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What about the Heathen? by Dr. Robert Morey Copyright © 2002 Dr. Robert Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc. 1 Note to the Teacher and Students This PowerPoint™ slide show has been prepared to enable you to teach your own study class using the prepared Speaker’s Notes. This license grants you the right to copy the Speaker’s Notes and to teach this slide show to the public, provided that: – no admission charge is made to your study session, and – the copyright notice, the author’s name, and the Davidson Press logo are present on each slide. All other rights not specifically granted by this notice remain with the copyright holder. Copyright © 2002 Dr. Robert Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc. 2 Tips on Navigation Use the navigation buttons in the lower left corner to move through the slide presentation. = Home (Title Page) = Back One Slide = Return to Previous Slide (from any point in the show) = Forward One Slide When a Scripture reference is present on a slide, the following slides will contain the full text of all of the Scripture references so they can be read easily by the members of your study. Copyright © 2002 Dr. Robert Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc. 3 Table of Contents Introduction Opening Principles Central Propositions Answering the Hard Questions What Must I Do to Be Saved? Copyright © 2002 Dr. Robert Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc. 4 Introduction Copyright © 2002 Dr. Robert Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc. 5 Introduction The Problem Observed – The unbeliever attempts to escape the Gospel call to repentance and faith by hurling what he thinks is an unanswerable objection to Christianity: “But, what about the heathen? Are you telling me that all those innocent people are going to hell? Even when they did not have a chance?” Copyright © 2002 Dr. Robert Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc. 6 Introduction The Problem Presented – To many non-believers, the question of the heathen serves as: • A challenge to Christianity • An escape hatch for their conscience – If the heathen can make their way to heaven without believing in Jesus, the unbeliever assumes that he also can make it to heaven. – Many Christians also assume this to be true. Copyright © 2002 Dr. Robert Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc. 7 Introduction The Problem Explained – Universalism is prevalent in our major denominations and their seminaries. – The universalists argue that God is too loving to damn those for whom Christ died and who never had a chance for salvation. – Can the heathen be saved by the work of Christ without hearing of or believing in the person of Jesus Christ. Copyright © 2002 Dr. Robert Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc. 8 Introduction The Problem Explored – Can the heathen be saved by the work of Christ without hearing of or believing in the person of Jesus Christ? – Is faith in Jesus Christ always a part of the salvation process? – Can one “skip over” faith in Christ and still experience regeneration? – Can one have justification without repentance? Copyright © 2002 Dr. Robert Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc. 9 Introduction The Proper Questions to Ask – Can a sinner be saved from hell even though he does not believe in the true God or in Jesus Christ? – Upon what grounds can a sinner claim admittance to heaven other than repentance toward God and faith in the Lord Jesus Christ? Copyright © 2002 Dr. Robert Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc. 10 Introduction The Worldly Answer – If a sinner is sincere in his religion, God would be unjust to condemn him. – If a sinner never heard the Gospel, God would be unjust to condemn him for not hearing. – Those who have never heard the Gospel cannot be condemned for rejecting a message they have not heard. Copyright © 2002 Dr. Robert Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc. 11 Introduction Four Categories of Unbelief – Ignorance • Too remote so there is no opportunity to hear. – Neglect • Gospel is present, but some neglect it. – Nominal Acquaintance • Gospel is prevalent, but there is no saving belief. – Nominal Acceptance • Gospel is professed, but the profession is false. Copyright © 2002 Dr. Robert Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc. 12 Introduction The World’s Answer – Ignorance is an excuse. The Bible’s Answer – How shall we escape if we neglect so great a salvation? —Hebrews 2:3 The Definition of “Heathen” – Any and every unbeliever, whether in New York or New Guinea. Copyright © 2002 Dr. Robert Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc. 13 Introduction Unbeliever: “But what about the heathen?” Believer: “Well, what about you? You will not be saved unless you believe in Christ.” Unbeliever: “I don’t mean me. I am referring to the heathen.” Believer: “Why should