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wholewheatonline.com Search Satan’s Number One Weapon ‘Feeling Sorry For Yourself’ People who feel sorry for themselves indulge in the flesh and its corrupt desires (Rom. 8:13). The symptoms of feeling sorry for self include grumbling, complaining and finding fault with others (Jude 14-24; 1 Cor. 5:7; Gal. 5:16, 19-21). Consider the force that motivate those who practice the deeds of the flesh mentioned in Galatians 5:19-21. One thing they all have in common is the fact that they feel sorry for themselves. Before a man robs a bank, he must first think of the idea. Then he must dwell on it (James 1:14-15). He must then justify his actions by feeling sorry for himself; then the act is committed. These people have been overcome by Satan’s number one weapon—self pity. Now take a moment and reflect upon your sins of the past and how feeling sorry for yourself was an integral part of each sin. If you are honest with yourself, you must admit that when you feel sorry for yourself, you open yourself up to Satan. When you allow Satan to make you feel sorry for yourself, he will tempt you to continually justify what you want that you shouldn’t have, until the evil deed is accomplished. The Apostle Paul said that he had learned the secret of being content in whatever state he found himself (Phil. 4:11). That’s quite a secret and this article explains that secret in detail. How can we put to death and destroy Satan’s number one weapon? The first thing we must do is become aware of the different ways we can feel sorry for ourselves. Don’t allow yourself to feel sorry for yourself in any area of your life because that is not accepting the day God has for you to help you overcome. It is not positive, not good, not wholesome, not uplifting, not creative and it is non-productive thinking (Phil. 4:8). Self pity turns people off on your personality. It is the source of sick self-love. We need to train and discipline ourselves according to righteousness, according to the right things we should be doing for God. We need to train ourselves to be content, train ourselves to be happy, train ourselves to study God’s word on a daily basis and train ourselves to pray for others as well as our own needs (1 Tim. 4:7; Eccl. 3:22; 2 Tim 2:15; James 5:16). When we trust in God in all things, then feeling sorry for ourselves is no longer part of our character. It has been replaced by total faith. God’s word admonishes us to be content with our wages (Luke 3:14). Godliness is a means of great gain, if and when it is accompanied by contentment (1 Tim. 6:6). If you have enough to eat and clothes to wear, you should be content (1 Tim. 6:8). Let your life be free from the love of money and be content with what you have. You have God as your friend, your protector, your provider. You have eternal life dwelling in you. Can you see how much faith our brothers and sisters had in the past? Even upon martyrdom, many said with bold confidence, “The Lord is my helper, I shall not fear what man shall do to me” (Heb. 13: 5-6). Let us put to death Satan’s number one weapon. We must destroy it by practicing contentment in the areas of our life that are not now content. We need to continually be on guard that our hearts are not weighted down with the worries of this life. We need to become godly examples to others who are running the race and fighting the good fight. We are either God’s example or we become stumbling blocks to others. We must bring all facets of our lives into the captivity of what Jesus Christ said we should do. He has given us His Spirit so that we have the desire to do what we should, and we have His personal power to help us do it. He has given us the same power that created this world. Nothing shall be impossible to us. So, let us continue to fight the good fight of faith and not gripe or complain, bellyache or feel sorry for ourselves any longer. The time is short. Redeem this time for the days are very evil. PREV NEXT 3 SIMPLE STEPS TO GET STARTED MORE BIBLE STUDIES PODCASTS HOME All About the Bible PDF © 2025 Whole Wheat International

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wholewheatonline.com Search How Can We Be Rich Toward God? The example given by Jesus Christ in Luke 12:16-21 is in the form of a parable, which is a mystery, a riddle or a dark saying (Matt. 13:34; John 16:25; Ezek. 17:2; Num. 12:8). The meaning of a parable is hidden from the wise and the intelligent, and understanding of its meaning must be granted by Jesus Christ (Matt. 11:25; 13:11, 13, 16-17). When you are given the ability by Jesus Christ to understand a parable, then the meaning is almost child-like. You can begin to understand why Christ said it is revealed to babes. The man in the parable in Luke should have been rich in good works toward God. Paul told Timothy to warn those who were rich in this world to be rich in good works (1 Tim. 6:17-19). Even the poor and the not-so-wealthy were expected to be zealous in doing good deeds to glorify God (Titus 2:14; Matt. 5:16). It is a most crucial part of the conversion process. You do the practicing so you learn how to be righteous (John 3:21). Often, people write out checks to worthy organizations, but this does not excuse them from physically getting involved with acts of righteousness (James 1:22). Job knew how the Lord wanted to be worshiped and although he was rich, he personally got involved in serving the needy (Job 29:12-17). We are to use our bodies as living and holy sacrifices for God on a daily basis, and this is how God wants to be worshiped (Rom. 12:1-2; 6:13, 18-22). God wants us to learn to be servants of others, as Jesus Christ was (John 21:25; 1 John 2:6). Christ even said some of us would do greater good works than He did, for He had to return to the Father (John 14:12). This man described in Luke was only thinking of himself. He was inward, grasping and greedy. Jesus Christ was giving this example to expose every form of greed (Luke 12:15). A man’s life should not and does not consist of his possessions. A man’s relationship to God is what matters. God is the one we serve, the one we live to please and the one to whom we must answer in the day of judgment (Mal. 3:16-18). We must serve Him alone, on a daily basis (Matt. 4:10; Rom. 6:17-18). We must do the Will of God. What is God’s Will? It is the good works we do from the heart as happy, contented slaves of Jesus Christ (Eph. 6:6; Matt. 5:16, 20; 6:1). Practicing righteousness daily is easy and pleasant (Matt. 11:30; 25:33-40). It makes us beautiful people and allows Christ to be formed in us (Acts 9:36; Gal. 3:27; 4:19). So, if we are rich toward God in good works, we will not be harmed (1 Peter 3:13). God will protect us daily because now we are the apple of His eye. PREV NEXT 3 SIMPLE STEPS TO GET STARTED MORE BIBLE STUDIES PODCASTS HOME All About the Bible PDF © 2025 Whole Wheat International

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wholewheatonline.com Search The Secret of Perpetual Motion The God of heaven and earth promises a glorified body that will never die or cease moving to everyone who believes and lives in Him. If that is not perpetual motion, what is? The only thing you need to do to accomplish this is repent from a life of perpetual evil and live a life of perpetual good, as Jesus Christ, our perfect example, did. Paul, Peter and other apostles were continually admonishing people to practice being good by perpetually practicing those things that are good (Matt. 25:33-40). Paul also told people, including us, that Jesus Christ is purifying for Himself a people who are perpetually zealous for good works (Titus 2:14). Christ is now ascended on high, where He perpetually does good in heaven. A true follower of Jesus Christ perpetually does good on earth as it is perpetually done in heaven because he is following Christ’s perpetual example (Matt. 6:10). Now if you are not learning to be good by perpetually doing good and glorifying God in heaven by doing good works daily, as Christ did, what are you doing with your free time (Matt. 5:16)? Are you still indulging in a little sin? Heaven forbid! If you are, then you are serving two gods, the god of this world - Satan, and the God of heaven - Jesus Christ (Matt. 6:24; 1 John 5:19; John 14:30). We are not to live to the flesh any longer, but only to the Spirit, so we do not carry out the desires of the flesh (Gal. 5:16). We put to death the unclean deeds and habits of the flesh by perpetually living to please God (Rom. 8:13). So, if you want your wheels to perpetually turn, perpetually do good for God and He will perfect you (Rom. 12:1-2; Matt. 5:48). PREV NEXT 3 SIMPLE STEPS TO GET STARTED MORE BIBLE STUDIES PODCASTS HOME All About the Bible PDF © 2025 Whole Wheat International

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wholewheatonline.com Search The Message of Overcoming The word of God often speaks of "overcoming" (Rev. 2:7, 11, 17, 26; 3:5, 12, 21; 5:5; 21:7). It also speaks of "deeds," which is watered down from the original Greek word "works" (Rev. 2:2-3, 5, 19, 23, 26; 3:1-2, 8, 15-16). These works, which a follower of Christ must keep, are Christ's works (Rev. 2:26). They are the same ones Jesus Christ kept in order to overcome the world (John 16:33). When a believer dies, he ceases from glorifying God with good works and his good works follow him to the grave (Matt. 5:16; Rev. 14:13; John 5:28-29). Disciples of Jesus Christ are called blessed when they die keeping the works of the Lord. The fine linen and white robes given to the saints represent the righteous acts (good works) they did for God the Father (Rev. 19:8). They did all their works in Jesus' name while living on earth (Col. 3:17; Rev. 6:11). They didn't do their good works for reasons of being noticed by men (Matt. 6:1). Jesus is purifying for Himself a peculiar people who are zealous for good works and are turning away from evil by doing good for God (Titus 2:14; 1 Peter 3:11; Rom. 12:21). Paul told believers to engage in good works constantly and that this is something they would have to learn how to do (Titus 3:8, 14; Is. 26:9-10; 1:16-17). They were admonished to encourage one another to love and good works (Heb. 10:24). They were also told not to get weary in doing good works (Gal. 6:9; 2 Thess. 3:13). Christ Himself even said some people would do greater works than He did (John 14:12). Why are we to do good works? Doing good works is how we overcome our natures and live the repentant life (Psalm 37:27). Jesus Christ, our true Teacher, says the righteousness we do must eventually come from our hearts or we cannot enter the kingdom (Rom. 10:3; Matt. 5:20; Eph. 6:6). We must strive and force ourselves into the kingdom that is within us (Luke 13:24; 16:16; 17:21, KJV). We must seize it for ourselves by daily disciplining ourselves for the purpose of godliness (Matt. 11:12). This process of overcoming is very easy and pleasant (Matt. 11:30). It is not burdensome (1 John 5:3). It involves a life of sharing, of caring and of learning to be a servant of others, and it is called the Way of righteousness (Luke 3:11; James 2:15-16; 1 John 3:17-18; Matt. 25:33-40; 20:26; 21:32). Overcoming is how we bear good fruit on our trees and assure that we won't be burned up (Matt. 3:10). Good fruit is good works (Col. 1:10). We enter the good life by imitating God's Way of life. We depart from evil by doing good so we will abide forever (Psalm 37:27). Simple, isn't it? However, it is simply not known or practiced by many people in the world today. Jesus' disciples practiced that Way (Rom. 2:7). Isn't it time we returned to the true faith that was once delivered to the saints (Jude 3; 1 Tim. 6:3; Titus 1:1)? PREV NEXT 3 SIMPLE STEPS TO GET STARTED MORE BIBLE STUDIES PODCASTS HOME All About the Bible PDF © 2025 Whole Wheat International

