Discipleship Academy: A Pathway Towards Spiritual Growth and Maturity

Purpose and Mission In Matthew 28, we are told by our Lord and Savior to "go and make disciples from all nations, [1] baptizing them . . . and [2] teaching them" all of God's commandments. In Colossians 2, 2 Peter 1, and elsewhere, we are admonished to grow in the Lord and to know God better. Our purpose, therefore, for the Discipleship Academy is to help congregations to fulfill the Great Commission by making new Christians [i.e., doing evangelism] and by "growing" and "developing" mature followers of Christ [who become mature disciple-makers]. Our mission is to help individuals to have a personal, healthy, growing, and 'salvific' relationship with God. How? The Discipleship Academy first identifies those principles found in the Scripture that outline what a mature Christian or Disciple should exhibit in character, knowledge, and action and in his or her relationship with the Lord and with others. (See the list of Scriptural passages below.) Second, it organizes a curriculum around these principles as its foundation. Third, it structures the sequencing of its curriculum following principles of learning outlined in developmental, sociological, gestalt, and information processing theories of education: that is, we arrange and appropriately scaffold those principles hierarchically and strategically. Fourth, it utilizes recent advances in andragogy, developmental and critical literacy, disciplinary literacy, cross-cultural and contrastive rhetoric, and second language acquisition, including the latest, post-secondary research on increasing students' retention and graduation rates. Fifth, it provides accountability for the congregation, the mentors and teachers, the learners (i.e., the disciples), and ministerial staff as they seek to fulfill their responsibilities to God and to one another. Sixth and last, it allows for individuation and flexibility since the curriculum is concept-centered and principle-centered. The goal here is not to teach or learn the curriculum or to obtain certification; the goal is to help individuals "hear, see, think, and enact" the principles and concepts that are fundamental in all mature Christians as defined in Scripture. The goal here is to ensure that members are growing in Christ and that leaders are "qualified" and "called" to serve. Consequently, one's employment of an Academy should include options for obtaining certification and credit that will allow for flexibility and accountability: (1) Successful Completion of the Required Courses (2) Examination and Testing (in person or online) (3) Equivalency Certification (Transcript and Syllabus Review) The Discipleship Academy with its structured curriculum or pathway is simply a tool for the Holy Spirit to use to fulfill God's purpose for and through us. We pray that it will allow each congregation to be more accountable to God and to itself by providing benchmarks for its "Discipleship" making goals and objectives: creating disciples who are disciple-makers themselves-the definition of maturity. Character Traits and Habits of Mature, Godly Persons 1. 1 Corinthians 13--Love [the Greatest Gift of the Spirit] is . . . i. Patient viii. Not Easily Angered ii. Kind ix. Keeps No Record of Wrong iii. Not Envious x. Does Not Delight in Evil iv. Not Boastful xi. Rejoices With the Truth v. Not Pride-filled xii. Protective vi. Not Rude xiii. Trusting/Not Suspicious vii. Not Self-Seeking xiv. Hopeful/Positive xv. Persistent/Not a quitter 2. Ephesians 4:17 - 5:20: Living the New or Regenerated Life i. Christ-like attitude ix. Compassionate ii. Righteous x. Forgiving iii. Holy (Pure, Set Apart) xi. Sacrificial iv. Truthful xii. Worshipful v. Controlled xiii. Wise vi. Industrious xiv. Humble (Cf. Num. 11:26-30) vii. Generous xv. Truth Seeker viii. Encouraging 3. Galatians 5:22-26: Shows and Demonstrates the FRUIT of the SPIRIT i. Love/Loving vi. Goodness/Good ii. Joy/Joy filled vii. Faithfulness/Faithful iii. Peace/Person of Peace viii. Gentleness/Gentle iv. Patience/Patient ix. Self-control v. Kindness/Kind 4. 1 Thessalonians 4:1-12: Sanctified and Loving Behavior i. Sanctified (Set Apart for Immorality) iv. Industrious ii. Quiet or Contented v. Independent/Inter-dependent iii. Respect for others' boundaries vi. Knowledgeable of the Faith 5. 1 John 1:5-10; 2:15-17; 3:18-20; 4:1-5:21 (Cf. James) i. Acknowledges the Mercy of God v. Not in Love with this World and Possessions ii. Humble and Submissive to God vi. Able to Discern Truth from Error iii. Truth and Spirit filled vii. Prayerful iv. Obedient to God's Commands viii. Confident of His or Hers Own Salvation v. Visibly Loving of "All" Others ix. Free of Habitual Sins (Cf. 3 John 11) 6. Discipleship Oriented (Demonstrated Ability to Share, Defend and/or Suffer for the Gospel) i. Matthew 28:18-20 iii. 1 Peter 3:14-16 ii. 2 Timothy 2:24; Titus 1:8-11 iv. 2 Peter 3:14-18 (Cf. Numbers 1:53) 7. Has More Than an Elementary Knowledge of Christian Truths (Hebrews 5:11-6:3) i. Does What is Right v. Knows the Basics and More-- ii. Knows Right from Wrong (a) Rejection of Work Righteousness iii. Able to Teach (b) Acceptance of Faith in God iv. Knowledgeable of the Purpose (c) Understanding of "Baptism" or Symbolism of the Old Covenant (d) Understanding of "Laying on of Hands" (e) Understanding of "Resurrection" (f) Understanding of "Eternal Judgment" A Narrative Description of Spiritual Maturity or Psychospiritual Wholeness: (Gangel & Wilhoit, 1993) Psychospiritual Wholeness. The existing literature on spiritual and psychological health suggests that the following qualities seem to characterize the psychospiritually whole person: a strong religious faith commitment expressed both individually and corporately; the ability to resist silencing or pressures to conform; a small circle of intimate friends; a deep appreciation of God's handiwork; the ability to generate novel solutions to problems (i.e., creativity); self-acceptance and openness to others; the desire and the ability to confront others openly, directly, and honestly; a good balance between the rational and the emotional; involvement in helping those less fortunate than oneself; interdependence; good decision-making ability; a tolerance for ambiguity in life; a high level of moral development; and a belief that one's actions make a difference and that one is not the victim of forces beyond one's control. These criteria should be undergirded by a clearly articulated and well-formulated Christian worldview. Probably no one meets these criteria all the time. We are limited by our own finiteness, fallenness, and humanness. Spiritual maturity, not unlike psychological normality, is perhaps best viewed as a batting average (i.e., nobody can bat a 1.000 for an entire