A Christian discipleship and evangelism course for missional local churches
-
Upload
wtctheology -
Category
Documents
-
view
1 -
download
0
Transcript of A Christian discipleship and evangelism course for missional local churches
FOUNDATIONAL TRUTH – COURSE 1 OF 5
A Christian discipleship and evangelism course for missional local churches.
Paul J Bradley
TRUTHUNPACKED
THE 5 COURSES OF TRUTH UNPACKED
Course 1 – Foundational Truth Unpacked To ensure that believers are both established on an eternal foundation and partnering with a local church.
Course 2 – Christlikeness Unpacked To help transform our lives, to reflect Christlike attitudes and characteristics, to make truth incarnational.
Course 3 – Worship Unpacked To worship in spirit and truth, as people who ‘draw near’ to encounter the joy and power of God’s presence.
Course 4 – Ministry Unpacked To facilitate discovering, developing and deploying our God-given talents and grace gifts.
Course 5 – Mission Unpacked To share the good news in a community-church, to which people want to belong; participating in Missio Dei.
For further information about the course contact Paul BradleyEmail: [email protected]: +44 (0)7801 759937
Truth Unpacked
Why Truth Unpacked? “�Truth,�like�gold,�is�not�less�so�for�being�newly�brought�out�of�the�mine.”��
The�writer�of�Proverbs�indicates�that�it�is�the�glory�of�God�to�conceal�a�matter�but�the�honour�of�kings�to�search�it�out.��Following�principles�of�hermeneutics�(the�art�and�science�of�interpreting�the�bible)�we�can�gain�a�fresh�appreciation�of�the�eternal�truths�found�in�this�rich�seam�of�gold�known�as�the�Old�and�New�Testaments.�
Each�training�session�requires�preparation�of�heart�and�mind,��prayer-reading�the�preceding��daily�devotional�assignments�listed.��Together,�we�explore�how�‘the�Old��is�in�the�New�revealed,�the�New�is��in�the�Old�concealed;�the�Old�is�in��
the�new�Unfolded,�the�New�is�in�the�Old�enfolded.’��The�scriptures�are�the�‘word�of�truth’�comprising�thirty-nine�books�in�the�Old�Testament�and�twenty-seven�books�in�the�New�Testament.
Truth Unpacked�is�a�systematic�series�of�seminars�and�devotional�readings�that�will�help�us�to�unearth�precious�life-giving�eternal�principles�which,�when�found,�we�are�encouraged��to�buy�and�not�to�sell!
By�illustrating,�unpacking�and�applying�Bible�verses�we�will�be�better�equipped�to�be�Jesus’�disciples�in�the�Kingdom��of�God�today.
–�John�Locke�
As�you�read,�please�ask�the�Spirit�of�Truth�to�guide�you,�as�He�testifies�of�Jesus,�the�way�the truth�and�the�life.�Jesus�said�-�If�you�hold�to�my�teaching,�you�are�really�my�disciples.��Then�you�will�know�the�truth,�and�the�truth�will�set�you�free.
As�we�are�transformed,�daily,��by�the�renewing�of�our�minds,��may�Truth�‘like�a�gentle�shower,�soak�through�your�ears�and�moistens�your�intellect.’�May�it��be�something�that�is�‘cherished�and�hoarded�and�disbursed�only��when�absolutely�necessary.’�
I�trust�that�the�five courses�that�make�up�Truth Unpacked�will�establish,�equip�and�empower�local�church�communities�to�continue�to�share�the�grace�and�love�of�Christ�in�our�neighbourhoods.��The�primary�agenda�of�the�course�is�the�extension�of�the�Kingdom�of��God:�in�our�hearts�and�minds,�attitudes�and�behaviour.
Course Introduction
When Paul the apostle came to faith he asked two key questions:
1. Who are you, Lord?2. What would you have me to do?
As�we�explore�core�foundational�truths,�please�keep�these�two�important�questions�in�your�heart�and�mind.��I�trust�that,�like�Paul,��you�too�will�encounter�the�Lord�Jesus�as�your�personal�friend�and��then�discover�what�purpose�He�would�have�for�your�life.
The�five�week�course�is�accompanied�by�this�28�day�devotional�reading�plan.�The�Topic,�Title�and�Truth�Verse,�Truth�Story�and�Truth�Unpacked�are�the�framework�for�each�daily�devotional;�each�one�closing�with��a�personal�prayer�reflection.
The 5 sessions are approximately one hour long, being held at
Local Church _________________________________________
Address _____________________________________________
Venue (e.g. Room) _____________________________________
Start Date for Introduction & Session 1 _____________________
Start Time ____________________________________________
�‘Faith�comes�by�hearing�the�word�of�God.’��To�build�faith�I�have�intentionallyinfused�the�readings�with�extracts�from�the�Bible.�The�primary�version��of�the�Bible�throughout�is�the�New�International�Version;�however�when��clarity�of�meaning�is�required,�the�KJV,�NKJ,�Amplified�and�The�Message��are�incorporated�too.�
I�trust�you�enjoy�the�course.
Paul�Paul Bradley - Course Instructor �����������Email:�[email protected] Truth�Unpacked���������������������������28�day�devotional�reading�plan
Day Topic Title Truth Verse
15 Laying on of Hands ‘To be sure, to be sure!’1 Timothy 4:14 & 2
Timothy 1:6
16 Laying on of Hands Nike Church – ‘Just do it’ Mark 16:17
Reading before session 4God’s Plan for our Future
Well-being
17 Resurrection of the DeadThe Interim Reward
-Heaven 2 Corinthians 5:1-8
18 Resurrection of the DeadThe Ultimate Reward –
Eternal Reunions 1 Thessalonians 4:15-17
19 Eternal Judgment Don’t say I never told you Acts 17:31
20 Eternal JudgmentThe future is Bright – Anticipating Eternity
1 Corinthians 15
21 Recap Do and Review Hebrews 6:1-3
Reading before session 5Partnering with a local
church family
22Partnering with a Local
ChurchBelonging is Crucial Acts 2:41,47
23Partnering with a Local
ChurchLittle and Large Acts 20:20
24Partnering with a Local
ChurchWhat to Look For as you
Get Connected Acts 2
25Partnering with a Local
ChurchBuilding Blocks from the
First ChurchActs 2
26 Partnering with a Local Church
Building Blocks from the First Church Acts 2
27 Partnering with a Local Church
Building Blocks from the First Church Acts 2
28 Partnering with a Local Church D.I.Y. Christianity Acts 2:42,46
Day Topic Title Truth Verse
Reading before session 1Establishing a Sure Spiritual Foundation
1 The Call to New LifeA Brand New Start -
Forgiven2 Corinthians 5:17
2 The Call to New LifeConversion – the
Springtime of the SoulSong of Solomon 2:11,12
3 Laying a Strong Foundation A Triple-braided CordEcclesiastes 4:12 & Acts
2:38
4 Laying a Strong Foundation Dressing for Success Romans 13:14
5 Laying a Strong FoundationAlignment to our Plumb
Line1 Peter 2:4-8
Reading before session 2 Being spiritually reborn
6 Repentance About turn! Hebrews 6:1
7 Repentance Butterfly Metamorphosis Acts 20:21 & 2 Peter 3:9
8 Faith towards GodAcronym with meaning #1
F.A.I.T.H.Hebrews 11:6
9 Faith towards GodAcronym with meaning # 2
G.R.A.C.E.Ephesians 2:8
10 Believers’ Baptism Submerge and Emerge Acts 8:36
11 Believers’ Baptism Dunkin’ – an Optional Extra? Acts 8:36-39 & Acts 10:47
Reading before session 3Receiving the God-helper
into our Lives
12 Baptism of the Holy Spirit The Seal of the KingEphesians 1:13, 14 & 2
Cor 1:22
13 Baptism of the Holy Spirit The Wind Words John 10:27
14 Baptism of the Holy Spirit Lubricated for Service 1 Jn2:27 & Acts 10:38
Day Topic Title Truth Verse
Reading before session 1
Establishing a Sure Spiritual Foundation
1 The Call to New Life A Brand New Start - Forgiven 2 Corinthians 5:17
2 The Call to New LifeConversion – the Springtime of the
Soul
Song of Solomon 2:11,12
3 Laying a Strong Foundation A triple-braided Cord Ecclesiastes 4:12 &
Acts 2:38
4 Laying a Strong Foundation Dressing for Success Romans 13:14
5 Laying a Strong Foundation
Alignment to our Plumb Line 1 Peter 2:4-8
SESSION 1
Establishing a Sure Foundation ‘��Founds’�determine�the��stability,�strength�and�structure�of�the�building’
Truth Verse
2 Corinthians 5:17 Therefore,�if�anyone�is�in�Christ,�the�new�creation�has�come:�the�old�has�gone,�the�new�is�here!
Truth Unpacked
Over the next month we intend to explore how through ‘the washing of the water of God’s word,’ we can live lives that are alive and pleasing to God. My prayer is that you will have a fresh awakening to the power of God’s Spirit, encountering Jesus and the abundant life He gives.
Although�‘I�was�sinful�at�birth,�sinful�from�the�time�my�mother�conceived�me’�the�good�news�is�that�we�don’t�have�to�stay�in�that�sin-filled�condition.��Christ�‘became�sin�for�us’�securing�for�us�‘peace�through�his�blood,�shed�on�the�cross’�-�what�I�like�to�call�our�‘red-whitener’!
When�we�receive�the�grace�of�God�by�faith,�we�encounter�a�divine�exchange.��Old-life�garments�are�replaced�with�God’s�new-life�garments�of�the�heart.��What�an�incomparable�trade-off!��Isaiah�speaks�of�these:�firstly,�the�garment�of�salvation�-�meaning�‘rescued’-�rescued�from�the�old�nature!��Yes,�thanks�to�the�blood�of�Jesus�we�are�covered�and�cleansed�from�all�sin.��This�is�understood�best�in�the�story�of�the�whipping�boy:�
A�whipping�boy,�in�the�17th�and�18th�centuries,�was�a�young�boy�who�was�assigned�to�a�young�prince.��He�was�punished�when�the�prince�misbehaved�or�fell�behind�in�his�schooling.��These�‘substitutes’�were�created�because�the�idea�of�the�divine�right�of�kings,�which�stated�that�kings�were�appointed�by�God,�and�implied�that�no�one�but�the�king�was�worthy�of�punishing�the�king’s�son.��So�it�is�with�the�King�of�kings,�Jesus.��He�became�sin�for�us,�who�knew�no�sin�that�we�might�be�the�righteousness�of�God�in�Him.��Secondly,�the�garment�of�righteousness.��Thanks�to�the�mercy�and�lovingkindness�of�God,�not�only�is�our�old�past�and�sinful�nature�forgiven,�but�‘our�robes�are�made�white�in�the�blood�of�the�Lamb�(Jesus)’.��Just�as�if�we�had�never�sinned.��Wow!�What�a�friend�we�have�in�Jesus...our�‘red-whitener’.
Truth Story
Today’s�laundry�market�abounds�with�manufacturer’s�claims,�how�their�particular�brand�of�powders,�liquids,�gels�and�tablets�can�clean�clothes�and�eradicate�stains.��When�mixed�with�water,�even�at�low�temperatures,�they�can�even�remove�the�most�stubborn�ground-in�dirt�and�grime�–�it�vanishes�in�a�flash!��Not�so�long�ago�this�was�known�in�adverts�as�a�‘blue�whitener’.��
(Hymn�Lyrics)��“�There�is�a�fountain�filled�with�blood,�drawn�from�Emmanuel’s�veins;�and�sinners�plunged�beneath�that�flood,�lose�all�their�guilty�stains.�Lose�all�their�guilty�stains,�lose�all�their�guilty�stains;�and�sinners�plunged�beneath�that�flood�lose�all�their��guilty�stains.”�
William Cowper 1731-1800
Prayer
Think�about�the�great�price�Jesus�has�paid�to�forgive�us,�in�order�that�we�may�have�eternal�life.��Consider�the�torture�he�suffered�on�the�cross�for�us�and�express�in�words�your�personal�thanks.
Day 01 The Call to New Life A Brand New Start - Forgiven
Truth Verse
Song of Solomon 2:11, 12 See!�The�winter�is�past;��the�rains�are�over�and�gone.�Flowers�appear�on�the�earth;�the�(spring)�season�of�singing�has�come,�the�cooing�of�doves�is�heard�in�our�land.
