Elements of Truth 101

Membership

 

 

 

Elements of Truth 101 is the first of Truth Church’s five basic classes: 

1. Elements of Truth 101—Discovering Church Membership;
2. Elements of Truth 201—Discovering Spiritual Maturity;
3. Elements of Truth 301 — Discovering Your Ministry;
4. Elements of Truth 401 — Discovering Your Mission; and
5. Elements of Truth 501 — Modeling Christ.

 

Elements of Truth 101 is a basic introduction to Truth Church (TC) and was designed to guide new believers toward a successful Christian walk.  At TC, we believe that in order for a believer to be successful in their Christian walk, they must be committed to local church membership. 

 

 

Basics

 

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 “…You are a member of God’s very own family…and you belong in God’s household with every other Christian.”  Eph. 2:19 (LB)

 

Key Truths:

 

1. The church is __________.

 

2. God expects you to be _____________ of a church family.

 

3. A Christian without a church family is an ___________.

 

Goals

•  
•  

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• That I will commit myself to __________ and to the __________________.

 

 

Outline

 

1. Session One: What it Means to be a Christian
2. Session Two: What it Means to Have a New Life
3. Session Three: How to Have and Maintain Good Relationships
4. Session Four: How to Have a Christian Family and Home

Session One

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What does it mean to be a Christian?

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Most people live their entire lives without ever knowing “WHY?”  They exist year after year with no idea of why they live or God’s purpose for their lives.  The most basic question a person can ask is, “What is the meaning of life?”

 

Everyone wants to be happy.  People try many ways:

 

            …Some look for happiness by acquiring possessions.

            …Some look for happiness by experiencing pleasure.

            …Some look for happiness by gaining prestige and power.

 

But real happiness comes from understanding my ______________.

 

1. Why am I here?

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1. God made me to __________me!

 

• God says, “I have loved you with an everlasting love!” Jeremiah 31:3 (KJV)

 

• “Even before the world was made, God had already chosen us to be His through our union with Christ…because of His love. God had already decided that through Jesus Christ He would make us His children — this was God’s pleasure and purpose.”  Ephesians 1:4-5 (GN)

 

2. We were created to __________ personal relationship with God and to __________ all of the rest of God’s creation! This makes us special!

 

• “So God created human beings, making them in His image. He blessed them, and said,…live all over the earth and bring it under control.  I am putting you in charge.”  Genesis 1:27-28 (LB)

 

• “God richly provides us with everything for our enjoyment.” 1 Timothy 6:17

 

• Jesus said, “I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly” John 10:10 (KJV)

 

3. When we know and love God, and live in harmony with His purpose for our lives, it produces tremendous benefits in our lives such as…

 

·       Clear Conscience:  There is therefore now no condemnation to those who are in Christ Jesus, who do not walk according to the flesh, but according to the Spirit.  For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus has made me free from the law of sin and death.  Romans 8:1-2 (NKJV)
·       Purpose:  And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose. Romans 8:28 (NKJV)
·       Power & Strength:  I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me. Philippians 4:13 (NKJV)
·       Life & Peace:  For to be carnally minded is death, but to be spiritually minded is life and peace. Romans 8:6 (NKJV)
·       Confidence:  If God is for us, who can be against us?  Romans 8:31 (NKJV)
·       Fulfillment:  And my God shall supply all your need according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:19 (NKJV)
·       Help with Weakness:   Likewise the Spirit also helps in our weaknesses. Romans 8:26a (NKJV)
·       Security:  For I am persuaded that neither death nor life, nor angels nor principalities nor powers, nor things present nor things to come, nor height nor depth, nor any other created thing, shall be able to separate us from the love of God which is in Christ Jesus our Lord. Romans 8:38-39 (NKJV
·       Freedom:  And you shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free. Therefore if the Son makes you free, you shall be free indeed. John 8:32, 36 (NKJV)

1. What’s the problem?

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Man has a natural desire to __________ and to ignore God’s principles for living.

           

            “Look out for #1.  Do your own thing.”

            “If it feels good, do it – regardless of what God says about it.”

            “It’s my life and I’ll do what I please!”

 

The Bible calls this attitude:__________.

 

• “All we like sheep have gone astray; we have turned, every one, to his own way;” Isaiah 53:6 (NKJV)

 

• “If we say that we never sin, we are only fooling ourselves, and refuse to accept the truth.” 1 John 1:8 (LB)

 

Sin breaks our close relationship with God.  It causes us to fear God and to try to live our lives outside of His will.

 

• “The trouble is that your sins have cut you off from God.” Isaiah 59:2 (LB)

 

• “All have sinned and fall short of God’s glorious ideal.” Romans 3:23 (LB)

 

When our relationship to God is not right, it causes PROBLEMS in every area of our lives — marriage, career, relationships, finances, etc.

WHEN PEOPLE HAVE PROBLEMS, THEY OFTEN TRY MANY DIFFERENT WAYS OF COPING BEFORE TURNING TO GOD.

 

• “ There is a way that SEEMS right to a man, but its end is the way of death.” Proverbs 16:25 (NKJV)

Even when we know that our deepest need is God, we often try wrong ways of getting to know Him:

 

• “My mother was a Christian so…”
• “It doesn’t matter what you believe… just be sincere.”
• “I’ll give up all my bad habits.”
• “I’ll work real hard and earn it.”
• “I’ll be religious and go to church.”

 

 

III.        What’s the solution?

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Jesus Christ said, “I AM THE WAY, the Truth, and the Life.  No one comes to the Father, except THROUGH ME!”  John 14:6 (NKJV)

 

God Himself came to earth as a human being to bring us back to Himself.  If any other way had worked, Jesus Christ would not have had to come.  The Way is a Person!

 

 

JESUS HAS ALREADY TAKEN CARE

OF YOUR SIN PROBLEM!

 

• “For the wages of sin in death, BUT the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.” Romans 6:23 (KJV)

 

God did this for us because He loves us and wants us to know Him.

 

• “God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” Romans 5:8 (NKJV)

 

• “God is on one side and all people are on the other side, and Christ Jesus, himself a man, is between them to bring them together, by giving His life for all mankind.” 1 Timothy 2:5-6 (LB)

 

God has already done His part to restore our relationship to Him.  He took the initiative.  Now He waits for each of us to individually accept what He has done for us and obey the scriptural Plan of Salvation.

 

 

1. What does God want me to do?

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Obey the __________.

• “But they have not all obeyed the gospel.” Romans 10:16 (NKJV)

 

1. What is the Gospel?

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Moreover, brethren, I declare to you the gospel which I preached to you, which also you received and in which you stand, by which also you are saved, if you hold fast that word which I preached to you–unless you believed in vain. For I delivered to you first of all that which I also received: that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures, and that He was buried, and that He rose again the third day according to the Scriptures…  1 Corinthians 15:1-4 (NKJV)

 

The Gospel is the _________ , __________, and  ____________of Jesus Christ.

1. How do I obey the Gospel?

 

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I apply Jesus’ death through ________________.

 

“…that our old man is crucified with him, that the body of sin might be destroyed, that henceforth we should not serve sin.” Romans 6:6 (KJV)

 

I apply Jesus’ burial through ________________.

 

“Therefore we are buried with him by baptism…” Romans 6:4 (KJV)

 

I apply Jesus resurrection through ______________________.

 

“But if the Spirit of him that raised up Christ from the dead dwell in you…shall also quicken your mortal bodies by his Spirit that dwelleth in you.” Romans 8:11(KJV)

 

“What shall we do?”

 

 

Peter preached the first sermon preached in the New Testament church on the day of Pentecost (Acts 2:14 – 36).  He preached the gospel of Jesus Christ including the death, burial, and His resurrection.  Following Peter’s sermon, conviction fell on those that heard the word and they asked, “What shall we do?”  Peter, who held the keys to the kingdom (Matthew 16: 18 – 19), answered:

 

“Repent, (Death) and be baptized (Burial) every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost (Resurrection).” Acts 2:38 (KJV)

 

Peter then went on to make it clear that this promise was available to “you, and to your children, and to all that are afar off, even as many as the Lord our God shall call.” Acts 2:39 (KJV)

 

This means you!

 

What’s the first step?

Repent of your sins

 

• ________________ that Jesus died to pay for your sins, that He rose again, and is alive today.

 

“If you confess with your mouth the Lord Jesus and believe in your heart that God has raised Him from the dead, you will be saved.”  Romans 10:9 (NKJV)

 

“Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved.”  Acts 4:12 (KJV)

 

• _________ that God has not been first place in your life and ask Him to forgive your sins.

 

“If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and cleanse us from every wrong.”  1 John 1:9 (KJV)

 

• ____________ that you will no longer have control of your own life.

 

“If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me.  For whosoever will save his life shall lose it: and whosever will lose his life for my sake shall find it.” Matthew 16:24 – 25 (KJV)

 

“… and ye are not your own?  For ye are bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God’s.” I Corinthians 6:19 – 20 (KJV)

 

• ___________ Jesus Christ to come into your life and be the director (“Lord”) of your life.

 

“But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name.”  John 1:12 (KJV)

 

“Jesus says, ‘Behold, I stand at the door and knock.  If any man hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in…’”  Revelation 3:20 (KJV)

 

 

You can take this first step by praying a simple prayer of commitment to God:

 

“Dear Jesus, thank You for making me and loving me, even when I’ve ignored You and gone my own way.  I realize I need You in my life and I’m sorry for my sins.  I ask You to forgive me.  Thank You for dying on the cross for me.  Please help me to understand it more.  As much as I know how, I want to follow You from now on.  Please come into my life and make me a new person inside.”

 

True repentance is the first step to God!