they concern you? The issue is that you are the one heathen who has heard. What are you going to do? Copyright © 2002 Dr. Robert Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc. 14 Introduction Do the Scriptures view ignorance due to neglect or due to the absence of the Gospel as constituting sufficient ground for salvation? Does the lack of faith constitute unbelief as well as the rejection of faith? Copyright © 2002 Dr. Robert Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc. 15 Opening Principles Copyright © 2002 Dr. Robert Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc. 16 Opening Principles Scripture has the answer. – To the law and to the testimony: if they speak not according to these, it is because they have no light. (Isa. 8:20) – All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness. (2 Tim. 3:16) Copyright © 2002 Dr. Robert Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc. 17 Opening Principles Avoid typical errors. – Rationalism • I think that… • It is only logical that… • The only intelligent answer is… – Experience • Have you heard the story about…? – Mysticism • I feel that… Copyright © 2002 Dr. Robert Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc. 18 Opening Principles Defend God at all costs. – Whatever God does is just and right. – “Shall not the Judge of the earth do right?” (Genesis 18:25) – God is sovereign in His wrath as well as in His grace. – “God is true, even if everyone else is a liar.” (Romans 3:4) Copyright © 2002 Dr. Robert Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc. 19 Romans 9:13-24 As it is written, “Jacob I loved, but Esau I hated.” What can we say, then? God is not unrighteous, is he? Of course not! For he says to Moses, “I will be merciful to the person I want to be merciful to, and I will be kind to the person I want to be kind to.” Therefore, God’s choice does not depend on a person’s will or effort, but on God himself, who shows mercy. For the Scripture says to Pharaoh, “I have raised you up for this very purpose, to demonstrate my power in you and that my name might be proclaimed in all the earth.” Therefore, God has mercy on whomever he chooses, and he hardens the heart of whomever he chooses. Copyright © 2002 Dr. Robert Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc. 20 Romans 9:13-24 You may ask me, “Then why does God still find fault with anybody? For who can resist his will?” On the contrary, who are you—mere man that you are—to talk back to God? Can an object that was molded say to the one who molded it, “Why did you make me like this?” A potter has the right to do what he wants to with his clay, doesn’t he? He can make something for a special occasion or something for ordinary use from the same lump. Now if God wants to demonstrate his wrath and reveal his power, can’t he be extremely patient with the objects of his wrath that are made for destruction? Can’t he also reveal his glorious riches to the objects of his mercy that he has prepared ahead of time for glory—including us, whom he also called, not only from the Jews but from the Gentiles as well? Copyright © 2002 Dr. Robert Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc. 21 Opening Principles Never compromise Biblical truth. – The Gospel itself is offensive to unbelievers. Should we abandon it because the unregenerate think it foolish? For the message about the cross is nonsense to those who are being destroyed, but it is God’s power to us who are being saved. For it is written, “I will destroy the wisdom of the wise, and the intelligence of the intelligent I will reject.” (1 Cor. 1:18-19) Copyright © 2002 Dr. Robert Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc. 22 Opening Principles Never compromise Biblical truth. – Jesus provides us with the proper attitude. Then the disciples came and said to him, “Do you realize that the Pharisees were offended when they heard this statement?” He replied, “Every plant that my heavenly Father did not plant will be pulled up by the roots. Leave them alone. They are blind guides of the blind. If one blind person leads another blind person, both will fall into a ditch.” (Matt. 15:12-14) Copyright © 2002 Dr. Robert Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc. 23 Opening Principles Take one step at a time. – There are many issues involved in the heathen question which must be answered before the final answer is given. Believe God’s Word. – He that is willing to do the will of God shall know whether or not the doctrine is from God. (John 7:17) Copyright © 2002 Dr. Robert Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc. 24 Central Propositions Copyright © 2002 Dr. Robert Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc. 25 Central Proposition #1 All men are lost sinners and are in need of salvation. – Romans 3:23 … since all have sinned and continue to fall short of God’s glory. – Romans 6:23 For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life in union with