Jesus said, "I am the way, and the truth, and the life; no one comes to the Father but through Me" (John 14:6).  This lesson explains the "I am the life" portion of this verse.  I encourage you to read first the two predecessor lessons which explain the "I am the way" and "I am the truth" portions of this verse.  Here are the links:

"Jesus is the Way to Heaven" (Ref. 1)
"Jesus is the Truth" (Ref. 2)

The About the Way page also teaches about the Way of God in the Old Testament and the Way in the New Testament.

     Consider.  What does it mean to you that Jesus Christ said "I am the life"?

     Jesus is the Creator and Source of Life.  Jesus Christ is the source or fountain of all life.  Scripture tells us "For by Him all things were created" and "All things have been created through Him and for Him" (Colossians 1:16).  John writes, "All things came into being through Him, and apart from Him nothing came into being that has come into being" (John 1:3).  

The Greek word for life is zóé, which means both physical (present) and spiritual (particularly future) existence (Ref. 3).  Life always comes from and is sustained by God.

"Life" here has no limitation, and includes life of the body, the life of the soul, the life of the spirit, life in the present, and life in the future (Ref. 4).

     Life is through Christ rather than the Law.  Jesus' Jewish listeners were familiar with the law given through Moses.  Yes.  God gave the law (Exodus 20:1-17, Exodus 24:12).  Yes.  God instructed the Israelites to obey the law (Deuteronomy 30:15-18).  However, the law itself did not impart life.  Only Jesus can impart life.  I suggest that this point is central to what Jesus meant when he said "I am the life."

The Apostle Paul emphasizes faith in Christ versus the inability of the law to impart life.  "If righteousness could be gained through the law, Christ died for nothing!" (Galatians 2:21).  "For if a law had been given which was able to impart life, then righteousness would indeed have been based on law" (Galatians 3:21).  "The law was our guardian until Christ came, in order that we might be justified by faith" (Galatians 3:24, italics added).      

     Jesus is the Key to Blessed Life.  Jesus spoke about the sheep under his care, "The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I came that they [believers] may have life, and have it abundantly" (John 10:10, brackets added).  The Greek word for abundantly in this verse is perissos, which means all-around and going beyond the expected limit (more than enough) (Ref. 5).  As believers in Christ, Jesus cares for us and meets our needs.  David, the Psalmist, captured this truth when he wrote, "The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not want.  He makes me lie down in green pastures; He leads me beside quiet waters.  He restores my soul; He guides me in the paths of righteousness For His name’s sake" (Psalm 23:1-3). 
 

     Jesus is the Giver of Eternal Life.  Jesus said, "My sheep hear My voice, and I know them, and they follow Me; and I give eternal life to them, and they will never perish; and no one will snatch them out of My hand" (John 10:27-28, italics added).

The Greek word for eternal in eternal life is aiónios, which means unending, and age-long (Strong's Concordance - Ref. 6).  Aiónios includes the character of that which lasts for an age, as contrasted with that which is brief and fleeting (Ref. 6).  "Aiónios does not focus on the future per se, but rather on the quality of the age it relates to.  Thus, believers live in eternal life right now, experiencing this quality of God's life now as a present possession" (Helps Word-studies - Ref. 6, Ref. 7).

Jesus Christ is the life.  Jesus imparts life that the law cannot impart.  Jesus is the key to a blessed life.  To those who believe in him, Jesus gives eternal life - the quality of life which begins now and continues into eternity after our physical death.  Thanks be to God for Jesus who is our life!

     Apply.  Take time now to thank God for the life that he gives you through his Son, Jesus Christ.

References
1.  http://www.scriptureway.com/home/jesus-is-the-way-to-heaven
2.  http://www.scriptureway.com/home/jesus-is-the-truth
3.  https://biblehub.com/greek/2222.htm
4.  https://biblehub.com/commentaries/ellicott/john/1.htm
(Ellicott's Commentary on John 1:4)
5.  https://biblehub.com/greek/4053.htm
6.  https://biblehub.com/greek/166.htm
7.  http://www.scriptureway.com/home/what-is-eternal-life

This lesson provides a word study of the keywords in Romans 1:16 where the Apostle Paul says "I am not ashamed of the gospel."  

     Consider.  Do you know what Paul means when he says, "I am not ashamed of the gospel"?

     I am Not Ashamed.  As believers in Christ, we should not be ashamed to be identified with Christ, and we should not be ashamed to present the good news of salvation in Christ to others.  The Apostle Paul recognized the world's opposition to Christ (1 Corinthians 1:18, 1 Corinthians 1:23, Ref. 1, Ref. 2, Ref. 3).  Yet Paul did not shrink away from preaching Christ; instead, he glorified in it.  In Romans 1:15, Paul writes, "So, for my part, I am eager to preach the gospel to you also who are in Rome" (italics added).

In Romans 1:16 the Greek word for the verb to be ashamed of means disgraced, like someone being "singled out" because they misplaced their confidence or support" (Ref. 4).  The world thought Paul should be ashamed.  To the Jews "the thought of a crucified Messiah" was "a revolting folly" (Ref. 5).  To the Greeks the worship of a crucified wrongdoer was a detestable superstition (Ref. 5).  Paul kept his confidence in Christ.  He in no way felt disgraced because he represented Christ.  Paul continued to preach the gospel despite the world's opposition. 

Paul encouraged his protégé, Timothy, "Do not be ashamed of the testimony of our Lord or of me His prisoner, but join with me in suffering for the gospel according to the power of God" (2 Timothy 1:8). 

     Of the Gospel.  The Greek word for gospel in Romans 1:16 is euaggelion (pronounced as yoo-ang-ghel'-ee-on).  Euaggelion means God's good news (Ref. 6).  The good news about Jesus Christ is the gospel.  Specifically, Jesus Christ through his death on the cross has procured eternal salvation for all who put their faith in him.  By God's grace, we receive forgiveness of our sins and the gift of eternal life when we put our faith in Christ (Romans 6:23, Ephesians 1:7, Ephesians 2:8).  That is the message.
  

     For it is the power of God.  The Greek word for power in Romans 1:16 is dunamis (pronounced as doo'-nam-is).  Dunamis means (miraculous) power, might, and strength (Ref. 7).

"The gospel is the inherent, omnipotent power of God operating in the salvation of a lost soul who accepts it" (Ref. 8 below).  Cross references: 1 Corinthians 1:18, 1 Peter 3:1-5.

     For salvation.  The Greek word for salvation is sótéria.  HELPS Word-studies defines salvation (sótéria) as "God's rescue which delivers believers out of destruction and into His safety" (Ref. 9).  