            Repentance prepares our heart to fully obey the Gospel.

 

What is the next step?

 

 

Be baptized in Jesus’ Name

 

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1. Why should I be baptized?

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1. The Bible indicates water baptism is part of ________________.

 

“… the longsuffering of God waited in the days of Noah, while the ark was a preparing, wherein few, that is, eight souls were saved by water. The like figure whereunto even baptism doth also now save us (not the putting away of the filth of the flesh, but the answer of a good conscience toward God,) by the resurrection of Jesus Christ … “.  1 Peter 3:20-21 (KJV)

   

“He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved; but he that believeth not shall be damned.”

 Mark 16:16 (KJV)

 

2. Because Jesus ________________

 

“Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, ²⁰ “teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age.” Matthew 28:19-20 (NKJV)

 

“… except a man be born of water and of the Spirit, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God.” John 3:5 (KJV)

 

3. Because the Apostles ________________

 

“Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins…”  Acts 2:38 (KJV)

 

“And he commanded them to be baptized in the name of the Lord.”  Acts 10:48 (KJV)

 

4. To follow the example set by _______________.

 

1. What is the meaning of baptism?

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“One day Jesus came from Nazareth in Galilee, and he was baptized by John in the Jordan River.”  Mark 1:9 (NLT)

 

1. Baptism is how my sins are ________________.

 

“…be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins…”  Acts 2:38 (KJV)

 

 

“…arise and be baptized, and wash away thy sins, calling on the name of the Lord.”  Acts 22:16 (KJV)

 

2. Baptism is how I am ___________ with Jesus

 

“Christ died for our sins…  He was buried…and He rose again.”  1 Corinthians. 15:3-4 (KJV)

 

“For you were buried with Christ when you were baptized.” Colossians. 2:12a (NLT)

 

“Therefore we are buried with Him by baptism into death…” Romans 6:4 (NKJV)

 

III.        Why be baptized by immersion?

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1. Because ____________ was baptized that way.

 

“… when Jesus was baptized, He went up at once out of the water …”   Matthew 3:16 (Amp)

 

2. Every baptism in the _________ was by immersion.

 

(Example) “… he commanded the chariot to stand still, and they both went down to the water, both Philip and the eunuch, and he baptized him; and when they came up out of the water …”

Acts 8:38-39 (YLT)

 

3. The word “baptize” means to ________________ water.

 

The Greek word baptizo means “to immerse or dip under water”.

 

It best symbolizes a ________________.

 

 

 

1. Why be baptized in the name of Jesus?

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1. It is the baptismal formula taught by ________________.

 

“…Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ….” Acts 2:38 (KJV)

 

“Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved.” Acts 4:12 (KJV)

 

2. This was the baptismal formula taught by ________________.

 

“Is Christ divided?  Was Paul crucified for you? Or were ye baptized in the name of Paul?”

I Corinthians 1:13 (KJV)

 

Paul teaches that we should be baptized in the name of the one who was crucified for us.

 

Notice Paul’s own baptism:

 

“And now why tarriest thou? Arise, and be baptized, and wash away thy sins, calling on the name of the Lord.”  Acts 22:16 (KJV)

 

3. No other baptismal mode was practiced in the________________!

 

“For as yet he was fallen upon none of them: only they were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus.” Acts 8:16 (KJV)

 

“And he commanded them to be baptized in the name of the Lord.”  Acts 10:48 (KJV)

 

“When they heard this, they were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus.” Acts 19:5 (KJV)

 

“…so many of us as were baptized into Jesus Christ were baptized into his death?” Romans 6:3 (KJV)

 

What about Matthew 28:19?

 

“Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost.”

 

Matthew 28:19 was obeyed in Acts 2:38.  Father, Son and Holy Ghost are titles, not names.  Baptism using a threefold formula was not practiced by or taught by the disciples of Jesus Christ.

 

What is the name of the Father?

 

“I am come in my Father’s name” John 5:43 (KJV)

 

What is the name of the Son?

 

“…Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God; and that believing ye might have life through his name.” John 20:31 (KJV)

 

 

What is the name of the Holy Ghost?

 

“But the Comforter, which is the Holy Ghost, whom the Father will send in my name…” John 14:26 (KJV)

 

 

 

Notice Luke’s version of the Great Commission:

 

“And that repentance and remission of sins should be preached in his name among all nations, beginning at Jerusalem.” Luke 24:47 (KJV)

1. Who should be baptized?

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Every person who has    ________________in Christ and has repented should be baptized.

 

“Those who accepted his message were baptized, and about three thousand were added to their number that day.” Acts 2:41 (NIV)

 

“Simon himself believed and was baptized…”  Acts 8:13 (NIV)

 

“But when they believed Philip as he preached the Good News…and the name of Jesus Christ, they were baptized, both men and women.”  Acts 8:12 (NIV)

 

At Truth Church, we wait until our children are old enough to believe and understand the true meaning of baptism before we baptize them.

 

 

At Truth Church, it is a membership requirement that every member must have been baptized the way Jesus and the Apostles demonstrated, even though some of us may have been “confirmed” as children.

 

 

1. When should I be baptized?

 

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As soon as you have believed and repented!

 

“Those who accepted his message were baptized, and about three thousand were added to their number that day.” Acts 2:41 (NIV)

 

“Then Philip began with that very passage of Scripture and told him the good news about Jesus.  As they traveled along the road, they came to some water and the eunuch said, “Look, here is water. Why shouldn’t I be baptized?” And he gave orders to stop the chariot. Then both Philip and the eunuch went down into the water and Philip baptized him.” Acts 8:35-38 (NIV)

 

There is no reason to delay.  As soon as you have repented of your sins, you can and should be baptized.  If you wait until you are “perfect”, you will never feel “good enough.”

 

Can my family be baptized together?

 

Yes!  If each family member has repented, understands fully the meaning of baptism, and each one has personally placed his/her trust in Christ for salvation, we encourage families to be baptized at the same time.  It is a wonderful expression of commitment.

 

However, it is important to remember that baptism is a personal statement of faith, not a family tradition.  It is usually not wise to delay your baptism while waiting on other family members to repent, particularly children.  This puts an undue pressure on them and delays your obedience.

 

What should I wear when I am baptized?

 

We provide baptismal robes to be used for the baptism.  You may want to bring along a change of clothes to wear under the robe.

 

Will I have to say anything?

 

No.  At the beginning, someone will briefly explain the meaning of baptism.  A minister will introduce you, briefly lower you just under the water, and after a time of prayer you can leave the baptismal, dry off, and watch the others.  Later you will be given a certificate of your baptism.  We encourage you to invite all your relatives and friends to attend your baptism.

 

Special needs?

 

A private baptism can be accomplished in special circumstances.

 

What is the next step?

 

Be filled with the Holy Spirit

 

1. What is the Holy Spirit?

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1. It is a ________________    .

 

“And it shall come to pass afterward, that I will pour out my spirit upon all flesh…” Joel 2:28 (NKJV)

 

“A new heart will I give you, and a new spirit will I put within you…And I will put my spirit within you…” Ezekiel 36:26 – 27 (Amp)

 

 

2. It is the indwelling ________________.

 

“Even the Spirit of Truth…but ye know Him; for he dwelleth with you, and shall be in you.  I will not leave you comfortless: I will come to you” John 14: 17, 18 (KJV)

 

 

“…this mystery…which is Christ in you, the hope of Glory.” Colossians 1:27 (KJV)

 

 

1. Why receive the Holy Spirit?

 

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1. It is a part of the _______________________.

 

“Jesus answered…Except a man be born of water and of the Spirit, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God.” John 3:5 (KJV)

 

“Now if any man have not the Spirit of Christ, he is none of his.” Romans 8:9 (KJV)

 

2. It is your ________________    .

 

“Now if the Spirit of Him that raised up Christ dwell in you, he…shall also quicken your mortal bodies by his spirit that dwelleth in you.” Romans 8:11 (KJV)

 

3. It will lead you to all ________________    .

 

“…When he, the Spirit of Truth, is come, he will guide you into all truth.” John 16:13 (KJV)

 

4. It is our ________________    .

 

“…he shall give you another Comforter, that he may abide with you for ever.” John 14:16 (KJV)

 

“…righteousness, and peace, and joy in the Holy Ghost.” Romans 14:17 (KJV)

III.        How do I receive the Holy Spirit?

 

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1. ________________ that it is real and it is for you.

 

“But without Faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him.” Hebrews 11:6 (KJV)

 

“And all things, whatsoever ye shall ask in prayer, believing, ye shall receive.” Matthew 21:22 (KJV)

 

2. ___________  for it.

 

“Ask and it shall be given you; seek and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you.” Matthew 7:7 (KJV)

 

“And whatsoever ye shall ask in my name, that will I do.” John 14:13 (KJV)

 

3. Begin to praise the Lord and ___________  Him for it.

 

“Enter into his gates with thanksgiving, and into his courts with praise: be thankful unto him and bless his name.” Psalms 100:4 (KJV)

 

1. How will I know I have received the Holy Spirit?

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You will speak with other ________________.

 

“And they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance.”  Acts 2:4 (KJV)

 

“And they…were astonished…because that on the Gentiles also was poured out the Holy Ghost.  For they heard them speak with tongues and magnify God.” Acts 10:45 – 46 (KJV)

 

SUMMARY:

Salvation gives our lives true meaning and purpose.  The Bible makes the Gospel message plain — if we do our part and repent of our sins, and submit to being baptized in Jesus’ name, then He will wash away our sins and we can experience what those on the day of Pentecost experienced in Acts 2 when they received the Holy Spirit with the evidence of speaking in a language they did not learn. 

