✦ My Life is a Lamp ✦ My Home is a Lighthouse
Lighthouse Fellowship · Seeds International

Jesus and Me

A Bible Study by Keith Parks
"I am the light of the world."
John 8:12 — Jesus
"You are the light of the world."
Matthew 5:14 — Jesus

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
"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 1:1-5In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. The same was in the beginning with God. All things were made through him. Without him, nothing was made that has been made. In him was life, and the life was the light of men. The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness hasn't overcome it.
2 Timothy 3:16-17Every Scripture is God-breathed and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for instruction in righteousness, that each person who belongs to God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work.
1-1 The Longest Chapter in the Bible — A Message for You
Psalm 119:9-16How can a young man keep his way pure? By living according to your word. With my whole heart I have sought you. Don't let me wander from your commandments. I have hidden your word in my heart, that I might not sin against you. Blessed are you, Yahweh. Teach me your statutes. With my lips, I have declared all the ordinances of your mouth. I have rejoiced in the way of your testimonies, as much as in all riches. I will meditate on your precepts, and consider your ways. I will delight myself in your statutes. I will not forget your word.

Explain this verse: Psalm 119:130 — "The entrance of your words gives light. It gives understanding to the simple."

Take your time to read Psalm 119. Highlight the times "Word" is mentioned (36 times). Make this a daily reading over a period of time.

1-2 God Calls Jeremiah — You Can Expect Him to Call You Too
Jeremiah 1:4-7Now Yahweh's word came to me, saying… Then I said, "Ah, Lord Yahweh! Behold, I don't know how to speak; for I am a child." But Yahweh said to me, "Don't say, 'I am a child;' for you must go to whomever I send you, and you must say whatever I command you. Don't be afraid because of them, for I am with you to deliver you," says Yahweh.

What are the three "I wills of God" in Isaiah 45:2-3? In what beautiful way does Yahweh call us? Isaiah 4:2-3

1-3 God Calls Saul — Gives Him Mercy and Grace
Acts 9:1-6But Saul, still breathing threats and slaughter against the disciples of the Lord, went to the high priest and asked for letters from him to the synagogues of Damascus, that if he found any who were of the Way, whether men or women, he might bring them bound to Jerusalem. As he traveled, he got close to Damascus, and suddenly a light from the sky shone around him. He fell on the earth, and heard a voice saying to him, "Saul, Saul, why do you persecute me?" He said, "Who are you, Lord?" The Lord said, "I am Jesus, whom you are persecuting. But rise up and enter into the city, then you will be told what you must do."

How was Saul's call from God confirmed and what did he do about it? Read Acts 9:7-19.

1-4 God's Word is Alive and Active — It Penetrates the Inner You
Hebrews 4:12-13For the word of God is living and active, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the dividing of soul and spirit, of both joints and marrow, and is able to discern the thoughts and intentions of the heart. There is no creature that is hidden from his sight, but all things are naked and laid open before the eyes of him to whom we must give an account.

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 5:8 / Romans 8:6-8 (MSG)Christ arrives right on time to make this happen. He didn't, and doesn't, wait for us to get ready. He presented himself for this sacrificial death when we were far too weak and rebellious to do anything to get ourselves ready. We can understand someone dying for a person worth dying for, and we can understand how someone good and noble could inspire us to selfless sacrifice. But God put his love on the line for us by offering his Son in sacrificial death while we were of no use whatever to him.
John 10:10The thief only comes to steal, kill, and destroy. I came that they may have life, and may have it abundantly.

The Psalmist declares how good God is in Psalm 86:1-10. Make a list of His benefits available to you. Make another list of the "I" statements. State how you relate to these.

My Journal — Lesson 1

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Session One · My Call · Lesson 2
God Almighty — There Is No Other God Like Him
"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. Note: The name for God Almighty in The World English Bible is 'Yahweh'. Other translations use the word LORD.
2-1 God Almighty is Eternal — Without Beginning or Ending
Psalm 90Before the mountains were born, before you had formed the earth and the world, even from everlasting to everlasting, you are God.
Psalm 102:12, 27But you, Yahweh, will remain forever… You are the same. Your years will have no end.
Revelation 1:8"I am the Alpha and the Omega," says the Lord God, "who is and who was and who is to come, the Almighty."
1 Timothy 6:16He alone has immortality, dwelling in unapproachable light, whom no man has seen nor can see, to whom be honor and eternal power. Amen.

1. Make a list of the promises God gives which could apply to you in Isaiah 60:1-22.

2. 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 57:15For the high and lofty One who inhabits eternity, whose name is Holy, says: "I dwell in the high and holy place, with him also who is of a contrite and humble spirit, to revive the spirit of the humble, and to revive the heart of the contrite."

