LHIM Classes

God reveals who He is to His people through His name. When Moses asked for God’s name, the Lord answered, “I AM WHO I AM” (Exodus 3:14). The name Yahweh shows that God is self-existent and faithful. Throughout Scripture, God sometimes adds descriptive titles to His name to reveal how He is working for His people. One of those names is Yahweh-Nissi — “The Lord is my Banner” (Exodus 17:15). When Israel was attacked by Amalek, Moses stood on the hill with the staff of God. As long as his hands were raised, Israel prevailed. When they lowered, Amalek gained ground. Aaron and Hur helped hold his hands up, and Israel ultimately won the battle. In ancient warfare a banner was a rallying point that told soldiers where to gather and under whose authority they fought. Likewise, God’s people fight under His name and identity. Another name is Yahweh-Shalom — “The Lord is Peace” (Judges 6:24). When the angel of the Lord appeared to Gideon, he was hiding in fear while threshing wheat in a winepress. Yet the angel said, “The LORD is with you, mighty warrior” (Judges 6:12). Though Israel was still oppressed, Gideon trusted God’s promise and called Him peace. Ultimately these names point forward to Christ. Jesus said, “If I am lifted up… I will draw all men to myself” (John 12:32), and “He Himself is our peace” (Ephesians 2:14). Whether in battle or fear, Yahweh is both our banner and our peace. Pastor Joshua uses the Bible version NETThe post Names of God: Yahweh Nissi, Yahweh Shalom first appeared on Living Hope.

Download: Restoration Theology Student Notes Recap of Class Journey Covered interpreting Scripture: Primacy, perspicuity, textual criticism, translation bias, literary/historical contexts, application. Surveyed theologies: Biblical, systematic, analytic, historical, comparative. Ended with method to evaluate doctrines (objective rating on how well a doctrine is presented) Addressing Criticisms of Restorationism Criticism 1 (Kevin DeYoung): Don’t interpret apart from creeds/traditions. Response: Luther challenged traditions; Protestants shouldn’t act like Catholics. Traditions ok, but Bible critiques them. Criticism 2: “No creed but the Bible” is a creed. Response: Everyone has creeds (beliefs); restorationists can use them but they should be editable Criticism 3: Overturn historic consensus. Response: Not chaos; Bible is authority. Historic views ok if biblical; burden on unbiblical traditions. Criticism 4: Zipping back to 1st century ignores history. Response: Not ignoring; learn from giants, but Bible first. Benefits of Restorationism Clarity: Methodical approach resolves confusion; evaluates doctrines objectively. Unity: Denominations divide; restorationism unites via Bible. Evangelism: Intriguing label – “Restorationist” sparks questions. Conclusion: Changing the World Restorationism combines inquiry/tech for authenticity. AI levels field; anyone can explore options. Time for disagreeing constructively: Debates, books, gatherings in love. Move toward truth/unity: Christianismi Restitutio. The post 16. Restoration Theology Can Change the World first appeared on Living Hope.

Download: Restoration Theology Student Notes Introduction Pull together components; rate doctrines 0-100. 4 categories: Biblical (8 pts), logical (6), historical (3), practical (3). Twenty-question diagnostic tool to evaluate doctrine Does the presenter show how the doctrine directly follows from relevant biblical prooftexts? Does the presenter show evidence for the doctrine across multiple authors of scripture? If including prooftext with manuscript uncertainties, does the presenter make a case for why his/her preferred reading is likely to be original? If including prooftexts with translation ambiguities, does the presenter make a case for why his/her preferred translation is likely to be correct? Does the presenter interpret each prooftext in its literary context, refusing to make the text mean something other than its authorial intent? Does the presenter interpret each text in its historical context, refusing to make the text mean something it couldn’t have meant in its original setting? Does the presenter account for the progressive revelation within scripture when assessing the applicability of texts to the doctrine under consideration? Does the presenter offer explanations for the relevant difficult texts that seem to contradict the doctrine under consideration? Does the presenter identify his/her assumptions as they relate to the doctrine under consideration? Does the presenter define any terms or theological words that have multiple meanings? Does the presenter express the doctrine simply and clearly? Does the presenter show how the doctrine is logically valid? Does the presenter refute any logical defeaters? Does the presenter consider alternative positions on the doctrine and show why his/hers is preferrable? Does the presenter identify individuals in church history who held the same doctrine? If no explicit evidence of the doctrine is extant prior to Nicea, does the presenter offer an explanation why this doctrine wasn’t articulated in the first three centuries of Christianity? If most Christians today do not hold the doctrine, does the presenter explain why the church got off track on this doctrine? Does the presenter explain how this doctrine does or does not affect practical living today? Does the application effectively bridge the gap between what they did then and what we do now? (comparable particulars and culturally relative customs) Does the application account for the messiness and complexity of life in our world today? (e.g. an excommunicated person can go to another church in the same town, drug addiction, technology) Examples Strobel’s Case for Heaven: 30/100 (weak biblical/logical). McCall’s Against God and Nature: 80/100 (strong, neutral survey). The post 15. A Method to Evaluate Doctrines first appeared on Living Hope.

Download: Restoration Theology Student Notes Defining Comparative Theology Not well-known branch; historically used in several ways (apologetics, world theology, etc.). Restorationist interest: Compare competing Christian theologies/doctrines (not other religions). Opposes confessional approach (fides quaerens intellectum = faith seeking understanding). Restorationist posture: fides quaerens veritatem = faith seeking truth. Why Do Comparative Theology? Not just understand others better; pursue actual truth. Individuals, churches, denominations should do this regularly. Current culture lacks this: Sunday services avoid debate; conferences rarely host real dialogue. Goal: Find space to engage alternatives constructively. Step-by-Step Method for Comparative Theology Identify main alternative positions on the doctrine. Gather best resources (steelman, not strawman): Systematically evaluate reasons for other position(s): Systematically evaluate defeaters against your position: Revise doctrine if evidence demands; invite feedback (debate, send to opponents). Practical Tips Focus on reasons, not emotion or speaker charisma. One strong reason > five weak ones. Conclusion Comparative theology essential for truth-seeking restorationists. Churches/denominations need open dialogue across lines. The post 14. Comparative Theology and Alternative Doctrines first appeared on Living Hope.

