✦ My Life is a Lamp ✦ My Home is a Lighthouse
A Bible Study

Jesus and Me

A Bible Study by Keith Parks with Fred Fulford
"I am the light of the world."
John 8:12 — Jesus
"You are the light of the world."
Matthew 5:14 — Jesus
Seeds International
Please Read Before Starting Your Study
Introduction

"Jesus and Me" is a Bible study for those who want to walk more deeply with Jesus Christ and serve Him with diligence. It is intended for mature Jesus followers, new believers, and those searching for real meaning in life. Currently available in English at jesusandme.online, with more languages planned as doors open.

Please spend time in these introductory pages before you start Jesus and Me as a study. It is important to understand the reasons for this study and the methods used throughout. Included are four sessions:

Session 1
My Call
This section introduces the validity of the Bible — can I trust the Bible as an authority for my life, and can it speak into my life? It introduces me to God Almighty and to His Son Jesus Christ. The fourth lesson is entitled "God's Seven Gifts from the Cross," which gives a firm foundation for faith and a way to explain the gospel to others.
Session 2
My Character
The change in your character begins when you invite Jesus Christ into your inner being. From that moment you begin to grow. His shed blood on the cross has made you holy. You have become the temple of God. Holiness is God's character living in you. Righteousness is the way you live the rest of your life. The Bible gives you the steps to grow into God's likeness and promises you a grand entrance into the eternal kingdom of Jesus Christ our Lord. You now can say "Jesus and Me" with confidence.
Session 3
My Co-Mission
God has now prepared me for my personal mission on earth. He can trust me to not bring Him shame. Jesus said "Let your light shine". He wants others to see Himself in me. My mission may be in a far away country or it could well be right where I live. Jesus added, "The greatest commandment is to love God with all your heart and your neighbor as yourself." The greatest gift I can ever receive or give away is Jesus Christ. He wants me to share Him with others. The focus of this study is: my home is a lighthouse. Imagine how my neighborhood could enjoy the life I am living — with Jesus! God's plan from the beginning was to be fruitful and multiply. He wants me to be a fruitful participant in the final harvest. "Jesus and Me" will help me fulfill God's calling.
Session 4
My Multiplication
God wants the church of Jesus Christ to multiply. Throughout the world there is a present move among many "Jesus Followers" in many denominations, churches and homes. He is calling each of us to become an active member.
Lesson Components

A Key Bible Verse introduces the main lesson theme. An introductory paragraph outlines the lesson content. Five or six segments are found within each lesson.

Using Dig Deeper — Extended Study. This is for those who want more information from the current lesson. It will take more time to complete. You can finish it at your own pace in your own time. Enjoy! Tap the arrow on the right, then tap the reference written in italics — the texts for the current question are now visible. We suggest that you type each reference (e.g. John 3:16) in the answer block and then your answer behind it. This helps keep good order for your answers.

My Personal Study

We recommend you commence the study today. Take your time. Be thorough. Ask the Holy Spirit to reveal God's truths to you. Each set of scriptures has an answer box you can use. Once filled, your answers will be permanent on the device you are using. They do not transfer from device to device.

There are six actions for your use in each session:

  1. 1Read and meditate on the Word. Take your time. There is no hurry.
  2. 2Apply the truths to your own life. Expect God's Word to speak into your inner being.
  3. 3Journal. Journaling causes you to think deeply and allows for recall in the days ahead.
  4. 4Pray. Seek God's guidance. Assimilate what He wants you to understand and live out.
  5. 5Attend a small group study. Spend as much time as possible completing the questions in each lesson before you discuss it with others. In this way you not only share what the Lord has shown you but you learn what the Lord has shown them.
  6. 6Take Action! Obey the Holy Spirit! Share your insights with others. Become a light to the world. Make your home a lighthouse.
Small Groups

Ask the Lord to help you build a small group from family, friends or neighbors. Prepare yourself as a Group Facilitator. Allow the Holy Spirit to be the teacher. You are there to encourage and motivate each member. Be a good example.

1 Corinthians 2:13We also speak these things, not in words which man's wisdom teaches but which the Holy Spirit teaches, comparing spiritual things with spiritual things.

We recommend that you keep your group small. Larger is not better. We suggest three to eight members. This allows for good interaction.

Multiplication

The vision is that each group member would listen to the guidance of the Holy Spirit and look for opportunity to lead a group, and encourage other group members to do the same. The notes you have already typed or spoken into your device become the basis of your own part in the discussion. As we say many times, "Make My Home a Lighthouse."

Contents — Jesus and Me

Session One — My Call

Session Two — My Character

Session Three — My Mission

Session Four — Multiply

Session One · My Call · Lesson 1
The Bible — God's Word for Mankind
Key Verse — Psalm 119:11, 130I have hidden your word in my heart, that I might not sin against you. The teaching of your word gives light, so even the simple can understand.
"Father in heaven thank you for the privilege to search your Word. Help me to understand what it says and give me insight to know how it applies to me."
The Bible is God's Word to mankind. The Bible was written for you! The Word of God speaks to more than the mind. It talks deeply into your heart. God has given His Word so that you may know Him, love Him and live with Him forever.
Opening Questions
John 1:1-5 (NLT)[1] In the beginning the Word already existed. The Word was with God, and the Word was God. [2] He existed in the beginning with God. [3] God created everything through him, and nothing was created except through him. [4] The Word gave life to everything that was created, and his life brought light to everyone. [5] The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness can never extinguish it.
2 Timothy 3:16-17 (NLT)[16] All Scripture is inspired by God and is useful to teach us what is true and to make us realize what is wrong in our lives. It corrects us when we are wrong and teaches us to do what is right. [17] God uses it to prepare and equip his people to do every good work.
1-1 The Longest Chapter in the Bible — A Message for You
Psalm 119:9-16 (NLT)[9] How can a young person stay pure? By obeying your word. [10] I have tried hard to find you— don’t let me wander from your commands. [11] I have hidden your word in my heart, that I might not sin against you. [12] I praise you, O Lord; teach me your decrees. [13] I have recited aloud all the regulations you have given us. [14] I have rejoiced in your laws as much as in riches. [15] I will study your commandments and reflect on your ways. [16] I will delight in your decrees and not forget your word. Gimel
Psalm 119:130 (NLT)[130] The teaching of your word gives light, so even the simple can understand.

Take your time to read Psalm 119:1-176. Select ten verses which have special meaning to you and write them in your own words. Make this a daily reading over a period of time.

1-2 God Calls Jeremiah — You Can Expect Him to Call You Too
Jeremiah 1:4-7 (NLT)[4] The Lord gave me this message: [5] “I knew you before I formed you in your mother’s womb. Before you were born I set you apart and appointed you as my prophet to the nations.” [6] “O Sovereign Lord,” I said, “I can’t speak for you! I’m too young!” [7] The Lord replied, “Don’t say, ‘I’m too young,’ for you must go wherever I send you and say whatever I tell you.
1-3 God Calls Saul — Gives Him Mercy and Grace
Acts 9:1-6 (NLT)[1] Meanwhile, Saul was uttering threats with every breath and was eager to kill the Lord’s followers. So he went to the high priest. [2] He requested letters addressed to the synagogues in Damascus, asking for their cooperation in the arrest of any followers of the Way he found there. He wanted to bring them—both men and women—back to Jerusalem in chains. [3] As he was approaching Damascus on this mission, a light from heaven suddenly shone down around him. [4] He fell to the ground and heard a voice saying to him, “Saul! Saul! Why are you persecuting me?” [5] “Who are you, lord?” Saul asked. And the voice replied, “I am Jesus, the one you are persecuting! [6] Now get up and go into the city, and you will be told what you must do.”

How was Saul's call from God confirmed? Acts 9:7-19

1-4 God's Word is Alive and Active — It Penetrates the Inner You
Hebrews 4:12-13 (NLT)[12] For the word of God is alive and powerful. It is sharper than the sharpest two-edged sword, cutting between soul and spirit, between joint and marrow. It exposes our innermost thoughts and desires. [13] Nothing in all creation is hidden from God. Everything is naked and exposed before his eyes, and he is the one to whom we are accountable.

What happens when you let the word of Christ dwell in you richly? Colossians 3:16

1-5 Open the Door of Your Life to God — He Speaks to You!
Romans 8:6-8 (NLT)But God showed his great love for us by sending Christ to die for us while we were still sinners. So letting your sinful nature control your mind leads to death. But letting the Spirit control your mind leads to life and peace. For the sinful nature is always hostile to God. It never did obey God's laws, and it never will. That's why those who are still under the control of their sinful nature can never please God.
John 10:10 (NLT)[10] The thief’s purpose is to steal and kill and destroy. My purpose is to give them a rich and satisfying life.

Read Psalm 86:1-10.

My Journal — Lesson 1

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Session One · My Call · Lesson 2
God Almighty — There Is No Other God Like Him
Key Verse — 1 John 1:5This is the message we heard from Jesus and now declare to you: God is light, and there is no darkness in him at all.
"Dear God please reveal Yourself to me through your Word — The Holy Bible."
The qualities of God are His inbuilt attributes and characteristics. The understanding of these qualities are foundational to one wanting to know Him. The Bible provides a complete picture of who God is and how He works. He has many attributes. We now examine six of these. Take your time. Read, meditate and journal what you discover.
2-1 God Almighty is Eternal — Without Beginning or Ending
Psalm 90:1-2 (NLT)[1] Lord, through all the generations you have been our home! [2] Before the mountains were born, before you gave birth to the earth and the world, from beginning to end, you are God.
Psalm 102:12, 27 (NLT)[12] But you, O Lord, will sit on your throne forever. Your fame will endure to every generation.
Revelation 1:8 (NLT)[8] “I am the Alpha and the Omega—the beginning and the end,” says the Lord God. “I am the one who is, who always was, and who is still to come—the Almighty One.”
1 Timothy 6:16 (NLT)[16] He alone can never die, and he lives in light so brilliant that no human can approach him. No human eye has ever seen him, nor ever will. All honor and power to him forever! Amen.

