For no one can lay any foundation

other than the one already laid,

which is Jesus Christ.
1 Corinthians 3:11

Grow
Instead, speaking the truth in love, we will in all things
grow up into him who is the Head, that is, Christ.
Ephesians 4:15

(God’s Word, Prayer, Fellowship)

FOUNDATIONS

July 2022
Version 2.0
foundationsglobal.com
Copyright 2022 Foundations Global.
May be copied or reproduced without permission for educational use only.
Not for sale or distribution
 Table of Contents

Chapter 1. God’s Word ............................................................................................................................ 3

Chapter 2. Experience Life Change ....................................................................................................... 16
Chapter 4. Make Jesus Lord of Your Life ............................................................................................... 33
Chapter 5. Know God’s Will ................................................................................................................... 39
Chapter 6. Talking with God ................................................................................................................... 48
Chapter 7. Biblical Fellowship ................................................................................................................ 59
Leader Notes ......................................................................................................................................... 65

(Study Leader Notes before leading a Foundations meeting)

• How to Lead a Foundations Meeting
• Foundations Checklists
• Foundations Essentials

Introduction
The purpose of this series of topical Bible studies is to help you lay a foundation for life change that will
last for the rest of your life. Life change is about becoming more and more like Jesus.

Foundations follows the same process Jesus used to train His disciples:
1. Come. Come and get to know God. This is the starting point of life change where we learn who God
is and how to accept Jesus for eternal life.
2. Grow. Grow in your relationship with God. Learn how to grow spiritually through God’s Word, prayer,
and fellowship with other Christians.
3. Serve by giving and caring for others. Learn about your spiritual gifts and abilities and how to give to
and serve God and others.
4. Go and make disciples. Invest in the lives of others and invite them to accept Jesus when they are
ready. Then make disciples by helping others go through the same process.

Pray and ask the Lord for understanding and to change your life to be more like Jesus as you study each
of the chapters.

Instructions for a Group Meeting

1. If there is not a leader, appoint one
2. You can rotate leadership if appropriate
3. The leader should study the Leader Notes and use the checklists before and after the meeting
4. The leader should not lecture or talk too much
5. Let people read each verse, bullet point, and other information in order around the circle.
6. The leader should ask the discussion questions.
7. The questions can be answered by anyone.
8. All discussion questions are preceded by this symbol:
9. The leader may ask does anyone else have anything to say

Instructions for Meeting One on One

1. Leaders should study the Leader Notes and use the checklists before and after the meeting
2. The leader should not lecture or talk too much
3. You can take turns reading the verses, bullet points, other information, and questions
4. The leader should ask the discussion questions.

2
 Chapter 1. God’s Word

The Bible Is God’s Word

The Bible is a supernatural book

Written through
God’s Words human authors

GOD

• The Bible is the most amazing book ever written.

• The Bible was written by 40 different authors in 3 languages
o Greek in the New Testament
o Hebrew in the Old Testament
o Aramaic in a few verses
• It was written over 1800 years
• The Bible contains 66 books:
o 39 books in the Old Testament
o 27 books in the New Testament.
• All of the books in the Bible fit together perfectly
• God’s Word is referred to in many ways in the Bible:
o Scriptures, commandments, testimonies, precepts, judgments, law, regulations, decrees, etc.

The Bible has two parts

Old Testament New Testament

JESUS CHRIST
Before Jesus came After Jesus came
2,000 years 2,000+ years

• The word “Testament” means agreement, covenant, or contract

• The Old Testament is about the agreement God made with people before Christ came
• The New Testament is about the agreement God made with people after Christ came

➢ How is the Bible different than any other book ever written?

3
 Contents of the Bible
Old Testament

Books of the Law

• Will of God for human conduct.
• Creation of the Universe and the Nation of Israel
• Written by Moses.

• Genesis
• Exodus
• Leviticus
• Numbers
• Deuteronomy

Books of History
• History of the nation of Israel up to 400 years before the coming of Christ.
• Various writers.
• Joshua • I Chronicles
• Judges • II Chronicles
• Ruth • Ezra
• I Samuel • Nehemiah
• II Samuel • Esther
• I Kings
• II Kings

Books of Poetry
• Job written by Moses
• Psalms written by King David
• Proverbs, Ecclesiastes, and Song of Solomon written by King Solomon

Prophets
Books of warning to the Nation of Israel & foretelling of future things.
Major Prophets Minor Prophets
• Isaiah • Hosea • Nahum
• Jeremiah • Joel • Habakkuk
• Lamentations • Amos • Zephaniah
• Ezekiel • Obadiah • Haggai
• Daniel • Jonah • Zechariah
• Micah • Malachi

➢ Why do you think God used different types of literature to communicate different
purposes (Law, History, Poetry, Prophets)?

4
 Contents of the Bible
New Testament

Gospels (Biographies)
Life, Death, & Resurrection of Jesus

• Matthew (With emphasis of Jesus as King)

• Mark (With emphasis of Jesus as Servant)
• Luke (With emphasis of Jesus as Man)
• John (With emphasis of Jesus as God)

➢ Why do you think there are four biographies written about Jesus?

Growth of the Christian Faith

Acts
(Acts of the Apostles)

Letters of the Apostle Paul

Letters to Christians to help them grow to be more like Jesus
To Churches: To Individuals:
• Romans • Philippians • I Timothy
• I Corinthians • Colossians • II Timothy
• II Corinthians • I Thessalonians • Titus
• Galatians • II Thessalonians • Philemon
• Ephesians

Miscellaneous Letters
Letters of instruction written by various writers to churches or individuals
• Hebrews
• James
• I Peter
• II Peter
• I John
• II John
• III John
• Jude

Future of Believers and the Nation of Israel

(Letter to 7 churches)
Revelation

• All of these letters were given to help people grow in their faith

➢ Why do you think that it is important to study these letters?

5
 The Bible tells us:
• Who God is
• What God desires
• What God offers

• The Bible is God’s Communication to us

• The Bible is our operator’s manual
• It explains:
o How to have a relationship with God
o How to live
o How to love others

How the Old Testament and New Testament Fit Together

Old Testament New Testament

JESUS CHRIST

How They Apply to Jesus

About the life, death,

About the coming of Jesus
& Resurrection of Jesus
Central People

People of the Nation of Israel Believers in Jesus

God’s Purpose
To reveal Himself to the world through To reveal Himself to the world through
the Nation of Israel & about the His life, death, & resurrection & through
coming of the Messiah, Jesus the believers in Jesus

➢ Why do you think that it is important that the whole Bible focuses on Jesus?

6
 Chronological Summary of the Old Testament

History of the History of the Exodus History of the

human race Hebrew people Wanderings Nation of Israel
Genesis 1-11 Genesis 12-50 Conquest

Abraham Samuel
Creation Isaac Moses Saul
Fall Jacob Joshua David
Joseph Judges Solomon

2000 BC 1500 BC 1000 BC 400 BC

Israel

• Jesus was born and lived in the small, poor

country of Israel.
• Israel was under the rule of the Roman
empire.

Jesus came from heaven to live in humble circumstances

to identify with us as a human being rather than a king.

7
 Jesus’ Summary of the Whole Bible
Great Commandment
• "'Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.’
• This is the first and greatest commandment.
• And the second is like it: 'Love your neighbor as yourself.’
• All the Law and the Prophets hang on these two commandments." Matthew 22:37-40

Love God
Love All People

➢ How does what Jesus said above make the Bible easier to understand?

➢ Why is this meaningful to you?

The Bible is God’s Communication to You

God spoke through Moses, King David & others

The Bible is the Word of God not the words of men

God’s Words

GOD

8
 You came down on Mount Sinai; you spoke to them from heaven. You gave them regulations and
laws that are just and right, and decrees and commands that are good. You made known to them
your holy Sabbath and gave them commands, decrees and laws through your servant
Moses. Nehemiah 9:13, 14.

The Spirit of the LORD spoke through me; his word was on my tongue. 2 Samuel 23:2.

And we also thank God continually because, when you received the word of God, which you heard
from us, you accepted it not as the word of men, but as it actually is, the word of God, which is at
work in you who believe. 1 Thessalonians 2:13.

Above all, you must understand that no prophecy of Scripture came about by the prophet’s own
interpretation. For prophecy never had its origin in the will of man, but men spoke from God as they
were carried along by the Holy Spirit. 2 Peter 1:20, 21.

➢ How did God give us His Word?

I will bow down toward your holy temple and will praise your name for your love and your faithfulness,
for you have exalted above all things your name and your word. Psalms 138:2.

God exalts His name and His Word

above everything

Jesus and the Bible

Jesus was in the desert for 40 days without eating and then the devil tempted Jesus three times

1. The devil tempted Jesus to turn stones into bread

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.

2. The devil took Jesus to the top of the temple and tempted Jesus to jump and allow angels to catch
Him.
Jesus answered him, “It is also written: ‘Do not put the Lord your God to the test.” Matthew 4:7

3. The devil took Jesus to a mountain and showed him all the kingdoms of the world and said:
"All this I will give you, if you will bow down and worship me." Matthew 4:9
Jesus said, "Away from me, Satan! For it is written: Worship the Lord your, God and serve him only.
Matthew 4:10

Jesus quoted the Bible to defeat Satan’s temptations

➢ How can you use the Bible like Jesus did to help you avoid temptation?

