By Revd Dr. Ifechukwu U. Ibeme
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PriscAquila Christian Resource Centre
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Ifechukwu U. Ibeme, MB.BS., Dip. Th., is a Chief Medical Officer
and a senior Anglican Priest with evangelical convictions. He has been involved
in teaching, and preaching in the Lord's vineyard since 1985. His pastoral
ministry began in 1993 when he was ordained. His desire is for all Christians
to be thoroughly scriptural in their faith and life, and for the hearts of all
to be turned after God. He is married to Ogochukwu, and they are blessed with
four children - Davidson, Victor, Shirley and Noella.
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GOD’S PLAN OF REDEMPTION |
12.
20. The Spiritual Gifts IV |
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13.
21. The Fruit of the Spirit I |
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14.
22. The Fruit of the Spirit II |
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3. The Rescue |
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THE DISCIPLE IN THE CHURCH |
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SURE KNOWLEDGE OF SALVATION |
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MEANS OF SPIRITUAL GROWTH |
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THE HOLY SPIRIT AND THE BELIEVER |
THE SPIRITUAL LIFE |
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15.
12. The Person of the Holy Spirit |
16.
34. Spirituality and Carnality |
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17.
13. The Fullness and The Baptism I |
18.
35. Witnessing as Spiritual Exercise |
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19.
14. The Fullness and The
Baptism II |
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21.
15. The Fullness and The
Baptism III |
22.
37. The
Word as Spiritual Necessity II |
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23.
16. The Fullness and The
Baptism IV |
24.
38.
Prayer as Spiritual Warfare |
|
25.
17. The Spiritual Gifts I |
26.
39.
Giving as Spiritual Service |
|
27.
18. The Spiritual Gifts II |
28.
40.
Holiness as Spiritual Goal |
|
29.
19. The Spiritual Gifts III |
30.
41. Heaven
as Spiritual Destiny |
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31.
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32.
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33.
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34.
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35.
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36.
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These series of studies are designed to help Christians of all levels of
maturity, learn sound Gospel teachings by finding them out straight from the Bible,
and writing the findings down in the workbook for future reminder. These study
outlines have been found useful for both personal spiritual growth among
committed Christians and group discipleship training in the Church
congregation.
Weekly study sessions of 45 to 60 minutes would be enough to go through
each of most of the study outlines. The rest of the studies, which are longer,
or more demanding will need two consecutive weekly sessions to complete.
THEME: GOD’S PLAN OF REDEMPTION
TOPIC: THE INITIAL STATE OF MANKIND
SERIES: 001
At
creation, humankind in Adam was in a state of innocence without sin and meet
for the glory of God. However, humanity fell into sin and disobedience and
fell short of the glory of God. God started unfolding His wonderful
redemption plan right after fall of Man.
Our study for discipleship and
spiritual growth should rightly begin at this point, taking us from the
creation to the fall of man and to the redemption plan initiated by God.
1. Who created the heavens, the earth, and
all creatures including Man?
Gene 1:1:
_________________________________________
2. How was man made?
(a) Gen
1:26 ________________________________________
(b)
Gen 2:7a________________________________________
(c)
Gen 2:7b ________________________________________
(d)
Gen 1:27 ________________________________________
3. What certain spiritual qualities had Man
at creation?
(a) Gen 1:26 ________________________________________
(b)
Gen 1:28__________________________________________
(c)
Gen 1:31 ________________________________________
(d) Gen 2:17 ________________________________________
4. What was the initial condition of the works of creation?
(a) Gen 1:31 _______________________________________
5. What was the initial position of man with respect to other creatures?
(a) Gen 2:5 ________________________________________
(b) Gen 1:27 ________________________________________
(c) Gen
2:15 ________________________________________
(d) Gen 1:28 ________________________________________
(e) Gen 1:29,30 _______________________________________
(f) Gen. 2:20 _________________________________________
6. For what purpose were the creatures made?
(a) Rev. 4:11 ________________________________________
(b) Gen. 2:8 ________________________________________
(c) Gen. 3:9 ________________________________________
7. What was the initial relationship between Man and His Creator in the Garden of Eden? _________________________________________
8. What do you understand to be God’s concern, plan and purpose for Man?
(a) __________________________________________________
(b) __________________________________________________
(c) __________________________________________________
(d) Jer. 29:11 __________________________________________
THEME: GOD’S PLAN OF REDEMPTION
TOPIC: THE FALL OF MAN
SERIES: 002
Despite the initial privileges of glory and fellowship that Man had with God at Creation, Man still chose to disobey God and follow Satan! From then on, humankind lost fellowship with God as well as fell short of God’s glory.
1. How did Man lose his original position with God?
Gene 3:1-7______________________________________________
_______________________________________________________
2. List some of the consequences of Man’s fall
(a) Gen. 3:8___________________________________________
(b) Gen. 3:14-24________________________________________
(c) __________________________________________________
(d) Gen. 6:5-7 _________________________________________
(e) __________________________________________________
3. What temporary measures were taken to restore Man to his original positions?
(a) Gen. 6:7-8; 7:23-24___________________________________
(b) Exd. 20:1-17; 24:12__________________________________
(c) Exd. 20:18-21 ____________________________________
(d) Lev. 16:21,34 ____________________________________
4. How effective were these measures?
(a) Gen. 9:20-22 ____________________________________
(b) Gal. 2:16 ____________________________________
(c) Heb. 10:4 ____________________________________
(d) Heb. 9:15-14 ____________________________________
5. List and discuss some of the ways Man tries to either cover up or get rid of his sins today.
(a) Gen. 3:10 _________________________________________
(b) Ps. 51:1 _________________________________________
(c) 1 Sam 15:19-23 ____________________________________
(d) 1 Sam 15:30 ____________________________________
(e) __________________________________________________
(f) __________________________________________________
6. How successful is Man in his attempts to cover up or get rid of his sins today? Discuss.
______________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________
______________________________________________________
THEME: GOD’S PLAN OF REDEMPTION
TOPIC: THE RESCUE
SERIES: 003
After
the fall of Man, God set out immediately to rescue man from the danger of
alienation from God. This rescue was eventually accomplished in Christ and is
available to all humans who are converted to Christ.
1. When and where did God first reveal his
rescue plan?
(a)
Gen. 3:15_________________________________________
(b)
Gen 3:16 _________________________________________
2. Why was it necessary for Christ to come
into the world and die?
(a) Rom
5:12 _________________________________________
(b) Rom
6:23 _________________________________________
(c) Rom
9:23 _________________________________________
(d) Heb.
9:22 _________________________________________
(e) Ezek.
18:4 _________________________________________
(f) Lev.
17:11 _________________________________________
(g) Isa.
53:5-6_________________________________________
(h) Isa
9:2 _________________________________________
(i)
__________________________________________________
3. How did Christ accomplish God’s redemption
programme?
(a) John
19:23 _________________________________________
(b) John
19:28-30_______________________________________
(c) Mark
15:36-38 ____________________________________
4. What has God revealed to us through the
death of Christ?
(a) Rom.
5:8 _________________________________________
(b) 1
John 4:10 ____________________________________
5. What new position can we receive through
this redemptive work?
(a) Gal.
3:13 _________________________________________
(b) Tit
3:7 _________________________________________
(c)
2 Cor 5:17-21_______________________________________
6. How should we respond to God’s love toward
us in Christ?
(a) Acts
3:19 _________________________________________
(b) Rom.
10:9-10 _______________________________________
(c) John
3:3 ___________________________________________
(d) John
3:5-6 _________________________________________
(e) Acts
2:38-39 ________________________________________
(f) John
1:12 _________________________________________
7. After our commitment to God through
Christ, what should we always remember?
(a) Rom
8:1-4 _________________________________________
(b) Rom.
8:14-16 ____________________________________
(c) Eph.
2:8-10_________________________________________
NOTE:
God’s rescue plan for the world, which was
based on God’s foreknowledge and sovereign choice (1 Pet. 1:2), was
predetermined in Christ “before the foundation of the world”
(Eph. 1: 3-8; Tit. 1:2), but accomplished in Christ “in the fullness of time”
(Eph. 1: 9-14; Tit. 1:3).
The full extent of interplay
that God’s sovereignty (in
foreknowledge, predestination, and election Rom. 8:28-30) has with human responsibility (in
repentance and faith John 1:12; 3:16) towards the fulfilment of the eternal
saving purpose of God is unsearchable and past finding out (Rom. 11:33; Deut.
29:29).
What we know is that God is
fully prepared to ensure that whosoever is converted to Christ (through
repentance from sin, and faith in Christ’s work of propitiation for our sins)
shall be saved (Acts 3:19; 16:31).
TO BE SAVED is to be granted the right of inheritance
with Christ in God’s eternal Kingdom. This inheritance is called Eternal Life.
It involves the graces of:
# remission of sins,
# indwelling of the Holy
Spirit and
# preservation by the power
of God.
All these are possible
because of what Jesus has done for us, if we believe and abide in Him.
THEME: GOD’S PLAN OF REDEMPTION
TOPIC: THE WAY OF SALVATION
SERIES: 004
When Adam sinned, humanity was condemned, kept away from God and made unable to find God. But God’s Grace in Christ opened the way for humanity to experience Salvation unto Eternal Life, through repentance and faith in Christ. This Salvation or Eternal Life begins to be evident in the life that now is (Tit 2:11-14).
1. What problems has sin brought to humanity?
(a) Isa.57: 20-21________________________________________
(b) Rom.1: 21-25_______________________________________
(c) Rev.20: 12-15_______________________________________
(d) Jer.2: 22___________________________________________
(e) Prov.16: 25_________________________________________
(f) Isa.64: 6___________________________________________
2. In the face of these problems and helplessness of humanity, what way has God provided for man to be saved unto eternal life?
(a) 1John 1:8-10________________________________________
(b) Job 9:15___________________________________________
(c) Acts 16:30-31_______________________________________
(d) Eph. 1:13 ________________________________________
(e) Lk. 13:5 _________________________________________
(f) Rom 3:23-25 ____________________________________
(g) Matt. 10:32-33 ____________________________________
(h) 2 Cor. 5:21 ________________________________________
3. All aspects of our Soul (Mind, Heart, Conscience, and Spirit) should experience salvation from sin, condemnation and bondage. Also our body should be offered to God by mortification. What does the Scripture say about this?
(a) Rom.12: 1-2 ____________________________________
(b) Heb.9: 13-14________________________________________
(c) Rom.8: 6-10________________________________________
(d) Gal.2: 20___________________________________________
(e) Col.3: 5-8___________________________________________
4. What differences are evident between Christians (i.e. Those who are saved) and Non-Christians (i.e. Those who do not believe in Christ for salvation)?