Salvation is entirely God's doing, not something that we achieve by works or by "trying to live a good life" without Christ.  Paul writes, "For by grace you have been saved through faith; and that not of yourselves, it is the gift of God; not as a result of works, so that no one may boast" (Ephesians 2:8-9).  Cross references: Luke 19:9, Acts 4:12.   

     To everyone who believes.  The Greek word for believe is pisteuó which means believe, have faith in, trust in, and have confidence in (Ref. 10).

The phrase "to everyone who believes" describes the condition, or terms, on which God confers salvation (Ref. 11).  God confers salvation on sinners who by faith put their trust in and rely upon God's Son, Jesus Christ.  Salvation is the present possession of all true Christians who believe in and put their confidence in the Lord Jesus Christ.  Cross references: Mark 16:15-16, John 3:16, Acts 16:30-31, 2 Timothy 1:12.

     To the Jew First and Also to the Greek.  God confers salvation on all people who put their faith and trust in Christ.  Paul initially preached the good news to Jewish hearers (Acts 13:14-16).  Paul later turned to the Gentiles after his Jewish listeners repudiated the message (Acts 13:46, Acts 28:28). 

The world thought then (and still thinks now) that Paul's message about Christ was (is) foolishness (1 Corinthians 1:18, Ref. 1).  Yet, Paul was neither disgraced nor ashamed of the gospel.  The gospel of Jesus Christ is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes.  Jesus Christ, through his death on the cross, has procured forgiveness of sins and provides eternal life to all who put their faith and trust in him. 

     Apply.  Think about and write down the definition of the gospel in your own words.  Pray that God will provide you opportunities to present the gospel to others.  God will help you to be unashamed of the good news of Jesus Christ and the salvation and eternal life he provides to those who believe in him.

References
1.  http://www.ScriptureWay.com/home/the-word-of-the-cross-foolishness-or-power
2.  http://www.ScriptureWay.com/home/biblical-definition-of-the-world
3.  http://www.ScriptureWay.com/home/the-world-hates-jesus-and-his-disciples
4.  https://biblehub.com/greek/1870.htm
5.  https://biblehub.com/commentaries/pulpit/1_corinthians/1.htm (Pulpit Commentary on 1 Corinthians 1:18)
6.  https://biblehub.com/greek/2098.htm
7.  https://biblehub.com/greek/1411.htm
8.  Wuest's Word Studies from the Greek New Testament, Kenneth S. Wuest, Wm. B. Eerdmans Publishing Company, 1973
9.  https://biblehub.com/greek/4991.htm
10.  https://biblehub.com/greek/4100.htm
11.  https://biblehub.com/commentaries/barnes/romans/1.htm
(Notes on the Bible by Albert Barnes [1834] - Romans 1:16)

This article is the third in a series on the "'Fear Nots' of the Bible" (Ref. 1, Ref. 2).  This article presents the "Fear not" angelic encounters with Zacharias, Mary, and the shepherds in Luke chapters 1 and 2.

     Consider.  Do you regard the announcement of the birth of Jesus as good news?  If so, are you telling others?  Are you rejoicing because you know Jesus as your Savior?

     Introduction.  Angels are active in both the Old Testament and New Testament scriptures.  Angels bring announcements and special messages of encouragement from God to specific people.

In the New Testament, the Greek word for angel is aggelos.  Aggelos means a messenger or delegate, someone sent by God to proclaim His message (Ref. 3).   Matthew chapter 1 describes the first appearance of an angel in the New Testament.  An angel of the Lord appears to Joseph in a dream, saying, "Joseph, thou son of David, fear not to take unto thee Mary thy wife: for that which is conceived in her is of the Holy Spirit" (Matthew 1:20).  

Supernatural angelic appearances to humans in the scriptures often, but not always, begin with "Fear not," also translated as "Do not fear" or "Do not be afraid" (Ref. 1, Ref. 2). 

     The Angel Gabriel Appears to Zacharias.  Luke 1:5-25 tells us about the angel Gabriel's appearance to the priest Zacharias and the angel's message foretelling the birth of John the Baptist.

When Gabriel appears to Zacharias in the temple, Zacharias is troubled and fearful (Luke 1:12).  In Luke 1:13 NKJV, the angel's message to Zacharias has four main points: 1) "Do not be afraid" ("Fear not" in the KJV), 2) "Your prayer is heard," 3) "Your wife Elizabeth will bear you a son" and 4) "You shall call his name John."  Gabriel tells Zacharias that John will be great in the sight of the Lord (Luke 1:15), will be filled with the Holy Spirit (Luke 1:15), will turn back many children of Israel to the Lord (Luke 1:16), and will go before the Lord (Luke 1:17).

The angel Gabriel tells Zacharias that this message is good news, also translated as glad tidings (Luke 1:19 NASB, Luke 1:19 NKJV).  The Greek word for good news and glad tidings is euaggelizó (Ref. 4).  We will see the same word again in Luke 2:10.

Scripture tells us that Zacharias and Elizabeth were righteous and blameless in following the Lord's commandments (Luke 1:5-6).  However, Zacharias does not believe (have faith in, trust in) the angel's "good news" message (Luke 1:20, Ref. 5).  Disbelief in God's message has consequences.  Zacharias is not able to speak until the prophecy is fulfilled when John is born (Luke 1:57, 63).  When his mouth is opened, Zacharias speaks and praises God (Luke 1:64).

Gabriel greets Mary with the words, "Rejoice, highly favored one, the Lord is with you; blessed are you among women!" (Luke 1:28)  The Greek word for favored is charitoó, which means highly-favored because receptive to God's grace (Ref. 7). 

The Scripture says, "Mary was greatly troubled at his words and wondered what kind of greeting this might be" (Luke 1:29).  Unlike Zacharias (Luke 1:12), Mary was not terrified by the angel's appearance or presence.  However, she was perplexed by what the angel meant by his greeting.  The angel responds and tells her, "Fear not, Mary: for thou hast favour with God"(Luke 1:30 KJV).

Gabriel then states the substance of his message to Mary.  "And behold, you will conceive in your womb and bring forth a Son, and shall call His name Jesus.  He will be great, and will be called the Son of the Highest; and the Lord God will give Him the throne of His father David.  And He will reign over the house of Jacob forever, and of His kingdom there will be no end" (Luke 1:31-33).

