Discipleship

In order for you to grow in your relationship with Christ, there must be an assurance of salvation, an assurance that you are His child.

God promises to make you His child when by faith you receive Him into your life. He would never mislead you. God is trustworthy and His Word is trustworthy. You can know that you are His and that you have eternal life.

Becoming a Christian involves receiving Christ, the gift of God's love and forgiveness, by faith. It results in a threefold commitment to a Person. It is a commitment to Him of one's intellect, emotions and will. Our relationship with Christ can be illustrated by the requirements for a marriage relationship, which ideally must contain these same three ingredients: the intellect, the emotions and the will.

For example, a man may be convinced intellectually that the woman who is his intended bride is the "right" one for him. He may be involved emotionally and love her with all his heart, but marriage requires more than the intellect and the emotions. It also involves the will. Not until the man and the woman, as an act of the will, commit themselves to each other before a minister, do they become husband and wife. The two words "I do" make the difference. So it is in our relationship with Jesus Christ. It is not enough to believe intellectually in Christ, nor is it enough to have an emotional experience. Though both are valid, one does not become a Christian until, as an act of the will, he receives Christ into his life as Savior and Lord.

Let us examine each of the three elements of Christian commitment. Christianity is not "a blind leap of faith." It is built upon historical fact, documented by centuries of scholarship and research. Many leading scholars have dedicated their lives to investigating the life, teachings, death, resurrection and influence of Jesus of Nazareth. As a result, we have more historical evidence proving His resurrection than we have of the fact that Napoleon was defeated at Waterloo.

"The fact that Christ rose from the dead on the third day in full continuity of body and soul, and passed into a mode of new relationships with those who knew Him on earth -- that fact seems as secure as historical evidence can make it."

-- Professor Edwin Selwyn, The Approach To Christianity

Who Is Jesus

That good news was the message of the revolutionary New Testament church. It is a revolutionary message today. It is a fact of history.

The Trinitarian Triangle

Jesus of Nazareth was conceived by the Spirit and was born of the virgin, Mary, almost 2,000 years ago. Hundreds of years before, the great prophets of Israel had foretold His coming. The Old Testament, which was written by many individuals over a period of 1,500 years, contains more than 300 references to His coming.

At the age of 30, Jesus began His public ministry. In the three years that followed, He gave man the formula for a full and abundant life and for the life to come. The life Jesus led, the miracles He performed, the words He spoke, His death on the cross, His resurrection, and His ascent to heaven -- all point to the fact that he was not mere man, but more than man.

Mohammed was merely a prophet; Buddha (by his own admission) was an agnostic; Confucius was an ethical leader -- but Jesus claimed to be God. He asserted His deity when he said:

Why Did Jesus Come?

In the Old Testament, the Israelites periodically brought animals to the priest to be sacrificed. The priest sprinkled its blood on the altar as a temporary covering for the sins of the individual making the sacrifice. These animals had to be perfect, without spot or blemish, in order for the sin of the one making the sacrifice to be transferred to the innocent offering. This was the picture of the coming of God's Lamb, the One whose blood would not just cover man's sins temporarily, but would wash them away forever.

In order to become a Christian, then, you must honestly face the claims of Jesus Christ and believe intellectually that He is God, that He died for your sins and was buried, that He rose again, and that He wants to come into your life and be your Savior and Lord.

An emotion is a feeling or reaction to a specific act, event or experience. The failure to distinguish between different emotions has caused many people to be confused in their relationship with God.

People Respond Differently Emotionally

Since we are emotional creatures, emotions are a normal part of our life. Different personalities respond differently. One person may have high emotional energy, while another may be calm and reserved. Because emotions vary greatly, they should not be depended upon. Seeking an emotional experience has caused many to lack the assurance of a vital relationship with God.

The very act of seeking an emotional experience, therefore, contradicts the very thing that pleases God. Faith is another word for trust, and our faith must be placed in the person of God.

Do Not Depend on Feelings

Assurance is based on the authority of God's Word. When you meet God's conditions, as revealed in His Word, you can be assured that you are a child of God. The Christian lives by faith (trust) in the trustworthiness of God Himself and His Word.

God gives us a threefold confirmation that Christ is in our lives:

First, we have the external evidence of the Word of God. Assurance is based on the authority of God's Word.

Second, there is the internal witness of the Holy Spirit.

Our changed lives are a third witness to the fact that we are Christians.

In addition to the intellect and the emotions, becoming a Christian and being sure that you are a Christian involves the will. Christ emphasized the importance of man's will in relation to the assurance of salvation.

According to these words of Christ, unless you are willing to obey the truth, you will never know the truth; unless you are willing to walk in the light, you will never see the light.

Facts to Put Your Faith In

Deciding on the Basis of Facts

Additional Thought Questions

We are able to submit to the lordship of Christ as we get to know Him. Only as we get to know Him will we be able to trust Him with every area of our lives. Ignorance of God and what He is like leaves us in a life of doubt and distrust. We need to hunger for knowledge of God, searching the scriptures that we might learn of Him.

"Now devote your heart and soul to seeking the Lord your God" (1 Chronicles 22:19).

"As the deer pants for streams of water, so my soul pants for you, O God. My soul thirsts for God, for the living God" (Psalm 42:1,2a).

"Come near to God and He will come near to you" (James 4:8).

"Plunge yourself in the Godhead's deepest sea; be lost in His immensity; and you shall come forth as from a couch of rest, refreshed and invigorated. I know nothing which can so comfort the soul; so calm the swelling billows of sorrow and grief; so speak peace to the winds of trial, as a devout musing upon the subject of the Godhead."

-- C.H. Spurgeon,

Knowing God is critical for living our lives. The world becomes a strange, mad and painful place for those who do not know God. Not to know God is to stumble and blunder through life blindfolded, with no sense of direction and no understanding of what is happening around you. In addition, our worship is only as pure as our thoughts of God. The mightiest thoughts the mind can entertain are the thoughts of God. Therefore, our ideas concerning God should correspond to that which is true of God. True worship allows God to manifest His attributes in our lives. We must "worship God in the splendor of His holiness."

What is it I am supposed TO KNOW about God in order to know Him? As we see some of God's ATTRIBUTES, we will see the things we are to know about God that help us to "cease striving," to "be still."

1. God Is Sovereign

The word sovereign means chief, highest or supreme. When we say that God is sovereign, we are saying that He is the number one ruler in the universe.

The idea of sovereignty is an encouraging one, for it assures the Christian that nothing is out of God's control and that His plans do triumph.

2. God Is Eternal

There has never been a time when God did not exist. He has no beginning and He has no end.

Being eternal, God is not bound by time. Having always existed He sees the past and the future as clearly as the present. With this perspective, He has a better understanding as to what is best for our lives. Knowing this, we should be willing to trust Him with our lives.

3. God Is Omniscient

God possesses all the knowledge there is to have. Nothing ever takes Him by surprise.

Think of His omniscience in relation to the certain salvation of the believer. If God knows all then obviously nothing can come to light after salvation which He did not know when He saved us. Knowing all about us, He still forgave our sins and accepted us into His forever family.

4. God Is Omnipresent

God is infinite and everywhere present through all time and space.

If God is everywhere, it is foolish to think we can hide from Him. In the Old Testament Jonah tried to run from God, but he ended up as fish bait. On the other hand, it also means that today a believer may experience the presence of God at all times and know the blessings of walking with Him in a most vivid way.

5. God Is Omnipotent

God is all powerful, having more than enough strength to do the sum total of all things.

Because God is all powerful, the believer is kept secure in his salvation. Our salvation comes because the gospel is the power of God unto salvation (Romans 1:16). Furthermore, God's omnipotence is seen in His power to create (Genesis 1:1), in His preservation of all things (Hebrews 1:3), and in His providential care for us.

6. God Is Immutable

God never changes in His nature or attributes.

The Bible contains thousands of things that God has promised to do for those who belong to Him. He can be trusted to keep His Word.

7. God Is Righteous

It is impossible for Him to do or cause anything that is wrong.

Because God is perfect, He demands perfection from those who desire to be in His presence. Jesus said, "Be perfect, as your heavenly Father is perfect" (Matthew 5:48). This impossible standard shows us that salvation is not humanly possible (Matthew 19:23-26) but must rely on God's grace.

8. God Is Just

It is impossible for Him to do anything that is unfair, either to Himself or to man.

God's justice is most applicable in the area of judgment. When men stand before God to be judged they will receive full justice. This is both a comfort (for those who have been wronged in life) and a warning (for those who think they have been getting away with evil).

9. God Is Love

God is perfect infinite love. His love is given freely and without any consideration of the loveliness or merit of the object.

Godly love is that which seeks good for the object loved. Love expresses itself in action. God is our example. He demonstrated His love for us in sending Jesus to die in our place (Romans 5:8).

10. God Is Truth (Veracity)

He is absolute truth.

In John 18:38, Pilate asked, "What is truth?" Man is constantly searching for truth, but in sources other than God. Jesus said, "I AM the truth," but man has suppressed the truth in his unrighteousness (Romans 1:18). He has exchanged the truth of God for lies (Romans 1:25). When a person comes to Jesus, his quest for the truth ends and freedom begins. Jesus said, "You shall know the truth and the truth shall make you free" (John 8:32).