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 7:11God is a righteous judge, yes, a God who has indignation every day.
Psalm 48:10As is your name, God, so is your praise to the ends of the earth. Your right hand is full of righteousness.
Revelation 16:7I heard the altar saying, "Yes, Lord God, the Almighty, true and righteous are your judgments."

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 1:5This is the message which we have heard from him and announce to you, that God is light, and in him is no darkness at all.
Psalm 27:1Yahweh is my light and my salvation. Whom shall I fear? Yahweh is the strength of my life. Of whom shall I be afraid?
James 1:17Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights, with whom can be no variation nor turning 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 37:28For Yahweh loves justice, and doesn't forsake his saints. They are preserved forever, but the children of the wicked shall be cut off.
Psalm 37:5-6Commit your way to Yahweh. Trust also in him, and he will do this: he will make your righteousness shine out like light, and your justice as the noon day 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 89:2I indeed declare, "Love stands firm forever. You established the heavens. Your faithfulness is in them."
Psalm 94:18-19When I said, "My foot is slipping!" Your loving kindness, Yahweh, held me up. In the multitude of my thoughts within me, your comforts delight my soul.
John 3:16For God so loved the world, that he gave his only born Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish, but have eternal life.

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

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

My Journal — Lesson 2

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Session One · My Call · Lesson 3
Jesus the Christ — Savior of the World
"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 1:1The beginning of the Good News of Jesus Christ, the Son of God.
1 John 5:20We know that the Son of God has come and has given us an understanding, that we know him who is true; and we are in him who is true, in his Son Jesus Christ. This is the true God and eternal life.

1. What did Mary and Peter say Jesus was? How did He reply to the priests? Matthew 16:16; Luke 1:32, 35; 22:70; Hebrews 1:3-4

2. What are we to believe and confess? John 3:36, 6:69; Romans 10:9

3. What is promised to us who believe? 1 John 4:15; 5:5, 13

3-2 The Light and Life of the World — Jesus Came to Deliver Us from Darkness and Death
John 1:3-5All things were made through him. Without him, nothing was made that has been made. In him was life, and the life was the light of men. The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness hasn't overcome it.
John 8:12Again, therefore, Jesus spoke to them, saying, "I am the light of the world. He who follows me will not walk in the darkness, but will have the light of 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 we do to receive eternal life through Jesus Christ? John 3:36, 5:24, 6:40, 6:47, 17:3

3-3 The Death of Jesus Christ — His Blood Cleanses Us from All Sin
Ephesians 2:13But now in Christ Jesus you who once were far off are made near in the blood of Christ.
1 John 1:7But if we walk in the light as he is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus Christ 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. Add the additional insights given by Peter and John. Hebrews 9:22, 9:11-14; 10:19, 12:23-24, 13:20-21; 1 Peter 1:17-21; 1 John 1:7

3-4 The Resurrection of Jesus Christ — He Conquered Death and the Grave
John 11:25Jesus said to her, "I am the resurrection and the life. He who believes in me will still live, even if he dies."
Romans 14:9For to this end Christ died, rose, and lived again, that he might be Lord of both the dead and the living.

1. Review the accounts in Matthew 28:5-7; Luke 24:1-7, 24:45-48; John 20:17. What is the most important fact stated in each?

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

3. 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 24:50-51He led them out as far as Bethany, and he lifted up his hands and blessed them. While he blessed them, he withdrew from them and was carried up into heaven.
Acts 1:9When he had said these things, as they were looking, he was taken up, and a cloud received him out of their sight.

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? Proverbs 30:4; John 3:13, 6:61-62, 20:17 / Luke 23:42-44; 2 Corinthians 12:1-4; Revelation 2:7; Ephesians 1:20-22, 4:7-10; 1 Peter 3:21-22

3-6 The Exaltation of Jesus Christ — He Now Rules in Heaven
Acts 5:31God exalted him with his right hand to be a Prince and a Savior, to give repentance to Israel, and remission of sins.
Philippians 2:9-11Therefore God also highly exalted him, and gave to him the name which is above every name, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of those in heaven, those on earth, and those under the earth, and that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.

1. Jesus is now in Heaven with His Father. Where actually is He? 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 an intricate 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
"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 / 4-2 Love — Unending
John 3:16For God so loved the world, that he gave his only born Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish, but have eternal life.
Romans 5:8But God commends his own love toward us, in that while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.
John 15:13Greater love has no one than this, that someone lay down his life for his friends.
John 15:9Even as the Father has loved me, I also have loved you. Remain in my love.

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 10:17So faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of God.
Hebrews 11:1Now faith is assurance of things hoped for, proof of things not seen.

