Making Disciples - Namibia 2008 V4

Making Disciples A practical guide and series of Bible studies for disciples of Jesus Christ to help others to become disciples.

© Windhoek Church of Christ

Jan 2008

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Introduction: Romans 10:14-15 How, then, can they call on the one they have not believed in? And how can they believe in the one of whom they have not heard? And how can they hear without someone preaching to them? And how can they preach unless they are sent? As it is written, "How beautiful are the feet of those who bring good news!" (NIV) Matthew 28:18-20 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, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age." (NIV) We, who are disciples of Jesus Christ, have an enormous privilege and a great responsibility! We are privileged to be ‘children of God’, privileged to have our sins forgiven, privileged to be a part of an eternal Kingdom and privileged to have found and embraced the truth. We also have a great responsibility. A responsibility to ‘correctly handle the word of truth’ (2 Tim 2:15) a responsibility to preach to those who have not heard and a responsibility to remain true to our calling. We live at a time of great opportunity. Population statisticians tell us that there are as many people alive today (+ 6 billion) as have lived in all the centuries before this one. In other words, we have an opportunity to reach, with the gospel, half of all the people who have ever lived. Breath-taking! Travel to far distant lands has never been more convenient. Communication has never been easier. Never before has religious freedom been so embraced by the world’s governments. Surely this is a time of great opportunity. You may ask, “How should I use this study series to reach out to my neighbour?” “Do I need to do the studies in a set order?” “Do I need to teach all these studies to a person before they get baptised?” Well, each person we study with is different and comes from a different religious background so you need to tailor the studies to meet their needs. This booklet is designed to give you some of the tools necessary to bring a person to the foot of the cross. In the 1st century need-based studies on food sacrificed to idols, circumcision, idol and emperor worship were no doubt needed. Today our issues are different. Which denominations of Christianity are teaching the bible accurately? Internet pornography, self-control in traffic, living together before you are married, racism and ethnicism all need to be addressed with the eternal principles of righteousness found in the scriptures. So, each disciple, through prayer and advice needs to decide what to teach. Whatever happens, never forget: "How beautiful are the feet of those who bring good news!" Your goal: To bring the good news to as many as possible, to help everybody to grow in their faith and grow in their relationship with God, so you can take as many as possible with you to heaven. (Rom 10:17)

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HELPFUL NOTES. Every study needs to focus on their relationship with God. 1. Build a good friendship and help the person with whom you are studying to have other great friends in the church. Have a Christian friend join in on the studies. 2. Be sure that you move the HEART with each study and not just pass out information. The individual must make decisions; you must call for these. Leave lots of time for good talks. Don’t go on to further studies until you are sure he/she has ‘got it’. 3. Close out the studies with a short prayer. If it is comfortable for the person studying, have them say a short prayer also. 4. REMEMBER the ultimate goal is to teach a person the love God has for them and to love God in return, therefore go praying together and hopefully your love for God will rub off on them. 5. Use the additional studies (at least one a week) with new Christians. APPROACH TO SET UP A STUDY. 1) Set up time to talk. Make sure the atmosphere of the meeting place is conducive for a good conversation. Get to know each other before studying – you want to build trust. Have a Bible ready to present them if they choose to study. 2) If appropriate share about yourself- your conversion, what you were generally like before you became a Christian, why you became a Christian. 3) Ask them where they think they are spiritually – ask them about the most important times in shaping their ideas and beliefs about God and religion. Ask them why they believe what they believe: a) Do you believe in the God of the Bible? b) Do you believe that Jesus is the Son of God? God in the flesh? c) Have you read the Bible? How much? When? d) Do you consider yourself a Christian? 4) Give homework: Each study has additional scriptures for self-study for re-enforcement of the topic. 5) Stick to the topic. Let the scriptures talk. Remember, there are many ways to study the bible with somebody, depending on who they are, their religious background, their upbringing etc. There is not a set rule in terms of the order of the studies – Pray for wisdom and use your discretion. Here is a further guideline to the order of studies that you could use: REASON:

Motivation factors to becoming a Christian Seeking God Word God’s Love and Grace The Cross

RESPONSE:

Response to having faith Discipleship Kingdom Sin and Repentance Light and Darkness

REALITY:

Reality of the standard of the Bible False Doctrine Denominations

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CONTENTS FIRST PRINCIPLES...........................................................................5 THE WORD OF GOD.................................................................. ..............................5 DISCIPLESHIP.................................................................................................. ........6 KINGDOM OF GOD & CHURCH...................................................................................7 Kingdom.............................................................................................................................................7 Church................................................................................................................................................8

SIN.......................................................................................... ............................9 REPENTANCE................................................................................... .....................10 THE CROSS AND RESURRECTION.......................................................................... .....11 The Cross Study...............................................................................................................................11 Medical Account of the Crucifixion...............................................................................................12 Isaiah 53 Paraphrased Worksheet.................................................................................................15 Resurrection.....................................................................................................................................16

GOD’S LOVE & GRACE............................................................................. .............17 LIGHT & DARKNESS..............................................................................................18 FALSE DOCTRINES........................................................................................ .........19 DENOMINATIONS....................................................................... .............................20 HOLY SPIRIT 1 – ROLE OF THE SPIRIT......................................................................21 JESUS IS LORD..................................................................................... ................22

NEED-BASED STUDIES.................................................................23 SEEKING GOD.......................................................................... ............................23 HOLY SPIRIT 2 - BAPTISM................................................................................... ....24 HOLY SPIRIT 3 – MIRACULOUS GIFTS.......................................................................25 THE EVIDENCES.............................................................................. ......................26 PRIDE & HUMILITY............................................................... .................................30 THE CHRISTIAN HUSBAND............................................................... ........................31 THE CHRISTIAN WIFE.................................................................................... .........32 FEELINGS....................................................................... .....................................33 WITCHCRAFT................................................................................ ........................34 Old Testament..................................................................................................................................34 New Testament.................................................................................................................................34

PREJUDICE, RACISM, ETHNICISM & DISCRIMINATION......................................................35

FOLLOW-UP STUDIES...................................................................36 AFTER BAPTISM – WHAT NEXT?.............................................................................36 TRUSTING GOD....................................................................................... ..............37 JESUS OUR MODEL.................................................................................. .............39 PERSECUTION & OPPOSITION................................................................... ................40 BACKSLIDING............................................................................................... .........41 CHRIST IS YOUR LIFE....................................................................................... ......42 BEST FRIENDS OF ALL TIME............................................................................ ........43 THE MISSION....................................................................................................... .44 4

FIRST PRINCIPLES THE WORD OF GOD (Purpose: How to have a relationship with God through His word. To establish the scriptures as the standard for our lives)

2 Timothy 3:16-17 a) The scriptures are all God breathed. They come from God. It is God speaking to us through both Old and New Testament b) We must not treat the bible like a buffet lunch, picking and choosing which scriptures we want to follow and which ones we do not. c) They are useful for teaching and training us to be in right standing with God. It is like a manual (workshop, software, vehicle, equipment, etc.) - you have to read it and apply it to your life. Hebrews 4:12-13 a. Living and active means it is applicable to our lives. b. The Word cuts the bad out of our hearts. (compare it to a doctors scalpel) c. It is concerned with the thoughts and attitudes of our hearts, not just the outward actions * Are you willing to follow the scripture even when it is uncomfortable (cuts) John 8:31-32 a. Believing is not enough. We must also hold to His teachings. b. Only the truth can set you free. Lies cannot. Illustration: We all believe a diet can help you lose weight. But you must hold to it. Matthew 15:1-9 a. You must follow the scriptures and not traditions. b. Worship, which is against the Bible, but is in keeping with traditions, is in vain. * Are you willing to set aside any religious traditions if they conflict with the bible? Acts 17:10-12 a. The Bereans were noble in God’s sight because:  They were eager to learn about God’s word  They examined the scriptures daily.  They checked to see if what they were taught was true * Are you willing to eagerly read and pray every day? l Timothy 4:16 Watch your life and doctrine closely. Illustration: Which wing of an aeroplane is more important? Both wings of an airplane are important! John 12:47-48 a. The Bible will be the standard for our judgment. Decision to Change: Do you want to make the Bible your standard? Additional Scriptures for Self-study: Psalm 119; Mat 4:1-4; 2 Tim 2:15; Ps 1:2; Mat. 7:21-23; Ps 12:6; Pr 30:5-6; 1 Tim 4:16; Deut. 17:19, 18:19; Jos 1:8; Jam 1:21-25; Is 66:2; 2 Tim 4:3; Deut 32:46-47

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DISCIPLESHIP (Purpose: To be called to live the life of a disciple)

Acts 11: 25-26 The disciples were called Christians for the first time. Note that disciple=Christian (synonyms). The word disciple is used approximately 270 times in the Bible and the word Christian only 3 times. Jesus defines the term disciple and the expectations of a disciple throughout the gospels. Mark 1:16-18 Characteristics of a Disciple

= Follower of Jesus = A Fisher of men (new purpose in life) = Willing to leave his “nets” for the cause. There is a difference between hanging out with someone as apposed to following. . Following Jesus means imitation and changing to be like him - think like him, have the same heart, do the things he did, obedient to his commands,

Luke 9:23-26 Characteristics of a Disciple

= Must deny himself (yes to Jesus, no to self) = Carry his cross daily = Not be ashamed of Christ

Luke 10:25-28 a. Love God wholeheartedly b. Love our neighbours (praying for them, caring for their needs, sharing the gospel with them etc…) Heart = emotions Soul = eternal part of us Strength = energy and time Mind = choose what God chooses John 13 :34-35 How did Jesus love? a. He forgave everything b. He had no prejudice c. He never gave up on people d. He was serving

e. He fought for relationships

Luke 14:25-33 a. You must love Jesus more than yourself b. You must count the cost before you build. (Know what you are getting in to.) c. The terms of peace are set by God not us! d. Your must be willing to give up everything for Christ Matthew 25:35-46 Characteristics of a Disciple = To love the poor Matthew 28:18-20 a. Disciples go and make disciples of others. b. A disciple is a candidate for baptism. c. Disciples continue to be taught to obey all of Jesus’ commands. CONCLUSION 1) Are you living as a disciple? If not what does this mean with respect to your relationship with God? 2) Decision to Change: Do you want to be a disciple? Additional Scriptures for Self-study: 1 John 2:3-6; Lk 11:23; Lk 6:46; Lk 9:57-62; Deut 6:7; 15:7-11; Phm 6; 2 Cor 5:14-15,20; Joh 15:8; 1 Joh 2:3-6; Joh 14:12; Mrk 6:30; Jam 2:20-24

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KINGDOM OF GOD & CHURCH (Purpose: To get people to come and visit the church and commit to fellowship) Kingdom This study answers six questions: 1. Do the old and New Testaments fit together? 2. What is the Kingdom of God? 3. When was the Kingdom on earth established?