"Holy is the way God is. To be holy He does not conform to a standard. He is that standard. He is absolutely holy with an infinite, incomprehensible fullness of purity that is incapable of being other than it is. Because He is holy, all His attributes are holy; that is, whatever we think of as belonging to God must be thought of as holy."

-- A.W. Tozer, The Holiness of God

Read Revelation 4 and Isaiah 6:1-8

Read Psalm 139 and Psalm 145

The Bible is the foundational element in a Christ-directed life, and it is from the Bible that you learn all of the other basics for the Christian life. As God speaks to you through the Scriptures, you come to know Him and to love Him, to understand and obey His principles for life and ministry.

When you have a vital personal intake of the Word of God, you will grow spiritually.

The "how" of learning and applying the Scriptures to life is something every Christian should know. This lesson covers the five ways to make the Bible yours.

Compare the five methods of learning from the Bible to the five fingers of your hand. If you hold the Bible with only one or two fingers, it is easy to lose your grip. But as you use more fingers, your grasp of the Bible becomes stronger.

This is also true spiritually. If a person memorizes, studies, reads and hears the Word -- and meditates on it, his grasp of the Bible becomes firm and part of his life. As the thumb is needed in any combination with any finger to complete your hold, so meditation combined with hearing, reading, study and memory is essential for a full grasp of God's Word.

1. Hear It

Most Christians hear the Word of God preached. But only a few learn the profit of absorbing what they hear. To retain what you hear, take notes on the Scriptures used and on the main points of the sermon.

2. Read It

A daily reading program which will take you systematically through the Bible is something many Christians use as a regular part of their daily devotional time.

Dr. Harry Ironside, when 14, was concerned over not having read through the Bible as many times as he was years old. By the time he was 21 he had caught up. Later in life he was far ahead.

3. Study It

Study is more than just careful reading -- it requires writing down what you discover. Reading is faster than study and gives you the overall picture. But study helps you think -- and remember.

4. Memorize It

"I know of no form of intake of the Word which pays greater dividends for the time invested than Scripture memory."

-- Dawson Trotman,

After 24 hours you may accurately remember:

Memory Plan

Decide on a memory plan and follow it. You remember an idea best if you express it; in fact, learning is improved as more senses are involved. Expression makes impression.

5. Meditate on It

Meditation is prayerful reflection with a view to understanding and application -- giving prayerful thought to God's Word and your life, with the goal of conforming your life to His will.

Know God's Word and Obey It!

Asking these two questions will help you meditate:

This kind of meditation on God's Word can be done...

This chart is to help you analyze your habits for making the Bible yours. As you fill it in, pray about setting new goals.

Quotes on the Importance of Knowing Your Bible

"I cannot too greatly emphasize the importance and value of Bible study...in these days of uncertainties, when men and women are apt to decide questions from the standpoint of expediency rather than on the eternal principles laid down by God Himself."

-- John Wanamaker,

"The Scriptures were not given to increase our knowledge but to change our lives."

-- Dwight L. Moody,

"Ignorance of the Bible means ignorance of Christ."

-- Jerome,

"I thoroughly believe in a university education for both men and women; but...a knowledge of the Bible without a college education is more valuable than a college education without the Bible. Everyone who has a thorough knowledge of the Bible may truly be called educated, and no other learning...no matter how extensive...can form a proper substitute."

-- William Lyon Phelps,

Prayer is the natural overflow of meaningful time in the Scriptures. Prayer to God completes the fellowship element in your relationship with Him. Respond back to God in prayer after He speaks to you through His Word. In this manner, you share your heart with the One who longs for your companionship.

Prayer is how the power of God is unleashed. Personal battles and battles for others are won in prayer and the cause of Christ is thus furthered.

Through prayer you have the power and the privilege to be used for God to help change lives. We do not avail ourselves of this power today primarily due to unbelief. The disciples of the first century knew how to pray and claim in faith the power of our omnipotent God to help change the course of history. We serve the same God today.

1. What Is Prayer?

a. Prayer is simply communicating with God. It is a dialogue between two who love each other -- God and man.

b. As children of God, we are invited to approach the throne of grace with confidence.

2. Who Can Pray?

a. Those who belong to Christ.

Man instinctively prays -- even if only to false gods. There is danger in "ignorant" prayer. Man assimilates the moral character of the object he worships.

It is important that we worship and pray to the only true, righteous, holy and loving God in order that we be transformed into His likeness.

b. Those who come to God in the authority and the name of Jesus.

Jesus claims to be the only way to the Father.

Jesus is the only mediator between God and us.

Jesus promises to give us anything if we ask in His name. Praying in His name means more than a good-luck charm. It means we can petition the Father with all the authority of Christ! We ask in His name on the basis of who He is, not in our own name on the basis of who we are.

c. Those who come to God with a clean heart.

d. Those who have a forgiving spirit. One of the most frequent hindrances to prayer is an unforgiving spirit. If we hold anything against anyone, we must forgive him in order that the Father may forgive our sins.

e. Those who come in faith. We must have a believing heart if our prayers are to be answered. Our faith grows through the Word of God. As we learn more of the faithfulness of God and His Word, the more we can trust Him; and the more we trust Him, the more we experience the reality of His love, grace and power in prayer. We cannot conjure up faith. It is only given from God as we rely on His Word and His faithfulness.

3. Why Are We to Pray?

a. To glorify God.

b. Because God commands it. We should pray because our loving Father has commanded us to pray without ceasing and because He delights in our fellowship.

c. To communicate with God. Prayer is not just an "escape hatch" for the Christian -- to get out of trouble and gain his own selfish ends. It is his line of communication with God. We've got to communicate with a person to stay in love with that person. The same is true between us and Christ. If we are going to keep our love from growing cold, we'll have to communicate with Him. Prayer and Bible study are not ends in themselves but rather a means to an end -- communication with our Lord.

d. To have fellowship with God. God waits for us to come to Him in prayer. It is incredible that God wants our fellowship.

e. Because of the example of our Lord. Jesus Christ made prayer a priority. If He was so dependent upon this fellowship in prayer alone with His Father, how much more should we be.

f. Because of the examples of the disciples and others. The lives of the disciples, and the biographies of great Christians through the centuries, all testify to the necessity of prayer.

g. To achieve results for the glory of God. Prayer does change things. Prayer is the divinely ordained means whereby God moves in the accomplishment of His mighty operations on this earth. The Bible records that weather was changed and people were released from prison because of prayer. God is still in the business of answering prayer. Prayer is the means of becoming a fruitful witness for Christ. The divine order is first to talk to God about men, and then to talk to men about God.

h. To achieve spiritual growth. Just as a child needs food to grow physically, so we need food to grow spiritually. Prayer, which involves our talking to God and God talking to us through His Word, is our major source of spiritual food. We can miss a day without apparent ill effects, but if we continue this practice, we shall become undernourished, losing the strength to live a victorious life and to maintain boldness for a vital witness for Christ.

4. To Whom Do We Pray?

a. We pray to the Father in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ through the ministry of the Holy Spirit. Our prayers are validated by Christ and are interpreted to God the Father by the Spirit.

b. Scripture teaches us that we are to pray to the Father (Matthew 6:9; Nehemiah 4:9; Acts 12:5) and to the Son (Acts 7:59; 1 Corinthians 1:2; 2 Corinthians 12:8,9). As we are praying, who intercedes for us?

5. When Should We Pray?

a. There is a sense in which we pray without ceasing -- talking to God hundreds of times in the course of the day about everything. We need to see everything in relation to God, and to converse with Him about it.

b. We should also set apart specific times each day for prayer.

Reading and studying the Bible help to prepare us for prayer. Therefore, pray with an open Bible. Talk to God, allow Him to talk to you through His Word.

c. Group prayer should also be a vital part of the Christian's prayer life.

Group prayer meetings are often dull and unattractive because Christians who participate have not had a vital prayer life. In spontaneous or conversational prayer, each one prays briefly about one area of praise or petition at a time. Each one may pray several times as directed by the Spirit. For example, the prayer may begin, "Lord I love you." Another follows, "Thank You that You are here today and that we can talk to You, knowing that You hear us." Another may say, "Thank You for Your love that sent the Lord Jesus to die for my sins." One quotes the psalmist, "Great is the Lord and greatly to be praised... thank You that I am here and that You have spoken to me." Another petitions, "I pray that You will draw my friend, Jim, to Yourself, so that he may experience the new birth and become a vital witness and disciple for You." Another agrees, "I agree with this prayer, Father. Show us how we can approach him with the Gospel soon." The same person may feel impressed to pray a number of times. However, each prayer should be short, to the point and based upon the Word of God. Don't be afraid of silent pauses.

6. What Should Be Included in Prayer?

The first letters of the following four words form the word "ACTS." Using this as a mental guide for prayer can be a help in maintaining a balanced prayer life.

A - Adoration

Acknowledging God's character and attributes. It is reflecting on God Himself. Praise Him for His love -- His power and majesty -- His wonderful gift of Christ.

C - Confession

Confessing your sins to God. (Some prefer to do this first.) Admitting to God where you have sinned. Be honest and humble. Remember He knows you and loves you still.

T - Thanksgiving

Tell God how grateful you are for everything He has given -- even the unpleasant things. Your thankfulness will help you see His purposes.

S - Supplication

Asking God for things. Making specific requests. Pray for others, pray for yourself.