Download: Restoration Theology Student Notes Introduction and Purpose After biblical, systematic, analytic, and comparative theology, test your doctrine in the “laboratory of history.” If a belief is true, others likely saw it too over 2,000 years. Massive Christian literature survives: 1st–15th centuries: 5,000–10,000 books 16th–19th centuries: 200,000–300,000 20th–21st centuries: 2–3 million + 20,000–25,000 new books/year Goal: Find doctrinal precedents; legitimacy if early voices agree. Why Care About Historical Precedents? Restorationism is relentlessly past-focused: Aim to believe what apostles believed. Advances ok in uncovered areas, but consistency with early church preferred over contradiction. Full apostasy theory (whole church fell away) not supported: Jude 1:3–4 warns of intruders, but not total loss. Data shows slow evolution toward Catholic/Orthodox forms, not complete break. Historical theology explains how and why drift happened. Defining Historical Theology Gregg Allison: “The study of the interpretation of Scripture and the formulation of doctrine by the church of the past.” Church history = events and people; historical theology = ideas/doctrines and how they changed. Value of Historical Theology for Restorationists Early agreement gives legitimacy (e.g., if no evidence before Nicea, less likely original). No early articulation? Need explanation why not said in first centuries. If majority today reject your view, explain how/why church went off track. Protects against novel ideas; learns from past errors (e.g., indulgences, purgatory additions). Alister McGrath: Historical theology positive (learn from giants) and subversive (shows how theologians go astray). Method and Challenges Use primary sources (original texts). Critical scholarship helps: authorship, dating, interpolations. Example: Victorinus’s Revelation commentary – Jerome edited out premillennialism; edited version copied more; original survives in modern editions. Tools: ANF/NPNF series (with caution), critical editions, recent translations. Conclusion: Historical theology vital for restoration Seek old ideas, not new ones; Absence of early evidence requires explanation. The post 13. Historical Theology and Doctrinal Precedents first appeared on Living Hope.

Download: Restoration Theology Student Notes Introduction to Analytic Theology Analytic theology: Newer field (since ~2009); applies rigorous logic, philosophy, and clear reasoning to theological questions. Goal: Clarify doctrines, avoid fallacies, test arguments precisely. Complements other theologies: Biblical (content), systematic (synthesis), historical (precedents), comparative (alternatives). Key tool: Logic – careful reasoning that avoids errors and draws valid conclusions in pursuit of truth. What Is Logic? Informal logic: Everyday reasoning (e.g., “If I eat too much, I feel bloated”). Formal logic: Symbolic, rigorous analysis using syllogisms. valid vs. invalid arguments Major Types of Fallacies (5 Categories) Fallacies of Relevance: Premises irrelevant to conclusion Ad hominem (attack person, not argument) Appeal to authority/emotion/popularity Red herring, straw man, genetic fallacy Fallacies of Presumption: Assume what needs proving Begging the question False dilemma Suppressed evidence False cause (post hoc, correlation ≠ causation) Fallacies of Ambiguity: Unclear language Equivocation (word used two ways) Amphiboly, composition, division Fallacies of Weak Induction: Insufficient evidence Hasty generalization Slippery slope Weak analogy Appeal to ignorance Formal Fallacies: Errors in logical structure Affirming the consequent (If A→B, B true → A true) Denying the antecedent (If A→B, A false → B false) 7-Step Method for Analytic Evaluation of a Doctrine Clearly identify the doctrine Express the doctrine’s logical structure (premises → conclusion). Identify assumptions and define key terms List main reasons supporting the doctrine Identify difficult texts / counter-evidence Identify logical defeaters (objections) and offer explanations/counter-arguments Revise doctrine in light of objections; invite feedback Benefits of Analytic Approach Makes arguments precise and transparent. Reveals hidden assumptions and weak links. Hardens position against criticism or shows where revision needed. Encourages humility: Logic shows where we might be wrong. Conclusion Analytic theology uses logic to evaluate doctrines rigorously. Strengthens restorationist method by testing coherence and validity. The post 12. Analytic Theology and Logical Evaluation first appeared on Living Hope.

Download: Restoration Theology Student Notes Recap from Biblical Theology Biblical theology highlights differences, developments, and author-specific emphases. Systematic theology seeks unity/coherence across all books. Quote (Köstenberger & Goswell): Bible’s unity grounded in God’s unity; diversity from time, genre, authors, circumstances. Defining Systematic Theology Wayne Grudem: “Any study that answers, ‘What does the whole Bible teach us today?’ about any topic.” Summarizes Scripture in brief, clear, carefully formulated statements. Focuses on present-day understanding for Christians. May use terms/concepts not in single author but from combining teachings. Key Assumptions of Systematic Theology God inspired authors so Bible reflects what He wanted (no coercion). Coherence exists: One divine mind behind Scripture → consistent thought. Possible to identify “final form” (mature teaching) by considering all verses. Progressive revelation means later texts clarify earlier (development allowed). Bible shapes our thinking/categories (not vice versa). Why Do Systematic Theology? Organizes jumbled ideas into shelves (categories). Helps detect contradictions or gaps. Standard categories (traditional 8–10 volumes): Bibliology (Bible) Theology proper (God) Angelology/demonology Anthropology (humans) Hamartiology (sin) Christology Pneumatology (Spirit) Soteriology (salvation) Ecclesiology (church) Eschatology (end times) Bible Is Organic, Not Systematic Scripture grows naturally (like a tree), not in neat textbook chapters. Our categories are helpful tools, not perfect boxes. Rule: If forced to shoehorn Bible into doctrine OR accept less precision, choose Bible. Never change Scripture to fit beliefs; change beliefs to fit Scripture. Practical Value First learned categories → organized chaotic ideas. Allows deeper thinking on topics. Reminds us doctrines approximate God’s mind; stay humble. Conclusion: Systematic theology synthesizes whole Bible for coherence.The post 11. Systematic Theology and Biblical Coherence first appeared on Living Hope.