Truth Unpacked
The�call�to�new�life�in�Christ�is�like�springtime�of�the�soul�–�not�by�works�of�righteousness�which�we�have�done�by�according�to�His�mercy�he�saved�us,�by�the�washing�of�regeneration�and�renewal�of��the�Holy�Spirit.�
God�has�appointed�times�and�seasons�for�the�journey�of�our�lives!��The�Holy�Spirit’s�season�to�awaken�the�soul�is�the�miracle�of�conversion...�the�season�of�singing�has�come,�the�dove�of�the�Spirit�has,�in�a�moment,�caused�rebirth�and�renewal�of�your�heart.��Your�old�life�is�dead.��Your�new�life,�which�is�your�real�life—even�though�invisible�to�spectators—is�with�Christ�in�God.���He�is�your�life.�
Prayer
Conversion�is�a�deep��work�-�a�heart�work.�It�goes�throughout�the�man,�throughout�the�mind,�throughout�the�members,�throughout�the�entire�life.�Conversion�is�no�repairing�of�the�old�building;�but�it�takes�all�down�and�erects��a�new�structure.�The�sincere�Christian�is�quite�a�new�fabric,�from�the�foundation�to�the��top�stone�all�new”.
Joseph�Alleine
Truth Story
Our�verse�today�is�a�wonderful�picture�of�the�change�that�happens�as�the�winter�season�ends�followed�by�the�contrasting�‘new�life’�season�of�springtime.��Spring�flowers�are�beautiful�and�fragrant.��Changing�seasons�have�a�profound�effect�on�plant�and�animal�life.��Spring�is�the�time�of�renewal�of�plant�life.��
Nature�awakens�in�spring,�and�spring�flowers�blossom.��Bulbs�come�into�bloom;�plants�and�trees�sprout�new�leaves.��The�number�of�daylight�hours�increases�during�spring,�in�marked�contrast�to�the�cold�dark�winter�that�has�past.��
Prayer
Lord,�I�thank�you�for�redeeming��my�soul�from�eternal�judgment��and�granting�me�new�life�in�Christ,�my�Saviour.��Lord,�please�send�a�fresh�season�of�spiritual�conversions�amongst�my�friends,�work�colleagues�and�family.���I�ask�this�in�Jesus�name.���Amen.
Day 02 The Call to New Life Conversion – the Springtime of the Soul
Truth Verse
Ecclesiastes 4:12 & Acts 2:38 A�person�standing�alone�can�be�attacked��and�defeated,�but�two�can�stand�back-to-back�and�conquer.�Three�are�even�better,��for�a�triple-braided�cord�is�not�easily�broken.Then�Peter�said�to�them,�Repent,�and�be�baptised�every�one�of�you�in�the�name�of�Jesus�Christ�for�the�remission�of�sins,�and�you�shall�receive�the�gift�of�the�Holy�Ghost.
Truth Unpacked
The three fold response by the apostle Peter to those experiencing Christ’s conviction and forgiveness is in found in Acts 2:38:
1) Repent and
2) Be Baptised�in�Jesus�name�for�the�remission��of�sins�and�you�shall�have�
3) The Gift of the Holy Spirit,�for�the�promise�is�to�you�and�to�your�children�too,�as�many�as�the�Lord�our�God�shall�call.��Paul�the�apostle�confirms�these�same�three�components�in�‘��the�first�principles�of�the�oracles�of�God.’���This�same�triple-braided�cord�response�to�the�gospel�is�experienced�by�believers�throughout�the�cities�of�Samaria,�Caesarea�and�Ephesus�(Acts�chapters�8,�10�&�19)
We�shall�unpack�the�knowledge�and�understanding�of�these�foundation�stones�throughout�this�course.��������������������������������
Prayer
Meditate�on�Peter’s�response�to�the�question�‘What�shall�we�do?’�and�ask�yourself,�‘Have�I�laid�hold�of�eternal�life�by�establishing�this�unshakeable,�solid�and�good�foundation’?���Now�pray�Acts�2:38�inserting�your�own�name.
Truth Story
It�is�imperative�that�buildings�are�built�on�a�sure�foundation�and�the�Christian�life�is�no�different!
Just�as�a�triple-braided�rope�or�cord�is�stronger�than�a�rope�that�is�either�single�or�double-braided,�Peter,�at�the�birth�of�the�first�Christian�church�at�Jerusalem,�establishes�the�three foundational components�on�which�to�base�our�faith.
Day 03 Laying a Strong FoundationA Triple-braided Cord
‘Founds’�determine�the�stability,�strength�and�structure�of�the�building
What is a foundation?
It�is�an�architectural�term�-��a�foundation�is�a�solid�and�stable�support�for�the�superstructure��(the�building)
Truth Story
I�thought�my�denim�jeans�looked�all�right,�until�invited�to�lunch�at�the�prestigious�golf�club�in�Belfast.��My�father-in-law�was�kindly�treating�me�to�lunch,�but�I�was�about�to�get�a�dose�of�golf�attire�etiquette.��The�sign�did�say�‘No�jeans�allowed�in�the�restaurant,�by�order�of�the�management’.�You’ve�already�
maybe�guessed�what�happened,�yes,�as�Murphy’s�Law�says,�‘If�anything�can�go�wrong�it�will’�and,�sure�enough,�old�Murphy�was�right�on�this�occasion.��My�father-in-law�was�discreetly�approached�and�informed�that�his�guest�was�inappropriately�dressed!�
Truth Verse
Romans 13:14 Clothe yourselves�with��the�Lord�Jesus�Christ,��and�do�not�think�about��how�to�gratify�the�desires��of�the�flesh.
Truth Unpacked
There�is�a�great�Bible�story�about�how�Joseph�gave�five�garments�to�his�younger�brother,�Benjamin.�Benjamin�means�‘son�of�the�right�hand’.��Jesus�is�referred�to�as�our�firstborn�or�older�brother,�like�Joseph�(meaning�‘increase’).��We,�as�younger�‘spiritual�siblings’,�are�to�be��those�seated�on�his�‘right�hand’.�
On�clothing�ourselves�with�the�Lord�Jesus�Christ�the�scriptures�indicates�five�key�faith�garments,�which�I�like�to�call�God’s�Garments�of�the�Heart.��Ask�the�Holy�Spirit�now�to�speak�to�you,�as�read�the�scriptures,�and�put�on�your�beautiful�garments�(Isa�52:1).��Look�up�the�scripture�verses�and�complete�the�blanks�below:
1.� The�garment�of�S____________��� Isa�61:10
2.� The�garment�of�R____________� Isa�61:10
3.� �The�garment�of�L____________� Col�3:14
4.� The�garment�of�H____________� Col�3:�12
5.� The�garment�of�P____________� Isa�61:3
Prayer
Jesus�prophesied�His�own�return��in�the�parable�of�the�wedding�feast.�
Read�Matthew�22�verses�2,3,9,11,12�and�meditate�on�how�critical�it�is�to�have�your�special�‘wedding�garments’�on!
Day 04 Laying a Strong FoundationDressing for Success
Truth Story
A�plumb line�is�‘A�line�from�which�a�weight�is�suspended�to�determine�verticality�or�depth.’��Just�as�spirit�levels�measure�horizontal�straightness,�a�plumb�line�measures�vertical�straightness.��A�plumb�line,�or�plumb�bob�(lead�weight),�is�used�by�a�builder�constructing�a�wall;�a�tradesman�hanging�wallpaper�or�an�artist�displaying�artwork�to�achieve�a�straight,�vertical�line.��A�plumb�line�therefore�tests�the�verticality�or�alignment�with�a�plumb.��Lead�has�the�symbol�Pb�(from�Latin:�plumbum)
Truth Unpacked
This�is�a�great�illustration�of�how�God�wants�to�align�our�lives�to�resemble�the�image�of�His�dear�son�the�Lord�Jesus.��
The�apostle�Peter�confirms�that�it�is�Jesus�who�is�the�chosen�and�precious�cornerstone�to�whom�we�align�our�attitudes,�character�and�behaviour.��John�helps�us�understand�this�‘plumb�line�principle’�stating:�as�Jesus�Christ�is,�so�are�we�in�this�world.
���
Prayer
Heavenly�Father,�thank�you�for�the�help�of�your��Holy�Spirit�in�conforming�us�to�the�image�of�your��son,�the�Lord�Jesus.��Help�me�today�to�reflect�your�love�and�grace�in�a�hurting�world.��I�cannot�do�this��in�my�own�strength�and�ask�for�your�help,�Holy��Spirit,�to�align�my�spirit,�soul�and�body�to�be��like�Jesus.
Canticle
Christ,�as�a�light�illumine�and�guide�me.�Christ,�as�a�shield�overshadow�me.��Christ�under�me;�Christ�over�me;�Christ�beside�me�on�my�left�and�my�right.��This�day�be�within�and�without�me,�lowly�and�meek,�yet��all-powerful.��Be�in�the�heart�of�each�to�whom�I�speak;�in�the�mouth�of�each�who�speaks�unto�me.�This�day�be�within�and�without�me,�lowly�and�meek,�yet��all-powerful.�Christ�as�a�light;�Christ�as�a�shield;�Christ�beside�me�on�my�left�and�my�right.����
And the Lord said to me, “Amos, what do you see? And I said, “A plumb line.” Then the Lord said “See, I am setting a plumb line in the midst of my people.
Amos�7:8
Truth Verse
Isaiah 28:16, 17 So�this�is�what�the�Sovereign�LORD�says:�‘See,�I�lay�a�stone�in�Zion,�a�tested�stone,�a�precious�cornerstone�for�a�sure�foundation;�the�one�who�relies�on�it�will�never�be�stricken�with�panic.�I�will�make�justice�the�measuring�line�and�righteousness�the�plumb line.’
Day 05 Laying a Strong FoundationAlignment to our Plumb Line
Truth Verse
1 Corinthians 3:9 & Peter 2:5You�are�God’s�building...�like�living�stones��being�builts�into�a�spiritual�house
Day Topic Title Truth Verse
Reading before session 2
Being Spiritually Reborn
6 Repentance About turn! Hebrews 6:1
7 Repentance Butterfly Metamorphosis
Acts 20:21 & 2 Peter 3:9
8 Faith towards God Acronym with meaning #1 F.A.I.T.H. Hebrews 11:6
9 Faith towards GodAcronym with meaning # 2
G.R.A.C.E.Ephesians 2:8
10 Believers’ Baptism Submerge and Emerge Acts 8:36
11 Believers’ Baptism Dunkin’ – an Optional Extra?
Acts 8:36-39 & Acts 10:47
SESSION 2
Being�Spiritually�Reborn
The Lord Jesus Christ�1�Cor�3:11–�Our�‘Rock’�Foundation
Repentance�from�dead�works
Faith�towards�God
The�doctrine�of�baptisms
Laying�on�of�hands
Ressurection�of�the�dead
Eternal�Judgement
What kind of a house would you build for Me? And what kind can be My resting place? Isaiah 66:1
Truth Story
In�my�teens�I�belonged�to�a�uniformed�Christian�organisation�called�the�Boys’�Brigade.��Every�week�we�met�to�be�mentored�and�coached�on�a�variety�of�life�skills�which�resulted�in�the�boys�achieving�recognition�badges�(eg�First�Aid),��One�of�these�disciplines�was�learning�how�to�march�properly.��With�commands�from�the�sergeant,�the�boys�would�turn�to�the�orders�being�shouted:�‘Right�incline’,�‘Left�
incline’,�‘On�my�command,�by�the�left,�quick�march!’��The�bit�that�I�really�loved�was�the�rhythmic�movement�we�performed�when�the�‘about turn’�command�was�shouted.��Our�right�foot�was�grounded�and�this�allowed�us�to�seamlessly turn about.��Hearing�the�order,�the�squad�obeyed�by�a�pre-planned�foot�movement,�remembered�as,�‘about turn�check�1,�2,�3,�4’-�followed�by,�effortlessly,�moving�off,��to�march�in�the�opposite�direction.�
Rev WJE Baxter defines repentance as ’the informing and changing of the mind; the stirring and directing of the emotions to urge the required change; and the action of the yielded will in turning the whole man from sin and to God.’ The Greek word metanoia means ‘to think differently, to care or regret, reversal of actions.’
Truth Verse
Hebrews 6:1 Therefore�let�us�move�beyond�the�elementary�teachings�about�Christ�and�be�taken�forward�to�maturity,�not�laying�again�the�foundation�of�repentance from�acts�that�lead�to�death,�and�of�faith�in�God...