(a) 1John 2:3/John14: 21_________________________________
(b) Rom.8: 14,16/John14: 26______________________________
(c) Tit.3; 8/Col.3: 12-14___________________________________
(d) 1Cor.6: 18/Gal.5: 16, 17, 24, 25_________________________
THEME: SURE KNOWLEDGE OF SALVATION
TOPIC: THE TESTIMONY OF SALVATION
SERIES: 005
INTRODUCTION:
Those who are SAVED or BORN AGAIN are those who have received ETERNAL LIFE through Christ. Are you saved? Do you have eternal life? Are you Born Again? If truly you have acknowledged your sin to repent in your heart and confess them to God; and if you have accepted God’s salvation in Christ to believe in your heart and confess His saving Lordship, then know that you are saved (Rom. 10:9-10). This assurance is based on what God has testified in His Word.
1. Who gives eternal life? 1John 5:11-12_________________________
_______________________________________________________
2. Where is eternal life found? 1John 5:11-12_____________________
3. Based on the above passage, what makes you confident that you have eternal life? _________________________________________
4. Who would you regard as NOT having eternal life? John 3:18; 1John 5:11, 12________________________________________________
5. Why was the Scripture written?
(a) John 20:31_________________________________________
(b) Rom.15: 4__________________________________________
(c) 1 Cor.10: 11________________________________________
(d) 2 Tim.3: 16_________________________________________
(e) 2 Tim.3: 17_________________________________________
(f) 1John 1:4__________________________________________
(g) 1 John 5:13_________________________________________
(h) 2Pet.1: 12-14________________________________________
(i) John 5:39__________________________________________
6. Christ is God and was the source of creation and life from the beginning (John 1:1-4). He is the Son of God who gives eternal life (Jn.3: 16) to those who believe IN HIM.
In what way does our knowledge of the Person of Christ strengthen our faith?
(a) Tit.1: 2____________________________________________
(b) 2Cor.1: 20__________________________________________
(c) Rom.15: 8-9________________________________________
CONCLUSION:
If according to God’s Word, God has begotten you again and given you eternal life, then you have been saved. No one can change that. Be assured of this and live your new life in that confidence (1 John 3:1-3).
THEME: SURE KNOWLEDGE OF SALVATION
TOPIC: THE OUTWORKING OF SALVATION
SERIES: 006
INTRODUCTION:
Those who are saved or who have eternal life
in them live it out in certain ways. The presence of this outward evidence in
the behaviour of a
Christian assures him/her that he/she has received eternal life. IF YOU
ARE SAVED, YOUR LIFE MUST CHANGE TO SHOW IT.
1. What happens to our life style (words, thoughts, emotions and actions) when we become Christians? 2 Cor.5: 17_______________________
2. List some of the changes that you already notice in your lives as Christians. Compare these changes in your lives with Gal.5: 22-25 and Rom.12: 12-21.
(a) _________________________________________________
(b) _________________________________________________
(c) _________________________________________________
(d) _________________________________________________
(e) _________________________________________________
(f) _________________________________________________
etc. _________________________________________________
3. For those areas and aspects of our lives that still need the touch of God, what are we told to do to receive the necessary liberation and victory over sin?
(a) James 4:7__________________________________________
(b) Gal.5: 16___________________________________________
(c) Col.3: 1-3___________________________________________
(d) 1 John 5:4__________________________________________
(e) Eph.6: 8-12_________________________________________
(f) __________________________________________________
Etc.____________________________________________________
4. To whom does the glory belong for the changes in our lives?
(a) Phil.2: 13_________________________________________
(b) 2 Cor.5: 5_________________________________________
5. Who should we depend on always for present and future changes in our lives?
(a) Rom.8: 11________________________________________
(b) 2 Cor.3: 17-18_______________________________________
CONCLUSION:
The outward evidence of eternal life in the Christian does not only assure the Christian that he/she is saved; it also challenges others to turn to Christ and bring glory to God (Matt.5: 16;John17: 23).
THEME: SURE KNOWLEDGE OF SALVATION
TOPIC: THE BLESSEDNESS OF SALVATION
SERIES: 007
INTRODUCTION
We are saved because Christ has rescued us by His finished work and through our faith in Him. The assurance that we have received this salvation is not only based on the testimony of the Word and the outward evidence of our changed lives, but is also based on the inner witness of peace and blessedness, which we receive from God.
1. What are some blessings we have received through Jesus Christ?
(a) Rom.5: 1__________________________________________
(b) _________________________________________________
(c) Rom.5: 2___________________________________________
(d) _________________________________________________
2. Compare and contrast these blessings with the consequences of man's fall:
(a) Isa.59: 2________________________________________
(b) __________________________________________________
(c) __________________________________________________
(d) Isa.48: 22__________________________________________
3. How does God view our past sin, which we have confessed and forsaken?
(a) Heb.10: 17__________________________________________
(b) 1 Jn.1: 7-10_______________________________________
(c) Heb.10: 17________________________________________
(d) Prov.28: 13_________________________________________
4. Who makes us realize that we have become God’s children? And how is this done?
(a) Rom.8: 15,16_______________________________________
(b) ________________________________________________
5. Who introduces guilt feeling and doubts about our forgiven sins?
Rev.12: 9,10__________________________________________
6. What are the consequences of allowing such accusation and doubt to take root in our minds?
(a) Gal.3: 3-5__________________________________________
(b) Col.2: 20-23_________________________________________
7. What does God want you to do continually about any revealed sin in your life?
(a) Prov.28: 13_________________________________________
(b) 1 John 1:7-10_______________________________________
(c) Rom.6: 1-2_________________________________________
(d) Rom.6: 12-14_______________________________________
THEME: MEANS OF SPIRITUAL GROWTH
TOPIC: PRAYER AND THE WORD OF GOD
SERIES: 008
INTRODUCTION:
Everyone who becomes a true Christian needs to grow in Christ. This growth is possible if such a believer continues in prayer and study of the Word of God (Acts 2: 41-42).
A. PRAYER AS MEANS OF GROWTH:
1. Why must every Christian continue fervently in their prayer lives?
a) Matt.26: 11______________________________________
b) _______________________________________________
2. How often must we pray?
a) Luke 18: 1_________________________________________
3. What are some benefits of prayer?
a) Heb.4: 16__________________________________________
b) Jude 20___________________________________________
c) Mark 11:24_______________________________________
c) ________________________________________________
B. GROWTH BY THE STUDY OF GOD’S WORD.
1. What role does the Word of God play in our conversion?
Rom.10: 17_________________________________________
2. How important is the Word of God for our growth?
1 Pet.2; 2______________________________________________
3. How does God expect us to relate to His Word?
a) 2 Tim.2: 15_______________________________________
b) 2 Tim.3: 15________________________________________
d) Josh.1: 8a________________________________________
4. How does the Word of God equip us for God’s service?
a) 2 Tim.3: 17_____________________________________
b) Josh.1: 8b______________________________________
5. What role does the Word of God play in our sanctification and how?
a) John 17: 17_____________________________________
c) Eph.5: 26,27___________________________________
6. What else does God’s Word do for us in our growth and maturity as Christian?
a) Ps.119: 9-11___________________________________
b) Ps.119: 105___________________________________
c) ______________________________________________
THEME: MEANS OF SPIRITUAL GROWTH
TOPIC: FELLOWSHIP AND WITNESSING
SERIES: 009
INTRODUCTION:
For spiritual growth, one who is born of God in Christ does not only need prayer and God’s Word, he/she also needs continuous attendance to fellowship/worship as well as witnessing for Christ (Acts 2:41-42).
A. FELLOWSHIP AS MEANS OF GROWTH
1. Who founded the Church and upon what testimony was it founded?
Mtt.16: 16-18_________________________________________
2. What are we commanded to do about Church attendance?
He.10: 24-25__________________________________________
3. What are some benefits we derive from a good Christian Fellowship?
(a) Eph.4: 11-14__________________________________
(b) _____________________________________________
(c) _____________________________________________
(d) Matt. 18:19-20__________________________________
(e) ______________________________________________
4. What wisdom is there in being involved in Church and fellowship programmes from these verses?
(a) Prov.27: 17__________________________________________
(b) Eccl.4: 9-12_________________________________________
B. GROWTH THROUGH WITNESSING
1. What are we commanded to do with the Gospel?
Mark 16: 15___________________________________________
2. What assurance and confidence are given to help us for the great commission?
(a) Matt.28: 18-10_____________________________________
(b) _________________________________________________
(c) Mark 16: 16-18_____________________________________
(d) _________________________________________________
(e) Acts 1: 8_________________________________________
3. As we witness for Christ in preaching and in power we grow through experience. What other way are we to bear witness?
(a) Matt.5: 13-16_______________________________________
(b) __________________________________________________
(c) 1 Pet.2: 11-12_______________________________________
(d) __________________________________________________
4. Apart from your growth, what other process does witnessing serve for you, for the world and for the Lord?
(a) 1 John 1:1-4_________________________________
(b) ____________________________________________
(c) Rom.10: 13-14________________________________
(d)
Acts 4: 13,20__________________________________
THEME: MEANS OF SPIRITUAL GROWTH
TOPIC: DISCIPLESHIP AND DISCIPLINE
SERIES: 010
INTRODUCTION:
The word “DISCIPLE” means “DILIGENTLY COMMITTED FOLLOWER OF A TEACHER”. A true Christian Disciple is one who has repented from his/her sins and has made an irreversible and undivided commitment to Jesus Christ and His Gospel (Lk. 9: 62). The aim of a true disciple is to follow the Master in such a way as to become like the Master. The life of a Christian Disciple is totally surrendered to Christ.
1. Who is a true Disciple?
Jn.8: 31_______________________________________________
2. How can a true disciple be identified?
(a) Matt.7: 17_____________________________________
(b) Matt.1: 20-2____________________________________
(c) John 15: 8______________________________________
DISCIPLINE:
To be faithful to the call of Discipleship, the Christian being surrounded by contrary circumstances and conventions, situations and standards, soon realizes the importance of discipline, determination and diligence in the daily walk with the Lord.
3. What do you realize from these verses?
(a) Heb.12: 7-10________________________________
(b) ___________________________________________
(c) Heb.12: 13-15__________________________________
(d) ____________________________________________
4. What is the disciple warned to expect in the world?
(a) Jn.15: 18-22___________________________________
(b) 2 Tim.3: 12______________________________________
(c) Acts 14: 22________________________________________
DETERMINATION
For successful discipleship one must be ready to be disciplined or pruned (John 15: 2b). Discipline calls for denial of self, pleasure and comfort as well as determination to bear the shame, pain and discomfort that come with living the life of the Gospel in the world (Lk.9: 23; 14:27,33).
