Philippians 4:19 And my God will supply all your needs according to His glorious riches in Christ Jesus.

God has unlimited resources! You can trust that He will take care of you and supply all your needs. Tell God right now that you trust Him for provision. Ask Him to remove any worries that you have about provision.

Cast your concerns on Him. It’s God’s desire to bless you according to His glorious riches in Christ Jesus. ~ Jeff M Newman

Latest Bible Study

• Lesson 95 - 1 John 3:11 This is the message you have heard from the beginning: We should love one another.

Observe Jesus’ Commands

Know the scriptures and the power of God.

Matthew 22:29 Jesus answered, “You are mistaken because you do not know the Scriptures or the power of God. (Mark 12:24)

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Proverbs 15:1 A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.

Your words have power. They can either diffuse a situation or cause an explosion, depending on what you say and how you say it. This proverb teaches that “a soft answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.”

When someone says something to you that offends you, it is easy to match their tone. When they elevate their voice, you elevate yours. When they speak harshly, you speak harshly back. But responding to harshness with more harshness usually makes the situation worse. Harsh words can stir up anger and damage relationships (Proverbs 12:18).

This is one way the enemy can use our sinful reactions against us. Instead of responding according to the flesh, God calls us to respond in a way that reflects Christ (2 Corinthians 10:3-5; Galatians 5:22-23).

A gentle answer does not mean being weak, avoiding the truth or allowing someone to mistreat you. It means choosing to respond with gentleness and self-control rather than anger and retaliation. We are called to speak the truth in love (Ephesians 4:15) and let our speech be gracious and useful for building others up (Ephesians 4:29).

Jesus calls us to be meek, merciful and peacemakers (Matthew 5:5, 7, 9). He also taught us not to retaliate against personal offenses (Matthew 5:39). When Jesus was insulted and treated unjustly, He did not retaliate or threaten revenge. Instead, He entrusted Himself to the One who judges justly (1 Peter 2:23).

James teaches us to be “swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath” (James 1:19). When you are offended, slow down before you respond. You do not have to say everything you are thinking. Give yourself time to pray, listen and choose your words carefully.

Ask God to search your heart and show you where you are sinning with your words (Psalm 139:23-24). Ask Him to transform the way you speak (Romans 12:2). Ask Him to help you respond to harsh words with gentle words, to speak truth with love and to control your anger (Ephesians 4:26-27, 29, 31-32).

You cannot control how someone else speaks to you, but you can control how you respond. When you choose a gentle and gracious response instead of retaliation, you are honoring Christ. Your gentle words may help turn away anger rather than stir it up. ~ Jeff M Newman

Latest Bible Study

• Lesson 95 - 1 John 3:11 This is the message you have heard from the beginning: We should love one another.

Observe Jesus’ Commands

Keep watch, be on guard, stay alert, pray for strength to escape, and be ready for the Lord’s return.

Matthew 24:42-44 Therefore keep watch, because you do not know the day on which your Lord will come. 43 But understand this: If the homeowner had known in which watch of the night the thief was coming, he would have kept watch and would not have let his house be broken into. 44 For this reason, you also must be ready, because the Son of Man will come at an hour you do not expect. (Luke 12:40)

Mark 13:32-37 No one knows about that day or hour, not even the angels in heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father. 33 Be on your guard and stay alert! For you do not know when the appointed time will come. 34 It is like a man going on a journey who left his house, put each servant in charge of his own task, and instructed the doorkeeper to keep watch. 35 Therefore keep watch, because you do not know when the master of the house will return—whether in the evening, at midnight, when the rooster crows, or in the morning. 36 Otherwise, he may arrive without notice and find you sleeping. 37 And what I say to you, I say to everyone: Keep watch!”

Luke 12:35-38 Be dressed for service and keep your lamps burning. 36 Then you will be like servants waiting for their master to return from the wedding banquet, so that when he comes and knocks, they can open the door for him at once. 37 Blessed are those servants whom the master finds on watch when he returns. Truly I tell you, he will dress himself to serve and will have them recline at the table, and he himself will come and wait on them. 38 Even if he comes in the second or third watch of the night and finds them alert, those servants will be blessed.

Luke 21:34-36 But watch yourselves, or your hearts will be weighed down by dissipation, drunkenness, and the worries of life—and that day will spring upon you suddenly like a snare. 35 For it will come upon all who dwell on the face of all the earth. 36 So keep watch at all times, and pray that you may have the strength to escape all that is about to happen and to stand before the Son of Man.”

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Ephesians 4:29 Let no unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building up the one in need and bringing grace to those who listen.

In context, Paul is teaching believers to put off their old self and put on their new self. He then gives practical examples of what this new life should look like, including how we speak to one another.

We are called to not let unwholesome words come out of our mouths. The Greek word translated “unwholesome” means rotten, decayed or putrid. Think of spoiled fruit or rotten fish. Paul uses this word as a picture of speech that is corrupting, harmful or worthless. This can include vulgarity, slander, contemptuous speech, angry words, complaining, grumbling and other speech that tears people down. The surrounding verses specifically warn against bitterness, anger, wrath, shouting, slander and malice.

