SPIRITUAL FORMATION IN THE LOCAL CHURCH: PHASE 1 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY. A Paper. Presented to. Dr. Barry Jones. Dallas Theological Seminary

Size: px
Start display at page:

Download "SPIRITUAL FORMATION IN THE LOCAL CHURCH: PHASE 1 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY. A Paper. Presented to. Dr. Barry Jones. Dallas Theological Seminary"

Transcription

1 SPIRITUAL FORMATION IN THE LOCAL CHURCH: PHASE 1 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY A Paper Presented to Dr. Barry Jones Dallas Theological Seminary In Partial Fulfillment of the Requirements for the Course SF901 Spiritual Formation in the Church by Christopher (Kit) Bogan April 2012 Box #176

2 SPIRITUAL FORMATION IN THE LOCAL CHURCH: PHASE 1 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY Many churches in America are coming to the sad realization that, after years of church membership or participation, their members are not becoming more devoted followers of Christ. The widely-known REVEAL study done by Willow Creek showed that this popular church, devoted to making fully-devoted followers of Jesus Christ, could not find a measurable difference in the spiritual lives of its members through activity in church ministries alone (cf. MOVE: What 1000 Churches Reveal about Spiritual Growth). Likewise, Kent Carlson and Mike Lueken in their book, Renovation of the Church, reveal how the attractional model of church growth they had embraced in their church plant actually promoted values that directly contradicted Biblical values for spiritual growth. Churches must prioritize and resolve the problem of spiritual stagnation and stunted growth among their members. Biblical Foundations God desires that all men and women be conformed to the image of His Son (1 Thess. 4:3). We do not become Christ; rather, we become like Him, reflecting His character in our lives. Paul exhorts the Roman believers in Romans 12:2 not to be conformed to this world, but to be transformed by the renewal of their minds, that they may discern what is the will of God. He also writes to the Galatians of this deep desire he has as a pastor, how he is again in the anguish of childbirth until Christ is formed in you (Gal. 4:19). And again, to the Corinthian church, Paul writes, Be imitators of me, as I am of Christ (1 Cor. 11:1). We are to identify with Jesus Christ in His death and resurrection by baptism (Rom. 6:4-6) so that we no longer live to ourselves, but rather, we allow Christ to live through us (Gal. 2:20). When Jesus returns, Christians have this hope that we will be like Jesus, for we shall see Him as He is (1 John 3:2-3). Everyone who thus hopes in Him purifies himself as He is pure. The goal of the church is to aid the Holy Spirit in spiritually forming disciples who reflect Jesus Christ in their lives. Most broadly put, the church does this through evangelism 1

3 (Matt. 28:20) and edification (cf. Eph. 4:11-13). Yet unless our goals of evangelism and 2 edification are deeply rooted in the character of Christ and His intentions for our sanctification, our fruit will be shallow or non-existent. Spiritual formation, according to Carlson and Lueken, is the meeting place of sanctification and the church. The result of the combined work of the Holy Spirit through the church is a community that increasingly reflects the heavenly people of God on earth. Mission of Spiritual Formation in the Church The mission of spiritual formation in the church is to call all people through the church to put off the sinful nature and its works and to put on the new character of Christ in loving obedience to the revealed will of God by attentively yielding to the Holy Spirit. This statement is long, but it can be broken down into intentional parts. To call all people through the church means that the church is God s tool, His body (1 Cor. 12), to call not only believers but all people to be spiritually formed in the image of Christ for God doesn t wish that any would perish, but that all should reach repentance (2 Pet. 3:9; cf. also Ezek. 18:23, 32; 33:11). To put off the sinful nature and its works refers to the importance of death to one s self-destructive pride, and death to the terrible authority of the flesh, the world, and the devil (cf. Rom. 6:1-3, Eph. 4:22, Col. 3:9, 1 John 2:15). And to put on the new character of Christ means that in place of our self-governance which leads to sin, we have as our aim to become like Jesus Christ, to act as He acts, to take His motivations as our own, and to increasingly reflect His nature and glory (cf. Rom. 8:29; 2 Cor. 3:18, 4:11; Gal. 4:19; Eph. 4:23-24; Col. 3:10; Phil. 3:10, 21; 2 Peter 1:4; 1 John 3:2). In loving obedience to the revealed will of God teaches us of God s commanded will that we should love Him first and also love our neighbors (Matt ; Mark 12:30; Rom. 13:8?). Those who imitate Christ should also obey the will of God as Christ obeyed the will of His Father (Psalm 40:6-8; Luke 12:47-48; John 4:34, 6:38; Heb. 10:7-9; James 4:17). Believers

4 3 should have as their aim to know the will of God (Matt. 7:21, Mark 3:35, John 15:14, Rom. 12:2, 1 Pet. 4:2, 1 John 2:17). By attentively yielding to the Holy Spirit points out that the sanctifying work in the believer s life happens not by our own efforts, but by yielding to the Holy Spirit (Gal. 3:1-6). We allow the Holy Spirit to work in us as we pay attention to the opportunities He intends to use for our formation throughout our daily lives. For an excellent Biblical treatment of this subject, cf. He That Is Spiritual by Lewis Sperry Chafer. Core Values Five core values emphasize spiritual formation in the church. First is attentiveness to the will of God, the ability to recognize His invitations to live more like Him throughout the mundane activity of life. Second is receptivity to the work of God, the openness to be molded and sometimes broken by God in order to become more like Christ. Third is remembrance of God and His works, consciously dwelling on His character and His deeds and their implications for our perspective on life. Conformity to the image of Christ comes fourth, the responsiveness to the will of God that includes putting off the old man and putting on the new. Last is integration of a personal relationship with God in all areas of the active spiritual life of most church members, in contrast to the contemplative life of monastics. Integration also affects how we share our relationships with God with others. Vision Part of the reason many churches lack a healthy spirituality among its members is because they lack any concept or vision of what it would look like. Imagine a church that remembers the Triune God and His works in worship services that embrace all of life, being the celebratory culmination of a week of life lived in His presence; where the truths remembered through the Word, music, prayer, and sacraments on Sunday morning actually connect with the rest of believers lives and spur them on in an active Christian lifestyle; where God s works aren t only proclaimed by those new to the faith in their testimonies, but by saints whose

5 addictions to critical spirits or ambition are finally laid down at the cross by the power of the 4 Holy Spirit; where cross-centered living grows from the starting point of faith to become the pathway for life as well; where we not only baptize believers but remember our own baptisms and what they mean for our current walk; and where transformational teaching leads to a deep awareness of our being part of God s community, the family of God. Imagine a church that pays attention to the will of God, where unbelievers obey God s will for their salvation and the lost are regularly found, making professions of faith; where believers know God s will for their lives because they have deep awareness of Scripture in their everyday lives and frequently pray, meditate on Scripture, and take moments to be silent before God; where members can point back to opportunities they took to serve others that turned into experiences that formed them; and where members constantly commune with God in active lifestyles because they know a wealth of simple disciplines that help them draw near to God; where praying to God becomes second nature before making decisions with church leaders; where members bring the decisions they make outside the church to obedience to God s will, whether in their homes, their businesses, the government or their communities; and where the future is always entrusted to the will of God, Lord willing, or D.V. (deo volente). Imagine a church that receives the transforming work of the Spirit, where believers cling to grace and flee from both legalism and license; where a spirit of optimistic brokenness testifies against a culture of both pride in one s abilities and despair after great falls from it; where families let go of the angry, bitter, or proud people they once knew to allow them to be transformed into Christ s image; where those who burnt themselves out in the name of righteousness and good deeds submit their efforts to the Spirit s leading and cease from lifekilling, self-yoking obligations; and where a spirit of spiritual openness and of continual repentance traverses from the realm of obligation to the realm of freeing obedience through confession, worship, sacraments, and prayer. These are based on the first three goals of a conscious effort to introduce spiritual formation into the church. Due to constraints of space, this paper will proceed to goals.

