JESUS IS LORD CHURCHWORLDWIDE

(THE AMERICAS)

DISCIPLESHIP TRAINING LEVEL 1

STUDENT’S MANUAL

“…Be an instrument for noble purposes, made holy, useful to the Master
and prepared to do any good work.”

II Timothy 2:21
 COURSE TITLE

COURSE DESCRIPTION

COURSE OBJECTIVE

COURSE OUTLINE

COURSE REQUIREMENTS
COURSE TITLE:
Discipleship Training, Level 1

COURSE DESCRIPTION:

In this course, students will learn about the history and the distinctives of the
Jesus is Lord Church, a ministry that is born in the heart of God. Students
will also be taught the basic doctrines of Christianity to strengthen their
foundation as disciples of the Lord Jesus Christ.

This course will run for 16 weeks (one and a half hours per session) and it
comes with Teacher’s and Student’s Manual.

COURSE OBJECTIVE:

It is the goal of this course to produce:

1. Committed and faithful members of the church.
2. Spirit-filled and mature disciples of the Lord.
3. Dedicated and passionate workers in Christ’s vineyard.

COURSE OUTLINE:
PART I

Lesson I- The Disciple and His Local Church - JILCW

A. The History
B. The Founder
C. The Purpose

Lesson II- The Disciple and His Local Church’s Declaration of Faith

Lesson III- The Disciple and His Local Church’s

A. Distinctives
B. Declaration of Principles and Values

Lesson IV- The Disciple and His Local Church Founder’s

Principles in the Ministry

PART II

Lesson 1- The Bible is the Word of God

Lesson 2- God

Lesson 3- Man and Satan

Lesson 4- Jesus

Lesson 5- The Cross

Lesson 6- The Blood of Christ

Lesson 7- The Resurrection

Lesson 8- Repentance

Lesson 9- Faith

Lesson 10- Grace

Lesson 11- Water Baptism

Lesson 12- The Holy Spirit

Lesson 13- Temptation

Lesson 14- Fellowship

Lesson 15- Generosity

Lesson 16- Kingdom Living

Lesson 17- Worship

Lesson 18- Prayer

Lesson 19- Heaven

Lesson 20- The Second Coming

Lesson 21- The Call Of God

COURSE REQUIREMENTS:

1. Must be genuine a born-again Christian

2. Must be consistently attending the JIL church for at least one month
3. Must be willing, available and teachable
4. Must be committed to finish the course
5. Must be punctual in attending all the sessions
6. Must take the exams
 JESUS IS LORD CHURCH WORLDWIDE-
THE AMERICAS DISCIPLESHIP TRAINING

PART I

LESSON I
THE DISCIPLE AND HIS LOCAL CHURCH-
JESUS IS LORD CHURCH WORLDWIDE (JILCW)

THE HISTORY
THE FOUNDER (VIDEO)
THE PURPOSE

I. MISSION
To bring all peoples to the Kingdom of the Living GOD regardless of race, status,
belief and religious affiliations through the saving, healing, delivering, and
transforming power of the LORD JESUS CHRIST!

II. VISION
A glorious church evangelizing and discipling Filipinos and all the peoples of the
world through teaching, preaching, and living-out the Full-Gospel of the LORD
JESUS CHRIST.

III. CORE VALUES

A. Passionate Love for GOD- (Deuteronomy 6:5).

B. Love and Compassion for Others- (Mark 12:31).

C. Integrity- (Psalm 78:72)

D. Faithfulness- (Matthew 25:21).

E. Excellence- (Daniel 6:3-4).

 LESSON II
THE DISCIPLE AND HIS LOCAL CHURCH’S
DECLARATION OF FAITH
The Declaration of Faith consists of Biblically founded doctrines and beliefs that the
JILCW is more than willing to live and die for. These are the major doctrines that serve
as the foundation of the distinctives of the Church. Furthermore, these doctrines are the
bases of all spiritual and theological principles that guide all operations, activities,
policies, and programs of the Church. The JILCW believes in the following major
doctrines:

1. Lordship of JESUS CHRIST

“Who being in very nature GOD, did not consider equality with GOD something to be
used to His own advantage; rather, He made Himself nothing by taking the very nature of
a servant, being made in human likeness. And, being found in appearance as a man, He
humbled Himself by becoming obedient to death- even death on a cross! Therefore GOD
exalted Him to the highest place and gave Him the name that is above every name, that at
the Name of JESUS every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth,
and every tongue acknowledge that JESUS CHRIST IS LORD, to the glory of GOD the
Father.” Philippians 2:6-7 (NIV)

2. Holy Scriptures

“All Scripture is GOD- breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and
training in righteousness, so that the servant of GOD may be thoroughly equipped for
every good work.” II Timothy 3:16-17 (NIV)

3. Eternal Godhead
“For there are three that bear record in heaven- the Father, the Word and the Holy Ghost:
and these three are ONE…” I John 5:7-8 (KJV)
4. Fall of Man
“Therefore, just as sin entered the world through one man, in this way death came to all
men, because all have sinned.” Romans 5:12 (NIV)

5. Salvation through Grace

“For by GRACE you have been saved through FAITH, and that not of yourselves; it is
the GIFT OF GOD, not of works, lest anyone should boast.” Ephesians 2:8-9 (NKJV)
“And this is the testimony: that GOD has given us ETERNAL LIFE, and this life is in
His SON. He who has the SON has life; he who does not have the SON OF GOD does
not have life.” I John 5:11-12 (NKJV)

6. Repentance and Acceptance

“If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive our sins and purify us from all
unrighteousness.” I John 1:9 NIV

“But as many as received Him, to them He gave the right to become children of GOD, to
those who believe in His name.” John 1:12 (NKJV)

6. New Birth
“In reply, JESUS declared, ‘I tell you the truth, no one can see the kingdom of GOD
unless he is BORN AGAIN’” John 3:3 (NIV)
7. Water Baptism and LORD’S Supper
A. WATER BAPTISM
‘Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the
Father and of the Son and of the HOLY SPIRIT, teaching them to observe all things that I
have commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age. Amen.”
Matthew 28:19-20 (NKJV)

B. LORD’S SUPPER
“…THE LORD JESUS on the same night in which He was betrayed took bread; and
when He had given thanks, He broke it and said, ‘Take, eat; this is My body which is
broken for you; do this in remembrance of Me.’ In the same manner, He also took the cup
after supper saying, ‘This cup is the new covenant in My blood; this do, as often as you
drink it, in remembrance of Me.’ For as often as you eat this bread and drink the cup, you
proclaim the LORD’S death till He comes.” I Corinthians 11:23-26 (NKJV)

10. Baptism in the HOLY SPIRIT

“All of them were filled with the HOLY SPIRIT and began to speak in other tongues as
the SPIRIT enabled them.” Acts 2:4 (NIV)

“But you shall receive power when the HOLY SPIRIT has come upon you; and you shall
be witnesses to ME in Jerusalem, and in all Judea, and Samaria, and to the end of the
earth.” Acts 1:8 (NKJV)

11. Gifts and Fruit of the HOLY SPIRIT

7
“But the manifestation of the SPIRIT is given to each one for the profit of all: 8 for to
one is given the word of WISDOM through the SPIRIT, to another the word of
KNOWLEDGE through the same SPIRIT, 9 to another FAITH by the same SPIRIT, to
another gifts of HEALINGS by the same SPIRIT, 10 to another the working of
MIRACLES, to another PROPHECY, to another DISCERNING OF SPIRITS, to another
different kinds of TONGUES, to another the INTERPRETATION OF TONGUES”
I CORINTHIANS 12:7-10 (NKJV)
“But the FRUIT OF THE SPIRIT is love, joy, peace, long-suffering, kindness, goodness,
faithfulness, gentleness, self-control. Against such there is no law.” (Galatians 5:22-23,
NKJV)

A. THE GIFTS OF THE SPIRIT- word of wisdom, word of knowledge, faith,

healings, miracles, prophecy, discerning of spirits, different kinds of tongues and
interpretation of tongues- these are GOD’S provision to believers solely for the
edification of His church.

B. THE FRUIT OF THE HOLY SPIRIT-love, joy, peace, patience, kindness,

goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control – this is for the revelation of
CHRIST and His character in us. AS His faithful followers, we remain connected
to Him and, thus, bear the fruit of His character. Through the testimony of our
lives, we are able to proclaim JESUS CHRIST and His life-changing message of
grace and hope.