Instead, we are called to speak words that build up those around us. Let your words be building blocks, not wrecking balls. Before you speak, ask yourself, “What does this person need to hear right now?” Sometimes they need encouragement. Sometimes they need truth or loving correction. Sometimes they simply need someone to listen and offer comfort. Our words should be appropriate to the need of the moment.

Let your words be a channel of God’s grace. Paul says our speech should give grace to those who hear. We have received God’s grace through Christ, so our words should reflect His kindness, truth and love toward others.

Your words should leave people better rather than wounded. Look for opportunities every day to encourage people, speak truth with love and point others toward Christ. Be a blessing to the people around you through the words you speak.~ Jeff M Newman

Latest Bible Study

• Lesson 95 - 1 John 3:11 This is the message you have heard from the beginning: We should love one another.

Observe Jesus’ Commands

Keep Jesus’ commandments. Keep Jesus’ word. Obey His teaching. Repent.

John 8:51 (NIV) Very truly I tell you, whoever obeys my word will never see death.”

John 14:15 If you love Me, you will keep My commandments.

John 14:21 (NIV) Whoever has My commandments and keeps them is the one who loves Me. The one who loves Me will be loved by My Father, and I will love him and reveal Myself to him.”

John 14:23-24 (NIV) Jesus replied, “Anyone who loves me will obey my teaching. My Father will love them, and we will come to them and make our home with them. 24 Anyone who does not love me will not obey my teaching. These words you hear are not my own; they belong to the Father who sent me.

John 17:6-8 I have revealed Your name to those You have given Me out of the world. They were Yours; You gave them to Me, and they have kept Your word. 7 Now they know that everything You have given Me comes from You. 8 For I have given them the words You gave Me, and they have received them. They knew with certainty that I came from You, and they believed that You sent Me.

Revelation 3:3 Remember, then, what you have received and heard. Keep it and repent. If you do not wake up, I will come like a thief, and you will not know the hour when I will come upon you.

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Because of the loving devotion of the LORD we are not consumed, for His mercies never fail. They are new every morning; great is Your faithfulness! (Lamentations 3:22-23)

In context, the prophet Jeremiah is mourning the destruction of Jerusalem. Surrounded by pain, grief, and loss, he turns his heart toward the Lord. In the midst of sorrow, Jeremiah declares God’s steadfast love, unfailing mercy, and great faithfulness.

This truth gives him renewed hope and confidence. When you face seasons of despair, remember that God’s love has not left you. His mercy is new every morning, and His faithfulness will sustain you.~ Jeff M Newman

Latest Bible Study

• Lesson 95 - 1 John 3:11 This is the message you have heard from the beginning: We should love one another.

Observe Jesus’ Commands

Invite people to the wedding banquet. In order words, invite people to have a relationship with Jesus.

Matthew 22:9 Go therefore to the crossroads and invite to the banquet as many as you can find.’

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Romans 12:19 Do not avenge yourselves, beloved, but leave room for God’s wrath. For it is written: “Vengeance is Mine; I will repay, says the Lord.”

In this life, you will have people who wrong you. You may be unjustly fired, betrayed or slandered. It can be easy to develop deep bitterness toward those people. The desire for revenge can take hold of you and poison your heart.

God does not want you to take personal vengeance into your own hands. Jesus calls us to love our enemies and pray for those who persecute us (Matthew 5:44). He teaches us not to respond to personal offenses with retaliation, but to respond in a way that reflects His character (Matthew 5:39).

Later in Romans 12, Paul says that if your enemy is hungry, you should feed him, and if he is thirsty, give him something to drink. He then says, “Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good” (Romans 12:20-21).

Because we have a perfectly just God, we can entrust justice to Him. This does not mean that we should ignore serious wrongdoing or never involve the authorities. God has established governing authorities to administer justice, and Romans 13:4 describes them as God’s servants who have a responsibility to punish wrongdoing.

If there is genuine danger, abuse, violence, assault or another serious crime, seeking help from the appropriate authorities may be necessary to protect yourself and others and to prevent further harm. Seeking legitimate justice is different from taking personal revenge.

Remember that the person who has wronged you needs Christ just as you do. Jesus died for sinners, and we should desire their repentance rather than their destruction. God can work in their life even as He is working in yours.

You do not have to make things right yourself through revenge. Ask God to release your desire to get even and help you entrust the outcome to Him, the righteous Judge. If you need to involve authorities, ask God for wisdom to know how to respond. Protect what needs to be protected, pursue legitimate justice when necessary and refuse personal vengeance. Respond in a way that honors Christ and leave ultimate judgment in God’s hands. ~ Jeff M Newman

Latest Bible Study

• Lesson 95 - 1 John 3:11 This is the message you have heard from the beginning: We should love one another.

Observe Jesus’ Commands

If another believer sins against you, go privately to them, and point out the offense. If they don’t listen bring one or two others to discuss the offense. Then, take your case to the church.

Matthew 18:15-17 (NLT) “If another believer sins against you, go privately and point out the offense. If the other person listens and confesses it, you have won that person back. 16 But if you are unsuccessful, take one or two others with you and go back again, so that everything you say may be confirmed by two or three witnesses. 17 If the person still refuses to listen, take your case to the church. Then if he or she won’t accept the church’s decision, treat that person as a pagan or a corrupt tax collector.

