ccm - bible studies for foundation class

8/3/2019 CCM - Bible Studies for Foundation Class

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As adapted by Bro. Udochukwu Mark [2011]


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Bible StudiesFor

Foundation Class

COPYRIGHTS 2004 CCM & Living Word Studios

ISBN 978-8032-28-1

A Publication of

Campus Charismatic Movement(An arm of Christian Charismatic Ministries)

C.C.M Inc.Inquiries: 042-259871, 042-302985, 080-37620144

080-23547052


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Preface

Guide to Effective Study

The purpose of this study series is to give the young

Christian a proper foundation on which he can stand firmly on. It

is a true saying that the foundation of every building determines

what can be placed on it. A Christian that is properly built

on a solid foundation is ready to carry any load ofresponsibility that the Lord may deem necessary to place on him

in future.

It is also important to mention that the Foundation Class is a

course, which every new believer must pass through. Every new

believer must go through all the studies. This study is also a

preparation for Immersion and Holy Ghost Baptisms for those who

have not gone through either of them. "He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved; but he that believeth not shall be

damned." Mark 15:16. "But ye shall receive power, after that the

Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto meboth in Jerusalem, and in all Judaea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth." Actsl: 8. These are very

important experiences every true believer must go through to be

established indeed. Therefore the student of the Foundation Classshould be eager to finish his study and insist on having these

experiences before graduating into the Leadership Class.

The key to realizing the full impact of these studies in one's life lies on

meditation. For the Word of God to produce fruit in your life you must

diligently meditate upon it. "...but thou shalt meditate therein day

and night, that thou mayest observe to do according to all that iswritten `therein: for then thou shall make thy way prosperous, and

then thou shall have a good success" Josh 1:8

Absorb the word until it becomes part of you.


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An Instruction Guide for theNew Converts' Class Teacher

Memory verse: "...work out your own salvation with fear and

trembling." Phil.2:12b

OBJECTIVE OF STUDYNew converts need some guidance to properly understand what

their decision to follow CHRIST really implies. They need to know

how they were before God; how they were doomed for judgmentuntil they received salvation. (Ps.7:1116). They also need to realize

that salvation is like being clothed with a spotless garment, and only

those who keep their garments unspotted and unblemished will

receive their final inheritance when this life is over. (IIPet.3:13,14; I

Jn.3:3; Eph.5:25-27).

This study is intended to emphasize the need for a complete

turning away from sin, and a total commitment to serve God inholiness. This is the only way we can ensure that everyone is

presented perfect in Christ Jesus. (Col.1:28). It is our prayer thatthis instruction will be deeply imparted in the hearts of the people, so

that they will be spurred to action to work out their own salvation with

fear and trembling.

Note: The class should be very interactive.

1. Introducing the study... Find out from the students if they have all given their lives to

CHRIST.

Ask some who have recently done so if they reallyunderstood what their decision meant. (At this point, you

can explain from scriptures, what it actually means to be

born-again.)

Then ask again if everyone is born-again, in the light of theWord of God.

EmphasizeJn.3:5. ...except a man be born of water and ofthe Spirit, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God. Except


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a man starts living by the Word ofGod. Point out the need for genuine repentance here. That it

involves confessing and completely forsaking all sin andungodly living. Prov 28:13; Jn.8:11; I Jn.3:7-9).

Ask if they have really left their sins! Discuss some things that must be forsaken immediately.

2. Retaining the new life, growing in grace, and staying prepared

for HIS coming.

Bring out Matt. 11:28-30; "Come unto Me all ye who are

burdened and heavy laden, and I will give you rest. TAKEMY YOKE UPON YOU AND LEARN OF ME..."

Discuss what they must start to do to retain and grow in the newlife: For instance:

Studying the Bible everyday (find out if they have Bibles,and charge those that don't have to get theirs quickly). IIPet.2: 2;

Ps.119:9,11,105

DURATION OF STUDYThe studies in this series are basic Christian teachings that are carefully

and prayerfully prepared to help the new believer adapt to the new

lifestyle of his newly found faith.Therefore, time should be spent on each topic until it sinks deep down

every member of the class. Teachers should resist the temptation ofrushing to finish each study at once. We prescribe that the shortest

study should take a minimum of two contacts. Assignments should be

given to the students after each study, which the teacher must be diligentenough to mark.

It is strongly recommended that the study should be followed in thesequence it is arranged. Resist the temptation of jumping any study. This

series is estimated to last at least, one session of eight months.


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Table of Contents

Title Page.i

Preface ........................................................................... .......ii

Introduction ................................................................... .......iii

Table of Contentiv

Study One: The New Birth............................................1

Study Two: Genuine Repentance5

Study Three: Results of the New Birth.10

Study Four: Faith..13

Study Five: The word of God ........................................... 16

Study Six: Prayer ................................................................ 20

Study Seven: Quiet Time ................................................... 24

Study Eight: Water Baptism .............................................. 28

Study Nine: Sanctification ................................................ 30

Study Ten: The Holy Spirit .............................................. 33

Study Eleven: Witnessing and Soul Winning .................. 39

Study Twelve: Christian Fellowship ................................ 43

Study Thirteen: Victory Over Temptations ...................... 47

Study Fourteen: Christian Conduct .................................. 52

Study Fifteen: In Readiness for His Coming.56


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Study 1

THE NEW BIRTH

Memory verse: "Therefore if any man

be in Christ, he is a new creature; old things are passed away; behold all

things are become new." II Cor. 5:17.

The day you sincerely repent from your sins and surrender your life to

Christ, something happens. The Bible calls it conversion,

being saved or being 'born-again'. To understand what God hasdone in you and for you, we must first take a glance back at how

you were before this big change took place. It is not a question of howyou saw yourself at that time, or how any other person saw you, but

how God saw you. That and that alone was how you really were. Thenwe will look at what God did for you to be saved, and what He saysyou are now, your new spiritual identity. You are no more what

you used to be. Even though you are not all that you will be, a miracle

has taken place inside of you. It is not that you decided to

become religious or more moral; God has made you a brand

new person. It is not a matter of feelings, but of facts. You are a

different person now inside and that is why you have begun to live

differently now, to live God's way.

1. THE OLD HAS GONE!

Look at how God describes your old life:

i. You were dead in sin.Eph.2:1,12; Rom.8:7-8; I Cor. 2:14.You were unable to respond to God, to obey God or to pleaseHim. You were without hope and without God in this world.


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ii. You were enslaved by sin. Jn. 8:34; Rom. 6:16; Rom. 7:15-25.

And for you a slave to be free, it has to be by a power greater

than that of your master sin. You were unable to get free by

your own efforts.

iii. You were blinded by Satan.II Cor. 4:4; Eph. 4:18.He blinded your mind, making you completely ignorant of

what Christ did on the cross of Calvary to set you free from

sin. You were even unaware that you were a sinner.

iv. You were continually under God's judgment.Rom.2:5-6.As long as you were living in sin and disobedience, divine

judgment kept hanging over your head, ready to be releasedupon you anytime.

2. WHAT GOD DID FORYOURom. 5:1-9.

God created you to enjoy fellowship with Him, but sin

brought estrangement (Gen.3:8). How could there again be

fellowship? Only by removing the cause of separation. Man was

powerless to do anything about it (Rom. 5:6). Only God could

deal with the problem. How did He do it? Jn.3:16.

i. Though God loved you and chose you, He could not disregard

your sin (Hab. 1:13a). And since the law of God insists that the

penalty for sin is death (Ezek.18:4), sin always has to be paid for.

Jesus, the Son of God suffered this death in your place, so that you

do not have to die, but believe and accept His sacrifice by turning

your life over to Him, and have life. (Jn.3:16; IPet. 3:18)


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ii. Because of His blood that He shed for you, you were justified.

Justification is the act by which God declares sinful manrighteous. In the matter of righteousness you were declared

bankrupt, unable to pay your debts. But Jesus came and paid your

debt by shedding His blood for your sake to satisfy God's demands.

All His righteousness was paid into your account (Rom. 5:9).

iii. The proof that God accepted the sacrifice of Jesus to justify

you is seen in the fact that He raised Him from the dead (Rom. 4:24).Now, if you acknowledge that you are a sinner unable to help yourself;

accept the sacrifice of Jesus on the cross for you; confess and repent of

your sins; and enthrone Him as your Lord and personal Saviour, you

are saved! (Jn.3:16). Have you done this? If you have, then you are

now born-again, made a new person in God's sight!

3. THE NEW HAS COME!What has happened to you now? How does God see you now?

You are now born-again, a completely changed person.

i. You are forgiven.IJn 1:9, Prov.28:13;Heb.8:12.

God is faithful and merciful. Having confessed your sins toHim, He has forgiven you. No matter how terrible your sins

were, he has had mercy on you and forgiven you according toHis promise.

ii. You are justified now, that is declared righteous beforeGod.Rom.3:24-25.

As far as God is concerned, because of what Christ did for

you on the cross, you are free. You have been declared 'not

guilty' before Him. You are now free to walk closely with God

and serve Him.


