DISCUSSION GUIDE. Walking in the Teachings. of the Holy Scriptures

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1 Walking in the Teachings of the Holy Scriptures DISCUSSION GUIDE The purpose of this book is to help the reader grow in understanding of the biblical basis of many of the foundational doctrines taught by the Apostolic Christian Church of America. The purpose of this discussion guide: to review and grow our individual Biblical understanding of many of the foundational doctrines taught by the Apostolic Christian Church of America so that we can have a ready answer when asked. (Peter 3:15) To continue to grow edifying relationships within our church body through discussion on the content of this book and the topics it brings to mind Build a closer relationship with our Lord as we learn more from His Word

2 God s Word as Our Authority As Pontius Pilate questioned Jesus, he ended with a jesting question, What is truth? and then walked away. So many people today are as Pilate. They jest and walk away from the Truth that is right there available to them. Yet within, they still hunger to truly know. Without knowing the Bible, truth can seem negotiable and reliant on personal experience. Our modern culture has dethroned God and His Word as the ultimate source of truth and put man in His place. They say: what is true for you may not be true for me and vice-versa. So, we return to Pilate s question: What is truth? How would you answer the question? What are some key aspects you should remember to include in your answer? How can we know the Bible is true? Has it been accurately translated over thousands of years? These questions, or variations of them, are often asked about the Bible and we need to be studied and equipped to answer them. Please take some time to read through the well written Focus on the Family article linked here: ue/how-do-we-know-bible-is-true How would you defend the Bible as trustworthy to a skeptic? For Bible believing Christ followers, we do not need to examine if the Bible is true. We already fully trust its words as God s voice on paper. There is no higher authority. We have found its words true and real as we let His Word transform us. It is not a matter of what you or I think, but what does the Bible say? When asked tough questions, we need to speak Truth even when our answers are not politically correct. Satan will tempt you with loss of friendship, popularity, career, bonus, etc. in order to get you not to say the Truth. Living in a society that is removing the Bible s Truth, how can we stand strong and reveal how the Bible is still our ultimate authority?

3 Most of the Bible is quite clear, especially in regards to the essentials of salvation. How then should we handle the controversial parts that seem vague or debatable in a God honoring manner? Obviously, with time limits we cannot address these areas specifically, but we can discuss principles for how to handle them. An area of caution lies in dwelling so much on these unclear areas that we let them overshadow what is clear. Keep the main message of God s love and salvation our main focus. With careful Biblical research, you can find a peace as to where you personally stand. When asked, you can engage in a calm respectful discussion explaining the scriptures in context. If a topic enters conversation where you are unfamiliar with the what the Bible says on it, excuse yourself from giving an immediate answer. Carefully read up on it, seek direction from experienced Christian mentors, and get back with those with whom you were talking with. What are some principles you have found helpful to finding answers in the Bible on controversial topics? We need to know not only what we believe, but also how to discuss what we believe with those who do not. The fastest growing religion today is no religion; people believing in nothing. We need to be proclaiming the Truth, standing up for the Truth, and most importantly living the Truth out rightly with grace of God.

4 The Nature of God What about God fills you with awe and reverence? When the Israelites received the Ten Commandments, they were being tempted to bow to graven images and question God s provision. How are we likewise being tempted today? What other gods are prevalent today? How can we fight to keep our relationship God our priority before all other life concerns? Comprehending the Trinity can be difficult. What has helped you understand the Trinity better? Each Being of the Trinity is involved in our individual lives. Write down a time when you felt the closeness of one of the distinct persons of the Trinity. As time allows share one or more with your group. The Father: Jesus: Holy Spirit:

5 Man s Sinful Nature What are some euphemisms people use today for sin (e.g. white lies )? Why do you think people use them? Do you ever hear the word sin used outside of the church? How have you seen the effects and/or consequences of sin in your own life or in your family history? Our loving God will reveal the sin in our lives. He uses people, events and situations to help us see and learn. What has helped you overcome some of the sin revealed in your life? When you have a sin issue, how would you like to be made aware of that sin so that you would be motivated to repent for it and change rather than be defensive/offended?

6 Salvation, Repentance, Conversion To become a born-again believer, a person must ask for Jesus to be their Saviour and be repentant for their sins. It is a one time decision followed by a lifelong commitment. For those who have made the life-changing decision to be born-again, briefly share your conversion testimony with your group. How would someone who knew you before your conversion tell that you have changed? What is it that while many are called, few respond? How can those who have been-born again appeal to those who have not? Our modern society, especially on the social media platforms, is quick to comment. Sometimes it is positive encouragement and gratitude for thoughts shared, but other times it is a sharp criticism or judgement. Even reviews of products or communication with customer service can get testy. The natural response of most is to get the last word, make the witty crack, or get the discount you want. How can we show ourselves converted (different) through our responses? As Christ followers, we need to be careful with our words so that we do not damage our representation of Christ to others. We also need to be careful how we take other s comments toward us. As we ourselves seek forgiveness, we must forgive others as well (Matthew 6:14). We also can reveal our heart s focus with our words (Luke 6:45). How we respond can be opportunities to show the difference Christ can make in a person.