5. Why does the Lord discipline us?
(a) Jas.1: 2-4___________________________________
(b) Heb.12: 10___________________________________
(c) Others _______________________________________
6. What should be our attitude in times of pain and difficulty?
(a) John 14: 1______________________________
(b) John 16: 33_____________________________
(c) Others ________________________________
THEME: REVIEW OF THE STUDIES 001 TO 010
TOPIC: THE GOSPEL OF SALVATION
SERIES: 011
REVIEW:
Already, we have gone through 10 different study outlines on Christian Gospel of Salvation. Topics studied so far include: -
GOD’S PLAN OF REDEMPTION
1. The Initial State of Man
2. The Fall of Man
3. The Rescue
4. The Way of Salvation
SURE KNOWLEDGE OF SALVATION
5. The Testimony of Salvation
6. The Out-working of Salvation
7. The Blessedness of Salvation
MEANS OF SPIRITUAL GROWTH
8. Prayers and the Word of God
9. Fellowships and Witnessing
10. Discipleship and Discipline
The purpose of these is to help you: -
a) Become born again of the Spirit by the means of the Word of God (1 Pet.1: 23)
b) Grow in the faith by feeding on God’s Word (1 Pet. 2: 2)
c) Follow in the steps of Christ by heeding His Word and Spirit.
In this way you shall be a true Disciple of Christ (Jn. 8: 31) and you shall obtain your desires and needs from God (Jn. 15: 7)
1. What are the things you have learned from the studies so far?
(a) ___________________________________________________
(b) ___________________________________________________
(c) ____________________________________________________
(d) __________________________________________________
(e) ____________________________________________________
2. What benefits have you derived from the studies in your life as a Disciple of Christ?
(a) ______________________________________________
(b) ______________________________________________
(c) _____________________________________________
(d) ______________________________________________
(e) ______________________________________________
3. What questions do you have on the studies so far?
(a)______________________________________________
(b)______________________________________________
(c)_____________________________________________
(d)______________________________________________
(e)______________________________________________
THEME: THE HOLY SPIRIT AND THE DISCIPLE
TOPIC:
THE PERSON OF THE HOLY SPIRIT
SERIES: 012
INTRODUCTION:
The
Holy Spirit is God (Acts 5:3-4). He is the third Person of the Godhead, the
blessed Trinity. The three dimensions of the Ministry of the Godhead are
essential for the complete salvation of the Disciple. For the Disciple in this
period of the Church age, the Holy Spirit’s work is of utmost importance.
1. In what
ways do the Three Persons of the One Godhead work together to accomplish or
salvation?
a) 1
Pet. 1:2__________________________________________
b) 2
Cor. 13:14________________________________________
c) 1
Cor. 12:4-6________________________________________
d) John
15:26_________________________________________
e) Matt.
28:19________________________________________
2. What qualities in the Scripture show that
the Holy Spirit is a Person?
a) Acts
28:25________________________________________
b) John
14:26 _______________________________________
c) Gen.
6:3__________________________________________
d) Acts
9:31__________________________________________
e) Rom.
8:26_________________________________________
f) Eph.
4:30__________________________________________
g) Acts
7:51__________________________________________
h) Rom.
8:14_________________________________________
I) Rom 8:16/Heb.
10:15________________________________
j) John.
16:13________________________________________
k) Rev. 2:7, 11,29_____________________________________
l) Gen.
1:2.__________________________________________
3. How do we know that he Holy Spirit is God?
a) Acts
5:3-4_______________________________________
b) Matt.
2819/2 Cor. 13:14______________________________
c) Heb.
9:14.________________________________________
d) Lk.
1:35/Rom 15:19 __________________________________
e) 2
Cor. 2:10-11_______________________________________
f) Ps.
139:7.__________________________________________
g) Gen.
1:2/Job 33:4 ___________________________________
h) 1
Cor. 12:6,11_______________________________________
i) Gen.
6:3. __________________________________________
j) Matt.
10:20_________________________________________
k) Isa.
61:1___________________________________________
l) Rom.
8:9_________________________________________
THEME: THE HOLY SPIRIT AND THE DISCIPLE
TOPIC:
THE FULLNESS AND THE BAPTISM I
SERIES: 013
INTRODUCTION:
From the Old Testament (O.T.) times
before the Pentecost, the Holy Spirit has always come on certain servants of
God to fill them for certain duration of time. This was to enable them
accomplish certain Ministry or have some experiences. This fullness was from
outside the recipients and was not preceded by the indwelling of the Spirit
through Spirit Baptism.
Since the day of Pentecost however,
the Holy Spirit has been poured out on all God’s people to indwell them
permanently. This is called the Baptism with the Holy Spirit. These N.T. Saints
are also filled with the Holy Spirit from time to time (or even the more
led all the time by the Spirit) to enable them accomplish
certain ministries or have certain experiences. Obviously, this New Testament
(N.T.) fullness operates from within the believer (John 7:38-39; 4:14).
1. What
experiences did the O.T. saints have when they were filled with the Holy
Spirit?
a). 2Sam. 23:2/Lk. 1:41, 42, 67.
_____________________________
b). Ezk. 11:5/2Chron. 15:1-2.
_______________________________
c). 1Sam.1: 15.
__________________________________________
d). 1Sam. 10:6, 10/19:23,24.
________________________________
e). Exd. 35:30, 31.
________________________________________
f). Lk. 4:1, 2, 14.
_________________________________________
2. What
experiences could we N.T. saints expect when we are filled with the Holy
Spirit?
a).
Eph. 5:18. ___________________________________________
b).
Acts 13:32/1Pet. 1:8. __________________________________
c).
Rom. 8:15/Gal. 4:6. ____________________________________
d).
Rom. 8:26. ___________________________________________
e).
Acts 4:8, 31. _________________________________________
f).
Acts 7:55. ___________________________________________
g).
Acts 11:24. _________________________________________
h).
Acts 2:4, 11/10:44-46/19:6. _____________________________
3. Since the fullness of the Holy Spirit is common to the O.T. and N.T. Saints: in what special way then did God promise to give the Holy Spirit to the N.T. Saints?
a). Joel 2:28. ____________________________________________
b). Ezk. 36:25-27. _______________________________________
c). Jer. 31:31-34. _________________________________________
d). Lk. 3:16. ____________________________________________
e). John 14: 16-18. ______________________________________
f). Lk. 24:29/Acts 1:4-5. ____________________________________
4. From when and how was this promised special work of the Holy Spirit fulfilled?
a). Acts 2:1-4,33. _________________________________________
b). Acts 11:15-17. _______________________________________
DISCIPLESHIP AND SPIRITUAL GROWTH BIBLE STUDY
THEME:
THE HOLY SPIRIT AND THE DISCIPLE
TOPIC:
THE FULLNESS AND THE BAPTISM II
SERIES: 014
INTRODUCTION:
We have already seen that when the
Spirit rested upon an OT saint or indwells/baptizes an NT saint,
it is then possible for either saint to be filled with the Holy Spirit. Thus, the
fullness of the Spirit operated from the outside (without the baptism) in the
OT, but operates from the inside (i.e. from the indwelling by baptism) in the
NT (see series 013).
SO
THEN, ONE CAN BE FILLED WITH THE HOLY SPIRIT WITHOUT BEING BAPTISED WITH THE
HOLY SPIRIT. If not so, the OT saints could
not have worked with the Holy Spirit.
We also saw that God had planned and
accomplished a special working relationship between the Holy Spirit and every
New Testament believer. The Prophets and Christ described this as the
out-pouring (Joel 2:28), the putting-in (Ezk. 36:27), the baptism (Lk. 3:16),
the indwelling/abiding (Jn.14: 16-17), and the Father’s promise (Acts 1:4-5).
In the NT Church however, following the language of John the Baptist (Jn.
1:33), this special New Testament work of the Holy Spirit is called the
“Baptism with the Holy Spirit into Christ” (I Cor. 12:13) or simply “Spirit Baptism”.
This New Testament Baptism was
fulfilled from the day of Pentecost (Acts 2:33), but note that this was at the
same time accompanied with the fullness also (Acts 2:3-4), which has always
been possible from Old Testament times.
1. What
benefits does this “promised baptismal indwelling” of the Holy Spirit afford
those who believe in Christ?
(a)
Rom 8:9____________________________________________
(b)
I Cor. 12:13_________________________________________
(c)
Eph. 1:13-14________________________________________
(d)
I Cor. 3:6-9/6:19_____________________________________
(e)
Acts 15:8-9 _________________________________________
(f)
Rom. 8:11 __________________________________________
(g)
Luke 24:49/Acts 1:8
__________________________________
(h)
John 3:3-8/Tit 3:5 ____________________________________
(i)
2 Thes. 2:13 / I Pet
1:2________________________________
2. Apart
from being called the “promise” that endues with heavenly power (Lk. 24:49),
the “promise” and the “gift” (Acts 2:38-39), what other symbolic names are
given to the Holy Spirit in the Scriptures?
(a)
2 Cor. 1:21/I John 2:20, 27
_____________________________
(b)
Eph. 1:13/4:30_______________________________________
(c)
2 Cor. 1:22/Eph.
1:14_________________________________
(d)
John 4:14/7:37-39 I Cor. 12:13 _________________________
(e)
Etc _______________________________________________
3. In your
own words, how could you summarize your understanding of the meaning of “THE
BAPTISM WITH THE HOLY SPIRIT” or
“SPIRIT BAPTISM”, according to what you have learned from the Word of God?
.
______________________________________________________
.
______________________________________________________
4. Since
the beginning of the 20th century, some brethren especially in the
Pentecostal Denominations have developed a doctrine on the Baptism of the Holy
Spirit, which to them is same as being filled with the Holy Spirit. They teach
that this baptism or fullness:
(i) is a second work of grace or second blessing,
which follows after new birth or conversion,
(ii) dips the Christian further from the body of
Christ into the realm of the Holy Spirit’s power, and
(iii) must be accompanied with the initial evidence
of speaking in tongues.
This
new line of teaching meant to motivate towards spiritual experiences, seems to
make the Spirit Baptism confusing and divisive rather than enlightening and
unifying. In the light of the teachings of the Scripture, how
is this type of doctrine: -
a).
similar to your understanding? ___________________________
b).
different from your understanding? ________________________
c).
clear about Baptism and Fullness? ________________________
d).
consistent with the Scripture? ____________________________
e).
accurate and adequate? ________________________________
f). helpful and safe?
