To handle life’s toughest problems we need to ……

1. Taking the first step
2. Trusting God to help us
3. Finding God’s Purpose in it all
4. Making the Commitment

LESSON 1: Taking the First Step

How we handle problems determines if we will overcome them. Our reaction will determine whether our problems become opportunities for personal growth or the means of spiritual and emotional defeat. Learning how to handle life’s problems with the right heart attitude is the first step in overcoming them.

How do I develop the right heart attitude?

• Face Reality – stop pretending things are fine when they are not.

Question: What will denial of your problem do for you?

Answer: It will keep you from dealing with the problem

• Take Responsibility – Be willing to take action to deal with your problems.

Question: What can people do for you when you have a problem?

Comment: No one can solve your problems for you. Only you can. People can help you, encourage you, etc.

• Do Right – There is a right way and a wrong way to handle every problem. Look for the right way.

Discuss some of the right or wrong ways to deal with the following issues:

Question: What role does the bible (word of God) play when it comes to finding the right way to deal with the following?

• Guilt
• Fear
• Failure
• Temptation
• Worry

LESSON 2: Trusting God to Help Us

Another way of dealing with life’s problems is trusting God to help us.

KEY STATEMENT:

The key to handling our problems is trusting what God tells us to do about our problems.

Too many people want to make their own decisions and ask God to bless what they have already decided.

YOUR STORY:

Share a time when you made your decision and asked God to bless it. Share what happened thereafter.

Question: How can we willingly trust God in every circumstance?

READ Daniel 3:1-25 and discuss with regards to trusting God in every circumstance.

Answer: This will depend on our confidence in His Love for us.

LESSON 3: Finding God’s Purpose in It All

A third way of dealing with life’s problems is understanding that as Christians God is always with us in our problems and He is working to achieve His purpose in our circumstances. This is called God’s sovereignty.

READ Romans 8:28 and discuss God’s involvement in our lives and nothing is left to chance.

If God is present, then we are not alone in dealing with our problems.

If His sovereign will prevails over our problems, then there are three things of which we can be certain.

1. God’s sovereignty limits our crisis but does not cancel it – Luke 22:31-32; Job 1:12; Job 2:6
2. God’s sovereignty brings meaning to our problems
3. God’s sovereignty assures us of His grace – 2 Corinthians 12:9

LESSON 4: Making the Commitment

The final step in dealing with our issues is committing to see it through.

A commitment to do it right by God and also stay in the process God prescribes to see it through.

Using Jesus as a case study as we read in 1 Peter 2:23?

How did Jesus maintain his mental health when he was insulted?

READ Philippians 4:2-7. Here in this text Euodia and Syntyche are not getting along. Study the text and discuss practical steps to bring peace and maintain their mental health.

Comment on the Philippians 4:2-7

Verses 2-3

Paul urges Euodia and Syntyche to agree in the Lord. He calls the church to help these women get along. They have worked together with Paul in preaching the gospel. It looks like they have lost sight of the big picture at his point. The dispute between them had spread through the church, so Paul tells them to set aside their differences for the sake of the gospel.

Verse 4

No matter what is going on rejoice

Verse 5

Don’t spread your unhappiness to others. Being gracious means we don’t use our ministries to be vindictive or hateful when things are not going well. Rather embrace a good attitude because we know the Lord is near.

Verse 6-7

Don’t worry but pray because it will help your mental health.To handle 

The gospels often teach us what the Kingdom of God is and how it functions, but the letters written by the apostle Pauline teach us about how to live in the kingdom on earth. This gives us a portrait of a godly community. 

In this lesson, we will help you gain an understanding of what a godly community looks like and how you can locate one on or off campus near your school.

What Is a Godly Community?

A godly community is a group of believers in Christ who come together consistently to do life together. This community lives in a way that reflects God’s love for each other and gives the unbelieving person to understand the love of God in real time.

A godly community

• Meets together for prayer, fellowship, and bible study consistently.
• They care for each other and challenge each other to be better in their academic work and their spiritual walk.
• They hold each other accountable in the spirit of love.
• They encourage each other and pray with and for each other.

Characteristics of a Godly Community

1.    Accountable to each other – James 5:16; Galatians 6:1; Matthew 18:15-16

2.    Show Brotherly Love – 1 John 4:7-9, 18-19; 1 Corinthians 13:4-6

3.    Empathetic to each other – Romans 12:15; Galatians 6:2; Colossians 3:12

4.    Forgiveness is a real thing among them – Ephesians 4:32; Matthew 6:14-15; Colossians 3:13

5.    Hospitality is not in word but in deed – 1 Peter 4:8-10; Hebrews 13:1-3

6.    Humility characterizes speech and actions – Matthew 7:3-5; 1 Peter 5:5-7; Romans 12:3 

7.    Unity – Philippians 2:2; Ephesians 4:5-6; Romans 12:18; Romans 15:5-6  

Suggestions for finding a godly community:

1.    Join a church and serve there in a department

2.    Introduce yourself to new people you see at church

3.    Invite someone over for lunch if you can

4.    Join a small (growth) group known for sharing the good news.

What to look for in a church or small group before you join permanently?

1.    What is their purpose? Is their purpose about sharing the gospel?

2.    Are they willing to care for you and challenge you when it is necessary?

3.    Do they have a prayer component that helps you stay on track with your prayer life?

4. Is there a system where people call and check on you occasionally?

1. KEEPING A DAILY QUIET TIME WITH GOD
2. SPENDING TIME WITH MY BIBLE
3. PRAYING CONSISTENTLY
4. FELLOWSHIPPING WITH OTHER BELIEVERS
5. SHARING THE GOSPEL

INTRODUCTION

SOME MYTHS ABOUT SPIRITUAL GROWTH

Some say spiritual growth is….

1. A matter of learning the correct biblical information

Answer: You can know enough biblical information and still not grow. See what Jesus told the teachers of the law in his day – John 5:39-40

2. The result of following certain well-defined steps

Answer: This is reducing a living process to mechanical steps. People do not grow at the same rate so following steps will be frustrating for some who may miss a step or two.

3. Achieved by giving up certain things.

Answer: Man’s problem with sinful desires is inward not outwards so abstaining from certain foods and things will not cut it even though it may help in some regard.