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iii. You are cleansed through Christ's blood.

IJn.1:7; Heb.9:13-14.Your conscience has been purged from dead works.

iv. You have now been reconciled to God.Rom. 5:10

Before now, you were God's enemy. But now you have become

His friend. The wall of sin that stood as a barrier between you

and God has been removed. Praise the Lord!

v. You are born-again.

Jn.3:3,6; Jn.10:27-28; IPet.1:23; IJn.1:9; Gal.2:20.

Your old life has been terminated. Your old nature is gone. The

truth is that your old self is not the one living in you now. Though

you are still alive, walking about and doing things, it is no longer

you. Christ is the one living in your body now. That is the truth.

vi. You are now anew member of God's family.

Jn.1.12; IICor. 6:18

God is now your Father and all other believers are your

brothers and sisters. As a Father, He is committed to love,

protect and provide for you and to train you.

vii. You are bound for heaven.Jn.14:2-3; Lk.10:20; Rev.20:15

Your name is written in the Lamb's book of life now. Jesus

has gone to prepare a place for you. Meanwhile, He is preparing

you for that place. The best is yet to come (ICor.2: 9).

CONCLUSIONThis is the reality of your new birth in Christ Jesus. And He did all foryou free of charge! Your response should be: "Love so amazing, sodivine demands my heart, my life, my all... " Be thankful alwaysby living your life as He instructs you. For once you were blind,but now you see! Praise God!


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Study 2

GENUINE REPENTANCE

Memory verse: "He that covereth his sins shall not prosper: but

whosoever confesseth and forsaketh them shall have

mercy."Prov. 28:13

Immediately after a genuine salvation

encounter with the Saviour Jesus Christ, achild of God is expected to start bearing fruit

by his or her life. The new creation life in Christ

is a complete lifestyle on its own. That which is

born of the flesh is flesh, and that which is

born of the Spirit is spirit. The outward

manifestation of life in the Spirit is quite

different from that of life in the flesh. As soon asthe new birth takes place, the old life is

terminated, and the new life begins. Every tree is known by its

fruits. One of the first fruits that show the identity of the new life is the

fruit of repentance. Repentance means to think with sorrow over

something that one has done. Repentance from sin means

confession of sin and forsaking of those sins as a result of

sorrow over them. It also involves bearing fruits that will show that

you have repented. You cannot say you are born-again until there is

evidence of repentance from sin in your life.

1. Genuine Repentance involves:i. An acknowledgment of one's sins and sinful situation

Ps. 32,3-5; Ps. 51:3-4.

There can be no genuine repentance without this.


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ii. Deep thought and sorrow of heart or mourning over one's

sins.IKgs.21:20-29;Matt.5:4; IICor. 7:10.As sin starts from the heart, repentance also starts from the heart.

When the heart is touched this way, it gives rise to inner

resolution and motivation to confess and forsake such sins.

Where the heart is not touched, repentance is not genuine. There

may be confession of sins with the mouth, but there will be no

forsaking of such sins. Such sorrow may even involve

weeping and fasting.

iii. Confession with one's mouth.

Prov. 28:13; Matt. 3:5-8; Rom. 10:9-10.

Even though you sincerely feel sorry from your heart for your

sins, confession with your mouth to the one against whom you

have sinned is necessary to evoke forgiveness. This includes:

Confession to God Ps.32:3-5; IJn.1:9; Lk.18:13;Rom.10:9.Primarily, it is against God we have sinned, and unto Him

we must confess our sins and ask for forgiveness.

Confession to man Jam.5:16; Matt.5:23-24; Mk.8: 38;Lk15:18; Lk.19:5-10.

Where necessary, especially when a fellow human being isinjured or offended as a result of your sins, genuine

repentance involves confession of such sins not only to

God, but also to such person(s). It may also involve restoring

what you have wrongly taken. It is also necessary to

confess your faith in Christ and His Lordship over your lifebefore men. All shame must be thrown away.


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iv. Repentance is only complete when:

Sin and sinful habits are completely forsaken.Prov. 28:13; Isa. 55: 7; Jn. 5:14; Titus2:11-12.

If you are sincerely sorry for your sins, then you should stop

sinning. Grace (divine or supernatural) ability to say no

to sin comes at the point of salvation. You are free to stop

sinning now. The Lord says "Go, and sin no more!"

Fruits which show repentance are brought forth.Matt. 3:5-8; Titus 2:11-12; Matt. 21:28-29; Eph. 4:28

32.

The grace of God that brings salvation comes along not

only with the ability to say no to sin, but also with the ability

to say yes to godliness and right living. If you have trulyrepented, you will not only stop sinning but start living God's

way in obedience to His Word. That is what will show that

you have truly repented.

2. Examples of dead works to be repented ofEvery sin and filthiness of the flesh must be repented of

with all sincerity. Some of these include sexual immorality, smoking,

cheating, partying, lying, quarrelsomeness, friendship with

unbelievers, and so on.Mention some others. Every area where there

is conviction of sin and ungodliness in your heart must be repented

of immediately. Do not let the enemy deceive you by telling youthat withdrawal from these issues is a gradual process. This is not true.You must forsake all of them immediately. IICor.6:16-18; IICor.

7:1; Gal.5:19-21; ICor 6:18-20.

In our thoughts. Matt. 12:34-35; Matt. 5:27-28; Matt.15:19.

Dig into the recesses of your heart and repent of all

lustful, immoral, impure, unholy thoughts in there.

Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God!

(Matt. 5:8).


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In our words Prov.10:19; Matt.12:36-37; Eph.4:29.Lying, gossip, talkativeness, idle words, abusive

words, cursing etc, are all examples of sins committedthrough words. Are you guilty of sinful speech?Confess and forsake them with all sincerity. They are

capable of sending you to hell!

In our deeds Isa. 55:6-7; Gal. 5:19-21; Rom.1:29-32;Col. 3:5-9.

The list is endless. What are the wrong deeds you are

personally involved in? You know them! Anyone who

does such things cannot inherit the kingdom of God.Repent!

3. Look at some other points:

Repentance is the first step that must be taken toreconcile with God. What separates a man from God

is his sin. Do you still want to remain far from God?

If not, repent and turn to Him!Isa.59:1-2; Rom.3:23; Matt.4:17; Lk.13:15; II Tim. 2:19.

Opportunity for repentance comes because of God'sgoodness and mercy. Rom.2:4; IIPet. 3:9; Heb.12:16-17;

Matt. 9:13.

Make use of this privilege while there is still

opportunity!

4. It is dangerous to keep covering up sin or procrastinating over this

issue. It results in separation from God. You cannot say you are

truly born-again unless you have genuinely repented.


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CONCLUSION

True repentance teaches us to hate sin and learn to love holiness

and purity. It releases grace for us to live godly lives. Remember,

he that covers his sin will not prosper, but whosoever confesses

and forsakes them shall have mercy. Search your heart, and repent

from every dead work. Enthrone the Lord in your heart. You will

find deep joy and sweet communion with the Lord.


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Study 3

RESULTS OF THE NEW BIRTH

Memory verse: I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live;

yet not I, but Christ liveth in me...Gal.2:20a

Now that you are born again, it

is expected of you to bear

fruit of good works thataccompany salvation. Having

repented and turned from

your old life, God expects

you to live now as a

servant to righteousness. In

this study, we will look at

some of the fruits expected of

you, by the grace of God. We

will also look at what you must do in order for you to retain and grow

in this new life.

1. Fruits that accompany salvation.Heb.6:7-9.

You have received power and ability to live a righteous life and to say

no to sin. Rom.6:1-23; Titus 2:11-14; Rom.8:12. Therefore you areno longer expected to yield yourself to sin anymore.

i. You now daily live for Jesus, trusting in His grace andhelp in all you do, and depending on Him for

everything. Gal.2:20; II Cor5:14-15.

ii. You love the Word of God, readily obeying as He teachesyou.IPet.2:1-2; Ps. 119:16


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iii. You have a sincere desire to please God in all things, andyou take positive steps towards this. Ps.27: 4,

iv. Your life is full of good fruits of love, joy peace,patience, gentleness, faith, meekness, temperance.

Gal. 5:22-23.

v. In obedience to God, you yield yourself readily to God'sservice. Rom. 12:1; Matt.11:28-30; Lk.9: 23; II Cor.5:14-

21.

vi. You have completely turned your back to sin, and have fullydedicated your life to Jesus as your Lord, never to go back

again to the world.Rom.6:12-23; Heb.10:35-39.

2. Retaining the New lifeGod has wonderful thoughts for you; thoughts of good and not of

evil, to bring you to an expected end. (Jer.29:11). He expects you

to be involved with all your will to work out your salvation. It

takes His grace, and your willing effort to be all He wants you tobe. Have you started doing your part? Here are some

instructions that will help you:

i. Read your Bible every day.I Pet.2:1-2; I Pet 1:18, 23-25

ii. Pray everydayI Thess. 5:17; Lk.18:1; Eph.6:18; Matt.6: 6-8.

iii.Identify boldly and publicly with Jesus ChristLk.9:23,26;IITim.1:7-8; Matt.5:14-16; Rom . 1:1 6;He b . 2: 1 1 .