6 Goals and Objectives 5 Churches should consider seven goals to support the core values above. Goal 1 (G1) To call people to remember the Triune God and His works. This goal connects with the core value, remembrance of God and His works. These eight objectives suggest ways to reach this goal through the church. (1) The church will craft thoughtful and powerful worship services that employ the Word, music, prayer, and the sacraments. Annual or biannual surveys of the congregation can determine if the congregation believes the services reflect such thoughtfulness and power; if the Word, music, prayer, and sacraments contribute meaningfully to this goal; and if the services would be better with or without certain elements in pursuit of this goal. (2) The church will offer Christianity Intro sessions on the first Sundays of the month for people who are exploring Christianity, followed with times for question and answer. These monthly sessions will review the Apostles Creed, the story of the Bible and a Gospel presentation, the Lord s prayer, and these seven goals of the church. Evaluative measurements include attendance at these meetings and their impact on people who are exploring Christianity: for example, their desire for deeper involvement, and their depth of questions raised. (3) The church will host special services on Christmas, Good Friday, and Thanksgiving that raise and revive members attention and memory of God s person and His work in our lives. The impact of these services on attendees must be measured, since attendance can become perfunctory and the familiarity of the message can dull its importance. (4) The church will instruct people in the Bible and in theology through Sunday Schools. Subject matter covered in the several classes can be compiled over a year to see what subjects are strongly emphasized, emphasized, addressed, neglected, and very neglected. Subject matter can be evaluated theologically in reference to major subjects of theology (Trinitarianism, Salvation, Anthropology, etc) and biblically in reference to the books of the Bible and their themes (Pentateuch, Poetry and Wisdom, Gospels, Prophecy, etc). (5) The church will institute special ceremonies or rites to remember our baptisms. Stressing a baptismal spirituality (cf.

7 6 goals 4 and 5), the congregation will frequently be urged to remember their baptisms just as they frequently partake of the Lord s Supper. Evaluating this objective means enumerating how many times the leadership of the church reminds the congregation of their baptisms and their significance, and determining whether or not a special memorial ceremony or rite exists for this remembrance. (6) The church will share testimonies of God s current activity in each others lives. Rather than offer testimonies only of one s salvation, church members will also share testimonies of their sanctification under the Holy Spirit, revealing His current work in those who are still becoming more like Christ. (7) The church will teach its members how to let the cross grow larger in their lives. The pastor can explain this in a sermon around Easter or whenever else he may address the gospel; letting the cross grow larger means understanding further the holiness of God, the depravity of man, and the sufficiency of Jesus Christ to fill in what ought to be an ever-widening gap. Surveying the congregation might include questions regarding their perspective on God s majesty and other-ness, on their own sinfulness, and whether Christ is sufficient in their lives to make up the difference. This paper was originally intended to be four pages maximum, so I will more briefly offer the other goals and suggested objectives for each. G2 To call people to pay attention to the will of God. (1) Exhort unbelievers to obey God s will for their salvation (profession of faith). (2) Teach believers to listen to God s will in His Word (Bible study). (3) Train believers to listen to God s will outside His Word (prayer, meditation, silence). (4) Train believers to look for opportunities to act like Christ in the active life. (5) Point out and offer opportunities to act like Christ through service. (6) Make personal spiritual disciplines both easy and likely through bite-sized challenges or opportunities (including and beyond those mentioned above).

8 G3 To call people to receive the transforming work of the Spirit. 7 (1) Call people s attention to legalism, license, and most importantly, grace. (2) Teach optimistic brokenness in a culture of self-esteem and pride in one s abilities. (3) Challenge believers to accept the Spirit s work in breaking us down and rebuilding our character (cf. in Renovation of the Church, the father whose family struggled to interact with him without his anger). (4) Explain more clearly and emphasize the work of the Holy Spirit in believers lives. (5) Cultivate spiritual openness and continual repentance through confession, worship, sacraments, and prayer (cf. Wilhoit). G4 To call people to cast off the lordship of the flesh, the world, and the devil. (1) Offer biannual retreats on baptismal spirituality, where putting off the old man will be vividly addressed. (Actions to take include sunset meetings, Prodigal Talks, opportunities to write down sins and nail them to a cross) (2) Bring up the importance of dying self and being crucified with Christ regularly in church services. (3) Call attention to the importance and beneficial nature of denying the flesh: fasting, self-denial, meekness, moderated ambition. (4) Call attention to the insidious influence of the world through American cultural sins: isolationism, individualism, consumerism, relativism. (5) Call attention to the devil s lies: persecution, self-hatred or depression, ambition (cf. The Screwtape Letters by C. S. Lewis). (6) Redefine what success is in the church, including a balance between the number of attendees with depth of their spirituality, the amount of giving with the spirit of giving, and the respect from others with the appropriate offense and persecution from the world.

9 G5 To call people to put on submission and obedience to God s will. 8 (1) Offer biannual retreats on baptismal spirituality where putting on the new man will be vividly addressed. (Actions to take include sunrise meetings, new clothing, or other creative methods to demonstrate giving something up to receive something of value) (2) Present what discipleship to Jesus looks like according to the Word of God (cf. Robert Webber s description in Ancient-Future Evangelism, the chapter on discipleship). (3) Practice mutual submission to one another. (4) Practice discernment, honoring relational commitment, setting aside prejudices, and ministries of compassion (Wilhoit). G6 To call people to pursue these goals in every area of life. (1) Devote prime time in church services and activities to strengthen spiritual formation in the primary context of the home at least once every 120 days. (2) Make concise, well-packaged resources readily available at all times to aid spiritual formation in the home. (3) Devote time in a new members process to understanding the constant presence of Christ-forming experiences inside and outside the church. (4) Seek out and regularly share testimonies to how God is working in people s ordinary lives: the business world, the home and extended family, the community, etc. (5) Review materials regularly to aid formation for believers in different and difficult stages not only new Christians, but those struggling with addictions and temptations, with crises and grief, with doubting, with a dark night of the soul, with weariness from the ordinary grind of life, and those who need restorative discipline (Wilhoit). G7 To call people to extend their personal relationships with God to others. (1) Encourage members to form others spiritually and to be formed spiritually through service.