season). While we can reasonably expect that a deeply internalized faith commitment will enhance a person's well-being, we cannot expect Christians to become fully self-actualized or sanctified (McLemore, 1982). The doctrine of sin implies the impossibility of such perfection. That alone should make us cautious in making strong judgments about the character of others. Rather, our energies should be geared toward creating opportunities and settings in which spiritual growth and development can be maximized and regression or stagnation can be minimized (see Ortberg, 1995). The skillful administration of grace and truth by discerning and nurturing Christian communities and their individual representatives have an important part in the process of growing more fully developed Christians. References Fowler, J. (1981). Stages of faith. San Francisco: Harper & Row. Gangel, K., & Wilhoit, J. (Eds.). (1993). The Christian educator's handbook of adult education. Wheaton, IL: Victor. Gangel, K., & Wilhoit, J. (Eds.). (1994). The Christian educator's handbook on spiritual formation. Wheaton, IL: Victor. Groeschel, B. (1992). Spiritual passages. New York: Crossroad. McLemore, C. W. (1982). The scandal of psychotherapy. Wheaton, IL: Tyndale House. Nouwen, H. J. (1972). The wounded healer. Garden City, NY: Doubleday. Oakland, J. (1974). Self-actualization and sanctification. Journal of Psychology and Theology, 2, 202-209. Ortberg, J. (1995). Rethinking the kingdom of God: The work of Dallas Willard and some applications to psychotherapeutic practice. Journal of Psychology and Christianity, 4, 306-317. Strunk, O. (1965). Mature religion. New York: Abingdon. 100 Foundations of Christianity: New Members Orientation (Certificate Provided) This is the first sequence of the foundational course for all students: (1) for the person who wishes to explore the Christian faith, (2) for the new Christian who seeks to grow in Christ, and (3) for the seasoned Christian who is seeking to better equip himself or herself in making disciples of others. Prerequisites: None 101 Foundations of Christianity-Session One (Seven Weeks/Seven Hours) Session 1: The Gospel Basics-Part 1 1. What We Were Taught as a Child. 2. How to Apply the Basic Teachings to Adult Life and Experiences Session 2: The Gospel Basics--Part 2: The 3 Dimensions of the Cross and of Salvation (The Purposes of God's Saving Activities) 1. Vertical Dimension-Reconciliation Between God and Humanity 2. Horizontal Dimension-Reconciliation Among Humanity 3. Dimension of Depth-Christ Death as a Once and for All Time Sacrifice Session 3: The Gospel Basics-Part 3: The 2 Sides of Cross and of Salvation A (The Personal [Subjective] and the Universal [Objective] Aspects of Salvation) 1. What God Has and Is Doing: The Objective or Universal Side or Aspect 2. How We Can Respond: The Subjective or Personal Side or Aspect Session 4: The Gospel Basics-Part 4: The 2 Sides of Cross and of Salvation B 1. "What About Pagans?": How Salvation is Extended to Those Beyond the Reach or Hearing of Christians, Christian Missionaries and Evangelists 2. What About Those Who Reject the Gospel Because of Men's Inhumanity Towards Men Session 5: The Gospel Basics--Part 5a: Salvation and Its Implementation as God's Predestined Plan 1. Salvation as Prophesized by the Prophets in, and in the Promises of, the Old Testament Session 6: The Gospel Basics--Part 5b: Salvation and Its Implementation as God's Predestined Plan 2. Salvation as God's Foreordained and Predestined Plan (Old and New Testament) 3. How God's Omniscience and Our Personal Freedom Interact (Theology) Session 7: The Gospel Basics--Part 6: The Cost of Discipleship These courses can be co-registered and taken with those listed in 102 and 110 plus the 400-level courses below if the member has the time and energy to do both. Sessions 5-7 have yet to be developed. Pastors and lay facilitators can condense the relevant sections from Theological and Biblical commentaries into one-hour lessons: e.g., Bonhoeffer's Cost of Discipleship, Moon's Apprenticeship with Jesus, Willard's The Divine Conspiracy, or Piper's Desiring God for Session 7. 102 Foundations of Christianity-Session Two (7 Weeks/7 Hours) Session 1: Baptism--Part One 1. Five Biblical Metaphors for Baptisms 2. The Two Biblical Formulas for Baptism Session 2: Baptism--Part Two 1. The Etymology and Historical Development of the Word for Baptism 2. The Physical, Historical, and Biblical Evidence for The Historical and Biblical Meaning of the Word Baptism 3. The Forms of Baptism a. Sprinkling and Infant Baptism b. Immersion and Adult Baptism Session 3: Baptism--Part Three 1. The Theological Reasons for and against Infant Baptism Session 4: The Lord's Supper--Part 1 1: The Four Biblical Symbols and Metaphors for and behind the Lord's Supper Session 5: The Lord's Supper--Part 2 1. Common Names for the Bread and Wine and Their Biblical Sources 2. The Mystery of the Two Sequences for Communion 3. Psychological and Liturgical Considerations Session 6: The Lord's Supper--Part 3 1. The Original Understanding and Use of the Word Sacrament 2. Present Definitions and Usage of the Terms "Sacrament" and "Ordinances" a. Differences in the Number of Acts or Rituals (Two, Four or Seven) b. Lord's Supper as an Ordinance and as a Sacrament c. Differences in Sacramental Terminology for What Transpires after the Saying of the Words of Institution Session 7: The Lord's Supper--Part 4 1. Interpretive Theological Paradigms or Gestalts for the Lord's Supper a. Part 1: Medical versus Judicial (Forensic) Paradigms b. Part II: Different Understandings and Definitions of Symbols for the Elements c. Part III: Differences in the Understanding of the Theology of Grace i. Sacramentalist's Position on Grace and Its Efficaciousness ii. The Non-Sacramentalist's Theologies of Strong Grace 2. Problems with the Sacramental Viewpoint 3. Who Can Take Communion? 