 

(See Appendix 2 — TC Statement of Faith for more information on the doctrinal points covered in this first lesson.)

 

Session Two

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“Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold all things are become new.” II Corinthians 5:17 (KJV)

 

Jesus answered and said to him, “Most assuredly, I say to you, unless one is born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God.” Nicodemus said to Him, “How can a man be born when he is old? Can he enter a second time into his mother’s womb and be born?” Jesus answered, “Most assuredly, I say to you, unless one is born of water and the Spirit, he cannot enter the kingdom of God. That which is born of the flesh is flesh, and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit. Do not marvel that I said to you, ‘You must be born again.’ John 3:3-7 (NKJV)

What it Means to Have a New Life

 

 

 

When you are born again, you enter into a new life.  You are a new person.  You have become “a new creature” by being filled with God’s wonderful Spirit.  You are now ready to begin to walk in newness of life with Christ. 

 

Physically you came into this world as a baby.  With each new experience life has brought your way, you have matured and continue to grow.  Likewise, when you are born into the Kingdom of God you are born as a new babe and begin your journey toward spiritual growth and maturity in Christ.  Elements of Truth 201 will cover spiritual maturity more fully, however, here are a few steps to help you start growing as a new believer. 

Seven Things to Grow On

 

1. LEARN TO LIVE BY ________________

For whatever is born of God overcomes the world. And this is the victory that has overcome the world–our faith. 1 John 5:4 (NKJV)

• Your victorious Christian life is not the result of your own daily efforts alone but of learning to place your trust constantly in the Lord. It is not just trying; it is trusting.  It is more than living for the Lord; it is letting the Lord, who now lives in you, have complete control of your life.

 

• Do not try to overcome temptation and solve problems merely in your own strength. Always look to the Lord for His strength and help.  Jesus became your Savior when He forgave your sins and took up residency in your soul when He filled you with His Spirit; and He continues to be your Savior as He lives in you and gives you victory over temptation and sin each day.

2. READ YOUR ________________ DAILY

“… as newborn babes, desire the pure milk of the word, that you may grow thereby…” 1 Peter 2:2 (NKJV)

• The Bible is our spiritual food. It is necessary for your spiritual grown and maturity.  Read it daily.  A good place to start is the Book of Acts. 

 

• Read the Bible prayerfully. It is the inspired Word of God, a gold mine of truth.  As you dig for its gold, ask God to guide you by His Spirit.  Ask Him to make it plain to you and to apply it to your own life.  As God speaks to you through His Word, obey Him.  Follow His instructions and believe His promises.

 

• You can read the New Testament in three months simply by reading three chapters a day. You can read the entire Bible in one year by reading three chapters from the Old Testament and one chapter from the New Testament every day.

 

• Be sure to maintain a daily devotional time with God. If possible have a regular time of family devotion in your home where the Bible is read and discussed.  Read your Bible regularly, thoughtfully, devotionally, and devotedly.  No other book can take the place of the Bible in the Christian’s life.

 

• The Bible…

 

1. Is the Inspired WORD OF GOD

All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness… 2 Timothy 3:16 (NKJV)

 

1. Is the Source of ________________

But He answered and said, “It is written, ‘Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceeds from the mouth of God.’ “ Matthew 4:4 (NKJV)

 

1. Is the Source of ________________

But He said, “More than that, blessed are those who hear the word of God and keep it!” Luke 11:28 (NKJV)

1. Gives ________________

Your word is a lamp to my feet And a light to my path. Psalm 119:105 (NKJV)

1. Is a ________________

Now when the tempter came to Him, he said, “If You are the Son of God, command that these stones become bread.”  But He answered and said, “It is written, ‘Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceeds from the mouth of God.’ “ Matthew 4:3-4 (NKJV)

 For the word of God is living and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the division of soul and spirit, and of joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart. Hebrews 4:12 (NKJV)

 

3. ___________ DAILY

 

“… pray without ceasing…” I Thessalonians 5:17 (KJV)

 

• Prayer is your means of communication with God. It is your spiritual lifeline.  Meet God in prayer every day and cultivate the attitude of prayer throughout the day.  When tensions and frustrations come, take a prayer break.

 

• The following seven steps are a guide to help you in forming your prayer life:

 

1. Start with ________________ and ________________

 

• Psalm 18:46 (NKJV) The LORD lives! Blessed be my Rock! Let the God of my salvation be exalted.

 

2. ________________ and forgiveness

 

• Psalm 66:18 (NKJV) If I regard iniquity in my heart, The Lord will not hear.

 

3. Supplication (petitioning or ASKING)

 

• Psalm 18:6 (NKJV) In my distress I called upon the LORD, And cried out to my God; He heard my voice from His temple, And my cry came before Him, even to His ears.

 

• Philippians 4:19 (NKJV) And my God shall supply all your need according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus.

 

4. Intercession (intense, BURDENED petitioning)

 

• Romans 8:26-27 (NKJV) Likewise the Spirit also helps in our weaknesses. For we do not know what we should pray for as we ought, but the Spirit Himself makes intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered. Now He who searches the hearts knows what the mind of the Spirit is, because He makes intercession for the saints according to the will of

 

5. Thanksgiving

 

• Psalm 116:17 (NKJV) I will offer to You the sacrifice of thanksgiving, And will call upon the name of the LORD.

 

• 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 (NKJV) Rejoice always, pray without ceasing,
  in everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.

 

 

6. Meditation (times of quiet, ________________, giving Him a chance to speak to your heart)
   • Psalm 19:14 (NKJV) Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart Be acceptable in Your sight, O LORD, my strength and my Redeemer.

 

7. Praying the WORD
   • Proverbs 4:20-21 (NKJV) My son, give attention to my words; Incline your ear to my sayings. Do not let them depart from your eyes; Keep them in the midst of your heart;

• John 6:63 (NKJV) It is the Spirit who gives life; the flesh profits nothing. The words that I speak to you are spirit, and they are life.

 

• Pray in faith and confidence. Unburdened your heart to God and believe Him to answer your prayer.  If the answer does not come immediately, continue to wait on God and thank Him for hearing you.  God will move but in His own time and way.

 

• It is very important for you to pray at least once a day. If possible, have family prayer time. If that is not possible, be sure to have your own personal prayer time. 

 

 

 

• For more on prayer see the following verses:
  1. Romans 12:2 & 1 Timothy 4:5 (Prayer builds a relationship with God)
  2. Matthew 6:9 & Mark 1:35 (Jesus prayed as our example)
  3. Luke 11:1 & Acts 6:4 (The disciples saw the necessity of prayer)

 

4. BE ________________

“I was glad when they said unto me, Let us go into the house of the LORD.”  Psalm 122:1 (KJV)

1. At church and small group fellowships you will find godly ________________

Hebrews 10:25 tells us, “…not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together…”  This is a command from the Word of God because God knows that you need the fellowship of the church.  Christian fellowship is vital in your Christian life.  Fellowship with brothers and sisters of like faith will strengthen and encourage you in your walk with God.  The new believers of the early church understood the importance of fellowship.

 

Acts 2:42 (NKJV) And they continued steadfastly in the apostles’ doctrine and fellowship, in the breaking of bread, and in prayers.

1 John 1:3 (NKJV)  …that which we have seen and heard we declare to you, that you also may have fellowship with us; and truly our fellowship is with the Father and with His Son Jesus Christ.

1. At church and small group you will find ________________.

Hebrews 10:24-25 (NKJV) And let us consider one another in order to stir up love and good works, not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as is the manner of some, but exhorting one another, and so much the more as you see the Day approaching.

1. At church and in small group you will receive ____________and ____________.

Ephesians 4:11-12 (NKJV) And He Himself gave some to be apostles, some prophets, some evangelists, and some pastors and teachers,  for the equipping of the saints for the work of ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ..

 

1. At church you have opportunities to get involved in ________________.

Romans 12:6-8 (NKJV) Having then gifts differing according to the grace that is given to us, let us use them: if prophecy, let us prophesy in proportion to our faith; or ministry, let us use it in our ministering; he who teaches, in teaching; he who exhorts, in exhortation; he who gives, with liberality; he who leads, with diligence; he who shows mercy, with cheerfulness.

 

 

5. ________________ DAILY FOR THE LORD (tell what God has done for you)

“The fruit of the righteous is a tree of life, And he who wins souls is wise.”  Proverbs 11:30 (NKJV)

 

Witnessing for the Lord is simply telling someone else what the Lord has done for you.  You do not have to be an expert in the Bible, in fact, you don’t even have to use Bible verses to witness because a person’s most powerful witnessing tool is their own story about what God has done for them. 

 

1. We are given the ________________ we need to witness to others.

 

• Jesus said in Acts 1:8, “But you shall receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you; and you shall be witnesses to Me in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth.”

 

1. We are ________________ by our testimony.

 

• Revelation 12:10-11 (NKJV) Then I heard a loud voice saying in heaven, “Now salvation, and strength, and the kingdom of our God, and the power of His Christ have come, for the accuser of our brethren, who accused them before our God day and night, has been cast down. And they overcame him by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony, and they did not love their lives to the death.

 

 

• Jesus wants us to be witnesses of His power and grace to save. So every day just simply tell someone else about what the Lord has done for you.  Sharing what God has done for you every day will strengthen you and help others. 

 

6. BE SUBMISSIVE TO THE ________________ PLACED IN OUR LIVES.

 

And He is the head of the body, the church, who is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead, that in all things He may have the preeminence. Colossians 1:18 (NKJV)  

In God’s Word we are commanded to be in submission to the authority placed in our lives.  God has given a divine order of authority within the church.  Apostle Paul wrote that Christ is the head of the church (Colossians 1:18).  Within the church, under Himself, Christ has placed leadership for the overseeing of His people.

