (Jude 21) as they refused to encourage false teachers (1 John 4:1; 2 John 11).

Revelation:

Finally, the book of Revelation speaks of the hope we have as Christians. The victory that overcomes the world is our faith (1 John 5:4). Jesus promised a crown of life (2:10) if we but overcome Satan, self and sin (3:21). In the midst of shame and sorrow we can die in the Lord (14:13) and partake one day of the tree of life in the garden of God (22:14). Paul summed it up well in 2 Corinthians 5:1--

"For we know if this earthly house of our tabernacle be dissolved we have a building of God, a house not made with hands, eternal in the heavens."

Let us truly press on to glory as we allow the Lord to control our lives (Philippians 1:21). The honor of serving Christ is our greatest blessing.

NEW TESTAMENT CHRISTIANITY

Nineteen centuries ago Christ and His apostles began a system of spiritual power that encompassed the earth and blessed the world, the pure religion of the Savior--once established--has never vanished from the human scene even though the darkness of the ages often has dimmed its pristine beauty. Daniel 2:44 affirmed the perpetual status of the kingdom and Matthew 16:18 promised its glorious establishment. In spite of persecution by Rome, jealousy of the Jews, economic poverty and a startling message, the gospel of Jesus swept the ancient world by storm.

The ardent zeal of devoted servants of the Lord emblazoned a noble page in the volume of ancient history. The spiritual army of the Lord made many valiant conquests for the Captain of their salvation (Hebrews 2:10). Shining as light in the midst of a perverse generation (Philippians 2:15) early Christians took seriously the task of "living soberly, righteously and godly" (Titus 2:12). The simple organization of the Lord's church made clear its autonomous government. Adhering strictly to divine principles of self-governing procedures set forth in Acts 14:23, Titus 1:5-6, Acts 20:28-30 and I Peter 5:1-4 there was no need for earthly headquarters, bureaucracy or hierarchy.

In Philippians 1:1 we read simply of elders, deacons and all the saints. Worship in the first century church of our Lord was to be conducted in "spirit and truth" as John 4:24 clearly stated. Reverently, as the Scriptures directed, the body of Christ "continued steadfastly" in the homage the apostles taught (Acts 2:42). The first day of the week was especially set aside for the Lord's Supper and the contribution (Acts 20:7, 1 Corinthians 16:1-2). Nineteen centuries ago the church Christ established, by His shed blood, was strong in its exposure of error (2 Timothy 4:2-4), as well as its proclamation of truth (1 Timothy 3:15) and especially in ardent evangelism.

Acts 5:42, 8:4 and 12:24 tells us of the daily teaching that caused "the Word of God to grow and multiply." Christians of that era prayed boldly and fervently (Hebrews 4:16; James 5:16) even as they joyously sang praises unto God (Acts 16:25; Colossians 3:16-17). Christianity was not a church-house religion to them. It was not "a way of life"--it was life Paul said:

"For Me To Live Is Christ"

Today, sadly we often live beneath the standard of New Testament ideals; we coast along, with a convenient facsimile of Christianity that really does not demand much more of us. A genuine life of enrichment awaits those who absolutely want to be New Testament Christians. We will never win many souls for our Redeemer until we fully surrender our wills to the Master. Then, when we submerge our identity into the greater cause of salvation, our songs will be richer, our prayers more spiritual, our influence more meaningful and our lives more heavenly. Men will then know we have been with Jesus (Acts 4:13). More than anything else, New Testament Christianity is just what Paul wrote in Galatians:

Christ Living In Me

Yes, there are specific commands to be observed in worship (Hebrews 8:5) and high, moral standards to maintain (Philippians 4:8). But, when Christ is honored as King of Kings none of this is grievous (1 John 5:3). Let us live for Him!

PRACTICAL CHRISTIAN LIVING

The Greek word for church was "ecclesia" which meant "the called out." Members of the church of the Lord were called out of the world of darkness into the glorious light of Truth as Colossians 1:13 and 1 Peter 2:9-11 clearly state. When impurity and nonchalance entered the body of Christ, various New Testament passages demanded disciplinary action against the evil ones. It makes sense to keep the church pure and uncontaminated as Romans 16:17 and I Corinthians 5:13 affirm. It would be unnatural to allow sin to overwhelm the spiritual body of our Lord.