Truth Unpacked
Jesus�told�a�parable�of�a�son�who�turns round�after�wasting�his�inheritance.��After�coming�to�his�senses�and�realising�his�wrong�actions,�he�repents�(or�about�turns)�returning�to�his�father’s�home.��This�story�illustrates�the�three�areas�of�the�soul�involved�in�repentance.��Take�time�to�locate�Luke�chapter�15�in�your�Bible,�reading�verses�11�through�to�verse�24.��This�will�help�us�understand�what�happens�when�we�repent.��Firstly,�the�son�had�a change of mind�(thinking)�v17.��When�he�came�to�his�senses.��Secondly,�the�son�had�a change of heart (emotions)�v�18,�19�I�will�set�out�and�go�back�to�my�father�and�say�to�him:�Father,�I�have�sinned�against�heaven�and�against�you.��I�am�no�longer�worthy�to�be�called�your�son;�make�me�like�one�of�your�hired�servants.’��Thirdly,�and�finally,�the�son�had�a change of will�(choosing)�v�18-�21.�But�while�he�was�still�a�long�way�off,�his�father�saw�him�and�was�filled�with�compassion�for�him;�he�ran�to�his�son,�threw�his�arms�around�him�and�kissed�him.�The�son�said�to�him,�‘Father,�I�have�sinned�against�heaven�and�against�you.�I�am�no�longer�worthy�to�be�called�your�son.’�
Prayer
Help�me,�Lord,�to�turn�from�my�way�to�your�way,�because�your�word�reassures�me�that�your�ways�are�so�much�higher�than�my�ways.��This�week,�Lord,�please�help�me�to�turn�from�my�own�agenda�to�enquire�about�the�plans�that�you�have�for�me;�plans�to�prosper�me�and�not�to�harm�me,�plans��to�give�me�hope�and�a�future.
Day 06 RepentanceAbout turn!
ABOUTTURN!
Truth Story
Symbolism�can�also�be�found�in�comparing�the�butterfly�metamorphosis�(transformation)�to�Christian�metanoia�(conversion�or�transformation).��The�transformation�of�the�life�cycle�of�a�butterfly’s�egg�larva�growing�to�a�caterpillar,�weaving�into�a�pupa�and�ultimately�emerging�as�an�adult�butterfly�is�known�as�metamorphosis.
Repentance is the Greek word metanoia, ‘after/behind one’s mind’. It is a compound word of the preposition ‘meta’ (after, with), and the verb ‘noeo’ (to perceive, to think, the result of perceiving or observing). It combines the two meanings of time and change, which may be denoted by ‘after’ and ‘different’, so that the whole compound means: ‘to think differently after’.
Truth Verse
Acts 20:21; 2 Peter 3:9 I�have�declared�to�both�Jews�and�Greeks�that�they�must�turn�to�God�in�repentance�and�have�faith�in�our�Lord�Jesus.�The�Lord�is�not�slow�in�keeping�his�promise,�as�some�understand�slowness.�Instead�he�is�patient�with�you,�not�wanting�anyone�to�perish,��but�everyone�to�come�to�repentance.
Truth Unpacked
There�is�a�monument�in�Enterprise,�Alabama,�U.S.A.�built�in�honour�and�appreciation�of�an�agricultural�pest�–the�Boll�Weevil.��The�Boll�Weevil�insect�appeared�in�Alabama�in�1915.��By�1918�farmers�were�losing�whole�cotton�crops�to�the�beetle.��A�gentleman�by�the�name�of�HM�Sessions�saw�this�as�an opportunity for change�–�converting�the�area�to�peanut�farming.��In�1916�he�convinced�CW�Baston,�an�indebted�farmer,�to�back�his�venture.��The�first�crop�of�peanuts�paid�off�their�debts�and�was�bought�by�farmers�seeking�to�change�their�debts�to�credits.��Cotton�was�grown�again,�
but�farmers�learned�to�diversify�their�crops,�bringing�new�wealth�to�‘Coffee�County’,�Alabama.��Bon�Fleming,�a�local�businessman,�came�up�with�the�idea�to�build�the�monument�and�helped�to�finance�its�cost,�as�a�tribute�to�how�something�disastrous�can�be a catalyst for change for�the�better.��This�is�a�continual�reminder�of�how�the�people�of�Enterprise�adjusted�in�the�face�of�adversity.��The�monument�depicts�a�female�figure�in�flowing�gown�with�arms�stretched�above�her�head.��She�raises�high�a�trophy�which�is�topped�with�a�larger�than�life-size�boll�weevil.
Prayer
It’s�the�goodness�of�God�that�leads�me�to�repentance.�I�know�you�desire�that�all�people�should�repent�–�Lord�grant�me�repentance�unto�life.�I�also�realise�that�repentance�is�not�just�a�one�off�act�at�salvation,�but�a�new�daily�lifestyle�choice.�Change�me,�Lord,�today�and�every�day�for�your�glory.�
Amen.
Day 07 RepentanceButterfly Metamorphosis
Truth Story
Just�like�bungee�jumping,�the�acronym�Forsaking�All�I�Trust�Him,�embodies�the�believing�trust�essential�as�we�leave�our�old�life�to�live�our�new�life�in�Christ.��Emptying�ourselves�of�sin,�we�must�fill�our�hearts�with�faith�–�accounted�unto�us�for�righteousness.
Truth Verse
Hebrews 11:6 And�without�faith�it�is�impossible�to�please�God,�because�anyone�who�comes��to�him�must�believe�that�he�exists�and�that�he�rewards�those�who�earnestly�seek�him.�Having�understood�that��repentance�involves�turning�from�sin,�we�now�discover�faith�as�turning�to�God.
Truth Unpacked
When�Jesus�came�preaching�that�the�Kingdom�of�God�was�at�hand,�He�stated�it�was�essential�to�‘Repent�and�believe�in�the�Gospel.’��Paul�reiterates�this�‘from-to’�principle�to�the�church�at�Thessalonica,�explaining�how�serving�the�true�and�living�God�involved�turning�from�idols�and�turning�towards�God.
The�Greek�word�for�faith,�pistis�means�‘conviction,�trust,�holy�fervour,�belief,�confidence,�firm�persuasion,�assurance.’��To�increase�our�Pistis,�it�is�crucial�that�we�read�the�scriptures:�faith�comes�by�hearing�and�hearing�by�the�word�of�God.��This�hearing�of�faith�grows�as�we�have�the�seed�of�the�Word�sown�in�the�soil�of�our�heart’�watered�by�the�renewing�and�refreshing�of�the�Holy�Spirit.��As�Christians,�our�lifestyle�is�to�walk�by�faith;�as�the�just�shall��live�by�faith.�
True faith involves three stages:
a)� �The�Mind�is�informed�by�the�Word�of�Truth.��(Rom10:17;�Acts�4:4)
b)� �The�Emotions�are�stirred�to�feel�joy.��(Acts�8:12,8;�1�Peter�1:8)
c)� �The�Will�is�committed�to�choose�to�obey.��(Romans�16:26;1:5)
This is evidenced in the life of Abraham in Romans 4:
a)� �He�was�strong�in�receiving��the�promises�by�faith�v�13,20.��(mind�informed)
b)� �He�replaced�hopelessness�by�believing�in�hope�v�18.�(emotions�stirred)
c)� �He�was�fully persuaded�that��God�would�perform�His�promise��v�21.(choice�persuaded)
Prayer
Lord,�increase�my�measure�of�faith��this�week�to�be�reassured�that�everything�is�possible�for�one��who�believes.
Day 08 Faith towards GodAcronym with meaning #1 F.A.I.T.H.
Truth Story
If�faith�is�the�tap,�then�grace�is�the�conduit�of�multiple�resources�that�flow�from�the�fountain�of�God’s�presence.��The�acronym�God’s�Riches�At�Christ’s�Expense�sums�up�the�reservoir�of�benefits�inherent�in�Christ’s�sacrificial�love,�evidenced�in�His�vicarious�death,�burial�and�amazing�resurrection.��
Truth Verse
Ephesians 2:8 For�it�is�by�grace�you�have�been�saved,�through�faith—and�this�is�not�from�yourselves,�it�is�the�gift��of�God.
Truth Unpacked
Jesus�Christ�came�full�of�grace�and�truth.��The�order�of�this�binary�code�in�which�Jesus�came�and�lived�life,�is�key�to�keeping�both�‘grace-less�religious�legalism’�and�‘truth-less�excess�spirituality’,�at�bay,�in�our�faith�walk.��Strong’s�concordance�defines�New�Testament�grace�(charis�-�Greek)�as�‘the�divine�influence�upon�the�heart,�and�its�reflection�in�the�life’.��It�is�‘the�manner�or�act�of�favourable�regard,�resulting�in�the�heart�becoming�delightfully�calm�and�happy,�pleasurable,�cheerful,�and�well-off.’
Grace�is�undeserved�favour,�unmerited�favour�and�unearned�favour!��Grace�is�when�you�get�what�you�don’t�deserve;�Mercy�is�when�you�don’t�get�what�you�do�deserve.��
In�the�story�commonly�known�as�the�Prodigal�Son,�remember�the�word�prodigal�(which�isn’t�in�the�text)�means�‘one�who�is�given�to�
wasteful�luxury�or�extravagance.’��Reread�Luke�15�and�look�again�to�find�that�it�is�the�father�in�the�story,�a�metaphor�of�our�Prodigal�God,�who�has�lavished�his�love,�grace�and�mercy�upon�us,�through�the�redemptive�work�of�Jesus.��The�idea�here�is�that�mercy�is�withholding�deserved�punishment,�and�grace�is�an�undeserved�gift.��James,�Jesus’�brother,�tells�us�that�judgment�will�be�merciless�to�one�who�has�shown�no�mercy;�mercy�triumphs�over�judgment.�
John�Newton,�the�slave-trading�ship�captain,�experienced�the�saving�grace�of�God�and�penned�the�well�known�hymn,�Amazing�Grace.��Newton�is�quoted�to�have�said�on�his�death�bed,�‘My�memory�is�nearly�gone,�but�I�remember�two�things:�that�I�am�a�great�sinner,�and�that�Christ�is�a�great�Saviour.’�Newton�understood�the�truth�of�his�sin�and�the�grace�of�Christ�the�Saviour.
��
Prayer
Lord,�help�me�to�grow�to�be�more�like�Jesus�today.��Ever�remind�me�of�your�amazing�grace…that�saved�a�wretch�like�me.����������������������������������������������������������
Day 09 Faith towards GodAcronym with meaning # 2 G.R.A.C.E.
Licence Liberty Legalism
Truthless Graceless
Mercy and Grace
Psalm 85:10 Truth & Law
Peace The Character of God
Righteousness and Holiness
Truth Unpacked
An�ordinance�can�be�defined�as�‘a�practice�prescribed�by�the�Messiah�to�be�performed�by�the�church�as�an�outward�sign�of�the�saving�truth�of�the�Christian�faith’.��Baptism�fulfils�the�three�qualifications�of�an�ordinance:�firstly,�it�was�commanded�by�the�Messiah;�secondly,�it�was�observed�by�the�church�in�the�book�of�Acts;�and,�thirdly,�the�Epistles�expound�the�theological�significance�of�the�outward�rite.��In�these�next�two�devotionals�I�aim�to�pose�some�questions�for�your�prayerful�consideration.
Who should be baptised? Jesus�stated�in�the�Great�Commission�that�all�that�believe�and�are�baptised�shall�be�saved�Mark�16:15,�16.��The�Apostles�command�was�to�believers�at�Jerusalem�(Acts�2:38,�41);�at�Samaria�(Acts�8:26-39);�from�Ethiopia�(Acts�8:26-39)�and�at�Ephesus�(Acts�19:2,�5).��Baptism,��by�immersion�in�water,�was�also��the�experience�of�whole�families:�Lydia’s�household�(Acts�16:14,�15);��the�Philippian�jailor’s�household��(Acts�16:27-35)�and�Stephanas’�household�(1�Cor1:16).
Why should we be baptised?
a)� �To�testify�publicly�of�the�death,�burial�and�resurrection�of�Jesus�Christ,�symbolically�burying�the�old�life�and�being�raised�to�newness�of�life.�(Romans�6:3-6)
b)� �To�identify�publicly�with�Christ’s�defeat�of�Satan.�(Colossians�2:12,15)
c)� �To�signify�we�have�been�clothed�with�(put�on)�Christ.�(Galatians�3:27)
d)� �To�testify�outwardly�of�the�cleansing�that�has�occurred�inwardly�by�the�blood�of�Jesus�(Rev�1:5)�and�by�the�word�of�God�(John�15:3).�
e)� �To�obey�the�apostolic�command�to�repent�and�be�baptised.�(Acts�2:38,41�&�10:46)�
f)� �To�demonstrate�our�love�of�Jesus�publicly.�(Mark�8:38;�John�14:15)
Truth Verse
Acts 8:36 As�they�travelled�along�the�road,�they�came�to�some�water�and�the�eunuch�said,�“Look,�here�is�water.�What�can�stand�in�the�way�of�my�being�baptized?”
Prayer
Lord,�I�want�to�be�your�disciple.��Thank�you�for�the�leading�of�your�Holy�Spirit�to�teach�me�all�things,�guiding�me�into�all�truth.