12. Divine Healing

“Is anyone among you sick? Let him call for the elders of the church, and let them pray
over him, anointing him with oil in the NAME OF THE LORD. And the prayer of faith
will save the sick, and the LORD will raise him up. And if he has committed sins, he will
be forgiven.” James 5:14-15 (NKJV)
13. Second Coming of CHRIST

“For the LORD Himself will come down from heaven with a loud command, with the
voice of archangel and with the trumpet call of GOD and the dead in CHRIST will rise
first. After that, we who are still alive and are left will be caught up together with them
in the clouds to meet the LORD in the air. And so we will be with the LORD forever.”
I Thessalonians 4:16-17 (NIV)

14. Tithes and Offerings

“Bring all the TITHES into the storehouse that there may be food in MY HOUSE, and try
ME now in this,” says the LORD OF HOSTS, “If I will not open for you the windows of
heaven and pour out for you such blessing that there will not be room enough to receive
it.” Malachi 3:10 (NKJV)

15. Kingdom Dominion

“This, then, is how you should pray: “Our FATHER in heaven hallowed be Your NAME,
YOUR KINGDOM COME, Your will be done on earth as it is in heaven.” Matthew 6:9-
10 (NKJV)
 LESSON III
THE DISCIPLE AND HIS LOCAL CHURCH’S
DISTINCTIVES

A. JILCW as a Glorious Church

It is the utmost desire of the JIL Church to become a part of the Glorious Church that
is to be raptured by GOD:

“…that He might present her to Himself a glorious church, not having spot or wrinkle
or any such thing, but that she should be holy and without blemish.” Ephesians 5:27
(NKJV)

In our quest for the fulfillment of this vision, we maintain the following attributes:

1. A Worshipping Church

2. A Healing Church

3. A Soul-Winning Church

4. A Praying Church

5. A Visionary Church
6. A SPIRIT-Filled Church

7. A Nation-Loving Church

8. A Faith-filled Church

9. A Prophetic Church

10. An Apostolic Church

11. A Giving Church

12. A Serving Church

 LESSON III
THE DISCIPLE AND HIS LOCAL CHURCH’S
DECLARATION OF PRINCIPLES AND VALUES

1. JILCW Doctrinal and Ministerial Distinctive

2. The Church as Agent of Evangelism and Transformation

3. Discipleship and Training

4. Priority of Worship

5. Authority of the Bible

6. Primacy of Prayer-Intercession

7. Leadership Integrity

8. Ministry Excellence
9. JILCW Membership

10. Family

11. Marriage

12. GOD and Country (Diyos at Bayan)

13. Compassion Ministry

14. Stewardship

15. Unity in the Body of CHRIST

 LESSON IV
THE DISCIPLE AND HIS SPIRITUAL FOUNDER’S
PRINCIPLES IN THE MINISTRY

1. The Jesus Is Lord Church is born in the heart of GOD.

2. No one is indispensable in the Ministry except JESUS

CHRIST.

3. No one is being forced to serve in the Ministry.

4. All JILCW pastors and leaders must be seekers and living

testimonies of GOD’s Visions and Biblical Principles.

5. All JILCW pastors and leaders must be visionary people of

GOD.

6. Every JILCW pastor and leader must make it his/her mission

to constantly be GOD’s faithful servant.

7. No one should seek money, fame or power in the ministry.

8. All JILCW pastors and leaders must have integrity in money
and all possessions.

9. Every JILCW pastor and leader must stand firm against all
forms of temptations.

10. Any form of discrimination without GOD’s justification is

injustice and must therefore be rejected.

11. The quality of our life in eternity depends on the quality of

our obedience and faithfulness in serving GOD here on earth.

12. The greatest and the noblest achievement of a man or a

woman here on earth is to be able to know his or her Creator
truthfully and personally, to love Him passionately and
wholeheartedly, and to serve Him faithfully with integrity
and excellence until he or she stands before Him on
Judgment Day.
 JESUS IS LORD CHURCH WORLDWIDE
THE AMERICAS DISCIPLESHIP MODULE

PART 2

LESSON 1

THE BIBLE IS THE WORD OF GOD

A. GOD’S SPECIAL BOOK

The Word of God – the Holy Bible – is God’s special Book. It is not like other
books, but is a supernatural Book. It was written by many different people, who
wrote by the inspiration of the Holy Spirit (see 2 Timothy 3:16).

The Bible is the world’s best seller. It consistently outsells any other book.

The Bible has been translated into more languages than any other book in the
world. It was originally written in three languages- Hebrew, Aramaic and Greek.
The Bible you have, has been translated by dedicated people so that you can have
God’s words, thoughts and plans.

The Bible is also one of the oldest books in the world. The most ancient portions
of the Bible date back almost 4,000 years. Yet, it is still the most modern book in
the world today; for in it we find the answers to life’s greatest questions:

• “Where did I come from?”

• “Why am I here?”
• “Where will I go?”

Even though the Bible is made up of 66 smaller books, it has only one central
them: God’s loving plan to rescue mankind.

At the front of the Bible, you will find a list of the 66 books that can be found in
the Bible.

The Bible is divided into two sections:

• The Old Testament, and
• The New Testament.

The Old Testament tells us about God’s work with His people before the birth of
Jesus.
 The New Testament tells us about Jesus’ birth, His life, His great ministry of
healing and forgiveness for sick and sinful people, His death on a cross, His being
raised from the dead and His ascension (going back to Heaven).

It also tells us about the continuation of His healing, forgiving ministry through
those who saw Him after His resurrection. Those who follow Jesus’ teaching do
many miraculous works just as He said they would (see John 14:12).

The teaching of those who saw Him after He was raised from the dead is
contained in the Epistles (Letters). These were written within the first fifty years
after Jesus’ resurrection. These make up about half the New Testament.

B. STUDY THE BIBLE

The most important relationship you can have in this life is with God.

The list (index) in the front of the Bible will help you find the page number of the
part of the Bible you may wish to study.

To help you find specific parts of the Bible, the translators organized the text into:
• Books
• Chapters within the Books, and
• Verses within the Chapters.

For instance, if you see a reference like “Genesis 3:15”, this would mean
• The BOOK of Genesis
• CHAPTER three, and
• VERSE fifteen

C. HERE IS THE WORLD’S GREATEST PROMISE

“For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son, that whoever
believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life” (John 3:16).

D. THE PURPOSE OF THE WORD OF GOD

15
“… the Holy Scriptures…are able to make you wise for salvation through faith
in Christ Jesus. 16 All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching,
rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness.” (II Timothy 3:15,16)
3
“His divine power has given us everything we need for life and godliness
through our knowledge of Him who called us by His own glory and goodness.
4
Through these He has given us His very great and precious promises, so that
through them you may participate in the divine nature and escape the corruption
in the world caused by evil desires” (2 Peter 1:3,4).

E. THE WORD OF GOD PRODUCES LIFE

“…The words I have spoken to you are spirit and they are life” (John 6:63).
 1. It is Creative
6
“By the WORD OF THE LORD were the heavens made, their starry host by
the breath of His mouth… 9 For He spoke, and it came to be; He commanded,
and it stood firm” (Psalm 33:6,9). See also Hebrews 11:3.

F. THE WORD OF GOD IS LIKE WATER

1. It Cleanses
We start life in the Kingdom of God totally “washed clean” by the Word of
God. “You are already clean because of the word I have spoken to you” (John
15:3). See also Ephesians 5:25-27.

2. It Keeps us Clean
The Word of God, planted in our hearts, keeps us free from sin.
9
“How can a young man keep his way pure? By living according to Your
word… 11 I have hidden Your word in my heart that I might not sin against
You” (Psalm 119:9,11).

G. THE WORD OF GOD IS LIGHT FOR OUR LIVES

“And we have the word of the prophets made more certain, and you will do well
to pay attention to it, as to a light shining in a dark place, until the day dawns and
the morning star rises in your hearts” (2 Peter 1:19).

1. It Gives Understanding In a Dark World

“…The commands of the Lord are radiant, giving light to the eyes” (Psalm
19:8).
105
“Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light for my path…The entrance of
130
Your words gives light; it gives understanding to the simple” (Psalm
119:105, 130).

H. THE WORD OF GOD IS SPIRITUAL FOOD

“Jesus answered, “It is written: Man does not live on bread alone, but on every
word that comes from the mouth of God” (Matthew 4:4).

1. It Causes Spiritual Growth

1
“Brothers, I could not address you as spiritual but as worldly – mere infants
in Christ. 2 I gave you milk, not solid food, for you were not ready for it…”
(I Corinthians 3:1,2).

“Like newborn babies, crave pure spiritual milk, so that by it you may grow
up in your salvation” (I Peter 2:2).

God’s aim for each of us is expressed in Ephesians 4:12-15:

 “…that the body of Christ may be built up until we all reach unity in the faith and
in the knowledge of the Son of God and become mature, attaining to the whole
measure of the fullness of Christ.”

I. THE WORD OF GOD IS SEED

In Luke 8:14,15, Jesus told His disciples the parable of the sower.

In verse 11 He said: “The seed is the word of God.” God’s will for our lives is
fruitfulness (Psalm 1:3).

“Now he who supplies seed to the sower and the bread for food will also supply
and increase your store of seed and will enlarge the harvest of your
righteousness” (2 Corinthians 9:10).

J. THE WORD OF GOD IS LIKE A SWORD

“Take…the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God: (Ephesians 6:17). See
also Hebrews 4:12.

Note how Jesus used the “sword” against Satan in His temptation in the
wilderness (Luke 4:1-14).

K. THE WORD OF GOD HELPS US TO PRAY

“If you remain in Me, and My words remain in you, ask whatever you wish, and
it will be given you” (John 15:7).

“Ask whatever you wish” literally means to “ask as one who has the right – with
authority (to command).” Now the creative word is in OUR MOUTH!

L. THE WORD OF GOD IS STRONG IN US

24 “
Therefore everyone who hears these words of mine and puts them into practice
is like a wise man who built his house on the rock. 25 The rain come down, the
streams rose, and the winds blew and beat against the house; yet it did not fall,
because it had its foundations on the rock” (Matthew 7:24-25). See also verses
26,27.

Jesus said that the wise man who built his house on the rock was a picture of
those who hear His Word and obey it. The Word of God builds inner concrete
within our lives so that no matter what may come against us, we will stand strong.
 LESSON 2

GOD
God is far too great for us to fully understand. He has no beginning and He has no end,
there is no place where His presence is not felt. The Bible asks in Job 11:7, “Can you
fathom the mysteries of God? Can you probe the limits of the Almighty?” God lives in
heaven and He rules over the whole earth.

The Bible tells us, “This is what the Lord says: ‘Heaven is my throne and the earth is My
footstool…”(Isaiah 66:1). “God reigns over the nations, God is seated on His holy
throne” (Psalm 47:8).