Then Mary asks Gabriel a very interesting question - "How can this be, since I do not know a man?" (Luke 1:34)  The Greek word for know in this verse is ginóskó, which means know through personal experience and in this context refers to sexual intimacy (Ref. 8).  Mary did not doubt the angel's word.  From her humility and modesty she wondered how her pregnancy could be effected in her virgin state (Ref. 9).  The angel Gabriel replies and says, "The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Highest will overshadow you; therefore, also, that Holy One who is to be born will be called the Son of God" (Luke 1:35).  Gabriel also says, "For with God nothing will be impossible" (Luke 1:37).

Mary then humbly speaks her assent and consent to the will of God.  "Behold the maidservant of the Lord!  Let it be to me according to your word" (Luke 1:38).  The Greek word for Let it be is ginomai, which means come into being, happen, and become (Ref. 10).

The angel then departs, having accomplished what he came for (Luke 1:38).

      The Angel Announces The Savior's Birth to the Shepherds.  In Luke 2:8-14 the gospel writer describes the glorious announcement of the birth of the Savior.  Previously, Luke had described the Angel Gabriel's message to Mary about the conception of Jesus, the Son of God (Luke 1:26-38).  In the verses immediately before the angel's announcement to the shepherds (Luke 2:1-7), the gospel account informs us that Joseph and Mary had traveled from Nazareth to Bethlehem, and that her Son now was born.

The Scripture tells us that an angel (name not identified) suddenly stands before shepherds who were outside Bethlehem at night (Luke 2:8-9).  The scripture states "And the glory of the Lord shone around them" (Luke 2:9, italics added).  The brilliant glory of the Lord around the shepherds during the angel's announcement is unique compared to the appearance of Gabriel to Zacharias in Luke 1:8-25 and to Mary in Luke 1:26-38.  The Apostle Paul reports a similar encounter with bright light around himself and his traveling companions on the way to Damascus (Acts 26:13).

The shepherds "feared with a great fear" at the angel's sudden appearance (Luke 2:9 DRA).  The King James Version famously says "they were sore afraid" (Luke 2:9 KJV). 

The angel tells the shepherds, "Fear not" (Luke 2:10).  Yes, the appearance of the angel was supernatural; however, the angel's message about the birth of Christ is good news, not bad news.  "For behold, I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people.  For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord" (Luke 2:10-11).  The Greek verb for bring good news is euaggelizó which also is translated as bring good tidings (Ref. 4).

The Greek word for Savior in Luke 2:11 is sótér, which means savior, deliverer, preserver (Strong's Concordance, Ref. 11).  Jesus Christ is our Savior because he "saves believers from their sins and delivers them into His safety" (HELPS Word-studies, Ref. 11, 1 John 4:14, 1 Timothy 1:15, Luke 19:10). 

The shepherds considered the angel's message, and then they went with haste, without delay to see the Savior themselves (Luke 2:15-16).  After they had seen Jesus, they told others the good news about Jesus (Luke 2:17).  Then the shepherds returned, "glorifying and praising God for all they had heard and seen" (Luke 2:20).  

     Apply.  Like the shepherds, have you accepted the good news of the Savior for yourself?  If not, then believe that he is the Son of God as described in the scriptures, and ask him to forgive your sins.  Then go on your way rejoicing and tell others the good news about Jesus.

References
1.  http://www.scriptureway.com/home/fear-nots-of-the-old-testament
2.  http://www.scriptureway.com/home/fear-nots-of-jesus
3.  https://biblehub.com/greek/32.htm
4.  https://biblehub.com/greek/2097.htm
5.  https://biblehub.com/greek/4100.htm
6.  https://biblehub.com/greek/3933.htm
7.  https://biblehub.com/greek/5487.htm
8.  https://biblehub.com/greek/1097.htm
9.  https://biblehub.com/commentaries/benson/luke/1.htm
10.  https://biblehub.com/greek/1096.htm
11.  https://biblehub.com/greek/4990.htm

This article is the second in a series on the "'Fear Nots' of the Bible."  The first article presented the "'Fear Nots' of the Old Testament" (Ref. 1).  In the Old Testament, God assured the Israelites, "Fear not, for I am with you" (Isaiah 41:10).  Moses encouraged the Israelites about the Lord's presence with them, "Do not be afraid or tremble at them, for the Lord your God is the one who goes with you.  He will not fail you or forsake you" (Deuteronomy 31:6).   

This article presents statements of Jesus where he tells us to "Fear not" or "Do not be afraid."  Jesus Christ, the Son of God, assures those who believe in him and follow him that we have no reason to fear.

     Consider.  In what areas of your life are you afraid?  With what circumstances or trials would you like Jesus to give you courage and peace?

     Definition.  Unless indicated otherwise, the verses in this article use the Greek word phobeó for fear or afraid (Ref. 2).  The New Testament uses phobeó to mean put to flight (withdraw from), terrify, frighten, dread, or reverence (Ref. 2). 

     Jesus Gives Us Courage in the Midst of Our Trials.  Recall the event when Jesus walked on the water of Lake Galilee late at night to come to his disciples who were struggling with rowing against the wind (read here, Mark 6:45-52).  In Mark 6:48 the Greek language uses a serious word to describe the disciple's situation.  The New American Standard Bible says the disciples were straining at the oars for the wind was against them.  The Greek word for straining is basanizó, which means a tormenting trial, to examine by using torture (Ref. 3).  Wow. 

Jesus took the initiative and came to his disciples during their tormenting trial at sea (Mark 6:48).  The disciples saw Jesus approaching, but did not recognize him at first.  They thought he was a ghost, and they were frightened (Mark 6:49-50).  Jesus said to them, and he says to us in our trial, "Take courage; it is I, do not be afraid" (Mark 6:50). 

The Greek word for courage is tharseó, which means emboldened from within (Ref. 4).  For the believer, bold courage is infused by the Lord and means "living out the inner confidence (inner bolstering) that is Spirit-produced" (Ref. 4).

By faith, Jesus gives us courage (inner boldness and confidence) during our trials.  His presence with us calms our storms (Mark 6:51, Mark 4:38-39).

     Believing in Jesus is the Remedy for Our Fear.  A synagogue official named Jairus came  to Jesus and urgently asked Jesus, "My little daughter is at the point of death; please come and lay Your hands on her, so that she will get well and live" (Mark 5:22-23).  While on the way, bad news came from the house of the synagogue official.  "Your daughter has died; why trouble the Teacher anymore?" (Mark 5:35).  Jesus disagreed with the advice of the bad news bearer to not trust further in Jesus.  Jesus immediately said to Jairus, "Fear not, only believe" (Mark 5:36).  In the face of bad news, believing in (trusting in, having faith in) Jesus is the only remedy for our grief and fear (Ref. 5, Ref. 6). 

Jesus knew that he "had things under control."  Jairus only needed to believe.  Jesus went on to raise Jairus' daughter from the dead (Mark 5:40-42). 