_____________________________________
DISCIPLESHIP AND SPIRITUAL GROWTH BIBLE STUDY
THEME:
THE HOLY SPIRIT AND THE DISCIPLE
TOPIC:
THE FULLNESS AND THE BAPTISM III
SERIES:
015
INTRODUCTION:
The
Holy Spirit indwells us in order to regenerate us into Christ and adopt us as
God’s children, seal and guarantee us unto eternal life, as well as anoint and
empower us as servants of God. What a great privilege! This is why our Lord and
Saviour Jesus Christ said that the Holy Spirit is the COMFORTER (John 15:26) or
PARACLET. This word means: (Counsellor, Helper, Advocate, Intercessor,
Strengthener, Standby) according to The Amplified Bible.
1. Do you
have the Holy Spirit? When do you think He entered to dwell in you?
________________________________________________
2. Under
what conditions could one receive the indwelling or baptism of the Holy Spirit?
(a) Acts 2:38-39 _______________________________________
(b) Eph.
1:13 _________________________________________
(c) Acts
11:17 _________________________________________
(d) Gal.
3:2, 14 _________________________________________
3. Have you taken steps to fulfil these most
important conditions? How?
_______________________________________________________
4. Those who are filled with the Holy
Spirit are also said to be led by the Spirit (Rom 8:14), or to be spiritually
minded (Rom 8:5-6), or to walk in/live by the Spirit (Gal. 5:16, 25).
Are
you filled with the Holy Spirit? If you think so, could you be described in the
above terms? ______________________________
5. By what means could the indwelling Holy
Spirit begin to fill us?
(a) Eph.
5:18-19______________________________________
(b) Col.
3:16__________________________________________
(c) Acts
4:31/Col. 1:9-10__________________________________
(d) Acts
4:8____________________________________________
(e) Acts
6:3,9_________________________________________
6. Have you
taken advantage of any of these means in order to be full of the Holy Spirit continuously
and increasingly? __________________
7. From our
studies so far, it is clear that the Scripture teaches that the Baptism of the
Spirit is only once for all and same for all who believe (1 Cor. 12:13; Eph.
4:5); but the Fullness of the Holy Spirit is continuously repeated and
diversely experienced by different believers at different times (Eph. 5:18-19;
Acts 4:8, 31). In short: “By the BAPTISM the Spirit INDWELLS us and BRINGS
us INTO Christ, but through the FULLNESS the Spirit MOVES us and USES us
for Christ”.
What
other comparisons could you make of Spirit Baptism and Spirit Fullness?
_______________________________________________
DISCIPLESHIP AND SPIRITUAL GROWTH BIBLE STUDY
THEME:
THE HOLY SPIRIT AND THE DISCIPLE
TOPIC:
THE FULLNESS AND THE BAPTISM IV
SERIES:
016
INTRODUCTION:
In
Study 013 we looked at some experiences, we expect when we are filed with the Holy
Spirit. In Study 014, we saw the benefits we drive from the baptism with the
Holy Spirit. In this study, we shall do a summary review by comparing and
contrasting the meaning and effect of Spirit Baptism versus Spirit Fullness. It
is hoped that such comparison would widen our understanding and enable us take
fuller advantage of the grace of God and the Holy Sprit’s work.
|
BAPTISM (I Cor.
12:13) |
FULLNESS (Eph.
5:18) |
|
1. Become ONE WITH CHRIST (Rom 8:9) |
1. Become MORE LIKE CHRIST (Eph. 3:16-19) |
|
2. JOINED IN UNION with Christ (Eph. 1:13-14) |
2. ENJOY COMMUNION in Christ
(Eph. 1:15-21). |
|
3. Initiation INTO Christ (Gal. 3:27) |
3. Motivation IN Christ (Phil. 1:9-11) |
|
4. Once for all at Conversion or Newbirth Eph. 4:5) |
4. Repeated on and on after conversion (Acts
4:8,13) |
|
5. Associated with Regeneration or Newbirth (John 3:3-6) |
5. Associated with Sanctification or New life (Rom 8:12-14) |
|
6. Commencement of Relationship with God (Acts 2:2-3) |
6. Continuation of experience of God’s Power (Acts 2:4) |
|
7. New spiritual STATUS (Col. 1:13) |
7. Growing spiritual STATURE
(Eph. 4:13) |
|
8. Requires faith in Christ as Saviour (Gal. 3:2) |
8. Requires surrender to the Spirit as Helper (Rom. 12:1) |
|
9. Equal and same for all Believers at all times (I Cor. 12:13) |
9. Different and variable in person and situation (Acts 4:8; 7:55) |
|
10. INDWELLED by the Spirit (Rom. 8:9; I Cor. 3:16) |
10. PROPELLED by the Spirit (2 Pet. 1:21) |
|
11. Sealed unto Eternal life
(Eph. 4:30) |
11. Controlled to lead the New life (Gal. 5:22ff). |
|
12. Cleansing from sin (Acts
15:8-9) |
12. Strengthening above/against sin (Col.
1:9-14) |
1. In
what ways could this study on Baptism and Fullness of the Holy Spirit make you
be a better Christian than ever before?
2. How
complementary are those two aspects of the work of the Holy Spirit in the life
of a believing disciple?
3. Are
the Holy Spirit Baptism and Fullness true in your life?
4. Now
that you know that when you believed, you were baptised with the Spirit into
Christ, how should you ensure that henceforth, you walk in the fullness of the
Spirit?
DISCIPLESHIP
AND SPIRITUAL GROWTH BIBLE STUDY
THEME: THE HOLY SPIRIT AND THE DISCIPLE
TOPIC: THE SPIRITUAL GIFTS I
INTRODUCTION:
In
the Scripture, Spiritual Gifts are described with many Greek words. For example in I Cor. 12 alone, the
following words were used by St. Paul:
Verse
1 Pneumatika = Spirituals
(i.e. supernatural abilities)
Verse
4 & 9 Charismata = Grace-gifts (given by the Spirit)
Verse
5 Diakoniai = Services
(rendered to the Lord)
Verse
6 Emergemata = Operations
(activated by God)
Verse
7 Phanerosis = Manifestation
(that shows the Spirit)
Of all these words CHARISMATA is most
commonly used to refer to Spiritual Gifts. ‘CHARISMA(TA)’ also
means GRACE-GIFT(S) or LOVE-BONUS(ES) or FREE-GIFT(S). (Literally CHARIS
means GRACE, and CHARISMA means BONUS/GRATUITY OF GRACE).
In
summary Spiritual Gifts should be understood to mean: “DIVERSITIES OF
SPIRITUAL GRACES DISTRIBUTED BY GOD TO EVERY BELIEVER, ENABLING EACH TO
VARIOUSLY MANIFEST THE POWER OF THE HOLY SPIRIT IN THE SERVICE OF THE LORD, FOR
THE EDIFICATION OF CHRIST’S BODY, THE CHURCH”.
1. Read 1 Cor. 12:4-9 and Eph. 4:11-12 and
Rom. 12:3-6 and answer the following:
(i) Who
gives or distributes Spiritual Gifts and makes them work in believers?
__________________________________________
(ii) Why
are Spiritual Gifts given? __________________________
(iii) To
whom are Spiritual Gifts given? ______________________
(iv) Do the Gifts
believers have depend on their Spiritual achievements and merits?
_____________________________
__________________________________________________
(v) What
other lessons do you learn about Spiritual Gifts from these verses?
_______________________________________
2. Name
and list the Spiritual Gifts mentioned in the following portions of the
Scripture:
(i) I
Cor. 12:7-31 (Nine) _________________________________
(ii) I
Cor. 12:28-31 (Nine) ________________________________
(iii) I
Cor. 13:1-3 (Seven) _________________________________
(iv) Rom.
12:6-8 (Seven) _________________________________
(v) I
Cor. 14:6,26 (Six) ___________________________________
(vi) Eph. 4:11 (Five)
_____________________________________
(vii) Mark
16:17-18 (Four) _________________________________
__________________________________________________
3. Realising
now that in different portions of the Scripture some Gifts are called different
names while some are omitted or included, how many Gifts then, on the whole,
could you identify? ____________________
DISCIPLESHIP
AND SPIRITUAL GROWTH BIBLE STUDY
THEME: THE HOLY SPIRIT AND THE DISCIPLE
TOPIC: THE SPIRITUAL GIFTS II
INTRODUCTION:
In the last study we were able to identify in the New Testament Scriptures NOT ONLY NINE Spiritual Gifts as commonly taught among some Pentecostals today but MORE THAN NINETEEN Spiritual Gifts. Below is an attempt to group these Gifts (24 of them) into five for better understanding (see I Cor 12:7-12:28-31; 14:6-26; Rom 12:6-8; Eph. 4:11; Mark 16:17-18) and I Cor 13:1-3).
1. UTTERANCE
OR INSPIRATIONAL GIFTS:
a. Tongues (of men and Angels), b. Psalms
(Songs),
c. Interpretation (of Tongues), d. Wisdom
(Counselling),
e.
Exhortation (Encouragement), f. Teaching/Knowledge,
g. Evangelists (Preaching), and h. Prophecy.
2. DECIPHERING
OR PERCEPTIONAL GIFTS:
i. Revelation/Mysteries, j. Discernment (of Spirits).
Some
Utterance Gifts like Interpretation and Prophecy also operate in
combination with the Perceptional Gifts.
NOTE: When St. Paul talked about “Knowledge” in I
Cor. 12:8, he used the Greek word “GINOSKO” which means OBJECTIVE
LEARNING which has to do with studying and reasoning intellectually. But for “Know” in I Cor. 13:2 he used the
Greek work “OIDA” which means SUBJECTIVE INTUITION and has to do
with instinctively deciphering and fathoming hidden mysteries.
Again
WORD OF EXHORTATION in Acts 13:15 and Heb. 13:22 mean the same thing as simply
an Exhortation talk/word/discuss (i.e. Motivating speech). In the same way,
WORD OF KNOWLEDGE and WORD OF WISDOM simply mean Knowledge talk/word/discuss
(i.e. Educating speech) and Wisdom talk/word/discuss (i.e. Counselling speech)
respectively.
Q Considering
above information, would you liken “word of Knowledge” to “Teaching”, to
“Revelation”, or to “Discernment”?
______________________________________________________
3. POWER
OR DEMONSTRATIONAL GIFTS:
k. Faith
(that moves mountains) l. Miracles,
m. Exorcism
(Casting out/’Deliverance’), n. Healings, and
o. Immunity
(to serpents, scorpions and poisons).