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wholewheatonline.com Search Mirror Mirror on the Wall: A Woman to Woman Article “Who’s the fairest of them all?” Most of us can recall this familiar storybook tale, where the wicked witch was very jealous of the pure and innocent Snow White and plotted against her. She succeeded in poisoning Snow White with a poisoned apple which put her into a deep sleep. The wicked witch thought she had won, but the prince broke the spell with the kiss of love, and Snow White remained the “fairest of them all.” This is another classic tale of good vs. evil. Satan is like a lion, roaming about to see whom he can destroy (1 Peter 5:8). We must build solid walls of purity and righteousness to keep Satan out. We only have one defense against Satan’s wiles—it is the way we live daily. When we live to please the Lord every day, He is right there to help us through our battles with Satan. Ephesians 6:11 speaks of the armor of God. It says, “Put on the full armor of God that you may be able to stand firm against the schemes of the devil.” Yes, the devil schemes just like the wicked witch. The devil is out to destroy anyone he can, who is living a pure life. Our struggle is a spiritual struggle, against wickedness (Eph. 6:12). Ephesians 6:13 gives us the complete answer on how to do battle against this spiritual wickedness: “Therefore, take up the full armor of God, that you may be able to resist in the evil day, and having done everything, to stand firm.” Snow White was very innocent and pure. The wicked witch’s heart was black and evil because of her pride, vanity and arrogance. The witch poisoned Snow White in her innocence, not being “wise as a serpent,” as the Bible tells us to be (Matt. 10:16). In our walk with God, Satan sets out “poisoned apples” to try to snare us and trip us up. If we put on the armor of God, we will see the traps Satan sets for us. Let’s take a look at that armor listed in Ephesians 6:14-18: 1. Gird your loins with truth. Yes, study God’s word daily, that we may know and understand His Ways and live by them. 2. Put on the breastplate of righteousness. Yes, live to please the Lord every day by performing acts of righteousness continually towards others in love. 3. Shod your feet with the gospel of peace. Yes, every step we take we stand for good and make peace, whenever possible, among all those who cross our path. We are to walk in the Ways of the Lord by being living words of God (Deut. 8:3; Matt. 4:4). 4. Take up the shield of faith. Faith without works is dead (James 2:26). This is a strong shield God provides when we live according to His Ways by being a constant example to others. Eph. 6:16 tells us we will then be able to extinguish all flaming missiles from the evil one. Remember, it is by our works that our faith is made complete (James 2:22). 5. Take the helmet of salvation. A physical helmet protects our head—our brain, the part that thinks. The spiritual helmet of salvation protects our mind from evil thoughts and influences, which, if it continues, will turn into evil actions. This helmet is God’s Spirit, which is protection and helps us think on only good things that please Him every day. 6. Take the sword of the Spirit. God’s word is our sword. When His word becomes our every thought and deed, then we are thinking and living as the Lord, and then we have more power than the devil. We are to “pray at all times in the spirit and be on the alert with perseverance and petition for all the saints” (Eph. 6:18). Yes, pray for our brothers and sisters who are living by God’s Ways and watch out for those “poisoned apples” the devil throws before us. When we live to please God every day and wear His armor it will protect us from spiritual wickedness. “Mirror, mirror on the wall, who’s the fairest of them all?” Those who live for God each day, by living His Holy Way! PREV NEXT 3 SIMPLE STEPS TO GET STARTED MORE BIBLE STUDIES PODCASTS HOME All About the Bible PDF © 2025 Whole Wheat International

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wholewheatonline.com Search Baptism is… Baptism is for your benefit, for your full assurance, for your gifts of the Spirit, for your forgiveness of sins. Baptism is an outward sign of inner repentance. You are showing by your actions that you mean business, that you are sincere. You are showing God in heaven that you are willing to lay down your old life of sin and pick up your new life of righteousness. You are saying you intend to live a new life of doing right things. You are going to live by God’s Ways and forsake your ways of the flesh which are not good. The Apostle Paul told how to do this. He said, “Repent, turn to God, and perform works for repentance” (Acts 26:20). You see, doing good works in Jesus Christ’s name for the glory of the Father is how you overcome (Col. 3:17; Rev. 2:26). Jesus says, the Father in heaven is glorified by good works and this is how a true disciple lets his light shine before men (Matt. 5:16). When John the Baptist was asked by the people what they should do in regard to repentance, he did not hesitate to give them a sound example of good works (Luke 3:10-11). “Bring forth fruit meant for repentance,” he said. That fruit is good works done for God’s glory (Col. 1:10). Good works are not necessary for salvation because salvation is a free gift that could never be earned (Eph. 2:8-9). But the rest of the message, left out by so many, is that good works are necessary for repentance, for overcoming, for glorifying God daily, for edification, purification, for instruction in godliness, and we should walk in them (Eph. 2:10). Jesus is purifying a peculiar people for Himself who are zealous and on fire or hot for good works (Titus 2:14). Jesus is making disciples who will do greater works than He did (John 14:12). God can’t stand those who are lukewarm for good deeds (Rev. 3:15-16; 2:2-5; Gal. 6:9; 2 Thess. 3:13). Since Jesus is going to repay us according to our deeds, don’t you think we had better start doing some good deeds (Rev. 2:23; 20:12; 22:12; Matt. 16:27)? After all, if the righteous, who practice righteousness daily for God’s glory, are saved with difficulty, what is going to happen to those who deny Christ because they live disobedient and detestable lives and remain worthless for good works (1 Peter 4:18; 1 John 2:29; 3:7, 10, 18; Titus 1:16; 2:7; 3:8; Eph. 2:10)? God wants more examples like Dorcas, who was abounding with deeds of kindness and charity which she continually did (Acts 9:36; 10:2, 38). He wants us to become obedient to the faith once delivered (Acts 6:7). He wants us to obey what he commands and receive His Spirit (Acts 5:32). Have you heard this before? If you have, are you zealous for good works? Isn’t it time to repent and believe the gospel and not man and be baptized (Acts 3:26, James 2:22; Matt 28:19-20)? PREV NEXT 3 SIMPLE STEPS TO GET STARTED MORE BIBLE STUDIES PODCASTS HOME All About the Bible PDF © 2025 Whole Wheat International

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wholewheatonline.com Search Condemnation Satan wants you to feel condemned in your life. He wants you to feel unworthy. He wants you to be overcome with feelings of guilt and despair. He wants you to give up and say, "What’s the use. I can’t do it, it’s too hard. I can’t be the kind of person I want to be. I don’t have time to do it. I can’t be someone I’m not." When we say these things, we give in to our human nature and we are held captive by Satan to do his will (2 Tim. 2:26). Satan’s will is full of excuses so we can justify our bad behavior all day long. God wants us to overcome Satan’s sick will in our human nature (Eph. 2:3). He wants us to replace it with His Will (Matt. 6:10). He wants us to do the same Will Jesus did and overcome just as Jesus did (John 4:34; 6:38; 16:33). In fact, one of the reasons Jesus Christ came to this earth was to show us how to overcome our old fleshly wills by practicing only the Father’s Will in our daily lives (1 John 3:7, 10). We overcome Satan’s will, by performing Christ’s deeds in our lives on a daily basis (Rev. 2:26). God’s Will is righteousness. When we practice righteousness for God daily, we are keeping His Will (Matt. 7:21). We are to practice righteousness to please God by committing all our ways - our thoughts, words and deeds - to Him (Matt. 5:16; 2 Cor. 10:5 1 Peter 4:11; Col. 3:17). As we live to please the Spirit, we will crush and suffocate the deeds of the flesh, putting them to death in our bodies (Rom. 8:13; 16:20). We will be worshiping God with a pure heart the way He wishes to be worshiped, and we will understand why Christ died - so we could live righteously (John 4:24; Heb. 13:16; 1 Peter 2:24). Yes, Satan wants us to keep our ways condemnable so we will keep on feeling condemned (1 John 3:21). God wants us to make our ways commendable by happily performing righteousness to please Him every day (Heb. 13:21; James 1:22, 25, 27). Let’s continually serve others from a pure heart, so we can have confidence before God every day and be ready to meet Him when He returns (Rom. 15:2-3; 1 Cor. 10:24; 1 Tim. 1:5; 1 John 3:18-22). PREV NEXT 3 SIMPLE STEPS TO GET STARTED MORE BIBLE STUDIES PODCASTS HOME All About the Bible PDF © 2025 Whole Wheat International

wholewheatonline.com Search What Was Jesus Like? Jesus was a likable person because He was kind, outgoing and gentle in spirit. He was compassionate and showed mercy to the poor, the lowly and those who had no helper. He had many friends, some closer than others. Peter and Lazarus were very special to Him. Many women were also His friends, and He was very close to some of them. Jesus did the work of His Father by proclaiming the kingdom of heaven is at hand for those who change their lives by repenting (Matt. 4:17). Jesus came to proclaim the good life of God. He came to proclaim that when you live this life, you will be assured blessings, abundant peace, joy and every good thing (John 10:10; 15:11). All your prayers will be answered (John 14:14; 15:7; Matt. 7:7). Jesus knew He couldn't change people from their wicked ways. He could not force anyone to repent, but He could proclaim the message as a witness. This message is the good news of how we can get rid of our evil natures by practicing God's Ways so that God can bless us (Acts 3:26). All we need to do is imitate Jesus Christ (1 Cor. 11:1). He was a living example, showing us, by His good deeds, how easy it is to overcome and live a godly life (John 10:32; Matt. 11:30). Not all those who understood His message took it to heart, but a few did (Matt 13:19-23). Jesus was as a salesman selling a good way of life, but few were interested or believed His message (Matt. 11:30; 22:14). Many of those few who responded and strived to enter by the narrow door by living for God each day never finished, but others did endure to the end and were saved (Luke 13:24; Matt. 10:22; 24:13). They were all reminded not to become weary in well-doing (Gal. 6:9; 2 Thess. 3:13). They were told that if they endured, they would receive the prize of ruling the nations of this earth with Christ (Rev. 2:26-27). They would also have Jesus Christ's nature formed in them (Gal. 4:19). Those who continued to sacrifice, by doing good for God on a daily basis, eventually entered God's rest (Heb. 4:10; 13:16, 21; Rom. 12:1-2). Then all they needed to do was endure to the end, living the happy, peaceful, abundant life that Jesus lived and gave us example to live (Matt. 10:22; Rev. 2:26). It's a simple message, isn't it? But it simply is not lived by many who profess His name today because it simply is not known (Titus 1:16). Now that you know what Jesus was like and what His simple message was, just imitate Him daily so you can be an example to others that this is indeed the truth and the only way to live (1 Cor. 11:1; John 3:21; 1 John 1:6-7). PREV NEXT 3 SIMPLE STEPS TO GET STARTED MORE BIBLE STUDIES PODCASTS HOME All About the Bible PDF © 2025 Whole Wheat International