9
 Jesus speaking to religious leaders

He replied, Isaiah was right when he prophesied about you hypocrites; as it is written: “‘These people
honor me with their lips, but their hearts are far from me. They worship me in vain; their teachings are
but rules taught by men.’ You have let go of the commands of God and are holding on to the traditions
of men.” Mark 7:6 – 8.

Some churches teach rules and traditions created

by men rather than what God says

➢ Why is it important to be careful in choosing who helps you grow spiritually?

Jesus replied, “Are you not in error because you do not know the Scriptures or the power of God?
Mark 12:24.

As we grow in our knowledge of the Bible,

it helps us to avoid error

➢ What have you learned about the power of God?

Jesus speaking to two of His disciples after His death and resurrection

He said to them, “How foolish you are, and how slow of heart to believe all that the prophets have
spoken! Did not the Christ have to suffer these things and then enter his glory?” And beginning with
Moses and all the Prophets, he explained to them what was said in all the Scriptures concerning himself.
Luke 24:25 – 27.

Jesus explained to his disciples

how He fulfilled Old Testament prophecy

Words of Jesus from the Sermon on the Mount

Do not think that I have come to abolish the Law or the Prophets; I have not come to abolish them but to
fulfill them. I tell you the truth, until heaven and earth disappear, not the smallest letter, not the least
stroke of a pen, will by any means disappear from the Law until everything is accomplished.
Matthew 5:17-18

➢ What are some of the things Jesus said about God’s Word?

10
 Jesus praying to God for His disciples before He was arrested, tried, and crucified

Sanctify them by the truth; your word is truth. John 17:17.

(Sanctify means to grow spiritually and become more like Jesus.)

➢ How is God’s Word helping you grow spiritually?

• God’s words are truth

• God’s words speak to us from the Bible

You Can Rely on the Bible

Now I am about to go the way of all the earth. You know with all your heart and soul that not one of all
the good promises the LORD your God gave you has failed. Every promise has been fulfilled; not one
has failed. Joshua 23:14.

For the word of the LORD is right and true; he is faithful in all he does. Psalms 33:4.

Every word of God is flawless; he is a shield to those who take refuge in him. Proverbs 30:5.

➢ Why can we rely on God’s Word according to these verses?

How the Bible Helps You

For the LORD gives wisdom, and from his mouth come knowledge and understanding. Proverbs 2:6.

➢ How can wisdom, knowledge, and understanding from the Bible help you?

The law of his God is in his heart; his feet do not slip. Psalms 37:31.

➢ How can God’s Word keep you from falling into sin?

11
All Scripture is inspired by God and is useful for teaching the truth, rebuking error, correcting faults, and
giving instruction for right living, so that the person who serves God may be fully qualified and equipped
to do every kind of good deed. 2 Timothy 3:16-17.

How the Bible Helps You

1. Teaches
Shows the path to walk on

Living with God in Control

2. Rebukes
Sin Shows where you’ve
gotten off the path
Sinful Living

Living with God in Control

3. Corrects
Shows how to get Confession Sin
back on the path

4. Instructs
Shows how to
stay on the path

Living with God in Control

Confession Sin

Sinful Living

12
 The Bible helps us grow spiritually
and equips us to help others grow spiritually

1. Teaches 4. Instructs
Shows the path Shows how to
to walk on stay on the path

Living with God in Control

3. Corrects 2. Rebukes
Shows how to get Confession Sin Shows where you’ve
back on the path gotten off the path

Sinful Living

➢ How has God’s Word taught you the truth?

➢ How has God’s Word rebuked you?

➢ How has God’s Word corrected you?

➢ How has God’s Word instructed you for right living?

➢ How does God’s Word equip you for every good work?

As the rain and the snow come down from heaven, and do not return to it without watering the earth and
making it bud and flourish, so that it yields seed for the sower and bread for the eater, so is my word that
goes out from my mouth: It will not return to me empty, but will accomplish what I desire and achieve the
purpose for which I sent it. Isaiah 55:10, 11.

God’s Word will accomplish what God desires

and will achieve the purpose God gave it

For the word of God is living and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to
dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart. Hebrews 4:12.

➢ How is God’s Word living and active?

➢ How is the Bible helping you?

13
 God’s Word Summary

• The Bible Is God’s Word

o The Bible is a supernatural book of God’s words written through people in the Bible
o Jesus is the central figure of the Bible
▪ The Old Testament was written before His birth
▪ The New Testament was written after His birth
o The Bible tells us who God is, what He desires, and what He offers
o The Bible is God’s communication to us and explains:
▪ How to have a relationship with God
▪ How to live
▪ How to love others
• Jesus’ Summary of the Whole Bible
o Great Commandment
▪ Love God
▪ Love all people
• God’s Communication to You
o The Bible comes from men who spoke from God by the Holy Spirit
o God exalts His name and His Word above everything
• Jesus and the Bible
o Jesus quoted scripture when tempted by Satan
o Jesus demonstrated the importance and power of God’s Word
o Jesus encouraged others to understand and obey the scriptures
o Jesus explained to His disciples what was said in all the Scriptures concerning Himself
• You Can Rely on the Bible
o All promises in the Bible will be fulfilled, they will not fail
o God’s Word is right and true, every word is flawless
• How the Bible Helps You
o The Bible keeps us from falling into sin and suffering bad things
o The Bible gives us understanding and wisdom
o The Bible teaches, rebukes, corrects, and instructs you
o The Bible helps us grow spiritually and equips us to help others grow spiritually

➢ Why should Christians spend time reading the Bible?

14
 Chapter 2. Experience Life Change

Life Change is a Process

Instead, speaking the truth in love, we will in all things grow up into him who is the Head, that is,
Christ. Ephesians 4:15.

Life change is growing to become more like Jesus

➢ How have you experienced life change?

➢ What kind of life change do you want to experience?

How spiritual growth is like physical growth

Anyone who lives on milk is still a baby. That person does not want to learn about living a godly life.
Hebrews 5:13.

Christians who keep feeding on just the elementary truths

of the Bible are like babies and they don't grow

➢ How does a spiritual baby behave?

➢ Why do some people stay spiritual babies regardless of how many years they have
been a Christian?

But solid food is for the mature, who by constant use have trained themselves to distinguish good from
evil. Hebrews 5:14.
• Mature people feed on solid food and grow physically.
• Mature Christians apply what they learn from the Bible and grow spiritually.

➢ How does a mature Christian behave?

15
Life Change Process
1. Come and get to know God.
• This is the starting point of life change.
2. Grow in your relationship with God.
• Learn how to grow spiritually through God’s Word, prayer, and Christian fellowship.
3. Serve by giving and caring for others.
• Learn about your spiritual gifts and abilities and how to give to and serve God and others.
4. Go and help other people know God and grow spiritually.

➢ How is our Christian life like a journey?

Three Aspects of Salvation We Learn from the Bible

• Justification (Past)
o I have been saved from the penalty of sin.
o I have received Jesus into my life for forgiveness of my sins
o God sees me as pure because of Jesus in me
• Sanctification (Present)
o I am being saved from the power of sin.
o I am becoming like Jesus through the power of the Holy Spirit: Come–Grow–Serve–Go
• Glorification (Future)
o I will be saved from the presence of sin.
o I will be like Jesus when I go to be with Him.

➢ Which of the three aspects of salvation do you relate to the most and why?

16
 Experience Life Change through God’s Word

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.
• We can’t live on just food
• We need the spiritual food of the Bible

➢ What happens if you don’t eat enough food?

➢ What happens if you don’t get enough spiritual food?

Have nothing to do with godless myths and old wives’ tales; rather, train yourself to be godly. For
physical training is of some value, but godliness has value for all things, holding promise for both the
present life and the life to come. 1 Timothy 4:7-8.

• Train yourself to be like Jesus

• Physical training has some value
• Spiritual training has value now and forever
• The Bible is our spiritual training manual

➢ What are the benefits of physical training?

➢ What are the benefits of spiritual training?

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. 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.

➢ What has God given you to help you with your life?

➢ What has God given you to help you grow spiritually?

➢ What spiritual promises has God given you?

God has given us everything we need through His Word

to become like Jesus and escape our sin nature

17
 How to Use the Bible to Grow Spiritually

Study
Read Memorize

Hear

Meditate

Apply

Hear God’s Word

Faith comes from hearing the message, and the message is heard through the word of Christ.
Romans 10:17.

• Some ways you can hear God’s Word

o Church services, small groups, online, podcasts

Problem: We forget 95% of what we hear after 72 hours.

Solution: Intentionally apply God’s Word

• What can you do to become a better listener to God’s Word?

o Take notes, share what you learned with others, post on social media

Read God’s Word

If you read 15 minutes a day, you can read through the Bible in a year.

Bible Reading Suggestions

• A great place to start is Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John.
• The important thing is to regularly read the Bible.
• Choose a reading plan
• Read in different versions if available
• For variety read it aloud sometimes.
• Underline or color-code key verses.
• Respond back to God in prayer about what you read

➢ What are some challenges you have had in reading the Bible?