THE TRUTH ABOUT SPIRITUAL GROWTH

1. It is not automatic –Hebrews 5:12-14
2. It requires some effort & discipline – 1st Timothy 4:7 (AMP or NASB)
3. It is not a one-time experience but a process – 2nd Peter 3:18

WHAT IS “SPIRITUAL GROWTH”?

It means more of Christ is expressed in my life – John 3:22-30

It means to be more like Christ – Ephesians 4:13-15

 Just as a baby grows in the womb by being fed through the umbilical cord which defines the relationship between the mother and the baby so also spiritual growth is necessitated by a relationship between you (the believer) and God. After the baby is born, the baby must be fed continually and interact with people for better development. What is true in the natural is also true in the spiritual.

WHY IS SPIRITUAL GROWTH NECESSARY?

1. God commands it – Ephesians 4:15
2. The alternative to growth is stagnation.

SPIRITUAL GROWTH DEMANDS …

1. Nourishment – 1St Peter 2:2
2. Relationship – Ephesians 4:15

HABIT #1:  KEEPING A DAILY QUIET TIME WITH GOD

Daily time alone with God in a quiet place – Mark 1:35

What is quiet time?

Quiet time is a daily time I set aside to be alone with God to get to know Him through the Bible and prayer.

 Importance of a daily quiet time

Your time alone with God should be the top priority in your schedule because:

1. Personal time alone with God was Jesus’ source of strength – Mark 1:35, Luke 5:16 Luke 22:39-40
2. We were created to have fellowship with God – 1^st Corinthians 1:9
3. You cannot be a healthy Christian without it – Matthew 4:4; Job 23:12; Psalm 119:9
4. Every person who has been effective in service to God developed this habit.

 The purpose of daily quiet time is to

1. Worship God – Psalm 29:2; 2^nd Chronicles 31:21; Rev 4:11
2. Get direction from God – Psalm 25:4; 16:11
3. Receive the desire of your heart – Psalm 37:4
4. Grow more like God – 2^nd Peter 1:4; Acts 4:13

How do I begin a daily quiet time?

1. SELECT A SPECIFIC TIME.

The best time to have a quiet time is when I am at my best.

Reasons for considering an early morning quiet time:

1. The example of Bible character – are Psalm 5:3; Psalm 119:147-148; Mark 1:35
2. It seems logical to begin the day with it – (The best time to tune your instrument is before you play the concert, not after)
3. It demonstrates that meeting with God is your priority. You give him the first part of your day.
4. You are likely to be more rested, your mind is less cluttered, and it’s often the quietest time.

Whatever time you set, be consistent with it.

How long should a quiet time be?

You can start with 15 – 20 minutes a day and let it grow over time.

2. CHOOSE A SPECIAL PLACE – Mark 1:35; Luke 22:39

• GATHER THE RESOURCES YOU’LL NEED.  
• Bible – with readable print. 
• Notebook – to write what God speaks to you and to help. Maintain a prayer list.
• Worship and Praise playlist on your one or iPod, etc.

4. FOLLOW A SIMPLE PLAN FOR 15/20 MINUTES

• Preparation (1 Minute) – Be still and quiet! Slow down!
• Read a bible verse or passage (4 Minutes) – Follow a reading plan. Read until you feel God has told you something, then stop and think about it.
• Think about what you read (4 Minutes) –Think about what the passage means to you. Write down your thoughts or memorize the verse(s) that specifically speak to you.
• Write down what God says to you (2 Minutes) – Write out a personal application
• Pray (4 Minutes)

Overcoming problems associated with your quiet time.

The problem of waking up

Suggestions

1. Go to bed on time.
2. Get up immediately the alarm sounds.

The problem of a wandering mind

Suggestions

1. Get out of bed and stay awake.
2. Read and pray aloud.
3. Walk during your prayer time.
4. Keep a journal that will let you write.

The problem of feeling dry

 You may be feeling dry because of your physical condition, disobedience to God, rushing your quiet time or not sharing your insights with others.

 Suggestion: Do the opposite of what you are doing that is making you feel dry.

The problem of being consistent

Suggestions

1. Make a covenant or vow to God.
2. Schedule it on your daily calendar
3. Leave your Bible open at night to the passage for the next day!

What if I miss a day?

Don’t feel guilty or become legalistic and never give up because it takes three weeks for you to become familiar with a new task. Then it takes another three weeks before it becomes a comfortable habit – Galatians 6:9

HABIT #2: THE HABIT OF SPENDING TIME WITH YOUR BIBLE

Getting a grasp on your bible – 2^nd Timothy 2:15; Romans 15:4

We will look at this in several ways as follows: hearing, reading, studying, memorizing, meditating, and applying God’s word.

HEARING THE WORD OF GOD

Why do I need to hear the word of God? Romans 10:17; Revelation 1:3

What are some of the ways you can hear God’s Word?

• The Bible on tape
• Bible Studies
• Family of Twelve meeting
• Sunday Worship Service
• Personal Reading/ studies
• Sermon tapes
• Radio/TV teachers

PROBLEM: We forget 95 % of what we hear after 72 hours, so how can you improve your hearing?

How can you improve your hearing?

• Deal with attitudes that prevent hearing God – Luke 8:4-15, 18.

1. Is fear, pride, or bitterness preventing me from hearing God?
2. Am I serious about wanting to hear God speak?
3. Am I too busy and concerned with other things to concentrate on what God has to say?

• Take notes on what you hear – Hebrews 2:1-4
• Act on what you hear – James 1:22-25

READING THE WORD OF GOD

Why do I need to read my bible? – Revelation 1:3

I must read my bible.

1. Daily – Deuteronomy 17:19
2. Sometimes aloud or quietly to myself
3. And underline or color code key verses
4. In different translations
5. One book at a time with a reading plan

If I read for approximately 20 minutes a day, I can read through the Bible once a year.

STUDY GOD’S WORD

There are several approaches to studying the bible. For most of them, you must depend on other materials to do it. But I will want us to use the inductive approach which does not use any aid but just the bible. The inductive approach begins with observation and then interpretation and finally application.

OBSERVATION – What does the passage say?

Here we observe the

1. Context
   1. What is the context – context is that which goes with the text or the environment in which something dwells.