Download: Restoration Theology Student Notes Introduction to Theology Series This begins a 5-part theology section (5th floor of the tower). Theology = discourse about God (θεος + λογος); broadly any Christian belief/doctrine. Preliminaries before doing theology Pray for help/illumination from the Spirit. Be willing to change beliefs if Bible evidence is strong. Truth has nothing to fear; hold beliefs loosely. Never force Bible to fit your theology (example: never alter 1 John 5:7). Better to live with uncertainty than adopt a flawed position. Defining Biblical Theology Bible is not flat/one-time revelation (unlike Koran or single-lifetime texts). Written over ~2,000 years; God progressively revealed Himself and His story. Biblical theology studies both what Bible teaches and how teaching develops over time. Key quote (Michael Lawrence): Bible reveals progressively; biblical theology traces developments in redemptive history. Highlights diversity among authors (different focuses, emphases, vocabularies). Two main ways to do it: Study theology of one book/author. Trace major themes across whole Bible (e.g., kingdom, covenant, sin, redemption). Progressive Revelation Explained God reveals more and more over time (e.g., OT shadows → NT fulfillment in Christ). Not contradiction, but development and maturity. Must read earlier texts in light of later revelation (final form matters). Major Example: Kingdom of God Begins in Eden (perfect rule). Lost through sin. Abrahamic promise: land, descendants, blessing. Mosaic covenant: Israel as kingdom of priests. Davidic covenant: eternal king. Prophets: future restoration. Jesus announces kingdom arrived (Mark 1:15); demonstrates it with miracles. Cross/resurrection: victory over sin/death. Church: partial presence now. Future: full consummation in renewed world Major Example: Abrahamic Covenant Promises: land, many descendants, blessing to nations (Gen 12, 15, 17). Initial fulfillment: Joshua conquers Canaan. Exile disrupts; return partial. NT: Jesus as Abraham’s seed; Gentiles blessed/grafted in (Gal 3, Rom 4). Land promise expands to whole world (Rom 4:13). Future: immense multitude inherits earth forever. Purpose of Biblical Theology Understand Bible on its own terms before systematizing. Topical/thematic grouping stays close to biblical language and history. Quote (Köstenberger & Goswell): Synthesize within original settings; systematic theology goes broader/conceptual. Conclusion: Biblical theology respects development and diversity within unity.The post 10. Biblical Theology and Progressive Revelation first appeared on Living Hope.

Download: Restoration Theology Student Notes Humility in Application Be willing to change; Bible critiques us. Rules: Text can’t mean what it never meant; same particulars = same application. Application can’t contradict NT elsewhere. Avoid extremes (over/underspiritualize). Application Process Bridge gap: Comparable particulars vs. cultural customs (e.g., holy kiss = handshake). Specific to general principles. Problems Particularizing: Over-apply specifics. Generalizing: Ignore details. Misgrouping: Too few/many texts, wrong combos. Questions If people switched to this doctrine/practice how would it affect their lives? If a church switched to this doctrine/practice how would they implement it? If a group of churches switched to this doctrine/practice, what would the implications be? Are there any challenges with getting along with other Christians, the government, or other institutions? Revise the doctrine/practice accordingly The post 9. Applying Scripture in Your Context first appeared on Living Hope.

Download: Restoration Theology Student Notes Two Steps of Interpretation What it meant to them (historical context). What it means today (application, next lecture). Example: Rom 13:7 (pay taxes) – under Nero’s tyranny. Avoid Time Problems Anachronism: Reading modern ideas back (e.g., Adam’s computer). Metachronism: Assuming ancients were primitive. Historical Context Tools Date book/author. Research events (e.g., Nero’s reign). Cultural insights: Honor/shame, patron-client. Resources Bible dictionaries, encyclopedias. Ancient literature: Josephus, Mishnah. Archaeology: Ur, Jericho walls. Epigraphy: Sennacherib Prism. Geography: Visit Holy Land. The post 8. Interpreting Scripture in Its Historical Context first appeared on Living Hope.

Download: Restoration Theology Student Notes Hermeneutics Overview Rules for exegesis (explaining text). Approaches: Devotional (personal), allegorical (hidden), historical-critical (skeptical), postmodern (perspective-based), grammatical-historical (authorial intent). We’ll be using the grammatical-historical hermeneutic: understand original meaning 7 Steps for Interpretation Pray for illumination. Determine genre (narrative, poetry, etc.). Establish text (variants/translations). Study text: Words, grammar, structure. Explore larger context: Paragraphs, shifts, chiasm, inclusio. Book as whole: Author, audience, occasion, purpose, mode. Biblical intertextuality: Quotes, allusions, related books. Conclusion: Restorationists seek authorial intent.The post 7. Interpreting Scripture in Its Literary Context first appeared on Living Hope.