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2 Corinthians 10:3-4 For though we live in the flesh, we do not wage war according to the flesh. 4 The weapons of our warfare are not the weapons of the flesh. Instead, they have divine power to demolish strongholds.

In context, the apostle Paul is involved in an intense battle against people who were undermining his authority and criticizing his ministry. Some were judging him according to worldly standards and accusing him of walking according to the flesh. Paul reminds them that although we live in the flesh, we do not wage war according to the flesh. Ministry is not carried out through worldly methods or merely human strength.

You also face spiritual battles in your life. But you are not called to fight these battles according to worldly or fleshly methods. Scripture tells us that our ultimate struggle is not against people but against spiritual forces of evil (Ephesians 6:12).

It is crucial that you do not rely only on your own strength or willpower. God has given us spiritual weapons. Paul explains that the weapons of our warfare have divine power to demolish strongholds, arguments and thoughts that oppose the knowledge of God. We are called to bring every thought captive to the obedience of Christ (2 Corinthians 10:4-5).

When you are tempted to sin, turn to God in prayer. Fill your mind with His Word. Depend on God for the strength to obey. When someone wrongs you, don’t respond with revenge, anger or bitterness. Look to Christ and ask Him to help you respond according to His character rather than according to the flesh.

Fight your battles by putting your full trust in God and depending on His power. You may be living in the flesh, but you do not have to fight according to the flesh. Your strength comes from God. ~ Jeff M Newman

Latest Bible Study

• Lesson 95 - 1 John 3:11 This is the message you have heard from the beginning: We should love one another.

Observe Jesus’ Commands

Hunger and thirst for righteousness.

Matthew 5:6 Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled. (Luke 6:21)

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Matthew 11:29 Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.

In this verse, Jesus invites us to take His yoke upon us. A yoke was a wooden frame used to join animals together so they could pull a load. The word was also commonly used as a metaphor for submission to authority, teaching or discipline. Jesus is calling us to submit to Him, follow His teaching and learn His way of life. He is calling us to become His disciples.

Jesus says, “Learn from Me.” This reminds us that we do not have everything figured out. We need to allow Jesus to teach us how to live. We are called to follow His example and become more like Him. We learn from His Word, His example and His commands. As we walk with Him, He faithfully teaches us how to live in a way that honors God.

Jesus then tells us what He is like: “I am gentle and humble in heart.” He is not a harsh or oppressive teacher. He is gentle and humble. When we are struggling, we can turn to Him. When we sin, we can confess our sin and receive His forgiveness. He strengthens us to continue following Him and obeying His Word.

Jesus promises that when we take His yoke and learn from Him, we will find rest for our souls. He does not promise a life without difficulties. In fact, following Jesus still involves burdens, obedience and sacrifice. But we do not have to carry them in our own strength or try to figure life out on our own. Jesus is with us, and His yoke is easy and His burden is light.

You do not have to live this life on your own. Come to Jesus. Submit to Him. Learn from Him. Let Him teach you, guide you and transform you. As you walk with Him and trust Him, you will experience the rest He promises for your soul. ~ Jeff M Newman

Latest Bible Study

• Lesson 95 - 1 John 3:11 This is the message you have heard from the beginning: We should love one another.

Observe Jesus’ Commands

Humble yourself before the lord.

Matthew 23:11-12 The greatest among you shall be your servant. 12 For whoever exalts himself will be humbled, and whoever humbles himself will be exalted.

Luke 14:7-11 When Jesus noticed how the guests chose the places of honor, He told them a parable: 8 “When you are invited to a wedding banquet, do not sit in the place of honor, in case someone more distinguished than you has been invited. 9 Then the host who invited both of you will come and tell you, ‘Give this man your seat.’ And in humiliation, you will have to take the last place. 10 But when you are invited, go and sit in the last place, so that your host will come and tell you, ‘Friend, move up to a better place.’ Then you will be honored in front of everyone at the table with you. 11 For everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, and the one who humbles himself will be exalted.”

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Proverbs 4:23 Guard your heart with all diligence, for from it flow springs of life.

The heart is the command center of life. In the Bible, the heart is more than our emotions. It includes our thoughts, desires, will and moral choices. What we say, what we do and how we relate to others are influenced by the condition of our heart. Jesus said, “For the mouth speaks what the heart is full of” (Matthew 12:34). What comes out of our lives reveals what is taking place within our hearts.

This verse encourages us to guard our hearts with all diligence. The Hebrew expression carries the idea of vigilant and careful guarding. The picture is one of continual watchfulness. Just as a watchman would carefully watch for danger, we need to pay attention to what is entering our hearts and what is influencing our thoughts, desires and decisions. Proverbs 4:24-27 then gives practical examples by telling us to guard our speech, watch where we look, consider the path we take and turn away from evil.

We also need to recognize that we are engaged in spiritual warfare. The New Testament tells us to be alert because our adversary, the devil, seeks to devour, and it calls us to stand against his schemes (1 Peter 5:8; Ephesians 6:11). We should not live in fear, but we should live with spiritual awareness and dependence on God.

