Guiding Question: How did we get the Old Testament, and how can we be confident it's truly from God?

Summary

Description: Robert Lewis opens his "Theology 101" series by diving deep into the origins and credibility of the Old Testament. Addressing a question most believers rarely explore—how we got the Old Testament and whether it is historically and theologically trustworthy—he walks through the human and divine processes behind the formation of the Old Testament. This includes insights into the nature of inspiration, the role of prophets and compilers, and the role archeology and prophecy play in affirming the Old Testament's supernatural nature. He also emphasizes Jesus’ own view of the Old Testament, adding a compelling reason for Christians to trust it.

Outline:

1. Introduction to Bibliology

   • Is the Bible true? If so, how do we know?

   • Special focus on the Old Testament.

2. Mystery and Faith

   • Much of the Old Testament’s origin lies in ancient history.

   • Acknowledges gaps but highlights archeological support.

3. Human Authorship Types

   • Inspired, proven leaders (e.g., Moses).

   • Inspired, proven prophets (e.g., Elijah).

   • Inspired compilers (e.g., authors of Psalms, Kings).

4. The Supernatural Smell Test

   • Books were accepted based on clear evidence of divine activity and historical consistency.

5. How the Old Testament Was Compiled

   • Slowly over 1,000 years.

   • Scrolls added over time until writing stopped around 400 BC.

   • Josephus’ affirmation of its completion and integrity.

6. The Apocrypha

   • Not accepted by Jews or early Christians.

   • Added later by the Catholic Church in 1546.

7. Jesus’ Endorsement

   • Treated the Old Testament as authoritative, infallible, imperishable, and historical.

   • Quoted it often and lived in fulfillment of its prophecies.

8. Prophecy as Proof

   • Dozens of fulfilled prophecies, especially those about Jesus.

   • Examples include birthplace, manner of death, resurrection, and eternal reign.

9. Conclusion and Call to Faith

   • Faith in the Old Testament is not blind—it’s based on strong evidence.

   • The Old Testament ultimately points to Jesus and invites us not to miss him.

Key Takeaways

• The Old Testament did not fall from the sky; it was compiled over a millennium by inspired leaders, prophets, and trusted compilers.

• Archeological and historical discoveries in the 20th century have increasingly supported its accuracy.

• Jesus himself affirmed the Old Testament’s authority and fulfillment in his life.

• Fulfilled prophecy gives powerful evidence of divine authorship.

• The Old Testament is not merely historical—it’s personal and relational, pointing directly to Jesus Christ.

• Faith in the Bible is reasonable and evidence-based, not blind or naive.

Scriptural References

• Genesis 49:10 (Tribe of Judah)

• Jeremiah 23:5–6 (King from David’s line)

• Micah 5:2 (Born in Bethlehem)

• Isaiah 7:14 (Born of a virgin)

• Isaiah 9:6 (Mighty God, Prince of Peace)

• Isaiah 53 (Suffering Servant, sacrifice, resurrection)

• Psalm 22 (Crucifixion details)

• Daniel 9:25–26 (Timeline of Messiah’s death)

• Matthew 4:4; 5:18; 15:3–6; 22:29; 24:37–39

• John 5:39–40; 10:35; 12:34–35

Recorded 10/17/04

Why does God allow Christians to suffer, and how should we respond when we face ridicule or rejection for living a godly life?

In this compelling sermon, Dr. Robert Lewis explores the often-unspoken reality of Christian suffering—not the kind caused by general hardship, but the unique suffering believers face simply for following Christ. Drawing from 1 Peter 4:12–19, he unpacks why this suffering is inevitable, what purpose it serves, and how we are called to respond. With honesty, humility, and clarity, Dr. Lewis addresses the emotional and spiritual challenges that come with being mocked, misunderstood, or even reviled for the mere name "Christian."

Using real-life stories—from Bob Dylan's conversion to personal moments of shame and boldness—he helps believers understand that such trials are not strange but deeply meaningful. They test our faith, shape our character, and identify us with Christ’s own suffering. And ultimately, they prepare us for joy—now and in eternity.

Whether you’re enduring peer pressure, workplace opposition, or quiet loneliness for your faith, this message will challenge and encourage you to rejoice and entrust your soul to a faithful Creator.

1. Introduction

   • The context of 1 Peter and Peter’s own martyrdom.

   • Today's suffering may not be physical—but it is real.

2. The Inevitability of Christian Suffering (v.12)

   • “Fiery ordeal” is not strange—it's to be expected.

   • Christian suffering is promised (2 Tim. 3:12).

   • The “bed of roses syndrome” many young believers fall into.

3. The Reason for Christian Suffering (v.12)

   • It tests our faith and proves its authenticity.

   • Real-life example: a Christian in Peru losing his job over integrity.