Download: Restoration Theology Student Notes Challenges of Translation “Translator, traitor”: Lose/add meaning. Every translation is commentary English groove from 500 years – hard to break traditions. Process of Translation Critical texts: BHS (OT), NA/UBS (NT). Formal equivalence: Literal, word-for-word (e.g., NASB). Dynamic: Thought-for-thought, readable (e.g., NIV). Review: Committees avoid controversy. Dangers Individual: Bias unchecked. Committee: Business-driven, audience-specific. Detecting Bias Types: Evangelical (e.g., NIV adds “Son of God” in Mark 1:1). Mainline: Less bias (e.g., NRSV). Catholic: NABRE Jewish: OT focus (e.g., JPS). Unitarian: Removes Trinitarian bias (e.g., REV). Examples: Rom 9:5 (Christ as God? Ambiguous). Conclusion : Compare translations; learn languages if possible.The post 6. Bible Translation and Detecting Bias first appeared on Living Hope.

Download: Restoration Theology Student Notes Introduction Different story from NT; 3 parts: Manuscripts, criticism, examples. 3 families: Masoretic Text (MT), Samaritan Pentateuch (SP), Septuagint (LXX). Oldest Scrolls Silver Scrolls (7th c. BC): Numbers 6:24-26 blessing. Nash Papyrus (2nd c. BC): Ten Commandments + Shema. Masoretic Text (MT) 7th-10th c. AD; standardized Hebrew with vowels. Leningrad Codex (1008 AD); basis for BHS. Samaritan Pentateuch (SP) Samaritan version of Torah; 2nd c. BC mss. 6,000 variants from MT; some ideological. Septuagint (LXX) Greek translation (3rd-2nd c. BC) Early mss.: Codex Vaticanus, Sinaiticus. Dead Sea Scrolls (DSS, 1947) 250 BC-68 AD; every OT book except Esther. Confirm MT stability; some variants. Textual Criticism Rules: Shorter readings, harmonizations suspect. Examples: Deut 32:8 (sons of God), Psalm 22:16 (pierced hands). The post 5. Old Testament Manuscripts and Textual Criticism first appeared on Living Hope.

Download: Restoration Theology Student Notes Tower Analogy Bible as foundation; manuscripts (mss.) copied by hand, with errors. Compare mss. for original readings; critical text in Greek. Focus: NT (OT next). History of NT Texts Byzantine texts: Majority (90% of mss.), used in East. Latin Vulgate (Jerome, 382 AD): Based on Byzantine. Renaissance: Return to originals; Valla exposed forgeries. Reformation: Erasmus’s Greek NT (1516) – Textus Receptus. 18th-19th c.: Bentley– critical editions. Discoveries: Codex Sinaiticus (1844), over 5,800 mss. now. Textual Criticism Compare variants; rules: Older mss. better, shorter/difficult readings preferred. Tools: TCGNT, NET Bible, AI for variants. Examples of Variants 1 John 5:7: Trinity comma – late addition. Conclusion : 29 editions of Greek NT; exciting time.The post 4. New Testament Manuscripts and Textual Criticism first appeared on Living Hope.

Download: Restoration Theology Student Notes Introduction to Bible Series 7-part series: Manuscripts, textual criticism, translation, interpretation, application. Cover basics; go deeper if interested. Two key principles: Primacy (Bible first) and perspicuity (Bible is clear). Primacy of Scripture Primacy: First importance/authority (e.g., diplomacy over war). Sources of knowledge: Perception, innate, introspection, memory, reasoning, others, revelation. Conflicts: Trust God most (ultimate expert). Bible as revelation: 2 Tim 3:16-17 – God-breathed, useful for teaching/correction. Primacy over tradition, reason, experience. Perspicuity of Scripture Perspicuity: Clarity; Bible understandable without experts. Not all parts equally clear (e.g., Revelation vs. basics). Clear on essentials (salvation, morals). Early views: Church fathers like Chrysostom affirmed clarity. Reformation: Luther vs. Catholic need for magisterium. Inerrancy and Infallibility Inerrancy: idea that the Bible contains no errors Infallibility: idea that the Bible contains no mistakes Historiography: Ancient standards differ on precision Conclusion: Bible is primary and clear on essentials.The post 3. The Primacy and Perspicuity of Scripture first appeared on Living Hope.

Download: Restoration Theology Student Notes Opening Story: Execution of Michael Servetus (1553) In Geneva, Switzerland; executed for rejecting Trinity and predestination. Servetus was a genius doctor, theologian, discovered pulmonary circulation; wrote “Restoration of Christianity.” John Calvin had him arrested and executed (burned at stake). Backlash: Sparked quest for freedom of expression; ideas survived via others. Lesson: Past intolerance; now we have freedom to question. Milestones Overview History shaped over 600 years toward modern restorationism. Key factors: Awareness, freedom, access to info, tools, time, desire. Goal: Recover authentic Christianity through dialogue. Milestone 1: Renaissance (14th-17th c.) Revival of classical learning; focus on originals (ad fontes). Humanism: Lorenzo Valla exposed Donation of Constantine as forgery. Led to questioning church authority; paved way for Reformation. Milestone 2: Reformation (16th c.) Martin Luther: 95 Theses (1517); challenged indulgences, purgatory. Sola Scriptura: Bible over tradition. Key figures: Calvin, Zwingli; but still burned heretics. Radical Reformers (Anabaptists): Restore NT practices like believer’s baptism. Spread via printing press (Gutenberg, 1450s). Milestone 3: Enlightenment (17th-18th c.) Reason over tradition; John Locke: Toleration of diverse views. American influence: Thomas Jefferson, James Madison, US Constitution on religious freedom Milestone 4: Biblical Studies Advances (19th-20th c.) Lexicons: Gesenius (Hebrew, 1810), Liddell-Scott (Greek, 1843). Textual criticism: Tischendorf discovered Codex Sinaiticus (1844). Archaeology: Dead Sea Scrolls (1947) confirmed ancient texts. Translations: More accurate Milestone 5: Modern Tools (20th-21st c.) Digital access: Bible software, online resources. AI: Analyze texts, detect biases. Unprecedented freedom and information access Conclusion: Providence led to current era for restoration.The post 2. Milestones on the Road to Modern Restorationism first appeared on Living Hope.