Just so, the faithful child of God, in "providing things honest in the sight of all men" (Romans 12), will pay his debts, supply his own needs and be a shining light for righteousness (Philippians 2:15). One of the real blessings an ardent follower of the Master possesses is peace of mind and a clean conscience (Philippians 4:7 and Acts 24:16). Christians will be busy teaching others "the unsearchable riches of Christ" and will even manifest a love for their enemies and an abiding trust in God that will puzzle those who would be critical of New Testament Christianity. It is good therapy to follow the Bible way in day by day living in this wicked old world! As I Peter 5:7 declares, so let walk:

"Casting all your care upon Him; for He careth for you."

It makes sense--in this life--to turn one's destiny over to the Savior for He will never leave us nor forsake us(Hebrews 13:6).

NEW TESTAMENT CHRISTIAN LIVING

There is no way to answer the riddle of our earthly sojourn apart from Christianity. We have all wondered, at times, as to why we are here and where we are going. James tells us that our life is but "a vapor that appeareth for a little while and then vanisheth away" (James 4:14). Peter informs us that those who would love life and see good days must "refrain their tongues from evil." Paul clearly stated: "For me to live is Christ" (Philippians 1:21). The real purpose of living is to live for Jesus. Our Savior beautifully expressed this thought in John 10:10:

"I am come that they might have life and that they might have it more abundantly."

The word purpose suggests dedication, decision, conviction and planning. The religion of our Redeemer provides all of these items; it gives substance to living. Just as Daniel "purposed in his heart not to defile himself" (Daniel 1:8), so does Christianity cause us to cleave to the Lord "with purpose of heart" (Acts 11:23). A statement from Moses is appropriate at this point in our discussion: "It is your life to set your heart upon all my law and to teach your children to observe all my commandments" (Deuteronomy 32:46). We shall not take out of this life any of our accumulated wealth or fame but only the influence of a righteous life. When we stand before our Maker in the last day it will be of the highest import how we lived while upon the earth. If you are not a Christian you lack real incentive for living!

"But they that would be rich fall into temptation and a snare, and into many foolish and hurtful lusts, which drown men in destruction and perdition."

Christianity alone gives one true purpose in life. What a friend we have in Jesus! He is indeed "all the world to me!" We have a personal, powerful and precious Savior. Paul expressed our exact sentiments in 2 Timothy 1:12: "I know whom I have believed and am persuaded that he is able to keep that which I have committed unto him against that day." If Christ lives within us (Galatians 2:20) we have the exuberant hope of glory (Colossians 1:27). The very One who bore our sins in His own body upon the Cross is vitally interested in our every need. In times of sorrow, illness, bereavement and disappointment, He is our constant Shepherd. Are you a Christian?

THE NEW TESTAMENT

There are several passages that tell us the purpose of the New Testament. Christ came to give us the abundant life (John 10:10) and this life is in the Son of God (1 John. 5:11). The four accounts of the life of our Lord were written that we might have eternal life in Him (John 20:31). The Old Testament, in 39 books, pointed to the coming of "the Prince of Peace" (Isaiah 9:6), and on the Cross of Calvary peace was made through the precious blood that was shed there (Colossians 1:20). An outline of the 27 books of the New Testament will help us tremendously in ascertaining its message and its purpose:

Matthew - John The Life of Christ

Acts How to Become a Christian

Romans - Jude How to Live as a Christian

Revelation The Hope of the Christian

If I had to sum up in a brief statement the gist and thrust of the New Testament, in its entire emphasis, here is that summary: "The New Testament presents Christ and His gospel system as the hope of the world and the glory of God in order that sinful men might obey the commands of the Lord, follow His perfect example and thereby enjoy this life, glorify their Maker and go home to heaven by the grace of God through the blood of the Savior."

