THE LIFE IN CHRIST

DISCIPLESHIP SERIES
LCDS 101

Pastor Shu Rene C.

DipTheo, BSc.

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 ABOUT THE HANDOUT

This series contains basic doctrines, foundational teachings and other teachings that pertain to
the Christian faith with the aim of building, establishing and equipping the believer with the
core truths of Christian doctrines and practices. This work is called THE LIFE IN CHRIST
DISCIPLESHIP SERIES (LCDS) since it’s mostly profitable to those who have found
salvation in Christ Jesus. I will recommend every minister who intends to have the Christians
under him/her established, nurtured and grounded in the things of God to get a copy of this
handout. Churches will be healthier if they are filled with maturing Christians.

This course (LCDS 101) is designed to be exhausted within a period of 9 to 12 months,

with average class duration of 45 – 60mins a week.

A great deal of the work in this volume is not the original work of the author. Therefore, I
chose to acknowledge, at the beginning of this material the following sources/authors, whose
work has been included in this material directly and indirectly:

1. PATHWAY TO DISCIPLESHIP, PHASE 0 AND PHASE 1, BY REVEREND

SAMSON MBEKWE
2. HOW TO DEVELOP A POWERFUL PRAYER LIFE STUDY GUIDE BY DR.
GREGORY FRIZZELL
3. MESSAGE, PROFIT OF THE HOUSE OF THE LORD, DR. PAUL ENECHE, 2023

N/B: All Scripture quotations are from the King James Version (KJV) of the Bible.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Pastor SHU RENE CHE is a graduate from the Full Gospel Bible Institute, Bamenda with a
diploma in Theology. He also holds a Bachelor degree in Mathematics from the University of
Buea. He is a dynamic minister of the gospel, who is passionate for soul winning, Christian
growth/maturity and revival. He is married to ELOE SARAH, and they are blessed with
children.

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 TABLE OF CONTENT

LESSON 1 – ASSURANCE OF SALVATION………………………………...…………… 1

LESSON 2 – WATER BAPTISM …………………………………………..………………. 4

LESSON 3–A DISCIPLE OF CHRIST ……………………………………………………....7

LESSON 4 – UNDERSTANDING SPIRITUAL GROWTH ……………………………….10

LESSON 5 – ELEMENTS OF SPIRITUAL GROWTH I – THE BIBLE…………………..13

LESSON 6 – ELEMENTS OF SPIRITUAL GROWTH II – PRAYER………………….....16

LESSON 7 – ELEMENTS OF SPIRITUAL GROWTH III – FELLOWSHIP ……………..20

LESSON 8 – PERSECUTION ………………………………………………………………23

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 LESSON 1

ASSURANCE OF SALVATION

MEMORY VERSE: Romans 10:9-10;

“That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that
God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved. For with the heart man believeth
unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation.”

PRE-LESSON DISCUSSION

1. Do you ever feel insecure about your salvation?

2. If you were to die tonight, how sure are you that you would spend eternity with God?
How will you grade yourself? 0%.....25%....50%.....75%.....100%

Introduction: After salvation, the question that usually follows is; “How do I know I am
saved or born again? Am I just a church-goer or a believer? Is Jesus happy with me?” There
are many Christians who doubt their salvation, and others are unsure of their stand in Christ.
On the other hand, there are people who are overconfident that they are saved whereas they
are not.

Let us look at the evidences or proofs that assure us that we are saved.

EVIDENCES FOR ASSURANCE:

Many people base their faith on feelings and head knowledge. Though feelings are an
important part of human experience, they cannot be allowed to become the driving force of
your life. Varying emotions are a common part of a person’s relationship with Christ.
However, the maturing Christian lives by faith in the trustworthiness of God and His Word,
not in seeking some emotional experience. The Bible teaches us to walk by faith and not by
sight or what we feel. Feelings are liable to change, but God and His Word cannot be altered.
(Read these: 2Corinthians 5:7, Galatians 3:11, Hebrews 11:6)

There are three witnesses that confirm that Christ is in your life.

1. The Witness of God’s Word: God has declared with authority in His Word that if you
have responded to the call of God and responded to his offer of eternal life through Jesus
Christ, then you are a child of God (Romans 10:9-11, John 1:12, John 5:24, John 3:16).
Don’t doubt God’s Word!

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2. The Witness of the Holy Spirit: God promised to send the Holy Spirit to indwell within
all those who believe in Him (John 16:7-15). If you are born again, God has given you
His Spirit to dwell in you. He is an internal witness to your salvation (Romans 8:14-17,
1John 3:24, 1John 4:13-16). God’s Holy Spirit in you is a proof/evidence that you belong
to the Lord Jesus Christ (2Corinthians 1:22, Ephesians 1:13).

3. The Witness of a changed life: Your salvation will reflect on the many changes that
have begun in your mindset, actions, speech, dressing, etc. When you experience
salvation, your lifestyle changes due to the internal work that God has done in your heart
(1John 2:3-6, Ephesians 2:1-9, 1Peter 4:2-4).

POST-LESSON DISCUSSION/WORK

If after this lesson, you still aren’t sure of your salvation in Christ Jesus, it could probably be
an indication that you are not saved. You can repent from your sins today and surrender your
life to Jesus Christ.

Pray this simple prayer to surrender your life to Jesus Christ, “Lord Jesus, I am sorry for my
sins. I need you. I believe that you died on the cross for my sins and rose again for my
justification. I open the door of my heart and receive you as my personal Lord and Savior.
Thank you for forgiving my sins and giving me eternal life. Make me the person you want
me to be, in the name of Jesus Christ, Amen”.

CONGRATULATIONS AND WELCOME TO THE FAMILY OF GOD!!!