➢ What’s keeping you from reading the Bible?

➢ What can you do to improve how you read the Bible in the future?

18
 Study God’s Word
The Bereans received the message with great eagerness and examined the Scriptures every day to
see if what Paul said was true. Acts 17:11.

• Bible reading gives us an OVERVIEW of God’s Word, but Bible study gives us DETAILED
knowledge of specific truths and helps us develop deeper convictions.
• Bible study is feeding on the MEAT of God’s Word.

We can read through a chapter in the Bible in two to five minutes, but it may take an hour or more to
study the same chapter. Bible study is how we let God be our TEACHER rather than some other person.
God wants to teach us DIRECTLY from His Word. We are responsible to study God’s word for ourselves
instead of just relying on others if we want to GROW spiritually.

• Bible study involves several aspects that help us INTERPRET it correctly so we can APPLY it to
our lives correctly by doing what is it says.

Foundations is a topical Bible study. We study what God says about different topics and we apply it to
our lives in order to experience life change and become more like Jesus.

Memorize God’s Word

Keep my commands and you will live; guard my teachings as the apple of your eye. Bind them on your
fingers; write them on the tablet of your heart. Proverbs 7:2-3.

Benefits of Scripture Memory

• It helps me RESIST temptation.
I have hidden your word in my heart that I might not sin against you. Psalm 119:11.

➢ What is a situation where scripture could help you resist temptation?

• It helps me make WISE DECISIONS.

Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light for my path. Psalm 119:105.

➢ What is a recent decision where scripture might have helped you?

• It STRENGTHENS me when I’m under stress.

My soul is weary with sorrow; strengthen me according to your word. Psalm 119:28.

One helpful idea is to find a verse that would help you in a stressful situation

19
 • It COMFORTS me when I’m sad.
My comfort in my suffering is this: Your promise preserves my life. Psalm 119:50.

➢ What is a way you can use scripture to bring comfort to someone else?

• It helps me SHARE with unbelievers.

Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you
have. 1 Peter 3:15.

Here are some verses to memorize to help someone accept Jesus for eternal life
o John 3:16
o Romans 3:23
o Ephesians 2:8-9
o Romans 5:8
o John 1:12

When to Memorize a Verse

• When you are alone with God reading the Bible and praying (Quiet Time)
• While walking or exercising
• While waiting (spare moments)

➢ When is the best time for you to memorize and review verses?

Some Suggestions for Memorizing Verses

• Read the verse several times.
• Say the topic of the verse if there is one.
• Say the reference before and after the verse.
• Memorize one phrase at a time.
• Use the memory verses at the end of this chapter.
• Carry some verse cards with you at all times for review.
• Review the verse daily for a month and then once a month for life.
• Always memorize word for word.

Practice memorizing Galatians 2:20 using this technique

Life Change NIV

Galatians 2:20
I have been crucified with Christ and I no
longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I live
in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God,
who loved me and gave himself for me.
Galatians 2:20

20
Other Help for Memorizing
• Read the verse aloud many times.
• Write it down.
• Emphasize key words when quoting the verse.
• Display your verse cards in prominent places.
• Get a partner so you can check each other.

What to Memorize
• Start by memorizing the Foundations Memory Verses at the end of the chapter.
• You can cut them out and make memory cards to take with you to help you review.

Three Keys to Memorizing

1. REVIEW
2. REVIEW
3. REVIEW

Goal: Remember Verses for Life

Review a verse once a day for 30 days
and then review it once a month for the rest of your life

• We remember what is IMPORTANT TO US.

The law from your mouth is more precious to me than thousands of pieces of silver and gold.
Psalm 119:72.

➢ Why do you think you should memorize Bible verses?

➢ How do you know that you can memorize Bible verses?

o You know your name, address, phone number, etc, etc.

➢ What can you do to improve how you memorize the Bible in the future?

You can memorize!

21
 Meditate on God’s Word
But his delight is in the law of the LORD, and on his law he meditates day and night. He is like a tree
planted by streams of water, which yields its fruit in season and whose leaf does not wither. Whatever he
does prospers. Psalm 1:2-3.

What is meditation?
Christian meditation is FOCUSED THINKING about God and His Word

• Meditation is not EMPTYING your mind.

• Meditate on God’s Word while hearing, reading, studying, and memorizing it.

Ways to meditate on God’s Word

• Picture it! Visualize the scene in your mind.
• Pronounce it! Say the verse aloud, each time emphasizing a different word.
• Paraphrase it! Rewrite the verse in your own words.
• Personalize it! Replace the pronouns or people with your own name.
Example: I love the Lord my God with all my heart, and with all my soul, and with all my mind. And
I love my neighbor as myself. Matthew 22:37-39.

• Pray it! Turn the verse into a prayer and say it back to God.

Meditate on Galatians 2:20 using these techniques

As you mature in Christ, you will have a more balanced input of God’s Word.

Continue with this Foundations Bible Study

and memorize the Foundations Memory Verses

22
 Apply God’s Word
The purpose of hearing, reading, studying, memorizing, and meditating on God’s Word is to put it into
practice in your lives. Applying God’s Word to your life is how to experience Life Change. Putting God’s
Word into practice in thought, word, and deed is so important that the entire next chapter is devoted to it.

As you do your part and develop the habit of feeding on God’s Word, which is necessary for spiritual
growth, you must never forget God’s part and live by the Spirit and His power every day.

Steps for Applying God’s Word to Your Life

The one thing I am going to apply to my life:
1. What should my life be like from God’s Word? (Application verse)
2. What is my life like that is different from God’s Word?
3. What am I going to do to put God’s Word into practice?
4. How will I check up to make sure I have accomplished what God wants me to?

➢ What are some possible applications from Galatians 2:20?

➢ How are you applying God’s Word to your life today?

➢ What new ways do you see to apply God’s Word to your life in the future?

23
 Experience Life Change Summary

• Life Change is a Process

o Life Change is the process of becoming like Jesus
o Spiritual growth is a process of maturing just like physical growth
o Our process of Life Change is to Come-Grow-Serve-Go
o The three aspects of salvation
▪ You have been saved from the penalty of sin
▪ You are becoming like Jesus
▪ You will be like Jesus when you go to be with Him
• Experience Life Change Through God’s Word
o God’s Word is your spiritual food that makes you grow
o God provides everything you need for spiritual growth
▪ His Word to guide you
▪ His Spirit to help you understand His Word
• How to Get a Grasp on Your Bible
o Hear God’s Word
▪ We forget 95% of what we hear after 72 hours
o Read God’s Word
▪ Bible reading gives you an overview of God’s Word
o Study God’s Word
▪ Bible study is how you feed on the meat of God’s Word
o Memorize God’s Word
▪ There are many benefits to scripture memory
▪ You can memorize if you make it a priority
o Meditate on God and God’s Word
▪ Christian meditation is focused thinking about God and His Word
▪ Meditate on God’s Word while hearing, reading, studying, and memorizing it.
o Apply God’s Word
▪ Have a balanced intake of God’s Word
▪ Experience Life Change by putting God’s Word into practice in thought, word, and deed

24
Life Change NIV Life Change NIV

Galatians 2:20 Romans 12:2

I have been crucified with Christ and I no Do not conform any longer to the pattern of
longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I live this world, but be transformed by the renewing
in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, of your mind. Then you will be able to test and
who loved me and gave himself for me. approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing
Galatians 2:20 and perfect will.
Romans 12:2

Come and Know God NIV Grow through God’s Word NIV

Matthew 22:37 - 39 2 Timothy 3:16

Jesus replied: “‘Love the Lord your God with all All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for
your heart and with all your soul and with all teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in
your mind.’ This is the first and greatest righteousness
commandment. And the second is like it: ‘Love 2 Timothy 3:16
your neighbor as yourself.’
Matthew 22:37 - 39

Grow through Prayer NIV Grow through Fellowship NIV

Philippians 4:6 - 7 1 Thessalonians 5:11

Do not be anxious about anything, but in Therefore encourage one another and build
everything, by prayer and petition, with each other up, just as in fact you are doing.
thanksgiving, present your requests to 1 Thessalonians 5:11
God. And the peace of God, which transcends
all understanding, will guard your hearts and
your minds in Christ Jesus.
Philippians 4:6 - 7

Serve Like Jesus NIV Serve by Giving NIV

Mark 10:45 2 Corinthians 9:6 - 7

For even the Son of Man did not come to be Remember this: Whoever sows sparingly will
served, but to serve, and to give his life as a also reap sparingly, and whoever sows
ransom for many. generously will also reap generously. Each
Mark 10:45 man should give what he has decided in his
heart to give, not reluctantly or under
compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.
2 Corinthians 9:6 - 7

Go and Be Witnesses NIV Go and Make Disciples NIV

Acts 1:8 Matthew 28:19 - 20

But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit Therefore go and make disciples of all nations,
comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in baptizing them in the name of the Father and
Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching
to the ends of the earth. them to obey everything I have commanded
Acts 1:8 you. And surely I am with you always, to the
very end of the age.
Matthew 28:19 - 20
25
 Chapter 3. Obey God

The reason we hear, read, study, memorize, and meditate on God’s Word is to obey it and experience
Life Change: to become more like Jesus. This is what a disciple of Jesus is doing.