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 Looks Back at My Past
Psalm 86:15But you, Lord, are a merciful and gracious God, slow to anger, and abundant in loving kindness and truth.
1 Timothy 1:12-13I thank him who enabled me, Christ Jesus our Lord, because he counted me faithful, appointing me to service, although I used to be a blasphemer, a persecutor, and insolent. However, I obtained mercy because I did it ignorantly in 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 2:8-9For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God, not of works, that no one would boast.
Acts 20:32Now, brothers, I entrust you to God and to the word of his grace, which is able to build up and to give you the inheritance among all those who are sanctified.

1. Grace for Salvation — I cannot save myself. What benefits come to me through the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ? John 1:14; 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 8:32You will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.
John 8:36If therefore the Son makes you free, you will be free indeed.

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 3:23-24, 6:17-23, 8:2 / Galatians 5:1, 5:13; James 1:22-25 / Romans 6:17-18; 1 Corinthians 7:21-23; 1 Peter 2:16

4-7 Hope — God Has Provided Everything I Need for the Future
Titus 2:13-14Looking for the blessed hope and appearing of the glory of our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ; who gave himself for us, that he might redeem us from all iniquity and purify for himself a people for his own possession, zealous for good works.
Romans 15:13Now may the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, that you may abound in hope in 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
"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 51:5I was born in iniquity. My mother conceived me in sin.
John 3:19This is the judgment, that the light has come into the world, and men loved the darkness rather than the light, for their works 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

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 16:31-33They said, "Believe in the Lord Jesus Christ, and you will be saved, you and your household." They spoke the word of the Lord to him, and to all who were in his house. He took them the same hour of the night and washed their stripes, and was immediately baptized, he and all his household.

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 1:4John came baptizing in the wilderness and preaching the baptism of repentance for forgiveness of sins.
Mark 1:14-15Jesus came into Galilee, preaching the Good News of God's Kingdom, and saying, "The time is fulfilled, and God's Kingdom is at hand! Repent, and believe in the Good News."
Luke 5:32I have not come to call the righteous, but sinners, to repentance.

1. Review the message of John the Baptist, Jesus and Peter. What are those in darkness and those who are sinners required to do? Matthew 3:1-2, 4:17; Acts 11:18, 8:20-22

2. What is required of every one who believes in Jesus Christ? What comes first and what is second? Luke 15:10; 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?" Read and meditate upon these verses then write your own prayer of repentance in three parts:
5-5 Living in the Light — Welcome to the Kingdom of God
Romans 5:1-2Being therefore justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ; through whom we also have our access by faith into this grace in which we stand. We rejoice in hope of the glory of God.
John 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."
5-6 Becoming Like Jesus Christ
John 17:18-21As you sent me into the world, even so I have sent them into the world. For their sakes I sanctify myself, that they themselves also may be sanctified in truth. Not for these only do I pray, but for those also who will believe in me through their word, that they may all be one; even as you, Father, are in me, and I in you, that they also may be one in us; that the world may believe that 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
This Lesson is Being WrittenKeith Parks is currently writing this lesson. While you wait, journal your existing understanding of the Holy Spirit below.

My Journal — Lesson 6

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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.
6-1 Jesus Christ — The Holy One Sent From God
Luke 1:49For he who is mighty has done great things for me. Holy is his name.
Revelation 4:11"Worthy are you, our Lord and God, the Holy One, to receive the glory, the honor, and the power, for you created all things, and because of your desire they existed and were created!"

Jesus was fathered by the Holy Spirit, full of the Holy Spirit and our Holy High Priest.

1. What does His holy character mean to you? Luke 1:35, 4:11; Acts 3:13-15; Hebrews 7:25-27, 9:11-12

2. What do the creatures in heaven reveal about the holiness of God Almighty? Revelation 4:8, 15:3-4, 16:5-7

3. What does perfecting holiness mean? 2 Corinthians 7:1

6-2 The Shed Blood of Jesus Christ Makes Me Holy
1 John 1:7But if we walk in the light as he is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus Christ his Son, cleanses us from all sin.
Hebrews 10:19Having therefore, brothers, boldness to enter into the holy place by 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

6-3 I am a Temple of the Holy Spirit — He Lives Within Me
1 Corinthians 6:18-20Flee sexual immorality! "Every sin that a man does is outside the body," but he who commits sexual immorality sins against his own body. Or don't you know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit who is in you, whom you have from God? You are not your own, for you were bought with a price. Therefore glorify God in your body and in your spirit, which are God's.

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

6-4 Jesus is the Righteous One — His Actions Are Always Right
Psalm 119:160All of your words are truth. Every one of your righteous ordinances endures forever.
Acts 22:14He said, "The God of our fathers has appointed you to know his will, and to see the Righteous One, and to hear a voice from his mouth."