ASSIGNMENT

1. Declare your faith in Christ. This means that you have to tell others about your new found
faith. Telling others that you have trusted Jesus Christ for salvation and that you are His
follower will give you a new sense of confidence and assurance. Also, demonstrate that
you are a follower of Jesus Christ by being baptized.
2. 1 John 5:11-13, “And this is the record that God hath given to us eternal life, and this life
is in his Son. He that hath the Son hath life; and he that hath not the Son of God hath not
life. These things have I written unto you that believe on the name of the Son of God; that

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 ye may know that ye have eternal life, and that ye may believe on the name of the Son of
God.”… According to this scripture:
a. In whom is eternal life?
b. Who has eternal life?
c. Do you know that you have eternal life? ______. What makes you think so?
3. What kind of Father is God described to be in these passages:
Example: Philippians 4:19 – God
cares and God gives.

a. Matthew 7:11 -
b. James 1:17 –
c. 2Corinthians 1:3 -
d. Romans 5:8 -
e. Matthew 7:9-11 -
f. 1Peter 5:7 -
g. Ephesians 4:32 -
4. Write your name in the blank spaces below (John 3:16)

For God so loved ______________________________that He gave

_________________________ His only begotten Son, that if
____________________________believes in Him, _______________________shall not
perish, but ____________________________will have everlasting life.

5. What has Jesus done for you according to John 15:13?

6. Who is Jesus now in your life?
7. How should we now live according to Colossians 3:17?

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 LESSON 2

WATER BAPTISM

MEMORY VERSE: Mark 16:16;

“He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved; but he that believeth not shall be damned”

PRE-LESSON DISCUSSION:

1. Have you been baptized?

2. How were you baptized?
3. Do you know there is a wrong way of baptism and a right way of baptism?

Introduction: Water baptism is one of the two ordinances of the Lord Jesus Christ
recommended for the Church. The other one is Holy Communion. Water baptism is
performed by a Church minister (a pastor or another mature believer), immediately after one
is saved. It is a symbol, an outward sign, of our identification with Christ’s death, burial and
resurrection.

FACTS CONCERNING WATER BAPTISM

1. WATER BAPTISM IS A COMMAND

a. Jesus commanded in Matthew 28:19 that we should “Go therefore and teach all
nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy
Spirit. (Also read Mark 16:16)
b. Jesus Himself, submitted in obedience to the ordinance of water baptism in order to
identify fully with mankind, and in order to “fulfill all righteousness,” Jesus was
setting an example for all believers. (Matthew 3:13-17)

2. WATER BAPTISM IS AN OUTWARD SYMBOL OF AN INWARD WORK THAT

HAS ALREADY TAKEN PLACE IN THE HEART.

The symbolism of water baptism according to Romans 6:3-4 is:

 We were crucified together with Christ

 We died together with Him
 We were buried together with Him
 We have been raised together to newness of life with Him.
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3. WATER BAPTISM, IN ITSELF, DOES NOT SAVE YOU:

As important as water baptism is to the believer, water baptism in itself doesn’t guarantee
that one will go to Heaven. It is by faith in Christ and His atoning work on the cross; and
repentance from sin that saves us (Ephesians 2:8-9). Christ also forgave sins without
baptism (Luke 23:43).

4. WATER BAPTISM SYMBOLIZES A PERSON’S INCORPORATION INTO THE

BODY OF CHRIST.

Water baptism is an expression or illustration to show that we are now a part of the Body
of Christ (Ephesians 4:4-6)

IS INFANT BAPTISM RIGHT?

Most evangelical churches do not practice infant baptism because we find no scriptural basis
for this, neither is there a single instance in scripture where this ceremony was practiced.
Infant baptism gives a false assurance to parents that their children are saved without
following through with it in later years. Therefore, infant baptism is WRONG!

Nevertheless, it is right to DEDICATE children to God at a tender age, but not baptize them.
Also, original sin doesn’t affect children (Acts 17:30, Matthew 19:13-14, Mark 10:13-14,
Luke 18:15-16). Children below the accountability age (the age of innocence) belong to the
Lord and are not sinners by default (Psalm 127:3)

WHAT IS THE CORRECT METHOD OF BAPTISM?

There are currently three kinds of baptism practiced by churches today:

a. Baptism by sprinkling
b. Baptism by pouring or effusion
c. Baptism by immersion

The first two methods of baptisms (sprinkling and pouring) are WRONG. They have no
scriptural justification. They came about because of water shortage and as a convenience for
the aged or infirmed (sick).

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The word “baptism: comes from the Greek word, “baptiso” which means “to dip or to
immerse”, just like one will dip a dress in dye to change its color. Therefore, the THIRD
method of baptism (baptism by immersion) is the BIBLICAL BAPTISM.

 Jesus was immersed in water (Mathew 3:16)

 The Ethiopian Eunuch was baptized by immersion (Acts 8:38-39)

From this study, we can conclude that, if one is saved and doesn’t get baptized, he/she has
partially obeyed God. Now, the question is; IS PARTIAL OBEDIENCE = OBEDIENCE?

N/B: OBEDIENCE involves two aspects: KNOWING WHAT IS TO BE DONE (i.e. through
hearing or reading) and then DOING IT (Revelation 22:14, Revelation 1:3, John 13:17,
James 1:23-25).

POST-LESSON DISCUSSION

1. Have you ever received any of the above baptism? Do you feel convinced that you were
rightly baptized after this lesson?
2. Now that you know the truth about baptism, what does the Bible expect you to do? (Acts
17:30, Acts 19:1-5)

ASSIGNMENT:

If you have not been baptized the right way or you feel that you were baptized when you
weren’t really saved, indicate to your teacher or pastor that you wish to completely obey God
by being baptized.

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 LESSON 3

A DISCIPLE OF CHRIST

MEMORY VERSE: Matthew 28:19-20;

“Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the
Son, and of the Holy Ghost: Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have
commanded you: and lo, I am with you always, even unto the end of the world, Amen”

PRE-LESSON DISCUSSION:

1. What is the meaning of the word “disciple” according to you?

2. In what areas do we hear of disciples?

Introduction: The word disciple according to the English Dictionary refers to: A person who
learns from another, especially one who then teaches others OR an active follower or
adherent of someone, or some philosophy, etc.

There are many kinds of disciples who are adherent to people like the Pharisees and religions
like Buddhism, Hinduism, etc... But the kind of disciples Christ intended according to this
passage is a special kind of disciples.