4. How do I get into it? 5. Does it matter if I go to church or not? 6.Does it matter which church I go to?

Daniel 2:26-45 (550BC) Clue 1: Kingdom will be established during the Roman Empire. Clue 2: Eternal Kingdom. Gold = Babylonian Empire Silver = Medo-Persian Empire Bronze = Greek Empire Iron & Clay = Roman Empire Isaiah 2:2-4 (750BC)

Clue 3: The Word will go out from Jerusalem. Clue 4: All nations will be there.

Matthew 4:17

Clue 6: Jesus says the Kingdom is near.

Mark 9:1

Clue 7: In the life of some of them standing there. Clue 8: It will come with power.

John 3:1-6

Clue 9: You must be born again to enter the kingdom of water and Spirit.

Matthew 16:13-19

Clue 10: Peter has the keys to the Kingdom The Rock is not Peter, The rock is the confession that Peter made, that Jesus is the Son of the living God This is the first time that Jesus uses the word Church. The word Church means a group of people with a common purpose. (At this point do not say that Church and Kingdom are the same) If you are bound in the Kingdom on earth – you will be bound in heaven

Acts 1:1-9

Jesus is taken up to Heaven, but they are still waiting for the Kingdom.

Acts 2:1-13

Powerful event. All nations present. In Jerusalem.

Acts 2:36-41

Peter preaches the “keys” to the Kingdom.

Acts 2:42-47

Note: This is the Blue-print of the first Church (The Kingdom) The Church as the Kingdom on earth, is a group of people with a common

purpose. Matthew 6:33

God & His Kingdom should be 1st priority in our lives.

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CONCLUSION Answer the six questions. 1. Do the old & New Testament fit together? Yes 2. What is the Kingdom of God? It includes heaven and the church. The church on earth makes up a part of God’s Kingdom. His Kingdom is also the eternal community of God’s people from every century, city and country. 3. When was the Kingdom on earth established? Day of Pentecost (Acts 2) 4. How do I get into the Kingdom? By being born again (John 3:1-6) Whoever obeys God’s teachings is a part of His Kingdom 5. Does it matter which church I go to? Yes, imagine Jesus came to Windhoek today. How would He find His Kingdom? He would use the blueprint (Acts 2:42-47) e.g. If Jesus walked into a church and asked the person next to Him how it was going being a disciple and the person answers, “what do you mean?” Do you think Jesus would think He’d found His Kingdom? 6. Does it matter if I go to church? Yes. Matt 6:33 , Matt 13:44-45 A great treasure is not something you treat carelessly. Further Reading: The Group in Acts 2 were called the church: Acts 5:11, Acts8:1, Acts 9:31 The Kingdom includes heaven: Many verses refer to the Kingdom as heaven as well Acts 14:22 2 Peter 1:11 2 Tim 4:18 1 Cor 15:50 Matt 13: 41-43 Refers to the Kingdom being on earth and in heaven. Church Ephesians 2:19-21 The church is the family of God and becomes your new family when you are baptised. Cornerstone: Christ Foundation: Apostles (New Testament Bible ) and Prophets (Old Testament) The church is based on the Word of God only. 1 Corinthians 12:12-13 You are baptised into the body of Christ, the church. Baptism is when we become a Christian, a son of God, and at that same point we become members of the church, the family of God. 1 Corinthians 12:14-27 We need the body and the body needs us (v. 21). Be involved on a relationship level in the church (v. 26). Hebrews 10:23-25 Do not miss church, the fellowship helps us to be unswerving in our commitment (v. 23). Another purpose of fellowship is to encourage each other so we will remain faithful (v. 24) Come to all meetings of the body: i.e. Sunday and midweek services, special devotionals, Bible jubilees, retreats, seminars, etc. Additional Scriptures for Self-Study: Colossians 1:18 Ephesians 4:4-6 Romans 12:4-5 1 Corinthians 12:12-13 1 Corinthians 1:10-13 8

SIN (Purpose: To establish the bible’s standards of morality)

Isaiah 59:1-2 Sin separates us from God. We cannot have a proper relationship with God if there is sin in our life. ME SIN GOD Romans 3:23 All have sinned. Not just criminals. James 5:16 It is a command from God to confess our sins to each other. It is part of the repentance and healing process. My fellow disciples can help me to change my sin by praying for me. Galatians 5:19-21 Obvious Sin: The person who lives like this will NOT go to heaven. sexual immorality - "sexually morally wrong or evil" a sexual relationship outside marriage, even just looking lustfully at a woman. impurity - "dirty, mixed with foreign matter" impure thoughts, masturbation, smoking, drugs. debauchery - "indulgence in sensual habits" too much or too little of something (eat, drink, sleep). idolatry - "object of excessive devotion" sport, money, television, job, relationships, myself. witchcraft - "use of magic, sorcery" the stars, palm reading, witchdoctors; discord - "holding of opposed views, strife". jealousy - "envious of a person's advantages". fits of rage - "violent anger" hitting your child out of anger, throwing things around. selfish ambition "deficient in consideration for others, actuated by self-interest". dissensions - "disunion, quarrels due to difference of opinion" unions that arrange strikes. factions - "self-interested party (politics)" gangs, clicks. envy - "bitter or longing contemplation of another's better fortune or qualities". drunkenness "excess of strong drink". orgies - "drunken or licentious revel" wild parties, group sex, stag parties, pornography Mark 7:20-23 a. Don’t blame others for your sin, because it comes from your heart b. We therefore must take personal responsibility for our sin adultery - "sexual intercourse of a man with a woman not his wife either or both being married"; greed - "insatiate desire for food or wealth"; malice - "desire to do harm"; deceit - "persuade of what is false, mislead" white lies, cheating on your taxes or your CV; lewdness - "indecent"; slander "false report maliciously uttered to person's injury"; arrogance - "overbearing, presumptuous" looking down on somebody, high opinion of yourself; folly - "foolish act/conduct" 2 Timothy 3:1-5

More subtle sins but sin never the less - These are character sins

Revelation 21:8 Lies and deceit include: taxes, exaggerating, leaving out details, calling in “sick”, lies to family, lies on a CV, etc. No sin is bigger in God’ eyes, there will be different consequences to sin, but all sin separates us from God. James 4:17 It is also a sin to omit doing what is right (sins of omission). This includes: Not helping the poor, not praying, not doing Bible study, not evangelising, etc… Decision to Change: Make a list for yourself of the sin you see in your own life Additional Scriptures for Self-study: Psalms 66:18 ; Proverbs 28:13; 1John 1:8-10; Rom 6:23; Eph 5:3-5; Mat 5:28; Col 3:5; 1 Cor 5:11; 1 Cor 6:9-10, 19-20; Rom 14:23; Pr 6:6-11; Lk 18:9-14; Mat 6:15; 1 Cor 3:16-17; 1 Cor 4:6-7 9

REPENTANCE (Purpose: To understand Godly sorrow and repentance)

Luke 13:1-3 We have a choice, but the choice is clear - if you do not repent, you will perish! Repent is from Greek word “Metanoeo” which means to think differently or change your mind. Repentance starts with a decision to change! Acts 26:20 Prove your repentance by your deeds You and other people around you will see that you are changing. Your life will be different. Repentance means to turn away from sin and turn towards God:

2 Corinthians 7:8-11 Discuss the difference between worldly and godly sorrow Worldly Sorrow: Caught out but no change of heart. Godly sorrow: earnestness - "intensely serious, zealous" eagerness to clear yourselves - "some sins require corrective action e.g. return the stolen goods" indignation - "scornful anger at supposed unjust or unfair conduct or treatment" alarm - "warning of danger, arouse to a sense of danger, frightened expectation of danger" longing - "a feeling of intense desire" concern - "relevant or important to anxiety, worry" readiness to see justice done - "prepared, ready for action" Mark 9:42-48 Be radical about stopping sin. Acts 3:19 Repentance brings times of refreshing! Decision to Change: Decide to repent of the sin in your life Additional Scriptures for Self-study: Acts 3:19; 2 Pet 3:9; 2 Tim 3:12; Joh 15:18; Jer 2:34-35; Ps 36:1-2; 1 Cor 15:33; Prov 14:9; Job 34:33; Rom 2:4

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THE CROSS AND RESURRECTION (Purpose: To understand God’s astonishing love and sacrifice for us and be motivated by the cross)

The Cross Study 1. THE PASSION ACCOUNT: a. THE EMOTIONAL SUFFERING OF JESUS CHRIST Matthew 26:36-46 Got no support from His friends in His hour of need. Matthew 26:47-56 Betrayed with a kiss from a friend. Matthew 26:57-68 Falsely accused. Matthew 26:69-75 Disowned by Peter. b. THE PYSICAL SUFFERING OF JESUS CHRIST Matthew 27:26-44 The flogging The mockery The crucifixion c. THE SPIRITUAL SUFFERING OF JESUS CHRIST Matthew 27:45-50 Took on all our sins Separated from God 2. MEDICAL ACCOUNT OF JESUS’ SUFFERING: Read the medical account of Jesus’ suffering on page 12 or make a copy for your friend to read in his/her own time. 3. PERSONAL RESPONSIBILITY: Make a copy of the Isaiah 53 worksheet on page 15 and let your friend fill in the blanks. 4. Responding to the Cross: Romans 8:31-32 a. What can we say in response to Jesus’ sacrifice? b. What is YOUR response to the cross? c. The cross should NOT make us feel guilty but rather thankful for Jesus’ sacrifice and grace d. We should be convicted about our sin and eager to change 2 Corinth 5:14 a. Christ’s love compels us b. To no longer live for ourselves but rather for Him

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Medical Account of the Crucifixion C. Truman Davis, M.D. M.S.