1. How is God described in 1 Timothy and how are we charged to live? 1 Timothy 1:17, 6:17-19

2-2 God is Holy — Separate from and Above All Moral Evil and Sin
Isaiah 57:15 (NLT)[15] The high and lofty one who lives in eternity, the Holy One, says this: “I live in the high and holy place with those whose spirits are contrite and humble. I restore the crushed spirit of the humble and revive the courage of those with repentant hearts.

1. What is God's paramount attribute, and how should we respond? 1 Samuel 2:2; Isaiah 43:15; Psalm 103:1

2. Thoroughly explain how God's creatures in heaven honor and worship Him. Isaiah 6:2-3; Revelation 4:11, 15:3-5, 16:5

3. How am I encouraged to honor and worship Him? Psalm 47:6-9; 145:21; 71:22; 62:1

2-3 God is Righteous — All His Actions Are Upright
Psalm 7:11 (NLT)[11] God is an honest judge. He is angry with the wicked every day.
Psalm 48:10 (NLT)[10] As your name deserves, O God, you will be praised to the ends of the earth. Your strong right hand is filled with victory.
Revelation 16:7 (NLT)[7] And I heard a voice from the altar, saying, “Yes, O Lord God, the Almighty, your judgments are true and just.”

1. Explain the righteousness of God and how He wants me to respond to it. Psalm 23:3, 9:8, 143:10, 35:28, 4:1

2. People try to create their own righteousness, but how do we find God's righteousness? Romans 10:13; John 17:25; Matthew 6:33; Galatians 3:11

2-4 God is Light — There Is No Darkness in Him
1 John 1:5 (NLT)[5] This is the message we heard from Jesus and now declare to you: God is light, and there is no darkness in him at all.
Psalm 27:1 (NLT)[1] The Lord is my light and my salvation— so why should I be afraid? The Lord is my fortress, protecting me from danger, so why should I tremble?
James 1:17 (NLT)[17] Whatever is good and perfect is a gift coming down to us from God our Father, who created all the lights in the heavens. He never changes or casts a shifting shadow.

1. How would you describe the light God has shown us? Psalm 50:1-2; 2 Samuel 23:3-5; Daniel 2:21-23

2. Turn these texts into a written prayer. Psalm 4:6, 18:28, 36:8-10, 43:5, 89:15; Proverbs 4:18

2-5 God is Just — Fair in Every Way With All People
Psalm 37:28 (NLT)[28] For the Lord loves justice, and he will never abandon the godly. He will keep them safe forever, but the children of the wicked will die.
Psalm 37:5-6 (NLT)[5] Commit everything you do to the Lord. Trust him, and he will help you. [6] He will make your innocence radiate like the dawn, and the justice of your cause will shine like the noonday sun.

1. How important is justice to God? Psalm 37:5-6, 89:14, 111:7; Proverbs 21:15

2. What hinders pure justice in the world and how is God's justice extended to us? Proverbs 21:15, 28:5; Deuteronomy 10:18; Isaiah 1:17

3. In what way does Isaiah say that God has extended His justice to the world? Isaiah 51:4, 42:1, 32:1, 16:5

2-6 God is Love — His Love is Extended to Every Person on Earth
Psalm 89:2 (NLT)[2] Your unfailing love will last forever. Your faithfulness is as enduring as the heavens.
Psalm 94:18-19 (NLT)[18] I cried out, “I am slipping!” but your unfailing love, O Lord, supported me. [19] When doubts filled my mind, your comfort gave me renewed hope and cheer.
John 3:16 (NLT)[16] “For this is how God loved the world: He gave his one and only Son, so that everyone who believes in him will not perish but have eternal life.

1. How did God demonstrate His love toward us and how should we respond? Romans 5:8; 1 John 2:15; 2 John 1:6

2. What is God promising us and how will we receive it? John 6:40, 47, 12:49-50, 17:3

My Journal — Lesson 2

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Session One · My Call · Lesson 3
Jesus the Christ — Savior of the World
Key Verse — John 14:6Jesus told him, "I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one can come to the Father except through me."
"Jesus please help me to understand who you are and what you want to do for me."
Jesus is His given name. The angel told Joseph, "You shall name him Jesus, for it is he who shall save his people from their sins." The term "The Christ" comes from the Old Testament. It means the Anointed One and the Messiah. Thus He is known as Jesus Christ. This lesson introduces our theme, "Jesus and Me". We are going to learn what "Jesus in me and Jesus through me" means to the rest of my life.
3-1 The Son of God — Sent by God Almighty to Save the World
Mark 1:1 (NLT)[1] This is the Good News about Jesus the Messiah, the Son of God. It began
1 John 5:20 (NLT)[20] And we know that the Son of God has come, and he has given us understanding so that we can know the true God. And now we live in fellowship with the true God because we live in fellowship with his Son, Jesus Christ. He is the only true God, and he is eternal life.

1. What was prophesied about Jesus in His early years? Luke 1:32-35; Luke 1:67-75; Luke 2:25-32

2. What was declared regarding Jesus Christ at the beginning, during and after His ministry? John 1:28-30; Matthew 16:13-17; Hebrews 1:2-4

3-2 The Light and Life of the World — Jesus Came to Deliver Us from Darkness and Death
John 1:3-5 (NLT)[3] God created everything through him, and nothing was created except through him. [4] The Word gave life to everything that was created, and his life brought light to everyone. [5] The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness can never extinguish it.
John 8:12 (NLT)[12] Jesus spoke to the people once more and said, “I am the light of the world. If you follow me, you won’t have to walk in darkness, because you will have the light that leads to life.”

1. What is promised for those who see the future great light? Isaiah 9:2-3, 49:6, 60:1-3

2. Make a list of the benefits which come to us through Jesus Christ. Luke 1:76-79, 2:27-36; John 6:40, 12:46; 3:18-21

3. What must I do to receive eternal life through Jesus Christ? John 3:36; 5:24; 6:47; 17:3

3-3 The Death of Jesus Christ — His Blood Cleanses Us from All Sin
Ephesians 2:13 (NLT)[13] But now you have been united with Christ Jesus. Once you were far away from God, but now you have been brought near to him through the blood of Christ.
1 John 1:7 (NLT)[7] But if we are living in the light, as God is in the light, then we have fellowship with each other, and the blood of Jesus, his Son, cleanses us from all sin.

1. Write a list of sacrificial offerings using animals before Jesus Christ came. Genesis 4:4; Exodus 12:13; 30:10; Leviticus 16:15; Isaiah 1:11

2. The shed blood of Jesus Christ cleanses us from all sin. The book of Hebrews outlines the complete process. List all the items you can find. Hebrews 9:22, 9:11-14; 10:19, 13:20-21

3. What happens as a result of Christ's death between the believer and God Almighty? Romans 5:8-11

3-4 The Resurrection of Jesus Christ — He Conquered Death and the Grave
John 11:25 (NLT)[25] Jesus told her, “I am the resurrection and the life. Anyone who believes in me will live, even after dying.
Luke 24:5-7, 11-12 (NLT)The women were terrified and bowed with their faces to the ground. Then the men asked, "Why are you looking among the dead for someone who is alive? He isn't here! He is risen from the dead! Remember what he told you back in Galilee, that the Son of Man must be betrayed into the hands of sinful men and be crucified, and that he would rise again on the third day." But the story sounded like nonsense to the men, so they didn't believe it. However, Peter jumped up and ran to the tomb to look. Stooping, he peered in and saw the empty linen wrappings; then he went home again, wondering what had happened.
John 20:19-20 (NLT)That Sunday evening the disciples were meeting behind locked doors because they were afraid of the Jewish leaders. Suddenly, Jesus was standing there among them! "Peace be with you," he said. As he spoke, he showed them the wounds in his hands and his side. They were filled with joy when they saw the Lord!

1. How is the resurrection story explained in The Book of Acts? Acts 2:30-32; 3:24-26; 10:39-41; 13:32-34

2. How is the Resurrection explained in the Epistles? Romans 8:11, 6:7-9, 7:4; 1 Corinthians 6:14

3-5 The Ascension of Jesus Christ — He Entered into Heaven
Luke 24:50-51 (NLT)[50] Then Jesus led them to Bethany, and lifting his hands to heaven, he blessed them. [51] While he was blessing them, he left them and was taken up to heaven.
Acts 1:9 (NLT)[9] After saying this, he was taken up into a cloud while they were watching, and they could no longer see him.

1. What is the difference between the resurrection and the ascension of Christ?

2. There are two ways to express where Jesus Followers go when we die. What are they? Revelation 2:7; Ephesians 1:19-22, 4:7-10

3-6 The Exaltation of Jesus Christ — He Now Rules in Heaven
Acts 5:31 (NLT)[31] Then God put him in the place of honor at his right hand as Prince and Savior. He did this so the people of Israel would repent of their sins and be forgiven.
Philippians 2:9-11 (NLT)[9] Therefore, God elevated him to the place of highest honor and gave him the name above all other names, [10] that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, [11] and every tongue declare that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.

1. Jesus is now in Heaven with His Father. What is He doing for us? Why has God exalted Him? Acts 7:55-56; Romans 8:34; Philippians 2:9-11

2. What did Jesus say happens to His followers? John 12:26, 13:36, 17:24

3. The Book of Hebrews gives a detailed introduction to Jesus Christ as our High Priest. Study these texts and record the unfolding understanding, section by section. Hebrews 2:16-18, 3:1-3, 4:14-15, 5:5, 7:25-27, 8:1, 9:11-12

Meditate and MemorizeJohn 8:12 — "I am the Light of the world. He who follows me will not walk in the darkness, but will have the light of life."