According to Jesus, a disciple of Christ is a saved baptized person who is continuously and
efficiently increasing in Christ likeness, obeying (or growing in obedience to) every belief,
behavior, virtue, teaching and character of Christ. The disciple we are to make is the one that
is in the exact image of Christ. Therefore, “disciple-making” is the process that produces
Disciples of Christ.

Before Jesus commanded his first disciples in Matthew 28:19-20 to go and make disciples,
He had already made them the kind of disciples He wanted them to go and make of others
(Luke 6:40). This means that, we have to be true Disciples of Christ before we can effectively
make others true Disciples of Christ (2Timothy 2:1-2, 1Timothy 4:11-16, Romans 2:19-24).

CHARACTERISTICS OF A DISCIPLE OF CHRIST

1. He/she must be saved (born again) - John 3:3

2. He/she should be baptized according to the pattern described in scriptures, and as
commanded by the Lord Jesus Christ (by immersion) – Mark 16:16, Acts 19:1-5

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3. He/she should be continuously growing into Christ likeness, obeying every belief,
behavior, virtue, teaching and character of Christ–1Corinthians 15:48-49
4. He/she should be committed to the discipleship process –Luke 9:61-62

Without commitment, there is no discipleship. Jesus asks His disciples to be committed in

many occasions at different levels (Luke 14:26-33). Commitment involves the elements of
priority, discipline and accountability. Let us examine these elements.

Priority

A priority is something or somebody that is ranked highly in terms of importance or urgency.

A priority is not just a value, but a topmost value.

As Christians, becoming a full matured disciple of Christ is our top most priority. Before
coming to Christ, your life was filled with other priorities, but in Christ, we have to put away
our own priorities and put Christ’s first (Matthew 10:37-39, Matthew 6:31-33, Luke 9:59-62).

If becoming a disciple of Christ is your top priority, how will you treat the lessons, exercises
and other commitments found in this series meant to help you become a disciple of Christ?

Answer: ___________________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________________________

When we set our priorities right, we need discipline in order to accomplish those priorities.

Discipline

Discipline can be defined as a conscious control over lifestyle: mental self-control used in
changing or directing behavior, learning something or being trained for something. It is
doing, thinking or saying what you ought to do, think or say despite all. It is the virtue of
being able to do the needful even if you don’t feel like it to achieve/accomplish a particular or
specific goal (Read 1 Timothy 4:7b-11). Note that, the goal is godliness and the means is
discipline. You cannot have godliness without discipline. Growing in godliness requires
labor, striving and discipline. “No pain! No gain!”

To help mix priority and discipline to create commitment, we must be accountable.

Accountability

To be accountable is to agree to be responsible to fulfill commitments. Most at times, people

need a disciple maker to hold them accountable so that they can develop enough self-
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discipline to develop spiritual habits. Without accountability, the disciple maker cannot
effectively evaluate the progress of the disciple. E.g. learn to take permission when you will
be absent for classes, update your disciple-maker about the challenges faced on your
Christian journey so that he/she can pray and encourage you, etc. Do your best to be
accountable!

POST-LESSON DISCUSSION:

1. Is becoming a mature disciple of Christ important to you?

2. Have you developed some commitments/resolutions after this lesson that will help you to
grow as a discipleship of Christ? What are they? E.g. I will come early for discipleship
classes and with my jotter/notebook; I will take church attendance serious so as to learn
more of God’s Word etc.
3. Is there something you find hard to sacrifice for Jesus Christ, so as to follow through with
the process of becoming a true disciple of Christ? (Matthew 19:16-29)

ASSIGNMENT

1. Decide to attend your discipleship classes every week and follow through with all the
lessons taught each week. Decide to attend all your weekly meetings.
2. Be accountable to your group leader or disciple maker as much as possible.
3. Pay for your own manuals. One of the ways to show commitment is to pay for this
manual with your money. As a Christian, do not make it a habit of receiving Christian
materials and services free of charge. This is because the Bible says, “Where your
treasure (money) is, that’s where your heart is” (Matthew 6:21, Proverbs 23:23). When
you pay for your material and services, your love for God grows as you support His work
and you attract God’s blessing upon your life.

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 LESSON 4

UNDERSTANDING SPIRITUAL GROWTH

MEMORY VERSE: 2Peter 3:18;

“But grow in grace, and in the knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To him be
glory both now and for ever. Amen”
PRE-LESSON DISCUSSION
1. What does it mean for something or someone to grow?
2. What kinds of things can grow? Give examples…
3. How will you feel if you expect something or someone to grow but they do not grow as
expected?
Introduction: Spiritual growth is God’s will for every believer or disciple of Christ i.e. God
expects and desires (wishes) that every believer should grow in their relationship with Him
and in Christ-likeness (3John 2:2, 2Peter 3:18, Psalm 92:12, Psalm 144:12, Ephesians 2:25,
Ephesians 4:15).It is also important to know that, Christian growth is intentional and
deliberate. We don’t grow by default or accidentally. But, we must deliberately seek, desire
and pursue growth (Matthew 5:6, Matthew 6:33).
It is sad to know that there are many Christians in the faith today who have spent many years
in the Lord, but are still very spiritually immature. In other words, they have refused to grow
spiritually. This is not the way God intended it, but rather, He wants all men to come to the
point that they are one with Him in life, mind and state.
“And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors
and teachers; For the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of
the body of Christ: Till we all come in the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son
of God, UNTO A PERFECT MAN, UNTO THE MEASURE OF THE STATURE OF THE
FULNESS OF CHRIST:” (Ephesians 4:11-13)
“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 PERFECT,
THROUGHLY FURNISHED unto all good works.” (2Timothy 3:16-17)

WHAT DOES IT MEAN TO GROW SPIRITUALLY?

It simply means to increase in Christ-likeness, in spiritual intensity, in faith and in spiritual
responsibility in Christ (Ephesians 4:11-13, Acts 20:28, Hebrews 5:12, Luke 19:12-26). A
growing Christian is one who is becoming more like the Lord Jesus Christ in character,
spirituality, mind and responsibility. It is becoming what Jesus Christ would want you to
become in Him and doing what He would want you to be doing for Him. It is developing a
more solid and tangible relationship with Christ. Christ is the pattern and measuring rod for
spiritual growth.