There is a natural tendency to hide your new experience frommembers of your family, friends and others. This is not good.You must shun the devil and your flesh from making youashamed to boldly declare your faith to others and identify withJesus. Let them know quickly what has happened to you, or verysoon, they will begin to tell you why you must not


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move too closely with Christ and with Christians. And theywill dampen your faith.

iv. Witness to others, tell them about the life you havefound in Jesus, and persuade them to make the same decision.

II Cor .5: 17- 21 .

v. Get to know and meet together with other born againChristians around you. Eph.2:19; Heb.10:23-25; Mk. 10:29-30.

vi. Separate yourself from bad company. Bad company

corrupts good manners. Ps.1:1; IICor 6:14-18; ICor 15:33.

What are other things you must start to do immediately, to grow in the

Lord?

CONCLUSION

It is God's desire that you will live a life of holiness, victoriously to

the end. Stand fast in your faith. Your decision to serve God brought joy in heaven. It also brought rage in the kingdom of darkness. The

devil will hunt you to see that you do not last in the faith. But God willsee you through if you follow HIM. "HE who began this good work in

you will carry it on to completion until the day of Jesus Christ." Phil.

1:6.


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Study 4FAITHMemory verse: "But without faith it is impossible to please Him;

for He that cometh to God must believe that He is, and that Heis a rewarder ofthem that diligently seek Him." Heb.11:6

Faith is confidence in God that leads us to believe His

Word. Faith is a full surrender, yieldedness and obedience to

God. It means unreserved trust in God that

makes us give ourselves wholly over to Him.

It is the confident assurance that what we

hope for is going to happen; the evidence

of what we do not yet see. When you sit on a

chair without looking, and relax, placing

your whole weight on the chair, 'faith' says

you will not fall, that is why you sit. The

taxi-d r iver does not ask to see your money

first, by 'faith' he believes you have money and will pay him at the end

of the route. Likewise, faith is absolute trust in God. Without faith

it is impossible to please Him.

1. Where do we get Faith?

i. Faith in god comes by hearing His Word.Rom. 10:17.

Our faith keeps growing as we have contact with, and

meditate on the Word of God.

ii . We receive extraordinary faith as a gift from God.

I Cor.12. 9a.

Faith thrives in prayer.Jude 1:20.

We affirmour faith in prayer, and it is strengthened as we see results


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to our prayers.

2. The results of exercising Faith

i. We are saved by faith.Mk.16:16; Jn.3:16; Rom.1:16;

Rom.3:24-31; Rom.5:1; Eph.2:8-9.

By faith we believe Jesus for our sins to set us free, and we receive

salvation.

ii. We receive answers to prayer by faith. James 1:5-8; Heb.

11:6, Matt. 21:21-22.When we pray, we must believe that God is able to do what we

ask, and stretch out the hands of faith for that which we cannot

see. Faith waits patiently before God when answers seem to be

delayed and does not grow disheartened at this.

iii. Faith possesses God's promises. Heb.6:12; Rom.4:17-25.

iv. Faith brings rest from anxiety, fear, and worry.Matt. 6:2 7-34;

Phil. 4:6-7; Matt. 8:26v. By faith, we receive the Holy Spirit, healing and eternal life.

Gal.3:14; James 5:14-16; IPet.2:24; Jn.3:15-18,36; Jn.5:24;

6:4 7.

vi. Continuing in faith, that is believing in God and obeying

Him keep us righteous before God.I Pet. 1:5

vii .We are blessed with daily necessities by faith. Matt. 6:25-

34; Lk.12: 28; Phil.4:19. It is only by faith we can do exploitsfor God: by believing in Him, we draw down His strength and

power. (see Heb. 11).

viii.By faith, nothing is impossible for the believer. Matt.

17:20. Only God can move mountains, but faith moves God!

3. Consequences of lack of Faith


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Unbelief and doubt are the opposite of faith. Anyone who

lacks faith will not receive anything from God. James 1:5-8.When you doubt, faith is replaced by fear, anxiety, worry,

insecurity... Without faith, it is impossible to please God.

Rather, let us see the inspiring results of faith exercised in these

scriptures: Matt. 8:1-4; Matt. 9:18-30; Mk.2:112; Mk. 7:25-29;

Mk. 9:14-29.

4.

Faith without works is deadJames 2:14-26

The evidence that we believe what God says is in our response in

action. When we believe the Word of God we should act on it

immediately. Obedience to God makes faith come alive and

really become substance. Look at James 2:14-26again, and

determine to add works to your faith!

CONCLUSION

Every Christian needs to exercise faith in every area of his walk withGod. He that comes to God must believe in Him, and that He is able to

do what He says He will do. God does not change. He is ready to show

Himself strong on behalf of anyone who reaches out to Him infaith. So, have faith in God, and in His Word, then you will really

experience the hand of God in your life!

Study 5


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THE WORD OF GOD

Memory verse: "Wherewithal shall a young man cleanse his way?

By taking heed thereto according to thy Word." Ps.119:9

Our new lives in our

Lord Jesus mean we are

now totally new people.

We are not expected to

be conformed again to

the way of life of this life,

but rather be

transformed to live

according to God's

standards. God makes known this new way of living He intends for us

through His Word that He has given us. The Bible is the Word of

God, where He teaches us what is true and makes us realize what is

wrong in our lives. By His Word, we are straightened out and

we learn to do what is right so that we please Him in everything

we do. When we have his Word and really obey it, we are changed to

be like Him.

1. The Source and Inspiration of the Bible

IITm.3:16; IIPet.1:20-21.

From these scriptures, we see that the Bible was

written by holy men of God as they were inspired by the Holy

Spirit. The Bible comprises of 66 books: 39 in the

Old Testament, and 27 in the New Testament.


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2. What does the Word of God do in us?

i. The Word of God is His revelation of His nature to us so thatwe can learn and be renewed to be like Him. IICor 3:18;

Rom.12: 2; Eph. 4:22-24.

ii. It shows us what is right and what is wrong, therebyhelping us keep away from sin. II Tim. 3:16-17; Ps. 19: 7-

11; Ps. 119:9,11,104-105.

iii. It is powerful in changing and converting us. It convicts usof the wrong in our lives so that we can live pure lives.

Rom.1:16-17; Jer.23:29; Heb.4:12; IIPet.1:19; James

1:21.

iv. It has power to heal, create, and accomplish what God sendsit to do in our lives. Ps.107:20;Gen. 1:1-3; Isa. 55:10-11.

v. From it, we find out God's plans for our lives and Hispromises too II Pet.1:2-4; Ps.119:89; Deut.5:32-33; 28:1-

2,15.

vi. We find wisdom to face our everyday lives. Prov.2:1-8;Prov.4:5-13; 9:1-11; IITim.3:15; Ps. 119:130.

vii. The Word of God is our weapon of defence in the evil dayof temptation.Eph.6:17; Lk. 4:1-13.

viii. It stirs up our faith and trust in God.Rom.10:17.ix. We learn how to pray according to God's will from His Word.

Matt. 6:5-15; Lk. 18:1-14.

3. The Word of God comforts us and removes our fears

Ps.119:114-117.

i. First of all, God expects us to study His Word regularly. Weshould study and meditate on it every day. That means we

should dwell on at least a portion of the Word every day. We

should hunger to be fed with His Word.Josh.1:8; Ps.1:1-3; Ps.

119:20,40,131


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ii. We should prayerfully study and meditate so that we canunderstand and receive grace from the Word we study.Meditation involves keeping your thoughts around the Word

you have studied. Learn to wait on the Word you study until it

breaks forth into grace in your life. Do not rush over the Bible

like a textbook; the Word will not open that way. It takes

concentrated meditation to reach the life inside the Word.

Every Word is encased in a letter, and it has to be cracked. It is

you r insistent thought on it that makes heaven to release whatis inside that scripture to you. Ps.119:18; Deut.11:18-21;

Jn.6:63; II Cor. 3:6,15-18; Ps.119: 55, 59,147-148.

iii. We should constantly memorize scripture as we study, sothat they will be carved into our hearts and become useful

to us.Deut.11:18; Jn.14:26.

iv. And readily obey, as we see light from the Word, so that wewill be blessed. Deut.11:22-28;Matt.7:24-27; Heb.6:7-9;James 1:22-25;Matt.5:19; Ezra 7:10.

We should cultivate a disciplined habit of studying the bible

everyday with prayerful meditation, then we will grow every day in

the Lord.I Pet.2:2; Ps.1:1-3.

4. What happens if we neglect to study and obey the Word ofGod?

i. Neglecting to study and live by the Word of God will make you

wither spiritually and eventually die.

Jn.15:1-6; Heb.6: 7-9.

ii. You will no longer find grace to live for God each day.

iii. When you study, and do not readily obey, you are worse

than one who neglects to study. James 1:2225; Heb.6:7-9;Lk.8:18.


