Teachings

Doctrinal Beliefs of

THE WESTSIDE CHURCH OF GOD (SEVENTH DAY), INC.

05/2015

INTRODUCTION

The doctrinal statements that follow are those of “THE WESTSIDE CHURCH OF GOD (SEVENTH DAY), INC.”, 5520 South Santa Fe Avenue, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma 73109.

These statements were revised and approved by the local church board yet do not constitute a closed creed. THE WESTSIDE CHURCH OF GOD (SEVENTH DAY), INC. is always open to spiritual growth and to a new and better understanding of the Bible.

THE WESTSIDE CHURCH OF GOD (SEVENTH DAY), INC. encourages its members to search the Bible to know the difference between what the Bible teaches, and what is generally taught as scriptural truth. The truth will set each believer free, (John 8:32) and it is everyone’s responsibility to seek truth with individual and group Bible study. Since Bible interpretation is an honorable goal, yet it is not for private interpretation (2 Peter 1:19-21). Therefore, group Bible study is encouraged.

THE WESTSIDE CHURCH OF GOD (SEVENTH DAY), INC. is, and will continue to be, open to spiritual growth and deeper understanding of the Bible. Therefore, these statements of belief represent this church’s best understanding of the Bible at the present time.

1. The Holy Bible

The Holy Bible is the divinely inspired Word of God. No other writing is of such divine origin. The Bible is infallible in teaching, and it contains the complete revelation of the plan of salvation and the Will of God for mankind. God's Word is eternal.

• Men of God spoke as they were moved by the Holy Ghost (Spirit). 2 Peter 1:20-21; Romans 15:4
• God's Word is truth. John 17:17
• Add not unto His Words. Proverbs 30:6
• Neither add to nor diminish from His commands. Deuteronomy 12:32
• The Scriptures testify of Jesus and reveal the means by which we receive eternal life. John 5:39
• Scriptures are given by inspiration of God and are able to make us wise unto salvation. 2 Timothy 3:15-17
• God's Word will never pass away. Matthew 24:35

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2. God, the Father

The supreme Deity of the universe is God. He is the Almighty, the Creator and Sustainer of the heavens, the earth, and all things therein.

• God created heaven and earth. Genesis 1:1
• God said He is Almighty. Genesis 17:1
• God made heaven, earth, sea, and all things therein. Acts 14:15; 17:24–25; Nehemiah 9:6; Psalm 124:8; Revelation 14:7
• God created the heavenly bodies and calls them by name. Isaiah 40:26, 28
• God made all things. Isaiah 44:24
• The Son turns the kingdom over to God so He will be all-in-all. 1 Corinthians 15:24-28
• In the New Jerusalem, God Himself will be their God. Revelation 21:3, 7

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3. Jesus, the Son of God

Jesus is the only begotten Son of God, conceived of the Holy Spirit and born to the virgin, Mary. He is the Christ, or Messiah, sent from God to be our Savior and Redeemer.

• Jesus is the only begotten Son of God. John 1:18; 1 John 4:9
• Jesus was sent by God, His Father. John 8:42
• Jesus' disciples recognized He was the Son of God. Matthew 14:33
• Peter declared that He was the Christ, the Son of God. Matthew 16:16
• The virgin, Mary, was told she would bear a Son, conceived of the Holy Ghost. Luke 1:26-35
• "We have found the Messias." John 1:41
• Salvation in none other. Acts 4:12
• We have redemption through Jesus. Ephesians 1:7
• Jesus gave Himself to redeem us. Titus 2:14
• God acknowledged by a voice from heaven that Jesus is His Son. Matthew 3:17
• Jesus returned to His Father and His God. John 21:17
• After the Millennium, Jesus turns the kingdom over to His Father. 1 Corinthians 15:24-28

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4. The Holy Spirit

The Holy Spirit, also called the Holy Ghost, is the Comforter whom Christ promised to send. It is not a person but is the extension of the living power of God. The Heavenly Father gives the Holy Spirit to those who ask and obey Him. By His Holy Spirit, God reveals Bible truth unto men and gives power to witness for Christ. Evidence of His Presence is manifested in lives by words spoken, by "fruits of the Spirit," and by keeping the commandments of God.

