GTC-NC Training Handbook
For the churches in the South East Bay of
California
NAME: ______
Jan 20, 2018
CONTENTS
● Verses for prayer pp. 4-5
● Principles for dist. BFA materials pp. 6-8
● Door knocking principles pp. 9-11
● Follow-up principles p. 12
● Practicing 2’s or 3’s pp. 13-14
● Frequently asked question
○ About the Recovery Version pp. 15-18
○ About Bibles for America pp. 19-20
● Other training material p. 21
● Dress code p. 22
● Notes p. 23
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Verses for Prayer
1. That you may be blameless and guileless, children of God without blemish in the midst of a crooked and perverted generation, among whom you shine as luminaries in the world, holding forth the word of life. (Phil. 2:15-16a)
2. And Jesus went about all the cities and the villages, teaching in their synagogues and preaching the gospel of the kingdom and healing every disease and every sickness. (Matt. 9:35)
3. And seeing the crowds, He was moved with compassion for them, because they were harassed and cast away like sheep not having a shepherd. (Matt. 9:36)
4. Then He said to His disciples, The harvest is great but the workers are few; Therefore beseech the Lord of the harvest that He would thrust out workers into His harvest. (Matt. 9:37-38)
5. But no one can enter into the house of the strong man and thoroughly plunder his goods unless he first binds the strong man, and then he will thoroughly plunder his house. (Mark 3:27)
6. You did not choose Me, but I chose you, and I set you that you should go forth and bear fruit and that your fruit should remain, that whatever you ask the Father in My name, He may give you. (John 15:16)
7. For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that everyone who believes into Him would not perish, but would have eternal life. (John 3:16)
8. …our Savior God, who desires all men to be saved and to come to the full knowledge of the truth. (1 Tim. 2:3-4)
9. He who does not love has not known God, because God is love. We love because He first loved us. (1 John 4:8,19)
GTC-NC Training Handbook - Jan 20, 2018 3 Version 1.1 10. To open their eyes, to turn them from darkness to light and from the authority of Satan to God, that they may receive forgiveness of sins and an inheritance among those who have been sanctified by faith in Me. (Acts 26:18)
11. The people sitting in darkness have seen a great light; and to those sitting in the region and shadow of death, to them light has risen. (Matt. 4:16)
12. Because the God who said, Out of darkness light shall shine, is the One who shined in our hearts to illuminate the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ. (2 Cor. 4:6)
13. And to enlighten all that they may see what the economy of the mystery is, which throughout the ages has been hidden in God, who created all things. (Eph. 3:9)
14. But you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people acquired for a possession, so that you may tell out the virtues of Him who has called you out of darkness into His marvelous light. (1 Pet. 2:9)
15. For so the Lord has commanded us, “I have set you as a light of the Gentiles, that you would be for salvation unto the uttermost part of the earth.” (Acts 13:47)
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General Principles for Distributing BfA Materials
1. Seeking sons of peace from house to house: a. The Lord sent His disciples from house to house to find the sons of peace (Luke 10:5-6). b. Review the door-knocking guidelines. 2. BfA tabling guidelines: a. Before tabling: i. Familiarize yourself with the features of the New Testament Recovery Version, including “A Brief Explanation” at the beginning and practice presenting the features of the Bible. ii. Read and know the contents of the brochures and tracts you will distribute. iii. Pray for a positive atmosphere so the Lord can bring the seekers to the table. Pray also for a peaceful and calm atmosphere and ask the Lord to bring His seekers to the table. Pray to bind the enemy and for the Lord to keep away any distracting persons, matters, or things. b. During tabling: i. Display the free study Bibles in a presentable arrangement; remember to have several sample copies available. Attach a Free Study Bible banner to the font of the table. ii. Put out free Bible brochures, gospel tracts, and Bible recipient cards for further contact. iii. Remember to keep the table fully stocked and free from clutter; place boxes, supplies, and personal items under the table.