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CONCLUSIONBlessed is the man that walketh not in the counsel of the ungodly,

nor standeth in the way of sinners, nor sitteth in the seat of thescornful. But his delight is in the law of the Lord; and in His law doth hemeditate day and night. And he shall be like a tree planted by the rivers

of water, that bringeth forth his fruit in season; his leaf also shall notwither; and whatsoever he doeth

shall prosper. Ps.1:1-3.


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Study 6

PRAYER

Memory verse: "...Men ought always to pray and not to

faint." Lk.18:1b

Prayer is simply a communion

with God. When we pray, we

express our hearts to God, and Healso communicates with us. We

express our worship and

adoration to Him, our

thanksgiving, our confessions,

and our desires. We speak with

Him just as we speak with our

earthly father, and He speaks tous too. God is the source of our

life, and our sustainer too. And

prayer

is an opportunity, a privilege we have to approach Him. Prayer

conveys the blessings that God desires to give us. We cannot

survive in life if we do not pray, that is why this study is

important as a foundation to a rich prayer relationship with our Father.May we grow in our prayer life and discipline as we progress in our

walk with God, in Jesus' name.

1. Why do we pray?

i. God created us to be absolutely dependent on Him.

Jer.17:5-8; 11 Chr.16. 7-9, 12; Heb. 4:16.

ii. He is our Father, and He desires to commune with us.


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It is as we spend time daily with our heavenly Father in the place of

prayer, and in studying His Word that we grow to become like Him.When we pray, He conveys His grace and promises to us, and

gives us strength to keep on victorious in Him. A prayerless

Christian is a powerless Christian.

Phil.4: 6; Jn. 12:27-28.

Mention some practical reasons why we pray.

2. When do we pray?

We ought to pray always, in all situations, at all times, and in all

places. Not only when in distress, it should be a daily exercise. Instead

of worrying about anything, pray about everything. It is a good

foundation to make an exercise of praying early in the morning

before we begin the day, and before we go to sleep at night, then at

other times too.

3. How do we pray? Lk.11:1-4;Matt. 6.9-13.

i. When we pray, we should have unhindered communion

with God. We should speak with Him as a Father,

reverentially. And listen to Him speak to us. The content of

prayer should generally be:

Adoration - praise and worship of the soul to God. Ps.95:6; Ps. 103:1-2; Matt. 6.-9.

Confession - allowing our hearts to be searched by God sothat we can own up to every sin and plead for forgiveness.

Ps. 139:23-24; Ps.32:5.

Thanksgiving - thanking God for all His benefits towardsyou and towards others.Phil. 4: 6.

Supplications - making requests for yourself and Iintercession for others: friends, brethren, relatives, enemies,unbelievers and so on.Matt.6:10-13; I Tim.2:1-4


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This pattern is easily remembered as the A.C.T.S pattern for

prayer. Whenever we pray, we should look to the Holy Spirit forguidance on what to pray.

ii. We pray in our closet, and in public too. Our prayer life is built

in the closet; that is where we have real communion with

God.

iii. We pray in the name of Jesus, our advocate with the Father.

Jn.14:12-14; Jn.16:24.

4. The effects of PrayerThe effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man avails much (James

5:16). A preacher said that prayer can do anything that God can do.Fervent prayer channels the life of God to us, and changes

situations. When we pray, God can do immeasurably more than we

can ever ask or think or imagine. Discover more from thesescriptures: I Sam. ]:1-20; I Chr4:9-10; I Kgs.17.4146; Dan.9: 2-4,21-23.

5. Essentials for effectual prayeri. Live a life of holiness, free from sin. I Pet. 3:12; Ps.66:18; Isa.

59:1-2; Ps. 34:15-17; IJn. 3:19-22.

ii. Forgive those who offend you, and make thing right with

people who have grudges against you.Matt. 5:23-24; Matt.6:12,14-15.

iii. Obey God's commandments.IJn. 3:22;Jn. 15:7.

iv. Pray according to God's will.IJn.5:14,15.

v. Pray with intensity and earnest desire. Matt. 7:7-11; James

5:17; Mk.7:25-30; Heb.4:16; I nJer.29:12-13.

vi. Pray with confident expectation and unwavering

faith, not doubting at all.James 1:5-8;Mk. 7:25-30; Heb.11:6;Matt.21:21-22.


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vii. Pray with persistence and ferve ncy,

continually asking, continually seeking, andcontinually knocking until you are assured of an

answer from God. Look at the amazing results of

persistence in these scriptures: Lk.11:5-13. Lk.18:1-8;,

Mk. 7:25-30.

viii. Approach God with humility of heart

Lk.18:10-14; IPet. 5.6; II Chr. 7:14.

ix. Pray without ceasing.Lk. 18:1; 1Thess. 5:17.x. Knowledge of the Word of God is essential also.

Dan. 9:2-3.

We should also learn to pray with fasting. It adds intensity and

earnestness to our prayer as we plead in soberness.Matt. 17:1719,21.

6. Hindrances to Prayer.

i. Sin.Isa.59:1-2; Ps. 66:18; 1Pet. 3:12; Ps. 34.15-17.

ii. An unforgiving spirit. Mk.11-25.

iii. Asking amiss, with wrong motives outside the will

of God.James 4:3.

iv. Unbelief and doubt.James 1:5-8.

CONCLUSION.

Prayer draws us closer to God. Do not let anything crowd out your

time of communion with God. If you are too busy that you cannot pray,

then also you will be too busy to obey God and do His will. Let us

learn to exercise faith when we pray, waiting with

persistence, because our Father is a rewarder of them that diligently

seek Him.


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Study 7

QUIET TIME

Memory verse: "My soul thirsteth for God, for the living God;

when shall I come and appear before God." Ps.42:2.

Quiet Time is a period

deliberately set aside to pray

and commune alone with God. It

is a time you set aside as an

individual child of God apart from

group meetings to speak with

your heavenly Father and to

hear Him speak to you. It must

be free from disturbance anddistraction for it to be effective.

That is why it is referred to as 'Quiet Time". Men of God like

Abraham and D avid practiced this habit. They set aside

times early in the morning, at noon, and even at night to

commune with God. Our Lord Jesus also did the same; He

would rise up a great while before day and go to a lonely place to

pray and commune with God. The Christian who perseveres inthe habit of regular Quiet Time steadily grows day by day with the

Lord.

1. The necessity of Quiet Time

The basic purpose of Quiet Time is to fellowship with God as

an individual. To commune with Him. Ps.5:2-3; Ps.27:4; Ps.42:1-

2; Ps.55:17; Ps.63:1-9; Ps. 84:1-4; Jn. 4:24; I Pet. 2:5.


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i. To hear God speak to you as a person. Ps.32: 8; Jn.15:4-7;Josh. 7:6-11; Prov4:20-22; Jer.29:11.

ii. To receive grace (God's help) and direction for the day.Mk.1:35; IJn.1:9, Prov3:5-6; Heb.4:16; Phil.4:6.

iii. It is necessary for building up your life as a Christianand for renewing your strength. Substance imparted in us

during such a period helps us react in a right way to the

affairs of dailyliving.Isa.40:28-31; Jude 1:20; Matt.4:4.

iv. The Quiet Time also affords an opportunity forsystematic Bible study and intense prayer. Lk. 6:12;

Acts 17:11

2. How do we have Quiet Time alone with God?

i. Select a time and place that will be quiet and most suitable for

you to be alone with God. Ps.5:3; Ps. 55:17; AR. 1:35; Matt.

14:22-23; Gen. 19:27; Gen.32:23-24. All the people that God

used were early risers. We advice you follow their example.ii. Enter God's presence with praise and adoration. Ps.100:1-5;

Ps. 103:1-5; Lk. 11:2; Heb.13:15.

Prayerfully study the scriptures. Meditating on the Word of God,

therefore allowing God speak to you through His Word. Josh.1:8;

Ps.1:1-3; Ps.119:9-16,18. It is advisable to have a planned study

guide. Daily reading guides like Daily Bread, Daily Power,

Everyday with Jesus, etc. will be helpful. You should also have asystematic plan for studying the Bible, for instance, by chapters,

by books, by biographies, by topics etc. Discuss some practicalexamples.

The following questions will help you meditate and pray over what

you have studied:


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What new thing have I learnt today?

Is there a command for me to obey? Is there an example for me to follow? Is there an error for me to avoid? Is there a sin for me to forsake in my life? Is there a promise for me to claim? Is there a new thought about God Himself?

Working through this with note-taking helps to keep the mind

focused on the illumination from the Word, and helps our memoryas well.

iii. Commune with God in prayer. Phil. 4:6 ; ...........

The A.C.T.S pattern suggested in the study on prayer

will be helpful here. Listen to hear God speak to youtoo.Habb.2:1; Ps.46:10. Pray and intercede for the needs

of others, and yours too.

iv. Seek the leading, guidance and blessing of the Holy

Spirit in your Quiet Time. Maintain a balance

between the time spent in prayer, and in the study of the

Bible.

v. Get wide-awake before observing your Quiet Timeso that you will be alert. You should give your

freshest strength and you r calmest hours to Quiet Time.

vi. Come with the right heart preparation (see studyon prayer). And do not be in haste in God's presence.