 

 

 

 

1. Your PASTOR.

 

• One of the greatest blessings God has given the church is the pastor. Just as sheep need a shepherd, the people of God need a pastor to help in guiding them on their spiritual journey. 

 

• 1 Thessalonians 5:12-13 (NKJV) And we urge you, brethren, to recognize those who labor among you, and are over you in the Lord and admonish you, and to esteem them very highly in love for their work’s sake. Be at peace among yourselves.

1. Your pastor will ________________­­­­­_______ you.

 

• The pastor and pastoral leadership in the church will teach you and guide you concerning the things of God. Through this teaching and instruction you will begin to better understand the things of God and His Word.

 

• Romans 10:14 (NKJV) How then shall they call on Him in whom they have not believed? And how shall they believe in Him of whom they have not heard? And how shall they hear without a preacher?

 

• Ephesians 4:11-13 (NKJV) And He Himself gave some to be apostles, some prophets, some evangelists, and some pastors and teachers, for the equipping of the saints for the work of ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ, till we all come to the unity of the faith and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to a perfect man, to the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ…

 

1. Your pastor will give you ________________.

 

• There will be times in your Christian walk when you feel confused and have questions concerning spiritual matters, or life in general. The pastor and his leadership team are there to help you get through these times and find the answers you need.

 

 

• Hebrews 13:7 (NKJV) Remember those who rule over you, who have spoken the word of God to you, whose faith follow, considering the outcome of their conduct.

 

• Proverbs 11:14 (NKJV) Where there is no counsel, the people fall; But in the multitude of counselors there is

 

7. BE A ________________.

 

  

 

1. What is discipleship?

 

• To become a disciple of Christ simply means to become a learner or to increase one’s knowledge of ________________; to learn by use and practice; to be accustomed to or in the habit of. In order to become a learner of Christ we must first gain spiritual insight.  We must assume the role of the student and look to God to teach us.  We must understand that there is no stopping place in learning.  It is a ________________.

 

• Colossians 1:9-10 (NKJV) For this reason we also, since the day we heard it, do not cease to pray for you, and to ask that you may be filled with the knowledge of His will in all wisdom and spiritual understanding; that you may walk worthy of the Lord, fully pleasing Him, being fruitful in every good work and increasing in the knowledge of God;

 

1. The cost of discipleship.

 

• Being a disciple of Christ is not easy since it requires ________________. A true follower does not seek to justify his or her lifestyle, but rather seeks to change that lifestyle to fit the one who is being followed.  It is through this change that we find true purpose and happiness in this life.

 

• Matthew 16:24-25 (NKJV) Then Jesus said to His disciples, “If anyone desires to come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow Me. For whoever desires to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for My sake will find it.

 

• Psalm 119:45 (NKJV) And I will walk at liberty, for I seek Your precepts.

1. The benefits of discipleship.

 

• While there is a cost involved with discipleship, the rewards that Christ has promised to His followers are many. We will briefly cover just a few in this lesson.  There are many more blessings that come with discipleship, both in this earthly life and in the eternal life, that is promised to those who are faithful to the end.

 

1. ________________ of the Spirit: The fruit of the Spirit are blessings of a Spirit-filled life.  When we are living a life that pleases the Lord and are full of His Spirit, these qualities will be exhibited in our lives (Galatians 5:22-23).

Love                      Joy                   Peace

Longsuffering         Gentleness      Goodness

Faith                      Meekness        Temperance

 

2. ________________ blessings: Part of being a disciple of Christ is trusting Him with every part of our life.  This includes our finances.  Jesus told us through a parable that if we are faithful over the few things He has blessed us with, He will make us ruler over many things (Matthew 25:14-29).  We have the opportunity through tithes and offerings to meet this challenge God has put before us. 

 

• Malachi 3:10 (NKJV) Bring all the tithes into the storehouse, That there may be food in My house, And try Me now in this,” Says the LORD of hosts, “If I will not open for you the windows of heaven And pour out for you such blessing That there will not be room enough to receive it.

 

• Proverbs 3:9-10 (NKJV) Honor the LORD with your possessions, And with the firstfruits of all your increase; So your barns will be filled with plenty, And your vats will overflow with new wine.

 

 

 

 

3. ________________ blessings: Throughout Scripture we find many examples of physical healings brought forth by the hand of God as a result of someone’s faith in Him. God’s people today still have the promise of divine healing as found in His Word.  

 

• Isaiah 53:5 (NKJV) But He was wounded for our transgressions, He was bruised for our iniquities; The chastisement for our peace was upon Him, And by His stripes we are healed.

 

• James 5:14-15 (NKJV) Is anyone among you sick? Let him call for the elders of the church, and let them pray over him, anointing him with oil in the name of the Lord. And the prayer of faith will save the sick, and the Lord will raise him up. And if he has committed sins, he will be forgiven.

 

 

SUMMARY

 

As a new believer, your walk with God is an exciting time of growth and discovery.  Make time in God’s presence, reading His Word and praying, a daily priority.  Attend church services faithfully and join a small group — the fellowship of other Christians will be a blessing and strength to you.   Live out your faith and obey biblical principles and see what a blessing your life will become to your family and to others.  See Appendix 1 for TC’s Purpose Statements on why TC exists as a church, and Appendix 3 for TC’s Lifestyle Statement, both of which will give you more information on how our beliefs should translate into everyday practice.

 

 

Session Three

 

 

 

 

 

 

^” If it is possible, as much as depends on you, live peaceably with all men.” Romans 12:18 (NKJV)

 

As children of God, we should have a good relationship with members of our family, friends and associates.  We frequently fail to maintain good relationships because of our sinful nature.  We allow the hurts and scars of the past to control our attitudes toward others along with the habits of the old life.  Paul tells us that we should be “transformed by the renewing of our minds” (Romans 12:2). This transformation changes our attitudes and helps us to live in harmony with our family, our neighbors, the church, our co-workers, and even our government.

 

How to Have and Maintain Good Relationships

 

 

 

This is My commandment, that you love one another as I have loved you. John 15:12 (NKJV)

 

Owe no one anything except to love one another, for he who loves another has fulfilled the law. For the commandments, “You shall not commit adultery,” “You shall not murder,” “You shall not steal,” “You shall not bear false witness,” “You shall not covet,” and if there is any other commandment, are all summed up in this saying, namely, “You shall love your neighbor as yourself.”  Love does no harm to a neighbor; therefore love is the fulfillment of the law. Romans 13:8-10 (NKJV)

 

And now abide faith, hope, love, these three; but the greatest of these is love.

1 Corinthians 13:13 (NKJV)

 

Attitude Toward Your Neighbor

 

Jesus taught that Christians should love each other with the same love He has toward each of us individually.  James tells us that the royal law is to “…love your neighbor as yourself” (James 2:8).  Paul tells us in Romans 13:10 that if we love our neighbor, we will do them no harm.  Paul also tells us that of faith, hope and love — the greatest one is love. 

How should Christians treat one another?

• And be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, just as God in Christ forgave you. Ephesians 4:32 (NKJV)

 

1. ________________
2. ________________
3. ________________

How should we forgive one another?

• “…just as God in Christ forgave you”

What happens if we do not forgive others?

• For if you forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. But if you do not forgive men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses. Matthew 6:14-15 (NKJV)

Attitude In The Church

Christians must be concerned about their relationships with fellow believers. The Bible clearly teaches us how we should treat each other.

• Behold, how good and how pleasant it is For brethren to dwell together in unity! Psalm 133:1 (NKJV)

Why shouldn’t we judge our brother?

• But why do you judge your brother? Or why do you show contempt for your brother? For we shall all stand before the judgment seat of Christ. For it is written: “As I live, says the LORD, Every knee shall bow to Me, And every tongue shall confess to God.” So then each of us shall give account of himself to God. Therefore let us not judge one another anymore, but rather resolve this, not to put a stumbling block or a cause to fall in our brother’s way. Romans 14:10-13 (NKJV)

 

Beware of _____________________________because it results in confusion and evil things.

 

• For where envy and self-seeking exist, confusion and every evil thing are James 3:16 (NKJV)

 

• Whenever you’re trying to look better than others or get the better of others, things fall apart and everyone ends up at the others’ throats. James 3:16 (MSG)

 

How will others know you are Christ’s disciple?

 

• A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another; as I have loved you, that you also love one another. By this all will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another. John 13:34-35 (NKJV)

 

Attitude In The Workplace

 

Who gives us the power to get wealth?

 

• And you shall remember the LORD your God, for it is He who gives you power to get wealth… Deuteronomy 8:18 (NKJV)

 

Each of us has the desire to excel and succeed.  However, in spite of our best efforts, we still have one other factor to consider.  Psalm 75:6-7 tells us that promotion really comes from the Lord.  So if the Lord is the one who promotes, then He is the one we should work to please.  In fact, regarding our employment and our attitude to our employer, Paul says:

 

• Bondservants, obey in all things your masters according to the flesh, not with eyeservice, as men-pleasers, but in sincerity of heart, fearing God. And whatever you do, do it heartily, as to the Lord and not to men, knowing that from the Lord you will receive the reward of the inheritance; for you serve the Lord Christ. But he who does wrong will be repaid for what he has done, and there is no partiality. Colossians 3:22-25 (NKJV)

 

Paul tells us that our work should be done “heartily, as to the Lord and not to men”.  Being a Christian is not an excuse to be lazy or slothful.  Proverbs 25:19 says, ^“Confidence in an unfaithful man … is like a broken tooth, and a foot out of joint.”  Consider these several characteristics and actions and check the ones you think make a good worker:

______  Early starter                            ______  Witnessing on company time

______  Clock watcher                         ______  Late arrival

______  Extended lunch breaks                      ______  Quitting early

 

Attitude Toward Government

Romans 13:1-7 (NKJV)

¹ Let every soul be subject to the governing authorities. For there is no authority except from God, and the authorities that exist are appointed by God. ² Therefore whoever resists the authority resists the ordinance of God, and those who resist will bring judgment on themselves. ³ For rulers are not a terror to good works, but to evil. Do you want to be unafraid of the authority? Do what is good, and you will have praise from the same. ⁴ For he is God’s minister to you for good. But if you do evil, be afraid; for he does not bear the sword in vain; for he is God’s minister, an avenger to execute wrath on him who practices evil. ⁵ Therefore you must be subject, not only because of wrath but also for conscience’ sake. ⁶ For because of this you also pay taxes, for they are God’s ministers attending continually to this very thing. ⁷ Render therefore to all their due: taxes to whom taxes are due, customs to whom customs, fear to whom fear, honor to whom honor.