4. PASTORAL
OR ORGANISATIONAL GIFTS:
p. Apostle
(Missionary/Messenger), q. Pastor (Shepherd),
r. Leadership
(Ruling/Administration), s. Service (Ministry).
5. SACRIFICIAL OR
DEPRIVATIONAL GIFTS:
t. Giving (even till poverty), u. Helps,
v. Martyrdom (even by burning), w. Mercy, and
x. Continence (or Celibacy) see I Cor. 7:7.
NOTE: This
fifth group is the most costly to the gifted and least appreciated by the
Church so they are not very popularly taught or sought after in the Church
today.
Question: What
does the Church lose by being selective in emphasis on Spiritual Gifts?
______________________________________
DISCUSSIONS:
1. Despite this abundant number of
charismatic Gifts why is it that only the spectacular few like: Tongues,
Prophecy, Miracles, Healings, Exorcism (Deliverance) and Revelation/Mysteries
(mistakenly called Word of Knowledge) are the ones popularly sought and taught
nowadays?
2. Today some of the Gifts are not
regarded as supernatural and fantastic enough to be called Spiritual Gifts.
State the reason why, with examples: __________________________________________
3. Which
Spiritual Gifts are at work in our Church?
_______________________________________________________
4. Why are
many of the Gifts absent in the Churches today? (1Thes. 5:19-21, Eph.
4:30-32)____________________________________
_______________________________________________________
CONCLUSION.
Apart
from Spiritual Gifts mentioned in the Scripture, there are acquired
SKILLS (e.g. Education, Technical skills, Music instrumentation) and innate
TALENTS (e.g. intelligence, eloquence, artistry, hospitality, stamina), which
are needed in the Church today.
When
a believer, filled with the Holy Spirit uses these skills and talents in
accordance with God’s will to edify the Church, such skills and talents serve
similar purpose as the Spiritual Gifts?
(Exd. 35:29-35; Judges 14:6; I Chron. 15:22; Acts 26:24-25; Matt.
13:52).
DISCIPLESHIP
AND SPIRITUAL GROWTH BIBLE STUDY
THEME: THE HOLY SPIRIT AND THE DISCIPLE
TOPIC: THE SPIRITUAL GIFTS III
INTRODUCTION:
Christians are SAVED TO SERVE (2 Cor.
5:18-19). Having been made a living part of Christ’s Body, every truly
regenerate member of the Church should be committed to one form of special work
or service (Ministry) within the Body of Christ for the furtherance of God’s
Kingdom.
Since EVERY believer has his/her
function and gift (I Cor. 7:7; I Pet 4:10; I Cor. 12:12-14), Christians should
be concerned more with discovering, and excelling in the Gifts they already
have, rather than asking for other particular Gifts as is commonly taught
today.
1. EXAMINE
yourself to be sure you have been regenerated into Christ’s body. This
guarantees that you have a gift allocated to you in order to carry out your
function as a part of Christ’s Body.
Question: Regeneration into Christ is the
renewing work of the Holy Spirit (or the Spirit of Christ - Rom. 8:9-11),
whereby the Holy Spirit quickens us to believe in Christ and seals
us to become sons and co-heirs with Christ (Rom. 8:15-17). How could one
obtain this regeneration into Christ? (Eph. 1:13; 14; Acts 2:36-39)
____________________________________
_______________________________________________________
2. STUDY
to know, about the varieties of Spiritual Gifts, which one could use in the
Church for profit unto edification.
Question In
what ways could knowledge of the varieties of Spiritual Gifts help one in
discovering his/her Gift(s)?
__________________________________________________
3 PRAY and
depend on God for guidance and leading of the Spirit. This leading depends on
necessity, disposition, satisfaction, demand and one’s consecration.
Question I: How
important is this step in discovering our Spiritual Gifts and Ministry? (Rom.
12:1-2)____________________________________
Question II: How did Paul and Barnabas benefit from
this step?
(Acts
13:1-2)_____________________________________________
4. EXERCISE
yourself and experiment to gain experience in God’s work by getting involved
with: -
Church
Programmes (e.g. Worship services, Bible studies, Prayer
meetings. Evangelism/Witnessing outreaches, Fellowship meetings, Seminars,
Retreats, Workshops, Conventions);
Church
Ministries (E.g. Groups or Teams for Missions, Visitation,
Counselling, Welfare, Charity, Deliverance, Healing, Intercession, Leadership,
Discipleship); and
Church
Roles (such as Fund Raising, Publicity, Publishing,
Broadcasting, Research, Training, Debate, Apologetics, Projects, Planning and
Organisation).
Question: What benefits and opportunities would
Christians get by belonging to Churches that have and encourage these varieties
of areas of functions? _______________________________________
_______________________________________________________
5. OBSERVE
your experiences and note areas of ministry, programmes or roles
(1)where
your gifts, talents or skills are extra-ordinarily effective or
appreciated/demanded and
(2)where
your participation gives you peace, joy and fulfilment,
(3)as
well as where you feel a sense of burden and zeal.
Question: Could
your natural abilities (Talents) and acquired skills be preparatory or
enhancing to your Spiritual Gifts? Matt. 13:52 How?
______________________________________________________
______________________________________________________
6. ANALYSE
feedbacks from brethren about what gifts or ministry they commend you for,
appreciate or respect in you, or demand your services, contribution,
involvement or ministration for.
Question: How was this helpful to Timothy? (I Tim
4:14; 2 Tim. 4:5 and 1:6)
___________________________________________________
7. SUBMIT
readily to the Holy Spirit by operating fervently and diligently in whatever
gift or gifts to which He has led you and convinced you to be your area of
occupying and function, in accordance with God’s perfect will (Col.4: 17; Acts
20:24; 2 Tim 4:2-4).
Question Why
must we not be found wanting in the exercise of our Gifts? (Acts 20:28-29; Luke
19:12; 13, 16,17, 20-26). _________________
_______________________________________________________
DISCIPLESHIP
AND SPIRITUAL GROWTH BIBLE STUDY
THEME: THE HOLY SPIRIT AND THE DISCIPLE
TOPIC: THE SPIRITUAL GIFTS IV
INTRODUCTION:
While reminding Timothy about the discovery of the Spiritual Gifts in him, St. Paul also went ahead to urge Timothy (1) not to neglect his Spiritual Gift, (ii) but to fan it into flame (I Tim 4:14; 2 Tim. 1:6; and 4:5). Following the wisdom of the Apostle, let us discuss some steps to develop our gifts and maximize their use till we fulfill our ministry
1. BE READY
always to make your Gifts available for meeting the needs of the CHURCH (not your own needs).
Q.a How do
Rom. 12:1-2 and I Cor. 12:7 relate to this?
____________________________________________________
Q.b Does this
readiness depend on convenience? (2 Tim 4:1-2)
____________________________________________________
2. REMEMBER
always that your Gifts and Ministry belong to God and that He has given them to
you IN TRUST for the benefit of the Church and for His own glory.
Q.a Is this
true in the light of 1 Cor. 4:1 and 2 Cor. 4:1?
_______________________________________________________
Q.b What dangers
are there if we lose sight of this truth? (2 Pet. 3:1-3)
______________________________________________________
3. CHALLENGE
and help others to labour more for the Lord by your use of your Gifts or
ministry, rather than ridicule or discourage others who have different Gifts
from yours
Q.a How does
Rom 11:13-14 explain this more? _________________
______________________________________________________
Q.b Which
is better to say, (1) “You can’t do what I do” and (ii) “You don’t want to do
as I do” or (iii) “You can do better
than I do with the help of God”?
_______________________________________________
______________________________________________________
4. DO NOT
DOMINATE others with your Gifts, rather EDIFY AND SERVE them.
Q. Relate Rom 12:3-6a to this. Why is this step necessary? __________
_______________________________________________________
5. GIVE
PRIORITY attention with all diligence to your Gifts or Ministry to excel in
exercising it, because the Church needs your Gifts in its best form.
Q For what
other reasons must we aim to excel in serving with our Gifts?
(i) I
Cor. 4:2 __________________________________________
(ii) Rom. 14:12
________________________________________
6. COOPERATE with others (not SEPARATE from them) by the
use of your Gifts and Ministry in the Church.
Q.a How is
this shown in Gal. 2:7-10? ___________________________
______________________________________________________
Q.b From I
Cor. 3:3-9, how proper is it for us to criticize others, cause division,
struggle for position and recognition, and break away from our Church because
we are gifted, as is commonly done these days?
______________________________________________________
Q.c How could
we balance this step with the following scriptural injunctions to:
(i) Fan
our gift to flame (2 Tim 1:6)? __________________
(ii)
Not neglect our Gift (1 Tim 4:14)?
___________________
(iii)
Magnify our ministry (Rom 11:13-14? ________________
DISCIPLESHIP
AND SPIRITUAL GROWTH BIBLE STUDY
THEME: THE HOLY SPIRIT AND THE DISCIPLE
TOPIC: THE FRUIT OF THE SPIRIT I
TEXT: GALATIANS 5:16-18, 22-25
INTRODUCTION
As we have seen, the Gifts of the
Spirit are very important for building up the Church to spiritual maturity
(Eph/ 4:11-13). However, there can be no spiritual maturity if the Church does
not bear the fruit of the Spirit, of which LOVE is the most excellent and the
greatest (Eph. 4:15-16; I Cor. 12:31; 13:1-3; 13:13)
Notice
that St. Paul thought of the Gifts of the Spirit as Temporary
Manifestations/Blossoms which are like the flowers of a fruit plant (I Cor.
12:7), and which may be barren (13:1-3) or fade (13:8-9). On the other hand,
lively faith, hope and love are collectively called the Fruit of the Spirit,
because they are Permanent Derivations/Harvest that never fail and ever
remain (I Cor. 13:18a and 13a).
Flowers are admirable and attractive
manifestations while Fruit is the ultimate harvest benefit from a tree
(John 15:2; Lk. 3:6). The Fruit also gives a tree its real identity (Lk. 7:20)
and survival.
The Fruit of the Spirit is the quality
of Character, which we harvest from the Spirit when we walk in, live by and are
led by the Spirit (Gal. 5:16-18, 25). It is the Harvest Benefit we gain
from the indwelling Spirit (Rom 6:22).
1. What St.
Paul described as the Fruit of the Spirit in Galatians 5:22-23 are also
described in many other alternative ways in the Scripture.
What
do you understand by the following alternative descriptions of the Fruit of the
Spirit?
a) Divine nature (2 Pet.
1:4-7)_____________________________
b) Harvest
of righteousness (Jas 3:17-18)___________________
c) Qualification
for Kingdom bliss (Matt. 5:2-12)_______________
d) Nature
of Love (I Cor. 13:4-8)___________________________
e) Weapons
of righteousness (2 Cor. 6:3-7)__________________
f) Worthy
virtues of life (Eph.