7. How Can We Pray with Confidence?

Four imperatives must be followed before we can expect answers to our prayers:

ABIDE

If our lives are yielded to Him and His Word abides in us so that we know His will -- we can ask for anything we wish, because our will is to do His will. Abiding is walking in the Spirit with no sin unconfessed and with a spirit of total availability to God.

ASK

BELIEVE

God does not require us to have a great faith. We simply are to have faith in a great God. What if we doubt?

You must be in tune with the Holy Spirit. You cannot be on the throne of your own life and still pray in faith. A life of faith is experienced only by those who walk in obedience. You will never meet a person who has faith in a great God who refuses to obey the God in whom he is commanded to place his trust.

RECEIVE

By faith receive the answer to your request. If you know you are abiding in Christ, that you are controlled by the Holy Spirit and that you are praying according to the Word and will of God, you can expect God to answer your prayer, so be prepared to receive the answer. Realize that right now you are receiving the answer to your request, and begin to thank God for answering your prayer.

Sincerely believe that God will enable you to accomplish all that He has commanded you to do. Enthusiastically act upon that for which God leads you to pray. Mobilize yourself and others to be obedient in making disciples as commanded in the Great Commission.

Thought Questions

The Holy Spirit lives within every believer. He gives power to lead an obedient, Christ-centered life. It is the Spirit's power that enables you to live like Jesus.

You cannot control yourself and be controlled by the Spirit at the same time. Christ cannot be in control if you are on the throne of your life.

A Life Empowered by the Holy Spirit

The Christian life is a great adventure with purpose and power. Christ gave the incredible promise:

We cannot, in our own energy, accomplish these great works which Christ has promised that we can do. It is Christ Himself -- living within us, in His resurrection power, walking in our bodies, thinking with our minds, loving with our hearts, speaking with our lips -- who will empower us with the Holy Spirit to do these great works.

As the disciples were filled with the Holy Spirit, they received supernatural power that changed them from fearful men into radiant witnesses for Christ. They were used by God to change the course of history. And that power is available to you, to enable you to live a holy and fruitful life for Jesus Christ.

Yet, many Christians do not even know who the Holy Spirit is. Others, knowing Him, do not know how to appropriate His power. Consequently, they go through life without ever experiencing the fruitful life which Christ promised.

Before we can understand why appropriating His power is important for a joyful, victorious life, we need to understand more about the person of the Holy Spirit.

Who Is the Holy Spirit?

Note: There are two words for "another" in Greek, the language in which the New Testament was originally written:

Jesus said He would send another (allos) just like Himself.

The Holy Spirit is the third person of the Trinity: Father, Son and Holy Spirit. He is a Person equal in every way with the Father and with the Son.

Why Did the Holy Spirit Come?

When you received Christ, the Holy Spirit came to live in you, also known as "indwelling" (1 Corinthians 3:16). Look at the following verses and list some reasons why the Holy Spirit came.

What Does It Mean to Be Filled with the Holy Spirit?

The word "filled" actually means to be directed and empowered by the Spirit. Since the Holy Spirit came to glorify Christ (John 16:14) and is the Spirit of Christ (Romans 8:9), to be filled with the Spirit is to be filled with or abiding in Christ. To abide in Christ is to live in dependence upon Him, recognizing that it is His life, His wisdom, His resources, His strength and His ability operating through you, which enable you to live according to His will. Christ lives in us and expresses His life through us by the power of His Spirit: this is one of the most important truths of the Word. Jesus does not want you to live the Christian life. He wants to live the Christian life through you. He calls us to be His hands and feet.

The apostle Paul confessed this in Galatians 2:20. The Christian's body now becomes Christ's to use as He wills; the mind becomes His to think His thoughts; the will is now yielded to His will.

Paul also says, "...and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me, and delivered Himself up for me." Whose life? The life of the Son of God, the One who loved us and gave Himself for us, the One to whom "all power in heaven and earth is given." Think of it!

Can you grasp what this means? If you yield your will to God the Spirit and acknowledge that Christ is in your life moment by moment, you are in for a great adventure.

Why Are Many Christians Struggling to Follow the Holy Spirit's Lead?

The Bible in 1 Corinthians 2:14-3:3 describes the lives of three people.

These circles represent the three lives.

The first circle represents the life of the natural man, the person who has never received Christ. Christ stands outside the door of the heart, seeking entrance. The interests (represented by the dots) of this life are directed by self, often resulting in discord and frustration.

The second circle represents the life of the spiritual man, the person who has invited Christ to come into his life and who is allowing Him to direct and empower his life. When interests are directed by Him, the result is harmony with God's plan.

The third circle represents the life of the self-centered person (of the flesh; carnal) who has received Christ, but who lives in defeat.

The self-centered man is trusting in his own efforts to live the Christian life. He has an up-and-down spiritual experience. He cannot understand himself -- he wants to do what is right but cannot. He fails to draw upon the power of the Holy Spirit.

A Christian is worldly/self-centered when he develops an attitude of running his own life rather than allowing Christ to do so. You do not become self-centered simply by committing sins, but by refusing to confess your sins and allowing God to fill you once again with His Spirit. This is a life long process called sanctification where a believer becomes more holy in the transformation process from the "carnal man" to the "spiritual man".

How Can One Be Filled with the Holy Spirit?

From the moment of spiritual birth, the Christian is indwelt by the Spirit at all times (1 Corinthians 3:16, Ephesians 1:13-14). Though all Christians are indwelt by the Holy Spirit, not all Christians are filled (controlled and empowered) by the Spirit.

Being filled with the Spirit is not a once-and-for-all experience. There are many fillings. In the Greek language, in which the command of Ephesians 5:18 was originally written, the meaning is clearer than in most English translations. This command of God means to be constantly and continually filled with the Holy Spirit, being directed and empowered by Him as a way of life.

How to Pray in Faith to Be Filled with the Holy Spirit

We are filled with the Spirit by faith alone. However, true prayer is one way of expressing your faith. The following is a suggested prayer:

"Dear Father, I need you. I acknowledge that I have been in control of my life; and that, as a result, I have sinned against You. I thank You that You have forgiven my sins through Christ's death on the cross for me. I now invite Christ to take control of the throne of my life. Cleanse my heart and fill me with the Holy Spirit as You commanded me to be filled, and as you promised in Your Word that You would do if I asked in faith. I pray this in the name of Jesus. As an expression of my faith, I now thank You for taking control of my life and filling me with the Holy Spirit."

-- , A Suggested Prayer

Does this prayer express the desire of your heart? If so, you can bow in prayer and trust God to fill you with the Holy Spirit right now.

Spiritual Breathing

The Christian life, properly understood, is not complex. Actually, the Christian life is very simple. Yet, it is so difficult that no one can live it! This paradox occurs because the Christian life is a supernatural life. The only one who can live it is Christ.

If I try to live the Christian life in fleshly effort, it becomes complex, difficult and even impossible. But if I invite Jesus to direct my life; if I know the reality of having been crucified with Christ and raised with Him by faith as a way of life; if I walk in the light as God is in the light -- then the Lord lives His abundant life within me in all of His resurrection power. I have fellowship with God and the blood of Jesus, His Son purifies me from all sin (1 John 1:7).

Be Sure That You Are Filled with the Spirit

Go to Him in prayer and His Word.

1. Confess and Repent

If you retake the throne, the control center of your life, through sin -- a deliberate act of disobedience -- pray. Confess what you've done and ask for forgiveness. God's Word promises in 1 John 1:9 that, "If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness." Confession ("homologeo" in the Greek) suggests agreement with God concerning our sins. Such agreement involves at least three considerations.

2. Claim by Faith the Fullness of the Holy Spirit

Next, surrender the control of your life to God. Trust Him now to direct and empower you, according to His command to "be filled with the Spirit" (Ephesians 5:18). Read Romans 6:12-14.

3. The Spirit Reveals Sin (Read Psalm 139:23,24)

Continue to pray whenever the Spirit reveals a sin which you need to confess, and lean on His Word, guidance, and strength as you go on walking in the Spirit by faith.

Pay attention when the Spirit reveals something that needs to be confessed. You can ask for the Holy Spirit to reveal any unconfessed sin in your life that needs to be addressed.

Avoid being overly introspective. Do not probe within yourself, looking for sin to confess. Confess only what the Spirit impresses you to confess. Believe in God and His Word. Do not seek an emotional experience.

If you genuinely hunger and thirst after God and His righteousness, if you have confessed your sin, surrendered the control of your life to Christ and asked God to fill you, believe that you are filled by faith on the basis of His promise. God will prove Himself faithful to His promise.

Do not depend upon feelings. The promise of God's Word, not our feelings, is our authority. The Christian is to live by faith, trusting in God Himself and His Word.

How to Walk in the Spirit

You will discover that your relationship with the Holy Spirit is both critical and progressive: critical in that at a point in time you discover how to appropriate His power by faith; progressive in that you learn how to grow and mature in the Spirit-controlled walk by faith.

A Christian who has walked in the Spirit by faith for many years will generally demonstrate more of the fruit of the Spirit in his life and be more fruitful in his witness for Christ than one who has just discovered how to walk in the Spirit. You will become aware of new areas of your life that need to be surrendered to the control of the Spirit. When you do become aware of such an area -- an attitude or an action that is displeasing to the Lord -- simply confess your sins through prayer and repent.

