Acceptance
Definition: Being received or welcomed. In the Christian context, it signifies God’s open-armed reception of those who place their faith in Christ.
Jesus’s Words or Parable: The Parable of the Prodigal Son (Luke 15:11–32) beautifully illustrates the father’s unconditional acceptance when the wandering son returns home.
Application:
1. Recognize that God’s acceptance is not based on our performance but on Christ’s work.
2. Extend the same hospitality and love to others in the church and community.
Scriptural References:
Romans 15:7 – “Therefore welcome one another as Christ has welcomed you…”
John 6:37 – “…whoever comes to Me I will never cast out.”
Abiding
Definition: A deep, ongoing relationship with Jesus Christ, marked by dependence, trust, and obedience.
Jesus’s Words or Parable: Jesus teaches on abiding in the metaphor of the Vine and the Branches (John 15:1–11).
Application:
1. Spend daily time in prayer, Scripture, and worship.
2. Rely on the Holy Spirit’s power for daily living, not on your own strength.
Scriptural Reference:
John 15:4 – “Abide in Me, and I in you…”
Cross References:
Psalm 91:1 – Abiding in the “secret place” of the Most High.
1 John 2:6 – Walking as Jesus walked.
Adoption
Definition: The process by which God brings believers into His family, granting them full rights and privileges as His children.
Jesus’s Words or Parable: While Jesus doesn’t use the word “adoption” directly, He highlights our intimate relationship with God when He teaches us to pray “Our Father…” (Matthew 6:9).
Application:
1. Take comfort that you are a beloved child of God; live with the confidence of belonging.
2. Show familial love and concern for fellow believers as spiritual siblings.
Scriptural Reference:
Romans 8:15 – “…you have received the Spirit of adoption as sons…”
Cross References:
Galatians 4:5–7 – No longer slaves but sons and heirs.
Ephesians 1:5 – Predestined for adoption through Jesus Christ.
Apostles
Definition: The key leaders in the early Church, chosen and commissioned by Jesus Christ to spread the Gospel.
Jesus’s Words or Parable: Jesus personally calls the disciples, “Follow Me, and I will make you fishers of men” (Matthew 4:19).
Application:
1. Recognize the authority of the apostolic teachings in the New Testament.
2. Follow their example of boldness and dedication in sharing Christ.
Scriptural Reference:
Luke 6:13 – Jesus names the Twelve as apostles.
Cross References:
Acts 2:42 – The early church devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching.
Ephesians 2:20 – Built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets.
Baptism
Definition: An outward act of identifying with Jesus’ death, burial, and resurrection, symbolizing the believer’s new life in Christ.
Jesus’s Words or Example: Jesus was baptized by John (Matthew 3:13–17), setting an example of obedience.
Application:
1. Take the step of baptism as a public declaration of faith.
2. Regularly reflect on your baptism as a reminder of your new life in Christ.
Scriptural References:
Romans 6:3–4 – Baptized into Christ’s death and resurrection.
Mark 16:16 – “Whoever believes and is baptized will be saved…”
Cross References:
Acts 2:38 – Peter’s call to repentance and baptism.
Matthew 28:19 – Baptizing in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.
Breakthrough
Definition: A moment of significant spiritual or personal victory when God intervenes in a believer’s situation.
Jesus’s Words or Parable: While “breakthrough” isn’t a specific term from Jesus, His miracles—like healing the woman with the issue of blood (Mark 5:25–34)—illustrate God’s power to instantly change circumstances.
Application:
1. Pray expectantly for God’s intervention in difficult times.
2. Remain patient and faithful, trusting His perfect timing.
Scriptural Reference:
2 Samuel 5:20 – David calls God “Baal Perazim” (Lord of the breakthrough).
Cross References:
Ephesians 3:20 – God can do far more than we ask or think.
Luke 18:1–8 – Persistent prayer leading to breakthrough.
Calvary (Golgotha)
Definition: The site of Jesus’ crucifixion, symbolizing His ultimate sacrifice for sin.
Jesus’s Words: “It is finished” (John 19:30), declaring the completion of His redemptive work.