My Journal — Lesson 3

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Session One · My Call · Lesson 4
God's Seven Gifts from the Cross
Key Verse — John 3:16"For this is how God loved the world: He gave his one and only Son, so that everyone who believes in him will not perish but have eternal life."
"Father in heaven please give me an understanding of what Jesus Christ did on the cross so I can come to know you and have eternal life."
Picture the cross. Mankind was created with the ability to choose to do right or wrong. Your conscience and your will help you to make the right decisions. Many lives have been destroyed by wrong choices leading them to remorse. God is interested in helping you to make the right choices. You begin by discovering who you are and what God wants you to be. The seven gifts are: Love · Faith · Freedom · Mercy · Grace · Hope · and Jesus Christ Himself.
4-1 Jesus Christ — God's Greatest Gift
John 3:16 (NLT)For this is how God loved the world: He gave his one and only Son, so that everyone who believes in him will not perish but have eternal life.
Romans 5:8 (NLT)But God showed his great love for us by sending Christ to die for us while we were still sinners.
4-2 Love — Unending
1 John 4:9 (NLT)God showed how much he loved us by sending his one and only Son into the world so that we might have eternal life through him.
John 15:9 (NLT)[9] “I have loved you even as the Father has loved me. Remain in my love.
John 15:13 (NLT)[13] There is no greater love than to lay down one’s life for one’s friends.

1. Create a paragraph which explains the extent of God's love for you. Romans 5:5, 8:38-39; 2 Corinthians 13:14

2. What do these verses say about your love for God? Mark 12:30; John 16:26-28; Ephesians 3:14-19; 1 Corinthians 2:9

4-3 Faith — Trust and Confidence — I Know that I Know that I Know
Romans 10:17 (NLT)[17] So faith comes from hearing, that is, hearing the Good News about Christ.
Hebrews 11:1 (NLT)[1] Faith shows the reality of what we hope for; it is the evidence of things we cannot see.

1. What does faith lead us into? Romans 5:1-2

2. How do both Jews and Gentiles have their hearts cleansed? How are they different? Acts 15:8-9

3. How do I now live my life? Galatians 2:20

4-4 Mercy — God Forgives Me — Mercy Forgives All My Past and Present Sin
Psalm 86:15 (NLT)[15] But you, O Lord, are a God of compassion and mercy, slow to get angry and filled with unfailing love and faithfulness.
1 Timothy 1:12-13 (NLT)[12] I thank Christ Jesus our Lord, who has given me strength to do his work. He considered me trustworthy and appointed me to serve him, [13] even though I used to blaspheme the name of Christ. In my insolence, I persecuted his people. But God had mercy on me because I did it in ignorance and unbelief.

1. Using these scriptures write your own picture of what you see as God's mercy. Write Psalm 103:1-10 in your own words. Deuteronomy 4:31; Psalm 78:38, 40:11, 145:9

2. Explain what God's mercy through Jesus Christ does for you. 2 Corinthians 1:3-4; Titus 3:4-6; Hebrews 8:12; 1 Peter 1:3-5, 2:10; 1 John 1:1-3

3. Write your own prayer asking God for His mercy in your life.

4-5 Grace — God Enables My Future — When I Can't, God Does
Ephesians 2:8-9 (NLT)[8] God saved you by his grace when you believed. And you can’t take credit for this; it is a gift from God. [9] Salvation is not a reward for the good things we have done, so none of us can boast about it.
Acts 20:32 (NLT)[32] “And now I entrust you to God and the message of his grace that is able to build you up and give you an inheritance with all those he has set apart for himself.

1. Grace for Salvation — I cannot save myself. What benefits come to me through the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ? John 1:14-16; Romans 3:24-26, 5:1-5; Ephesians 2:3-9

2. Grace for Living — God helps me every day. List how God's grace helped Paul in all circumstances. Acts 14:3, 20:22-24; Romans 5:20-21; 2 Thessalonians 2:16-17; Titus 3:4-7

4-6 Freedom — From Sin and Darkness
John 8:32 (NLT)[32] And you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.”
John 8:36 (NLT)[36] So if the Son sets you free, you are truly free.

Every person is bound by their own sin. How does Jesus make us free? What freedom comes to us through Jesus Christ? What is my eventual relationship with Jesus Christ?

Romans 6:17-23; Galatians 5:13; Romans 6:17-18; 1 Peter 2:16

4-7 Hope — God Has Provided Everything I Need for My Future
Titus 2:13-14 (NLT)[13] while we look forward with hope to that wonderful day when the glory of our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ, will be revealed. [14] He gave his life to free us from every kind of sin, to cleanse us, and to make us his very own people, totally committed to doing good deeds.
Romans 15:13 (NLT)[13] I pray that God, the source of hope, will fill you completely with joy and peace because you trust in him. Then you will overflow with confident hope through the power of the Holy Spirit.

1. What earthly hope is yours through Jesus Christ? 2 Thessalonians 2:16-17; Hebrews 6:11-12, 10:22-23; 1 John 3:3

2. What eternal hope is promised to you through Jesus Christ? Titus 3:4-7; 1 Peter 1:3-4; Romans 8:24-25

My Journal — Lesson 4

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Session One · My Call · Lesson 5
Turning from Darkness to Light
Key Verse — Acts 2:38-39Peter replied, "Each of you must repent of your sins and turn to God, and be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. Then you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. This promise is to you, to your children, and to those far away — all who have been called by the Lord our God."
"Later in this lesson you are invited to write a prayer of repentance."
Repentance is turning away from eternal darkness to eternal Light. Darkness is the absence of light. Here is your opportunity to turn your life around. No matter the level of your past darkness Jesus has brought you into His glorious eternal light.
5-1 Born in Sin and Darkness
Psalm 51:5 (NLT)[5] For I was born a sinner— yes, from the moment my mother conceived me.
John 3:19 (NLT)[19] And the judgment is based on this fact: God’s light came into the world, but people loved the darkness more than the light, for their actions were evil.

1. Describe the darkness you see in the world today and what can we do about it? Isaiah 53:6; Matthew 6:22-24; Romans 3:23, 13:12

2. What does Jesus do to our darkness and what do we become? John 1:5; 2 Corinthians 4:5-7; Luke 11:36; Acts 26:17-18; Ephesians 5:6-11

Think, Meditate, journal on what Jesus declared: "I have come as a light into the world, that whoever believes in me may not remain in the darkness." John 12:46

5-2 Believing in Jesus
Acts 16:31-33 (NLT)[31] They replied, “Believe in the Lord Jesus and you will be saved, along with everyone in your household.” [32] And they shared the word of the Lord with him and with all who lived in his household. [33] Even at that hour of the night, the jailer cared for them and washed their wounds. Then he and everyone in his household were immediately baptized.

1. What is the eternal destiny of those who refuse to believe in Jesus Christ? John 3:36, 8:24; Romans 2:3-6; Revelation 20:11-15

2. What is promised to those who believe in Jesus Christ? John 1:12, 5:24, 6:35, 11:25; 12:36

5-3 Repentance is Necessary — This is Your First Step Toward Faith
Mark 1:4 (NLT)[4] This messenger was John the Baptist. He was in the wilderness and preached that people should be baptized to show that they had repented of their sins and turned to God to be forgiven.
Mark 1:14-15 (NLT)[14] Later on, after John was arrested, Jesus went into Galilee, where he preached God’s Good News. [15] “The time promised by God has come at last!” he announced. “The Kingdom of God is near! Repent of your sins and believe the Good News!”
Luke 5:32 (NLT)[32] I have come to call not those who think they are righteous, but those who know they are sinners and need to repent.”

1. Review the message of John the Baptist, Jesus and Peter. What are those in darkness and those who are sinners required to do? Acts 8:20-22; Acts 11:18

2. What is required of every one who believes in Jesus Christ? Acts 2:38-40, 3:19, 17:30; 2 Peter 3:9; Revelation 3:19

5-4 My Personal Prayer of Repentance
You now ask "What should I do to have my sins forgiven and receive eternal life?" Meditate upon these verses and the previous verses, then write your own prayer of repentance in three parts:
5-5 Living in the Light — Welcome to the Kingdom of God
Romans 5:1-2 (NLT)[1] Therefore, since we have been made right in God’s sight by faith, we have peace with God because of what Jesus Christ our Lord has done for us. [2] Because of our faith, Christ has brought us into this place of undeserved privilege where we now stand, and we confidently and joyfully look forward to sharing God’s glory.
John 8:12 (NLT)[12] Jesus spoke to the people once more and said, “I am the light of the world. If you follow me, you won’t have to walk in darkness, because you will have the light that leads to life.”
Colossians 1:3-5 (NLT)We always pray for you, and we give thanks to God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. For we have heard of your faith in Christ Jesus and your love for all of God's people, which come from your confident hope of what God has reserved for you in heaven. You have had this expectation ever since you first heard the truth of the Good News.
5-6 Becoming Like Jesus Christ
John 17:18-21 (NLT)[18] Just as you sent me into the world, I am sending them into the world. [19] And I give myself as a holy sacrifice for them so they can be made holy by your truth. [20] “I am praying not only for these disciples but also for all who will ever believe in me through their message. [21] I pray that they will all be one, just as you and I are one—as you are in me, Father, and I am in you. And may they be in us so that the world will believe you sent me.
Meditate and MemorizeJohn 1:12-13 — "But as many as received him, to them he gave the right to become God's children, to those who believe in his name: who were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God."