Although you have no power in yourself to walk in the Spirit, you do have the ability to choose to have the Spirit do the walking (Romans 6:16). As you choose by faith, you can rely upon the Spirit to supply the power. As you walk in the Spirit by faith, practicing turning to God in prayer and His Word for guidance, you need never again live in spiritual defeat for more than a few minutes. There are many Bible verses regarding being filled by the Holy Spirit. Praying His promises and truth written in His Word are great to incorporate into your prayers. Demonstrated in the previous prayer example under the HOW TO PRAY IN FAITH TO BE FILLED WITH THE HOLY SPIRIT section, you will find that scripture was referenced multiple times. You can too. For example, "Lord Your Word says ... I pray You would guide my every step so that I may walk in Your ways."

Suggested Reading on Walking in the Spirit

Personal Application

The Spirit-filled life is an obedient and abiding life. Begin each day by asking God to cleanse your life according to 1 John 1:9.

Present your body to the Holy Spirit according to Romans 12:1-2, and ask Him to keep you filled with His power.

Consciously practice praying for the Holy Spirit's guidance throughout the day and be in His Word daily.

Questions to Consider

Are we putting ourselves in opportunities to grow? Am I reading my Bible daily and filling myself with His Word? Am I memorizing scripture and treasuring it in my heart and mind? Am I surrounding myself with good council that can help keep me accountable and is willing to admonish me? Am I approachable to be admonished? Am I putting myself in situations where iron can sharpen iron as Proverbs 27:17 says? Am I spending time with God asking for Him to guide me? Am I listening and following His will for my life?

Live by Faith

Faith is another word for trust. Faith must have an object. We do not have faith in faith itself. For example, a person could have great faith that the ice on a pond is thick enough to support his weight. Through his faith, he may boldly walk out on thin ice and get very wet. On the other hand, a person who may have a very weak faith may move slowly out onto very thick ice. As he walks on the ice and realizes its ability to support his weight, his faith in the ice increases. This is where apologetics enters the picture. The term apologetics is the rational defense made of the Christian faith shared with nonbelievers. We are encouraged to supply reason for our faith in 1 Peter 3:15. It's not "faith in faith" -- belief because we "want it to be so", a common accusation of unbelievers. There's more than adequate evidence to support biblical claims and concepts.

In the Christian life, we place our faith, even a faith that may be weak, in a trustworthy God and His Word. The better we know God, the more we can trust Him, and the more we trust Him, the more we experience the reality of His love and power. Faith is like a muscle -- it grows with exercise.

Emotional feelings are the by-product of faith and obedience. There is nothing wrong with emotions. Thank God we have them. We do not depend upon feelings or emotions to live a Spirit-filled life. We simply place our faith in the trustworthiness of God and the promises of His Word. Feelings will eventually come in the life of faith, but we should never depend upon feelings or look for them. The very act of looking for an emotional experience is a denial of the concept of faith. But don't be surprised or upset if feelings do come.

Have you learned to say, "Thank you, Lord," when your heart is broken because of the loss of a loved one? Do you thank God when your body is wracked with pain? When you receive a "Dear John" letter terminating a love relationship? When you have financial reverses? Do you thank God when you are discriminated against personally, religiously or racially?

Giving thanks under all circumstances demonstrates your faith in Him. You are saying, "God, I trust You." "I thank You that in whatever adversity we go through You work for the good of those who love You." (Read Romans 8:28)

The Bible does not say to feel thanks, but to give thanks as an act of the will.

Thought Questions

Christians are neither higher nor lower than other people. Someone has said, "The ground is level at the foot of the cross." And all Christians have the privilege of being intimate members of God's family.

You are to learn from others and to encourage one another. There is a certain chemistry that takes place as Christians get together to build each other up. This cannot be accomplished if you are isolated from other Christians. Read Hebrews 10:24-25.

God desires that every believer be a functioning member of a local church -- a local "body" or "family" of believers. Let's look at several passages that show our relationship to one another.

The New Testament states that Christians are "members of one another." Paul used an illustration to get this point across -- the human body. What is the similarity between the "human body" and "Christ's body -- the Church" according to 1 Corinthians 12:14-27?

Though one person may have a more responsible position, in God's sight even the person who may go unnoticed is just as important and necessary in the body of Christ.

This exhortation introduces another analogy to illustrate the functioning church. It is the family unit. The concept of the family adds a dimension of warmth, concern and loyalty. The term "brotherly love" refers to the love that should exist within family units. Applied to the church, it refers to the love God wants us Christians to have for each other as brothers and sisters in Christ. We are the family of God! The word "brothers" is distinctly a "family term." When it refers to Christians, it means "fellow believers." It means we have all been "born again" into God's forever family.

To "be devoted" refers to the mutual love of parents and children and husbands and wives. Christians are to be just as devoted to each other as are the individual members of a close-knit family unit. We are indeed "blood brothers," for in Christ "we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of sins" (Ephesians 1:7). Christians begin as infants in Christ and go through stages of development. In our immaturity we can fall into patterns of self-centered behavior, but as we mature spiritually in Christ, our lives will reflect His nature.

God loves you right now as much as He ever will. Our thoughts and actions may grieve Him, but His love and goodness toward us never change. What would be His desires for you concerning the following attitudes and actions toward other members of your "Christian family" and why?

The example is given of an excellent musician -- a pianist extraordinary, who desires to help other people "look and sound good" -- especially when he accompanies them. He is admired not so much for his musicianship but for his honoring others above himself. He always makes sure his volume does not compete with the vocalist. His music enhances the other's presentation rather than detracts from it. He assists the singer in hitting difficult notes and even covers up a person's mistakes. He is always excited and satisfied when a vocalist he has accompanied is honored by others for a job well done. He is an example to us. Every Christian should strive to make other believers "look and sound good." Every Christian should rejoice when others achieve, when others are honored, when others are successful. When this happens, the body of Christ will function beautifully and mature and grow in Christ.

Satan's strategy involves destroying unity among Christians. He is the author of confusion, insensitivity and false doctrine. In the Bible we discover the power whereby Satan's strategy can be defeated. It's the power of "one-mindedness" in the body of Christ. In Christ's prayer to the Father in John 17, He made a request -- that His disciples might experience unity and oneness. What did Jesus pray? (John 17:11)

It is a visible unity -- a oneness -- that reveals the essence of the Gospel. And that essence comprises the fact "that God was reconciling the world to Himself in Christ" (2 Corinthians 5:19). Christ was indeed God in the flesh. He was (and is) one with the Father.

The ingredient in the church that convinces non-Christians that Jesus was God is unity -- being of "the same mind with one another." This represents a miracle because men everywhere tend toward disunity. When non-Christians see true unity and true oneness, their hearts cry out to be part of that kind of love.

In at least three areas Christians have historically violated the injunction "accept one another" by judging one another (legalism), in showing partiality (prejudice), and by not being reconciled to one another (bitterness).

1. Judging One Another

To sit in false judgment on other Christians is a violation of the exhortation to accept one another.

If we are mature Christians, we will be sensitive toward our brothers and sisters in Christ who are not as strong as we are. We will be careful to do nothing that would cause them to stumble and fall into sin. If these two attitudes are working at the same time in a local family of believers, unity will emerge.

2. Showing Partiality

James 2:9 states, "If you show favoritism, you sin." Prejudice, favoritism and discrimination in the body of Christ violate the law of God. Furthermore, they violate the nature of the functioning body of Christ. We are all one. Every member is important -- rich or poor, young or old, weak or strong, and no matter of what race! If we show favoritism, we also destroy the unity, harmony and oneness in the body of Christ which Christ and Paul both prayed for and commanded.

3. Not Being Reconciled to One Another

Read Ephesians 2:11-22. Cultural, racial, national and religious barriers are broken down when people are brought near to God by the blood of Christ. There is peace between peoples that formerly were enemies when they are both members of the body of Christ. All believers have the same access to God the Father because the same Spirit dwells in them. Together we are being constructed into a spiritual temple of God.

To confront a Christian about his sin is difficult. However, it is a great sign of love to be willing to risk rejection. And if admonishment is done in the right spirit, with the right motive, using an appropriate method, the person who is not living a life worthy of the Gospel of Christ usually senses the risk you are taking. Though that person may have difficulty acknowledging it at that moment, down deep he really knows.

Romans 15:14 identifies the basis for being competent to instruct (or admonish) one another:

There are helpful guidelines in scripture treating the concept of admonishment. Admonishment must be:

The word "submit" is used in relationships of one Christian with another. We are to submit to one another in the fear of God. The concept of "submission" is used by biblical writers to describe a variety of Christian relationships. Young men are to submit to older men. All members of Christ's body are to submit to the authority of their leaders. Servants are to submit to masters. Children are to submit to parents. Christians are to submit to leaders in government. Wives are to submit to husbands.

Christians who are in positions of authority must also function with a submissive attitude. Husbands are directed to love their wives as Christ loved the church. Fathers are to deal sensitively with their children. Elders are commissioned to be "servants." Masters are to treat their servants fairly.

Mutual submission even by those who are in authority, is a distinctive concept made possible by Christ. Christ brought a whole new approach to functional relationships between people. In the world there is no "mutual submission." Man basically operates out of selfish motives. He has little or no interest in helping others reach their goals -- except when it might benefit himself.

In Christ, believers have the potential to "submit to one another out of reverence for Christ." Even those who have positions of authority -- elders, husbands, masters (in our day, employers) -- are to relate to others with an attitude of submission.