Application:
1. Regularly reflect on the price Jesus paid, letting gratitude fuel your worship.
2. Remember that every believer’s redemption is rooted in His sacrifice on the cross.
Scriptural Reference:
Luke 23:33 – “And when they came to the place that is called The Skull…”
Cross References:
Matthew 27:33–54 – The crucifixion account.
1 Peter 2:24 – Jesus bore our sins in His body on the tree.
Christ
Definition: From the Greek Christos, meaning “Anointed One,” referring to Jesus as the promised Messiah.
Jesus’s Own Words: He told the Samaritan woman, “I who speak to you am He” (John 4:26), revealing Himself as the Messiah.
Application:
1. Embrace Jesus not just as a historical figure, but as your personal Savior and Lord.
2. Share why Jesus is indeed the Christ promised throughout Scripture.
Scriptural Reference:
Matthew 16:16 – “You are the Christ, the Son of the living God.”
Cross References:
Luke 24:44–47 – Jesus fulfills the Law, Prophets, and Psalms.
John 20:31 – Written so you may believe Jesus is the Christ.
Communion (Lord’s Supper)
Definition: A sacrament where believers remember Christ’s sacrifice through partaking of bread and the cup, symbolizing His body and blood.
Jesus’s Words: “Do this in remembrance of Me” (Luke 22:19).
Application:
1. Approach the Lord’s Table with reverence and self-examination.
2. Reflect on Christ’s sacrificial love and unity with fellow believers.
Scriptural References:
Luke 22:19–20 – Institution of the Lord’s Supper.
1 Corinthians 11:23–26 – Paul’s instructions on Communion.
Cross References:
John 6:53–58 – Jesus as the Bread of Life.
Acts 2:42 – Early believers broke bread together.
Disciple
Definition: A follower of Jesus, committed to learning from Him and living out His teachings.
Jesus’s Words: “If anyone would come after Me, let him deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow Me” (Luke 9:23).
Application:
1. Continually grow in knowledge of Scripture, prayer, and Christlike character.
2. Live out Jesus’s teachings in practical ways (loving enemies, serving others, etc.).
Scriptural References:
John 8:31 – Abiding in Jesus’ word is true discipleship.
Cross References:
Matthew 28:19–20 – Make disciples of all nations.
Acts 11:26 – Believers first called “Christians” in Antioch.
Epistles
Definition: Letters in the New Testament written by early Church leaders (Paul, Peter, John, etc.) addressing doctrine and Christian living.
Jesus’s Connection: He promised the Holy Spirit would guide the apostles into all truth (John 14:26).
Application:
1. Study the Epistles for practical guidance on living the Christian life.
2. Apply their teachings on relationships, church life, and personal holiness.
Scriptural References: Romans, 1 & 2 Corinthians, Galatians, etc.
Cross References:
2 Timothy 3:16–17 – All Scripture is profitable.
2 Peter 3:15–16 – Peter recognizes Paul’s writings as Scripture.
Faith
Definition: Complete trust or confidence in God and His promises, even when not yet seen.
Jesus’s Words or Parable: The Parable of the Mustard Seed (Matthew 17:20) shows even a small amount of faith can move mountains.
Application:
1. Exercise faith daily, trusting God’s character.
2. Step out in obedience, believing God’s Word over your circumstances.
Scriptural Reference:
Hebrews 11:1 – “Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for…”
Cross References:
Romans 10:17 – Faith comes by hearing God’s Word.
James 2:26 – Faith without works is dead.
Fellowship (Koinonia)
Definition: Deep spiritual partnership and unity among believers, marked by mutual encouragement, sharing, and love.
Jesus’s Words: “By this all people will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another” (John 13:35).
Application:
1. Engage actively in a local church or small group.
2. Practice hospitality, sharing, and praying for one another.
Scriptural References:
Acts 2:42 – Early Christians devoted themselves to fellowship.
Cross References:
1 John 1:7 – Walking in the light fosters fellowship.
Galatians 6:2 – Bear one another’s burdens.
Grace
Definition: God’s unmerited favor, offering salvation and blessings freely through Jesus Christ.