In this article, I shall discuss some of the physical aspects of the passion, or suffering, of Jesus Christ. We shall follow Him from Gethsemane, through His trial, His scourging, His path along the Via Dolorosa, to His last dying hours on the cross...This led me first to a study of the practice of crucifixion itself~ that is, the torture and execution of a person by fixation to a cross. Many painters and most of the sculptors of crucifixes today show the nails through the palms. Roman historical accounts and experimental work have shown that the nails were driven between the small bones of the wrists and not through the palms. Nails driven through the palms will strip out between the fingers when they support the weight of a human body. The physical passion of the Christ begins in Gethsemane. Of the many aspects of his initial suffering, I shall only discuss the one of physiological interest; the body sweat. It is interesting that the physician of the group St. Luke, is the only one to mention this. He says, “And being in anguish, he prayed more earnestly, and his sweat was like drops of blood falling to the ground” (Luke 22:44) Every attempt imaginable has been used by modern scholars to explain away this phrase, apparently under the mistaken impression that this just doesn’t happen. A great deal of effort could be saved by consulting the medical literature. Though very rare, the phenomenon of Hermadrosis or bloody sweat, is well documented. Under great emotional stress, tiny capillaries in the sweat glands can break, thus mixing blood with sweat. This process alone could have produced marked weakness and possible shock. After the arrest in the middle of the night, Jesus was brought before the Sanhedrin and Caiaphas, the High Priest; it is here that the first physical trauma was inflicted. A soldier struck Jesus across the face for remaining silent when questioned by Caiaphas. The palace guards then blindfolded Him and mockingly taunted Him to identify them as they each passed by, spat on Him, and struck Him in the face. In the morning, Jesus, battered and bruised, dehydrated, and exhausted from a sleepless night, is taken across Jerusalem to the Praetorium of the Fortress Antonia, the seat of government of the Procurator of Judea, Pontius Pilate. You are, of course, familiar with Pilate’s action in attempting to pass responsibility to Herod Antipas, the Tetrarch of Judea. Jesus apparently suffered no physical mistreatment at the hands of Herod and was returned to Pilate. It was then, in response to the cries of the mob, that Pilate ordered Barabbas released and condemned Jesus to scourging and crucifixion. There is much disagreement among authorities about scourging as a prelude to crucifixion. Most Roman writers from this period do not associate the two. Many scholars believe that Pilate originally ordered Jesus scourged as his full punishment and that the death sentence by crucifixion came only in response to the taunt by the mob that the Procurator was not properly defending Caesar against this pretender who claimed to be the King of the Jews. Preparations for the scourging are carried out. The prisoner is stripped of His clothing and His hands tied to a post above His head. It is doubtful whether the Romans made any attempt to follow the Jewish law in this matter of scourging. The Jews had an ancient law prohibiting more than forty lashes. The Pharisees, always making sure that the law was strictly kept, insisted that only thirty-nine lashes be given. (In case of a miscount, they were sure of remaining within the law.) The Roman legionnaire steps forward with the flagrum (or flagellum) in his hand. This is a short whip consisting of several heavy, leather thongs with two small balls of lead or bone attached near the ends of each. The heavy whip is brought down with full force again and again across Jesus’ shoulders, back and legs. At first the heavy thongs cut through the skin only. Then, as the blows continue, they cut deeper into the subcutaneous tissues, producing first an oozing of blood from the capillaries and veins of the skin, and finally spurting arterial bleeding from vessels in the underlying muscles. The small balls of lead or 12

bones first produce large, deep bruises, which are broken open by subsequent blows. Finally the skin of the back hangs in long ribbons and the entire area is an unrecognisable mass of torn bleeding tissue. When it is determined by the centurion in charge that the prisoner is near death, the beating is finally stopped. The half-fainting Jesus is then untied and allowed to slump to the stone pavement, wet with His own blood. The Roman soldiers see a great joke in this provincial Jew claiming to be a king. They throw a robe across His shoulders and place a stick in His hand for a scepter. They still need a crown to make their travesty complete. A small bundle of flexible branches covered with long thorns (commonly used for firewood) are plaited into the shape of a crown and this is pressed into His scalp. Again there are copious bleeding (the scalp being one of the most vascular areas of the body). After mocking Him and striking Him across the face, the soldiers take the stick from His hand and strike Him across the head, driving the thorns deeper into His scalp. Finally, they tire of their sadistic sport and the robe is torn from His back. This had already become adherent to the clots of blood and serum in the wounds, and its removal, just as in the careless removal of a surgical bandage, causes excruciating pain...Almost as though He were again being whipped - and the wounds again begin to bleed. In deference to Jewish custom, the Romans return His garments. The heavy patibulum of the cross is tied across His shoulders and the procession of the condemned Christ, two thieves and the execution detail of the Roman soldiers, headed by a centurion, begins its slow journey along the Via Dolorosa. In spite of His efforts to walk erect, the weight of the heavy wooden cross together with the shock produced by copious blood loss is too much. He stumbles and falls. The rough wood of the beam gouges into the lacerated skin and muscles of the shoulders. He tries to rise, but human muscles have been pushed beyond their endurance. The centurion, anxious to get on with the crucifixion, elects a stalwart North African onlooker, Simon of Cyrene to carry the cross. Jesus follows; still bleeding and sweating the cold clammy sweat of shock. The 650-yard journey from the fortress Antonia to Golgotha is finally completed. The prisoner is again stripped of His clothes - except for a loin cloth, which is allowed the Jews. The crucifixion begins, Jesus is offered wine mixed with myrrh; a mild analgesic mixture. He refuses to drink. Simon is ordered to place the cross on the ground and Jesus is quickly thrown backward with His shoulders against the, wood. The legionnaire feels for the depression at the front of the wrist. He drives a heavy, square, wrought iron nail through the wrist and deep into the wound. Quickly, he moves to the other side and repeats the action, being careful not to pull the arms too tightly, but to allow some flexibility and movement. The patibulum is then lifted in place at the top of the stipes and the title is reading “This is Jesus, The King of the Jews” (Matthew 27:37), is nailed in place. The left foot is pressed against the right foot, and with both feet extended, toes down, a nail is driven through the ankles of each, leaving the knees moderately flexed. The victim is now crucified. As He slowly sags down with more weight on the nails in the wrists, excruciating, fiery pain shoots along the fingers and up the arms to explode in the brain - the nails in the wrists are putting pressure on the median nerves. As He pushes Himself upward to avoid this stretching torment, He places His full weight on the nail through His feet. Again there is the searing agony of the tearing through the nerves between the metatarsal bones of the feet. At this point, another phenomenon occurs. As the arms fatigue, great waves of cramps sweep over the muscles, knotting them in deep, relentless, throbbing pain. With these cramps comes the inability to push Himself upward. Hanging by His arms, the pectoral muscles are paralysed and the intercostal muscles are unable to act. Air can be drawn into the lungs, but cannot be exhaled. Jesus fights to raise Himself in order to get even one short breath. Finally carbon dioxide builds up in the lungs and in the blood stream and the cramps partially subside. Spasmodically, He is able to push Himself upward to exhale and bring in the life-giving oxygen. It was undoubtedly during these periods that He uttered the seven short sentences, which are recorded: The first looking down at the Roman soldiers throwing dice for His seamless garment, “Father, forgive 13

them, for they do not know what they are doing” (Luke 23:34) The second, to the penitent thief, “I tell you the truth, today you will be with me in paradise” (Luke23:43) The third, looking down at the terrified, grief stricken adolescent John (the beloved Apostle), He said, “There is your mother,” and looking to Mary his mother, “Dear woman, here is your son” (John 19:26-27) The fourth cry is from the the 22nd Psalm, “My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?” (Matthew 27:46) Hours of limitless pain, cycles of twisting joint-rending cramps, intermittent partial asphyxiation, searing pain as tissue is torn from His lacerated back as He moves up and down the rough timber: Then another agony begins. A deep crushing pain deep in the chest as the pericardium slowly fills with serum and begins to compress the heart. Let us remember again the 22nd Psalm, “I am poured out like water, and all my bones are out of joint. My heart has turned to wax; it has melted away within me” (Ps 22:14). It is now almost over - the loss of tissue fluids has reached a critical level - the compresses heart is struggling to pump heavy, thick sluggish blood into the tissues - the tortured lungs are making a frantic effort to grasp in small gulps of air. The markedly dehydrated tissues send their fluid of stimuli to the brain. Jesus gasps His fifth cry, “I am thirsty” (John 19:28) Let us remember another verse of the prophetic 22nd Psalm: “My strength is dried up like a potsherd, and my tongue sticks to the roof of my mouth; you lay me in the dust of death” (Psalm 22:15) A sponge soaked in Posca, the cheap, sour wine that is the staple drink of the Roman legionnaires, is lifted to His lips. He apparently does not take any of the liquid. The body of Jesus is now in extremes, and He can feel ~he chill of death creeping through His tissues. The realisation brings out the sixth words, “It is finished” (John 19:30). His mission of atonement has been completed. Finally He can allow his body to die. With one last surge of strength, he once again presses His torn feet against the nail, straightens His legs, takes a deeper breath, and utters His seventh and final cry, “Father, into your hands I commit my Spirit” (Luke 23:46). The rest you know. In order that the Sabbath not be profaned, the Jews asked that the condemned men be dispatched and removed from the crosses. The common method of ending a crucifixion was by crucifracture, the breaking of the bones of the legs. This prevents the victim from pushing himself upward; the tension could not be relieved from the muscles of the chest, and rapid suffocation occurred. The legs of the two thieves were broken, but when they came to Jesus they saw that this was unnecessary. Apparently to make double sure of death, the legionnaire drove his lance through the fifth interspace between the ribs upward through the pericardium and into the heart. John 19:34 records”...one of the soldiers pierced Jesus’ side with a spear, bringing forth a sudden flow of blood and water.” Thus there was an escape of watery fluid from the sac surrounding the heart and blood from the interior of the heart. We, therefore, have rather conclusive post-mortem evidence that Our Lord died, not to the usual crucifixion death by suffocation, but of heart failure due to shock and constriction of the heart by fluid in the pericardium. Thus we have seen a glimpse of the epitome of evil which man can exhibit toward man - and toward God. This is not a pretty sight and is apt to leave us despondent and depressed. How grateful we can be that we have a sequel: A glimpse of the infinite mercy of God toward man - the miracle of the atonement and the expectation of Easter morning.