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

6-5 Jesus Has Given God's Righteousness to Me / 6-6 The Righteous Receive Eternal Rewards
Romans 1:17For in it is revealed God's righteousness from faith to faith. As it is written, "But the righteous shall live by faith."
Romans 5:19For as through the one man's disobedience many were made sinners, even so through the obedience of the one, many will be made righteous.
2 Corinthians 5:21For him who knew no sin he made to be sin on our behalf, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God.
Matthew 13:43Then the righteous will shine like the sun in the Kingdom of their Father. He who has ears to hear, let him hear.

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."

My Journal — Lesson 7

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Session Two · My Character · Lesson 8
Developing Godly Character — Toward an Abundant Entrance into the Eternal Kingdom
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.
7-1 To Your Faith Add Moral Excellence
Romans 10:17So faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of God.
2 Peter 1:5aYes, and for this very cause adding on your part all diligence, in your faith supply moral excellence.

How do you explain the knowledge of God? What are you to do with your thought life? 2 Timothy 1:7; Galatians 5:22-25; Titus 1:7-10; 1 Peter 4:7

7-2 To Moral Excellence Add Knowledge
2 Peter 1:5b…and in moral excellence, knowledge.
2 Corinthians 4:6It is God who said, "Light will shine out of darkness," who has shone in our hearts to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God 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

7-3 To Knowledge Add Self-Control
2 Peter 1:6a…and in knowledge, self-control.
1 Peter 5:8Be sober and self-controlled. Be watchful. Your adversary, the devil, walks around like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour.

1. God knows I have temptations. 2. What am I to rejoice in? 3. What develops in me? James 1:2-4; Romans 5:1-5

7-4 To Self-Control Add Perseverance
2 Peter 1:6b…and in self-control, perseverance.
1 Timothy 6:11But you, man of God, flee these things, and follow after righteousness, godliness, faith, love, perseverance, and gentleness.

1. What is your doctrine toward godliness? Compare the way you used to live without Jesus to the way you now live with Him. 1 Timothy 3:16, 4:7-10; 6:7-11

2. Now is a good time to read the book of 1 Timothy. Journal your thoughts. What is Paul saying to you about Godliness?

7-5 To Perseverance Add Godliness
2 Peter 1:6c…and in perseverance, godliness.
1 Timothy 3:16Without controversy, the mystery of godliness is great: God was revealed in the flesh, justified in the spirit, seen by angels, preached among the nations, believed on in the world, and received up in glory.

1. What does God give to us through His Holy Spirit? 2. List other fruits of the Spirit. 3. What does Jesus expect of those foreseeing leadership in His Kingdom? Romans 11:33; 2 Corinthians 10:3-6

7-6 To Godliness Add Brotherly Affection
2 Peter 1:7a…and in godliness, brotherly affection.
1 John 2:10-11He who loves his brother remains in the light, and there is no occasion for stumbling in him. But he who hates his brother is in the darkness, and walks in the darkness, and doesn't know where he is going, because the darkness has blinded his eyes.

What happens when we love our brothers (our natural family and our Jesus family)? Compare the way you used to live without Jesus to the way you live now. Romans 9:1-5, 12:10-13

7-7 To Brotherly Affection Add Love — The Final Results
2 Peter 1:7b…and in brotherly affection, love.
Luke 10:27You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, with all your strength, and with all your mind; and your neighbor as yourself.
2 Peter 1:10-11Therefore, brothers, be more diligent to make your calling and election sure. For if you do these things, you will never stumble. For thus you will be richly supplied with the 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
This Lesson is Being WrittenKeith Parks is currently writing this lesson. Please journal your thoughts on the topics below while you wait.
Topics for Reflection

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Session Two · My Character · Lesson 10
Jesus in Me — Intimacy
"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 15:4-5Remain in me, and I in you. As the branch can't bear fruit by itself unless it remains in the vine, so neither can you, unless you remain in me. 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.
John 15:7If you remain in me, and my words remain in you, you will ask whatever you desire, and it will be done for you.

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

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?

10-2 Prayer — The Breath of Intimacy
Philippians 4:6-7In nothing be anxious, but in everything, by prayer and petition with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your thoughts in Christ Jesus.
1 Thessalonians 5:17Pray without ceasing.

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 119:105Your word is a lamp to my feet, and a light for my path.
2 Timothy 3:16-17Every Scripture is God-breathed and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for instruction in righteousness, that each person who belongs to God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for 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 4:23-24But the hour comes, and now is, when the true worshippers will worship the Father in spirit and truth, for the Father seeks such to be his worshippers. God is spirit, and those who worship him must worship in spirit and truth.
Romans 12:1Therefore I urge you, brothers, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God, which is your spiritual service.

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

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

10-5 Fellowship — Connected to the Body
Hebrews 10:24-25Let us consider how to provoke one another to love and good works, not forsaking our own assembling together, as the custom of some is, but exhorting one another, and so much the more as you see the Day approaching.
1 John 1:7But if we walk in the light as he is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus Christ 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."