GTC-NC Training Handbook - Jan 20, 2018 5 Version 1.1 iv. The distribution of material should be with a view to following up; set up a future appointment with them on the spot, if possible. c. BfA policies: i. Copies of the New Testament Recovery Version and ministry books should not be given to minors, i.e., anyone under 16 years old, without consent from their parents. ii. Only give one copy of each item per person. Do not receive payment for the free Bible. iii. Recipients are not required to provide their contact information to receive a free study Bible. 3. Following up with Bible recipients: a. We have to pray whenever we receive the names of new contacts, and we should pass their names on to others for them to pray also. I believe that the Lord will honor this kind of prayer. We work through prayer. We do not have any trust in ourselves, in our doing, or in our working. (Preaching the Gospel in the Way of Life, Chapter 11) b. Invite them to study the Bible using the New Testament Recovery Version (by phone, email, or text): i. Introduce yourself as a Bibles for America volunteer. ii. Study with them in person, by phone, or through online video calls (Skype, FaceTime, Google Hangouts, etc.) iii. You can also e-shepherd them by texting verses and footnotes. c. Be flexible and sensitive to each recipient’s spiritual condition. Some recipients may not be saved, some may be fairly new believers, while others may be long-time believers.
GTC-NC Training Handbook - Jan 20, 2018 6 Version 1.1 d. Your contact with recipients is as a BfA volunteer, not as a member of the church in your locality. When recipients ask you where you go to church, you should neither hide nor emphasize the fact that you meet with a church in your locality. e. As you continue to care for recipients, they may become interested in learning about where you meet. You should be prepared to share with them the healthy teaching in the ministry. Eventually, they may be ready to receive fellowship regarding the church. 4. The Gospel should become our daily living. 5. We overcome the fear of the gospel by prayer and the Word.
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Door Knocking Guidelines
Scripture Reading: Luke 10:1-9
● Pray before, during, and after door knocking. ● Pray commanding prayers: "Satan be bound. Door be opened. Sons of peace be loosed," etc. ● Don't get distracted on the way; move quickly from house to house in sequential order seeking today’s sons of peace. ● There should be no more than 3 saints at the door. A fourth team member can wait out of view from the door. ● It’s best to have a sister in front of the door but not necessary. ● Typically, sisters speak to females, brothers speak to males (there are exceptions). ● One saint is responsible to record the address, etc., on the door-knocking record log (see the door-knocking record log). The saint who fills out the record log should not do it at the door (they need to be discrete). If someone asks about the sheet, tell them it's a record of where we've been so we don't repeat our steps. ● Before knocking, a brother and a sister should be ready to introduce the RcV. It’s best to have your Bible ready and your finger or bookmark in the Bible for quick access to the portion you plan to present. ● First knock at the door (not too loud or soft; it’s best to knock first in case babies or others are sleeping). Count to 10 to allow time for someone to answer the door, then knock again or ring the doorbell. Count to 5; if no answer, leave a free Bible offer or tract. If there's a screen door, open it and knock on the door. If the screen door is locked or if there's just a screen door, knock on the door frame. ● If someone opens the door, introduce yourself and the others as Christian volunteers from Bibles for America: "Hi, I'm Rich, and this is Mary and Karen. We're Christian volunteers from Bibles for America, which is a non-denominational, non-profit GTC-NC Training Handbook - Jan 20, 2018 8 Version 1.1 organization that provides free study Bibles to those who would like one." ● Promptly open the Bible and briefly present a portion from the Word to demonstrate the benefits of the free study Bible. If possible, hold the Bible so they can see what you’re reading and point to the verse or footnote as you read. ● Example presentation using John 6:16-21: "Most of us are familiar with the story of Jesus walking on the water." You don't need to read the first few verses, just summarize them by saying, "The disciples were rowing across the sea when a strong wind began to blow (vv 16-17). Read verse 18 and point out the number next to the word "sea." Tell them that the number refers to a footnote that explains the significance of a key word or phrase. Read footnote 1 for verse 18. Then say, "We all have troubles in human life." Read verse 19 and footnote 2. Then say, "Jesus is able to take care of the troubles of human life." Read verse 21 and footnote 1. Then say, "This is an example of how the study Bible helps us understand and appreciate the content of the Scriptures." ● Say, "We would like to offer you this study Bible as a gift. We ask that you fill out this simple form to confirm receipt of your Bible and let us know if you'd like to read with someone to understand the Bible. ● Hand them the form and a pen. Ask them to print legibly. Reassure them that their information is not shared with third parties. ● Once they fill out the card, thank them and give them a Bible or let them know you'll deliver the Bible tomorrow at a time that’s convenient for them (if you don’t have a Bible to give them now). Some localities have the recipient pick up the Bible at a specified location. Check to make sure they filled out the card correctly and that it’s legible. ● Show them "Is Jesus in Your Boat" tract and explain that it's a summary of the portion you just read. Turn the tract over and point out the prayer. Say, "Let's pray this simple prayer
