TIMOTHY ONE FOLLOW THRU FOR NEW CHRISTIANS

Transcription

1 TIMOTHY ONE FOLLOW THRU FOR NEW CHRISTIANS A 3-lesson study to be used by one person to disciple another Lesson 1 HOW TO WALK IN CHRIST 1. With Confidence 2. With Courage 3. With Commitment Lesson 2 HOW TO LIVE IN CHRIST 1. With Contact 2. With Conviction 3. With Compassion Lesson 3 HOW TO GROW IN CHRIST 1. With Prayer 2. With Bible Study 3. With Ministry 1

2 TIME OUT FOR TIMOTHY ONE THE TIMOTHY PICTURE: Acts 8:27-39 reminds us of many Christians today. As the Ethiopian Eunuch traveled home from worship, he was met by Philip, a faithful discipler. Seeing that he was reading the scripture, Philip asked if he understood what he was reading. No, he replied, How can I unless someone explains it. Sharing God s Word with someone is the basis for the TIMOTHY ONE FOLLOW-THRU MINISTRY. THE TIMOTHY PRINCIPLE: The Lord Jesus, our Master teacher, introduced a principle which all of us can practice. Often He spoke to large groups, but His best teaching was a close intimate contact with His disciples. He shared His life with them and then challenged them to grow like Him and share His life with others. The TIMOTHY PRINCIPLE is taking the time to invest a part of one s life in the life of a new believer. THE TIMOTHY PRIORITY: The immediate follow-thru of a new believer during the first few weeks of his NEW LIFE. THE TIMOTHY PROCESS: Taking the Great Commission seriously when it commands us to not only get out into all the world and proclaim the good news, but to make disciples of all nations. 1. The first part of the process is letting another Christian invest his time in my life. 2. The second part is investing a part of my life in someone else s life. THE TIMOTHY PLAN: 1. Sharing together in Bible study. 2. Sitting together in church. 3. Eating a Sunday dinner together. 4. Spending fellowship time together. 5. Growing in the Lord together. 6. Praying together. 7. Witnessing together. 8. Learning to disciple another believer. 2

3 Lesson 1 HOW TO WALK IN CHRIST Be An Upstream Christian in a Downstream World Many begin the Christian life Some fail to keep going. THINK ABOUT IT: Now that I am a Christian, what new challenges do I face? God s Word shows us that a successful Christian will be spiritually fruitful. The Bible also shows us how we can achieve this victorious spiritual life. This lesson will help you begin your walk as God makes you a success. I. I NEED CONFIDENCE TO WALK IN CHRIST A. Assurance that I am going to heaven. MULTIPLE CHOICE: All answers are correct, but underline only the answer that corresponds with the scripture reference. 1. Acts 3:19 tells us that we must: a. Live as the Bible says b. Go to church c. Accept Christ d. Repent of our sins 2. John 3:16 teaches us that those who receive eternal life must first: a. Confess their sins b. Live a good life c. Believe in Christ d. Pay their tithe 3. I John 1:9 states that our sins are forgiven if we: a. Ask Christ to forgive us b. Confess our sins c. Repent of our sins d. Accept Christ s forgiveness 4. John 1:12 is a wonderful promise that states: a. Ask and you will receive b. If you have faith in His promise, Christ will do it c. If we receive Christ, we become children of God d. Christ will do what He promised 3

4 5. Revelation 3:20 reveals that Christ is always seeking sustained communion, unbroken fellowship with us. He is always: a. Interested in us b. Speaking to us c. Wanting to help us d. Knocking at our heart s door B. Assurance that I am loved even when I sin. TRUE OR FALSE Christ has great patience with those who have sinned. (I Timothy 1:15-16) Jesus fully understands our weaknesses and helps us in time of need. (Hebrews 4:15-16) Jesus refuses to help the believer who sins. (I John 2:1) THINK ABOUT IT: How is Christ beginning to change my lifestyle? II. I NEED COURAGE TO WALK IN CHRIST Taking the first steps is both exciting and difficult. A. Courage to begin my new walk in Christ. MATCH UP the correct statements with their scripture reference. Revelation 3:20 (a) This book of the Bible was written to those who believe in Christ so they can know that they have eternal life. John 3:16 (b) When we accept Christ, we become a new person; the old passes away, everything becomes new. I John 5:11 (c) If we confess that Jesus is Lord and believe that God raised Him from the dead, we will be saved. II Corinthians 5:17 (d) Only he who has the Son, has eternal life. I John 5:12 (e) God says that He has given us eternal life and this life is in His son, Jesus. Romans 10:9 (f) Christ knocks at our heart s door, and if we open the door He will come in. I John 5:13 (g) God loves us so much that He gives us His son; and by accepting Him we have eternal life. 4