Download: Restoration Theology Student Notes Welcome to Restorationist Theology Christian theology is worthwhile and exciting. All Christians do theology – it’s how you summarize what the Bible says. Everyone is a theologian; key question: Is your theology accurate? How to improve it? Class goal: Think through theology comprehensively and methodically. Defining Restorationism Based on 3 beliefs: Christianity has drifted from originals. Possible to recover original Christianity. We should recover and live it today. Also called Christian primitivism (primitive = good, meaning early/original). Goal: Correct errors based on final New Testament Christianity. Class method: Systematic way to evaluate beliefs. Why Restore? (Making the Case) Example: Prayer for travelers – includes St. Christopher (patron saint), but Bible doesn’t mention saints or praying to them. Shows how traditions add non-biblical elements. Restorationism questions these additions. Reasons to restore: Bible warns against false teachings (e.g., Matt 7:15, 2 Pet 2:1). Church history shows drift (e.g., indulgences, purgatory not in Bible). Avoid errors from tradition; seek truth like Bereans (Acts 17:11). Restorationist Approach Dares to question received doctrines. Slogan: “Fides quaerens veritatem” – faith seeking truth. Not just explaining church teachings; evaluate and seek greater truth. If you believe in restorationism, class teaches method to evaluate beliefs. Restorationists are “Bible people”: Evaluate based on Bible, let it critique faith (not squeeze Bible to fit creed). Class Preview Outline of sessions: Why Restore? Milestones to Modern Restorationism. 3-6: Bible focus (primacy, manuscripts, translation). 7-9: Interpretation and application. 10-14: Branches of theology (biblical, systematic, etc.). 15: Method to evaluate doctrines. 16: How it changes the world. Goal: Equip you to judge beliefs against Bible, measure doctrines. Worth time to learn restoration theology. The post 1. Why Restore Authentic Christianity? first appeared on Living Hope.

Download: Session 8 Notes Matthew 6:9-13 the Lord’s Prayer (disciple’s prayer) begins and ends with praise. o Address God personally: “Our Father in heaven” — He is our Father. o Acknowledge His holiness: “Holy is Your name” — respect and awe. o Prioritize God’s will: “Your kingdom come, Your will be done” — prayer aligns us with God’s purposes. His kingdom is coming. o Depend on Him for needs: “Give us today our daily bread” — trust God for each day. o Seek forgiveness and extend it: “Forgive us… as we forgive…” — prayer involves relational restoration. o Rescue us from temptation: “Lead us not into temptation” o Seek spiritual protection: “Deliver us from the evil one” — acknowledge our need for God’s guidance. o Praise: For yours is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever, Amen. Two Psalms believed to be David’s first: Psalm 59:16-17 But as for me, I shall sing of Your strength; Yes, I shall joyfully sing of Your lovingkindness in the morning, For You have been my stronghold and a refuge in the day of my distress. O my strength, I will sing praises to You; For God is my stronghold, the God who shows me lovingkindness. Psalm 7:17 I will give thanks to Yahweh according to His righteousness and will sing praise to the name of Yahweh Most High. David’s final recorded prayer – 1 Chronicles 29:1-23 Praise belongs to God alone: Psalm 150:1-6; Revelation 4:11 All creation is called to honor God because He is the Creator and Sustainer of life. Praise is not for human recognition, but for God’s glory: Psalm 115:1 – Not to us, O Yahweh, not to us, but to Your name give glory, because of Your lovingkindness because of Your truth. Hebrews 13:15-16 Through Him [Jesus] then, let us continually offer up a sacrifice of praise to God, that is, the fruit of lips that give thanks to His name. And do not neglect doing good and sharing, for with such sacrifices God is pleased. We can only come to God and offer true worship through Jesus, because of His sacrifice, intercession, and priesthood. The word sacrifice implies giving up something valuable. Genuine praise often involves surrendering our time, comfort, circumstances which all seems very small in comparison to the Old Testament. Let us continually offer up – Praise is not occasional, rather it is meant to be a continual practice of believers’ lives. Just as priests in the Old Testament offered continual sacrifices, believers now offer spiritual sacrifices. 1 Peter 2:1-5 Psalm 69:30-32 I will praise the name of God with song and magnify Him with thanksgiving. And it will please Yahweh better than an ox or a young bull with horns and hoofs. The humble have seen it and are glad; You who seek God, let your heart revive. Praise expresses gratitude and remembrance: Psalm 103:1–22 Praise is a personal habit and a shared experience among believers: Psalm 34:1–3 – I will bless Yahweh at all times; His praise shall continually be in my mouth. My soul will make its boast in Yahweh; The humble will hear it and rejoice. O magnify Yahweh with me and let us exalt His name together. 2 Chronicles 5:13–14 – in unison when the trumpeters and the singers were to make themselves heard with one voice to praise and to glorify Yahweh, and when they lifted up their voice accompanied by trumpets and cymbals and instruments of music, and when they praised Yahweh saying, “He indeed is good for His lovingkindness is everlasting,” then the house, the house of Yahweh, was filled with a cloud, so that the priests could not stand to minister because of the cloud, for the glory of Yahweh filled the house of God. Praise is powerful and brings God’s presence: Psalm 22:2-3 O my God, I cry by day, but You do not answer; and by night, but I have no rest. Yet You are holy, O You who are enthroned upon the praises of Israel. Praise can bring deliverance and spiritual breakthrough: Acts 16:25-26 But about midnight Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns of praise to God, and the prisoners were listening to them; and suddenly there came a great earthquake, so that the foundations of the prison house were shaken; and immediately all the doors were opened and everyone’s chains were unfastened. Praise will continue forever: Revelation 5:11-14 Then I looked, and I heard the voice of many angels around the throne and the living creatures and the elders; and the number of them was myriads of myriads, and thousands of thousands, saying with a loud voice, “Worthy is the Lamb that was slain to receive power and riches and wisdom and might and honor and glory and blessing.” And every created thing which is in heaven and on the earth and under the earth and on the sea, and all things in them, I heard saying, “To Him who sits on the throne, and to the Lamb, be blessing and honor and glory and dominion forever and ever.” And the four living creatures kept saying, “Amen.” And the elders fell down and worshiped. Speaking in Tongues gives thanks well: 1 Corinthians 14:2-4 when a person prophesy, they are speaking on behalf of God to the people that will provide edification, exhortation and consolation. 1 Corinthian 14:13-18 the word “bless” comes from the Greek “eulogeo” meaning gratitude, honor and praise to God. We get the English word “eulogize” directly from this Greek word. Eulogize means to speak well of. When we interpret tongues it is addressed to God not to men and it will eulogize and give thanks well. Acts 2:11 …we hear them in our own tongues speaking of the mighty deeds of God. Acts 10:46 For they were hearing them speaking with tongues and exalting [magnifying] God.The post 8. Praise and Prayer first appeared on Living Hope.

