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Do the questions above seem odd to you? Maybe so, but I assure you they are essential. In fact, you must face these questions and understand the Biblical answer to them before you leave this life for eternity.

The ten Chapters in this series are designed to give you the "basic training" {thus BootCamp} you need to get started in a growing, dynamic, fruitful Christian life. But before you can begin that training you need to make sure you have settled the question of your eternal destiny. Church Membership, religious activity, baptism, being a good neighbor & citizen, and other things commonly associated with "being a Christian", are all good in their place; but none of these things will prepare you to meet God.

1. PURPOSE:

The purpose of this preliminary study is to help you know without a doubt that you are ready to meet God . The message of Scripture is that you and I have been created by God for a special purpose. In His infinite wisdom and love, God determined to bring into existence a people on whom He could shower His blessings. He has purposed to reveal Himself to us in order that we may know and love Him in return.

1. In what three significant ways has God revealed Himself to men?

• Psalm 19:1 - The _______________ declare the glory of God; and the ____________ showeth his handiwork.
• John 5:39 - Search the ________________; for in them ye think ye have eternal life: and they are they which testify of me.
• Hebrews 1:1-2 - God, who at sundry times and in divers manners spake in time past unto the fathers by the prophets, Hath in these last days ___________ unto us by his __________, whom he hath appointed heir of all things, by whom also he made the worlds;

As you read the following verses and answer the related questions, ask God to help you know that you know Him.

2. What is one of the reasons God gave us the Bible?

• 1 John 5:13 - These things have I written unto you that believe on the name of the Son of God; ________ _____ _______ ___________ that ye have eternal life, and that ye may believe on the name of the Son of God.

3. Why do you think God created you?

• John 3:16 - For________ _____ ________ the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.

4. Why did Jesus come to the world?

• John 10:10 - The thief cometh not, but for to steal, and to kill, and to destroy: __ ____ _______ that they might have ________, and that they might have it more abundantly.

While it is true that God loves us and wants us to experience a full, meaningful and eternal life, it is obvious that something is desperately wrong with us. We often don’t experience the best God has to offer. We have some very serious problems in our society, and in our individual lives. Among the many problems we face are: pride, lust, envy, dishonesty, fear, rebellion, selfishness, greed, and a general lack of direction for our lives.

1. What is the Bible word for these problems?

• Romans 3:23 - For all have ___________, and come short of the glory of God;
• 1 John 1:8 - If we say that we have no _________, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us.

2. Who does this problem of sin affect?

• Romans 3:10 - As it is written, There is _________ ___________, no, not one:
• Romans 3:23 - For _____ _______ __________, and come short of the glory of God;

3. PERSONAL EFFORTS:

While most people recognize the problems caused by sin, they often try many different ways of coping with these problems before turning to God. Some of the ways we attempt to make things better on our own are:

1. religious rituals (baptism, communion, etc.);
2. religious service (teaching, preaching, witnessing, etc.); or,
3. determining to be the best person we can be (New Year’s Resolutions, helping a neighbor, giving to charity, etc.).

While these activities may temporarily soothe our conscience, they often lead to frustration, confusion, feelings of inadequacy and helplessness. And, frankly, they just don’t work.

1. Why are our efforts to solve our sin problem inadequate?

• Isaiah 64:6 - But ______ ________ all as an ____________ thing, and all our righteousnesses are as _____________ rags; and we all do fade as a leaf; and our iniquities, like the wind, have taken us away.
• Titus 3:4-5 - But after that the kindness and love of God our Saviour toward man appeared, _____ ____ ________ of righteousness which we have done, but according to his mercy he saved us, by the washing of regeneration, and renewing of the Holy Ghost;

4. PROBLEM SOLVED:

So, what is the solution to our problem? The Bible declares that God has provided a way for man to know Him, and have his sin forgiven. That way is a PERSON! And that person is Jesus Christ. The good news of the Gospel of Christ is that God has solved our sin problem for us.

• John 14:6 - Jesus saith unto him, I am the ______, the _______, and the _______: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.

It was Jesus’ death on the cross and resurrection from the grave that made it possible for our sin to be forgiven and for us to receive eternal life. (Romans 5:10; 1 Corinthians 15:3-4)

• Romans 5:10 - For if, when we were enemies, we were ____________ to God by the ___________ of his Son, much more, being reconciled, we shall be ___________ by his ___________.
• 1 Corinthians 15:3-4 - For I delivered unto you first of all that which I also received, how that _________ _____ ____ _______ ______ according to the scriptures; And that he was buried, and that he rose again the third day according to the scriptures:

The Bible is clear that Jesus died for all men (2 Corinthians 5:14). But it is also clear that not everyone has or will accept His gracious offer of salvation (John 1:11). We are not automatically saved (John 3:8). Neither are we saved by our own efforts, religious commitment or good works. (Ephesians 2:8-9) We cannot get to heaven by what we do, nor can we purchase God’s forgiveness.

5. PLAN:

The Bible is equally clear about what is required of us to receive God’s offer of salvation. If we can’t earn or purchase it, how do we get in on it?

1. From the following verses, identify and briefly describe what is required for an individual to become a Child of God?

• 1 John 1:9 - If we ________ our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.
• Acts 16:31 - And they said, ____________ on the Lord Jesus Christ, and thou shalt be saved, and thy house.
• John 1:12 - But as many as ____________ him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name:

2. What would Jesus like for you to do, right now?

• Revelation 3:20 - Behold, I stand at the door, and knock: if any man hear my voice, and _______ the ______, I will come in to him, and will sup with him, and he with me.

3. How can you invite Jesus into your heart to be your Saviour?

• Romans 10:9 - That if thou shalt _________ with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine _______ that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved.
• Romans 10:10 - For with the heart man _____________ unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation.
• Romans 10:13 - For whosoever shall _____ upon the name of the Lord shall be saved.

If you have never invited Jesus into your life to be your personal Saviour, before you proceed with this series of lessons, please settle that issue with God. A simple prayer of faith, committing your eternal destiny to God could be worded like this:

Now that you have received Jesus and His gift of salvation through a simple prayer of faith, there are some remarkable promises for you in the Bible. As you read the following verses, look carefully for promises that God gives you relating to your new life in Him.

1. What does the person who hears God’s Word and believes it’s message have?

• John 5:24 - Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that heareth my word, and believeth on him that sent me, hath ______________ __________, and shall not come into condemnation; but is passed from death unto life.

2. What will never happen to those who are in Christ Jesus?

• Romans 8:1 - There is therefore now _____ ________________ to them which are in Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit.

3. What imagery does Jesus use to illustrate your security in Him?

• John 10:28-29 - And I give unto them eternal life; and they shall never perish, neither shall any man ___________ them out of _____ ________. My Father, which gave them me, is greater than all; and no man is able to pluck them out of my Father's hand.

4. What kind of person are you in Christ Jesus?

• II Corinthians 5:17 Therefore if any man _____ ______ Christ, he is a ______ creature: old ___________ are passed away; behold, _____ things are become new.

If you are not totally confident that you are a Child of God, review what you have studied in this lesson and ask God to guide you to that truth.

• Read - John 1, 3, 4
• Memorize - John 1:12; 3:16

Chapter One: Who Is Jesus?

For many people, Christianity {along with Judaism & Islam} is nothing more than one of the worlds three great mono-theistic religions. But to a Christian, Christianity is not a religion, but rather a relationship with Jesus Christ. It is our belief about Jesus that distinguishes us from other religions, philosophies, and cults throughout the world.

What you truly believe about Jesus will determine your relationship with God the Father, and your eternal destiny. You cannot know God without knowing Jesus! Nor can you spend eternity in heaven without knowing Jesus.

Many know about Jesus, but don’t know Him. To them He is an important historical figure, a good teacher or role model, or maybe a prophet or "holy man". But they have no personal relationship with Him. They approach Him, if at all, via religious ritual, attempts at doing good, or through one of the "saints", as an intercessor; unaware that He is the only possible "Mediator" (1 Timothy 2:5) to the Father.

Others, who acknowledge that He is indeed the Saviour, have limited or misinterpreted views of what the Scripture teaches about Him.

It is the purpose of this study to guide you in a discovery of what the Bible has to say about Jesus Christ. You will discover that the Bible is clear in its teachings that Jesus is the God/Man; that is, Eternal God in human flesh; 100% God, and at the same time, 100% man.

1. Jesus CLAIMED To Be God.

Because we live in a Country that ensures your right to basic freedoms, and because you have been given freedom of choice by God to accept or reject truth presented to you, you may choose to believe or not to believe in the Humanity & Deity Godhood- of Jesus Christ. But you cannot honestly say that the Bible does not claim that Jesus is the God/Man.

1. Jesus is MAN!

The humanity of Jesus is a historical fact. Both Biblical and extra-biblical writings of the period authenticate the historical record of His life. He was born in Bethlehem, grew up in Nazareth, baptized in the Jordan River, preached and healed the sick in Judea and Galilee, and was tried and executed in Jerusalem. All were historical events taking place in actual historical places. The Bible clearly presents Jesus as a man who walked on earth some 2,000 years ago

What four expressions did John use to authenticate the humanity of Jesus in 1 John 1:1?

• 1 John 1:1 - That which was from the beginning, which we have _________, which we have __________ with our eyes, which we have __________ upon, and our hands have _____________, of the Word of life;

Have you ever wondered what type of man Jesus was? Some time ago I came across the following Portrait of JESUS written by Sherwood Eddy. You may have read or heard it before, but I think it beautifully describes the Man we call LORD.

That is the Man the Bible calls "Jesus", whom we love so dearly and extol so highly.

The Bible is equally clear in its claims regarding the Deity of Jesus. He was not more man than God, nor was He more God than man. He was absolutely man, but He was equally God. "Impossible!", you say. No, not impossible. With God, all things are possible (Luke 1:37). A mystery, yes! But not impossible.

As you read the following verses, notice the Biblical truth expressed concerning Jesus’ Deity.

• John 1:1 - In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the ________ was ________. {See also: John 1:14}
• Matthew 1:23 - Behold, a virgin shall be with child, and shall bring forth a son, and they shall call his name Emmanuel, which being interpreted is, ______ _____ _____.
• Hebrews 1:8 - But unto the _______ he saith, Thy throne, O _______, is for ever and ever: a sceptre of righteousness is the sceptre of thy kingdom.
• 1 John 5:20 - And we know that the Son of God is come, and hath given us an understanding, that we may know him that is true, and we are in him that is true, even in his Son __________ _________. This is the ________ _______, and eternal life.
• Colossians 2:9 - For in him dwelleth all the fulness of the _____________ bodily.
• 1 Timothy 3:16 - And without controversy great is the mystery of godliness: __________ was ______________ in the __________, justified in the Spirit, seen of angels, preached unto the Gentiles, believed on in the world, received up into glory.

{For additional information, study these verses: Isaiah 9:6; Micah 5:2; Titus 2:13; Revelation 1:7-8; John 20:28; Romans 9:5; Philippians 2:5-6}

Jesus also made many personal claims to be God. Now think for a moment. What kind of a person would claim to be God? Either He was God, or He wasn’t. If He claimed to be God and wasn’t, he had to be either a liar or a lunatic. But if He claimed to be God, and He is God, then He is LORD!

It is clear in Scripture that Jesus claimed to be the Son of God (Matthew 26:63-64; 27:43; Mark 14:61-64; John 19:7). But, does that mean that He claimed to be GOD? Is there a distinction between being the Son of God and being God? Again we look to the Bible for our answer. How do the claims of Jesus in the following verses relate to His Deity?

• John 5:18 - Therefore the Jews sought the more to kill him, because he not only had broken the sabbath, but said also that God was his Father, ____________ _________ __________ with __________.
• John 10:30 - I and my Father are _______. Then the Jews took up stones again to stone him. Jesus answered them, Many good works have I showed you from my Father; for which of those works do ye stone me? The Jews answered him, saying, For a good work we stone thee not; but for blasphemy; and because that thou, being a ________, __________ _________ ________.
• John 14:1 - Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in _____, believe also in _____.

{For additional information, study these verses: John 5:23 14:7, 9}

In addition to the direct claims to Deity that Jesus made, there are some astonishing claims that Jesus made which could only be true if He is truly God. What are those claims in the following verses:

• Matthew 28:18 - And Jesus came and spake unto them, saying, ____ __________ is given unto me in heaven and in earth.
• Mark 2:5-7 - When Jesus saw their faith, he said unto the sick of the palsy, Son, thy sins be forgiven thee. But there were certain of the scribes sitting there, and reasoning in their hearts, Why doth this man thus speak blasphemies? _____ _____ __________ ________ but _______ only?

{For additional information, study these verses: John 5:27; 14:6}

So, it is clear that Jesus, and those who knew Him, claimed that He was God in human form. But, someone might object, "Anyone can claim anything. Where’s the proof?" So consider this: not only did Jesus claim to be God, but:

2. Jesus SEEMED To Be God!

It is obvious that if He wanted to, God, being GOD, could become a man. If He were to choose to do so, what kind of man would He be? Jesus embodied, in human form, all the qualities we would expect of a good and gracious God

Personally, if God was to choose to come to earth and walk among men as a man, I would expect Him to be able to overcome the natural laws of nature and work miracles, to live a good life, to use his time on earth helping those who were suffering, to heal the sick, to lift the fallen or downcast, to teach men right from wrong, and even have power to overcome death, since He is the creator of life. Doesn’t it seem amazing to you that Jesus did just that. His 33 years on earth were spent doing those very things.

From the following verses, discover the character qualities, or miraculous power exhibited by Jesus.

• Matthew 8:16 - When the even was come, they brought unto him many that were possessed with devils: and he _______ _______ the spirits with his word, and _________ all that were sick:
• Acts 10:38 - How God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Ghost and with power: who went about _________ _________, and _____________ all that were oppressed of the devil; for God was with him.
• Matthew 8:26 - And he saith unto them, Why are ye fearful, O ye of little faith? Then he arose, and _________ the ________ and the _______; and there was a great calm.

{For additional information, study these verses: Luke 7:14-16;22}

Jesus lived His life exactly as we would expect God to live if He were to choose to become a man and live among men. Could anyone other than God do all of that? Certainly not.

Jesus claimed to be God, and He sure seemed to be God. Now consider:

3. Jesus PROVED To Be God!

There are 5 specific proofs used in the Scripture that establish the Deity of Christ. Although there have been other people who have claimed to be God, no one other than Jesus has undeniably proven his claims. These accomplishments set Jesus Christ apart from all other would-be messiahs or saviors.

1. His Fulfillment of Prophesy - (John 5:39)

There were more than 300 specific Old testament prophesies relating the coming of the Jewish Messiah. More than 100 of those were fulfilled by Jesus while He was on earth. The others are explained in the New Testament as relating to Jesus’ Second Coming. His Fulfillment of Prophesy proves that He is God.

2. His Virgin Birth - (Matthew 1:21-23)

The Bible clearly teaches that Jesus was a born by other than normal human conception. His mother, Mary, though engaged to be married to Joseph, was in the literal since of the word a "virgin". How could this be, and what is the significance of His virgin birth? It could only be the result of a supernatural miracle of God. Its’ significance is in the fact that through His virgin birth He avoided the taint of sin passed on from Adam to every person of every age. He was born without a sin nature. His virgin birth was predicted in the Old Testament Scriptures and fulfilled in the New Testament. No other person in all of history can claim a birth like His. He alone qualifies as "Immanuel: God with us". His Virgin Birth proves that He is God.