5 From these verses, how do you know that you are a Christian? B. Courage to face my everyday world. FILL IN THE BLANK 1. F in Christ is the victory that o the world. (I John 5:4) 2. C who lives within us is greater than s who lives in the world. (I John 4:4) 3. The best way to overcome temptation is to r the devil (I Peter 5:8-9) as you s to God (James 4:7). THINK ABOUT IT: How is my NEW LIFE in CHRIST evident to others? III. I NEED COMMITMENT TO WALK IN CHRIST It usually takes at least 3 weeks for one to feel comfortable in performing a new practice. And it takes about 3 more weeks to make the practice a part of oneself. But many new Christians don t have the commitment to continue for 3 days. - Dr. Jay Adams A. Getting the will-power to walk in Christ. GIVE SHORT ANSWERS HERE 1. What may we receive by asking God? James 1:5 2. With strength from Christ, what can we do? Philippians 4: We can exercise self-control by doing what? Titus 2:11-12 B. Finding the time to learn about my new walk. 1. Matthew 6:33 By Rearranging my priorities. 2. Ephesians 5:16 By Redeeming the t. 3. Ephesians 4:23 By Renewing my m. 5

6 THINK ABOUT IT: How can I become more committed to Christ? TAWG DEVOTIONS Time Alone With God DAILY WALK (New International Version) SUMMARY AND APPLICATION Day 1 Walk in Colossians 2:6 Day 2 Walk in Romans 6:4 Day 3 Walk by II Corinthians 5:7 Day 4 Walk in I John 1:7 Day 5 Walk II John 6 Day 6 Walk Ephesians 2:10 Day 7 Walk I John 2:6 LOOKING AHEAD TO LESSON 2: How to Live in Christ Through Contact Through Convictions Through Compassion 6

7 Lesson 2 HOW TO LIVE IN CHRIST Just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live in Him Colossians 2:6 (NIV) Many Christians look like Christ Others look like? THINK ABOUT IT: If I am a disciple of Christ, how should my life compare with His life? Every Christian wants to live a life that will glorify God and be a witness to others. Most of the time people are more impressed with how we live rather than what we say. In this lesson, we will study how others can begin to see more of Christ in us. I. I NEED CONTACT WITH FELLOW BELIEVERS Through public worship each week Through group Bible study Through involvement in the church ministries COMPLETE THE SENTENCE 1. In I Peter 2:2 we find that as a new spiritual infant, we should crave 2. In Hebrews 10:25 Paul wrote to Christians to not give up 3. Jesus continually visited the according to Luke 4:16 TRUE OR FALSE Acts 13:1-3 shows that the Antioch church was only concerned about themselves. Acts 1:8 shows the New Testament church should be interested in reaching the multitudes for Christ. Ephesians 2:22 shows the church is made up of Christians, not the actual building itself. 7

8 MATCH the correct statements with the proper scriptural reference. Read and study these principles. I Timothy 3:15 (a) As Christians and as a church, we will bear fruit if we remain in constant, vibrant relationship with Christ. John 15:5 (b) The church is the pillar and foundation of truth I John 4:7 (c) A vibrant church praises God, has the favor of the people, and is growing. Acts 2:47 (d) True Christians in the church will love one another THINK ABOUT IT: What is my attitude about church attendance? I. I NEED CONVICTIONS THAT ARE SCRIPTURAL Sometimes there are things that the Bible does not specify as being right or wrong. They may be habits or activities. As a new believer, you may be unfamiliar with all the Biblical Commands. In the following verses, you will find principles for dealing with the questionable things in your life. MATCH the correct statements with the proper scriptural reference. Read and study these principles. I Corinthians 6:12a (a) Is it an example? Is it a guide for others? (If not, I should not be doing it.) I Corinthians 6:12b (b) Is it constructive? Does it help build up other Christians? (If not I should not be doing it.) I Corinthians 8:13 (c) Is it enslaving? Does it control me? (If so, I should not be doing it.) I Corinthians 10:31 (d) Is it beneficial? Is it good? (If not, I should not be doing it.) I Corinthians 10:23 (e) Is it uplifting? Does it glorify God? (If not, I should not be doing it.) 8