Christ Jesus our Lord. Copyright © 2002 Dr. Robert Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc. 26 Central Proposition #2 General revelation is not sufficient to save. – General revelation is that mute non-verbal witness of the creation that points men to the existence and power of God. (Romans 1:18-28 and Romans 2:14-15) – General revelation is sufficient to condemn, not to save. – Men reject and suppress the light of creation. – No sinner has ever lived up to the light of general revelation. (Romans 3:10-18) Copyright © 2002 Dr. Robert Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc. 27 Central Proposition #3 The fact of judgment is determined on the basis of the nature of the person in question. – Because all men are by nature sinners, all men are under the wrath of God. – Original sin is the imputation of Adam’s sin to all mankind, which is followed by the condemnation of God. – We sin because we are sinners. We are not lost if and when we reject Christ. We are already lost. Copyright © 2002 Dr. Robert Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc. 28 Central Proposition #4 The degree of punishment is based on the life of the person in question. – Because God is just, there will be degrees of punishment in hell. – All sinners in hell will be perfectly miserable, but not equally miserable. – Ignorance of the Law is no excuse. (Lev. 5:17) Copyright © 2002 Dr. Robert Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc. 29 Central Proposition #4 The degree of punishment is based on the life of the person in question. – Sins done in ignorance will not receive as much punishment as sins done in violation of known law. Copyright © 2002 Dr. Robert Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc. 30 Luke 12:47-48 “That servant who knew what his master wanted but didn't prepare himself or do what was wanted will receive a severe beating. But the servant who did things that deserved a beating without knowing it will receive a light beating. Much will be required from everyone to whom much has been given. But even more will be demanded from the one to whom much has been entrusted.” Copyright © 2002 Dr. Robert Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc. 31 Central Proposition #4 The degree of punishment is based on the life of the person in question. – Sins done in ignorance will not receive as much punishment as sins done in violation of known law. – The more you know, the more responsibility you have to live up to that light. Copyright © 2002 Dr. Robert Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc. 32 Matthew 11:20-24 Then Jesus began to denounce the cities in which most of his miracles had taken place, because they didn't repent. “How terrible it will be for you, Chorazin! How terrible it will be for you, Bethsaida! For if the miracles that happened in you had taken place in Tyre and Sidon, they would have repented long ago in sackcloth and ashes. Indeed I tell you, it will be more bearable for Tyre and Sidon on the day of judgment than for you! Copyright © 2002 Dr. Robert Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc. 33 Matthew 11:20-24 “And you, Capernaum! You won’t be lifted up to heaven, will you? You’ll go down to Hades! For if the miracles that happened in you had taken place in Sodom, it would have remained to this day. Indeed I tell you, it will be more bearable for the land of Sodom on the day of judgment than for you!” Copyright © 2002 Dr. Robert Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc. 34 Central Proposition #4 The degree of punishment is based on the life of the person in question. – Sins done in ignorance will not receive as much punishment as sins done in violation of known law. – The more you know, the more responsibility you have to live up to that light. – The writer of the Hebrews speaks of some unbelievers receiving more punishment than others. Copyright © 2002 Dr. Robert Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc. 35 Hebrews 10:29 How much more severe a punishment do you think that person deserves who tramples on God’s Son, treats as common the blood of the covenant by which it was sanctified, and insults the Spirit of grace? Copyright © 2002 Dr. Robert Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc. 36 Central Proposition #4 The degree of punishment is based on the life of the person in question. – The sin of the Pharisees was made greater by their contact with Christ. Copyright © 2002 Dr. Robert Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc. 37 John 15:22 If I had not come and spoken to them, they would not have any sin. But now they have no excuse for their sin. Copyright © 2002 Dr. Robert Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc. 38 Central Proposition #4 The degree of punishment is based on the life of the person in question. – The sin of the Pharisees was made greater by their contact with Christ. – While the fact of judgment is determined by what we