• The Father gives the Holy Spirit to those who ask Him, and obey Him. Luke 11:9-13, Acts 5:32
• "Ghost" and "Spirit" used interchangeably. Acts 2:4
• "Be filled with the Holy Ghost." Acts 9:17
• "Be filled with the Spirit." Ephesians 5:18
• Jesus sent the Comforter. John 16:7-16
• Holy Spirit is called the Spirit of truth and the Comforter. John 14:16, 17, 26
• Holy Ghost gives power to witness. Acts 1:8, 5:32
• The fruit of the Spirit is described. Galatians 5:22–23
• The Spirit administers gifts. 1 Corinthians 12:7-11
• Dwells in those who keep God's commandments. 1 John 3:24; Acts 5:32

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5. The Fall of Humanity

Man was created in the image and likeness of the Creator, but he disobeyed God, bringing the curse of sorrow, hardship and death upon all mankind.

• Man was created in the image of God. Genesis 1:26, 27
• Adam and Eve were cursed because of disobedience. Genesis 3: 16-19
• Death by sin came upon all men as a result of Adam's disobedience. 1 Corinthians 15:22; Romans 5:12

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6. The Plan of Salvation

The plan of salvation was provided by God as the means by which man may escape the penalty of eternal death pronounced upon him. God's Son was sent to Earth to redeem man from the curse of sin. This was accomplished after Jesus lived sinlessly, gave His life sacrificially by shedding His blood on the cross of Calvary, and was resurrected by God, His Father, triumphant over death. Jesus took our place in death and offered His perfect life as a substitute for our sinful one. This gift of God which offers eternal life, is available to all who will accept it on God's terms.

• The Lord is not willing that any should perish. 2 Peter 3:9
• God gave His Son-whoever believes in Him will not perish. John 3:16
• Christ is the only Door to salvation. John 10:1, 7, 9: Acts 4:10-12
• We are saved by Jesus' life, by Whom we receive the atonement. Romans 5:10-11
• Jesus was without sin. Hebrews 4:15
• Christ bore our sins. 1 Peter 2:24
• He was made sin for us so that we could be made righteous in Him. 2 Corinthians 5:21
• He is the propitiation for our sins through faith in His blood. Romans 3:24, 25; 1 John 2:2
• Christ purchased the Church of God with His blood. Acts 20:28
• We are sanctified through His blood. Hebrews 13:12
• God, Jesus’ Father, raised Jesus from the dead. Acts 2:32; 3:26; 5:30; Romans 6:4
• Christ's resurrection gives assurance that the plan of salvation will be completed. 1 Corinthians 15:13-23
• We are redeemed with the blood of Christ. 1 Peter 1:18-19

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7. Accepting Christ

Conversion, also called the new birth, is the process by which one is changed from his old, sinful life into a new creature in Christ. An individual accepts Christ by exercising faith in God and His Son; confessing and repenting of his sins; making restitution, where possible; and in obedience to God, patterning his life after the example set by Christ.

• One must be born again to enter the kingdom of God. John 3:3-8
• If any man is in Christ, he is a new creature. 2 Corinthians 5:17
• Whoever comes to God must have faith. Hebrews 11:6
• We are saved by grace through faith. Ephesians 2:8
• We are to turn away from sin. 2 Chronicles 7:14
• Some works of the flesh, sins are named. Romans 1:23-32; Galatians 5:19-21, 2 Timothy 3:1-6
• If we confess our sins they will be forgiven. 1 John 1:9
• Before bringing a gift to the altar, be reconciled to your brother. Matthew 5:23-24
• Repentance is to be preached. Luke 24:47
• Repentance and baptism prepare us to receive the Holy Ghost. Acts 2:38
• We must have the mind of Jesus who was obedient unto death. Philippians 2:5-8
• He that abides in Christ should walk as He walked. 1 John 2:6
• Christ left us an example. 1 Peter 2:21
• Confess the Lord Jesus Christ. Romans 10:9

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8. Baptism

Baptism is by immersion in water. It symbolizes the burial of our sinful nature and the rising of a new creature to walk in service and obedience to God. It represents the answer of a good conscience toward God.