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 THESE QUESTIONS WILL HELP YOU TO KNOW WHETHER YOU ARE GROWING
SPIRITUALLY OR NOT:
 Are you becoming more like Jesus Christ? How much of Christ do you resemble? Are
you more patient, more loving, more forgiving, more tolerant, and more kind like Jesus
Christ? (1John 4:17)
 Can people confess that you resemble Christ in speech and character? Can you be called
Christ-like (Christian) in the biblical sense? (Matthew 5:14-16, 1Peter 2:9). Do you have
a good testimony and reputation in your community and home?
 Do you still intentionally and frequently do the wrong things that Jesus Christ saved you
from? (2Peter 2:21-22, 1Peter 1:14)
 Are you living a Holy Life? A Holy Life is a life that is separated from all that is evil. It is
the life of God (1Peter 1:16, 2Corinthians 6:14-18). Jesus Christ expects us to be holy IN
ACTION (2Timothy 2:22, 2Corinthians 8:21, Ephesians 4:31-32), IN MIND (Philippians
4:8), IN WORDS (1 Peter 1:15-16, 1Timothy 4:12, Ephesians 4:29) and IN DRESSING
(1Timothy 2:9-10).
 Can you be a true ambassador (representative) of Jesus Christ and His Kingdom, where
you live? (2Corinthians 5:17-20)
 Do you consistently pursue, hunger and thirst for the ways of Christ (holiness and
righteousness)? (Matthew 5:6, Matthew 6:33). Someone who pursues righteousness hates
sin, its appearances and is prompt to repent when they sin (Hebrews 1:9, James 4:4).
N/B: It is normal for a believer to fall in sin, but a believer is not supposed to be living in
sin. Falling in sin is sinning accidently or sinning by being deceived by your flesh or the
devil. The results of falling in sin are guilt, remorse and repentance.
On the other hand, living in sin is intentionally and unrepentantly doing what Jesus Christ
is not happy about. So, reflect on where you can be classified in these two categories, and
repent where necessary.
 Have you taken the responsibility to go out and win souls for the Lord? Have you been
taking out time to preach the gospel? (Matthew 28:19-20, Acts 9:1-22)
 Are you becoming more useful in your church as far as working for God is concerned?
That is, are you engaged in kingdom services like preaching, cleaning, coordinating,
teaching, singing, praying for the sick, visiting, giving, evangelism etc.? (Amos 6:1)
 Can a group of Christians be entrusted in your hands to lead?
 Are others copying from your life? Do you have mentees? Is your life an example for
others to follow? (1Timothy 4:11-12, Romans 2:19-24)

POST LESSON DISCUSSION

1. What is your opinion?
 Can a Christian fall in sin? (1John 2:1-2)
 What is the difference between living in sin and falling in sin?
 If a Christian falls in sin, does it disqualify that Christian as a Christian? (Isaiah
1:16-20, Luke 15:11-24)
 What can you say about someone who professes to be a Christian, yet is living in
sin? (1John 2:4-6)

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2. Does God forgive sins? What about deliberate sins? (1John 2:12, Psalm 103:12,
Ephesians 1:3-6, Mark 3:28, 1John 1:8-10, Isaiah 1:16-20)
3. What are the consequences of backsliding? (Hebrews 10:38, 2Peter 2:20-22)
4. Do you think God is happy when we are not growing in the Lord? (Revelation 3:15-16)

ASSIGNMENT
1. After this lesson, what can you say about yourself? Tick the correct answer:
o I am not growing in my faith and walk with the Lord (spiritually)
o I am dropping spiritually
o I am growing spiritually
o I feel that I have backslidden from the faith. I need help!
2. Answer the following questions honestly?
 Which environments make it hard for you to obey God? Parties, clubs, work,
school, friends, etc. (1Corinthians 15:33, Proverbs 13:20, Matthew 5:29-30,
1Thessalonians 5:22, Isaiah 59:1-2)
 How does God feel when we go on living in sin? (Psalm 7:11, Psalm 66:18,
Proverbs 28:13)
 Do you believe that God is depriving us from enjoying ourselves by giving us
instructions to live by? (Jeremiah 29:11, Mark 10:28-30, Jeremiah 31:3, )
 Do you feel excited when you are asked to do a service for the Lord? Or afraid? Or
angry? Or bored?
 Does God tempt people to sin against Him? (James 1:13-15)
 Do you like the person you are becoming?

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 LESSON 5
ELEMENTS OF SPIRITUAL GROWTH I – THE BIBLE (WORD OF GOD)
MEMORY VERSE: 1Peter 2:2;
“As new born babes, desire the sincere milk of the word, that you may grow thereby:”
PRE-LESSON DISCUSSION
1. Is the Bible true?
2. You may have heard that the Bible is just an ordinary book, what do you think of this?
3. Is it important to read my Bible as a Christian?
Introduction: There is no book on the earth that can better guide us to know God and grow
spiritually than the Bible. In the Bible, we get to know who God is (John 5:39), what He can
do (Luke 1:37), what He likes and what He hates (Galatians 1:15). We get to know the plans
and promises He has for us (Jeremiah 29:11). We get to understand the relationship that
exists between us and God (1John 3:1). The Bible is also called the WORD OF GOD.