Illustration: What is the meaning of the word TRUNK?

It could mean the compartment of a car, the flexible snout of an elephant, a rigid box for transporting clothing, or part of the stem of e tree. The meaning of the word TRUNK will depend on how it is used, that is its surrounding text or context.

1. How can I identify the context – by carefully observing what is repeated in the text and see how it all relates?
   1. Observe things that are easy to see – Facts about people, places, & events. Illustration solving a jigsaw puzzle begins with the corners.
   2. Observe words, phrases, and sentences surrounding a particular word, phrase, or sentence.
   3. Look for the text’s repeated emphasis.
   4. Ask the 5W’s and an H
      1. Who wrote it? Who said it? To whom or about whom is the author speaking
      2. What are the major ideas? What does he talk about the most? What is the purpose of saying that?
      3. When was it written? When did the event take place? When did he do it? When did he say it?
      4. Where was this done? Where was it said? Where will it happen?
      5. Why was there a need for this to be written? Why was the reference mentioned? Why should they do such and such?
   5. Big picture
      1. Read and re-read the book.
      2. Identify the type of literature.

Is it Historical; Biographical; Poetic; Proverbial; Prophetic; Epistle or a combination?

• Use the 5 W’s and an H

1. Focus on words, or ideas that are repeated.
2. Discover facts about events.
3. Mark keywords (keywords are the who, what when etc. words)

• Discern the main theme of the book (keywords reveal the subject and the subject reveals the theme)
• Discover the theme of each chapter.

1. Identify clearly defined segments (segments defined by dates, topics,

3. Details
   1. Keep the context in mind.
   2. Does any of the 5W’s and an H?

• Look for and Mark Key Words and Phrases

1. List what you learned about each word.
2. Look for contrast, comparisons, terms of conclusion, and expression of time.

INTERPRETATION – What is the original meaning?

The interpretation of a verse or text of the bible must always be done with certain rules or principles in mind. As you seek or search for meaning you must remember

1. That the context always rules – 2^nd Timothy 2:16… does it mean we can’t tell a joke or funny stories? No, 2^nd Timothy 2, the context is about handling the gospel accurately and in doing so we mix the gospel up
2. To seek the full counsel of God – John 15:7 say God will do whatever we ask. Does it all the time. So we cut the rest of the scripture to get the full counsel of God like asking according to his will (1^st John 5:14) or asking with proper motivation (James 4:3)
3. That scripture cannot contradict scripture.
4. Don’t build doctrine on obscure passage – 1^st Corinthians 15:29
5. Interpret scripture as is.
   1. Literal
      1. Prose
      2. poetry
   2. Figures of speech – Luke 22:19
      1. Simile – comparing two different things using words like, “like”, “as”, “such as” etc. Psalm 42:1; Rev 1:14b (b is the second part of the verse)
      2. Metaphor – implied comparison without the use of a word like as such as – John 15:5; Ephesians 6:17

• Hyperbole – deliberate exaggeration for the purpose of emphasis – Psalm 119:20; Matthew 23:24

1. Personification – giving human characteristics to inanimate objects – Isaiah 55:12
2. Irony – a statement which says the opposite of what is meant – 1^st Corinthians 4:8
3. Metonymy – the name of one object or concept used for another – Mark 1:5… The country is used to refer to people rather than region.

1. Parables
   1. Parables always point to one theme – Luke 18:14
   2. The meaning of the parable depends on the occasion – Luke 15:2; Luke 18:9

• Meaning is most often followed by the narration of the parable – Mark 4

1. Distinguish real details from irrelevant detail.
2. Never use a parable to establish a doctrine.

1. Allegory – a story created to teach a truth – John 15:1-8; Galatians 4:21-31
2. Types – Prophetic symbols – Romans 15:4; 1^st Corinthians 15:45
3. Symbols – picture or object that represents another thing (Revelation 1:20)
   1. Symbols don’t mean the same thing everywhere – Ephesians 5:26; John 7:37-39
   2. In each passage, symbols will mean only one thing and not two

• Interpret symbols in the light of biblical settings and culture rather than your modern culture.

1. Prophecy

APPLICATION – What does it mean to me today?

These processes can be applied to various methods such as.

• Book study – discovering truths contained in the book.
• Chapter study – analyze and summarize a chapter.
• Character study – study about an individual
• Devotional study –
• Topical study – understanding a particular subject or topic.
• Verses-by-verse
• Word study – Understanding words in the text that are relevant.

MEMORIZE GOD’S WORD

Why do we have to memorize scripture? Proverbs 7:2-3

What are the benefits of memorizing scripture?

1. It helps me resist temptation –Psalm 119:11
2. It helps in the time decision-making – Psalm 119:105
3. Strengthens me when I am under stress – Psalm 119:49
4. It helps to witness to unbelievers – 1^st Peter 3:15

When to memorize a verse

• During your Quiet Time
• While Exercising
• Spare moments
• At bedtime (Ps 63:6)

How to memorize a verse

• Pick a verse that speaks to you.
• Say the reference before and after the verse.
• Read the verse aloud many times. Record it!
• Break the verse into natural phrases.
• Write down the verse and erase a word one at a time.
• Write out the verse on a flash card.
• Always carry some cards with you for review.
• Put the verse to music. Write a song!
• Get a partner so you can check each other.

SCRIPTURE MEMORIZATION

The following verses suggest a “balance” in Scripture Memory. The verses selected are key verses in understanding the foundations of the Christian Life and Christian Growth. Do not feel tied down to this suggested list. This is only a tool to lead you in an understanding of the importance of memorizing “key” verses.

Live the New Life:

Christ the Center II Cor. 5:17; Gal. 2:20

Obedience to Christ Rom. 12:1; John 14:21

The Word II Tim. 3:16; Josh. 1:8

Prayer John 15:7; Phil. 4:6-7

Fellowship Matt. 18:20; Heb. 10:24

Witnessing Matt. 4:19; Rom. 1:16

Proclaim Christ:

All Have Sinned Rom. 3:23; Isa. 53:6

Sin’s Penalty Rom. 6:23; Heb. 9:27

Christ Paid for Rom. 5:8; I Peter 3:18

Salvation by grace Eph. 2:8-9; Titus 3:5

Must Receive Christ John 1:12; Rev. 3:20

Assurance of Salvation I John 5:13.