• Following His baptism Jesus walked up out of the water. Matthew 3:16
• Philip and the eunuch both went into the water. Acts 8:38, 39
• Baptism is the answer of a good conscience toward God. 1 Peter 3:21
• Baptism is a burial and rising to walk in newness of life. Romans 6:4-5
• He that believes and is baptized shall be saved. Mark 16:16

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9. Prayer

God's people are to pray to their heavenly Father in the name of Jesus, their Mediator and High Priest, Who is at the right hand of God. Those who earnestly call upon Him will have their prayers answered in accordance with God's will.

• Men should pray everywhere. 1 Timothy 2:8
• Men ought always to pray, and not to faint. Luke 18:1
• "Pray without ceasing". 1 Thessalonians 5:17
• Prayer may be used to express needs and appreciation. Philippians 4:6
• We are to ask in Jesus' name. John 14:13-14; 1 John 5:14
• Jesus is a qualified High Priest. Hebrews 4:14-16
• Christ is Mediator between God and man. 1 Timothy 2:5
• Christ intercedes at the right hand of God. Romans 8:34
• Faith must accompany prayer. James 1:6
• Christ gave a model prayer. Matthew 6:9-13

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10. Prayer for the Sick and the Practice of Laying-on-of-Hands.

God answers individual and collective prayers of faith offered in behalf of the sick. It is scriptural for the sick to call for the elders of the Church to anoint them with oil, lay hands on them and pray for their healing.

• Sick may call the elders who will anoint with oil. James 5:14-15
• God heals all diseases. Psalm 103:3
• Hezekiah's request for healing was granted. 2 Kings 20:1-6
• Father of Publius was healed through prayer and laying on of hands. Acts 28:8
• Jesus’ example of laying on of hands for healing. Mark 5:23; Luke 4:40; Luke 13:13
• Prophecy of future uses of laying on of hands and they shall recover. Mark 16:18
• Peter and John’s example after baptism to lay on hands. Acts 8:17
• Ananias laid hands on Saul (Paul) for healing of his sight and to receive the Holy Spirit. Acts 9:17
• Saul (Paul) and Barnabas sent on a missionary journey after fasting, prayer and laying on of hands. Acts 13:3
• Paul laid hands on many for healing. Acts 28:8-9
• Laying on of hands referred to as a doctrine. Hebrews 6:1-2

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11. The Lord's Supper

In the Lord's Supper, we eat unleavened bread and drink the fruit of the vine as symbols of our Lord's Body and Blood, which He offered as a substitutionary sacrifice for sin. In partaking of these emblems, we commemorate the Lord's death, proclaim our hope in His return, commune with one another as the Body of Christ and symbolize our continued union with the Savior.

• Jesus instituted the Lord's Supper to symbolize the new covenant which He ratified by His death. Matthew 26:26-29; Mark 14:22-25; Luke 22:19-20
• The Lord's Supper looks back in commemoration of the Lord's death, but also looks forward in anticipation to the coming Messianic kingdom. 1 Corinthians 11:23-26
• The Lord's Supper is a communion or common sharing which unites the participants in fellowship with Christ, and so with one another. 1 Corinthians 10:16-17

NOTE: THE WESTSIDE CHURCH OF GOD (SEVENTH DAY), INC. (SEVENTH DAY), INC. has chosen to observe the Lord's Supper on the night beginning the fourteenth of Nisan as determined by the current Hebrew calendar. We extend charity toward those who may observe communion at other times. We have chosen to use unleavened bread and unfermented grape juice as emblems of the broken body and shed blood of Christ.

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12. Washing of Feet

The ordinance of the washing of the feet was given by Jesus as an example of humility, and it is to be practiced in connection with the observance of the Lord's Supper.

• Jesus institutes washing of feet. John 13:1-5
• Jesus washed the disciples' feet. John 13:6-12
• Jesus instructed that this act should be continued. John 13:13-17
• Christ taught humility. Luke 14:13
• The Lord lifts us up after we humble ourselves. James 4:10

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13. The Ten Commandments

The Ten Commandments constitute the basic law of God for the conduct of His people. To transgress God's law is to commit sin (1 John 3:4). By observing them, one expresses his love to God and man. They are unique in that they were written by the finger of God. No part of this Decalogue has been revoked or changed, and it is still to be observed in its entirety.