3. His Sinless Life - (Hebrews 4:15; 1 Peter 2:22)

In addition to being born without a sin nature, Jesus is the only person in all of history of whom it can be said that He lived a sinless life. All others are sinners: by birth, and by choice. But Jesus never sinned: either in thought, word or deed. He certainly was tempted, in greater measure than we could ever imagine. But He successfully rebuked all evil that Satan threw His way. Only God could do that. His Sinless Life proves that He is God.

4. His Transfiguration - (Matthew 17:2; 2 Peter 1:17)

Near the end of His 33 years on earth, something truly remarkable happened to Jesus. He took three of His disciples with Him up a mountain. While there, His very nature changed before their eyes. The Glory of God shined through Him. His Divine nature was put on display, and for a brief moment those disciples saw Him in His heavenly Majesty. That could not happen to a mere man. His Transfiguration proves He was God.

5. His Resurrection - (Romans 1:4)

Jesus was violently murdered through the vicious act of crucifixion. Three days after His savage death, Jesus proved that He was God by coming out of the grave. The stone that covered the opening of His sepulcher was rolled away to let all the world know that He had risen. Over the next 40 days, He appeared to more than 500 different people on a dozen or more occasions. After these appearances, men and women who had fled in fear at His crucifixion, stood boldly in public places to proclaim His resurrection. His Resurrection is the capstone of all the other evidence in Scripture that proves He is God.

Jesus Is God. As man, He came to earth to be the Saviour of men. Only through Him can you experience the forgiveness of sin and the gift of eternal life. If you have not received His offer of salvation, this would be an excellent time for you to do that. You can do it with a simple prayer of faith like this:

• Read these chapters from Matthew: 1, 8-9, 17, 27-28.
• Memorize the following verses: John 14:6; Hebrews 1:8

In order to grow in your relationship with God, you must know that you are a Child of God. "Assurance of salvation" is the absolute confidence that a right relation exists between you and God. This relationship is established the moment you "receive" Jesus Christ as your personal Saviour (John 1:12). The relationship that such a decision establishes is familial in nature: God becomes your Father and you become His Child.

By our nature, we are all sinful and separated from God. But in His love and mercy, He has "begotten" us into his family (John 1:13). The Bible refers to this experience as having been "born again" (John 3:1-8). When you make a personal decision to receive Christ as your Saviour, such a decision involves a commitment of your intellect, emotion, and will.

1. Intellectual Commitment: Christianity is not a blind leap of faith. It is a system of beliefs based upon historical facts. Those facts are truths concerning the person and work of Jesus Christ. In Chapter 1 you learned who Jesus claimed to be, seemed to be, and proved to be. You cannot become a Child of God without believing what the Bible teaches about Jesus. Take a few minutes to review what Lesson 1 taught you about the Humanity and Deity of Christ.
2. Emotional Commitment: We are all emotional creatures. But our emotions differ. Emotions are feelings or reactions toward certain acts, events, or experiences in our lives. Depending on your personality, you may respond similarly or differently to an experience than someone else. For that reason, we do not seek a particular emotional experience to authenticate our experience of salvation, nor do we rely on an emotional experience for the assurance of our salvation. Assurance of salvation is based on the facts of Scripture, and our faith in the completed work of Christ. The feelings (emotional experiences) we have at the moment of our salvation will vary from person to person. However these feelings may be expressed in your life, rest assured that they are the results of your new relationship with God. What emotions might you experience as a result of your commitment to Christ?

• _____ Luke 7:37-38..match..a. conviction
• _____ Acts 8:37-39 …..…..…b. rejoicing
• _____ Acts 9:5-6……………c. peace
• _____ Romans 5:1……..……d. love
• _____ Romans 5:5…..……..e. weeping

3. Volitional Commitment: In addition to our intellect and emotions, assurance of salvation also involves our will (volition). While in no way undermining the sovereignty of God, the Bible declares that salvation involves an act of our will. That is, we personally choose to accept or reject God’s offer of forgiveness through Jesus.

• John 3:16 - For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever ____________ in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.
• Romans 10:13 - For whosoever shall _____ upon the name of the Lord shall be saved.

{For additional information, study these verses: John 3:15; 4:14; 7:17; Revelation 22:17}

Since you have committed your eternal destiny into the hands of Jesus as your Saviour, on what evidence can you rely to establish the assurance of your salvation? Consider the four foundations upon which Assurance of Salvation is based:

1. FOUNDATION 1 - The WORD of God:

The Bible (as we will learn in Chapter 4) is our sole authority in matters of Spiritual truth. We look there for truth, direction, instruction, and correction. The Bible reveals God’s truth concerning His gift of salvation. There are a number of phrases and statements used in the Bible that offer to you God’s promises regarding your salvation. Your assurance will be strengthened as you read what the Scripture has to say on this subject.

What promises relating to assurance do you find in the following verses?

• John 1:12 - But as many as received him, to them gave he power to __________ the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name:
• John 3:18 - He that believeth on him is ______ _____________: but he that believeth not is condemned already, because he hath not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God.
• John 5:24 - Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that heareth my word, and believeth on him that sent me, hath everlasting life, and ______ _____ come into _______________; but is passed from death unto life.
• Galatians 4:6 - And because ye are sons, God hath _______ forth the _________ of his Son into your hearts, crying, Abba, Father.

Hallelujah! Unshakable, absolute confidence that a right relationship exists between you and God is yours when you know and believe His Word!

2. FOUNDATION 2 - The WORK of Christ:

The Bible declares that salvation is not our work, but God’s. He has done for us what we could not do for ourselves: replace our sin with His righteousness. He did this by sending Jesus to die for our sins, and be raised from the dead to give us eternal life. In the shedding of His blood, Jesus purchased redemption (the accepted payment of sin) for mankind. The Bible presents a multifaceted view of the accomplishments of Jesus on the cross on your behalf. Knowing, understanding, and believing these truths will help establish the assurance of your salvation.

What do you learn about the accomplishments of Jesus for you in the following verses?

• Romans 5:9 - Much more then, being now _________ by his ________, we shall be saved from wrath through him.
• Ephesians 1:7 - In whom we have ___________ through his ________, the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of his grace;
• Hebrews 9:22 - And almost all things are by the law purged with blood; and ________ shedding of blood is _____ ___________.
• 1 John 1:7 - But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship one with another, and the _________ of Jesus Christ his Son ________________ us from all sin.

We are assured of salvation because God has given us His Word, and Jesus has done His work. But, there is further evidence to give us assurance: that is the witness of the Holy Spirit. The moment we receive Jesus as our Saviour, the Holy Spirit comes to live within us (John 14:16-17; Romans 8:9; Galatians 4:6). Our bodies became the temple of the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 6:19). He takes up permanent residence in us. He begins to work from within us to make of us what the Father wants us to be (Philippians 2:13). Once He comes to live within us, there are many things the Holy Spirit does on our behalf. One of the many ministries of the Spirit on behalf of the believer is to assure him of his relationship with God.

How do the following verses express this truth?

• Romans 8:14 - For as many as are ______ by the Spirit of God, they are the sons of God.
• Romans 8:16 - The Spirit itself _________ ___________ with our spirit, that we are the children of God:
• Galatians 5:16-18 - This I say then, ________ in the Spirit, and ye shall not fulfil the lust of the flesh. For the flesh lusteth against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh: and these are contrary the one to the other: so that ye cannot do the things that ye would. But if ye be ________ of the Spirit, ye are not under the law.
• 1 John 5:6 - This is he that came by water and blood, even Jesus Christ; not by water only, but by water and blood. And it is the Spirit that _________ __________, because the Spirit is truth.

Rejoice at the inner tugging of your heart by the Holy Spirit that lets you know of His presence, and of His working in your life. As you follow His leading, you will become more and more sure of your relationship with the Father, and steadily mature in your walk with Him.

4. FOUNDATION 4 - The WONDER of a Transformed Life:

There is one other thing that will give you assurance of your salvation: the transformation that will take place in your life as you live in harmony with God’s Word. You will begin to notice a change in your life. You will have new desires and new goals. Some bad habits will begin to fade. And you will be different. You won’t be perfect, but the overall direction of your life will change.

Notice how Paul described this change.

• 2 Corinthians 5:17 - Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a ________ creature: ______ things are___________ _________; behold, all things are become new.
• Philippians 2:13 - For it is ______ which __________ in you both to will and to do of his good pleasure.
• Colossians 3:1-2 - If ye then be risen with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ sitteth on the right hand of God. ______ _______ _________ on things above, not on things on the earth.

Now that you know that you know Him, reinforce that faith by doing the following exercises:

• Read the Book of 1 John.
• Read all five chapters at one sitting.
• Read a chapter at a time and take notes on the different expressions of assurance you find. (Look for word "know".)
• Memorize: 1 John 5:13; John 1:12
• Discuss with a friend what you have learned about assurance. If the friend doesn’t have the same assurance that you now have, ask if he is willing to study with you.

It is with a profound sense of awe that we approach a study of the person and nature of God. How foolish it would be if we thought we would in any way begin to understand the fullness of who God is, or the depths of His nature. He is obviously beyond understanding or comprehension by mortal men. But, the Scripture does give us a peek into who He is, and what He is like. While we will never understand it all, we can definitely learn much from a study of what the Bible reveals about God.

If you are looking for conclusive proof that God exists, you’ll not find it here, nor elsewhere. While there are definite theological arguments (which are not the purpose of this study) for the existence of God, we must accept His existence by faith (Hebrews 11:6). The Bible nowhere sets out to prove that there is a God, but simply assumes that He is (Genesis 1:1). While it is not the purpose of this study to force you to believe in God, it would be extremely foolish of you to dismiss His existence without examining the evidence. If you are having questions of this nature, please take the time to investigate for yourself.

The purpose of this study is to help you understand what the Bible says about God. This will not be an exhaustive study, but will examine the basics of God’s nature.

1. The Biblical DEFINITIONS of God’s Nature

If asked to do so, how would you define God? I am sure you’ll agree that it would be a difficult task, but go ahead and give it a try.

"To me God is ______________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________"

While the Bible nowhere gives an actual "definition" of God, it does give some interesting insights into who He is and what He is like. In trying to define "God" biblically, we discover that:

1. God is Triune. - What is meant by the term "Trinity"? The word "trinity" is a word coined to explain the existence of God, who is One, in three distinct persons: Father, Son & Spirit. Please do not misunderstand: There is no hint in the Bible that there are three Gods. The Scripture is clear, there is only One God (Deuteronomy 6:4). Yet this One God has revealed Himself and His work among men in three distinct Persons. It is a mystery that is incomprehensible to us. Many attempts have been made to describe the Trinity, but all efforts fall short. After all, He is God and we are mere men. Suffice it to say that the Bible reveals Him as Triune. Maybe the illustration of the Trinitarian Triangle will help you understand the Triune nature of God.

Both the Old & New Testaments testify to the Triune nature of God. Match the words or phrases used to describe the Trinity with their corresponding verses:

• ____ Genesis 1:26 ..match……..a. …in the name of the Father…Son…and Holy Ghost
• ____ Luke 1:35 ………………...b. …three that bear record…these Three are one
• ____ Matthew 3:16-17 …………c. …God…sent the Spirit of His Son…
• ____ Matthew 28:19 ……………d. …Let us…
• ____ Galatians 4:6 ……………..e. …blood of Christ…eternal Spirit…living God
• ____ Hebrews 9:14 ……………...f. …Holy Ghost…the Highest…the Son of God
• ____ 1 John 5:7 …………………g. …Jesus…Spirit of God…voice from Heaven

2. God is Spirit. (John 4:24) - From the Greek word for breathe or wind, the Bible uses the word "Spirit" to describe the invisible and immaterial nature of God.
3. God is Light. (1 John 1:5) - While not actually a definition, the Bible says that "God is light" in order to identify Him as the spiritual illuminator of those groping in the darkness of sin.
4. God is Love. (1 John 4:8) - "Love" is the term used in the Bible to express the essential nature of God which has prompted Him in all His merciful and kind attitudes and actions toward man.
5. God is a Consuming Fire. (Hebrews 12:29) - This term is used to speak of God’s holiness, consuming all that is inconsistent with His character.

2. The Biblical DECLARATIONS of God’s Nature

The Bible also reveals who God is and what He is like by declaring His essential attributes or characteristics. Some of these attributes belong exclusively to God, while others are reflected in varying degrees in the lives of those He has created. But God alone possesses these attributes to their fullest extent. The following list of God’s attributes are in no way intended to be exhaustive. But it will give you insight as to Who we worship and call LORD. Identify the phrases which present the essential attributes of God in each of the following verses.

1. God is Sovereign. - The word "sovereign" means chief, highest, or supreme. As the Sovereign Ruler of the universe, there is no authority equal to, or greater than, His. No one can depose Him, or vote Him out of office. He alone is Sovereign!

• 1 Chronicles 29:12 - Both riches and honour come of thee, and thou __________ ________ _______; and in thine hand is power and might; and in thine hand it is to make great, and to give strength unto all.
• Psalm 103:19 - The LORD hath prepared his throne in the heavens; and his kingdom ___________ ________ ______.

2. God is Eternal. - There has never been a time when God did not exist. He had no beginning, and He has no end. He alone is eternal!

3. God is Omniscient. - God possesses all knowledge. He has always known everything there is to know. He never had to be instructed, nor was He ever surprised by a recent discovery. He alone is Omniscient!

4. God is Omnipresent. - His personal presence is everywhere, all the time. You cannot find a place to hide from Him. Neither can you ever get into a situation where He is unavailable for help. He alone is Omnipresent!

5. God is Omnipotent. He is all powerful. There is nothing too hard for Him. He has more than enough strength to do the sum total of all things He would ever need or want to do. He alone is Omnipotent!

6. God is Immutable. His essential nature and attributes never change. He may express Himself in different ways, but He is always the same. He is never hypocritical, nor two-faced. He never changes His mind. He always keeps His promises. He alone is Immutable!

7. God is Holy. - As Holy, God’s essential nature is that of purity, majesty, and glory. His Word is Holy. His ways are Holy. His desire for us is that we be Holy. While that is also our goal and desire, God alone is Holy!

8. God is Righteous. - He always does the "right" thing. It is impossible for Him do or cause anything that is wrong. Since He is "perfect", He demands "perfection" of those who would dwell with Him. An impossible standard? Absolutely! That is why Jesus came. Through faith in Him, we can be made "righteous". In fact, when we are "in Him", His righteousness is given to us. God alone is Righteous.

1. God is Just. - He is absolutely fair and equitable in all His doings. It is impossible for Him to do anything unfair either to Himself or to man. As the Judge of the universe, His judgment and justice is fair, and right. Though we often see things that seem unfair, as these things relate to God, we must realize that we are limited in our understanding of the "whole picture". Ultimately, we will understand that in all His doings, God is Just.

• Romans 3:25-26 - Whom God hath set forth to be a propitiation through faith in his blood, to declare his righteousness for the remission of sins that are past, through the forbearance of God; To declare, I say, at this time his righteousness: that he might be ________, and the _____________ of him which believeth in Jesus.
• Revelation 15:3 - And they sing the song of Moses the servant of God, and the song of the Lamb, saying, Great and marvellous are thy works, Lord God Almighty; ________ and true are thy ways, thou King of saints.

10. God is Kind. - He is never mean-spirited, harsh, vengeful, or hateful. His holiness is always against sin, but His love and kindness is always available to the sinner. His kindness is great and everlasting. And it comes to us through His Son, Jesus Christ. God is Kind.