4:1-2)____________________
g) Fruit
of the light (Eph. 5:9)______________________________
h) Clothes
for the Holy (Col. 3:12-15) _______________________
2. In the
Scripture the word FRUIT is used to convey several meanings. What do you
understand by the following meanings of fruits/fullness?
a) Outcome/Result (Isa.
32:17)____________________________
b) Benefit/Profit (Luke
13:7)______________________________
c) HARVEST/Produce (Gen. 11:11; Jas 5:7;
Matt. 21:34)_______
__________________________________________________
d) Evidence/Identity-mark (Matt. 12:33)
_____________________
e) CHARACTER/Habit (Matt. 7:15-20; Col.
1:10)______________
__________________________________________________
THE FRUIT OF THE SPIRIT IS THE HARVEST OF DIVINE
CHARACTER, WHICH WE REAP THROUGH LIVING BY THE SPIRIT.
DISCIPLESHIP
AND SPIRITUAL GROWTH BIBLE STUDY
THEME: THE HOLY SPIRIT AND THE DISCIPLE
TOPIC: THE FRUIT OF THE SPIRIT II
TEXT: GALATIANS 5:16-18, 22-25
INTRODUCTION:
In the last study we understood the Fruit of the Spirit as the HARVEST OF DIVINE CHARACTER, which we reap through living by the Spirit. These virtues are severally found in the following passages of the Scripture Gal. 5:22-25; 2 Pet. 1:4-7; Jas/ 3:17-18; Matt. 5:2-12; I Cor. 13:4-8; 2 Cor. 6:3-7; Eph. 4:1-2; 5:9; and Col. 3:12-15 as we have already seen.
1. From
these passages, what are the virtues we harvest from the Holy Spirit? Moreover,
what do these mean practically?
(a) Virtues for relating to self:
i) Joy
_______________________________________________
ii) Patience:
__________________________________________
iii) Temperance:
_______________________________________
(b) Virtues
for relating to others:
i) Love:
____________________________________________
ii) Peace____________________________________________
iii) Kindness:
__________________________________________
iv) Goodness__________________________________________
v) Faithfulness:
________________________________________
vi) Gentleness: ________________________________________
vii) Humility:
___________________________________________
Viii) Impartiality:
_________________________________________
C) Virtues
for relating to God:
i) Love:
_____________________________________________
ii) Faithfulness: ________________________________________
iii) Humility:
___________________________________________
iv) Purity:
_____________________________________________
v)
Patience
__________________________________________
2. Explain
the following MEANS (or ways) through which we LIVE BY the Spirit in order to
bear Fruit of the Spirit.
a) John
12:24/Col. 3:3-8. Death/Mortification_________________
b) John
15:4. Abiding: __________________________________
c) John
15:2, Pruning: __________________________________
d) Matt.
13:8. God soil __________________________________
e) Exd.
1:7. Fertility:
___________________________________
f) Rom. 15:13. Spirit-fullness:
____________________________
g) Rom. 8:13,14. Spirit leading:
___________________________
3. What do quenching and grieving the Spirit
means and lead to?
a) Eph.
4:30-32 ________________________________________
b) Thes.
5:19-20 _______________________________________
DISCIPLESHIP
AND SPIRITUAL GROWTH BIBLE STUDY
THEME: THE HOLY SPIRIT AND THE DISCIPLE
TOPIC: REVIEW OF STUDIES 012 TO 022
REVIEW
Under our theme above, we have gone through eleven study outlines dealing with the workings of the Holy Spirit in the life of the Disciples as follows: -
(a) The Person of the Holy Spirit
(b) The Baptism with the Holy Spirit
(c) The Fullness of the Holy Spirit
(d) The Gifts of the Holy Spirit
(e) The Fruit of the Holy Spirit
(f) Living by the Holy Spirit
These studies were
meant to enlighten you on the workings of the Holy Spirit so that you would:
(i) Be assured
of the transforming fellowship of the Holy Spirit as a believer (BAPTISM) 1
Cor. 12:13; Rom 6:5.
(ii) Experience
the Spirit’s empowering influence (FULLNESS) Eph. 5:18.
(iii) Serve by the Spirit’s power to build up the
Church (GIFTS) 1Cor. 12:4-7; Eph. 4:11-13.
(iv) Live according to the Sprit’s character (FRUIT) Gal.
5:16-18, 22-25.
In this way, you
would please God in every way as a true Disciple of Jesus Christ.
DISCUSSIONS:
1. What have
you learned about each of the above aspects of the workings of the Holy Spirit?
a. __________________________________________________
b. __________________________________________________
c. __________________________________________________
d. __________________________________________________
2. What changes
have come into your life as a Disciple of Christ through these studies?
a. __________________________________________________
b. __________________________________________________
c. __________________________________________________
d. __________________________________________________
3. What further
benefits do you think or expect that these studies would bring to the Church?
a. __________________________________________________
b. __________________________________________________
c. __________________________________________________
4. What
questions do you have on all the above studies on the Holy Spirit?
a. __________________________________________________
b. __________________________________________________
c. __________________________________________________
d. __________________________________________________
DISCIPLESHIP AND SPIRITUAL GROWTH BIBLE STUDY
THEME: THE DISCIPLE IN THE CHURCH
TOPIC:
SPIRITUAL FELLOWSHIP I
SERIES: 024
INTRODUCTION
The Church is a family called out from the world. In His family God is the Father and all Disciples or Believers are children of the household (Eph. 2:19).
In another sense the Church is the Body where Christ is the Head and the believers are parts (or members) or the Body (Eph. 4:1-16)
Believers are born again and adopted to become sons in the household of God by the Holy Spirit (Jn. 1:13; 3:5, 6; Gal. 4:4-7; Rom. 8:15).
On the other hand believers are recreated and baptized into the Body of Christ with the Holy Spirit (I Cor. 12:13; Eph. 1:13, 14; 2 Cor. 5:17; Rom. 6:4).
For our spiritual health, relevance and function, every believer needs the fellowship of other believers, because a family shares in harmony and a body functions in unison. Single burning firewood will soon quench and a single broom is easily broken.
DISCUSSIONS:
1. What do these verses teach about the importance of spiritual fellowship?
(a) Heb 10:25: ___________________________________________
(b) Prov. 27:17: __________________________________________
(c) Eccl. 4:9-10: __________________________________________
(d) Eccl. 4:11-12 _________________________________________
2. What do you learn about Christian Fellowship from the fellowship of the Early Church in Acts 2:41-47?
(a) Results v. 43, 47 ____________________________________
(b) Membership v. 41, 44 _______________________________
(c) Necessity v. 45 _____________________________________
(d) Regularity v. 45 _____________________________________
(e) Purpose v. 42 ______________________________________
DISCIPLESHIP AND SPIRITUAL GROWTH BIBLE STUDY
THEME: THE DISCIPLE IN THE CHURCH
TOPIC:
SPIRITUAL FELLOWSHIP II
SERIES: 025
INTRODUCTION:
Christians are those who have been
called into the fellowship of Christ (1 Cor. 1:9). Fellowship means having a
joint and common partnership in sharing, belonging and participating together.
DISCUSSION:
1. Why is
Christian Fellowship the most bonded fellowship than any other?
(a) John
1:13 _________________________________________
(b) I
Cor. 12:13 ________________________________________
(c) Matt.
23:8 _________________________________________
(d) Acts
20:28 ________________________________________
(e) Gal.
3:26-28 ________________________________________
(f) Eph.
4:3-6 _________________________________________
2. For what
purposes is this supernaturally united and sanctified Christian fellowship
appointed?
(a)
Acts 2:41 __________________________________________
(b)
Acts 2:42 __________________________________________
(c)
Acts 2:44 __________________________________________
(d)
Acts 2:47/I Pet. 2:9/I Cor. 11:26.
________________________
__________________________________________________
(e)
I Cor. 14:26________________________________________
3. How far
do you endeavour in playing your role to see that all these are fulfilled in
the Church today? ____________________________
_______________________________________________________
4. How determined
should you be in ensuring that the super-natural and sanctified unity of the
Church is maintained? Eph. 4:1-3. _________
_______________________________________________________
DISCIPLESHIP AND SPIRITUAL GROWTH BIBLE STUDY
THEME: THE DISCIPLE IN THE CHURCH
TOPIC:
THE CHRISTIAN CHURCH
SERIES: 026
INTRODUCTION
The word “CHURCH” means a CALLED-OUT ASSEMBLY. The Church is therefore a gathering called out of the world by God for fellowship with one another (I John 1:7) and with the Trinity of the Godhead (I John 1:3; 2 Cor. 13:14; Matt. 18:20).
Truly, every believer is indwelled by the Holy Spirit (I Cor. 6:19); yet more so, the fellowship gathering of believers, which is the Church, is indwelled by the Holy Spirit (1 Cor. 3:16).
DISCUSSIONS:
1. Apart from being referred to as Household of God (Gal. 6:10; 1 Tim 3:15) and the Body of Christ (Eph. 1:22-23; 4:12; 1 Cor. 12:27), in what other descriptions is the Church referred to in the Scripture?
a) Eph. 2:19 __________________________________________
b) Eph. 2:21; 1 Cor. 3:16 ________________________________
c) Eph. 2:22 __________________________________________
d) 1 Cor. 3:9 ________________________________________
e) 1 Pet. 2:5; 1 Cor. 3:9 _________________________________
f) 1 Tim. 3:15b _______________________________________
g) Eph. 5:25-27; 32; Rev. 19:7 ___________________________
h) John 10:16; 1 Pet. 5:2 ________________________________
2. What light have the above descriptive metaphors thrown on your understanding of how God sees the Church?
_______________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________
3. Having understood the above descriptive similarities what erroneous ideas about the Church do you think need to be corrected?
a) _________________________________________________
b) _________________________________________________
c) _________________________________________________
d) _________________________________________________
DISCIPLESHIP AND SPIRITUAL GROWTH BIBLE STUDY
THEME: THE DISCIPLE IN THE CHURCH
TOPIC:
RELATIONSHIP IN THE CHURCH I
SERIES: 027
INTRODUCTION
The Church is the gathering of the Covenant People of God who are specially called and committed to godliness and good works to the glory of God, in obedience to God’s Word, and for God’s pleasure (I Pet. 2:9; Tit 2:14).
As members of this Bride and Body of Christ and the building (Temple/House) of God with such a high calling, we must be diligent to relate with one another as is pleasing to God.
DISCUSSION
From the following verses what responsibilities and standards are expected of believers to their fellow saints in the Church?