Jesus Christ is so gracious to us: What have we obtained? What has been multiplied to us? What has been granted to us? 2 Peter 1:1-4

My Journal — Lesson 5

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Session Two · My Character · Lesson 6
The Holy Spirit
Key Verse — Galatians 5:22-23But the Holy Spirit produces this kind of fruit in our lives: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. There is no law against these things!
Thank you Holy Spirit for coming into my life. Help me to get to know you well and to learn how to depend on your love, wisdom, and power to help me live the Christian life victoriously.
Though He has no body, the Holy Spirit is a real person who dwells within you. He desires to make you more and more like Christ in your words, deeds, and relationships. Yielding to his leadership daily is the key to spiritual growth and effective witness.
6-1 The Holy Spirit and Jesus
Luke 1:30-31, 34-35 (NLT)[30] “Don’t be afraid, Mary,” the angel told her, “for you have found favor with God! [31] You will conceive and give birth to a son, and you will name him Jesus.
Luke 3:21-23 (NLT)[21] One day when the crowds were being baptized, Jesus himself was baptized. As he was praying, the heavens opened, [22] and the Holy Spirit, in bodily form, descended on him like a dove. And a voice from heaven said, “You are my dearly loved Son, and you bring me great joy.” [23] Jesus was about thirty years old when he began his public ministry. Jesus was known as the son of Joseph. Joseph was the son of Heli.
Acts 10:37-38 (NLT)[37] You know what happened throughout Judea, beginning in Galilee, after John began preaching his message of baptism. [38] And you know that God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Spirit and with power. Then Jesus went around doing good and healing all who were oppressed by the devil, for God was with him.
John 14:15 (NLT)[15] “If you love me, obey my commandments.
6-2 The Holy Spirit Convicts
John 16:12-15 (NLT)[12] "There is so much more I want to tell you, but you can’t bear it now. [13] When the Spirit of truth comes, he will guide you into all truth. He will not speak on his own but will tell you what he has heard. He will tell you about the future. [14] He will bring me glory by telling you whatever he receives from me. [15] All that belongs to the Father is mine; this is why I said, ‘The Spirit will tell you whatever he receives from me.’

1. Put in your own words what happened to the crowd when Peter preached his first sermon after his "upper room" experience. Acts 2:37

6-3 The Holy Spirit Brings About My New Birth
John 3:3-7 (NLT)[3] Jesus replied, “I tell you the truth, unless you are born again, you cannot see the Kingdom of God.” [4] “What do you mean?” exclaimed Nicodemus. “How can an old man go back into his mother’s womb and be born again?” [5] Jesus replied, “I assure you, no one can enter the Kingdom of God without being born of water and the Spirit. [6] Humans can reproduce only human life, but the Holy Spirit gives birth to spiritual life. [7] So don’t be surprised when I say, ‘You must be born again.’

Where does the Holy Spirit want to dwell? What difference will it make? 1 Corinthians 6:19-20

6-4 The Holy Spirit Produces the Fruit of the Spirit in Me
Galatians 5:22-23 (NLT)[22] But the Holy Spirit produces this kind of fruit in our lives: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, [23] gentleness, and self-control. There is no law against these things!

1. What is my part in allowing the Holy Spirit to produce fruit in my life? John 15:1-12

2. What part do the Scriptures play in my fruitfulness? Psalm 1:1-3

6-5 The Holy Spirit Empowers Me for Witness
Acts 1:4, 8 (NLT)[4] Once when he was eating with them, he commanded them, “Do not leave Jerusalem until the Father sends you the gift he promised, as I told you before.

1. What were the disciples doing when they were empowered with boldness to witness? Acts 1:14; 4:31; Acts 8:4; 11:19-21

2. When the disciples spoke with other tongues, what did they say? Acts 2:1-21

6-6 The Holy Spirit Helps Me Pray
Romans 8:26-27 (NLT)[26] And the Holy Spirit helps us in our weakness. For example, we don’t know what God wants us to pray for. But the Holy Spirit prays for us with groanings that cannot be expressed in words. [27] And the Father who knows all hearts knows what the Spirit is saying, for the Spirit pleads for us believers in harmony with God’s own will.

How does Paul instruct believers to pray? Ephesians 6:18-19

6-7 The Holy Spirit Wants to Manifest Spiritual Gifts Through Me
1 Corinthians 12:4-11 (NLT)[4] There are different kinds of spiritual gifts, but the same Spirit is the source of them all. [5] There are different kinds of service, but we serve the same Lord. [6] God works in different ways, but it is the same God who does the work in all of us. [7] A spiritual gift is given to each of us so we can help each other. [8] To one person the Spirit gives the ability to give wise advice; to another the same Spirit gives a message of special knowledge. [9] The same Spirit gives great faith to another, and to someone else the one Spirit gives the gift of healing. [10] He gives one person the power to perform miracles, and another the ability to prophesy. He gives someone else the ability to discern whether a message is from the Spirit of God or from another spirit. Still another person is given the ability to speak in unknown languages, while another is given the ability to interpret what is being said. [11] It is the one and only Spirit who distributes all these gifts. He alone decides which gift each person should have.

1. What gifts do you think should be earnestly desired? 1 Corinthians 12:27-31

6-8 Don't Hurt the Holy Spirit
Ephesians 4:30-31 (NLT)[30] And do not bring sorrow to God’s Holy Spirit by the way you live. Remember, he has identified you as his own, guaranteeing that you will be saved on the day of redemption. [31] Get rid of all bitterness, rage, anger, harsh words, and slander, as well as all types of evil behavior.
1 Thessalonians 5:19-21 (NLT)[19] Do not stifle the Holy Spirit. [20] Do not scoff at prophecies, [21] but test everything that is said. Hold on to what is good.
Acts 7:51 (NLT)[51] “You stubborn people! You are heathen at heart and deaf to the truth. Must you forever resist the Holy Spirit? That’s what your ancestors did, and so do you!

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Session Two · My Character · Lesson 7
Holiness > Righteousness
"Dear Father in heaven, Help me to understand that holiness is who I am and righteousness is what I do."
In Lesson 2 we learned about the holiness of God. In Lesson 2-3 we learned about His Righteousness. God is now passing these qualities to you through His Son, Jesus Christ. Holiness is God living within us. Righteousness is God working through us. Commit yourself to maintain the holy character God has given you and to fill your life with right actions.
7-1 Jesus Christ — The Holy One Sent From God
Luke 1:35 (NLT)[35] The angel replied, “The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you. So the baby to be born will be holy, and he will be called the Son of God.
Luke 1:49 (NLT)[49] For the Mighty One is holy, and he has done great things for me.
Revelation 4:11 (NLT)[11] “You are worthy, O Lord our God, to receive glory and honor and power. For you created all things, and they exist because you created what you pleased.”

1. While Peter was speaking in the Temple who did he say Jesus was? Acts 3:13-15

2. How does the book of Hebrews describe the character of Jesus Christ as our high priest and where is He now? Hebrews 7:25-27

7-2 The Shed Blood of Jesus Christ Makes Me Holy
1 John 1:7 (NLT)[7] But if we are living in the light, as God is in the light, then we have fellowship with each other, and the blood of Jesus, his Son, cleanses us from all sin.
Hebrews 10:19 (NLT)[19] And so, dear brothers and sisters, we can boldly enter heaven’s Most Holy Place because of the blood of Jesus.

1. What has the shed blood of Jesus Christ done for us? Add details. Ephesians 1:3-6, 2:19-22, 5:25-27; Colossians 1:19-20

2. Since we are now holy, how then should we walk? Romans 11:16; Ephesians 4:22-24; Colossians 3:12-13; 1 Thessalonians 4:1-11

7-3 I am a Temple of the Holy Spirit — He Lives Within Me
1 Corinthians 6:18-20 (NLT)[18] Run from sexual sin! No other sin so clearly affects the body as this one does. For sexual immorality is a sin against your own body. [19] Don’t you realize that your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit, who lives in you and was given to you by God? You do not belong to yourself, [20] for God bought you with a high price. So you must honor God with your body.

1. How does the Bible outline what is unholy within all mankind? Matthew 15:18-20; Romans 1:26-32

2. From these five texts explain who we are and what should we do about it. Luke 1:74-75; 1 Corinthians 3:16-18; 2 Corinthians 7:1; Ephesians 2:19-22, 4:20-24

7-4 Jesus is the Righteous One — His Actions Are Always Right
Psalm 119:160 (NLT)[160] The very essence of your words is truth; all your just regulations will stand forever. Shin
Acts 22:14 (NLT)[14] “Then he told me, ‘The God of our ancestors has chosen you to know his will and to see the Righteous One and hear him speak.

1. What was the first reason that Jesus Christ came into the world? John 5:30

2. What is the result of this righteous action? Romans 5:17-19, 9:30

3. Who did Jesus not come to call? Luke 5:32; Romans 10:6-11; 1 Peter 3:18-22

7-5 Jesus Has Given God's Righteousness to Me / 7-6 The Righteous Receive Eternal Rewards
Romans 1:17 (NLT)[17] This Good News tells us how God makes us right in his sight. This is accomplished from start to finish by faith. As the Scriptures say, “It is through faith that a righteous person has life.”
Romans 5:19 (NLT)[19] Because one person disobeyed God, many became sinners. But because one other person obeyed God, many will be made righteous.
2 Corinthians 5:21 (NLT)[21] For God made Christ, who never sinned, to be the offering for our sin, so that we could be made right with God through Christ.
Matthew 13:43 (NLT)[43] Then the righteous will shine like the sun in their Father’s Kingdom. Anyone with ears to hear should listen and understand!

1. How does a sinner receive the righteousness of God? Romans 1:17; 1 John 1:9; Romans 3:21-26

2. As a follower of Jesus, how should we live and what is the result? Luke 1:74-75; 2 Corinthians 7:12; 1 Timothy 2:22, 6:11; James 5:16

3. List the things Paul tells the Philippians to "think about." Philippians 4:8

4. What happens to those who do not live righteous lives? Matthew 13:49-51, 25:45-46; 2 Thessalonians 1:6-10

Meditate and MemorizeColossians 3:12-13 — "Put on therefore, as God's chosen ones, holy and beloved, a heart of compassion, kindness, lowliness, humility, and perseverance; bearing with one another, and forgiving each other, if any man has a complaint against any; even as Christ forgave you, so you also do."