A. WHAT IS GOD LIKE?

1. God Is The Creator of Everything (Nehemiah 9:6, Psalm 139:13).

2. God Is All-Powerful (Romans 9:19-21, I Chronicles 29:11, Ephesians 3:20).

3. God is All-Knowing (Hebrews 4:13, I John 3:20).

4. God is Holy (I Samuel 2:2).

5. God Is A Spirit (John 4:24).

6. God Is A Person You Can Know (James 4:8, Psalm 145:18).

7. God Is A Loving Father (I John 3:1).

B. GOD IS TOO GREAT TO LIVE IN TEMPLES (Acts 17:24,25,28).

C. WE ARE:

1. Created by God (Psalm 139:14-16).

2. Owned By God (I Corinthians 6:19,20).

3. Called To Worship God (Revelation 4:11).

D. MAKE A DECISION
Jesus said, “Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with
all your mind” (Matthew 22:37).

The Bible tells us about a man called Joshua. He was a great leader of the nation of
Israel. Joshua then challenged all the people to make a decision:

“…choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve, whether the gods your
forefathers served beyond the river, or the gods of the Amorites, in whose land
you are living. BUT AS FOR ME AND MY HOUSEHOLD, WE WILL SERVE
THE LORD” (Joshua 24:15).

The same challenge comes to each of us. Will you make the same commitment as Joshua
this day?

MY COMMITMENT

This day I give my worship to the only true God of heaven and earth, and surrender my
will, my life and possessions to Him. From this day, I determine never to worship any
other gods. My worship is for Him only, and I will teach others the truths about God.

A FINAL WORD

Remember the law of multiplying the Kingdom of God. It is your turn to teach someone
else about God and teach him or her to teach another person.
 LESSON 3

MAN AND SATAN

A. MAN- THE IMAGE OF GOD- MADE TO HAVE DOMINION

“Then God said, ‘Let Us make man in our image, in our likeness, and let them rule over
the fish of the sea and the birds of the air, over the livestock, over all the earth, and over
all the creatures that move along the ground.’ So God created man in His own image, in
the image of God He created him; male and female He created them” (Genesis 1:26,27).

B. LUCIFER

God created many wonderful things before He created the heavens and the earth. Among
them were the angels – spirit beings whose purpose is to fulfill God’s will. Angels
worship God and serve Him continually (Revelation 5:11-14).

When Lucifer rebelled, God cast him out of Heaven. At the same time, one-third of the
angels joined in his rebellion and were cast out with Lucifer (Revelation 12:4, Isaiah
14:12-14).

Lucifer was cast to the earth, where he is now known as “Satan” or “The Devil.”
Separated from the glory of the Creator God, he lost the beauty and light he had once had
(Ezekiel 28:11-17) and became evil and full of darkness.

C. THE TEMPTATION

God gave His first man and woman (Adam and Eve) authority over all the earth, and told
them to keep it under His dominion.

Genesis 2:9,17; Genesis 2:15-17; I Timothy 2:14; Genesis 3:6.

D. THE RESULT

Through that one act of sin, man lost the glory and image of God and the dominion over
the Creation. Satan then took the throne vacated by Adam and Eve and exercised his
dominion over the earth, and death filled the world (Hebrews 2:14,15).

“…sin entered the world through one man, and death through sin, and in this way death
came to all men, because (in Adam) all sinned…”(Romans 5:12).

All the generations following Adam and Eve have inherited their fallen nature. All have
come under the power and dominion of Satan. Ephesians 2:1-3.
People’s hearts, everywhere, are now filled with:

1. Idolatry (Romans 1:21-23).

2. Immorality (Romans 1:24-27).

3. All Kinds of Wickedness (Romans 1:28-32).

E. GOD’S GREAT PLAN TO RESTORE

“For as in Adam all die, so in Christ all will be made alive” (I Corinthians 15:22). The
New Testament records the story of Christ, the One who would come to save us from our
sins.
 LESSON 4

JESUS

A. JESUS IS THE SON OF GOD

Two thousand years ago a man appeared on the scene of history. He was born into the
world and grew up into manhood just like every other person, but this man was different
to anyone else. He was no ordinary man.

A virgin conceived by the Holy Spirit to bring Him to birth. He was God Himself,
coming to the earth in human form. He was the “Son of God” (Luke 1:26-35, John
1:1,14).

B. JESUS CAME TO THE WORLD FOR A SPECIAL PURPOSE

1. To Rescue Mankind From Satan’s Power (Luke 19:10, Colossians 1:13).

2. To Give His Life As A Ransom to Buy Us Back (Matthew 20:28).

3. To Destroy The Works Of Satan in Our Lives (I John 3:8).

4. To Give Us Eternal Life (I John 5:11,12, John 3:16,17 and John 10:10).

5. To Give Us New “Birth” Into The Family of God (John 1:12, 1 John 3:1,2).

6. To Restore Our Fellowship With God The Father (I John 1:3).

C. JESUS CAME TO SHOW US WHAT GOD IS LIKE
(John 14:7-11, see also John 1:18)

1. He Showed Us God’s Love (I John 4:9,10, see also Romans 5:8)

2. He Showed Us God’s Power

a. He Healed The Sick, The Lame and The Blind. (Matthew 4:24 see also
John 9:1-7)

b. He Cast Out Evil Spirit. (Mark 1:34, see also Mark 5:1-17)

c. He Performed Miracles. (Mark 4:37-41, see also John 6:1-21).

d. He Raised The Dead. (John 11:43,44).

D. JESUS SHARED OUR SUFFERINGS IN HIS LIFE

During His life on earth Jesus experienced all the troubles of life that we face,
and so understands how we feel. (Hebrews 4:15, see also Matthew 8:17).

E. JESUS DIED ON THE CROSS FOR US

Wicked men took the Lord Jesus and executed Him by nailing Him to a wooden
cross like a common criminal. He could have saved Himself, but He did not, for
it was through His death on the Cross that God was going to save the world.
Jesus died for us! (Read Mark 15:16-39, I Peter 2:24, see also Isaiah 53:5,6.)
F. JESUS ROSE FROM THE DEAD FOR US
After three days in the tomb God raised His Son from the dead! (Read Matthew
28). This, too, was for us! Ephesians 2:4-6, see also Romans 6:4).

G. JESUS OPENED THE DOOR OF HEAVEN FOR US

When His work on earth was completed, Jesus returned to Heaven to be with
God, His Father. But this, too, was for us…for He opened the way into God’s
presence for us-where we can live now and forever! (Hebrews 10:19-22, see also
John 14:1-3).

MY COMMITMENT

Today I acknowledge that Jesus is the Son of God and that He came into the
world to meet my great need of a Savior. I will also tell others that He came
to the world for them.
 LESSON 5

THE CROSS

When Jesus Christ was put to death by being nailed to a wooden cross, wicked men
thought they were just executing a man who was disturbing their way of life. They did
not realize that the Cross was planned by God from the beginning of the world.

A. GOD DEALS WITH ALL SIN

Through His Son’s death on the Cross, the great Creator God was dealing with every
person’s sin, suffering and sorrow. Jesus was dying in the place of every individual in
the world. Receiving personally what He has done on the Cross brings the answer to all
our needs.

1. God Reveals His Power Through The Cross (I Corinthians 1:18, see also
Romans 1:16).

2. God Shows His Love On The Cross (Romans 5:8).

3. God Removed Our Sorrows On The Cross (Isaiah 53:4).

4. Jesus Took The Punishment For Our Sins On The Cross (Isaiah 53:5,6, see
also I Peter 2:24).

B. NEW RELATIONSHIP WITH GOD THROUGH THE CROSS

1. We Become Acceptable to God Through The Cross (II Corinthians 5:21).

2. We Receive Forgiveness Through The Cross Colossians 1:13,14, see also I

John 2:1,2.
 3. We Become Members of God’s Family Through the Cross (Hebrews 2:11,12
see also John 1:12).

4. Racial Barriers Are Broken Through The Cross (Ephesians 2:13-16).

C. FREEDOM THROUGH THE CROSS

The Cross has won great freedom for us!

1. Freedom From Satan (Colossians 2:15, see also Colossians 1:13).

2. Freedom From Past Sins (John 8:36, see Also Colossians 2:13)

3. Freedom From Present Sins (Romans 6:14).

4. Freedom From Sickness (Matthew 8:17).

5. Freedom From Curse (Galatians 3:13 see also Deuteronomy 28:15-68).

6. Freedom From Judgment (Hebrews 9:26,27).

7. Freedom From Everlasting Death (John 3:16).

D. LOVE AND JUSTICE MEET AT THE CROSS (Romans 5:8-11).

E. THE CROSS IS THE CENTER OF HISTORY
The Cross of Jesus Christ is the center point of mankind’s existence on earth. From the
moment the first man and woman sinned (see Genesis 3), it was pre-planned by God that
Jesus would die on the Cross.

From that time on, people looked forward in faith to what God promised He would do on
the Cross to save them. Today, we look back and by believing what Jesus has done for us
on the Cross, receive forgiveness and new life.

MY COMMITMENT

Today I put my whole trust in what God was doing for me when Jesus died on the
Cross. I believe He took the punishment for my sin. I receive the forgiveness that
God is offering to me. And I thank Him for the relationship this now gives me with
Him. I make a decision today that I will live each day in this personal relationship
with God and commit myself to share this truth with others.
 LESSON SIX

THE BLOOD OF CHRIST

The shedding of Jesus Christ’s blood on the Cross was a factor in order for us to receive
forgiveness for our sins and acceptance into the presence of God.

“…without the shedding of blood there is no forgiveness” (Hebrews 9:22).

A. LIFE IS IN THE BLOOD (Leviticus 17:11).

When we sin, we earn death. “The wages of sin is death” (Romans 6:23). Jesus paid this
penalty for us by shedding His blood (dying for us – in our place).

Atonement (at-one-ment) means to be made AT ONE with God. Jesus gave His life
(shed His blood) on the Cross for our AT ONE MENT (atonement). This made it
possible for us to be AT-ONE with God. Jesus’ blood means we are no longer His
enemy but His friend, His sons and daughters. By faith we accept what He did for us.