• Government is ordained and appointed by
• If we resist the power we resist the ordinance of God and bring ________________ on ourselves.
• God has ordained there be government authorities who bear arms (i.e. Police, military, etc.).  They are called God’s ministers (vv. 4) to execute wrath on those who practice evil. 

Christians should honor and pray for governing officials.

• Honor all Love the brotherhood. Fear God. Honor the king. 1 Peter 2:17 (NKJV)

 

• Therefore I exhort first of all that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks be made for all men, for kings and all who are in authority, that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and reverence. For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Savior, who desires all men to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth. 1 Timothy 2:1-4 (NKJV)

Christians should ________________.

• Tell us, therefore, what do You think? Is it lawful to pay taxes to Caesar, or not?” But Jesus perceived their wickedness, and said, “Why do you test Me, you hypocrites? Show Me the tax money.” So they brought Him a denarius. And He said to them, “Whose image and inscription is this?” They said to Him, “Caesar’s.” And He said to them, “Render therefore to Caesar the things that are Caesar’s, and to God the things that are God’s.” Matthew 22:17-21 (NKJV)

 

• For because of this you also pay taxes, for they are God’s ministers attending continually to this very thing. ⁷ Render therefore to all their due: taxes to whom taxes are due, customs to whom customs, fear to whom fear, honor to whom honor. Romans 13:6-7 (NKJV)

 

Our Tongue Affects Relationships

Our speech is important in our relationship with people, and we need to consider how our words will affect them before they are spoken.  The tongue can either build or destroy.

• Death and life are in the power of the tongue, And those who love it will eat its fruit. Proverbs 18:21 (NKJV)

 

• If anyone among you thinks he is religious, and does not bridle his tongue but deceives his own heart, this one’s religion is James 1:26 (NKJV)

 

Jesus said that the mouth speaks about what is in the ________________. 

• …For out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaks. A good man out of the good treasure of his heart brings forth good things, and an evil man out of the evil treasure brings forth evil things. Matthew 12:34-35 (NKJV)

 

Jesus went on to explain that we will give account for our ________________ — by them we will either be justified or condemned. 

 

• But I say to you that for every idle word men may speak, they will give account of it in the day of judgment.  For by your words you will be justified, and by your words you will be condemned. Matthew 12:34-37 (NKJV)

 

Hindrances to Good Relationships

 

 

Improper attitudes and actions can damage any relationship.  These attitudes include guilt, blame, anger, self-centeredness, and pride.

GUILT

Guilt can result from an improper relationship, attitude or action.  If we have a guilty conscience, it will be difficult to reach out to love others as we should.  The Bible teaches us the proper response to guilt is not to hide it but to deal with it by confessing the sin and turning away from it. 

• He who covers his sins will not prosper, But whoever confesses and forsakes them will have mercy. Proverbs 28:13

 

• If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. 1 John 1:9

BLAME AND ANGER

Blame and anger are common responses when we have not dealt with our guilt.  Often when we are confronted with our wrong action, we either blame someone else or retaliate with our anger because we got caught.

• When God asked Adam if he ate the fruit of the tree in Genesis 3:12, instead of taking responsibility for his actions, he responded by ________________ Eve for giving him a bite of it.

 

• Life is not always the way we want it to be. We may experience anger because people or things displease us. 

 

• Mark the following as true or false:

 

__________  Anger is a choice.

__________  Anger is always sin.

__________  Anger may result from unrealistic expectations of someone.

__________  Anger is a strong emotion.

 

• “Be angry, and do not sin”: do not let the sun go down on your wrath, nor give place to the devil. Ephesians 4:26-27 (NKJV)

 

• Angry feelings are not a sin — ________________ responses to angry feelings are sin.

 

• How soon should we get rid of any angry feelings? ________________

SELF-CENTEREDNESS

Naturally we tend to focus on ourselves and our needs, but Paul tells differently. 

• Let nothing be done through selfish ambition or conceit, but in lowliness of mind let each esteem others better than himself. Let each of you look out not only for his own interests, but also for the interests of others. Philippians 2:3-4 (NKJV)

 

In Romans 12:10, Paul describes three attitudes that should govern our relationship with others. 

• “Be kindly affectionate to one another with brotherly love, in honor giving preference to one another…” Romans 12:10 (NKJV)

PRIDE

• For I say, through the grace given to me, to everyone who is among you, not to think of himself more highly than he ought to think, but to think soberly, as God has dealt to each one a measure of faith. Romans 12:3 (NKJV)
• Pride goes before destruction, And a haughty spirit before a fall. Better to be of a humble spirit with the lowly, Than to divide the spoil with the proud. Proverbs 16:18-19 (NKJV)

 

• These six things the LORD hates, Yes, seven are an abomination to Him: A proud look, A lying tongue, Hands that shed innocent blood, A heart that devises wicked plans, Feet that are swift in running to evil,  A false witness who speaks lies, And one who sows discord among brethren. Proverbs 6:16-19 (NKJV)

 

• Solomon lists seven things the LORD hates.

 

1. A ________________ look
2. A ________________ tongue
3. Hands that shed ________________ blood
4. A heart that devises ________________ plans
5. Feet that are swift in running to ________________
6. A false witness that speaks ________________
7. One who sows ________________ among brethren

 

• Likewise you younger people, submit yourselves to your Yes, all of you be submissive to one another, and be clothed with humility, for “God resists the proud, But gives grace to the humble.” 1 Peter 5:5 (NKJV)

 

OFFENCES AND FORGIVENESS

 

Jesus told his followers that offenses would come (Matthew 18:7), and He gave specific instructions about how to handle these situations where we have either wronged someone or someone else has wronged us.  

 

• “Moreover if your brother sins against you, go and tell him his fault between you and him alone. If he hears you, you have gained your brother. But if he will not hear, take with you one or two more, that ‘by the mouth of two or three witnesses every word may be established.’ And if he refuses to hear them, tell it to the church. But if he refuses even to hear the church, let him be to you like a heathen and a tax collector. Matthew 18:15-17 (NKJV)

 

• To whom should we go to FIRST to discuss the matter?

________________________________________

• A brother offended is harder to win than a strong city, And contentions are like the bars of a castle. Proverbs 18:19 (NKJV)

 

• What should we do when we realize that we have offended someone? ________________ ________________

 

• Therefore if you bring your gift to the altar, and there remember that your brother has something against you, leave your gift there before the altar, and go your way. First be reconciled to your brother, and then come and offer your gift. Matthew 5:23-24 (NKJV)

 

• How does the Lord respond to a person who will not forgive another?

 

• Parable of the Unforgiving Servant — Matthew 18:21-35

 

• Then his master, after he had called him, said to him, ‘You wicked servant! I forgave you all that debt because you begged me. ³³ Should you not also have had compassion on your fellow servant, just as I had pity on you?’ ³⁴ And his master was angry, and delivered him to the torturers until he should pay all that was due to him. ³⁵ So My heavenly Father also will do to you if each of you, from his heart, does not forgive his brother his trespasses. Matthew 18:32-35 (NKJV)

 

 

SUMMARY

God frees us from the penalty of sin and then enables us to function in meaningful relationships to help others.  As we get to know God better, we understand more what true love is and that this love should be the motivating force in our relationships.  Paul said in 1 Timothy 1:5, ^“Now the purpose of the commandment is love from a pure heart, from a good conscience, and from sincere faith (genuine)…”

 

Session Four

 

 

 

How to Have a Christian Family

Wives, submit to your own husbands, as is fitting in the Lord. Husbands, love your wives and do not be bitter toward them. Children, obey your parents in all things, for this is well pleasing to the Lord. Fathers, do not provoke your children, lest they become discouraged.   Colossians 3:18-21 (NKJV)

 

The Word of God has much to say about the home and the relationship of the family members.  Success in your walk with God will depend in great measure upon establishing Scriptural relationships with other members of your family.  For this reason, the enemy will try to cause confusion and strife in the home of a new Christian, to discourage and cause him to fail.  However, the Word of God has clear and powerful teaching which can help us build solid, spiritual lives and homes. 

In every successful organization, from the military to the church, there is structure and a chain of authority or command.  Without it, the result is always chaos, disorder and confusion.  God has structured the family along clear-cut lines of authority and responsibility.  It is vital to recognize this structure of “Divine Order” at the beginning of your Christian walk so that you may begin to practice these principles immediately.

Divine Order for the Family

 

 

The Apostle Paul tells us in 1 Corinthians 14:33, “For God is not the author of confusion but of peace, as in all the churches of the saints.”  Paul also said in 1 Corinthians 14:40, that all things should be done decently and in order.  According to Romans 13:1-2, God has ordained all authority. 