One way we guard our hearts is by filling your heart daily with God’s Word. Scripture gives us truth, exposes deception and teaches us how God wants us to live. Be alert in prayer. When you recognize sinful desires or temptation, immediately bring them to God. Ask Him for strength to resist temptation and for the willingness to obey His Word.

Fill your heart with thankfulness. Gratitude helps protect us from continually dwelling on what we lack and helps us remember God’s goodness and faithfulness. Fill your heart with worship. Worship shifts our attention away from ourselves and our circumstances and toward the greatness and goodness of God.

Guard your heart carefully. What fills your heart will eventually influence what flows out of your life. ~ Jeff M Newman

Latest Bible Study

• Lesson 95 - 1 John 3:11 This is the message you have heard from the beginning: We should love one another.

Observe Jesus’ Commands

Honor marriage. Respect and preserve the unity that God has established in marriage.

Matthew 19:4-6 Jesus answered, “Have you not read that from the beginning the Creator ‘made them male and female,’ 5 and said, ‘For this reason a man will leave his father and mother and be united to his wife, and the two will become one flesh’? 6 So they are no longer two, but one flesh. Therefore what God has joined together, let man not separate.” (Mark 10:5-9) (Mark 10:5-12)

Luke 16:18 Anyone who divorces his wife and marries another woman commits adultery, and he who marries a divorced woman commits adultery.

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Colossians 3:5 Put to death, therefore, the components of your earthly nature: sexual immorality, impurity, lust, evil desires, and greed, which is idolatry.

As Christians, we still experience sinful desires. So don’t be surprised when temptation comes. What matters is how we respond to it. Paul tells us to “put to death” the sinful desires of our earthly nature.

One way we do this is by taking practical steps to turn away from temptation. Maybe that means not watching certain shows, scrolling certain social media accounts, or reading content that repeatedly tempts you. You may need to unsubscribe, remove certain apps, block certain content, or turn your attention to something else. Don’t knowingly put yourself in situations that continually feed sinful desires.

Temptation can lead us toward sinful actions, so we should take seriously what we allow into our lives. Rather than feeding sinful desires, turn away from them and turn toward Christ. Fill your mind with God’s Word, walk by the Spirit, and ask God for the strength to do what pleases Him.

Putting sin to death is part of our ongoing sanctification. We are not saved by successfully avoiding temptation, but because we belong to Christ, we are called to reject sin and pursue holiness. Paul follows this command by telling believers to put off the old self and put on the new self (Colossians 3:9-10).

Ask God to show you what you need to remove from your life and where you need to establish better boundaries. Don’t feed what you are trying to kill. Turn away from temptation, turn toward Christ, and allow the Holy Spirit to transform you. ~ Jeff M Newman

Latest Bible Study

• Lesson 95 - 1 John 3:11 This is the message you have heard from the beginning: We should love one another.

Observe Jesus’ Commands

Honor your father and mother.

Matthew 15:4 For God said, ‘Honor your father and mother’ and ‘Anyone who curses his father or mother must be put to death.’

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1 John 1:8 If we say we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us.

In a previous verse, John says, “God is light, and in Him there is no darkness at all” (1 John 1:5). God is absolutely pure and righteous. He has never sinned and never will. He is perfect.

If we say we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us. As Christians, we must acknowledge that we struggle with sin. God does not expect us to have reached sinless perfection. We are still growing, and we will continue to face the reality of sin in our lives. At the same time, John calls us to walk in the light and not continue living in darkness (1 John 1:6-7).

This does not give us a license to sin. When we sin, we should confess it to God. Confession means honestly acknowledging our sin and agreeing with God about what we have done. He promises to forgive us and cleanse us from all unrighteousness (1 John 1:9). John says his desire is that we would not sin, but when we do sin, Jesus is our Advocate with the Father (1 John 2:1).

God is continuing His work of sanctification in our lives, helping us grow in holiness and become more like Christ. Don’t become discouraged when you recognize sin in your life. Bring it to God, confess it, receive His forgiveness and continue following Christ.

Trust that God is at work in you. He has saved you, He is transforming you, and one day, when Christ appears, you will be like Him (1 John 3:2). ~ Jeff M Newman

Latest Bible Study

• Lesson 95 - 1 John 3:11 This is the message you have heard from the beginning: We should love one another.

Observe Jesus’ Commands

Honor the Son of God.

John 5:22-23 Furthermore, the Father judges no one, but has assigned all judgment to the Son, 23 so that all may honor the Son just as they honor the Father. Whoever does not honor the Son does not honor the Father who sent Him.

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Welcome to the Hope Bible School verse-by-verse Bible study of 1 John. This is Jeff M Newman. Get a new lesson every other week on Mondays at 12:00 PM Pacific.

In Lesson 95, we are going to study 1 John 3:11.

Let’s read the verse:

1 John 3:11 This is the message you have heard from the beginning: We should love one another.

Let’s go over the definitions of the words.

This (3778. houtos, hauté, touto) is (1510. eimi) the (3588. ho, hé, to) message (31. aggelia) — means the specific announcement being communicated.

You have heard (191. akouó) — means to hear, listen to, and understand what is being communicated.

From (575. apo) the beginning (746. arché) — means from the beginning or initial point of their instruction.