Being a servant implies practical involvement in doing good to all men (Mark 10:35-45), especially to fellow believers (Galatians 6:10). God is glorified as non-believers see our servanthood demonstrated in good works (Matthew 5:16) which help to meet people's spiritual, physical, mental and social needs (Matthew 25:31-45).

In "serving one another in love" we find true freedom in Christ. Our deepest needs are met in legitimate ways. We are not used by one another. We are not put on a performance standard. Our relationship with others can be truly satisfying. This is true freedom! As unbelievers we are "prisoners of ______" (Galatians 3:22). But in Christ we are set ______ (Galatians 5:1).

Referring back to 1 Corinthians 12:14-27, where we learned that we all contribute value to one united body, read 1 Corinthians 12:4-11. You could also take a Spiritual Gift Survey that can point out some of the greater strengths and talents that God has given you that can be used to honor and glorify Him. This doesn't limit you to only serving in the ways you're good at or comfortable in. You can also work on serving and growing in an area out of your comfort zone. Some examples of gifts, services, and activities are exhortation, hospitality, giving, wisdom, and administration to name a few.

Bear With One Another

The word "bear" in Ephesians means to be tolerant toward Christians: to bear with them; to patiently endure their idiosyncrasies and weaknesses; to have a forgiving spirit toward others who may sin against us.

When we are tempted to be impatient with one another, we need to think about Christ and His attitude toward us. This was Paul's secret. The Lord's longsuffering and patience toward him marked his life (1 Timothy 1:15-17) and gave him unusual tolerance toward others. Seeing himself as the worst of sinners and experiencing God's love and patience in saving him caused Paul to respond to others with the love and patience of Christ.

Bearing with one another and having a forgiving spirit are synonymous concepts. Some Christians carry grudges for years. This is out of character for a follower of Jesus Christ. How ungrateful for a Christian to hold a grudge against a fellow believer when Christ has cancelled our own debt of sin.

Patience, forbearance and forgiveness are not automatic actions that follow conversion to Christ. These involve deliberate acts of the will. Every person who has an unforgiving spirit chooses to do so. If you choose to forgive, this is a process to follow:

Encourage One Another

Christians are to build up and edify one another. No one Christian can build up all other believers in a local church. God's design is that every Christian be a functioning part of the body of Christ; that every Christian contribute to the process.

Paul commended the Thessalonian Christians for their concern and love for one another. They had learned the importance of mutual encouragement, exhortation and comfort. He knew the primary means for mutual encouragement -- God's truth!

Scripture is so important in building up others in the body of Christ. As we learn God's Word, then we will be ready to share the Word with others who are in special need of encouragement. How can we encourage one another with Scripture if we are not familiar with Scriptures? Our need is to study the Bible -- not only for personal growth, but also to assist others in their growth.

In the "body of Christ," the church, every member contributes to its success (becoming all that God desires it to be).

Before His crucifixion, Jesus prayed for His disciples, then He prayed for all believers:

The overflow of a rich life in Christ should be sharing with others how they too can have this life. Your devotional life, extended times of prayer, and prompt obedience to God will give your life an attractiveness which adds credibility to your words. Effective witnessing also involves skills. Skills can be learned and sharpened. You will become a sharpened instrument in God's hand as you receive training and gain experience in witnessing.

Christ's first instructions to His new followers in the first chapter of Mark were "Follow Me, and I will make you become fishers of men" (Mark 1:17). His last instructions on this earth to His disciples were "But you shall receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you; and you shall be My witnesses..." (Acts 1:8) Christ thus began and ended His ministry with the command to be witnesses!

In the Great Commission, our Lord told His church to go into the world and make disciples of all nations, to baptize them, and then to teach them all the things that He had commanded (Matthew 28:18-20). The witness for Christ is the driving power which moves the church along just as the engine in a ship drives it along. We know that God's Holy Spirit is the true power of the church, but it is the witness of the Spirit through the individual life and through the corporate life of the church which brings power and life to the congregation itself. It is safe to say that the happy church is a witnessing church.

Why does witnessing for Christ make people in the congregation happy? The word "happy" in the Scriptures means "blessed." A witnessing congregation is a happy congregation because they are doing what their Lord told them to do. Too often the church is virtually without a witness except for the preaching and teaching. Christians get caught in the bureaucracy of the church and thus fail to be on the firing line with a witness for Christ. It should be carefully noted that a disobedient, and therefore defeated, Christian cannot in any way be happy.

If the Christian is not a witness for Christ, then he is disobedient. Witnessing for Christ requires dedication and willingness to face rebuke as well as acceptance. Disobedient Christians usually say, "Witnessing is not my gift." Where would the church be now if Stephen and Philip, who were members of the first Board of Deacons, had said, "We are serving tables and witnessing is not our gift?" The shield of faith is intended to quench the fiery darts of the wicked one. In the Christian's armor, there is not an armor plate or defensive equipment for the backside! When we turn our back to the enemy and refuse to be a witnessing church, we are going to get the fiery darts in the most unprotected and in the most embarrassing place.

Often Acts 8:4, "All they that were scattered abroad went everywhere preaching the Word," is used out of context and is believed to mean the apostles were the ones that went everywhere spreading the Word and preaching the Word. The significant context of that verse is found in Acts 8:1: "They were all scattered abroad except the apostles." Now we know that the apostles did their share and more than that. But the point is that everyone besides the apostles also went and evangelized.

This is how the Church of Christ in 300 years accomplished amazing results. The Roman Empire was overthrown by the Gospel of Christ which, on the lips of Christ-conquered disciples, crossed seas and deserts, pierced the darkest jungles, seeped into every city and town, and finally into the senate and the palace of Rome itself -- until a "Christian" Caesar was placed upon the throne.

How? Because everyone was preaching the Word. The Church was burgeoning with such rapidity that by the middle of the second century one of the great apologists could say, "We are everywhere. We are in your towns and in your cities; we are in the senate, we are more numerous than anyone." Constantine knew very well that he had no chance of unifying the Roman Empire or holding power in that empire without the help of the Christians. By A.D. 300 the church had shown such tremendous strength, and was spreading so swiftly, that it appeared the entire civilized world could be evangelized by A.D. 500. But something happened. You remember. Emperor Constantine, supposing to do a favor to the church, declared the whole Roman Empire to be Christian. Thus, millions of barbarians flooded into the church, bringing with them all of the pagan superstitions and heresies. They didn't even know the Gospel. They had never experienced its transforming power and, of course, they could not go out and tell others about it. So, little by little, the idea arose that there was a division between the clergy and the laity, and that this task of evangelism was the job of professionally trained individuals. So they decided to let the ecclesiastical "George" do it. The Dark Ages followed! With only a few bright spots in the history of the church since that time, this deplorable condition has continued down to our day.

In the fourth chapter of Ephesians, we are told that Christ has given pastors and teachers to the church "for the equipping of the saints unto the work of ministry, unto the upbuilding of the body of Christ." The pastor and every member of the staff and every member of the congregation should be a witness for Christ and be equipped and willing to lead others to Christ as the church reaches out in the power of the Spirit and with the authority of the Word of God to make Christ known throughout the world. Think what would happen if all the churches across the U.S. and around the world were to become witnessing congregations!

What impels the Christian to be active in witness? The basic motive is plain obedience. Every Christian is a servant of Christ. So we do not overlook any of His commandments. (1) Obedience is the fruit and proof of our love for Christ and it is an honorable privilege to be sent by Him to share in His own mission in the world. (2) Loving concern for men is also our incentive. To love my neighbor is to seek and to serve his highest good. We cannot claim to love him if we leave him alone to die without Christ. (3) In Romans, Paul writes that his mission to all the nations is "for the sake of the name." It is the preeminent name of Jesus. Love of His name is a concern for His honor in the world, an ardent desire for the fulfillment of our prayer: "Not to us, O Lord, not to us, but to thy name give glory" (Psalm 115:1). It is a recognition that God the Father has exalted Him "far above...every name that is named," with a view to securing "that at the name of Jesus," before His supreme rank and dignity, "every knee should bow...and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord..." (Philippians 2:9-11)

A witness in a courtroom is expected to tell what he knows about a given situation. The Christian witness is to tell others what he knows about Jesus Christ and what it means to personally trust Him.

"Show me your redeemed life, and I'll believe in your Redeemer."

-- Voltaire,

"You are writing a Gospel, a chapter each day, by the things that you do, and the words that you say. Men read what you write -- distorted or true; what is the Gospel according to you?"

-- ,

"God hasn't engaged many of us as lawyers, but he has summoned all of us as witnesses."

-- ,

"I cannot, by being good, tell men of Jesus' atoning death and resurrection nor of my faith in His divinity. The emphasis is too much on me, and too little on Him."

-- Samuel Shoemaker,

Dr. James Kennedy relates that before he knew Christ, and while in high school, he had greatly admired a young man in his school who had a fine character and many good qualities. Sometime later, Dr. Kennedy became a Christian and discovered that the young man had been a Christian but had never shared with him. The emphasis was on the young man. The glory went to the young man (the glory that only Christ should have received).

"Witnessing is taking a good look at the Lord Jesus and then telling others what you've seen."

-- Lorne Sanny,

A Christian businessman in Seattle confessed how he had unknowingly discouraged a business associate from coming to Christ for years. One day the friend told the Christian businessman he had met the Lord the night before through a Billy Graham meeting. The long-time Christian was elated and said so, but the new Christian replied, "Friend, you're the reason I have resisted becoming a Christian for all these years. I figured that if a person could live a good life as you do and not be a Christian, there was no need to become one!" This businessman had lived an exemplary life, but he had not revealed the Source of strength for living it.