are, i.e., our nature, the degree of punishment is determined on the basis of the amount of true knowledge we have received and the quality of life that we lived. Copyright © 2002 Dr. Robert Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc. 39 An Illustration Sophie the Scrubwoman – Kind , diligent, never received Christ Hitler the Dictator – Murderous, ruthless, never received Christ Both were unregenerate sinners. Both condemned to hell. – Hitler’s punishment was greater than Sophie. – God rewarded each according to their works. Copyright © 2002 Dr. Robert Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc. 40 Central Proposition #5 The only way to escape the wrath of God is to believe in the Lord Jesus Christ. – Look unto me, and be saved, all the ends of the earth; for I am God, and there is none else. (Isa. 45:22) – The one who believes in the Son has eternal life, but the one who disobeys the Son will not see life. Instead, the wrath of God remains on him. (John 3:36) Copyright © 2002 Dr. Robert Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc. 41 Central Proposition #5 The only way to escape the wrath of God is to believe in the Lord Jesus Christ. – “I am the gate. If anyone enters through me, he will be saved. He will come in and go out and find pasture.” (John 10:9) – Jesus said to him, “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.” (John 14:6) Copyright © 2002 Dr. Robert Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc. 42 Central Proposition #5 The only way to escape the wrath of God is to believe in the Lord Jesus Christ. – There is no salvation by anyone else, for there is no other name under heaven given among people by which we must be saved. (Acts 4:12) – After all, no one can lay any other foundation than the one that is already laid, and that is Jesus Christ. (1 Cor. 3:11) Copyright © 2002 Dr. Robert Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc. 43 Central Proposition #5 The only way to escape the wrath of God is to believe in the Lord Jesus Christ. – By his grace they are justified freely through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus, whom God offered as a place where atonement by Christ’s blood could occur through faith. He did this to demonstrate his righteousness, because he had waited patiently to deal with sins committed in the past. Copyright © 2002 Dr. Robert Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc. 44 Central Proposition #5 The only way to escape the wrath of God is to believe in the Lord Jesus Christ. – He wanted to demonstrate at the present time that he himself is righteous and that he justifies the person who has the faithfulness of Jesus… since there is only one God who will justify the circumcised on the basis of faith and the uncircumcised by that same faith. (Romans 3:25-26, 30) Copyright © 2002 Dr. Robert Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc. 45 Central Proposition #5 The only way to escape the wrath of God is to believe in the Lord Jesus Christ. – There is one God. There is also one mediator between God and human beings—a human, Christ Jesus. (1 Tim. 2:5) Copyright © 2002 Dr. Robert Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc. 46 Central Proposition #6 All non-Christian religions are condemned in Scripture. – They are idolatrous. • Pagan religions are not man’s search for God, but they are actually man’s rejection of God (Rom. 1:28-25) – They give worship to Satan and his demons. – They fail to find God through the wisdom of the world. – All religions are not “different roads” to God. Copyright © 2002 Dr. Robert Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc. 47 Central Proposition #7 The absence of special revelation does not in any way relieve the heathen from perishing. – The fact that they die physically reveals that God views them as sinners and that they face a Christless eternity in the second death. Copyright © 2002 Dr. Robert Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc. 48 Romans 2:11-12, 16 God does not show partiality. For all who have sinned apart from the law will also perish apart from the law, and all who have sinned under the law will be judged by the law… on that day when God, through Jesus Christ, will judge people’s secrets according to my gospel. Copyright © 2002 Dr. Robert Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc. 49 Scripture References – Since all have sinned and continue to fall short of God’s glory. (Romans 3:23) – Therefore, just as sin entered the world through one man, and death through sin, so death spread to everyone, because all have sinned. (Romans 5:12) – For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life in union with Christ Jesus our Lord. (Romans 6:23) Copyright © 2002 Dr. Robert Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc. 50 Central Proposition #8 All unbelievers will be cast into the lake of fire when Jesus returns in glory and power. Then he will say to those on his left, “Get