God’s “divine order” for the family is found in 1 Corinthians 11:3 and Ephesians 6:1. 

• But I want you to know that the head of every man is Christ, the head of woman is man, and the head of Christ is 1 Corinthians 11:3 (NKJV)

 

• Children, obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right. Ephesians 6:1 (NKJV)

CHRIST

 

FATHER

 

MOTHER

 

CHILDREN

God’s delegated authority does not give anyone the right to become tyrants!  It is not about power it is about  ________________.  The higher the higher your rank, the greater your duty.

• Now there was also a dispute among them, as to which of them should be considered the greatest. And He said to them, “The kings of the Gentiles exercise lordship over them, and those who exercise authority over them are called ‘benefactors.’ But not so among you; on the contrary, he who is greatest among you, let him be as the younger, and he who governs as he who serves. Luke 22:24-26 (NKJV)

 

• And do not be called teachers; for One is your Teacher, the Christ. But he who is greatest among you shall be your servant. Matthew 23:10-11 (NKJV)

What is the responsibility of leadership?  Why must those in authority be very careful to execute their power correctly?

 

• Obey those who rule over you, and be submissive, for they watch out for your souls, as those who must give account. Let them do so with joy and not with grief, for that would be unprofitable for you. Hebrews 13:17 (NKJV)

 

• Leadership is responsible to watch for the ________________ placed under their authority.

 

• They must be careful to execute their authority carefully because they must give an ________________.

 

  The Husband’s Responsibility to His Wife

Husbands, likewise, dwell with them with understanding, giving honor to the wife, as to the weaker vessel, and as being heirs together of the grace of life, that your prayers may not be hindered. 1 Peter 3:7 (NKJV)

Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ also loved the church and gave Himself for her, that He might sanctify and cleanse her with the washing of water by the word,  that He might present her to Himself a glorious church, not having spot or wrinkle or any such thing, but that she should be holy and without blemish. So husbands ought to love their own wives as their own bodies; he who loves his wife loves himself. For no one ever hated his own flesh, but nourishes and cherishes it, just as the Lord does the church.  For we are members of His body, of His flesh and of His bones. “For this reason a man shall leave his father and mother and be joined to his wife, and the two shall become one flesh.” This is a great mystery, but I speak concerning Christ and the church. Nevertheless let each one of you in particular so love his own wife as himself, and let the wife see that she respects her husband. Ephesians 5:25-33 (NKJV)

Two key words sum up the New Testament teaching of the husband’s responsibility to his wife:

 

1. ________________
2. ________________

• How many times does Ephesians 5 tell the husband to love his wife? ________________

 

• How are men to love their wives? “…just as Christ also loved the __________ and gave _____________ for her…”  Marriage is a type of Christ and the Church. 

 

• Calvary lets us know that love is more than just an ___________, love is a ___________.

 

• Our marriages must not be built upon the sands of ________________ desires and unstable ________________, but upon bedrock ________________.

 

• How does 1 Corinthians 13 describe love?

 

• Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth.  It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. Love never fails. 1 Corinthians 13:4-8 (NIV)

HONOR

• 1 Peter 3:7 tells the husband to ________________ his wife.

 

• The word “honor” in verse 7 is the same Greek word translated ________________in 1 Peter 1:19 speaking of the “precious” blood of Jesus.

 

• Proverbs 31:10 tells us the worth of a virtuous wife is “… Far above ________________.”

 

• What can happen if the husband does not treat his wife tenderly and honor her as joint-heir of the grace of life? ____________________________

 

 

The Wife’s Responsibility to Her Husband

Wives, submit to your own husbands, as to the Lord.  For the husband is head of the wife, as also Christ is head of the church; and He is the Savior of the body. Therefore, just as the church is subject to Christ, so let the wives be to their own husbands in everything. Ephesians 5:22-24 (NKJV)

Nevertheless let each one of you in particular so love his own wife as himself, and let the wife see that she respects her husband. Ephesians 5:33 (NKJV)

Two key words sum up the New Testament teaching of the wife’s responsibility to her husband. 

 

1. ________________
2. ________________

 

 

SUBMISSION

Submission is one of the most beautiful concepts in the New Testament.  To be submissive means to yield, be humble and obedient to ordained authority.  God did not give this law of wives being submissive to their husbands because He had a grudge against women.  On the contrary, He established this order for the protection of women and the harmony of the home.

A wife’s _________________________is to give of herself, her time and her energy to her husband, children and home. 

Does this mean that women cannot have responsible positions of leadership and still be in God’s plan?  No.  Both the Old and New Testament give us examples of women that were used by God in positions of leadership.

However, the “Divine Order” of the home and family is clear and it is within that pattern that the Lord will make you a blessing to your husband, your children, your church and your community.

RESPECT

Paul emphatically states in Ephesians 5:33 that the wife is to RESPECT her husband.

The Amplified Bible defines a wife’s respect as — “She notices him, regards him, honors him, prefers him, venerates and esteems him, and that she defers to him, praises him, and loves and admires him exceedingly.”

What about unsaved husbands?

• Wives, likewise, be submissive to your own husbands, that even if some do not obey the word, they, without a word, may be won by the conduct of their wives, when they observe your chaste conduct accompanied by fear. 1 Peter 3:1-2 (NKJV)

SPECIAL NOTE:

As you have already learned, it is Scripturally correct for a wife to submit to her husband as the leader of the home.  However, there are times when an unsaved spouse ‘s leadership may violate the laws of God and submission is not possible.  If you are facing a situation in your home in which you cannot find an answer, you should make an appointment with the pastor as soon as possible.  He will give you godly counsel in the matter of your home and marriage.

Strong Faith Equals Strong Marriages — Because God is love, the closer you get to God, the closer you will get to your spouse.

Parent-Child Responsibilities

New Testament teaching concerning the responsibilities of parents to children and children to parents is summarized in the following verses.

• Children, obey your parents in all things, for this is well pleasing to the Lord. Fathers, do not provoke your children, lest they become discouraged. Colossians 3:20-21 (NKJV)

 

• Children, obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right. “Honor your father and mother,” which is the first commandment with promise: “that it may be well with you and you may live long on the earth.” And you, fathers, do not provoke your children to wrath, but bring them up in the training and admonition of the Lord. Ephesians 6:1-4 (NKJV)

CHILDREN

Two key word sum up the New Testament teaching of the child’s responsibility to his parents.

1. ________________
2. ________________

OBEY

• Ephesians 6:1 says that children are to _________ their parents in the Lord for this is _________.
• Colossians 3:20 tells us that _________ is pleased when children obey their parents.
• Romans 1:30 lists disobedience to parents as one of the characteristics of a ____________.
• 1 Samuel 15:23 compares rebellion to the sin of ____________ and stubbornness as __________________________

HONOR

• Ephesians 6:2 along with the Ten Commandments admonishes children to honor their father and mother.
• What is promised to children who honor their parents? ______________________ _________________________________

PARENTS

Below are a list of responsibilities that each parent will stand before the Lord and give an account.  As Christian parents, we must be diligent to lead our children in the paths of righteousness.  The eternal souls of children depend greatly on the leadership of the parents.  We must never be careless concerning our parental responsibilities, after all, it was our choice to bring our children into this world.

You can’t take your home, your car, or your riches to heaven with you.  But you can take your children.  Be sure to put priority on the things that really matter.

1)         TEACH

• And these words which I command you today shall be in your heart. You shall teach them diligently to your children, and shall talk of them when you sit in your house, when you walk by the way, when you lie down, and when you rise up. Deuteronomy 6:6-7 (NKJV)

 

• God commanded parents to teach His principles diligently to their children.

 

• Train up a child in the way he should go, And when he is old he will not depart from it. Proverbs 22:6 (NKJV)

 

• A parent cannot teach what they do not live. The Apostle Paul, in 1 Corinthians 11:1, tells us how to effectively lead.  “Be ye followers of me, even as I also am of Christ.”

 

 

 

2)         DISCIPLINE

• He who spares his rod hates his son, But he who loves him disciplines him promptly. Proverbs 13:24 (NKJV)

 

• The motive behind discipline should be ____________.

 

 

• The rod and rebuke give wisdom, But a child left to himself brings shame to his mother. Proverbs 29:15 (NKJV)

 

• A child with no restraints or discipline in his life will bring shame

 

• Discipline must never become abuse and should never be administered in anger.

 

• Ephesians 6:4 commands us not to “________________our children to ________________“.
• Remember the motive behind discipline is love. When correcting your children always remember to administer it in love.

 

 

3)         PROTECT

 

• The home should home should be an extension of the Church. A haven and a sanctuary, a place of ________________ from the world. 

 

• You cannot control the environment of the World, but you can control the environment of your ________________.

 

• Nor shall you bring an abomination into your house, lest you be doomed to destruction like it. You shall utterly detest it and utterly abhor it, for it is an accursed thing. Deuteronomy 7:26 (NKJV)

 

• Deuteronomy 11:21 likens the home where the Word of God is obeyed to “____________ ______________“.

 

SUMMARY

A great deal of evil has come upon the home because of the deterioration of the family and the loss of “Divine Order” within the home.  “Divine Order” and diligence to our God-ordained responsibilities will place us under the authority and protection of God.  We must resist Satan’s desire to undermine our homes and break down the pattern of our families.  Regardless of the mistakes you have made in these areas, now is the time to set your house in order and begin to experience the blessings of God’s power and anointing continually on your home.

 

5 CIRCLES OF COMMITMENT

 

 

 

WHERE DO I GO FROM HERE?

Congratulations!   You have completed the first of Truth Church’s basic classes, Membership 101.  There are only four more steps!