11. God is Merciful. - As the "Father of mercies", He reaches out to the suffering with compassion. While "grace" is God doing for us what we could never do for ourselves, "mercy" is that quality of God that causes Him to withhold from us the just punishment we deserve for our sins. God is Merciful.

12. God is Jealous. - He deserves and expects complete loyalty. He will not share His glory with any other; man or "god". To place anyone or anything on an equal or higher plane with Him is idolatry, and totally unacceptable. God is Jealous.

3. The Biblical DISTINCTIONS of God’s Nature

The Bible reveals to us God’s character by telling us what He is NOT. With our limited understanding, it is only natural that we may sometimes think of Him in human terms. But God definitely is not a man. Also, many different views of God have been presented by various religions. But the Bible makes it clear what God is NOT.

1. God is not a man. - Although that may seem like a very obvious statement, the Bible is clear to point out that although God possesses life and personality, He is substantially different from men.

• Numbers 23:19 - God is ______ __ ______, that he should lie; neither the son of man, that he should repent: hath he said, and shall he not do it? or hath he spoken, and shall he not make it good?
• Isaiah 55:8-9 - For my thoughts are _____ _______ ___________, neither are your ways my ways, saith the LORD. For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways, and my thoughts than your thoughts.

2. God is not an image. - Although historically, man has attempted to fashion God according to the imaginations of his own mind, and although he has used the finest materials and the most skilled artisans, all attempts at representing God are totally inadequate. He transcends and far exceeds the best man can even imagine.

• Exodus 20:4 - Thou shalt not make unto thee any _________ _________, or any likeness of any thing that is in heaven above, or that is in the earth beneath, or that is in the water under the earth:

3. God is not one of many. - Modern cults, like ancient pagans, worship a variety of gods. They have many lesser or greater gods. But the Bible declares that there is only one God.

• Isaiah 44:6 - Thus saith the LORD the King of Israel, and his redeemer the LORD of hosts; I am the first, and I am the last; and _________ ______ there is no God.
• 1 Corinthians 8:5-6 - For though there be that are called gods, whether in heaven or in earth, (as there be gods many, and lords many,) But to us there is but ______ _________, the Father, of whom are all things, and we in him; and one Lord Jesus Christ, by whom are all things, and we by him.

IV. The Biblical DESCRIPTIONS of God’s Nature

Although it must be remembered that God is Spirit and therefore has no physical body except for special occasions when He has chosen to manifest Himself to man in physical form-, the Bible often used various body parts and functions of the body to describe the way God works among men. There is a big word for this: it is ANTHROPOMORPHISM, which means the representation or depiction of God in human form. As you read the following verses and match the descriptions used of God, consider how each describes a unique function of God’s character.

1. ____1 Peter 3:12…….match……..a. The Face of the Lord
2. ____ Isaiah 41:2…………………..b. The Eyes of the Lord
3. ____ Exodus 15:8………………….c. The Ears of the Lord
4. ____ Exodus 33:11,20……………..d. The Mouth of the Lord
5. ____ Isaiah 59:1……………………e. The Nostrils of the Lord
6. ____ Isaiah 40:5……………………f. The Arm of the Lord
7. ____ Psalm 34:15…………………..g. The Hand of the Lord
8. ____ Isaiah 53:1……………………h. The Foot of the Lord

5. The Biblical DYNAMICS of God’s Nature

Another unique quality of God is that, as God, He can do anything He desires and there are some things that only He can do. These dynamic acts of God reveal many aspects of His nature and character. As you discover these qualities of God, you will no doubt be moved to worship Him more fervently and know Him more fully.

1. God Foreknows all things (Acts 15:18). God knows all things that will happen before they happen. What specific items of God’s foreknowledge do the following verses reveal?

• _______ Jeremiah 1:5…..match………..a. who will be justified
• _______ Acts 2:23……………………….b. who the elect are
• _______ Romans 8:28-29………….…….c. the direction our lives will take
• _______ 1 Peter 1:2……………………...d. the death and resurrection of Jesus

2. God Created all things (Genesis 1:1). Everything that exists is the direct result of the creative thoughts and actions of God. The three Person of our Triune God were each involved in Creation. As you read the following verses, identify which Person of the Trinity is active in Creation.

• _______ Genesis 1:1……….match……a. Jesus
• _______ Genesis 1:2……………………b. The Father
• _______ Colossians 1:15-17……………c. The Spirit

3. God Calls all men to salvation (Isaiah 1:18). Having created us because of His love for us, it seems reasonable that God would do whatever is necessary to bring us into a right relationship with Him. Those acts begin with His calling of all men to know Him. In the following verses identify who is calling and the essence of the invitation.

• _______ Isaiah 1:18………match………a. The Spirit
• _______ Matthew 11:28-30………………b. The Father
• _______ Revelation 22:17………………..c. Jesus

4. God Saves all who come to Him through faith in Christ (John 1:12). Salvation from the penalty and power of sin is the work of God, not man. Nothing we can do will effect the purging of the stain of sin on the human heart. Only through God’s mercy and grace, the sacrifice of Jesus and the regenerating power of the Holy Spirit can such salvation be accomplished. The word "save" is used in its various forms 560 times in the Bible. Every time it is used in relation to spiritual salvation from sin, it clearly testifies that God is the One who saves.
5. God Equips all Believers for service (Ephesians 4:11-12). Just as salvation is a gift to us of God’s grace, so also is the various personality and character traits that make us who we are. In addition to natural abilities that we are born with, the Bible teaches that God also gives each Christian special abilities that enable us to function with others in His Body, the Church. Although our gifts differ, they are equally important. This too is a work of God, not man (1 Corinthians 12:11).
6. God Sanctifies all Believers through faithfulness to His word (John 17:17). Whereas salvation is an instantaneous work of God the moment we believe, sanctification (cleansing) involves a growing, maturing, life-long process of God bringing us into line with His Word and will. But it too is God’s work, not ours. (1 Thessalonians 4:3; Galatians 3:2-3; Philippians 2:12-13)
7. God will Glorify all Believers (Romans 8:30). One other action that God will perform on our behalf is to make us "like Him". We will one day be conformed to the image of Christ (Romans 8:29). Our present bodies will be significantly changed, fashioned into a body like that of Christ after His resurrection (Philippians 3:20-21). Only God can do such a thing.

Now that you have studied this lesson and read many verses on the nature of God, rewrite your own definition incorporating the ideas you have learned.

To me God is ________________________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________________

I realize that what you have just studied probably seems beyond comprehension. And believe me, the more you learn, the more you will realize how much you don’t know, especially as it relates to God. But as you continue your Spiritual BootCamp, you will grow in your understanding of who God is, and how you can walk in closer fellowship with Him. For closer intimacy with Him, do the following exercises:

• Read the following: Psalms: 1, 8, 19, 22, 23, & 24
• Memorize the following verses: Psalm 48:14; 19:1

The most remarkable Book ever written is the Holy Bible. When you hold it in your hand it looks ordinary enough, but when you open its cover, and pore over its pages, you discover it is no ordinary Book. Depending on its binding, quality of printing, and additional study helps, a copy of the Bible can cost between a couple of dollars to upwards of $100.00. But its message is invaluable.

While it is one Book, the Bible is actually a compilation of 66 Books written by about 40 different men over a period of 1500 years. They wrote from the Sinai Desert, the cliffs of Arabia, the hill-sides and plains of Palestine, from river banks, sea shores, immoral Greek cities, a dreary dungeon in Rome and the lonely Isle of Patmos in the Aegean Sea. The writers of the Bible came from a wide variety of backgrounds. Kings, statesmen, herdsmen, farm workers, scribes, priests, prophets, tax collectors, fishermen, physicians, and learned men of old wrote down the very words given them by God.

No other Book in all history has been so compiled, and yet the Bible has an amazing sense of continuity and harmony, absence of contradiction, and singleness of purpose and message. The process by which they received the "Word of God" and recorded it for mankind is known as "inspiration". And every word of Scripture was divinely inspired. (2 Timothy 3:16)

As Christians, we believe the Bible. The Bible is our final authority in matters of faith and practice. Scriptural testimony determines our doctrinal beliefs and our basis of fellowship with others. To the extent that people believe and follow the Scripture, to that extent we are in fellowship with them. While human limitations hinder us from understanding everything recorded in the Bible, one of the joys of the Christian’s life is to discover truth revealed therein. This Chapter is designed to give you a feel for the Bible, and provide you with some practical ideas on how to get the most from your Bible Study time.

1. The AUTHOR of the Bible

The Bible has both human & Divine Authors. As noted above, the Bible was written by about ______ different men over a period of about ___________years. It was originally written in three different languages: Hebrew, Arabic, and Greek.

1. How would you describe the character of the men God used to write the Scripture?

• 2 Peter 1:21 - For the prophecy came not in old time by the will of man: but _______ ________ of God spake as they were moved by the Holy Ghost.

2. We often speak of the inspiration of the Scriptures, which means they were "God breathed". What portion of the Bible is inspired?

• 2 Timothy 3:16 - ______ scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness:

3. What important truth did Peter recognize about the Letters written by Paul?

• 2 Peter 3:15-16 - And account that the longsuffering of our Lord is salvation; even as our beloved brother Paul also ____________ to the ___________ __________ unto ________ hath written unto you; As also in all his epistles, speaking in them of these things; in which are some things hard to be understood, which they that are unlearned and unstable wrest, as they do also the other scriptures, unto their own destruction.

3. What did God’s symbolic touch of Jeremiah’s mouth imply?

• Jeremiah 1:9 - Then the LORD put forth his hand, and __________ _____ __________. And the LORD said unto me, Behold, I have put my words in thy mouth.

3. When God spoke by David, whose word was on David’s tongue?

• 2 Samuel 23:2 - The spirit of the ______ spake by me, and his word was in my tongue.

3. From where did Paul get his message?

• Galatians 1:12 - For I neither received it of man, neither was I taught it, but by the ________________ of ___________ Christ.

2. The ARRANGEMENT Of The Bible

Have you ever wondered who compiled the Bible, and how its many Books fit together? It is really quite interesting.

1. Canonicity: The decision concerning which Books would be included in the Bible was made by a group of scholars about 300 years after Jesus’ ascension back to Heaven. That decision is called canonicity. Though it was quite an involved and complicated process, simply stated, for a Book to have been included in the Old Testament, it had to have been written, edited or endorsed by a Prophet. For a Book to have been included in the New Testament, it had to have been written or endorsed by an Apostle.
2. Content: The Bible consists of _________ Books, divided into two major sections; The Old Testament with _________ Books, & The New Testament with _________Books. In Luke 24:44 JESUS divided the Old Testament into 3 parts.

• Luke 24:44 - And he said unto them, These are the words which I spake unto you, while I was yet with you, that all things must be fulfilled, which were written in the ________ of Moses, and in the ___________, and in the __________, concerning me.

We basically follow that same pattern of divisions in the current arrangement of the Bible. There are 17 Books that deal primarily with history {The Pentateuch, & Historical sections-. These are followed by 5 Books that are primarily poetic in nature. Next are 17 Books that are primarily prophetic {Major & Minor Prophets}. In the blanks below, write the Old Testament Books in order. Then begin memorizing them by sections.

Pentateuch {Five Books}

1. _______________________________ 4. __________________________________
2. _______________________________ 5. __________________________________
3. _______________________________

1. _______________________________ 7. _________________________________
2. _______________________________ 8. _________________________________
3. _______________________________ 9. _________________________________
4. _______________________________10. _________________________________
5. _______________________________11. _________________________________
6. _______________________________12. _________________________________

1. _______________________________ 4. _________________________________
2. _______________________________ 5. _________________________________
3. _______________________________

1. _______________________________ 4. _________________________________
2. _______________________________ 5. _________________________________
3. _______________________________

1. _______________________________ 7. _________________________________
2. _______________________________ 8. _________________________________
3. _______________________________ 9. _________________________________
4. _______________________________10. _________________________________
5. _______________________________11. _________________________________
6. _______________________________12. _________________________________

The New Testament Books can also be broadly divided into 3 major divisions: a historical section (Matthew-Acts); a doctrinal section (Romans-Jude); and a prophetical section (Revelation). But, probably a better way of dividing the New Testament Books would be according their General themes. In the blanks below, write the books of the New Testament in order. Then begin memorizing them by sections.

1. _______________________________ 4. _________________________________
2. _______________________________ 5. _________________________________
3. _______________________________

1. _______________________________ 6. _________________________________
2. _______________________________ 7. _________________________________
3. _______________________________ 8. _________________________________
4. _______________________________ 9. _________________________________
5. _______________________________

1. _______________________________ 3. _________________________________
2. _______________________________ 4. _________________________________

1. _______________________________ 5. _________________________________
2. _______________________________ 6. _________________________________
3. _______________________________ 7. _________________________________
4. _______________________________ 8. _________________________________

1. _______________________________

3. The APPLICATION Of The Bible

The fact that you have enrolled in this Spiritual BootCamp would imply that you already accept the Bible as the Word of God, and desire to make it a more integral part of your life. But the question remains, how can we know the Bible, and apply its message to our lives? The following is from a pamplet by Rick Warren on "How to have a quiet time."

There are 6 steps of "internalizing" (or learning) the Bible. These steps can be compared to the fingers and palm on your hand. If you hold your Bible with one or two fingers, it is easy to lose your grip. But as you use more fingers, your grasp of the Bible becomes stronger. The same is true spiritually. As you apply the following 6 methods of learning the Bible, your grasp of its message will become stronger.

1. Hear it. (Romans 10:17)The first step to getting a good grasp of the Word of God is to hear it. As you listen to others read and explain the Scripture your mind will be enlightened and your faith strengthened. You can hear the Word in Church services, Bible classes, on the radio or TV, on tape, etc. But be sure that those you listen to have a firm belief in the essentials of Biblical truth.

1. What kind of heart will best hear and use the Word?

• Luke 8:15 - But that on the good ground are they, which in an __________ and ________ heart, having heard the word, keep it, and bring forth fruit with patience.

2. Whom did Jesus say would be blessed?

• Luke 11:28 - But he said, Yea rather, blessed are they that _________ the word of God, and __________ it.

2. Read it. (Revelation 1:3)The second step to getting a good grasp on the Word of God is to read it for yourself. Taking time to read the Scripture is essential for your spiritual growth. Some practical helps for reading include: (1) Read in a quiet, well-lighted place; (2) Read daily! Just as you need daily food for your body, you need daily nourishment for your soul from the Word of God. (3) If possible have a dictionary and concordance to help with words you don't unterstand.

1. Explain Ezra’s approach to reading the Scripture.

• Nehemiah 8:8 - So they ________ in the book in the law of God ___________, and gave the __________, and caused them to ______________ the reading.

2. What are some reasons for reading the Bible daily?

• Deuteronomy 17:19 - And it shall be with him, and he shall read therein all the days of his life: that he may _________ to __________ the LORD his God, to _________ all the words of this law and these statutes, to ______ them:

2. What instruction did Paul give Timothy?

• 1 Timothy 4:13 - Till I come, __________ ____________ to ___________, to exhortation, to doctrine.

3. Study it. (Acts 17:11) In addition to hearing and reading, to get the most from your time with the Bible you will need to learn to study it. Study is not easy, but it is vital. As you study, remember this important key to understanding the Bible: "If the literal sense makes good sense, Seek no other sense, Lest it result in nonsense."In other words, accept the Bible for what it says. Accept it as being literally true. Of course, there are places where the Scripture uses figurative language, and those places will be clear as you study. But the vast majority of what you read is to be interpreted and understood literally. Don’t get caught up in the fad of trying to spiritualize everything. Accept the Bible at face value, unless there is a clear contextual reason for doing otherwise.