3. The following materials would be of help to you when you

have your Quiet Time: a complete Bible (choose a version that can be

well understood by you), a study guide, a notebook and a pen to record

instructions and illumination from the Word (and follow them). A

hymn book is good too. Suggest other materials.


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4. Hindrances to effective and regular Quiet Time. The enemy

will see to it that your Quiet Time is opposed everyday. Lookat some of the hindrances and determine to overcome them

daily:

i. Sleepiness and Tiredness.Lk 22:45-46.

ii. Laziness and Slothfulness . Rom.12:11;Prov 24: 30-34.

iii. Poor discipline with time. You must consciously redeem time

every day for your Quiet Time. It is good to build a habit

out of this by having your Quiet Time at the same periodevery day (if possible).Eph.5.15-17

iv. Sin. Sin alienates us from appearing before God. Gen.3:8-11.

v. Distraction and Disturbance. How do we avoid this?

CONCLUSION

Make it a habit and a longing to spend time in communion with God

every day. Then you will be like a tree planted by the rivers of water,that brings forth his fruit in his season, his leaf also shall not wither,

and whatsoever he does shall prosper.


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Study 8

WATER BAPTISM

Memory verse: "Then they that gladly received his word were

baptized..." Acts 2:41.

Because of the many questions among Christians about baptism, we

need to be clear as to what the Bible

teaches. In this study, we will discover

clearly from scripture what baptism means

and how it is practiced.

1. What does 'baptism' mean?

The word 'baptism' is derived from the

Greek root word 'baptizo', meaning to

literally dip, immerse, and submerge. To

baptize in water therefore means to

immerse in water with every part of the body covered in water.

Water baptism is an outward demonstration of one's

identification with Christ in death, resurrection and the new life

(Rom. 6:3-6), performed publicly and consciously in obedience to

God's command.

2. Scriptural significance of Water baptism

i. You have been cleansed.Acts 2:38; Acts 22:16.

It is figurative or symbolic of the cleansing you have

received as you confessed your sins (I Jn. 1:9) and it

reminds you to live as a cleansed person henceforth.

ii. It is a public declaration of your faith in Christ.Lk.12:8-9;


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iii. It signifies your union with Christ in His death andresurrection. Gal. 2:20; Rom. 6:3,4; IJn. 5:8.

iv. When we submit to be baptized, we are obeying God'scommand.Mk.16:16.

3. Who should be baptized?Mk. 16:16; Acts. 2:38, 41; Matt. 28:19.

Only those who believe in the Lord Jesus Christ and have repented

from their sins are qualified for Water baptism. This means one

must be old enough to take this personal decision. Water baptism is

not for infants, because they cannot yet reason to repent from theirsins.

4. How should it be done?Matt. 3:13-17.

Water baptism should be by immersion in water, with every part of

the body submerged. Not by sprinkling, because that is not themeaning of baptism as we have seen from scripture, and it is not

symbolic of death, burial and resurrection. That is why John theBaptist needed plenty of water to baptize. Our Lord Jesus was alsoimmersed. Scripture records that He came 'up and out of the water'.

It is done in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of theHoly

Spirit (Matt. 28:19). A mature Christian can baptize another.

CONCLUSIONBaptism is not an optional extra to salvation. It is a command of our

Lord and Master. Anyone still alive after being born-again shouldgo ahead and be baptized in water. If you have been baptized in an

improper manner, submit yourself again and be baptized properly.

God bless you as you do so.


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Study 9

SANCTIFICATION

Memory verse: "And the very God of peace sanctify you wholly;

and Ipray God your whole spirit and soul and body be preserved

blameless unto the coming of our Lord Jesus

Christ. "IThess. 5:23.

Sanctification is a separation of our lives by

God for Himself; from sin unto a holy life. Inregeneration, our nature is changed; in

sanctification, our character is renewed and

changed. When we move on in our new life

experience, pressing on to be more and more

like God, we are being sanctified. We are not

completely changed into the very nature ofGod when we are saved, but as we renew our minds, we grow to be

more like Him. That is the reason He saved us, to be conformed toHis image. Sanctification achieves this in our lives. Every father ispleased to see his child grow progressively into maturity. Likewise

our Father in heaven expects us to grow progressively in our walk

with Him. Sanctification is our means of growing in grace.

1. What is the purpose of Sanctification?Like we said earlier, God expects us to grow in grace. This is the

purpose of sanctification. It reproduces God's nature inus so that wegrow to be like Him and completely separated from sin. Then we

will be fruitful in Him.

IPet. 4:1-2; Jn.15:16; ?A. 3:14-15; IPet. 2:9; Rom. 8:29-30.


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2. How are we sanctified?i. By the Wordof GodJn.17:17; Acts 20:32.; Eph.5: 26.

To be sanctified, spend much time with the Word of God, itcleanses and purifies.

ii. By the blood of Jesus.Heb.13:12.The Word reveals sin and imperfection, the Blood cleansesit away. The result is holiness.

iii. By yielding to GodRom. 6:12; Rom. 8:1-2.iv. By submitting to God's discipline.Heb. 12:10,11; Jn.15:1-

2.

v. By our constant decision to live holy before God and to pursue righteousness. II Cor. 7:1; II Tim. 2:21-22;Matt.

5:6

3. For the growing Christian, sanctification is both a finished

work; and a continuing process.i. We can see from scripture that we were sanctified when we

received our salvation, and made one with God. ICor.1: 2;

6:11.ii. As a continuing process, sanctification is the constant holy

expression of a life set apart unto God. It means yielding to

God every day, and being conformed to His image. Find

out what this continuing process involves in thesescriptures: II Tim. 2:21-22; Jn. 15:2-4; I Pet. 1: 14-17;2:11; IThess5:22;HCor.3:18.

At His coming, Christ will complete our sanctification,

presenting us faultless unto God. IIThess. 5:23; Jude1:24; Col.1:21-23.

4. Results of Sanctification.

i. Growing perfection through Christ.Matt. 5:48;

Heb, 10:14.

ii. The fruit of Holiness.Rom. 6.-22; Gal. 5:22-25.


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To grow in grace, be faithful in your bible study prayer, soul

winning, etc. and in serving God. Obey every of His Word, then you

will increase in Him.

CONCLUSION

Keep pressing on, even in the face of odds, to grow in grace. Neverbe satisfied at any point with where you are. Keep moving, keep

working, until the day you will be clothed with gloryfrom on high.Then will your perfection be complete.


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Study 10

THE HOLY SPIRIT

Memory verse: "For as many as are led by the Spirit of God,

they are the sons of God." Rom. 8:14.

When our Lord Jesus was

parting with His disciples at

the end of His ministry hereon earth, He promised not to

leave them alone

(comfortless). He promised to

come to them, to send

another Comforter (one

alongside) who will abidewith them forever.

Therefore the Holy Spirit was sent in His name, by the Father todwell in them and with them. And this promise was not only to Hisdisciples, but to all who would thereafter believe in Him. What

Christ did for us in leading us out from darkness into the light of

God, the Holy Spirit now does in us. He is a Friend, a Counsellor, aGuide to all who receive Him allow Him preside over their lives.

And you have met Him already. The conviction of sin that led to

your repentance and salvation, and the light that now shines in your

life, have been His work. It is as you surrender your life to Hisleadership that He will have His full work in you. In this study, we

will learn more about the Holy Spirit so that we can really make

Him President over our lives, not just a resident.


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1. The Holy Spirit: who is HE?i. He is a Person, though invisible. He shares the Godhead

with the Father and the Son. (II Cor.13:14).He is a DivinePerson. He is not just God's power or an influence. He is aPerson with whom you can personally relate. He leads us,

teaches us, speaks to us, works in us (Jn.16:13). He can begrieved, resisted or quenched.

ii. What Christ did for us, the Holy Spirit now does in us. A.14:17,18; Rom.8:1-4,16; II Cor. 3:18. It is the Holy Spirit

who brings to reality in our lives all that Christ did on ourbehalf in His death and resurrection. He lives in us, so that

in yielding to Him, we are changed to be how God wants us

to be conformed to His image.

2. HIS work in usi. The Holy Spirit makes Jesus increasingly real to us. He

lives in us to continually turn our hearts over to God.Jn.15:

26; Jn.16:14,15; II Cor.3:18.ii. He takes the Word of God and teaches us. He brings to our

remembrance the things we have faithfully learnt of the

Lord; and He not only teaches us the truth, He guides us

into it.A. 14:26; A. 16:12-13; 1Cor.2:9-13.iii. He gives us power and boldness to stand as Christians to

witness, and to obey God irrespective of the cost. Acts 1:8;

4:31.

iv. He guides us in taking decisions on which way to take thatpleases God. He grants us victory over the flesh, andpowerto live holy lives as we submit under His leading.Is. 30:21;

Rom.8:1-14; Gal.5:16-25.


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i. He is a Counsellor and a Comforter (one alongside) to us.Jn.16: 7.

ii. He makes our prayer effective. He also gives us a newprayer and praise language (a new tongue) Rom.8:26; AR.