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wholewheatonline.com Search Rejoice in One Another's Blessings Proverbs 8:32 says, “Blessed are they who keep My Ways.” It is wonderful how this righteous Way of life brings many blessings from God. This verse in Proverbs is a promise that will be fulfilled by God when we live to please Him continually. John 10:10 says that Jesus Christ came so that we might have life and have it abundantly. Yes, He came to give us the truth on how to live each day. By living His Way, we are blessed abundantly. As we live this special Way every day, different areas of our nature will pop up that we will need to overcome. In Galatians 5:19-21, it describes our human nature. In this article, I will not list all the deeds of the flesh, but rather point out two that each one of us needs to be aware of and overcome. These two deeds of the flesh are jealousy and envy (Gal. 5:20-21). Years ago, if a friend of mine received something new that I wished I had, I remember feeling a jealous and envious spirit inside of me. I might have even said to my friend, “Oh, that’s nice,” but I was thinking something entirely different. Satan took that opportunity to whisper in my ear, “Why not me?” Just watch children and see how easy it is for them to get jealous or envious of others. A child’s birthday party can be an excellent example of this. One child is showered with gifts, while the other children just watch and lust over the birthday child’s gifts. This is a perfect opportunity to teach your children about the evils of jealousy and envy, and to help them overcome it. As parents, however, we must first be the example. How can we expect our children to overcome jealousy and envy when we have not? Remember, it was because of jealousy and envy that the Pharisees killed our Lord, Jesus Christ. Jealousy and envy are diseases of the flesh, and we can see how important it is to put these deeds of the flesh to death. A friend of mine purchased a new car. Her neighbor told her, “You don’t deserve a new car.” My friend said, “Why not?” The neighbor said, “You don’t even have a garage to put it in.” Whoa, was that jealousy and envy, or what? Of course, the neighbor had a garage, but was driving an older car and perhaps felt that the new car should be in her garage. Let’s look in 1 Corinthians 13, “The love chapter,” and see what love really is. Verse four says, “Love is patient, love is kind and is not jealous!” In 1 Corinthians 13:5 it says, “Love does not seek its own.” Love is not selfish or jealous. Love wants only good for everyone. It does not seek to satisfy its own lusts. When someone receives a special blessing, are we truly, from the bottom of our hearts, happy for them? Or, when we feel the person is not deserving, do we have an envious, jealous attitude like, “Boy, I don’t think she deserved to have that!”? Who are we to judge? Blessings and curses alike come from God. He is the judge of who gets what and when. It’s time to have a pure heart and only be happy and rejoice in another person’s blessings. First Corinthians 12:26 tells us, “If one member is honored, all the members rejoice with it.” Yes, when our brothers and sisters in Christ, friends and neighbors are honored with blessings, we are to rejoice with them. We always need to think only the best of each other and just be happy for each other, because this is how we glorify our Father in heaven. If you have this problem and you see others being honored or blessed, check your attitude, and make sure you do not say to yourself, “I should have what they have.” Take this opportunity to overcome the problems of jealousy and envy, and thus, perfect holiness in that area of your life. PREV NEXT 3 SIMPLE STEPS TO GET STARTED MORE BIBLE STUDIES PODCASTS HOME All About the Bible PDF © 2025 Whole Wheat International

wholewheatonline.com Search Overindulgence There are many forms of overindulgence. It can be with alcohol, food, sports, exercise, sex, money, or even thinking too much. It can occur in a variety of different ways with a variety of different things (Gal. 5:19-21). It is anything that is out of balance or not done in moderation. For example, the pagans of long ago who were worshiping Satan knowingly or unknowingly, practiced overindulgence in their orgiastic feasts. We have all heard of how they used to stuff themselves with food, and then, tickle their throats with a feather, which would make them regurgitate the food they had just eaten. They did this so they could start over and eat more (Phil. 3:19; 1 Cor. 10:31; Prov. 23:2). When we were in the flesh, we were all ignorant of God and His righteous Ways that He desired us to live. As a result, we were living in the flesh to please the flesh, whether it was eating, drinking or thinking. It was whatever we made excuse for in our lives, that was out of balance. These things can become idols, and we don’t even realize it. Idolatry is simply excessive attachment or devotion to anything in our lives. When we are in the flesh, we have no reason strong enough for us to want to practice self-control, have balance or moderation in our lives (Rom. 8:5,13). Then we discovered the truth, when God revealed His word to us through His Holy Spirit. It was revealed to us that we should practice godliness daily by living for God, who is the Spirit. It was revealed to us that we should discipline ourselves for the purpose of godliness daily if we were to be pleasing to God and thus be blessed by Him (Rom. 8:9). God and His Ways are to be first in our lives now, above all else. If we, then, would stop living to the flesh and indulging in the flesh with all its corrupt desires, and only live for God or the Spirit, He would give us His Spirit of power so that nothing could stand in our way. We would be putting to death all those areas in our lives that are in excess. Sin would no longer have dominion over our bodies because of God’s indwelling Spirit, which He gives only to those who are trying to obey Him (Col. 3:5). We would then come out of condemnation because we would be on the path of recovery, reconciliation and self-control (Gal. 5:22-23). Wouldn’t it be something if God blessed a person with every good thing and he died of being overweight, because he refused to tell himself “NO” in that area of his life? Ask God to help you shed a few pounds, and He will do it (Mark 10:27). If you try, God will supply. Continually do what you can, and then God can come in to give you what you are lacking. This goes for anything you are struggling with, or having a hard time overcoming in your life. Learn to fast for God to receive more strength. It is truly a meaningful way to humble yourself before God and ask for His help (Matt. 6:16; Is. 58:5-6). God has chosen fasting to break every yoke, every sin, every bad habit that is holding us in bondage. It is a spiritual resource He has given us in His Word, to draw close to Him, especially in times of need. We were called when we were sinners (Mark 2:17). Living the repentant Way, we can easily overcome everything that exalts itself against Jesus Christ our Savior, our Redeemer, our sustainer, our everything! With His Spirit we can overcome the world like Jesus gave us example to do (John 16:33). Then we won’t be hurt in the second death or have our names erased from the book of life (Rev. 2:11; 3:5). If we endure to the end, keeping Jesus Christ’s works, we will rule the nations of this earth with Him when He returns (Rev. 2:26-27). Jesus wants us to overcome the same Way He overcame—by keeping His works. He even said many of us would do greater works than He did (John 14:12). These are the works that God the Father gave His Son to do on this earth so He could be our example. Jesus’ sayings are God’s Will. That is why we are to keep them if we are to never die (John 8:51). PREV NEXT 3 SIMPLE STEPS TO GET STARTED MORE BIBLE STUDIES PODCASTS HOME All About the Bible PDF © 2025 Whole Wheat International

wholewheatonline.com Search How to Enter the Good Life This may come as a surprise to many, but one of the greatest words in the Bible is repent. Repentance is the ticket to the good life (Acts 3:26; John 10:10; 15:11; Luke 15:7). Repentance is the ticket to eternal life (Acts 26:20; Luke 13:3; Ezek.18:32; 1 John 2:17). Repentance is the ticket to forgiveness of sins (Luke 24:47). Repentance is the ticket to answered prayer (John 8:51; 9:31; 1 John 3:22). Repentance is the ticket to peace (Phil. 4:7). Repentance is the ticket to prosperity (Matt. 6:33; Luke 6:38). Repentance is the ticket to being a friend of God (James 2:17-26). Repentance is obedience to God’s Ways (1 Peter 1:2; 1 John 1:7; Deut. 10:12; Gen. 18:19; Jer. 6:16). To believe, you must repent. To have faith, you must repent. To obey, you must repent (John 3:36). Repentance is the key to the good life that God has waiting for you—a life full of joy, prosperity and every good thing. No good thing will God withhold from those who walk uprightly, which means those who repent (Psalm 84:11; Acts 10:35). The word “repent” received a bad reputation in the past by “fire and brimstone” half-truth preachers who claimed you had to give up everything that was fun. The truth is, God only wants you to stop doing the things that will hurt you or somebody else. Remember, God’s word says true love does no harm to its neighbor (Rom. 13:10). And the person who loves his neighbor has fulfilled the law (Rom. 13:8). Whatever you would want others to do for you, do so for them, for this is the law and the prophets (Matt. 7:12). True repentance, then, is a Way of righteousness, which Jesus came to show us how to live, as well as tell us how to live (Matt. 21:32; 2 Peter 2:21). Repentance is keeping God’s Ways. Repentance is doing God’s Will daily on earth as it is being done in heaven (Matt. 6:10). Repentance is imitating God in word and deed (Eph. 5:1; 1 Peter 4:11). Repentance is living to do good for the Lord only. Repentance is daily righteousness. Did you think that repentance was feeling bad about your sins against God? That’s only half the truth. Your sins are forgiven by God when you forsake them by doing what is right in God’s sight daily. Forsaking your sins by overcoming evil, by continually doing good for God, will show God you are worthy of eternal life (Luke 20:35; Psalm 37:27). Repentance, then, is a happy and a joyful word. It means you have decided in your heart to live for God and to please Him in all you think, do and say, so He can bless you with every good thing. Repentance is turning to God by obeying Jesus’ words by putting them into practice in your daily life so God can bless you (John 8:51; Acts 3:26). So by all means, repent today and begin to live by God’s Ways, so He can begin to bless you for the rest of your days on this earth and give you the gift of eternal life (Matt. 3:2)! PREV NEXT 3 SIMPLE STEPS TO GET STARTED MORE BIBLE STUDIES PODCASTS HOME All About the Bible PDF © 2025 Whole Wheat International