Day 10 Believers’ BaptismSubmerge and Emerge
Truth Story
‘Dunkers’�was�the�nickname�for�people�of�faith�that�originated�in�1708�near�the�village�of�Schwarzenau,�Germany,�along�the�Eder�River.��Originally,�calling�themselves�Neue�Täufer�(New�Baptists),�they�were�called�‘Dunkers’�by�outsiders�because�
they�fully�immersed�or�‘dunked’�their�baptismal�candidates�in�nearby�streams.��Look,�here�is�water.�What�can�stand�in�the�way�of�my�being�baptised?
Truth Verse
Acts 8:36-39; 10:47 As�they�travelled�along�the�road,�they�came�to�some�water�and�the�eunuch�said,�“Look,�here�is�water.�What�can�stand�in�the�way�of�my�being�baptised?”�And�he�gave�orders�to�stop�the�chariot.�Then�both�Philip�and�the�eunuch�went�down�into�the�water�and�Philip�baptised�him.�When�they�came�up�out�of�the�water,�the�Spirit�of�the�Lord�suddenly�took�Philip�away,�and�the�eunuch�did�not�see�him�again,�but�went�on�his�way�rejoicing...�“Surely�no�one�can�stand�in�the�way�of�their�being�baptised�with�water.�They��have�received�the�Holy�Spirit�just�as�we�have.”
Truth Unpacked
When should we be baptised? There�was�no�cause�for�delay��in�the�early�church!�
•� The�same�day�(Acts�2:41)�•� When�they�believed�� (Acts�8:12,�37,�38)•� The�same�hour�(Acts�16:33)
How should we be baptised?
•� �Into�the�name�of�Father,�Son��and�Holy�Spirit�(Matt�28:19)�����������������������������������������
•� �In�the�name�Lord�Jesus�Christ��(Acts�2:38;�Acts�8:16;�Acts�19:5)
Prayer
Thank�you,�Lord,�for�this�outward�sign�of�faith’s�inward�reality.�Lord,�thanks�for�trailblazers�like�the�Anabaptists;�people�who�helped�restore�New�Testament�truth,�when�leaders�declared�drowning�‘the�best�antidote�to�Anabaptism,’�Lord�help�us�to�contend�for�the�faith�once�delivered�to�the�saints.�
Lord,�thank�you�for�people�who�follow�your�divine�ordinances,�even�when�ancient�laws�condoned�the�death�penalty�for�any�who�practised�believers’�baptism.
Day 11 Believers’ BaptismDunkin’ – an Optional Extra?
Day Topic Title Truth Verse
Reading before session 3
Receiving the God-helper into our Lives
12 Baptism of the Holy Spirit The Seal of the King Ephesians 1:13, 14;
2 Cor 1:22
13 Baptism of the Holy Spirit The Wind Words John 10:27
14 Baptism of the Holy Spirit
Lubricated for Service
1 Jn2:27 & Acts 10:38
15 Laying on of Hands To be sure, to be sure!
1 Timothy 4:14; 2 Timothy 1:6
16 Laying on of Hands Nike Church – ‘Just do it!’ Mark 16:17
SESSION 3
Receiving�the��God-helper�into�our�Lives
Truth Story
In�medieval�days�the�Royal�Mail�was�delivered�by�messengers�on�horseback.��In�our�age�of�immediate�text,�mobile�and�email�communication,�this�slower�form�of�post�is�now�referred�to�as�‘snail�mail’.��Movies�like�The�Three�Musketeers,�Ivanhoe�and�Robin�Hood�capture�the�loyalty�and�courage�of�these�servant�–messengers.��Once�the�King�had�completed�his�letter�to�a�foreign�dignitary,�he�would�then�seal�the�envelope�with�a�heated�wax�seal.��
He�would�then�take�his�personally�embossed�stamp,�with�his�unique�graven�mark�and�impress�it�onto�the�wax.��This�seal�confirmed�that�the�sender�was�genuine�and�also�that�the�letter�hadn’t�been�tampered�with�in�any�way�en�route.��He�would�then�dispatch�it�via�his�personal��Pony�Express-like�messengers.
Truth Verse
Ephesians 1:13, 14; 2 Corinthians 1:22 You�heard�the�word�of�truth,�the�gospel�of�your�salvation.��Having�believed,�you�were�marked�in�him�(Christ)�with�a�seal,�the�promised�Holy�Spirit...(He)set�his�seal�of�ownership�on�us,�and�put�his�Spirit�in�our�hearts�as�a�deposit,�guaranteeing�what��is�to�come.
Truth Unpacked
In�helping�to�us�understand�the�Holy�Spirit,�the�Scriptures�give�us�several�key�images;�each�one�expressing�something�of�the�divine�nature�of�which�we�are�a�partaker.�
The Holy Spirit is likened to:
A Seal -�An�embossed�stamp�verifying�the�sender.�(Ephesians�1:13)
A Dove -�speaking�of�gentleness,�peace,�tenderness,�innocence,�purity�and�patience.�(Matt�3:16)
Fire - speaking�of�holiness,�purging,�purifying�and�enlivening�with�zeal.�(Matthew�3:11)
Wind -�speaking�of�the�breath�of�God,�invisible,�yet�apparent�in�the�effects�of�his�work.�(John�3:8)
Water -�speaking�of�the�life-giving�flow�which�refreshes,�satisfies,�washes�and�cleanses.�(John�7:38)
Oil -�speaking�of�consecration,�illumination,�soothing,�healing,�mollifying,�softening,�lubricating�and�healing.�(1�John2:27;�Acts�10:38)
Wine –�speaking�of�intoxicating,�healing�and�making�joyful.�(Acts�2:13;�Ephesians�5:18)
Prayer
Lord,�thank�you�for�stamping�your�love�and�grace�on�my�life�and�for�your seal,�confirming�me�as�your�child.��Lord,�please�continue�to�mark�me�with�your�nature�that�my�life�would�be�a�messenger,�to�carry�the�good�news�of�the�gospel�of�Jesus�to�people�needing�the�hope�and�purpose�that�you�give.
Day 12 Baptism of the Holy SpiritThe Seal of the King
Truth Story
Bill�Hybels�has�written�a�great�book�called�‘The�Power�of�the�Whisper’1.��It�draws�us�back�to�place�of�high�importance�God�should�have�in�our�lives,�always�listening�out�for�His�still�small�voice�to�discern�right�decisions�for�our�life�choices.�John,�in�the�book�of�Revelation�repeats�a�phrase�several�times:�‘Are�your�ears�awake?�Listen.�Listen�to�the�Wind�Words,�the�Spirit�blowing�through�the�churches.’��The�Wind�Words�are�the�whisper�of�God�–the�prompting�voice�of�the�Holy�Spirit,�gently�speaking�to�us.��That�is�why�in�the�truth�verse�above,�the�shepherd�Jesus�is�highlighting�that�His�sheep�are�to�listen�to�His�voice��for�guidance.�
In�my�fifth�decade�as�a�Christian,�I�am�more�convinced�than�ever,�of�the�heightened�focus�the�Lord�has�for�each�of�us,�in�both:
1.� Us�communicating�with�God��� ��� and2.� God�communicating�with�us���� ����������
The�importance�of�this�is�understood�as�we�look�at�two�Old�Testament�figures:�the�priest�and�the�prophet.��The�directions�of�their�roles�help�us�to�understand�the�shared�communication�between�God�and�us.
Truth Verse:
John 10:27 My�sheep�listen�to��my�voice;�I�know�them,��and�they�follow�me.�
Truth Unpacked
The�Old�Testament�priest�had�the�role�of�taking�sacrifices�and�offerings�to�God.��Today,�we�are�to�offer�up�spiritual�sacrifices�to�God�in�prayer,�praise��and�worship.
The�Old�Testament�prophet�had�the�role�of�listening�to�hear�God’s�voice�and�then�communicating�it�to�the�people.��Today,�we�have�a�responsibility�to�listen�to�the�wind�words�–�the�promptings�of�the�Spirit�of�God,�to�lead�and�guide��our�lives.
Prayer
Lord,�like�Samuel,�I�say,�Speak�Lord�for�your�servant�is�listening.��Give�me�discernment�to�hear�your�Holy�Spirit�prompting�me�today.��Amen.
Day 13 Baptism of the Holy SpiritThe Wind Words
COMMUNICATINGWITH GOD
Priest Prophet
Takes sacrifices and offerings to God
God’s word and will to the people
Godward FocusOur voice to God
Manward FocusGod’s voice to us
Truth Story
As�a�car�needs�a�lubricant�to�protect�the�engine,�our�truth�verses�encourage�us�to�seek�the�anointing�oil�of�the�Holy�Spirit,�if�our�Christian�service�is�to�truly�be�effective.��The�scriptures�affirm�that�we�will�receive�power�when�the�Holy�Spirit�comes��on�us,�empowering�us�to�be��God’s�witnesses.�
In�the�story�of�the�Good�Samaritan,�it�is�oil�and�wine,�that�has�healing�and�mollifying�properties,�to�help�restore�the�life�that�is�lying�by�the�side�of�the�road,�hurting�and�broken.
Prayer
Lord,�make�my�life�like�the�wise�virgins�in�the�parable�who�woke�up�and�trimmed�their�lamps.�Lord,�let�me�go�to�the�one�who�sells�oil�and�to�buy�some�for�myself.��Come,�Holy�Spirit.��Without�your�holy�oil�nothing�can�bear�your�light,�nothing�is�free�from�sin.��Wash�all�that�is�filthy,�water�all�that�is�parched,�heal�what�is�hurt�within.��Bend�all�that�is�rigid,�warm�all�that�has�frozen�hard,�lead�back�the�lost.��Christ�–�the�anointed�one,�who�has�the�oil�of�joy�-�dispense�your��anointing�afresh.�
Amen.
Truth Verse
1 John 2:27; Acts 10:38 As�for�you,�the�anointing�you�received�from�him�remains�in�you,�and�you�do�not�need�anyone�to�teach�you.�But�as�his�anointing teaches�you�about�all�things�and�as�that�anointing�is�real,�not�counterfeit�-�just�as�it�has�taught�you,�remain�in�him�…how�God�anointed�Jesus�of�Nazareth�with�the�Holy�Spirit�and�power,�and�how�he�went�around�doing�good�and�healing�all�who�were�under�the�power�of�the�devil,�because�God�was�with�him.�
Truth Unpacked
In�the�New�Testament�the anointing oil�is�associated�with�Jesus�and�his�disciples�in�miraculous�healing.�The�disciples�cast�out�many�demons,�and�anointed with oil�many�that�were�sick,�and�healed�them.��James,�Jesus’�brother,�encourages�us�that�when�people�are�sick,�to�call��the�elders�of�the�church�to�pray�over�them�and�anoint�them�with�oil�in�the�name�of�the�Lord.�
‘The�Anointing’�was�a�compound�oil�mixture,�prepared�by�Old�Testament�priests,�used�to�consecrate�and�sanctify�the�tabernacle,�its�vessels�and�its�priests.�The�anointing�oil�was�often�applied�as�a�symbolic�act.�In�Bible�times,�the�practice�of�anointing�with�oil�was�frequently�representative�of�God’s�approval.�We�see�this�when�both�Saul�and�David�are�commissioned�and�inaugurated�as�king.
Day 14a Baptism of the Holy SpiritLubricated for Service
Special SupplementWhat are the main tasks performed by the Holy Spirit?
Upon the Sinner:
•� �To�convict�of�sin, righteousness and judgment�to�come.�(John�16:8-11)
•� �People�are�saved�by�the�washing�of�regeneration�and�renewing�of�the�Holy�Ghost.�(Titus�3:5)
•� �He�is�the�convincing�and�convicting�agent�who�applies�the�seed�of�the�word�of�God�to�a�person’s�heart�and�life.�(Hebrews�4:12;�Ephesians�6:17)
Upon the Believer:
•� �Salvation�only�happens�when�a�person�is�born�of�the�Spirit.�(John3:3,5,8)
•� �To�claim�to�be�a�Christian�we�must�have�the�Spirit�dwell�in�us.�(Romans�8:9)
•� �He�always�brings�glory�to�Jesus.�(John16:13,14)
•� �He�transforms�our�hearts�and�minds�to��make�us�into�Christ’s�image�(character)��(2Corinthians�3:18;�Romans�12:2)
•� �He�helps�us�discern�(test)�false�spirits.�(1�John�4:1-3;2:22)
•� �The�Baptism�(defined�as�immersion,�submerge,�put�under)�of�the�Holy�Spirit�equips�and�enables�us�to�be�productive�witnesses.�(Acts�1:8�)
What is the baptism in the Holy Spirit?
1.� �It�is�the�promise�of�the�Father.�(Luke�24:49;Acts�1:4;2:39)
2.� �It�is�enabling�power�to�be�Christ’s�witnesses.�(Acts�1:8)
3.� �A�definite�experience�which�we�can�know��we�have�or�have�not�received.(Acts�19:2,6)
4.� �It�is�part�of�the�proper�Christian�birth��(Acts�2:38)
5.� �It�is�commanded�by�Christ�-�those��who�believe�should�receive -�‘be�filled’.��(John�7:37-39;�Ephesians�5:18)
What is the evidence of the baptism of the Holy Spirit?