Rely on God’s Resources:

His Spirit I Cor. 3:16; I Cor. 2:12

His Strength Isa. 41:10; Phil. 4:13

His Faithfulness Lam. 3:22; Num. 23:19

His Peace Isa. 26:3; I Peter 5:7

His Provision Rom. 8:32; Phil 4:19

His Help in Temptation Heb. 2:18;

Be Christ’s Disciple:

Put Christ First Matt. 6:33; Luke 9:23

Separate from the World Rom. 12:2

Be Steadfast I Cor. 15:58; Heb. 12:3

Serve Others Mark 10:45; II Cor. 4:5

Give Generously Prov. 3:9-10; II Cor. 9:6-7

Develop World Vision Acts 1:8; Matt. 28:19-20

Grow in Christ’s likeness:

Love John 13:34-35; I Jn. 3:18

Humility Phil. 2:3-4; I Peter 5:5-6

Purity Eph. 5:3; I Peter 2:11

Honesty Lev. 19:11; Acts 24:16

Faith Heb. 11:6; Rom. 4:20-21

Good Works Gal. 6:9-10; Matt. 5:16

MEDITATE ON GOD’S WORD

Meditation is focused on thinking about a Bible verse to discover how I can apply its truth to my own life.

Why meditate on scripture?

1. It is the key to becoming like Christ – Proverbs 4:23; 1^st Corinthians 3:18
2. It is key to answered prayer – John 15:7
3. It is the key to successful living – Joshua 1:8

How to meditate on a verse?

1. Picture it! Visualize the scene in your mind.
2. Pronounce it! Say the verse aloud, each time emphasizing a different word.
3. Paraphrase it! Rewrite the verse in your own words.
4. Personalize it! Replace the pronouns or people in the verse with your name.
5. Pray it! Turn the verse into a prayer and say it back to God.

APPLYING GOD’S WORD – James 1:22; Matthew 5:19

• 1st ask: What did it mean to the original hearers?
• 2nd ask: What is the underlying timeless principle?
• 3rd ask: Where or how could I practice that principle?

HABIT #3: THE HABIT OF PRAYING CONSISTENTLY

Talking with God – Romans 12:12

HOW TO REVITALIZE YOUR PRAYER LIFE

1. APPROACH PRAYER WITH THE RIGHT ATTITUDE – Matthew 6:5-8
2. Be real – Vs. 5
3. Be relaxed – Vs. 6
4. Be Revealing – Vs. 7-8

1. USE THE MODEL JESUS GAVE US – Matthew 6:9-15
2. PRAISE: I begin by expressing love to God. Praise him for who he is (adoration) and what he has done (thanksgiving)
3. PURPOSE: I pray for God’s will to be done in my life, my family, my church, etc.
4. PROVISION: I ask God to provide my daily needs
5. PARDON: I ask God to forgive my sins

4 Steps to Forgiveness

• Ask the Holy Spirit to reveal every sin – Psalm 139:23-24
• Confess each sin specifically – Proverbs 28:13
• Make restitution when necessary with others – Matthew 5:23-24
• By Faith accept God’s forgiveness – 1^st John 1:9

5. PEOPLE: I pray for other people. Make a list of people you want to pray for and what you to pray about. Examples in scriptures: Eph. 1:15-19; Col.1:3-12; Phil 1:9-11 etc
6. PROTECTION: I ask for spiritual protection. As a child of God, you will face a spiritual battle every day. Satan wants to defeat you through temptation and fear. By praying for protection, you will have the confidence to face every situation during the day.

HABIT #4: THE HABIT OF FELLOWSHIP

Participating in God’s Family – Hebrews 10:25

 Why is fellowship so important?

• I belong to God’s family with other believers – 6:10; Eph. 2:19; Rom. 12:5
• I need encouragement to grow spiritually – Hebrews 10:24; Eccl. 4:9-10, 12
• I need accountability to grow spiritually – Proverbs 27:17; Hebrews 3:13; Gal. 6:1-2
• Christ is present when I fellowship together – Matthew 18:20
• There is power when people pray together – Matthew 18:19
• Fellowship is a witness to the world – John 17:21
• I am obligated to every other Christian – 1^st Peter 4:10; 1^st Corinthians 12:5, 27

Scripture references to fellowship

• Serve one another Gal. 5:13
• Accept one another Rom 15:7
• Forgive one another Col. 3:13
• Greet one another Rom. 16:16
• Bear one another’s burdens Gal. 6:2
• Be devoted to one another Rom. 12:10
• Honor one another Rom. 12:10
• Teach one another Rom 15:14
• Submit to one another Eph. 5:21
• Encourage one another 1 Thess. 5:11

How can a large church maintain close friendships?

• Every member needs to be a part of a small group – Acts 5:42

Types of Church Meetings in Early Church

1. Large Group and
2. Small Group – Rom. 16:5; Acts 2:46, 8:3, 16:40, 20:20, 1 Cor. 16:19, Col. 4:15

In Covenant Family Chapel our small groups are called Growth Groups which meet in houses. We encourage you to be a part.

WHAT IS THE PURPOSE OF OUR GROWTH GROUPS?

Acts 2:42-47

1. Bible Study – “They devoted themselves to the apostle’s teaching…”
2. Fellowship – “….and to the fellowship …”
3. Prayer – “… and to prayer …”
4. Support –” … they gave to anyone as he had a need …”
5. Socialization – ” … they ate together with glad and sincere hearts …”
6. Praise – “… praising God and enjoying the favor of all the people.”
7. Outreach – “And the Lord added to their number daily those who were being saved.”

HOW TO START AND MAINTAIN GOOD HABITS

1. Desire – don’t be halfhearted about it.
2. Decide – begin right now not tomorrow (Ecclesiastes 11:4)
3. Declaration – Announce your intentions publicly (Psalm 76:11)
4. Determination –
5. Get Support – Eccl. 4:9-10
6. Rely on God – 2 Tim. 1:7

HABIT #5: THE HABIT OF SHARING THE GOSPEL

Telling others about the Kingdom of God and the sacrifice of Jesus to save them from their sins – Jude 1:22-23

The Christian life is a life where a person is led by the Holy Spirit or controlled by the Holy Spirit. This is a result of intentionally yielding mind, body and thoughts to the Holy Spirit. 