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God of My Life & Provider VO ADDITIONAL RESOURCES: Be Like Jesus Christ What is the Reward of the Righteous? This Beautiful Message Staying Zealous in Your Walk With God Newsletter How to Draw Close to God Podcast Promise of Provision PREV NEXT

wholewheatonline.com Search Understanding the Fear of the Lord If all peoples of the world had a fear of the Lord, then all peoples of the world would be converted or reconciled to God. There would then be one faith, one baptism, and one Lord (Eph. 4:5). There would be no more war because there would be so much love, respect and concern for the welfare and needs of others (Phil. 2:3). What is the fear of the Lord? The Bible says, "The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom" (Prov. 9:10). A better word than fear would be reverence. How do we show reverence for God? The dictionary says we revere God when we show honor and profound respect for Him because of His position. How do we show honor or respect for the one who created us? God’s word says we glorify Him with good works. We let our lights - good works - shine before men in such a way that God is glorified (Matt. 5:16). How do we do that? We walk in God’s Ways by imitating Jesus Christ, His Son (1 Cor. 11:1). We keep His words and practice His sayings (Matt. 7:24; Luke 8:21; 11:28; John 8:51; 11:26; 12:47). Jesus is our example of how to walk in God’s Ways by doing good works. So are John the Baptist, James, John and Paul (Matt. 25:33-40; Luke 3:10-14; 6:33-34; James 2:14-18; Acts 26:20; Titus 3:8; 1 John 3:10, 18-19). Jesus Christ is making a peculiar people who are zealous for good works (Titus 2:14). We were created in Him to do good works (Eph. 2:10). We are to learn to be servants of the most if we hope to be called great in the kingdom (Matt. 20:26-28; 23:11; Phil. 2:3-5; Mark 9:35; 10:43-45). We are to imitate Jesus Christ and the Father (1 John 2:6; Eph. 5:1). We are to walk in the truth and keep the commandments by practicing righteousness daily to please God (2 John 4, 6; 1 John 3:7). It is not hard, but easy and pleasant (1 John 5:3; Matt. 11:30). Practicing righteousness is how we worship God in our bodies. It is our spiritual service of worship (Rom. 12:1). We are to worship God in spirit and in truth by practicing the truth (John 4:23-24; 3:21). We practice the truth when we present our bodies as instruments of righteousness and when we overcome evil by doing good for God daily (Rom. 6:13; 12:21). This is the one and only way to revere or fear the Lord our God. PREV NEXT 3 SIMPLE STEPS TO GET STARTED MORE BIBLE STUDIES PODCASTS HOME All About the Bible PDF © 2025 Whole Wheat International

wholewheatonline.com Search What is the Lord's Work? The expression "the Lord’s work" is often used in religious circles. For example, people say, "We must get behind the Lord’s work." Jesus said, "My food [or My purpose] is to do the Will of Him who sent Me, and to accomplish His work" (John 4:34). By this we can see that doing the Will of God is the Lord’s work. In John 6:28-29, the people wanted to know how to work the works of God. Jesus said, "This is the work of God, that you believe [obey] Me." Believe means obey in John 3:36 (NASB). You must keep Jesus’ words to be His disciples (John 8:31, 51). Anyone who teaches differently is a false teacher (1 Tim. 6:3-4). Jesus said that He did not seek His own will (interest) but the Father’s Will only (John 5:30). Jesus said that if we did not observe Him doing the Father’s work or Will, we should not believe Him (John 10:37). "Check My fruits," He said (Matt. 7:15-16, 20). If He did His works to please the Father daily, healing the sick, feeding the hungry and constantly helping those in need, we should believe Him just because we see the works (Matt. 8:15; 11:5; 15:30-38). His fruits or works prove the Father’s Spirit was in Him (John 10:38). We must keep Christ’s sayings by keeping Christ’s works (John 12:47; Matt. 3:10). Jesus said we would do greater works than He did (John 14:12). Keeping Christ’s works is how we overcome the flesh and live to the Spirit (Rom. 8:13; Rev. 2:26). When we are servants of others, we are doing the Lord’s work (Matt. 23:11). We glorify God daily by doing our good works in the name of His Son, Jesus Christ (Matt. 5:16; Col. 3:17). These works perfect the faith of Jesus Christ in our bodies (James 2:22). Jesus lives in us when we live our lives to please Him. "By their fruits [works] you will know them" (Matt. 7:16, 20-21; Col. 1:10). It is as simple as that. The whole truth concerning the Lord’s work is simply not known by many today. The Lord’s work is the good works we do for God. Yes, it is also supporting this work and helping disseminate God’s truth to others. The true message of the kingdom will be preached and published to all nations, and then the end will come (Luke 8:3; Matt. 24:14). PREV NEXT 3 SIMPLE STEPS TO GET STARTED MORE BIBLE STUDIES PODCASTS HOME All About the Bible PDF © 2025 Whole Wheat International

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wholewheatonline.com Search How Can I Be a Better Person? Written by our Founder I can be a better person by asking God to discipline me for the purpose of godliness (1 Tim. 4:7). When God disciplines me, I know He loves me. This is an awesome truth that not many understand. Let's look at Hebrews 12:5-10—“My son (or daughter), do not regard lightly the discipline of the Lord, nor faint when you are reproved by Him; for those whom the Lord loves, He disciplines... it is for discipline that you (and I) endure... Without discipline we are illegitimate children (not God's, but Satan's). Be subject (serve and love others in the name of Jesus) to the Father of spirits (Lord of heaven and earth over all of us including Satan and his angels) and live. God disciplines us for our good that we may share in His holiness.” Isn't that fantastic? That's my goal. I am severely reproved by the Lord, because He knows I can handle it. It's tough love from God, Himself, but so, so necessary to become a better person. All discipline for the moment seems not to be joyful, but sorrowful. Yet those who have been trained by it know that afterwards it yields the peaceful fruit of righteousness (Heb. 12:11). Hebrews 12:12-15 tells us how to walk in that righteousness—help the elderly, lame, and anyone in need. The thought is climaxed when God says don't come short of the grace of God. This shows that the righteousness performed in Jesus’ name, especially for the elderly, lame, blind, needy, orphans, and widows, is imperative to sharing in His holiness (James 1:27; Heb. 12:10). The following Scripture portion is so comforting to me, that when God reproves and disciplines me, I better understand what's happening and therefore handle each test, trial and disciplinary action God allows so much better. Let's look at 1 Peter 4:1: First: Christ had to suffer in the flesh (the physical state we are in now). Second: We must arm ourselves (be prepared) for the same purpose. Third: Those who have suffered in the flesh have ceased from sin (sin has been crushed in their bodies). Hurrah! Hurrah! My goal in this life is to become a better person by ceasing from sin and living like my Brother, Jesus Christ. 1 Peter 4:8 says, "Keep fervent in your love for one another, because love covers a multitude of sins." There are so many neat promises from God, aren’t there? Now for a final Scripture, look in 1 Peter 4:19: "Let those who suffer according to the Will of God entrust their souls to a faithful Creator in doing what is right (practice righteousness)." Thank you, Lord, for Your special Ways that bring us into Your presence and subjection, making us useful vessels in Your service. I know that the discipline for the moment is not joyful but sorrowful, and I need Your strength Lord, to make it. I must think positive and know that Your discipline will produce godly character and the peaceful fruit of righteousness, so that I can share in Your holiness. My goal is to become like You, Lord, and reap eternal life. PREV NEXT 3 SIMPLE STEPS TO GET STARTED MORE BIBLE STUDIES PODCASTS HOME All About the Bible PDF © 2025 Whole Wheat International

wholewheatonline.com Search The Message of the Prophets The message of the prophets down through the ages was, "Repent! Repent, or you will all likewise perish!" (Matt. 3:2; 4:17; Luke 13:3, 5). Wouldn't it be something if that was the end of their message from God? No one would know how to repent. Some would think it meant cry aloud the words, "I repent! I repent!" and that would be it. Others would say the sinner's prayer and that would be the end of their repentance. They would say they gave their heart to the Lord or let Jesus into their heart. What was the whole message of the prophets (Acts 5:20)? How did the messengers from God tell people they were to repent? Daniel told King Nebuchadnezzar how to repent saying, "Break away now from your sins by doing acts of righteousness, and from all your sinful ways by showing mercy to the poor" (Dan. 4:27). Isaiah said, "Cease to do evil by learning to do good. Seek to be just in all your ways, and correct those who are evil. Help orphans and serve widows who are in need. If you consent and obey, you will be blessed in the land and though your sins are as red as scarlet, they will be as white as snow. Wash yourselves, make yourselves clean; remove the evil of your deeds from My sight" (Is. 1:16-20). Zephaniah told those who would repent, "Seek the Lord, all you humble of the earth, who have carried out His ordinances. Seek to be righteous and stay humble. Perhaps you will be hidden in the day of the Lord's anger" (Zeph. 2:3). Amos, the prophet, said, "Seek good and not evil, that you may live and not perish, and God will be with you. Hate evil, love what is good and establish true justice in your courts. Perhaps the Lord God of hosts will be gracious to you and you won't perish" (Amos 5:14-15). The inhabitants of the world must learn righteousness. Though the wicked is shown favor, he does not learn righteousness (Is. 26:9-10). God wants us to repent and learn righteousness by serving others and living a life of doing good. He wants us to stop doing evil and only do good. He wants us to live according to His Ways, which are pure, good and unselfish. Yes, the message of the prophets of old was, "Repent, or you will perish" (Luke 13:3, 5). This was Jesus Christ's message, and it is the message for us today. PREV NEXT 3 SIMPLE STEPS TO GET STARTED MORE BIBLE STUDIES PODCASTS HOME All About the Bible PDF © 2025 Whole Wheat International