10 (2) Encourage testimonies to one another through video testimonies (salvation and 9 sanctification) in Sunday morning worship services. (3) Encourage hospitality to one another that starts in the home and also extends to the church. (4) Offer hospitality to unsaved visitors in Christianity Intro meetings. (5) Teach others to handle conflict well through Peacemaker training. (6) Offer evangelism and apologetics courses or refer members to them in other locations in order to reach the culture immediately around us. (7) Engage with cultural changes to effectively present the gospel to the unsaved and the unreached around us. (8) Stimulate evangelistic outreach to neighbors in both organized and unorganized activities. (9) Offer opportunities for monthly acts of compassionate service and yearly planned evangelistic outreaches in the community and around the world. Programs and Curricula This summary recommends five programs, curricula, and initiatives. First, the church can recommend two initiatives: (1) Seven Goals for Seven Days, and (2) Zone 5 Believers. The first of these urges believers to remember the seven goals above, one for each day of the week. The initiative would build through a seven-week sermon series, and the church could regularly send out s to those who desire them with matching formative devotionals for each day of the week. The second initiative spurs believers to turn from living religiously on Sundays only at church to living fully and godly in all five zones of life, starting with the church (zone 1), growing into the family (zone 2 essential!), the community and the workplace (zones 3 and 4), and lastly into government (zone 5). A program / curriculum for becoming members of the church is called The Journey. It s a biannual new-member experience for men and women to embrace Christ-likeness in their

11 own lives, in the company of the church. Part 1 are Hearer Meetings, for those who are 10 exploring Christ. This links closely with G1, the first goal above. This is the most superficial level of church participation and commitment, in a way like a pre-engagement romance between a believer and the Lord through the church. Seeker Sessions (Part 2) are for those who are growing in Christ. They are for those who make an intentional commitment to church participation and accountability for growth. Membership is conceived here; this is more like the engagement period with Christ and His church. Such participants are immersed into the life of the church through its worship, preaching, and also mentoring in classes (and, if possible or pursued, one-on-one discipling relationships; cf. Webber, Ancient-Future Evangelism). Goals 1-3 are introduced and pursued in these sessions. The Kneeler Retreat on baptismal spirituality follows Part 2; it s a weeklong (or perhaps weekend) retreat on baptismal spirituality, putting off the old man with the flesh, the world, and the devil, and putting on the new man of Christ by the Holy Spirit. The Kneeler Retreat happens right before Easter or Christmas; one could possibly offer a mid-summer option as well. Goals 1 through 6 come into view here. Part 4 is where Journey members conclude with the Faithful. Journey members conclude this process with a study on active spirituality: bringing their journey with God into every aspect of their lives. As they mature in the faith, they go from growing in Christ, to closeness with Christ, to a fully Christ-centered life. The Journey sets up new believers for a practical understanding of the faith in which they can continue to grow throughout their years of participation in the church. All seven goals should be introduced and sought after at the end of The Journey. The last programs / curricula to use are Home Pointe and FaithPath from Lake Pointe. These programs focus on bringing spiritual formation into the home, nurturing Christlikeness through the primary avenues God intended: marriage and children. The church provides these resources for families and makes sure to encourage their usage regularly among its members.

12 Conclusion 11 Spiritual formation should be not just on the radar for churches, but it should be a central focus pervading all of the church ministries. Core values of attentiveness, receptivity, remembrance, conformity, and integration draw out critical yet often ignored perspectives on how believers ought to cooperate with the Holy Spirit to become more like Christ. Seven goals draw out ways in which believers pursue these core values, all pointing to a biblical mission: to call all people through the church to put off the sinful nature and its works and to put on the new character of Christ in loving obedience to the revealed will of God by attentively yielding to the Holy Spirit.

13 BIBLIOGRAPHY Bruner, Kurt. It Starts at Home. Chicago: Moody Publishers, Bruner, Kurt. Phone Interview. 11 April Calhoun, Adele. Phone Interview. 10 April Carlson, Kent and Mike Lueken. Renovation of the Church. Downers Grove, IL: IVP Books, pages. Hawkins, Greg L. and Cally Parkinson. Move: What 1,000 Churches Reveal about Spiritual Growth. Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan, pp. Ortberg, John. The Me I Want to Be. Grand Rapids: Zondervan, pp. Swindoll, Debbie. Personal Interview. 6 March Webber, Robert E. Ancient-Future Evangelism. Grand Rapids, MI: Baker Books, pages. Wilhoit, James C. Spiritual Formation as if the Church Mattered: Growing in Christ through Community. Grand Rapids, MI: Baker Academic, pages. 12

REVIEW OF SPIRITUAL FORMATION AS IF THE CHURCH MATTERED BY JAMES C. WILHOIT. A Paper. Presented to. Dr. Barry Jones. Dallas Theological Seminary

REVIEW OF SPIRITUAL FORMATION AS IF THE CHURCH MATTERED BY JAMES C. WILHOIT. A Paper. Presented to. Dr. Barry Jones. Dallas Theological Seminary REVIEW OF SPIRITUAL FORMATION AS IF THE CHURCH MATTERED BY JAMES C. WILHOIT A Paper Presented to Dr. Barry Jones Dallas Theological Seminary In Partial Fulfillment of the Requirements for the Course SF901

More information

LESSON 1: THE CHRISTIAN LIFE

LESSON 1: THE CHRISTIAN LIFE LESSON 1: THE CHRISTIAN LIFE What is the Christian life all about? 1: SUMMARY This lesson will provide an overview of the Christian life so that you understand what a Christian is and how a Christian ought

More information

HOW TO RECEIVE THE BAPTISM WITH THE HOLY SPIRIT AND MAINTAIN THE FULLNESS OF THE SPIRIT (1)

HOW TO RECEIVE THE BAPTISM WITH THE HOLY SPIRIT AND MAINTAIN THE FULLNESS OF THE SPIRIT (1) Message no: Series: Appearance and Reality Section: The Cross It s Significance Sub-section: The Spirit-filled Life Date preached: 15 Sep 96 Date edited: 29 Oct 10 HOW TO RECEIVE THE BAPTISM WITH THE HOLY

More information

A WORD FROM DR. SAMUEL J. ISONG, BIBLE CENTERED LIFE MINISTRIES, PORT HARCOURT, RIVERS STATE, OYIGBO, NIGERIA

A WORD FROM DR. SAMUEL J. ISONG, BIBLE CENTERED LIFE MINISTRIES, PORT HARCOURT, RIVERS STATE, OYIGBO, NIGERIA 1 A WORD FROM DR. SAMUEL J. ISONG, BIBLE CENTERED LIFE MINISTRIES, PORT HARCOURT, RIVERS STATE, OYIGBO, NIGERIA Beloved in Christ, it is exciting experience to us the Bible Centered Life Ministries being

More information

Discipleship #4 Engage and Establish, Part III & Equip and Empower

Discipleship #4 Engage and Establish, Part III & Equip and Empower Discipleship #4 Engage and Establish, Part III & Equip and Empower HOW: ESTABLISH SPIRITUAL FOUNDATIONS CONTINUED 1. Foundation #5: Worship and Prayer Romans 12:1-2 And so, dear brothers and sisters, I