     God Knows Us, Values Us, and Cares for Us.  Jesus said, "Are not two sparrows sold for a copper coin?  And not one of them falls to the ground apart from your Father’s will.  But the very hairs of your head are all numbered.  Do not fear therefore; you are of more value than many sparrows" (Matthew 10:29-31).  English Theologian John Gill (1697 - 1771) wrote, "If God takes care of sparrows and is concerned for their lives, much more will he take care of his faithful ministers, and not suffer their lives to be taken away, till they have done the will and work of their Lord" (Ref. 7, Ref. 8).

      Jesus Gives Us Peace that the World Cannot Give.  On the evening before his death, Jesus said to his disciples, "Peace I leave with you; My peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you.  Do not let your heart be troubled, nor let it be fearful" (John 14:27).  Jesus gives his disciples peace.  The peace that Jesus gives dispels our fear.

The Greek word for peace in John 14:27 is eiréné.  Eiréné (peace) is God's gift of wholeness including peace of mind (Ref. 9).  The invocation of peace (shalom in Hebrew) also was a common Jewish farewell, in the Hebraistic sense of the health (welfare), security, safety, and prosperity of an individual (Ref. 10, 1 Samuel 1:16-18, 1 Samuel 20:42).

The Greek word for fear in John 14:27 is deiliaó, which means to be cowardly (Ref. 11).  Deiliaó is used only this one time in the New Testament. 

Jesus' presence and his words bring comfort, courage, and peace to his disciples then and now.  
 

     Apply.  If you do not yet know Jesus, put your faith and trust in him.  Believing in Jesus is the only remedy for your fear.  If you do know Jesus, and you are going through a difficult time, pray, and put your trust in Jesus.  He will provide you the comfort, courage, and peace that you seek.

References
1.  http://www.ScriptureWay.com/home/fear-nots-of-the-old-testament
2.  https://biblehub.com/greek/5399.htm
3.  https://biblehub.com/greek/928.htm
4.  https://biblehub.com/greek/2293.htm
5.  https://biblehub.com/greek/4100.htm
6.  https://biblehub.com/commentaries/mhc/mark/5.htm
7.  https://biblehub.com/commentaries/gill/matthew/10.htm
8.  https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/John_Gill_(theologian)
9.  https://biblehub.com/greek/1515.htm
10.  https://biblehub.com/hebrew/7965.htm
11.  https://biblehub.com/greek/1168.htm

This article is the first in a series on the "'Fear Nots' of the Bible."  This article presents God's divinely encouraging "Fear not" and "Do not be afraid" statements from the Old Testament. 

     Consider.  In our troubles and challenges of life, God comes to us and says, "Fear not," and "Do not be afraid."  In addition to telling us, "Do not be afraid," God encourages us because God is with us and blesses us in a variety of ways.

     God is Our Shield.  Genesis 15:1 - "After these things the word of the Lord came to Abram in a vision, saying, 'Do not be afraid, Abram. I am your shield, your exceedingly great reward.'"  God is our protector and defense.

     God Blesses His People.  Genesis 26:24 - "And the Lord appeared to him* the same night and said, 'I am the God of your father Abraham; do not fear, for I am with you. I will bless you and multiply your descendants for My servant Abraham’s sake.'"
* Isaac, Abraham's son

The Merriam-Webster Dictionary defines bless as invoke divine care, confer prosperity, protect, and endow with favor (Ref. 1).

     God Saves His People.  When the Egyptian army was about to overtake the Israelites, and immediately before God divided the sea, Moses said to the Israelites, "Do not be afraid. Stand still, and see the salvation of the Lord, which He will accomplish for you today..." (Exodus 14:13). 

When the Moabites and Ammonites came to make war against Jehoshaphat, the Spirit of the Lord came upon Jahaziel and he spoke to the Israelites (2 Chronicles 20:14).  "You will not need to fight in this battle. Position yourselves, stand still and see the salvation of the Lord, who is with you, O Judah and Jerusalem! Do not fear or be dismayed; tomorrow go out against them, for the Lord is with you" (2 Chronicles 20:17).

The Hebrew word for salvation in Exodus 14:13 and 2 Chronicles 20:17 is yeshuah, pronounced yesh-oo'-aw (Ref. 2).  Yeshua also is the modern Hebrew name for Jesus of Nazareth (Ref. 3).  In English, the name Yeshua is extensively used by followers of Messianic Judaism (Ref. 3). 

     God Never Fails or Forsakes His People.  In Moses' last counsel to all the Israelite people, Moses said, "Be strong and courageous, do not be afraid or tremble at them, for the Lord your God is the one who goes with you. He will not fail you or forsake you" (Deuteronomy 31:1, 6). 

Moses then said to his successor, Joshua, "The Lord is the one who goes ahead of you; He will be with you. He will not fail you or forsake you. Do not fear or be dismayed" (Deuteronomy 31:8).

     God Strengthens Us, Helps Us, and Supports Us.  Isaiah 41:10 - "Fear not, for I am with you; Be not dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you, Yes, I will help you, I will uphold you with My righteous right hand."

    God is Our Companion in Trials.  Isaiah 43:1-2 - "Fear not, for I have redeemed you; I have called you by your name; You are Mine.  When you pass through the waters, I will be with you;  And through the rivers, they shall not overflow you.  When you walk through the fire, you shall not be burned, Nor shall the flame scorch you." 

God indeed has redeemed his people.  The Hebrew word for redeem is gaal, which means to act as a kinsman and to buy back a relative's property (Ref. 4).

God has already demonstrated that his promises in Isaiah 43:1-2 are true.  God parted the sea for the Israelites to pass through on dry land (Exodus 14:15-16).  God caused the Jordan River to rise up in a heap so it would not overflow the Israelites when they crossed on dry ground (Joshua 3:13-17).  Recall that King Nebuchadnezzar had Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-Nego cast into the blazing furnace of fire because they would not serve Nebuchadnezzar's gods (Daniel 3:16-20).  Scripture tells us that King Nebuchadnezzar saw in the fire a divine companion that God provided to be with Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-Nego during their trial.  "'Look!' he answered, 'I see four men loose, walking in the midst of the fire; and they are not hurt, and the form of the fourth is like the Son of God'" (Daniel 3:25). 

     Apply.  How do you need God's encouragement today to "Fear not" or "Do not be afraid"?  Claim God's promises to be present with you, to bless you, to strengthen you, and to give you courage.