CHAPTER 2 PREV NEXT We recommend you follow along in your Bible being there is a lot of information to take in, and additional Scripture references given throughout, that you will want to make note of. In addition, to really immerse yourself, we suggest using headphones to listen to the narrarted version, to fully expereinece the cinematic style bringing the chapters to life.

wholewheatonline.com Search The Kingdom of God Within In Luke 17:21, Jesus mentions a kingdom of God within us. The original Greek text says, “The kingdom of God is within you.” “Within you” is mentioned in the King James Version, New International Version and many other translations of the Bible. “Within you” is also mentioned in the Living Bible. In the much-respected translation by Ferrar Fenton, it plainly says: “The kingdom of God exists within yourself.” There are some translations, such as the Modern Language Bible, that erroneously state, “the kingdom of God is in your midst.” And the Revised Standard Version has it, “in the midst of you.” Some others state, “among you.” The reason for this corruption of Scripture will become abundantly clear in this article. First, let’s see if we can prove by some other statement of Jesus Christ that there is a kingdom of heaven within that must be entered. In Matthew 23:13, Jesus scolded the scribes and Pharisees for not entering the kingdom of heaven within and not allowing others to enter. The Pharisees had taken away the key of knowledge of how to enter the kingdom of God within—by doing acts of righteousness daily for God. Not only did they fail to enter themselves but they were being stumbling blocks to those who were trying to seek God (Luke 11:52). Jesus then gave the keys of the kingdom of God to Peter (Matt. 16:18-19). He gave Peter the knowledge of how to enter the kingdom of God within—by doing acts of righteousness for God without (towards others). There you have it—the proof has been shown to you that there is a kingdom of God or heaven that is entered within. How then, is it entered? Matthew 5:20 says it is entered by acts of righteousness—doing righteous acts or righteous deeds. The Pharisees were no longer practicing righteousness to enter the kingdom within, but rather, they were practicing righteousness to be seen of men. Jesus sternly warned those who would follow Him to be careful not to fall into that deadly trap when they practiced righteousness (Matt. 6:1). In Matthew 9:13 and 12:7, Jesus told the Pharisees that they were lacking in knowledge. The answer showing what they were lacking is found in Psalm 106:3: How blessed are those who practice charity (honesty and justice) and practice righteousness towards others at all times (Prov. 21:3). To do (practice) righteousness and charity (justice) towards others is desired by the Lord rather than sacrifice. This is how a person becomes obedient to the faith of our Lord. This is the narrow Way that few find (Matt. 7:14). The Pharisees had lost the keys to the kingdom—the knowledge of how to repent daily and enter the kingdom of God within by performing acts of righteousness towards others daily to be obedient to the faith (Acts 6:7). But some of the Pharisees were in error—they were practicing self-righteous works. The very same is true for millions today who profess His name but deny Him daily by continuing to be worthless for any good deeds for God (Titus 1:16). Dorcas, who was a true disciple of Jesus Christ, was abounding with deeds of kindness and charity, which she continually did towards others for the Lord (Acts 9:36). All of Jesus’ true disciples and followers were entering the kingdom within by practicing righteousness from without. They were persevering (continually doing good) because they sought for glory and honor and immortality (Rom. 2:7). This is how you obey the truth (Rom. 2:8-10). How many who profess Jesus Christ today are aware of this (John 3:21)? The truth is something you must practice daily (1 John 3:10). And that truth is simply doing good for God daily by putting Jesus’ words into practice (John 8:51). If you continue to walk in your old way of life, you are not practicing the truth daily and you will die (1 John 1:6; Rom. 8:13). If we live like Jesus gave us example to live by practicing righteousness, not only does Jesus’ blood cover our transgressions, but we will truly be born again (1 John 2:29; 1:7). The followers of Jesus Christ were not ignorant. They knew that only those who did good daily for God were of God (3 John 11). And those who wouldn’t practice righteousness for God daily remained of the devil (1 John 3:10; John 3:21). Now you can clearly understand why people incorrectly translate “the kingdom of God is among you” or “in your midst” instead of “within you.” It is because they knew they had not entered that “kingdom of God within.” It condemned them! Jesus has a new nature waiting for you if you do not grow weary in doing good daily to please Him (2 Thess. 3:13; Gal. 6:9). In due time, we will reap that new nature if we don’t get weary in well-doing (Gal. 6:9). We will then be a new creature or creation (Gal. 6:15). Jesus wants to reveal His new nature in you, but in order to do that you must be tested, and you must suffer a little, while you continue to practice doing what is right in God’s sight (1 Peter 4:12; 5:10; 1 John 3:22). Here you have it, if you have been given eyes to see: 1) The kingdom of heaven is within you. 2) You enter it by disciplining yourself to practice righteousness daily towards others for God. 3) Your righteousness must exceed the righteousness of the Pharisees. Until you do the Will of God, which is righteousness, from your heart, you simply will not enter His kingdom (Eph. 6:6; Matt. 5:20). This is how Christ’s nature is formed in you (Gal. 4:19). This is how you enter the kingdom of heaven within (Matt. 7:21). This is how you overcome your evil nature by keeping Jesus’ works and endure to the end (Rev. 2:26). This is how you put to death the deeds of the body so you will live forever (Rom. 8:12-13). This is how you discipline yourself for the purpose of godliness and thus, force your way into that kingdom within (Luke 16:16; 1 Tim. 4:7; 1 Cor. 9:24-27; Heb. 12:1; 1 Tim. 4:8). God will then reveal His nature in you (Rom. 8:18). He wants you to become a partaker of His divine nature (2 Peter 1:4). You now have the truth and you have been given the keys to the kingdom so you, too, can enter it. Study God’s word daily and the Spirit of Jesus will guide you into all truth, as it is happening and continues to happen to all those who are called of God. It is time that millions of professing Christians who are on the broad way know the truth about the narrow Way that few find (Matt. 7:13-14). You simply must do good daily to be good daily, and learn righteousness by practicing righteousness daily for the Lord (Is. 1:16-17; Titus 3:14; Ezek. 33:31-33; Is. 26:10). PREV NEXT 3 SIMPLE STEPS TO GET STARTED MORE BIBLE STUDIES PODCASTS HOME All About the Bible PDF © 2025 Whole Wheat International

"If you say the sinner's prayer you are born again." MISCONCEPTION: You must be born again, quoting John 3:3. This is true, but only half true, because the explanation of how to be born again is not taught. THE TRUTH IS: If you know that He is righteous, you know that everyone also who practices righteousness is born of Him says 1 John 2:29. This Scripture clearly states that you must practice righteousness toward others daily, as Jesus Christ told us to do, or you will not be born again (1 John 3:7-10; 3 John 11; Acts 9:36). Jesus Christ came to show us the way to be born again. He was baptized. Then He was tempted by Satan and tested when He made Himself weak through fasting. He was persecuted by men while He went about doing good. He did good works in the Father’s name (John 10:25) for the glory of the Father. He instructed us to do the same (Matt. 5:16; Col. 3:17). Jesus learned obedience to the Father through the process of suffering for righteousness’ sake (Heb. 5:8) and, as a result of that process, He was made perfect (Heb. 5:9). So we can see through Christ's example that being born again is a process and many times ends in martyrdom, which includes a crown of life to those who faithfully endure to the end (Rev. 2:10; Matt. 10:22; 24:13; 2 Tim. 2:12; Rev. 2:26). For more on this subject click on one of the following: Bible Study: You Must Be Born Again Bible Studies on Righteousness Bible Studies on Being Called and Chosen PODCAST: Being Chosen By God PREV NEXT