7 Justification Justification means Jesus made it possible for me to appear Just-as-If-I had never sinned before God. When Jesus died and shed is his innocent blood, he took the penalty of a sinner so that a soul which comes in repentance can enter Heaven in the presence of God. We each must individually come and accept this free gift. We are eligible for the gift of salvation only through justification by Jesus Christ. How should this fact build unity and peace among its recipients? What other explanations have you heard for the concept of justification? The Bible teaches that being made completely righteous through faith in Christ is the way to live out a life of faith-motivated good works. The Bible also teaches that being justified by faith produces works that show your faith is genuine. Yet we often have a hard time accepting the fact that we can get something so wonderful by having done nothing. What is so important about understanding Justification by Faith vs Justification by Works as the means of salvation? What is at stake if we get this doctrine wrong? What verses Biblically support your answer? (James 2:14-26; Romans 13:8-10; Galatians 5:22-25; Philippians 2:12-13; Philippians 3:9 ) PERSONAL: Consider these questions as you read through James 2:14-26: Do my works justify (validate) my faith? Do my works model a life of true faith? Do others see Christ in my works? Think through these questions while Paul in Romans 13:8-10: Do my works justify (prove) my faith? What or who is the object of my faith? What is the motivation for my works? What will save me eternally? Do my good works bring praise to God or the applause of man?

8 Baptism & Consecration The Bible teaches baptism as an outward expression of an inward decision. The act of baptism does not save us but rather confirms that we have been saved and we are committed to living in submission to God. Baptism identifies us with Jesus death, burial, and resurrection. It is a mark by which to grow from. Baptism throughout history identifies a person with being a part of the church. By the 100s AD the church had initiated a waiting period between confession of faith and baptism. Believers were to be taught the fundamentals of the faith, and they were to make sure their confession was real and committed and not a passing whim. One can find copies of the fairly lengthy and detailed confessions believers had to be able to recite and agree to before baptism. There was also a concern that new believers would wash out of the church when the next wave of persecution came along if they did not have full understanding of the Christian life. Over time and from very early in the history of Christianity, the church instituted a time of waiting to make sure people knew what they were doing and were fully committed to the life of Jesus. So, our practice of having a waiting period has long historical precedent. It is still fairly common among other churches today with similar doctrine to ours. Baptism by full immersion can also be traced back to the first century church. First century documents outside of the Bible list out how they were conducted and remains of baptismals are found in the catacombs in Rome. Once Christianity became legalized under Constantine, baptism evolved from being an action after repentance to the variety we find in today s churches. Why do you think God designed baptism? Have you ever had the opportunity to explain baptism to a non-christian? Share the story. Discuss how to explain our perception of baptism to someone who was baptized at birth. The prayer of Consecration is the act of setting aside a believer for God s purpose. What is the overarching purpose of all Christians? How is this purpose achieved? Does it change as we take on different roles in life?

9 Sanctification We are sanctified the same way we are justified: by faith alone in Christ. Sanctification is a constant refining process. As we look to Christ by faith, the Holy Spirit should satisfy our hearts and give us such longing for more of Christ, that sin s attractions lose their power. We find joy in following God s teachings and desire holiness. What we do is done in love for God and for others before ourselves. How would you describe to someone what is means to live a sanctified life? List some of the joys you can find when living for God: What is the difference between self-effort change, and a Christ-centered pursuit of holiness? Imagine yourself as a living house. God comes in to rebuild that house. At first, perhaps, you can understand what He is doing. He is getting the drains right and stopping the leaks in the roof and so on: you knew that those jobs needed doing and so you are not surprised. But presently he starts knocking the house about in a way that hurts abominably and does not seem to make sense. What on earth is He up to? The explanation is that He is building quite a different house from the one you thought of throwing out a new wing here, putting on an extra floor there, running up towers, making courtyards. You thought you were going to be made into a decent little cottage: but He is building a palace. He intends to come and live in it Himself. - C.S. Lewis How has God grown you beyond what you thought possible? PERSONAL: Consider: How much does pursuing holiness matter to you? Are you intentional about cleaning out everything that is displeasing to God? How do you spend you time? Are you concerned more with earthly pursuits or God s? If you got a free day, How would you spend it?

10 Faithfulness & Perseverance What does it mean to be faithful? Why is a deep faith such a vital element of a Christian s life? Why is it better to trust in faith over emotions or feelings? How can wealth undermine faith? Briefly share one of the hardest situations you have gone through. How did God show Himself faithful? Did your faith help you persevere? What is a favorite verse that helps you get through tough days? Why does this one stand out to you?

11 Resurrection & Eternal Destination What would you say to someone who is dying but does not believe in life after death? Why does believing in the resurrection, as well as Jesus death on the cross matter? How does setting our affection on God s Kingdom help us get through the hard times here on earth? What is something you are excited to know in Heaven?