We should love (25. agapaó) one another (240. allélón) — means to deliberately and selflessly seek the good and well-being of one another, following the example of Christ.

In other words, this is the specific message you heard and understood from the beginning: that we should deliberately and selflessly seek the well-being of one another, following Christ as our example.

In Lesson 93 and Lesson 94, we learned that children of God are distinguished from the children of the devil. Children of God practice righteousness and love their brothers and sisters in Christ. Those who do not practice righteousness and do not love their fellow believers show that they are not of God.

As children of God, we are called to love one another. John is reminding his readers that they have already heard this message from the beginning. Because we still have a sinful nature, we need to be continually reminded to love like Christ. We must rely on God to love with Christlike love rather than simply follow our natural feelings. It can be easy to forget or neglect what God has commanded.

Just as John is reminding us to love our brothers and sisters, we should do the same. Encourage a fellow Christian today to love others. Loving one another is foundational to the Christian life.

No matter how difficult or unlovable someone may be, we are called to love our brothers and sisters in Christ. Look to Jesus and the way He loved, and follow His example. Ask God to increase your love for fellow believers.

In John 15:12-13, we read that Jesus commands us to love one another as He has loved us. Jesus is not only telling us to love one another, He gives us His own love as the example we are to follow.

John 15:12-13 (NLT) This is my commandment: Love each other in the same way I have loved you. 13 There is no greater love than to lay down one’s life for one’s friends.

Let’s look at some practical ways we can love our fellow believers and the verses that support these biblical commands.

1. Look out for the interests of others.

We are to look beyond ourselves and care about the needs, interests, and well-being of others rather than focusing only on ourselves.

Philippians 2:3-4 Do nothing out of selfish ambition or empty pride, but in humility consider others more important than yourselves. 4 Each of you should look not only to your own interests, but also to the interests of others.

2. Forgive one another.

Just as Christ has forgiven us, we are called to forgive others. This can be difficult when someone has hurt you. When it is difficult to forgive, look to what Christ has done for you and remember how much He has forgiven you. This can help us extend that same forgiveness to others.

Ephesians 4:32 Be kind and tenderhearted to one another, forgiving each other just as in Christ God forgave you.

3. Build others up with gracious words.

Your words are powerful. They can either build someone up or tear them down. Look for ways to bring grace into the lives of others through your words. Avoid words that unnecessarily tear people down, and look for opportunities to encourage, strengthen and speak graciously to others.

Ephesians 4:29 Let no unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building up the one in need and bringing grace to those who listen.

4. Pray for one another.

When you are around other believers, ask them how you can pray for them. Write down their prayer requests and pray for them regularly. Make this a regular practice in your life. As you pray, you will have the privilege of seeing God work in the lives of others. Praying for others is a powerful way to show them that you love and care for them.

Ephesians 6:18 Pray in the Spirit at all times, with every kind of prayer and petition. To this end, stay alert with all perseverance in your prayers for all the saints.

In conclusion, we are called to love one another. It is easy to forget this command and become focused on ourselves. Take time each day to remind yourself of this command, and encourage other believers to love one another.

We covered four practical ways to do this. Let’s review what we learned.

1. Look out for the interests of of others. Look beyond yourself and find ways to help, encourage and build up other believers. Consider others more important than yourself (Philippians 2:3-4).

2. Forgive one another. When someone hurts you, it can be difficult to forgive. But instead of holding on to bitterness, look at what Christ has done for you. Remember how He has forgiven you, and extend that forgiveness to others (Ephesians 4:32).

3. Build others up with gracious words. Use your words to speak God’s grace into people’s lives. Always look for ways to encourage and build others up with your words (Ephesians 4:29).

4. Pray for one another. Find ways to pray for other believers. Regularly ask them how you can pray for them, and pray for them when they share a need. When appropriate, pray for people on the spot rather than simply telling them you will pray for them later (Ephesians 6:18).

As a believer, God dwells in you through His Spirit, and His love has been poured into your heart through the Holy Spirit (Romans 5:5). As you walk by the Spirit (Galatians 5:16) and yield yourself to Him, He enables you to love the people around you.

Surrender yourself to Him and ask Him to empower you to love others as He has loved you. Remember, this is not something we accomplish through our own strength. We depend on God and allow His Spirit to work in and through our lives.

Here’s a prayer to help you respond to today’s lesson.

Father, thank You for loving me through Jesus Christ. Help me to love my brothers and sisters as Christ has loved me. Help me to forgive, encourage, build others up and pray for one another. Give me the strength to obey Your command and walk by Your Spirit. In Jesus’ name, amen.

If you’ve been blessed by Hope Bible School, please share it with others.

Listen to these lessons over and over again.

Meditate on God’s Word throughout the day. Pray continually. Seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness.

If you have any prayer requests, please share them in the comments.

Thank you and God bless you.

Jeff M Newman

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Hebrews 10:10 And by that will, we have been sanctified through the sacrifice of the body of Jesus Christ once for all.

This verse points us to the finished work of Jesus Christ on the cross. In the Old Testament, priests repeatedly offered sacrifices for sin, but those sacrifices could never permanently take away sin. Jesus offered Himself, the perfect and sinless Lamb of God, as the sacrifice for sin. His sacrifice was once for all.