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wholewheatonline.com Search What is the Best Way to Study Your Bible? If you’re going to be a competent barber, carpenter or electrician you’re going to need the proper tools. It’s the same if you want to learn and understand the biggest mystery book on earth. The Bible is the most quoted, least read and least understood book of any on the face of the earth; and the book that people have the most opinions about, but do not know what they are talking about. It is not head knowledge alone that makes a good carpenter but actual experience in performing the trade, coupled with head knowledge that makes a competent carpenter. The very same thing is true for a person who seeks to know God’s word. God in heaven is a just, charitable, loving, giving, forgiving God who is constantly serving His creation (Deut. 10:18). He helps widows and orphans and others who have no helper (Deut. 27:19). He even does good unto His enemies and associates with the lowly. You could rightly call Him the servant of the most. He sent His Son, Jesus Christ, to show us how to be servants of the most. We seek Him when we begin to imitate Him and His Son (Matt. 23:11; Eph. 5:1). Now, to do this, you must know how to study your Bible in order to draw out the truth of God from it. I have been studying the Bible for over 41 years now and by trial and error, have learned what I feel is the simplest, and best way, to study the Bible. I have found that the 1977 New American Standard Bible is the most accurate and reliable to the Greek, and suggest getting the kind with margin notes and references on the sides or down the middle of each page. The concordances found in the back of many Bibles are not complete enough and therefore, are totally inadequate for good Bible research study, so I suggest a New American Standard Bible Concordance also. You can purchase these many times in a used book store. It is wise to have a King James version of these also, to refer to and compare. I have found that the newer the translation, the more it is watered down from the original Greek and Hebrew, which is why I suggest the above. Of course, if you have a Bible you already use and love, by all means, use it. I am simply trying to help you get started with what I know, and have proven to be the most accurate, giving the fullest meaning of God's Word, so you can increase your biblical knowledge in the fastest way possible. In addition, it is helpful to have a good dictionary. The most reliable dictionary I have found is Noah Webster’s 1828 Dictionary. This dictionary actually has more in-depth meanings to words, than some of the watered down dictionaries today. It also includes Biblical references. Noah Webster’s 1828 Dictionaries can be found at old used book stores, some Bible stores have the reprinted version, or it is available online now and in app form. Looking up the definition of a word can be very helpful in understanding Scripture better. Sometimes we have only a limited understanding of a word and looking up the meaning will broaden our ability to better discern Scripture. You will also need a study notebook. When you purchase a notebook for this purpose, try to get the five subject notebook that contains the most paper and is the best buy. You will also need something to mark the Scriptures in your Bible as well as your concordance. There are a variety of highIighters out there and I find the gel or dry highlighters are best and will not bleed through the pages, but you can also use ordinary crayons. You will also want to have a fine-point pen for writing notes in the margins of your Bible. Many people find using a color-coded system is helpful in coloring their Bible. If you decide to do that, you can make an index card of which colors you are using, what they reference, and keep it in your Bible to help you remember. You will be blessed by God for acquiring the things necessary to make your study time more productive and valuable. You will also be showing love and respect to God. If you cannot afford to buy these items, pray to God and ask Him to make it come about. Note: You should go no further with this information until you have all the things you need for proper Bible study right in front of you. Before you begin studying your Bible, you should pray. Ask God to help you understand His word, and show you the things He would have you learn from your time studying the Bible. Ask His Spirit to guide you and reveal the truth of His Word to your heart and mind, so that you may put it into action in your life (Luke 24:45; Matt. 4:4). You are allowing God to speak to you when you study your Bible and teach you directly (Ps. 25:4-5; Ps. 86:11; Ps. 119:66; Ps. 143:10; Deut. 4:29). One of the biggest secrets to successful studying is to begin by subject. As an example, begin by writing the subject “What is God’s Will?” at the top of the first page of your notebook. Remember chapter 51, verse 23 will look like this in the concordance: 51:23. The chapter is followed by a colon, which is followed by the verse. So keep your eye on the colon. If you are studying a more general subject like, hope, love, faith, then this would be a good time to look up the word in your dictionary and write down the meaning under your subject title. This way you will be reminded of its meaning while you are studying the Scriptures on that subject. Upon opening your large concordance, you will find that there are twelve pages of references for the word “will.” Now you must ask a series of questions that will give you a logical direction of where to look or how to start. Question number 1 is: What does the New Testament have to say on the Will of God? Maybe you would like to find out what the Old Testament has to say on the Will of God, but this could be a vast subject so it would be better to start from the New Testament. Then if you should need or want more references, you can always go into the Old Testament. Another example is this; if you can answer your question fully with what information is found in the New Testament, then there is no need to go further. There will be times, in order to understand a subject, it will be necessary to go to the Old Testament for more clarity on the subject. Now, let’s proceed by going to the last page and to the end of the last column and find where “Will” is mentioned in Revelation. After quickly glancing through Revelation, Jude and 3 John, stop at 1 John 5:14. Color this reference in your concordance yellow by using a highlighter or coloring crayon. Then color 1 John 2:17; then 1 Peter 4:19; then 1 Peter 4:2; 1 Peter 2:15; James 4:15; Heb. 13:21; 10:36; 10:10, 9, 7; 2 Tim. 2:26; 1 Thess. 5:18; 4:3; Col. 4:12; 1:9; Eph. 6:6; 5:17; 1:5, 9, 11; 1 Cor. 4:19; Rom. 12:2; Acts 22:14; 13:22; John 9:31; 7:17; 6:38; 5:30; 4:34; Luke 22:42; Mark 3:35; Matt. 21:31; 12:50; 7:21; 6:10. Now you have extracted from the concordance enough Scriptures on the Will of God to give you an excellent start on the subject. That’s good enough for a day’s Bible study, unless you are extremely curious as to what you will find. The next step is to look up each Scripture and write out the entire verse in your Bible research study notebook. As you begin to write and compile Scriptures on various subjects, you will begin to make sound biblical deductions based on the Scriptures you are reading and what understanding is to be had on that subject. Remember, one does not interpret the Bible, as the Bible interprets itself. At this point, write a small essay or article on the subject in 300 words or less. Attempt to explain the subject in terms that small children would have no trouble understanding. Then you know you will understand it too. Sounds simple, doesn’t it? Well, it’s more than simple. I have found that it’s fun, rewarding, informative, instructive, Spirit-filled and I love it. Not only that, but I am fulfilling God’s Will by doing so. I am studying God's word to show myself approved to Him. I have learned that God’s Will is Jesus Christ’s words as well as other sayings in the word of God (John 8:51; 12:48). I am fulfilling the Scriptures, “Study to show yourself approved” and “The mouth of the righteous studies to give a good answer” (Prov. 15:28). I am ready always ready to give a good answer to those who ask a question about God’s word. Let’s try another subject. What does the Bible have to say on the subject of good works? There are approximately two columns on “works” in the New American Standard Concordance. It begins with Exodus in the Old Testament and ends with Revelation in the New Testament. Remember, we want to find out what the New Testament says about the subject of works first—good works, bad works, deeds, etc.—so let’s start with Revelation and work back to Matthew. Begin by coloring the following Scriptures in your concordance with YELLOW: Rev. 20:12-13; 14:13; 3:15; 2:26, 23, 19, 5, 2; James 2:1-26; Heb. 10:24; 6:1; Titus 3:8, 14; 2:7,14; 1:16; 2 Tim. 3:17; 1 Tim. 6:18; 5:10; 2:10; Eph. 2:9-10; 2 Cor. 11:15; Acts 26:20; 9:36; John 14:12; 8:39; 5:29; Matt. 16:27; 5:16,. You soon will be an expert on what the Bible has to say on the subject of “works.” Here is another system you might try. Color all the potential Scriptures you wish to look up with a yellow marker in your concordance. Then go back with a different color, maybe green and make a mark on the ones you feel would be the stronger verses. Then go back once again, maybe with a red marker and mark all those Scriptures you consider a must to put in your research article on the subject of works. Now use the process of elimination. Look up and write down all the “must” Scriptures first—those you have colored red. After you are done reviewing those Scriptures ask yourself, “Do I know what the Bible says about this subject at this point, or do I need more clarification from the word of God?” If so, look up the Scriptures that you colored green in your concordance the second time through. Now you are looking up the “stronger ones” category. After this is done, if you feel you still need more information on the subject to nail it down, look up the ones you first colored yellow. There will be times when you might want to extend that list into the Old Testament. Simply take your yellow marker and concordance and begin to scan through the Old Testament Scriptures in the concordance that would give information to your subject. Hint: I will sometimes jump to the book of Proverbs or Psalms. Next, look at what the minor prophets had to say from Daniel to Malachi. Then, try Leviticus, Numbers and Deuteronomy. From there you can go where you want to go. The Old Testament is pretty massive in its context. You do not want to overcome yourself with study, but do it in such a way, that you draw out from God’s word those areas you want to study. Make it fun! Study with a purpose. Do not be like so many who let the Bible fall open to a certain page and then begin reading—that is witchcraft. Remember, you, like many others, do not know the word of God and you are going to have to study with a purpose in order to reach your goal of knowing God’s word. Remember, God’s opinion is the only one that counts. Don’t worry about, or seek, what other books say the Bible says, that are written by man (Eccl. 12:12). If they are wrong in what they say—and a great percentage of them are—you will most likely end up tragically confused and deluded by their confusion. There are rarely two books that agree on the rapture, healing, divorce and remarriage, the gifts of the Spirit, etc. Do your own research, in the Bible, and you will obtain your own confidence from it, and what God says, not someone else’s persuasion or confusion. God is not the author of confusion (1 Corinthians 14:33). This world is in a state of religious confusion but this does not have to be true for you. If you will go only to God for the answers and ask Him to show you His Ways and His Will so you can begin to live to please Him daily more perfectly, He will not let you down, but man will (Is. 2:22). The world is spiritually blinded because it follows man instead of God. People who go to church faithfully for years and years continue to remain ignorant about what the Bible says because they feel they are listening to someone they can trust, their preacher. They look up to him as being righteous and holy. Many do this to such an extent that they no longer bring their Bibles to church. They just put their trust in a man to tell them what the Bible says (Isa. 9:16-17). As you do your own personal Bible study, by studying in depth what the Bible has to say on these and other subjects, you may be shocked to find that the Bible says quite the opposite of what is being taught by many today. God the Father and Jesus Christ have only wanted simple, daily obedience to God’s beautiful Ways of peace and righteousness. He wants new creatures who are completely changed people, who have Christ formed in them as a result of living for Him and the Father daily (Gal. 4:19; 6:9-15). Overcome evil by doing good for God daily by doing His Will on earth daily as it is being done in heaven if you want to live forever (Psalm 37:27; 1 Peter 3:10-11; Rom. 12:21). PREV NEXT 3 SIMPLE STEPS TO GET STARTED MORE BIBLE STUDIES PODCASTS HOME All About the Bible PDF © 2025 Whole Wheat International

My Helper & Refuge ADDITIONAL RESOURCES: How to Be a Friend of God Imitate God Live Only to Please God Jesus Our Example Promise of Rescue Prayer for Help God is in Control Friend of God PREV NEXT

