The Remnant Bible Study Course is a series of lessons designed not only to educate Christians on the basics of the faith but also to teach them about some topics on a deeper level, including a few that do not get the coverage in modern churches that they should. David Fore and James Burch, two of the founders of It Ain’t Over Ministries, collaborated on this study course, the first edition being written and edited between February 5, 2018, and June 7, 2021. We were led by God to share the truths that He had shown us, deciding to put them into a Bible study format. In fact, we were still learning as we put the Bible study together. Our desire is to learn more of God and the Bible throughout our lives. This includes remaining teachable, even to the point of correcting shared information if God shows us we were wrong or otherwise had an incomplete understanding of something pertaining to Him or His Word.

The first edition contained a lot of information but was of a very plain, utilitarian format. In the works of many creators of various studies and so forth, their first editions are something like rough drafts or starter experiments, if you will, and ours was no exception. By the middle of 2022 it was felt that a revamped second edition of the Remnant Bible Study Course was needed.

Work began on the second edition of the RBSC on November 3, 2022. The first edition contained 18 lessons. They were organized into three tiers called phases. In the second edition there are now 20 lessons, with the Heaven and Hell teachings having been combined into one lesson and three new lessons added. The tiers have been renamed Levels 1, 2, and 3. Pictures and charts have been added to enhance the second edition, and the tables have been reformatted to be more aesthetically pleasing and not so plain. This new edition of the RBSC has been streamlined, with redundant information removed and the remaining material more concisely worded. Old information has been updated and an effort was made to reduce the amount of time-sensitive material, making future updates easier. The citation of sources in the first edition of the RBSC was done in a way that sometimes cluttered the lessons, so in the second revamped edition, more traditional source citations are used, with a bibliography placed at the end of each lesson. This not only protects us, but also the concise placement of this information all together in one listing quickly enables students to check out the references for themselves. We have also cut down on the amount of lesson reviewing in the later lessons. Since those utilizing the RBSC will have all the lessons at their disposal, we refer them to the appropriate lessons or lesson sections to review. Where we felt that adding review material was in order, we kept it to the bare minimum necessary.

One other feature which we felt needed to be changed, was the widespread naming of erring ministers and ministries. We have found that when we name them, fellow believers are often offended and do not take our admonitions to heart, mistaking our efforts for personal attacks. Now, there is a time and a place to call people out, but we are not heresy hunters and cultists. What we have done this time and will do from now on is name the errant teachings that are out there in today’s church world, only calling out individuals or ministries if absolutely necessary.

So you can get an idea of what we are offering in the second edition of the RBSC, here is an overview of each level and the lessons they contain:

LEVEL 1 – Getting Grounded

1. Salvation: This course begins by examining one of the central tenets of the Christian Faith – Salvation, the necessity of being saved from one’s sins in order to be spared from the wrath of God and have eternal life. The lesson provides an in-depth exploration and explanation of the Biblical doctrine of salvation. Students will delve into the significance of this core Christian tenet, understanding the imperative of being saved from the consequences of sin and the path to achieving divine grace. Through thoughtful discussion and analysis, this introductory module lays the foundation for a deeper comprehension of the salvation doctrine and its pivotal role within the Christian faith.

2. God: This lesson explores the fundamental characteristics and attributes of God, as well as the mysterious and complex nature of the Trinity. Students will delve into the distinct roles and responsibilities of each Person of the Godhead – the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit – gaining a deeper understanding of their individual identities and functions within the divine relationship. Through this study, participants will gain insight into the multifaceted nature of God, cultivating a richer appreciation for the intricacies of the Biblical Christian concept of God.

3. Man: This comprehensive lesson explores the essence of humanity, delving into the fundamental questions of human identity and purpose. It examines the nature of human beings, their characteristics, and their actions from a theological perspective. The course then expands to investigate the divinely ordained roles and responsibilities ascribed to men, women, and children within the Christian worldview. Through thoughtful analysis and discussion, students will gain insight into how these God-given roles shape family dynamics, societal structures, and individual purpose in light of religious teachings.