4. Study Conclusions These courses can be co-registered and taken with those listed in 101 above and 110 plus the 400-level courses below if the member has the time and energy to do both. 110 Foundations of Christianity--Part Two: New Members Orientation This is the second sequence of the foundational course for all students: (1) for the person who wishes to explore the Christian faith, (2) for the new Christian who seeks to grow in Christ, and (3) for the seasoned Christian who is seeking to better equip himself or herself in making disciples of others. Prerequisites: None Session 1: Discerning God's Will--Part One 1. The Purpose of Prayer a. Heart to Heart Communication with God i. Our Father (Matthew 6:5-14: The Lord's Prayer) ii. Luke 11:11-13 2. The Goal of Prayer-Becoming One with God in Heart, Mind, Body, and Experience a. Texts i. Not my will, but thy will be done ii. Luke 16:19-17:8 -- When you have done all the things you were ordered to do, say, "We are unworthy slaves; we have done what we were obligated to do." b. Christian Versus Non- Christian i. Acknowledging and Filling Our Minds with God versus Emptying Our Minds ii. Conscious Choice to Yield versus Willing iii. Fullness of God and All Things Noble versus Nothingness iv. Attachment to God versus an Attachment to Nothing 3. Conditions for Success a. Matthew 18:19 b. 2 Chronicles 7:14 c. Jeremiah 29:13 d. James 1:5-8; 4:2c-3; 5:15-16 e. 1 John 3:22 and Matthew 6:10 f. Proverbs 28:9 g. Psalm 66:18 h. Colossians 4:2 Session 2: Discerning God's Will--Part Two 1. Types of Prayers & Their Medical Benefits (from God the Evidence) a. Colloquial (How often do you ask God to provide guidance when making decisions?) -- Positive Physical Benefits b. Meditative (How often do you spend time just 'feeling' or being in the presence of God?) --Positive Physical Benefits c. Petition (How often do you ask God for material things that you need?) -- Negative Physical Benefits d. Ritual (How often do you read from a book of prayer?) -- Negative Physical Benefits 2. Five Steps to Discerning God's Will: Praying One's ABCD's a. Praying and Prayer b. Advice and Counsel c. Bible Study (lectio divina; inductive; and topical) d. Circumstances (Discerning the correct circumstance, situation, or time to act and move in faith-Wisdom or the Appropriate Application of One's Knowledge-including MMATE the Five (Method, Manner, Attitude, Timing, End.) e. Don't act hastily (Taken and Adapted from Dr. James Dobson's When God Doesn't Make Sense) Session 3: Discerning God's Will--Part Three: The Four Options & One Choice for Christian Living 1. The Four Options a. God Can Eliminate or Remove the Problem or Obstacle b. God Can Transform or Reform the Problem or Obstacle c. God Can Transform or Reform You d. God Can Remove You 2. The One Choice or Response: Letting God Choose the Options Session 4: Understanding "Church" (Preview of 150 and 152 below) 1. Nature-Out of What Is the Church Made? 2. Purpose and Function-What Is the Work of The Church? Session 5: Pastoral and Lay Leadership and Organization: Church Polity These courses can be co-registered and taken with those listed in 101, 102 above and 150 plus the 400-level courses below if the member has the time and energy to do both. 111 The Foundation for Christianity-Part Three: New Members Orientation (Certificate Provided) Rooted: Connect with God, the Church, Your Purpose by Kenton Beshore, Murlithi Wanjau, Peter Kasirivu, Samuel Metelus, Camille Ntoto, Esther Ntoto, Daniel Nunez, and Adrian De Visser. Irving, CA: Rooted Network, 2008. Rooted is a ten-week course modeled on the activities of the Acts 2 church where there were seven rhythms: Daily devotion, prayer, repentance, sacrificial generosity, serving the community, sharing your story, and worship. 150 The Foundation for Christian Growth 1 (Certificate Provided) Prerequisites: None Session 1. Personhood and Self-worth in Christ 1. Knowing What We Are a. The Image of God and Human Identity 2. Knowing Who God Is 3. Knowing Our Calling a. General Calling and Purpose b. Specific Calling and Purpose (1 Corinthians 12, Romans 12, Ephesians 4, 1 Peter 4) Session 2: Family & Work Responsibilities Session 3-14: Hearing God-Introduction to Spiritual Disciplines and Discipleship 10-11 1 to 1.5 Hour, Weekly Sessions Option One: Hearing God: Developing a Conversational Relationship with God by Dallas Willard Option Two: Experiencing God: Knowing and Doing the Will of God by Blackaby and King Option Three: 7 Steps to Knowing, Doing and Experiencing the Will of God: For Teens by Tom Blackaby, Daniel Blackaby, Mike Blackaby, and Lifeway Students Option Four: Seeking Him: Experience the Joy of Personal Revival by Nancy Demoss Wolgemuth and Tim Grissom Option Five: The Life You Always Wanted: Spiritual Disciplines for Ordinary People by John Ortberg These courses can be co-registered and taken with those listed in 102 and 110 above plus the 400-level courses below if the member has the time and energy to do both. 152 The Foundation for Christian Growth 2 (Certificate Provided) Prerequisites: 150 - The Foundation for Christian Growth 1 Pre-Evangelism: Understanding Evangelism as Discipleship and Growing More like Christ (12-14 weeks; 1 to 1.5 hours per week) Option One The Divine Conspiracy: Rediscovering Our Hidden Life in God by Dallas Willard Option Two: Fresh Encounter: God's Pattern for Spiritual Awakening by Anne Graham Lotz, Henry Blackaby; Richard Blackaby; and Claude V. King. 155 The Foundation for Christian Growth 3 (Certificate Provided) Prerequisites: 150 and 152 - The Foundation for Christian Growth 1 and 2 Personal and Relational Evangelism (8-10 weeks with 2 weeks of actual evangelism; 1 to 1.5 hours per week) Option One: Becoming a Contagious Christian by Mark Mittleberg and Lee Strobel Option Two: Becoming a Contagious Christian, Youth Edition: Communicating Your Faith in a Style That Fits You by Mark Mittleberg, Lee Strobel, Bill Hybels, and Bo Boshers Option Three: Lifestyle Evangelism, by Joe Aldrich Option Four: 3 Story: Preparing for Lifestyle Evangelism, by Dave Rahn Option Five: Conversational Evangelism: Connecting with People to Share Jesus by David Geisler and Norman Geisler Option Six: Christian Life and Witness Course, by Billy Graham Evangelistic Assoc. Option Seven: Evangelism that Works, by George Barna 160 Foundation for Spiritual Growth 4: Intermediate Spiritual Disciplines (Certificate Provided) (10-14 Sessions; 1 to 1.5 hours a week; for 10-14 weeks) Prerequisites: 150, 152, and 155 - The Foundation for Christian Growth 1 - 3 Option One: Celebration of Discipline" The Path to Spiritual Growth by Richard J. Foster, A Spiritual Formation Workbook by James Bryan Smith and Richard J. Foster and Streams of Living Water: Celebrating the great Traditions of Christian Faith by Richard Foster. Option Two: Complete Idiot's Guide to Prayer by Mark Galli and James Bell Jr. Option Three: The Spirit of the Disciplines and Renovation of the Heart by Dallas Willard, Renovation of the Heart in Daily Practice: Experiments in spiritual Transformation by Jan Johnson, and Revolution of Character: Discovering Christ's Pattern for Spiritual Transformation by Dallas Willard and Don Simpson. Option Four: Prayer and Listening by Jan Johnson These courses can be co-registered and taken with those listed in 152 and 155 above plus the 400-level courses below if the member has the time and energy to do both. If the member needs to drop one course it should be this one, not the previous. 