DISCIPLESHIP DEVELOPMENT COURSE MANUAL Hebrews 1:1-2...let us lay aside every weight, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith. TABLE OF CONTENTS 2 Welcome 3 The Discipleship Institute Mission 4 Course Format & Student Requirements 6 Course Topics 6 Requirements For a Certificate 7 Daily Devotions & Journaling 8 Weekly Time Sheet 9 Missions at Home & Beyond 10 My Discipleship Commitment 11 Student Profile Christian Life Center Discipleship Institute 1
ELCOME to Christian Life Center s Discipleship Development Institute. Your decision to be a W part of this Institute will have a profound impact on your relationship with the Lord and with those around you. However, this is not a magic formula for spiritual success. It all depends on how you apply yourself to the process. Jane and I and others are committed to praying for you! God s purpose for us is to be in an intimate relationship with Him and the process He uses is discipleship. This is clearly seen in His words just prior to His Ascension. Matthew 28:19-20 Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you; The root word for disciple is discipline. Disciples are obedient and allow God s Word to guide their thoughts, behavior and life. Disciples put into practice what they are instructed by the Holy Spirit. Matthew 7:24-25 Therefore whoever hears these sayings of Mine, and does them, I will liken him to a wise man who built his house on the rock: and the rain descended, the floods came, and the winds blew and beat on that house; and it did not fall, for it was founded on the rock. Accountability adds a necessary ingredient to instruction and academics and provides the incentive for growth. God s plan has always been to grow believers into mature disciples who disciple others with the same power and authority Jesus used. Acts 2:42-47 And they continued steadfastly in the apostles doctrine and fellowship, in the breaking of bread, and in prayers. Then fear came upon every soul, and many wonders and signs were done through the apostles. Now all who believed were together, and had all things in common, and sold their possessions and goods, and divided them among all, as anyone had need. So continuing daily with one accord in the temple, and breaking bread from house to house, they ate their food with gladness and simplicity of heart, praising God and having favor with all the people. And the Lord added to the church daily those who were being saved. Although students of Discipleship Development should be committed to finishing the course, their main focus must be to please God and to allow Him to do a deep work in them during this time. Discipleship Development is no easy task, it will challenge you in every area. Therefore we will assign the first-time student with a mentor who can give needed incentive during the weeks ahead. Also, it is important to remember that our enemy, the devil, will attempt to stop you and to deter you in your commitment to the class. Stand firm and break through, it will have eternal results! 1 Corinthians 15:58 Therefore, my beloved brethren, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that your labor is not in vain in the Lord. Please read this manual as it outlines the format and class expectations. God bless you as you apply yourself to the task ahead. Pastors Jack & Jane Lankhorst Christian Life Center, Riverside, CA www.discipleshipdevelopment.org Christian Life Center Discipleship Institute 2
THE DISCIPLESHIP INSTITUTE MISSION Effective Discipleship Through Academics, Service and Missions iscipleship Development Institute s mission is to train God s people in developing D Godly character and to partner with God in fulfilling Christ s Great Commandment (Matthew 22:35-40) and the Great Commission (Matthew 28:19-20). This is a three-part activity where faith becomes action: 1. ACADEMICS ~ Through an academic approach to Discipleship we come to see God s heart and His purpose for fruitful ministry and relationship. This is accomplished through a time of daily prayer, Bible reading, journaling, Scripture memorization, as well as Bible teaching and accountability. 