4. Covenants: This lesson sheds light on the often-misunderstood concept of covenants in the Bible, a crucial aspect of Christian Theology. Students will explore the various types of covenants found in Scripture, with a particular focus on the blood covenant, which underlies the very foundation of salvation through Jesus Christ. Through a step-by-step examination of the ancient practice of making a blood covenant, participants will gain a deeper understanding of the solemn and binding nature of blood covenants in the Biblical context. This study will reveal the significance of these covenants and why they should be taken seriously, providing a richer appreciation for the depths of God’s relationship with humanity.

5. The Bible: This foundational lesson provides a comprehensive introduction to the origins, composition, and divine inspiration of the Bible, the sacred text of Christianity. Students will explore the historical context and development of the Bible, including its structure and organization, as well as the process of inspiration that guided its authors. This lesson will also examine the significance of Scripture in the lives of Christians, highlighting its role as a source of guidance, wisdom, and spiritual nourishment. By understanding the Bible’s history, nature, and importance, participants will gain a deeper appreciation for the authority and relevance of Scripture in their daily lives. 

6. The Christian: This lesson explores the transformative experience of being Born Again, a fundamental concept in Christianity. Students will discover the profound implications of spiritual rebirth, including the blessings and benefits that come with a new life in Christ. In addition, the course will examine the responsibilities and expectations that accompany a commitment to following Jesus, highlighting the importance of living a life that reflects the values and principles of the Christian faith. By understanding the privileges and obligations of being a Christian, participants will be empowered to deepen their relationship with God and live out their faith with boldness, confidence, intention, and purpose.

7. The Church: This lesson provides an in-depth exploration of the concept of the Church, both as a theological entity and a practical community of believers. Students will examine the nature and purpose of the Church, delving into its foundational role within Christianity. The course will also shed light on the diverse branches and denominations that make up the larger Christian landscape, fostering a greater understanding of the Church’s multifaceted expression. Additionally, the lesson will discuss the principles of church governance and the responsibilities that believers have towards their local congregation. By gaining a comprehensive understanding of the Church, its structure, and its expectations, participants will be better equipped to engage with and contribute to the Body of Christ.

8. Last Things:. This culminating lesson of Level 1 delves into the fascinating realm of Eschatology – the study of last things. Beginning with the concept of the Rapture, students will explore various perspectives on End-Time events prevalent in Christian theology. The course provides a balanced overview of the major eschatological viewpoints, offering insights into different interpretations of the prophetic Scriptures.  A significant portion of the lesson is dedicated to a comprehensive tour through the Book of Revelation, examining its symbolic language, prophetic visions, and apocalyptic themes. This exploration aims to provide students with a clearer understanding of this complex and often misunderstood Biblical text.  This lesson includes a profound segment that examines current global events and trends. This addition helps students identify potential precursors to the events described in Revelation, encouraging thoughtful reflection on how contemporary developments might align with Biblical prophecies. By connecting Scriptural teachings with present-day observations, participants will gain a more nuanced perspective on the potential unfolding of end-time events.

LEVEL 2 – Advancing in the Faith

1. Angels, Demons, and the Early World:  This introductory lesson of the second level offers a comprehensive exploration of creation, the early world, and spiritual beings from a Biblical standpoint. The course begins by examining the creation narrative, incorporating insights from creation research scientists to provide a well-rounded understanding of Earth’s origins.  Students will then delve into the pre-Flood and early post-Flood worlds, investigating the significant events and changes that shaped human history. This includes an analysis of the dispersion of people, the diversification of languages, and the subsequent development of nations.  The lesson then shifts focus to the realm of celestial beings, providing an in-depth study of angels. Students will learn about the various orders of angels, their appearances in different Biblical accounts, and their roles in God’s divine plan.  Finally, the lesson concludes by addressing often overlooked or misunderstood topics in modern Christian education: Giants and demons. This section aims to shed light on these enigmatic subjects, offering Biblical insights and historical context. By examining these often neglected areas of study, students will gain a more comprehensive understanding of the spirit realm and the nature of spiritual warfare.  This multifaceted lesson equips students with a broader perspective on the intersection of physical and spiritual realities, enhancing their grasp of Biblical cosmology and the unseen forces at work in creation.