161 Foundation for Spiritual Growth 5: Discipleship Basics Continued (Certificate Provided) Prerequisites: 150, 152, 155, and 160 - The Foundation for Christian Growth 1 - 4 Session 1: Resurrection of the Dead Session 2: Repentance from Dead Works Session 3: Laying on Hands Session 4: Faith Toward (Trust in) God Session 5: Eternal Judgment Session 8: Spiritual Gifts--An Introduction Session 9: Versions of the Bible Session 10: Tithing, Offerings, and the Use of Resources (i.e., Stewardship) Session 11: Worship Session 12-14: Interpretative Principles of Biblical Studies These courses can be co-registered and taken with any of the courses from 102 and higher if the member has the time and energy to do both-plus the 400 courses. 170 Intermediate Discipleship I: Biblical Inspiration, Authority, Reliability, Interpretation and Hermeneutics (Certificate Provided after Taking 171-179) This section is devoted to moving Christians from a 1st Naivete devotional reading of Scripture to a 2nd Naivete devotional reading and to answering four questions that are often a hurdle to achieving a 2nd Naivete Lectio Divina. There are five different, but related, questions that individuals ask and sometimes stumble over. These are as follows. 1. How Do I Know the Bible Is Inspired and Authoritative? 2. How Do I Know the Bible Was Preserved and Transmitted Correctly and Is Reliable? 3. How Do I Know Jesus Is the Messiah and the Fulfillment and Hope of the Old Testament? 4. How Do I Know Whether One Interpretation Is Better Than Another? 5. How Can I Know That God Is Speaking to Me Through the Scriptures? (This may be considered a special sub-category of question 1, but is best treated separately under the topic of the personal illumination of the Spirit and in connection with the use of the spiritual disciplines.) These questions must be answered by examining the process and methods of knowing and the reasons or sources from which those questions arise. Each of those questions is grounded in different questions about the Bible and different methods, practices, and approaches to Bible Study. They also involve the reality of how disciples are made and developed. We do not make or develop disciples explicitly anymore. Discipleship involves apprenticeship-like learning. Discipleship training must be explicit and experiential and hands-on. Reading the Bible or other ancient literature is not something that is usually taught in our elementary and secondary schools. It is sometimes falsely assumed that the Bible cannot be taught in a public school environment. The truth is that the Bible can be taught as literature just as classical texts from ancient Greece and Rome can be taught. It cannot be taught devotionally.) Consequently, in many places, it is not taught at all. And Americans are left to reading the Bible as a romance novel, historical fiction, or worse as a fairy tale. Many Americans are not taught how to read ancient, translated, non-fictional literature in its historical, linguistic, and sociological contexts. They will, therefore, apply what reading skills they have learned in primary and secondary education to the Bible. Consciously or unconsciously-explicitly or implicitly, modern individuals in our elementary and secondary schools are usually taught a version of "Reader-Response Criticism" where all literature and all interpretations of literature are considered to be mainly subjective-if not wholly subjective. They may have been taught that literature only has meaning because each individual reader brings that meaning or interpretation to the text and that, therefore, no one else's reading has more authority than one's own subjective reading of that literature. The author and the original audiences are not more privileged interpreters than the modern reader. As a result of this type of interpretation of literature, individuals will transfer these sets of ideals to their reading of Scripture. Informed with this "reader-response" understanding, they will read the Scriptures in the same way. Consequently, the original author and the author's own purposes and interpretations are not more important nor more authentic than the reader's own subjective experiences and interpretations. The author's historical and cultural setting and his or her community's social, historical, and linguistic environment and circumstances are not necessary to have an authentic interpretation of the text--as many primary and secondary educators teach. The original author and readers and their interpretations of the text are not more privileged than one's own subjective understanding influenced by one's own historical and cultural setting and social, historical, and linguistic environment. Congregations serious about making mature disciples must introduce the academic, linguistic, and historical-critical reading of Scripture as opposed to a subjective, personal, or serendipitous reading of Scripture based on such "reader-response" or subjective methods of reading literature. Just as most individuals would not privilege individualistic and subjective readings of medical texts, mechanical, engineering, physics texts, science texts, or legal texts over the critical and academic readings of those texts by the appropriate professionals or experts so too one should not privilege all individualistic and subjective readings of ancient, historical texts of which the Bible is one such text. Just as medical personnel are better at reading medical texts, medical equipment readouts and instrumentation, and lab results than the average individual when making medical diagnoses and prescribing medical remediations, and just as lawyers are better at reading legal texts and prescribing legal remediations and remedies than the average individual, and just as mechanics are better at reading mechanical texts, diagnostic equipment readouts, and assessing and remediating mechanical problems, so too are those who are properly trained in reading ancient, foreign, historical documents better at interpreting those documents and texts than the average individual. Fortunately, the average layperson can learn (through the Grace of God) how to properly interpret the Bible if they are willing to learn the critical and informational methods and approaches. This latter approach is for information: the academic, critical, and scholarly approach to Bible Study. The informational and critical approach provides the guardrails for driving our Christian interpretations. Specific Christian interpretations must be done after the critical, academic approach has informed us. The critical and academic approaches are the Biblical fences that define what is within the pail or bucket of orthodoxy-what is correct historically, culturally, and Biblically, what could be or is probably correct; and what is probably wrong or incorrect. Exegetical, Expository, and Topical Bible Studies are some of the informational and critical approaches. However, these