Jesus’s Parable: The Parable of the Workers in the Vineyard (Matthew 20:1–16) illustrates God’s lavish generosity and grace.
Application:
1. Cease from trying to earn God’s favor; rest in Christ’s finished work.
2. Extend grace to others, even when undeserved.
Scriptural Reference:
Ephesians 2:8 – “For by grace you have been saved through faith…”
Cross References:
Titus 2:11–12 – God’s grace teaches us to renounce ungodliness.
2 Corinthians 12:9 – God’s grace sufficient in weakness.
Holy
Definition: Being set apart for God, embodying purity and moral perfection.
Jesus’s Words: “You therefore must be perfect, as your heavenly Father is perfect” (Matthew 5:48).
Application:
1. Pursue purity in thought, word, and action, relying on the Holy Spirit.
2. Be distinct from the world while still loving and serving others.
Scriptural Reference:
1 Peter 1:15–16 – “Be holy, for I am holy.”
Cross References:
Isaiah 6:3 – “Holy, holy, holy…”
Hebrews 12:14 – Strive for holiness.
Hope
Definition: A confident expectation of the fulfillment of God’s promises, anchored in His faithfulness.
Jesus’s Words: “I go to prepare a place for you” (John 14:2), offering hope of eternal life with Him.
Application:
1. Cling to God’s promises when facing trials.
2. Share hope with those who feel hopeless.
Scriptural References:
Romans 5:5 – Hope does not put us to shame.
Jeremiah 29:11 – God’s plans for a future and a hope.
Cross References:
1 Thessalonians 4:13 – We do not grieve as those with no hope.
Hebrews 6:19 – Hope as an anchor for the soul.
Justification
Definition: The act of God declaring a sinner righteous through faith in Jesus Christ.
Jesus’s Parable: The Parable of the Pharisee and the Tax Collector (Luke 18:9–14) ends with the repentant tax collector going home “justified.”
Application:
1. Rejoice that your standing before God is based on Christ’s righteousness, not your works.
2. Live with confidence that you are accepted by God.
Scriptural Reference:
Romans 3:23–24 – “…all have sinned… and are justified by His grace…”
Cross References:
Galatians 2:16 – Justified by faith in Christ, not by works.
Romans 5:1 – We have peace with God through justification.
Major Prophets
Definition: Longer prophetic books in the Old Testament (Isaiah, Jeremiah, Lamentations, Ezekiel, Daniel) addressing God’s judgment and future hope.
Jesus’s Connection: He quotes Isaiah frequently, including His first sermon in Nazareth (Luke 4:18–19).
Application:
1. Study these books to understand God’s holiness, justice, and redemption.
2. Note the prophecies pointing to Christ’s first and second coming.
Scriptural References:
Isaiah 6:8; Jeremiah 1:5; Ezekiel 2:3; Daniel 9:24–27
Cross References:
Matthew 12:17–21 – Jesus fulfilling Isaiah’s prophecy.
Luke 24:27 – Jesus explains Scripture concerning Himself.
Mercy
Definition: God’s compassionate forgiveness, withholding the punishment that is deserved.
Jesus’s Parable: The Parable of the Unforgiving Servant (Matthew 18:21–35) shows how we should extend mercy as God has extended mercy to us.
Application:
1. Reflect on God’s mercy toward you; be quick to forgive others.
2. Cultivate a heart of compassion for those in need.
Scriptural Reference:
Lamentations 3:22 – “His mercies never come to an end.”
Cross References:
Micah 6:8 – God requires us to love mercy.
Ephesians 2:4–5 – God is rich in mercy.
Minor Prophets
Definition: Twelve shorter prophetic books in the Old Testament (Hosea–Malachi), calling Israel and the nations to repentance.
Jesus’s Connection: He references Jonah as foreshadowing His burial and resurrection (Matthew 12:39–41).
Application:
1. Learn how these prophets address God’s love, justice, and call to repentance.
2. Observe how many prophecies find fulfillment in Christ.
Scriptural References:
Hosea 6:6; Joel 2:13; Malachi 3:7
Cross References:
Amos 5:24 – Let justice roll down like waters.
Zechariah 9:9 – Messiah’s entry on a donkey (fulfilled in Matthew 21:5).