2 Timothy 2:15 Be diligent to present yourself approved to God, a worker who does not need to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth. 2 Timothy 3:16-17 All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work. 2. SERVICE ~ A submitted servant s heart is the basis for leadership in the Church. This is accomplished by participating in the vision of the church and accomplishing the goals given to the leadership by the Holy Spirit. John 13:3-17...If I then, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also ought to wash one another s feet. For I have given you an example, that you should do as I have done to you If you know these things, blessed are you if you do them. Ephesians 4:16...From Him the whole body, joined and held together by every supporting ligament, grows and builds itself up in love, as each part does its work. 3. MISSIONS ~ The mandate for disciples is to develop God s passion for the lost and to be involved in the Lord s Harvest on a local and global level. Matthew 9:37-38 Then He said to His disciples, The harvest truly is plentiful, but the laborers are few. Therefore pray the Lord of the harvest to send out laborers into His harvest. Acts 1:8...you shall receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you; and you shall be witnesses to Me in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth. Christian Life Center Discipleship Institute 3
COURSE FORMAT & STUDENT REQUIREMENTS EACH FRIDAY 6:55-7:00 Arrive a few minutes early to write the memory verse on the Time Sheet and to pick up your weekly packet. 7:00-7:05 Class begins at 7:00 pm with prayer (Please turn off cell phones). 7:05-7:15 Hand in the Journal, Time Sheet and recite the memory verse. 7:15-7:30 Quiz and discussion. 7:30-7:40 Offering and break. 7:40-8:50 Teaching. 8:50-9:00 Prayer and clean up. CLASS & CHURCH ATTENDANCE 1. Attendance in class ~ Because the class moves quickly through the topics, attendance is a prerequisite for successful completion. Students must attend every class unless cleared with the instructor. You cannot be discipled you if you are not here. Proverbs 10:4 He who has a slack hand becomes poor, but the hand of the diligent makes rich. 2. Accountability ~ First time students will be assigned a mentor who has successfully completed the course previously. Ecclesiastes 4:9-10 Two are better than one, because they have a good reward for their labor. For if they fall, one will lift up his companion. But woe to him who is alone when he falls, for he has no one to help him up. 3. Church Attendance ~ Students are expected to attend the weekly Sunday morning and Wednesday evening services. The weekly quiz will include questions on the sermon. Hebrews 10:24-25 And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another and all the more as you see the Day approaching. 4. Homework ~ This includes reading the assigned lesson and book, memorizing the Scriptures and the using Weekly Time Sheet. 2 Timothy 2:15 Be diligent to present yourself approved to God, a worker who does not need to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth. Christian Life Center Discipleship Institute 4
DEVOTIONS 1. Daily Devotions ~ Dedicate at least one hour each day to the Lord for daily devotions and class work. Most of us have very little extra time and must redeem (buy back, exchange) time to do this. Proverbs 8:34 Blessed is the man who listens to me, watching daily at my gates, waiting at my doors. Ephesians 5:15-16 See then that you walk circumspectly, not as fools but as wise, redeeming the time, because the days are evil. 2. Scripture Memorization ~ Memorizing and meditating on Scripture is an important discipline of Discipleship Development. Psalm 119:11 Your Word I have hidden in my heart that I might not sin against you. 3. Fasting ~ Focus is given to developing a regular time of weekly fasting (food, cell phone, TV, etc.) Hebrews 12:1 Therefore let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which so easily ensnares us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us SERVICE 1. Service ~ Jesus stressed service, and students are encouraged to serve in some area of ministry weekly. John 13:14-17 Now that I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also should wash one another s feet. I have set you an example that you should do as I have done for you Now that you know these things, you will be blessed if you do them. 2. Workday ~ We schedule periodic times when we clean and work on God s house, the church facility. This exemplifies servanthood on a physical and practical level. John 13:14-15 If I then, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also ought to wash one another s feet. For I have given you an example, that you should do as I have done to you. OUTREACH 1. Example ~ The disciple is an example in lifestyle and Godly devotion to our family, friends and neighbors. 1 Timothy 4:12 be an example to the believers in word, in conduct, in spirit, in faith, in purity Titus 2:7...in all things showing yourself to be a pattern of good works; in doctrine showing integrity, reverence, incorruptibility, sound speech that cannot be condemned, 2. Peeps ~ A Peep is simply a random act of kindness. Through practical acts of God s love we want to show people in Riverside that we care for them. 3. Missions ~ As the opportunity arises, students are encouraged to be a part of a team as we minister to the traditional Native Americans in Hopi and Zuni. John 4:35 Do you not say, There are still four months and then comes the harvest? Behold, I say to you, lift up your eyes and look at the fields, for they are already white for harvest! Christian Life Center Discipleship Institute 5