 

• After completing Elements of Truth 101, make a commitment to complete all of the Elements of Truth courses.

 

• Prayerfully review the notes and Scriptures from this class.

 

• Make a commitment to be faithful to mid-week bible study (Thursday night), Sunday morning worship and Sunday evening service. 

 

• Make a commitment to be a disciple of Jesus Christ — to grow in your relationship by daily prayer and Bible reading.

 

• Make maintaining good relationships a priority.

 

• Order your home and family according to the principles of God’s Word.

 

Elements of Truth Track: (after completing Elements of Truth 101 — Membership, you may move on to the next four Elements of Truth courses)

• Elements of Truth 201 Discovering Spiritual Maturity
• Elements of Truth 301       Discovering Your Ministry
• Elements of Truth 401       Discovering Your Mission
• Elements of Truth 501       Discovering Modeling Christ  

 

APPENDIX 1

 

 Truth Church’s Purpose Statements

Why we exist as a church

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“Now I beseech you, brethren, by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that ye all speak the same thing, and that there be no divisions among you; but that ye be perfectly joined together in the same mind and in the same judgment.”

1 Corinthians 1:10 (KJV)

 

The purpose of our church is summarized in a single sentence based on two key scriptures:

 

“We believe a great commitment to the great            commandment and the great commission produce a great church!”

 

The Great Commandment: “Jesus said, ‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart…soul…and mind.  This is the first and greatest commandment.  And the second is like it: Love your neighbor as yourself.  All the Law and Prophets hang on these two commandments.’”  Matthew 22:36-40 (NIV)

 

The Great Commission: “Jesus said, ‘Go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you.”  Matthew 28:19-20 (NIV)

 

• To “Love God with all your heart” is “WORSHIP.”
• To “Love your neighbor as yourself” is “MINISTRY.”
• To “Go…make disciples” is “EVANGELISM.”
• To “Baptize…” is to obey the gospel as well as “INCORPORATE INTO FELLOWSHIP.”
• To “Teach them…all things” is “DISCIPLESHIP.”

 

 

Truth Church Exists…

 

1. To COMMUNICATE God’s Word (Evangelism)
2. To EDUCATE God’s People (Discipleship)
3. To ASSIMILATE God’s Family (Fellowship/Community)
4. To DEMONSTRATE God’s Love (Ministry/Servant-hood)
5. To EXPERIENCE God’s Presence (Worship/Stewardship)

 

TC’s Core Values:

• Evangelism
• Discipleship
• Community
• Servant-hood
• Stewardship

 

The TC Life Win:

 

“Connecting people to Jesus Christ and establishing them in a small group or Bible Study.”  

(Small groups consist of but are not limited; Men’s Ministry, Women’s Ministry, Youth Ministry, Home Bible Study, Celebrate Recovery, Sunday School, Prayer groups etc…)

 

This simple statement captures all of the core values of TC.   Once someone is connected to Jesus Christ, the best place for them to develop their Christian walk is in a small group setting.  A small group effectively communicates God’s Word (evangelism), educates God’s people (disciples), inspires fellowship (community), demonstrates God’s love (servant ministry), and guides us in worship (stewardship).

 

 

1. We exist to communicate God’s Word

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Evangelism:  sharing the good news with others.

 

“His intent was that through the church, the manifold wisdom of God should be made known…”  Ephesians 3:10 (NIV)

 

“Anyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.  But who can ask Him to save them unless they believe in Him?  And how can they believe in Him if they have never heard about Him?  And how can they hear about Him unless someone tells him?”  Romans 10:13-14 (LB)

 

 

Why our church must never stop growing

 

 

1. Because God loves people.

 

“The Lord does not delay and is not tardy or slow about what He promises, according to some people’s conception of slowness, but He is long-suffering (extraordinarily patient) toward you, not desiring that any should perish, but that all should turn to repentance.”  2 Peter 3:9 (Amp)

 

2 Corinthians 5:14; Luke 15:3-10; Matthew 9:12-13

 

2. Because Jesus commands us to reach out.

 

“Go out into the country…and urge anyone you find to come in, so that My House will be full.”  Luke 14:23 (LB)

 

“…you will be my witnesses…”  Acts 1:8 (NIV)

 

 

3. Because growth is God’s will.

 

“Under Christ’s control, the whole Body is nourished…and grows as God wants it to grow.”  Colossians 2:19 (GN)

 

“(Jesus) I will build my church.”  Matthew 16:18 (KJV)

 

 

 

 

Unbiblical excuses for not growing:

 

• “God isn’t interested in numbers.”
• “Our church wants quality not quantity.”
• “Large churches are impersonal”

 

We believe our church must grow larger and smaller at the same time.

 

“And the Good News about the Kingdom will be preached throughout the whole world so that all nations will hear it, and THEN, finally the end will come.”  Matthew 24:14 (LB)

 

1. We exist to educate God’s people

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Discipleship: (believers grow spiritually)

 

“Let us leave the elementary teachings about Christ and go on to maturity…”  Hebrews 6:1 (NIV)

 

“Grow in grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.”  2 Peter 3:18 (NIV)

 

“(God) handed out gifts of apostle, prophet, evangelist, and pastor-teacher ¹² to train Christians in skilled servant work, working within Christ’s body, the church, ¹³ until we’re all moving rhythmically and easily with each other, efficient and graceful in response to God’s Son, fully mature adults, fully developed within and without, fully alive like Christ.”  Ephesians 4:11-13 (Message)

 

 

 

 

III.        We exist to assimilate God’s family.

 

Fellowship: (believers connecting with each other)

 

“Everyday they continued to meet together…they broke bread in their homes and ate together with glad and sincere hearts, praising God and enjoying the favor of all the people.” Acts 2:46-47 (NIV)

 

Truth Church offers a variety of ways to fellowship with other believers.  Men’s and Women’s fellowship, Youth Events, Potlucks, conferences, outings small group and Home Bible Study

 

Small groups take place throughout TC on a regular and sometimes even daily basis – Home Bible Studies, Prayer Groups, Choir, Sunday School Classes, Cleaning Teams, etc. even today’s Elements of Truth class is an example of a small group getting together. 

 

 

 

1. We exist to demonstrate God’s love

 

 

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Ministry: (meeting needs with love)  True ministry involves having a servant’s heart – serving one another through love.

For you, brethren, have been called to liberty; only do not use liberty as an opportunity for the flesh, but through love serve one another. For all the law is fulfilled in one word, even in this: “You shall love your neighbor as yourself.” Galatians 5:13-14 (NKJV)

“By this all will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another.” John 13:35 (NKJV)

 

See also 1 John 3:16-17, Matthew 25:34-40, Hebrews 13:16, Romans 12:13

 

The heartbeat of Truth Church is our service to ministry.  Every member needs to be a part of one.

 

“Now God gives us many kinds of special abilities… and there are different kinds of service to God (ministry)…  All of you together form the one Body of Christ and each of you is a separate and necessary part of it.”  1 Corinthians 12:4-5, 27 (LB)

 

At Truth Church…

 

• Every member is a: MINISTER.
• Every task is: IMPORTANT.

1. We exist to celebrate God’s presence

 

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Worship: (expressing love to God)  Worship and stewardship are related in that both worship and stewardship are based on commitment and faithfulness.  True worship requires a stewardship of time, talent and treasure.  Thus, worship includes being faithful in church and small group attendance, engaging in spiritual disciplines, employing God-given talents and abilities, giving toward godly causes, as well as participating in corporate worship.

 

“Worship the Lord your God, and serve Him only.”  Matthew 4:10 (NIV)

 

“…True worshippers shall worship the Father in spirit and in truth…God is a spirit…must worship him in spirit and in truth.”  John 4:23-24 (KJV)

 

 

Expressions of Worship

• Singing (Ephesians 5:19)
• Lifting Hands (Psalms 134:2)
• Playing Instruments (II Samuel 6:5)
• Clapping and Shouting (Psalms 47:1)
• Dancing (Psalms 150:4)
• Commitment (Romans 12:1-2)
• Praying (Psalms 95:6)
• Hearing the Word (John 17:17)
• Giving (1 Corinthians 16:1-2)
• Baptism (Romans 6:3-4)
• Meditating (Habakkuk 2:20)
• Lord’s Supper (1 Corinthians 11-23-26)

 

 

Our Worship Style

 

“Celebration”              “Inspiration”               “Preparation”

Psalm 122:1                 Isaiah 40:31                 Ephesians 4:11-12

 

APPENDIX 2

 

 

TC Statement of Faith

What we believe

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In our beliefs:

            — we have unity.

“There is one Body and one Spirit…there is one Lord, one faith, one baptism, and one God and Father of us all…”  Ephesians 4:4-6 (KJV)

 

            — we have patience.

“Accept him whose faith is weak, without passing judgment on disputable matters…  Who are you to judge someone else’s servant?  To his own master he stands or falls…  So then each of us will give an account of himself to God…  So whatever you believe about these things keep between yourself and God.”  Romans 14:1, 4, 12, 22 (NIV)

 

            — we show charity.

“…If I hold in my mind not only all human knowledge but also the very secrets of God, and if I have the faith that can move mountains — but have no love, I amount to nothing at all.”  1 Corinthians 13:2 (Ph)

 

 

 

What we believe …

1. About God

 

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We believe in the one ever-living, eternal God: infinite in power, holy in nature, attributes and purpose; and possessing absolute, indivisible deity.  This one true God has revealed Himself as Father; through His Son, in redemption; and as the Holy Spirit, by emanation.