THE HOLY SPIRIT 

SECTION ONE

Overview:

The Holy Spirit, traditionally referred to as the third Person of the Trinity, is the focus of this study. In this first lesson, students will be given

1. A brief introduction to the concept of God’s “three-in-one” nature
2. The primary role the Spirit plays in their lives.

Objective:

Challenge your students to respond to the Holy Spirit and be aware of what He is doing in their lives. 

Lesson 1: GOD, the Holy Spirit

Our objective: Identify the Holy Spirit as part of the Trinity of God.

Write down…… your understanding about the concept of “Trinity”

Read and Digest – There are times when certain aspects of God are too awesome to comprehend fully. For many of us, this is most evident when we consider the Trinity and the Holy Spirit. When we spend time looking at these aspects of God, we end up marveling at the truth that our wonderful, awesome, and sometimes mysterious God is so much MORE than we can fully comprehend. Yet, in His goodness, God has given us enough in His Word that we can grasp a specific understanding of His nature. While it might stretch our mind’s capacity, we know that God is One, but that He exists in three Persons. The Holy Spirit, traditionally referred to as the third Person of the Trinity, is the focus of this study.

In the Bible, the Holy Spirit is called God:

3 Peter said, “Ananias, why did you let Satan rule your thoughts to lie to the Holy Spirit and to keep for yourself part of the money you received for the land? 4 Before you sold the land, it belonged to you. And even after you sold it, you could have used the money any way you wanted. Why did you think of doing this? You lied to God, not to us!”.

(Acts 5:3-4, New Century Version)

In the Bible wherever the Holy Spirit is mentioned most of the times other members if the trinity are mentioned:

¹⁶ As soon as Jesus was baptized, he came up out of the water. Then heaven opened, and he saw God’s Spirit coming down on him like a dove. ¹⁷ And a voice from heaven said, “This is my Son, whom I love, and I am very pleased with him.”.

(Matthew 3:16-17, New Century Version)

Jesus spoke of the triune nature of the Holy Spirit:

26 “I will send you the Helper from the Father; he is the Spirit of truth who comes from the Father. When he comes, he will tell about me. (John 15:26, New Century Version)

Apostle Paul spoke of the triune nature of the Holy Spirit:

2 Through Christ Jesus the law of the Spirit that brings life made you[a] free from the law that brings sin and death. 3 The law was without power, because the law was made weak by our sinful selves. But God did what the law could not do. He sent his own Son to earth with the same human life that others use for sin. By sending his Son to be an offering for sin, God used a human life to destroy sin. (Romans 8:2-3, New Century Version)

14 The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with you all. (2 Corinthians 13:14, New Century Version)

For through Him [the Son] we both have access by one Spirit unto the Father. (Ephesians 2:18)

The Apostle Peter also spoke of the triune nature of God:

14 Be happy if you are cursed and insulted for being a Christian, for when that happens the Spirit of God will come upon you with great glory. (I Peter 4:14, Living Bible)

The book of Acts also verifies the triune nature of God:

33 Jesus was lifted up to heaven and is now at God’s right side. The Father has given the Holy Spirit to Jesus as he promised. So Jesus has poured out that Spirit, and this is what you now see and hear. (Acts 2:33, New Century Version)

Question:

Is the Holy Spirit EQUAL with God the Father and Jesus Christ the Son.

What have you learned today?

Write down your thoughts in your notebook.

What can you do with what they’ve learned?

Consider how the Holy Spirit’s presence can help you know that God’s presence is always with you.

Lesson 2: The PERSON of the Holy Spirit

Objective:

Help students to understand the Holy Spirit is a person not a force.

Question: What makes you a person?

Summarize answers and zero in on the idea that the Holy Spirit is a person too.

The Bible reveals that the Holy Spirit…

HAS A MIND: 

And He that searcheth the hearts knoweth what is the mind of the Spirit… (Romans 8:27)

SEARCHES OUT THE HUMAN MIND:

But God hath revealed them unto us by His Spirit; for the Spirit searcheth all things, yea, the deep things of God. (I Corinthians 2:10)

HAS A WILL:

But all these worketh that one and the selfsame Spirit, dividing to every man severally as He will. (I Corinthians 12:11)

The will of the Holy Spirit guides believers by denying permission for certain actions:

Now when they had gone throughout Phrygia and the region of Galatia and were forbidden of the Holy Ghost to preach the word in Asia,

After they were come to Mysia, they assayed to go into Bithynia; but the Spirit suffered them not. (Acts 16:6-7)

The will of the Holy Spirit also guides believers by granting permission:

And after he had seen the vision, immediately we endeavored to go into Macedonia, assuredly gathering that the Lord had called us for to preach the Gospel unto them. (Acts 16:10)

After the scripture reading ask students:

What personality traits of the Holy Spirit, did you learn today?

What have you learned today?

Use your chat section to communicate your thoughts.

What we want our students to do with what they’ve learned: To consider how the Holy Spirit’s personality helps them relate to the Holy Spirit

Lesson 3: The PERSON of the Holy Spirit

Review: Ask students to share what they have learned from the previous lesson about the Holy Spirit having a mind and will.

Share the objective for today: The Holy Spirit a person not a force

Ask Students: What makes you a person?

Summarize answers and zero in on the idea that the Holy Spirit is a person too.

The Bible reveals that the Holy Spirit…

SPEAKS: 

HE SPOKE TO PHILIP:

Then the Spirit said unto Philip, go near, and join thyself to this chariot. (Acts 8:29)

HE SPOKE TO PETER:

While Peter thought on the vision, the Spirit said unto him, Behold, three men seek thee. (Acts 10:19)

HE SPOKE TO THE ELDERS IN THE CITY OF ANTIOCH:

As they ministered to the Lord, and fasted, the Holy Ghost said, Separate me Barnabas and Saul for the work whereunto I have called them. (Acts 13:2)

LOVES:

Now I beseech you, brethren, for the Lord Jesus Christ’s sake, and for the love of the Spirit, that ye strive together with me in your prayers to God for me. (Romans 15:30)

INTERCEDES:

One of the personality traits of the Holy Spirit is that He is an intercessor. This means He prays to God on behalf of others:

Likewise the Spirit also helpeth our infirmities; for we know not what we should pray for as we ought; but the Spirit itself maketh intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered [spoken]. (Romans 8:26)

After the scripture reading ask students:

What personality traits of the Holy Spirit, did you learn today?