• The Ten Commandments are listed. Exodus 20:2-17
• They were written by the finger of God. Exodus 31:18; 32:16
• He added no more. Deuteronomy 5:22
• God keeps covenant with those who love Him and keep His commandments to 1,000 generations. Deuteronomy 7:9
• IF we love Him we keep His commandments. John 14:15
• We love the children of God and God when we keep His commandments. 1 John 5:2-3
• On the two commandments, to love God and to love our neighbor hang ALL the law and the prophets. Matthew 22:37-40
• Whoever offends in one point is guilty of all. James 2:10
• We should live as though we will be judged by the law of liberty. James 2:12
• We know Him if we keep His commandments. 1 John 2:3
• Sin is transgression of the law. 1 John 3:4
• By the law is the knowledge of sin. Romans 3:20
• To stand as long as heaven and earth. Matthew 5:18

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14. The Sabbath

The fourth commandment of the Decalogue enjoins the people of God to observe the Sabbath, the seventh day of the week, commonly called Saturday. It is to be regarded as holy from sundown Friday until sundown Saturday. It was given as a memorial of creation, and it is to be used for worship and rest. Consistent with this, secular work is to be excluded on the Sabbath.

• God blessed and sanctified the seventh day. Genesis 2:3
• The fourth commandment is stated. Exodus 20:8-11
• It was Jesus' custom to observe the Sabbath. Luke 4:16
• Sabbath is the day preceding the first day of the week. Matthew 28:1
• Sabbaths are observed from even to even. Leviticus 23:32
• Sabbath was made for man; Christ is Lord of it. Mark 2:27-28
• Sabbath still regarded following Christ's ascension. Matthew 24:14-20
• Paul worshiped on the Sabbath. Acts 13:14, 42, 44
• Women had prayer meeting on the Sabbath. Acts 16:13
• Paul observed the Sabbath for 18 months at Corinth. Acts 18:4, 11
• Holy nature of the Sabbath. Isaiah 56:2; 58:13-14

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15. Worldliness

The Scriptures condemn worldliness, which includes "the lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life" (1 John 2:16). Therefore a Christian should not conform to this world but be transformed by the renewing of his mind so that he may know what is the Will of God for him. His life should be an example to both believer and nonbeliever.

• Should not be conformed to the world. Romans 12:2
• We should be renewed in the spirit of our mind. Ephesians 4:23-24
• We should not live after the flesh. Romans 8:12-14
• Be an example of the believers. 1 Timothy 4:12
• Let your light shine. Matthew 5:16
• Abstain from lust; show good works. 1 Peter 2:11-12
• Works of the flesh will keep us from the kingdom of God. Galatians 5:16-21
• We are not to lust after the things of this world; the fashion of it will pass away. 1 John 2:15-17
• Seek those things which are above; mortify your own body members on the earth. Colossians 3:1-10

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16. Defiling Habits and Life Styles

The bodies of God's children are the temples of the Holy Spirit. Therefore, Christians must guard against sensual lusts and filthiness. They must refrain from all practices and habits which are harmful and defile the body.

• Flee fornication because our bodies are the temple of God, or the temple of the Holy Spirit. 1 Corinthians 3:16-17; 6:18-19; 2 Corinthians 6:16
• We must cleanse ourselves from filthiness of the flesh. 2 Corinthians 7:1
• Lust is of the world, not of the Father. 1 John 2:16
• Submitting to lust leads to death. James 1:14-15
• Works of the flesh prevent inheritance of the kingdom. Galatians 5:19-21
• We are to mortify the deeds of the flesh. Colossians 3:5-8
• Be not drunk with wine wherein is excess. Ephesians 5:18
• We must deny worldly lusts. Titus 2:12
• Unlawful lusts, heathen abominations and abominable customs including men that lie with mankind as with womankind. Leviticus 18:6-30
• Description of unclean habits, vile affections and unnatural behavior which are worthy of death. Romans 1:24-32
• The unrighteous, nor fornicators, idolaters, adulterers, effeminate, abusers of themselves with mankind, thieves, covetous, drunkards, revilers, extortioners, shall not inherit the kingdom of God. 1 Corinthians 6:9-10
• The law is made for the lawless, disobedient, the ungodly and sinners, unholy and profane, murderers of fathers and murderers of mothers, manslayers, whoremongers, them that defile themselves with mankind, menstealers, liars, perjured persons, and any other thing that is contrary to sound doctrine. 1 Timothy 1:8-10
• “Therefore the ungodly shall not stand in the judgment, nor sinners in the congregation of the righteous.” Psalm 1:5

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17. Clean and Unclean

The distinction between clean and unclean meats with respect to foods is to be observed today as God's will because it was God-given for man's benefit.