"I am convinced the world is more eager to hear our message than we are to deliver it. Never in my ministry have I seen such responsiveness and receptivity to the Gospel as in recent days."

-- Dr. Howard Hendricks,

Jesus came to seek and to save the lost. Since He lives within us, we can simply ask Him to give us the courage to speak for Him. Whenever you are alone with a person for a few minutes you can assume that you are there by divine appointment to share the good news of God's love and forgiveness. Though you should always seek to bring those who are interested to a definite commitment to Christ, you should not feel discouraged when some refuse to receive Him as their Savior and Lord. That is God's responsibility. It is your responsibility to tell them the good news with love and genuine concern. Sharing Christ should be a way of life for every Christian. When you awaken each morning, thank the Lord that He lives within you and ask Him to use your lips to speak of His love and forgiveness.

Witnessing is presenting a Person -- not a plan. The power is in the Gospel. "I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God for the salvation of everyone who believes" (Romans 1:16).

God doesn't need us to argue His case, but simply to tell others what He has done for us. Read Acts 26:1-29. You will notice in Paul's story (his testimony) of how he met Christ, he included the following:

Using these points, write out your own one-minute testimony, and ask God to give you the opportunity to share your testimony and a gospel booklet with at least one person this week.

Perfect your words on a separate sheet before entering it into your manual. Memorize and practice with your discipler.

Some Christians are constantly being used by God to introduce others to our Savior because they have been trained to talk about Christ in the power of the Spirit. They do not get sidetracked to discuss nonessential matters. A gospel tract (booklet) keeps the conversation centered on the person of Christ, away from distracting issues. The booklet can also be left with the person.

There are many people who express antagonism toward God -- they want nothing to do with religion. But when we tell them about Jesus, they are responsive. Bill Bright of Campus Crusade for Christ tells of a taxi driver in Australia who told him, "I gave up all religion in World War II. I want nothing to do with a God who allows people to kill each other." Bill Bright's answered, "Wait a minute. Are you accusing God of something for which man is responsible? It is the evil in man, his sin, that causes him to hate and steal and kill." He explained the difference between religion, which is men's search for God, and Christianity, which is God's revelation of Himself in Christ to man. The man's attitude changed as he heard about the Person of Christ. Soon he said that he would like to pray and receive Christ.

1. Successful way-of-life witnessing may be defined as simply taking the initiative to share Christ in the power of the Holy Spirit and leaving the results to God.

2. Three important ingredients to consider when sharing Christ as a way of life.

3. Pray in the Spirit. It is our responsibility to pray for men to come to Christ and to share Christ with them. God is the One who by His Spirit can produce faith in the hearts of men and change their lives. It is important to remember that only the spiritual man can expect God to answer his prayer for the salvation of loved ones and others. Consequently, we should not expect a casual, superficial prayer of carnal men, like "Lord, save everyone" to accomplish much. If you are concerned for the souls of others and expect God to answer your prayers, be sure you are walking and praying in the Spirit (Philippians 2:13, 1 John 5:14,15). Pray not only for the salvation of men, but also for Christians and their spiritual growth and frequently requesting prayer for other believers as well as for themselves. Make a prayer list or keep a prayer diary and pray for specific non-Christians and Christians by name, and for specific events. As God answers prayer, record the date and how the prayer was answered.

4. Go. a. Do not wait for others to come to you. Go to them with the good news of Christ. One of the great barriers in witnessing is the problem of getting going. There are all kinds of excuses: "I am too busy," or "I am waiting for the Spirit to lead me to someone." We need not wait for the Holy Spirit to "lead us." Christ has already commanded us to go tell the good news to all.

b. Arrange your priorities so that you can take time at least every week to share Christ with someone. The Christian should share his faith as a way of life, not just when he is on a particular assignment. Talk with those whom the Lord brings across your path. In other words, meet people. Ask God to give you a love and interest in everyone you meet. Just be friendly!

5. Turning the conversation to Christ. a. As a unique person, you have a unique sphere of influence. If we look for opportunities to share our faith, we will find them everywhere. It takes only a few minutes to establish a rapport with an individual. Once rapport has been established, a simple transition allows us to share our testimony and the gospel.

When you talk about Jesus, expect people to respond -- not on the basis of positive thinking, but, because of your confidence in God, His love, His sovereignty, His power and His promise that He is not willing that any should perish.

Expect others to respond because our Lord has commissioned us to go to tell everyone the good news. He claimed all authority and promised to go with His disciples in His resurrected presence. We have that same presence and power with us today as in the first century. Given the Lord's claims and promises, it is inconceivable that He would not honor our faithful witness. While the disciples were met with bitter opposition, the Christian movement experienced phenomenal growth. Paul writes to the Thessalonians: "For our gospel did not come to you in word only, but also in power and in the Holy Spirit and with full conviction; just as you know what kind of men we proved to be among you for your sake" (1 Thessalonians 1:5).

God is your Creator, and you are His creation. He loves you, but He hates sin because sin injures, kills and destroys His creation.

Since no one is immune to temptation and sin, it is important that you understand the deliverance that God offers. You cannot live victoriously in your own strength. Appropriate God's provision for victory.

Read Ephesians 6:10-18.

New Christians sometimes think life will be free from temptation. But Ephesians 6:12 says, "...We wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers..."

We are up against an enemy that has tactics and battle plans. Christians must not go up against an organized enemy in a completely disorganized manner. There are different kinds of temptations and different ways to handle them.

In a battle there are two factors involved. These are power and strategy. Both are important. The Christian must utilize the power of the indwelling Holy Spirit. However, even with adequate power, victory is not necessarily assured. You must use the power in the right way at the right time.

For example, let's imagine an admiral on a battle ship with all kinds of power at his disposal. He is attacked by an airplane and gives an order: "Okay, men, throw over the depth charges." He would be defeated! Because depth charges don't do anything against airplanes. They are designed to destroy submarines. His defeat would not be due to a lack of power, but a failure in strategy.

The ultimate source of all evil is Satan. But that doesn't mean that the devil always attacks us personally. It would be like saying that Hitler was behind all German aggression in World War II. That statement is true, but it doesn't mean that Hitler always attacked each G.I. personally. Through his submarines and his German Panzer divisions, Hitler came at us in various ways.

The devil comes at us through three basic channels. In Scripture these are called: the devil, the world, and the flesh. We have a battle on our hands. We must face this evil triad every day. We also want to know where we are vulnerable. In 1 Thessalonians 5:23 we read, "May God himself, the God of peace, sanctify you through and through. May your whole spirit, soul and body be kept blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ."

The whole man involves the spirit, soul and body. Temptations you have will be in one of these areas.

It is vital for us to be aware of the spiritual warfare we are in. We don't always know where our source of temptation comes from, but the following examples of warfare can help us see the importance of appropriating God's provision for victory over temptation.

Probably the easiest of the three to understand would be the devil. Scripture teaches that there is one personal supernatural spirit being known as the devil or Satan, and there are many fallen angels known as the devil's angels or demons. Read Zechariah 3:1, Luke 10:18, Acts 26:18, and James 2:19.

Man was created to not only be aware of himself, but also to be aware of God! So let's call the spirit the "God-awareness." Man uniquely has a capacity for God. Some temptation is directed right at your relationship with God. When you are tempted to deny God, to deny His goodness, to deny God's Word, or God's faithfulness, these are attacks right at your God-awareness (spirit).

Read Genesis 3:1-8, where the evil one attacks the character of God in his temptation of Eve. Read Luke 22:31-34 and 54-62. This is an example of temptation directed at Peter's relationship with God. Satan is attacking Peter's spirit or God-awareness.

How does one handle direct demonic attack upon the God-awareness? James 4:7 says, "Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you." How does one resist the devil? There is no better way to resist the devil than the way Christ handled a satanic overture. Read Luke 4:1-13. Each time He used the same tactical maneuver. "It is written." "It is written." "It is written." He hit him with the sword of the Spirit which is the Word of God. He threw Scripture in his teeth. That is the best way to resist the devil.

We are supposed to resist in the power of the Spirit, but using the Word of God. For instance, if Satan tries to tell a new convert that he is not saved, the best thing to do is have a passage that states categorically that all who believe in Christ have everlasting life. Throw a verse like John 5:24 in the enemy's face. Or if you are tempted to doubt God's goodness, throw the promises of God in the teeth of the devil.

To handle this kind of temptation you need to know your Bible. That is why memorizing Scripture is so important. David said, "Thy word have I hid in mine heart, that I might not sin against thee" (Psalm 119:11). The more you hide God's Word in your heart, studying and mastering it, the more you will be prepared to deal effectively with this type of temptation.

The second channel through which the enemy can attack is the world. The kind of world we are talking about is the one mentioned in 1 John 2:15, "Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world. If any man loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him." Or Romans 12:2 states, "Be not conformed to this world..." This kind of world means the world of unsaved men and the society, culture, and value systems that they have established. The most subtle kinds of temptations are from this channel -- the world! Most of the time when you are tempted by the world, you are not tempted to do anything illegal or nasty; yet, it is devastating to your spiritual welfare.