B. WHAT SIN DOES TO OUR LIFE

1. Separates Us From God (Isaiah 59:2).

2. Makes Us Feel Guilty (Psalm 38:4).

3. Allows Satan To Accuse Us (Revelation 12:10).

4. Demands The Death Penalty (Ezekiel 18:4).

C. THE BLOOD IS FOR GOD

The blood of Christ wholly satisfies God’s law- which requires a penalty for breaking the
law. I John 3:4 says “sin is breaking the law.” The blood protects us from the penalty of
breaking the law (death).

In Exodus 12, God commands the people of Israel to put the blood of a lamb on their
door-posts to protect them from the destroyer- who would kill all the first-born. This
lamb was a picture of the Lamb- Jesus, who would come later. God said, “…when I see
the blood, I will pass over (protect) you…” (v.13).
 1. Fellowship Is Restored (Romans 5:8,9).

2. We Are Redeemed (Purchased Back From Slavery) (Ephesians 1:7).

D. THE BLOOD IS FOR MAN

The blood has satisfied God, now it is to satisfy us in the cleansing of our conscience
from guilt.

1. The Blood Cleanses From Guilt (Hebrews 9:14)

2. The Blood Sanctifies Us (Hebrews 13:12).

3. The Blood Brings Us Close To God (Colossians 1:20-22).

4. The Blood Gives Boldness To Enter God’s Presence (Hebrews 10:19-22).

5. The Blood Perfects Us In The Sight of God (Hebrews 10:14).

E. THE BLOOD IS FOR THE DEVIL

Satan’s most strategic activity in this age is as the accuser of the brethren (Revelation
12:10) and it is at this that the Lord confronts him in His special ministry as High Priest
through His own blood (Hebrews 9:11-14).

1. The Blood Puts God On Man’s Side Against the Devil (Romans 8:31,33,34).

2. The Blood Dissolves All Satan’s Legal Rights Of Ownership

“…in whom we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins” (Colossians 1:14).
‘Redemption’ means ‘to buy back.’ We are under new ownership, and the price
that was paid for us was the shed blood of Jesus.
 “…the church of God, which He brought with His own blood” (Acts 20:28). See
also I Corinthians 6:19,20 and I Timothy 2:6.

F. WHAT THE BLOOD OF CHIRST HAS BROUGHT US

1. Purity of Heart (I John 1:7)

2. Eternal Life (John 6:53-54)

3. Approach To God (Ephesians 2:13).

MY COMMITMENT

I now understand what the shed blood of Jesus means to God, to Satan, and to me. I
make my commitment to share with others the truth concerning the blood of Christ.
I will remind myself often of the covenant God has with me, to forgive my sin and
cleanse me from sin and protect me from Satan’s harm.
 LESSON SEVEN

THE RESURRECTION

After His death on the Cross, Jesus was dead for three days (Matthew 12:40). Then –
God raised His Son from the dead! (Read Matthew 28).

“…and who through the Spirit of Holiness was declared with power to be the Son of God
by His resurrection from the dead: Jesus Christ our Lord” (Romans 1:4).

A. GOD RAISED YOU UP TOGETHER WITH CHRIST

Jesus’ death was for you. So was His resurrection! (See Ephesians 2:1-6; Colossians 3:1-
3).

1. To Give You New Life (II Timothy 1:9,10).

2. To Give You New Birth (I Peter 1:3).

3. To Give You A New Beginning (II Corinthians 5:17).

4. To Give You:
a. Victory Over Satan. (I John 4:4; 5:4,5). See also Colossians 2:13-15.

b. Authority over Satan. (I Peter 3:21,22). See also Luke 10:17-19.

c. Power Over Satan. (Ephesians 1:18-23). See also Mark 16:15-18, Acts 1:8; and 4:33.

5. To Make You A Son and Heir in God’s Kingdom (Romans 8:15-17).

B. THE RESURRECTION MEETS EVERY NEED OF LIFE

1. It Is Your Deliverance From the PAST (Romans 6:4-10). See also Ephesians
2:1-7 and Colossians 2:12-15.

2. It Is Your Power For The PRESENT (Romans 8:31-39).

3. It Is Your Hope For The FUTURE (Colossians1:18, I Corinthians 15:17-23).

See also I Corinthians 15:5-57 and I Thessalonians 4:13-18.

MY COMMITMENT

Because of the resurrection of Christ, I make a commitment today to receive the

fullness of my new life and liberation in Him. I will stand fast in this truth and
share it with everyone I can.
 LESSON EIGHT

REPENTANCE

Repentance is the first step we take to receive the salvation that God offers to us in the
Lord Jesus Christ. (Acts 2:36-38). See also Acts 17:30.

A. WHAT REPENTANCE IS NOT

1. Not Just Feeling Guilty (Acts 24:25)

2. Not Just Being Sorry For Your Sin (II Corinthians 7:10)

3. Not Just Trying To Be A Good Person (Isaiah 64:6)

4. Not Becoming Religious (Matthew 3:7-10). See also Matthew 5:20

5. Not Just Knowing The Truth (see Romans 10:10, James 2:19,20)

B. WHAT TRUE REPENTANCE IS

1. Being Sorry To God For Your Sin (Psalm 51:1-4). See also Psalm 38:8.
2. Being Truthful About Your Sin (Psalm 32:5). See also I John 1:9.

3. Turning Away From Your Sin (Proverbs 28:13).

4. Hating Sin (Hebrews 1:9, Ezekiel 20:43,44).

5. When Possible, Paying Back To Others What You Owe (Luke 19:8). See also
Leviticus 6:1-7.

C. WHAT REPENTANCE INVOLVES

1. Turning From Sin (Zechariah 1:4 TLB). See also Galatians 5:19-21 and Ephesians
5:5.

2. Turning From The World (I John 2:15 TLB). See also James 4:4.

3. Turning From Yourself (II Corinthians 5:15 TLB) See also Luke 14:26.

4. Turning From The Devil (Acts 26:18 TLB). See also Colossians 1:13.
5. Turning To God (Zechariah 1:3).

6. Turning To Right-Living (Romans 6:13).

MY COMMITMENT

Today I decide to repent and will keep turning from sin as God reveals wrongdoing
to me.
 LESSON NINE

FAITH

Faith has always been the mark of a disciple of Jesus. The early disciples were known as
BELIEVERS. Jesus said: “…Everything is possible for him who believes” (Mark 9:23).

Faith means total dependence on God. This is the walk of faith to which all of us are
called – where ‘nothing is impossible’ (Matthew 17:20).

A. WHAT IS FAITH?
“Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see”
(Hebrews 11:1).

Faith means having trust, assurance or confidence in another person or that person’s
words.

B. TWO KINDS OF KNOWLEDGE

(I Corinthians 2:4-7). See also verses 8-16.

1. Sense Knowledge

2. Revelation Knowledge (II Corinthians 5:7).

C. THE BASIS OF FAITH

The basis of having faith in God is in three important realities:

1. The Nature of God (Hebrews 6:13).

a. He Cannot Change. (Malachi 3:6). See also James 1:17.

b. He Cannot Fail. (Job 42:2). See also I Chronicles 28:20.

c. He Cannot Lie. (Numbers 23:19). See also Titus 1:2.

2. The Redemptive Work of the Son of God (Hebrews 12:2, I Corinthians 1:30). See
also Romans 5:1,2.

3. The Word of God (Matthew 24:35). See also Isaiah 40:8, Jeremiah 1:12.

D. HOW FAITH WORKS

The principle of faith (Romans 3:27) is to operate in our lives continually, no matter what
the circumstances (see II Corinthians 5:7, James 1:5,6). It works in the following way:

1. God Gives Us Faith (compare Romans 1:17 and Habakkuk 2:4 NIV). (Ephesians
2:8,9, Romans 12:3).

2. Faith Comes By A Word From God

“…faith comes from hearing the Word, and is heard through the word of Christ”
(Romans 10:17). See also Genesis 15:3-5; 17:15-21; Joshua 1:8.

3. Obedience To The Word

For faith to operate in our situation, we must obey that word. Faith is ACTIVE, not
passive. Most of God’s promises are conditional – He will do His part, if we do our part.
“…faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead” (James 2:17). See 1:22-25;
Genesis 15:6; Matthew 7:24-27.

4. The Crisis, Or Trial Of Our Faith

This is a period of testing. (I Peter 1:6,7). See also Romans 4:16-21; Psalm 105:17-19.
In faith we cast ourselves on HIS FAITHFULNESS. In our times of doubt and struggle,
God is faithful and does not abandon us. (Hebrews 13:5).
5. The Result
The end result is always victory on the part of the believer, bringing glory to God (see
also James 1:2-4,12; Genesis 21:1-3; Psalms 105:19-22; Acts 3:16; Hebrews 6:13-15).

“…for everyone born of God has overcome the world. This is the victory that has
overcome the world, even our faith” (I John 5:4).

MY COMMITMENT
Today I decide to live by faith and trust God in all areas of my life. I acknowledge
my need to be totally dependent on God – which is faith in action. In problems,
challenges and difficulties I will rely on His faithfulness. God’s response will be His
grace –His enabling power. I will teach others also to rely on God’s faithfulness and
walk with faith in God.
 LESSON TEN

GRACE

“With great power the apostles continued to testify to the resurrection of the Lord Jesus
and MUCH GRACE was with them all” (Acts 4:33).

“From Attalia they sailed back to Antioch, where they had been COMMITTED TO THE
GRACE OF GOD for the work they had now completed” (Acts 14:26).

Why was the grace of God so important in the experience of the early Christians? Why
did the church in Antioch pray that the GRACE OF GOD would be upon Paul and
Barnabas, and later on Paul and Silas, as they set out their missionary journeys?