away from me, you who are accursed, into the eternal fire that has been prepared for the devil and his angels!” … These people will go away into eternal punishment, but the righteous will go into eternal life. (Matthew 25:41, 46) Copyright © 2002 Dr. Robert Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc. 51 2 Thessalonians 1:7-10 ...and to give us who are afflicted relief when the Lord Jesus is revealed from heaven with his mighty angels in blazing fire. He will take revenge on those who do not know God and on those who refuse to obey the gospel of our Lord Jesus. Such people will suffer the punishment of eternal destruction by being separated from the Lord’s presence and from his glorious power when he comes to be glorified by his saints and to be regarded with wonder on that day by all who have believed—including you, because you believed our testimony Copyright © 2002 Dr. Robert Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc. 52 Central Proposition #9 Unbelievers must hear or read of the Lord Jesus Christ through a human instrumentality in order to be saved. The Gospel does not come to the unsaved from or through: – Angels – Visions – Dreams It comes through God’s people. Copyright © 2002 Dr. Robert Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc. 53 Scripture References Therefore as you go, disciple all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to obey all that I have commanded you. (Matt. 28:19) Then he said to them, “As you go into all the world, proclaim the gospel to the whole creation.” (Mark 16:15) Copyright © 2002 Dr. Robert Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc. 54 Scripture References For “everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.” How, then, can people call on someone they have not believed? And how can they believe in someone they have not heard about? And how can they hear without someone preaching? And how can they preach unless they are sent? As it is written, “How beautiful are the feet of those who bring good news!” Copyright © 2002 Dr. Robert Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc. 55 Scripture References But not everyone has obeyed the gospel. For Isaiah asks, “Lord, who has believed our message?” Consequently, faith comes from listening, and listening comes through the word of Christ. (Romans 10:13-17) Copyright © 2002 Dr. Robert Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc. 56 Central Proposition #10 God will always send the Gospel by a human instrumentality to those who have been ordained to eternal life. – God sent an angel to tell Cornelius to send for Peter. The angel did not preach, Peter did. • Cornelius was a God-fearing man, but he was not saved. (Acts 1:1-2) Copyright © 2002 Dr. Robert Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc. 57 Scripture References Then he told us how he had seen the angel standing in his home and saying, ‘Send messengers to Joppa and summon Simon, who is called Peter. He will speak words to you by which you and your entire home will be saved.’ (Acts 11: 13-14). Copyright © 2002 Dr. Robert Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc. 58 Central Proposition #10 God will always send the Gospel by a human instrumentality to those who have been ordained to eternal life. – God sent an angel to tell Cornelius to send for Peter. The angel did not preach, Peter did. • Cornelius was a God-fearing man, but he was not saved. (Acts 1:1-2) – God told Paul to preach at Corinth because God had many people in the city. Copyright © 2002 Dr. Robert Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc. 59 Scripture References Now Crispus, the leader of the synagogue, believed in the Lord, along with his whole family. Many Corinthians who heard Paul also believed and were baptized. One night the Lord said to Paul in a vision, “Stop being afraid to speak out! Do not be silent! For I am with you, and no one will lay a hand on you or harm you, because I have many people in this city.” Copyright © 2002 Dr. Robert Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc. 60 Central Proposition #11 If salvation is possible through ignorance or neglect of the Gospel, then Jesus Christ died in vain—i.e., for nothing. – I do not set aside the grace of God, for if righteousness comes through the law, then Christ died for nothing. (Galatians 2:21) Copyright © 2002 Dr. Robert Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc. 61 Central Proposition #12 A survey of the Bible reveals that ignorance, neglect, and nominal acquaintance or acceptance were never sufficient to save. The Flood The Tower of Babel Sodom & Gomorrah History of God’s People Jonah & Nineveh Jesus Christ The Apostles Missions Copyright © 2002 Dr. Robert Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc. 62 The Flood of Noah Man sinned. – Genesis 6:1-5; Genesis 6:11-13 God’s judgment came. – Genesis 6:6-7, 13, 17) Only the believer (Noah) and his family were delivered from God’s wrath. – Genesis 