More information

Introduction. In Christ, Aaron Elmore Pastor of Adult Discipleship The Kirk: One church, two locations

Introduction. In Christ, Aaron Elmore Pastor of Adult Discipleship The Kirk: One church, two locations Introduction Have you ever wondered why social media is so insanely popular? This online phenomenon is no longer a niche market for the young trendsetters but now almost everyone has a social media platform

More information

THREE INTERVIEWS: CHURCH LEADERS ON SPIRITUAL FORMATION. A Paper. Presented to. Dr. Barry Jones. Dallas Theological Seminary. In Partial Fulfillment

THREE INTERVIEWS: CHURCH LEADERS ON SPIRITUAL FORMATION. A Paper. Presented to. Dr. Barry Jones. Dallas Theological Seminary. In Partial Fulfillment THREE INTERVIEWS: CHURCH LEADERS ON SPIRITUAL FORMATION A Paper Presented to Dr. Barry Jones Dallas Theological Seminary In Partial Fulfillment of the Requirements for the Course SF901 Spiritual Formation

More information

A Centennial Statement

A Centennial Statement A Centennial Statement Background of A Centennial Statement When the 1981 General Conference directed that a statement of the beliefs and practices of The Brethren Church be developed, a group of volunteers

More information

Grace and Trust as the Keys to Sanctification / COB /

Grace and Trust as the Keys to Sanctification / COB / Grace and Trust as the Keys to Sanctification / COB / 06.08.14 Introduction [Slide 1: Title] Last week I joked about how God might want to restore my hair, but he could choose several means to bring about

More information

Church Structure. First of all, Crossroads is considered

Church Structure. First of all, Crossroads is considered First of all, Crossroads is considered Church Structure A. An evangelical, non-denominational church. By this we mean that we accept the Bible as God s Word and it becomes the final authority in our lives.

More information

All Scripture are from the NASB 95 Update unless noted. 1

All Scripture are from the NASB 95 Update unless noted. 1 Ecclesiology Topic 8 Survey of Denominational Beliefs Free Will Churches Randy Thompson Valley Bible Church www.valleybible.net Introduction Free Will churches are those which, in general, adhere to Arminianism.

More information

CARIBBEAN SCHOOL OF THEOLOGY Educating and training ministerial leadership

CARIBBEAN SCHOOL OF THEOLOGY Educating and training ministerial leadership CARIBBEAN SCHOOL OF THEOLOGY Educating and training ministerial leadership MIN112 Spiritual Formation Mission Statement CST is committed to connect, serve, and train for Pentecostal ministry, leadership,

More information

Sanctification: The Believer s Pursuit of Holiness. Without God we cannot; without us God will not. ~Augustine

Sanctification: The Believer s Pursuit of Holiness. Without God we cannot; without us God will not. ~Augustine Sanctification: The Believer s Pursuit of Holiness (Part 6) The Role of the Believer in Sanctification Teacher: Paul Lamey Sanctification is a cooperative venture; the Spirit blesses believers with sanctifying

More information

A. The Principle 2 Corinthians 4:15; cf. Ephesians 3:21; Romans 11:36; 1 Cor 10:31

A. The Principle 2 Corinthians 4:15; cf. Ephesians 3:21; Romans 11:36; 1 Cor 10:31 Proclaim: The Pure Gospel Pastors' Track 29 30 th May 2015 Dr. David M. Doran The Church exists to honor God by making and maturing disciples who together are becoming like the Lord Jesus Christ. Introduction:

More information

10. PERSONAL FAITH AND LIFE

10. PERSONAL FAITH AND LIFE As part of the process of seeking to be called as a pastor, in the OPC you are encouraged to fill out a "Ministerial Information Form" which the denomination can send out to congregations interested in

More information

In vv the imperative is make disciples with 3 controlling participles. up his cross and follow me. Matthew 16:24 (ESV)

In vv the imperative is make disciples with 3 controlling participles. up his cross and follow me. Matthew 16:24 (ESV) I. THE NEED FOR THE SPIRITUAL DISCIPLINES. Disciple occurs 269 times in NT. Christian 3 x s. The Great Commission: 19 Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father

More information

Discuss ideas of what biblical leadership is and what biblical leaders do. Record ideas on board.

Discuss ideas of what biblical leadership is and what biblical leaders do. Record ideas on board. REDEEMER SMALL GROUP LEADERSHIP TRAINING Part II The Making of a Leader Discuss ideas of what biblical leadership is and what biblical leaders do. Record ideas on board. Biblical Leadership Biblical leadership

More information

For many Christian leaders, today s

For many Christian leaders, today s LEADERSHIP AS MINISTRY SOME SCRIPTURAL QUALITIES & METHODS For many Christian leaders, today s realities may require a substantial change in philosophy of leadership. As western societies continue to decline,

More information

The Church Is Important To Christians Text : Ephesians 4: 11-24

The Church Is Important To Christians Text : Ephesians 4: 11-24 Sermon : Church Is Important To Christians Page 1 INTRODUCTION : The Church Is Important To Christians Text : Ephesians 4: 11-24 A. American Christians have a tendency to take the church for granted. 1.

More information

Spiritual Formation The Role of the Holy Spirit

Spiritual Formation The Role of the Holy Spirit Spiritual Formation The Role of the Holy Spirit I. Introduction A. Spiritual transformation is not just a matter of doing the disciplines. God the Holy Spirit provides the power to transform you character

More information

"Undoubtedly the least understood Person of the Godhead is the Holy Spirit. 1

Undoubtedly the least understood Person of the Godhead is the Holy Spirit. 1 STUDY 8 Pneumatology U "Undoubtedly the least understood Person of the Godhead is the Holy Spirit. 1 Charles C. Ryrie Whatever is true of the triune God is true of the Holy Spirit.... a considered perusal

More information

WHY SHOULD WE BE CHURCH MEMBERS?

WHY SHOULD WE BE CHURCH MEMBERS? CHURCH SERIES MEMBERSHIP What is a Church Member? (Hebrews 13:7, 17) It is popular today in our age of self-reliance and rugged individualism for professing Christians to reject the concept of Church membership.