16:17; Acts 10:46,

iii. He sets us free, so as to be able to serve God withoutinhibitionII Cor.3:17.

iv. He equips us with spiritual gifts to do our job in the body of

Christ, and empowers us for service. Acts 1:8; ICor 12:1-

11; Rom.15:19.

v. He fills us with God's love, and joy in the HolySpirit.Rom.5:5; Rom.14:17; Rom.15:30; Acts 13:52.

vi. He preserves us until the day we will be finally redeemed.

Eph. 4:30.

3. Baptism in the Holy SpiritLk.24:49; Jn.7:37-39; Acts 1:4-5,8.

Scripturally, this is described as the enduement of power in the

Holy Spirit the Holy Spirit coming upon a person with a potentialdeposit of God's power for Christian life and service. We receivepower when the Holy Spirit comes upon us, so that we will be

witnesses unto God, spreading and making evident the fragrance of

His knowledge and power everywhere. Our Lord Jesus described itas receiving a drink, which will become in us rivers of living water,

refreshing us, and others too. This potential deposit becomes power

for life and for service as we stir it up by exercise and increasing

surrender to the Holy Spirit's leading.

i . Who is qualified to receive this Baptism?

It is meant for believers, those who are born-again, those who have

repented from their sins and have begun to live holy before God.

Acts 2:38, Jn. 7:38-39; Eph.1:13-14.


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ii. Who baptizes?

It is the Lord Jesus who baptizes in the Holy Spirit. Lk.3:16;

Jn.16:7; Jn.15:26. Occasionally, He uses other believers to pray andguide others into receiving the Holy Spirit. Laying on of hands is a

ministry to help you receive the Holy Spirit Acts 8:14-15; 19:1-6.The person laying hands on you becomes a channel who agrees with

you in faith for the impartation of the Holy Spirit. As you agree

with someone in prayer this way, expect to be filled with God'spower.

At other times, believers who have been taught about the Holy

Spirit, and are desirous are baptized in the Holy Spirit without the

laying on of hands by another believer.Acts 2:1-4; 10:44-46.

In all places in scripture, and in our days also, wherever people

received this baptism, there was a unifying evidence of speaking innew tongues, as the Spirit gave utterance. Expect this evidence too,as you desire to be baptized. Acts 2:4; 10:44-46; 19:6. Then an

outworking of the power of God as the person steps forward to

serve God. Do not stop at the baptism experience, but continue tomanifest the power of God by giving yourself to service, in

boldness.

Baptism in the Holy Spirit releases you to operate in thesupernatural gifts of the Holy Spirit. There is boldness to stand for

God each time you do. After a first baptism, there is need for

constant lifting or refreshing, so that we channel more of the power

of God.Acts 2:4; Acts 4:8,31.

iii. How to receive this BaptismJn.7:37-39; Matt. 7:7-11;Acts 1:4.


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Thirst: a deep longing for God to meet you this way. Godcreates thirst and satisfies it. If you are not thirsty, pray for

it. If you have been filled, thirst for more.

Come: this involves a seeking, an asking by prayer for Godto fill you.Lk. 11:9-13.

Drink: this means to lay hold of the blessing by faith. Havea deep assurance that you have received the moment you

ask, and expect the evidence in manifestation.Mk.11: 24.

So, what steps have you started taking towards receiving this

blessing from God? Are you baptized in the Holy Spirit? If not, start

desiring and praying today! If you are, then keep stirring up this

great power in you and keep longing for more and more!

4. The Spirit-filled LifeRom.8:1-14; Gal.5:16-25.

A Spirit-filled life is simply a life led by the Holy Spirit. One walksin the Spirit when he surrenders to the leadership of the Holy Spirit

over his life. As a result:

Such a person bears the beauty of the Lord everywhere asthe fruit of the Spirit radiates from him. Gal. 5:22, 23.

God finds him a channel through whom He performswonderful deedsJn.3: 33, 34.

The secret of a Spirit-filled life is increasing surrender. The Holy

Spirit cannot accomplish His purpose in us until we surrender to

Him and remain surrendered. When we resist Him, we grieve Him,

and this is unprofitable for us.


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CONCLUSIONThe Holy Spirit works mightily in us to make us real Christians (if

we are surrendered to Him). There is no limit to the place in thenature of God that the Holy Spirit can take anyone who yields toHim entirely and increasingly. Stir up the power of God in your life

by exercise power for holy living and for service. "Walk in theSpirit, and you shall not fulfill the lusts of the flesh." Gal.5:16


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Study 11

WITNESSING & SOUL-WINNING

Memory verse: "...for necessity is laid upon me; yea woeis me, if l

preach not the gospel" ICor.9:16a.

We must have realized that we were delivered

from darkness by the goodness of God to us that

led us to repentance. In this study, we will be

learning to become labourers with God inrescuing other souls from hell into His kingdom.

For scripture says, "For whosoever shall call

upon the name of the Lord shall be saved. 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? Rom:10:13-14. This is why the

Lord has committed this responsibility to us to preach tosinners, so that they will be saved. Soul-winning is a definite

effort to lead a sinner to accept Christ as Lord and Saviour.

1. The necessity of soul-winning

Let us identify the compelling need for soul winning in the

following facts:

i. Jesus has already paid the price for everyone'ssalvation, the sinner needs only believe. Isa. 53:3-6; Jn.

3:16-18.

ii. God is not willing that anyone should perish but that all

should be saved.IIPet.3:9; Lk.15:7,10.


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iii. Necessity is laid on us to win souls. ICor. 9:16;Rom. 10:13,14; II Cor 5:17-20.

iv. The desperate state of the sinner; considering the worthof his soul, the fact of eternal condemnation, and even the

emptiness and folly of this world. II Pet. 3:10-11; Heb.

9:27; Rev. 20:11-15; Lk19:10; Eph. 2:12; 4:18.

v. The glorious fact of eternal rest in heaven drive the

soul-winner to have others share in these glories.

Jn.14:1-3; Rev. 21:1-8; 22:1-5.

vi. The urgent need for sinners to repent, because thekingdom of God is at band! No one knows when one's

course here on earth will be over. II Thess. 5:2; Matt. 9:3

6-3 7; Jn. 4:35.

vii. Moreover, it is God's command to us, which we must

obey. Matt. 28:18-20; Ezek. 33:7-9; IICor 5:1820; IITim.4:2.

2. Vital resources for soul-winning

Discover the relevance of the following in the soul-winner's life:

i. A right standing with God.Jn. 3:2-7; Ps. 24:3-5.

ii. The Holy Spirit.Acts 1:8; Zech. 4:6.

iii. A compassionate heart.Matt. 9:36; Rom. 9:1-2.iv. The wisdom of God. Jn. 4:1-30. v. Fervent prayer. Acts

6:4; Gal. 4:19; Lk 9:1-2. vi. The Word of God.Mk.16:20;

IITim.2:15; 4:2.

v. A readiness to GO and SPEAK.Rom. 10:14;Matt.28:19.

It takes just our new birth to become witnesses for God. It does not

take any other special grace. Find out fromJn.1:40-42; 4:25-30,39.


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3. The soul-winner's message

i. The need for salvation.Jn. 3:3,18; Rom.3:23;6:23.ii. The cost of salvation.Rom. 4:25; 5:6-8; Jn.3:16.

iii. The way of salvation.Mk 1:15; Jn.1:12; Rom.10:9,10.

iv. The seal of salvation. Rom. 8:9; Ezek37:25-27;Eph.1.13,14.

v. The invitation to salvation. Matt.11:28; Acts2:3739;16:31; IJn.1:9; Prov28:13.

The soul-winner should also apply wisdom in approaching sinners

so that his message will be effective. (see Jesus in Jn.4:1-30).

Discuss other practical ways to engage sinners about their souls.

4. The soul-winner's benefits

i. The joy of the harvest. Ps. 126: 5-6; Lk 15:7,10.ii. A fruitful and growing Christian experience.Heb.6:7-8.

iii. Persecutions, for blessed are we when we are persecutedfor His name's sake.Matt. 5:11-12; IITim. 3:12.

iv. A glorious eternity.Matt.25:19-21;Dan.12:3; IITim.4:7-8.

5. Hindrances to the soul-winner

i. Shame and fear.IITim.1: 7-8.

If we will live victorious as Christians, we must dailyovercome shame and fear. We have need of boldness to

stand up for Jesus anytime and anywhere.


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ii. Lack of burden for soul-winning.

iii. Worldliness: conforming to and living after the pattern of

this world.iv. One can get too busy in Christian and secular duties that

he neglects soul winning.

If you neglect to win souls, you will soon discover that your life as a

Christian will become stagnant and drowsy. You will stifle the

grace of God in your life because you will not experience growth in

any other area spiritually. Moreover, you will be living in

disobedience. Rather, we should persistently preach the Word,everywhere, every time, whether the time is convenient or not!

CONCLUSIONWe should start engaging people every day and everywhere on the

question of their salvation. The only reasonable response to thischarge is to actually GO and PREACH. No other response can be

enough. Discussing it, praying about it, dreaming about it can neverbe enough, until we actually rise and GO. May we be fruitful soulwinners for our Lord, in Jesus' name!