are only the beginning of Bible Study; they are not the end goal of Christian Bible Study. These critical and academic approaches are informational and not relational. Informational Bible Study (i.e., the academic and scholarly approaches to Bible study) can be done by the unconverted and the unsaved individual. Informational Bible studies are useful for showing us the cultural and personal limitations of our readings of Scripture. They help to keep our personal views and cultural expectations out of our interpretations of the Bible. They help us to see when we are eisegeting the Scriptures, that is pouring into Scripture our personal experiences and modern or contemporary cultural ideas, expectations, social roles, and perceptual and cognitive categories onto the readers and writers of the ancient foreign texts that we call the Old and New Testaments. They show us what social and cultural expectations are historically and culturally appropriate for the time and culture of the original readers and writers. The end or goal of Bible Study for Christians, as opposed to non-Christians, is relational and contemplative. We come to and study the Bible to hear God speak to us and to aid us in our prayer or our communication or communing with God. We want to know God relationally and experientially through God's own revelation of God acting in and through history as recorded in the Scriptures, especially in the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ-Immanuel, God with us. We also want to experientially know, see, hear, and respond to God through our conversation with God (i.e., through prayer) and in our interaction with God as we see, experience, and cooperate with God here and now as we walk step-by-step each day. 171 Inspiration of Scripture (Book: Inspiration of Scriptures) Question 1. "How Do I Know the Bible Is Inspired and Authoritative?" Prerequisites: 150, 152, 155, 160, 161 - The Foundation for Christian Growth 1 - 5 Option 1: Achtemeier, P. J. 1998. Inspiration and Authority: Nature and Function of Christian Scripture. Grand Rapids, MI, USA: Baker Academic. Option 2: Bruce, F. F. 1988. The Canon of Scripture. Downers Grove, IL: Inter-Varsity Press. Option 3: Wright. N.T. 2005. Scripture and the Authority of God. London: Society for Promoting Christian Knowledge. Option 4: Bloesch, Donald G. 1994. Holy Scripture: Revelation, Inspiration, and Interpretation. Downers Grove, IL: InterVarsity P. Option 5: Geisler, Norman L., and William E. Nix. 1986. A General Introduction to the Bible. Rev. and expanded. Chicago: Moody Press. 172 The Textual and Historical Reliability of the Old Testament Question 2a. "How Do I Know the Bible Was Preserved and Transmitted Correctly and Is Reliable?" Prerequisites: 150, 152, 155, 160, 161 - The Foundation for Christian Growth 1 - 5 171 - Intermediate Discipleship I. Kitchen, K. A. 2006. On the Reliability of the Old Testament. Grand Rapids, MI; Cambridge, U.K.: Eerdmans P. Supplements Wegner, Paul D. 2006. A Student's Guide to Textual Criticism of the Bible: Its History, Methods, and Results. Downers Grove, IL: InterVarsity P. McDowell, Josh, and Sean McDowell. 2017. Evidence That Demands a Verdict: Life-Changing Truth for a Skeptical World. Nashville: Thomas Nelson P. McDowell, Josh. 2015. God-Breathed: The Undeniable Power and Reliability of Scripture. Uhrichsville, OH: Shiloh Run Press. Sproul, R. C. 2017. Can I Trust the Bible?, vol.2. The Crucial Questions Series. Orlando, FL: Reformation Trust: A Division of Ligonier Ministries. Harris, R. Laird. 2002. Exploring the Basics of the Bible. Wheaton, IL: Crossway Books. Geisler, Norman L., and William E. Nix. 1986. A General Introduction to the Bible. Rev. and expanded. Chicago: Moody Press. 173 The Textual and Historical Reliability of and New Testament (Certificate Provided) Question 2b. "How Do I Know the Bible Was Preserved and Transmitted Correctly and Is Reliable?" Prerequisites: 150, 152, 155, 160, 161 - The Foundation for Christian Growth 1 - 5 171-172 - Intermediate Discipleship I. Option 1: Bruce, F. F. 2003. The New Testament Documents: Are They Reliable? Grand Rapids, MI; Cambridge, U.K.: Eerdmans P. Option 2: Evans, Craig A. 2014. NT308 The Reliability of New Testament Manuscripts. Logos Mobile Education. Bellingham, WA: Lexham P. Supplements Wegner, Paul D. 2006. A Student's Guide to Textual Criticism of the Bible: Its History, Methods, and Results. Downers Grove, IL: InterVarsity P. McDowell, Josh, and Sean McDowell. 2017. Evidence That Demands a Verdict: Life-Changing Truth for a Skeptical World. Nashville: Thomas Nelson P. McDowell, Josh. 2015. God-Breathed: The Undeniable Power and Reliability of Scripture. Uhrichsville, OH: Shiloh Run Press. Sproul, R. C. 2017. Can I Trust the Bible?, vol.2. The Crucial Questions Series. Orlando, FL: Reformation Trust: A Division of Ligonier Ministries. Harris, R. Laird. 2002. Exploring the Basics of the Bible. Wheaton, IL: Crossway Books. Geisler, Norman L., and William E. Nix. 1986. A General Introduction to the Bible. Rev. and expanded. Chicago: Moody Press. 174 Messianic Prophecies in the Old Testament and Their Fulfilment (Certificate Provided) Question 3. "How Do I Know Jesus Is the Messiah and the Fulfillment and Hope of the Old Testament?" Most Study Bibles have a chart, list of or summary Bible Study for the Messianic Prophecies fulfilled by Jesus in the New Testament. These may be used as one option if they are extensive enough. Prerequisites: 150, 152, 155, 160, 161 - The Foundation for Christian Growth 1 - 5 171-173 - Intermediate Discipleship I. Achtemeier, Elizabeth and Paul Achtemeier. 1994. The Old Testament Roots of Our Faith. Peabody, MA: Hendrickson Pub. Other Resources Parks, Jimmy. 2021. Messianic Prophecy in the Bible. Faithlife Biblical and Theological Lists. Bellingham, WA: Faithlife. Rydelnik, Michael, and Edwin Blum. 2019. The Moody Handbook of Messianic Prophecy. Chicago: Moody Pub. Brown, Michael L. 2003. Answering Jewish Objections to Jesus: Messianic Prophecy Objections-Volume Three. Grand Rapids, MI: Baker Pub. 175 How to Interpret the Bible Critically Question 4. "How Do I Know Whether One Interpretation Is Better Than Another?" Prerequisites: 150, 152, 155, 160, 161 - The Foundation for Christian Growth 1 - 5 171-174 - Intermediate Discipleship I. Option 1: Zuck, Roy B. 1991. Basic Bible Interpretation: A Practical Guide to Discovering Biblical Truth. Colorado Springs, CO: David C. Cook. Option 2: Bock, Darrell L. 2014. BI100 Learn to Study the Bible. Logos Mobile Education. Bellingham, WA: Lexham Press. Option 3: Fee, Gordon D., and Douglas K. Stuart. 1993. How to Read the Bible for All Its Worth. 3rd ed. Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan Publishing House. Option 4: Water, Mark. 1998. Bible Study Made Easy. Alresford, Hampshire: John Hunt Publishers Ltd. Option 5: Barry, John D. et al., eds. 2014. DIY Bible Study. Bellingham, WA: Lexham Press. Option 6: Deppe, Dean B. 2011. All Roads Lead to the Text: Eight Methods of Inquiry into the Bible. Grand Rapids, MI; Cambridge, U.K.: William B. Eerdmans Publishing Company. Option 7: Osborne, Grant R. 2006. The Hermeneutical Spiral: A Comprehensive Introduction to Biblical Interpretation. Rev. and expanded, 2nd ed. Downers Grove, IL: InterVarsity Press. Option 8: Utley, Robert James Dr. 1996. You Can Understand the Bible!. Marshall, Texas: Bible Lessons International. 176 How to Blend Critical, Academic Bible Study with Devotional Bible Study Question 5: "How Can I Know That God Is Speaking to Me Through the Scriptures?" Prerequisites: 150, 152, 155, 160, 161 - The Foundation for Christian Growth 1 - 5 171-175 - Intermediate Discipleship I. Option 1: Jan Johnson. 2016. Meeting God in Scripture: A Hands-On Guide to Lectio Divina. Downers Grove, IL: IVP. Option 2: "Lectio Divina Workflow" in Logos Bible Software (Free) Resources Wansbrough, Henry. 2010. "Chapter 13: Lectio Divina" in The Use and Abuse of the Bible: A Brief History of Biblical Interpretation. London; New York: T&T Clark International. Longenecker, Richard N. 1994. "On Reading a New Testament Letter-Devotionally, Homiletically, Academically." Themelios 20(1). Willard, Dallas. 2012. "Chapter 6: The Word of God and the Rule of God" in Hearing God: Developing a Conversational Relationship with God. Westmont, IL: IVP Books. Blackaby, H. T., Blackaby, R., & King, C. V. (2008). "Chapter 12: God Speaks Through the Bible" in Experiencing God. Nashville, TN: B&H Books. "Lectio Divina Workflow" in Logos Bible Software. https://ref.ly/logos4/Workflow?TemplateId=WORKFLOW%3aLECTIO-DIVINA Workflow. 177 Bible Basics (Overview of the Old and New Testaments) Prerequisites: 150, 152, 155, 160, 161 - The Foundation for Christian Growth 1 - 5 171-176 - Intermediate Discipleship I. Option 1: Option 2: 200 Discipleship Training (Certificate Provided) This sequence of courses is designed to prepare the individual for working on and/or being assigned to official committees and auxiliaries or being commissioned or positioned in an office: teacher, deaconate, eldership, trustee, board or congregational officer or team leader. It is also designed, therefore, to assist the member in identifying his or her (a) unique, natural (read genetic and cultural) God-given, talents and abilities and (b) supernatural gifts, offices, or ministries that the Holy Spirit has ordained after being born again with the indwelling of the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 11 and 12, Romans 12, Galatians 5, 1 Peter 4:12 and 1 Peter Note: There are no requirements for volunteers (new believers or non-believers) to take any courses in order to participate in any mission and ministry opportunities. The requirements and prerequisites here in this section and in the "300 section below" are for those who want to be team leaders, coaches, and church officers. The Level 200 sequence of course work is designed for those believers/members who want to be considered for official committee or leadership appointments. Prerequisite: The Foundation of Christianity Parts I and II The Foundation for Christian Growth I - III Intermediate Spiritual Discipline Completing the Basics of Christianity 202: The Trinity (10-14 Sessions; 1 to 1.5 hours a week; for 10-14 weeks) Option 1: Option 2: 210 The Cults and Heterodoxy 240 Healthy Relationships--Overcoming Dysfunction and Co-Dependency Option A: Boundaries: When to Say Yes; When to Say No Video Series by Cloud and Townsend 1. What is a boundary? 2. Understanding Boundaries 3. The Laws of Boundaries--Part I 4. The Laws of Boundaries--Part II 5. Myths About Boundaries 6. Boundary Conflicts--Part I a. Boundaries Conflict with God b. Internal Boundaries Conflict with Self 7. Boundary Conflicts--Part II a. Boundaries Conflict with family b. Boundaries Conflict with spouse c. Boundaries Conflict with children d. Boundaries Conflict with coworkers 8. Boundary Successes--Part I 9. Boundary Successes--Part II Option B: Boundaries in Marriage, Boundaries with Teens, or Boundaries with Kids by Cloud and Townsend Option C: How People Grow: What the Bible Reveals about Personal Growth by Cloud and Townsend Our desire to grow runs deep. Yet the issues in our lives and relationships that we wish would change often stay the same, even with our best efforts at spiritual growth. What does it take to experience increasing strength and depth in our spiritual walk, our marriages and family lives and friendships, our personal development-in everything life is about? And how can we help others move into growth that is profound and lasting? Unpacking the practical and passionate theology that forms the backbone of their counseling, Drs. Henry Cloud and John Townsend shatter popular misconceptions about how God operates and how growth happens. You'll discover: ● What the essential processes are that make people grow. ● How those processes fit into a biblical understanding of spiritual growth and theology. ● How spiritual growth and real-life issues are one and the same. ● What the responsibilities are of pastors, counselors, and others who assist people in growing-and what your own responsibilities are in your personal growth. Shining focused light on the great doctrines and themes of Christianity, How People Grow shows why all personal growth is spiritual growth-and best of all, it helps you understand the Bible in a way that will help you head with confidence down the high road of growth in Christ. (From their "Overview.") Option D: Love Must Be Tough: New Hope for Families in Crisis, by Dr. James Dobson Option E: Life on the Edge Video Series for Young Adults by Dr. James Dobson Option F: Making Peace with Your Past by Dr. H. Norman Wright Much of who you are, what you do, and how you feel is determined by your past. The memories of painful experiences and harmful early influences can come back to haunt you, causing negative behavior patterns that interfere with your life and relationships. . .. By integrating Scriptural truth and compassionate counseling, . . . this book will help you resolve unpleasant past events and reform your ingrained patterns of behavior. (From the Back Cover of Making Peace with Your Past) Option G: Five Signs of a Loving Family (1st edition) or The Family You've Always Wanted: Five Ways You Can Make It Happen by Dr. Gary Chapman In modern Western culture, it is widely acknowledged that the family is in serious trouble. By now, you've heard the term "dysfunctional family" hundreds, even thousands of times. You know how such families behave. Despite the odds, you desire to have family relationships that are fully loving and functional. . .. Strong, loving families do exist today. But if you want to establish healthy patterns in your own family, you'll need to learn how to recognize and apply the qualities they share. Discover the characteristics common to all healthy families and learn how you can instill them in your own home. . .. (From the Back Cover of Five Signs of a Loving Family) Option H: Emotionally Healthy Discipleship Course by Peter Scazzero In this book Scazzero outlines his journey and the signs of emotionally unhealthy spirituality. Then he provides seven biblical, reality-tested ways to break through to the revolutionary life Christ meant for you. "The combination of emotional health and contemplative spirituality," he says, "unleashes the Holy Spirit inside us so that we might experientially know the power of an authentic life in Christ" (from Amazon.com promotional text). 