More information

Missions Position Paper

Missions Position Paper Missions Position Paper The gospel is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes and the church is God s appointed means of reaching the lost world. The proper guidance and instruction for

More information

FRESH START ESSENTIAL TRUTHS TO KICK-START YOUR FAITH

FRESH START ESSENTIAL TRUTHS TO KICK-START YOUR FAITH FRESH START ESSENTIAL TRUTHS TO KICK-START YOUR FAITH TABLE OF CONTENTS Repentance 4 Baptism & Communion 6 Worship 8 Baptism in the Spirit 10 Discipleship 12 What Now? 14 Therefore let us move beyond the

More information

4: The Early Church. Part V: Understanding the New Testament. The Early Church

4: The Early Church. Part V: Understanding the New Testament. The Early Church Part V: Understanding the New Testament 4: The Early Church Somewhere along the line, it became popular to pursue Jesus while shunning organized religion. We even hear from people who love Jesus but hate

More information

PHILOSOPHY OF CHURCH MINISTRY

PHILOSOPHY OF CHURCH MINISTRY PHILOSOPHY OF CHURCH MINISTRY MISSION of the CHURCH The Church exists to glorify God by gathering as one body: to love God and the people He has made, to develop followers of Jesus Christ from all people

More information

Pastor Shane Patrick Sermon Notes & Discussion Questions January 17, 2016 Hebrews 5:11 6:3 Maturity Matters

Pastor Shane Patrick Sermon Notes & Discussion Questions January 17, 2016 Hebrews 5:11 6:3 Maturity Matters Pastor Shane Patrick Sermon Notes & Discussion Questions January 17, 2016 Hebrews 5:11 6:3 Maturity Matters Background & General Context of Hebrews - Hebrews 4:14 5:10 Jesus as our Great High Priest -

More information

The Church at Brook Hills Dr. David Platt May 5, Corinthians 2:6-16

The Church at Brook Hills Dr. David Platt May 5, Corinthians 2:6-16 Use this resource as a tool to help Christ-followers move forward in their spiritual growth. To do this well requires that the Small Group Leader is building a relationship with the individuals in the

More information

What is a Healthy Church Member?

What is a Healthy Church Member? What is a Healthy Church Member? Study Guide FBC Community Groups Fall 2015 Therefore, brothers, be all the more diligent to confirm your calling and election, for if you practice these qualities you will

More information

I. SOME REASONS WHY EVERY CHILD OF GOD NEEDS TO GROW SPIRITUALLY. A. When a person is saved he is born again spiritually into

I. SOME REASONS WHY EVERY CHILD OF GOD NEEDS TO GROW SPIRITUALLY. A. When a person is saved he is born again spiritually into LESSON # 5 WHAT IS INVOLVED IN SPIRITUAL GROWTH I. SOME REASONS WHY EVERY CHILD OF GOD NEEDS TO GROW SPIRITUALLY. A. When a person is saved he is born again spiritually into God's family and becomes a

More information

DISCIPLESHIP strategy

DISCIPLESHIP strategy DISCIPLESHIP strategy How will Bethel be and make disciples of those we are reaching in our community? Executive Summary As we reach people in our community, we will make disciples of them primarily through

More information

Vision, Mission and Values

Vision, Mission and Values Vision, Mission and Values Living the Kingdom Transforming Our World DOVE International is a worldwide family of believers in Christ involved in churches and ministries located in six continents. We are

More information

Christianity 101: 20 Basic Christian Beliefs Chapter 15 What Are Sanctification and Perseverance?

Christianity 101: 20 Basic Christian Beliefs Chapter 15 What Are Sanctification and Perseverance? Christianity 101: 20 Basic Christian Beliefs Chapter 15 What Are Sanctification and Perseverance? I. Sanctification: The Gospel and the appropriate response of repentance and faith are not only what saves

More information

The Light and the Life. Revealed!

The Light and the Life. Revealed! The Light and the Life Revealed! John 20:30-31 Therefore many other signs Jesus also performed in the presence of the disciples, which are not written in this book; but these have been written so that

More information

THE TRUTH ABOUT SIN A BIBLICAL STUDY ON SIN AND SALVATION

THE TRUTH ABOUT SIN A BIBLICAL STUDY ON SIN AND SALVATION SESSION 3 SIN AND SANCTIFICATION I. REVIEW OF FOUNDATIONAL TRUTHS 1. Sin is destructive and brings death to every area of our life [Rom. 6:23]. 2. Sin is to break God s holy and righteous standards in

More information

FAMILY MEMBERSHIP COVENANT

FAMILY MEMBERSHIP COVENANT FAMILY MEMBERSHIP COVENANT OVERVIEW Park Community Church exists to be and make disciples of Jesus by living as a family of sons and daughters who pursue God, brothers and sisters who practice his commands,

More information

A Living Faith: What Nazarenes Believe

A Living Faith: What Nazarenes Believe All Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Versions (NIV). Copyright 1973, 1978, 1984 by International Bible Society. Used by permission of Zondervan Publishing House. All

More information

OUR STATEMENT OF FAITH

OUR STATEMENT OF FAITH OUR STATEMENT OF FAITH 1) We Stand on the Preeminence of Christ We believe that Jesus is the Eternal Son of God and both the Savior and Lord of all who believe and trust Him (Acts 2:36) The facts of Jesus

More information

Constitution. Updated April 25, 2018

Constitution. Updated April 25, 2018 Constitution Updated April 25, 2018 Preamble Since it pleased Almighty God, by His Holy Spirit, to establish a church here in 1890 under the name Catherine Lake Missionary Baptist Church for the worship

More information

May God use it to remind us of the truths we have learned and conform us to the church He wants us to be!

May God use it to remind us of the truths we have learned and conform us to the church He wants us to be! First Bilingual Baptist Church preached through the Epistle of Titus from September 2016 through February 2017. These sermons may be accessed at fbbchurch.org. The following is the text of Titus (from

More information

Stanwich Congregational Church Senior Pastor Position Description

Stanwich Congregational Church Senior Pastor Position Description Stanwich Congregational Church Senior Pastor Position Description Stanwich Congregational Church is a nondenominational church that draws worshipers from Fairfield County, Connecticut, Westchester County,

More information

MEMBERSHIP COMMITMENT

MEMBERSHIP COMMITMENT FOUR POINTS CHURCH MEMBERSHIP COMMITMENT INTRODUCTION Present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual worship. Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed

More information

Who Are The Members Of The Churches Of Christ?

Who Are The Members Of The Churches Of Christ? Who Are The Members Of The Churches Of Christ? By Alex S. Silvester Who Are The Members Of The Churches Of Christ? 1 Who Are The Members Of The Churches Of Christ? By Alex S. Silvester June 13, 2018 Who

More information

"The Great Commission Ministry by the Ordinary Means of Grace"

The Great Commission Ministry by the Ordinary Means of Grace "The Great Commission Ministry by the Ordinary Means of Grace" W. Reid Hankins Matthew 28:18-20 12/30/07 As we start out a New Year together, and as I start out my first year with this church as your pastor,

More information

The Four G's. 1st G: Glorify God

The Four G's. 1st G: Glorify God The Four G's Conflict is not necessarily bad or destructive. Even when conflict is caused by sin and causes a great deal of stress, God can use it for good (see Rom. 8:28-29). As the Apostle Paul wrote

More information

The Church of the Servant King

The Church of the Servant King Survey of the Bible Series Paul s First Letter to the Corinthians (SB_1Cor12A) Chapter 12 begins a section of Paul s letter that consists of three chapters and we can observe several topics being addressed

More information

Roles and Functions of Elders, Deacons, and Pastoral Staff at HCC January 12, 2017 Final Page 1 of 11

Roles and Functions of Elders, Deacons, and Pastoral Staff at HCC January 12, 2017 Final Page 1 of 11 Roles and Functions of Elders, Deacons and Pastoral Staff at Hilltop Community Church Ken Boa writes (page 443 of Conformed to His Image): God has appointed certain people for places of shepherding and