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Session Three · My Mission · Lesson 11
Jesus Through Me — Boldness
"Lord, give me a boldness to speak of You and a life that reflects Your glory to everyone around me."
Jesus did not save us to keep us to Himself. From the very beginning, the plan was for His life to flow through us into a broken world. Every Jesus Follower is called to be a witness — not just in words, but in the way we live, love, and serve. This lesson explores what it means to let Jesus shine through your life with boldness and intentionality.
11-1 The Great Commission — Our Mandate
Matthew 28:18-20Jesus came to them and spoke to them, saying, "All authority has been given to me in heaven and on earth. Go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all things that I commanded you. Behold, I am with you always, even to the end of the age."
Acts 1:8But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you. You will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, in all Judea and Samaria, and to the uttermost parts of the earth.

1. The Great Commission contains both a command and a promise. What is each? Matthew 28:18-20

2. How does Acts 1:8 map out the expanding reach of the gospel — from local to global? How does your life fit into that map?

11-2 Boldness Given by the Spirit
Acts 4:29-31"Now, Lord, look at their threats, and grant to your servants to speak your word with all boldness, while you stretch out your hand to heal, and that signs and wonders may be done through the name of your holy servant Jesus." When they had prayed, the place was shaken where they were gathered together. They were all filled with the Holy Spirit, and they spoke the word of God with boldness.
2 Timothy 1:7For God didn't give us a spirit of fear, but of power, love, and self-control.

1. The early disciples prayed specifically for boldness. Write out a personal prayer asking for boldness in your own context.

2. What does Ephesians 6:19-20 reveal about Paul's approach to speaking the gospel boldly?

11-3 Your Story — A Powerful Testimony
Revelation 12:11They overcame him because of the Lamb's blood, and because of the word of their testimony. They didn't love their life, even to death.
1 Peter 3:15But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts; and always be ready to give an answer to everyone who asks you a reason concerning the hope that is in you, with humility and fear.

1. Review the Apostle Paul's testimony in Acts 22:1-21 and Acts 26:1-23. Notice his three-part structure: Before / Encounter / After. How can you apply the same structure to your own story?

2. How does your testimony connect to the larger story of what God is doing in the world?

11-4 Serving Others — Witness Through Action
Matthew 5:16Even so, let your light shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father who is in heaven.
Galatians 5:13For you were called for freedom, brothers. Only don't use your freedom for gain to the flesh, but through love be servants to one another.
Meditate and MemorizeActs 1:8 — "But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you. You will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, in all Judea and Samaria, and to the uttermost parts of the earth."

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Session Three · My Mission · Lesson 12
My Life is a Lamp
"Lord, let my life be a light — not my own, but Yours — shining into the darkness for all to see."
A lighthouse does not generate its own light. It simply houses a powerful source and positions it so that it shines as far as possible. In the same way, we are not the source of light — Jesus is. But He has called us to position ourselves, our choices, our relationships, and our daily lives so that His light can reach people who are lost in the dark.
12-1 You Are the Light of the World
Matthew 5:14-16"You are the light of the world. A city located on a hill can't be hidden. Neither do you light a lamp and put it under a measuring basket, but on a stand; and it shines to all who are in the house. Even so, let your light shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father who is in heaven."
John 8:12Again, therefore, Jesus spoke to them, saying, "I am the light of the world. He who follows me will not walk in the darkness, but will have the light of life."

1. Study Isaiah 42:6 and Isaiah 49:6. How does this Old Testament calling on Israel become fulfilled in Jesus — and then passed on to His followers?

2. Read Ephesians 5:8-14. How does Paul develop the "light" theme in the context of holy living?

12-2 Lamps Under Baskets — Hiding the Light
Luke 8:16-17"No one, when he has lit a lamp, covers it with a container, or puts it under a bed; but puts it on a stand, that those who enter in may see the light. For nothing is hidden that will not be revealed, nor anything secret that will not be known and come to light."

1. What are common "baskets" that believers use to hide their faith? (e.g., fear of rejection, compartmentalized faith, double life)

2. Read Romans 1:16. What was Paul's attitude toward the gospel? How can you cultivate the same?

12-3 Walking in the Light — Integrity of Life
1 John 1:5-7This is the message which we have heard from him and announce to you: that God is light, and in him is no darkness at all. If we say that we have fellowship with him and walk in the darkness, we lie and don't tell the truth. But if we walk in the light as he is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus Christ his Son, cleanses us from all sin.