What have you learned today?

Use your chat section to communicate your thoughts.

What we want our students to do with what they’ve learned: To consider how the Holy Spirit’s personality helps them relate to the Holy Spirit

Lesson 4: The NATURE of the Holy Spirit

Objective: Explain the nature of the Holy Spirit.

As part of the Trinity of God, the Holy Spirit has a special nature. When we speak of His nature, we mean the basic qualities which describe Him.

Ask Students: What is your understanding on the word “nature”? How does it apply to a person?

Summarize answers and zero in on the idea that the Holy Spirit has a unique nature.

The Bible teaches that the Holy Spirit is:

OMNIPRESENT:This means He is present everywhere:

Whither shall I go from thy Spirit? or whither shall I flee from thy presence? (Psalms 139:7)

OMNISCIENT:This means He knows all things:

But God hath revealed them unto us by His Spirit; for the Spirit searcheth all things, yea the deep things of God.

For what man knoweth the things of a man, save the spirit of man which is in him? Even so, the things of God knoweth no man, but the Spirit of God.  (I Corinthians 2:10-11)

OMNIPOTENT: This means the Holy Spirit is all-powerful:

But ye shall receive power after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you… (Acts 1:8) 

ETERNAL: This means He is everlasting. He had no beginning and will have no end:

How much more shall the blood of Christ, who through the eternal Spirit offered Himself without spot to God, purge your conscience from dead works to serve the living God? (Hebrews 9:14)

Question: What personality traits of the Holy Spirit, did you learn today?

What have you learned today?

Write down your thoughts.

What we want our students to do with what they’ve learned: To consider how the Holy Spirit’s personality helps them relate to the Holy Spirit

Lesson 5: The SENSITIVE  NATURE of the Holy Spirit

Objective: Understand we can do so much to turn off his dealings in our lives

The Holy Spirit has a sensitive nature. This means He has feelings that can be affected by the actions of man. Because of the sensitive nature of the Holy Spirit, the Bible warns that you should not:

LIE TO THE HOLY SPIRIT:

But Peter said, Ananias, why hath Satan filled thine heart to lie to the Holy Ghost, and to keep back part of the price of the land?

…Thou has not lied unto me, but unto God. (Acts 5:3-4)

RESIST THE SPIRIT:

The Holy Spirit has specific ministries on behalf of the believer which will be discussed in Chapter Three of this course. Resisting the Holy Spirit is not yielding to Him when He tries to minister in your life:

Ye stiff-necked and uncircumcised in heart and ears, ye do always resist the Holy Ghost: as your fathers did, so do ye. (Acts 7:51)

QUENCH THE SPIRIT:

You quench the Holy Spirit when you refuse to do what the Holy Spirit would have you to do. The word “quench” is used elsewhere in the Bible in reference to putting out a fire. When you quench the Holy Spirit, it stops the flow of His power within you. It is like throwing water on a fire. The Bible warns:

Quench not the Spirit. (I Thessalonians 5:19)

GRIEVE THE SPIRIT:

Quenching the Holy Spirit is not doing what the Holy Spirit would have us do. Grieving the Holy Spirit is doing something that the Holy Spirit does NOT want us to do. The nation of Israel grieved the Holy Spirit:

How oft did they provoke Him in the wilderness and grieve Him in the desert! (Psalms 78:40)

The Bible warns:

And grieve not the Holy Spirit of God, whereby ye are sealed unto the day of redemption. (Ephesians 4:30)

 Question: What traits about the sensitive nature of the Holy Spirit, did you learn today?

What have you learned today?

Write down your thoughts.

What we want our students to do with what they’ve learned: To consider how the Holy Spirit’s sensitive nature helps them relate to the Holy Spirit

Lesson 6: The SENSITIVE  NATURE of the Holy Spirit

Objective: Understand we can do so much to turn off his dealings in our lives

The Holy Spirit has a sensitive nature. This means He has feelings that can be affected by the actions of man. Because of the sensitive nature of the Holy Spirit, the Bible warns that you should not:

INSULT THE SPIRIT:

You insult the Holy Spirit by going back into sin after you have experienced forgiveness through the blood of Jesus Christ:

Of how much sorer punishment, suppose ye, shall he be thought worthy, who hath trodden under foot the Son of God, and hath counted the blood of the covenant, wherewith he was sanctified, an unholy thing, and hath done despite unto the Spirit of grace? (Hebrews 10:29)

For it is impossible for those who were once enlightened, and have tasted of the heavenly gift and were made partakers of the Holy Ghost,

And have tasted the good word of God, and the powers of the world to come.

If they shall fall away, to renew them again unto repentance; seeing they crucify to themselves the Son of God afresh and put Him to an open shame. (Hebrews 6:4-6)

BLASPHEME THE SPIRIT:

Wherefore I say unto you, all manner of sin and blasphemy shall be forgiven unto men: but the blasphemy against the Holy Ghost shall not be forgiven unto men.

And whosoever speaketh a word against the Son of man, it shall be forgiven him; but whosoever speaketh against the Holy Ghost, it shall not be forgiven him, neither in this world neither in the world to come. (Matthew 12:31-32)

 The sin of blasphemy against the Holy Spirit has been called the “unpardonable sin” because according to this passage, it is the one sin for which there is no forgiveness. To blaspheme means to speak abusive words which reject the power of the Holy Spirit as being of God and claim it is of Satan. If a person totally rejects the power of the Holy Spirit, then he can never be saved because it is the Holy Spirit which draws sinful men to Jesus Christ.

The Holy Spirit produces many visible confirming signs of God’s power. Jesus was saying that if a person could not accept these miraculous signs as proof of the truth of the Gospel, then what could ever possibly convince them to believe?