6:8-10, 1-16, 18-22 Copyright © 2002 Dr. Robert Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc. 63 The Flood of Noah Were there ignorant, sincere or neglectful people in Noah’s day? If we asked Noah about their fate regardless if they were ignorant, sincere or neglectful, what would he say? Is the flood a preview of the second coming? Since all the heathen perished at the flood, what does this say about Christ’s return? Copyright © 2002 Dr. Robert Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc. 64 The Tower of Babel Man sinned. – Genesis 11 God’s judgment came. – Genesis 11 God’s Judgment took two forms: – Human language was diversified. – The human race was scattered. Copyright © 2002 Dr. Robert Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc. 65 The Tower of Babel Were there ignorant, sincere or neglectful people working on the tower? Isn’t ignorance part of God’s judgment? Isn’t it true that the major reason why some people are ignorant of the Gospel is because ignorance corresponds to God’s judgment? If so, how can ignorance be the basis of the heathen’s salvation? Copyright © 2002 Dr. Robert Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc. 66 Sodom and Gomorrah Man sinned. – Genesis 18:20-21; 19:1-9 God’s judgment came. – Genesis 19:10-11 Only the believer (Lot) and his family were delivered from God’s wrath. – Genesis 11:23-29 Copyright © 2002 Dr. Robert Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc. 67 Sodom and Gomorrah Were there ignorant, sincere or neglectful people in Lot’s day? What happened to them? What did God do with all the unbelievers in Sodom and Gomorrah? If we asked Abraham and Lot about the fate of unbelieving sinners, what would they say? Is this not a picture of the Day of Judgment? Copyright © 2002 Dr. Robert Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc. 68 The History of God’s People A survey of God’s dealings with His people reveals that ignorance, neglect or lack of acceptance were never sufficient to save. Egypt Israel and Idolatry The Canaanites Deliverance of Rahab The Gentiles The Conversion of Ruth Copyright © 2002 Dr. Robert Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc. 69 The People of Egypt Were there ignorant, sincere, or neglectful people in Egypt? Were they saved from the judgment plagues of God? Were only the first born of those who believed God’s Word safe from the angel of death, or did the angel pass over any houses where the people were ignorant, sincere, or neglectful? Copyright © 2002 Dr. Robert Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc. 70 The People of Israel Was idolatry allowed in Israel? If not, what was the penalty for idolatry? Was there any difference if the idolater was ignorant, sincere or neglectful? If “ignorant, sincere or neglectful” idol worship could save sinners from judgment, would this not make true worship meaningless because it was not necessary? Copyright © 2002 Dr. Robert Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc. 71 The People of Canaan Were there ignorant, sincere or neglectful people among the Canaanites? To what fate did God assign them? What happened to them? How would Joshua answer our question? Copyright © 2002 Dr. Robert Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc. 72 The People of Rahab’s City Were there ignorant, sincere or neglectful people in Rahab’s city? Was not Rahab a Canaanite? Why was she delivered while the rest were destroyed? (Joshua 2:8-13) Were the only people delivered from destruction those who believed in Jehovah? How would Rahab answer our question? Copyright © 2002 Dr. Robert Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc. 73 The Nations Were there ignorant, sincere or neglectful people among the Gentiles? How did Israel view the idolatrous nations around them? (Psalm 9:17) What happens to those who do not bow to Jehovah? (Psalm 2:11-12) Copyright © 2002 Dr. Robert Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc. 74 The Conversion of Ruth Were there ignorant, sincere or neglectful people among the people of Moab? How and why did Ruth join the people of God? Does she not serve to show how Gentiles were save in Old Testament times? How could they be saved? How would Ruth answer our question? Copyright © 2002 Dr. Robert Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc. 75 Jonah and Nineveh Were there ignorant, sincere or neglectful people among the people of Nineveh? What fate had God assigned them? Why did the judgment turn away? How would Jonah answer our question of the heathen? Copyright © 2002 Dr. Robert Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc. 76 Jesus Christ Did He ever claim to be the only way of salvation? (John 14:6) What did He call false religious leaders? (John 10:8) Did He state that only faith in Him will deliver one from the judgment of God? (John 3:16, 36) How would He answer if we ask him? Copyright © 2002 Dr. Robert Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc. 