•� �people�who�have�a�stammering�tongue��Isaiah�33:19
•� they�began�to�speak�with�other�tongues��� Acts�2:3;10:46;19:6
•� different�kinds�of�tongues�� 1�Corinthians�12:28
•� Paul�encourages�everyone�to�speak��� in�tongues��–�1�Corinthians14:5;�13,18
•� this�manifestation�is�not�to�be�prevented��� 1�Corinthians�14:39
1)� It�is�one�of�the�signs�of�a�believer.��� Mark�16:17
2)� By�it�God�speaks�to�man.��� 1�Corinthians�14:21
3)� By�it�man�speaks�to�God.��� 1�Corinthians�4:2
4)� It�is�a�way�of�building�ourselves�up.�� 1�Corinthians�14:4;�Jude:20
5)� It�is�a�way�to�magnify�God.��� Acts�10:45
6)� It�is�a�means�of�spiritual�worship.��� 1�Corinthians�14:15
7)� It�helps�us�to�pray�according�to�God’s�will.������������������������������������ Romans�8:26
8)� It�is�given�to�those�who�obey�Christ’s�lordship.��� Acts�5:32
Ten reasons why believers should receive the baptism of the Holy Spirit:
1)� �Christ�and�the�apostles�exemplified�the�need�for�the�Holy�Spirit’s�anointing�in�service.�Matthew�3:16;Acts�2:37-39
2)� �The�Holy�Spirit�gives�power�to�live�a�holy�life.�����������������������������Romans�8:1,2,13
3)� �The�Holy�Spirit�gives�power�(ability�&�enabling)�to�witness.�Acts�1:8;�2:14;�4:31-33
4)� �The�Holy�Spirit�is�the�refreshing�spoken�of�in�prophecy.�Isaiah�28:11,12
5)� �The�Holy�Spirit�enables�the�true�worship�of�God.��John4:23,24;�Acts�2:11;�10:46;�Ephesians�5:18-20
6)� �The�Holy�Spirit�will�teach�and�guide��us�into�all�truth.�John�16:12,13
7)� �The�Holy�Spirit�baptism�is�a�command.������������������������������������������Ephesians�5:18
8)� �The�Holy�Spirit�will�help�you�to�pray�supernaturally.������Romans�8:26,27;�1�Corinthians�14:4,15
9)� �The�Holy�Spirit’s�in-filling�is�necessary�to�exercise�the�nine�gifts�of�the�Spirit.�1Corinthians�12:
• Three gifts of Revelation and Information - to know
• Three gifts of Demonstration and Action - to do
• Three gifts of Inspiration and Edification - to speak
10)��The�Holy�Spirit�is�necessary�to�help�us�display�Christlike�character’�known�as��the�Fruit�of�the�Spirit�–�Galatians�5:22,23:
• Three in relation to God - love, joy, peace
• Three in relation to others - long-suffering, gentleness, goodness
• Three in relation to ourselves - faithfulness, meekness, self-control
How to be filled with the Holy Spirit�(Acts�9:17�)
•� �It�must�be�preceded�by�a�true�salvation�experience�of�repentance��(Acts�2:38)
Renounce�sin�by�true�repentance
� Request�the�Holy�Spirit�to�overwhelm�you
� Receive�God’s�gift�by�faith
� Release�your�faith�in�yielding�your�tongue
•� �Remember�it�is�a�free�gift�,�received�by�faith,�and�not�earned.�Galatians�3:2
•� �Ask�Christ�to�give�you�this�gift�and�He�will.��Luke�11:13;�Acts�11:3
•� Seek�God�in�prayer.�Acts�8:15
•� �Expect�to�receive�this�gift�by�laying�on�of�hands.�Acts�8:19
•� �Exercise�your�faith�by�speaking�in�an�unknown�tongue.�1�Cor�14:27
� �Remember,�it�is�the�Holy�Spirit�who��‘gives�the�utterance’,�but�you�must�speak.��You�will�speak�and�He�will�tell�you�what��to�say.�Acts�2:4
•� �Once�you’ve�received,�be�renewed�in�your�new�tongue�daily.�2�Corinthians�4:16�
It�may�be�beneficial�to�record�your�understanding�of�these�key�verses�relating�to�the�Baptism�of�the�Holy�Spirit.��Look them up�and�write your own comments:�John�7:37-39;�Luke�24:49;�Acts�1:4-8;�Acts�2:1-4,38;�Acts�8:14-17;�Acts�10:44-47;�Acts�19:1-6;�1�Corinthians�14:9,18
Day 14b Baptism of the Holy SpiritLubricated for Service
Truth Story
In�2004�I�was�about�to�return�to�Kenya,�East�Africa�to�speak�at�a�leadership�conference.��I�attended�a�prayer�meeting�the�night�before�I�departed.��A�young�lady�prayed�for�me,�sharing�that�she�had�not�laid�hands�on�anyone�before.��I�remember�the�encouragement�I�sensed�as�she�shared�a�prophetic�word�with�me.��
She�had�a�picture�of�a�spear�running�through�my�life�and�took�the�risk�to�share�this�word�picture�impression.��Interestingly,�the�Kenyan�flag�has�spears�as�its�symbol!��I�sensed�a�confirmation�that�what�I�was�about�to�do�was�right�in�the�centre�of�God’s�will�for�my�life.
Prayer
Lord,�let�faith�arise,�that�the�people�I�pray�for,�encounter�a�divine�exchange.�Lord,�let�people�know�your�love�by�my�touch.�May�the�words�that�you�put�on�my�heart�and�mind�build�them�up�(edify),�stir�them�up,�(exhort)�affirm�and�encourage�(comfort)�them.�Lord,�confirm�your�word�with�signs�following.�Amen.
Truth Verse
1 Timothy 4:14; 2 Timothy 1:6Do�not�neglect�your�gift,�which�was�given�you�through�prophecy�when�the�body�of�elders�laid�their�hands�on�you…��For�this�reason�I�remind�you�to�fan�into�flame�the�gift�of�God,�which�is�in�you�through�the�laying�on�of�my�hands.
Truth Unpacked
Truth�Unpacked:�God’s�use�of�the�laying�on�of�hands�represents�the�conferral�of�blessings,�authority�and�distinctiveness.��It�is�a�symbolic�act�designed�to�embody�God�Himself�setting�a�person�apart�for�a�holy�use,�whether�for�service,�healing,�protection�and�guidance�or�blessing.��The�act�of�laying�on�of�hands,�signifies:
•� �Transference/�Identification�–�Leveticus�1:4;�3:1-2;�16:7-10,�21;�2�Chronicles�29:23,24
•� Transmission�-�Genesis�48:14-19
•� �Impartation�-�Leviticus�14:18,�29;�Psalm�133
•� �Blessing�-�Genesis�48:13-14;Numbers�8:10;�2�Kings�13:16-17;�Matt�19:13-15;�Mark�10:13-16
•� �Healing�-�Luke�4:40;�13:11-13;�James�5:14-16;�Mark�5:23;�6:5;�8:23-25;�16:17,18;�Acts�5:12;�8:14-18;�9:17,18;�19:6;�28:8,9
•� �Spiritual�Gifts�-�1�Timothy�4:14;��2�Tim�1:6;�Romans�1:11
•� �Commission/Inauguration�-�Numbers�27:23;�Deut�34:9;�1�Timothy�5:22;�Acts�6:1-6;�13:2-3
� �Our�truth�verse�conveys�the�connection�that�is�often�found,�throughout�scripture,�between�prophecy�and�the�laying�on��of�hands.
The Purpose of Laying on of Hands:
•� �To�receive�spiritual�deliverance.����Mark�16:17-18;�Luke�4:40,�41
•� �To�receive�the�Holy�Spirit.����������Acts�8:5,17;�9:17;�19:6
•� �Physical�healing.�������������������������������������Matthew�8:2-4,�14,��15;�20:34;�19:13,15
•� �To�confirm�spiritual�gifts.���������������������������������������1�Timothy�4:14;�2�Timothy�1:6
•� �To�commission�for�service�(ministry)�Acts�6:1-6;�13:2-3
Day 15 Laying on of Hands‘To be sure, to be sure!’
Truth Story
The�Tabernacle�of�Moses�was�the�dwelling�place�of�God�in�the�Old�Testament.��The�curtain�fabric�of�the�tent�covering�was�undergirded�by�boards,�held�in�place�by�the�tenons,�which�from�the�original�Hebrew�means�hands.��Make�two�tenons�in�
each�board�for�dovetailing�and�fitting�together;�so�shall�you�do�for�all�the�tabernacle�boards…Each�board�had�two�tenons�(projections)�to�fit�into�a�mortise�to�form�a�clutch;�he�did�this�for�all�the�boards�of�the�tabernacle
Prayer
Lord,�I�agree�with�your�word�and�pursue�love,�and�desire�spiritual�gifts,�but�especially�that�I�may�prophesy.�Fulfil�your�word�Lord�and�pour�out�your�Spirit�on�all�flesh,�that�sons�and�daughters�shall�prophesy,�young�men�shall�see�visions�and�old�men�shall�dream�dreams.��
Help�me�to�find�my�place�in�your�body�-�set�me�in�a�local�church�family�that�is�hungry�and�thirsty�for�Your�ways
�Also,�help�me�to�‘just�do�it’�–�to�step�out�in�faith,�place�my�hands�on�the�sick�and�see�them�recover�through�the�power�of�Your�name.�‘Come�Holy�Spirit�move�in�my�life,�move�Holy�Spirit,�to�make�me�like�Christ.’��Amen.�
Truth Verse
Mark 16:17, 18 And�these�signs�will�accompany�those�who�believe:�In�my�name�they�will�drive�out�demons;�they�will�speak�in�new�tongues;�...�they�will�place�their�hands�on�sick�people,��and�they�will�get�well.
Truth Unpacked
The�tenons,�which�fitted�into�silver�bases,�speak�to�us�of�how�we�are�to�be�fitted�together,�connected�to�each�other,�set�in�our�place�within�the�Church,�Christ’s�many-membered�body.��These�interlocking�tenons,�or�hands,�are:�set�in�order�one�against�another,�‘joined�one�unto�another.’�
We�have�already�looked�at�why�hands�are�laid�on�people,�but�the�key�truth�
here�from�the�tenons�is�that�we�all�have�a�specific�placement�God�wants�us�to�discover,�alongside�others,��to�strengthen�the�local�church.��It�is�in�the�local�church�that�God��sets�members�in�the�body�as�it�pleases�Him.�
When�New�testament�prophets�laid�hands�on�people�they�said�much�to�encourage�and�strengthen�believers.
Day 16 Laying on of HandsNike Church – ‘Just do it!’
Day Topic Title Truth Verse
Reading before session 4
God’s Plan for our Future Wellbeing
17 Resurrection of the Dead
The Interim Reward -Heaven 2 Corinthians 5:1-8
18 Resurrection of the Dead
The Ultimate Reward – Eternal Reunions
1 Thessalonians 4:15-17
19 Eternal Judgment Don’t say I never told you Acts 17:31
20 Eternal Judgment The Future is Bright – Anticipating Eternity 1 Corinthians 15
21 Recap Do and Review Hebrews 6:1-3
SESSION 4
God’s�Plan��for�Our�Future��Wellbeing
4020 0023 2256 7369
00/00 00/00CARDHOLDER NAMEVALID
FROM
EXPIRESEND
Ultimate Reward
4000 0012 5656 7697
00/00 00/00
CARDHOLDER NAME
VALIDFROM
EXPIRES
END
Reward
4000 0012 3456 7899
00/00 00/00CARDHOLDER NAMEVALID
FROM
EXPIRESEND
StandardTruth Story
A�major�bank�in�the�UK�has�three�major�types�of�Visa�Debit�account.��They�are�known�as�the�Standard�current�account,�the�Reward�current�account�and�the�Ultimate Reward�current�account.��These�three�account�cards�are�a�great�way�of�comparing�the�three�stages�of�our�existence:
•� �Standard�–�our�present�life�on�earth�(1�Tim�4:8;�John�10:10;�1�Peter�4:2)
•� �Reward�–�the�present�or�first�heaven;�a�temporary�residence�where�departed�saints�live�until�the�return�of�Christ�and�our�bodily�resurrection�(Revelation�21:1,22,23;�John�11:25;�Luke�16:22-26)
•� �Ultimate�Reward�–�the�eternal�heaven,�the�new�earth,�our�true�home,�the�place�where�we�will�live�forever�with�the�Lord�and�one�another.(John3:16,36;�6:47;�1�John�2:25;�Jude�1:21;�Luke�18:30)
Prayer
Lord,�help�me�to�live�each�day�as�if�it�was�my�last�day�here.��I�realise�that�there�is�a�time�...for�my�departure!�Lord,�like�the�Bible�heroes�and�heroines�of�faith,�help�me�during�my�time�on�earth�to�lay�up�treasure�in�heaven.�I�am�looking��for�that�better�country�–�a�heavenly�one�–�with�Christ,�which�is�far�better.