1. What should be our goal of studying the Bible?

• 2 Timothy 2:15 - Study to show thyself __________ unto God, a workman that needeth ______ to be _____________, _____________ dividing the word of truth.

2. When we "search the Scriptures", what will we find to be the theme?

• John 5:39 - Search the scriptures; for in them ye think ye have eternal life: and they are they which testify of __________.

4. Memorize it. (Psalm 119:9,11)The 4^th step to internalizing the Word is to memorize it. The obvious reason for memorizing selected verses from the Bible is so you can call them to mind when you need them most. Verses that you memorize will be a "shield" for you to use in your spiritual battles. They will give you strength you need in stopping Satan’s attacks. So I urge you to begin today to hide the Word of God in your heart.

1. What does God want you to do with His Word as expressed in the following verses?

• _______ Deuteronomy 11:18….match…...a. write them on your heart
• _______ Psalm 119:11……………………b. eat them
• _______ Proverbs 7:3…………………….c. bind them on your hand
• _______ Jeremiah 15:16…………………d. hide them in your heart

2. In Colossians 3:16, what does the phrase, "Let the Word of Christ dwell in you richly" mean?

5. Meditate on it. (Psalm 1:1-3) In addition to hearing, reading, studying, and memorizing the Scripture, you should develop a habit of meditating on it. What is meditation? Meditation is prayerful reflection with a view to understanding and application - giving prayerful thought to God’s Word and your life, with the goal of conforming your life to His will. Asking these two questions will help you in your meditation: (1) What is the meaning of this verse based on its context? (2) How should this verse affect my life?

1. What promises are made to the person who continually meditates on the Word of God?

• Joshua 1:8 - This book of the law shall not depart out of thy mouth; but thou shalt meditate therein day and night, that thou mayest observe to do according to all that is written therein: for then thou shalt make thy way ___________, and then thou shalt have good _______________.
• Psalm 1:2-3 - But his delight is in the law of the LORD; and in his law doth he meditate day and night. And he shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water, that _____________ forth his _________ in his season; his leaf also shall not wither; and whatsoever he doeth shall _____________.

2. What effect do you think meditating on the Word of God will have on your life?

• Luke 6:45 - A good man out of the _______ __________ of his heart bringeth forth that which is good; and an evil man out of the evil treasure of his heart bringeth forth that which is evil: for of the abundance of the heart his mouth speaketh.

6. Obey it - The Bible is not intended to be merely a Christian ornament to be displayed on the table or carried to Church. It is to be heard, read, studied, memorized and meditated on. It is also to be obeyed! Obedience to the teaching of Scripture is vital.

NOTE: While the previous six steps will be critical to your understanding of the Bible, what other steps can you take to help you get the most out of your Bible study time?

• _______ Psalm 119:18…match…a. Use your own reasoning to figure things out.
• _______ Psalm 119:73…………..b. Ask God to give you understanding.
• _______ Psalm 119:125…………c. Ask God to open your eyes to His truth.

What are some benefits you can expect from your Bible study time?

• _______ Psalm 119:165...match…a. Illumination
• _______ Psalm 119:9……….……b. Wisdom
• _______ Psalm 119:105…….……c. Peace
• _______ Psalm 119:98……….…..d. Cleansing

4. Your APPROACH To The Bible.

By now you are, hopefully, convinced that the Bible is God’s Word, and that it is important for you to spend time learning what messages God has for you as you study His Book. But you may be like many who wonder where to start and how to do it. Let me urge you to begin to develop a habit of having a Quiet Time with God on a daily basis. If you are ready to make such a commitment, the following information should help you develop that habit. (REMEMBER: It takes a minimum of 21 days of consistent practice to develop a habit.)

1. Start With A Proper Attitude - In many things, the why is more important than the what. It is possible to do the right thing with the wrong motive. (1 Samuel 16:7; 2 Chronicles 25:2) Ask God to help you develop these proper attitudes as you meet with Him in your daily Quiet Time:

1. Expectancy - Come before God with anticipation and expectancy.

• Psalms 63:1 - O God, thou art my God; early will I seek thee: my soul thirsteth for thee, my flesh longeth for thee in a dry and thirsty land, where no water is;

2. Reverence - Come before Him with quietness of heart and a humble spirit.

• Psalms 89:7 - God is greatly to be feared in the assembly of the saints, and to be had in reverence of all them that are about him.
• Habakkuk 2:20 - But the LORD is in his holy temple: let all the earth keep silence before him.

2. Alertness - Wake-up! Be rested and alert! After all, you are coming into the presence of your Creator & Redeemer. (Psalm 57:7-9; Proverbs 6:22; Luke 9:32)

• Psalms 17:15 - As for me, I will behold thy face in righteousness: I shall be satisfied, when I awake, with thy likeness.

2. Willingness to Obey - Meet with God having already chosen to do His will, not yours, no matter what it is.

• John 7:17 - If any man will do his will, he shall know of the doctrine, whether it be of God, or whether I speak of myself.
• John 14:15 - If ye love me, keep my commandments.
• 1 John 2:3 - And hereby we do know that we know him, if we keep his commandments.

2. Select a Specific Time

1. General thoughts:

• The best time is when you are at your best. Give God the best part of your day.
• Your best time may be different than someone else’s.

2. Early morning seems best for most people.
3. Biblical examples of spending time with God in the morning include:

• Jesus – Mark 1:35 - And in the ___________, rising up a _________ ________ ______ ______, he went out, and departed into a solitary place, and there prayed.

2. Biblical instruction includes:

• Psalms 90:14 - O satisfy us _________ with thy mercy; that we may rejoice and be glad all our days.
• Psalms 119:147 - I prevented the __________ of the __________, and cried: I hoped in thy word.
• Psalms 143:8 - Cause me to hear thy lovingkindness in the _____________; for in thee do I trust: cause me to know the way wherein I should walk; for I lift up my soul unto thee.
• Isaiah 26:9 - With my soul have I desired thee in the night; yea, with my spirit within me will I seek thee early: for when thy judgments are in the earth, the inhabitants of the world will learn righteousness.

2. How much time?

• If you are new to this, start with 7 to 10 minutes.
• Aim to gradually increase your time to at least 15 minutes a day; {That equals 1 hour 45 minutes out of a total of 168 hours every week.}
• Don’t watch the clock! Determine what you are going to do during your Quiet Time, then do it. Sometimes it will take a little longer than other times. But don’t watch your watch.
• Emphasize quality, not quantity! It is not how much time you spend, but how you spend the time that is important.
• Be flexible! You may at times sense God leading you to spend the entire time in prayer. At other times He may want you to stay with Him longer than usual. Be sensitive to the leadership of the Spirit.

3. Choose A Special Place - Biblical Examples of people with a special place for meeting God include Abraham (Genesis 19:27), and Jesus (Luke 22:39).

1. It should be a secluded place. A quiet place where you:

• can pray aloud without disturbing others;
• have good lighting for reading;
• are comfortable. Warning: Do not have your quiet time in bed. That’s too comfortable.)

2. It should be a special place. After all, you are going to meet the King of the Universe there. As time goes by, this place will begin to mean a lot to you.
3. It should be a sacred place. You are meeting the living God in this place, and getting to know Him intimately. It will become more and more sacred to you.

4. Follow A Simple Plan - "If you aim at nothing, you are sure to hit it." If you have no specific plan to follow, your quiet time will soon become meaningless. If your plan is too complicated, you will soon get frustrated and quit. The following three books will help keep this time meaningful and rich: (1) A Bible - That’s easy for you to read, with good clear print. (2) A notebook - To write down insights you receive from the Scripture, or questions you want to ask a more mature Christian, and for making a prayer list. (3) A hymnbook - Sometimes you will want to sing praises as you worship before the Lord. Make copies of Hymns or Choruses that you especially enjoy and intersperse private worship with your Bible Study and prayer (Colossians 3:16).

The following 6 steps will help you organize your quiet time for maximum benefits:

1. Relax - Take a moment to be still & quiet before God and put yourself in a reverent mood. (Psalm 46:10; Isaiah 30:15; 40:31)
2. Request - A brief prayer to ask God to prepare your heart to receive what He has for you in your time together. Also use this time to confess any sin that He brings to your mind. (Psalm 119:18; 139:23-24; 1 John 1:9)
3. Read - A previously selected passage of Scripture where you let God speak to you through His word. You should read the Bible:

• Slowly - Don’t get in a hurry; and don’t try to read too much.
• Repeatedly - Read the same passage over and over until you get it clearly in your mind. Read the same passage daily for 1 month and you will know it.
• Without stopping - Don’t stop in the middle of your reading and daydream or "chase rabbits".
• Aloud but quietly - Reading aloud improves your concentration.
• Systematically - Read through Books of the Bible in an orderly fashion.

4. Reflect & Remember - By memorizing selected portions of Scripture and meditating on what you read and learn, you will begin to see the Word of God do a powerful work in your life.
5. Record - Write down what God has shown you. This will help you to both remember what you are learning from the Word, and apply it in your daily life.
6. Request - Close your quiet time in the same way you started it, talking to God in prayer. Especially use this time to ask Him for wisdom, guidance, and strength to apply what you have learned from Scripture.

CAUTION: Don’t approach your quiet time in some legalistic fashion that would cause you to go on a guilt trip for missing a day. Be consistent, but be flexible. Allow for as few exceptions as possible until the pattern is firmly established in your life: about 6 weeks. Rely on God for the strength you need to keep it up.

CONCLUSION:

The Bible is the Word of God. It was given to us by God for our benefit. It has been arranged by godly scholars to present an orderly, systematic presentation of God’s redemptive plan for man. When we take the time and put forth the effort necessary, we can understand and apply the teaching of Scripture to our lives, and benefit greatly by doing so.

• Read Psalm 19 & 119 at least twice.
• Memorize: Psalm 119:11 & 2 Timothy 3:16

Personal Notes:

What a joy it is to be able to pull up a chair or dial a number and chat with a good friend, or a parent about some exciting news or painful experience in our life. How helpful it is to be able to "unload" your burdens on a sympathetic individual whom you know loves you and is genuinely concerned about your well being. Being able to talk to someone about your problems is often therapeutic, and we appreciate those who listen, and are able to help in our times of need.

The help that friends are able to offer at such times varies. Sometimes our friends can really do little more than listen. At other times they can offer advice based on their particular expertise or previous experiences. A really close friend may even be able to rebuke us when needed-, and get us started on the right path again. But none of this help comes until we feel close enough to them to be able to "share" with them our pain, burden, or need for help.

Sometimes we may feel that there is no one with whom we can be so open. But as Christians, we always have Someone with whom we can talk, pour out our heart, and share our burdens and joys. That Someone is not only able to help, because He is God; but He is also willing to help, because He is our Father and Friend.

The experience of talking with the Father that Christians enjoy is commonly called prayer. Effective prayer really isn’t intended to be a complicated matter. Prayer is simply talking to God and listening for His answer. No, you won’t hear him answer with your ear, but you will hear Him loud and clear with your heart; if you listen.

Prayer is one of the most prominent topics in Scripture. There are many examples and precepts in the Bible to guide us when we pray. This lesson will be an introduction to a life-long journey of intimate conversation with the Almighty.

1. The PRIVILEGE of Prayer

What a blessed privilege it is to be able to pray. Imagine, actually talking to God, and knowing that He is listening. He who created the universe is so interested in me that when I call on His name, He pays attention to my request and comes to my aid. I could never pick up the phone or just drop by and talk with the President of the United States, or the Governor of California. But I can talk with the Supreme Ruler of the universe. That is truly a great privilege.

How can I have such audacity as to claim that I can talk to God, and that He listens when I do? Simple, I find His gracious invitation to come into His presence throughout the Scriptures.

1. What invitation do you find from God in the following verses?

• Isaiah 1:18 - _____________ _________, and let us reason together, saith the LORD: though your sins be as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they be red like crimson, they shall be as wool.
• Matthew 11:28 - ___________ _________ ________, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.
• Hebrews 4:16 - Let us therefore ________________ _______________ unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need.

How could anyone refuse such a wonderful opportunity? Make your time with God a priority. Meet with Him often and stay as long as you need.

2. The PURPOSE of Prayer

Some may question, "Since God is ‘all-knowing’ and loving, why is it necessary to actually tell Him what we need or are faced with? Surely He knows, so why doesn’t He just come to our aid without our having to ask? And besides, can we hope to change God’s mind about a matter? Isn’t He just going to do what He wants anyway?"

So, why do we Pray? Is it to change God’s mind? Is it because He doesn’t know what is going on in our lives unless we tell Him? Is it so we can set forth our most persuasive arguments to get Him to do what we want? What is the purpose of prayer?

1. Glorify God - It is clear in the Bible that Christians are to live in such a way that our lives bring glory {honor & praise} to God. Obviously that would include our prayers. So the primary purpose of prayer is to give glory to God.

How does Jesus glorify God when we pray?

• John 14:13 - And whatsoever ye shall ______ in my name, that ______ ___ _____, that the Father may be glorified in the Son.

2. Obedience - Another purpose of prayer is obedience. Not only are we invited to pray, we are commanded to pray. If we don’t pray, we are disobedient. So we pray to be obedient.

What do the following verses teach you about the command to pray?

• _______ 1 Samuel 12:23…match…a. We should pray everywhere for all men.
• _______ 1 Thessalonians 5:17…….b. It is a sin not to pray for people.
• _______ Luke 22:40……………….c. We should pray without ceasing.
• _______ 1 Timothy 2:1,8………….d. We should pray when tempted.

3. Fellowship - A third reason for praying is to maintain our fellowship with God. Regularly communicating with God in prayer will keep us close to Him. While this is a joy for us, it is also something that our Father delights in as well. So there should be no reluctance on our part to approach our Father as often as we desire.

What is our Heavenly Father’s desire?

• Proverbs 15:8 - The sacrifice of the wicked is an abomination to the LORD: but the ____________ of the __________ is his delight.

3. The PERSON of Prayer

You may ask, "To whom should I pray?" While the answer may seem obvious to you, some people still get it confused. Some pray to angels, others to Saints, others to Mary, and still others to some pagan deity. But, as Christians we pray to the Father, in the Name of the Lord Jesus, in the power of the Holy Spirit.

1. From the following verses, identify the phrases that teach that our prayers are to be directed personally to God the Father.

• Nehemiah 4:9 - Nevertheless we made our __________ ________ ______ _______, and set a watch against them day and night, because of them.
• Matthew 6:9 - After this manner therefore pray ye: ________ ______________ which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name.
• Acts 12:5 - Peter therefore was kept in prison: but prayer was made without ceasing of the church_________ _________ for him.

2. What is the work of the Lord Jesus in our prayers?

• 1 Timothy 2:5 - For there is one God, and one ___________________ between God and men, the man Christ Jesus;
• Hebrews 7:25 - Wherefore he is able also to save them to the uttermost that come unto God by him, seeing he ever liveth to make ____________________ for them.

3. What role does the Holy Spirit have in prayer?

• Romans 8:26-27 - Likewise the Spirit also _____________ our infirmities: for we know not what we should pray for as we ought: but the Spirit itself maketh ____________________ for us with groanings which cannot be uttered. And he that searcheth the hearts knoweth what is the mind of the Spirit, because he maketh _____________________ for the saints according to the will of God.