References 
1.  https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/bless
2.  https://biblehub.com/hebrew/3444.htm
3.  https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Yeshua
4.  https://biblehub.com/hebrew/1350.htm

This article explains the Apostle Paul's exhortation to the Corinthian church to be alert, stand firm in the faith, act like men, be strong, and be loving (1 Corinthians 16:13-14).

     Consider.  In what areas of your personal life today are you being challenged to stand firm in your faith in Christ?  In what areas do you believe the church of Christ today needs to stand firm against the attacks of the enemy? 

     Introduction.  The Apostle Paul concludes his letter to the Corinthian church with a concise and sharp series of exhortations.  The first four exhortations in 1 Corinthians 16:13 - be alert (be watchful), stand firm in the faith, act like men (be courageous), and be strong - are like "pistol shots" or shouted military commands (Ref. 1).  In contrast, the last exhortation in 1 Corinthians 16:14 - "Let all that you do be done in love" - is more gentle.

Paul loved the church at Corinth, and he spent much time teaching them (Acts 18:1, 5, 11).  Even though Paul loved them and had taught them about Christ, he was concerned that they were "schismatic and factious," "ill-grounded in regard to very fundamental doctrines of the faith," undisciplined, and incapacitated for "vigorous warfare" (Ref. 1).  Paul includes these sharp and emotional exhortations at the end of his letter to help them preserve their souls and to stand firm against the enemies of truth.

     Be on the alert.  The Greek word for be on the alert is grégoreó.  Grégoreó means literally, stay awake, and figuratively, be vigilant, responsible, and watchful (Ref. 2).  Paul's exhortation to the Corinthian church (to be alert, watchful) applies equally to us as believers in Christ today.  Paul urged the Corinthian church to guard constantly against evils such as dissension, erroneous doctrine, false teaching, and temptations, "lest the enemies of truth and of holiness should steal upon them and surprise them" (Ref. 3).  "They were to watch with the same vigilance that is required of a sentinel who guards a camp, lest an enemy should suddenly come upon them, and surprise the camp when the army was locked in sleep" (Ref. 3).

     Stand firm in the faith.  The Greek word for stand firm in 1 Corinthians 16:13 is stékó which means to persist, persevere, and stand fast (Ref. 4).  The Greek word for faith is pistis which means belief, trust, faith, and confidence (Ref. 5).  As believers in Christ, in addition to being watchful, we are to stand firm in the faith - that is, stand firm in our belief, trust, and confidence in Christ and in the word of God.  I suggest these examples for standing firm in the faith:

• Believing in and defending the absolute truths of the Bible (for example, Christ's sacrificial death for our sins and his resurrection (1 Corinthians 15:1-4).  Another example - believing in and relying upon the inspiration and authority of the Bible - "All Scripture is inspired by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, for training in righteousness; so that the man of God may be adequate, equipped for every good work" (2 Timothy 3:16-17).
• Maintaining full confidence in our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ - we are able to stand firm because of who we trust (Jesus Christ).  David wrote, "My help comes from the Lord, Who made heaven and earth" (Psalm 121:2).  Paul wrote, "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me" (Philippians 4:13). 
• Remaining faithful to God when we encounter temptation (James 1:12-15, 1 Corinthians 10:13).  David wrote, "How can a young man keep his way pure?  By keeping it according to Your word" (Psalm 119:9).
• Trusting God through distress and affliction - "Many are the afflictions of the righteous, But the Lord delivers him out of them all" (Psalm 34:19).
• Holding our ground and opposing the attempts of those who compromise Biblical standards to mimic worldly culture.  In contrast to imitating the world and compromising with the world, Jesus said that we are to be salt and light (Matthew 5:13-16).  The Apostle John wrote, "Do not love the world nor the things in the world.  If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him" (1 John 2:15, Ref. 6).
  
  

     Act like men (be courageous and brave).  Paul  uses the Greek word andrizó, which the 1995 New American Standard Bible translates as act like men (Ref. 7).  Andrizó means "properly, to act as a full-grown, mature man; (figuratively) to be responsible and courageous by taking the initiatives God reveals through faith" (HELPS Word-studies, Ref. 8).  Note the connection in the Greek definition between God providing the Christian believer faith and the Christian believer being courageous and brave to stand firm.  The Greek word andrizó (act like men) occurs only once in the New Testament - here in 1 Corinthians 16:13 (Englishman's Concordance, Ref. 8). 

Paul's message applies to both male and female believers today.  We are to be spiritually mature, courageous, and brave as we stand firm in the faith.

     Be strong.  In 1 Corinthians 16:13 Paul uses an unusual word which is translated as be strong.  The Greek word used here for be strong is krataioó.  Krataioó (be strong) means to prevail by God's dominating strength working in the believer through faith (Ref. 9).  Paul uses the same Greek word krataioó in his prayer for the church at Ephesus.  "For this reason I bow my knees before the Father, from whom every family in heaven and on earth derives its name, that He would grant you, according to the riches of His glory, to be strengthened with power through His Spirit in the inner man ..." (Ephesians 3:14-16, italics added).

     Let all that you do be done in love.  Paul transitions from the captain's words of command in 1 Corinthians 16:13 to the gentler exhortation, "Let all that you do be done in love" (1 Corinthians 16:14).  The Greek word for love in this verse is agapé, which means divine love (what God prefers) (Ref. 10).  As believers in the Lord Jesus Christ, when we stand firm in the faith, we are to show God's divine love to others in everything that we say and do.  Paul describes the love we are to show others when he wrote, "Love is patient, love is kind and is not jealous; love does not brag and is not arrogant, does not act unbecomingly; it does not seek its own, is not provoked, does not take into account a wrong suffered ..." (1 Corinthians 13:4-5). 

     Apply.  In what area of your personal life do you need God's strength to help you stand firm?  What can you do to help the church of Christ today to stand firm against the enemies of God's truth?

References
1.  https://biblehub.com/commentaries/maclaren/1_corinthians/16.htm
2.  https://biblehub.com/greek/1127.htm
3.  https://biblehub.com/commentaries/barnes/1_corinthians/16.htm
4.  https://biblehub.com/greek/4739.htm
5.  https://biblehub.com/greek/4102.htm
6.  http://www.ScriptureWay.com/home/do-not-love-the-world
7.  https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=1+Corinthians+16%3A13&version=NASB
8.  https://biblehub.com/greek/407.htm
9.  https://biblehub.com/greek/2901.htm
10.  https://biblehub.com/greek/26.htm

"When the storms of life are raging, Stand by me (stand by me);
When the storms of life are raging, Stand by me (stand by me);
When the world is tossing me Like a ship upon the sea
Thou who rulest wind and water, Stand by me (stand by me)."
-- Charles Albert Tindley, 1905

This article describes the background and scripture allusions for the gospel hymn, "Stand by Me," by Rev. Dr. Charles A. Tindley.