Download: Prayer by the Book 7 Notes Session 7 – Colossians 1:9-12 1 John 5:14-15; Proverbs 15:29; Ephesians 6:18 Colossians 1:9-12 For this reason, also, since the day we heard of it, we have not ceased to pray for you and to ask ↓ (that you) intention that you may be filled with the knowledge [epignosis] of His will in all spiritual wisdom [sophia] and understanding [sunesis], ↓ (so that) further intention so that you will walk in a manner worthy of the Lord, to please Him in all respects, ↓ further leads to bearing fruit in every good work and increasing in the knowledge of God; strengthened with all power, according to His glorious might, ↓ (for) ultimate purpose for the attaining of all steadfastness and patience; joyously giving thanks to the Father, who has qualified us to share in the inheritance of the saints in Light. The prayer is constructed with three sets of three: 1 Filled with a knowledge of His will; 2 All spiritual wisdom; 3 All spiritual understanding 1 Bearing fruit in every good work; 2 Increasing in the knowledge of God; 3 Strengthened with all power 1 All steadfastness; 2 Patience; 3 Joyously giving thanks 9) For this reason also, since the day we heard of it, we have not ceased to pray for you and to ask that you may be filled with the knowledge of His will in all spiritual wisdom and understanding we have not ceased to pray – Paul’s faith and steadfastness to pray is a challenging example for us to emulate. filled – The Greek word for filled is plēroō meaning to bring to full measure, being completely filled up, saturated with, permeated or influenced by something. Colossians 1:25; 2:10; 4:17; Ephesians 3:19 knowledge is gained from the Scriptures and direct revelation. The Greek word epignosis refers to knowing in a personal and transformative way. It emphasizes not just intellectual knowledge but relational and practical knowledge that inspires a deep connection with God. Ephesians 1:17 That the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give to you a spirit of wisdom and of revelation in the knowledge of Him. Philippians 1:9-10 And this I pray, that your love may abound still more and more in real knowledge and all discernment, so that you may approve the things that are excellent, in order to be sincere and blameless until the day of Christ 2 Peter 1:2-3 Grace, and peace be multiplied to you in the knowledge of God and of Jesus our Lord; seeing that His divine power has granted to us everything pertaining to life and godliness, through the true knowledge of Him who called us by His own glory and excellence. Spiritual Wisdom is the correct application of knowledge. We gain wisdom when we seek it from God. Proverbs 2:6 For the Lord gives wisdom; from his mouth come knowledge and understanding. Colossians 1:27-29; 2:1-3, 23; 3:14-16; 4:5; James 1:1-8 His will – based upon verse 3 this pronoun refers to God. When the phrase “His will” is used elsewhere it always refers to God; Romans 12:2; Ephesians 1:1; and 1 Thessalonians 4:3. Understanding comes from the Greek word sunesis which means running together like tributaries into a river; thus refers to a mental grasp or comprehension. It means being thoroughly familiar with something and apprehending its character, nature, or subtleties. 2 Timothy 2:7 Consider what I say, for the Lord will give you understanding in everything. 10) so that you will walk in a manner worthy of the Lord, to please Him in all respects, bearing fruit in every good work and increasing in the knowledge of God Walk in a manner worthy of the Lord means to live in a way that matches or reflects the value of the One you belong to. Conduct that is in balance with the calling, gift, or relationship you’ve received. It doesn’t mean “earning worth” before God — rather, it means living consistently with the worthiness of Christ. Ephesians 4:1 – walk in a manner worthy of the calling to which you have been called. Philippians 1:27 – let your manner of life be worthy of the gospel of Christ.1 Thessalonians 2:12 – walk in a manner worthy of God, who calls you into His own kingdom and glory. The word translated “worthy” from Greek is axiōs and emphasizes that believers should let their daily walk (lifestyle) line up with: Christ’s lordship, our new identity, and the fruitful, growing life that reflects God’s character. Think of a scale: one side is the gospel / Christ’s lordship, the other is your life. To walk axiōs is to keep the balance — your actions, attitudes, and choices “weighing up” to what God has done for you in Christ. To please Him in all respects. It means living in such a way that every part of life brings delight to the Lord (here: Jesus). Not just outward actions, but motives and heart. Not just certain religious duties, but every area of conduct. It implies comprehensive obedience and devotion — no divided loyalties. 