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Study 12

CHRISTIAN::FELLOWERSHIPMemory verse: "Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together

as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another: and so much

more, as ye see the day approaching." Heb:10:25.

Now that you

have become aChristian, you

have not onlybeen brought

into a

relationship

with God, you

have also been brought into a relationship and companionship with

other Christians, members of God's family. As you know, candlesstand in candlesticks; light bulbs go into light sockets; and trees

grow in soil. Without candlesticks, candles would fall over; withoutbeing plugged in, light bulbs will never shine. And without soil,trees will simply die. For us Christians, the church or fellowship is a

candlestick, and a power source, and somewhere to put down roots

so that one can stand, shine and grow. Christian fellowship is arelationship or companionship between believers who share a

common faith and hope in the Lord Jesus Christ. Christianseverywhere are members of one body, the body of Christ. And as no

part of the body can survive outside the body, so you cannot survivein the faith except you are well attached to the body of Christ. If youare walking in the light, then you must fellowship with other

Christians (IJn.1: 7). If you will grow and keep on your Christian

experience, then you must never grow weak or neglect to identify

with other believers.


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1. Who do we fellowship with?i. Our fellowship is first with God. I Cor.1:9; IJn.1:3,7;

Heb.2:11. This relationship with God is based on the factthat we are now born into God's family

ii. And with other Christians. Heb.2:11; Eph.4:36;ICor

12:12-4; Eph.2:18-19;IJn.1:3,7;Heb.10:23-25; Rom.8:17a.

We fellowship with one another because we are all

members of one family. We share of the same Spirit, have

one Lord, one faith, and one Father who is in us all.

2. What is the purpose and benefits of this fellowship?When we fellowship together, we:

i. Grow together, encourage and strengthen another.Eccl.

4:9-12; Prov27:17; Heb. 3:13.

ii. Work together to serve the Lord.Acts 2:42-47.

iii. Exercise spiritual authority together and with morepower.Matt. 18:18-20; Acts 4:23-33; Deut. 32:30.

iv. Share one another's joys and sorrows. Jn.11: 32-35;Rom.12:15.

v. Comfort the weak amongst us, and bring backbacksliders. Gal.6:1-2; James 5:20; I Jn.5:16;

IThess.5:14.

vi. Pray together and for one another. James 5:14-16; Acts1:14; Acts 4:23-33.

vii. Provide companionship for one another so that we do

not go seeking this elsewhere.II Cor.6:14-18.viii. Stir up graces and gifts in one another, and strengthen

our faith.Heb. 10:24; Eph. 4:16.

ix. Share our material possessions together for the benefitof all; and bear, one another's burden. Acts 2:44-46,-

4:34,35; Rom. 12:13; Gal. 6:2.


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x. Enjoy blessings from God; He is pleased to see His

people together. Ps. 133:1-3.

3. How do we fellowship together?

i. Christian fellowship involves believers gathering together,

and more too. Wherever two or more company in His

name, it is fellowship. When we visit one another, meet in

smaller groups, witness together, study and learn together,exchange gifts, remember others in prayer, give to one

another, exhort one another, share testimonies...

ii. Meeting together enhances our fellowship with one

another. When we gather, we edify one another, learn and

pray together, raise sweet worship to God together, and domany other things together. We build up and encourage one

another when we gather this way, and God is well pleasedtoo. We disobey Him when we neglect such gatherings.

Heb. 10:23-25; Ps. 133:1-3. Discuss some common reasons

why some Christians neglect the gathering of brethren.

iii. We should all be actively involved in fellowship.

Remember we are one body, and each of us members of

this body. So we ought to supply our part for the well being

of the body. Every one of us has an important role to playto build up the body; we should play this diligently. We

only benefit and grow when we are actively involved.

Rom.12: 4-8; Eph.4:15,16; I Cor 12:4-31.

iv. We should also work together to strengthen our

companionship with one another. Can two walk together

except they be agreed? (Amos.3:3). So we should hold one

another in real love (Rom.12:10; ICor13:1-7); submit to

one another; forbear or


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accommodate one another; be kindly affectionate towards oneanother; visit one another... We should not think of our own well

being alone, but consider others too. Avoid bearing grudges,keeping malice.... Find out more in these scriptures:Eph.4:2-4; 22-

29,31,32; Rom.12:3,18; Eph. 5:19,21;Ga1.5:26;Gal.6:10; Phil.2:2-

3; Col.3:8-16; Titus 3:2-4; ITim. 5:2; Matt. 18:15-17; ICor. 14:40;

IThess.5:11; I Pet. 3:8-10;4:8-11; Prov. 17:9.

Discuss some practical ways to strengthen our fellowship with one

another.

4. Who should we not fellowship with?We should have no fellowship with:

i. Unbelievers, because bad company corrupts goodmanners.I Cor.15:33; II Cor6:14-18; Ps.1:1; II7im.3:1-5.

How then should our relationship with unbelievers be?

Discuss.

ii. Unfruitful works of evil.Eph.5:11. Instead of getting

involved in crooked ways, we should reprove such, and stayaway.

iii. Devils.I Cor.10:20-22. This would include witch doctors,

spirit mediums, and all forms of demonism or spiritism.

We should make certain we fellowship only with those who have

the same desire as we do to live for God according to His Word.

IITim. 3:1-5.

CONCLUSIONDo not allow your relationship with your Father in heaven to be

dampened by anything. Also ensure that you maintain your

fellowship with other Christians at every cost. Then with other

brethren, God will keep nourishing you!


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Study 13

VICTORY OVER TEMPTATION

Memory verse: "There hath no temptation taken you but such as

is common to man: but God is faithful, who will not suffer you to

be tempted above that ye are able, but will with the temptation alsomake a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it." ICor.10:13.

For as long as we are still in this

tabernacle of flesh, we as Christians

often face times of temptation.

Temptations can be described as

suggestions, persuasion or luring

which lead one to conceive andcommit sin if heeded. Anything that

draws out a reaction in the sinful nature from us is temptation. If wehave determined no longer to be servants to sin, but torighteousness, then we must resist temptation whenever it comes.

Our Lord Jesus, who is the author and finisher of our faith was

tempted and tried at all points, yet He was without sin, andblameless before God. He assures us of victory through Him over

temptation, and promises us a crown of life if we endure till the endas He did. And we must realize that we have an enemy, the devil,

who is working to see to it that we are not victorious. May wereceive grace to contend against him, in Jesus' name.


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1. Understanding Temptations.James 1:12-15.

i. When one is being drawn or lured by imagination to doevil, he is being tempted.

ii. Temptation leads to sin when you hold such suggestion orimagination in your mind, thinking over it. This awakens a

desire in you that weakens your will, and pushes you to

yield and commit sin.

iii. The suggestion alone is not sin, the enemy a times tries todeceive us by reasoning that since it has entered our minds,

we have sinned already, so we should go ahead and

complete the sin. This is not true. If we resist him at that

point, we have not sinned.

iv. Temptations are not from God (James 1:13) but from ourenemy, the devil working with and through our fleshly lusts

and desires. You will notice that you are always tempted inthe area of deep seated sinful lusts and desires that have notbeen completely rooted out of your life. When you make

room for them, they lead to sin. Gal. 5:17.

v. The enemy often targets points in our lives that are

seemingly weak points for temptation. For instance, if

you were engrossed in sexual immorality before you were

saved, you will notice that most of the temptation thatcomes your way will come through that.

vi. Everyone faces temptation. The growing presence of God

in your life does not shield you from temptation. God

actually allows us to be tempted so that our faith and

obedience to the Word will be approved to the same of the

accuser.Lk.4:1; ICor.10:13; Matt. 18:7.

vii. One victory over a particular temptation does not mean

entire victory. The enemy keeps lurking around to strike

again. Be vigilant always. 1Pet.5: 8; Lk.22: 54-62.


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viii. They could come through anybody: sinners and fellowbelievers as well, we need to be watchful. Prov 1:10; Matt.

16.-21-23.

ix. They come in different masks. A times in the area of

glaring evil, other times coiled around things that seem notto be evil. The enemy works systematically, he gradually

pulls away silent strands of our consecration till we are

stripped of every defence. Then he launches to destroy.

x. The enemy is extremely serious minded. He does not playaround. Every attempt is aimed to steal, to kill and to

destroy. We should also be extremely serious minded in

resisting him.Jn.10:10.

xi. Temptations are to be overcome.ICor.10:13; Matt.4:1-11.

What are some of the practical areas where we face

temptation?

2. Overcoming Temptation

i. As far as lies within your responsibility, avoid temptation.Do not deliberately or consciously open yourself up to

temptation. Avoid situations that make you vulnerable.

Matt.6:13; IITim.2:22; I Thess.5: 22; IICor.2:11; Prov

4.23-27; Rom. 13:14.

ii. Renew your heart daily by the Word of God. Eph.4:22-

24;Rom.12:2. And ensure the Word is deeply rooted in

your heart Hide His Word in your heart, and let it be your

weapon of defence.Lk.8:13; Ps.119:11; Eph.6:17.