The first four books richly proclaim the birth, life, teachings, sufferings and victorious resurrection of our blessed Redeemer. The authority of the Lord is stressed in Matthew, His majesty in Mark, His perfection and loyalty in Luke and the personal touch of Jesus is the beautiful impression that lingers in the gospel record by John. If there is one major verse in those dynamic books, it would certainly be John 14:6 wherein Christ is set forth as "the way, the truth and the life" that lights the world!

The tremendously powerful section known as Acts is the history book of the New Testament. It contains the background for many of the books that follow it in the Bible. Background material for Galatians, Ephesians, Philippians, Thessalonians and Corinthians can be located in chapters 13-20 of Acts. The spread of the glorious gospel of Christ is vividly set forth in Acts 8:4, "They that were scattered abroad went everywhere preaching the word." Salvation only in Christ is the cardinal teaching of this fifth book of the New Testament (Acts 4:12). Cases of conversion--how people became Christians--give excitement to this book. The establishment of the Lord's church is found in Acts 2. Since God is glorified in the church by Christ (Ephesians 3:21), the book of Acts is a bulwark of truth in the Bible.

The 21 epistles, Romans through Jude, enrich us in daily conduct with practical messages regarding the spiritual sojourn of children of God. No verse sums up these books better than Colossians 1:10, "That you might walk worthy of the Lord unto all pleasing, being fruitful in every good work, and increasing in the knowledge of God." These 21 letters regarding the conduct of those who belong to the Savior tell us to have the mind of Christ (Philippians 2:5) as we pursue the fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22). Such noble goals will cause us to have the purpose, dedication and hope as we travel the road of life. How vain any other emphasis would be!

Finally, the book of Revelation closes the New Testament, with the radiant joy of Christianity displayed in spite of intense persecution that surrounds it. "Be thou faithful unto death" (Revelation 2:10) is a major theme. The word "overcometh" is found 17 times in the 22 chapters. When saints of God do overcome the devil by God's word and the blood of Christ (Revelation 12:11), they can come over to spend eternity with the One who died to set them free (Revelation 1:5). How deeply grateful we ought to be for the clarity and challenge of the New Testament!

NEW TESTAMENT CHRISTIAN LIVING

There is no way to answer the riddle of our earthly sojourn apart from Christianity. We have all wondered, at times, as to why we are here and where we are going. James tells us that our life is but "a vapor that appeareth for a little while and then vanisheth away" (James 4:14). Peter informs us that those who would love life and see good days must "refrain their tongues from evil." Paul clearly stated: "For me to live is Christ" (Philippians 1:21). The real purpose of living is to live for Jesus. Our Savior beautifully expressed this thought in John 10:10:

"I am come that they might have life and that they might have it more abundantly."

"But they that would be rich fall into temptation and a snare, and into many foolish and hurtful lusts, which drown men in destruction and perdition."

WHAT LIFE IS ALL ABOUT

There are many precious things about Christianity that would not be available if the Savior had not left heaven and graced this earth with His presence! How empty and meaningless our daily existence would be apart from the richness and depth of the gospel era. We owe so very much to the resplendent beauty of New Testament Christianity. Whatever the world offers in its most glorious moment fades into nothingness when the radiant hues of the Messiah beam forth. For years faithful children of God have sung:

"Take the world but give me Jesus,
All its joys are but a name;
But His love abideth ever,
Through eternal years the same."

Mankind struggles in vain to find genuine purpose in life apart from Christ. When the Lord and heaven's message enter our thinking we are transformed from a dreary pursuit of merely existing to an exciting motivation and goal. Following our blessed Redeemer provides a destiny where God "will make all things new" (Revelation 21:1-5).

"Beyond the sunset's radiant glow,
There is a brighter world I know,
Beyond the sunset I may spend
Delightful days that never end."

Let us notice several key points that Jesus contributes to our sojourn upon the earth (1 Peter 2:11) that we would otherwise be bereft of had He not come.

All Spiritual Blessings--Ephesians 1:3
The New And Living Way--Hebrews 10:20
Our Perfect Example--Hebrews 4:15
Sin Clearly Defined--John 15:22
Salvation Absolutely--Hebrews 7:25
Satan Defeated--John 12:31-33
Heaven Accessible--Hebrews 6:18-20
Sinners Made Saints--1 Timothy 1:15
God's Grace In Us--1 Corinthians 15:10
Someone Who Never Leaves Us--Hebrews 13:5-6

When we weave all of this into one fabric of truth we realize that we surely do have "life more abundantly" as the Master taught in John 10:10. The Psalmist makes a tremendous contribution to this line of thought in the cogent words of Psalms 124:

"If it had not been the Lord who was on our side...our help is in the name of the Lord who made heaven and earth."