Pardon
Definition: The act of forgiving an offense, releasing a person from the penalty or guilt.
Jesus’s Words: “Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do” (Luke 23:34)—a profound expression of pardon.
Application:
1. Embrace God’s forgiveness in Christ; walk free from guilt.
2. Extend genuine forgiveness to those who wrong you.
Scriptural Reference:
Isaiah 55:7 – God will “abundantly pardon.”
Cross References:
Psalm 32:1–2 – Blessed is the one whose transgression is forgiven.
Ephesians 4:32 – Forgive as God in Christ forgave you.
Pentecost
Definition: The outpouring of the Holy Spirit on the early disciples, empowering them to share the Gospel.
Jesus’s Words: “You will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you…” (Acts 1:8).
Application:
1. Depend on the Holy Spirit for boldness in witnessing.
2. Seek the Spirit’s guidance, comfort, and fruit in your daily life.
Scriptural Reference:
Acts 2:1–4 – The Holy Spirit descends at Pentecost.
Cross References:
Joel 2:28–29 – Prophecy of God pouring out His Spirit.
John 14:26 – The Holy Spirit as Teacher and Helper.
Propitiation
Definition: The satisfaction of God’s righteous wrath against sin, accomplished through Jesus’ sacrificial death.
Jesus’s Words: In Gethsemane, Jesus prayed, “My Father, if it be possible, let this cup pass from Me…” (Matthew 26:39), indicating the wrath He would bear.
Application:
1. Recognize that Christ’s atoning work frees believers from condemnation.
2. Live gratefully and share this truth with others.
Scriptural Reference:
1 John 2:2 – “He is the propitiation for our sins…”
Cross References:
Romans 3:25 – Christ as the propitiation by His blood.
Hebrews 2:17 – Jesus made propitiation for the sins of the people.
Proselytize
Definition: Actively seeking to convert someone to a faith, specifically sharing the Gospel of Christ.
Jesus’s Words: “Go therefore and make disciples of all nations…” (Matthew 28:19).
Application:
1. Share your personal testimony of transformation by Jesus.
2. Evangelize with respect and love, trusting the Holy Spirit to change hearts.
Scriptural Reference:
Matthew 28:19 – The Great Commission.
Cross References:
Acts 1:8 – Empowered by the Spirit to be witnesses.
2 Corinthians 5:20 – We are Christ’s ambassadors.
Repentance
Definition: A change of mind and heart, turning away from sin and toward God.
Jesus’s Parable: The Parable of the Lost Son (Luke 15:11–32) highlights true repentance and restoration.
Application:
1. Regularly evaluate your heart; confess and turn from sin.
2. Rest in God’s forgiveness and walk in new obedience.
Scriptural Reference:
Mark 1:15 – “Repent and believe in the gospel.”
Cross References:
Luke 13:3 – “Unless you repent, you will all likewise perish.”
Acts 3:19 – Repent so times of refreshing may come.
Resurrection
Definition: Jesus’ rising from the dead on the third day, conquering sin and death, guaranteeing eternal life for believers.
Jesus’s Own Words: “I am the resurrection and the life” (John 11:25).
Application:
1. Let the reality of Christ’s victory over death give you hope and courage.
2. Remember that believers share in His resurrection life.
Scriptural References:
1 Corinthians 15:3–4 – Christ was raised on the third day.
1 Thessalonians 4:14 – We believe Jesus died and rose again.
Cross References:
Romans 6:5 – United with Christ in death and resurrection.
Philippians 3:10–11 – Knowing Christ and the power of His resurrection.
Revilers
Definition: Those who speak abusively or slanderously against others, condemned in Scripture as contrary to a Christlike spirit.
Jesus’s Words: “Blessed are you when others revile you…” (Matthew 5:11), acknowledging reviling but calling believers to respond with grace.
Application:
1. Guard your words; refuse to partake in slander or gossip.
2. Respond graciously when reviled, following Jesus’s example (1 Peter 2:23).
Scriptural Reference:
1 Corinthians 6:10 – Revilers will not inherit the kingdom of God.
Cross References:
Proverbs 15:1 – A soft answer turns away wrath.