GTC-NC Training Handbook - Jan 20, 2018 9 Version 1.1 together before we leave." Many have been saved by reading this prayer. ● On the back of the Bible Recipient Card are the following fields to be filled out as applicable: Tract, RcV, Prayed, Called on the Lord, Baptized, Visit, Bible Study, Requested Contact, Male/Female, Notes. (Complete this as soon as possible so you don’t forget.) ● In the Notes section, provide the date and time the Bible was delivered or to be delivered. Also list how open the recipient is: 1=very open, 2=open, 3=somewhat open, 4=not open ● If they don’t want to provide their contact information, give them a free Bible offer card). If they still have a strong desire for the Bible, you may give them one. ● Honor “No Soliciting Signs.” Be polite and honorable to all people. Do not argue or debate.
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Follow-up Principles
Let your speech be always with grace, seasoned with salt, that you may know how you ought to answer each one. (Col. 1:6)
● When reaching out to recipients who have requested contact, you should introduce yourself as a Bibles for America volunteer. Some recipients you attempt to contact will not respond due to incorrect contact information, email inbox clutter, or indifference. Remember that our labor is unto the Lord and that with our cooperation, the Lord can reach people who are hungry for the ministry. ● Be flexible and sensitive to each recipient’s spiritual condition. Some recipients may not be saved, some may be fairly new believers, while others may be long-time believers who are touching and beginning to see something new through reading the ministry. ● Your contact with recipients is as a BfA volunteer, not as a member of the church in your locality. When recipients ask you where you go to church, you should neither hide nor emphasize the fact that you meet with a church in your locality. It is generally expected that a person from a Christian organization would belong to a church. ● As you continue to care for recipients, they may become interested in learning about where you meet. You should be prepared to share with them the healthy teaching in the ministry. Eventually, they may be ready to receive fellowship regarding the church.
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Practicing Twos or Threes to Carry Out the Gospel
Now after these things, the Lord appointed seventy others and sent them two by two…(Luke 10:1) Two are better than one, because they have a good reward for their labor. (Eccl. 4:9) For where there are two or three gathered into My name, there am I in their midst. (Matt. 18:20)
Romans 15:16 tells us that the New Testament believers are the New Testament priests and that we, the New Testament priests, are priests of the gospel. Then 1 Peter 2:5, 9 says that we as priests should be built up together to be a priesthood, that is, a priestly body. Thus, if we are going to convert sinners into members of Christ, we must do it in a corporate way. Two or three priests must be built up together as a priesthood. As used in the Bible, the word priesthood bears two denotations. First, it denotes the priestly service, and second, it refers to the priestly body, a group of priests built together to become a priesthood. Merely to go out to preach the gospel by yourself is not adequate. You must be built together with others. However, it would not be effective to call together the entire congregation in your locality to promote the priesthood of the gospel. You should simply contact two or three of the saints and be built together with them as a priestly body. (The Practice of the Church Life According to the God-ordained Way, p. 151)
The Principles of Twos or Threes In order to gain the increase, we need to pray consistently using a prayer list with the names and contact information of others (GTCNC Bible recipients) in groups of 2s or 3s and then visit and shepherd them into the church life. We use groups of 2s or 3s for several reasons: 1. It's the biblical/God-ordained way for the organic increase of the church. GTC-NC Training Handbook - Jan 20, 2018 12 Version 1.1 2. Groups of 2s or 3s are the basic unit God uses to carry out His divine economy. 3. A group of 2 or 3 is a manageable number to practice the follow-up and gain new ones for the church life. 4. The practice of 2s or 3s in this way is the basis of the vital group practices.