Living with, for and in Christ Jesus is truly what life is all about. How vain would the struggles be if our Savior had not come.

Two centuries ago Thomas Gray wrote of folk with "obscure destiny in the short and simple annals of the poor." Millions live and die that way--outside of the Savior--without hope in this world or the one to come (Ephesians 2:11-12).

Christians should praise God every single day for purpose, depth, richness and meaning in lives that bask in the sunlight found in the shadow of the Cross!

COLOSSIANS IS THE EPITOME OF CHRISTIANITY

Some of the richest passages pertaining to the theme of salvation found in all of the Bible are contained in the noble book of Colossians. Paul, inspired by the Holy Spirit, reminds his brethren of redemption and glory that flowed into their lives from the day they:

Heard the truth of the gospel
Learned of the hope of heaven
Knew the grace of God in truth

These vibrant themes are found in verses five and six of the first chapter of Colossians. Salvation from alien sins involves, of necessity, the preaching of the gospel, hearing, believing and obeying the truth and cooperating with the grace of God. This brilliant blending of divine mandates and heavenly verities will produce a glorious and peace-bringing hope. There will be no forgiveness, cleansing and joy apart from the arrangements Jehovah has revealed and provided for sinful mankind. Though Christ Jesus died for all (Hebrews 2:9) and made, through the blood of the cross (Colossians 1:20) atonement for iniquity and shame, there must be proper response from sinners if the way of salvation bears fruit in our lives. We must be made aware of the new life (Colossians 3:1) wherein we have been delivered from the power of darkness (Colossians 1:13). Through the benefits, power and blessing of Calvary we no longer live in the filth of the past (Colossians 1:7; 1:14). Similar to a passage in the opening stanza of James we learn in Colossians that we:

Realize the source of sin is not God
We are drawn into error by our own lust
We must put aside worldliness
We must obediently receive the word of God
We must allow Truth to reshape our thinking

When honest seekers (John 7:17) obey genuinely, from the heart, the gospel of Jesus Christ (Romans 6:16-18) they become new creatures in the Lord (2 Corinthians 5:17). No passage tells it better than 2:12 of Colossians:

"Buried with him in baptism, wherein also ye are risen with him through the faith of the operation of God, who hath raised him from the dead."

The next verse bountifully and beautifully informs us that we were thereby made alive from the spiritual death of sin that once engulfed us. Having been forgiven of past transgressions, through the shed blood of the Lamb of God, at Calvary, we stand on holy ground though living in a vile and wicked world. It is significant that Galatians 3:27 ties all of these passages together:

"For as many of you as have been baptized into Christ have put on Christ."

The Holy Spirit guided the apostles into all truth (John 16:13) and the message, thus revealed, convicted men of sin, righteousness and judgment to come (John 16:8). This gospel teaching told the story of Christ's death, burial and resurrection (I Corinthians 15:1-4). In Romans, chapter six, we find a perfect illustration of salvation in the first century or any other age. When a man becomes dead to sin as he is buried with Christ in baptism and is raised to walk in a new life he then becomes dead unto sin and alive unto God and thereby becomes a servant of righteousness! Through the message of the Spirit, as his body is washed in pure water (Hebrews 10:22), the new birth has been consummated. It is, as Paul wrote to the Ephesians:

"The washing of water, by the word."

There are those who look upon all of these Bible passages as technical matters with no spiritual significance. However, throughout the sacred Scriptures we find the blending of God's commands and man's sincere obedience. Noah was commended because he explicitly obeyed "all that God commanded him" (Genesis 6:22). The exact compliment is paid to Moses for the same reason (Exodus 40). Disciples of Jesus were told to do "whatever He tells you to do" (John 2:5). Our blessed Savior asks a pertinent question in Luke 6:46.