Through faith in Christ, we are set apart for God because of what He has accomplished for us. This is called positional sanctification. Hebrews says, “we have been sanctified,” describing something God has already accomplished through Christ.

This does not mean we are already perfectly sinless or completely like Christ. God continues His work in us through progressive sanctification, as we grow in holiness and become more like Christ throughout our lives.

The final stage is glorification. When Christ appears, we will see Him as He is, and “we will be like Him” (1 John 3:2). God will complete His work of transforming us into the likeness of Christ.

Take a moment to reflect on what Jesus has done for you. He has saved you, He is transforming you, and one day He will complete that work. Your salvation rests on His finished work, your sanctification continues through His work in you, and your glorification will be the completion of His work. ~ Jeff M Newman

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• Lesson 94 - 1 John 3:10...nor is anyone who does not love their brother or sister.

Observe Jesus’ Commands

Help sinners turn to the Lord. This will bring great joy to God.

Luke 15:8-10 Or what woman who has ten silver coins and loses one of them does not light a lamp, sweep her house, and search carefully until she finds it? 9 And when she finds it, she calls together her friends and neighbors to say, ‘Rejoice with me, for I have found my lost coin.’ 10 In the same way, I tell you, there is joy in the presence of God’s angels over one sinner who repents.”

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James 1:22 Be doers of the word, and not hearers only. Otherwise, you are deceiving yourselves.

James is not saying there is anything wrong with hearing the Word. Hearing God’s Word is essential. “Faith comes from hearing, and hearing through the word of Christ” (Romans 10:17). The problem is stopping at hearing. We are not only called to hear God’s Word but to put it into practice.

In the Great Commission, Jesus commanded His disciples to make disciples of all nations, teaching them to observe all that He had commanded them (Matthew 28:19-20). Jesus did not simply say to teach people His commands. He told His disciples to teach them to observe them. This means to put His commands into practice.

It is also important to understand that we do not do good works in order to be saved. We are saved by God’s grace through faith in Christ, not by works (Ephesians 2:8-9). But we are then created in Christ Jesus for good works that God has prepared for us to do (Ephesians 2:10). Obedience is not the way we earn salvation; it is the proper response to God’s grace.

The next time you read the Bible or listen to a sermon, don’t simply ask, “What did I learn?” Ask, “What does God’s Word call me to do?” Then ask God to give you the strength and willingness to obey what His Word teaches.

If we continually hear God’s Word without seeking to obey it, James says we are deceiving ourselves. Fill your life with God’s Word, believe what it says and put it into practice. Don’t just be a hearer of the Word. Be a doer. ~ Jeff M Newman

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• Lesson 94 - 1 John 3:10...nor is anyone who does not love their brother or sister.

Observe Jesus’ Commands

Hear the word of God, cling to it, understand it, carry it out, and produce a crop.

Matthew 7:24-25 Therefore everyone who hears these words of Mine and acts on them is like a wise man who built his house on the rock. 25 The rain fell, the torrents raged, and the winds blew and beat against that house; yet it did not fall, because its foundation was on the rock.

Matthew 11:15 He who has ears, let him hear. (Mark 4:23, Mark 7:16, Matthew 13:9, Matthew 13:43, Luke 14:35)

Luke 8:21 But He replied, “My mother and brothers are those who hear the word of God and carry it out.” (Mark 3:35)

Luke 8:15 But the seeds on good soil are those with a noble and good heart, who hear the word, cling to it, and by persevering produce a crop.

Luke 11:28 But He replied, “Blessed rather are those who hear the word of God and obey it.”

Mark 4:20 Still others are like the seeds sown on good soil. They hear the word, receive it, and produce a crop—thirtyfold, sixtyfold, or a hundredfold.” (Matthew 13:23)

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Philippians 3:13-14 Brothers and sisters, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, 14 I press on toward the goal to win the prize of God’s heavenly calling in Christ Jesus.

Paul had an impressive history as a Jew. He was zealous and had strong religious credentials. But he was no longer trusting in those accomplishments or in his ability to keep the law. After coming to Christ, he understood that righteousness comes through faith in Jesus Christ. Everything he once considered gain was now loss compared with the surpassing worth of knowing Christ (Phil. 3:7-9).

Paul was not resting on his past accomplishments or even on how far he had already come in his walk with Christ. He says, “Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal.” His focus was now Christ. He wanted to know Him, experience the power of His resurrection, share in His sufferings and ultimately attain the resurrection from the dead (Phil. 3:10-11). He did not claim to be perfect or to have already arrived. He continued pressing forward.

Before Christ, we had our own beliefs, desires and ways of pursuing righteousness and purpose. When we put our faith in Jesus, everything changes. We are justified by faith, our understanding of God changes, and we begin to understand what Christ has saved us from and what He has called us to.

Don’t allow your past to control your present. Don’t return to your former way of thinking, and don’t become satisfied with how far you have already come. Learn from the past, but keep your eyes on what is ahead. Make knowing Christ your consuming pursuit. Press on, continue growing and strain toward the heavenly calling you have in Christ Jesus.~ Jeff M Newman

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• Lesson 94 - 1 John 3:10...nor is anyone who does not love their brother or sister.