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Isaiah 53 Paraphrased Worksheet Insert Your Name in the spaces for a personalised experience of the cross: Has __________ believed our message? To whom will the LORD reveal his saving power? 2 My servant JESUS grew up in the LORD's presence like a tender green shoot, sprouting from a root in dry and sterile ground. There was nothing beautiful or majestic about JESUS’ appearance, nothing to attract __________ to him. 3 JESUS was despised and rejected – a man of sorrows, acquainted with bitterest grief. __________ turned his back on JESUS and looked the other way when he went by. JESUS was despised, and __________ did not care. 4 Yet it was __________’s weaknesses JESUS carried; it was __________’s sorrows that weighed JESUS down. And __________ thought JESUS’s troubles were a punishment from God for his own sins! 5 But JESUS was wounded and crushed for __________’s sins. JESUS was beaten that __________ might have peace. JESUS was whipped, and __________ was healed! 6 __________ has strayed away like a sheep. __________ has left God's paths to follow __________’s own. Yet the LORD laid on JESUS the guilt and sins of __________ 7 JESUS was oppressed and treated harshly, yet he never said a word. JESUS was led as a lamb to the slaughter. And as a sheep is silent before the shearers, JESUS did not open his mouth. 8 From prison and trial they led JESUS away to his death. But did __________ among the people realize that JESUS was dying for their sins – that JESUS was suffering __________’s punishment? 9 JESUS had done no wrong, and he never deceived anyone. But he was buried like a criminal; he was put in a rich man's grave. 10 But it was the LORD's good plan to crush JESUS and fill him with grief. Yet when JESUS’s life is made an offering for sin, he will have a multitude of children, many heirs. He will enjoy a long life, and the LORD's plan will prosper in his hands. 11 When JESUS sees all that is accomplished by his anguish, he will be satisfied. And because of what JESUS has experienced, my righteous servant will make it possible for __________ to be counted righteous, for JESUS will bear all __________’s sins. 12 I will give him the honours of one who is mighty and great, because JESUS exposed himself to death. JESUS was counted among those who were sinners. JESUS bore the sins of __________ and interceded for __________

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Resurrection Christ was raised from the dead and believing this is fundamental to our understanding of the process of being born again: 1 Cor 15:4 Fundamental to the gospel Paul preached Acts 2:22-32 Proclaimed by Peter in the first gospel sermon 1 Cor 15:5-8 Jesus was seen by many eyewitnesses Rom 4:25 Raising Jesus verifies the justification offered on the cross! Rom 6:4-5, 8-9 Understanding and believing in the resurrection is a vital part of being born again.

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GOD’S LOVE & GRACE (Purpose: Grasping God’s amazing love & mercy he has for us )

God’s Love: Ephesians 3:14-19 • Paul’s prayer was that the Ephesian Christians would grasp the depth, height, width & breadth of God’s love for them • This love that surpasses knowledge would strengthen them through the power of the spirit in their inner being Romans 8:35-39 • Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? • Does hardship, persecution, danger etc. make you doubt God’s love for you? • Security in God’s love makes us more than conquerors in life Romans 5:6-8 • Christ died for us when we were least deserving • God demonstrates his enormous love for us in this – while we were still sinners Christ died for us • It takes a lot of love to sacrifice your life for someone else  That’s what Jesus did for us

God’s Grace: Definition of grace: “unmerited favour” 1 Timothy 1:14-17 • God’s grace & love were poured out abundantly in Paul’s life • Christ came to save sinners – of whom Paul regarded himself as the worst (he had jailed & killed Christians) • No-one is too sinful that they can’t become a disciple • God’s mercy & patience was demonstrated in Paul’s life so we could all understand God’s love for us Ephesians 2:1-10 • All of us are separated from God because of our sins • But because of God’s great love for us & his rich mercy he saved us by his grace • His grace is “incomparable riches and kindness” • We are not saved by our works • But created in Christ Jesus to do good works prepared in advance for us to do Titus 2:11-14 • Gods grace is not a justification to continue sinning • God’s grace teaches us to say “No!” to ungodliness and worldly passions • It teaches us to live self-controlled, upright and godly lives in this present age • It purifies us and makes us eager to do what is good

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LIGHT & DARKNESS (Purpose: Understanding God’s plan of salvation)

Draw a time line for the person including: Born, Saved, Christian, Forgiven, Baptised, Disciple l Peter2:9-10 Darkness Not a people of God No Mercy Not Forgiven Lost

Isaiah 59:1-2 ME SIN

Light People of God Mercy Forgiven Saved

GOD

* There are no grey areas. the light or in the dark?

 Where do you see yourself, in

 Sin puts us in the darkness

Romans 3:23 Who has sinned? Everyone! Who is further away from God: a person who sins a little or a person who sins a lot? All are equally lost. Therefore a good moral life does not save you. You cannot earn your salvation by your good deeds. Faith in the blood of Jesus saves you (v. 25) Matthew 26:28 What saves us? We must make contact with Jesus’ blood to be forgiven. Acts 2:36-41 When are we saved? What is baptism for?  the forgiveness of sins and to receive the gift of the Holy Spirit Baptism is derived from the Greek word “Baptiso”, meaning to be IMMERSED  Repentance must come before baptism Romans 6:l-7 What happens at baptism?

Baptism = Participating in the death, burial and resurrection of Jesus. = Dying to your old life and beginning a new life = Born again. 1Peter 3:20-21 Why water? The water of the flood cleansed the earth of sin in Noah’s time and the water of baptism saves us now by washing away our sin. Colossians 2:11-12 a. Must be YOUR faith. Not someone else’s faith. b. Must be your convictions. You must be sure and certain of what you’re doing. (Hebrews 11:1) God’s Plan of Salvation  (Hear: Rom 10:17) + (Believe: Heb 11:6) + (Repent: Luk 13:3) + (Confess: Rom 10:9, 1 Tim 6:12) + (Jesus Lord of Your Life (Disciple): Mat 28.18-20, Luk 9.23-25) + (Baptised: Acts 2:38, 1Peter 3:21) = Salvation Additional Self-Study: Mark 16:15-16; Galatians 3:26-27; Acts 22:16; Titus 3:4-6 Examples of conversions: Acts 8:12 Phillip in Samaria Acts 8:26-38 Ethiopian Eunuch Acts 9:1-19, Acts 22 :1-16 Saul’s conversion Acts 10 Cornelius Acts 16:11-15 Lydia 18

FALSE DOCTRINES • • • • • • •

(Purpose: To understand false plans of salvation offered today and how God hates false doctrines) 1 Timothy 4:16 Your doctrine (your teaching) absolutely matters. Matthew 7:21 – 23 It is possible to call Jesus Lord and be deceived (sincere, but wrong) Matthew 24:4-5, 10-11, 24-25 Jesus warns us about false teaching. 2 Cor 11:3-4, 13-15 Paul warns us about false teaching. 2 Peter 2 Peter warns us about false teaching. 1 John 4: 1-6 and 2 John 4 - 11 John warns us about false teaching. Jude 1:1-19 Jude warns us about false teachings

1. “Pray Jesus into your heart” - Revelation 3:20 a. Note the heading. Jesus is talking to disciples and NOT to non-Christians. b. The challenge Jesus gives these saved Christians is to repent of their lukewarmness or risk losing their salvation i.e. being “spat out” (Not once saved always saved) c. The idea of praying Jesus into your heart is not a Biblical way for salvation. d. In fact this method of salvation was only popularised by Billy Sunday & Billy Graham in this century 2. “Baptism doesn’t save you” - 1 Peter 3:20-22 This verse speaks of “baptism that now saves you also” 3. “Baptism is a symbol of salvation” - Romans 6:1-5 Baptism is a participation in the death, burial and resurrection of Jesus. Baptism is where our new life begins. 4. “Infant Baptism” Colossians 2:11-12 Can a baby have faith? Acts 2:38 Can a baby repent? Matthew 28:18-20Can a baby make disciples?  Infant baptism is a 4th century Catholic tradition. It was finally adopted in 1311 at the council of Trent. For the first +/- 300 years of Christianity, no infants were baptized. 5. “Original sin” Ezekiel 18:19-20 The son will NOT share the guilt of the father. 6. “Belief alone is enough” John 3:16 – Belief is very important for salvation but it is NOT the only thing required Mark 16:15-16 - He who believes AND is baptised will be saved (Also see) James 2:19-26 - Faith alone will NOT save us 7. “The Thief on the cross” - Luke 23:39  Yes, the thief was not baptised. Baptism in the name of Jesus for forgiveness of sins began only after Jesus died. Moses and Abraham will be in Heaven. They were not baptised either. They lived and died as Jews under the old covenant. 8. “Accept Christ as your Personal Saviour” Romans 10:9-10 - This scripture is not a recipe for salvation. These are all essential but not mentioned: Romans is a letter and should be read as a whole. • Repentance (Romans 1), Baptism (Romans 6) and Discipleship (Luke 14) * Acts 22:16 - It is at baptism that you confess, “Jesus is Lord” Does Acts 2:38 therefore mean that belief and confession is not essential? NO! Does Romans 10:9-10 mean that the demons in Luke 4:40 are saved? NO! 9. “Baptism is a work and no work can save you” Ephesians 2:8-10 - Yes, that is right. No work can save you. 19

Colossians 2:11-12 - Baptism is where God works. God does for you what you cannot do for yourself.