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Session Two · My Character · Lesson 8
Developing Godly Character — Toward an Abundant Entrance into the Eternal Kingdom
Key Verse — 2 Peter 1:10So, dear brothers and sisters, work hard to prove that you really are among those God has called and chosen. Do these things, and you will never fall away.
Simon Peter, a servant and apostle of Jesus Christ… Grace and peace to you many times over as you deepen in your experience with God and Jesus, our Master. Everything that goes into a life of pleasing God has been miraculously given to us by getting to know, personally and intimately, the One who invited us to God. So don't lose a minute in building on what you've been given, complementing your basic faith with good character, spiritual understanding, alert discipline, passionate patience, reverent wonder, warm friendliness, and generous love… — 2 Peter 1:1-11 (MSG)
Faith came into you the moment you believed and accepted Jesus Christ as your personal Savior and Lord. Peter explains how to deepen your experience with God and Jesus, our Master. Personalize this lesson — use the pronouns "I" and "Me" in your answers.
8-1 To Your Faith Add Moral Excellence
Romans 10:17 (NLT)[17] So faith comes from hearing, that is, hearing the Good News about Christ.
2 Peter 1:5 (NLT)In view of all this, make every effort to respond to God's promises. Supplement your faith with a generous provision of moral excellence,

1. What kind of a spirit has God given me and what kind of fruit does the Holy Spirit produce in me? 2 Timothy 1:7; Galatians 5:22-23

2. List how I must live in the days we live in? Titus 1:7-10; 1 Peter 4:7

8-2 To Moral Excellence Add Knowledge
2 Peter 1:5 (NLT)and moral excellence with knowledge,
2 Corinthians 4:6 (NLT)[6] For God, who said, “Let there be light in the darkness,” has made this light shine in our hearts so we could know the glory of God that is seen in the face of Jesus Christ.

1. What are we to give up and now think about? Galatians 6:9; Philippians 4:8

2. What are we to run toward? Hebrews 12:1

8-3 To Knowledge Add Self-Control
2 Peter 1:6 (NLT)and knowledge with self-control,
1 Peter 5:8 (NLT)[8] Stay alert! Watch out for your great enemy, the devil. He prowls around like a roaring lion, looking for someone to devour.

What is the devil trying to do to you?

1 Corinthians 9:25

Explain the difference between self-control in the natural world and the spiritual world.

1 Peter 4:7

We can see the end of all things — how then am I to live?

8-4 To Self-Control Add Patient Endurance
2 Peter 1:6 (NLT)and self-control with patient endurance,
1 Timothy 6:11 (NLT)[11] But you, Timothy, are a man of God; so run from all these evil things. Pursue righteousness and a godly life, along with faith, love, perseverance, and gentleness.

James 1:2-4

In what area does God want me to grow? Explain the growth you have seen in your own life since you have deeply involved yourself in the scriptures.

Romans 5:1-5

Vs 1-3 — What happens to me after I have been made right by faith? Vs 4-5 — What does endurance develop in my life?

8-5 To Patient Endurance Add Godliness
2 Peter 1:6 (NLT)and patient endurance with godliness,
1 Timothy 3:16 (NLT)[16] Without question, this is the great mystery of our faith: Christ was revealed in a human body and vindicated by the Spirit. He was seen by angels and announced to the nations. He was believed in throughout the world and taken to heaven in glory.

1 Timothy 6:11

2 Peter 1:3

What does Paul tell Timothy to pursue? What has God given to me by His divine power? How did He do this?

8-6 To Godliness Add Brotherly Affection
2 Peter 1:7 (NLT)and godliness with brotherly affection,
1 John 2:10-11 (NLT)[10] Anyone who loves a fellow believer is living in the light and does not cause others to stumble. [11] But anyone who hates a fellow believer is still living and walking in darkness. Such a person does not know the way to go, having been blinded by the darkness.

1. How does Paul feel about his own brothers and sisters? Romans 9:1-5

2. List how I should show love and genuine affection toward others. Romans 12:10-13

8-7 To Brotherly Affection Add Love — The Final Results
2 Peter 1:7 (NLT)and brotherly affection with love for everyone.
Luke 10:27 (NLT)[27] The man answered, “‘You must love the Lord your God with all your heart, all your soul, all your strength, and all your mind.’ And, ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’”
2 Peter 1:10-11 (NLT)[10] So, dear brothers and sisters, work hard to prove that you really are among those God has called and chosen. Do these things, and you will never fall away. [11] Then God will give you a grand entrance into the eternal Kingdom of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.

Read and meditate on 1 Corinthians 13. List the things that love is better than. 1 Corinthians 13

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Session Two · My Character · Lesson 9
Integrity — Honest, Ethical, Consistent, Unwavering Moral Principles
Key Verse — Titus 2:7And you yourself must be an example to them by doing good works of every kind. Let everything you do reflect the integrity and seriousness of your teaching.
Lord thank you for giving me such a great start at your cross. Help me and guide me to finish well.
Integrity is self-prompted. God has given many gifts to me. Now it's up to me how I live them out. Let's say with John the Baptist, "He must increase, but I must decrease." — John 3:30
9-1 My Character — Integrity Is the Foundation of True Character
Character is the mental and moral qualities distinctive to an individual. My character lives deep within my being. It describes who I really am. I will hold myself to a standard higher than the world expects, even when no one is looking. I choose honesty and I stand firm in truth when it would be simpler to fall. This section will take much time. Don't hurry it. Use "My Journal" to complete it.
Psalm 41:12 (NLT)[12] You have preserved my life because I am innocent; you have brought me into your presence forever.
Proverbs 2:6-8 (NLT)[6] For the Lord grants wisdom! From his mouth come knowledge and understanding. [7] He grants a treasure of common sense to the honest. He is a shield to those who walk with integrity. [8] He guards the paths of the just and protects those who are faithful to him.
Matthew 5:37 (NLT)[37] Just say a simple, ‘Yes, I will,’ or ‘No, I won’t.’ Anything beyond this is from the evil one.
Luke 6:45 (NLT)[45] A good person produces good things from the treasury of a good heart, and an evil person produces evil things from the treasury of an evil heart. What you say flows from what is in your heart.
9-2 I Exemplify Jesus Christ
As an ambassador is to a country, so I represent Jesus Christ. I must be a good example of the complete change He brings to humanity.
2 Corinthians 5:17-21 (NLT)[17] This means that anyone who belongs to Christ has become a new person. The old life is gone; a new life has begun! [18] And all of this is a gift from God, who brought us back to himself through Christ. And God has given us this task of reconciling people to him. [19] For God was in Christ, reconciling the world to himself, no longer counting people’s sins against them. And he gave us this wonderful message of reconciliation. [20] So we are Christ’s ambassadors; God is making his appeal through us. We speak for Christ when we plead, “Come back to God!” [21] For God made Christ, who never sinned, to be the offering for our sin, so that we could be made right with God through Christ.
John 13:15 (NLT)[15] I have given you an example to follow. Do as I have done to you.
Ephesians 2:7 (NLT)[7] So God can point to us in all future ages as examples of the incredible wealth of his grace and kindness toward us, as shown in all he has done for us who are united with Christ Jesus.
Ephesians 5:2 (NLT)[2] Live a life filled with love, following the example of Christ. He loved us and offered himself as a sacrifice for us, a pleasing aroma to God.
9-3 I Represent the Church of Jesus Christ
I characterize the Church of Jesus Christ on earth. I will do nothing to bring them shame.
Romans 12:1 (NLT)[1] And so, dear brothers and sisters, I plead with you to give your bodies to God because of all he has done for you. Let them be a living and holy sacrifice—the kind he will find acceptable. This is truly the way to worship him.
Romans 14:19 (NLT)[19] So then, let us aim for harmony in the church and try to build each other up.
Philippians 2:3-4 (NLT)[3] Don’t be selfish; don’t try to impress others. Be humble, thinking of others as better than yourselves. [4] Don’t look out only for your own interests, but take an interest in others, too.
James 4:6 (NLT)[6] And he gives grace generously. As the Scriptures say, “God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble.”
9-4 I Have Internal Peace
Jesus Christ has given me peace inside my being. I do not want to disturb it by my lack of integrity.
Philippians 4:6-8 (NLT)[6] Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done. [7] Then you will experience God’s peace, which exceeds anything we can understand. His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus. [8] And now, dear brothers and sisters, one final thing. Fix your thoughts on what is true, and honorable, and right, and pure, and lovely, and admirable. Think about things that are excellent and worthy of praise.
John 16:33 (NLT)[33] I have told you all this so that you may have peace in me. Here on earth you will have many trials and sorrows. But take heart, because I have overcome the world."
Romans 8:6 (NLT)[6] So letting your sinful nature control your mind leads to death. But letting the Spirit control your mind leads to life and peace.
Romans 14:17 (NLT)[17] For the Kingdom of God is not a matter of what we eat or drink, but of living a life of goodness and peace and joy in the Holy Spirit.
9-5 I Will Finish Well
My new life in Jesus Christ started at the Cross. It was a great start. I pledge to finish well.
1 Corinthians 1:4-9 (NLT)[4] I always thank my God for you and for the gracious gifts he has given you, now that you belong to Christ Jesus. [5] Through him, God has enriched your church in every way—with all of your eloquent words and all of your knowledge. [6] This confirms that what I told you about Christ is true. [7] Now you have every spiritual gift you need as you eagerly wait for the return of our Lord Jesus Christ. [8] He will keep you strong to the end so that you will be free from all blame on the day when our Lord Jesus Christ returns. [9] God will do this, for he is faithful to do what he says, and he has invited you into partnership with his Son, Jesus Christ our Lord.

My Journal — Lesson 9

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Session Two · My Character · Lesson 10
Jesus in Me — Intimacy
Key Verse — Philippians 4:13For I can do everything through Christ, who gives me strength.
"Lord Jesus, draw me close to you. I want to know you deeply and abide in your presence each day."
True Christian living is not merely about following rules — it is about a living, breathing relationship with the person of Jesus Christ. Jesus used the image of a vine and its branches to describe this intimacy. A branch cannot bear fruit on its own; it must remain connected to the vine. The same is true of us. The more we abide in Christ, the more His life flows through ours.
10-1 Abiding in Christ — The Vine and the Branches
John 15:4-5 (NLT)[4] Remain in me, and I will remain in you. For a branch cannot produce fruit if it is severed from the vine, and you cannot be fruitful unless you remain in me. [5] “Yes, I am the vine; you are the branches. Those who remain in me, and I in them, will produce much fruit. For apart from me you can do nothing.
John 15:7 (NLT)[7] But if you remain in me and my words remain in you, you may ask for anything you want, and it will be granted!