 

1 Corinthians 8:6; Ephesians 4:6;  2 Corinthians 5:19;  Joel 2:28

 

2. About Jesus Christ

 

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The one true God, the Jehovah of the Old Testament, took upon Himself the form of man, and as the Son of man, was born of a virgin named Mary.  As Paul says, “And without controversy great is the mystery of godliness: God was manifest in the flesh, justified in the Spirit, seen of angels, preached unto the Gentiles, believed on in the world, received up into glory” I Timothy 3:16 (KJV).

 

“He came unto his own, and his own received him not” John 1:11 (KJV).  This one true God was manifest in the flesh, that is, in His Son Jesus Christ.  “God was in Christ, reconciling the world unto himself …” II Corinthians 5:19 (KJV).

 

We believe that, “in him (Jesus) dwelleth all the fullness of the Godhead bodily” Colossians 2:9 (KJV). “For it pleased the Father that in him should all the fullness dwell” Colossians 1:19 (KJV).  Therefore, Jesus in His humanity was man; in his deity was and is God.  His flesh was the lamb, or the sacrifice of God.  He is the only mediator between God and man.  “For there is one God, and one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus” I Timothy 2:5 (KJV).

 

On His Father’s side Jesus was divine, and on His mother’s side Jesus was human. Thus, He was known as the Son of God and also the Son of man, or the God-man.

 

 

3. About the Holy Spirit

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The Holy Spirit is the Spirit of the one true God.  It lives in every Christian from the moment he or she receives it.  The terms “baptize with the Holy Ghost and fire,” ”filled with the Holy Spirit,” and the “gift of the Holy Ghost” are synonymous terms used interchangeably in the Bible.  It is scriptural to expect all who receive the gift, filling, or baptism of the Holy Spirit to receive the same physical, initial sign of speaking with other tongues.  The Holy Spirit provides the Christian with power for living, understanding of spiritual truth, and guidance in doing what is right.  It provides believers with spiritual gifts when they are saved, as well as the Fruit of the Spirit.  As Christians, we seek to live under the control of the Holy Spirit.

 

2 Corinthians 3:17; John 16:7-13, 14:16, 17;  Acts 1:8; 1 Corinthians 2:12, 3:16; Ephesians 1:13; Galatians 5:25; Ephesians 5:18; Acts 2:4, 33; Matthew 3:11

 

4. About the Bible

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The Bible is God’s Word to us.  It was written by human authors, under the supernatural guidance of the Holy Spirit.  It is the supreme source of truth for Christian beliefs and living.  Because it is inspired by God, it is the truth without any mixture of error.

 

2 Timothy 3:16; 2 Peter 1:20, 21; 2 Timothy 1:13; Psalm 119:105,160, 12:6; Proverbs 30:5

 

5. About Human Beings

 

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People are made in the spiritual image of God — to be like Him in character.  People are the supreme object of God’s creation.  Although every person has tremendous potential for good, all of us are marred by an attitude of disobedience toward God called “sin.”   This attitude separates people from God and causes many problems in life.

 

Genesis 1:27; Psalm 8:3-6; Isaiah 53:6a; Romans 3:23; Isaiah 59:1, 2

 

6. About Salvation

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We believe that we are saved by grace, through faith.  The grace of God makes salvation available to us through the cross of Calvary, and it is a free gift.  Before you can obey the Gospel, you must first believe the Gospel.  This is where faith begins to work.  However, the Bible indicates that having saving faith is more than just believing that Jesus died and rose again.  True faith will cause you to follow and obey the Lord.  Romans 10:16 declares that the gospel is to be obeyed.  The Bible standard of full salvation is repentance, baptism in water by immersion in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and the baptism of the Holy Ghost with the initial sign of speaking with tongues as the Spirit gives utterance.

 

Romans 10:10 – 16; I Corinthians 15: 1 – 4; Acts 2:4, 38

 

7. About Grace

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“For the grace of God that bringeth salvation hath appeared to all men, teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly, in this present world” Titus 2:11-12 (KJV).   Grace is the agent that brought salvation to us.  Some have misinterpreted grace as a license to live like you want to and still be saved.  This is simply not the truth.  Saving grace will grant you salvation while you are still lost, undone, and imperfect, because salvation is a free gift and not of works.  However, saving grace refuses to let you continue to live a sinful life.  A Christian must walk with God and keep himself in the love of God and in the grace of God.  When a person sins against God and does not repent, he will eventually be lost.  But God’s grace gives us the power to be saved and stay saved.

 

 

1 Peter 1:3-5; John 1:17; Ephesians 2:8-9; Jude 21; John 15:2, 6; II Peter 2:20-21;

Hebrews 6:4-6

 

8. About Eternity

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People were created to exist forever.  We will either exist eternally separated from God by sin, or eternally with God through forgiveness and salvation.  To be eternally separated from God is Hell.  To be eternally in union with Him is eternal life.  Heaven and Hell are real places of eternal existence.

 

John 3:16; John 14:17; Romans 6:23; Romans 8:17-18; Revelation 20:15; 1 Corinthians 2:7-9

 

 

APPENDIX 3

 

TC Lifestyle Statement

What we practice

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Beliefs are not worth much unless they are translated into actions.  Based on what the Bible teaches, we feel very strongly about the following nine practices:

1. Prayer as the key to revival and growth

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“And all things, whatsoever ye shall ask in prayer, believing, ye shall receive” Matthew 21:22 (KJV).  “And the prayer of faith shall save the sick, and the Lord shall raise him up…The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much” James 5:15, 16 (KJV).

 

The examples of Jesus and the apostles make it clear to us that prayer is important and powerful.  The Bible also gives us scriptural clues to the power of prayer.  Add to these theological proofs the modern-day examples of prayer’s power to heal the sick and foster revival and growth among the saints and you have an equation that demands we give ample emphasis to prayer.  God is still working in this world among those who know the power of prayer!

2. Every saint involved in a ministry

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“Christ loves us, and by His death He has freed us from our sins and made us a kingdom of priests to serve God…”  Revelation 1:6 (GN). “You are...the King’s priests…God’s own people, chosen to proclaim the wonderful acts of God” 1 Peter 2:9 (GN).

 

The Bible teaches that every Christian is called to “full time” Christian service, regardless of his or her vocation.  We practice the truth that every believer is a minister by encouraging every member to find a place of service and ministry.  Every believer has direct access to God through prayer and Bible reading.

 

3. The name of Jesus is the center of all we do

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“Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved” Acts 4:12 (KJV).    “And whatsoever ye do in word or deed do all in the name of the Lord Jesus…” Colossians 3:17 (KJV).   “Wherefore God also hath highly exalted him, and given him a name which is above every name:  That at the name of Jesus every knee should bow…and that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord” Philippians 2:9,10 (KJV).

 

We are the people of the name of Jesus.  Therefore, everything we do in the Kingdom of God we do in the name of and for the glory of Jesus.  We are baptized in the name of Jesus. We pray for the sick in the name of Jesus. We cast out evil spirits in the name of Jesus. We make our petitions to heaven in the name of Jesus.  This is what the believers in the New Testament church did, and this is the way that it should still be done.

 

4. Tithing

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“Be sure to set aside a tenth of all that your fields produce each year.” Leviticus 26:30 (NIV)

 

At Truth Church we practice tithing for the support of Christ’s body, the church, as God commands.  We recognize that giving 10% of our income is the Biblical standard of giving. We also believe Christians should be joyfully involved in giving free-will offerings above the 10% that belongs to the Lord.

5. Everyone deserves to hear the full gospel

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“Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have”  1 Peter 3:15. “…Not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance.” II Peter 3:9. “And that repentance and remission of sins should be preached in his name among all nations, beginning at Jerusalem” Luke 24:47.

 

We believe that God has filled us with the Holy Ghost so that we can share the good news with the world.  This may be in a foreign country or at our neighbor’s house.  Whatever it takes to spread the gospel to the world, we are willing to do.  This includes support of world missions and involvement in local outreach initiatives.   

6. Calvary is the core of our message

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“For I determined not to know anything among you, save Jesus Christ and Him crucified”  I Corinthians 2:2 (KJV).  “For the preaching of the cross is to them that perish foolishness; but unto us which are saved it is the power of God” I Corinthians 1:18 (KJV).  “…ye who sometimes were far off are made nigh by the blood of Christ” Ephesians 2:13 (KJV).

 

If the message of Calvary was sufficient for Paul’s ministry and outreach, why should we change the formula?  The message of the cross was preached on the Day of Pentecost, and it is still the only message to change the world.  After all, our salvation, healing, justification, redemption, peace and final victory were made available to us through the blood of Jesus.

 

7. Oneness of God

 

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“Is there any God beside me? Yea there is no God; I know not any” Isaiah 44:8 (KJV) .  “There is none other God but one” I Corinthians 8:4 (KJV).  “I and my Father are one” John 10:30 (KJV).  “…he that hath seen me hath seen the Father” John 14:9 (KJV).

 

Many religions believe in multiple gods or polytheism.  From the beginning of the Bible to the end, the message of one God is emphasized.  The divine Spirit that created the world is the same divine Spirit that was in the man Christ Jesus.  This is also the same Spirit that dwells within Holy Spirit-filled believers.  The Spirit of God is not divided into factions or personalities…OUR GOD IS ONE!

 

 

8. Striving to live a holy and separated life

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“Follow peace with all men, and holiness, without which no man shall see the Lord” Hebrews 12:14 (KJV).  “Come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord” II Corinthians 6:17 (KJV).  “Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world” I John 2:15 (KJV).

 

God has called us to be separate and distinct from the world.  God’s holiness is absolute perfection and purity, but when holiness is applied to man it means being separated unto God.  We should be willing to do anything to make ourselves acceptable to God, regardless of the sacrifice.

 

9. Truth as our highest pursuit

II Timothy 2:15 (KJV).