VEX THE HOLY SPIRIT:

To vex the Holy Spirit means to irritate, annoy, provoke, or make angry. The Holy Spirit is vexed by the disobedience and unbelief of mankind. The Prophet Isaiah records what happened to God’s people, Israel, when they vexed the Holy Spirit:

But they rebelled and vexed His Holy Spirit: therefore He was turned to be their enemy, and He fought against them. (Isaiah 63:10)

Question: What traits about the sensitive nature of the Holy Spirit, did you learn today?

What have you learned today?

Write down your thoughts.

 What we want our students to do with what they’ve learned: To consider how the Holy Spirit’s sensitive nature helps them relate to the Holy Spirit 

Lesson 7: The ROLE of the Holy Spirit in Our Lives

SECTION TWO

Overview: In this section, we will take an in-depth look at how Jesus spoke of the Holy Spirit’s new role in the lives of all those who would come to a saving faith in Christ. Jesus gave a ton of insight into this new way of interacting with the Spirit, a new relationship that would empower and enlighten all of God’s children from Pentecost until now. By looking at Jesus’ words regarding the Spirit, we will be challenged to see our interactions with the Holy Spirit in a new light.

What we want students to learn:

That students would understand the role Holy Spirit plays in our lives.

What we want our students to do with what they’ve learned:

To begin to seek the Spirit’s guidance in and through the roles Jesus described the Spirit playing in their lives.           

The Holy Spirit serves an important purpose in the lives of believers. He….

CONVICTS:

It is the Holy Spirit that convicts of sin to draw men and women to Jesus. You could not become a believer without this ministry of the Spirit:

And when He is come, He will reprove the world of sin, and of righteousness, and of judgment:

Of sin, because they believe not on me;

Of righteousness, because I go to My Father and ye see me no more;

Of judgment, because the prince of this world is judged. (John 16:8-11)

REGENERATES:

The Holy Spirit changes your life when you become a believer:

Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to His mercy He saved us, by the washing of regeneration, and renewing of the Holy Ghost. (Titus 3:5)

Jesus answered and said unto him, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God.

Nicodemus saith unto Him, How can a man be born when he is old? can he enter the second time into his mother’s womb, and be born?

Jesus answered, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, except a man be born of water and of the Spirit, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God.

That which is born of the flesh is flesh; and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit.

Marvel not that I said unto thee, Ye must be born again. (John 3:3-7) 

SANCTIFIES:

The Holy Spirit takes this life which has been changed by salvation and enables righteous living:

But we are bound to give thanks always to God for you, brethren, beloved of the Lord, because God hath from the beginning chosen you to salvation through sanctification of the Spirit and belief of the truth… (II Thessalonians 2:13)

BAPTIZES:

And they were all filled with the Holy Ghost and began to speak in other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance. (Acts 2:4)

After the scripture reading ask students:

What are some of the roles of the Holy Spirit in your life?

What have you learned today?

Write down your thoughts.

What we want our students to do with what they’ve learned: To consider how the Holy Spirit’s role in their lives help them to depend on Him.

Lesson 8: The ROLE of the Holy Spirit in Our Lives

Today’s lesson is a continuation of an in-depth look at how Jesus spoke of the Holy Spirit’s new role in the lives of all those who would come to a saving faith in Christ. By looking at Jesus’ words regarding the Spirit, we will be challenged to see our interactions with the Holy Spirit in a new light.

What we want students to learn:

That students would understand the role Holy Spirit plays in our lives.

What we want our students to do with what they’ve learned:

To begin to seek the Spirit’s guidance in and through the roles Jesus described the Spirit playing in their lives.           

The Holy Spirit serves an important purpose in the lives of believers. He….

DWELLS WITHIN:

The purpose of this indwelling is to strengthen the new nature received through salvation:

What! Know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost, which is in you, which ye have of God, and ye are not your own?

(I Corinthians 6:19)

Know ye not that ye are the temple of God, and that the Spirit of God dwelleth in you? (I Corinthians 3:16)

Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature; old things are passed away; behold all things are become new. (II Corinthians 5:17)

 This I say then, walk in the Spirit, and ye shall not fulfill the lust of the flesh.

For the flesh lusteth against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh; and these are contrary the one to the other; so that ye cannot do the things that ye would.

But if ye be led of the Spirit, ye are not under the law. (Galatians 5:16-18)

In the natural world, after a house has been lived in by a person for a period of time it reflects the character of that person. Likewise, our spiritual houses should reflect the character of the Holy Spirit who dwells within.

STRENGTHENS:

That He would grant you, according to the riches of His glory, to be strengthened with might by His Spirit in the inner man. (Ephesians 3:16)

UNITES:

The Holy Spirit makes a believer one in spirit with God and other believers. This is called the “unity of the Spirit”:

But he that is joined unto the Lord is one spirit. (I Corinthians 6:17)

 For as the body is one, and hath many members, and all the members of that one body, being many are one body: so also is Christ.

 For by one Spirit are we all baptized into one body, whether we be Jews or Gentiles, whether we be bond or free; and have been all made to drink into one Spirit. (I Corinthians 12:12-13)

INTERCEDES:

Likewise the Spirit also helpeth our infirmities: for we know not what we should pray for as we ought: but the Spirit itself maketh intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered. (Romans 8:26)

But ye, beloved, building up yourselves on your most holy faith, praying in the Holy Ghost. (Jude 20)

Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints.

(Ephesians 6:18)

Question: What are some of the roles of the Holy Spirit in your life?

What have you learned today?

Write Down your thoughts.

What we want our students to do with what they’ve learned: To consider how the Holy Spirit’s role in their lives help them to depend on Him.

Lesson 9: The ROLE of the Holy Spirit in Our Lives

Today’s lesson is a continuation of an in-depth look at how Jesus spoke of the Holy Spirit’s new role in the lives of all those who would come to a saving faith in Christ. By looking at Jesus’ words regarding the Spirit, we will be challenged to see our interactions with the Holy Spirit in a new light.

What we want students to learn:

That students would understand the role Holy Spirit plays in our lives.

What we want our students to do with what they’ve learned:

To begin to seek the Spirit’s guidance in and through the roles Jesus described the Spirit playing in their lives.           

The Holy Spirit serves an important purpose in the lives of believers. He….