More information

edition 2018 The Doctrines of Salvation: Sanctification from Great Doctrines of the Bible by William Evans

edition 2018 The Doctrines of Salvation: Sanctification from Great Doctrines of the Bible by William Evans www.wholesomewords.org edition 2018 The Doctrines of Salvation: Sanctification from Great Doctrines of the Bible by William Evans SANCTIFICATION. If Regeneration has to do with our nature, Justification

More information

We are the Body of Christ Matthew 25:14-30

We are the Body of Christ Matthew 25:14-30 We are the Body of Christ Matthew 25:14-30 - God has given his church universal certain responsibilities to fulfill here on this earth. He also invests talents (gifts) to help accomplish these. We are

More information

Biblical Peace Making Principles by Ken Sande

Biblical Peace Making Principles by Ken Sande Biblical Peace Making Principles by Ken Sande These principles are so simple that they can be used to resolve the most basic conflicts of daily life. But they are so powerful that they have been used to

More information

Calvary Baptist Church ARTICLES OF FAITH

Calvary Baptist Church ARTICLES OF FAITH Calvary Baptist Church ARTICLES OF FAITH I. Of The Scriptures We believe in the authority and sufficiency of the Holy Bible, consisting of the sixty-six books of the Old and New Testaments, as originally

More information

ESSENTIALS OF REFORMED DOCTRINE

ESSENTIALS OF REFORMED DOCTRINE ESSENTIALS OF REFORMED DOCTRINE LESSON #23 SANCTIFICATION [Rev. D. Kleyn, PRCA Missionary] The ORDER OF SALVATION ( ORDO SALUTIS ) REGENERATION CALLING FAITH JUSTIFICATION SANCTIFICATION PRESERVATION GLORIFICATION

More information

BYLAWS WESTWOOD BAPTIST CHURCH ALABASTER, ALABAMA

BYLAWS WESTWOOD BAPTIST CHURCH ALABASTER, ALABAMA BYLAWS WESTWOOD BAPTIST CHURCH ALABASTER, ALABAMA PREAMBLE So that the church may function in an orderly and biblical manner and so that the church can evangelize our community and help develop one another

More information

Membership to Discipleship. Mid Week Instruction Reid Temple AME Church Pastor Washington

Membership to Discipleship. Mid Week Instruction Reid Temple AME Church Pastor Washington Membership to Discipleship Mid Week Instruction Reid Temple AME Church Pastor Washington The Great Commission Matthew 28:19 commands us to go and make disciples of all nations and baptize then in the

More information

Articles of Faith. Berean Church Fellowship - 1 -

Articles of Faith. Berean Church Fellowship - 1 - Articles of Faith Berean Church Fellowship - 1 - TABLE OF CONTENTS I. Bible...... 3 II. God.... 3 III. Jesus Christ 3 IV. Holy Spirit..... 3 V. Human Race...... 4 VI. Salvation 4 VII. Sanctification. 4

More information

COVENANT CHURCH POPLAR CREEK. poplarcreek[dot]com. 300 Schick Rd., Bartlett, IL 60103

COVENANT CHURCH POPLAR CREEK. poplarcreek[dot]com. 300 Schick Rd., Bartlett, IL 60103 POPLAR CREEK CHURCH 300 Schick Rd., Bartlett, IL 60103 tel: 630.483.1000 fax: 630.483.6366 Journeying with others into a viable and thriving relationship with Jesus Christ poplarcreek[dot]com COVENANT

More information

Written by David Self Sunday, 01 October :00 - Last Updated Thursday, 28 September :36

Written by David Self Sunday, 01 October :00 - Last Updated Thursday, 28 September :36 Explore the Bible Lesson Preview Oct. 8, 2006 "Determine to Mature" Background& Lesson : Hebrews 5:11-6:12 Motivation: New Christians are called "babes in Christ" (1 Cor. 3:1) which is only natural considering

More information

CALVARY BAPTIST CHURCH of Sleepy Eye, Minnesota CONSTITUTION ARTICLE I. NAME. ARTICLE II. PURPOSE.

CALVARY BAPTIST CHURCH of Sleepy Eye, Minnesota CONSTITUTION ARTICLE I. NAME. ARTICLE II. PURPOSE. CALVARY BAPTIST CHURCH of Sleepy Eye, Minnesota CONSTITUTION We, being born-again and Bible-believing Christians by faith in the Lord Jesus Christ; believing the Bible to be the divinely inspired and authoritative

More information

STATEMENT OF FAITH of the MAKAKILO BAPTIST CHURCH Kapolei, Hawaii, U.S.A. Adopted 11 December, 2016

STATEMENT OF FAITH of the MAKAKILO BAPTIST CHURCH Kapolei, Hawaii, U.S.A. Adopted 11 December, 2016 STATEMENT OF FAITH of the MAKAKILO BAPTIST CHURCH Kapolei, Hawaii, U.S.A. Adopted 11 December, 2016 1. Of the Scriptures We believe that the Holy Bible was breathed out, that is, inspired by God, written

More information

THE FOUNDATIONS OF PRESBYTERIAN POLITY

THE FOUNDATIONS OF PRESBYTERIAN POLITY F-1.01 F-1.02 F-1.0201 1.0202 THE FOUNDATIONS OF PRESBYTERIAN POLITY CHAPTER ONE THE MISSION OF THE CHURCH 1 F-1.01 GOD S MISSION The good news of the Gospel is that the triune God Father, Son, and Holy

More information

WAXAHACHIE BIBLE CHURCH CONSTITUTION

WAXAHACHIE BIBLE CHURCH CONSTITUTION WAXAHACHIE BIBLE CHURCH CONSTITUTION PO Box 826 Waxahachie, TX 75168 972-937-9590 waxahachiebible.org Amended October 2014 The mission of wbc is to: Worship God Become mature disciples Carry Christ s love

More information

Slide 1. Slide 2. Slide 4. Slide 5 SOME BELIEVE IT IS IN CALVINISM THEN JAMES DID NOT PREACH THE GOSPEL! THEN PAUL DID NOT PREACH THE GOSPEL!