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iii. Guard your heart and mind diligently. You cannot stop abird from flying over your head, but you can stop it from

resting on your head. Carefully watch the idle thoughts thatgo through your mind. The enemy operates here! Flagrantsin is usually the outworking of idle thoughts that are evil.

Prov. 44:23; Ps. 19:12-14.

iv. Keep resisting the enemy, steadfastly.I Pet. 5:8-9.

v. Flee from every appearance of evil. Do not even give the

devil any foothold in your life. Do not make any allowancefor any sinful nature to vent itself. ICor.2:11; IThess.5:22;

Col.3:5; Rom.13:14.

vi. Be sober, vigilant, ever suspicious of danger, and ever

watchful.IPet. 5:8; Matt. 26:41.

vii. Pray fervently and always that you will not fall into

temptation. In times of temptation, pray, and pray, insteadof yielding. Cry to God for help, He will provide a way ofescape.

viii. Keep your eternal hope in view always.Heb.12:14.

ix. If you fall at any time, rise again immediately; confess your

sin and God will forgive you. Remember the devil will

come back, stronger than before and if he meets you still onthe floor, he will inflict more harm on you till you are

maimed. So withdraw clearly from what tempted you and

made you fall. Cry to God for deliverance, and even after

you have overcome, still watch!Lk.11:24-26; Lk.22:61-62;

Micah 7:8; Prov. 24:16; Ps. 145:14; Ps. 146: 8.

x. Use every piece of God's armour to resist the enemy in the

time of evil, so that after the battle you will still be standing

firm.Eph. 6:11-18.


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3. What is the devil after when he tempts us?Whenever the devil comes to us with a temptation, he

intends to weaken us and to make us fall. As if our repentance wasnever real. He comes over and over again, over the same issue toweaken and destroy our testimony of victory over sin. One fall

makes us more vulnerable to his next onslaught if we do notviolently resist him. Likewise, one victory gives us strength and

grace to resist other temptations.Eph. 6:10-14; Jer. 112:5.

4. What does God expect from us when tempted?

God expects us to resist the enemy steadfastly and always.Shall we continue to sin so that grace may abound? God forbid! He

restores us when we fall so that we will go and sin no more, not to

fall again when the enemy comes back. He has made all grace

available for us to stand firm in the face of temptation. Then our

faith and obedience will be approved. Each approval is a further

step in our testimony as Christians. He commits more of Himself tous when we glorify Him in standing firm against temptation. I

Cor.10:13; IPet.5:8; Ps. 130:3-4; Rom.6:1-2, 6-16.

CONCLUSION

To live victorious over temptations, we must be on the offensive.We must consciously live triumphantly every day, serving the Lord,

and destroying the works of the enemy around us and in the lives of

others. Put on the whole armour of God! Remember there is no

shield for turning our backs to the battle. We must fight on; keepwatching; keep praying; no rest till we behold our Saviour! Have

you already fallen at any point, rise again and keep striving! You

will surely make it!


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Study 14

CHRISTIAN CONDUCT

Memory verse: "That ye may be

blameless and harmless, the sons of

God without rebuke in the midst of a

crooked and perverse nation amongwhom ye shine as lights in the world"

Phil.2:15.

Our salvation through our Lord Jesus

translated us from the kingdom of

darkness into the kingdom of light. We

are now to live our lives as children of

light, conducting ourselves in a newway, reflecting the lifestyle of our new

kingdom. Our lives ought to reflect thenature we have inside of us, the nature ofGod. The essence of this study is to point

out a few principles of conduct expected of us as Christians, with

the aim of helping us realize that our everyday lives: our thoughts,our words, and actions must be governed by God's standards which

He sets forth in His Word; and by the guidance of the Holy Spirit

who is in us. We commend us to God, and to His Word of grace,

which is able to instruct us and shape us so that we will walkblamelessly before Him. Then our light will so shine before men,

and when they see our good works, they will glorify our Father in

heaven.

1. Some necessary Christian virtue:i. Humility. Ps.25: 9; Prov.12:15; 22:4;29:3;Matt.5:3.

Humility is freedom from arrogance that


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grows out of recognition that all we have and all we arecomes from God.

ii. Obedience. Ps.103:17-18;Prov1:33; I Jn.2: 3,6. Obedienceis a positive, active response to God's will or to the will of

another person, as the case may be.

iii. Gentleness, Meekness & Self-control. Gal.5.2223; IITim.2:24-26; Titus 3:1-2; I Cor13:4. Gentleness is kind

consideration, a spirit of fairness and compassion.

Meekness is an attitude of humility toward God andgentleness toward men. Self-control is the control of one's

actions and emotions, governed by God, not self.

iv. Honesty and sincerity. Ps.24:3-4; Prov.12:22; Phil. 4. 8.

v. Contentment.I Tim.6:6-11. Contentment is freedom fromanxiety or worry because of satisfaction with what one has.

2. Let us see what the scriptures say about some ill attributesthat can remove one from God's grace.

i. Anger, strife and malice.James 1:19; Prov 12: I6;14:17;

Prov. 15:18; Prov. 17:4.

ii. Envy and jealousy. Ps.37:1; Prov14:30;

23:17;Rom.13:13; ICor 13:4; Gal. 5:19-21.

iii. Pride, arrogance and unforgiveness. Matt.6:15;

Matt.18:28-35; Prov 11:2; Prov 18:12; Prov29:23; Gal.

5:19-21; IPet.3:9.

iv. Gossip. Prov. 11:13; Matt. 12:36;Prov. 16:28.

v. Cheating and dishonesty. Ps.37:21; Ps.62:10;Prov 11:1;

20:I7; Prov 22:1; IThess.4: 6; IPet.2:22


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If you will grow into the nature of God and be truly Christ-like, thenyou must allow the Word of God to keep pruning you, so that every

unrighteous nature will be exposed and cut away. It will requireyour readiness to obey and be changed.

3. Look at what God says about:

i. The use of our tongue. Matt. 12:35-37; Eph.4:29;5:4;

Col.4: 6; I Pet.3:10; Prov. 117:28; 21:23; James 3:1-13;

Ps. 141: 3.

ii. Moderation in all things - in dressing, eating, spending,

etc. Phil.4: 5.iii. Relationship with the opposite sex. I Tim.5:2.Christian

brothers should relate to sisters as their own sisters, with all

purity. And sisters to brothers in the same way.

iv. Worldly films, music, books, worldly pastime (leisure).I

Cor. 6:19-20; Prov 15:14; Prov 14:12.Your body is thetemple of God. He lives in you! So donot take in anything

He would not want. Remember you have been bought witha price, so glorify God in your body!

v. Diligence in work. Prov 12:11; Prov.13:4; Prov 19:15;

21: 5; Prov 22: 9; I Thess.3:10.

vi. Punctuality, orderliness.I Cor.14: 40.

vii. Respect for one another, for parents, for those inauthority. Eph.6:1-3; Rom.13:1-7; I Pet.5:5;Heb.13: 7;

IPet.2:13-18.

viii. Guarding our thoughts. Prov.4:23; Ps.19:14; Phil.4:8

ix. Tithing and offering.Mk. 12: 41-44; Mal. 3:8-11;

x. Helping those in need. Prov. 19:17; Prov. 11:24-26;Matt.

6:1-4; Prov. 3:2 7-28; James 2:14-15.

xi. Pursuing fame, money. Prov 15:16; Prov 11:28;


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21:6;ITim.6:6-10; Matt. 6:19-21,24.

CONCLUSIONWe need to commit ourselves to seek out the principles in God'sWord, and live by them. This study is intended to help us realize

that God says something about everything. It is as we walk withHim day by day, searching and obeying His Word, and heeding

thedirection of the Holy Spirit in us, that we will truly

walkblameless and without rebuke, shinning as lights in this world

darkened by evil. And now I entrust you to God and the Word

of His grace his message that is able to build you up and giveyou an inheritance with all those He has set apart for Himself.Acts 20:32,NLT.


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Study 15

IN READINESS FOR HIS COMING

Memory verse: "Wherefore, beloved, seeing that ye look for such

things, be diligent that ye may be found of Him in peace, without

spot and blameless."

IIPet.3:14.

Our greatest hope asChristians is the

hope of eternal life

with our Lord Jesus.

We are eagerly

expecting His return

to take us to oureverlasting home

with Him. Our Saviour is coming back, at an hour that no oneknows except the Father. How we live our lives here on earthdetermines where we will spend eternity when He appears. There is

an eternal rest in heaven for all who keep themselves spotless in

living till that hour. And there is eternal condemnation ineverlasting fire for all who have their garments stained in sin. Only

those who endure till the very end will be saved.

1. What is the purpose of His coming?i. Jesus is coming to take His saints home to be with Him.

When He comes, the dead in Christ will rise, and with

those still alive, be caught up in the skies to meet Him. Jn.

14:1-3; II Thess.1:10.


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ii. He is

ccm - bible studies for foundation class

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