SOME THINGS TO NOTE ABOUT THE WORD OF GOD

1. The Word of God is divinely inspired and written (2Timothy 3:16-17, 2Peter 1:20-21).
The existence of the Bible is not the result of man’s personal work. It is God’s work
through man (2Timothy 3:16-17, 2Peter 1:20-21, Exodus 17:14, Revelation 21:5).
2. The Word of God is God Himself (John 1:1-2, Revelation 19:13). To know God, know
His Word. God and His Word are inseparable.
3. The Word of God is spirit (John 6:60). The Word of God when listened to or read, affects
your spirit directly (Jeremiah 20:9, Luke 24:32)
4. The Word of God is eternal – lasting forever (Psalm 119:89, Mathew 24:35)
5. The Word of God is pure, faultless and blameless. The Word of God is perfect (Psalm
12:6, Psalm 119:40). Nothing should be added or subtracted from the Word of God
(Revelation 22:18-19)
6. The Word of God cleanses, purifies and sanctifies (John 17:17, 2Timothy 3:16-17, John
15:13, Ephesians 5:26, Psalm 119:9, 11).
7. The Word of God is the Truth (John 6:63, John 8:32, Psalm 33:4, Psalm 119:172)
8. The Word of God creates (John 1:1-5, Genesis 1:1-2, Psalm 33:6). The Word of God can
bring into existence what was not existence.
9. The Word of God is key to prosperity and success (Joshua 1:8, Hosea 4:6, Psalm 1:2-3,
Deuteronomy 28:1-2)
10. The Word of God strengthens – The Word of God gives strength to the weak and tired on
the Christian journey (Psalm 119:28, Matthew 7:24-25). The Word of God helps you not
to faint, get tired, get discouraged or give up in the faith (Christian journey).
11. The Word of God guides and directs a man’s life, decisions, choices, way, etc. (Psalm
119:105). You can’t be committed to the Word and lose your way in life.
12. The Word of God can be trusted – The Word doesn’t lie (Psalm 89:34, Numbers 23:19,
2Corinthians 1:20)

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13. The Word of God is the source of all things (2Peter 1:3, Psalm 107:20). The Word can
give you all that you need in life i.e. healing (repair, replace, restore and recreate),
blessing, long life, etc.
14. The Word of God is life. The Word can give life and can restore life (John 6:63, Ezekiel
37:1-end)
15. The Word of God is food for the spirit of man (Matthew 4:4, Luke 4:4). When we read
and listen to the Word, we feed our spirit man.
16. The Word of God is the power of God and the source of God’s power (Romans 1:16).
Spending time with or in the Word of God empowers you.

WHAT SHOULD I DO TO BENEFIT FROM THE WORD OF GOD?

1. Read/Study the Word of God (Revelation 1:3, 2Timothy 2:15). Also read Word-rich
books and articles.
2. Listen to the Word of God (Revelation 1:3). This can either be in church during a sermon,
on television, on the phone or on the radio.
3. Meditate on the Word of God (Joshua 1:8, Psalm 1:2, Psalm 119:15)
4. Believe the Word of God
5. Act on the Word of God (Deuteronomy 28:1-2, James 1:22)
6. Confess the Word of God. Speak the Word to yourself and to situations.
7. Preach/Teach the Word of God (Matthew 5:19, 1Timothy 4:11)

POST LESSON DISCUSSION

1. Do you own a copy of the Bible?
2. What other names are used for the Bible both in the Bible and around the world today?
3. How many versions of the Bible do you know? Which one is your favorite and why?

ASSIGNMENT
1. How can you rate your Bible study life? Tick the correct answer:
o I have no desire to read the Bible.
o I don’t read my Bible at all
o I read my Bible once in a while
o I read a few verses a day
o I read one chapter a day
o I read two to five chapters a day
o I read more than five chapters a day

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2. Have you ever read the entire Bible? Tick the correct answer:
o I have not even started reading the Bible
o I have read the entire new testament
o I have read the new testament more than once
o I have read the entire new testament and a portion of the old testament
o I have read the entire Bible once
o I have read the entire Bible one to five times
o I have read the entire Bible more than five times
3. Would you love a Bible reading plan to finish your Bible this year? Which of the plans
would you love? Tick the correct answer
o 3 months Bible reading plan to read the entire Bible in 3 months
o 4 months Bible reading plan to read the entire Bible in 4 months
o 6 months Bible reading plan to read the entire Bible in 6 month
o 12 months Bible reading plan to read the entire Bible in 12 months (1 year)
o 24 months Bible reading plan to read the entire Bible in 24 months (2 years)

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 LESSON 6
ELEMENTS OF SPIRITUAL GROWTH II – PRAYER
MEMORY VERSE: Luke 18:1;
“And he spake a parable unto them to this end, that men ought always to pray, and not to
faint;”

PRE-LESSON DISCUSSION
1. What do you understand by prayer?
2. Have you ever prayed before? What prompted you to pray?
Introduction: Prayer is an important practice in your walk with God. When prayer is
developed as a habit in the believer’s life, he/she will experience dramatic blessings and
spiritual progress. Prayer can be defined basically as communication with God. When you
discuss with God by faith and in the name of Jesus Christ, you are praying.

SEVEN RESULTS OF PRAYER

1. Prayer makes our relationship with God to become much more real and personal.
(Matthew22:37, John 17:3)
2. Prayer makes us experience ever-deepening holiness and life transformation. Prayer
improves or changes the man that prays (Exodus 34:29)
3. Prayer makes us to produce holy and lasting disciples (John 15:16, Galatians 4:19)
4. Prayer makes our ability to clearly hear God‘s voice to rise dramatically (James 1:5;
Jeremiah29:13).
5. Prayer makes the spiritual power of our life and ministry to increase greatly (John 14:12-
14; Acts 1:8, Isaiah 40:29-31). When we wait on God in prayer, spiritual strength is
birthed!
6. Prayer empowers us to withstand trials, temptations, and spiritual
attacks (Matthew 26:40-41, 2 Corinthians 10:3-5, Proverbs 24:10).
7. As we learn to effectively pray for the lost, we will see many people saved (Romans
10:1).
8. Prayer brings results, blessings, revival and spiritual awakening in our lives, families,
churches, city, and nation (Matthew 7:7-8, Ezekiel 22:30).