• Noah knew which animals were clean and which were unclean. Genesis 7:1-3
• Clean and unclean animals were designated. Leviticus 11:2-47; Deuteronomy 14:3-20
• After Jesus’ resurrection and ascension, Peter still recognized difference between clean and unclean animals as a standard to live by. Acts 10:9-14
• In the end-time prophecies, the subject still plainly known and not hidden - judgment upon those that eat the unclean (swine and mice). Isaiah 66:15, 16, 17, 65:3, 4, 5

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18. Financial Stewardship

The New Testament, by principle and example, teaches that the work of the church is to be supported by the financial stewardship of its members. Tithing, a tenth, as a biblical principle serves as an appropriate standard of giving. Motivated by love, each member is called upon to give tithe and offering freely and cheerfully.

• Abraham gave a tenth to Melchizedek. Genesis 14:18-20; Hebrews 7:1-6
• Jacob agreed to return the tithe to acknowledge God's care for him. This was a long time before Moses. Genesis 28:20-22
• God says to prove/try Him to see the blessing He will give if one will give tithes and offerings. Malachi 3:8-10
• Tithe to be given in a spirit of love. Luke 11:42
• Paul speaks of the need to support the ministry. 1 Corinthians 9:7-13; 1 Timothy 5:17-18
• Paul identifies the means by which the ministry should be supported. 1 Corinthians 9:14
• God loves and blesses those who give generously and cheerfully. 2 Corinthians 9:6-7

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19. Participation in Warfare

Jesus Christ our Lord taught us to love and forgive our enemies, and to work for the peace and salvation of all peoples. Wars among nations and violence between persons are not God’s perfect will, but result from greed, lust for power, selfishness, and other sinful motives. A child of God (Westside Church of God (Seventh Day) Inc. members) should renounce such carnality and the weapons of human strive, and should not participate in military combat through the armed forces.

• We do not return evil for evil. Romans 12:17-18
• We should not avenge ourselves, but rather do good to our enemies. We overcome evil with good. Romans 12:19-21
• We must love our enemies. Matthew 5:43, 44; Luke 6:27-28
• Jesus did not allow His servants to fight because His kingdom is not of this world and we do not fight against military power of this world. John 18:36
• Those who take the sword perish by it. Matthew 26:51-52
• The weapons of our warfare are not carnal we do not war in worldly ways. 2 Corinthians 10:3-4
• Wars come from lusts. James 4:1

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20. Pagan Days and Practices

Sunday ("sun" day), Christmas, Easter, Lent, Halloween, Valentines Day, St. Patrick’s Day, etc. are of pagan origin. Wicca, Witchcraft, the Occult, Paganism, Spiritualism, Idolatry and similar practices are from pagan origins also. To observe or practice any of these, or traditions of man, is to cause intermixing our worship to God with unacceptable religions. Pagan days and practices are denounced by the Bible.

• Do not eat blood nor use enchantments nor observe times. Leviticus 19:26
• No cutting nor print marks (tattoos) in your flesh. Leviticus 19:28
• Be not defiled by those with familiar spirits nor by wizards. God is against the person who is involved with them. Leviticus 19:31; Leviticus 20:6, 27
• Divination (fortunetelling), observers of times and signs (astrology, horoscopes, tarot readings, psychic readings), enchanters, witches, charmers, necromancers, etc., are ALL an abomination. Deuteronomy 18:9-12
• Establishment of "high places" caused Jerusalem to commit fornication. God is angered when other gods are recognized. 2 Chronicles 21:11; 2 Chronicles 28:4, 25
• We should not learn the way of the heathen. Jeremiah 10:2-10
• The useless teachings of the doctrines of men. Matthew 15:8-9
• No fellowship between righteousness and unrighteousness. 2 Corinthians 6:14-18
• Any of these seventeen and such like, shall not inherit the kingdom of God. Galatians 5:19-21
• Some will turn to seducing spirits and doctrines of devils. 1 Timothy 4:1-2
• All unrighteousness is sin. Keep yourself from idols. 1 John 5:17, 21
• These characteristics will lead to the second death. Revelation 21:8
• Video Sermons: Paganism (YouTube)

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21. Marriage, Divorce and Remarriage

Marriage was instituted by God. Thus it is a divine institution and was meant to last as long as both partners live. The Bible example of marriage is between one biological man and one biological woman. Those who remarry after divorce, except if the divorce is "for cause of fornication" (Matthew 19:9), commit adultery. Similarly, those who marry persons who have been divorced, "except for the cause of fornication," commit adultery.