77 The Apostles Did they teach that only faith in Christ saves? (Acts 4:12, 10:43, 16:31; Rom. 5:1, 10:9-13) Did they ever teach that there is no salvation outside of the Gospel? (Rom. 10:14-17) Is Christ the only mediator between God and man? (1 Tim. 2:5) How would they answer our question? Copyright © 2002 Dr. Robert Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc. 78 World Missions Are we commanded to preach the Gospel to all men? (Mark 16:15-16) Why? Do they need it? If the ignorant and sincere can be saved as long as they don’t hear the Gospel, do missions damn more people than they save? If man were not lost already, would missions make any sense? Copyright © 2002 Dr. Robert Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc. 79 Answering the Hard Questions Copyright © 2002 Dr. Robert Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc. 80 Observation #1 How dare anyone accuse God of being unjust in whatever He does! – The Apostle Paul rebukes such a rebellious attitude in Romans 9:11-24. – If the righteous judge of all the earth has revealed in His Word that all the heathen will be cast into the lake of fire (Rev. 20:15), who is the man that can condemn God? Copyright © 2002 Dr. Robert Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc. 81 Observation #2 Sincerity in living up to some of the light one has will only make one a candidate for further light, as it did for Cornelius. (Acts 10) – But Cornelius had to be saved through the Gospel given by a human messenger. (Acts 11:14) – Not even the angel could tell Cornelius the Gospel. – Sincerity is NOT enough. Copyright © 2002 Dr. Robert Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc. 82 Observation #3 As sinners, the only thing we deserve is God’s eternal wrath in hell. – The Bible does not teach that God owes us anything. – The Bible does not teach that we even deserve a “chance” to be saved. – Salvation is by GRACE. – This means that God does not owe anyone anything. (Romans 4:1-5) Copyright © 2002 Dr. Robert Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc. 83 Observation #4 Isn’t the real question of the heathen about you? – Where will you spend eternity? – Flee to Jesus Christ and repent, for the wrath of God is coming upon the earth. – Who shall stand in the Day of Judgment without Jesus Christ as his advocate? Copyright © 2002 Dr. Robert Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc. 84 Observation #5 And what can be said to you, Christian? – Does the plight of the heathen move you at all? – Shouldn’t their spiritual condition motivate you to be more zealous for missions? – The heathen are all around you. • Do you weep for them? • Do you witness to them? – May God stir up His people to become a mighty missionary force in the world today! Copyright © 2002 Dr. Robert Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc. 85 What Must I Do to Be Saved? Copyright © 2002 Dr. Robert Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc. 86 You Have Broken God’s Law The Ten Commandments (Exodus 20) Worship only God. Don’t make an idol. Don’t take God’s name in vain. Honor the Sabbath. Honor your father and mother. Do not murder. Do not commit adultery. Do not steal. Do not lie. Do not covet. Copyright © 2002 Dr. Robert Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc. 87 You Have Broken God’s Law The Ten Commandments (Exodus 20) Worship only God. Don’t make an idol. Don’t take God’s name in vain. Honor the Sabbath. Honor your father and mother. Do not murder. Do not commit adultery. Do not steal. Do not lie. Do not covet. Copyright © 2002 Dr. Robert Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc. 88 You Have Broken God’s Law The Ten Commandments (Exodus 20) Worship only God. Don’t make an idol. Don’t take God’s name in vain. Honor the Sabbath. Honor your father and mother. Do not murder. Do not commit adultery. Do not steal. Do not lie. Do not covet. Copyright © 2002 Dr. Robert Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc. 89 You Have Broken God’s Law The Ten Commandments (Exodus 20) Worship only God. Don’t make an idol. Don’t take God’s name in vain. Honor the Sabbath. Honor your father and mother. Do not murder. Do not commit adultery. Do not steal. Do not lie. Do not covet. Copyright © 2002 Dr. Robert Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc. 90 You Have Broken God’s Law The Ten Commandments (Exodus 20) Worship only God. Don’t make an idol. Don’t take God’s name in vain. Honor the Sabbath. Honor your father and mother. Do not murder. Do not commit adultery. Do not steal. Do not lie. Do not covet. Copyright © 2002 Dr. Robert Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc. 91 You Have Broken God’s Law The Ten Commandments (Exodus 20) Worship only God. Don’t make an idol. Don’t take God’s name in vain. Honor the Sabbath. Honor your father and mother. Do not murder. Do not commit adultery. Do not steal. Do not lie. Do not covet. Copyright © 2002 