DENOMINATIONS (Purpose: To understand why there are so many churches teaching different things today)

1. Colossians 1:15-18 a. You cannot say “yes” to Jesus and “no” to Church. b. The Church is essential to Christianity. * Jesus is the Head. The Church is the Body. 2. Ephesians 2:19-22 a. The Church is the family of God. The Church must be based on the Word of God only. Cornerstone = Christ Foundation = Apostles (New Testament) Foundation = Prophets (Old Testament) b. If traditions and creeds make up the foundation then it is not God’s Church. 3. Ephesians 4:4-6 a. The Bible teaches there is one Church (See Romans 12:4-5 and I Corinthians 12:12-13) * Why are there so many denominations today? (There are 100’s of different denominations) 4. 1 Corinthians 1:10-13 a. God expects perfect unity. Division occurs when people follow personalities and not the scriptures. Examples: - Lutheran Martin Luther - Methodist John & Charles Wesley - Presbyterian John Calvin & John Knox - Mormon Joseph Smith b. “Denomination” means a group going by a name. Unscriptural according to 1 Corinthians 1:10-13. 5. 2 Timothy 4:1-4 a. God tells us that there will be a time when people will TURN AWAY from the truth b. And look for a church (group of people) that tells them what they WANT to hear. 6. Romans 16:16 a. How did the 1st century Christians refer to themselves: “the Churches of Christ”

Conclusion: • Anyone who follows the plan of salvation in the bible is added by God’s Spirit into His one church

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HOLY SPIRIT 1 – ROLE OF THE SPIRIT 1. The Spirit intercedes for us when we do not know what to pray Rom 8:26-27 • The Spirit helps us in our weakness (isn’t angry about our weaknesses – deliberate sin, yes, but not our weaknesses ) • We do not know what we ought to pray for • So the Spirit talks to God on our behalf 2. The Spirit guides us in evangelism Acts 8:29 • The Spirit told Philip “go to that chariot and stay near it” • He starts a conversation and the Eunuch gets baptised  Are you listening to the Spirit? Following his prompts? OR quenching his fire?  The Spirit wants to lead us to open people or situations BUT if we don’t listen or follow his guidance it is very frustrating for us and the Spirit 3. We are the modern day temple of the Holy Spirit 1 Corinth 6:15-20 • Our bodies are members of Christ himself • Our bodies are a temple of the Holy Spirit • Sexual sin forces the Holy Spirit and Christ himself to participate in our immorality • We were bought at a very high price  The cross  In the Old Testament the Temple was a very Holy and revered place • Therefore let us honour God with our bodies 4. The Spirit in our hearts is God’s seal of ownership on us 2 Corinth 1:21-22 • God makes us stand firm in Christ  The cross is simply too heavy to carry on our own strength • His seal of ownership • The Spirit in our ♥’s is a deposit (Like buying a home) • Guaranteeing what is to come (salvation) 5. The fruits of the Spirit Gal 5:22-26 • The fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control • Against such things there is no law • We need to crucify our sinful nature and live by the Spirit

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JESUS IS LORD (Purpose: To make sure the person has made Jesus “Lord” of their lives)

John 14:23-24 • Our love for Jesus is expressed through our desire to obey his teachings i.e. to let him be “Lord” (Master) of our lives • We will discuss some basic areas so you can understand Jesus’ Lordship 1. JESUS IS LORD OF YOUR NEW SCHEDULE Acts 2:42-47 • These new Christians schedule had totally changed • The way you spend your time will change. • This will mean that you have to schedule and plan your life much better than before. • It is still important to be responsible with all the areas of your life (school work, job, marriage, parenting etc…) 2. JESUS IS LORD OF YOUR NEW RELATIONSHIPS 2 Corinthians 6:14-17 • Friendships with the wrong crowd can lead us astray (gangs etc…) • Explain that a Christian should only date and marry other Christians 1 Corinth 15:33 • Do you have close friends who are Christians? Heb 3:12-13 • Explain the biblical expectation of daily relationships – God does not want us to be distant and independent 3. JESUS IS LORD OF YOUR NEW CHARACTER Acts 4:1-13 Being with Jesus changed their character. • Christian’s character is not timid, shy, laid back etc. but bold and courageous. Q: What are the things in your character that you have changed? (Mention things in his/her character that you have noticed that he/she needs to change e.g. shyness, pride, laziness, selfishness) 4. JESUS IS LORD OF YOUR NEW ATTITUDE Acts 5: 1-11 • Honesty and repentance should be a daily part of your life. • God expects us to take righteousness seriously • Is there anything you haven’t been honest about? 5. JESUS IS LORD OF YOUR NEW SACRIFICE Acts 4:32-35 • Everything belongs to God. Our hearts, time, possessions, everything… • Our attitude towards giving should be with a cheerful heart. • Discuss the aim but not rule to tithe

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NEED-BASED STUDIES SEEKING GOD Purpose: To understand why we are here and where God fits into the picture Jer 29.11-13 Do you think God is interested in you personally and in your life? Does he have dreams for you? Does God meddle in your life without you asking him? What does God ask of us to enter into a relationship with him? Mat 7.7-11 God wants to bless our lives, but he wants us to ask him. Is the door to a relationship with God locked? Mat 7.13-14 It requires effort to make a relationship work. Mat 13.44-46 Finding the kingdom of heaven is extremely valuable. What do you need to get rid of to get the treasure? Mat 6.33 Where should our priorities be? Ecc 3.11-14 What has God done in your life to make you think of him? 2 Sam 14:14 God wants to have a relationship with you. Eph 2.10 What plans do you think God has for your life? Deut 4.29 How much is all your heart and soul? Ps 102.26-27 Your relationship with God is the only enduring thing on earth. Decision to Change: Start seeking God in your life

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HOLY SPIRIT 2 - BAPTISM (Purpose: To clear up confusion about Holy Spirit baptism and water baptism)

PART 1- BAPTISM OF THE HOLY SPIRIT Ephesians 4:4-6 says there is now one baptism. (Written +- 63AD) • Which baptism is it? • There are three kinds of baptism in the New Testament: 1. John’s baptism - Acts 19:1-5 shows that it became obsolete. Time period before Ephesians was written. 2. The baptism of the Holy Spirit A. Acts 2:1-13 (Time period before Ephesians was written) Characteristics: (i) Promised (Acts 1:4-5) ( ii) Prophesied (Joel 2:28-32) (iii) Came suddenly they were NOT praying for it. (iv) Sound of a violent wind and tongues of lire. ( v) They spoke in known languages to the people. Tongues = languages (vi ) Ushered in the Kingdom with power. (Mark 9:1) (vii) To the Jews only. B. Acts 10:1-48 Characteristics: ( i ) The Gentiles ushered into the Kingdom. ( ii) Exactly the same as - Acts 2:1-13 (Acts 11:15) (iii) Cleared up the doubt as to whether Gentiles could become Christians (Acts 11:17-I8) (iv) They were then immediately baptised in water. ( v) Does not occur in the New Testament again. 3.

Baptism in the name of Jesus -Acts 2:38-39 a. Acts 2:38-3 9 - promise is for all generations. – Gift of the Holy Spirit b. Matthew 28:18-2 0 - we are told to go and baptise people (must be water because only God can baptise with the Holy Spirit). Which baptism still exists today? 1. John’s baptism has passed away. It did not happen all the time. 2. Holy Spirit baptism has fulfilled it’s purpose - Ushered in the Kingdom of God. It only happened twice (Acts2 and Acts10). Read Acts11:15-17. If the Holy Spirit baptism happened every Sunday in church - why did Peter have to remember what had happened in the beginning? 3. Therefore it must be baptism in the name of Jesus. 1 Peter 3:21 (i) It is in water for salvation. (ii) Written at the same time as Ephesians 4:4-6.

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HOLY SPIRIT 3 – MIRACULOUS GIFTS (Purpose: To clear up confusion about Miraculous Gifts of the Holy Spirit and miracles today)

God still does miracles today. It someone’s sick, we pray for him. There was a time that men did miracles directly. Mark 16:15-20 says the purpose of this miracle working was to confirm that they spoke God’s Word. These miraculous gifts were received at: a. The baptism of the Holy Spirit b. The apostles “laying on of hands”. The laying on of hands A. Acts 2:43, 3:6-7, 5:12, 6:1-8 • Up until Acts 6:8 ONLY the apostles had been able to perform miracles. • This is the first occasion that the miraculous gifts were passed on. • NB Acts 6:2-7 They were already full of the Spirit. B. Acts 8:1-25 • Phillip, one of the seven who had received the gifts in Acts 6:1-8, goes to Samaria. • He performs many miracles and miraculous signs to get people to believe (v12), • When the apostles came to Samaria, Simon saw that the Spirits gifts were only given by an apostle’s laying on of hands and offers them money for the ability (Acts 8:18). • NOTE: Simon didn’t ask Philip for the gifts because Philip couldn’t pass them on. So what happens after the apostles die? The miraculous gifts will pass away!  Let's look at other passages to see if this is consistent with the rest of scripture C. 1 Corinthians 13:8-10 (i) ‘Perfection’ here could not mean the coming of Christ because it is the neuter gender in Greek. (ii) Therefore it is more likely describing the completion & canonisation of the Bible. (iii) Why was the miraculous age described as “imperfect”? • 2 Thessalonians 2:9-10 Satan uses counterfeit miracles today to deceive people about the truth so they will not be saved. • Matthew 12:39 Jesus states that a wicked & adulterous generation asks for miraculous signs. (Note: People become more interested in the “magic” than the message) • Matt 7:21-23 These people did miracles in Jesus name and were NOT saved. Miracles are not a sign of salvation. D. General observation (i) -

The purpose of the miraculous gifts from 1 Corinthians 14:20-22 and Mark 16:20 was: To get non-believers to believe. To edify the Christians and to strengthen their faith. To confirm that the believers' words were of God. Now the Bible fulfils these needs.