Truth Verse
2 Corinthians 5:1-8; Philippians 1:22-24 Heaven – Better by FarNow�we�know�that�if�the�earthly�tent�we�live��in�is�destroyed,�we�have�a�building�from�God,�an�eternal�house�in�heaven,�not�built�by�human�hands.��Meanwhile�we�groan,�longing�to�be�clothed�with�our�heavenly�dwelling,�because�when�we�are�clothed,�we�will�not�be�found�naked...We�are�confident,�I�say,�and�would�prefer�to�be�away�from�the�body�and�at�home�with�the�Lord.�I�desire�to�depart�and�be�with�Christ,�which�is�far�better.
Truth Unpacked
In�this�study�we�explore�the�middle�stage�–�Reward:�the�present�or�first�heaven.��From�our�truth�verses�there�is�the�certainty�of�physical�resurrection�and�transformation�(v�1-5),�the�confidence�that�death�begins�a�journey�(v�6-7)�and�the�assurance�that�death�places�us�in�the�presence�of�Christ�(v�8).��First,�resurrection�transformation�is�the�inevitable�result�of�the�Spirit’s�regenerative�and�renewing�work�within�us.��Second,�the�language�of�tent,�building,�house�and�clothed�indicates�that�our�future�life�with�the�Lord�will�involve�some�form�of�material�existence.��Today�you�will�be�with�me�in�paradise�means�that�there�is�immediate�life�after�
death�-�some�manner�of�continuity�between�our�present�and�future�forms�of�existence.��Finally,�it�is�the�down�payment�of�the�Spirit�that�ensures�continuity�between�present�and�future�modes�of�existence.��Heaven�is�the�place�God�lives�(Deuteronomy�26:15;�Matt�6:9).��It’s�where�He�sits�on�the�throne�and�dwells�in�all�His�holiness�(Revelation�4:2-8;�Isaiah�6).��Heaven�is�‘the�abode�of�God�and�of�the�righteous�after�death’�(Heb�8:5;�9:11,23-24).��Heaven�is�where�Christ�came�from�(John�6:42),�where�He�returned�to�(Acts�1:1�1),�where�He�now�is�and�from�which�He�will�return�to�earth�(Acts�1:11;�Revelation�19:11-16;�John�14)�‘Mansions’�means�home�or��‘Stopping�place�on�a�journey’.
Day 17 Resurrection of the DeadThe Interim Reward - Heaven
Truth Story
The Ultimate Reward Current Account has�benefits�that�neither�the�Reward�or�Current�account�can�offer.��For�a�monthly�fee,�the�Ultimate�Reward�includes�many�added�value�benefits:�worldwide�travel�insurance,�mobile�phone�insurance,�car�breakdown�insurance�cover,�a�variety�of�specially�negotiated�discounts�and�a�fee�free�overdraft.
The�Christian�faith�is�more�than�the�current -�life�on�earth�and�more�than�the�reward�-�our�interim�heaven�experience�at�death.��Christ’s�death,�burial�and�resurrection�paid�the�redemptive�price�for�our�eternal�salvation�-�ultimately�fulfilled�in�our�bodily�resurrection,�future�rewards�and�joyful�reunions�with�family��and�friends!
Prayer
Lord,�thank�you�for�including�us�in�the�first�resurrection�–�the�awakening�to�eternal�life.�Lord,�enable�me�to�share�my�faith�with�others�and�the�rewards,�reunions�and�the�bodily�resurrection�that�await�those�who�love�you�and��your�coming.
Truth Verse
1 Thessalonians 4:15-17 We�tell�you�that�we�who�are�still�alive,�who��are�left�till�the�coming�of�the�Lord,�will�certainly��not�precede�those�who�have�fallen�asleep.���For�the�Lord�himself�will�come�down�from�heaven,�with�a�loud�command,�with�the�voice��of�the�archangel�and�with�the�trumpet�call��of�God,�and�the�dead�in�Christ�will�rise�first.���After�that,�we�who�are�still�alive�and�are�left��will�be�caught�up�together�with�them�in�the�clouds�to�meet�the�Lord�in�the�air.�And�so��we�will�be�with�the�Lord�forever.��
Truth Unpacked
Resurrection�means�a��‘raising�up’�or�‘to�rise’
The Three Resurrections:
1)� �Past Resurrection - Christ’s Bodily Resurrection�John�11:25,26;�John�2:19;5:29;�Matthew�28:1-10;�Luke�24:13-46;�1�Corinthians�15:5-8,20;�Romans�1:4;�2�Timothy�1:10
2) Present Resurrection - Spiritual Resurrection of Believers��Colossians�3:1,2;�Colossians�2:12-3:17;�Ephesians�2:1-6;�Romans�6:4-11;�2�Corinthians�5:14-17;�Galatians�2:19,20
3) Future Resurrection - The Ultimate Resurrection, following Christ’s Second Coming��John�6:39-44,54;�11:23,24;�1�Peter�1:3;�1�Corinthians�15:23,51,52;�Philippians�3:11
“Aim�at�heaven�and�you��will�get�earth�thrown�in.�Aim�at�earth�and�you��get�neither”���������������������������
C.�S.�Lewis
Day 18 Resurrection of the DeadThe Ultimate Reward – Eternal Reunions
Today’s Focus – Ultimate Resurrections1000�year�timeframe
First�Resurrection�� Rev20:�4–6� Second�Resurrection
Resurrection�of�the�Just� Acts�24:15� Resurrection�of�the�Unjust
Resurrection�of�Life� John�5:29� Resurrection�of�Death
Awakening�to�Eternal Life� Daniel�5:29� Awakening�to Shameand Everlasting contempt
Better Resurrection� Heb�11:35
4000 0012 3456 7899
00/00 00/00
CARDHOLDER NAMEVALIDFROM
EXPIRESEND
Truth Story
In�the�United�Kingdom,�royal�visits�involve�formalities�and�customs�to�be�followed.��The�Lord�Lieutenant�and�his�office�are�appointed�as�her�majesty’s�representative,�responsible�for�the�conduct�of�royal�visits.�The�New�Testament�word�for�royal�or�state�visit�
is�the�Greek�word�‘parousia’,�meaning�coming,�arrival�or�physical�presence.�It�is�used�twenty-four�times�in�the�New�Testament,�particularly�of�the�Second�Coming�of�Jesus�as�King��of�kings.
Prayer
Lord,�thank�you�that�you�have�already�taken�my�judgment�for�sin�on�the�cross.��I�look�forward�to�your�return�that�where�you�are�I�will�be�also.��Thank�you�for�the�foundation�of�Christ’s�being�and�redemptive�work�in�my�life�-�thank�you�for�granting�me�an�abundant�entry�into�your�eternal�kingdom,�preserved�sound�and�blameless�-�confident��and�unashamed�before�you�at�your�coming.
Truth Verse
Acts 17:31 For�he�has�set�a�day�when�he�will�judge�the�world�with�justice�by�the�man�he�has�appointed.��He�has�given�proof�of�this�to�all�men�by�raising�him�from�the�dead.
Truth Unpacked
King�Jesus’�‘coming’�involves�a�day�when�he�will�judge�the�world�with�justice. To judge�means�‘to�separate;�to�make�a�distinction�between;�to�exercise�judgment�upon;�to�estimate;�to�bring�to�trial,�to�sentence;�to�be�brought�to�account,�to�administer�government�over.’•� �There�will�be�an�appointed day�of�judgment�-�for�the�believer�and�for�the�unbeliever������������2�Corinthians�5:10;�Romans�14:10;�Acts�24:15;�Revelation�20:11-15
•� �There�will�be�an�appointed judge�-�John�5:22-27;�Matt�25:31-32;�2�Tim�4:1;�Acts�10:42
•� �There�will�be�an�appointed purpose�in�this�judgment:�
1.� �To�reveal�the�true�condition�of�people.��Matthew�10:26;�1�Corinthians�4:5
2.� �To�determine�the�value�of�all�the�works�we�have�done.��1�Corinthians�3:13
3.� �To�publicly�reward�the�deeds�done�in�the�body.��Matthew�16:27;�Romans�2:6-9;�Revelation�22:12
•� �There�will�be�appointed principles and standards�of�judgment:
1.� �With�a�righteous�judgment�Revelation�19:11;�Acts�17:31;�Psalm�96:13
2.� �According�to�God’s�holy�standards��������������������������Romans�2:6,10-12;�Revelation�22:12
3.� �According�to�their�attitude�to�Christ�������������������������������John�12:48;�Luke�12:8,9
4.� �According�to�the�measure�of�light�and�opportunity�given�them���Matthew�11:21-24
5.� �Personal�responsibility�and�personal�conduct�–Romans�2:5,6;�4:10,12;�2�Corinthians�5:1�
6.� �With�divine�impartiality���������������������������������������������������������������1�Peter�1:17
7.� �With�divine�all-knowledge�(omniscience)���������������John�8:15,16;�Revelation�20:12,15�
8.� �In�line�with�the�Word���������������������������������������������������������������John�12:48,49
Day 19 Eternal JudgmentDon’t say I never told you
Truth Story
Arguably�the�greatest�footballer�in�the�world,�Kaka�wore�his�‘I belong�to�Jesus’�vest�when�Milan�won�Serie�A�in�2004�and�has�‘God�is�faithful’�stitched�on�to�the�tongues�of�his�boots.��Belonging means:
•� �being�the�property�of�a�person��or�thing��
•� �being�attached�or�bound�by��birth,�allegiance,�or�dependency�(eg�homeland)
•� �being�a�member�of�a�club,�organization,�or�set.��Kaka�clearly�expresses�his�primary�attachment�and�allegiance.
Truth Verse
1 Corinthians 15:20-24, 35-58 The�resurrection�of�the�dead�comes�also�through�a�man.�For�as�in�Adam�all�die,�so�in�Christ�all�will�be�made�alive.�But�each�in�his�own�turn:�Christ,�the�firstfruits;�then,�when�he�comes,�those�who�belong�to�him.�Then�the�end�will�come,�when�he�hands�over�the�kingdom�to�God�the�Father�after�he�has�destroyed�all�dominion,�authority�and�power…so�shall�we�bear�the�likeness�of�the�man�from�heaven…Therefore,�my�dear�brothers,�stand�firm.��Let�nothing�move�you.�Always�give�yourselves�fully�to�the�work�of�the�Lord,�because�you�know�that�your�labour�in�the�Lord�is�not�in�vain.��� Prayer
Lord,�help�us�to�be�those�who�know�you�and�the�power�of�your�resurrection.��Lift�our�vision�to�anticipate�eternity.��Help�us�then�to�bring�the�hope�of�this�heavenly�kingdom�to�our�local�communities.��We�thank�you�Jesus�that�we�belong��to�the man from heaven,�who�has��a�heavenly�inheritance�for�us�that��can�never�perish,�spoil�or�fade.
Truth Unpacked
The�truth�verse�sets�out�the�resurrection�order�–�first�Jesus�and�then�those who belong to him.���The�fact�that�Jesus�already�has�His�resurrected�body�and�our�citizenship�(allegiance)�is�in�heaven��as�those who belong to him.��We�are�those�who��lay�up�treasure�for�ourselves�as�a�firm�foundation�for�the�coming�age,�so�that�we�may�take�hold�of��the�life�that�is�truly�life.
The�grim�contrast�here�is�that�those�who�do not belong�to�Him�will�be�judged;�not�only�for�their�sins,�but�especially�for�the�great�damning�sin�of�unbelief.��Surely�the�unpardonable�sin�is�to�reject�Jesus�Christ�as�Saviour�and�Lord!��No�one�need�experience�this�judgment,�if�only�they�accept�Christ�as�Saviour�and�resurrected�Lord.��The�final�destination�and�eternal�judgment�of�all�Christ-rejecters�and�fallen�angels�will�be�the�eternal��lake�of�fire.�Revelation�20:12-15.
A�continual�looking�forward�to�the�eternal�world�is�not�a�form�of�escapism�or�wishful�thinking,�but�one�of�the�things�a�Christian�is�meant�to�do.�It�does�not�mean�that�we�are�to�leave�the�present�world�as�it�is.�If�you�read�history,�you�will�find�that�the Christians who did the most for the present world were just those who thought most of the next.�
C.�S.�LEWIS�(1898–1963)
Day 20 Eternal JudgmentThe future is Bright – Anticipating Eternity
I BELONGTO JESUS!