Slide 1. Slide 2. Slide 4. Slide 5 SOME BELIEVE IT IS IN CALVINISM THEN JAMES DID NOT PREACH THE GOSPEL! THEN PAUL DID NOT PREACH THE GOSPEL! 1 ( part 4) What Is The Grace of God? Where Is Grace Found? 2 SOME BELIEVE IT IS IN CALVINISM All verses are from NKJV unless noted. 3 C. H. SPURGEON I have my own opinion that there is no such thing as

More information

What We Learned in Christ

What We Learned in Christ DEVOTION DAY 2 What We Learned in Christ Bible Reading: Psalm 33; Romans 6:5-11 [You were taught in Christ Jesus] to be renewed in the spirit of your minds, and to put on the new self, created after the

More information

Introduction to Discipleship and Sanctification

Introduction to Discipleship and Sanctification Introduction to Discipleship and Sanctification Jim Berg, BJU Seminary What Do You Know About Discipleship? 1. What do you think of when you hear the word discipleship? 2. What might other people in the

More information

The Light - Junior Series Lesson 84. God s Truth vs Satan s Counterfeits. John 14:6 I am the Way the Truth and the Life

The Light - Junior Series Lesson 84. God s Truth vs Satan s Counterfeits. John 14:6 I am the Way the Truth and the Life 1 The Light - Junior Series Lesson 84 God s Truth vs Satan s Counterfeits John 14:6 I am the Way the Truth and the Life 2015 2 BEFORE YOU BEGIN If YOU have never personally believed in the Lord Jesus Christ

More information

Studies in Christianity Christian Living #7 Why Christians Read the Bible

Studies in Christianity Christian Living #7 Why Christians Read the Bible Sermon : sic L19 Christian living #7 Page 1 Studies in Christianity Christian Living #7 Why Christians Read the Bible Text : II Timothy 3: 10-18 ; James 1: 16-25 S#1. S#2. A. God loves you so much He gave

More information

Spiritual Gifts Inventory

Spiritual Gifts Inventory Spiritual Gifts Inventory Name: Date: This spiritual gifts inventory is designed to help you understand how God has designed you to serve Him and His people. A list of spiritual gifts is found in Romans

More information

FBCG Mission and Vision. Developing Dynamic Disciples Through Discipleship, Discipline and Duplication!

FBCG Mission and Vision. Developing Dynamic Disciples Through Discipleship, Discipline and Duplication! FBCG Mission and Vision Developing Dynamic Disciples Through Discipleship, Discipline and Duplication! FBCG MISSION AND VISION Discipleship Winning others to Christ Matt. 28:18-20; Mark 16:15; Luke 24:47-48;

More information

This We Believe The Holy Spirit

This We Believe The Holy Spirit This We Believe The Holy Spirit Statement 4 Statement of faith of the Evangelical Free Church of America We believe that the ministry of the Holy Spirit is to glorify the Lord Jesus Christ, and during

More information

The Epistle to the Ephesians

The Epistle to the Ephesians The Bible Companion Series What We Possess in Christ THE BELIEVER S SPIRITUAL RELATIONSHIP WITH GOD The Epistle to the Ephesians A Bible-Believing Study Guide AV 1611 Bible Companion To the praise of the

More information

A Church Plant in Vizag, India

A Church Plant in Vizag, India A Church Plant in Vizag, India I. Context of our Local Church Quick Facts OFFICIAL NAME: Republic of India FORM OF GOVERNMENT: Federal Republic CAPITAL: New Delhi POPULATION: 1,236,344,631 OFFICIAL LANGUAGES:

More information

Summary Statement of Belief - Introduction

Summary Statement of Belief - Introduction Summary Statement of Belief - Introduction Covenant Christian School is more than just a School. It s a community of people staff, students, parents, exstudents, grandparents, friends, and even connected

More information

PATHWAY TO CHRISTIAN MATURITY

PATHWAY TO CHRISTIAN MATURITY PATHWAY TO CHRISTIAN MATURITY 1 Timothy 4.15-16 - Practice these things, immerse yourself in them, so that all may see your progress. 16 Keep a close watch on yourself and on the teaching. Persist in this,

More information

EVERY CHURCH. EVERY PERSON. EVERY PLACE

EVERY CHURCH. EVERY PERSON. EVERY PLACE 1 Saturate cultivates and curates resources from across the Church for equipping everyday people, leaders, and pastors to be disciples who make disciples in the everyday stuff of life. We ve condensed

More information

Renovation Praying, Fasting, Journaling

Renovation Praying, Fasting, Journaling To Consider: Prayer in its most basic form is the surging of the human spirit in its weakness, grasping at the Spirit of God in His strength. Ravi Zacharias When You Pray, Remember 1. Prayer, fundamentally,

More information

By Donald Townsley 1

By Donald Townsley 1 By Donald Townsley 1 The Plan of Salvation Lesson One "Hearing" INTRODUCTION: 1. Much emphasis has been placed on hearing in the New Testament. Mark 4:9, 23, 24; Mark 7:16; Matt. 11:15; Luke 14:35; Luke

More information

Sermon Mark S. Aites 5/19/13 A.M. PERFECTING HOLINESS (lesson idea borrowed)

Sermon Mark S. Aites 5/19/13 A.M. PERFECTING HOLINESS (lesson idea borrowed) Sermon Mark S. Aites 5/19/13 A.M. PERFECTING HOLINESS (lesson idea borrowed) INTRODUCTION: 1. Hebrew writer gives a biblical charge: Heb. 12:14 Pursue peace with all people, and holiness, without which

More information

Studies in Christianity Spiritual Maturity #2 Getting Started

Studies in Christianity Spiritual Maturity #2 Getting Started Sermon : sic L6 - Spiritual Maturity #2 9-2-18 Page 1 Studies in Christianity Spiritual Maturity #2 Getting Started Text : II Pet. 1: 2-11 ; Eph. 4: 7-16 S#1. S#2. A. Everyone who comes into the body of

More information

Such A Great Salvation! Pastor Charles R. Biggs

Such A Great Salvation! Pastor Charles R. Biggs Sermon Title: Such A Great Salvation! The Book of Hebrews Such A Great Salvation! Pastor Charles R. Biggs Scripture Lesson: Matthew 13:3-9, 18-23; 7:21-27 Scripture Text: Hebrews 2:1-4 Theme of Worship

More information

The Commands of Jesus

The Commands of Jesus The Commands of Jesus The Story of the Commands of Jesus Study In a quest to find a small group Bible Study for committed Followers of Jesus who want to mature in their faith a search was made of existing

More information

Philosophy of Ministry. Bethel Baptist Church exists to make and mature disciples of Jesus Christ for the glory of God

Philosophy of Ministry. Bethel Baptist Church exists to make and mature disciples of Jesus Christ for the glory of God Philosophy of Ministry Bethel Baptist Church exists to make and mature disciples of Jesus Christ for the glory of God Introduction When Alice approached the Cheshire cat seeking for directions, he asked

More information

DISCIPLESHIP AT CALVARY: VISION STATEMENT

DISCIPLESHIP AT CALVARY: VISION STATEMENT DISCIPLESHIP DISCIPLESHIP AT CALVARY: VISION STATEMENT Discipleship at Calvary Church, especially within DNA groups, is a Biblically rooted, Gospel-centered growth in imitating Jesus and listening to and

More information

GROWING I N C H R I S T N EIL T. A NDER SON DEEPEN YOUR RELATIONSHIP WITH JESUS. (Unpublished manuscript copyright protected Baker Publishing Group)

GROWING I N C H R I S T N EIL T. A NDER SON DEEPEN YOUR RELATIONSHIP WITH JESUS. (Unpublished manuscript copyright protected Baker Publishing Group) STUDY 5 GROWING I N C H R I S T DEEPEN YOUR RELATIONSHIP WITH JESUS N EIL T. A NDER SON 3 2015 by Neil T. Anderson Published by Bethany House Publishers 11400 Hampshire Avenue South Bloomington, Minnesota