(ii) 1 Corinthians 12 & 14 are not the directives on how to receive tongues (the church there has already received them), but rather the correctives on how to use them. (iii) Speaking in tongues is common in many religions (Mormon, Catholic, Islam, etc.) Also called ‘ecstatic utterances’ - non-understandable sounds and fragments of speech (v) Jesus himself never spoke in tongues and yet he was filled with the Spirit. 25

NB. Miracles, Tongues etc. are not confirmation of a right relationship with God. Matt 7:21-23

THE EVIDENCES Purpose: To establish faith in God and the Bible

Our Goals: 1. To provide proof for the existence of God. 2. To show that the Bible is divinely inspired. 3. To prove that Jesus is the Son of God.

Setting the Scene Choose a situation about which we could try to make some predictions. Make it relatable to our own personal experience. For example, predict eight facts about a World Cup tournament 10 years from now: ∗ Name of winning team and the other finalist ∗ Venue and score of final game ∗ Name of highest goal scorer and his ancestral tree ∗ Name and birth place of the captain of the winning team, etc. etc. ..... Now, what are the chances of getting all eight predictions right ? Better than Zero ?

Some Bible Background 1. The Bible contains hundreds of fulfilled prophecies. 2. It is not a single book but a collection of books: 39 in the Old Testament, 27 in the New, 66 in all. 3. It was written by 40 different men with different backgrounds. A few examples are : • Moses - Shepherd • Isaiah - Prophet • Joshua - Army General • Peter - Fisherman • David - Shepherd and King • Luke - Doctor and Historian 4. It was written over a period of 1600 years ( 1500 BC- 100 AD) ∗ In spite of all this there is perfect consistency and accuracy in the many prophecies found throughout the bible. ∗ Can anyone control the future, the far distant future, other than God ? ∗ Repeated fulfillment of such prophecies surely demonstrates God’s intervention ?

A Few Examples of Old Testament Prophecies: 1. Cyrus - ISAIAH 44:28 - 45:4, 45:13 The prophet Isaiah writing about 700 BC, names Cyrus as the king who will issue a decree to rebuild Jerusalem and re-lay the temple foundations. At the time of Isaiah’s writing the city of Jerusalem was fully built and the temple still standing. Only more than a 100 years later would Nebuchadnezzar destroy both the city and the temple (586 BC).After Jerusalem was taken by the Babylonians, it was conquered by the Persians in about 539 BC. Shortly after that, a Persian king named Cyrus gave the decree to rebuild the temple. This is around 160 years after Isaiah’s prophecy ! 2. The destruction of Tyre - EZEKIEL 26:1-14 In about 590 BC, Ezekiel predicted: 1. Nebuchadnezzar will destroy the mainland city of Tyre (v.8) 2. Many nations will come against Tyre (v.3) 3. The city will be made a bare rock; flat like the top of a rock (v.4) 4. Fisherman will spread their nets over the site (v.5) 5. The debris will be thrown into the water (v.12) 26

6. She will never be rebuilt (v.14) Fulfillment of each of these six prophecies : 1. Encyclopedia Britannica (vol.43\xxii - 1970) tells us that after a 13 year siege by Nebuchadnezzar II, Tyre was over-run. However when Nebuchadnezzar broke the gates down he found the city almost empty. The majority of the people had moved by ship to an island about 500m. off the coast where they fortified a city there. 2. Alexander the Great in his conquests also laid siege against Tyre, in 330 BC ( 260 years later ). Not possessing a navy of his own he pressured his conquered subjects to make ships available for this operation. Sidon, Aradus & Byblus provided 80 ships; 10 from Rhodes; 10 from Lycia; and 120 from Cyprus. Truly many nations came against her !! 3. & 4. Philip Meyers (a secular historian) has this to say of Tyre: “Alexander the Great reduced the city to ruins....the larger part of the once great city is now bare as the top of a rock - a place where fisherman that still frequent the spot spread their nets to dry.” 5. Once again Encyclopedia Britannica (vol.43\xxii - 1970) tells us: “ In his war on the Persians, Alexander III marched southward towards Egypt, calling upon the Phoenician cities to open their gates... The citizens of Tyre refused... So he demolished old Tyre and with the debris built a causeway 200ft. wide across the straits separating the old and new towns, erecting towers and war engines on the farther end” 6. Floyd Hamilton in The Basis of the Christian Faith states: “The great freshwater springs of Reselin are at the site of the mainland city of Tyre, and no doubt supplied the city with an abundance of fresh water. These springs are still there and still flow, but their water runs into the sea. The flow of these springs was measured by an engineer, and found to be about 10 million gallons daily. It is still an excellent site for a city and would have free water enough for a large modern city, yet it has never been rebuilt.” Only a small village, called Sur, remains today.

An Example of a New Testament Prophecy: Jesus’ predictions against Chorazin, Bethsaida and Capernaum - MATTHEW11:20-24. George Davis in his Bible Prophecies Fulfilled Today records that “an earthquake destroyed Capernaum about 400 AD and doubtless Chorazin and Bethsaida perished at the same time.” Davis expands: “Ancient Bethsaida’s situation on the shore of the sea of Galilee had been so beautiful that about AD 700, King Albalid I of Damascus decided to build a magnificent winter palace on the site of the ruined city. For fifteen years his workmen laboured erecting the palace. Then King Albalid died, and the palace was never completed. As the centuries rolled by, the palace became mere ruins.” Davis explains the situation of Capernaum: “For long centuries the synagogue lay buried under the earth like the rest of the destroyed city....A man conceived the idea of restoring the ancient synagogue from its ruins. At length part of the walls of the building were re-erected, and a number of the pillars were put in their places. Then the unexpected happened. The architect of the partly restored synagogue suddenly died - just as King Albalid had died centuries ago before his palace could be completed.” Davis concludes with these comments: “Not one word of judgement was pronounced on the city of Tiberius by our Lord. Each time I have visited the area around the sea of Gallilee I have been impressed anew with the truthfulness and the super-natural inspiration of the Word of God. There are the ruins of the three cities, destroyed exactly as foretold by our Lord, and one city, Tiberius, upon which no word of judgement was uttered, still standing and flourishing after nineteen long centuries.” 27

Examples of Old Testament Prophecies about the Promised Messiah : 1. Born of a virgin and will be our eternal King- ISAIAH 7:13-14, ISAIAH 9:6-7 (+ 700 B.C.) A virgin will give birth to a child who will be called “Immanuel” or “God with us.” He will rule with justice and righteousness forever and ever. 2. The place of His birth - MICAH 5:2-5 (+ 500 B.C.) A leader whose origins are from “days of eternity” or “from ancient times” will come out of Bethlehem and shepherd His flock in the strength of the Lord. His greatness will reach to the ends of the Earth. 3. A messenger will prepare the way and then the Lord will come to the temple - MALACHI 3:1 (+ 400B.C) John the Baptist prepared the way for Jesus and then He came to the temple. This is especially significant because the temple was destroyed in A.D. 70 and has never been rebuilt since. 4. A description of His life and death - ISAIAH 53:1-12 (+ 700 B.C.) He was an ordinary looking Man, rejected by many people and familiar with suffering. He was pierced for our sins and yet by His wounds we have been healed because God laid on Him the iniquity of us all. On His way to His death he kept silent. He was cut off from the land of the living and so left no descendants. He received two burial sites (the mass grave for all crucified criminals and Joseph of Aramatheas’ tomb). Yet after the suffering of His soul, He will see the light of life again (be RESURRECTED) and because He made intercession for the transgressors He would be given a position among the great. There are more than 60 Messianic prophecies, all of which Jesus fulfilled. They were written over more than 1000 years. The first was written in Genesis (about 1500 BC) and the last in Malachi, about 400 years before Jesus was born. The probability that any man might have lived and fulfilled just eight of these prophecies is 1 chance in 10 to the 17th power ( or 1 in 100,000,000,000, 000,000 ). For someone to fulfill 48 prophecies, statistically it would be 1 chance in 10 to the power 157 ( or 1 in 1000,00000,000,000,000,000,000,000,000,000,000,000,000,000,000,000,000,000,000, 000,000,000,000,000,000,000,000,000,000,000,000,000,000,000,000,000,000,000,000,000,000,000, 000,000,000,000,000,000,000,000,000,000 ). So the odds that Jesus is the Son of God and the Messiah are rather heavily stacked in his favour! There can be no doubt about it, Jesus must be the Messiah who was expected for so many years ! Other amazing scientific info in the bible Gen 6 Stable cargo vessel dimensions used by shipbuilders today is 30:5:3 = Noah’s ark Lev 13-15 Quarantining and isolation of disease Job 38 Oceans have fresh water springs Gen 1 Order of life’s development 1st day = light / 1st creatures in the ocean Eccl 1 The water cycle Job 14 Principles of erosion Jeremiah 10 Lightening is caused by clouds and rain Isaiah 40 Earth is circular and {Spherical (KJV)} • How could these ancient people have known these astonishingly advanced scientific facts? God told them, that’s how! • This is but the tip of the ice-berg. So much more evidence is out there.