• God instituted marriage. Genesis 2:18-25
• A woman is bound by the law to her husband as long as he lives. Romans 7:1-3; 1 Corinthians 7:10-16, 39
• Whoever puts away his wife, saving for the cause of fornication, causes her to commit adultery. Whoever marries her commits adultery. Matthew 5:31-32; 19:4-9
• Whoever puts away his wife (husband) and remarries commits adultery. Mark 10:2-12; Luke 16:18

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22. Crucifixion and Resurrection of Christ

Jesus was crucified on a Wednesday and was placed into the tomb just before sundown on that day. Just before sundown on the following weekly Sabbath - three days and three nights later - He arose from the grave, thus fulfilling accurately the prophecy He uttered concerning this event as recorded in Matthew 12:39-40.

• Christ was to be in the heart of the earth three days and three nights. Matthew 12:39-40
• Christ was buried and rose again the third day according to the Scriptures. 1 Corinthians 15:3-4
• Jesus said He would rise again three days after being killed. Mark 8:31; 9:31
• Visit was made "in the end of the Sabbath." The women saw only an empty tomb. Matthew 28:1
• All visits to an empty tomb. No one saw Jesus leave. Mark 16:1-6; Luke 24:1-6; John 20:1-9
• The "preparation" day on which Jesus was slain was preceding a high Sabbath - not to be confused with the weekly Sabbath. John 19:31
• It was the preparation for the Passover. John 19:14

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23. Pre-existence of Christ

Jesus was present with God and was preeminent in the Creation. He shared His Father's glory before taking on the form of man. He was conceived of the Holy Spirit, born to the virgin, Mary, and when He left the earth, He returned to His former abode.

• Jesus was the firstborn of every creature. Colossians 1:15, 17
• He was the beginning of the creation of God. Revelation 3:14
• He was "in the beginning." John 1:1
• "Let us make man in our own image." Genesis 1:26
• By Him were all things made. John 1:3; Ephesians 3:9; Colossians 1:16
• Jesus had glory before the world was. John 17:5, 24
• Jesus came from above. John 3:31
• Jesus returned to where He was before. John 6:62
• He was before Abraham. John 8:58
• The virgin, Mary, was told of Jesus' birth. Luke 1:34-35
• Jesus, being in the form of God, took on the form of a servant. Philippians 2:6-8
• Jesus came from heaven and He has returned. John 3:13; John 16:27-28

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24. The Second Coming of Christ

Christ will return in visible bodily form to establish His kingdom on the earth. He will come in the clouds of heaven, the same way He departed.

• Jesus was taken up to a cloud; two men in white apparel predicted a similar return. Acts 1:9-11
• Jesus promised to return. John 14:1-3
• Peter spoke of Jesus' return. Acts 3:20
• Job looked forward to seeing his Redeemer stand on the earth in the latter day. Job 19:25-27
• The Lord will descend with the trump of God. 1 Thessalonians 4:16
• He will come with clouds, and every eye will see Him. Revelation 1:7
• He will come to sit upon His throne. Before Him will be gathered all nations. Luke 1:32; Matthew 19:28; Matthew 25:31-32

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25. Millennial Reign of Christ

Christ will establish His Kingdom on the earth at His second advent, where the redeemed will reign with Him for 1,000 years. This is the time of "restitution" (Acts 3:21), also called "regeneration" (Matthew 19:28). During this millennial age Christ will put all enemies, including death, under His feet after which He will turn the Kingdom over to God, His Father.