9 APPLY these 10 scriptural tests to thoughts, words and actions. 1. The PURITY test I Corinthians 6:19 Can I do this to the body where Christ dwells? 2. The PARTICIPATION test I John 2:15-16 Will doing this take my eyes off Jesus? 3. The POLITE test Romans 14:7, 21 How will doing this affect others? 4. The PARTNER test Colossians 3:17 Could I invite Christ to do this with me? 5. The PUBLIC test I Thessalonians 5:22 Will doing this give the appearance of wrong-doing? 6. The PRESENCE test I John 2:28 Would I be ashamed to be found doing this upon Christ s return? 7. The PROBLEM test Hebrews 12:1 Will this hinder my NEW LIFE in Christ? 8. The PROOF test Romans 12:9 Is it good for me physically, emotionally and spiritually? 9. The PROCLAMATION test Philippians 2:15 Will this void my witness for Christ? 10. The PEACE test Philippians 4:6-7 After praying about it, can I do it and have peace? THINK ABOUT IT: Where does my life need to change? I. I NEED COMPASSION FOR OTHERS Sharing with others begins with caring for others. People do not care how much you know until they know how much you care. John Maxwell MULTIPLE CHOICE. Underline the correct answer according to the listed scripture to show who the early Christians witnessed to and when. 1. In Acts 3:1-8 we find Peter and John witnessing to: a) Their neighbors b) A poor cripple c) The disciples d) All the people in the temple 2. Acts 8:27-31 records Philip witnessing to: a) The people in Samaria b) The king c) An unknown traveler d) A good friend of his 9

10 3. Acts 26:2 shows Paul testifying to: a) A king b) A businessman c) A good friend d) His neighbors 4. John 1:40-41 gives the account of Andrew bringing: a) His boss b) His parents c) His brothers d) His enemy to Christ 5. Acts 5:42 shows the early Christians were continually witnessing: a) In the church b) In their homes c) In their special meetings d) In the temple and in their homes. TRUE OR FALSE Paul wrote in Romans 12:4-5 that being a part of the body of Christ makes us accountable to fellow believers. Jesus commanded in Mark 5:19 that the healed man should go home and not tell anyone what happened to him. Jesus told us in Matthew 28:19-20 to go only to receptive people and not to those who would not hear. FILL IN THE BLANKS and discover how to be an effective witness. 1. Witness by letting your shine. Matthew 5:16 2. Be prepared to give an. I Peter 3:15 3. Learn to overcome in witnessing. Acts 18: Listen for the leading. Acts 10:19 5. The key is found in Acts 1:8 You will receive when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my. THINK ABOUT IT: List at least two people in your life (family, friends, co-workers), that you will tell about your new relationship with Christ. 10

11 TAWG DEVOTIONS Time Alone With God DAILY WALK (New International Version) SUMMARY AND APPLICATION Day 1 Live by Galatians 5:16 Day 2 Live a Ephesians 5:2 Day 3 Live a Ephesians 4:1 Day 4 Live in I Thessalonians 4:1 Day 5 Live a Colossians 1:10 Day 6 Live Ephesians 5:15 Day 7 Live in I Peter 3:8 LOOKING AHEAD TO LESSON 3: HOW TO GROW Through Prayer Through Bible Study Through Ministry 11

12 Lesson 3 HOW TO GROW IN CHRIST Many Christians Grow Fast Others Grow Slow Some Just Don t Grow! THINK ABOUT IT: How do I want to grow? The Bible compares the new believer to a new baby, but then immediately commands that the babe GROW UP. in all things grow up into Him [Christ] Ephesians 4:15 This lesson will help you discover three ways to grow and mature in Christ. I. I NEED TO GROW THROUGH PRAYER -- Prayer is not overcoming God s reluctance, but taking hold of His eagerness. PURPOSES OF PRAYER: All answers are correct, but underline only the one which corresponds with the scripture reference. 1. A purpose of prayer in John 16:24 is: a) That we can share with God b) That we will put things in God s hands c) That God s will can be done d) That our joy may be full 2. What did Christ warn the disciples to do in order to resist temptation in Matthew 26:41? a) Go to church b) Pay their tithe c) Watch and pray d) Stay away from sinful places that would tempt them 3. James 5:16b says that a righteous man s prayers are: a) Heard by God b) Very effective c) Sincere and earnest d) Much needed 12