1. John says walking in darkness while claiming fellowship with God is a lie. What are the signs that someone is walking in the light? 1 John 2:9-11

2. How does Psalm 119:105 connect the Word of God to walking in the light?

12-4 Shining in a Dark World — Contrast and Witness
Philippians 2:14-16Do all things without murmurings and disputes, that you may become blameless and harmless, children of God without defect in the midst of a crooked and perverse generation, among whom you are seen as lights in the world, holding up the word of life, that I may have something to boast in the day of Christ, that I didn't run in vain nor labor in vain.
Meditate and MemorizeMatthew 5:16 — "Even so, let your light 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
"Lord, make my home a place of Your presence — a refuge, a gathering point, and a launching pad for Your Kingdom."
Throughout history, the home has been the primary center of faith. The early church met in homes. Families were the first discipleship communities. God's design was never for faith to be confined to a building — it was meant to be lived out around dinner tables, in conversations with children, and in the open-door hospitality of households given to Jesus. Your home can be a lighthouse for your neighborhood.
13-1 The Church in Your House
Romans 16:5Greet the assembly that is in their house.
Acts 2:46-47Day by day, continuing steadfastly with one accord in the temple, and breaking bread at home, they took their food with gladness and singleness of heart, praising God and having favor with all the people. The Lord added to the assembly day by day those who were being saved.

1. In the New Testament, many churches met in homes. Research Priscilla and Aquila (Romans 16:3-5), Lydia (Acts 16:40), and Philemon (Philemon 1:2). What do their examples teach about hospitality and mission?

2. How can breaking bread together (meals, communion, fellowship) be a tool of evangelism and discipleship?

13-2 Passing Faith to the Next Generation
Deuteronomy 6:6-7These 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, and when you lie down, and when you rise up.
Proverbs 22:6Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not depart from it.

1. Deuteronomy 6:4-9 (the Shema) describes faith as woven into every moment of daily life. What daily rhythms could you build into your home to keep faith central?

2. Read 2 Timothy 1:5 — Paul commends Timothy's faith that "first lived in your grandmother Lois and your mother Eunice." What does this tell us about the power of generational faithfulness?

13-3 Radical Hospitality — An Open Door
Romans 12:13Contribute to the needs of the saints; given to hospitality.
1 Peter 4:9-10Be hospitable to one another without grumbling. As each has received a gift, employ it in serving one another, as good managers of the grace of God in its various forms.

1. Hebrews 13:2 says, "Don't forget to show hospitality to strangers, for in doing so, some have entertained angels without knowing it." What does this suggest about the spiritual significance of hospitality?

2. How does Luke 10:5-7 (Jesus sending out the 72) model the idea of a "person of peace" — someone whose home becomes a center of gospel work?

13-4 A Home Marked by Prayer
Isaiah 56:7"For my house will be called a house of prayer for all peoples."
Matthew 18:19-20"Again, assuredly I tell you, that if two of you will agree on earth concerning anything that they will ask, it will be done for them by my Father who is in heaven. For where two or three are gathered together in my name, there I am in the middle of them."
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."

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Session Three · My Mission · Lesson 14
Until Jesus Comes
"Lord, keep me faithful, watchful, and fruitful until You return. Let me live each day with eternity in view."
Jesus is coming back. This is not merely a theological footnote — it is a world-shaping truth that changes how we live, invest, relate, and prioritize. Every generation of Jesus Followers is called to live in the tension between the "already" of His first coming and the "not yet" of His return. This lesson explores how the promise of His return should shape the way we live today.
14-1 The Promise of His Return
John 14:1-3"Don't let your heart be troubled. Believe in God. Believe also in me. In my Father's house are many homes. If it weren't so, I would have told you. I am going to prepare a place for you. If I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and will receive you to myself; that where I am, you may be there also."
Acts 1:10-11While they were looking steadfastly into the sky as he went, behold, two men stood by them in white clothing, who also said, "You men of Galilee, why do you stand looking into the sky? This Jesus, who was received up from you into the sky, will come back in the same way as you saw him going into the sky."

1. Study 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18. What comfort does Paul offer to those grieving the loss of fellow believers in light of the return of Christ?

2. What are the different terms used to describe Christ's return? Research "Parousia," "Epiphany," and "Apokalypsis" — what does each emphasize? 1 Corinthians 15:23; 2 Thessalonians 2:8; Revelation 1:7

14-2 Living as a Faithful Steward
Luke 12:42-44The Lord said, "Who then is the faithful and wise steward, whom his lord will set over his household, to give them their portion of food at the right times? Blessed is that servant whom his lord will find doing so when he comes. Truly I tell you, that he will set him over all that he has."
Matthew 25:21"His lord said to him, 'Well done, good and faithful servant. You have been faithful over a few things, I will set you over many things. Enter into the joy of your lord.'"

1. Study the Parable of the Talents in Matthew 25:14-30. What is the key difference between the faithful servants and the unfaithful one? What does this reveal about God's expectations?