1. Read John 15:1-17 completely. List every result that comes from abiding in Christ. John 15:1-17

2. What does Jesus say will happen to those who do NOT abide in Him? John 15:6

3. How does Colossians 3:16-17 describe what it looks like to let Christ's word dwell in you richly? Colossians 3:16-17

10-2 Prayer — The Breath of Intimacy
Philippians 4:6-7 (NLT)[6] Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done. [7] Then you will experience God’s peace, which exceeds anything we can understand. His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus.
1 Thessalonians 5:17 (NLT)[17] Never stop praying.

1. Study Jesus' model prayer (Matthew 6:9-13) and break it into its components. What can you learn about the rhythm of prayer from this model?

2. What does Romans 8:26-27 say about the Holy Spirit's role in your prayer life?

10-3 The Word — Nourishment for the Soul
Psalm 119:105 (NLT)[105] Your word is a lamp to guide my feet and a light for my path.
2 Timothy 3:16-17 (NLT)[16] All Scripture is inspired by God and is useful to teach us what is true and to make us realize what is wrong in our lives. It corrects us when we are wrong and teaches us to do what is right. [17] God uses it to prepare and equip his people to do every good work.

1. What are the four purposes of Scripture listed in 2 Timothy 3:16? Give an example of each in your own life.

2. What does Joshua 1:8 promise to those who meditate on God's Word day and night?

10-4 Worship — Loving God with Everything
John 4:23-24 (NLT)[23] But the time is coming—indeed it’s here now—when true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and in truth. The Father is looking for those who will worship him that way. [24] For God is Spirit, so those who worship him must worship in spirit and in truth.”
Romans 12:1 (NLT)[1] And so, dear brothers and sisters, I plead with you to give your bodies to God because of all he has done for you. Let them be a living and holy sacrifice—the kind he will find acceptable. This is truly the way to worship him.

1. Study Psalm 100. What are the commands given and the reasons behind each? Psalm 100

2. How does Hebrews 13:15-16 expand our understanding of worship beyond singing?

10-5 Fellowship — Connected to the Body
Hebrews 10:24-25 (NLT)[24] Let us think of ways to motivate one another to acts of love and good works. [25] And let us not neglect our meeting together, as some people do, but encourage one another, especially now that the day of his return is drawing near.
1 John 1:7 (NLT)[7] But if we are living in the light, as God is in the light, then we have fellowship with each other, and the blood of Jesus, his Son, cleanses us from all sin.
Meditate and MemorizeJohn 15:5 — "I am the vine. You are the branches. He who remains in me and I in him bears much fruit, for apart from me you can do nothing."

My Journal — Lesson 10

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Session Three · My Mission · Lesson 11
Jesus Through Me — Boldness
Key Verse — Philippians 4:13I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.
"Thank you Jesus for living in me. Now please work through me. May your Holy Spirit guide me in every step I take."
Jesus now wants to work through me. Our best biblical example is from the original Apostles. As you study this lesson be prepared for the Holy Spirit to talk to you about your own witness. Be honest and open.
11-1 All Things Through Christ
Philippians 4:13 (NLT)[13] For I can do everything through Christ, who gives me strength.
11-2 In the Name of Jesus
John 15:16 (NLT)[16] You didn’t choose me. I chose you. I appointed you to go and produce lasting fruit, so that the Father will give you whatever you ask for, using my name.

1. List the blessings that have come to me through Jesus Christ. John 1:17; Romans 3:21-24; 12:9; 13:3-4; Hebrews 10:19

2. What blessings now flow through me to others? Ephesians 2:10; Philippians 1:9-11; Colossians 1:26-28

3. What promise is Jesus making to the apostles and us? John 14:12-14; 15:16; 16:23-24

4. How did Peter fulfill the command of Jesus? Acts 2:38; 3:6-7; 4:9-11

11-3 We Speak Boldly
Acts 26:1-25 (NLT)[1] Then Agrippa said to Paul, “You may speak in your defense.” So Paul, gesturing with his hand, started his defense: [2] “I am fortunate, King Agrippa, that you are the one hearing my defense today against all these accusations made by the Jewish leaders, [3] for I know you are an expert on all Jewish customs and controversies. Now please listen to me patiently! [4] “As the Jewish leaders are well aware, I was given a thorough Jewish training from my earliest childhood among my own people and in Jerusalem. [5] If they would admit it, they know that I have been a member of the Pharisees, the strictest sect of our religion. [6] Now I am on trial because of my hope in the fulfillment of God’s promise made to our ancestors. [7] In fact, that is why the twelve tribes of Israel zealously worship God night and day, and they share the same hope I have. Yet, Your Majesty, they accuse me for having this hope! [8] Why does it seem incredible to any of you that God can raise the dead? [9] “I used to believe that I ought to do everything I could to oppose the very name of Jesus the Nazarene. [10] Indeed, I did just that in Jerusalem. Authorized by the leading priests, I caused many believers there to be sent to prison. And I cast my vote against them when they were condemned to death. [11] Many times I had them punished in the synagogues to get them to curse Jesus. I was so violently opposed to them that I even chased them down in foreign cities. [12] “One day I was on such a mission to Damascus, armed with the authority and commission of the leading priests. [13] About noon, Your Majesty, as I was on the road, a light from heaven brighter than the sun shone down on me and my companions. [14] We all fell down, and I heard a voice saying to me in Aramaic, ‘Saul, Saul, why are you persecuting me? It is useless for you to fight against my will.’ [15] “‘Who are you, lord?’ I asked. “And the Lord replied, ‘I am Jesus, the one you are persecuting. [16] Now get to your feet! For I have appeared to you to appoint you as my servant and witness. Tell people that you have seen me, and tell them what I will show you in the future. [17] And I will rescue you from both your own people and the Gentiles. Yes, I am sending you to the Gentiles [18] to open their eyes, so they may turn from darkness to light and from the power of Satan to God. Then they will receive forgiveness for their sins and be given a place among God’s people, who are set apart by faith in me.’ [19] “And so, King Agrippa, I obeyed that vision from heaven. [20] I preached first to those in Damascus, then in Jerusalem and throughout all Judea, and also to the Gentiles, that all must repent of their sins and turn to God—and prove they have changed by the good things they do. [21] Some Jews arrested me in the Temple for preaching this, and they tried to kill me. [22] But God has protected me right up to this present time so I can testify to everyone, from the least to the greatest. I teach nothing except what the prophets and Moses said would happen— [23] that the Messiah would suffer and be the first to rise from the dead, and in this way announce God’s light to Jews and Gentiles alike.” [24] Suddenly, Festus shouted, “Paul, you are insane. Too much study has made you crazy!” [25] But Paul replied, “I am not insane, Most Excellent Festus. What I am saying is the sober truth.

1. Write the story in your own words about how the first followers of Jesus were conducting themselves.

2. Speaking boldly was not a flash in the pan experience. Record how Paul and Barnabas fulfilled their calling. Acts 9:27-29; 13:46; 15:25-26; 14:1-3; 19:8; Ephesians 6:19-20

11-4 In the Power of the Holy Spirit
Acts 1:8 (NLT)[8] But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you. And you will be my witnesses, telling people about me everywhere—in Jerusalem, throughout Judea, in Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.

1. How do we abound? How are we strengthened? What can we be sure of? Ephesians 3:14-19; 1 Thessalonians 1:2-7; 2 Timothy 1:6-8

2. Jesus tells us to ask in His name — what promise is Jesus making to you? The apostles minister in the name of Jesus — how did Peter fulfill the command of Jesus? John 14:12-14; 15:16; 16:23-24; 20:30-31; Acts 2:38; 3:6-7; 4:9-11

11-5 Authority Over Sickness and Demons
Matthew 4:24 (NLT)[24] News about him spread as far as Syria, and people soon began bringing to him all who were sick. And whatever their sickness or disease, or if they were demon possessed or epileptic or paralyzed—he healed them all.

1. From these texts tell of the authority given to Jesus over Satan. Matthew 8:16-17; Mark 1:34; Luke 4:36; 6:19; 13:11-13

2. What authority over demons did Jesus give to his disciples? Matthew 10:5-8; Mark 3:13-15; 6:7; John 14:12

11-6 Giving All the Glory to God
1 Corinthians 10:31 (NLT)[31] So whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.

1. There is a danger in taking the glory to ourselves for anything God does through us. Who must get the glory? John 11:4; 2 Corinthians 4:5-7; Philippians 1:9-11; 1 Timothy 1:17; 1 Peter 4:11; Jude 1:24-25

Meditate and MemorizePhilippians 4:13 — "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me."

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Session Three · My Mission · Lesson 12
My Life is a Lamp — Shining into Darkness
Key Verse — Matthew 5:16In the same way, let your good deeds shine out for all to see, so that everyone will praise your heavenly Father.
"Dear Jesus, thank you for the inner change given to me. Thank you for the light which lives in me. Help me to let my light shine before others."
Our world and our lives are filled with darkness. Jesus Christ came to bring light to the whole world. Darkness exists until light arrives. We can all sense the darkness which surrounds us. Now Jesus Christ is asking us to cooperate with Him and bring light to our generation. He wants my life to shine in the darkness which I see in the hearts of lost people everywhere I go. I pledge to let my light shine.
12-1 Jesus Christ's Mission
John 12:46 (NLT)[46] I have come as a light to shine in this dark world, so that all who put their trust in me will no longer remain in the dark.
John 8:12 (NLT)[12] Jesus spoke to the people once more and said, “I am the light of the world. If you follow me, you won’t have to walk in darkness, because you will have the light that leads to life.”