Why You Should Obey God

And now, O Israel, what does the LORD your God ask of you but to fear the LORD your God, to walk in
all his ways, to love him, to serve the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul and to
observe the LORD’S commands and decrees that I am giving you today for your own good?
Deuteronomy 10:12 – 13.

➢ Why does God want us to obey Him?

➢ In what ways is it for your own good to obey God’s Word?

If you love me, you will obey what I command. Whoever has my commands and obeys them, he is the
one who loves me. He who loves me will be loved by my Father, and I too will love him and show myself
to him.” John 14:15, 21.

➢ What is the relationship between loving God and obeying Him?

➢ Who knows what is best for a young child, the parent or the child?

➢ How is this like you and God?

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. The rain came down, the streams rose, and the winds blew and beat against
that house; yet it did not fall, because it had its foundation on the rock. But everyone who hears these
words of mine and does not put them into practice is like a foolish man who built his house on sand. The
rain came down, the streams rose, and the winds blew and beat against that house, and it fell with a
great crash.” Matthew 7:24 – 27.

➢ Both men in this parable hear God’s Word. How was the wise man different than the
foolish man?

➢ What was your life like when you faced hardship in life without the solid foundation of
God’s Word to guide you?

➢ How has the solid foundation of God’s Word helped you through some rough times in
your life?

➢ Why is it wise to obey God?

26
 Practical Help in Obeying God

Remember from the previous chapters all of the resources God has given you to help you obey Him and
experience Life Change. God has also given you everything you need to resist temptation and avoid sin
and its destructive consequences.

The LORD your God commands you this day to follow these decrees and laws; carefully observe them
with all your heart and with all your soul. Deuteronomy 26:16.

I desire to do your will, O my God; your law is within my heart.” Psalms 40:8.

But the seed on good soil stands for those with a noble and good heart, who hear the word, retain it, and
by persevering produce a crop. Luke 8:15.

➢ What should your attitude be in obeying God?

➢ Can you name some reasons we sometimes don’t have a good attitude about obeying
God?

➢ Why are you motivated to obey God?

We should have an attitude of gratitude.

A lesson on temptation
Then Jesus was led by the Spirit into the desert to be tempted by the devil. After fasting forty days and
forty nights, he was hungry. The tempter came to him and said, “If you are the Son of God, tell these
stones to become bread.” Matthew 4:1 – 3.

➢ Who tempts you?

When tempted, no one should say, “God is tempting me.” For God cannot be tempted by evil, nor does
he tempt anyone; James 1:13.

➢ Who never tempts you?

but each one is tempted when, by his own evil desire, he is dragged away and enticed. James 1:14.

➢ What are some of our temptations?

27
See what you can learn from Achan’s disobedience.
Achan replied, “It is true! I have sinned against the LORD, the God of Israel. This is what I have
done: When I saw in the plunder a beautiful robe from Babylonia, two hundred shekels of silver and a
wedge of gold weighing fifty shekels, I coveted them and took them. They are hidden in the ground
inside my tent, with the silver underneath.” Joshua 7:20 – 21.

➢ What led to Achan’s disobedience?

➢ What could he have done to avoid sin?

➢ What can you learn from Achan to avoid sin?

➢ What are some things you covet?

We all, like sheep, have gone astray, each of us has turned to his own way; and the LORD has laid on
him the iniquity of us all. Isaiah 53:6.

Anyone, then, who knows the good he ought to do and doesn’t do it, sins. James 4:17.

➢ What is a definition of sin from these verses?

Temptation is the opportunity to sin and sin is the act

No temptation has seized you except what is common to man. And God is faithful; he will not let you be
tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that
you can stand up under it. 1 Corinthians 10:13.

➢ Are your temptations different or more difficult than anyone else’s?

No temptation has seized you except what is common to man.

➢ What limit does God place on any temptation you will face?
he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear.

➢ What does God provide with every temptation that allows you to avoid sin?
He will also provide a way out

➢ What is a temptation you are facing now?

➢ What way out has God provided for you to avoid sinning?

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If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all
unrighteousness. 1 John 1:9.

➢ What can we do to repair our damaged relationship with God?

➢ Why is it so important that we do this?

Sometimes we don’t take advantage of God’s way to avoid sin.

Sin damages our relationship with God just as sin damages any relationship.
God has provided a way to repair our damaged relationship with Him.

Discuss this illustration:

Facing Temptation

Temptation Choice

LIVING BY THE SPIRIT Way of Escape

Confession Sin

WORLDLY LIVING

Hold on to instruction, do not let it go; guard it well, for it is your life. Do not set foot on the path of the
wicked or walk in the way of evil men. Avoid it, do not travel on it; turn from it and go on your way.
Proverbs 4:13 – 15.

➢ How can you do to resist temptation?

➢ What can you do to better hold on to God’s Word?

➢ Are there any relationships that are getting you off the path?

➢ What can you do about it?

Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. James 4:7.

➢ What practical things can you do to submit yourself to God and resist the devil?

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 Obey God Summary

• Why You Should Obey God

o It is for your own good
o It is how we love God
o It is the wise thing to do and will keep us from destructive behavior
• Practical Help in Obeying God
o You should have a positive attitude about obeying God
▪ Obey with all of your heart and all of your soul
▪ Desire to obey God
▪ Have an honest and good heart and persevere
o Understanding temptation
▪ The devil tempts us
▪ God never tempts us
▪ Temptation comes from your own evil desire
o A lesson from Achan
▪ He looked at, dwelled on, and coveted riches
▪ He should have looked away and not dwelt on this temptation
o Sins are acts of disobedience to God
▪ Sin may be acts of omission or commission
▪ Sin may consist of thought, word, or deed
▪ Sin damages your relationship with God
o Temptation is the opportunity to sin and sin is the act of disobedience
o God helps you resist temptation
▪ Everyone faces temptation just like you do
▪ God will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you can bear
▪ God always provides a way of escape
o If you confess your sin, God will forgive you
▪ When you sin, you don’t lose your salvation
▪ Confession repairs your damaged relationship with God
o What you can do to resist temptation
▪ Remember God’s Word
▪ Choose to be around people who build you up
▪ Submit to God by yielding your will to His
▪ Resist the devil by relying on God’s supernatural provision

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 Chapter 4. Make Jesus Lord of Your Life

Just as God did not force you to accept Jesus as Savior, He will not force you to make Jesus Lord of
your life. Jesus is Lord of the universe and He wants to be Lord of your life. It is your choice.

Jesus is Lord of All

You call me ‘Teacher’ and ‘Lord,’ and rightly so, for that is what I am. John 13:13.

They will make war against the Lamb, but the Lamb will overcome them because he is Lord of lords and
King of kings—and with him will be his called, chosen and faithful followers.” Revelation 17:14.

➢ What is Jesus called?

➢ What does the word “Lord” mean as it applies to Jesus?

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 confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father. Philippians 2:9-11.

➢ How has God exalted Jesus?

➢ How will every person acknowledge Jesus?

➢ In what ways can we honor Jesus’ authority over us?

Making Jesus Your Lord

Beloved friends, what should be our proper response to God’s marvelous mercies? To surrender
yourselves to God to be his sacred, living sacrifices. And live in holiness, experiencing all that delights
his heart. For this becomes your genuine expression of worship. Romans 12:1. TPT

➢ According to this verse what does God want you to do?

➢ Why should you do this?

➢ According to this verse what is the definition of worship?

➢ How is this an act of worship?

➢ How does this change your understanding of what worship is?

➢ What keeps you from giving Jesus control in every area of your life?

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Stop imitating the ideals and opinions of the culture around you, but be inwardly transformed by the Holy
Spirit through a total reformation of how you think. This will empower you to discern God’s will as you live
a beautiful life, satisfying and perfect in his eyes. Romans 12:2. TPT

➢ According to this verse what does God want you to do?

➢ How does God’s Word help change how you think to be more like God desires and less
like the opinions of the culture around you?

➢ How does God’s Word help you know God’s will?

➢ What does determining God’s will do for you?

For I know the plans I have for you, says the Lord. They are plans for good and not for evil, to give you a
future and a hope. Jeremiah 29:11 TLB

➢ How does this verse make you more willing to give Jesus control of every area of your
life?

➢ How has God given you hope?

➢ What kind of future does God want for you?

➢ Why is it best to give control of your life over to Jesus rather than keeping control of it
yourself?

Here is a prayer you can pray in response to these verses:

Jesus right now I give You control of my life
and I acknowledge You as Lord of my life
just as you are Lord of the universe

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Once you have decided to make Jesus Lord of your life as well as your Savior, you must give Him control
of every area of your life every day. The following illustration shows some of the areas of your life that
you must give control over to Jesus. If you don’t choose to give Jesus control of your life daily, then these
things will control you.

Money Career

Marriage Other
and Family Interests
Jesus
Education Possessions

Time Self

➢ What areas of your life are you not allowing Jesus to control?

➢ Are there any areas of your life not listed in the figure above that you need to give
Jesus control?

➢ What can you do to give Jesus control in these areas?

Humble yourselves, therefore, under God’s mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time. Cast all
your anxiety on him because he cares for you. 1 Peter 5:6 – 7.