2. More About the Bible:  This lesson builds upon the foundational knowledge of the Bible established in Level 1, lesson 5, offering a more in-depth exploration of Biblical scholarship and textual criticism. Students will delve into the intricate world of Bible translations, examining the various approaches and methodologies used in rendering ancient texts into modern languages.  The lesson provides a comprehensive look at Biblical manuscripts, discussing their origins, preservation, and significance in understanding the transmission of Scripture throughout history. Participants will also explore fascinating aspects of Biblical literature, including codes and number patterns, which have intrigued scholars and believers alike.  A critical component of this lesson is the examination of potentially problematic Bible manuscripts and the individuals responsible for their compilation. This section aims to equip students with the knowledge to discern and evaluate the reliability of different textual sources.  This in-depth lesson, contains a segment presenting a detailed analysis of why the New King James Version (NKJV) is considered the most reliable and accurate Bible translation available to English speakers today. This addition provides students with a thorough understanding of the principles of Biblical translation and the factors that contribute to a faithful rendering of the original texts.  By the end of this lesson, students will have gained a deeper appreciation for the complexities of Biblical scholarship and be better equipped to engage with Scripture on a more nuanced level.

3. Heaven and Hell:  In this comprehensive lesson, two separate topics are merged to provide a holistic understanding of eternal destinations delving into both Heaven and Hell, offering expanded insights into each realm.  Students will explore the Biblical descriptions and doctrines surrounding heaven, gaining a deeper appreciation for the divine promises and joys that await believers. Similarly, the lesson provides a detailed examination of hell, addressing its nature, purpose, and the consequences of rejecting God’s gift of salvation.  By combining and expanding these topics, this lesson offers a more comprehensive perspective on the ultimate outcomes of human choices and the eternal significance of one’s relationship with God.

4. Dispensations and Other Elements:  This comprehensive lesson is divided into two distinct parts, offering a deep dive into complex theological concepts and historical analysis.  We’ll begin with an in-depth exploration of Dispensationalism and Covenant Theology, providing students with a thorough understanding of these influential interpretative frameworks, and a consolidated overview of the Jewish people’s journey throughout Church history, tracing their experiences from the early Church to the present day.  Then we’ll focus on the seven phases of the Church Age, correlating each phase with one of the seven churches addressed by Jesus in the early chapters of Revelation. This analysis provides insight into the spiritual and historical development of the Church over time.  The lesson concludes by retaining intriguing observations on the Jewish calendar and its apparent correlation with significant world events. This section suggests a divine orchestration of global occurrences in alignment with this ancient timekeeping system.  The refined approach of this lesson allows students to grasp key concepts more effectively while maintaining the depth and breadth of the subject matter at hand.

5. Meditation, Prayer, and Fasting:  This lesson explores three essential Christian Spiritual Disciplines – Meditation, Prayer, and Fasting – providing valuable insights and a New Testament-centered perspective.  The course begins by examining the discipline of meditation, guiding students in understanding its Biblical foundation and the transformative impact it can have in the life of a believer. The lesson then delves into the pivotal role of prayer, highlighting its importance as a means of communication and communion with God.  A significant portion of the lesson is dedicated to the subject of fasting. Recognizing that the Christian view of fasting has often been overly influenced by an Old Testament lens, this teaching presents a more New Testament-grounded understanding of this spiritual discipline. Students will learn about the purpose, practice, and spiritual benefits of fasting within the context of the New Covenant.  By addressing these three crucial spiritual disciplines through a balanced, Scripture-based approach, the lesson equips students with the knowledge and tools to cultivate a deeper, more meaningful relationship with God. This holistic understanding of meditation, prayer, and fasting empowers believers to engage in these transformative practices with renewed vigor and spiritual insight.