• Jesus stands on the Mount of Olives. Zechariah 14:4-9
• The kingdoms of this world become the kingdom of our Lord. Revelation 11:15
• The righteous will reign with Him for 1,000 years. Revelation 20:4, 6
• They will reign on the earth. Revelation 5:10
• The mountain (kingdom) of the Lord will be established on top of the mountains (kingdoms). It will be a peaceful time when the ways of God are taught. Isaiah 2:2-4; Micah 4:1-4
• Descriptive of the Millennium. Isaiah 65:17-24
• Christ reigns until all enemies are destroyed; then turns the kingdom over to God. 1 Corinthians 15:24-28

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26. Satan

Satan, a being, who is also called the Devil, is the adversary of God and His people. A deceiver, capable of transforming himself into an “angel of light”, he was a murderer from the beginning and a liar. He must be resisted by God's people. He will ultimately be destroyed in the "lake of fire."

• Satan is called "the dragon, that old serpent, "and the "Devil." Revelation 20:2
• He is man's adversary. 1 Peter 5:8
• He deceiveth the whole world. Revelation 12:9
• Satan is transformed into an angel of light. 2 Corinthians 11:14
• He sows bad seed which grows into tares. Matthew 13:38-39
• He was a murderer from the beginning and a liar, and the father of it. John 8:44
• We must resist the Devil. James 4:7
• The whole armor of God is needed to stand against him. Ephesians 6:11
• Devil is cast into the lake of fire. Revelation 20:10

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27. Punishment of the Wicked

Death, not eternal life in torment, is faced by sinners. The wicked will be punished by being cast into the "lake of fire" which will completely consume them.

• We must fear God who can destroy both body and soul in hell. Matthew 10:28
• The wages of sin is death. Romans 6:23
• The soul that sins will die. Ezekiel 18:4, 20
• Sinners are consumed. Isaiah 1:28; Psalm 104:35; 2 Peter 2:6
• The wicked will be consumed as the fat of lambs. Psalm 37:20
• The wicked will burn as stubble and be ashes. Malachi 4:1, 3
• Whoever was not found written in the Book of Life was cast into the "lake of fire". Revelation 20:15

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28. State of the Dead

There is no consciousness in death. When a man dies, "his breath goeth forth, he returneth to his earth; in that very day his thoughts perish" (Psalm 146:4). He remains in that state until the day of his resurrection.

• The dead know nothing and experience nothing nor knowledge, nor wisdom. Ecclesiastes 9:5-10
• Job will wait in his grave until his change comes. Job 14:13-14; 17:13
• When man's breath goes, his thoughts perish. Psalm 115:17; Psalm 146:4
• Jesus called Lazarus' death a sleep. John 11:11-14
• Righteous men of old have not received their reward. Hebrews 11:39-40
• David is not ascended into the heavens. Acts 2:34

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29. The Resurrection of the Dead

At the second advent of Christ the righteous dead will be resurrected to receive immortality. After the 1,000 year reign of Christ, the wicked will be resurrected to be punished.

• There will be a resurrection of the just and the unjust. Acts 24:15
• Those who are in their graves will come forth; some to life, some to damnation. John 5:28-29
• Judgment takes place at Christ's coming. 2 Timothy 4:1
• The righteous dead are resurrected when Jesus comes. 1 Thessalonians 4:16
• The righteous living receive immortality at Christ's coming. 1 Corinthians 15:51-52
• The rest of the dead live not until after the 1,000 years. Revelation 20:5
• Those sentenced to second death are punished. Revelation 20:13-15

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30. The Church

The Church consists of baptized believers who have the testimony of Jesus and follow the will of God in their lives. The Church is of divine origin under the Lordship of Christ and exists around the world and locally for the preaching of the gospel, for the nurture and fellowship of believers, and for service to the human race. The most frequent reference used for the Church in the New Testament is "church of God." Therefore we believe we should be called Church of God.

• Christ is the head of the body, the Church. Colossians 1:18
• The Church has been purchased with the blood of Christ. Acts 20:28
• The Church of God consists of those sanctified in Christ Jesus and called to be holy, together with those everywhere who call on the name of the Lord Jesus Christ. 1 Corinthians 1:2
• The Devil makes war against the Church. those who keep the commandments of God and have the testimony of Jesus Christ. Revelation 12:17
• Jesus speaks of the Church through out the world. Matthew 24:14; Acts 1:8
• Jesus speaks of the local church. Matthew 18:17

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31. Church Organization

Church organization, patterned after biblical example, is scriptural and expedient. It provides the means by which cooperative efforts may be coordinated to 1) proclaim the gospel of salvation more effectively, 2) establish biblical standards and doctrines, and 3) promote fellowship as members of the family of God.