➢ Why is it necessary to humble yourself in order to put Jesus in charge of your life?

➢ How does anxiety keep you from putting Jesus in charge of your life?

➢ How do you cast all your anxiety on Jesus?

The seed that fell among the thorns represents others who hear God’s word, but all too quickly the
message (God’s Word) is crowded out by the worries of this life, the lure of wealth, and the desire for
other things, so no fruit is produced. Mark 4:18 – 19. NLT

➢ What are you worried about right now?

➢ How much control does money have in your decisions and how you live out your faith?

➢ What are areas in your life that you desire more than God’s Word?

33
Why do you call me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ and do not do what I say? Luke 6:46.

➢ How can you tell if Jesus is in control of your life?

Then he said to them all: “If anyone would come after me, he must deny himself and take up his cross
daily and follow me.” Luke 9:23.

• Three things your Lord asked you to do

o Deny yourself: Choose to put Jesus in charge instead of yourself.
o Take up your cross daily: Die to yourself and come alive to Jesus every day.
o Follow Jesus: Think, say, and do what Jesus would.

➢ Why does Jesus want us to do these things?

Life Change Occurs by Faith

Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see. Hebrews 11:1.

Yet he did not waver through unbelief regarding the promise of God, but was strengthened in his faith
and gave glory to God being fully persuaded that God had power to do what he had promised.
Romans 4:20 – 21.

➢ According to these verses what is faith?

We live by faith, not by sight. 2 Corinthians 5:7.

➢ How should you live your life?

➢ What does this mean?

Here are some wrong things you can put your faith in:
Don't put your trust in human leaders; no human being can save you. Psalms 146:3.

➢ Who shouldn’t you put your trust in?

➢ What are some examples of people we shouldn’t put our trust in?

Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; Proverbs 3:5.

➢ How does trusting in our own understanding let us down?

34
He who trusts in himself is a fool, but he who walks in wisdom is kept safe. Proverbs 28:26.

➢ How does trusting in yourself make you a fool?

➢ Where does wisdom come from?

The Lord says, “Wise people should not boast that they are wise. Powerful people should not boast that
they are powerful. Rich people should not boast that they are rich. Jeremiah 9:23.

➢ What kind of wisdom should you not trust in?

➢ What are some problems with trusting in riches?

➢ Which of these things do you put your faith in?

➢ What are the results of placing your faith in these things?

Have faith in God,” Jesus answered. Mark 11:22.

➢ Who should be the object of your faith?

Luke 17:6. He replied, If you have faith as small as a mustard seed, you can say to this mulberry tree,
‘Be uprooted and planted in the sea,’ and it will obey you.

➢ How much faith do you need?

➢ The object of your faith is in more important than how much faith you have. Why?

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 Make Jesus Lord of Your Life Summary

• Jesus is Lord of all

o Jesus is Lord of lords and King of kings
o God has exalted Jesus to the highest place and given Him the name that is above every name
o Every person in heaven and earth shall confess that Jesus is Lord
• Make Jesus Your Lord
o Choose to make Jesus Lord of your life just as you chose to make Him Savior
o Give your body as a living sacrifice to God
o Jesus plans are to prosper you and not harm you, plans to give you hope and a future
o Give Jesus control of every area of your life every day
o When you take control of your life back, humble yourself and cast all your anxiety on Him
o Cares, worries, and desires choke the Word in your life and make you unfruitful
o You can tell if Jesus is Lord of your life if you do what He says
o Three things your Lord has asked you to do
▪ Deny yourself
▪ Take up your cross daily (die to self)
▪ Follow Him
• Life Change Occurs by Faith
o Faith is
▪ Being sure of what you hope for and certain of what you do not see
▪ Being fully persuaded that God can do what He says
o You live by faith not by sight
o Things you should not put your faith in
▪ Men
▪ Leaders
▪ Your own understanding
▪ Yourself
▪ Your own wisdom, strength, or riches
o Your faith should be in God alone
o A small amount of faith is enough as long as your faith is in God alone

36
 Chapter 5. Know God’s Will

God promises to guide you and let you know His will. All you have to do is to trust Him and seek His will.
God is good, He loves you, and as your perfect Heavenly Father, He knows what is best for you.

Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways
acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight. Proverbs 3:5 - 6

God’s Will
Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the Lord’s will is. Ephesians 5:17.

➢ What does God want you to do?

➢ How do you get to know God’s will?

➢ Why is it foolish to not know God’s will?

➢ Why do parents want their children to know and obey their will?

➢ Why does God want you to know and obey His will?

➢ What happens when we don’t follow God’s will?

I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will counsel you and watch over you.
Psalms 32:8.

➢ What will God do to help you know His will for your life?

It is God’s will that you should be sanctified: that you should avoid sexual immorality
1 Thessalonians 4:3 (Being sanctified is the process of becoming like Jesus)

Give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus. 1 Thessalonians 5:18.

➢ What do you learn about God’s will for your life from these verses?

➢ Why does God want you to give thanks in all circumstances?

➢ How can you give thanks in bad circumstances?

➢ What are we like if we don’t develop the habit of thankfulness?

For it is God’s will that by doing good you should silence the ignorant talk of foolish men. 1 Peter 2:15.

➢ What kind of good does God want you to do?

➢ How does this silence the ignorant talk of foolish men?

37
I desire to do your will, O my God; your law is within my heart. Psalms 40:8.

➢ What should your attitude be toward God’s will?

➢ What helps produce this attitude?

Memorizing God’s Word

➢ How does scripture memory help you know and do God’s will?

For it is God who works in you to will and to act according to his good purpose. Philippians 2:13.

➢ How does God help you accomplish His will?

➢ How does God work in you to have the will and the ability to do his will?

Biblical Principles in Determining God’s Will

But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as
well. Matthew 6:33.

➢ What priority should God’s kingdom and His righteousness have in your life?

➢ What happens in your life when you keep God’s priorities?

➢ What are “all these things” that God will give you?

Great Commandment
Love the Lord your God with all your heart, soul, and mind. This is the first and most important
commandment. The second most important commandment is like this one. And it is, “Love others as
much as you love yourself.” Matthew 22:37 – 39. CEV

• We are to love God and love all people

➢ Is loving God the driving force in your life?

➢ How can you love God more?

➢ What are examples of types of people we are to love?

➢ Who do you need to love more?

38
Great Commission
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, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am
with you always, to the very end of the age.” Matthew 28:19 – 20

➢ Who are you praying for to come to the Lord?

Family members, friends, neighbors, other people

List several people that you will pray for

to come to the Lord

1.

2.

3.

But just as he who called you is holy, so be holy in all you do. 1 Peter 1:15.

• To be holy is to be totally pure and righteous. We became holy to God when we accepted Jesus
for the forgiveness of all our past, present, and future sins.
• To “be holy in all you do” is growing to be more like Jesus by putting God’s Word into practice in
our lives and asking for forgiveness when we sin.

➢ What are some areas in which you need to grow to be more like Jesus?

But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To him be glory both now and
forever! Amen. 2 Peter 3:18.

• Grace is receiving what you don’t deserve. God gives us grace by forgiving our sins when we
don’t deserve it.
• We grow in grace by asking God for forgiveness when we sin and remembering that God gives
us grace and removes our guilt.

➢ What is an area of your life in which you need to receive God’s grace and forgiveness?

➢ What do you need to do to grow in your relationship with Jesus and know Him better?

You can determine God’s will by asking yourself questions based on God’s Word. The following
questions are based on the verses above.
• Am I putting what God wants for me ahead of what I want?
• Will it help me love God and others more?
• Will it help or hinder me from helping others find the Lord?
• Is it something Jesus would do?
• Will it help me be more like Jesus?

39
Develop questions from the following verses to help you know God’s will.
Everything is permissible for me”—but not everything is beneficial. “Everything is permissible for me”—
but I will not be mastered by anything. 1 Corinthians 6:12.

• Will this help me?

➢ What are examples of things that are permissible but are not helpful?

• Can this master me?

➢ What are examples of things that can master you?

Do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received
from God? You are not your own; you were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your body.
1 Corinthians 6:19 – 20.

• Will this honor God in my body?

➢ Examples?

Be careful, however, that the exercise of your freedom does not become a stumbling block to the weak.
1 Corinthians 8:9.

• Will this cause a weaker brother or sister to stumble?

➢ Examples?

So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God. 1 Corinthians 10:31.

• Will this bring glory to God?

➢ Examples of things that might not bring glory to God?

40
Things you can do to know God’s will
The law of his God is in his heart; his feet do not slip. Psalms 37:31.

• Memorize God’s Word.

Let the morning bring me word of your unfailing love, for I have put my trust in you. Show me the way I
should go, for to you I lift up my soul. Psalms 143:8.

• Look into God’s Word every morning.

• Put your trust in God.

➢ What areas of life can you trust God for?

If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it
will be given to him. James 1:5.

• Humbly ask God to reveal His will to you.

Read the following prayer and make it your own prayer.

Show me your ways, O LORD, teach me your paths; guide me in your truth and teach me, for you are
God my Savior, and my hope is in you all day long. Psalms 25:4-5.