Dr. Robert Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc. 92 You Have Broken God’s Law The Ten Commandments (Exodus 20) Worship only God. Don’t make an idol. Don’t take God’s name in vain. Honor the Sabbath. Honor your father and mother. Do not murder. Do not commit adultery. Do not steal. Do not lie. Do not covet. Copyright © 2002 Dr. Robert Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc. 93 You Have Broken God’s Law The Ten Commandments (Exodus 20) Worship only God. Don’t make an idol. Don’t take God’s name in vain. Honor the Sabbath. Honor your father and mother. Do not murder. Do not commit adultery. Do not steal. Do not lie. Do not covet. Copyright © 2002 Dr. Robert Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc. 94 You Were Born a Sinner All people are born sinners. We are all unrighteous people. – Romans 3:10-12 • As it is written, “Not even one person is righteous. No one understands. No one searches for God. All have turned away. Together they have become worthless.” Copyright © 2002 Dr. Robert Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc. 95 Your Best Efforts Fail All people sin. Our best efforts will never measure up. – Romans 3:23 • … since all have sinned and continue to fall short of God’s glory. Copyright © 2002 Dr. Robert Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc. 96 The Price of Sin is Death The price of sin is death. – Romans 5:12 • Therefore, just as sin entered the world through one man, and death through sin, so death spread to everyone, because all have sinned. Copyright © 2002 Dr. Robert Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc. 97 Jesus Paid Your Debt Jesus paid your debt by dying in your place. – Romans 6:23 • For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life in union with Christ Jesus our Lord. Copyright © 2002 Dr. Robert Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc. 98 Christ Died for You Christ died in your place, paying your price, and suffering so that you would not have to suffer eternally. – Romans 5:8 • But God demonstrates his love for us by the fact that Christ died for us while we were still sinners. Copyright © 2002 Dr. Robert Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc. 99 His Invitation Is to You… Now His invitation is open to anyone… even you. – Romans 10:13 • For “everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.” Copyright © 2002 Dr. Robert Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc. 100 Confess, Declare, Believe You must confess your sin, declare His Lordship, and believe in your heart that God raised Christ from the dead. – Romans 10:9-10 • … if you declare with your mouth that Jesus is Lord, and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. For a person believes with his heart and is justified, and a person declares with his mouth and is saved. Copyright © 2002 Dr. Robert Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc. 101 Your Prayer for Salvation “Lord, Jesus, I know that I am a sinner and I need you. I know that you paid the price for my sins by dying on the cross. I ask that you forgive my sins; and I receive you as my Savior and Lord. I thank you for forgiving my sins and giving me eternal life. Take control of the throne of my life. Make me the kind of person you want me to be. Amen.” Copyright © 2002 Dr. Robert Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc. 102 Some Truths to Remember Remember these simple truths from God’s Word: – 1 John 1:9 • If we make it our habit to confess our sins, he is faithful and righteous to forgive us those sins and cleanse us from all unrighteousness. – Romans 8:16 • The Spirit himself testifies with our spirit that we are God’s children. Copyright © 2002 Dr. Robert Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc. 103 Some Truths to Remember – Ephesians 2:8 • For by such grace you have been saved through faith. This does not come from you; it is the gift of God and not the result of works, lest anyone boast. – Romans 8:18 • For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worth comparing to the glory that will be revealed to us. Copyright © 2002 Dr. Robert Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc. 104 Some Truths to Remember – 1 John 5:13 • I have written these things to you who believe in the name of the Son of God so that you may know that you have eternal life. – 2 Corinthians 5:17-18a • Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. Old things have disappeared, and—look!— all things have become new! All of this comes from God, who has reconciled us to himself through Christ… Copyright © 2002 Dr. Robert Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc. 105 About Davidson Press Publisher of the International Standard Version New Testament with CD-ROM. Publisher of many other titles. Visit our website at http://davidsonpress.com. – 24/7 SSL encrypted ordering. – Copyright © 2002 Dr. Robert Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc. 106