13 POINTERS FOR PERSONAL PRAYER What guidelines do these verses give us concerning our prayer? 1. Philippians 4:6 2. Matthew 6:7 3. Matthew 21:22 PONDERING PRAYER 1. What is the result when we talk to God about everything? Philippians 4:7 2. What is the major cause of unanswered prayer? Psalm 66:18 3. What does God hear? John 9:31 THINK ABOUT IT: What can I pray about specifically this week? (personal need, damaged relations, unsaved friends) II. I NEED TO GROW THROUGH BIBLE STUDY The Bible is the key to knowing God since He has revealed who He is by means of scripture. FILL IN THE BLANKS and learn how to study the Bible. 1. Romans 15:4 tells us that learning the scripture gives us 2. II Timothy 3:16 tells us that all scripture comes from and is good for,,, and in righteousness. 3. I Peter 1:25 assures us that the of the Lord will last. 13

14 MULTIPLE CHOICE: All answers are correct, but only underline the answer that corresponds with the scripture reference. 1. John 20:31 shows the Bible was written that: a) We could know what God expects from us b) We may believe on Christ and find life in His name c) We could read and study it d) God might reveal Himself to us 2. II Peter 1:21 informs us that the Gospel did not come by the will of man, but: a) From prophets of God b) Written by holy men c) Men of God spoke as moved by the Holy Spirit d) Men who were given revelations by God 3. In John 15:3 we find that as we read and obey the Bible, it: a) Encourages us b) Lifts us c) Cleanses us d) Instructs us PRODUCTIVE BIBLE STUDY 1. PRAY TO UNDERSTAND SCRIPTURE Prayer prepares the heart. 2. READ TO RECEIVE TRUTH Reading broadens the vision. 3. APPLY TO EXPERIENCE GROWTH Application produces the change. 4. MEMORIZE TO RETAIN KNOWLEDGE Memorization conserves the effort. THINK ABOUT IT: How does Bible study change my life? 14

15 III. I NEED TO GROW THROUGH MINISTRY One of the greatest joys of being a Christian is to watch God use us and produce spiritual fruit through us. Definition of a servant: Someone who sees a need and assumes personal responsibility to meet that need. PREREQUISITES FOR USEFUL SERVICE Fill in the blanks and discover how you can be used by God. 1. Matthew 22:37-39 tells us that there are two choices we must make if we are to be effective in useful service. 2. In Romans 12:1-2 God calls each of us to two definite commitments (vs 1) (vs 2) 3. What is the prerequisite of having a great ministry through which God uses you? I Corinthians 13 PARTICIPATION IN USEFUL SERVICE 1. According to I Peter 2:9, what do both clergy and so-called laymen share in common? 2. According to I Peter 4:10 who has God given spiritual gifts to and what is our responsibility as good stewards? 3. Who is really the source of our desire for ministry, our strength for ministry, and our source of ministry? Philippians 2:13 PERSISTENCE IN OUR SERVICE 1. In I Corinthians 15:58 Paul admits that ministry is sometimes hard work. Why is it then that we should persevere? 2. According to Hebrew 6:10-12, we should be (vs 11) in ministry, not (vs 12). 3. What great benefit is there in serving Christ? John 12:26 15

16 THINK ABOUT IT: How can I discover my spiritual gifts? Suggested Structure For A 30 Minute TAWG (Time Alone With God) 5 minutes Scripture reading 5 minutes Write down insights and application 5 minutes Adoration and praise 5 minutes Confession and surrender 5 minutes Thanksgiving 5 minutes Supplication Praying for others and self 30 minutes Of intimate communion with Christ SUMMARY AND APPLICATION LOOKING AHEAD: Complete New Life Study. Ask about TIMOTHY TWO 16