Therefore, I urge you, brothers, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and
pleasing to God—this is your spiritual act of worship. Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this
world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what
God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will. Romans 12:1 – 2.

➢ According to these verses, what must you do to find God’s will for your life?

➢ How do you renew your mind?

➢ How does this transform you?

In order to know God’s will, we must choose between the way of the world and the way of God.

But when he, the Spirit of truth, comes, he will guide you into all truth. He will not speak on his own; he
will speak only what he hears, and he will tell you what is yet to come. John 16:13.

➢ Who will guide you as you seek God’s will for your life?

Yet the LORD longs to be gracious to you; he rises to show you compassion. For the LORD is a God of
justice. Blessed are all who wait for him! Isaiah 30:18.

➢ What does waiting on God have to do with knowing God’s will?

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Proverbs 15:22. Plans fail for lack of counsel, but with many advisers they succeed

➢ What is another important thing you can do to help you know God’s will?

• Qualifications you should look for in someone to give you advice:

o A mature Christian
o They know you well
o They have experience in the area

• What to do with the advice you are given:

o You and God make the decision together
o Only follow the advice if you and God agree with it

Obey them not only to win their favor when their eye is on you, but like slaves of Christ, doing the will of
God from your heart. Ephesians 6:6.

➢ What should your attitude be when you do the will of God?

Other factors that can help you know God’s will for your life
Everyone must submit himself to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which
God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God. Romans 13:1.

• Legal obligations.

Be very careful, then, how you live—not as unwise but as wise,16making the most of every opportunity,
because the days are evil. 17Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the Lord’s will is.
Ephesians 5:15 – 17.

• Careful and wise thinking.

Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And
be thankful. Colossians 3:15.

• Inner spiritual peace.

It is God's will that you should be sanctified: that you should avoid sexual immorality; 1 Thessalonians 4:3

• Sexual purity

➢ When you look at your culture today, where do you see Christians struggling with
these four areas?

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 “Know God’s Will” Summary

• God’s Will
o God wants you to know His will
o God instructs, teaches, counsels, and watches over you
o Specific areas of God’s will for your life
▪ Become more like Jesus
▪ Avoid sexual immorality
▪ Give thanks in all circumstances
▪ Do good
o You should desire to do God’s will
▪ Memorizing God’s Word helps you do God’s will
o God works in you to want to do His will and to actually do it
• Biblical Principles in Determining God’s Will
o Questions to know God’s will based on Biblical principles
▪ Am I putting what God wants for me ahead of what I want?
▪ Will it help me love God and others more?
▪ Will it help or hinder me from helping others find the Lord?
▪ Is it something Jesus would do?
▪ Will it help me be more like Jesus?
o Additional questions to help you know God’s will
▪ Is it beneficial? Will it control me?
▪ Does it honor God with my body?
▪ Is it a stumbling block to weaker Christians?
▪ Does it glorify God?
o Things you can do to know God’s will
▪ Memorize God’s Word
▪ Put your trust in God daily
▪ Ask God for wisdom to know His will
o Conditions to knowing God’s will for your life
▪ Wholly commit yourself to God
▪ Do not conform to the world, be transformed by renewing your mind with God’s Word
o Be patient and wait on God’s timing to reveal His will
o Get godly advice
o Do God’s will from your heart
o Other factors to help you know God’s will
▪ Obey the authorities
▪ Careful and wise thinking
▪ God’s will gives you inner peace

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Determine God’s Will for a Particular Decision
Decision:

Questions to Help Determine God’s Will

(Yes, No, or Not Applicable)
• Am I putting what God wants for me ahead of what I want?
• Will it help me love God and others more?
• Will it help or hinder me from helping others find the Lord?
• Is it something Jesus would do?
• Will it help me be more like Jesus?

Additional Questions:

Are there other areas in which I need to obey God?

What Bible verses or Biblical principles relate to this decision?

Have I prayed about this decision?

What are the pros and cons in making this decision?

Pros:

Cons:

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Am I willing to do whatever God wants me to do?

What advice have I received?

What decision gives me peace?

How do circumstances guide my decision?

My decision is:

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 Chapter 6. Talking with God
Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer. Romans 12:12.

Prayer is simply talking with God out loud or silently in your head.

Communication is essential for any relationship including your relationship with God. You were created to
have a relationship with God, so your communication with Him is very important.

Prayer is not about saying the right words the right way to get God to do what you want Him to do. God is
not a cosmic genie and prayer is not a way of “rubbing the lamp” to get God to come forth and give us
what we want.

Prayer is Your Communication with God

Let us then approach the throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace
to help us in our time of need. Hebrews 4:16.

➢ How can you approach God?

➢ What do you receive when you approach God?

Psalms 62:8. Trust in him at all times, O people; pour out your hearts to him, for God is our refuge.

➢ What does God want you to do when you come to Him?

➢ What does it mean to pour out your heart to God?

➢ Why would you pour out your heart to God?

➢ What does it mean that God is our refuge?

Benefits of Prayer
‘Call to me and I will answer you and tell you great and unsearchable things you do not know.’
Jeremiah 33:3.

➢ What are unsearchable things?

Because God is God there are many things that we will not know or understand. We find encouragement
in the truth that God knows, and He may choose to reveal whatever He desires.

Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that
is at work within us, Ephesians 3:20.

➢ How does God respond to your prayers?

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I sought the LORD, and he answered me; he delivered me from all my fears. Psalms 34:4.

➢ How did God answer prayer in this verse?

➢ What are some fears you can discuss with God?

➢ How has God delivered you from your fears?

God teaches us how to be free from anxiety and experience His peace in Philippians 4:6-9.
Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present
your requests to God. Philippians 4:6.

➢ What are you to do when you feel anxious?

And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in
Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:7.

• God will give you peace in response to your prayer.

➢ How does prayer give peace?

➢ What is the connection between thanksgiving and peace?

➢ What are some things you are thankful for?

➢ How does being thankful for these things give you peace?

Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is
lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.
Philippians 4:8.

➢ What are some things we should think about in order to be thankful and experience the
peace of God?

➢ What are some examples of things you think about that make you anxious and steal
your peace?

➢ What is the connection between what we think and our peace?

Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me—put it into practice. And the
God of peace will be with you. Philippians 4:9.

➢ What can you do to experience the peace of God?

➢ What are some things you have learned from God’s Word and the example of mature
believers that gave you peace?

➢ What are some things you are doing that are stealing your peace?
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 Conditions to Answered Prayer
If I had cherished sin in my heart, the Lord would not have listened; Psalms 66:18.

➢ Why does sin hinder your communication with God?

Sin in a relationship hinders your relationship with anyone.

If you believe, you will receive whatever you ask for in prayer. Matthew 21:22.

➢ Why is belief an important aspect of prayer?

If you remain in me and my words remain in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be given you.
John 15:7.

➢ What does it mean to remain in Jesus?

➢ What does it mean for God’s Word to remain in you?

Until now you have not asked for anything in my name. Ask and you will receive, and your joy will be
complete. John 16:24.

• To pray in the name of Jesus is to pray by the power and authority of Jesus.

This is the confidence we have in approaching God: that if we ask anything according to his will, he
hears us. And if we know that he hears us—whatever we ask—we know that we have what we asked of
him. 1 John 5:14 – 15.

• How do you know God’s will?

God’s answer to your prayer may be yes, no, or wait.

You can trust God’s answer to your prayer because He is your perfect heavenly Father,
He is good, He loves you, and He knows what is best for you.

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 How to Pray

Matthew 6:9-13. Jesus: This, then, is HOW you should pray

Take time to look at how Jesus modeled prayer for us in Matthew 6:9-13. There are no set formulas or
special words for how to pray, but a good way of praying includes these four elements of prayer.

Adoration (Praise for who God is)

Confession (Ask God to forgive your sins)
Thanksgiving (For what God has done)
Supplication (Talking to God about the needs of others and yourself)

Adoration (Praise for who God is)

Matthew 6:9. Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name

Through Jesus, therefore, let us continually offer to God a sacrifice of praise—the fruit of lips that
confess his name. Hebrews 13:15.

As you read your Bible, make a list of God's character qualities (attributes) that you discover and then
review them when you pray.

Praise God right now. Which of the following attributes of God are the most meaningful to you?
• Patient
• Merciful
• Forgiving
• Loving
• Eternal
• Unchanging
• Knows everything
• Is everyplace

Every person gives an answer.

Everyone has just prayed a prayer of praise.

Why should you praise God?

• It reminds you who God is (Creator)
• It reminds you who you are (Creation)
• It gives you proper perspective

Confession
Matthew 6:12. Forgive us our debts (sins)

I confess my iniquity; I am troubled by my sin. Psalm 38:18.

• To confess is to agree with God that what I have done is wrong.

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All of your sins (past, present, and future) as a Christian were forgiven when you received Jesus for
forgiveness of sins and eternal life. Sin causes damage to any relationship. Your sins as a Christian do
not make you lose your position as God’s child but your sins do damage your relationship with God.
Confession repairs your damaged relationship with God and allows you to put Him back in control of your
life where He belongs.

Thanksgiving
(For what God has done)
Always giving thanks to God the Father for everything, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.
Ephesians 5:20.

Look for the good in life, thank God for it, and you will be a more positive person. Make a list of all that
you are thankful for and review them when you pray.