1. How does Jesus Christ explain his personal relationship with his Father? John 5:30; 8:29; 14:9-11

2. Why do people hate the light? John 3:20

3. What are the requests Jesus asks of His Father? John 17:18-23

12-2 Paul's Mission
Acts 26:15-18 (NLT)[15] “‘Who are you, lord?’ I asked. “And the Lord replied, ‘I am Jesus, the one you are persecuting. [16] Now get to your feet! For I have appeared to you to appoint you as my servant and witness. Tell people that you have seen me, and tell them what I will show you in the future. [17] And I will rescue you from both your own people and the Gentiles. Yes, I am sending you to the Gentiles [18] to open their eyes, so they may turn from darkness to light and from the power of Satan to God. Then they will receive forgiveness for their sins and be given a place among God’s people, who are set apart by faith in me.’”

1. Outline God's call to the Apostle Paul. Acts 9:15-18; 13:3, 46-47

2. Explain how and why Paul reported to his leadership. Acts 15:3-4, 12-17; 21:15, 19-21

3. What reason does Paul give for rejoicing to the Gentiles? Romans 5:3, 11; 12:12

12-3 My Mission (I'm Out of Darkness — and Into the Light)
Ephesians 5:8-11 (NLT)[8] For once you were full of darkness, but now you have light from the Lord. So live as people of light! [9] For this light within you produces only what is good and right and true. [10] Carefully determine what pleases the Lord. [11] Take no part in the worthless deeds of evil and darkness; instead, expose them.

1. What is Jesus commanding you to do with darkness and with light? John 12:35; Romans 12:12

2. How does Jesus help you with your new mission? John 20:19-22; Mark 16:15-18; Acts 1:7-8

12-4 I Am Filled With Light
Luke 11:36 (NLT)[36] If you are filled with light, with no dark corners, then your whole life will be radiant, as though a floodlight were filling you with light.”
1 Thessalonians 5:4-6 (NLT)[4] But you aren’t in the dark about these things, dear brothers and sisters, and you won’t be surprised when the day of the Lord comes like a thief. [5] For you are all children of the light and of the day; we don’t belong to darkness and night. [6] So be on your guard, not asleep like the others. Stay alert and be clearheaded.

1. Make a list of what the Old Testament says the Light of God does in and through me. Psalm 18:28; 43:3; 67:1; 80:7; Proverbs 4:18

2. How does Jesus want me to use the light He has given me? John 12:35; 2 Corinthians 4:5-7; Romans 13:12

12-5 I Am the Light of the World
Matthew 5:14-15 (NLT)[14] “You are the light of the world—like a city on a hilltop that cannot be hidden. [15] No one lights a lamp and then puts it under a basket. Instead, a lamp is placed on a stand, where it gives light to everyone in the house.
John 12:36 (NLT)[36] Put your trust in the light while there is still time; then you will become children of the light.”
Meditate and MemorizeMatthew 5:16 — "Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father who is in heaven."

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Session Three · My Mission · Lesson 13
My Home is a Lighthouse
Key Verse — Matthew 5:14-15You are the light of the world—like a city on a hilltop that cannot be hidden. No one lights a lamp and then puts it under a basket. Instead, a lamp is placed on a stand, where it gives light to everyone in the house.
"Dear Jesus, I commit my home to you. May your presence always be felt and may others find you here."
Jesus chose specific homes to enter and to carry out ministry. His choice spoke to those of His day and to us today. Jesus is still choosing homes to work in and through. Let Him do His work as He wills in your home. Let the Holy Spirit guide you to homes in your neighborhood where He wants work done for His own reasons.
13-1 Jesus in People's Homes

Zacchaeus

Luke 19:1-10 (NLT)[1] Jesus entered Jericho and made his way through the town. [2] There was a man there named Zacchaeus. He was the chief tax collector in the region, and he had become very rich. [3] He tried to get a look at Jesus, but he was too short to see over the crowd. [4] So he ran ahead and climbed a sycamore-fig tree beside the road, for Jesus was going to pass that way. [5] When Jesus came by, he looked up at Zacchaeus and called him by name. “Zacchaeus!” he said. “Quick, come down! I must be a guest in your home today.” [6] Zacchaeus quickly climbed down and took Jesus to his house in great excitement and joy. [7] But the people were displeased. “He has gone to be the guest of a notorious sinner,” they grumbled. [8] Meanwhile, Zacchaeus stood before the Lord and said, “I will give half my wealth to the poor, Lord, and if I have cheated people on their taxes, I will give them back four times as much!” [9] Jesus responded, “Salvation has come to this home today, for this man has shown himself to be a true son of Abraham. [10] For the Son of Man came to seek and save those who are lost.”

Mary, Martha and Lazarus

13-2 The Early Church in Homes
Acts 1:12-14 (NLT)[12] Then the apostles returned to Jerusalem from the Mount of Olives, a distance of half a mile. [13] When they arrived, they went to the upstairs room of the house where they were staying. Here are the names of those who were present: Peter, John, James, Andrew, Philip, Thomas, Bartholomew, Matthew, James (son of Alphaeus), Simon (the zealot), and Judas (son of James). [14] They all met together and were constantly united in prayer, along with Mary the mother of Jesus, several other women, and the brothers of Jesus.
Acts 5:42 (NLT)[42] And every day, in the Temple and from house to house, they continued to teach and preach this message: “Jesus is the Messiah.”
Acts 20:20-21 (NLT)[20] I never shrank back from telling you what you needed to hear, either publicly or in your homes. [21] I have had one message for Jews and Greeks alike—the necessity of repenting from sin and turning to God, and of having faith in our Lord Jesus.

3. The first Gentile home. Read Acts 10:1-47. In whose life did this story start? Who was Cornelius and how did God call him? What was God's commission and how did Cornelius respond? What had Cornelius done before Peter arrived? What was the response to Peter's message? Acts 10:1-47

Peter — explain in your own words: the reaction of Peter to the first call, the action of Peter to the second call, and the results of Peter's obedience.

13-3 Passing Faith to the Next Generation
Deuteronomy 6:6-7 (NLT)[6] And you must commit yourselves wholeheartedly to these commands that I am giving you today. [7] Repeat them again and again to your children. Talk about them when you are at home and when you are on the road, when you are going to bed and when you are getting up.
Proverbs 22:6 (NLT)[6] Direct your children onto the right path, and when they are older, they will not leave it.
13-4 Me and My Home

Regardless of status or ethnicity, all your neighbors need Jesus. Each one needs a heaven-sent message for their inner person. You are the light. Your home needs to be a lighthouse. You live in the center of these people who live in spiritual darkness.

There are four things to remember as you begin your quest to bring them to Jesus:

1. God will give you a heaven-sent plan. Ask Him. Each plan will be unique. We are not cookie cutters.

2. The shed blood of Jesus Christ is the only way to begin a journey into the eternal presence of Jesus. Plan your presentation around the cross. Some will need it in small doses. Others will be ready to study "Jesus and Me" with you.

3. You can count on the Holy Spirit to lead you in every way at all times.

4. Darkness is formidable. Satan will fight you all the way. No matter how dark their life may be, Jesus is their answer. God is calling you to live like Him, be like Him and go like Him.

My Life is a Lamp • My Home is a Lighthouse

Meditate and MemorizeDeuteronomy 6:6-7 — "These words, which I command you today, shall be on your heart; and you shall teach them diligently to your children, and shall talk of them when you sit in your house, and when you walk by the way."

My Journal — Lesson 13

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Session Three · My Mission · Lesson 14
Until Jesus Comes
Key Verse — Matthew 25:13Watch therefore, for you don't know the day nor the hour in which the Son of Man is coming.
"I must finish well. Father in heaven, thank you for the opportunity to do your perfect will."
We are entering the last days of the Church of Jesus Christ. He expects us to finish what the Apostles started. If you are not already participating — get ready for action! Expect God's Holy Spirit to work in and through you.
14-1 Jesus Prophesies the Future
Acts 1:7-8 (NLT)[7] He said to them, “It isn’t for you to know times or seasons which the Father has set within his own authority. But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you. You will be witnesses to me in Jerusalem, in all Judea and Samaria, and to the uttermost parts of the earth.”
14-2 The Work of the Holy Spirit — In You Today
Romans 8:9-11 (NLT)[9] But you are not controlled by your sinful nature. You are controlled by the Spirit if you have the Spirit of God living in you. (And remember that those who do not have the Spirit of Christ living in them do not belong to him at all.) [10] And Christ lives within you, so even though your body will die because of sin, the Spirit gives you life because you have been made right with God. [11] The Spirit of God, who raised Jesus from the dead, lives in you. And just as God raised Christ Jesus from the dead, he will give life to your mortal bodies by this same Spirit living within you.

1. What happened in the next few years through the early disciples? Acts 6:7; 9:31; 12:24

2. What does the Holy Spirit do for us? John 14:16-18; 14:26; 16:13

3. What does the Holy Spirit do through us? Romans 8:13-14, 26-27; Matthew 10:19-21; John 7:38-39; Romans 15:13

14-3 The Last Days — Grievous Times in the World
2 Timothy 3:1-5 (NLT)[1] You should know this, Timothy, that in the last days there will be very difficult times. [2] For people will love only themselves and their money. They will be boastful and proud, scoffing at God, disobedient to their parents, and ungrateful. They will consider nothing sacred. [3] They will be unloving and unforgiving; they will slander others and have no self-control. They will be cruel and hate what is good. [4] They will betray their friends, be reckless, be puffed up with pride, and love pleasure rather than God. [5] They will act religious, but they will reject the power that could make them godly. Stay away from people like that!
14-4 The Last Days — An Opportunity for Jesus Followers
Acts 2:16-21 (NLT)[16] No, what you see was predicted long ago by the prophet Joel: [17] ‘In the last days,’ God says, ‘I will pour out my Spirit upon all people. Your sons and daughters will prophesy. Your young men will see visions, and your old men will dream dreams. [18] In those days I will pour out my Spirit even on my servants—men and women alike— and they will prophesy. [19] And I will cause wonders in the heavens above and signs on the earth below— blood and fire and clouds of smoke. [20] The sun will become dark, and the moon will turn blood red before that great and glorious day of the Lord arrives. [21] But everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.’
14-5 Finishing Well
Hebrews 13:20-21 (NLT)[20] Now may the God of peace— who brought up from the dead our Lord Jesus, the great Shepherd of the sheep, and ratified an eternal covenant with his blood— [21] may he equip you with all you need for doing his will. May he produce in you, through the power of Jesus Christ, every good thing that is pleasing to him. All glory to him forever and ever! Amen.