6. More About the End Times:  This lesson builds upon the foundational understanding of end-time events established in the “Last Things” lesson from Level 1. Delving deeper into the realm of eschatology, this teaching provides a comprehensive examination of current events and their potential alignment with Biblical prophecies.  Drawing from the insights introduced in the previous lesson, this lesson takes a more detailed look at the precursors and signs that may be indicative of the approaching end times. Students will engage in a thoughtful analysis of global developments, social trends, and geopolitical shifts, seeking to discern how these phenomena might correlate with the prophetic visions and teachings found in Scripture.  Through a balanced and scholarly approach, the lesson encourages students to cultivate a nuanced understanding of the end times, avoiding sensationalism or speculation. Instead, the focus is on equipping believers with the knowledge and discernment to interpret the times in light of Biblical principles and to live with a sense of spiritual preparedness and anticipation.  By expanding on the previous introduction to eschatology, this lesson empowers students to develop a more robust and informed perspective on the unfolding of end-time events, fostering a deeper appreciation for the sovereignty of God and the ultimate fulfillment of His divine plan.

LEVEL 3 – Excelling in Victorious Christian Living

1. The Christian Life:  This comprehensive lesson delves deeper into the essence of what it means to be a follower of Jesus Christ, building upon the foundational concepts explored in the Level 1 lesson, “The Christian.”  Through a detailed examination, this lesson examines the multifaceted aspects of the Christian life, guiding students in a transformative exploration of discipleship. Students will engage with topics such as the process of spiritual rebirth, the development of a personal relationship with God, and the practical application of Biblical principles in daily living.  The lesson also addresses the responsibilities and expectations that accompany the call to be a Disciple of Jesus Christ, exploring themes of moral character, spiritual disciplines, and the role of the believer within the larger Body of Christ. Students will be challenged to consider the cost of discipleship and the transformative impact it can have on one’s life.  By delving deeper into the realities and implications of the Christian life, this lesson equips students with a more comprehensive understanding of what it means to truly live as a devoted follower (Disciple) of Christ. The aim is to inspire and empower you to embrace the journey of discipleship with greater boldness, commitment, intentionality, and passion.

2. Man as a Triune Being:  This advanced lesson, now positioned in Level 3, explores the complex concept of man as a triune being – comprised of spirit, soul, and body. The decision to elevate this teaching from its previous placement in the second tier reflects its critical importance in developing a comprehensive understanding of spiritual dynamics, particularly in relation to Deliverance Ministry.  The course provides an in-depth examination of each component of human nature:

1. The spirit – The eternal essence that connects mankind with God.

2. The soul – The part of mankind encompassing the mind, will, and emotions.

3. The body – The physical vessel housing mankind’s spirit and soul.

By delving into this tripartite model of human nature, students will gain crucial insights into the interplay between these aspects of our being and how they relate to our spiritual life. This understanding becomes particularly significant when addressing the controversial and often misunderstood topic of the potential demonization of people, including Believers.  The lesson carefully navigates this sensitive subject, providing a balanced, Biblically-grounded perspective on how spiritual forces might interact with different aspects of our triune nature. This knowledge serves as an essential foundation for those engaged in or interested in Deliverance Ministry, offering a nuanced understanding of spiritual warfare and its implications for the Christian life.  By repositioning this lesson in Level 3, the curriculum ensures that students approach this complex topic with a more mature spiritual understanding, better equipped to grapple with its profound implications for living out their faith and practicing it in everyday life.

3. Spiritual Warfare:  This comprehensive lesson offers a deep exploration of the realities of spiritual warfare, equipping students with a robust understanding of this crucial aspect of the Christian life.  The lesson begins by defining spiritual warfare, examining the nature of the unseen conflict between the Kingdom of Light and the kingdom of darkness. Students will gain insights into how the forces of evil target and seek to undermine both individuals and societal institutions.  The lesson then delves into the Biblical principles and strategies for waging effective spiritual warfare. Students will learn about the importance of spiritual discernment, the power of prayer and fasting, and the utilization of the full armor of God. Practical applications and case studies will be presented to illustrate the lived experience of engaging in this spiritual battle.  This lesson is a more streamlined and focused exploration of the topic rather than a more overtly in-depth teaching that would require volumes upon volumes to do it the justice it deserves. The aim is to provide students with a concise yet comprehensive understanding of spiritual warfare, equipping them to navigate the complexities of this unseen realm with confidence and Biblical wisdom.  By the end of the lesson, participants will be better equipped to recognize, resist, and overcome the tactics of the enemy, empowering them to walk in the victory that is theirs in Christ Jesus.