Everyone share something they are thankful for. Everyone has just prayed a prayer of thanksgiving.

Supplication
(Talking to God about the needs of others and yourself)
• Pray for other people
I urge, then, first of all, that requests, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for everyone.
1 Timothy 2:1.

o Make a prayer list of people you want to pray for. You might pray for different people on different
days of the week.
o Look at the prayers of Paul to help you pray for others:
Ephesians 1:15-19, Colossians 1:3-12, 1 Thessalonians 1:2-3, 2 Thessalonians 1:11-12

• Pray for God's purpose and will to be done

... in your life…in your words…in your attitudes…in your family ... your church ... your ministry
... your job ... your future ... your city ... the nation ... the world.

Matthew 6:10. "Your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven...”

• Pray for yourself

o Pray for your daily needs to be met
Matthew 6:11. Give us today our daily bread
o Pray for victory over temptation
Matthew 6:13. "And lead us not into temptation but deliver us from the evil one.”
o Write down your requests and expect an answer!

And my God will meet all your needs according to his glorious riches in Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:19.

You do not have, because you do not ask God. James 4:2.

Believers face a spiritual battle every day. Satan wants to defeat you through temptation and fear. By
praying for protection, you will have the confidence to face every situation during the day.

The one who is in you is greater than the one who is in the world. 1 John 4:4.

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Praying for yourself and others is a way to give up control of things that you cannot control and giving
control to God.

• Everyone share a prayer request for someone else or themselves.

• Everyone has just prayed because God heard their request.

Quiet Time
In order for your love relationship with God to grow, you should have a regular quiet time to be alone with
God to get to know and experience Him through Bible reading and prayer. A quiet time is not just Bible
reading to gain an overview of the Bible or a Bible study to gain in-depth knowledge of the Bible. Also, a
quiet time is not just prayer to communicate your thoughts and feelings to God. We set aside time for any
relationship that matters.

A Quiet Time is a Dialog

God

God speaks We respond

to us from the to God in
Bible Prayer

Man

The Importance of a Daily Quiet Time

Your time alone with God should be the top priority in your schedule for five reasons:

1. We were created to have fellowship with God.

"So God created man in his own image...” Genesis 1:27, 2:7, 3:8.

"Look! I've been standing at the door and constantly knocking. If anyone ... opens the door, I will
come in and fellowship with him and he with me.” Revelation 3:20.

2. Jesus died to make a relationship with God possible.

"God ... has invited you into this wonderful friendship with his Son, Christ our Lord.” 1 Corinthians 1:9.

3. Personal time alone with God was Jesus’ habit.

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 "Jesus often withdrew to lonely places and prayed.” Mark 1:35, Luke 22:39, Luke 5:16.

4. Every person who has been effective in ministry developed this habit.
Abraham, Moses, David, Daniel, Paul, etc.

5. You cannot be a growing Christian without it!

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.

The Purpose of a Daily Quiet Time

1. To Give Devotion to God

Give to the Lord the glory due to his name. Worship the Lord in the splendor of his holiness.
Psalm 29:2.

2. To Get Direction from God

Show me the path where I should go, O Lord; point out the right road for me to walk. Lead me.
Psalm 25:4.

Consider your way:

In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight. Proverbs 3:6.

Commit your day:

Commit everything you do to the Lord. Trust him to help you do it and he will. Psalm 37:5.

3. To Gain Delight in God

Delight yourself in the Lord; and he will give you the desires of your heart. Psalm 37:4.

God's presence fills me with joy and brings me pleasure. Psalm 16:11.

The objective of your Quiet Time is not to study about Christ, but to actually spend time with him and
get to know Him!

4. To Grow Daily Like God

When the council saw the boldness of Peter and John ... they were amazed and realized what being
with Jesus had done for them! Acts 4:13.

It takes approximately 3 weeks for you to become familiar with a new task.
Then it takes approximately another 3 weeks before it becomes a comfortable habit.

Let us not get tired of doing what is right, for after a while we will reap a harvest of blessing if we don't
get discouraged and give up. Galatians 6:9.

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 HOW TO BEGIN A QUIET TIME

1. Select a Specific Time

The best time to have a quiet time is when you are at your best.
Whatever time you set, be consistent.

• HOW LONG SHOULD A QUIET TIME BE?

o Start with a few minutes and let it grow.
o Emphasize quality, not quantity!

2. Choose a Special Place

Jesus went out as usual to the Mount of Olives… and prayed. Luke 22:39 & 41.

3. Gather the Resources You Will Need

• A Bible.
• A Notebook and pen or pencil to write down what the Lord speaks to you about and to keep your
prayer lists.

4. Begin with the Right Attitudes

• Reverence
Be still, and know that I am God. Psalm 46:10.

• Expectancy
Open my eyes that I may see wonderful things in your law. Psalm 119:18.

• Obedience
Whoever has my commands and obeys them, he is the one who loves me. John 14:21.

5. Follow a Simple Plan

• Read a Passage: One chapter is enough to read.

• Mark the thoughts that impress you the most as you read.

• Record what God said.

o Pick out the one thought you marked that impressed you the most.
o Write down the reference and thought from the verse.

• Respond back to God.

o Pray to God in response to what He has spoken to you in what you have written.
o Your response in prayer may be adoration, confession, thanksgiving, or supplication.

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Have a quiet time using the following passage of scripture and the Quiet Time Diary

John 15:4-10.
4
Remain in me, and I will remain in you. No branch can bear fruit by itself; it must remain in the vine.
Neither can you bear fruit unless you remain in me.

5
“I am the vine; you are the branches. If a man remains in me and I in him, he will bear much fruit; apart
from me you can do nothing. 6If anyone does not remain in me, he is like a branch that is thrown away
and withers; such branches are picked up, thrown into the fire and burned. 7If you remain in me and my
words remain in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be given you. 8This is to my Father’s glory, that
you bear much fruit, showing yourselves to be my disciples.

9
“As the Father has loved me, so have I loved you. Now remain in my love. 10If you obey my commands,
you will remain in my love, just as I have obeyed my Father’s commands and remain in his love.

QUIET TIME DIARY

Date:

Best thing I marked (Reference):

Thought from God:

Prayer response to God (Adoration, confession, thanksgiving, supplication):

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 “Talking with God” Summary

• Prayer is Your Communication with God

o As a child of God you can approach Him with confidence
o God wants you to trust Him, pour out your heart to Him, and find your refuge in Him
• Benefits of Prayer
o God will tell you great and unsearchable things
o God will do immeasurably more than you ask
o God will deliver you from fear
o God will replace your anxiety with His peace as you pray
• Conditions of Answered Prayer
o Unconfessed sin hinders your prayers
o Belief is needed for answered prayer
o Remain in Jesus and have his Word remain in you
o Ask in Jesus’ name
o Ask according to God’s will
• How to Pray
o Use the Lord’s Prayer as a model
▪ Adoration (Praise for who God is)
▪ Confession
▪ Thanksgiving (For what God has done)
▪ Supplication (For other people and yourself)
• Quiet Time
o A Quiet Time is a dialog between you and God
o Jesus showed us the importance of a regular Quiet Time
o Have a regular Quiet Time

Use the Quiet Time Diary on the following page and develop the habit of having a daily Quiet Time.

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 QUIET TIME DIARY

Date:
Best thing I marked (Reference):
Thought from God:

Prayer response to God (Adoration, confession, thanksgiving, supplication):

Date:
Best thing I marked (Reference):
Thought from God:

Prayer response to God (Adoration, confession, thanksgiving, supplication):

Date:
Best thing I marked (Reference):
Thought from God:

Prayer response to God (Adoration, confession, thanksgiving, supplication):

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 Chapter 7. Biblical Fellowship

What is Biblical Fellowship?

When we receive Jesus into our lives, we become a part of a spiritual family. Just like with earthly
families we must learn to grow in our love for and interdependency with each other. Biblical fellowship is
not only about the value we receive from our faith family but also the value we add to others. The early
disciples continued to meet together and we should do the same.

How great is the love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God! And that is
what we are! 1 John 3:1.

• Since God is our heavenly Father and all believers are His children, other Christians are my
brothers and sisters.

➢ How should brothers and sisters act toward one another?

For where two or three come together in my name, there am I (Jesus) with them. Matthew 18:20.

➢ Who is the central focus of Biblical fellowship?

Things we can do for each other as brothers and sisters

Dear friends, since God so loved us, we also ought to love one another. 1 John 4:11.

➢ What are practical ways we can we love one another?

Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ. Galatians 6:2.

➢ How can we carry each other’s burdens?

Pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous man is powerful and effective.
James 5:16.

➢ Why is it important to pray for each other?

➢ How can we pray for each other?

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All believers are forgiven sinners yet we still sin. None of us is perfect.
Therefore, if you are offering your gift at the altar and there remember that your brother has something
against you, leave your gift there in front of the altar. First go and be reconciled to your brother; then
come and offer your gift. Matthew 5:23-24.

➢ What is your responsibility to your brother or sister when you have offended him or
her?

➢ What can you do to restore the relationship?

➢ Is there someone you have sinned against? Who?

➢ What are you going to do?