A. THE MEANING OF GRACE

The most common understanding of the word “grace” is: “God’s unmerited favour.”
This, however, is only half its meaning. It also means “God’s enabling power.” (II
Thessalonians 2:16,17). Not only does His grace make us accepted into the family of
God, but it also provides the power we need to live the Christian life. Two scriptures
indicate the two aspects of God’s grace in every believer.

1. God’s Unmerited Favor (Ephesians 2:8,9).

2. God’s Enabling Power (Ephesians 1:4-6).

“…grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ…” (II Peter
3:18).

B. GRACE GIVEN THE HEROES OF FAITH

This operating force of grace is revealed in the lives of men and women throughout the
whole Bible. Every hero of faith began his walk with God aware of his own weakness
and inability.
C. GRACE IN THE LIFE OF MOSES
Read Exodus 3:11-13; 4:1-13. When God told Moses to go down to Egypt and tell
Pharaoh to let His three million people go free from slavery, Moses’ immediate
response—out of his own weakness and inability—was as follows:
3:11 “Who am I?”
3:13 “Who are You?”
4:1 “They won’t believe me!”
4:10 “I’m not eloquent!”
4:13 “Lord, send someone else!”
But with God’s grace, Moses did go down to Egypt, and with signs and wonders brought
the people of Israel out a God told him to.

D. GRACE IN THE LIFE OF GIDEON Read Judges 6:1-24.

But despite his fear and inability, with God’s grace (enabling power) Gideon saved Israel.
And he did it with just a small band of men. It was GRACE that made the difference!

E. GRACE IN THE LIFE OF THE APOSTLE PAUL

Read Acts 15:40. Before Paul and Silas set out on their missionary journey together, the
church at Antioch prayed for them and “commended (them)…to the grace of the Lord”
for the work that was ahead of them. Read Paul’s description of his experiences in II
Corinthians 11:22-33. It is understandable that he was first commended to the grace of
God!
He needed it to survive! The Lord’s answer to Paul’s confession of weakness is His
promise for us too: “…My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in
weakness…” (II Corinthians 12:9).

F. GRACE RELEASED IN OUR LIVES

In our relationship with God – as we walk with Him each day—we constantly meet
situations that would try to overwhelm us. Our response to God is to trust His Word. We
express our trust through obedience.

This proves we believe what God’s Word says despite what the circumstances might
indicate. God’s response to our faith is His grace, His enabling power, which causes us
to triumph in every situation.
G. TWO IMPORTANT PROMISES

1. We Have Bold Access To The Throne (Hebrews 4:16).

2. God Is Able (II Corinthians 9:8).

MY COMMITMENT

Today I decide to receive God’s grace – His enabling power – into every area and
problem that arises in my life, and teach others to do the same also.
 LESSON ELEVEN

WATER BAPTISM
Jesus commanded all those who believed in Him to be baptized in water. “Then Jesus
came to them and said, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me.
Therefore, go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father
and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit…(Matthew 28:18,19). See also Acts 2:38-41.

To be “baptized” means to be “totally immersed.” When a person repents from his sin
and believes Jesus died for him, before many witnesses, he (or she) is to be taken to the
water, put right under it and brought up again. Why would Jesus command that His
believers do such a strange thing?

A. UNDERSTANDING BAPTISM

Understanding what water baptism is all about is the key to a victorious and liberated
Christian life.

B. FOUR STAGES OF CHIRST’S WORK PICTURED

1. He Died…I Died In Him (Romans 6:6,7).

2. He Was Buried…I Was buried With Him (Romans 6:3,4).

3. He Was Raised…I Have A New Life In Him (Romans 6:4,5).

4. He ascended…I Ascended In Him (Ephesians 2:6). See also Colossians 3:1.

C. WATER BAPTISM IS…

1. Your Funeral Service!

2. Your Resurrection To New Life! (Romans 6:8-11).

D. THE TWO KINGDOMS
“For He has rescued us from the dominion of darkness and brought us into the kingdom
of the Son He loves” (Colossians 1:13).

E. THE TWO RACES

As there are two kingdoms, so within each kingdom is a different race of people. The
Adamic Race populates the Kingdom of Darkness, and the New Creation populates the
Kingdom of God.

1. The First Adam

“For as in Adam all die…” (I Corinthians 15:22). See also Romans 5:12.

2. The Last Adam

“You see, at just the right time, when we were still powerless, Christ died for the
ungodly” (Romans 5:6).

3. The Second Man

(I Corinthians 15:22, I Corinthians 15:45-49).

4. The New Creation

(II Corinthians 5:17). See also Ephesians 2:10.

MY COMMITMENT

Through this study I now realize that my old life with its sin and judgment has been
put to death in Jesus’ death, and now because of Jesus’ resurrection I have a whole
new life to live. Because this is what water baptism pictures, I make this
commitment to be baptized in water and to share this truth with others.
 LESSON TWELVE

THE HOLY SPIRIT

After Jesus rose from the dead, He appeared to His disciples for 40 days. Then when
they were all gathered together with Him on the top of a high hill, He was taken up into
Heaven before their eyes (read Acts 1:1-11). However, before He left, Jesus gave His
believers a very special and wonderful promise. “…I will ask the Father, and He will
give you another Counselor to be with you forever—the Spirit of truth…I tell you the
truth: It is for your good that I am going away. Unless I go away, the Counselor will not
come to you; but if I go, I will send Him to you…” (John 14:16-18; 16:5-7). Jesus has not
left us alone in the world. He has sent us the Holy Spirit.

A. THE HOLY SPIRIT IS GOD

“Then Peter said, ‘Ananias, how is it that Satan has so filled your heart that you have
lied TO THE HOLY SPIRIT… You have not lied to men BUT TO GOD’” (Acts 5:3,4).
See also II Corinthians 3:17.

B. THE GIFT OF THE HOLY SPIRIT

(Acts 2:38,39). See also John 7:37-39.

C. THE WORK OF THE HOLY SPIRIT

1. In The Believer’s Personal Life

The Holy Spirit comes to dwell within the believer to minister to him personally:
a. He Testifies Of Our Relationship With God. (Romans 8:16). See also 1
John 3:24.

b. He Teaches. (John 14:26).

 c. He Guides. (Romans 8:14).

d. He Helps Us Live A Life Pleasing To God. (Galatians 5:16). See also verses
17-25.

e. He Helps Us In Prayer. (Romans 8:26).

f. He Gives Life To Our Bodies. (Romans 8:11).

2. In the Believer For Service

a. The Holy Spirit Gives Power and Boldness To Witness.

(Acts 1:8). See also Acts 2:14-40.

b. He Introduces The Supernatural Realm.

“There are different kinds of gifts, but the same Spirit… (I Corinthians 12:4, 8-
10). See also Acts 2:4; 10:46; 19:6.

c. He Testifies That Jesus Is Alive.

(Acts 5:30-32). See also Acts 4:31-33.
 d. He Brings A Fresh Understanding Of The Word of God.
(I Corinthians 2:9,10). See also John 16:13.

e. He Fills Our Spirit With True Worship To God.

(Ephesians 5:18,19). See also John 4:24.

f. He Glorifies Jesus.
(John 16:13-15). See also John 15:26.

D. HOW TO BE BAPTIZED IN THE HOLY SPIRIT

God wants His Holy Spirit, who indwells you because you are a believer in Jesus, to fill
you to overflowing with power to serve Him (Ephesians 5:18).

1. It Is A Gift Promised by God; So Ask For It.

(Luke11:13). See also verses 9-12.

2. Begin To Praise God As You Receive In Faith.

(Luke 24:52,53).

3. You Can Speak With A Supernatural Language.

(Acts 19:6). See also Mark 16:17; Acts 2:4; 10:45,46; I Corinthians 14:5,18)

MY COMMITMENT

I thank God for the Gift of the Holy Spirit in my life. I make a decision today to
respond to the Holy Spirit’s prompting and directing. I determine to learn to listen
for the voice of the Holy Spirit in my heart. I choose to be filled with the Spirit. I
now open my spirit to be filled with the Holy Spirit.
 LESSON THIRTEEN

TEMPTATION

A. SATAN ATTACKS
Satan attacks the individual Christian mostly through temptation. And he focuses this
assault in two spheres:

1. The Desires Of The World

“Do not love the world or anything in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love
of the Father is not in him” (I John 2:15). See also James 4:4; I Timothy 6:6-11.

2. The Desires of The Flesh

Through Christ’s work on the Cross, the true Christian is delivered from the results of
sin, and from the power of sin (Romans 6:6-14). But he still lives in a physical body that
is subject to natural appetites and desires. Satan will use these to try and get a Christian
to place greater importance upon them than upon the promptings of the Holy Spirit within
him (Romans 8:5-9). See also James 1:14; Ephesians 2:3.

B. SATAN’S ORIGINAL VICTORY

It was in the areas of the world and the flesh that Satan won his original victory in the
temptation of the first man and woman, and these are still his tactics today.
(I John 2:16 AMP).

Compare Eve’s Temptation With This Verse:

Genesis 3:6 I John 2:16
Good FOR FOOD “Lust of the flesh”
Pleasing TO THE EYE “Lust of the eyes”
Desirable for GAINING WISDOM “Pride of life”

Since the fall of Adam and Eve, all mankind has been governed by their flesh (the three
things outlined above). The flesh is also corrupted by a sinful nature (Galatians 5:19-21).
C. VICTORY WON BY CHRIST
1. Through His Life (Hebrews 4:15).
Compare Jesus’ Temptation With This Verse:

Luke 4:1-13 I John 2:16

Stones to bread “Lust of the flesh”
Kingdoms of the earth “Lust of the eyes”
Pinnacle of the temple “Pride of life”

2. Through His Death And Resurrection

(Romans 8:9, Romans 6:8-14, Romans 8:3,4).