4. The PEOPLE of Prayer

Who has the wonderful privilege of prayer? Who is it that can approach the throne of God with confidence that he will be given an audience? Can anyone pray, or just Christians? Or maybe just "spiritual" Christians have the privilege of prayer.

Would it surprise you to learn that anyone can pray? But while it is true, there are some qualifications to that statement. God desires fellowship and communication with everyone. But only those who approach Him in faith and in the Name of Jesus, have the assurance that He will hear and answer. In His sovereignty, He may choose to answer the prayer of a lost person, but He has promised to answer the prayers of Believers.

1. What should be the first prayer an unbeliever prays?

• Luke 18:13 - And the publican, standing afar off, would not lift up so much as his eyes unto heaven, but smote upon his breast, saying, ________________________________________ to me a sinner.

Other than a prayer of repentance for the forgiveness of sin, a person without a Father/Child relationship with God has no assurance that his prayers will be effective. Obviously, from a Biblical perspective, prayer is intended to be a spiritual exercise for the people of God.

2. What do the following verses reveal about the type of people who can pray with power?

• _______ Hebrews 11:6….match….a. People who forgive can pray with power.
• _______ Psalm 66:18………….…..b. People who believe can pray with power.
• _______ Mark 11:25………………c. People who repent can pray with power.
• _______ Matthew 21:22

5. The POSTURE of Prayer

Have you ever considered what posture you should be in, or gestures you should make when you pray? Some people pray on their knees, others standing, others with hands folded or raised, or their eyes closed, and still others after making the sign of the cross. Are any of these things necessary? Or even beneficial? What does the Scripture say?

When Jesus taught His disciples to pray (Matthew 6), He made no mention of the posture of prayer. The reason? Posture is not what is important. God is concerned with the attitude of the heart, not the posture of the body, when we approach Him. Having said that, let me add that bodily posture does often reflect the attitude of the heart. In the following verse, what examples of posture in prayer do you find? (Also, consider what attitudes may be expressed by each.)

• _______ Genesis 24:12-1….match…..a. with raised hands
• _______ Exodus 34:8…………………b. with face between the knees
• _______ Judges 20:26………………...c. kneeling down
• _______ 1 Kings 18:42……………….d. standing
• _______ Daniel 6:10…………………e. looking up to heaven
• _______ Matthew 26:39………………f. with bowed head
• _______ Mark 1:40……………………g. kneeling toward Jerusalem
• _______ Luke 18:13…………………..h. sitting
• _______ John 17:1……………………i. standing with eyes lifted toward Heaven
• _______ 1 Timothy 2:8……………….j. falling on your face

6. The PROMISE of Prayer

God has promised that if we will pray as we ought, He will hear and answer our prayers.

1. What promises do you discover in the following verses?

• 2 Chronicles 7:14 - If my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I _______________ from heaven, and will ______________ their sin, and will ______________ their land.
• Jeremiah 33:3 - Call unto me, and ____ _________ ____________ thee, and show thee great and mighty things, which thou knowest not.
• Matthew 7:7-8 - ________, and it shall be given you; ________, and ye shall find; ___________, and it shall be opened unto you: For every one that asketh _______________; and he that seeketh _____________; and to him that knocketh it shall be ________________.

{For further encouragement, study the following verses: John 15:7; Philippians 4:19; James 1:5; James 5:16}

So the promise is clear: GOD ANSWERS PRAYER! Sometimes God answers "YES". Sometimes He answers "WAIT". Sometimes He answers "NO". But, He always answers.

2. In what way may we be sure of a "yes" answer to our prayers?

• 1 John 5:14-15 - And this is the confidence that we have in him, that, if we ask any thing according to his will, _______ ________ ______: And if we know that he hear us, whatsoever we ask, we know that we have the Petitions that we desired of him.

3. What should your attitude be when you receive a "wait" answer from God?

• Psalm 27:13-14 - I had fainted, unless I had believed to see the goodness of the LORD in the land of the living. Wait on the LORD: _______ _________ ________________ ________________, and he shall strengthen thine heart: wait, I say, on the LORD.

4. hat are some reasons you might receive a "no" answer to your prayer?

• 2 Corinthians 12:7 - And lest ____ ___________ _____ _________ above measure through the abundance of the revelations, there was given to me a thorn in the flesh, the messenger of Satan to buffet me, lest I should be exalted above measure.
• James 1:6-8 - But let him ask in faith,______________ ________________. For he that wavereth is like a wave of the sea driven with the wind and tossed. For let not that man think that he shall receive any thing of the Lord. A _____________ ___________ man is unstable in all his ways.
• James 4:3 - Ye ask, and receive not, because ye ask _______________, that ye may consume it upon your lusts.

7. The PROCEDURE of Prayer

Are there any guidelines to follow when we approach God in prayer? YES! Effective prayer should include at least four elements:

1. Adoration - Always begin your prayer time by praising God for who He is, what He has done, is doing and will do. (1 Chronicles 29:11)
2. Confession - Openly and honestly admit your failure and sin to God, and ask Him to cleanse you and restore your fellowship with Him. (1 John 1:9)
3. Thanksgiving - Don’t forget to thank God for His answers to your prayers, and His provisions for daily needs. (Psalm 100:4)
4. Supplication - Ask God boldly for the things you need for life’s activities and for effective spiritual service. (Matthew 7:7-8)

Memorize the following short poem and remind yourself often of the wonderful privilege of prayer.

• Read the following prayers of Jesus & Paul.
• Matthew.6:9-13;John 17;Ephesians 1:15-23;Ephesians 3:14-21;Colossians 1:3-15
• Memorize the following verses.
• 1 John 5:14-15;James 5:16

Someone once observed, "It is hard to live a truly Christian life". To which a wiser man responded, "It is not hard, it is impossible! by yourself." It doesn’t take long after we come to Christ for us to learn that though our souls have been saved, our bodies, and lives have a lot of work yet to be done. We are made new and whole the moment of conversion; but it takes time for our daily life to catch up with the change that has taken place on the inside.

How do we get to the point where our daily experience equals what we know has happened to us spiritually? That is what this series and this study in particular, is all about. It will only happen as a result of the "filling of the Holy Spirit" in our lives. In this study you will discover what it means to be filled with the Holy Spirit, how it can happen to you and what you can expect when it does. Our approach will be to ask some questions pertinent to this topic and look to the Scripture for our answers. You may be surprised at what you find.

1. DEITY - How do we know that the Holy Spirit is GOD?

In Chapter three of our BootCamp series, we learned that the Bible reveals God as being One, yet at the same time as Triune. We have already learned that the Trinity is one of the great mysteries of Scripture. Having studied in detail the Deity of Christ (Chapter 1), and the Attributes of God (Chapter 3), we now turn our attention to the Person of the Holy Spirit. In this study we will discover Who He is, and what He is doing in our lives as believers.

The first thing to establish is that the Holy Spirit is God! This truth is proven in Scripture on three fronts:

1. His Divine Names. Scripture clearly uses names of Deity in connection with the Holy Spirit. Here are just a few:

• Genesis 1:2 - And the earth was without form, and void; and darkness was upon the face of the deep. And the Spirit of _______ moved upon the face of the waters.
• Isaiah 40:13 - Who hath directed the Spirit of the _________, or being his counsellor hath taught him?
• Luke 11:13 - If ye then, being evil, know how to give good gifts unto your children: how much more shall your heavenly Father give the _____ Spirit to them that ask him?
• Romans 8:14 - For as many as are led by the Spirit of _____, they are the sons of God.
• Galatians 4:6 - And because ye are sons, God hath sent forth the Spirit of _____ ______ into your hearts, crying, Abba, Father.

2. His Divine Nature. The Scripture describes the Holy Spirit as possessing all the qualities of God as do the Father and the Son. Notice the following:

1. Omniscience

• 1 Corinthians 2:10-11 - But God hath revealed them unto us by his Spirit: for the Spirit _________________ all things, yea, the deep things of God. For what man knoweth the things of a man, save the spirit of man which is in him? even so the things of God knoweth no man, but the Spirit of God.

1. Omnipotence

• Genesis 1:2 - And the earth was without form, and void; and darkness was upon the face of the deep. And the _________ of God moved upon the face of the waters.

1. Omnipresence

• Psalm 139:7 - Whither shall I go from thy _____________? or whither shall I flee from thy presence?

1. Eternity

• Hebrews 9:14 - How much more shall the blood of Christ, who through the ___________________ Spirit offered himself without spot to God, purge your conscience from dead works to serve the living God?

1. Truth

• 1 John 5:6 - This is he that came by water and blood, even Jesus Christ; not by water only, but by water and blood. And it is the Spirit that beareth witness, because the Spirit is ____________.

1. Love

• Galatians 5:22 - But the fruit of the Spirit is ___________, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith,

1. Holiness

• Luke 11:13 - If ye then, being evil, know how to give good gifts unto your children: how much more shall your heavenly Father give the ___________ Spirit to them that ask him?

1. Life

• Romans 8:2 - For the law of the Spirit of ____________ in Christ Jesus hath made me free from the law of sin and death.

1. Wisdom

• Isaiah 40:13 - Who hath _____________ the Spirit of the LORD, or being his counsellor hath ____________ him?

3. His Divine Associations. The Deity of the Holy Spirit is also exhibited in the associations which He has with the Father and the Son.

• Matthew 28:19 - Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the _______________ of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost:
• 2 Corinthians 13:14 - The ___________ of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the _________ of God, and the _________________ of the Holy Ghost, be with you all. Amen.

2. DEEDS - In what way is the Holy Spirit at work among men?

You may question, "What exactly is the work of the Holy Spirit? Is he personally involved in my life and those around me?" The activities of the Spirit of God as revealed in Scripture are presented in three realms:

1. His work in creation. The Bible identifies the Spirit of God as actively involved in creation in a variety of ways. Consider these verses:

• Genesis 1:2 - And the earth was without form, and void; and darkness was upon the face of the deep. And the Spirit of God _____________ upon the face of the waters.
• Job 26:13 - By his spirit he hath _______________ the heavens; his hand hath formed the crooked serpent.
• Job 33:4 - The spirit of God hath mad __________, and the breath of the Almighty hath given me life.

2. His work in conviction & conversion. The Spirit is actively involved in bringing men to saving faith in Christ. In fact, without the Spirit no one would ever be saved.

• John 3:5 - Jesus answered, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be ________ of water and of the __________, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God.
• John 16:8-11 - And when he is come, he will ____________ the world of ________, and of ________________, and of ______________: Of sin, because they believe not on me; Of righteousness, because I go to my Father, and ye see me no more; Of judgment, because the prince of this world is judged.
• Revelation 22:17 - And the ___________ and the bride say, _____________. And let him that heareth say, Come. And let him that is athirst come. And whosoever will, let him take the water of life freely.

3. His work in Christians. The most significant Biblical revelations concerning the work of the Holy Spirit has to do with His working in the lives of Believers. In the section that follows, match the verse with the reasons why the Holy Spirit came.

• _______ John 3:5………..match……..a. to empower us for witnessing
• _______ John 16:13…………………..b. to effect the new birth in us
• _______ John 16:14…………………..c. to guide us into all truth
• _______ Acts 1:8………………………d. to glorify Christ
• _______ Ephesians 1:13………………e. to give us love
• _______ Romans 5:5…………………..f. to baptize us
• _______ Romans 8:26…………………g. to seal us
• _______ 1 Corinthians 12:13…………h. to help us pray

What do the following verses reveal to you about the Holy Spirit’s special relationship with believers?

• Galatians 4:6 - And because ye are sons, God hath ________ forth the _______ of his Son _________ your ____________, crying, Abba, Father.
• Romans 8:9 - But ye are not in the flesh, but in the Spirit, if so be that the Spirit of God dwell in you. Now if any man _________ ______ the Spirit of Christ, he is none of his.
• John 14:16 - And I will pray the Father, and he shall __________ ________ another Comforter, that he may abide with you for ever; Even the Spirit of truth; whom the world cannot receive, because it seeth him not, neither knoweth him: but ye know him; for he ____________ with you, and shall be ______ __________.

3. DYNAMICS: What has the Holy Spirit come to do in your life?

1. The concept: Are you "filled with the Spirit"? You are probably familiar with the term, but do you understand what it means? The Biblical concept of being "filled" means "to be controlled, directed, or empowered" by whatever is filling the person. From the following verses, what are some things that may "fill" (control) a person?

• _______ Luke 2:40…..match….a. filled with fear
• _______ Luke 4:28…………….b. filled with wrath
• _______ Luke 5:26…………….c. filled with joy
• _______ Acts 13:52……………d. filled with wisdom

2. The command: As I am sure you understand, there are many things that can fill our lives. But God wants to be in control of the things we do, and the way we feel. What positive command does Paul in the following verse?

3. The consequence: Since all believers are indwelt with the Holy Spirit (John 14:16-17), and this indwelling Spirit is the Spirit of Christ (Galatians 4:6), what type of life does the Holy Spirit produce within us when we are under His control?

• Galatians 2:20 - I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but __________ _______________ in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the ___________ of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me.

4. DIFFICULTIES: What hindrances are there to a Spirit-Filled life?

I think it is obvious to all that not everyone is on the same "spiritual wave length". Some seem more "in tune" than others. The Bible indicates that people the world over operate on one of three levels or planes of "spiritual life". How does the Apostle Paul identify these "spiritual planes" in the following verses?

• 1 Corinthians 2:14 - The___________________________ man.
• 1 Corinthians 3:1-4 - The _________________________ man.
• 1 Corinthians 2:15 - The___________________________ man.

Of these three levels, one refers to an unbeliever (The Natural Man), while the other two refer to Believers. The following diagrams {adapted from Campus Crusade’s 4 Spiritual Laws booklet} illustrate the three levels of "spiritual life" described by Paul.

"The Natural Man" is one of whom Christ {represented by the cross} is not a part of his life. "Self" {s}sits on the throne of his life and controls all that he does. He acts from a selfish perspective, even when doing something helpful for others. His life is out of balance, and often out of control.

"The Carnal Man" refers to a Believer of whom Christ is a part of his life, but not yet in complete control. He has been "born again", but has not yet matured in his walk with Christ. "Self" is still on the throne of his heart. And his life, though better than before, is not yet in balance.

"The Spiritual Man" has not only been "born again", but he has also surrendered control of his life to the Lord Jesus. "Self" is still present, but no longer in control. He is not "perfect", but he is consistently growing to maturity in his Christian life. He is experiencing "life to the full" (John 10:10).

The fact that you are studying this course and have made it this far, is a good indication that you have a real heart-felt desire to be a "spiritual" or "Spirit-filled Christian". But chances are you have found it difficult to maintain what you may consider an acceptable level of commitment, and have even at times seemed to experience set-backs to your spiritual growth. That is not an unusual situation. How does Paul describe our struggle for spiritual maturity?

• Galatians 5:16 - This I say then, Walk in the Spirit, and ye shall not fulfil the lust of the flesh. For the flesh lusteth against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh: and these are ______________ the one to the other: so that ye cannot do the things that ye would.

When the "sinful nature" (flesh) is in control of a believers life, what are some of the things it can produce?

• Galatians 5:19 - Now the works of the flesh are manifest, which are these; _________, fornication, uncleanness, lasciviousness, ___________, witchcraft, hatred, variance, emulations, wrath, __________, seditions, heresies, Envyings, murders, ___________, revellings, and such like: of the which I tell you before, as I have also told you in time past, that they which do such things shall not inherit the kingdom of God.