THE MIND Overview The resources below correspond, in order, with the video to give further Scriptures and encouragement: How to Do God’s Will With Your Mind Be Zealous in All You Do Be Wholehearted Learning how to be single-minded God’s Message to Mankind Stand Alone Faith Newsletter Give your anxieties to the Lord Jesus, Our Example Why Did Jesus Have to Die? Seek God & Know He is Real Podcast What is Freedom? Living By the Will of God Podcast A New Creation Perseverance and Spiritual Growth Be Like Jesus Christ God’s Best Example How to Be an Overcomer Gratefulness How to Please the Lord Pleasing the Father Why Should I Pray? God’s Nature vs. Human Nature A Loving Father God of Grace Ready to Forgive Understanding Repentance What Happens if I Sin? Learning to overcome evil instead of avoiding it Practice Makes Perfect Principles of Success Satan’s Number One Weapon Walk in God’s Promises Don't Worry Be Happy I feel bad God, what should I do? The Positive Gospel How to Enter the Good Life How to Get Out of a Mess? Are You Passing Your Test? Turn to the Lord Scriptures of Hope Is There Any Future For Me? Are You a Servant of God? 10 Simple Ways to Start Loving Your Neighbor Today Glorifying God in Your Life Finding Inner Strength Spiritual Boost Camp The Purpose of Life *This information is not meant to be medical advice but spiritual encouragement based on God’s word. PREV NEXT

wholewheatonline.com Search Is There Any Future For Me? Do you feel there is no hope for you because your problems are so great? Have you lost control of your life? Have you ever asked, "Is there any future for me and my family?" The answer is, "Yes!" But only if you repent, and begin to live for God and please Him daily (Acts 26:20; Rom. 12:21; Eph. 5:10; Prov. 31:25). There is a future for the righteous because even if you die, you will be resurrected to live forever (Is. 3:10; 1 John 2:17; John 5:28-29). Only the wicked, who will not repent by serving others for God and thus learn righteousness, will perish (Is. 3:11; 26:9-10). As parents, you are to live for God by training your children to do what is right. You must teach them to obey and not to argue. Teach them how to help with family chores and responsibilities, such as keeping their rooms clean. Your children need to learn not to give in to peer pressure, to do what is wrong. Instead, they need to be examples of light by continually doing what is right, at school and at play (Ezek. 14:20; Eph. 6:1-3). Soon you will notice that your children are changing too, and life in your home will be more peaceful and beautiful. God is looking for people who will be examples of righteousness for Him, whether they be children or adults. There are plenty who are examples of lawlessness and sin for Satan. God has promised if you seek to please Him by practicing what is right in His sight, He will help you solve your problems (Eph. 5:10, 17; Matt. 6:33; 1 John 3:22). PREV NEXT 3 SIMPLE STEPS TO GET STARTED MORE BIBLE STUDIES PODCASTS HOME All About the Bible PDF © 2025 Whole Wheat International

wholewheatonline.com Search Are Works Important? Did Jesus Christ glorify God by performing good works (Matt. 5:16; John 8:29, 39; 10:37-38)? Are we supposed to serve Jesus Christ by following His example of doing good works (John 12:26)? Will some of us do greater works than He did (John 14:12)? We bear good fruit by doing good works (Col. 1:10). If good works are the same as good fruit, then isn't it by doing good works that we prove ourselves to be Jesus Christ's disciples (John 15:8)? Were we not chosen and appointed by Christ to go out and bear good fruit, which is doing good works (John 15:16)? The false Christians - which the Bible calls dogs, goats, hearers, wicked, tares and bad fruit - are those who profess to know God but are worthless for any good works (Titus 1:16). If Jesus Christ is the axe described in Matthew 3:10, and if we are the trees and the fruits are good works, what is this verse saying? Are good works necessary for a resurrection of life (John 5:29)? What kind of works is Jesus Christ talking about (Matt. 25:33-46; Luke 14:13; 1 Peter 4:11, 2)? Didn't Jesus Christ die that we might live to righteousness (1 Peter 2:24)? Isn't living to righteousness doing good (1 Peter 3:11, 13)? Didn't Paul warn disciples of Jesus Christ to learn to do good (Titus 3:8, 14)? Isn't Christ making for Himself a people who are zealous for good works (Titus 2:14)? Isn't doing good works how you overcome (Rom. 12:21; Rev. 2:26)? Aren't we warned not to get weary of doing good works (Gal. 6:9; 2 Thess. 3:13)? Were we not created in Christ Jesus for good works (Eph. 2:10)? Don't good works include helping the needy (James 2:15-16; 1 John 3:17-19; Luke 3:11)? Aren't we, then, to bring forth good fruit if we say that we have repented (Luke 3:8; Acts 26:20)? Isn't this the Way (Acts 24:22)? Isn't this the message of how to be righteous? Isn't this the message many people refuse to believe when they hear it (Matt. 21:32)? Isn't this how you know you are born again and considered righteous by God, no longer a child of Satan (1 John 2:29; 3:7, 10)? Isn't doing good works how you serve God and glorify His name (Mal. 3:18; Matt. 5:16)? Isn't this how you do God's Will and enter God's rest (Matt. 7:21; Heb. 4:10)? Isn't this the Way of righteousness Jesus lived, which we are to imitate (1 Cor. 11:1)? After reading all these Scriptures, do you believe good works are important in God's complete message of salvation (Acts 5:20)? PREV NEXT 3 SIMPLE STEPS TO GET STARTED MORE BIBLE STUDIES PODCASTS HOME All About the Bible PDF © 2025 Whole Wheat International

wholewheatonline.com Search Doing Good in Secret Doing good in secret is simply doing acts of kindness and charity for God, and keeping it between you and the Lord, not calling attention to yourself or making a big deal of what you do. In doing this, you wouldn’t go about telling people of the good works you did, but would do it so it can be a secret between you and the Lord, and you can therefore be rewarded as such. These acts of charity are done for God’s glory (Matt. 6:1-4). It’s so easy and truly the most rewarding, and fulfilling, when done in secret. This doesn’t mean you are lurking about in dark corners, in some sort of disguise so no one will see you, but is more of an overall attitude and intent, doing the best you can to remain anonymous, as often as you can. On occasion, depending on the act of charity, it may not be as easy as it sounds but just do your best, keeping the right attitude, and intent, and you will be blessed. There are so many easy and simple ways you can do this. You can show love to others in words and deeds by being kind to everyone you meet, as an example of godliness in the world (Prov. 12:14). You can be a friend to the lowly, cheer up those who need it and show compassion to those who are suffering (Rom.12:16, Zech. 7:9). You can show kindness to your co-workers, family and neighbors, or anyone really, by doing something nice for them anonymously and not revealing that you are doing it for the Lord in secret. You can randomly buy someone a cup of coffee, (maybe someone in line behind you that looks like they could use some cheering up) and tell the cashier not to mention it was you. Send flowers to someone going through a difficult time with an encouraging note attached that is not signed. Give money in secret to someone who is struggling and is really down and out. Drop off chicken soup at the door of someone who is sick with an anonymous little get well note. These are just a few examples, there are so many simple things you can do to show kindness and love, without calling attention to yourself or telling others of the good you are doing all day long for God, as deeds of repentance (Matt. 5:16; Acts 26:20). This is truly a beautiful and godly way to live, that will bring blessings in to your life (Ps. 112:1-10). If you did these acts of kindness for God on a daily basis, in secret, and continued to overcome your old nature by doing so, you would be building Christ’s righteous character in yourself (Rev. 2:26; Gal 4:19). Each night you would come before God the Father and confess that everything you said and did was done in the name of Jesus Christ for the glory of God, as you were commanded to in Colossians 3:17. Now, occasionally you might tell others about something you did in secret, in order to give them a godly example of how to do the same (Titus 2:7-8). If your motive for telling what you did was to teach them by your example, you would not lose your reward (1 Cor. 11:1). Even the occasional act of teaching by your example would be a righteous act, if it was not done for self-righteous reasons or to be noticed by men (Matt. 23:1-5). However, by keeping your righteousness between you and the Lord, and doing it in secret, you will reap tremendous rewards being you are doing it not to be seen by men or be glorified by them (where you would have your reward in full) but to please your Lord, building up rewards in heaven instead (Matt. 6:19-21). Remember, it’s all about the intent of your heart and the attitude behind it all. God judges us by our hearts (1 Chron. 28:9). Doing good in secret is a fantastic, fulfilling and simple way to please the Lord (1 John 3:22). Once you begin to serve the Lord in this way you will see how exciting it really is. If all you sow is righteousness, then all you’ll reap is blessings. This is how you enter the good life that God has waiting for you (Acts 3:26). PREV NEXT 3 SIMPLE STEPS TO GET STARTED MORE BIBLE STUDIES PODCASTS HOME All About the Bible PDF © 2025 Whole Wheat International

wholewheatonline.com Search Try it…You’ll Like it!: A Woman to Woman Article Have you ever heard the comment: Try it—you’ll like it? When we make new recipes, we try them to see if we will like them. When we plan a vacation, we might select a new location to visit. We try it to see if we’ll like it. How about trying to live for the Lord each day? You can be sure you’ll be happy and satisfied. Serving others continually to please God is the best! Why? Because we reap what we sow. When we are continually thinking, “What can I do for God next?” then we are busy doing God’s Will. We also know that what we think is what we’ll do. So, we might as well do good for God—being He repays good for good and evil for evil (Psalm 125:4; Prov. 24:29; Eph. 6:8). God is the One who makes these everlasting laws and He will make sure they are fulfilled (Jer. 17:10; 32:19). When we continually do good for God, and are making all our ways pleasing to Him, our life becomes blessed. Many people walk around uptight, thinking and speaking negative. They are full of anxiety, being inward and selfish. Nothing pleases these people, because they do not know God’s beautiful Way of righteousness that brings about peace (Rom 2:10; Rom 14:17). God has called us to His Ways of love to make a difference in this world. He has called us to be an example of godliness; yes, a light in a dark, evil world (Phil. 2:15). What a privilege. What an honor to be called to serve our Lord. Matthew 5:16 tells us to be a bright light by doing good to others continually. In closing, I ask, Is God calling you today? Are you interested in changing the way you think, speak and live? Would you like to be filled with contentment, peace, love and happiness? Would you like to make a difference in this world to glorify God by doing good for others in need? Try it—you’ll like it. PREV NEXT 3 SIMPLE STEPS TO GET STARTED MORE BIBLE STUDIES PODCASTS HOME All About the Bible PDF © 2025 Whole Wheat International