For example, a young couple is very zealous for the Lord and then suddenly stops attending church. They purchased a new home and are now so busy landscaping it they have no time for God. They actually love the house more than they love God. That is sin, and that is idolatry! The most difficult type of temptation comes from the world.

The word soul as used in a specialized sense, in contrast to the Spirit, means essentially, the self-awareness. With the capacity that you have to say "I," you are aware of yourself in relationship to your environment. Many temptations are directed right at your self-awareness because of this thing called pride or ego! Read Genesis 13:1-18. This is an example of the world attacking the ego of Lot, who was concerned with personal gain.

How do I handle this type of temptation? What does the Bible say to do about it? Read Matthew 6:19-34. Probably this type -- the world attacking the soul -- will be the most prominent over the period of your life span. This is particularly true in our materialistic society. Suppose as a woman you find yourself enamored with the latest fashions. It becomes an inordinate passion that's ever on your mind. Clothes! Clothes! Clothes! Or a fellow gets car fever. Cars! Cars! Cars! How do we handle it?

In 1 John 2:15 we read, "Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world. If any man loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him." If you begin to let your love for God grow cold, then the world will slip into the vacuum. So, if you find yourself loving the world inordinately, that is a symptom of a deeper problem. Don't fight the symptom; let the symptom warn you of the real problem, and your real problem is that something has happened to your love for God.

Check out your devotional life. Get alone with Him and start really having a time with Him. Get that love back where it ought to be and the whole problem will disappear. Because if you love Him as you ought to love Him, you won't be loving this world. The more you love Him, the less important the things of this world will become to you. It is absolutely crucial in maintaining a successful Christian life to take time every day to communicate with Him through personal Bible study and prayer. So when tempted with the world, check out your devotional life.

The final channel of temptation is the flesh. The kind of flesh we are talking about is the kind referred to in Galatians 5:17, "For the flesh sets its desire against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh; for these are in opposition to one another, so that you may not do the things that you please." The flesh is my enemy. Read chapters six, seven, and eight of the book of Romans.

Between the spirit, soul and body, the easiest to understand is the body. That is the material you: the meat, the bones, the eyeballs. Some temptations are directed right at the biological drives of the body, such as sex or eating. A Christian is constantly tempted to misuse and misdirect these biological drives that God has given us.

Read Genesis 39. This is an example where Joseph's appetites of the body were under attack. In 2 Samuel 11:1-4 is an example of David under attack.

The temptation of illicit sex is a big issue in our culture. Suppose a college student and his date realize they are getting tempted. They decide how they will handle it. That evening they are going to gather algae off the rocks at the beach for their biology class. If they get tempted down there on that lonely beach, they have already decided they will kneel down right on the spot and pray and ask God to help them fight this thing. Now that sounds pious, but that's quite reckless! That's like sticking your head in the lion's mouth and asking God to help it not bite you.

Look at 2 Timothy 2:22, "Flee... youthful lusts." Or, 1 Corinthians 6:18, "Flee fornication." That's the tactic to use: You are never told to fight but to flee! Joseph is a good example of this in Genesis 39. When Potiphar's wife tried to seduce him, did Joseph suggest they kneel by the couch and pray about it? No! He ran!

There are different ways to run. Dates at places with lots of lights and lots of people is one way of running. If a secretary bats her eyelashes at her boss and suggests they meet back at the office that evening to catch up on work, the man can invite his mother-in-law to accompany him to the office. That's fleeing! If you have an appetite for doughnuts, don't stand there looking at them; don't even drive close to the doughnut shop.

When tempted by the devil in the area of your God-awareness, resist with the Word. When tempted by the world in the area of your ego, check out your devotional love for Him. That's where the real problem lies. When tempted by the flesh, in the biological drives of the body, run, baby, run! Needless to say, all of these tactical maneuvers must be carried out by utilizing the power of the indwelling Spirit.

Read Ephesians 6:10-18 again!

When you are obedient to Christ and actively following God's leading, it shows in your outward life. People can see evidence in your Christianity.

Some acts of obedience are more internal. They have to do with attitudes, habits, motives, sense of values and day-to-day thoughts. These internal acts of obedience eventually surface in relationships with other people. The proof of your love for God is your demonstrated obedience to Him.

When we were brought to spiritual birth by the Spirit, He made us a new creation (2 Corinthians 5:17). Our responsibility is to live pleasing before Him, strengthened by the indwelling of His Spirit.

When a man is going up in a balloon, he takes bags of sand as weights. When he wants to go higher, he throws some of the sand out. The more he throws out, the higher he goes. Our Christian walk is the same. The more of the things of the flesh, the world and the devil we throw overboard, the higher we will mount in the heights of spiritual blessings.

1. In 1 Samuel 15:18-23, instead of complete obedience, King Saul substituted excuses and his own way of worship.

2. Consider Zechariah 7:8-14.

In Matthew 22:40, Jesus indicates that the Ten Commandments were summarized in these two Great Commandments. The only one of the Ten Commandments that wasn't restated in the New Testament was #4, "Remember the Sabbath Day."

"Delayed obedience is disobedience."

-- ,

You are about to begin a special and meaningful relationship with a fellow believer. You can be assured of as much or more blessing than the one you are discipling. This one-to-one discipling material is to assist you in discipling babes in Christ as well as other sheep. As obedient Christians we are to:

Make Disciples

"Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I will be with you always, to the very end of the age."

-- , Matthew 28:19,20

Reproduce

"And the things you have heard me say in the presence of many witnesses entrust to reliable men who will also be qualified to teach others."

-- , 2 Timothy 2:2

As you teach and model these basic principles of the Christ-directed life, your disciple then will want to disciple another, who will in turn disciple another. This is reproduction.

Some Basic Guidelines

1. The first lesson will be done differently than the other eight lessons. Begin according to Instructions for Disciples, Appointment #1, page I-7, sharing testimonies and sharing on a piece of paper the HELM diagram according to instructions on pages I-4 through I-6. Then, in order to discuss and complete together Lesson #1, have your disciple begin reading on page 2, and continuing on. When a blank is to be filled in, both of you should look up the verses in your Bibles, then allow your disciple to read the Scriptures out loud, answer and fill in the blanks.

The other eight lessons are given to your disciple to fill out along with the assignment sheet. Your disciple completes the lesson before your next appointment. Therefore it is not necessary to read everything as in Lesson #1. Only questions and answers need to be read and shared. The rest of the material has already been read by your disciple.

Of course, you should emphasize the key points and have them underline any other important points in the lesson. (The key points for each lesson are listed in your Instructions for Discipler.)

Encourage your disciple to ask questions about anything that is unclear. Other questions that may stimulate discussion and determine understanding:

2. Stress the simplicity and message of the "HELM" during Appointment #1 and prior to each lesson.

3. The assurance of salvation is of primary importance. Work and pray with your disciple until he/she has this assurance.

4. Be patient and sensitive to spiritual needs. Do not push beyond a person's capabilities. Some will move faster than others.

5. Compliment work done by the disciple and encourage him/her at every opportunity.

6. Show your love and concern. Be a listening person to personal needs and problems. Pray for your disciple.

7. Discipling one-to-one is far more than teaching facts. The facts must be taught, but the attitude of heart is caught. For example, in teaching the attributes of God, your disciple needs to sense your awe of God, your trust in Him and your love for Him.

8. Take your disciple witnessing. Plan to witness to a friend of your disciple or to a recent non-Christian visitor to your church.

9. In order for REPRODUCTION to take place it is important to keep your discipling simple. If you make it complicated and go beyond what is presented in the material, your disciple may be discouraged from reproducing because of the feeling it would be too difficult to disciple in the same way.

10. Some answers in the material require an exact word or words. There is no other answer. Other answers should be correct, but need not be expressed in the same words. Understanding, which is vital, can be determined by asking your disciple why or how.

11. If you are "discipling" a mature Christian or one who has a good grasp of the material, it is not necessary to discuss every single question. Do determine the disciple's perception of each section and especially key points of each lesson.

12. Encourage your disciple to begin discipling another by the time he/she finishes. If you disciple a "mature" Christian, explain the concept of reproduction even before you get started. As the weeks go by, pray together about whom your disciple can start discipling when you are completed.

If you disciple a "new" Christian, introduce the idea of reproduction later during the nine lessons. Pray together about whom he/she might disciple. PROVIDE NAMES IF NECESSARY.

13. Do not read INSTRUCTIONS FOR DISCIPLER material until completion of the last lesson.

14. Sometimes a person will say they desire to be discipled but will fail to follow through in completing assignments or meeting with you on a regular basis, even after much encouragement from you. It may be best to terminate the discipling until the person is ready at a future time -- there may be a lot going on in the life of the person and they cannot handle the discipling at present. Then you will be free to disciple someone who is faithful, and the person will appreciate being encouraged to wait till a later date.

15. There are many discipling processes in the life of a Christian. As you disciple someone through this material, encourage the person to be a part of other ministries of the church in order that the discipling process be continued.

The HELM is presented as a series of hand-drawn circle diagrams building up to a ship's wheel (helm) illustration. Each numbered step below is paired with a diagram you draw as you speak.

1. Draw a circle within a circle. Write "Self" in the inner circle. Write "My will, my desires" below it.

"This circle represents a person before becoming a Christian. Self is on the throne of the life, and the life is self-centered."

-- ,

2. Draw a circle within a circle. (Make these circles larger.) Write "Christ" in the inner circle. Write "His will, His desires" below it.