     Consider.  Are you going through a personal storm today?  The same Jesus who rebuked the wind and said to the sea, "Hush, be still," can calm your personal storms.

     Hymn Author and Composer.  The Reverend Dr. Charles Albert Tindley (1851-1933) was an American Methodist minister and was one of the founding fathers of American gospel music (Ref. 1, Ref. 2).  He was the son of a slave, and he taught himself to read and write.  After the American Civil War he moved to Philadelphia as a young person where he found employment as a hod carrier (brick carrier) (Ref. 1).  He and his wife Daisy attended the Bainbridge Street Methodist Episcopal Church in Philadelphia where Charles became the sexton (janitor) (Ref. 1, Ref. 3).

Tindley was never able to go to school (Ref. 1).  He was self-taught, never graduating from college or seminary, yet he acquired and read more than 8,000 books (Ref. 4).  Tindley learned Hebrew through the help of a Philadelphia synagogue, and he learned Greek by taking a correspondence course through the Boston Theological School.  Tindley qualified for ordination in the Methodist Episcopal Church by examination (Ref. 1).  After serving churches in Delaware, New Jersey, and Maryland, Tindley later became the pastor at the same church in Philadelphia where he had been a janitor (Ref. 1, Ref. 4).  Under his leadership and powerful preaching, the multi-racial congregation grew from 130 members to more than 10,000 members (Ref. 1, Ref. 3).  Tindley was awarded honorary Doctor of Divinity degrees by Bennett College (North Carolina) and Morgan College (Maryland) (Ref. 1).

Life was not easy for people in the northeastern United States at the turn of the 20th century.  The area near Tindley's church was economically depressed, especially for African Americans during this time (Ref. 4).  The hymn "Stand By Me" speaks to the difficulties that many of Tindley's parishioners faced (Ref. 4). 

Charles A. Tindley composed and published over 40 gospel songs (Ref. 1, Ref. 2).  His best-known gospel songs include "Stand by Me" (Ref. 5), "Leave it There" (Ref. 6), and "We'll Understand It Better By and By" (Ref. 7).  His song, "I’ll Ov­er­come Some Day" (Ref. 8) was the ba­sis for the Am­er­i­can civ­il rights an­them "We Shall Ov­er­come," pop­u­lar­ized in the 1960s (Ref. 2).   

     "Stand By Me" Scripture Allusions.  Below I describe several phrases from the "Stand by Me" hymn text and their scripture allusions.  To see the complete set of all five verses of the hymn text, please click either on the attached lyric sheet or hymn sheet.

• "When the storms of life are raging, Stand by me" (hymn, verse 1).  Verse 1 refers to the event described in three of the Gospels where Jesus rebukes the wind and the waves and the sea becomes calm (Matthew 8:23-27, Mark 4:35-41, Luke 8:22-25). 
  
  
• "Thou who rulest wind and water, Stand by me" (hymn, verse 1).  Scripture tells us that Jesus rebuked the wind and said to the sea, "Hush, be still" (Mark 4:39).  In Jesus' early ministry, Jesus' disciples did not know fully who Jesus was.  They were afraid and said, "Who then is this, that even the wind and the sea obey Him?" (Mark 4:41)  God is the only one who can still the roaring sea (Psalm 65:5-7).
  
  
• "When I do the best I can, and my friends misunderstand" (hymn, verse 3).  Rev. Tindley may have had 2 Timothy 4:9-18 in mind.  The Apostle Paul wrote about his friends deserting him when he was on trial.  "At my first defense no one supported me, but all deserted me; may it not be counted against them.  But the Lord stood with me and strengthened me, so that through me the proclamation might be fully accomplished, and that all the Gentiles might hear; and I was rescued out of the lion’s mouth" (2 Timothy 4:16-17, italics added).  Benson's Commentary states that it was astonishing that none of the Christians in Rome stood with Paul in court for his defense (Ref. 9).  However, the Lord Jesus Christ stood with Paul, and the Lord stands with us today through our trials.
  
  
• "When my foes in battle array undertake to stop my way" (hymn, verse 4).  When the Apostle Paul was in Jerusalem, such dissension arose that the Roman commander sent troops to take Paul away from his opposers (Acts 23:10).  Luke, the writer of Acts, reports that the Lord encouraged Paul.  "But on the night immediately following, the Lord stood at his side and said, 'Take courage; for as you have solemnly witnessed to My cause at Jerusalem, so you must witness at Rome also' " (Acts 23:11, italics added).  The Lord Jesus Christ stood with Paul, and the Lord stands with us today to give us courage in our battles.  Jesus said, "In the world you have tribulation, but take courage; I have overcome the world" (John 16:33).
  
  
• "Thou who savèd Paul and Silas, Stand by me" (hymn, verse 4).  Luke tells us about the time the chief magistrates in Philippi threw Paul and Silas into prison.  When Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns of praise in the prison, God rescued them by sending an earthquake which opened the prison doors and unfastened their chains (Acts 16:11-12, Acts 16:22-30).  Consider how the Lord Jesus Christ releases us from our chains to sin when we turn to him in repentance and faith.
  
  

     Listen.  The music for "Stand By Me" will encourage you.  Watch one or both of the music videos below.

• Elvis Presley (1966):  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9Aqu8aLqHcU
• Wyeth Duncan (2010): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v24qf16zP58
  
  

     Apply.  Thank Jesus for the times he has stood by you during the challenges you have faced in life.  Ask Jesus to stand by you, to give you strength and courage, and to calm the storm you are going through today.

References
1.  https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Charles_Albert_Tindley
2.  http://www.hymntime.com/tch/bio/t/i/n/tindley_ca.htm
3.  http://www.dubois-theward.org/history/congregations/tindley-temple/
4.  https://www.umcdiscipleship.org/resources/history-of-hymns-stand-by-me
5.  http://www.hymntime.com/tch/htm/s/t/a/n/standbym.htm
6.  http://www.hymntime.com/tch/htm/l/e/a/v/leaveitt.htm
7.  http://www.hymntime.com/tch/htm/w/e/l/u/welunder.htm
8.  http://www.hymntime.com/tch/htm/i/l/l/o/illoverc.htm
9.  https://biblehub.com/commentaries/benson/2_timothy/4.htm

This lesson is the fourth and final lesson in the series about the "Children of God" (Ref. 1, Ref. 2, Ref. 3).  This article explains the nature and benefits of our adoption as children of God.  This article also describes the Roman adoption process.  If you are not sure that you are a child of God, please refer first to the article, "Becoming a Child of God" (John 1:12-13, Ref. 1).