GUIDES:

Howbeit when He, the Spirit of truth, is come, He will guide you into all truth; for He shall not speak of Himself; but whatsoever He shall hear, that shall He speak; and He will show you things to come. (John 16:13)

For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are the sons of God. (Romans 8:14)

DEMONSTRATES LOVE:

The Holy Spirit shows the love of Christ to and through the believer:

And hope maketh not ashamed; because the love of God is shed abroad in our hearts by the Holy Ghost which is given unto us. (Romans 5:5)

CONFORMS TO THE IMAGE OF CHRIST:

The Holy Spirit conforms the believer to the image of Christ:

But we all, with open face beholding as in a glass the glory of the Lord, are changed into the same image from glory to glory, even as by the Spirit of the Lord. (II Corinthians 3:18)

REVEALS TRUTH:

But God hath revealed them unto us by His Spirit: for the Spirit searcheth all things, yea, the deep things of God. (I Corinthians 2:10)

Question: What are some of the roles of the Holy Spirit in your life?

What have you learned today?

Write Down your thoughts.

What we want our students to do with what they’ve learned: To consider how the Holy Spirit’s role in their lives help them to depend on Him.

Lesson 10: The ROLE of the Holy Spirit in Our Lives

Today’s lesson is a continuation of an in-depth look at how Jesus spoke of the Holy Spirit’s new role in the lives of all those who would come to a saving faith in Christ. By looking at Jesus’ words regarding the Spirit, we will be challenged to see our interactions with the Holy Spirit in a new light.

What we want students to learn:

That students would understand the role Holy Spirit plays in our lives.

What we want our students to do with what they’ve learned:

To begin to seek the Spirit’s guidance in and through the roles Jesus described the Spirit playing in their lives.           

The Holy Spirit serves an important purpose in the lives of believers. He….

TEACHES:

But the anointing which ye have received of Him abideth in you, and ye need not that any man teach you: but as the same anointing teacheth you of all things, and is truth, and is no lie, and even as it hath taught you, ye shall abide in Him. (I John 2:27)

ASSURES OF SALVATION:

The Spirit itself beareth witness, with our spirit, that we are the children of God. (Romans 8:16)

And he that keepeth His commandments dwelleth in Him, and He in him. And hereby we know that He abideth in us, by the Spirit which He hath given us. (I John 3:24)

GIVES LIBERTY:

For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus hath made me free from the law of sin and death. (Romans 8:2)

Now the Lord is that Spirit: and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is liberty. (II Corinthians 3:17)

COMFORTS:

…and walking in the fear of the Lord, and in the comfort of the Holy Ghost… (Acts 9:31)

Even the Spirit of truth, whom the world cannot receive because it seeth Him not, neither knoweth Him; but ye know Him; for He dwelleth with you, and shall be in you…

But the Comforter, which is the Holy Ghost, whom the Father will send in my name, He shall teach you all things and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said unto you. (John 14:17,26

Question: What are some of the roles of the Holy Spirit in your life?

What have you learned today?

Write down your thoughts.

What we want our students to do with what they’ve learned: To consider how the Holy Spirit’s role in their lives help them to depend on Him.

Lesson 11: The ROLE of the Holy Spirit in Our Lives

Today’s lesson is a continuation of an in-depth look at how Jesus spoke of the Holy Spirit’s new role in the lives of all those who would come to a saving faith in Christ. By looking at Jesus’ words regarding the Spirit, we will be challenged to see our interactions with the Holy Spirit in a new light.

What we want students to learn:

That students would understand the role Holy Spirit plays in our lives.

What we want our students to do with what they’ve learned:

To begin to seek the Spirit’s guidance in and through the roles Jesus described the Spirit playing in their lives.           

The Holy Spirit serves an important purpose in the lives of believers. He….

QUICKENS:

But if the Spirit of Him that raised up Jesus from the dead dwell in you, He that raised up Christ from the dead shall also quicken [empower, give new life, resurrect] your mortal bodies by His Spirit that dwelleth in you. (Romans 8:11)

SPEAKS:

But when they shall lead you, and deliver you up, take no thought beforehand what ye shall speak, neither do ye premeditate; but whatsoever shall be given you in that hour, that speak ye: for it is not ye that speak, but the Holy Ghost. (Mark 13:11)

DEMONSTRATES GOD’S POWER:

And my speech and my preaching was not with enticing words of man’s wisdom, but in demonstration of the Spirit and of power;

That your faith should not stand in the wisdom of men but in the power of God. (I Corinthians 2:4-5)

INSPIRES WORSHIP:

God is a Spirit: and they that worship Him must worship Him in spirit and in truth. (John 4:24)

EMPOWERS FOR WITNESSING:

The power to witness is the true evidence that one has been baptized in the Holy Spirit.

But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you; and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judaea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost parts of the earth. (Acts 1:8)

GIVES GIFTS AND DEVELOPS FRUIT:

The Holy Spirit gives spiritual gifts to believers. These are specific abilities to enable him to function effectively as part of the Church. The Holy Spirit also develops spiritual fruit in a believer’s life. Spiritual fruit refers to the nature of the Holy Spirit in the life of a believer.

Question: What are some of the roles of the Holy Spirit in your life?

What have you learned today?

Write down your thoughts.

What we want our students to do with what they’ve learned: To consider how the Holy Spirit’s role in their lives help them to depend on Him.

Lesson 12: What it looks like when we’re living life “by the Spirit.”

SECTION THREE

Overview: As you’ve learned, the Holy Spirit is God, active in the world and our lives. Jesus’ life, death, resurrection, and ascension played an important role in paving the way for the Spirit to permanently live within all believers. While there are many different ways to look at how these truths affect you, this section will focus on what it looks like when we’re living life “by the Spirit.” We’ve already established that the Holy Spirit indwells all believers. Permanently. Paul’s words in Galatians add to this. They teach us that the Spirit’s presence in our lives will yield certain “fruit,” or evidence of the Spirit’s transforming influence on us. Yet, Paul seems to imply that we play some role in how vividly, or effectively, these fruits are manifested. This lesson will help you understand what the “fruits of the Spirit” are.

What we want students to learn: That students would understand what the Bible means by the “fruit of the Spirit.”

What we want them to do with what they’ve learned: To evaluate the Spirit’s work in them by how present the Spirit’s “fruit” is in their day-to-day lives.

Coming Soon……

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