12 Holy Communion Why did God ask us to take communion only with others who have been born-again? What are the benefits having this event in private?

13 Marriage and the Family Marriage, as God designed it, is being distorted and eroded by our modern culture. It is our job as the faithful followers of Christ to respond to the brokenness with full knowledge of our Creator s intent. We need to know what does the Bible say about marriage. List out some of the Biblical teachings on marriage and how Satan is attacking it today: What the Bible says (give verses): marriage is between a man and a woman (Gen 2:22-24, Mark 10:6-9, 1 Cor 7:2) How Satan is attacking it: marriage is between whomever How can we lovingly demonstrate God s design for marriage to those around us?

14 As marriage is under attack, so is the family. God designed the family unite of a dad and mom raising kids and that is becoming a rare thing. People are choosing broken alternatives. Why are both a dad and a mom raising kids in the same home important? What can we do to help families stay together? How can we reach out to the broken ones? What should be the top priority of Christian parents while raising kids? How should the parents daily actions communicate this as a priority? What do we desire for our children s future? How are we directing them to those things? What are some actions kids need from caring parents? How should the church body be involved in raising the children in the church?

15 Noncombatants the Peacemakers As we take the position of non-combatant in physical fighting, how can we live out a life of peace? What is the difference of a peacemaker verses a peacekeeper? God does call us to fight the good fight of faith in 1 Tim 6:12. What is the good fight and how do we engage in it? But thou, O man of God, flee these things; and follow after righteousness, godliness, faith, love, patience, meekness. 12 Fight the good fight of faith, lay hold on eternal life, whereunto thou art also called, and hast professed a good profession before many witnesses. 13 I give thee charge in the sight of God, who quickeneth all things, and before Christ Jesus, who before Pontius Pilate witnessed a good confession; 14 That thou keep this commandment without spot, unrebukeable, until the appearing of our Lord Jesus Christ: 1 Timothy 6:11-15

16 Loving Discipline How can you go about assessing yourself if you have any sin your own life that needs correcting? When is it important and appropriate to approach someone in the church family with a concern? Why is it vital to the church that we lovingly correct each other? Counselors, business consultants and universities have conducted numerous studies on the effects of negative criticism and praise. They all show the same: It takes quite a few more positives to outweigh one negative (typically a 5-1 ratio). People will remember one negative over four positives. It takes five positive comments or praises to outweigh the negative one. Perhaps that it is why God asks us to carefully pray and lovingly communicate when we see someone in error. The motive should loving concern with hope to restore or grow that person closer to God. Love is the sugar that helps the medicine go down. Too often people speak before stopping to filter if its a criticism or concern that popped into their head. Consider the next time you feel the need to approach someone with a concern of thinking of five positive comments to share to go along with the negative one. Try doing it your head - when you think a criticism/concern about someone, immediately stop to think of five positives. We need to choose our words carefully and lovingly. Let s also be quicker to shine a light on what it right! Why do we remember the negative so much more than the positive? What can we do to focus on and remember the positive?

17 The Church and its Mission Explain the role of the church in your own words: For those who are members of the Body of Christ, we have been given a diversity of gift meant to work together in unity (1 Cor 12). How has God uniquely equipped you to help the body? How do you personally live out the four pillar mission of our church: Present: Nurture: Preserve: Serve : How can you be intentional in utilizing others gifts within the church?

18 Sharing the Gospel & Serving Others Why is prayer such an important but often the neglected element of sharing the Gospel? How can we set a pattern in our life to ensure we take time to pray? Where or what do you enjoy doing for other people? When people compliment or are saying thank, how can one tastefully point to God? Are you more likely to do the job if you know others will notice? Are you fine with doing the hard or undesirable job that needs to be done even if people don t show gratitude for it? Is it possible to love our neighbor as oneself if we fail to share with the Good News of Jesus? How would you answer the question, why do we exist? Can you back it up with verses from the Bible?

19 Review: How does having a good understanding of the Biblical basis of our church doctrine aid our Christian walk and witness to our community? Of the topics covered in this book, which do you feel confident in sharing with others? Which areas do you need to study more?

20 Leader s Guide: Six Week Suggested Outline: Week 1: Our Foundation of the Bible and our Lord God 1. God s Word as Our Authority 2. The Nature of God Week 2: Being a Different Person - putting off 3. Man s Sinful Nature 4. Salvation, Repentance, Conversion Week 3: Being Committed and Growth - All for God s Glory - putting on 5. Justification 6. Baptism & Consecration 7. Sanctification Week 4: Getting to Heaven 8. Faithfulness & Perseverance 9. Resurrection & Eternal Destination Week 5: Knowing where we Stand on Current Issues and Way It Matters 10. Holy Communion 11. Marriage and the Family 12. Noncombatants the Peacemakers 13. Loving Discipline Week 6: Take it Personally - contributing and being engaged 14. The Church and its Mission 15. Sharing the Gospel & Serving Others Review