And how well are we doing these in our Church?
1. Rom. 12:10/Phil. 2:3 _________________________________
2. Eph. 4:32: _________________________________________
3. Rom. 12:16 ________________________________________
4. Eph. 4:2/Col. 3:13 ___________________________________
5. Rom. 12:17, 18,21/I Pet. 3:8,9 _________________________
6. Rom. 15:7/16:16 ___________________________________
7. 1 Cor. 10:24 33/Heb. 10:24 ___________________________
8. Col. 3:16/Heb 3.31 _________________________________
9. Gal. 5:13/1 Thes 4:18 _______________________________
10. Eph. 4:16/1 Cor. 14:12, 26 ____________________________
11. Acts 20:35/Rom. 12:13 _______________________________
12. Jas 5:16 ___________________________________________
CONCLUSION
The Church is called to relate among themselves as one COMMUNION in Christ (i.e. for
Worship,
Discipleship and
Fellowship).
That is not all. The Church is also called to reach out to the world through MISSION for Christ (i.e.
Evangelization by preaching,
Ministration by charitable service,
Christianisation by social action, and even
Conservation by taking charge/care/mastery/stewardship of the creation).
This is what the Church is all about: Communion and Mission.
This is the full Great COMMISSION of Christ to the Church involving responsibilities not only within but also outside the Church, and we must not fail in any aspect of these.
Do you think the Church has lived up to this expectation? ___________________________________________________________
DISCIPLESHIP AND SPIRITUAL GROWTH BIBLE STUDY
THEME: THE DISCIPLE IN THE CHURCH
TOPIC:
RELATIONSHIP IN THE CHURCH II
SERIES: 028
INTRODUCTION
In
our relationship with one another, we need to rise up to our responsibilities.
Study 027 points out so much of our failings in this aspect of the practice of
our faith.
(A). Apart
from general relationship and responsibilities earlier discussed as above, what
further special responsibilities do we owe our leaders in the Church, who
labour day and night for the sake of the saints?
1. 1Tim.
5:17/1Thes. 5:12,13 __________________________
2. Acts 28:10/Phil 4:16-19
______________________________
3. Heb. 13:17
________________________________________
4. Col. 4:3
__________________________________________
(B). From 1
Cor. 3:10-17, why must a Christian be careful in fulfilling these
responsibilities in our relationship with one another?
______________________________________________________
______________________________________________________
(C). Comment on each of the points below. What do they mean and what is your role therein?
1. As a House, the Church should be BUILD UP 1I Pet. 2:5; Eph. 2:20-22) ___________________________________________
2. As a Bride, the Church should be MADE READY (Eph. 5:25-27; Rev. 19:7, 8) ______________________________________
3. As a Body, the Church should be NOURISHED TO MATURITY (Eph. 4:11-14) ____________________________________
4. As a Family, the Church should be UNITED IN LOVE (Col. 3:12-14; 1 Cor. 1:10; Rom. 15:5, 6) ______________________
5. As a Flock, the Church should be SHEPHERDED (Acts 20:28-29) ______________________________________________
6. As a Temple, the Church should be KEPT HOLY (1 Cor. 3:16, 17; 2 Cor. 6:16,17) ___________________________________
7. As an Assembly, the Church should be ATTENDED (Heb. 10:25; Acts 2:47) ___________________________________
DISCIPLESHIP AND SPIRITUAL GROWTH BIBLE STUDY
THEME: THE DISCIPLE IN THE CHURCH
TOPIC:
THE MARKS OF THE TRUE CHURCH I
SERIES: 029
INTRODUCTION
Over
the years, the Church has been described with so many terms. Each of these
descriptions is meant to emphasize a particular mark, which should characterize
the true Church.
For each description we shall: -
(I) Explain the meaning
(II) Discuss whether our Church fits the
description
(III) Suggest
ways to make each description more real in our Churches today
1. THE CHURCH IS “ONE”
(i) This
description emphasizes the unity of the Church irrespective of denominations
and differences in ways of doing things in the Churches; “Unity does not
mean uniformity” and “Diversity does not mean disunity”.
Every Church should understand that it is one with the other Churches (Eph.
4:1-6; 1 Cor. 12:4-6)
(ii) ______________________________________________________
(ii)
(Rom 14:1-8; 15:1-6)
_____________________________________
2. THE CHURCH IS “HOLY”
(i) This
means that the Church is set apart unto God: being purified and sanctified in
Christ by the Word, the Blood and the Spirit. Being holy implies that we should
live holy lives and commonly share in morally pure fellowship (1 Pet. 2:9; 1
Cor. 3:16, 17 Col. 3:12).
(ii) _______________________________________________________
(iii) _______________________________________________________
3. THE CHURCH IS “CATHOLIC” (i.e. UNIVERSAL)
(i) This implies that the Church is open to all who believe; for “whosoever” (Jn. 3:16), for “as many as” (Jn. 1:12), “of all nations” (Matt. 28:19), “without difference” (Rom. 3:22; 10:12). It was this understanding that led the ancient Church to hold Universal Councils for a united agreement on the Books of the New Testament and on the contents of the Nicene Creed which are still universally accepted by all true Churches.
(ii) ______________________________________________________
(iii) ______________________________________________________
4. THE CHURCH IS “APOSTOLIC”
(i) This indicates that what the Church accepts and believes as true agrees with the teachings, commands and witnesses of the Apostles as contained in the Scripture (Act 2:42; Eph. 2:20; 2 Pet. 3:2; Jude 3, 17). The Church must ensure the handing-on and maintaining of the apostolic MISSION to the world, MANNER of life and MESSAGE of the Truth, as well as the supreme authority of the apostolic Scriptures (2 Tim. 2:2; Luke 1:1-4).
(ii) ______________________________________________________
(iii) (Acts 17:11) ____________________________________________
Q (a). How apostolic is the Church today – in mission, message, and model? ______________________________________________
____________________________________________________
Q (b). Does a denomination become holy, apostolic, or catholic merely by bearing these words in their official names? _______________
_____________________________________________________
DISCIPLESHIP AND SPIRITUAL GROWTH BIBLE STUDY
THEME: THE DISCIPLE IN THE CHURCH
TOPIC:
THE MARKS OF THE TRUE CHURCH II
SERIES: 030
INTRODUCTION
From Study 029, we have learned that the true Church is that which is a part of the One, Holy, Catholic (i.e. FOR ALL) and Apostolic Church. Such a Church must also be a congregation of BELIEVERS where the PURE WORD of God is preached, and the SACRAMENTS (Baptism and Eucharist) are ministered according to Christ’s ordinance.
Below are further characteristic descriptions of the Church. For each description we shall still:
(i) Explain the meaning
(ii) Discuss whether our Church fits the description
(iii) Suggest ways to make each description more real in our Churches today.
1. THE “ORTHODOX” CHURCH:
(i) “Ortho” means Correct or True or Right. Today there is a common error of using “Orthodox” to mean “Old-fashioned”. There is no basis whatsoever for this error. When the Church is called “Orthodox”, the proper meaning is that its beliefs, doctrines, worship and witness have been known to be CORRECT, TRUE, RIGHT and SOUND (2 Tim. 1:13; I John 5:20).
(ii) ______________________________________________________
(iii) (Tit 1:13, 14) ____________________________________________
2. THE ”MISSIONARY” CHURCH:
(i) Mission/Missionary means “Being sent” into the world to continue God’s mission among men as Christ did (John 17:18; 20:21). The mission of the Church is to preach and evangelise, but it is also to give loving service to all as well as to take social action to change wicked/crooked systems in the society (Luke 4:18; Matt. 5:13-16).
(ii) _______________________________________________________
(iii) _______________________________________________________
3. THE “EVANGELICAL” CHURCH:
(i) “Evangelical” means, “being in agreement with the Gospel” or being biblical. Evangelical/Evangelicalism is not the same thing as Evangelistic/Evangelism because Evangelism means, “spreading the Gospel”. Every true Church must be Evangelical because the Apostles endeavoured to be Evangelical (I Cor, 151-4; 11:23-25).
(ii) ______________________________________________________
(iii) ______________________________________________________
4. THE “PENTECOSTAL/CHARISMATIC” CHURCH:
(i) The Pentecost (i.e. Jewish Harvest) Day was the day the Church was born with the coming of the Holy Ghost to indwell (i.e. Baptize) believers and the Church. From then on, the Church has always manifested extraordinary powers through the Spirit of grace (Acts 18:8; 2:1-4). Every true Church should have something to do with the workings of the Holy Spirit without Whom we could do nothing (Lk. 24:49; Acts 1:4), nor could we claim to be Christians at all (Rom. 8:9).
(ii) _______________________________________________________
(iii) (Eph. 5:15-18; Rom. 12:6-8) ________________________________
THEME: THE DISCIPLE IN THE CHURCH
TOPIC: CHURCH LEADERSHIP AND MINISTRY
SERIES: 031
The Church as a fellowship, household, body or assembly needs to be organized. This organising means that leaders are needed (Tit. 1:5; Acts 14:21-23).
1. What type of leaders are needed in the Church?
(i) Acts 6:3__________________________________________
(ii) Acts 6:4 _________________________________________
(iii) 2 Tim. 2:15 _______________________________________
(iii) 2 Tim. 4:2 ________________________________________
(iv) 2 Cor. 4:2 _______________________________________
(v) Tit. 1:9 ___________________________________________
(vi) I Tim. 3:2-4 ________________________________________
2. What role should the congregation play in accomplishing the ministry in the Church?
Eph. 4:11-12 __________________________________________
3. From Acts 20:18-35, how should leaders lead in the Church?
(i) v.18-19 __________________________________________
(ii) v. 20 _____________________________________________
(iii) v. 21 _____________________________________________
(iv) v. 24 _____________________________________________
(v) v. 27 _____________________________________________
(vi) v. 28 ______________________________________________
(vii) v. 29-30 __________________________________________
(viii) v. 31___________________________________________
(ix) v. 35 ______________________________________________
4. Church leaders were given many descriptive titles:
(a) What do these titles mean? and
(b) How do these explain the role of leaders in the Church?
(i) Shepherd or Pastor (Acts 20:28; I Pet. 5:1-3)
(a) _____________________________________________
(b) _____________________________________________
ii) Elder or Priest (Tit. 1:5-9)
(a) _____________________________________________
(b) _____________________________________________
iii) Overseer or Bishop (Acts 20:28; I Tim 3:2)
(a) _____________________________________________
(b) _____________________________________________
(iv) Ambassador or Vicar (2 Cor. 5:20
(a) _____________________________________________
(b) _____________________________________________
(v) Servant or Deacon (I Tim. 3:8; Rom. 16:1-2)
(a) _____________________________________________
(b) _____________________________________________
(vi) Steward or Warden (I Cor. 4:1-4)
(a) _____________________________________________
(b) ______________________________________________
THEME: THE DISCIPLE IN THE CHURCH
TOPIC: WORSHIP-SERVICE FORMS IN THE CHURCH
SERIES: 032
As we go through the New Testament, we could find instances of what the Church did when they gathered together for fellowship and worship-services.