Truth Verse
Hebrews 6:1-3 Therefore�let�us�leave�the�elementary�teachings�about�Christ�and�go�on�to�maturity,�not�laying�again�the��foundation�of...�1.� Repentance�from�acts��� that�lead�to�death,�and�of�2.� Faith�in�God,�3.� Instruction�about�baptisms4.� The�laying�on�of�hands,�5.� The�resurrection�of�the�dead,�6.� �And�eternal�judgment.�� And,�God�permitting,��� we�will�do�so.
Prayer
Take�the�words�from�the�titles�of�each�session�above,�meditate�on�the�graphics�and�then�write�a�personal�prayer�starting�‘Lord�please�help�me...
Day 21 RecapDo and Review
4000 0012 3456 789900/00 00/00CARDHOLDER NAME
VALIDFROM
EXPIRESEND
Prepare a Prayer: Take the words from the titles of each session above, meditate on the graphics and then write a personal prayer starting ‘Lord please help me...
Day Topic Title Truth Verse
Reading before session 5
Partnering with a Local Church Family
22 Partnering with a Local Church Belonging is Crucial Acts 2:41,47
23 Partnering with a Local Church Little and Large Acts 20:20
24 Partnering with a Local Church
What to Look For as you Get Connected Acts 2
25 Partnering with a Local Church
Building Blocks from the First Church Acts 2
26 Partnering with a Local Church
Building Blocks from the First Church Acts 2
27 Partnering with a Local Church
Building Blocks from the First Church Acts 2
28 Partnering with a Local Church D.I.Y. Christianity Acts 2:42,46
SESSION 5
Partnering�with�aLocal�Church�Family
Truth Story
When�a�newborn�baby�comes�into�the�world�they�are�normally�added�to�a�family�and�immediately�sense�what�it�is�to�belong.�If�children�do�not�have�love,�safety,�food�and�warmth�that�child�will�be�suffering�neglect,�as�the�denial�of�the�basic�needs�that�affect�their�health,�development�and�safety.�We�would�never�think�of�placing�an�infant�on�a�doorstep�to�fend�for��itself�–�neither�does�God.
Truth Verse
Acts 2:41,47 Those�who�accepted�his�message�were�baptised,�and�about�three�thousand�were�added�to�their�number�that�day...�praising�God�and�enjoying�the�favour�of�all�the�people.��And�the�Lord�added�to�their�number�daily�those�who�were�being�saved.��
Prayer
Lord,�we�pray�that�the�love�of�God�would�be�so�evident�in�our�local�church�that�people�will�sense�your�embrace�to�belong�and�then�believe�and�enjoy�being�part�of�your�great�family�plan��to�serve�one�another�in�love.
Truth Unpacked
Jesus�tells�us�that�to�enter�the�Kingdom�of�God�we�must�be�spiritually�reborn,�what�the�Bible�calls�being�born�of�God.��As�newborn�Christians�we�are�not�only�to�be�born�into�the�Kingdom�but�also�to�be�added�to�the�church�–�the�family�of�God.�
Within�the�very�Godhead�of�Father,�Son�and�Holy�Spirit�a�family-community�is�encountered�and�exemplified�to�us.
In�Acts�Chapter�2�we�see�at�the�birth�of�the�church,�God’s�plan�for�a�corporate�community�of�love�and�acceptance,�often�referred�to�as�the�family�of�God.��When�the�one�hundred�and�twenty�people�who�started�praying�in�that�upper�room�in�Jerusalem�experienced�the�move�of�the�Holy�Spirit,�those�who�came�to�faith�in�Christ�were�baptised,�and�about�three�thousand�were�added�to�their�number�that�day.��This�outbreak�of�faith�continued�at�a�pace�and�the�Lord�added�to�their�number�daily�those�who�were�being�saved.��The�story�doesn’t�stop�
there,�with�Acts�chapter�5�informing�us�of�phenomenal�growth,�in�that�more�and�more�men�and�women�believed�in�the�Lord�and�were�added�to�their�number.�
The�family�of�God�or�those�who�belong�to�the�family�of�believers�are�the�apple�of�God’s�eye.��The�apostle�Paul�tells�us�that�as�Christ,�the�bridegroom�loves�the�church,�which�is�His�bride,�are�to�be�His�much-loved�community.��Remember�Christ�loved�the�church�so�much�that�he�gave�his�life�for�her�and�will�never�neglect�her.��Individualism�is�rampant�–�a�case�in�point�being�that�many�of�us�hardly�know�who�lives�in�our�own�street!��Christ’s�call�to�us�is�clear�–�He�desires�us�to�belong�to�the�family�of�God.
Let�us�consider�how�we�may�spur�one another�on�toward�love�and�good�deeds,�not�giving�up�meeting�together,�as�some�are�in�the�habit�of�doing,�but�encouraging�one another—and�all�the�more�as�you�see�the�Day�approaching.�
Day 22 Partnering with a Local ChurchBelonging is Crucial
Truth Story
We�inherited�a�lovely�garden�which�encouraged�the�visits�of�a�variety�of�birds.��We�often�see�robin�red�breasts,�sparrows,�pigeons�and�magpies.��We�see�increased�visits,�if�we�only�remember�to�restock�the�nut�bag�which�hangs�on�our�tree.��To�date�all�the�birds�that�have�visited�have�had�
two�wings!��I�have,�however,�seen�birds�that�have�had�injured�wings.��They�can�survive�for�a�time�with�a�damaged�wing,�but�usually�not�for�long.��Cats�are�also�regular�visitors��to�our�garden,�stalking�the�garden��in�search�of�their�next�dinner.��Any�one-winged�bird�would�certainly��be�a�vulnerable�prey.
Truth Verse:
Acts 20:20 You�know�that�I�have�not�hesitated�to�preach�anything�that��would�be�helpful�to�you�but�have�taught�you�publicly�and from house to house.���
Prayer
Lord,�inspire�us�to�consider�how�best�we�would�create�small�group�communities�of�friendship�that�would�permeate�society�with�Your�love,�light�and�grace.��Amen.
Truth Unpacked
The�scriptures�are�clear�that,�as�at�the�birth�of�the�church�in�Acts�2�every�day�they�continued�to�meet�in�the�temple courts.��They�broke�bread�in�their homes�and�ate�together�with�glad�and�sincere�hearts,�praising�God�and�enjoying�the�favour�of�all�the�people.
One wing was public or corporate�temple�courts�and�the other wing was smaller and highly relational,�in�their�homes.��In�his�book�‘The�Second�Reformation’�Bill�Beckham�argues�that�for�centuries�the�church�only�had�one�wing�–�meetings�in�large�settings�and�this�was�disastrous.�‘The�Two�Winged�Church�that�had�soared�high�in�the�heavens�was�now�for�all�practical�purposes�one-winged.��Now�with�only�one�wing,�just�lifting�off�the�ground�required�tremendous�energy�and�effort.��And�if�the�church�did�manage�to�become�airborne,�it�was�prone�to�fly�in�circles,�lose�its�sense�of�direction,�and�
not�fly�very�far�from�its�take�off�point.��Spending�more�and�more�time�in�the�safety�and�comfort�of�its�habitat,�it�grew�contented�with�an�earthbound�existence.’��The�great�news�is�that�many�churches�today�have�successfully�restored�‘Little�and�Large’�–�home,�cell,�connect�or�life�groups�being�Little;�without�doing�away�with�the�Large�corporate�expression�of�meeting�together�as�a�congregation.�
Phil�Potter,�in�his�book�‘The�Challenge�of�Cell�Church,”2�has�an�A�to�E�outline�which�embodies�the�values�and�vision�of�such�missional�groups.�
•� All�involved�
•� Becoming�Disciples�
•� Creating�Community�
•� Doing�Evangelism�
•� Encountering�God�
Day 23 Partnering with a Local ChurchLittle and Large
Truth Story
In�1669�Sir�Christopher�Wren�was�named�Royal�Architect,�a�post�he�retained�for�more�than�forty-five�years.��The�greatest�and�most�celebrated�design�was�Saint�Paul’s�Cathedral�in�London.��From�1670�to�1711�he�designed�fifty-two�London�churches,�most�of�which�still�stand,�notable�for�their�varied�and�original�designs�and�for�their�fine�spires.��There�is�a�famous�story�which�involves�Wren�visiting�the�St�Paul’s�
building�site�and�speaking�to�three�unsuspecting�stone�masons.�Wren�asked�each�mason�what�he�was�doing.��The�reply�came�back�from�the�first�mason�‘just�earning�a�living”;�the�second�mason�replied�that�he�was�‘just�building�a�wall’.��When�he�asked�the�same�question�to�the�third,�rather�insightful�mason,�his�reply�was�‘Helping�Sir�Christopher�Wren�build�a�great�cathedral�to�the�Almighty!’
Truth Verse
Matthew 16:18 & Ephesians 5:25 I�will�build�my�church,�and�the�gates�of�Hades�will�not�overcome�it.�Husbands,�love�your�wives,�just�as�Christ�loved�the�church�and�gave�himself�up�for�her.
Truth Unpacked
We�gain�perspective�when�we�understand�we�are�supporting�Jesus’�architectural�vision�of�building�His�church.��Jesus�and�His�church�become�our�raison�d’être-�our�reason�for�living.��Jesus�said�I�will�build�my�church.��Consider�too,�Isaiah’s�prophetic�challenge�to�us,�asking�what�sort�of�house�will�you�build�me?��Are�we�just�dutifully�going�along�to�church�or�do�have�a�different�perspective?��Serving�God�and�His�purposes�becomes�paramount�when�we�realize�that�we�actually�are�the�church,�His�church�–�the�‘called�out�ones’�-�God’s�expression�of�the�Kingdom�of�God�on�earth�today!
Christian�Swartz�is�a�church�growth�consultant,�who�has�produced�the�most�comprehensive�research�on�church�health�and�growth�ever�conducted.�
More�than�1000�churches�in�thirty-two�countries�on�all�six�continents�took�part�in�his�study�called�Natural�Church�Development.��In�the�end,�nearly�4.2�million�responses�were�analyzed.��His�approach�is�that,�just�as�crops�grow�all�by�themselves�if�the�weeds�are�taken�out�of�the�way,�churches�will�experience�growth�when�those�barriers�to�growth�are�removed.��With�this�as�the�backdrop,�Schwarz�identifies�eight�distinctive�quality�characteristics,�which�are�seemingly�more�developed�in�growing�churches�than�in�those�he�sees�as�experiencing�zero�or�negative�growth.��These�require�‘unpacking’�but�listed�are:�Empowering Leadership • Gift-Oriented Ministry • Passionate Spirituality • Functional Structures • Inspiring Worship Services • Holistic Small Groups • Need-Oriented Evangelism • Loving Relationships. 3
Prayer
Lord,�help�us�to�remove�the�weeds�and�barriers�that�hinder�personal�growth.�Thank�you�that�you�are�the�architect�and�builder�of�your�church.��Help�me�to�connect�to�Your�agenda�so�that�it�becomes�my�agenda,�that�Your�ways�become�my�ways.�Thank�you�that�you�loved�the�church�and�gave�yourself�for�it.��Amen.�
Day 24 Partnering with a Local ChurchWhat to look for as you Get Connected
Gift-Oriented Ministry
Passionate Spirituality
Functional
Structures
Inspiring
Worship Services
Need-Oriented
Evangelism
Loving Relationships
Holistic Small Groups
Empowering Leadership
Truth Story
Jenga�is�a�game�made�of�wooden�blocks�which�tests�manual�dexterity�and�mental�strength.��Its�popularity�is�seen�in�the�fact�that�there�are�over�50�million�games�sold�worldwide�(equivalent�of�2.7�billion�Jenga�blocks).��Jenga�is�played�with�54�wooden�blocks�which�are�stacked�into�a�tower�(18�levels�of�3).��Without�going�into�all�the�rules�and�regulations�it�is�
sufficient�to�say�that�the�game�ends�when�the�tower�falls�in�even�a�minor�way—in�other�words,�if any block falls from the tower,�other�than�the�piece�being�knocked�out�to�move�to�the�top.��The�loser�is�the�person�who�made�the�tower�fall.��However,�if�one�or�more�blocks�fall�but�all�players�agree�that�they�can�be�put�back�on�the�tower�for�play�to�resume,�that�is�in�keeping�with�the�cooperative�nature�of�the�game.
Truth Verse
Acts 2:42 They�continually�devoted�themselves�to�the�teaching��of�the�apostles,�to�fellowship,�to�the�breaking�of�bread��and�to�prayer.����
Truth Unpacked
I�liken�Acts�2�to�our�full�quota�spiritual�Jenga�tower.��Let�us�ask�some�questions�based�on�this�early�church�example.��No�one�wants�to�lose�out,�by�any�‘building�block’�being�removed�from��its�rightful�place.