THE THREE BASIC TYPES OF PRAYER (Matthew 6:9-13)

1. Adoration, Praise, Thanksgiving and Worship at the beginning and end of your prayers
(Psalms 100:1-5; 22:3; 50:23; 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18; Hebrews 13:15)
2. Confession of sins and Repentance (Psalms 6:18; 139:23-24; 24:3-5; 51:6-10; Proverbs
28:13; 1 John 1:9; Matthew 5:23; 6:14). Open up to God at the place of prayers, confess
your sins to Him and receive forgiveness by faith. If He lays something in your heart to
confess to someone or to do, do so. It is important to note that, you have to forgive others

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 to find forgiveness for your own sins too (Mark 11:25-26, Matthew 5:7, Luke 6:36,
2Samuel 22:26)
3. Asking and declaring (Petition, Supplication, intercession and warfare). In praying, we
should make specific requests to God. For example, if you are praying for someone,
mention the person’s name if you know it. Make requests of exactly what you want God
to do (John 15:7; Philippians 4:6-7; Hebrews 4:15-16, Ezekiel 22:30; 2 Corinthians 10:3-
5; Ephesians 6:10-17). Also, we are to declare the word of God to situations, rebuke and
bind forces at the place of prayer (Matthew 21:21-22, Mark 11:23-24, Luke 11:21-22,
Mark 3:27)

SOME RULES ON PRAYER

1. Prayer should be in the name of Jesus Christ (Philippians 2:9-11, Mark 16:17, John
14:13-14, John 15:16, John 16:23-26)
2. Prayer should be daily (Matthew 6:11, 1Thesalonians 5:17, Psalm 55:16-17). Resolve to
pray every day, no matter what.
3. Prayer should be quantitative. That is, create enough time for prayer (Luke 6:12, Matthew
26:39-40). It’s good to discipline yourself and pray for several minutes or several hours as
your strength can bear. Don’t exaggerate it. At times, take retreats of prayers.
4. Prayer should be qualitative. That is, it should be fervent, passionate, effective, heartfelt
and consistent (James 5:16b-18, Luke 22:44).
5. Adding fasting to prayers can increase the results and impact of your prayers (Matthew
17:11, Isaiah 58:5-11)
6. Prayer should proceed with a clear conscience (Isaiah 59:1-2, Proverbs 28:9, Psalm
66:18). Sin destroys boldness at the place of prayer and hinders results in prayers
(Proverbs 28:1, Luke 18:13). Therefore, it is important to ask God for forgiveness at the
beginning of your prayer before proceeding to make requests to God. Also ensure you
have asked forgiveness from those you sinned against (Matthew 5:23-24).
7. If you are baptized in the Holy Spirit, spend a great deal of your prayer time praying in
the Holy Spirit (i.e. in tongues). It builds your faith, generating a lot of spiritual power
within you (Jude 1:20, 1Corinthians 14:4). Praying in the Holy Spirit is your spirit
praying directly to God without your understanding, helping you to pray for things that
you do not necessarily know (1Corinthians 14:2, 14-15).

HINDRANCES TO PRAYER
1. Sin (Isaiah 59:1-2, Psalm 66:18, Proverbs 28:9, 13). Living in sin hinders prayers and
closes heavens over you. Always maintain a clear conscience before God.
2. Lack of faith (Hebrews 11:6, Mark 11:24, James 1:6-8). If you don’t believe what you are
praying, it makes God unhappy and also causes Him not to answer your prayer. Faith in
prayer is to be confident in God that He will hear and answer your prayers (1Corinthians
1:9, 1Thessalonians 5:24).
3. Not being specific in the requests made to God (James 4:3). We are to be specific on what
we want God to do for us.

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4. Not praying in the will of God or according to scriptures (1John 5:14). Our prayers are
powerful when they are based on the Word of God.
N/B: You must also exercise patience when asking something from God. God
answers prayers in His time (1Peter 5:6). God can also refuse to answer a prayer that
is against His plan for you (Jeremiah 29:11, 1Kings 19:1-8).
5. Not persisting in prayers (Luke 18:1-8, Matthew 7:7, Luke 11:5-10). Even when we seem
not to see the results of our prayers, God expects us to keep praying until we see the
results of our prayers. Persistence can cause God to answer us speedily.

POST LESSON DISCUSSION

1. Have you ever prayed for something and saw the answers? What was your reaction?
2. Have you prayed for something and didn’t see the answers? What was your reaction?
3. Have you received the baptism of the Holy Spirit? If No, do you desire to be baptized in
the Holy Spirit? (Mark 16:17-18, 1Corinthians 14:5a, Acts 2:1-4, 38-39, Acts 10:44-46)
4. Is it possible to fail to pray? What should you do in such circumstances? Tick one answer:
o Decide not to pray you again
o Repent and create a catch up or better still just proceed praying the next day,
knowing that failing to pray is normal with humans.
o Condemn yourself because you are a failure.
5. What are some consequences of NOT praying consistently that you have faced?
6. What is your view on prayer? Answer YES or NO (Hebrews 4:16, 2Corinthians 12:
o It’s an avenue of communication with my Father ………………
o It’s an avenue to ONLY ask things from God …………………
o Worshipping God is not prayer ……………………
o Loud prayers are not good. We should only pray in our hearts and in a low
tune (Hebrews 4:16) ………………………
o All our neighbors need to know that we are men of prayer by praying loudly in
the night and disturbing the neighborhood ………………
o Prayer can be loud, in the heart or with a low tune depending on the
environment we find ourselves …………………..
o We should desire praying in tongues ……………….
o Praying only in tongues is NOT prayer ……………….
o We should pray in tongues and in known words …………………..
o We shouldn’t pray in tongues in church since no one understands us……..
o There are places we shouldn’t pray there, no matter the kind of prayer……
o I need to brag about how long I pray every day ………………
o Prayer is competition. Pray not because you love God, but because you want
to be known as the prayer machine of your church….
o At the place of prayer, I ought to see God as a Father and not as a deity that
needs rituals or sacrifices…..