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Further reading: ‘Evidence that demands a verdict’ by Josh McDowell, ‘God is making a comeback’ by Mike Taliaferro, ‘Reasons for belief’ by John Oakes

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PRIDE & HUMILITY Purpose: To help someone see this sin in their character and help them to repent of it Proverbs 8:13 • God HATES pride and arrogance. Proverbs 13:10 • Pride breeds quarrels. Do you tend to argue a lot with people? Proverbs 18:12 • Before his DOWNFALL a man’s heart is proud, but humility comes before honour. Psalm 36:1-2 • The proud flatter themselves so much they are unable to DETECT or HATE their own sin. Isaiah 5:21 • Woe to him who is wise in his OWN eyes. James 4:6 • God OPPOSES the proud but gives grace to the humble. EXAMPLES OF PRIDE: 2 Chronicles 26:16-23 King Uzziah’s pride can be seen in three areas: 1. He became disobedient to God. 2. He didn’t listen to his friends. 3. He got angry when they confronted him. • God humbled him with leprosy and he died a recluse ! 1 Samuel 13:1-14 Saul’s pride shows itself in : 1. He claimed victories that were not his own. 2. He reasoned his way into disobeying God. 3. He was defensive when challenged. (Looked only at the reasons for his actions rather than the CONSEQUENCES of them.) • God humbled him by removing the kingship from Saul. John 9:13-16 • The Pharisees when in conflict with Jesus over the Sabbath issue reason pridefully • Because he is wrong on the Sabbath issue he cannot be the Messiah. • They never even asked him to explain his views before passing judgment CONCLUSION: • Recognizing pride in yourself is a difficult process because the nature of the sin is blinding. But, it is usually not difficult for others to see it, so LISTEN carefully when others point it out. Pride is exposed most evidently in: 1. Conflict situations or hidden criticalness. 2. Your degree of independence from people and God. 3. Feelings of insecurity. (When your “image” of yourself is threatened you feel defensive ~ the humble person does not have an image to uphold.) 30

Ephesians 4:2 ~ Be COMPLETELY humble.

THE CHRISTIAN HUSBAND (Purpose: To understand your role as a Christian Husband)

1. Marriage as God’s Plan Genesis 2:18-25 • Eve was Adams partner – Taken from his side • The Bible defines God’s plan for a perfect marriage, starting by getting the sin out of your life. • What sins are damaging your marriage? (selfishness, lust, anger, pride etc…)

2. Roles of husband and wife in marriage Ephesians 5:21-33 • Husbands must lead and love their wives Ephesians 6:1-4 / Colossians 3:18-21 • Husbands must train their children in the word. • Husbands must never be harsh with their wives or children • When do you tend to be harsh and irritable? (tired, under pressure at work) • Pray before coming home so you can be calm, patient & loving with your family

3. Meaning of love in marriage 1 Corinthians 13:4-7 • Husbands must show their love in many ways • In which areas are you strong and weak in showing your love? (kind, patient, keeps no record of wrongs, trust etc…) 1 Peter 3:7-9 • Husbands must be considerate and respect their wives • Husbands must recognize differences(strength and weaknesses) between men and women • Husbands must learn to live in harmony with their wives

4. Sex as a part of loving 1 Corinthians 7:3-5 • Sex must be a joy to both wives and husbands • Your body does not exclusively belong to you – don’t be selfish in bed

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THE CHRISTIAN WIFE (Purpose: To understand your role as a Christian Wife)

Genesis 2:24 • Marriage is a wonderful plan of God .The goals is to remain united as one, for life. • Using the bible as the standard in marriage, we can attain and maintain our unity and love. • Sin is what separates us from each other, We need to work at getting sin out of our marriages, especially bitterness, so that we can remain close and be best friends. Q. How would you want your marriage to be different? Proverbs 31:10-31 • V 10 Worth more than rubies – this should be husband’s attitude • V 11 Husband has full confidence in her • V12 She brings him good not harm. As women we have the power to either make our husbands happy or miserable, confident or insecure. Everyday focus on and point out the good in him. Remember all the reasons why you married him. • V12 She provides for her family • V23 Husband is respected. • Ask your husband if he feels respected by you. (Many husbands feel more respected at work than at home) Q. In what ways can you show him respect? i.e. by not disagreeing with him in front of others or your children, the tone in which we say things, being critical of him etc… Proverbs 12:9, 19 • Better to live away than to live with a wife who nags or argues Q. Are you a nag or a joy? Ephesians5:21-25 • Always submit to God first then to your husband • Submission does not mean silence ,voice your opinion but don’t be bossy • Do you accept his leadership?(With finances, your family etc) 1 Cor 13:4 • Love isn’t just a fuzzy feeling it is action and attitudes. Practically put this love in your marriage Q How can you do this? 1 Cor 7:1-7 • Submit sexually – your body belongs to your husband • The only reason the bible gives for saying “no” is by mutual consent and prayer 1Peter 3:1-9 • If your husband isn’t interested in becoming a Christian how are you going to win him over? • Never compromise your commitment to God, that is the only way to win him over Sit down and talk to your husband • Explain what is happening i.e. You becoming a Christian • Explain your commitment and ask for his support • Ask him in what ways he thinks you can change to be a better wife

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FEELINGS (Purpose: To help people distinguish between truth and emotion)

Proverbs 3:5 • Trust in God, not your own feelings. Proverbs 14:12 • We will pay the ultimate penalty if we follow our own feelings Proverbs 28:26 • It is foolish to follow perceptions, hunches, feelings, intuitions. Jeremiah 17:9 • The human heart is deceitful 1 Kings 13:1-26 • This story of a young prophet and the old prophet is particularly useful because it deals with the issue of ultimate authority. Galations 1:6-9 • Even if you were convinced that you had received an angelic visitation, or a revelation from an apostle, no one has the right to change the gospel message. Jeremiah 23:16-36 False prophets of OT times: • They claimed to speak from God (v16) • Their messages were purely psychological and not from God (v16) • They watered down the word of God(v22) • Their dreams (see Numbers 12:6) were delusions and merely psychological (v25-26). They lessened the commitment of the people by imparting false hope(v27) • Although they fancied God to be speaking his word through them, he was not; their message had absolutely nothing to do with the word of God(v28-29) • They borrowed “messages” from one another; they exchanged “oracles”(v30) • They did not benefit the people(v31-32) • They sincerely expected the Lord to speak to them(v35) • They suffered terrible theological confusions as God’s word and their words were completely mixed together(v36) • The end result was that they distorted God’s word(v36) Jude 19 • These men confused natural instincts with the spirit. Luke 9:23 • Discipleship means denying your selfish feelings by not following them. • Deny feelings, follow Christ • Follow feelings, deny Christ Matthew 7:21-23 • Many will be surprised on Judgment day • God expects obedience 33

• True spirituality is obeying God, not just feeling him • Are you sure you know the Lord (1Cor 8:3)

WITCHCRAFT Old Testament Deut 18:9-13 Detestable Practices:

Divination – supposed insight into the future or the unknown Sorcery – use of magic powers Interpreting omens Witchcraft Casting spells No mediums or spiritists No consulting the dead

Leviticus 19:31

Don’t turn to mediums or seek out spiritists

Leviticus 20:6

God will set HIS face against you

New Testament Gal 5:19-21

Witchcraft is an obvious sin – you will not inherit the kingdom of God

Revelations 21:8

Those practising magic arts – their place will be in the fiery lake of burning sulphur

1 Tim 2:5

One Mediator between God and men – Jesus Christ

Acts 16: 16 – 18

A fortune-teller opposed by Paul

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PREJUDICE, RACISM, ETHNICISM & DISCRIMINATION Esther 3:8-9

How tolerant are you of other cultures?

Esther 5:9-13

High opinion of self because of nationality. Vs 13 For no apparent reason, radical resentment.

Acts 10:27-28

God showed that…. Don’t call any man impure or unclean

Acts 10:34-35

God shows no favouritism, but accepts ALL men

James1:1-4

Favouritism forbidden

Galatians 2:11-14

Peter bowing to racial prejudice

Galatians 3:28

All one in Christ

John 13:34-35

By your love, men will know that you are my disciples.

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FOLLOW-UP STUDIES AFTER BAPTISM – WHAT NEXT? 1 THE JOY OF SALVATION Wonderful blessings come to those who respond to the gospel of Christ. We experience a washing of regeneration and renewing of the Holy Spirit - Titus 3:5-7 2 SAVED BUT STILL TO BE SAVED a. We must make our calling and election sure - 2 Pe 1:10 b. We must be careful to save ourselves - 1 Ti 4:16 c. We must remain faithful to receive the crown of life - Re 2:10 3 THINGS TO REMEMBER 3.1 YOU ARE A NEW CREATURE 1. By virtue of being in Christ - 2 Co 5:17 2. Having been raised with Christ to walk in newness of life, God has given you new potential for living! – Ro 6:3-4 3.2 YOU ARE A BABE IN CHRIST 1. We begin our new life as "babes in Christ" - 1 Co 3:1 2. We start with spiritual "milk" - 1 Co 3:2 3. God allows you time to grow! - He 5:12-14 3.3 YOU ARE IN A CRITICAL PERIOD 1. As a babe, you can be easily "tossed about" - Ep 4:14 2. Satan often strikes hardest at the beginning of our service - Mt 4:1-11 3. Satan would love to see you fail! - 1 Pe 5:8 3.4 YOU FACE THE POSSIBILITY OF FALLING 1. If you allow yourself to hardened by the deceit of sin - He 3:12-14 2. Especially when you think you are strong - 1 Co 10:12 3. God can be trusted to help us through temptations - 1 Co 10:13; 1 Jn 2:1-2 3.5 YOU ARE TO BE A GOOD EXAMPLE 1. An example of those who believe - 1 Ti 4:12 2. An example in both deed and word - Ti 2:7 3. Others should be able to look to you as to how to live for Christ - Ph 3:17 4 THINGS TO DO 4.1 PUT GOD FIRST 1. Love Him with all your being - Mt 22:37 2. Seek first His kingdom and righteousness - Mt 6:33 4.2 STUDY THE WORD OF GOD 1. Long for the Word, like an infant longs for milk - 1 Pe 2:2 2. Emulate the Bereans in their attitude - Ac 17:11 3 Receive the Word with meekness, and it will save you! - Ja 1:21 4.3 BE FERVENT IN PRAYER 1. Jesus has made it possible to approach God's throne - He 4:14-16 2. Wonderful blessings come through prayer - Ph 4:6-7 3. Be devoted to prayer, with an attitude of thanksgiving - Co 4:2 4.4 BE DILIGENT IN ASSEMBLING 1. We are not to forsake our assembling together - He 10:24-25 2. It is a time for fellowship, prayer, and on the first day of the week, the Lord's Supper Ac 2:42; 20:7; 1 Co 11:23-26 4.5 HELP SAVE OTHERS 1. The Lord wants His disciples to make more disciples - Mt 28:19-20 2. Those diligent in saving others are more likely to save themselves - 1 Co 9:19-27

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TRUSTING GOD (Purpose: Learning to trust God in all circumstances)

Acts 17: 26 –27 • God has determined the time and place where you would live. • Why? So that you will seek Him out. • He planned that we would study the bible and that you would get this opportunity to know him. • If he’s already figured this much out we need to learn to trust God with every part of our lives.