What is the "key" to victory over the flesh?

• Galatians 5:16 - This I say then, ________ in the Spirit, and ye shall not fulfil the lust of the flesh.

5. DIRECTION: What guidelines are there to being "filled with the Spirit".

If you would live a life under the control of God’s Spirit, follow these steps:

1. Crave: You must first have a sincere desire for the Holy Spirit to be in control of your life.

• Matthew 5:6 - Blessed are they which do ___________ and ____________ after righteousness: for they shall be filled.
• John 7:37-38 - In the last day, that great day of the feast, Jesus stood and cried, saying, If any man ___________, let him come unto me, and drink. He that believeth on me, as the scripture hath said, out of his belly shall flow rivers of living water.

2. Confess: You should confess all known sin, ask God to reveal anything hidden in your heart that He would have you deal with.

• 1 John 1:9 - If we ___________ our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.
• Psalm 139:23-24 - ___________ me, O God, and know my heart: ______ me, and know my thoughts: And see if there be any wicked way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting.

1. Cleanse: By faith thank God that He has forgiven all your sins because Christ died for you.

• Colossians 2:13 - And you, being dead in your sins and the uncircumcision of your flesh, hath he quickened together with him, having _____________ you all trespasses; _______________ _________ the handwriting of ordinances that was against us, which was contrary to us, and took it out of the way, nailing it to his cross;

1. Consecrate: Present every area of your life to God.

• Romans 12:1 - I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a _____________ _____________, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service.

1. Claim: By faith claim the fullness of the Holy Spirit according to His command and His promise.

• 1 John 5:14-15 - And this is the confidence that we have in him, that, if we _____ any thing according to ______ _______, he heareth us: And if we know that he hear us, whatsoever we ask, we know that we have the Petitions that we desired of him.

6. DURATION: How long will the filling of the Spirit last?

When honestly analyzing your Spiritual experience, you have to admit there are times when you are living under the control of the Spirit, and other times when you definitely are not. Does this puzzle you? If so, the confusion may be cleared up when you understand the differences between the indwelling and the filling of the Holy Spirit. When the Holy Spirit came into your life at the moment of Salvation, how long did Jesus indicate He would be there?

• John 14:16 - And I will pray the Father, and he shall give you another Comforter, that he may abide with you________ _____________; Even the Spirit of truth; whom the world cannot receive, because it seeth him not, neither knoweth him: but ye know him; for he dwelleth with you, and shall be in you.

The indwelling of the Spirit is a permanent possession of the Child of God. He lives with us forever. But the filling of the Spirit is different. We are "filled with the Spirit" over and over again, as day-by-day and moment-by-moment we surrender our will to Him. We may be "filled with the Spirit" one day, and not filled the next. It is an on-going, oft repeated process for the child of God. Notice what happened to the early Christians over and over again as indicated in the following verses.

• Acts 2:4 - And they were all _________ with the Holy Ghost, and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance.
• Acts 4:8 - Then Peter, _________ with the Holy Ghost, said unto them, Ye rulers of the people, and elders of Israel,
• Acts 9:17 - And Ananias went his way, and entered into the house; and putting his hands on him said, Brother Saul, the Lord, even Jesus, that appeared unto thee in the way as thou camest, hath sent me, that thou mightest receive thy sight, and be ___________ with the Holy Ghost.
• Acts 13:9 - Then Saul, who also is called Paul,- _________ with the Holy Ghost, set his eyes on him,

So, you see, the early Christians were "filled with the Spirit" over and over again. Why? Obviously, they leaked! That is, they needed to be constantly renewed with the Spirit’s power just as we do today. Yes, He lived within them as a permanent possession, but they had to be filled (controlled) on a daily basis. Please understand, today’s filling of the Spirit in your life is not sufficient for tomorrow. You must surrender to Him on a daily basis.

The Holy Spirit of God came to live within you the moment you received Jesus Christ as your personal Saviour. He is therefore available to you for wisdom, comfort, strength, and guidance. Avail yourself of His ministry and you will be a useful servant of God. Without His help on a daily basis, your Christian life will never reach its full potential.

• Read:
• John 14 & 16; Acts 1, 2, 3, & 4; Romans 8
• Memorize:
• Galatians 4:6; Ephesians 5:18

A Sunday School teacher once asked her class of pre-school students if any of them knew what "fellowship" meant. One little boy replied, "I think it is two fellows in the same ship". While a bit humorous, the little boy "hit the nail on the head". Not only is our fellowship with God important, but a vital part of every Christian’s life is his/her fellowship with other believers. We need the love, encouragement, support, strength, and prayers of others. We will only get that kind of help from those "in the same boat" that we are in. When used in our Christian context, the term "fellowship" refers to a mutual sharing of a common relationship with Jesus Christ. It has been defined as "expressions of genuine Christianity freely shared among members of God’s family".

1. The REALM of our Fellowship:

As Believers, we have both a relationship and fellowship with God. While the two words are similar, you will discover as you study the following verses that there is a distinction.

1. What relationship do we as Believers have with God?

• Galatians 3:26 - For ye are all the ______________ of God by faith in Christ Jesus.
• Galatians 4:6 - And because ye are ________, God hath sent forth the Spirit of his Son into your hearts, crying, Abba, Father.

The relationship believers enjoy with The Almighty is a familial relationship: Father/Child. This relationship is established the moment we are "born again" into God’s family. That relationship is an established, permanent relationship.

In addition to the relationship we have with the Father, we also can enjoy fellowship with Him. Fellowship is different from relationship. A son can act in such a way that his fellowship with his father is broken; but his relationship is never broken. O, but how much better it is when father and son are in complete harmony and the fellowship is strong.

2. What areas of fellowship do believers enjoy?

• 1 John 1:3 - That which we have seen and heard declare we unto you, that ye also may have fellowship with us: and truly our fellowship is with the _________, and with his _______ Jesus Christ.

3. What is the basis of maintaining our fellowship with God?

• 1 John 1:7 - But if we _______ in the ________, as he is in the light, we have fellowship one with another, and the blood of Jesus Christ his Son cleanseth us from all sin.

4. How would you describe the primary difference between our relationship with God and our fellowship with Him?____________________________________________________

________________________________________________________________________

5. Look again at 1 John 1:3. In addition to our fellowship with God, what other areas of fellowship does John wish to promote with his teaching?

• 1 John 1:3 - That which we have seen and heard declare we unto you, that ye also may have fellowship with _______: …

6. How does Acts 2:1 describe fellowship among believers?

• Acts 2:1 - And when the day of Pentecost was fully come, they were all with ________ ____________ in one _________.

7. How did new believers identify themselves with the Church in Acts 2:42?

• Acts 2:42 - And they __________ stedfastly in the apostles' _____________ and _____________, and in breaking of bread, and in _______________.

8. What were some ways that Church fellowship was manifested in Acts 2:42-47?

• Acts 2:42-47 - And they continued stedfastly in the apostles' doctrine and fellowship, and in breaking of bread, and in prayers. And fear came upon every soul: and many wonders and signs were done by the apostles. And all that believed were together, and had all things ____________; And sold their possessions and goods, and parted them to all men, as every man had need. And they, continuing ___________ with one __________ in the temple, and breaking bread from__________ to house, did eat their meat with gladness and ___________ of heart, ____________ God, and having favour with all the people. And the Lord added to the church daily such as should be saved.

Sometimes, as a Church grows to a large number, it is helpful to promote fellowship among smaller groups with common interests. These may be women in the same age group, people with similar ethnic backgrounds, youth, men, or people in similar professions. These "cell groups" enable people with similar interests and backgrounds to share life’s difficulties and problems, and to encourage others faced with the same things.

9. What are some benefits of smaller group Fellowship?

• Galatians 6:1-2 - Brethren, if a man be overtaken in a fault, ye which are spiritual, ____________ such an one in the spirit of meekness; considering thyself, lest thou also be tempted. _______ ye one another's ____________, and so fulfil the law of Christ.

10. What problems need to be avoided as "cell groups" multiply within the Church?

• 1 Corinthians 1:11-12 - For it hath been declared unto me of you, my brethren, by them which are of the house of Chloe, that there are ______________ among you. Now this I say, that every one of you saith, I am of Paul; and I of Apollos; and I of Cephas; and I of Christ.
• 1 Corinthians 3:1-4 - And I, brethren, could not speak unto you as unto spiritual, but as unto carnal, even as unto babes in Christ. I have fed you with milk, and not with meat: for hitherto ye were not able to bear it, neither yet now are ye able. For ye are yet carnal: for whereas there is among you __________, and __________, and _______________, are ye not carnal, and walk as men? For while one saith, I am of Paul; and another, I am of Apollos; are ye not carnal?

Although there were no "denominations" in Bible times, most Churches today do fellowship denominationally. Jesus prayed that all believers would be brought to complete unity (John 17:20-25). Yet, while it is true that all Believers have a common bond of fellowship "in Christ", there are a variety of doctrinal interpretations and practices among Christians. Churches fellowship denominationally to promote commonly held doctrines, and to cooperate in missionary outreach, benevolence ministries, and Christian education. Examples of cooperation among New Testament Churches include: settling doctrinal issues (Acts 15:11-35); supporting Christians gripped in poverty (2 Corinthians 8:1-5); and sending missionaries (Philippians 4:9-17).

2. The REQUIREMENTS of our Fellowship:

The Apostle Paul wrote two important messages regarding fellowship: Philippians 2 & Ephesians 4.

1. What would make Paul’s joy complete?

• Philippians 2:2 - Fulfil ye my joy, that ye _____ _______________, having the same love, being of one __________, of one _________.

2. What pitfalls did he warn against?

• Philippians 2:3 - Let nothing be done through _________ or _____________;

3. How can strife and conceit be avoided?

• Philippians 2:3 - Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mind let each _________________________________________________________.

14. How can we live blameless and harmless without need of rebuke?

• Philippians 2:14 - Do all things without ____________ and ____________: That ye may be blameless and harmless, the sons of God, without rebuke, in the midst of a crooked and perverse nation, among whom ye shine as lights in the world;

15. How can we "walk worthy" of our Christian calling?

• Ephesians 4:1 - I therefore, the prisoner of the Lord, beseech you that ye walk worthy of the vocation wherewith ye are called, With all ___________ and ______________, with longsuffering, _____________ one another in love; Endeavouring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace.

16. What 7 areas of unity does he expect within the Church? (Ephesians 4:4-6)

• Ephesians 4:4 - There is one ________, and one _________, even as ye are called in one ________ of your calling; One _________, one _________, one _________, One _________ and Father of all, who is above all, and through all, and in you all.

7. What will be the result of the Church being edified {built up} by its gifted leaders?

• Ephesians 4:13-16 - Till we all come in the ___________ of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a ______________ man, unto the measure of the stature of the fulness of Christ: That we henceforth be _____ _______ ___________, tossed to and fro, and _________ about with every _________ of ___________, by the sleight of men, and cunning craftiness, whereby they lie in wait to deceive; But speaking the truth in love, may___________ ______ into him in all things, which is the head, even Christ: From whom the whole body fitly joined together and compacted by that which every joint supplieth, according to the effectual working in the measure of every part, maketh increase of the body unto the edifying of itself in love.

3. The RESPONSIBILITIES of Fellowship

In the New Testament, the term "one another" is used about 60 times, while Paul uses the term 25 times in his Epistles.. In many of those cases, it is a descriptive term used to describe the relationship which exists between Christians. In the following verses you will discover a variety of ways in which you can express fellowship with other Believers.

• Romans 12:10 - Be ___________ _______________ one to another with brotherly love; in honour preferring one another;
• Romans 13:8 - Owe no man any thing, but to _________ one another: for he that loveth another hath fulfilled the law.
• Romans 15:7 - Wherefore ___________ ye one another, as Christ also received us to the glory of God.
• Romans 15:14 - And I myself also am persuaded of you, my brethren, that ye also are full of goodness, filled with all knowledge, able also to _______________ one another.

{These are just a few of the many "one anothers" in the New Testament. For an enriching study, consider the following verses: 2 Corinthians 13:12; Galatians 5:13; Ephesians 4:2; Ephesians 4:32; Colossians 3:16; 1 Thessalonians 4:9; 1 Thessalonians 4:18; 1 Thessalonians 5:11; Hebrews 3:13; Hebrews 10:24; Hebrews 10:25}

4. The REGULARITY of Fellowship

We read earlier in Ephesians 4:3 that Paul urged us to endeavor to keep unity within the body of Christ. If we must "endeavor" to do this, it is implied that we can loose the closeness of our fellowship. Because we are different individuals, we sometimes rub each other the wrong way. We may feel slighted, or feel that others are not truly concerned about us. We may get our feelings hurt, or we may offend someone. The verses in Ephesians 4 clearly point out that the basis of our fellowship with each other, is our fellowship with God.

1. With what regularity did the Believers in Acts 2:46 fellowship with each other?

• Acts 2:46 - And they, continuing _________ with one accord in the temple, and breaking bread from house to house, did eat their meat with gladness and singleness of heart,

19. What does Hebrews 10:25 teach about the regularity of our fellowship?

• Hebrews 10:25 - _____ ____________ the _____________ of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another: and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching.

You could easily take a single pencil and break it with your two hands. But bind 10 or 20 of them together and try to break them. A much harder job, wouldn’t you say? So it is with God’s people. Satan can easily manipulate and harm us when we attempt to stand against him alone. But when we are standing with others for what is right, we experience strength and victory. Enjoy the fellowship you have with God and His people.

• Read:
• Romans 12;Ephesians 4;Philippians 2
• Memorize:
• 1 John 1:3;Hebrews 10:25

Suppose you, or someone very close to you, had a dreaded disease such as cancer, and someone whom you knew personally {a family member, close friend, fellow worker or student, or a neighbor} discovered a sure cure for that disease. How would you feel if that person just kept that cure to themselves? Suppose your disease progressed to the point that it was costing you everything you had, and was about to take your very life, and yet your "friend" told you nothing of his discovery. While a sad and unlikely scenario, a far worse scenario happens everyday over and again throughout the world. People die in their sin, without any hope for eternity, and we have a cure, a remedy, a solution to their malady. Why don’t we tell them?

The experience of telling others about the Good News of salvation through Christ is an important part of the Believer’s life. We refer to this experience by various terms, such as: witnessing, sharing the Gospel, evangelism, and soul-winning.

Chances are you have already felt the desire in your heart to share the Gospel with a friend or relative. You may have had some success in doing so, or you may have felt frustrated at not knowing how to approach the person, or what to say when you get started.

This Chapter aims to challenge you to look for opportunities to tell others about Christ, and to help you be more effective when you witness.

Dr. Bill Bright, founder of Campus Crusade For Christ, reminds us that "success in witnessing is simply sharing the good news about Christ, in the power of the Holy Spirit, and leaving the result to God". You see, the power and responsibility to save is not ours, it is God’s. Our responsibility is to share the Gospel in a manner that gives people an opportunity to respond to Christ.

As in all areas of our Christian life, Jesus is our supreme example. He began His ministry in Galilee by calling Peter, Andrew, James and John to be "fishers of men". Jesus’ ability to use ordinary experiences in the lives of people to get across spiritual truth, was the hallmark of His teaching skills.

The concept of fishing for men struck a responsive cord in the lives of those fishermen from Galilee. It should for us as well. We will use the fishermen concept as we approach this study of Biblical Evangelism.