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ASSIGNMENT
1. How can you grade your prayer life? Tick one
o It is below average ……….
o It is average ………………
o It is above average………...
o It is good…………………..
o It is excellent……………....
2. Can everyone pray? Which prayer can a sinner pray and God accepts him? (Proverbs
28:9, Proverbs 1:28-29)
3. When you look back at the last few days, was there a day you didn’t pray? What do you
think was the reason? (Tick the right answer or add your own answer.
a. I don’t know how to pray f. I over ate before sleeping
b. I didn’t feel like praying g. I just felt lazy
c. I didn’t see a need to pray h. I felt it was a waste of time
d. There wasn’t enough time i. Other reasons, list them.
e. I overslept
4. The Bible teaches some important lessons in prayer. Read the following verses and fill in
each blank with the correct word.
a. According to Luke 18:1-8, we should_______________________________
(persist, resist, desist) in prayers.
b. By following Jesus’ example, according to john 17:9-19, we should pray for
_____________ (others, the impossible, only our own interests)
c. According to 1John 5:14-15, we should pray in God’s____________ (direction,
language, will)
5. According to Luke 18:1, prayer is optional for the believer. YES or NO

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 LESSON 7
ELEMENTS OF SPIRITUAL GROWTH III– FELLOWSHIP (ATTENDING
CHURCH MEETINGS/SERVICES)
MEMORY VERSE: Hebrews 10:25;
“Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is;…”

PRE-LESSON DISCUSSION
1. According to you, what is a church?
2. Is going to church necessary? Must we go to church to serve God?
3. If we stay home and read our Bibles and pray, can we not also grow spiritually? What if
we do so with just our families, is it not enough?

Introduction: The issue of church attendance has been an issue of debate for the past decades.
There are believers who value church attendance while there are others who take it casually
and only attend church when they feel free or idle. As controversial as this issue is, the value
of church attendance cannot be overemphasized.

WHAT IS A CHURCH?
A church in real sense refers to the gathering/group of believers. When believers gather in a
place, that gathering is called a Church. To avoid ambiguity, it is not wrong to refer to the
place which has been officially recognized as a place of gathering of believers as a church. So
both the official place (building) and the gathering can be called a church.

IMPORTANCE OF CHURCH MEETINGS/SERVICES

1. Church meetings are avenues where we can experience God’s tangible presence and open
Heavens (Genesis 28:16-17, Matthew 18:20, Hebrews 12:22-25). It is the place of sure
divine encounter. The church is that sure place where you can enjoy the freshness of
God’s presence. There are certain atmospheres of God that can only be experienced in the
church.
2. Church meetings are avenues for cooperate joy and celebration. (Psalm 122:1, Psalm
95:2, Isaiah 61:3). It is the place where believers unanimously celebrate God and express
joy! The spirit of heaviness and sadness is often arrested in Church (Revelation 21:4).
3. Church meetings are avenues where your faith and spiritual life grows (Psalm 84:7). The
church is a sure place for spiritual revival and vitalization. It is the place where your
spiritual life can be awakened and your faith strengthened.
4. Church meetings are avenues where we gain understanding, instruction, correction and
encouragement (Psalm 73:17, 1Corinthians 14:26, Proverbs 27:17)
5. Church meetings are avenues of supernatural manifestations of healings, miracles and
deliverance (Obadiah 1:17)

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6. Church meetings are avenues of character transformation and maintenance (Obadiah
1:17, Hebrews 10:25-26)
7. Church meetings are avenues of love and fellowship (Acts 2:42, 46). In church we share
love, fellowship with one another. Oh what joy!

WHAT SHOULD BE YOUR ATTITUDE TOWARDS CHURCH MEETINGS?

1. Refuse to absent church regularly. Avoid excessive excuses for absenting Church.
Coming to church should be among your priorities as a disciple of Jesus Christ.
2. Come to church with expectation.
3. Come to Church on time. Avoid the habit of always coming late to Church.
4. Contribute positively to the love, warmth and fellowship in the Church. Greet people in
church, interact, show love, etc.
5. Contribute to the growth and progress of the Church. Participate in cooperate work,
giving, praying, ministering etc.
6. Be committed to service in the Church. Be involved in several forms of service in the
Church e.g. choir ministration, cleaning the church, preaching, coordinating, ushering,
etc.
7. Come with your Bible, pen and notebook to Church for note-taking and scripture
reading/reference. While in church, open to the passage quoted and read from your Bible.
Take notes when the message is going on. If you can’t read or write, still bring your Bible
to church, but pay attention to the sermon since you can’t write.
8. Participate actively in Church especially during question and answer sessions.
9. Come to Church with your offerings and tithes. That is proof that you are a responsible
Christian (disciple of Christ).
10. Avoid being distracted in the church. Do not engage in unnecessary discussions with your
neighbor or continuously move in and out of the church for no tangible reasons.
11. Develop the habit of regularly inviting or coming along with people to Church meetings.
12. Advertize your church and church meetings to others. Speak well of your church around
your community.
13. Represent Christ well in your community so as not to tarnish the image of your church.
This will cause those around you to wish to come to your church.
14. Talk well of your pastor in the community. Cover your pastor’s weaknesses to the
community even when you know them.

POST LESSON DISCUSSION

1. What in your opinion causes people to absent church meetings regularly?
2. What do you think can be done to motivate people to come to church apart from the
points above? What will be your role in your suggestion?
3. Do you have a Bible, a jotter and a pen? Present them. If not, do well to get them by next
class.

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ASSIGNMENT
1. How can you rate your church attendance?
o Very irregular (once a month) ……………….
o Irregular (once a week) …………………….
o Regular (twice a week) …………………….
o Very regular (at least thrice a week) ………………..
2. How can you rate your punctuality to church meetings?
o I am always very late (more than 15mins late) ………………….
o I am always late (less than 15mins late)………………………..
o I am always punctual (around the starting time 2mins earlier or two minutes
late)…………………
o I am always very punctual (more than 2mins early)………………..
o I am more late than I am early or punctual………………….
o I am more early or punctual than I am late…………………
3. Read Ephesians 4:12-14 carefully and answer YES or NO. The church should be a
place where we:
 are built up…………….  come and play …………….
 are nurtured…………………  come to look for life
 are discouraged……………... partners…………….
 are taught…………………  come to collect miracles
 enjoy being with other ONLY…
believers…………………  attend ONLY on Christmas
 are equipped to work for days or crossover nights or
Jesus………………. crusades…………........
 we come to look for husbands  we attend when we have
or wives………………… nothing doing……..

4. What are some resolutions/commitments concerning your regularity in church

attendance from now forward? How will you do to achieve this?