4. The Benefits of Christian Suffering (vv.13–14)

   • It aligns us with Christ's suffering.

   • There is joy now and joy to come.

   • It brings power and anointing (Spirit of glory rests on us).

5. The Boundaries of Christian Suffering (vv.15–16)

   • Not all suffering is godly—don’t suffer for wrongdoing.

   • Avoid becoming a "troublesome meddler."

6. The Perspective of Judgment (vv.17–18)

   • God's judgment starts with the household of God but extends to unbelievers.

   • Suffering reveals both the saved and the condemned.

7. The Proper Response to Suffering (v.19)

   • Entrust your soul to a faithful Creator.

   • Do what is right—stand firm in faith.

8. Conclusion & Prayer

   • Encouragement for those who’ve faced rejection for their faith.

   • A call to endure joyfully, just as Christ did.

• Christian suffering is not optional; it’s promised. Living godly in Christ will bring opposition.

• Suffering is a test. It reveals whether we truly follow Christ or just admire Him from afar.

• There is joy in suffering. Rejection aligns us with Jesus and assures us of future glory.

• Suffering brings spiritual power. When we stand up for our faith, God’s Spirit strengthens us.

• Not all suffering is righteous. We must guard against self-inflicted trouble and judgmental attitudes.

• Eternal perspective is essential. Our present trials are nothing compared to the judgment awaiting those who reject Christ.

• 1 Peter 4:12–19 – Main passage on Christian suffering and response.

• 2 Timothy 3:12 – “All who desire to live godly in Christ Jesus will be persecuted.”

• Hebrews 12:1–2 – Jesus endured suffering for the joy set before Him.

• Romans 8:1 – “There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.”

• Matthew 5:11–12 – “Blessed are you when others revile you… rejoice and be glad.”

Recorded 10/26/80

Guiding Question What’s the best way to be morally pure in a world that constantly pulls us the other way?

Summary

Robert Lewis challenges believers to confront the ever-present pull of sin, not by merely resisting it, but by replacing it—through a growing relationship with Jesus Christ. The message opens with a stark reality: sin is not just around us; it’s in us. Using both humor and Scripture, Lewis exposes the deceptive nature of sin and the limitations of simply trying to “fight” it.

Drawing from Titus 2:11–14, a passage used as an early church creed, Lewis explains how Jesus not only brings salvation but also purifies lives. The key to moral purity, he argues, is not just in putting off sin but in actively pursuing Jesus. Lewis critiques the legalistic “fight sin” approach common in past generations and offers instead the “freedom-through-pursuit” model—developing new desires by loving and following Christ.

He ends with practical applications: one, seek forgiveness through Jesus immediately, and two, commit to a long-term path of spiritual growth through Scripture and obedience. That, he says, is how your story ends in freedom.

Outline:

1. Opening Insight – “Sin is not my friend”—but why does it stay so close?

2. Two Reasons Sin Persists – It's deceptive and it's part of our nature.

3. A Missed Target – Illustrating sin as “missing the mark” (harmatia).

4. Titus 2:11–14 – Jesus came to save and purify a people for Himself.

5. What We’re Called to Deny and Embrace – Ungodliness, worldly passions vs. self-control, uprightness, and godliness.

6. Wrong Approach to Moral Purity – Fighting sin head-on doesn’t work; it wears us out and leaves us vulnerable.

7. Right Approach to Moral Purity – Pursuing Jesus transforms desires, replacing sin’s hold with superior joy.

8. Results of Pursuing Jesus – Freedom, joy, influence, and the life we've always longed for.

9. Two Applications – Seek forgiveness now; commit to obeying God’s Word as the path to freedom.

Key Takeaways

• Sin is deceptive and internal—it disguises itself as a better way and lives within us.

• Moral purity cannot be sustained by sheer willpower or prohibition.

• Jesus came not only to save but to purify His people for good works.

• Pursuing Christ is the only effective path to lasting moral purity.

• Right living follows right focus: when Jesus becomes our joy, sin loses its pull.

• The goal isn't just to be "clean"—it's to live freely, purposefully, and fully through a relationship with Christ.

Scriptural References

• Isaiah 53:6 – “All we like sheep have gone astray…”

• Romans 7:15–24 – Paul’s struggle with the evil within.

• Titus 2:11–14 – Jesus came to save and purify a people zealous for good deeds.

• Luke 11:24–26 – A house swept clean but empty is still vulnerable.

• Matthew 5:8 – “Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God.”

• Romans 6:23 – “The wages of sin is death…”

• 1 Timothy 4:12 – Be an example in purity and conduct.

• John 10:10 – “I came that they might have life, and have it more abundantly.”

• 1 John 1:9 – “If we confess our sins, He is faithful…to forgive…”

Recorded 9/5/04