1. Trust God with your past Jeremiah 17: 5 – 8 • Many times we blame God for our misery and loneliness when really because we depend on our flesh, rely on other people and ourselves – we make ourselves unhappy and lonely (salt lands where no one lives). • Part of trusting God with your past is taking responsibility for the times when our “hearts have turned away from the lord” – and the trouble that caused us. Isaiah 63:8-9 • There are times when the world can really hurt us when it is not necessarily our fault (rape, abuse – physical or emotional etc). • It is important to see that when we were distressed (in pain, hurting) God too became distressed and so sent an angel from his presence to save you and bring you to this point. • It hurt God to see you get hurt – he wants to totally save you now. God has heard your cries.

2. Trust God with your present Job 11:13-18 • God wants to take away all your hurt and pain. • He wants to take away the guilt of your sin – he asks that you stretch out your hands and reach for him. • He asks that you become devoted and committed to him. He wants you to get rid of the sin that not only hurts us but him as well. • If you want your life to be brighter than the noonday sun – you must trust and obey no matter how difficult it seems. Isaiah 40:28-31 • This is the type of relationship God wants to have with you • He wants to give you life and hope and renew your strength. • Praying and reading your bible are a foundation stone of your relationship with God.

3. Trust God with your future Jeremiah 29:11-12 • God has great plans for your life – plans to give you hope and a future not to harm you. • Life is not going to be easy even following Jesus – in fact it may even get more challenging. • You must trust that no matter what – God has a plan. Romans 8: 28 • God is always working for our good. Our lives are like watching someone sewing a needlework – for the person watching it looks like mess from the back – all the strings hanging out– but from the front – it is a master piece – that’s the side God sees and is working on. 37

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JESUS OUR MODEL John 1:1-14 • Jesus was with God from the beginning and everything was made through him • John the Baptist came to prepare us for Jesus so that we might believe in him • Even though Jesus was the light of the world the world did not recognize him • Those that receive him – he gave the right to become children of God • Jesus embodies both Grace & Truth John 2:12-17 • Jesus took sin very personally – he saw how deeply God was hurt by sin. • Jesus preached the Truth with such intense conviction he cleared people from the temple area • We need to have an absolute passion for righteousness, just like Jesus John 8:2-11 • Jesus was amazingly sensitive to this very embarrassing situation for this woman. • Jesus got all the attention on himself to prevent others from getting humiliated • Jesus shows God’s amazing Grace in this situation Mark 1:35 • Jesus began his days with prayer • Prayer at the beginning of your day prepares us for the challenges that lie ahead • If Jesus needed it I think we can safely say we need it too Hebrews 5:7 • Jesus sometimes prayed aloud. • Praying aloud can help us stay focused on our prayer and not allow our minds to wander off • Having a structure to your prayer life also helps A – Adoration C – Confession T – Thanksgiving S – Supplication (Requests) 1 John 2:3-6 • If we want to call ourselves Christians, we need to strive live just as Jesus did. • Ask yourself, what is it that I must do to be more like Jesus?

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PERSECUTION & OPPOSITION (Purpose: To understand how to handle persecution in today’s times)

1. THE BIBLE PROMISES THAT CHRISTIANS WILL BE PERSECUTED. John 15:18-21

~ If they persecuted Jesus, they WILL persecute you also.

Matthew 5:10-12

~ People will INSULT you and falsely say evil against you. ~ Rather than shrinking back we should rejoice.

2 Timothy 3:12

~ Persecutions are GUARANTEED as a part of the Christian life.

2. OPPOSITION IN THE FIRST CENTURY: Acts 8:1-3, 9:1-2

~ How do your persecutions COMPARE to what the early church went through ?

Hebrews 11: 35-38

~ Will you remain faithful to Christ NO MATTER WHAT the persecution ?

3. HOW SHOULD CHRISTIANS HANDLE OPPOSITION? Acts 4:27-29

~ Pray for BOLDNESS.

Matthew 5:43-48

~ Pray for YOUR PERSECUTERS.

Acts 5:38-42

~ NEVER STOP PREACHING the truth. • God will support you and be with you.

2 Corinth 4:16-18

~ ENDURE the troubles. Opposition moulds our characters. Renewing us and helping us to become more and more Christ-like. Remember they are light and momentary.

PLEASE NOTE: • Sometimes we are criticized for mistakes we have indeed made. We need to listen to this criticism, repent and change. • We are not perfect and probably never will be, but we must continue striving for perfection, fixing our eyes on Jesus.

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BACKSLIDING (Purpose: To prevent people from growing lukewarm in their commitment to God)

Mark 4:1-20 ~ We can be one of four types of soil. • Has “trouble or persecution” been tempting you to fall-away? • What can you do to grow deeper roots spiritually? • What “worries of this life” are chocking out the word making you unfruitful? • Has the “deceitfulness of wealth” been distracting you from serving in God’s Kingdom? • What “desire for other things” is taking away your spiritual focus? Luke 13:22-30 ~ The door into heaven is a NARROW door. • Have you stopped making EVERY EFFORT to be a disciple and are now just TRYING ? • What are the consequences of this lukewarm attitude? Revelation 3:1-3 ~ NOTE: Jesus knows everything that is going on in our lives. • Do you just have a REPUTATION of being alive and are really DEAD spiritually in the sight of Jesus. • What do you need to do to make your deeds COMPLETE in the sight of God? Hebrews 10:26-31 ~ DELIBERATE, CONTINUOUS sin results in God withdrawing his grace from our lives. • Living this way is likened to: 1. Trampling the son of God underfoot and, 2. Treating His blood as unholy 3. Insulting the spirit of grace • It is a terrible thing to fall into the hands of the living God, therefore repent ! 2 Peter 2:20-22 ~ Do you see how HORRIBLY God views BACKSLIDING ! • Make some decisions about your life.

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CHRIST IS YOUR LIFE Discuss:

How is your relationship with God going?

Prayer. Colossians 3:1-4 Since raised with Christ - baptism (Colossians 2:12) 1. Set your mind (thoughts) and set your heart (emotions). 2. Christ is your life. Put to Death: Colossians 3:5-11 A. Be open about your greatest struggles this week. B. Discuss practicals on how to crucify these sins. Put on (Clothe): Colossians 3:12-1 4 New Attitudes: Colossians 3:15-4:1 A. Peace (verse 15) B. Thankfulness (verses 15,16) C. Wholeheartedness (verse 17) D. Family interaction (verse 18-21) E. Employer- employee relationship (3:22-4:1) Teacher - student relationship

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BEST FRIENDS OF ALL TIME Discuss

Your relationship with God.

Your 40 days quiet time series?

Prayer. One Another Passages: John 13:34-35 A. Love one another. B. Jesus teaches that Christians should have better relationships than people in the world. Set your mind to make the Christians around you your best friends. Colossians 1:28-29

A. Counsel one another. B. Gods’ plan for maturity.

Galatians 6:1-2

A. Restore one another, bear burdens. B. Handling pressure - discuss openness.

James 5:16

Confess sins to one another.

1 Thessalonians 5:12-14

Attitudes towards one another.

Hebrews 3:12-14

Discuss how to have daily contact with one another.

Hebrews 12:15

Prevent ‘bad attitudes’ in one another.

Matthew 18:15-17

A. Confront one another. B. Church discipline begins one-on-one and rarely should go to steps 2, 3 and 4.

Ephesians 6:18

Pray for one another - it makes a difference.

John 17:20-23

The ultimate goal of love and unity - world evangelism.

Pray together. For further private study: Matthew 22:37-3 9 Romans 12:4-8 Romans 12:9-16 Romans 13:7 Romans 14:1 Romans 15:14

Ephesians 4:25-32 Ephesians 5:19 Philippians 2:1-5 Philippians 3:17. 1 Thessalonians 2:8 1 Thessalonians2:19-20

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1 Thessalonians 5:11 Titus 3:1-9 Hebrews 10:24-25 James 2:15-16

THE MISSION Discuss: How are you feeling about your friendships in the Kingdom? Prayer. Luke 19:10 1 Timothy 1:15

Acts 20:24 Matthew 28:19-20

What was Jesus’ mission? What is our mission? Disciples Must Go …. John 15:1-16 Relationship with God Jesus’ plan to multiply. See the growth of the church when all Christians are close to God and sharing His Word (I) Acts 2:41 (ii) Acts 2:47 (iii) Acts 4:4 (iv) Acts 5:14 (v) Acts 6:1 (vi) Acts 6:7 (vii) Acts 8:4 Discuss: (i) World Evangelism (ii) Mission Teams. (iii) Your Dreams. Persecution will come... John 15:18-16:4 Jesus called these names, lies and half-truths: (i) Matthew 11:19 (ii) Mark 3:21 (by his family) (iii) Mark 3:22 (iv) Luke 23:2 (v) John 8:48 (vi) John 916 Attitude of Jesus: (i) Luke 23:24 (ii) Hebrews 12:1-2 Attitude of Apostles: Acts 5:40-42 Pray together.

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