The Fundamental Practices of Twos or Threes 1. Pray 1 hr/wk (contact the Lord; pray for those on your list) 2. Visit 2 hrs/wk (visit by phone, email, text, in person) 3. Shepherd consistently (visit to cherish and nourish)
Meeting as Twos or Threes 1. In your meeting (you can meet, pray, and fellowship by phone), first exercise your spirit to be revived by calling on his name and praying with His word. 2. You can make a list and pray with your group one hour per week for unbelievers, seeking unattached Christians, dormant ones, irregular ones, and regular ones; then fellowship concerning how to shepherd them. 3. You can visit those you pray for in person, by phone, text, and email for two hours per week (two hours per week is the sum of the group’s visits) to cherish and nourish them. 4. You can also conduct Bible studies to shepherd the most seeking ones. 5. You can invite the ones you have been shepherding to meet with the saints.
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Frequently Asked Questions
About the Recovery Version
Q: “How is the New Testament Recovery Version different from other versions?” A: Throughout the centuries, believers have steadily progressed in their discovery and understanding of truths in the Bible. The Recovery Version presents these truths and relates them to the central theme of the Bible--God’s plan to dispense Himself into man. The Recovery Version has insightful study aids such as outlines, footnotes, and cross-references that will help you in your understanding of God's Word and will enrich your Christian experience. BfA chose to distribute it because it is one of the best versions available today. Q: “Why is it called the Recovery Version?” A: Each Bible translation has its own name, for example, “King James Version.” “Recovery Version” is simply the name of this translation. Q: “What does the word recovery in Recovery Version mean?” A: The word recovery in Recovery Version does not refer to recovery from alcohol or drug addiction as it is used in titles of some other versions of the Bible. It refers to the regaining of biblical truths, Christian experience, and church practice that have been misunderstood, misinterpreted, misapplied, or missed completely due to the influences of history, tradition, and even religion. Particularly since Martin Luther’s time, God has been progressively recovering these truths, thus affording His people a constantly increasing understanding of the divine revelation. These recovered truths have been brought together in the Recovery Version.
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Q: “Who is the publisher of the New Testament Recovery Version?” A: Living Stream Ministry in Anaheim, California. The New Testament Recovery Version was first published in 1985 and later revised in 1991. The Holy Bible Recovery Version (text only) was published in 1999. The Holy Bible Recovery Version with footnotes, outlines, and cross-references for both the Old and New Testaments, was first published in 2003. Q: “Why did you come up with yet another version of the Bible?” A: Bibles for America did not translate or publish the Recovery Version; it was translated and published by Living Stream Ministry. Bibles for America simply chose to distribute free copies of this version. In the preface of the Recovery Version, the editors explain how they referred to the major authoritative versions and manuscripts and attempted to provide the best and most accurate translation. The extensive footnotes, outlines, and cross- references make this version special. They crystallize the understanding of the Scriptures that believers have gained throughout the past twenty centuries. You can find more information on the Recovery Version at www.recoveryversion.org. Q: “Is the Old Testament available?” A: There is a Holy Bible Recovery Version, but for the gift offer, Bibles for America chose to give away only the New Testament. The Holy Bible Recovery Version with or without footnotes may be purchased directly from the publisher, Living Stream Ministry or through a Christian bookstore. Q: “What original manuscripts is the New Testament Recovery Version based upon?” A: The Editorial Section of Living Stream Ministry based the translation of the New Testament Recovery Version upon the Nestle-Aland Greek text as found in the Novum Testamentum Graece (26th edition). More detailed information is available in the preface of the New Testament Recovery Version. GTC-NC Training Handbook - Jan 20, 2018 15 Version 1.1 Q: “Who wrote the footnotes?” A: Witness Lee wrote the footnotes, based on his more than 50 years study of the Bible and of the best Christian writings throughout the centuries. Extensive information about his life and ministry is available at www.witnesslee.org. Q: “Who is Witness Lee?” A: Witness Lee was a Christian brother and a co-worker of Watchman Nee. He labored for the Lord for over seven decades on five continents. In the early 1960s Witness Lee was led by the Lord to come to the U.S., where he ministered and labored selflessly for the benefit of the Lord’s children until he went to be with the Lord in 1997. During his 35 years in the U.S., he published more than 400 titles, including his major work, Life- Study of the Bible, a comprehensive book-by-book exposition of the entire Bible. Extensive information about his life and ministry is available at www.witnesslee.org. Q: “Who is Watchman Nee?”