"This circle represents a person after receiving Christ. Christ is on the throne and the life is Christ-centered. We'll be learning about the Christ-centered life."

-- ,

3. Draw a circle around the inner circle. Write "Assurance of Salvation."

"We will be studying about assurance, how you can know for certain Christ is in your life and you are a child of God."

-- ,

4. Draw spokes of the HELM as you talk about the next eight lessons. Write in the titles as you speak of each lesson.

a. Attributes of God -- "We will be studying the attributes of God, what He is like, how to get to know Him."

b. The Bible -- "We get to know God through the Bible. He speaks to us through His Word. The Bible is the foundational guideline for the Christian life. We will learn how to study it."

c. Prayer -- "We speak to God through prayer. In communicating with God, listening to Him through scripture and talking to Him in prayer, this vertical relationship with Him grows."

d. Spirit-Filled Life -- "We'll learn what it means to live a Spirit-filled life, allowing the Holy Spirit to direct and empower us to live a Christ-centered life."

e. Fellowship -- "When we have a proper vertical relationship with God we can have a proper horizontal relationship with people. Our relationship with other believers should be one of fellowship, caring for one another and building up one another in Christ."

f. Witnessing -- "Our relationship with unbelievers is one of caring enough to share Christ with them. We'll learn how to witness in order that they too can have a personal relationship with Him."

g. Temptation -- "No one is immune to temptation, but God offers us deliverance. We'll be learning what the Bible teaches about this spiritual warfare."

h. Obedience -- "Obedience should be our response in all of these areas in order for our lives to be Christ-centered."

5. Draw an outer circle and write "The Christ-Directed Life." "As we get to know God and obey Him, allowing Him to teach us in all of these areas through His Word, our lives will be Christ-directed."

6. Draw outer "handholds" of the HELM. "This is a picture of the helm of a ship. Just as a pilot steers the course of the ship, so should we allow Christ to direct every interest of our lives. We'll be learning what it means to have a Christ-centered, Christ-directed life."

The completed diagram is a ship's-wheel (helm) illustration. The center hub reads "CHRIST" surrounded by "Assurance of Salvation." Eight spokes are labeled around the rim: The Christ Directed Life, Obedience, Attributes of God, The Bible, Prayer, Spirit-Filled Life, Fellowship, Witnessing, Temptation. Outer handholds (wheel grips) ring the wheel.

Time for each lesson will be 1 1/2 to 2 hours long.

1. Get acquainted with your disciple. Have your disciple share when and how he/she came to know Christ. Then share your testimony.

2. Explain the purpose of this one-to-one discipling. Draw the "HELM" showing how the lessons fit into the concept of the Christ-centered, Christ-directed life.

3. Begin discussing and completing together Lesson #1, "Assurance of Salvation." Go slowly with new Christians.

4. If your disciple has doubts on the assurance of salvation, spend time on Lesson #1 until there is assurance. KEY point of this lesson to be emphasized is the threefold confirmation of assurance. Be sure your disciple concludes from questions 1, 2, 3 on page 7 that JESUS IS GOD.

5. Since there may not be enough time in this first appointment to finish Lesson #1, you may have to continue the lesson the next time you meet.

When Lesson #1 is completed, continue as follows:

6. Review instructions for next week's lesson on "Attributes of God." Review the assignment sheet, stressing the importance of daily time with God. More important than learning "just facts" is getting to know God by communicating with Him through daily prayer and Bible study. Remind your disciple to be ready to draw the "HELM" and explain it when you meet the next week.

7. Give ample opportunity for interaction, questions and sharing of personal problems.

8. Conclude with prayer. Direct your disciple to the "prayer list" sheets just before the Instructions. Share requests with each other and record on prayer sheet. Your disciple may not be ready to pray out loud at this time.

Plan to teach conversational prayer during the weeks ahead.

Time: 15 min.

1. Review KEY point of Lesson #1.

2. Have your disciple draw and explain the "HELM" diagram.

Time: 1-1 1/2 hours

3. Discuss and check each segment of the completed assignment. (This should be done for each lesson.) As an example, following along with page 15:

a. Briefly ask about their reading in the first seven chapters of John. What impressed them? Did they understand? Encourage daily Bible study.

b. Discuss how the "HELM" fits into this lesson.

c. Discuss the material on "Attributes of God."

d. Have them repeat John 3:16 by memory.

e. Share with one another what was gained from the pastor's Sunday sermon.

4. KEY points of Lesson #2 to be emphasized are:

Time: 15 min.

5. Review new assignment for Lesson #3, "The Bible," going over instructions clearly.

6. Pray together, possibly praying back to God parts of Psalm 145. (Also use prayer request sheet.)

Time: 15 min.

1. Review KEY points of Lesson #2.

2. Discuss the "HELM" diagram, applying it to Appointment #3.

Time: 1-1 1/2 hours

3. Discuss and check each segment of the completed assignment.

4. KEY points of Lesson #3 to be emphasized are:

Time: 15 min.

5. Go over new assignment on "Prayer." Encourage in daily reading of the Gospel of John to ask the two questions, and to spend time alone in prayer.

6. Pray together. (Review and possibly add to prayer requests.)

Time: 15 min.

1. Review KEY points of Lesson #3.

2. Discuss the "HELM" diagram, applying it to Appointment #4.

Time: 1-1 1/2 hours

3. Discuss and check each segment of the completed assignment.

4. Take time to encourage interaction, questions or sharing of personal problems.

5. KEY points of Lesson #4 to be emphasized are:

Time: 15 min.

6. Give new assignment on "The Spirit-Filled Life" making sure instructions are clear.

7. Give booklet, "Have You Made the Wonderful Discovery of the Spirit-Filled Life?"

8. Discuss conversational prayer as outlined in lesson. Pray together conversationally. (Review prayer list and record requests and answers to prayer sheet.)

9. Add to your prayer sheet a request of who your disciple will disciple upon completion of Lesson #9. Ask your pastor who to speak with for possible candidates.

Time: 15 min.

1. Review KEY points of Lesson #4.

2. Discuss the "HELM" diagram, applying it to Appointment #5.

Time: 1-1 1/2 hours

3. Discuss and check each segment of the completed assignment.

4. KEY points of Lesson #5 to be emphasized are:

Time: 15 min.

5. Review new assignment on "Fellowship."

6. Pray together conversationally, using the guideline of "ACTS." Share requests with each other; record answers to prayer on the prayer list sheet.

7. Pray for who your disciple will disciple upon completion of Lesson #9.

Time: 15 min.

1. Review KEY points of Lesson #5.

2. Discuss the "HELM" diagram, applying it to Appointment #6.

Time: 1-1 1/2 hours

3. Discuss and check each segment of the completed assignment, being careful to listen for good comprehension of all the material.

4. Be patient and understanding. Encourage your disciple.

5. KEY points of Lesson #6 to be emphasized are:

Members of the "body of Christ" are to continue Christ's work of redemption by reaching out to the lost. Why is unity so important? The church is to be unified, loving and caring for one another, in order that the world may believe.

Time: 15 min.

6. Review new assignment on "Witnessing," making sure instructions are clear.

7. Give a gospel booklet such as, "The Four Spiritual Laws."

8. Pray together. Continue using prayer request sheet.

9. Pray for who your disciple will disciple upon completion of Lesson #9. (Pray for your disciple every week.)

Plan to carry out a witnessing assignment with your disciple sometime during the week. Witness to a friend of your disciple or to a recent non-Christian visitor to your church, or someone else.

Time: 15 min.

1. Review KEY points of Lesson #6.

2. Discuss the "HELM" diagram, applying it to Appointment #7.

Time: 1-1 1/2 hours

3. Discuss and check each segment of the completed assignment.

4. Evaluate your disciple's one-minute testimony. Continue to work on it until it can be transferred into manual.

5. KEY points of Lesson #7 to be emphasized are:

Time: 15 min.

6. Review new assignment on "Temptation."

7. Pray for who your disciple will disciple upon completion of Lesson #9.

8. Pray together.

Time: 15 min.

1. Review KEY points of Lesson #7.

2. Discuss the "HELM" diagram, applying it to Appointment #8.

Time: 1-1 1/2 hours

3. Discuss and check each segment of the completed assignment.

4. KEY points of Lesson #8 to be emphasized are:

Time: 15 min.

5. Review new assignment on "Obedience."

6. Pray together. Review prayer requests and answers.

7. Pray for who your disciple will disciple upon completion of Lesson #9. (If you determine your disciple is ready to disciple someone, review the INSTRUCTIONS FOR DISCIPLER next week on completion of the last lesson.)

Time: 15 min.

1. Review KEY points of Lesson #8.

2. Discuss the "HELM" diagram, applying it to Appointment #9.

Time: 1-1 1/2 hours

3. Discuss and check each segment of the completed assignment.

4. KEY points of Lesson #9 to be emphasized are:

5. Review some of the KEY points of other lessons.

6. Review verses memorized.

Time: 15 min.

7. Encourage personal witnessing and the need for further training in sharing Christ.

8. Give your disciple the vision for being a multiplying discipler.

9. Encourage your disciple to begin discipling someone NOW.

If there is not a disciple in mind already, then offer a name and phone number of someone who wants to be discipled. Ask your pastor for possibilities.

Go over the INSTRUCTIONS FOR DISCIPLER with your disciple. Offer any help needed.

10. Pray together.