• Church is compared to the human body. 1 Corinthians 12:12-30
• Various offices listed and the reason for this organization. Ephesians 4:11-16
• Church is compared to a building carefully fitted together. Ephesians 2:19-22
• Establishes authority in the church. Hebrews 13:7
• Instructions are given to ordain elders in every city; qualifications are given. Titus 1:5-9
• Qualifications for the office of elder and deacon. 1 Timothy 3:1-13
• Apostles appointed seven men for special administrative duties. Acts 6:1-8
• Matthias, a successor to Judas, was elected. Acts 1:23-26

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32. Prophecy and Signs of Its Fulfillment

Bible prophecy was written by holy men of God who were moved by the Holy Spirit, and it was given for us to determine where we are in time in relation to the second coming of Christ. Much of what is taking place in the political, religious, physical; and social world today is fulfillment of prophecy and reveals that the return of Christ is near.

• Prophecy is sure. It is not of private interpretation. It was inspired by the Holy Ghost. 2 Peter 1:19-21
• Jesus uttered prophecies concerning the siege of Jerusalem and His return. Matthew 24:1-41; Luke 21:6-33
• Prophecies of developments in the social and religious worlds. 1 Timothy 4:1-3; 2 Timothy 3:1-7
• As the budding of a fig tree speaks of approaching summer, fulfillment of prophecy signals the time in which we live. Matthew 24:32

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33. The Kingdom

The Kingdom is divided into three phases: 1) The Spiritual Kingdom of Grace, 2) the Millennial Reign of Christ, and 3) the Eternal Kingdom of God.

1. The kingdom of grace exists now as Christ reigns in the hearts of believers through the Holy Spirit.
2. In the millennium Christ will reign on the throne of His glory, and the redeemed will reign with Him.
3. Following the millennium will be the eternal kingdom of God where He will be all in all.

• John the Baptist and Jesus preached that the kingdom was at hand. Matthew 3:2; 4:17
• We have been translated into the kingdom. Colossians 1:13
• We are part of a spiritual house. 1 Peter 2:5
• Our invitation to approach the throne of grace. Hebrews 4:16

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34. The Third Angel's Message

Evil powers referred to in Scripture as "the beast and his image," exist prior to and at the return of Christ. The Third Angel's Message, which warns against these evil powers, is part of the gospel and should be regarded as such.

• The beast and his activities are described. Revelation 13:1-10
• The Third Angel's Message. Revelation 14:9-11

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35. Regathering of Israel

The regathering of the descendants of the children of Israel to their land described in Bible (formerly known as Palestine) is spoken of in prophecy. This is in the process of being fulfilled, and the events in the Middle East is a sign that the return of Jesus Christ is near.

• Jerusalem would be trodden down, its inhabitants taken captive. Luke 21:24
• God will gather Israel and satisfy the people. Jeremiah 31:7-14
• God will take them from among the heathen. Isaiah 11:11-12; Ezekiel 37:21-28
• God would bring His people together and rebuild. Amos 9:14-15
• The building up of Zion is a sign of Jesus' return. Psalm 102:16

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36. Seven Last Plagues

The wrath of God against sin and sinners reaches its fullness before and at the time of the second advent of Christ in the releasing of seven dreadful and devastating plagues (called "the seven last plagues") upon those "which had the mark of the beast, and upon them which worshipped his image." These plagues represent events in the world which cause great trouble and distress. It is a part of the message of the church to warn the world against the suffering and disaster that comes as the result of sin.

• Seven angels have seven last plagues. Revelation 15:1-8
• Seven last plagues listed and described. Revelation 16:1-21

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37. The New Earth

The restoration of the earth will be completed at the close of the millennial reign of Christ, and the New Jerusalem will come from heaven. In this new earth there will be neither adversity nor marking of time. God will dwell with His people.

• After the Millennium, Jesus turns the kingdom over to His Father. 1 Corinthians 15:24-28
• We look for a new heaven and earth. 2 Peter 3:13
• This new earth receives the new Jerusalem. Revelation 21:2, 10
• God is with His people. Revelation 21:3
• God wipes away tears; there will be no death, sorrow, crying, pain. Revelation 21:4
• There will be no night there. Revelation 21:23; 22:5

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