Ephesians 4:29 – Let no corrupting talk come out of your mouths.
Righteousness
Definition: The state of being in right standing with God, granted through faith in Christ and reflected in holy living.
Jesus’s Words: “Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness…” (Matthew 5:6).
Application:
1. Depend on Christ’s finished work for your righteousness.
2. Pursue personal integrity and holiness in daily life.
Scriptural Reference:
2 Corinthians 5:21 – Christ was made sin so we might become God’s righteousness.
Cross References:
Romans 1:17 – Righteousness of God revealed by faith.
Philippians 3:9 – Righteousness from God depends on faith.
Salvation
Definition: Deliverance from sin and its consequences, available through faith in Jesus Christ.
Jesus’s Words: “I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me” (John 14:6).
Application:
1. Place your trust fully in Jesus’s atoning work on the cross.
2. Share the message of salvation with love and urgency.
Scriptural References:
Ephesians 2:8–9 – “By grace you have been saved through faith…”
John 3:16 – God loved the world, sending His Son for salvation.
Cross References:
Romans 10:9–10 – Confess and believe to be saved.
Acts 4:12 – No other name for salvation but Jesus.
Sanctification
Definition: The ongoing process of becoming more like Jesus, set apart by the Holy Spirit for God’s purposes.
Jesus’s Prayer: “Sanctify them in the truth; Your word is truth” (John 17:17).
Application:
1. Cooperate with the Holy Spirit by engaging in prayer, Scripture, and fellowship.
2. Expect gradual growth in Christlike character over time.
Scriptural Reference:
1 Thessalonians 4:3 – “For this is the will of God, your sanctification…”
Cross References:
Romans 12:2 – Be transformed by renewing your mind.
Philippians 1:6 – God will complete the good work He began in you.
Sin
Definition: Any thought, word, or action that falls short of God’s perfect standard; rebellion against His will.
Jesus’s Words: “Everyone who practices sin is a slave to sin” (John 8:34).
Application:
1. Recognize your need for a Savior and repent.
2. Confess sin regularly and rely on the Spirit’s power to overcome temptation.
Scriptural References:
Romans 3:23 – All have sinned and fall short.
1 John 3:4 – Sin is lawlessness.
Cross References:
James 1:14–15 – The progression of sin.
Psalm 51:1–12 – David’s prayer of repentance.
Submission
Definition: Yielding to God’s authority and to others with humility, following Christ’s example.
Jesus’s Example: “Not My will, but Yours be done” (Luke 22:42), prayed in Gethsemane.
Application:
1. Surrender personal preferences for God’s will.
2. Practice respectful submission in marriage, family, workplace, and church contexts.
Scriptural Reference:
James 4:7 – “Submit yourselves therefore to God.”
Cross References:
Ephesians 5:21 – Submitting to one another out of reverence for Christ.
1 Peter 2:13–17 – Submission to authorities.
Trinity
Definition: The triune nature of God as Father, Son, and Holy Spirit—three persons, yet one essence.
Jesus’s Baptism: All three Persons are present at once—Jesus in the water, the Spirit descending like a dove, the Father speaking (Matthew 3:16–17).
Application:
1. Worship God in His fullness—Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.
2. Let the unity within the Trinity inspire unity in the church.
Scriptural References:
Matthew 28:19 – Baptizing in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.
2 Corinthians 13:14 – The grace of Jesus, love of God, fellowship of the Spirit.
Cross References:
John 14:16–17 – Jesus promises the Spirit.
John 10:30 – “I and the Father are one.”
Worship
Definition: Reverent devotion and adoration directed toward God, often expressed through praise, prayer, and obedience.
Jesus’s Words: “The true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and truth…” (John 4:23).
Application:
1. Develop a lifestyle of worship, not just a Sunday event.
2. Let worship reorient your priorities toward God’s glory.
Scriptural References:
John 4:23–24 – God seeks true worshipers.
Psalm 95:6 – “Oh come, let us worship and bow down…”
Cross References:
Romans 12:1 – Present your bodies as living sacrifices.
Hebrews 13:15 – Continual sacrifice of praise.