26. TITHING
Tithing is an act of worship; it is a private matter between the individual and God. The church does not “enforce” or “police” tithing, but simply teaches the responsibility to tithe. Each individual has the responsibility to “honor the Lord with his substance and with the firstfruits of all his increase.” Tithing is a method by which the message of Jesus Christ is proclaimed to the world.

Malachi 3:8–10, Matthew 6:21, 23:23
2 Corinthians 9:7

27. BIBLICAL DIETARY LAWS
Biblical dietary laws, including the prohibitions of Leviticus 11 and Deuteronomy 14, are among the many health laws God gave to Israel. Jesus, the apostles, and the early New Testament church observed them, and they remain in effect today. Scripture indicates that laws pertaining to “clean” and “unclean” animals were recognized and observed from earliest times.

Genesis 7:2–3, 8:20, Leviticus 3:17, 11
Deuteronomy 14:3–21, Matthew 5:17–19
Acts 10:9–15, 28

28. SIN
Sin is the transgression of God’s law—the falling short or missing the mark of the character of Jesus Christ. Although the penalty for sin is death in the lake of fire, all sin can be completely forgiven by God, who desires that all men be saved. (The unpardonable sin is a sin for which the sinner asks no pardon.) God forgives sin upon repentance of the individual who accepts the shed blood and sacrifice of Jesus Christ as payment in full for the penalty of his sins.

Romans 6:23, Ephesians 4:32, Colossians 1:14
1 John 3:4

29. THE CHRISTIAN
A true Christian is one in whom the Holy Spirit dwells.

Romans 8:9, 1 Corinthians 12:13

30. MAN’S SPIRITUAL RELATIONSHIP WITH GOD
Man’s spiritual relationship with God begins with repentance and faith. When these criteria are met, God “begets” us with His Spirit; He becomes our Father and we become His children. A family relationship has begun. To maintain this family relationship, a bond is formed as we fellowship with each other, and with God the Father and Jesus Christ. Communication as we fellowship is the tool that builds this family relationship. The tool of communication with God is nourished through four basic components: prayer, Bible study, meditation, and fasting. As we use the tool of communication, a warm personal relationship is established that gives us peace of mind, spiritual confidence, and faith that comes from knowing the Designer, Sustainer, and Ruler of the entire universe.

Matthew 6:5–13, Acts 2:38, Romans 8:15–16
1 Timothy 2:15, 3:16, Hebrews 1:1–2, 24–25
1 John 1:3, Daniel 6:10