D. THE CHRISTIAN’S CONTINUAL VICTORY

Here are seven keys to continual victory:

1. Know That The Victory Is Already Won (Hosea 4:6).

2. Walk In Step With The Spirit (Galatians 5:22-25).

3. Recognize Temptation For What It Is (James 1:15). See Genesis 4:6,7.

4. Understand There Is A Way of Escape Provided (I Corinthians 10:13, James 4:7)

5. Keep The Right Focus In Life (Colossians 3:1,2). See also Philippians 4:8; I
Timothy 6:11,12; II Peter 3:11-13.
6. Keep Away From Obvious Areas Of Temptation (Psalm 101:3). See also I
Timothy 6:9-11.

7. Be Aware Of Satan’s Schemes (II Corinthians 2:11).

a. He is a liar (John 8:44).
b. He is a slanderer and accuser (Revelation 12:10).
c. He is a deceiver (Revelation 12:9).
d. He is a tempter (Matthew 4:1-11).
e. He is an oppressor (Acts 10:38).
f. He is a hinderer (I Thessalonians 2:18).
g. He is a roaring lion (I Peter 5:8).
h. He can transform himself into an angel of light (II Corinthians 11:14).

As Christians, we are called to live in VICTORY! Through Christ, this victory is ours:
• Over the world (I John 5:4).
• Over the flesh (Galatians 5:16).
• Over the enemy (Ephesians 6:11,13).

MY COMMITMENT

I thank God for His promise to deliver me during time of temptation. I commit
myself to respond to His help which is always available so that I can live in victory.
I will share this truth with others also.
 LESSON FOURTEEN

FELLOWSHIP

A. THE PURPOSE OF FELLOWSHIP

The fellowship of Christians together is very important, for it is in our unity together
that…

1. The Believer Is Encouraged And Grows In Christ (Romans 1:11,12).

2. The World Comes To Know That Jesus Was Sent Of God (John 17:22,23).

B. CONDITIONS OF FELLOWSHIP

1. A Basic Commitment To One Another (Romans 12:10).

2. Our Commitment Must Be Based On ‘Agape’ (I John 13:34).

3. True Fellowship is Christ-Centered (I John 1:3). See also Philippians 2:1,2.

4. Walking In The Light

Our fellowship embraces the need to be open, honest and truthful with one another. This
at times may mean:
a. Confessing Our Own Sins To Others, Or Lovingly Covering Another’s Sin.
(I John 1:6,7). See also Matthew 18:15.
 b. Obedience To The Light—general and specific commandments God has given.

c. The Removal Of Any Masks Or False Coverings. (I Peter 1:22).

5. A Genuine Interest In The Other’s Well-Being

There should be no hidden motives of self-gain. Our desire should be to give, not to get.
(Philippians 2:3,4).

6. A Willingness To Lay Down One’s Life (John 15:12,13, James 2:15,16).

C. FELLOWSHIP IN THE CHURCH MEANS-

1. Sharing All Things

There were three stages of development in their fellowship in Acts 4:32—firstly, they
were of one heart (spirit), then they were of one soul (mind), and then followed the
physical expression of having all things in common. (Acts 2:44,45).

2. Laying Down Their Lives (Romans 16:3,4).

3. Devoted To Serving The Brethren (I Corinthians 16:15).

4. Being A Channel Of Supply To Others In Need (II Corinthians 8:14). See also I
Corinthians 16:17.

5. Sharing In Suffering (Philippians 4:14).

6. Sacrificial Giving (II Corinthians 8:2,3).

7. Practicing Hospitality (III John 5). See also Hebrews 13:2.

8. Building Up and Encouraging One Another (I Thessalonians 2:8). See II Timothy

3:10-14.

D. RESULTS OF FELLOWSHIP
The results of fellowship in the early Church were:
• a fear of God (Acts 2:43);

• joy (Acts 2:46);

• favour with all people (Acts 2:47);

• addition of new believers (Acts 2:47);

 • all needs supplied (Philippians 4:19);

• emergence of leadership (I Corinthians 16:15,16).

MY COMMITMENT

Through this study I now understand the importance of having fellowship

continually with other Christians. Today I commit myself to being a part of a group
of believes to whom I will give my loyalty, my love and my service.
 LESSON FIFTEEN

GENEROSITY

“The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of His hands. Day
after day they pour forth speech; night after night they display knowledge” (Ps. 19:1,2).
Read also verses 3,4.
From this psalm, we learn that God’s Creation (the heavens and the earth)
• declare the glory of God,
• proclaim the work of His hands
• pour forth speech, and
• display knowledge.

We can learn from God’s Creation if we examine it carefully. Just as there are physical
laws which bring order out of the chaos in the universe, God has also put into motion
spiritual laws which govern life. One of these is the Law of Generosity. This teaches us
that “whoever sows generously will also reap generously” (II Corinthians 9:6).

A. PARTNERSHIP
As partners with God (I Corinthians 3:9; II Corinthians 5:20; 6:10), it is important for us
to understand where responsibilities lie:

1. Ownership Is With God

The earth is the Lord’s, and everything in it; the world, and all who live in it” (Psalm
24:1). See also Psalm 89:11; Job 41:11; I Chronicles 29:10-14.

2. Stewardship Is With Us
The Lord holds us accountable for the special responsibility of managing and taking care
of the things He has given us (read Matthew 25:14-30). When we understand this
Owner-Steward relationship with God’s property, then it becomes easy to give.

Before God, stewardship covers every single thing that belongs to us:
a. Our Life (Acts 17:25; I Corinthians 6:19; Galatians 2:20; Job 33:4).

b. Our Time (Psalm 90:12; Ephesians 5:15,16; Colossians 4:5).

c. Our Talents and Abilities (I Peter 4:10; I Corinthians 12:4-7,11).

 d. Our Possessions (Matthew 6:19-21; Colossians 3:1,2).

e. Our Finances (I Timothy 6:6-10,17-19; Matthew 6:24).

f. The Message of the Gospel (I Corinthians 4:1; 9:16,17; I Timothy 6:20).

B. GIVING IN THE EARLY CHURCH

“All the believers were together and had everything in common. Selling their
possessions and goods, they gave to anyone as he had need… No one claimed that any of
his possessions was his own, but they shared everything they had” (Acts 2:44,45 and
4:32).

1. The Church Supported The Needy (see Acts 6:1-3)

2. Churches Gave Sacrificially To One Another

When the Jewish Christians in Jerusalem were in famine, the poor, suffering Gentile
church helped them. (II Corinthians 8:2,3). See also verses 1,4.

3. The Church Supported Traveling Ministries

The Apostle Paul traveled from place to place establishing new churches. On some
occasions he worked with his hands to provide his own support (Acts 18:3; II
Thessalonians 3:7-9). On other occasions the Philippian church showed the true spirit of
giving which God commends, by supporting traveling ministries such as Paul.
(Philippians 4:18). Read also verses 15-17.

4. Christians Worked To Be Able To Give (Ephesians 4:28).

5. Giving Was The Proof Of Their Love (II Corinthians 8:14,24). See also verses 7-
15; I Corinthians 16:1,2; I John 3:17,18.
C. GOD’S PRINCIPLES OF GIVING
In I Corinthians 10:11, we are told to learn from Israel’s example. We are to apply the
principles given them by God. At the same time we are to avoid the mistakes Israel (and
the leaders) made in the wilderness. In the area of giving, we find some excellent
guidelines that can help us in our giving:

1. God Expects Us To Begin With a Percentage. (Malachi 3:10).

2. We Are To Give Systematically and Regularly (II Chronicles 31:11,12).

3. We Are To Give The First And Best To The Lord (Proverbs 3:10).

MY COMMITMENT

I realize, through this study, the importance of having a generous heart and attitude
towards others. Today I commit myself to begin a life of giving by starting to tithe
(give a tenth of my income to the Lord’s work). I will also encourage and teach
others to do the same.

“But you are a chosen people…a people belonging to God, that you may declare the
praises of Him who called you out of darkness into His wonderful light” (I Peter 2:9)
 LESSON SIXTEEN

KINGDOM LIVING

A. CHANGE OF AUTHORITY
We have been delivered from Satan’s dominion (rulership or headship). We are now
under a whole new authority—that of the Lord Jesus. As a believer begins growing in his
new life in the Lord, he soon discovers that the only way we enjoy living in God’s
Kingdom is in right RELATIONSHIP WITH JESUS (Ephesians 1:17; Philippians 3:10).

At the very beginning of our new life with God, this relationship takes two distinct forms:

1. Savior
Jesus has saved us from:
a. God’s judgment (I Thessalonians 1:10; 5:9; Romans 5:9).

b. Satan’s Power (Acts 26:18; Colossians 1:13; Hebrews 2:14; I John 3:8).

c. Our Own Selves (Philippians 3:19; II Corinthians 5:15; Titus 3:3-6; I Peter
1:18, Hebrews 5:8,9). See also Hebrews 2:10; II Timothy 1:10).

2. Lord
Knowing Jesus as Savior brings us into God’s Kingdom, but that is not where our
relationship with Him ends. Once we are inside His Kingdom, that relationship takes on
dramatic new changes. Now we know Him not merely as Savior, but as Lord—OUR
Lord! He is KING in His Kingdom (Colossians 2:6, I Corinthians 12:3). See also John
13:13; Romans 1:4; I Corinthians 8:6; I Corinthians 4:5.

B. THE MODEL CITIZEN

“Let your attitude toward life be that of Christ Jesus Himself…” (Philippians 2:5,
Philips). (John 13:13-15). Read also John 13:5-17; Matthew 20:26-28; Luke 22:27.
C. SUBJECTS OF THE KING
As members of Christ’s Kingdom, we enter into a master-servant relationship with Him
(Matthew 6:24).