     Consider.  As an adopted child of God, how would you describe your relationship with your heavenly Father?  What do you consider to be the benefits of being a child of God?

     Definition.  Let's begin by examining the definition of adoption.  The Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary defines adopt as "to take by choice into a relationship, especially: to take voluntarily (a child of other parents) as one's own child" (Ref. 4).

The Greek word for adoption in the New Testament is huiothesia (Ref. 5).  The word huiothesia is a combination of two words, hyiós ("son") and títhēmi ("to place") – "properly, sonship (legally made a son); adoption" (Ref. 5).  The word adoption (huiothesia) occurs five times in the New Testament (Romans 8:15, Romans 8:23, Romans 9:4, Galatians 4:5, Ephesians 1:5, Ref. 5). 

     Roman Adoption - Process.  In ancient Rome, adoption of boys was a fairly common procedure, particularly in the upper senatorial class (Ref. 6).  Every senator's duty was to produce sons to inherit the estate, family name, and political tradition.  Roman families typically restricted their families to three children.  For families with too many sons and the ones with no boys at all, adoption was the only solution (Ref. 6).  Augustus, the first emperor of the Roman Empire, is possibly the most famous example of an adopted son in ancient Rome (Ref. 6, Luke 2:1).

In Roman society, accomplishing an adoption began with the process where the father sold his child to the adopting father twice and bought back his child twice.  On the third sale of the child, the "selling" father did not buy back the child.  The adopting father went to the Roman magistrate and made the case for the child to become part of his family and to be under his protection.  When the magistrate approved, the adoption was complete (Ref. 7).

     Roman Adoption - Benefits.  William Barclay's Daily Study Bible (Ref. 7) describes below the benefits for the adopted person in ancient Rome. 

1. The adopted person lost all rights in his old family and gained all the rights of a legitimate son in his new family (Ref. 7).
   
   
2. The adopted person became heir to his new father's estate.  Even if other sons were afterwards born, it did not affect his rights (Ref. 7).  By Roman law all the children whether sons or daughters inherited equally (Ref. 8, Ref. 9).
   
   
3. In law, the old life of the adopted person was completely wiped out; for instance, all debts were cancelled.  He was regarded as a new person entering into a new life with which the past had nothing to do (Ref. 7).
   
   
4. In the eyes of the law he was absolutely the son of his new father (Ref. 7).
   
   

Now let's turn our attention to the scriptures that the Apostle Paul wrote about the nature and benefits of our adoption as children of God.

     God planned in advance for our adoption.  Our adoption as God's children was God's idea and God's initiative.  Paul wrote about God the Father, "He chose us in Him before the foundation of the world, that we would be holy and blameless before Him.  In love He predestined us to adoption as sons through Jesus Christ to Himself, according to the kind intention of His will ..." (Ephesians 1:4-5, italics added).  The Greek word for predestine is proorizó, which means to pre-establish boundaries or to mark out beforehand (Ref. 10).

     Our adoption as God's children is made possible through the redeeming work of God's Son, Jesus Christ.  "But when the fullness of the time came, God sent forth His Son, born of a woman, born under the Law, so that He might redeem those who were under the Law, that we might receive the adoption as sons" (Galatians 4:4-5, italics added).  The Greek word for redeem is exagorazó, which means buy away from, purchase out from, or rescue from (Ref. 11).

The redeeming work of Christ has provided us (who believe in him) these benefits:

• Our sins are forgiven - "In Him we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of our trespasses, according to the riches of His grace" (Ephesians 1:7).  Like the adopted child in the Roman culture, our debts are cancelled.
  
  
• God has sent the Holy Spirit into our hearts - "Because you are sons, God has sent forth the Spirit of His Son into our hearts, crying, 'Abba! Father!' " (Galatians 4:6).  The word, Abba, is used as the term of tender endearment by a beloved child – i.e. in an affectionate, dependent relationship with their father; "daddy," "papa" (Ref. 12).
  
  
• We are no longer slaves but have become children in God's family - "Because you are sons, God has sent forth the Spirit of His Son into our hearts, crying, 'Abba! Father!'  Therefore you are no longer a slave, but a son; and if a son, then an heir through God" (Galatians 4:6-7).  We through faith in Christ are in full possession of the privileges of God's children - accepted, beloved, cherished, and honored with our Father's confidence (Ref. 13).
  
  
• God has made us heirs - "Therefore you are no longer a slave, but a son; and if a son, then an heir through God" (Galatians 4:7).  Because God has adopted us as his children, he gives us spiritual blessings now and in the life to come.  Through the grace and work of God, not our own efforts, God has given us salvation and an inheritance which is imperishable - eternal life (Romans 6:23, 1 Peter 1:3-5, Ref. 14). 
  
  

     Apply.  In prayer, thank God for planning for your adoption and reaching out to redeem you through the saving work of His Son, Jesus Christ.  Thank God for giving you his blessings and favor as a child of God.  Thank God for providing you an inheritance - eternal life.

References
1.  http://www.ScriptureWay.com/home/becoming-a-child-of-god
2.  http://www.ScriptureWay.com/home/characteristics-of-a-child-of-god-part-1
3.  http://www.ScriptureWay.com/home/characteristics-of-a-child-of-god-part-2
4.  https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/adopt
5.  https://biblehub.com/greek/5206.htm
6.  https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Adoption_in_ancient_Rome
7.  https://www.studylight.org/commentaries/dsb/romans-8.html (public domain)
8.  https://biblehub.com/commentaries/cambridge/galatians/4.htm
9.  https://www.jstor.org/stable/1322384?seq=4#metadata_info_tab_contents
10.  https://biblehub.com/greek/4309.htm
11.  https://biblehub.com/greek/1805.htm
12.  https://biblehub.com/greek/5.htm
13.  https://biblehub.com/commentaries/pulpit/galatians/4.htm
14.  http://www.ScriptureWay/home/what-is-eternal-life

This lesson is the third lesson in the series, "The Children of God" (Ref. 1, Ref. 2).  This lesson is the second of two lessons on the Characteristics of a Child of God (Ref. 2).  To learn more about "Becoming a Child of God," please review Ref. 1. 

     Consider.   If someone asked you to describe the characteristics of a child of God, what would you say?

     A child of God illumines others with the light of Christ.  Jesus Christ himself is the light of the world (John 1:9, John 8:12).  When Jesus said to his disciples, "You are the light of the world" (Matthew 5:14), Jesus described their (our) role to shine with his light, the light of Christ, upon the world.  The light of Christ that we shine enlightens people and leads them to salvation and eternal life.  When we are a child of God, we share the light of Christ upon the world effectively because the Holy Spirit indwells us and empowers us (John 14:16-17, Acts 1:8, Ref. 3). 