2. How does 1 Corinthians 4:2 define the primary requirement of a steward?

14-3 Watchfulness — Living Alert
Mark 13:32-33"But about that day or hour no one knows, not even the angels in heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father. Watch! Stay alert! For you don't know when the time is."
1 Thessalonians 5:4-6But you, brothers, aren't in darkness, that the day should overtake you like a thief. You are all children of light and children of the day. We don't belong to the night, nor to darkness. So then let's not sleep as the rest do, but let's watch and be sober.

1. Jesus tells several parables about watchfulness: the Ten Virgins (Matthew 25:1-13), the Doorkeeper (Mark 13:34-37), the Thief in the Night (Matthew 24:43-44). What is the common theme and warning in each?

2. How does Titus 2:11-14 describe the posture of a believer living in light of Christ's return?

14-4 Urgent Mission — Redeeming the Time
Ephesians 5:15-16Therefore see that you walk carefully, not as unwise, but as wise, redeeming the time, because the days are evil.
2 Peter 3:9The Lord is not slow concerning his promise, as some count slowness; but he is patient with us, not wishing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance.
Meditate and MemorizeMatthew 25:21 — "Well done, good and faithful servant. You have been faithful over a few things, I will set you over many things. Enter into the joy of your lord."

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Session Three · My Mission · Lesson 15
Into Eternity
"Father, fix my eyes on eternity. Let the hope of what is to come give me courage, joy, and purpose for today."
This is the final lesson of the Jesus and Me study — and in many ways, it points to the beginning of everything that matters most. Life on earth is a vapor, a brief prologue. Eternity is the story. Every moment we live, every choice we make, every person we love — these are all investments in an endless future. Understanding eternity does not make us too heavenly minded to be any earthly good. It makes us the most purposeful people on earth.
15-1 The Reality of Heaven
John 14:2-3"In my Father's house are many homes. If it weren't so, I would have told you. I am going to prepare a place for you. If I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and will receive you to myself; that where I am, you may be there also."
Revelation 21:3-4I heard a loud voice out of heaven saying, "Behold, God's dwelling is with people, and he will dwell with them, and they will be his people, and God himself will be with them as their God. He will wipe away from them every tear from their eyes. Death will be no more; neither will there be mourning, nor crying, nor pain, any more. The first things have passed away."

1. Study Revelation 21:1-22:5. Make a list of everything that will and will not exist in the New Jerusalem. What surprises you?

2. How does Paul describe heaven in Philippians 1:21-23 and 2 Corinthians 5:1-8? What is his emotional posture toward eternity?

15-2 The Reality of Judgment
2 Corinthians 5:10For we must all be revealed before the judgment seat of Christ, that each one may receive the things in the body according to what he has done, whether good or bad.
Hebrews 9:27Inasmuch as it is appointed for men to die once, and after this, judgment.

1. Research the difference between the Judgment Seat of Christ (Bema Seat — for believers, regarding rewards: 1 Corinthians 3:10-15) and the Great White Throne Judgment (for the unsaved: Revelation 20:11-15). How are they different in purpose?

2. What does 1 Corinthians 3:10-15 say about the quality of your work and the fire of judgment? What survives?

15-3 Eternal Life — Beginning Now
John 17:3"This is eternal life, that they should know you, the only true God, and him whom you sent, Jesus Christ."
1 John 5:11-13The testimony is this: that God gave to us eternal life, and this life is in his Son. He who has the Son has life. He who doesn't have God's Son doesn't have life. These things I have written to you who believe in the name of the Son of God, that you may know that you have eternal life.

1. John 17:3 defines eternal life as knowing God — not as a future state, but as a present relationship. How does this change your understanding of "eternal life"?

2. According to 1 John 5:11-13, what gives a person assurance of eternal life? How confident are you in your own eternal standing?

15-4 Finishing Well — Press On
2 Timothy 4:7-8I have fought the good fight. I have finished the course. I have kept the faith. From now on, the crown of righteousness is stored up for me, which the Lord, the righteous judge, will give to me on that day; and not to me only, but also to all those who have loved his appearing.
Philippians 3:13-14Brothers, I don't regard myself as yet having taken hold, but one thing I do: forgetting the things which are behind and stretching forward to the things which are before, I press on toward the goal for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus.

1. Paul wrote 2 Timothy 4:7-8 from prison, awaiting execution. What gives his words such power? What does "finishing well" look like in your context?

2. Read Hebrews 12:1-3. What does the image of a "cloud of witnesses" and "fixing our eyes on Jesus" say about perseverance in the faith?

Meditate and Memorize2 Timothy 4:7 — "I have fought the good fight. I have finished the course. I have kept the faith."