Jesus came to do His Father’s will (Hebrews 10:5-9). In His day-to-day life, He
displayed what the lifestyle of the Kingdom is all about: living to please God (Ephesians
5:8-10). We are to have this servant heart, just as He had a servant’s heart.

Many Christians do not like the concept of being a servant because it seems to make one
person inferior to another. But in the Bible, we find four interesting paradoxes:

1. In Slavery, There is Freedom

(Romans 6:22). Read also verses 16-23; 12:1; I Corinthians 7:2; II Corinthians 3:17;
Ephesians 6:6,7; I Peter 2:16.

2. In Being A Servant, There Is Greatness

(Matthew 23:11,12). See also 20:26,27; Mark 9:35; 10:43; John 12:26.

3. In Humility, There is Exaltation

(Matthew 18:4). See also Luke 18:14; Proverbs 29:23; James 4:10; I Peter 5:5,6;
Matthew 19:30.

4. In Submission, There Is Authority

The Roman Centurion (a military leader over 100 soldiers) who came to Jesus understood
this principle… (Luke 7:7,8).

Because the Centurion was under authority, he was able to exercise authority, and he
readily submitted to Jesus’ authority. Read also verses 1-10; James 4:7.

The lifestyle of the Kingdom of God is an attitude of SUBMISSION and OBEDIENCE

TO GOD (see Matthew 12:50; Ephesians 6:6; Hebrews 13:21; I John 2:17; I
Thessalonians 4:1). We submit ourselves to God’s will—NOT reluctantly—because of
fear or duty—but rather:

a. Because Of All God Has Done For Us (Romans 12:1; Ephesians 4:1; Titus 3:4-7)
 b. Because In Doing So We Find Fulfillment (Psalm 40:8)

c. Because of Love (John 14:15; I John 5:3)

D. FRUIT OF THE KINGDOM (I Thessalonians 2:11,12). See also II Thessalonians

1:5.

In Matthew 21:43, Jesus said that the Kingdom would belong to those who “produce its
fruit.” The fruit of the Kingdom is explained in a number of Scriptures:
• Love, joy, peace (Galatians 5:22,23).

• Goodness, righteousness, truth (Ephesians 5:9; James 3:13-17).

• Righteousness, peace, joy (Romans 14:17; Hebrews 12:11)

Since we were created by God, we were also made for His Kingdom and its lifestyle.
The fruit of that Kingdom is simply the natural outworking of the miracle of rebirth that
the Holy Spirit has performed in us (see Galatians 5:22).

Our responsibility as citizens of God’s Kingdom is to live like the people we now are! (I
Peter 2:11). “We also pray that your outward lives, which men see, may bring credit to
your master’s name, and that you may bring joy to his heart” (Colossians 1:10 Phillips).
See also 2:6; Ephesians 4:1; 6:8-10.

MY COMMITMENT

I realize, after studying about Kingdom Living, that I am to submit my life to the
service of others, just as Jesus did. I commit myself to being a willing, joyful servant
of Christ and others.
 LESSON SEVENTEEN

WORSHIP

A. BLESSING GOD
“Bless the Lord, O my soul: and all that is within me, bless His holy name” (Psalm
103:1- NASB). It is awesome to consider that we have the ability to bless our Creator,
but time after time in the Scripture we are exhorted to do just that. We bless Him through
our praise and worship of Him. See Psalm 34:1-3.

B. PRAISE
Praise is an expression of admiration and appreciation. When we praise someone, we tell
them how wonderful we think they are, or how great their accomplishments are. It is the
same with the Lord. Praise has to do with acknowledging God’s character and power.
“Because your love is better than life, my lips will glorify You. I will praise you as long
as I live, and in Your name I will lift up My hands” (Psalm 63:3,4).

1. Why Do We Praise God?

a. Because Of Who He Is. (Psalm 47:6,7).

b. Because of What He Does. (Psalm 103:1-5).

2. Who Is To Praise God?

a. Those Who Seek God. (Psalm 22:26).

b. Everything That Has Breath. (Psalm 150:6).

3. When Do We Praise God?

a. At All Times. (Psalm 34:1).

b. In Every Circumstance. (I Thessalonians 5:16-18).

4. Where Are We To Praise God?
a. Surrounded By God’s People. (Hebrews 2:12).

b. Among The Nations. (Psalm 57:9).

c. On Our Beds. (Psalm 63:4-6).

C. WORSHIP
Whereas praise is an expression of admiration and appreciation, worship is an expression
of love and adoration. It is possible to admire someone and appreciate what they do
without being in love with them. In the same way, worship has to do with our love of the
Lord. It can be expressed only with the giving of our whole heart and life to Him. (Mark
12:33).

The religious rituals and ceremonies of Israel in the OT became detestable to the Lord
because their heart was far from Him (Isaiah 1:10-15; 29:13). Today, also, God is only
interested in the genuine and sincere worship that comes from the heart. (John 4:23,24).
Read also verses 4-26.

1. In Spirit
Our spirit is called the “inner man” (Ephesians 3:16).
True worship requires the action of the Holy Spirit on our spirit. So, only those who have
been “born again of the Spirit” through faith in Jesus Christ can truly worship God (John
3:5-8).

2. In Truth
To worship God in truth is to worship Him as the Bible says we should. Nadab and
Abihu (the sons of the high priest) offered strange fire before the Lord and died (Number
3:4; 26:61). This sober warning illustrates the need to study God’s plan (the Tabernacle
of Moses) for priestly ministry.
There was sacrifice, cleansing, anointing and clothing before worship (Exodus 30:17-38).
You will note in Revelation 1:5,6 that we are “…washed from our sins in His own blood”
before being made “…priests unto God.” We must worship in truth—the Bible way.
D. EXPRESSIONS OF PRAISE AND WORSHIP IN SCRIPTURE

1. With The Mouth

a. Singing (Psalm 9:2,11)

b. Praising (Psalm 103:1)

c. Shouting (Psalm 47:1)

2. With The Hands

a. Lifting (Psalm 63:4)

b. Clapping (Psalm 47:1)

3. With The Body

a. Standing (Psalm 134:1)

b. Kneeling, bowing (Psalm 95:6)

c. Dancing and leaping for joy (Psalm 30:11)

“Who among the gods is like you, O Lord? Who is like you—majestic in holiness,
awesome in glory, working wonders?... Sing to the Lord, for He is highly exalted…”
(Exodus 15: 11,21).

“Among the gods there is none like you, O Lord…For you are great and do marvelous
deeds; You alone are God…I will praise you, O Lord my God, with all my heart; I will
glorify your name forever” (Psalm 86:8,10,12).

MY COMMITMENT

The greatest thing I will ever do in this life or in eternity is to worship God. I
determine today to be a true worshipper and to make this my supreme goal in life. I
will teach someone else this vital way of life also.
 LESSON EIGHTEEN

PRAYER

“He will call upon Me, and I will answer him… and show him My salvation” (Psalm
91:15,16). The time we spend with the Lord in prayer can release the most dynamic,
history-changing power this world has ever known.

The Bible describes many different operations of prayer, but in this lesson we are going
to look at prayer as an individual first. Our prayer as a Body together can only be as
strong as our personal time with the Lord.

A. THE SECRET PLACE

“But when you pray, go into your most private room, and closing the door, pray to your
Father who is secret; and your Father who sees in secret will reward you in the open”
(Matthew 6:6 AMP).

We have been invited into intimate prayer be none other than the Lord Himself. This
kind of “secret” prayer presupposes and ensures:

1. The Right Motives (Matthew 6:5).

2. A Right Relationship With God As Father (Luke 11:11-13).

3. A Real Trust In The Lord (Psalm 55:16,17).

4. A Dispensing Of False Fronts (Mark 7:6,7).

As we express our feelings and burdens in conversation with God, it can be in the form of
adoration (Psalm 34:1-4), confession (I John 1:9), request (Matthew 7:7), or thanksgiving
(Ephesians 5:4-20).

B. FIVE COMMANDS RELATED TO PRAYER

1. Watch and Pray Always (Luke 211:36). See also Mark 13:35-37.

2. Pray Lest You Fall Into Temptation (Matthew 26:41).

3. Pray For Workers (Luke 10:2).

4. Pray For Those In Authority (I Timothy 2:1,2).

5. Pray For Your Enemies (Luke 6:28).

C. WHEN TO PRAY
The Bible gives many examples of people who prayed (I Chronicles 4:10). Many of the
heroes of faith can be observed to have had regular times of the day set aside specifically
for prayer, often three set periods a day—at morning, noon and evening.
(Psalm 55:16,17 KJV). See also Daniel 6:10.

The best example of a daily pattern of regular, whole-hearted prayer—prayer that

avoided meaningless religious ritual—can be found in the Lord Jesus Himself:

1. Early In the Morning (Mark 1:35)

2. All Night (Luke 6:12)

3. Before Each Meal (Mark 6:41)

D. WHAT TO PRAY

1. For Ourselves (I Chronicles 4:10).

2. For One Another (James 5:16).

3. For The Ministries In The Body of Christ (II Thessalonians 3:1).

4. For The Sick And Distraught (James 5:14-16).

5. For Those Ensnared By Sin (I John 5:16).

E. HELP IN PRAYER (Romans 8:26).

Part of the Holy Spirit’s purpose is to teach us (Luke 12:12), guide us in prayer (Romans
8:27), and to help us in our faith (Ephesians 3:16,17). The Holy Spirit will sometimes
anoint a believer’s prayer in a special way, and this is called “praying in the Holy Spirit”
(Jude 20; Ephesians 6:18).

To help us in prayer, the Holy Spirit has also provided a special gift to the believer:
The Gift of Tongues—speaking in another language to the Lord in prayer. See I
Corinthians 12:4-11.