1. The MEANING of Fishing For Men

When we speak about evangelism, or fishing for men, just what do we mean? Evangelism has been defined as, "the sharing of the good news of Jesus Christ compassionately, in the power of the Holy Spirit, with lost men, that they may receive Him as their Savior and Lord and in turn share Him with others." Using this definition identify:

1. The subject of Evangelism : _________________________________________________
2. The spirit of Evangelism :___________________________________________________
3. The power of Evangelism :__________________________________________________
4. The recipients of Evangelism :_______________________________________________
5. The purpose of Evangelism : ________________________________________________

2. The MANDATE to Fish For Men.

For a committed Christian, witnessing is not an option. It is an obligation, and an opportunity. We are commanded and expected to share our faith with others. Our Evangelism mandate involves the following:

1. Authority - By what authority do we attempt to win the world to Christ?

• Matthew 28:18 - And ___________ came and spake unto them, saying, All power is given unto ________ in heaven and in earth.

2. Scope - What is the scope of our Evangelism mandate?

• Matthew 28:19 - Go ye therefore, and teach _____ _________, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost:
• Acts 1:8 - But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judaea, and in Samaria, and unto the ___________ _______ of the ____________.

3. Purpose - What is the three-fold purpose of our Evangelism mandate?

• Matthew 28:19-20 - Go ye therefore, and ________ all nations,_____________ them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: _____________ them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world. Amen.

4. Power - Realizing that we do not possess the power or ability on our own to accomplish this great task, on what power are we to rely to complete the task?

• Luke 24:49 - And, behold, I send the promise of my ___________ upon you: but tarry ye in the city of Jerusalem, until ye be endued with _________ from on _________.
• Acts 1:8 - But ye shall receive power, after that the __________ ________ is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judaea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth.

5. Duration - For how long are we to engage in this Evangelistic project?

• Matthew 28:20 - Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the _______ of the ___________. Amen.

6. Message - What message are we to take to the world?

• Mark 16:15 - And he said unto them, Go ye into all the world, and preach the ______________l to every creature.
• Luke 24:46-48 - And said unto them, Thus it is written, and thus it behoved Christ to ________, and to ______ from the _________ the third day: And that _____________ and __________ of _________ should be preached in his name among all nations, beginning at Jerusalem. And ye are witnesses of these things.

3. The MOTIVES For Fishing For Men.

Obviously, such a great task as world evangelization is costly. It will take a great amount of time, money and energy. Why would anyone want to get involved in such a project? What motivates us to make the commitment necessary for such a task? Consider the following:

1. The motive from above - What is it about God’s dealing with us that makes us want to reach the world for Christ?

• Romans 5:8 - But God commendeth ______ ________ toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.

2. The motive from below - What awaits unbelievers that makes us want to reach them for Christ?

• Luke 16:28 - For I have five brethren; that he may testify unto them, lest they also come into this place of _____________.
• 2 Corinthians 5:11 - Knowing therefore the _________ of the Lord, we persuade men; but we are made manifest unto God; and I trust also are made manifest in your consciences.

3. The motive from without - What is the condition of unbelievers that makes us want to reach them for Christ?

• Jude 1:23 - And others save with fear, _________ them out of the ________; hating even the garment spotted by the flesh.
• James 5:20 - Let him know, that he which _______________ the _________ from the error of his way shall save a soul from death, and shall hide a multitude of sins.

4. The motive from within - What internal motivation is there that makes us want to reach the world for Christ?

• 2 Corinthians 5:14 - For the _________ of Christ _____________ us; because we thus judge, that if one died for all, then were all dead:
• Jude 1:22 - And of some have ________________, making a difference:

5. The motive from behind - What common experience have believers had, that makes us want to reach the world for Christ?

• Romans 1:14-15 - I am _________ both to the Greeks, and to the Barbarians; both to the wise, and to the unwise. So, as much as in me is, I am ready to preach the gospel to you that are at Rome also.
• 1 Timothy 1:15 - This is a faithful saying, and worthy of all acceptation, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save __________; of whom I am ___________.

6. The motive from ahead - What eminent event should motivate us to reach the world for Christ without delay?

• 1 Thessalonians 2:19-20 - For what is our hope, or joy, or crown of rejoicing? Are not even ye in the presence of our Lord Jesus Christ at _____ ________? For ye are our glory and joy.

4. The METHODS of Fishing For Men.

In the New Testament, there are two basic principles that are vital to reaching our world with the Gospel: total participation & total penetration. (1) Total participation means that every Christian is to be involved in the work of evangelism. Of course, we all have different abilities, and scopes of influence. But we can all be involved. (2) Total penetration means that we are committed to reaching every possible person in every possible place at every possible time with the Good News of the Gospel. We are not to be content with reaching only a few. All people need to hear the message of Christ.

Too often, we as God’s people have practiced a very different approach. We have limited the participation in evangelism to the pastors, Church leaders, or "professional" religious people. We have also limited our penetration. We have reached out to only those near to us, or those with the same cultural background, or those on our own social level. This is WRONG!

God’s plan is for those in positions of leadership in the Church (Pastors & Teachers) to equip others within the Body to do the work of the ministry. (Ephesians 4:11-13) Discipleship training is the key to successfully equipping Believers to carry out the work of evangelism. As we train others, who train others, who train others, who train others, we will lay the groundwork for total participation and total penetration with the Gospel.

1. What four levels of discipleship training do you discover in 2 Timothy 2:2?

• 2 Timothy 2:2 - And the things that ______ hast heard of ______ among many witnesses, the same commit thou to _________ _____, who shall be able to teach ________ also.

2. What insight do the following verses give you concerning the total penetration of the Gospel?

• _______ Acts 20:20………..match…..a. Be ready to adapt in order to reach people.
• _______ Acts 17:16-18……………….b. Go house to house.
• _______ 1 Corinthians 9:19-22……...c. Talk to people daily, even in the market place.

As far as specific methods are concerned, let’s go back to our "fishing" metaphor. How many different fishing methods are there? Basically two: nets and hook-&-line fishing. Now, of course there are a variety of each, but those are the two basic methods of catching fish. How do these two methods illustrate our approaches to "fishing for men"?

When using a net, you expect to catch a large number of fish at once. Likewise, when we hold city-wide crusades, preach via radio or television, show evangelistic movies, do mass mailing of Christian literature, etc., we are expecting to reach a large number of people at once.

But when we tell our friends and family members about Jesus, or give a Gospel tract to a neighbor or classmate, or share our personal testimony with someone on a one-on-one basis, we are using the spiritual equivalent to the hook-&-line method of fishing. Most of us will never have the opportunity to conduct a city-wide crusade, or go on TV or radio to preach. But we can all put our hook in the water and fish where we are.

5. The MESSAGE used in Fishing For Men

Probably the greatest hindrance to a dedicated Christian’s involvement in personal evangelism is a fear of not knowing what to say. We are afraid that the person we are sharing the Gospel with will have some questions we are not prepared to answer. While that may happen, don’t allow Satan to use that to rob you of the joy of bringing your loved ones to Christ.

Try not to complicate matters when witnessing. If honest questions arise that you are not sure how to answer, just tell the person you are dealing with that you are uncertain and will try to help them find an answer. But don’t get side-tracked from your witnessing. Keep your message simple and to the point. There are four basic parts to an effective witness:

• God’s Love (John 3:16)
• Man’s Sin (Romans 3:23)
• Jesus’ Sacrifice (Romans 5:8-9)
• Receive Christ by Faith (Romans 10:9-10, 13)

1. Read John 3:16 & 10:10 and write a brief statement of how you would explain God’s great love to whom you are witnessing.

___________________________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________________________

2. Read Romans 3:10, 23; 6:23 and write a brief statement of how you would explain the problem of man’s sin to whom you are witnessing.

___________________________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________________________

3. Read Romans 5:8;& 1 Corinthians 15:3-4 and write a brief statement of how you would explain the willing sacrifice of Jesus to pay for our sins to whom you are witnessing.

___________________________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________________________

What a great responsibility and opportunity we have in sharing the message of Christ with a lost and dying world. Without Christ, the world is hopeless. But through Him they can be saved. Commit now to learning all that you can that will help in the great task of world evangelization. And begin today to look for opportunities to share your faith with others.

• Read
• John 1;Acts 1-8
• Memorize:
• Acts 1:8;James 5:20

We often joke and make light of temptation. Like the guy who quipped, "I can resist anything but temptation". Or the little boy who, caught with his hand in the cookie jar, when his mother asked what he was doing, responded, "I’m resisting temptation". While these and similar stories make us laugh, believers with a desire to walk in fellowship with the Father, know that temptation is no laughing matter. It is serious because it is the vehicle Satan, our arch-enemy, uses to take our focus off the Savior, quench the fervor of our prayers, and bring failure in our lives.

Before looking at the subject of temptation in detail, let’s first make a case study of the temptation of Jesus as revealed in Matthew 4:1-11.

1. How did the physical setting set the stage for what Jesus was about to experience?

2. What do the following verses add to our understanding of Jesus’ temptation?

• Hebrews 2:18 - For in that ______ himself hath _____________ being tempted, he is able to ______________ them that are tempted.
• Hebrews 4:15 - For we have not an high priest which cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities; but was in _____ ________ _____________ like as we are, yet without sin.

4. It is clear that Jesus handled His temptation well. He never sinned! From where did He get His strength for victory? ________________________________________________
5. How does Psalm 119:9, 11 relate to Jesus’ strength in overcoming temptation?

In this study we will examine the Biblical teaching on the subject of temptation. We will learn practical ways to handle temptation, and what to do if you fall into sin.

1. The FACT Of Temptation

The Bible uses the word "tempt" in two different ways: To put to the test; and to entice to evil. When the Scripture speaks of God "tempting", it is always with the view of testing, or trying an individual to see if they will pass the trial, and stand up under the pressure. God never entices one to commit sin or act in a way contrary to His nature or will. No evil is involved when God tempts.

But, the Bible also uses the word to describe an enticement to evil. We all undergo times in our lives when we are tempted to do things that are opposed to God’s Holy character and His revealed will. Those temptations are the focus of this study.

1. In Genesis 22:1, who did God tempt (try, test), and why?

• Genesis 22:1 - And it came to pass after these things, that God did tempt _____________, and said unto him, Abraham: and he said, Behold, here I am.

1. How do we know that God did not tempt Abraham to sin?

• James 1:13 - Let no man say when he is tempted, I am tempted of God: for God cannot be tempted with evil, _______________ _______________ _______ any man:

Temptation is universal: it happens to us all. You cannot isolate yourself from the temptation to sin. If temptation were strictly the result of outside influence, maybe building a wall around yourself and not letting those influences in, would help. But we all know that our proclivity for sin is as much (or more) from within than it is from without.

3. Identify the phrase in the following verses that teach the universality of temptation.

• 1 Corinthians 10:13 - There hath no temptation taken you but such as is ___________ ___ __________: but God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it.
• James 1:14 - But __________ _______ is tempted, when he is drawn away of his own lust, and enticed.

Have you ever wondered why we are so easily tempted? Why is it that even people who have committed their lives to Jesus, find it difficult to obey Him and overcome sin on a daily basis?

4. What explanations do you find for our susceptibility to temptation in the following verses?

• 2 Corinthians 4:4 - In whom the ______ of this ________ hath _________ the ________ of them which believe not, lest the light of the glorious gospel of Christ, who is the image of God, should shine unto them.
• James 1:14 - But every man is tempted, when he is drawn away of ______ _______ _________, and enticed.
• 1 John 5:19 - And we know that we are of God, and the _________ _________ lieth in _________________.

You may be wondering: "Well, if it happens to everybody, ‘What's the big deal?’ I can’t stop it from happening, so why worry about it?" Well really, I don’t want you to "worry" about it, but I do want you to be aware of it. And, I want you to be prepared for it. The danger comes when we yield to the temptation; when we fail to look to God for victory.

5. What dangers are associated with temptation as revealed in the following verses?

• Mark 14:38 - Watch ye and pray, lest ye __________ into temptation. The spirit truly is ready, but the flesh is weak.
• 1 Thessalonians 3:5 - For this cause, when I could no longer forbear, I sent to know your faith, lest by some means the tempter have tempted you, and our labour be in __________.
• James 1:15 - Then when _________ hath conceived, it _________ ______ _______: and sin, when it is finished, bringeth forth ___________.

2. The NATURE Of Temptation

Temptation is such a problem to us because its appeal comes to us in different areas of enticement. If we are careful to guard ourselves in one area of our life, but careless in another, Satan will just find a way to approach us in our vulnerable areas.

1. What three areas of vulnerability to temptation does John identify?

• 1 John 2:16 - For all that is in the world, the _______ of the _________, and the lust of the _________, and the _________ of life, is not of the Father, but is of the world.

2. How are these three areas illustrated in the temptation of Eve?

• Genesis 3:6 - And when the woman saw that the tree was good for ______, and that it was pleasant to the ______, and a tree to be desired to make one _______, she took of the fruit thereof, and did eat, and gave also unto her husband with her; and he did eat.

The method of approach by which temptation comes is different for each person and circumstance as well. It sometimes comes in a storm of fury: passion rages, impetus is strong, opportunity is present, temptation is upon you before you are aware of it. At other times it comes in a stealthy approach: it is quiet and almost hidden, it comes slowly, it produces a thought, it develops a plan, it acts. The result is sin, loss of fellowship with God and other Believers, heartache, disruption of family relations and various other problems.

3. Help In Times Of Temptation

"OK", you say, "I realize how dangerous it is to give in to the temptations of the flesh. But, what can I do to prepare for victory when temptation comes?" While each of us are different, and temptation will come to us in various ways, there are some basic principles that will help us all.

1. Resolve - The first thing we should do is resolve to be pure. Settle today the matter of your allegiance. Who is your Master? To Whom do you belong? Who will you follow and obey? If you wait until temptation's raging passion is upon you to make those decisions, the battle will be lost. Decide now to live, in the power of the Holy Spirit, a life of victory. What do the following verses teach you about the importance of your resolve to be pure?

• Matthew 6:24 - No man can_________ ______ ___________: for either he will hate the one, and love the other; or else he will hold to the one, and despise the other. Ye cannot serve God and mammon.
• Romans 6:16 - Know ye not, that to whom ye ________ ____________ servants to obey, his servants ye are to whom ye obey; whether of sin unto death, or of obedience unto righteousness?
• Proverbs 1:10 - My son, if sinners entice thee, __________ thou ________.
• Daniel 1:8 - But Daniel ___________ in his _________ that he would not _________ himself with the portion of the king's meat, nor with the wine which he drank: therefore he requested of the prince of the eunuchs that he might not defile himself.

2. Resist - The second thing you should do to enjoy victory is resist the temptation. Fight the first impulse. Reject the evil thought before it becomes an evil deed. Don’t give in to the desires of the flesh, the allures of the world, or the enticements of Satan so easily. Resist!

1. What two ingredients does James identify to help us have a successful fight against temptation?

• James 4:7 - _________ yourselves therefore to God. _________ the devil, and he will flee from you.

2. What prerequisites and promises does Peter give for the one who faithfully resists temptation?

• 1 Peter 5:8 - Be ________, be ___________; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour: Whom _______ stedfast in the faith, knowing that the same afflictions are accomplished in your brethren that are in the world. But the God of all grace, who hath called us unto his eternal glory by Christ Jesus, after that ye have suffered a while, make you ____________, _____________, _____________, ____________ you.

3. What is necessary for us to be able to successfully stand against Satan’s schemes?

• Ephesians 6:11 - _____ _____ the whole __________ of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil.