Observe Jesus’ Commands

Hear Jesus’ voice, open the door, and spend time with Him.

Revelation 3:20 Behold, I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears My voice and opens the door, I will come in and dine with him, and he with Me.

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Philippians 4:8 Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think on these things.

As Christians, we have a choice in what we allow our minds to dwell on. Paul encourages us to focus on whatever is true, honorable, right, pure, lovely, admirable, excellent and praiseworthy. What we continually give our attention to can shape our thoughts, attitudes and actions.

In this world, it is easy to focus on things that produce fear, anger, negativity or discontentment. When you find yourself dwelling on these things, turn your attention to the Lord. Look to Him. He is true, righteous, pure and worthy of our praise.

You will face problems and struggles in life. This does not mean we ignore them. Instead, bring them to Jesus rather than allowing the world to determine how you respond. He is trustworthy and gives us the wisdom and strength to walk through difficult circumstances.

Spend time in God’s Word. Pray about what is happening in your life. Meditate on Scripture that speaks to the challenges you are facing. When your mind begins to dwell on fear or negativity, intentionally turn your thoughts back to Christ and His truth.

As you abide in Christ, He transforms you from the inside out (2 Corinthians 3:18). Be intentional about what you allow your mind to dwell on. Fix your thoughts on Christ and His truth, and allow the Holy Spirit to transform the way you think and live. ~ Jeff M Newman

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• Lesson 94 - 1 John 3:10...nor is anyone who does not love their brother or sister.

Observe Jesus’ Commands

Have salt among yourselves and be at peace with one another. Know that you will go through spiritual refinement when you follow Jesus.

Mark 9:49-50 For everyone will be salted with fire. 50 Salt is good, but if the salt loses its saltiness, with what will you season it? Have salt among yourselves, and be at peace with one another.”

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Proverbs 12:11 The one who works their land will have plenty of food, but whoever chases fantasies lacks judgment.

In context, Proverbs often contrasts wise behavior with foolish behavior. In this verse, we see the contrast between working the land and pursuing fantasies. Working the land requires patience, diligence and consistent effort. The person who faithfully works what has been entrusted to them will have the benefit of his labor. The principle is to faithfully work at whatever God has placed before you rather than neglecting your responsibilities.

The other option is chasing fantasies. This is pursuing things that have little substance or value. This can look like constantly bouncing from one idea to another, always looking for something new or better, but never consistently working on what God has placed before you. We can become so focused on what we might do that we neglect what God has already given us to do.

This does not mean we should never dream, set goals or pursue new opportunities. There is nothing wrong with planning for the future or pursuing something new. But we need to be careful that our dreams do not replace faithful, diligent work. Sometimes the wisest thing we can do is continue patiently cultivating what God has already placed in our hands.

Ask God to give you the discipline and perseverance to keep doing the right things consistently. Commit your work to the Lord (Proverbs 16:3) and work heartily as for the Lord and not for people (Colossians 3:23). Be faithful with what God has entrusted to you. Plant, cultivate and patiently do the work, trusting Him with the results. ~ Jeff M Newman

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• Lesson 94 - 1 John 3:10...nor is anyone who does not love their brother or sister.

Observe Jesus’ Commands

Have peace in Jesus, take courage, be of good cheer, because Jesus has overcome the world.

John 16:33 I have told you these things so that in Me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take courage; I have overcome the world!”

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Proverbs 11:30 The fruit of the righteous is a tree of life, and the one who wins souls is wise.

The Proverbs often compare and contrast the righteous and the wicked. Here Solomon teaches that the life of the righteous produces fruit that brings blessing to others. When you abide in Christ, your life will increasingly produce spiritual fruit because you are connected to Him. Jesus said, “Whoever abides in Me and I in him, he bears much fruit” (John 15:5).

The fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control (Galatians 5:22–23). As God transforms you, these qualities will be increasingly evident in your life. Your character and actions can become a blessing to others and point them toward Christ.

The second part of the verse says, “the one who wins souls is wise.” In Proverbs, this points to the wisdom of helping others turn toward what is right and good. As Christians, we can apply this by faithfully sharing the gospel, helping others follow Christ and making disciples. We don’t save people, God does. Our responsibility is to faithfully point people to Jesus.

God’s kindness leads people to repentance (Romans 2:4). As you experience God’s grace and kindness in your own life, share with others what He has done for you. Tell them about Jesus and what He accomplished through His death and resurrection.

Jesus came to “seek and save the lost” (Luke 19:10). He is our example. Ask God to give you opportunities to share the gospel, encourage others and help people take steps toward Christ.

Abide in Christ, allow Him to produce fruit in your life, and let that fruit become a blessing to others. As you faithfully point people toward Jesus, you are walking in the wisdom described in today’s verse. ~ Jeff M Newman

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• Lesson 94 - 1 John 3:10...nor is anyone who does not love their brother or sister.

Observe Jesus’ Commands

Have faith and believe.

Matthew 15:28 “O woman,” Jesus answered, “your faith is great! Let it be done for you as you desire.” And her daughter was healed from that very hour.