“…the prayer of the upright is His delight…He heareth the prayer of the righteous”
(Proverbs 15:8,29 KJV)

F. YOKEFELLOW
Two joining together in prayer provides some very real advantages: “Again I say unto
you, That if two of you shall agree on earth as touching anything that they shall ask, it
shall be done for them of My Father which is in heaven” (Matthew 18:19 KJV).

G. THE CHURCH PRAYING

If there is tremendous power when two people pray, what about the whole assembly of
God’s people? See Acts 4:24.

Today God is calling His people to prayer! The Church’s mission is to change individual
lives, families, communities, cities and nations through prayer!

MY COMMITMENT

Through this study I realize the wonderful opportunities of prayer—not only in my

relationship with God, but also the supernatural results that follow. I commit
myself to make prayer always a priority in my life.
 LESSON NINETEEN

HEAVEN

“…God is in heaven and you are on earth…Therefore stand in awe of God” (Ecclesiastes
5:2,7).

A. WHAT IS HEAVEN?

1. Heaven Is The Dwelling Place of God. See also Deuteronomy 26:15.

2. Heaven Is the Throne Room of God. Psalm 103:19.

3. Heaven Is The Place Of God’s Full Glory. (Daniel 7:9,10). See also Acts 7:55.

4. Heaven Is The Home Of The Righteous (Believing) Dead (II Corinthians 5:1).

5. Heaven Is The Future Home Of All Believers (Revelation 7:9,10).

B. THE NATURE OF HEAVEN

Heaven is a place far beyond anything we can possibly conceive (I Corinthians 2:9;
13:12). Heaven is like a place of holiness, full of glory and without end. But though the
Bible doesn’t describe all the details of what Heaven is like, it does give us some clues as
to its nature. It is:

1. A Place of Great Glory- (Matthew 13:43).

2. A Place of Continual Worship- (Revelation 19:1-6). See also Revelation 5:11,12.

3. A Place That Will Never End- (II Peter 1:11). See also I Peter 1:4.
4. A Place Untainted By Evil- (Revelation 21:27). See also Ephesians 5:5.

The Book of Revelation describes the New Jerusalem, coming out of Heaven, as a place
without:
• Night (22:5)

• Curse (22:3)

• Pain (21:4)

• Crying, sorrow (21:4)

• Death (21:4)

This is because the nature of Heaven is a product of the nature of God. Since Heaven is
the full manifestation of His presence, what God is like, Heaven is like a place of
holiness, full of glory and without end.

C. OUR LINK WITH HEAVEN

As believers, we now live our lives in a special relationship with Heaven, because:

1. We Belong There. (Hebrews 12:22,23). See also Philippians 3:20.

2. We Are Enthroned There. (Ephesians 2:6).

3. We Have Our Source Of Life There. (Ephesians 1:3). See also Colossians 3:1-4.

4. We Have Our Names Recorded There. (Luke 10:20). See also Hebrews 12:23.

5. We Have Been Sent By The One Who Lives There. (John 17:16,18). See also II
Corinthians 5:20.
6. We Have Our Eyes Fixed There. (II Corinthians 4:17,18). See also Hebrews
11:9,10, 14-16).

7. We Have Our Treasure There. (I Peter 1:3,4). See also Matthew 6:19-21.

8. We Are Being Called There. (Philippians 3:13,14).

Jesus Himself, before returning to Heaven, made a special promise to every believer:
“Do not let your hearts be troubled. Trust in God, trust also in me. In my Father’s
house are many rooms: if it were not so, I would have told you. I am going there to
prepare a place for you. And If I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and
take you to be with me that you also may be where I am” (John 14:1-3). See also
17:24.

MY COMMITMENT

I decide today to set my affections on things in Heaven, not on things of this

earth. I realize my life on earth is only temporary, so I will live by priorities
established by this truth. I will share with others the good news about this
wonderful eternal home Jesus offers to all who will believe on Him.
 LESSON TWENTY

THE SECOND COMING

“Whenever you eat this bread and drink this cup, you have proclaimed the Lord’s death
UNTIL HE COMES” (I Corinthians 11:26).

A. THE PROMISE OF HIS RETURN

The Second Coming of the Lord Jesus to the earth is one of the most important subjects
for the Christian. The writers of the New Testament discussed it more than 300 times,
and the language used was almost always imperative. The first thing we need to know
about the Second Coming is that it is CERTAIN!

1. Jesus Spoke About His Own Return. (Matthew 24:30). See also John 14:2,3.

2. Angels Foretold It. (Acts 1:10,11).

3. The Early Christians Encouraged One Another With It. (I Thessalonians 4:16-
18). See also Revelation 1:7.

4. The Holy Spirit Bears Witness Of It. (II Corinthians 5:5, James 5:7,8). See also
Hebrews 10:37.

B. HOW WILL JESUS RETURN?

1. Unexpectedly (I Thessalonians 5:1-3) Read also verses 4-11.

2. Like The Lightning (Matthew 24:27). See also Luke 17:24.

3. In The Same Way That He Left (Acts 1:10,11).

4. With Great Power And Glory (Luke 21:27).

5. In Full View Of All (Revelation 1:7).

C. DRAMATIC EVENTS TO TAKE PLACE

1. The Mystery Of The Ages Will Be Completed. (Revelation 10:6,7). See also
Romans 16:25,26.

2. God’s People Will Enter Their Full Glory. (Philippians 3:20,21). See also I
Corinthians 15:35-53.

3. The Dead In Christ Will Be Raised To Life. (II Corinthians 4:14). See also John
6:40; 11:25.

4. Those Believers Still Alive Will be Caught Up To Meet Him. (Matthew 24:31).

5. Creation Will Be Set Free From Its Bondage. (Romans 8:19-21). Read also verse
22 and Isaiah 35:1-7).

6. Every Enemy Will Be Destroyed. (I Corinthians 15:24,25). See also II

Thessalonians 1:7-10; 2-8.

7. Satan Will Be Bound. (Revelation 20:1,2). Read also verses 3,7-10.

8. Judgment Will Be Meted Out. (II Thessalonians 1:6-9).

9. A Kingdom Will Be Set Up That Will Never Be Destroyed. (Daniel 2:44). See also
Revelation 19:15,16.

MY COMMITMENT

The Second Coming of Jesus is my great hope for the future. I will tell as many
people as possible about Jesus, my Savior, before He returns again. I am committed
to Him and look with excitement for that day of His Coming.
 LESSON TWENTY-ONE

THE CALL OF GOD

God has a plan for the life of every individual believer in the Lord Jesus Christ. Not only
does His call involve a wonderful purpose for us throughout eternity, but we also have an
expression of that call upon the earth now.

“Who has saved us, and CALLED us with an holy calling…according to His own purpose
and grace…” (II Timothy 1:9)

“Now if we are children, then we are heirs— heirs of God and co-heirs with Christ…And
we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him, who have been
CALLED ACCORDING TO HIS PURPOSE” (Romans 8:17,28). See also verses 29,30.

A. GOD HAS CALLED US

1. From The Foundation Of The World (Ephesians 1:4,5). See also 2:10 and Matthew
25:34).

2. To Be Separated Unto Him (I Peter 2:9). See also Romans 9:23-26.

3. To Fulfill His Purpose (II Timothy 1:8,9). See also Romans 8:28, Philippians 3:14.

B. OUR CALL ON EARTH

“Paul, a servant (slave) of Christ Jesus, called to be an apostle and set apart for the
gospel of God” (Romans 1:1).

In describing His own ministry, the Apostle Paul gives us an example of the call that is
upon EVERY believer. It has three aspects:

1. The General Calling-“A Slave of Christ”

Jesus paid a high price for us: His own life. (I Corinthians 7:22,33). See also I
Corinthians 6:19,20.
2. The Special Calling –“Called To Be An Apostle”
Just as the Apostle Paul had a special calling upon his life, so does every believer. Paul
was called to be an apostle, but there are many different callings in the Body of Christ.
See Romans 12:3-8; Ephesians 4:7-16. The special part that God has for us to play will
be revealed to us as we earnestly seek His will.

3. The Particular Calling -- “Separated To The Gospel”

Within each special calling there is a particular calling. For example, Peter and Paul
were both apostles, but one was the apostle to the Jews and the other to the Gentiles. See
Romans 11:13; I Timothy 2:7; I Corinthians 12:4-11.

We move into our special and particular calling only as we prove ourselves as “love-
slaves,” for we must first learn to be wholly under the authority of Christ before we can
be SENT by Him. See Matthew 28:18,19.

C. WHY DOES HE CALL US?

1. Because The World Is In Darkness (I John 5:19). See also Ephesians 6:12 and
Colossians 1:13).

2. Because People Are Hungry and In Need (Matthew 9:36).

3. To Prove His Wisdom (Ephesians 3:10,11).

4. Because The Time Is Short (John 4:35). See also John 9:4.

D. WHAT HAPPENS WHEN WE ARE CALLED?

1. We Are Made By Him. (Matthew 4:19). See also Jeremiah 18:1-10.

2. We Are Taught By Him. (John 14:26). See also I Corinthians 2:12; I John 2:27).

3. We Are Sent By Him. (John 17:18). See also Mark 16:15. When God calls, He
comes and interrupts our lives. Some examples of this in the Scripture are:
 Moses (a shepherd in the desert): “Go, set my people free” (Exodus 3:1-12).
Samuel (a boy serving in the temple): “Wake up, speak for me” (I Samuel 3:1-19)
Ezekiel (a captive in a foreign land): “Stand up, I am sending you” (Ezekiel 2:1-7.
Disciples (businessmen, fishermen): “Come, follow me” (Luke 5:27,28; Matthew
4:18-22).
Saul (an enemy of the Church): “Go, I will tell you what you must do” (Acts 9:1-9).

MY COMMITMENT

Now that I realize that God has had a plan for my life even before the foundation of
the world, I now make a total commitment to this plan and will follow the Lord all
the way. I will teach others also about God’s call for their lives.