250 Anti-Racism and Anti-Ethnocentrism Training 290 Overview of Congregational & Denominational History & Polity, including positive statements or affirmations of beliefs. 300 Leadership Basics (Certificate Provided) The completion of this sequence of courses is required to prepare the individual for various leadership positions such as Board Officer, Elder, Deacon and Committee or Auxiliary Heads or Chairs. Prerequisites: 100: The Foundation for Christian Growth Sequence 200: Discipleship Training Program Sequence 301 Intro. to the New Testament (Trinity Bible or Other Similar Courses) 309 Intro. to the Old Testament (Trinity Bible or Other Similar Courses) 320 Gifts of the Spirit Option One: Option Two: 330 Advance Spiritual Disciplines Option One: Protestant Spiritual Exercises by Joseph Driskill Option Two: The Practice of Spiritual Direction by William A. Barry and William J. Connolly Option Three: How People Grow: What the Bible Reveals about Personal Growth by Cloud and Townsend Option Four: Celebration of Discipline: The Path to Spiritual Growth by Richard J. Foster Option Five: Spiritual Classics: Readings on the Twelve Spiritual Disciplines by Richard J. Foster Option Six: Practice of the Presence of God by Brother Lawrence Option Seven: Spiritual Disciplines Handbook: Practices That Transform Us by Adele Ahlberg Calhoun Option Eight: Spiritual Direction and the Care of Souls: A Guide to Christian Approaches and Practices by Gary W. Moon and David G. Benner and Sacred Companions: The Gift of Spiritual Friendship and Direction by David G. Benner Option Nine: Renovation of the Heart: Putting on the Character of Christ by Dallas Willard with Renovation of the Heart in Daily Practice: Experiments in Spiritual Transformation by Dallas Willard and Jan Johnson Option Ten: Soul Care in African American Practice by Barbara L. Peacock 340 General Theology/Apologetics--Short Courses (Three Sessions of 8 to 12 weeks for 1to 1.5 hours a week with 3 hours of reading and preparation) Session: The Teachings About (or Doctrine of) God--Theology Proper Session: The Teachings About (or Doctrine of) Christ--Christology Session: The Teachings About (or Doctrine of) Salvation--Soteriology or Why Morality, Ethics and Knowledge Are Not the Synonyms for Salvation 350 Religion and Science Possible Texts and Resources: Darwin on Trial by Phillip E. Johnson The Wedge of Truth by Phillip E. Johnson Darwin's Black Box by Michael J. Behe The Face that Demonstrates the Farce of Evolution by Hank Hannegraaff God the Evidence by Patrick Glynn What's with the Mutant in the Microscope by Kevin Johnson and James White 360 Congregational Vitality (Choose One of the Classes Listed Below) 361 Healthy Congregations by Peter L. Steinke 362 Church Conflict by Charles H. Cosgrove and Dennis D. Hatfield 363 Managing Church Conflict by Hugh Halverstadt 364 Antagonists in the Church by Kenneth C. Haugk 370 Leadership (Choose One of the Classes Listed Below) 371 Seven Habits of Highly Effective People by Steven Covey 372 The Wisdom of Teams by Jon R. Katzenbach and Douglas K. Smith 379 Resources 1. On-line 2. Printed 3. Denominational 380 Worldview Courses or Apologetics Possible Texts and Resources 1. Focus on the Family's a. Truth Project: Book, DVD and Participant Guide b. True U (for Secondary and Post-secondary Students): DVD and Participant Guide 2. Colson Center's Colson Fellowship Program 3. Glen S. Sunshine's a. Why You Think the Way you Do: The Story of Western Worldviews from Rome to Home and Portals: Entering Your Neighbor's World b. Worldview and Why It Matters: An Introduction to Christian Worldview: DVD with Chuck Colson 4. Rich Warren and Charles Colson's Wide Angle: Framing Your Worldview: DVD 5. Chuck Colson and Teen Mania's Rewired: A Teen Worldview Curriculum: DVD, Leader Guide, Lesson Plans and printable student lesson guides, student handouts, puzzles, games, and journal documents. 6. Lee Strobel's a. The Case for Faith: Book, DVD, and Study Guide b. The Case for Faith for Kids, Updated and Expanded: Book and Audio Book 7. J. Warner Wallace and Wes Bleed's a. Forensic Faith: A Homicide Detective Makes the Case for a More Reasonable, Evidential Christian Faith: Book, DVD, Facilitator's Guide, Participant Guide b. Forensic Faith for Kids: Learn to Share the Truth from a Real Detective: Book 381: Science, Religion, and Creation 1. Lee Strobel's Case for the Creator a. The Case for the Creator: A Journalist Investigates Scientific Evidence that Points Toward God Curriculum: Book, Video, Participant Study Guide b. The Case for the Creator Student Edition: Book and Study Guide c. The Case for the Creator for Kids, Updated and Expanded: Book 2. Kemper, Luskin, and Kemper's Discovering Intelligent Design: Textbook, Companion DVD with Lesson Plan and Answer Key, plus Student Workbook 3. Illustra Media's The Intelligent Design Collection of DVDs a. Darwin's Dilemma b. Unlocking the Mystery of Life c. The Privileged Planet 4. J. Warner Wallace and David C. Cook's a. God's Crime Scene: A Cold-Case Detective Examines the Evidence for a Divinely Created Universe: Book, DVD, and Participant Guide b. God's Crime Scene for Kinds: Investigating Creation with a Real Detective 390 Other Religions and Denominations (Comparative Approaches) Plus One of the following: 391 Latter Day Saints (Mormons) 392 Jehovah Witnesses 393 Muslims 394 Buddhists and Hindi 395 Jews 396 New Agers and Other Non-Orthodox Groups 397 Agnostics and Atheists 400 Growth and Lifestyle Courses This section of courses is open to everyone and serves several purposes. Courses are meant to be used as an evangelistic outreach to the un-churched community. Second, they are designed to strengthen the Christian family. And finally, they are also a means of training future church leaders in lifestyle, affinity and "needs based" evangelism. Consequently, there