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Session Four · Multiply · Lesson 16
Multiply — Participate in the Final Harvest
Expand this prayer… "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 1:27-28God created man in his own image. In God's image he created him; male and female he created them. God blessed them. God said to them, "Be fruitful, multiply, fill the earth, and subdue it."

What else does God multiply? Study each reference and record what is being multiplied. 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" Too
Matthew 7:16-20By their fruits you will know them. Do you gather grapes from thorns, or figs from thistles? Even so, every good tree produces good fruit, but the corrupt tree produces evil fruit. A good tree can't produce evil fruit, neither can a corrupt tree produce good fruit. Every tree that doesn't grow good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire. Therefore by their fruits you will know them.

1. Do you think it is possible for us to become like Christ? Ephesians 5:1-2; Romans 8:29; 1 Peter 1:21

2. In what four aspects of life did Jesus increase during his pre-ministry years? Are you improving 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?

16-3 The Jesus Method — His Pattern for Multiplying Disciples
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 — God Multiplies What We Offer
Luke 9:12-17The day began to wear away, and the twelve came and said to him, "Send the multitude away, that they may go into the surrounding villages and farms, and lodge and get food, for we are here in a deserted place." But he said to them, "You give them something to eat." They said, "We have no more than five loaves and two fish, unless we should go and buy food for all these people." … He took the five loaves and the two fish, and looking up to the sky, he blessed them, and broke them, and gave them to the disciples to set before the multitude. They ate and were all filled.

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 Make Disciples That Make Disciples
Matthew 28:18-20Jesus came to them and spoke to them, saying, "All authority has been given to me in heaven and on earth. Go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all things that I commanded you. Behold, I am with you always, even to the end of the age."

1. Describe the circumstances that led to your deciding to follow Jesus.

2. Were you discipled after making this decision? How were you discipled?

3. Do you think it's the church's responsibility to disciple the people you witness to? Who are you discipling? Are you intentionally spending relational time with them?

4. Do you think that working through Jesus and Me with them would be a good way to disciple them?

5. Are you equipping the people you're discipling to do with someone else what you are doing with them?

16-6 Establish a Disciple-Making Spiritual Community
Acts 2:42-47They continued steadfastly in the apostles' teaching and fellowship, in the breaking of bread, and prayer. Fear came on every soul, and many wonders and signs were done through the apostles. All who believed were together and had all things in common. They sold their possessions and goods, and distributed them to all, according as anyone had need. Day by day, continuing steadfastly with one accord in the temple, and breaking bread at home, they took their food with gladness and singleness of heart, praising God and having favor with all the people. The Lord added to the assembly day by day those who were being saved.
Luke 6:40A disciple is not above his teacher, but everyone when he is fully trained will be like his teacher.

1. Why do you think Saul sought out Christians in homes? Why do you think that much of his ministry was in homes? Acts 8:3; Acts 20:20

2. Home-based Spiritual Communities must balance three directions: UP — prayer and worship; IN — authentic fellowship and Bible study; OUT — reaching the lost. Does the Lord want you to start one? Acts 10:27-48

3. Could it be that there are lonely, needy people near you in whose lives God is already working who need to be part of a Spiritual Community?

16-7 Recognize and Apprentice New Leaders
2 Timothy 2:1-2You therefore, my child, be strengthened in the grace that is in Christ Jesus. The things which you have heard from me among many witnesses, commit these to faithful men who will be able to teach others also.

1. In what ways will you be able to share leadership of your Spiritual Community with others? Acts 11:25

2. Will you ask the Holy Spirit to help you recognize how members of your community are gifted? Will you learn to affirm them — "This is what I see in you…"? John 1:42

16-8 Help Launch New Disciple-Making Spiritual Communities
Mark 3:13-15He went up into the mountain and called to himself those whom he wanted, and they went to him. He appointed twelve, that they might be with him, and that he might send them out to preach and to have authority to heal sicknesses and to cast out demons.
Matthew 24:14This Good News of the Kingdom will be preached in the whole world for a testimony to all the nations, and then the end will come.

1. What can we learn from the Apostle Paul about resourcing and overseeing leaders we have sent to launch new Spiritual Communities? Acts 14:21-22; Acts 14:26-28; Acts 15:36-41

2. What do you think keeps us in the 21st century from experiencing the spread of the gospel like it spread from Ephesus in two years in the 1st century? Acts 19:8-10; Romans 15:17-24

3. Can you see a day coming when, like Paul, we could say "There's no more places for us to minister around here…"? When as Jesus said, "This gospel of the kingdom will be preached in the whole world as a testimony to every ethnic group, and then the end will come"? Matthew 24:14

Meditate and Memorize2 Timothy 2:2 — "The things which you have heard from me among many witnesses, commit these to faithful men who will be able to teach others also."

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, Lighthouse Fellowship