“If your brother sins against you, go and show him his fault, just between the two of you. If he listens to
you, you have won your brother over. Matthew 18:15.

➢ What should you do when a brother or sister has offended you?

➢ Why is it significant that it should only be between the two of you?

Instead, speaking the truth in love, we will in all things grow up into him who is the Head, that is, Christ.
Ephesians 4:15.

➢ How should you show someone what they have done to you?

➢ How do you speak the truth in love?

➢ Is there someone who has sinned against you? Who?

• We are to forgive others just as God forgives us

• Not forgiving others hurts us.

If you ever have a problem with a relationship, you don’t have to wonder who should make the first move.
It is always you. However, you must rely on wisdom, timing, and love from the Holy Spirit. This cannot be
done with human willpower.

➢ What did God do to be reconciled with you?

Biblical fellowship is different from other groups.

Biblical fellowship is a Christ centered gathering of spiritual brothers and sisters who love each other
and are seeking to love God more and to become more like Jesus.

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 The Purpose of Biblical Fellowship

Some of the aspects of Biblical fellowship

As iron sharpens iron, so one man sharpens another. Proverbs 27:17.

➢ How can we sharpen one another?

And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds. Let us not give up
meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but let us encourage one another—and all the more
as you see the Day approaching. Hebrews 10:24-25.

➢ What are some ways we can we spur one another on?

➢ What can we do to encourage one another?

Let us do good to all people, especially to those who belong to the family of believers. Galatians 6:10.

➢ How can we do good to all people?

➢ Why is it especially important that we do good to other Christians?

➢ What are ways we can do good to other Christians?

Some of the responsibilities we have to one another in Biblical fellowship

Submit to one another out of reverence for Christ. Ephesians 5:21.

➢ Why is it important that we submit to one another?

➢ What are some ways we can submit to one another?

Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom, and as
you sing psalms, hymns and spiritual songs with gratitude in your hearts to God. Colossians 3:16.

➢ What is the difference between teaching and admonishing others?

➢ How can we teach one another?

➢ What are ways we can admonish one another?

➢ Why do we need wisdom to do these things?

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Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.
1 Thessalonians 5:11.

➢ What are ways we can encourage one another?

➢ The biblical image is building a house. How can we build each other up in the faith?

Our Fellowship Functions as the Body of Christ

God describes our fellowship with one another and with Christ in 1 Corinthians 12:14-27.
Now you are the body of Christ, and each one of you is a part of it. Verse 27.

➢ What is the image used to describe the fellowship of believers?

➢ How is the fellowship of believers like a body?

But in fact God has arranged the parts in the body, every one of them, just as he wanted them to
be. Verse 18.

➢ Who gave the parts of the body their functions?

In the Serve section of the Foundations discipleship material

we will spend time looking at your unique gifts and abilities as a part of the body of Christ.

So that there should be no division in the body, but that its parts should have equal concern for each
other. Verse 25.

➢ What does God want for our fellowship?

➢ What are some practical things we can do to have unity?

If the foot should say, “Because I am not a hand, I do not belong to the body,” it would not for that reason
cease to be part of the body. And if the ear should say, “Because I am not an eye, I do not belong to the
body,” it would not for that reason cease to be part of the body. The eye cannot say to the hand, “I don’t
need you!” And the head cannot say to the feet, “I don’t need you!” Verses 15, 16, 21

➢ What can lead to division in the body?

Comparison, feeling of no need of another part

➢ What are some other things that can cause division?

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As it is, there are many parts, but one body. The eye cannot say to the hand, “I don’t need you!” And the
head cannot say to the feet, “I don’t need you!” On the contrary, those parts of the body that seem to be
weaker are indispensable, Verses 20-22

➢ Why are there no unnecessary members in the body?

Each depends on the other

➢ How do we depend on each other?

If one part suffers, every part suffers with it; if one part is honored, every part rejoices with it. Verse 26

➢ How does stubbing your toe demonstrate the truth of this verse?

And he (Jesus) is the head of the body, the church; he is the beginning and the firstborn from among the
dead, so that in everything he might have the supremacy. Colossians 1:18.

➢ Who is the head of our body of believers?

• Jesus won’t force His leadership on our fellowship just like He won’t force His Lordship on our life.

➢ Why should we eagerly follow His leadership in our fellowship?

Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love. Make every effort to keep
the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace. Ephesians 4:2 – 3.

➢ What will preserve unity in the body?

➢ Is there someone with whom we need to be humble? Gentle? Bear with them in love?

➢ How can we bear with someone in love?

➢ Why does it take effort on our part to keep unity in our fellowship?

➢ What is our common bond that binds us together?

Christian fellowship provides a safe environment

where real life issues can openly be shared
and you can experience life change.
You can share your hurts, habits, and hang ups.
You don’t have to pretend to be something you’re not.

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 “Biblical Fellowship” Summary

• What is Biblical Fellowship?

o We are a fellowship of brothers and sisters
o Jesus is the central focus of Biblical fellowship
o We love one another, carry each other’s burdens, confess to each other, and pray for each other
o It is always your responsibility to make the first move in restoring a relationship independent of
whether you or the other person was to blame
o Biblical fellowship is Christ centered and is about giving and receiving from one another
• The Purpose of Biblical Fellowship
o Our fellowship sharpens us, spurs us on to love and good deeds, and encourages us
o We do good to everyone, especially to the family of believers
o We submit to one another, teach and admonish one another, and build each other up
• Our Fellowship Functions as the Body of Christ
o Our fellowship functions as a body with Jesus as the head
o God gave each member of the body an indispensable function
o God wants no division in the body and that there should be equal concern for all parts of the body
o God wants us to make every effort to maintain unity by being humble, gentle, patient, and bearing
with one another in love

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 Leader Notes
(Study the Leader Notes before leading a Foundations meeting)

How to Lead a Foundations Meeting

1. You can lead Foundations with one person or with a small group
2. Study the “Foundations Leader Training Guide” at foundationsglobal.com.
3. Study the Foundations material before you lead a meeting with it
4. Pray as you prepare each study that God would teach you and change your life and show you how to
guide others
• Pray before and after each meeting.
o Pray yourself during the first few meetings and ask others when you think they are ready.
• Pray every week for each person by name.
5. Use the Foundations Meeting Checklist before and after each meeting.
6. Don’t lecture or talk too much
• God is the teacher in Foundations.
• Foundations includes discussion questions that help people participate.
7. Make sure everyone participates
• Let people read each verse, bullet point, or other information in order around the circle.
• The leader should ask the discussion questions.
• The questions can be answered by anyone.
• The leader may ask does anyone else have anything to say.
• You may need to direct specific, non-threatening questions to those who aren’t participating.
8. If someone is talking too much, direct a question to someone else, or ask “What does someone else
think?”
9. Help everyone feel valued
• Give some positive response to every answer to every question.
o Even if someone gives a wrong answer, you can say “Thank you for sharing”
o Then you can ask, “What does someone else think?”
• This will help people participate more actively.
10. Keep it simple for unbelievers and new believers.
• You will have time to help them grow in all of the ingredients of a disciple
11. When people ask a question that is answered in a future section, say “That’s a good question. We
will talk about that in the future.” This happens a lot. Don’t answer the question. It is better that they
see the answer for themselves from the Bible later on.
12. Relationships are important and take time to develop.
• Having fun together is very important.
• You must open up and share about your own hurts and struggles.
• People gradually need to open up and share about their lives.
13. Don’t feel that you must cover a certain amount of material at each meeting.
• Foundations is about life change and life change takes time.
• Jesus took three years to make His disciples.
14. Start and end on time
• It’s good to stay afterward and talk with those who want to.
15. During the first meeting:
• Explain the importance of confidentiality

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 Foundations Checklists
Use before and after each meeting for yourself and your apprentice.

Pre-Meeting Reminders
1. Don’t talk too much
2. Remember that God is the teacher
3. Ask questions and listen
• Help people self-discover
4. Keep it simple for unbelievers and new believers
5. Make sure everyone participates
6. Give positive feedback to every answer
7. Look for potential apprentices
8. Pray for the meeting

Post-Meeting Evaluation
1. What were some positive experiences?
2. Did everyone participate?
3. Did I give positive feedback to every answer?
4. Did I talk too much?
5. Did someone else talk too much?
6. Did we deviate from the topic?
7. Did I keep it simple for unbelievers and new believers?
8. Other observations?
9. Do I need to follow up with someone who was absent?
10. Pray for the people

Foundations Essentials
1. Jesus’ Goal: Finish the Great Commission
2. Jesus’ Method: Multiply disciples
3. Jesus Model: Train leaders by apprenticeship
• Initial training with the Foundations Leader Training Guide
• Apprenticeship
• Ongoing training in the Foundations Leader Team
4. Material (All material is free at foundationsglobal.com)
• Foundations Discipleship Material
o Follows Jesus’ process of sequential learning
Come, Grow, Serve, Go
o Includes all of the ingredients of a disciple (“obey everything I have commanded you”)
Know God, God’s Word, Prayer, Fellowship, Service, Outreach
• Foundations Leader Training Guide
5. God is the teacher
• We facilitate discussion by asking questions, we don’t lecture.
• We help people self-discover and apply God’s Word to their lives.

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