Christian Doctrine For Everyman

REVIEW In our last session we examined the Doctrine of Perseverance of the Saint. The term means that God will cause those who truly believe in Jesus to be preserved. It asserts that the regenerating grace of God so changes a person that he can never be the same. We also, looked at 3 statements of biblical evidence which validates this complex and often confusing doctrine.

1.It is proven by the manner in which we are saved; not by work (Ephesians 2:8-9). 2.It is proven by what God does for us in salvation. He gives us eternal life (Ephesians 1:13). 3.It is proven by what Christ is doing for the believer now. He is our High Priest ( Hebrews 7:25). Tonight we will begin a study of a new doctrine: Session # 37

PART VII THE DOCTRINE OF THE CHRISTIAN LIFE

Our study guide makes a valid point by stating that the Christian experience does not end with the “salvation experience.” Accepting Jesus as Savior starts a process often called “sanctification.” Our study guide says the Christian life has two sides. One side contains elements of prayer, meditation and Bible study. The second side involves working in ministry. In order to have a healthy Christian life, both of these sides are necessary. Let’s examine side #1.

THE CONTEMPLATIVE SIDE The contemplative elements are some of the most necessary and important parts of the Christian life. It is often called the devotional life of the Christian. It is perhaps the most neglected aspect in the life of the new Christian because its’ necessity is not emphasized enough by local churches. One of the most popular and helpful aids used to feed the contemplative side is “Our Daily Bread.”

Just as lack of physical food will cause our bodies to become malnourished, lack of devotional food will lead to poor spiritual health. Thus, the contemplative side must proceed the work side. Our study guide says “ this could very well be that the reason why many Christians are doing more "Christian works" and enjoying it less is because they have neglected the source of power and strength for Christian activity.” This consists of two elements:

# 1 = Prayer In the Bible, both the Old and New Testaments, are full of examples that illustrate the importance and power of prayer. A study of prayer reveals that prayer consists of many components such as: Adoration Communion Thanksgiving Intercession Confession

# 2 = Bible Study The Scriptures themselves reveal the necessity of studying the Bible in order to have a strong Christian life. Why? It has a cleansing effect It gives strength to resist temptation It provides direction It makes us wise It develops mature spiritual lives

Making It Make Sense

WHAT IS PRAYER? According to the Baker Bible Encyclopedia prayer is “ the addressing and petitioning of God.” A definition of Christian prayer is “ an offering up of our desires unto God, for things agreeable to his will, in the name of Christ, with confession of our sins, and thankful acknowledgement of his mercies.” Christian prayer is the end product of a long process of change and development in God’s relation to men.

Types of prayers Cooperate Prayer Cooperate Prayer Public Prayer Public Prayer Personal Prayer Personal Prayer Private Prayer Private Prayer Intercessory Prayer Intercessory Prayer

What does the Bible say about Prayer? Don’t pray hypocritically (Matthew 6:5-15) Don’t pray hypocritically (Matthew 6:5-15) Men should always pray (Luke 18:1-8) Men should always pray (Luke 18:1-8) Pray in the spirit (Ephesian 6:18-19) Pray in the spirit (Ephesian 6:18-19) Pray with thanksgiving (Philippians 4:6) Pray with thanksgiving (Philippians 4:6)

WHAT IS BIBLE STUDY? This question is best answered by defining what Bible Study is not! It is not reading (take in info) It is not reviewing (talk about the Word they heard) It is not receiving (going to seminars, retreats & conference) It is not repeating (say what others have said)

What does the Scriptures say about Bible Study? Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth. 2 Timothy 2:15 (KJV) Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth. The Greek word translated as “study” is only recorded twice in the KJV Bible. It means “to be eager” or “zeal.” In the context of the verse it implies diligently applying oneself. It carries the idea of seriousness in effort.

CONCLUSION Most modern day churches have a traditional order of service that consist of general worship service and some manner of Christian Education. Worship service normally consists of some devotion. Regardless of faith, statistics show that the percentage of attendance during devotion (prayer) and Christian Education (Bible Study) is far less than worship service.

Based upon the information we have gained in this lesson, it is easy to see why our churches today are not equipped as it should be to build the Kingdom of God. The two elements of the devotional side work hand-in- hand. The study of God’s Word will teach us that God desires for His people to pray. It also lets us know that we must rely upon the Holy Spirit in order to know what to pray for. Through our study our prayers are answered.

STUDY ASSIGNMENT Continue reading PART VII, “THE DOCTRINE OF THE CHRISTIAN LIFE,” section # 38, The Mission and Work of the Christian (page 77). Then answer the below questions: 1. What does it mean to be a “witness” for Christ? 2.What does Christian Social Activity have to do with?