The Bible Is... PREV NEXT

wholewheatonline.com Search Wine and Strong Drink What does the Bible say about wine and strong drink? The nation of Israel always used wine in its religious observances and Jesus kept the Jewish customs of His day (Lev. 23:13; Matt. 11:19). Wine was prescribed as a tonic for people to avoid sickness and for first aid purposes (1 Tim. 5:23; Luke 10:34). Jesus Christ’s first miracle was at the wedding feast when He made 180 gallons of wine from water (John 2:1-11). God allowed His nation of Israel to drink wine and strong drink if they chose to do so (Deut. 14:26) People will have their own vineyards during the thousand-year reign of Christ on this earth, as Noah did (Prov. 3:10; Amos 9:14; Rev. 20:6). Noah, by the way, was a completed man of God (Gen. 6:9). Noah and Lot got drunk on wine (Gen. 9:20-21; 19:33). But both were still considered righteous by God and in a saved condition because they did not practice drunkenness (Gen. 7:1; Ezek. 14:14). “Drink your wine with a cheerful heart,” God’s instruction book on living says in Ecclesiastes 9:7. Much attention is given to the Last Supper when Jesus Christ said He would no longer partake of the fruit of the vine until His return. The beverage used for the Lord’s Supper is often wrongly assumed to be grape juice. One need only look to see what Jesus Christ will be serving at the wedding supper of the Lamb to decide what the fruit of the vine is. It is refined, aged wine (Is. 25:6). A person shouldn’t be upset by this because God is not upset by the drinking of wine. But God is upset with man’s sin and with man saying that to drink wine is sin, when God says no such thing. God even prophesied in His word that false ministers would speak against the use of wine and liquor, and people would make them their ministers or spokesmen (Micah 2:11). How dare people speak against what God has allowed in His word. Saying it is wrong to drink alcoholic beverages is starting another commandment or precept of men; and when you do that, you begin to worship God in vain (Mark 7:7). The word of God stresses moderation in all things, but not abstinence in regard to wine and strong drink (1 Tim. 3:3, 8). God says, “Give strong drink to a man who is perishing and wine to him whose life is bitter” (Prov. 31:6; Psalm 104:15). The Bible also warns of over-imbibing, and of hanging around with heavy drinkers of wine or gluttonous eaters of meat (Prov. 23:20, 29-35). It tells you not to get intoxicated with wine (Prov. 20:1). If you were to think your own thoughts and live your own ungodly way of life, it would be wise not to drink at all. However, if you are living your life to please God every day by living His Way and practicing moderation in all things, wine or strong drink could be very beneficial. Wine and strong drink, like brandy, are healthy for the blood and can be an aid to those who are sick (1 Tim. 5:23). We do not want to fall into the trap of believing we are more righteous than Jesus Christ, as the Pharisees did when their self-righteous doctrine turned into leaven or sin (Matt. 15:8-9; 16:6, 12). Of course, you shouldn’t drink wine or do other things you are free to do in Christ, when it would offend someone. Yet, this is no reason to totally abstain either. Let all things be done in love, in balance and in moderation, which is pleasing to the Lord (1 Cor. 16:14; Eph. 5:10). If you have had trouble in the past and have become an alcoholic, or suffered in other ways from your misuse of this privilege, then maybe it would be wise not to drink alcoholic beverages any longer. You can live without it. PREV NEXT 3 SIMPLE STEPS TO GET STARTED MORE BIBLE STUDIES PODCASTS HOME All About the Bible PDF © 2025 Whole Wheat International

Meditate on Our Refuge Learn more about how God is our refuge here PREV NEXT

wholewheatonline.com Search Pure and Undefiled Religion When we analyze James 1:27, we find out what God expects of us. "This is pure and undefiled religion in the sight of our God and Father, to visit orphans and widows in their distress, and to keep oneself unspotted by the world." Whatever this "pure religion" is, it has to do with helping widows and orphans who are in need. This goes along with 1 John 3:17-18 and James 2:15-17. It also goes along with what John the Baptist told the people to do for repentance (Luke 3:10-11). Even Christ was teaching the message of compassion toward those in need in Luke 10:33-36. He taught us to put the welfare of others first and to be servants of the most (1 Cor. 10:24; Matt. 23:11; 20:26-28; Mark 9:35; 10:43-45). Jesus said true disciples - the sheep - serve others in need, while false Christians do nothing (Matt. 25:33-46; Titus 1:16). These false Christians are considered goats or dogs, while true disciples worship in the Spirit of God, give the glory to Jesus Christ and put no confidence in the flesh (Phil. 3:2-3). True disciples glorify God by doing good works daily, allowing their lights to shine before men in such a way that they bring glory to the Father (Matt. 5:16). Continually doing good for God's glory is our spiritual service of worship (Rom. 12:1). We worship God by presenting our bodies as a living and holy sacrifice, using the members of our bodies as instruments of righteousness only (Rom. 6:13). In this way, we become happy slaves of righteousness (Rom. 6:18-19; Eph. 6:6). God is well-pleased with this kind of sacrifice (Heb. 13:16). Doing good is also how we put to death the evil deeds of the body and live to the Spirit, which is God (Rom. 8:13-14). When we walk in the Spirit by serving others for God, we will not carry out the desires of the flesh (Gal. 5:16). Instead, we will be overcoming evil by doing good for God in Christ's name (Rom. 12:21; 1 Peter 3:11; Col. 3:17). We will be keeping Christ's works and overcoming Satan by allowing the God of peace to crush him in our nature (Rom. 16:20; Rev. 2:26). This is pure and undefiled religion, and this is how we keep ourselves unspotted by the world. This simple, pure devotion to Christ is simply walking as Jesus walked; and it is so easy and pleasant (2 Cor. 11:3; 1 John 2:6; Matt. 11:30)! You have no excuse for your sins now that you know how to overcome them (John 15:22). When Jesus Christ returns to this earth shortly, will you be among those who are found overcoming evil by doing good in a dark world (Phil. 2:15; Luke 18:8)? Will you be prepared to meet the Lord (Luke 1:17)? PREV NEXT 3 SIMPLE STEPS TO GET STARTED MORE BIBLE STUDIES PODCASTS HOME All About the Bible PDF © 2025 Whole Wheat International

wholewheatonline.com Search Faith and Grace The subject of faith has been so badly abused that we have a world full of faithless people who call themselves Christians. Is salvation by faith or is salvation by grace? Doesn’t salvation come through repentance and obedience to God’s word? Doesn’t the Bible teach that those who do the Will of God will abide forever and enter the kingdom (1 John 2:17; Matt. 7:21)? Don’t you have to keep Christ’s words to overcome and never see death (John 8:51; Rev. 2:26)? The whole subject of faith and grace cannot be clearly understood unless you understand the subjects of faith and works. Without the works of faith, faith is dead, being by itself (James 2:14-26). Jesus Christ’s faith had good works, so His faith was not dead. Jesus was always imitating the Father daily, just as we are admonished to do (Eph. 5:1). If you say that you know the Lord, you must keep His word (John 8:55). You keep the Lord’s word by doing the works of the Father daily. You show people how to be a true disciple of Jesus Christ and you are ready to tell them, should they ask you, how to become a true disciple (Psalm 51:13; John 10:37). Jesus did not come to the earth to do His own Will, but to do the Will of the Father daily as it is done in heaven (John 4:34; 5:30; 6:38). Jesus did good works to glorify God in the Father’s name (Matt. 5:16; John 10:25). We, today, are to do good works in thought, word and deed, in the name of Jesus, giving thanks through Him to the Father (Col. 3:17). We need to be filled with the knowledge of God’s Will and have our minds renewed (Col. 1:9; Rom. 12:2). We cannot remain fools if we want to do God’s Will from the heart (Eph. 5:17; 6:6). We must diligently serve the Lord by happily practicing righteousness at all times so we can be blessed by Him and changed by Him (Rom. 12:11; Matt. 11:30; Psalm 106:3). If you keep Christ’s faith, you will engage in good works (Titus 3:8). You can rightly say that you believe because you are obeying the gospel and are a doer of the Lord’s word (James 1:22). Then by grace, God will forgive all your sins, past, present and future. He will then give you the free gift of eternal life because you repented and brought forth good works to prove it (Acts 26:20). PREV NEXT 3 SIMPLE STEPS TO GET STARTED MORE BIBLE STUDIES PODCASTS HOME All About the Bible PDF © 2025 Whole Wheat International

Walk in the Light PREV NEXT

wholewheatonline.com Search Is Your Baptism Valid? Today various religions practice baby baptism, full immersion baptism, and maybe some other kinds of baptism. John the Baptist baptized with water for repentance. But when Jesus Christ came, He baptized with the Holy Spirit and with fire (Matt. 3:11). There are many examples of baptism in the New Testament. Circumstances surrounding each varies. Let’s look at a few. Philip baptized the Eunuch but he never laid hands on him because he disappeared while the Eunuch was coming up from under the water. Did the Eunuch receive God’s Spirit? After all, God sent an angel to Philip (Acts 8:26) because He wanted that Eunuch (Acts 8:29). Paul received his sight and was filled with the Holy Spirit, and, upon arising, was baptized. Was it with water or with the Holy Spirit (Acts 9:18)? Men and women were being baptized in Acts 8:12 in the name of Jesus Christ. Peter and John laid their hands on them at a later time and they received the baptism of the Holy Spirit. Other times the Spirit fell on people (Acts 10:44) and they were baptized later (Acts 10:47-48). There was no set pattern for the physical water baptism and laying on of hands. But there was one thing common to each situation. All were baptized with the Holy Spirit. It becomes evident, then, that there is a baptism of the Holy Spirit by which Jesus Christ baptizes (John 1:33; Mark 1:8; Luke 3:16). This is a difficult thing for many to understand. Even Peter did not fully understand the baptism of the Holy Spirit at first (Acts 11:16). Water baptism is not absolutely necessary for salvation, but doing the Will of God is. For example, if you decide to live to please God in all your ways and begin practicing righteousness right now, you are saved. If you are killed in a car accident, you have eternal life. Does this do away with water baptism? No! Remember, Jesus commanded the apostles to baptize people after teaching them to observe all that Christ commanded them (Matt. 28:19-20; Acts 2:38). That brings us back to the matter of the baptism of the Holy Spirit which is doing the Will of God (1 John 2:17), observing all that Christ commanded us by practicing righteousness. This is necessary to enter the kingdom of heaven (1 John 3:10; Matt. 7:21). God gives His Spirit only to those who obey Him (Acts 5:32). If you have been baptized, but did not understand the truth about practicing righteousness when you were baptized, that could explain why you are now questioning if your baptism is valid. Jesus Christ accepts all those who practice righteousness and who respect God and obey Him (Acts 10:35). So, begin to practice righteousness and ask God for His Holy Spirit and He will give it to you (Luke 11:13). Then ask God to direct you concerning water baptism. PREV NEXT 3 SIMPLE STEPS TO GET STARTED MORE BIBLE STUDIES PODCASTS HOME All About the Bible PDF © 2025 Whole Wheat International