1. How does Paul tell Timothy and me to live during these times? 1 Timothy 6:11-16

2. What does Peter say about the day of the Lord? How do we now live? 2 Peter 3:10-14

3. What does John warn us about? How are we to live in these days and what is the final promise? 1 John 2:15-23

4. How does Paul testify to Timothy three things that he has completed? 2 Timothy 4:7

5. It is evident that we can't finish well alone. How do we complete the will of God? Galatians 3:3; Colossians 4:2; Philippians 1:5-7

Meditate and MemorizeMatthew 25:13 — "Watch therefore, for you know neither the day nor the hour in which the Son of Man comes."

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Session Three · My Mission · Lesson 15
Into Eternity
Key Verse — John 14:3-4When everything is ready, I will come and get you, so that you will always be with me where I am. And you know the way to where I am going.
"Father in heaven, thank you for everything you have done through your Son and what you have planned for me in eternity."
Most of our insights into heaven are found in the book of Revelation. A few others are scattered throughout the Bible. Remember, the shed blood of Jesus Christ the Lamb of God and your abiding faith in Him gives you the right to be there and to His rewards.
15-1 Judgement of the Saints
Revelation 11:17-18 (NLT)[17] “We give you thanks, Lord God, the Almighty, the one who is and who always was, for now you have assumed your great power and have begun to reign. [18] The nations were filled with wrath, but now the time of your wrath has come. It is time to judge the dead and reward your servants the prophets, as well as your holy people, and all who fear your name, from the least to the greatest. It is time to destroy all who have caused destruction on the earth.”

1. Who are invited to the wedding supper of the Lamb? Revelation 19:9

2. How are we rewarded for our works? Revelation 22:12

15-2 With Jesus Forever
John 14:1-4 (NLT)[1] “Don’t let your hearts be troubled. Trust in God, and trust also in me. [2] There is more than enough room in my Father’s home. If this were not so, would I have told you that I am going to prepare a place for you? [3] When everything is ready, I will come and get you, so that you will always be with me where I am. [4] And you know the way to where I am going.”

1. Where did Jesus tell the thief on the cross they would meet again? Luke 23:43

2. What did Paul hear in Paradise? 2 Corinthians 12:2-5

3. What did the Spirit promise the overcomer? Revelation 2:7

4. What did John see and hear when taken into heaven? Revelation 4:1-11

15-3 Singing With the Angels
Revelation 5:11-12 (NLT)[11] Then I looked again, and I heard the voices of thousands and millions of angels around the throne and of the living beings and the elders. [12] And they sang in a mighty chorus: “Worthy is the Lamb who was slaughtered— to receive power and riches and wisdom and strength and honor and glory and blessing.”
15-4 The New Jerusalem
Revelation 21:1-4 (NLT)[1] Then I saw a new heaven and a new earth, for the old heaven and the old earth had disappeared. And the sea was also gone. [2] And I saw the holy city, the new Jerusalem, coming down from God out of heaven like a bride beautifully dressed for her husband. [3] I heard a loud shout from the throne, saying, “Look, God’s home is now among his people! He will live with them, and they will be his people. God himself will be with them. [4] He will wipe every tear from their eyes, and there will be no more death or sorrow or crying or pain. All these things are gone forever.”

1. Explain the last picture of heaven given to us in the Book of Revelation. Revelation 22:1-5

15-5 In Eternal Light
Isaiah 60:19 (NLT)[19] “No longer will you need the sun to shine by day, nor the moon to give its light by night, for the Lord your God will be your everlasting light, and your God will be your glory.
15-6 The Last Actions of Jesus
1 Corinthians 15:22-28 (NLT)[22] Just as everyone dies because we all belong to Adam, everyone who belongs to Christ will be given new life. [23] But there is an order to this resurrection: Christ was raised as the first of the harvest; then all who belong to Christ will be raised when he comes back. [24] After that the end will come, when he will turn the Kingdom over to God the Father, having destroyed every ruler and authority and power. [25] For Christ must reign until he humbles all his enemies beneath his feet. [26] And the last enemy to be destroyed is death. [27] For the Scriptures say, “God has put all things under his authority.” (Of course, when it says “all things are under his authority,” that does not include God himself, who gave Christ his authority.) [28] Then, when all things are under his authority, the Son will put himself under God’s authority, so that God, who gave his Son authority over all things, will be utterly supreme over everything everywhere.

Review Lesson 2-4. How different would your answer to that question be today? 1 John 1:5; Psalm 27:1; Psalm 104:2

Meditate and MemorizeJohn 14:3 — "When everything is ready, I will come and get you, so that you will always be with me where I am."

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Session Four · Multiply · Lesson 16
Multiply — Participate in the Final Harvest
Key Verse — Acts 6:7The word of God increased and the number of the disciples greatly multiplied in Jerusalem. A great company of the priests were obedient to the faith.
"Thank you for all I am learning about you and about how to let you live in and through me. Please help me understand my part in the final harvest and enable me to fulfill it."
God's plan for your life is not only for you to be a lamp and your home a lighthouse. Beyond that He wants the fruit of your life and witness to be multiplied over and over.
16-1 Reproduction and Multiplication — God's Plan From the Beginning
Genesis 1:20-23 (NLT)[20] Then God said, “Let the waters swarm with fish and other life. Let the skies be filled with birds of every kind.” [21] So God created great sea creatures and every living thing that scurries and swarms in the water, and every sort of bird—each producing offspring of the same kind. And God saw that it was good. [22] Then God blessed them, saying, “Be fruitful and multiply. Let the fish fill the seas, and let the birds multiply on the earth.” [23] And evening passed and morning came, marking the fifth day.
Genesis 1:27-28 (NLT)[27] So God created human beings in his own image. In the image of God he created them; male and female he created them. [28] Then God blessed them and said, “Be fruitful and multiply. Fill the earth and govern it. Reign over the fish in the sea, the birds in the sky, and all the animals that scurry along the ground.”

What else does God multiply? Genesis 22:17; 2 Kings 4:1-7; Psalm 115:14-15; Acts 6:7; 2 Peter 1:2

16-2 Disciples of Jesus Reproduce "After Their Kind"
Matthew 7:16-20 (NLT)[16] You can identify them by their fruit, that is, by the way they act. Can you pick grapes from thornbushes, or figs from thistles? [17] A good tree produces good fruit, and a bad tree produces bad fruit. [18] A good tree can’t produce bad fruit, and a bad tree can’t produce good fruit. [19] So every tree that does not produce good fruit is chopped down and thrown into the fire. [20] Yes, just as you can identify a tree by its fruit, so you can identify people by their actions.

1. How can we become like Jesus? Ephesians 5:1-2; 2 Corinthians 3:18; Romans 8:29

2. In what four aspects of life did Jesus increase during his pre-ministry years? Are you growing ongoingly in those four ways? Luke 2:52

3. Do you examine those four areas intentionally before the Lord? How often?

4. What would your church be like if every believer was growing in these ways? What would the world be like if every believer was growing in these ways?

16-3 Jesus Modeled Multiplication
Jesus modeled a five-step pattern for reaching and multiplying disciples. Study each step and reflect on how it applies to your life.
16-4 Feeding the 5,000
Luke 9:12-17 (NLT)[12] Late in the afternoon the twelve disciples came to him and said, “Send the crowds away to the nearby villages and farms, so they can find food and lodging for the night. There is nothing to eat here in this remote place.” [13] But Jesus said, “You feed them.” “But we have only five loaves of bread and two fish,” they answered. “Or are you expecting us to go and buy enough food for this whole crowd?” [14] For there were about 5,000 men there. Jesus replied, “Tell them to sit down in groups of about fifty each.” [15] So the people all sat down. [16] Jesus took the five loaves and two fish, looked up toward heaven, and blessed them. Then, breaking the loaves into pieces, he kept giving the bread and fish to the disciples so they could distribute it to the people. [17] They all ate as much as they wanted, and afterward, the disciples picked up twelve baskets of leftovers!

What Jesus did with the boy's gift He wants to do with your life — your gift to Him. Describe in your own words what Jesus wants to do with your life. Matthew 14:13-21

16-5 Making Disciples That Make Disciples
Matthew 28:18-20 (NLT)[18] Jesus came and told his disciples, “I have been given all authority in heaven and on earth. [19] Therefore, go and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit. [20] Teach these new disciples to obey all the commands I have given you. And be sure of this: I am with you always, even to the end of the age.”

1. What did Jesus ask Peter and Andrew to do? What did he promise to do through them? Matthew 4:18-20

2. What did Jesus do with his followers in the Judean countryside? John 3:22

3. What happens when a follower of Jesus is fully trained? Luke 6:40

16-6 How the Early Church Made Disciples
Acts 2:42-47 (NLT)[42] All the believers devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching, and to fellowship, and to sharing in meals (including the Lord’s Supper), and to prayer. [43] A deep sense of awe came over them all, and the apostles performed many miraculous signs and wonders. [44] And all the believers met together in one place and shared everything they had. [45] They sold their property and possessions and shared the money with those in need. [46] They worshiped together at the Temple each day, met in homes for the Lord’s Supper, and shared their meals with great joy and generosity— [47] all the while praising God and enjoying the goodwill of all the people. And each day the Lord added to their fellowship those who were being saved.

Where did the apostle Paul do his ministry? What was his message? Acts 20:20-21

Meditate and MemorizeActs 6:7 — "The word of God increased and the number of the disciples greatly multiplied in Jerusalem. A great company of the priests were obedient to the faith."

My Journal — Lesson 16

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You have finished well.

"For thus you will be richly supplied with the entrance into the eternal Kingdom of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ." — 2 Peter 1:11

Congratulations on completing Jesus and Me. Our prayer for you is that you will be fruitful and multiply the Kingdom of our Lord Jesus Christ.

— Keith Parks with Fred Fulford

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