are no prerequisites for participating Note: Workshop leaders and facilitators must have fulfilled three requirements: (1) They must have previously taken that particular course or a similar course that is in question; (2) They must have completed level 100--300 of the Disciple Academy curriculum; and (3) They must have undergone apprenticeship as a facilitator for that course or have had previous experience teaching or facilitating that course or a similar course that is in question. Prerequisites: None 410 Life Skills Courses 411 Parenting Class (Options) a. Infant Care for Expectant Parents b. Toddlers and Parenting c. Parenting Young Children d. Parenting Teenagers e. Lamaze/Childbirth Classes f. Infant Breast Feeding 412 Christian Relationship and Dating Classes 413 Financial Planning (Options) a. Budgeting, Financial Planning and Stewardship b. Consumer Basics and Consumer Rights c. House Shopping and Mortgage Hunting d. Christian Principles of Stewardship e. Crown Ministries Seminar i. f. Financial Peace Seminar g. Total Money Makeover Seminar h. Smart Money or Christian Investing Guide 414 Christian Fatherhood/Manhood 415 Christian Motherhood/Womanhood 416 Healthy Lifestyle and Healthy Eating 419 GED Classes 420 Pre-engagement Counseling (i.e., Pre-marital Courses) 430 Community/Social Programming 431 Job Ministry a. Job Preparation b. Job Etiquette c. Job Training 432 Community Development Associations a. Participating in Evangelicals for Social Justice b. Participating in the Christian Community Development Association 433 Health Ministry 434 Seniors' and Youth Non-profit Agencies/Programs a. Pre-school and Day Care b. Senior Day Care c. Friday Youth Jamboree's 435 Homelessness and Housing Ministries 470 Social Justice Ministries Evangelical for Social Justice Sojourners Christian Community Development Association 480 Accountability and Small Group Ministries Option 1. Parenting Option 2. Marriage Option 3. Singles Option 4. Divorce Recovery Option 5. Christian Substance Recovery Groups Option 6. Homosexuality Recovery Group Option 7. Other Affinity Groups (e.g., Activities, Gender, Age, Life Stages) 500 Advance Leadership Classes (As Needed Based on Leadership Position) 500 Church Administration 501 Leadership and Motivational Skills 502 Administrative Skills 503 Financial and Budgeting Skills 504 Program Development 505 Leader Development/Polity 510 Programmatic Training 511 Educational Leadership 512 Deacons/Elders 513 Peer Counseling/Caring Ministries 514 Music and Worship Ministry 515 Men's/Women's Leadership 516 Youth Ministries (In House) 517 Clothing/Food Pantries Training 518 Other Classes as Needed Appendix A: Children's and Parenting Programming I. List of Resources A. Foundational Reference Works 1. Baby and Child Care: From Pre-birth Through the Teen Years by Paul C. Reisser, MD (The Official Book of the Focus on the Family Physicians Resource Council) 2. Different and Wonderful: Raising Black Children in a Race-Conscious Society by Darlene Powell Hopson and Derek S. Hopson 3. How Do Our Children Grow: Introducing Children to God, Jesus, the Bible, Prayer, and Church by Delia Halverson 4. The Spiritual Growth of Children: Helping Your Child Develop a Personal Faith by John Trent, Rick Osborne, and Kurt Bruner B. Family Resources 1. Just Family Nights: 60 Activities to Keep Your Family Together in a World Falling Apart, edited by Susan Vogt 2. Heritage Builders Series: A Collection of 12 Family Nights Resources C. Parenting Resources 1. Boundaries with Kids: When to Say Yes, When to Say No, to Help Your Children Gain Control of Their Lives by Henry Cloud and John Townsend 2. Parenting Isn't for Cowards by James Dobson 3. Parenting Today's Adolescent: Helping Your Child Avoid the Traps of the Preteen and Teen Years by Dennis and Barbara Rainey 4. Raising Great Kids: A Comprehensive Guide to Parenting with Grace and Truth by Henry Cloud and John Townsend 5. The New Dare to Discipline by James Dobson 6. The Strong-Willed Child by James Dobson II. Possible Courses for Parents A. Infant Breast Feeding B. Infant Care for Expectant Parents C. Lamaze/Childbirth Classes D. Parenting Teenagers E. Parenting Young Children F. Toddlers and Parenting III. Sample Goals for the Christian Education Department from "The Spiritual Growth of Children" A. Ages 0 -- 4 1. Knowing a. Who God Is i. God Exists ii. God Loves You iii. Jesus Loves You iv. God Wants to Take Care of You b. What God Has Done i. God Created Everything ii. God Created You iii. God Gave Us the Bible iv. God's Son, Jesus, Died for Your Sins So You Can Be with God 2. Loving a. Prayer is Talking to God in Jesus' Name b. You Need to Talk to God Regularly c. You Need to Regularly Listen to Stories About God and Jesus from the Bible 3. Living a. You Can Be All God Wants You to Be i. God Wants You to be Good, Kin, and Loving, Just Like Him and Jesus ii. God Wants You to See and Think Good Things b. You Can Do All God Wants You to Do i. God Wants You to Go to Church ii. God Wants You to Obey Your Parents iii. God Wants You to Learn to Share Your Things with Others B. Ages 10 -- 12 1. Knowing a. Who God Is i. Not Everyone Believes the Truth About God, But There Are Ways You Can Respond to Their Objections. (Handling Contrary Opinions About God; Basic Apologetics; Other Religions) b. What God Has Done i. God Wants You to Explore the One Big Story ii. God Put the Bible Together in a Fascinating way iii. You Need to Learn How to Study the Bible iv. God Lets His People Serve Him and Express Their Worship of Him in Different Ways v. God Gave Us an Accurate Record of His Son, Jesus vi. God Wants You to Tell Others About What Jesus Has Done vii. Jesus Will Return as Judge and There Will Be a New heaven and a New Earth 2. Loving a. You Can Have a Relationship with God i. You Can Pray on Your Own ii. You Can Read the Bible on Your Own iii. You Can Learn to Worship God and Jesus on Your Own or in a Group 3. Living a. You Can Be All God Wants You to Be i. God Wants You to Choose to Grow, Learn, and Seek His Wisdom ii. God's Grace: You Don't Have to Do It on Your Own iii. God Wants You to Find and Follow His Will for Your Life b. You Can Do All God Wants You to Do i. God Wants You to Choose to Commit Your Entire Life and Everything You Have to Him ii. God Wants You to Choose His Way Because You Love Him and Want to be Like Jesus iii. God Wants You to Learn to Seek and Follow His Spirit's Leading iv. You Need to Learn How to Resist Satan and Temptation v. You Need to Get Involved in Church and Find Your Place in the Body of Christ Discipleship Academy Copywritten (c) 1999 and 2009 by Floyd Knight. All Rights Reserved. Page 2 Discipleship Academy (Certificate Program) Copywritten (c) 1999 and 2009 by Floyd Knight. All Rights Reserved.