More information

REVIEW OF THE ME I WANT TO BE BY JOHN ORTBERG. A Paper. Presented to. Dr. Barry Jones. Dallas Theological Seminary. In Partial Fulfillment

REVIEW OF THE ME I WANT TO BE BY JOHN ORTBERG. A Paper. Presented to. Dr. Barry Jones. Dallas Theological Seminary. In Partial Fulfillment REVIEW OF THE ME I WANT TO BE BY JOHN ORTBERG A Paper Presented to Dr. Barry Jones Dallas Theological Seminary In Partial Fulfillment of the Requirements for the Course SF901 Spiritual Formation in the

More information

Instructor: Dr. Barry D. Jones Spring W/F 9:10-10:25 Appointments:

Instructor: Dr. Barry D. Jones Spring W/F 9:10-10:25 Appointments: PM105B Christian Life & Witness Dallas Theological Seminary Instructor: Dr. Barry D. Jones Spring 2018 Email: BJones@dts.edu W/F 9:10-10:25 Appointments: TJendel@dts.edu PM105 CHRISTIAN LIFE AND WITNESS

More information

This We Believe Baptism & Communion

This We Believe Baptism & Communion This We Believe Baptism & Communion Statement 7 Statement of faith of the Evangelical Free Church of America We believe that water baptism and the Lord s Supper are ordinances to be observed by the Church

More information

Personal Doctrinal Statement. A Doctrinal Statement Submitted to Dr. Wayne Grudem Phoenix Seminary Scottsdale, Arizona

Personal Doctrinal Statement. A Doctrinal Statement Submitted to Dr. Wayne Grudem Phoenix Seminary Scottsdale, Arizona Personal Doctrinal Statement A Doctrinal Statement Submitted to Dr. Wayne Grudem Phoenix Seminary Scottsdale, Arizona In Partial Fulfillment of the Requirements for TH 503 by Troy A. Griffitts 16 May 2007

More information

THE CHURCH: IDENTITY, MISSION, & CULTIVATION

THE CHURCH: IDENTITY, MISSION, & CULTIVATION THE CHURCH: IDENTITY, MISSION, & CULTIVATION REVIEW Identity We are a local church. We are a local expression of that larger people that God has rescued through the saving work of his Son, Jesus Christ.

More information

SPIRITUAL DISCIPLINES DIAGNOSTIC GUIDE

SPIRITUAL DISCIPLINES DIAGNOSTIC GUIDE SPIRITUAL DISCIPLINES DIAGNOSTIC GUIDE How to use this guide: On page 2 you will find a chart for rating how helpful you think the various spiritual disciplines described below might for you to grow in

More information

The Holy Spirit is not personal, it a force of God; or The Christian life is one of perfection and you can reach sinless perfection in this life.

The Holy Spirit is not personal, it a force of God; or The Christian life is one of perfection and you can reach sinless perfection in this life. JOURNEY BASICS: LIFE IN THE SPIRIT WHAT DOES PLUM CREEK BELIEVE ABOUT THE HOLY SPIRIT? The nine fruits of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22-23) are the by-product of a Spirit-filled life and evidence of spiritual

More information

Baptism What It Does and Does not Do

Baptism What It Does and Does not Do Baptism What It Does and Does not Do Introduction 1. Baptism is a prominent New Testament Theme. 2. Baptism is one subject that has been much abused: A. Called "outward ceremony"; "non-essential"; "water

More information

We Proclaim and Celebrate:

We Proclaim and Celebrate: We Proclaim and Celebrate: The Position of the AALC on the Lord s Supper by Kristofer Carlson April 2006 [I was assigned the task of preparing a document outlining the position of the AALC on the Lord

More information

Sanctification Hebrews 10:14 because by one sacrifice he has made perfect forever those who are being made holy. Perfect Forever It is no small thing

Sanctification Hebrews 10:14 because by one sacrifice he has made perfect forever those who are being made holy. Perfect Forever It is no small thing Sanctification Hebrews 10:14 because by one sacrifice he has made perfect forever those who are being made holy. Perfect Forever It is no small thing that God has sanctified or made perfect-holy(without

More information

I have developed regular habits of bible study, prayer, worship, evangelism, & giving. I know the books of the Bible and where they are placed.

I have developed regular habits of bible study, prayer, worship, evangelism, & giving. I know the books of the Bible and where they are placed. Not at All A little For the most part Absolutely Come and See PHASE 1 Follow Me PHASE 2 Be With Me PHASE 3 Remain in Me PHASE 4 I am interested in knowing Jesus Christ better. I desire to have a deeper

More information

JOURNEY BASICS: LIFE IN THE SPIRIT

JOURNEY BASICS: LIFE IN THE SPIRIT JOURNEY BASICS: LIFE IN THE SPIRIT WHAT DOES PLUM CREEK BELIEVE ABOUT THE HOLY SPIRIT? The nine fruits of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22-23) are the by-product of a Spirit-filled life and evidence of spiritual

More information

TRANSFORMATION. Step-Up Bible Study - Lesson 1. I. God's Transforming Plan. 1. Romans 8: Romans 12:2. II. God's Transforming Tool

TRANSFORMATION. Step-Up Bible Study - Lesson 1. I. God's Transforming Plan. 1. Romans 8: Romans 12:2. II. God's Transforming Tool Step-Up Bible Study - Lesson 1 TRANSFORMATION I. God's Transforming Plan 1. Romans 8:29 2. Romans 12:2 II. God's Transforming Tool 1. 2 Timothy 3:16-17 2. Hebrews 4:12 3. Psalm 19:7-8 a. b. c. d. e. f.

More information

INTRODUCTION DESPERATION AS A VIRTUE TOWARDS DEPENDENCE ON GOD

INTRODUCTION DESPERATION AS A VIRTUE TOWARDS DEPENDENCE ON GOD INTRODUCTION DESPERATION AS A VIRTUE TOWARDS DEPENDENCE ON GOD We live in a culture where desperation is not welcome. Just hearing the word can instill fear, anxiety, inadequacy, and discomfort. Our culture

More information

Spiritual Formation Initiative. By: Jennifer Bradley. Jodi Skinner. Maureen Terpstra. Steven Winterhalter

Spiritual Formation Initiative. By: Jennifer Bradley. Jodi Skinner. Maureen Terpstra. Steven Winterhalter Spiritual Formation Initiative 1 Spiritual Formation Initiative By: Jennifer Bradley Jodi Skinner Maureen Terpstra Steven Winterhalter Spiritual Formation Initiative 2 Leaders Where Are Your sheep? Be

More information

PEACEMAKING PRINCIPLES

PEACEMAKING PRINCIPLES TM PEACEMAKING PRINCIPLES The Bible provides us with a simple yet powerful system for resolving conflict. These principles are so simple that they can be used to resolve the most basic conflicts of daily

More information

Position Paper: Church Discipline

Position Paper: Church Discipline Position Paper: Church Discipline Primary Passages If your brother sins against you, go and tell him his fault, between you and him alone. If he listens to you, you have gained your brother. But if he

More information