     A child of God should have the proper motive in doing good works.  Jesus said, "Let your light shine before men in such a way that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father who is in heaven" (Matthew 5:16, italics added).  We are to avoid doing good deeds for ostentatious ("look at me") purposes.  Jesus criticized people who do good works to bring praise to themselves rather than to God (Matthew 6:1-6).  Our motive as a child of God should always be to glorify God, not ourselves.  

The Greek word for love in these verses above is agapaó, which means to have a preference for, wish well to, regard the welfare of (Thayer's Greek Lexicon, Ref. 4).

     A child of God has the witness of the Spirit.  The Apostle Paul writes, "The Spirit Himself bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God" (Romans 8:16).  The Greek word for bears witness with is summartureó which means to testify jointly, i.e. corroborate by (concurrent) evidence (Strong's Exhaustive Concordance, Ref. 5).  When we are born of God, the Holy Spirit jointly testifies with our human spirit that God is our heavenly Father and that we are his child (Romans 8:15, Ref. 6 below).

     A child of God should be alert (watchful) and sober (free from illusion).  The Apostle Paul begins 1 Thessalonians chapter 5 with "Now as to the times and the epochs, brethren, you have no need of anything to be written to you.  For you yourselves know full well that the day of the Lord will come just like a thief in the night" (1 Thessalonians 5:1-2).  Then Paul says, "But you, brethren, are not in darkness, that the day would overtake you like a thief; for you are all sons of light and sons of day ..." (1 Thessalonians 5:4-5, italics added).

Paul then states a characteristic of children of God, "so then let us not sleep as others do, but let us be alert and sober" (1 Thessalonians 5:6, italics added.)  As a child of God:

• We should not be indifferent (asleep) to spiritual things as are many in the world
• We should be alert - The Greek word is grégoreó which means (literally) "stay awake"; (figuratively) be vigilant (responsible, watchful) (HELPS Word-studies, Ref. 7).
• We should be sober - The Greek word is néphó.  Néphó means sober (not drunk), free from illusion, having clear judgment, and self-controlled (HELPS Word-studies, Ref. 8).
  
  

     Apply.  In self-examination, consider each of the characteristics of a child of God covered in this lesson.

• Are you illuminating others with the light of Christ?
• Are you doing good works to glorify God rather than yourself?
• Do you love all people including your brothers and sisters in Christ, your neighbors, and your enemies?
• Do you know for certain that God is your heavenly Father and that you are his child?
• Do you have clear judgment about spiritual things?

Pray and thank God for helping you to demonstrate these characteristics of a child of God.  In the areas where you are uncertain, ask God to help, strengthen, and encourage you.

In the next, and final, lesson in this series, we will discuss the nature and benefits of our adoption as children of God.

References
1.  http://www.ScriptureWay.com/home/becoming-a-child-of-god
2.  http://www.ScriptureWay.com/home/characteristics-of-a-child-of-god-part-1
3.  https://biblehub.com/commentaries/jfb/matthew/5.htm
4.  https://biblehub.com/greek/25.htm
5.  https://biblehub.com/greek/4828.htm
6.  Kenneth S. Wuest, "Wuest's Word Studies from the Greek New Testament," Wm B. Eerdmans Publishing Company, 1973
7.  https://biblehub.com/greek/1127.htm
8.  https://biblehub.com/greek/3525.htm

This lesson is the second in a series on "The Children of God."  The first lesson in the series discussed "Becoming a Child of God" (Ref. 1).  Today's lesson is the first of two lessons on the Characteristics of a Child of God.
  

     Consider.  The Bible describes the children of God as having certain characteristics.  How do you know a child of God when you see one?  What are the distinguishing marks of a child of God?

     A child of God bears spiritual fruit.  A child of God passes the fruit test.  Jesus said, "You will know them by their fruits.  Grapes are not gathered from thorn bushes nor figs from thistles, are they?" (Matthew 7:16)  A child of God is recognized by the fruit that he or she bears.

Jesus said that in order to bear much fruit, we must abide in (remain in, stay connected to) him.  "I am the vine, you are the branches; he who abides in Me and I in him, he bears much fruit, for apart from Me you can do nothing " (John 15:5, Ref. 2).  Bearing spiritual fruit is the natural outgrowth of being attached to the vine, Jesus Christ.

The Apostle Paul describes the fruit of the Spirit as "love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control" (Galatians 5:22-23).

The first characteristic of a child of God is a person who is bearing spiritual fruit.  

     A child of God practices obedience, righteousness, and godliness. 

• Obedience - A child of God obeys and does God's will.  In the parable of the two sons, the son who did go to work in the vineyard did the will of his father (Matthew 21:28-31).  Note the difference between doing God's will and rebelling against or refusing to do God's will.  Jesus emphasized the importance of doing God's will when he said, "For whoever does the will of My Father who is in heaven, he is My brother and sister and mother" (Matthew 12:50).  Obeying God's will is essential for our relationship with Jesus and our heavenly Father.
  
  

     A child of God is led by the Spirit.  When we are a child of God, the Holy Spirit is our guide for life (Romans 8:14).  The Holy Spirit guides us into all the truth and helps us understand the scriptures (John 16:13, John 14:26, Ref. 6).  The Holy Spirit helps us to put to death the deeds of the flesh (Romans 8:13).  The Holy Spirit guides us in making decisions (James 1:5), what to do (Acts 10:19-20), and where to go (Acts 16:6-10).  A child of God has an active, dynamic relationship with God, and follows the leading of the Holy Spirit in his/her life. 

     Apply.  Are you exhibiting the distinguishing characteristics of a child of God?  Consider the main points in this lesson:

• Are you bearing spiritual fruit?
• Are you obeying and doing God's will in all matters?
  
• Are you practicing righteousness, and not practicing willful sin?
  
• Are you training with full effort in your devotion to God?
  
• Are you seeking and receiving the Holy Spirit's guidance as you study the scriptures and make personal decisions?
  
  

     In the next lesson, we will continue our study of the Characteristics of a Child of God.

References
1.  http://www.ScriptureWay.com/home/becoming-a-child-of-god
2.  http://www.ScriptureWay.com/home/jesus-is-the-true-vine
3.  https://biblehub.com/greek/1343.htm
4.  https://biblehub.com/greek/1128.htm
5.  https://biblehub.com/greek/2150.htm
6.  http://www.ScriptureWay.com/home/the-spirit-of-truth