2 Corinthians 5:9 – we make it our aim to please Him. 1 Thessalonians 4:1 – you ought to walk and to please God, just as you are doing, that you do so more and more. Romans 12:1 – presenting our bodies as living sacrifices, “holy and acceptable to God.” Practical Sense in Colossians 1:10 To please Him in all respects: Whole-life devotion – not compartmentalized faith, but Christ’s lordship touching every part of life. Continuous aim – an ongoing lifestyle, not a one-time act. Fruit-bearing obedience – as the rest of the verse says: bearing fruit in every good work, growing in knowledge of God. 11) strengthened with all power, according to His glorious might, for the attaining of all steadfastness and patience; joyously Knowledge, wisdom and understanding prepare us to live in a manner appropriate for the Lord to please Him in all respects. As we live to please the Lord we will 1) bear fruit in every good work, 2) increase in the knowledge of God, 3) strengthened with all power. All this happens according to God’s glorious might. Strengthened (dunamai/dunamis) to be able, capability. Here it is a present passive participle continually empowered. We are being made capable by God. Not self-strengthening, but God pouring His enabling power into us. Power (dunamis) power, ability, capability, strength. This is the same root as “strengthened.” It often carries the idea of inherent power (the potential or capacity that resides within). Contrast with kratos dunamis is about ability/enablement (capacity to act), while kratos is about forceful might in action (dominion strength). Might Root: (kratos) – dominion, might, ruling strength. This word is often used of God’s overwhelming, ruling power that no one can resist. Emphasis: the force or ruling power of God’s glory. It’s not about ability in potential, but sheer manifested might. Ephesians 1:19–20 and what is the surpassing greatness of His power [dunamis] toward us who believe. These are in accordance with the working of the strength [kratos] of His might [His mighty strength] which He brought about in Christ, when He raised Him from the dead and seated Him at His right hand in the heavenly places, Strengthened (δυναμούμενοι) – the soldier in the field actually being supplied and reinforced with that equipment and training day by day. Power (δύναμις) – the equipment and training given to each soldier, their ability to act in combat Might (κράτος) – the unstoppable force of the army itself: tanks, jets, missiles, sheer firepower. The big idea: Paul’s prayer isn’t just “be strong.” It’s: May God’s unstoppable might flow into you as real power, strengthening you every moment for endurance, patience, and joy. 11) for the attaining of all steadfastness and patience; joyously The ultimate purpose of this prayer is for us to remain faithful (steadfast and patient) until Christ comes back. for the attaining of the Greek is εἰς Literally “unto” or “for the purpose/result of.” steadfastness (hypomonē) Endurance, perseverance, the ability to remain under pressure without giving up. More about circumstances (hardship, trial, suffering). patience (makrothymia) Longsuffering, restraint, self-control toward people — slowness to anger, not lashing out. More relational (how we deal with others). 12) joyously giving thanks to the Father, who has qualified us to share in the inheritance of the saints in Light. We pray for others because we have a concern for their well-being. This prayer is rich with blessings God wants for His children. Colossians 1:13-14 For He rescued us from the domain of darkness, and transferred us to the kingdom of His beloved Son, in whom we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins. Colossians 4:12-13 Epaphras, who is one of your number, a bondslave of Jesus Christ, sends you his greetings, always laboring earnestly for you in his prayers, that you may stand perfect and fully assured in all the will of God. For I testify for him that he has a deep concern for you and for those who are in Laodicea and Hierapolis. Colossians 4:2-4 Devote yourselves to prayer, keeping alert in it with an attitude of thanksgiving; praying at the same time for us as well, that God will open up to us a door for the word, so that we may speak forth the mystery of Christ, for which I have also been imprisoned; that I may make it clear in the way I ought to speak. Eight concepts to include in prayers for others: Filled with the knowledge of God’s will in all spiritual wisdom and understanding Walk in a manner worthy of the Lord Please Him in all respects Bear fruit in every good work Increase in the knowledge of God Strengthened with all power, according to His glorious might Attaining of all steadfastness and patience Joyously giving thanks to the Father, who has qualified us to share in the inheritance of the saints in light The post 7. Colossians 1:9-12 first appeared on Living Hope.