DISCUSSION
1. What are the contents of both our Liturgical and non-Liturgical forms of worship-services and fellowships today?
_______________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________
2. In the following verses, point out some of the items of worship and fellowship services in the ancient Church. Explain what each means and discuss how far each is present in Church gatherings today.
(i) Acts 2:42-43:
a) _________________________________________________
b) _________________________________________________
c) __________________________________________________
d) __________________________________________________
e) __________________________________________________
f) __________________________________________________
(ii) Acts 20:36; 21:5b; I Cor. 11:4-5; I Tim 2:8.
a) _________________________________________________
b) _________________________________________________
iii) I Cor. 14:2-3,6,16,26,27; 16:1
a) _________________________________________________
b) _________________________________________________
c) _________________________________________________
d) _________________________________________________
e) _________________________________________________
f) _________________________________________________
g) _________________________________________________
h) _________________________________________________
iv) I Tim 4:13
a) _________________________________________________
b) _________________________________________________
c) _________________________________________________
3. We have seen that fellowship/worship services in the apostolic times had the following items as some of its contents: Psalms/Singing/Hymns, Reading of Scriptures, Prophecy/Revelation, Teaching/Knowledge, Exhortation, Tongues, Interpretation, Sharing in common, Breaking of Bread, Thanksgiving, Prayers (with Kneeling down or Lifting of holy hands), Signs and Wonders, and Offering/Collection.
How could we fully experience and express all these forms/items during worship in our Churches today? ________________________
_______________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________
DISCIPLESHIP AND SPIRITUAL GROWTH BIBLE STUDY
TOPIC: REVIEW OF STUDIES 24 TO 32
SERIES: 033
REVIEW:
The
past nine studies have taken us through various aspects of the meaning, the
marks, and the nature of the Church, as well as the place of a believer within
the context of the Church.
These
were examined as follows: -
1. The Church as spiritual fellowship
2. The figures and meanings of the Christian
Church.
3. Our
responsibilities and relationship to one another as well as to the Church of
Christ as a whole.
4. The marks and descriptions of the Church.
5. The nature of leadership and ministry in
the Church.
6. Forms
and contents of the order of services and fellowship programmes of the Church.
These studies were intended to make us realize: -
a) The
meaning and purpose of the Church and the riches of her assemblies (Acts 2:42)
b) The
importance of the Church to the believer
c) The
importance of the believer to the Church (Eph. 2:19-22)
d) The role
of he Holy Spirit in the Church (I Cor. 12:13)
e) The
complementation between Church Leadership and Laity (Eph. 4:11, 12)
1) What are
the things you learned from the studies about the Church and your place in it?
a) __________________________________________________
b) _________________________________________________
c) __________________________________________________
d) _________________________________________________
e) __________________________________________________
e)
__________________________________________________
2. What
effect do you think the studies should have on your Church?
a) __________________________________________________
b) __________________________________________________
c) __________________________________________________
d) __________________________________________________
f)
__________________________________________________
3. What
questions do you have on these studies about being the disciple in the Church?
a) _________________________________________________
b) _________________________________________________
c) _________________________________________________
d) __________________________________________________
DISCIPLESHIP AND SPIRITUAL GROWTH BIBLE STUDY
THEME:
THE SPIRITUAL LIFE
TOPIC:
SPIRITUALITY AND CARNALITY
SERIES:
034
INTRODUCTION
The Spiritual Life is the “Christ-Life”. It is the
life in which Christ is dominantly present: the life that has the likeness of
Christ, the life that is powered by Christ, the life that is possessed by
Christ. True Christian spirituality therefore means permanent awareness of
Christ’s presence, walking in the ways of Christ, depending on the ability of
Christ and remaining a property of Christ.
But how could we distinguish Christian
spirituality from natural carnality? First spirituality is godliness and
carnality is worldliness. We do well if we choose to be spiritual, godly and
Christly.
In the following pairs of verses, what
are the characteristics of, and the differences between (a) Spirituality and
(b) Carnality?
1. (a) Gal. 5:22-23
_____________________________________________
(b) Gal. 5:19-25
_____________________________________________
2.
(a) Phil. 2:5-8 ______________________________________________
(b) 1 Cor. 3:3
_______________________________________________
3.
(a) Eph. 4:14-15; Heb. 5:14 ___________________________________
(b) 1 Cor. 3:1-4
_____________________________________________
4.
(a) John 6:13 _______________________________________________
(b) John 6:12
_______________________________________________
5.
(a) 1 Cor. 2:15 ______________________________________________
(b) 1 Cor. 2:14
______________________________________________
6.
(a) 1 Cor. 1:18b,24 __________________________________________
(b) 1 Cor. 1:18a,21,23,27
_____________________________________
7.
(a) 1 Cor. 2:10,15,16 _________________________________________
(b) 1 Cor. 2:9,14
____________________________________________
8.
(a) 1 Cor. 2:4b ______________________________________________
(b) 1 Cor. 2:4a
______________________________________________
9.
(a) Rom. 8:10-13; Gal. 5:16-18 _________________________________
(b) Rom. 8:5-9; 7:8-11
_______________________________________
10.
(a) Rom. 8:14-17; 6:11-14 ___________________________________
(b) Eph. 2:1-2
_____________________________________________
CONCLUSION
God looks on us to do Him proud and do
the Devil shame, by abhorring carnality and holding unto spirituality. Will you
do God proud or will you disappoint Him?
DISCIPLESHIP AND SPIRITUAL GROWTH BIBLE STUDY
THEME:
THE SPIRITUAL LIFE
TOPIC:
WITNESSING AS SPIRITUAL
EXERCISE
SERIES:
035
INTRODUCTION:
Bodily physical exercise has a little profit in that
it keeps the body fit. Mental exercise matures the sense to be able to discern.
In the same way spiritual exercise is eternally profitable spiritually (Heb.5:
14; 1Tim. 4:8). The most important or “FIRST OF ALL” spiritual exercise
is witnessing/testifying for Christ (Mark1 3:10; 1 Cor. 15:3).
Witnessing is making Christ known
to others by showing/telling them any or all of the following:
* Who Christ is,
* How indispensable Christ is for the salvation of all,
* What Christ has done for you/them hitherto,
* What He can do for you/them thenceforth,
* Why/How Christ came,
* Why/How He will come again and
* Why/How we must respond to Christ lest we perish.
1. Comment on these various ways of
witnessing;
(a) An exemplary life of moral purity (Phil.
3:17; 1Tim. 4:2). _________
_____________________________________________________
(b) Relating
to others with loving goodness (Eph. 2:10; Rom. 12:17; John 3:16-19).
__________________________________________
(c) Inviting
others to participate in Church programmes such as worship, fellowship,
revival, Bible study, Prayer, etc (1John 1:1-4; John 1:40-47; Acts 2:46,47).
_______________________________
(d) Speaking
to others about Jesus by word of mouth (Acts 2:36; Rom. 10:14).
________________________________________________
(e) Giving
out Christian literature/Tracts for others to read (John 20:30-31).
_________________________________________________
2. 2Cor.
5:20 says we are ambassadorial witnesses of Christ. What could this mean?
_________________________________________
3. A
witnessing Christian could be described as a Royal Emissary of Christ’s
Kingdom. What do these verses say about how God has authorised us, commissioned
us, and empowered us, to be His Royal Witnesses?
(a)
Acts 1:8 __________________________________________
(b)
Matt. 28:18-20 _____________________________________
(c)
Mark 16:15-18 _____________________________________
4. What
royal message about our King (Jesus) do we bear in our witnessing?
(a)
Rom. 3:23; John 8:34
_________________________________
(b)
Rom. 6:23; 5:8 ______________________________________
(c)
1Cor. 15:3-4, 20-26 __________________________________
(d)
Acts 2:35-38; John 1:1,12
_____________________________
(e)
Acts 16:31; Rom. 6:1-2; 10:9,10,13
______________________
(f)
Col. 1:14; John 5:24; 1John 5:12
________________________
__________________________________________________
(g)
Rev. 3:20 __________________________________________
For
effective witnessing, one needs to have experienced the New Spiritual Birth,
live in fellowship with God, be grounded in the Scriptures, and be prayerful
both for oneself and for those one is witnessing to. May God help us. Amen.
DISCIPLESHIP AND SPIRITUAL GROWTH BIBLE STUDY
THEME:
THE SPIRITUAL LIFE
TOPIC:
THE WORD AS SPIRITUAL NECESSITY
I
SERIES:
036
INTRODUCTION:
Without the Word of God, there is no
spiritual life (John 6:63). Whoever wants to lead a successful spiritual life
must delight and be devoted to God’s Word (2Tim. 3:14-17).
The Word of God is made up of: -
God’s activities for us to learn from,
God’s standards for us to pursue,
God’s promises for us to believe,
God’s commands for us to obey,
God’s claims for us to accept, and
God’s nature for us to adore.
1. From
Psalm 19:7-11, what purposes could the Word of God serve in our lives?
(a) _________________________________________________
(b) _________________________________________________
(c)
_________________________________________________
(d) _________________________________________________
(e) _________________________________________________
(f)
_________________________________________________
2. Psalm
119 is dedicated to reflections on the Word of God.
(i) Verses 97-104 talk
about some usefulness of the Word of God for us- what are these?
(a) ________________________________________________
(b) _______________________________________________
(c) _______________________________________________
(d) _______________________________________________
(ii) Verses
41-48 and 57-64 describe God’s Word from various aspects, using different names
or terms. How many of these could you identify and what do you think these
terms mean to, and demand from us?
(a)
_______________________________________________
(b)
_______________________________________________
(c)
________________________________________________
(d)
________________________________________________
(e)
________________________________________________
(f)
________________________________________________
(g) _______________________________________________
3 How
necessary is the Word of God for our spiritual lives? (1 Pet. 2:2; Job 23:12;
Matt. 4:4)
_______________________________________________
______________________________________________
4 How does
James describe the Word of God in these verses?
(a)
Jas 1:18a
_______________________________________
(b)
Jas 1:21b
_______________________________________
(c)
Jas 1:23b
_______________________________________
(d) Jas 1:25a _______________________________________
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