(Author of some of the free books from BfA) A: Watchman Nee was a faithful servant of the Lord in China. He received Christ at the age of 17 and began writing in the same year. His books are well known among believers all over the world. Many have received help from his writings concerning the spiritual life and the relationship between Christ and His believers. In 1952 he was imprisoned for his faith; he remained in prison until his death in 1972. Extensive information about his life and ministry is available at www.watchmannee.org.
About ordering free Bibles and Books
Q: “How many Bibles and books can I order?” A: In order to give away free Bibles and books in as widespread a way as possible, we have set a limit of one free Bible and one copy of each book per person. To purchase additional Bibles and books, please contact the publisher, Living Stream Ministry.
GTC-NC Training Handbook - Jan 20, 2018 16 Version 1.1 Q: “Do you ship materials outside the United States?” A: Bibles for America’s free Bible and free Christian books are only offered in the United States; we do not ship to other countries. However, depending on what country you live in, one of our affiliates or Rhema Inc., an international Christian literature distributor, may be able to ship free literature to you. For example, Bibles for Canada ships to residents of Canada. For military service members, we can ship to APO addresses in Iraq, Afghanistan, and other foreign countries. Military service members and their families can order our free materials at www.bfa.org/military. Q: “Do you offer the Recovery Version in other languages?” A: Although it has been translated into numerous other languages, Bibles for America offers a free copy of the Bible in English and Spanish only. A complimentary copy of the Recovery Version in Chinese (in simplified or traditional characters) is available through the China Gospel Depot (www.cgdepot.org). To purchase the Recovery Version in another language, you can contact the publisher, Living Stream Ministry at (800) 549-5164. Q: “How long does it take for me to get my free Bible and free Christian books in the mail?” A: From the time the order is placed online, please allow up to 4 weeks for delivery. Q: “Do you ship to prison inmates?” A: Bibles for America does not supply materials to prison chaplains or inmates. Q: “Can I tell people I know about the free New Testament and books from BfA?” A: Yes! If you would like others to receive a New Testament Recovery Version and/or the Christian Books Collection from Bibles for America, tell them they can order by going to BfA’s Web site (www.bfa.org) or by calling BfA’s toll-free phone number (888) 551-0102. About Bibles for America GTC-NC Training Handbook - Jan 20, 2018 17 Version 1.1
Q: “What is Bibles for America?” A: Bibles for America (BfA) is a nonprofit organization whose mission is to distribute free copies of the New Testament Recovery Version and Christian literature throughout the United States. Q: “When and how was Bibles for America founded?” A: Bibles for America began through the prayer of a small group of Christian believers in Southern California. The more they prayed, the more they felt responsible before God to distribute the Word of God to satisfy the spiritual hunger of their fellow Americans. Ultimately they were led to offer free copies of the New Testament Recovery Version throughout the United States. The nonprofit organization was formed and distribution began in 2000. Q: “How is Bibles for America supported financially?” A: Bibles for America (BfA) is funded solely by contributions, which are tax-deductible according to Internal Revenue Code section 501(c)(3). An independent Board of Directors governs major financial decisions. All contributions are appreciated and used solely for spreading the Word of God. Q: “What kind of organization is Bibles for America?” A: BfA was established in 2000 as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization with the mission to distribute free copies of the New Testament Recovery Version and Christian literature throughout the U.S. Its staff members are all born-again Christians. If you would like more information about BfA, including their statement of faith, you can visit their website at www.bfa.org. Q: “What church is Bibles for America affiliated with?” A: Organizationally, Bibles for America is an independent entity. However, many of our supporters meet with the local churches and have appreciated and spiritually benefited from the ministries of Watchman Nee and Witness Lee.