COURSE TOPICS 1. INTRODUCTION (Course Overview, The Fourfold Ministry of Christ & Memorizing Scripture) A short teaching on the fourfold ministry of Christ; the importance of meditating on God s Word and learning how to memorize Scripture. Hebrews 13:8 Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever. Joshua 1:8 Do not let this Book of the Law depart from your mouth; meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do everything written in it. Then you will be prosperous and successful. 2. THE DISCIPLESHIP DECISION Developing Biblical convictions and a wholehearted commitment to follow Christ at all cost. Galatians 2:20 I have been crucified with Christ; it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me; and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself for me. 3. THE DISCIPLE & GOD S WORD An overview of the Bible and how to correctly interpret Scripture. 2 Timothy 2:15 Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a workman who does not need to be ashamed and who correctly handles the word of truth. 4. THE DISCIPLE S SPIRITUAL LIFE Spiritual disciplines including prayer, worship & spiritual warfare. 1 John 5: 1-5 Whoever believes that Jesus is the Christ is born of God, and everyone who loves Him who begot also loves him who is begotten of Him. By this we know that we love the children of God, when we love God and keep His commandments. For this is the love of God, that we keep His commandments... Who is he who overcomes the world, but he who believes that Jesus is the Son of God? 5. UNDERSTANDING GOD S DESIGN FOR OUR LIVES Understanding and developing our passion, spiritual gifts and personal style of ministry. Surveys are included. Psalm 139:14 I will praise You, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made; marvelous are Your works, 6. DISCIPLING: GOD S PLAN FOR KINGDOM GROWTH Making disciples (mentoring) and fulfilling Christ s Great Commission. Matthew 28:18-20 Jesus came to them and said, All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age. REQUIREMENTS FOR A CERTIFICATE There are two types of certificates: Certificate of Participation and a Certificate of Completion. The latter will require the following Dedicate yourself to the Discipleship Commitment. Attend all the classes. Do the weekly assignments. Hand in the Weekly Time Sheet and Journal (See sample on page 8) Be a part of an accountability group. Christian Life Center Discipleship Institute 6
Serve in a ministry of the church and at a workday. Attend Sunday & Wednesday services. Be involved in the Peep ministry. Successfully pass the final exam. ESTABLISH A DAILY TIME FOR DEVOTIONS Take a look at your typical week and find a specific, regular time you can devote to this course for the next few weeks. Write that time down below. Remember, you may need to exchange (redeem) certain activities with your commitment to Discipleship Development. My time of devotions: JOURNALING 1. Journaling is a very important part of your daily Bible reading time. It is an account of your Bible reading journey and what you feel Jesus is speaking to you. More importantly, journaling is a two-way communication between you and Jesus. 2. Each morning, or whatever time you have set aside for your time with the Lord, pray, read the assigned Bible Scriptures and journal, using the sheets provided. 3. Use the Weekly Time Sheet (page 8) for journaling on the lesson, memory verse or the assigned Bible reading. This will be handed in during class time. However, write the main points down to keep for your own personal use. 4. Ask God to teach you by the Holy Spirit as you read His Word. Read the passages to understand the context: what is taking place or what is being taught. As you read the passages, underline in your Bible or write out the key Scripture(s) or ideas that catch your attention. 5. Then, write down the following in your notepad or pages set aside for daily journaling: What you believe the Holy Spirit is saying to you through that passage. Your response to what He is saying to you. What God wants you to do about what you ve heard. 6. Before Friday s class, write out the main points on the Journaling Sheet provided with your lessons. This will be turned in with your Weekly Time Sheet. Christian Life Center Discipleship Institute 7
