God, in His wisdom, gives instructions and commandments to man for life that transcends things that go beyond societies and cultures of any one time. That is another reason why the Bible is timeless. Those things in life that are doubtful or debatable that are relative to God?s will but not clearly spelled out in the Word of God can be discerned through the principles, precepts, spiritual laws, illustrations and examples that are offered to the Christian in the Scriptures. The Word of God, the Spirit of God, and the sensitivity of the Christian bring convictions about what constitutes Christian living in light of God?s will, even regarding those doubtful and debatable things.

Focus:

Read: Romans 14:1-7We are not to judge about doubtful things.
Romans 14:12 Christians are personally accountable to
God.
II Corinthians 5:10All will appear before God.
Romans 14:13Avoid being a stumbling block to others.
Romans 14:14-17There is Christian liberty.
Romans 14:19Things that edify others are urged.
Romans 14:21Avoid offending others.
Romans 14:22To do without self-condemnation.
Romans 15:1-3Follow Christ?s example.

Question: Is there a way to know God?s will in Christian living that is not clearly and specifically declared in the Bible? Now?

Personal Response:

Explain: What these verses collectively teach.


God does give clear instructions for our lives (our lifestyle) even in the less important aspects of life. Jesus said, ?If you love me keep my commandments?. Surely this would include those precepts and principles that are so readily taught in the Bible. Some examples of God?s clear instructions are as follows:

Focus:

Read: Romans 12:5-8We are His family, with many gifts.
Romans 12:9Good, yes. Evil, no.
Romans 12:10Love the brethren.
Romans 12:11Be efficient in business. Serve God.
Romans 12:12Hope, patience, prayer are essential.
Romans 12:13Giving and being hospitable.
Romans 12:14Bless People.
Romans 12:15Rejoice and weep.
Romans 12:16Humble.
Romans 12:17Honesty.
Romans 12:18Peaceful living.

Question: How do these verses relate to our relationships with one another?

Personal Response:

Explain: Why are these relationships so important in God?s sight?


God gives clear instructions also about our relationship to the world and those that have authority.

Focus:

Read: Romans 13:1-5Man subject to government.
Romans 13:6-7Taxes, honor, duties.
Romans 13:8Love, owe nothing.
Romans 13:9Part of the Ten Commandments.
Romans 13:10-19Walk in love and in the Lord.

Question: What do these Scripture instructions tell us as Christians in today?s world?

Personal Response:

Explain: Why does God?s book, the Bible, deal with contemporary life?

Scripture Assurance: Matthew 7:12 Therefore all things whatsoever ye would that men should do to you, do ye even so to them: for this is the law and the prophets.