GTC-NC Training Handbook - Jan 20, 2018 18 Version 1.1 Q: “Can I tell people I know about the free New Testament and books from BfA?” A: Yes! If you would like others to receive a New Testament Recovery Version and/or the Christian book collection from Bibles for America, tell them they can order at BfA’s website (www.bfa.org) or by calling BfA’s toll-free phone number (888) 551-0102.
Your Involvement with Bibles for America
Q: “How are you affiliated with Bibles for America?” A: I don’t work for them. I personally use the New Testament Recovery Version and have benefitted from the books they offer, so I want everyone to have the opportunity to receive the same benefit I have. That’s why I’m so glad I can tell you about these offers. Q: “Where do you go to church?” A: I meet with the church in ______at (give meeting hall address). Q: “Can I give you some money for these things?” A: No. The Bible and the books from Bibles for America are absolutely free. If you really are interested in supporting Bibles for America, you can go their Web site at www.bfa.org and donate there.
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Other Materials for Preparation or Shepherding
See the following websites:
● https://norcal.gtca.us/training/ ● BfA videos (bfa.org/gospel)—truth and gospel videos that can be viewed and shared with others. “The Meaning of Life and Man’s Third Part” and “Who is Jesus?” are two popular videos. ● Bible study outlines (bfa.org/online-bible-studies) — outlines covering different Bible topics to download and print for personal or group Bible study. ● BfA’s podcast series (bfa.org/podcast)—for those who want to listen to helpful episodes about God, the Bible, and the Christian life ● Life Study of the Bible radio program (lsmradio.org)—a series of 30-minute radio broadcasts featuring spoken messages given by Witness Lee, writer of the Recovery Version footnotes and references. View the current radio broadcast schedule under “Broadcast Schedule” or listen to past programs online under “Broadcast Archives.” ● eManna.com (emanna.com)—daily devotional via e-mails that include a Bible verses from the Recovery Version followed by a brief word of ministry. ● NEW RADIO BROADCAST ON 1100 AM - 8:30 PM EACH LORD’S DAY NIGHT! For the North Central Valley, use the website: https://m.christianradio.com/teaching-talk/kfax.html GTC-NC Training Handbook - Jan 20, 2018 20 Version 1.1
Dress Code
Let your adorning not be the outward plaiting of hair and putting on of gold or clothing with garments, But the hidden man of the heart in the incorruptible adornment of a meek and quiet spirit, which is very costly in the sight of God. (1Pet. 3:3-4)
When we go out on gospel and shepherding activities, we must remember that we are ambassadors of Christ, representing Him to the world. As such, we should be those with the highest standard of humanity. This not only includes our conduct and interactions, but also the way we dress. We encourage that all saints dress in the following way:
Brothers: ● Please wear a solid light-colored shirt (with collar) and proper pants (no jeans) and good walking shoes (please no tennis shoes).
Sisters: ● Please wear solid color shirts or blouse with collars, skirts, and proper shoes (no sandal or tennis shoes). For warmth, you may wear long stockings under your dress. Please, no denim.
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Notes
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