WEEKLY TIME SHEET...redeeming the time... Ephesians 5:16 Check each box as you do the activity for that day. Name Date My accountability partners are ACTIVITIES SAT SUN MON TUES WED THU FRI Personal prayer time Bible reading & journaling Lesson reading Fasting Scripture memorization Sunday AM & Wednesday PM Accountability meeting Volunteer service (specify) Peeps I ve invited a new person to church with me Write the assigned memory verse here before class. Must be done from memory. Journal on the back. Be brief and specific. Christian Life Center Discipleship Institute 8
MISSIONS AT HOME... PEEPS, an outreach ministry ~ A Peep is simply a random act of kindness! Through practical acts of God s love we want to show people in Riverside that we care for them. Here s how it works: 1. You will receive 1 card a week. You can obtain more if necessary. 2. Ask the Holy Spirit to show you a need and when the Lord highlights a need, respond. Examples: Buy someone s lunch or coffee at a drive-thru. As you pay for your order, pay for the order placed by the person behind you and ask the attendant to give them a Peep Card. Offering to assist someone. 3. When you finish assisting someone, give that person a peep card, bless them and go about your day. As people receive a card, they are encouraged to visit our website at weloveriverside.com and leave a comment. Periodically visit the sight to see the comments. 4. Typically, this is not a time to preach. Be creative and sensitive to the leading of the Holy Spirit. The idea is to do this with no hidden motive or agenda, except to show God s unconditional love....and BEYOND 1. Our main missions activity is with traditional Native American Tribes (Hopi & Zuni). To find out more about our ministry, Restoration, go to www.hopi.org. 2. We have done missions work in Cambodia, Ethiopia, Bali, Indonesia and Haiti. To see all we, as a church, visit our website at www.restoringtouch.org. A Missions Application is required for all trips. 3. Our recent missions focus is the unreached nation of Tibet, China. Currently this is very limited. Because it is unreached and very difficult, we are only visiting and praying (discreetly) about any future work. THE HARVEST IS RIPE John 4:35-38 Do you not say, There are still four months and then comes the harvest? Behold, I say to you, lift up your eyes and look at the fields, for they are already white for harvest! And he who reaps receives wages, and gathers fruit for eternal life, that both he who sows and he who reaps may rejoice together. For in this the saying is true: One sows and another reaps. I sent you to reap that for which you have not labored; others have labored, and you have entered into their labors. Christian Life Center Discipleship Institute 9
MY DISCIPLESHIP COMMITMENT As a student of Christian Life Center s Discipleship Development Institute I commit myself to God and to the members of my church in the following ways. 1. I will protect the unity of my church (Ephesians 4:3) by A. Acting in love toward other members. (1 John 4:7; Romans 14:19; 1 Peter 1:22) B. Dealing with slander, gossip, etc. in a Biblical, pro-active way. (Proverbs 6:16-19, 16:28, 20:19; Psalm 101:5, Hebrews 12:15 C. Furthering the vision God has given to the Pastors. (Matthew 8:5-13; Romans 15:5-6; Hebrews 13:17) 2. I will help carry the responsibilities of my church by A. Praying for its growth and welfare. (1 Thessalonians 1:1-2) B. Inviting the un-churched to come with me to church. (John 1:45-46) C. Embracing all who attend the services. (Romans 15:7; 1 John 4:7) D. Involvement in the financial responsibility of my church. (Malachi 3:10-12) 3. I will serve within the ministries of my church by A. Developing a servant s heart and serve where needed. (Philippians 2:3-4, 7) B. Helping others to serve Jesus and His church. (Ephesians 4:11-12) 4. I will properly represent Christ and His Body by A. Faithfully attending the corporate services. (Hebrews 10:25) B. Living a godly lifestyle in this society. (Philippians 2:14-15; 1 Timothy 3:2) I ask that the Holy Spirit empower me to accomplish this commitment by His power and Might. Amen. Signed Date Christian Life Center Discipleship Institute 10
STUDENT PROFILE Please print clearly Date 1. First and last name Returning student 2. Address City State Zip 3. Cell phone (with area code) Text me 4. Email address 5. Date of birth 6. Married No Yes I will need a nursery, children s ages are 7. How long have you been an active Believer in Christ? Have you experienced the Baptism of the Holy Spirit? Yes Not yet Do you speak in Tongues? Yes Not yet 8. How long have you attended Christian Life Center (or your church)? Areas of ministry you have served in the past In what capacity do you currently serve? 9. Are you taking the course for a certificate of Completion Participation (Auditing) 10. Briefly write down what you expect God to do in your life during Discipleship Development? Christian Life Center Discipleship Institute 11