"Why call you me Lord, Lord and do not the things that I say?"

Christ straightforwardly stated in John 8:24

"Except you believe that I am he you shall die in your sins."

In Mark 16:16 belief and baptism are requirements prior to salvation. In Luke 13:3 we are reminded by the Redeemer that repentance is required lest we perish! And, in Acts 2:38, on the very day the church became a reality, sinners were told to "repent and be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins." In Acts 2:41, we read that those who gladly received the glad tidings of salvation were baptized and the Lord added them to the church. Jesus made it clear to Nicodemus in John 3:5 that a person must be born again of water and of the Spirit in order to enter the kingdom of God. We have a perfect commentary on that passage in Acts 8:12. . .

"But when they believed Philip preaching the things concerning the kingdom of God, and the name of Jesus Christ, they were baptized, both men and women."

It is significant that the first time our Lord mentioned the church He called it the kingdom also (Matthew 16:18-19). The culminating action that brings us into the church or kingdom is baptism (Acts 2:41; John 3:5). Also, in many of Paul's inspired writings the church is referred to as the body of Christ (Ephesians 1:22-23; Colossians 1:18). Therefore, the synthesis of such teaching can be viewed in I Corinthians 12:13 . . .

"For by one Spirit were you all baptized into one body."

Friends of Jesus should love His commands. Did not Christ say in John 15:14?

"You are my friends if you keep my commandments."

Whatever He tells us to do (John 2:5) should be our utmost desire if we are sincere in our avowal of friendship (I John 2:4).

"Trust and obey for there's no other way To be happy in Jesus but to trust and obey."

The terms of admission into the Savior's domain are simple and clear. Let us rejoice in the eloquent surroundings of God's love and hasten to be faithful members of that spiritual body, the church, made possible by the blood of the Lamb (Acts 20:28). Years ago, in my hometown congregation, an old brother would lead a stanza of this hymn:

Break down every idol
Cast out every foe
Now wash me
And I shall be whiter than snow."

Our blessed Lord made it clear in Revelation 3:1-5 that unless members of the church cleanse their garments by purging sin out of their lives they would have their names written in the book of life blotted out by the Lamb of God! Heaven demands moral purity.

Salvation in the Master also delivers us from the vanity of sorry people and places us in the company of the best folk on earth. Will it not be marvelous throughout eternity to be far away from the filth and sordid things of this mundane sphere? (Revelation 21:8). We can have a foretaste of glory divine here and now by walking in the light with the saints of God on earth (I John 1:7). The sensuality of our humanistic society is becoming even more debauched and vile. Such evil (1 John 5:19) makes good people yearn for a purer environment. Heaven was made for folk who look for better things (Hebrews 11:16; Philippians 3:20-21).

Salvation in Christ also delivers us from the sting of death (I Corinthians 15:54-57). From the moment we enter the Lord and thus partake of a quality of life that is of eternal consequence (John 17:3) we eagerly look forward to that place where the wicked cease from troubling and the weary be at rest (Job 3:17). Therefore when this earth is rolled up like an old garment and cast aside (Hebrews 1:11) the loyal followers of the Prince of Peace shall know assuredly that salvation in the Lord was truly the pearl of great price.

When the Master promised "he that believeth and is baptized shall be saved" he opened up vistas of beauty and joy forevermore.

"In the land of fadeless day
Lies the city four-square
It shall never pass away
And there is no night there."

Truly, how marvelous the golden street of glory shall be!

By far the most important event in the history of the world was the death of our Lord at Golgotha. The truths emanating from Calvary enrich our sojourn upon the earth and give us hope in the days that lie ahead. The willingness of God to send Jesus to take our place and bear our sins in His body upon the tree (1 Peter 2:24) enriches our very souls. To contemplate such matchless love overwhelms us even as the writer of the hymn declares:

Dear dying Lamb, thy precious blood
Shall never lose its power
Till all the ransomed church of God
Be saved to sin no more."

This is the purpose and goal of the New Testament--the redemption of mankind.

Please send comments, suggestions, or questions about this page to Rocky Russell (lburgcoc@netscape.net)
Last Modified November 24, 2003

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