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 LESSON 8
PERSECUTION
MEMORY VERSE: 2Timothy 3:12
“Yea, and all that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution.”

PRE-LESSON DISCUSSION
1. Have you ever faced any unkind treatment or maltreatment from others because of your
faith? Share your experience.
2. What was the impression of your friends when they learnt that you are now born again?
What about your parents? What about your spouse? What about your loved ones?

Introduction: Persecution refers to the affliction or sufferings that Christians go through

because of their faith in Jesus Christ, especially from unbelievers. Persecution dates back
right to the Old Testament where God’s prophets were persecuted for preaching the message
of God or for standing with God. These sufferings or afflictions can range from being
persecuted for preaching the gospel, identifying with Christ, engagement in certain Christian
practices like praying or identifying with a part of the body of Christ (a Church).

THINGS TO NOTE ABOUT PERSECUTION

1. Jesus Christ was persecuted (John 15:18, 20). Jesus, the author of the faith was persecuted
too. This should give us a sense of confidence.
2. The Saints and servants of God in scripture were also persecuted (Matthew 5:12,
1Corinthians 4:12, 1Thesalonians 2:13-15). Present day Christians are not the first to
suffer persecution. Persecution has always been the fate of all those who identify
themselves with the true Christ.
3. All believers shall suffer persecution (2Timothy 3:12, Luke 21:12, John 15:19-20)
4. Persecution is part of God’s purpose for us (1Thesalonians 3:3, 1Peter 4:17)
5. Persecution is a blessing (Matthew 5:10-11, Luke 6:22)
6. Persecution shall be rewarded, if we don’t compromise (Matthew 5:10-12, Mark 10:29-
30, Revelation 2:10-11)
7. Persecution can lead to death. So, the believer should be willing and ready to die for
his/her faith in Christ Jesus (Matthew 24:9, acts 7:54-60, Matthew 23:34-35)

WHAT SHOULD BE MY ATTITUDE IN THE MIDST OF PERSECUTION

1. Endure, with patience and faith (Mark 13:13, 2Thessalonians 1:4, 2Timothy 2:3)
2. Strengthen your relationship and love for God (Romans 8:35, Luke 6:22). Your love for
God is a major asset in the midst of persecution. Ensure it doesn’t die.
3. Be prayerful, and stick closer and deeper in the Word of God (Matthew 13:21, Proverbs
24:10, Isaiah 40:29-31)

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4. Don’t fight back, instead, bless and show love to those persecuting you (Matthew 5:44,
Romans 12:14)
5. Be encouraged by the testimonies of other saints (Proverbs 27:17, Hebrews 11:36-38,
2Corinthians 11:23-27)
6. Be close to encouragement by seeking counsel from older, mature believers and by
coming to Church. Nevertheless focus on Christ for comfort and encouragement, not man
(Hebrews 12:2-3, Hebrews 13:3)
7. Maintain sound character, so that your persecution won’t be justified with evildoing
(Matthew 5:16, Titus 2:7-8, 1Peter 4:14-17). Don’t suffer for wrongdoing. That won’t be
persecution.
8. Ask God for wisdom and behave yourself wisely. There are times you will have to run.
There are times you will have to hide and come to church especially when your faith is
not yet strong (James 1:2-7, Matthew 10:23, Luke 4:28-30, Matthew 10:19, Acts 23:6-10)
9. Beware of compromise and backsliding. No matter what, don’t give up your faith, beliefs
or Christian virtues (Acts 20:22, Acts 21:10-13, 2Corinthians 4:16, 2Peter 2:20-22)
10. Rejoice (Matthew 5:12, Acts 5:40-41, Peter 4:12-13). Avoid being angry or grumbling
against your persecutors, other saints, your pastor or even against Jesus.
11. Don’t be ashamed (2Timothy 1:8,12; Romans 1:16, Matthew 10:32-33, Mark 8:38, Luke
9:26)
12. Trust in the grace of God to go through (2Corinthians 12:9-10).
13. Give glory to God (1Peter 4:16)

FORMS OF PERSECUTION
Persecutions against believers in the Lord Jesus Christ can breakout in many forms which
include:
1. Rejection (Luke 6:22)
2. Insults (Luke 6:22)
3. Mockeries (Luke 6:22)
4. False accusations (Luke 11:14-15)
5. Name calling (Luke 6:22, Matthew 10:25)
6. Maltreatments and discrimination (Matthew 10:16-18)
7. Evil speaking (1Peter 4:14)
8. Denial of responsibility over you. Your parents can refuse to take care of you in school,
or at home, etc. (Psalm 27:10)
9. Beating/slapping (Acts 16:23, Acts 23:1-2)
10. Imprisonment (Acts 16:23)
11. Death (Acts 7:54-60), etc.

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POST-LESSON DISCUSSION
1. Can persecution also spring up from the Church? (2Timothy 4:14-18)
2. What will happen to your faith during persecution if it was anchored on the pastor or any
other spiritual leader instead of Christ?
3. Is Jesus happy when men draw back during persecution according to this scripture
(Hebrews 10:38)? What will happen to such people if they go back into living their
normal lives without Christ? (Luke 9:62, 2Peter 2:20)

ASSIGNMENT
1. What are some errors you made when you were being persecuted?
2. How did you go through the difficult persecuting times of your life?
3. How were you treated when you were being persecuted? List a few.
4. When you think of persecution, what comes to your mind? Answer YES or NO honestly.
 Christianity is frustration  I will tell lies when my faith is
 I won’t come to church again questioned
 I’m not sure I will love to serve  I’m willing to die for Jesus
God anymore  Jesus will never allow what is
 I’m afraid more than me to bear to come
 It is a risk not worth taking to my way
serve Jesus Christ.  Christianity is a tough race
 I will hide the fact that I am a  I Know God will see me
Christian through even in the midst of
fierce persecutions.
5. Do you feel persecution will someday end in this world? Do you feel the earth will one
day get better and everyone will just serve God? (Matthew 24:12, 2Timothy 3:1-5,
1Timothy 4:1-2, 1Corinthians 7:31, 1John 2:17)

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