Matthew 17:19-20 Afterward the disciples came to Jesus privately and asked, “Why couldn’t we drive it out?” 20 “Because you have so little faith,” He answered. “For truly I tell you, if you have faith the size of a mustard seed, you can say to this mountain, ‘Move from here to there,’ and it will move. Nothing will be impossible for you.” (Luke 17:6, Matthew 21:21-22, Mark 11:22-24)

Mark 9:23 “If You can?” echoed Jesus. “All things are possible to him who believes!”

Matthew 21:22 If you believe, you will receive whatever you ask for in prayer.” (Mark 11:24)

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John 5:39-40 You pore over the Scriptures because you presume that by them you possess eternal life. These are the very words that testify about Me, 40 yet you refuse to come to Me to have life.

Jesus is speaking to Jewish religious leaders who had extensively studied the Scriptures. He is showing them that, although they diligently studied God’s Word, they had missed its ultimate purpose. The Scriptures testify about Jesus. Yet they refused to come to Him to receive life.

This shows us that a relationship with God isn’t simply about gaining knowledge from Scripture. It is about knowing and trusting the One whom Scripture reveals. Bible study is essential, but knowledge should lead us to Christ, worship, faith and obedience.

As you read the Bible, communicate with God through prayer. Ask Him to teach you, reveal His truth to you and show you how to apply what you are learning. Then put His Word into practice. Jesus wants to transform your life and give you the strength to follow Him.

Don’t simply read God’s Word for information. Come to Christ through His Word and allow Him to transform you as you abide in Him. ~ Jeff M Newman

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• Lesson 94 - 1 John 3:10...nor is anyone who does not love their brother or sister.

Observe Jesus’ Commands

Hate your life in this world and lose it for Jesus and the gospel. Have an eternal perspective.

John 12:25 (NIV) Anyone who loves their life will lose it, while anyone who hates their life in this world will keep it for eternal life. (Matthew 10:39, Luke 9:24, Matthew 16:25)

Mark 8:35 For whoever wants to save their life will lose it, but whoever loses their life for me and for the gospel will save it.

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2 Corinthians 9:15 Thanks be to God for His indescribable gift!

In context, Paul is teaching the Corinthians about generous giving. After describing their generosity toward other believers, he turns their attention to the far greater gift God has given them which is Jesus Christ and the salvation we have through Him.

Think about everything God has given you through Christ. He has forgiven your sins, reconciled you to Himself, given you the Holy Spirit, given you His Word, brought you into fellowship with other believers, given you access to Him through prayer, given you new life, and promised you eternal life and His presence forever. These are gifts we could never earn.

To understand God’s generosity, look to Jesus. He humbled Himself, came to earth, and gave His life on the cross so that we could be reconciled to God. His sacrifice is the greatest expression of God’s love and generosity toward us.

Spend time each day thanking God for what He has given you through Christ. Let gratitude shape the way you live. Because God has been so generous toward you, be generous with your time, abilities and resources toward Him and others. You may never be able to fully describe or even understand the extent of God’s gift, but you can spend your life responding to it with gratitude. ~ Jeff M Newman

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• Lesson 94 - 1 John 3:10...nor is anyone who does not love their brother or sister.

Observe Jesus’ Commands

Guard yourselves against every form of greed.

Luke 12:15 And He said to them, “Watch out! Guard yourselves against every form of greed, for one’s life does not consist in the abundance of possessions.”

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Ecclesiastes 4:9-10 Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their labor. 10 For if one falls down, his companion can lift him up; but pity the one who falls without another to help him up! 11 Again, if two lie down together, they will keep warm; but how can one keep warm alone? 12 And though one may be overpowered, two can resist. Moreover, a cord of three strands is not quickly broken.

In these verses, Solomon shares a powerful truth: two are better than one. Life can become empty and lonely when lived in isolation. We need others who can help us when we fall, strengthen us when we struggle, and encourage us along the way. Solomon gives several practical examples of the strength and benefits that come from companionship.

As Christians, we are part of God’s family. We are called to love our brothers and sisters in Christ, encourage one another, fellowship together, and help one another grow. Hebrews 10:24–25 tells us to stir one another toward love and good works and to encourage one another.

Don’t walk through life alone. Invest in godly friendships and Christian community. Get involved in a small group, fellowship with other believers, and serve in ministry. Ask God to help you avoid isolation and give you opportunities to encourage and strengthen others.

God often uses other believers as a means of encouragement, correction, strength and spiritual growth. Be willing to receive help when you need it, and be ready to help someone else when they fall.

We were not meant to walk the Christian life alone. Walk with other believers, encourage one another, and help each other become more like Christ.~ Jeff M Newman

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• Lesson 94 - 1 John 3:10...nor is anyone who does not love their brother or sister.

Observe Jesus’ Commands

Gouge out or cut off whatever causes you to sin. This is not promoting self-mutilation, but rather taking radical measures to maintain purity and prevent the serious consequences of sin.

Matthew 5:29-30 If your right eye causes you to sin, gouge it out and throw it away. It is better for you to lose one part of your body than for your whole body to be thrown into hell. 30 And if your right hand causes you to sin, cut it off and throw it away. It is better for you to lose one part of your body than for your whole body to depart into hell. (Mark 9:43-48, Matthew 18:8-9)

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