1. Apostolic Teaching v42 Is�the�church�a�Christ-centred�(teaching)�community?
2. Fellowship v42��Does�the�church�have�the��‘great�commandment�principle�’(see�Matthew�22:37-40)�as�the��basis�for�their�relationships?
3. Breaking Bread v42��Does�the�church�celebrate��the�work�of�Christ?
4. Prayers v42��Is�the�church�involved��in�intercessory�prayer?
Prayer
Lord,�we�pray�for�our�leaders�that�they�will�not�miss�any�spiritual�building�block�you�desire�to�restore�to�your�church.��Restore,�Lord�–�not�by�might,�not�by�power�but�by�your�Spirit.��Raise�up�the�old�age�foundations,�Lord,�and�be�the�repairer�of�the�broken�walls�in�our�day.���Amen.
Day 25 Partnering with a Local ChurchBuilding Blocks from the First Church
Truth Story
I�remember�before�days�with�the�gas�fire,�the�joys�and�challenges�of�having�to�make�a�coal�fire�from�scratch.�The�newspapers�were�twisted�and�strategically�placed�with�sticks,�a�firelighter�in�place�for�a�speedy�light�then�the�coal�was�added�on�top.��
The�draught�soon�caught�or�was�aided�by�a�newspaper�placed�over�the�fireplace.��We�even�added�sugar�–�that�was�my�granny’s�idea.��If�a�hot�coal�fell�from�its�place�onto�the�hearth,�it�soon�became�a�dying�ember.�
Truth Verse
Acts 2:46, 47 A�sense�of�awe�came�over�everyone,�and�many�wonders�and�signs�were�being�done�by�the�apostles.��All�the�believers�were�together,�and�they�shared�everything�with�one�another.��They�made�it�their�practice�to�sell�their�possessions�and�goods�and�to�distribute�the�proceeds�to�anyone��who�was�in�need.���
Church-goers�are�like�coals�in�fire.�When�they�cling�together,�they�keep�the�flame�aglow;��when�they�separate,�they�die�out.��������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������
Billy Graham (1918–�A)
Prayer
Lord,�thank�you�for�all�the��expressions�of�your�church.��Help�me�to�get�connected�and�participate�in�a�local�church�–��‘the�hope�of�the�world’.
Truth Unpacked
Christianity�is�not�a�faith�to�be�lived�in�isolation.��We�are�to�be�hot�living�members,�(like�the�coal)�not�dying�embers�that�fizzle�out�and�lose�our�spiritual�passion�and�energy.��This�is�why�being�a�functioning�member�of�a�local�church�is�so�crucial.
(Building Blocks continued)
5.��Fear�of�God�v43�Do�you�sense�God’s��presence�in�the�church?
6.��Signs�and�wonders�v43�Does�the�church��believe�in�the�supernatural�power�of�God��to�save,�heal�and�deliver?
7.��Social�Concern�v44,�45�Does�the�church��have�involvement�in�social�action�care?
Day 26 Partnering with a Local ChurchBuilding blocks from the First Church
Truth Story
We�ask�the�leaf,�‘Are�you�complete�in�yourself?’�and�the�leaf�answers,‘No,�my�life�is�in�the�branches.’�We�ask�the�branch,�and�the�branch�answers,�‘No,�my�life�is�in�the�trunk.’�We�ask�the�trunk,�and�it�answers,�‘No,�my�life�is�in�the�root.’�We�ask�the�root,�and�it�answers,�‘No,�my�life�is�in�the�trunk�
and�the�branches�and�the�leaves.��Keep�the�branches�stripped�of�leaves�and�I�shall�die.’��So�it�is�with�the�great�tree�of�being.�Nothing is completely and merely individual.
Edward Everett (1794–1865)
Truth Verse
Acts 2:46, 47 They�had�a�single�purpose�(unity�of�spirit)�and�went�to�the�Temple�every�day.��They�ate�at�each�other’s�homes�and�shared�their�food�with�glad�and�humble�hearts.��They�kept�praising�God�and�enjoying�the�good�will�of�all�the�people.��And�every�day�the�Lord�was�adding�to�them�people�who��were�being�saved.���
I�am�the�vine,�you�are�the�branches,�he�who�abides�in�Me,�and�I�in�him,�he�bears�much�fruit,�for�apart�from�Me�you�can�do�nothing.����������������������������������������������������������������������������������
John 15:5
Prayer
Lord,�help�my�life�to�be�like�the�trees�of�the�Lord�that�are�full�of�sap.��Let�me�be�a�conduit�of�Your�presence�to�a�lost�and�hurting�world.��When�I�encounter�places�of�fragmented�and�broken�relationships�help�me�to�be�a�voice�of�encouragement,�accompanied�with�your�touch�of�healing�and�mercy.�Lord,�let�me�stay�connected�to�You,�the�True�Vine,�that�I�would�be�a�branch�that��is�productive�and�fruitful.
Truth Unpacked
(Building Blocks Continued)
8.� �Unity of Spirit v 46�Do�you�sense��a�spirit�of�(unanimity)�harmony?
9.� Enthusiastic Joy v46�Are�the�people��humorous�or�stuffy?
10.� �Praises to God v47�Is�it�a�community��with�a�vibrant�worship�dynamic?
11.� �Social impact v47 Is�social�relief�&��mission�at�the�heart�of�the�church?
12. Identification v47�Is�there�a�desire�to��belong�to�this�kind�of�church�family?
Day 27 Partnering with a Local ChurchBuilding blocks from the First Church
Truth Story
The�Swedish�furniture�IKEA�has�a�vision�to�create�a�better�everyday�life�for�everyone.��Their�business�idea�supports�this�vision�by�offering�a�wide�range�of�well-designed,�functional�home�furnishing�products�at�prices�so�low�that�as�many�people�as�possible�will�be�able�to�afford�them.��If�you�have�invested�in�
some�of�their�D.I.Y.�self�assembly�furniture,�you�will�know�both�the�challenges�of�finding�your�way�out�of�the�one�way�system�and�the�joy�of�turning�a�flat�pack�into�an�aesthetically�pleasing�piece�of�furniture.��The�instructions�and�diagrams�for�assembly�are�always�included,�yet�I�am�always�amazed�when�I�have�pieces�left�over!
Truth Verse
Acts 2:42,46 They�devoted�themselves�...��Every�day�they�continued.���
Prayer
Lord,�let�the�Spirit�of�Truth�continue�to�guide�me.��You�testify�of�Jesus,�the�way�the�truth�and�the�life.��Lord,�please�help�me�to�hold�to�your�teaching,�that�I�may�really�be�your�disciple.�When�I�know�the�truth,�it’s�the�truth�that�will�set�me�free.��
Amen.
Truth Unpacked
Over�this�past�month�we�have�looked�at�the�manufacturer’s�instruction�guide�–�the�scriptures,�which�are�able�to�make�us�wise�unto�salvation.��The�daily�devotionals�have�been�designed�as�a�guide,�to�help�you�continue�on�your�faith-�journey.��Now�that�foundations�truths�have�been�established�from�the�scripture�we�are�encouraged�to�go�on�to�maturity.��Like�newborn�babies�are�weaned�from�drinking�milk�to�baby�foods�and�then�on�to�solids,�may�your�faith�ever�grow�in�the�grace�and�knowledge�of�Christ.��I�trust�that�your�spiritual�senses�will�grow�too,�discerning�between�good�and�evil.�
My�hope�is�that,�as�we�have�mined�and�unearthed�various�facets�of�foundational�Christian�truth,�you�will�now�continue�to�devote�yourselves�every�day�to�be�renewed�in�the�spirit�of�your�mind�through�reading�the�good�Word�of�God.�
May�you�continue�to�walk�in�freedom,�counteracting�the�accusations�of�the�enemy�of�your�soul,�by�feeding�your��faith�and�starving�your�doubts.�
The�Lord�has�won�the�victory�on�the�Cross,�but�now�we�are�to�individually�contend�for�the�faith�once�delivered�to�the�saints�by�fighting�the�fight�of�faith�–�this�is�the�victory�that�overcomes,�even�our�faith.�
Day 28 Partnering with a Local ChurchD.I.Y. Christianity
Paul has a passion to mobilize and inspire believers to become radical revivalist disciples. His prayer is that God would restore modern day Patricks, men and women who would be empowered by God’s presence to extend the Kingdom of God across Ireland and the nations. Paul has a degree in theology and is fellowshipping at Willowfield Parish Church, an outward focused church in East Belfast. He works in the finance industry and lives with his wife Caroline and three sons in Belfast. For further details of how to host this course in your church contact Paul at [email protected]
Artwork/Graphics: Shane Carmichael (Paul’s nephew) e: [email protected]
A few leaders’ comments on the course
�“�Paul�ran�his�foundation�course�for�us�in�Emmanuel.�He�has�hit�the�mark�with�this�course�which�is�jam-�packed�with�scriptural�insight�and�informational�resource�for��the�young�and�not�so�young�believer�alike.��He�presents�it�in�a�communicative�fashion�which�allows�feedback�and�questions.�The�course�portrays�Paul’s�pastoral�communicative�personality�and�I�personally�sat�through�the�course�and�found�it�highly�informative,�instructive�and�fun;�a�great�blend�in�discipling�new�believers.�A�great�discipleship�course�for�any�church�serious�about�growing�their�people��to�be�Christ-like.”��
Philip Emerson. Senior Pastor. Emmanuel Church Lurgan
“�Paul�Bradley�has�provided�an�innovative�resource�to�equip�the�modern�believer�in�the�foundations�of�their�faith.�He�draws�upon�his�multi-faceted�teaching,�pastoral�and�worship�gifts�to�present�a�visual�journey�through�the�teachings�of�our�New�Testament�faith.�He�has�bridged�the�sometimes�difficult�gap�between�the�precious�truths�of�Scripture�and�the�way�21st�century�people�think�and�assimilate�information.�Paul�presents�his�material��with�enthusiasm,�humour�and�insight�that��will�help�transform�his�listeners�into�the��image�of�Christ.”��
Mike Herron - Worship Pastor & Leader, Prophetic Teacher, Composer, Author, Playwright & Recording Artist (www.mikeherronmusic.org
A few leaders’ comments on the course...
“�I�truly�enjoyed�Paul�Bradley’s�new�“Truth�Unpacked”�foundations�series.�Paul�has�a�unique�ability�to�pair�the�appropriate�scriptures�and�comment�with�each�foundational�truth�explained.�He�maneuvers�skillfully�around�the�trap�of�making�the�teaching�look�like�a�mere�recital�of�basic�doctrine.�Paul�presents�the�material�in�a�way�that�feeds�the�Word�yet�in�a�very�relaxed�conversational�style.�As�a�Pastor�of�over�30�years�I�felt�that�I�wanted�to�just�keep�reading�because�of�the�relevance�of�the�subject�manner�and�the�charming�manner�of�presentation.�I�believe��this�material�would�be�quite�good�for�all�Bible�believing�churches��or�fellowships.”
Pastor Steve Schmelzer, Joy Christian Fellowship, Medford, Oregon, President of Zoe Bible College
“�I�commend�the�material�Paul�has�put�together�as�a�really�useful��resource�for�training�and�equipping�both�new�Christians�and�those�that��are�simply�hungry�to�grow�in�their�understanding�of�the�Christian�faith.��The�material�has�been�put�together�in�a�creative�way�and�makes�deeps�truths�understandable�and�enables�people�to�grasp�beliefs�that�are�life�changing.�Paul�has�brought�to�this�material�his�own�deep�commitment��to�Christ�and�understanding�of�Kingdom�principles.�I�believe�this�material�will�be�a�useful�resource�for�many.”�
Canon David A McClay, Rector of Willowfield Parish Church, East Belfast and Director of New Wine Ireland
“�A�well�constructed�foundational�course�which�sets�out�to�transform�the�mind�and�lifestyle�of�those�who�are�young�in�the�faith�and�the�not�so�young!�The�resource�is�both�informative�and�challenging�and�demands�a�personal�response�and�should�equip�the�believer�to�discover�the�fullness�of�God�and�their�understanding�of�who�they�are�and�their�purpose�and�place�in��the�Church.�
Paul�‘s�sincere�presentations�demonstrate��his�sympathetic�understanding�of�the�Scriptures�in�a�manner�which�is�and�meaningful�to�the�learner.�“
John Ferguson, Religious Education Adviser
Referenced Material
1. Hybels,�B.�(2010)�The�Power�of�the�Whisper,�Zondervan2. Potter,�P.�(2001)�The�Challenge�of�Cell�Church,�Bible�Reading�Fellowship3. Schwartz,�C.A.�&�Logan,�R.E.�(1996)�A�Guide�to�Eight�Essential�Qualities�of�Healthy�Churches�-�Natural�Church�Development,Church�Smart�Resources