3. Rely - The third thing we all need to do in order to experience victory in times of temptation is to rely on God's strength. When it comes to temptation, we are fighting spiritual battles that cannot be won in the flesh. We do not possess the necessary strength or wisdom to insure victory on our own. We must rely on the strength that God alone can provide. What do the following verses teach you about the necessity and availability of God’s strength in times of temptation?

• 1 Corinthians 10:13 - There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man: but God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also _______ a _______ to escape, that ye may be able to bear it.
• Ephesians 6:12 - For we _____________ not _________ ________ and _______, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places.
• Hebrews 2:18 - For in that he himself hath suffered being tempted, he is ________ to _____________ them that are tempted.
• 2 Peter 2:9 - The Lord knoweth how to ___________ the godly out of temptations, and to reserve the unjust unto the day of judgment to be punished:
• 1 John 4:4 - Ye are of God, little children, and have overcome them: because ______ is he that is in you, than he that is in the world.

4. Run - The fourth thing that I would suggest you do if you desire victory in times of temptation is that you run from the source of your temptation. While this may not always be possible, it is often helpful. Not that we can completely run away from all enticements to sin, but we often can run from certain persons, places or things that we are particularly vulnerable to. Sometimes running is an act of valor. Sometimes flight is the only sure deliverance from temptation. What do the following verses teach you about the valor of running away from temptation?

• 2 Timothy 2:22 - ___________ also youthful lusts: but follow righteousness, faith, charity, peace, with them that call on the Lord out of a pure heart.
• Proverbs 5:8 - ______ thy way far from her, and come not nigh the door of her house:

4. ESCAPE From Temptation

God nowhere promises escape from temptation for the one who is careless, prayerless, or self-sufficient. Some people enter temptation presumptuously - to show their power to resist. Others enter curiously: to taste the allurements of prohibited practices. Many are involved carelessly: taking no heed until the deed is done and guilt is involved. Some are involved imitatively: following the example of others. Yet others are involved pharisaically: pretending to show God’s grace through their sin. REMEMBER - He who tampers with sin is certain to fall sooner or later. Consider the account of Samson and Delilah (Judges 16).

Nor does God promises escape from temptation for the one who cultivates it. (Romans 13:14 ; Proverbs 4:25) But, God does promise escape from temptation to the person who recognizes his danger, helplessness, and need. (2 Chronicles 20:12, 15, 17) Escape from temptation is found only in God. (2 Peter 2:9 ; Jude 24-25)

Maybe as you have studied this Chapter you have felt a degree of sadness because you have already fallen into serious sin. Maybe you feel that it is too late for you. Temptation came and you yielded. You sinned! If you find yourself in that condition, please follow the following guidelines by which you can be forgiven and restored to peace of mind, fellowship with God, and effectiveness in Christian service.

Don't minimize the seriousness of your sin. Confess it honestly to God. (I John 1:9) Don't tamper with labels. Call sin by its proper name. Don't try to justify your actions by accusing others, or excusing circumstances. Don't pretend that moral standards have changed.

Ask for, and accept God's forgiveness. (1 John 1:9- 2:2) To confess does not mean to enumerate your sin, but rather to admit it. Depend on the intercession of JESUS, our Advocate. Rely on the power of JESUS' blood to wash away sin. When God has forgiven you, forgive yourself. ( Acts 10:15)

Start over again. Do not permit one failure, however serious, to keep you from serving the LORD again. In grace, there is room for your return. The Bible is filled with the lives of sinful people who received an opportunity to be forgiven and restored to full fellowship with God when they repented and turned to Him. Less that two months after Peter’s bitter denial of JESUS, he was preaching powerfully. (Acts 2) Some of David’s most beautiful Psalms were written after his adultery with Bathsheba. Don’t quit! Through God’s help you can be restored and have victory.

• Read -
• James 1;Psalm 51;Genesis 30
• Memorize
• 1 Corinthians 10:13;Hebrews 4:15

Among the most important ingredients of successful military training is insuring that the recruits understand the importance of following orders. Without obedience in the ranks, military commanders would find themselves thwarted with every maneuver, suffering untold casualties and loosing too many battles. That is why disobeying orders is a offense so grievous that it warrants a court marshal.

As Believers we are called to be "good soldiers" of Jesus Christ (2 Timothy 2:3). How could any one of us claim to be a "good soldier" if we knowingly disobey direct orders of our Commander-In-Chief? We know that because of who He is, all His commands will be right. And, if we follow them explicitly, the result will be to our benefit and for the good of the Kingdom of God. We should commit today or re-commit, (if necessary) to a life of obedience to our Lord and Master.

In our study of "Temptation" we learned that there are incredible forces at work in our lives and all around us to detract us from an obedient life. The World, the Flesh, and the Devil want to see us fail. But remember, God wants to see us succeed, and "If God be for us, who can be against us" (Romans 8:31).

We do not have to be defeated. We can follow orders. And we must, if our lives are going to count for good in the Kingdom. This Chapter aims to help you understand what obedience to God entails, and give you clear direction as to how you can grow in your obedience to Him.

1. The ESSENCE Of An Obedient Life

Obedience means "to hear God's Word and act accordingly". The word translated "obey" in the Old Testament means "to hear" and is often so translated. In the New Testament, several words describe obedience. One word means "to hear or to listen in a state of submission." When we focus our attention on obedience as revealed in the Scripture, at least three descriptive terms come to mind:

1. Walking -The Bible often uses the word "walk" when describing the obedient Christian’s life. When so used, the term "walk" speaks of all we are to be and not be as a Christian. The standard is high! The journey is incredible. But as we walk in the way described in Scripture, we {as Enoch of old} walk with God. (Genesis 5:24)

1. Match the terms used in the following verses that describe the walk of a Believer?

• _____ Romans 6:4………match……a. In truth
• _____ Romans 8:4…………………..b. In love
• _____ 2 Corinthians 5:7……………c. After His commandments
• _____ Ephesians 2:10………………d. In newness of life
• _____ Ephesians 5:2………….…….e. After the Spirit
• _____ Ephesians 5:8………………..f. As children of light
• _____ 2 John 4……………………..g. By faith
• _____ 2 John 6……………………..h. In good works

2. Match the terms used in the following verses that describe how a Christian should not walk.

• _____ Romans 8:4……...match…..a. Not after the flesh
• _____ 1 Corinthians 3:3…………..b. Not by sight
• _____ 2 Corinthians 4:2…………..c. Not in craftiness
• _____ 2 Corinthians 5:7………….d. Not in vanity of the mind
• _____ Ephesians 4:17…………….e. Not as carnal men

3. How would you describe the contrast between the old self and the new self.

• Ephesians 4:22-24 - That ye put off concerning the former conversation the ______ _______, which is corrupt according to the _________ _______; And be renewed in the spirit of your mind; And that ye put on the ______ ______, which after God is created in ______________ and true _______________.

4. What is the chief element of an "overcoming" Christian life?

• 1 John 5:4-5 - For whatsoever is born of God overcometh the world: and this is the victory that overcometh the world, even our _________. Who is he that overcometh the world, but he that believeth that Jesus is the Son of God?

2. Abiding - Another informative term used in Scripture to describe the Believer’s obedient life in Christ is the word "abiding". As used in Scripture, "abiding" does not refer to our position in Christ, but rather to our productivity as Believers.

1. How does abiding in Christ affect our walk?

• 1 John 2:6 - He that saith he abideth in him ought himself also so to _______, even _____ _____ _________.

2. What must we do in order to abide in Christ?

• 1 John 3:24 - And he that ________ his commandments dwelleth in him, and he in him. And hereby we know that he abideth in us, by the Spirit which he hath given us.

3. How do we know that Christ abides in us?

• 1 John 3:24 - And he that keepeth his commandments dwelleth in him, and he in him. And hereby we know that he abideth in us, by the _________ which he hath given us.

3. What goal should Believers have?

• Philippians 3:10 - That I may _________ ______, and the power of his resurrection, and the fellowship of his sufferings, being made conformable unto his death;
• 1 Peter 1:16 - But as he which hath called you is holy, so be ye ________ in all manner of conversation; Because it is written, Be ye holy; for I am holy.

3. Living - The obedient Christian’s life is also referred to in Scripture as a new, resurrected life in Christ. Having been saved by His grace, we have been made partakers of His life. And, therefore, we should allow Him to live His life through us.

1. Since we are risen to a new life in Christ what two things will we want to do?

• Colossians 3:1-2 - If ye then be risen with Christ, ________ those things which are above, where Christ sitteth on the right hand of God. ____ ______ ____________ on things above, not on things on the earth.

2. On whom should we focus our attention?

• Hebrews 12:1-2 - Wherefore seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us, ____________ _______ _____________ the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God.

3. If our eyes are really on Him, what will be the result?

• Hebrews 12:1-2 - Wherefore seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us ______ _________ every weight, and the _______ which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us, Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God.

4. What should be our constant desire?

• Colossians 3:17 - And whatsoever ye do in word or deed, _____ _____ in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God and the Father by him.

5. What are the two Great Commandments in the New Testament, and how do they relate to an obedient life?

• Mark 12:28-31 - And one of the scribes came, and having heard them reasoning together, and perceiving that he had answered them well, asked him, Which is the first commandment of all? And Jesus answered him, The first of all the commandments is, Hear, O Israel; The Lord our God is one Lord: And thou shalt ______ the __________ thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind, and with all thy strength: this is the first commandment. And the second is like, namely this, Thou shalt ________ thy ____________ as thyself. There is none other commandment greater than these.

6. What should characterize our obedience?

• Psalm 40:8 - I ________ to do thy will, O my God: yea, thy law is within my heart.

7. What is James’ definition of disobedience?

• James 4:17 - Therefore to him that ___________ _____ ____ _______, and doeth it _______, to him it is sin.

2. The EXHORTATIONS To Obedience.

With a clearer understanding of what obedience means, it will be helpful at this point to understand why obedience is so vital for each Christian. In its various forms, the word "obey" is found 155 times in the Bible. Many of these are exhortations that call for our unqualified obedience to our Lord. Consider the following examples:

1. Obedience is demanded by God.

• Deuteronomy 13:4 - _____ ________ walk after the LORD your God, and fear him, and keep his commandments, and ______ _____ _______, and ye shall serve him, and cleave unto him.
• 1 Samuel 15:22 - And Samuel said, Hath the LORD as great delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices, as in obeying the voice of the LORD? Behold, to _______ is _________ than _____________, and to hearken than the fat of rams.

1. Obedience is the expected results of salvation.

• 1 Peter 1:2 - ________ according to the foreknowledge of God the Father, through sanctification of the Spirit, ________ ____________ and sprinkling of the blood of Jesus Christ: Grace unto you, and peace, be multiplied.

1. Obedience belongs first and foremost to God.

• Acts 4:19 - But Peter and John answered and said unto them, Whether it be ________ in the sight of God to __________ unto ______ ______ _______ unto God, judge ye.

1. Obedience should be sincere.

• Romans 6:17 - But God be thanked, that ye were the servants of sin, but ye have obeyed _________ _____ ________ that form of doctrine which was delivered you.

3. The ESSENTIALS Of Obedience.

A wide range of terms are used in the Bible to capture the essentials of our obedience to God. The most often repeated phrase (used approximately 28 times) calls for us to "obey God’s voice". Match the following verses with the instruction in them for our obedience.

• ____ Exodus 19:5………match……..a. obedience to the faith
• ____ Deuteronomy 11:27……………b. obeyed from the heart
• ____ Romans 1:5…………………….c. keep his commandments:.
• ____ Romans 6:17…………………...d. obey the commandments of the LORD
• ____ Romans 13:1……………………e. the obedience of Christ;
• ____ 2 Corinthians 10:5……………….f. subject unto the higher powers
• ____ Hebrews 13:17………………….g. Obey them that have the rule over you,
• ____ 1 John 5:3………………………h. obey my voice

IV. The EXPRESSIONS Of Obedience

When we seek to obey God from the heart, we thereby declare to God, our fellow Believers, and the world around us that certain things are true about us. Consider the following expressions of our obedience:

1. Obedience expresses our relationship to God.

• 1 John 2:3 - And hereby we do ___________ that we __________ him, if we keep his commandments.

1. Obedience expresses our love for God.

• John 14:15 - If ye ________ me, _________ my commandments.

1. Obedience expresses our inner peace with God.

• Isaiah 48:17-18 - Thus saith the LORD, thy Redeemer, the Holy One of Israel; I am the LORD thy God which teacheth thee to profit, which leadeth thee by the way that thou shouldest go. O that thou hadst ___________ to my commandments! then had thy ___________ been as a ___________, and thy righteousness as the waves of the sea:

1. Obedience expresses our position in Christ.

• 1 John 3:24 - And he that keepeth his commandments ______________ in him, and he in him. And hereby we know that he abideth in us, by the Spirit which he hath given us.

1. Obedience expresses Christ’s Lordship over us.

• Luke 6:46 - And why call ye me, ________, Lord, and do not the things which I say?
• Romans 6:16 - Know ye not, that to whom ye yield yourselves ____________ to obey, his servants ye are to whom ye obey; whether of sin unto death, or of obedience unto righteousness?

The EXPECTATIONS Of Obedience

What can we expect from God when we sincerely obey Him from the heart? Obviously a full and complete answer to that question would be much too long for the scope of this study. There are a myriad of promises founded in the Scripture for those who are obedient to God. Here are just a few:

• Isaiah 1:19 - If ye be willing and obedient, ye shall ______ ____ ________ of the land:
• Exodus 15:26 - And said, If thou wilt diligently hearken to the voice of the LORD thy God, and ______ ____ that which is right in his sight, and wilt give ear to his commandments, and keep all his statutes, I will put _______ of these __________ upon thee, which I have brought upon the Egyptians: for I am the LORD that ____________ thee.
• Joshua 1:8 - This book of the law shall not depart out of thy mouth; but thou shalt meditate therein day and night, that thou mayest observe to do according to all that is written therein: for then thou shalt make thy way prosperous, and then thou shalt have ________ ________________
• John 14:23 - Jesus answered and said unto him, If a man love me, he will keep my words: and my Father will love him, and we will come unto him, and _______ ______ ________ with him.

{Here are a few other verses to help you understand the wonder blessings of obedience: John 15:10; John 15:14; 1 John 2:5; 2 Chronicles 14:1; Deuteronomy 11:13}

So, the issue is clear! We choose to obey, or we choose to disobey. We can’t lay the blame at anyone’s feet but our own. We are each responsible for our choices. We ought to obey Christ, because He is our Master, our Boss, our Commander-In-Chief. He deserves our allegiance. He expects us to follow orders. Decide today to move forward in your Christian life by living a life of obedience to God and His Word.

• Read:
• Matthew 5-7;Ephesians 4-6
• Memorize:
• 2 Timothy 2:3;1 John 2:6

When my oldest son, Trae, finished his Marine Corp. Boot Camp, he was given the opportunity to go home and work for a month with local Marine recruiters. The Marines feel that those who have newly graduated from their elite Boot Camp can be effective in encouraging others to consider the challenge.

You have just completed a course of study that should get you off and running in your spiritual quest. Now, the challenge for you is to recruit someone else. Find a buddy that you can take through this course. And begin the journey again as a Spiritual Drill Instructor. You may refer to this process as mentoring, disciplining, coaching, or training. Whatever term you wish to use, the principle is Biblical. Throughout the New Testament, one-on-one, or small group training seems to have been the preferred method of spiritual multiplication.

Names of people I can recruit for Jesus
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