Download: Prayer by the Book 6 Notes Intercessory prayer means to stand in the gap or plead on behalf of another person. It literally signifies stepping in for someone else. In prayer, intercession occurs when we bring another’s needs before God—asking for His help, mercy, healing, provision, or guidance on their behalf. The concepts we are studying focus on the very things God desires us to pray for others. Paul often begins his intercessory prayers with thanksgiving. It seems to be the entry point into intercession. Thankfulness acknowledges what God has already done in the believers. The prayer then asks God to build on that foundation and take them further. Romans 1:8-9 — First, I thank my God through Jesus Christ for you all, that your faith is spoken of throughout the whole world. For God, whom I serve in my spirit in the preaching of the gospel of His Son, is my witness as to how unceasingly I make mention of you. 1 Corinthians 1:4 — I thank my God always on your behalf, for the grace of God which is given you by Jesus Christ. Ephesians 1:15-16 — Wherefore I also, after I heard of your faith… cease not to give thanks for you, making mention of you in my prayers. Philippians 1:3–5 — I thank my God upon every remembrance of you, always in every prayer of mine for you all making request with joy… Colossians 1:3 — We give thanks to God and the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, praying always for you. 1 Thessalonians 1:2 — We give thanks to God always for you all, making mention of you in our prayers. 2 Thessalonians 1:3 — We are bound to thank God always for you, brethren, as it is fitting, because that your faith grows exceedingly… The only real exceptions are Galatians (where he skips thanksgiving entirely and jumps straight into rebuke) and 2 Corinthians (he does not have a direct “I thank God for you,” though he does express deep affection and comfort later). • Paul not only prayed for individuals he also prayed for churches. • Gratitude keeps us focused not on what was lacking, but on what God had already done among them. • Paul’s frequency of prayer is confronting. • He schedules quiet time for prayer. • Paul believed in the need and effectiveness of prayer. Thankfulness is not just a mood when things go well, it’s meant to be the constant posture of a believer’s life. Paul writes those words while facing hardship himself, beatings, prisons, uncertainty. So, when he says “always,” it’s not naïve optimism, it’s a spiritual discipline rooted in trust. 1 Thessalonians 5:16–18 – Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you. Ephesians 5:20 – Giving thanks always and for everything to God the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ. Colossians 3:17 – And whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him. Philippians 1:9-11 (9) And this I pray, that your love may abound still more and more in real knowledge and all discernment, ↓ So that (10) so that you may approve the things that are excellent, ↓ In order (10) in order to be sincere and blameless until the day of Christ; ↓ Having been (11a) having been filled with the fruit of righteousness which comes through Jesus Christ, ↓ To – (Ultimate purpose) (11b) to the glory and praise of God. 9) And this I pray, that your love may abound still more and more in real knowledge and all discernment, For love to abound more and more it must be based upon true knowledge which comes from the Scriptures or direct revelation and discernment for every given situation. (Ephesians 1:17) “Knowledge” – is translated from the Greek epignosis that carries the idea of “precise and thorough understanding.” An intensification is implied, that is a deep, experiential, and complete comprehension rather than a surface-level or abstract awareness. 1 John 5:14-15 This is the confidence which we have before Him, that, if we ask anything according to His will, He hears us. And if we know that He hears us in whatever we ask, we know that we have the requests which we have asked from Him. “All discernment” – refers to the ability to judge well making careful distinctions with clarity and wisdom, distinguishing what aligns with God’s will. Such discernment and wisdom comes from God. Proverbs 2:3-6 For if you cry for discernment, lift your voice for understanding; If you seek her as silver and search for her as for hidden treasures; then you will discern the fear of Yahweh and discover the knowledge of God. For Yahweh gives wisdom; from His mouth come knowledge and understanding. James 1:5-6a But if any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all generously and without reproach, and it will be given to him. But he must ask in faith without any doubting … 10a) so that you may approve the things that are excellent, When our love is based upon true knowledge and all discernment, then we can approve the things that are excellent. “Approve” – Greek dokimazo carries the idea of testing, examining, prove genuine or discern after careful testing. It was often used for testing metals or coins to see if they were authentic. To determine what is the best in every situation aligned with God’s will. It has the ability to recognize right from wrong, that which is morally excellent and spiritually beneficial. Luke 12:56 You hypocrites! You know how to analyze [dokimazo] the appearance of the earth and the sky, but why do you not analyze this present time? Romans 12:2 And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, so that you may prove [dokimazo] what the will of God is, that which is good and acceptable and perfect. Galatians 6:4 But each one must examine [dokimazo] his own work, and then he will have reason for boasting in regard to himself alone, and not in regard to another. 10b) in order to be sincere and blameless until the day of Christ; Sincere – The Greek word conveys the idea of being held up to the light to reveal genuineness. A sincere person is the real deal rather than one going through the motions and faking their faith. Blameless – God desires that His children be holy and blameless before Him in love (Ephesians 1:4). This happens in Christ, by the grace of God. The guilty are now innocent, guiltless, and blameless. Philippians 2:14-15; 2 Peter 3:13-14 We are repeatedly charged to live a blameless life. Colossians 1:22-23 Every believer has the responsibility to remain blameless until Christ returns or we die. Our prayers for each other provide vital support. 1 Corinthians 1:4-8 We were made to be holy and blameless by the blood of Christ; however, we have the responsibility to remain holy and blameless by being firmly established and steadfast. When Jesus returns, we will be completely blameless for eternity. To summarize: 1) by God’s grace through the sacrifice of Jesus, when we believed we are made blameless; 2) henceforth, we strive to live a blameless life; 3) if we remain faithful, when Christ returns, we will be blameless forevermore. The way to be sincere and blameless to the day of Jesus is centered in abounding in love that is dependent upon true knowledge and all discernment and our God given ability to do it right. LOVE is primary! 11) having been filled with the fruit of righteousness which comes through Jesus Christ, to the glory and praise of God. “The fruit of righteousness” points to the results of living the right way; and in the context of this prayer, it is a life centered in love. The fruit is listed in Galatians 5 – love, joy, peace, kindness, goodness, meekness, discipline… this all comes from our Lord Jesus Christ. “To the glory and praise of God” – the ultimate goal of this righteous living is “to the glory and praise of God.” 1 Thessalonians 3:12-13 … may the Lord cause you to increase and abound in love for one another, and for all people, just as we also do for you; so that He may establish your hearts without blame in holiness before our God and Father at the coming of our Lord Jesus with all His saints. 1 Corinthians 1:4-8 I thank my God always concerning you for the grace of God which was given you in Christ Jesus, that in everything you were enriched in Him, in all speech and all knowledge, even as the testimony concerning Christ was confirmed in you, so that you are not lacking in any gift, awaiting eagerly the revelation of our Lord Jesus Christ, who will also confirm you…. Five concepts to include in prayers for others: 1. Your love may abound still more and more in real knowledge and all discernment. 2. You may approve the things that are excellent. 3. Be sincere and blameless until the day of Christ. 4. Filled with the fruit of righteousness which comes through Jesus Christ. 5. Live to the glory and praise of God.The post 6. Philippians 1:9-11 first appeared on Living Hope.