4. Deliverance:  This lesson addresses a topic that has been largely overlooked or misunderstood in many modern Christian communities: Deliverance. Despite its importance, deliverance is often shrouded in errors and misconceptions, even among churches that do teach and practice it.  Here, we revisit the concept of deliverance as it was understood by the early Christian Church, drawing from the historical and Biblical contexts that shaped their practices. We also incorporate insights from contemporary deliverance ministers who have been successful in casting out demons, combining ancient wisdom with modern experiences.  By examining the early Church’s approach to deliverance, as seen in the practices of church leaders who prayed for deliverance over new believers and the testimonies of early Church Fathers like Justin Martyr and Cyprian, we aim to restore a more accurate and effective understanding of this critical doctrine.  Additionally, we share personal experiences and practical applications from modern deliverance ministry, highlighting the ongoing relevance and necessity of this spiritual practice in today’s world. This comprehensive approach ensures that students gain a well-rounded understanding of deliverance, equipping them to address the spiritual needs of believers with Biblical compassion, precision and modern effectiveness.

5. Calvinism and Arminianism:  This lesson delves into a crucial discussion that has shaped the Protestant Reformation and continues to influence Christian theology today: the debate between Calvinism and Arminianism. These two schools of thought have been at the forefront of theological discourse since the early days of the Reformation, and their implications for our understanding of salvation are profound.  Building on the foundational concepts introduced in the initial lesson on Salvation, this teaching provides a more in-depth examination of the core principles and differences between Calvinism and Arminianism. Students will engage with the historical context and key figures that have contributed to the development of these theological perspectives, including John Calvin and Jacobus Arminius.  The lesson will explore the five points of Calvinism (T.U.L.I.P.) and the corresponding Arminian responses (F.A.C.T.S.), examining the nuances of each position on topics such as predestination, free will, and the nature of salvation. By analyzing the strengths and weaknesses of both perspectives, students will gain a deeper understanding of the complexities involved in this ongoing theological debate.  Through this comprehensive exploration, participants will be equipped to think critically about the implications of Calvinism and Arminianism for their own faith and practice, as well as for the broader Christian community. By engaging with these fundamental questions, students will develop a more informed and thoughtful approach to the doctrine of salvation, ultimately enriching their understanding of God’s redemptive plan.

6. Paul’s Gospel:  The Remnant Bible Study Course concludes with a vital teaching that is unfamiliar to many believers. Over time, Christianity has often incorporated a Judaistic tone in its views on salvation and other Church customs. This lesson aims to correct that by exploring the teachings of Paul, originally known as Saul of Tarsus.  Paul, a first-century Jewish Pharisee, underwent a profound transformation when he encountered Christ and became one of the most influential Christians in history. Despite his deep love for his Jewish heritage, God called him to be the Apostle to the Gentiles. Through Paul’s writings, we gain a clear and accurate understanding of the New Covenant from a Gentile perspective—a teaching that is desperately needed in the Church today.  This lesson explores Paul’s unique insights on the nature of salvation, the role of the law, and the inclusivity of the Gospel. By delving into his epistles, students will discover the true essence of Christian freedom and grace, free from the legalistic interpretations that have sometimes overshadowed the Church’s teachings.  Through this comprehensive study, students will be better equipped to embrace and share the Gospel as Paul did, fostering a more inclusive and authentic Christian faith we are commanded to share with the whole world and everyone we meet.

It is the heartfelt prayer of It Ain’t Over Ministries that the information shared in our revamped second edition of the RBSC will greatly increase your knowledge about the Christian Faith, and that you will take what you have learned and apply it to your life. Also we pray that you will be inspired to do your own research. Enjoy the study and be blessed!

NOTE:  Unless otherwise noted, all Scripture quotes throughout the 2^nd Edition Revamp of the Remnant Bible Study Course are from The Holy Bible, New King James Version, Copyright 1982 by Thomas Nelson. Also, unless otherwise noted, all pictures, charts, and maps are from the public domain. All tables are created by IAOM unless otherwise noted.