DISCIPLESHIP PROGRAM
AXIS 2.0
HEALTHY SPIRITUAL HABITS
AXIS 2.0 HEALTHY SPIRITUAL HABITS
LESSON 1 ~ INTRODUCTION
THE PURPOSE OF THIS CLASS “... that you may become mature Christians and may fulfill God's will for you." Colossians 4:12 (Ph)
This class will... • Equip you with the SKILLS you need to begin these practices. • Explain the TOOLS you need to continue these practices. • Help you to COMMIT to the practices necessary for spiritual maturity.
CLASS OUTLINE Session One: Introduction Spiritual maturity Fruit of the Spirit Understanding Discipleship 7 Commitments of A Disciple Session Two: The Commitments The Commitment to Bible Study The Commitment to Personal Devotion Session Three: The Commitments The Commitment to Prayer The Commitment to Fasting The Commitment to Praise Session Four: The Commitments and Maintenance The Commitment to Giving The Commitment to Fellowship How to Start and Maintain Good Habits
Spiritual Maturity is BECOMING LIKE CHRIST. (Ephesians 4:12-13) Romans 8:29; Galatians 5:22-23
TWO APPROACHES TO SPIRITUALLY MATURE CHRISTIAN LIVING…
• Negative (______) "trying not to do wrong" – resisting
• Positive (______) "bearing fruit"
Page | 2 The First Pentecostal Church of Jackson
WALKING IN THE SPIRIT: (Galatians 5:16-26)
A. Two Conflicting Forces: (vs. 16-18) If we try to live for God purely through our own human effort, we will fail. Our only way to freedom from our evil desires is through the empowering of the ______
B. The Works of the Flesh: (vs. 19-21)
C. The Fruit of the Spirit: (vs. 22-23) A person who exhibits the Fruit of the Spirit fulfills the law far better than a person who merely observes rituals without love.
D. Belonging to Christ: (vs. 24-26)
We must learn how to ______the flesh. We must learn how to WALK IN THE SPIRIT.
E. For fruit to grow, it must have an environment conducive to growth.
We must ______in Christ. We must let His words live in us. John 15:4-8
FACTS ABOUT SPIRITUAL MATURITY:
1. It is not AUTOMATIC. (Hebrews 5:12-13) 2. It is a ______(2 Peter 3:18) 3. It takes DISCIPLINE. (1 Timothy 4:7) 4. It takes being SPIRIT LED (Walking in the Holy Ghost). (Romans 8:14)
UNDERSTANDING DISCIPLESHIP
1. Mature believers are called ______2. I cannot be a disciple without being disciplined.
3. The more disciplined I become the more God can use me. .0
4. The mark of a disciple is ______- ______. (Luke 14:27) 2
5. How often am I to do this? DAILY (Luke 9:23) Axis
The First Pentecostal Church of Jackson Page | 3
6. What is involved in "cross bearing"? WHATEVER IT TAKES to give Christ first place in my life! 7. The Holy Spirit helps us. (I Corinthians 2:10-12)
HOW CAN I BECOME A DISCIPLE?
Develop DISCIPLINED PRACTICES. (Colossians 3:9-10)
A disciple puts off his old ways, behaviors, habits and practices. He changes to new ways, behaviors and practices which lead to continual renewal and spiritual growth into the image of Christ. A disciple engages in practices that lead him to becoming more and more Christ-like.
THE 7 PRACTICES OF DISCIPLESHIP
1. BIBLE STUDY (John 8:31-32)
2. PERSONAL DEVOTION (James 1:25)
3. PRAYER (John 15:7-8; Matthew 6:6)
4. FASTING (Matthew 6:17-18)
5. PRAISE (1 Peter 2:9)
6. GIVING (Luke 14:33; Deuteronomy 14:23)
7. FELLOWSHIP (John 13:34-35)
DEFINITION OF A PRACTICE: A practice is a habitual act or action. It is a continual, often unconscious inclination to do a certain activity acquired through frequent repetition. It is the repeated performance of an activity to perfect a skill -- or in this case Christian character and spiritual maturity.
To benefit from a practice, you must EMBRACE IT
Page | 4 The First Pentecostal Church of Jackson
LESSON 2 ~ THE COMMITMENTS (Part 1)
THE COMMITMENT TO BIBLE STUDY
II Peter 1:21; 2 Timothy 3:16-17
IMPROVE YOUR HEARING (Romans 10:17): 1. Be ready and eager to hear God. (Luke 8:8; Psalm 119:103) 2. Deal with ______that prevent hearing God. (Luke 8:11-15; Luke 8:18) 3. ______any sin in your life. (James 1:21) 4. Take notes on what you hear. Consider keeping a spiritual notebook. (Hebrews 2:1) 5. ______on what you hear! (James 1:22; James 1:25; Revelation 1:3)
How often should I read God's Word? ______(Deuteronomy 17:19; Acts 17:11) Reading approximately 15 minutes a day, you can read through the Bible once a year.
RULES FOR BIBLE STUDY (2 Timothy 2:15) Don’t look for hidden meanings. Don’t read verse by verse. Don’t jump to ______. Don’t read the Bible as a ______.
BENEFITS OF MEMORIZING SCRIPTURE (Proverbs 7:2-3) 1. It helps me resist ______. (Psalm 119:11) 2. It helps me make wise DECISIONS. (Psalm 119:105) 3. It strengthens me when I'm under ______. (Psalm 119:49)
4. It comforts me when I'm SAD (Jeremiah 15:16) .0
5. It helps me witness to UNBELIEVERS. (1 Peter 3:15) 2
Axis
The First Pentecostal Church of Jackson Page | 5
WHY MEDITATE ON SCRIPTURE? (Psalm 1:2-3) Meditation is FOCUSED THINKING about a Bible verse in order to discover how I can apply its truth to my own life. This takes solitude - getting rid of distractions - turning off the noise.
1. It is the key to BECOMING LIKE CHRIST (Prov 4:23; Rom 12:2; 1 Cor 3:18) 2. It is the key to ANSWERED ______. (John 15:7) 3. It is the key to SUCCESSFUL ______. (Joshua 1:8; James 1:22; Matt 5:19)
HOW TO APPLY SCRIPTURE 1st ask: What did the verse mean to the original hearers? 2nd ask: What is the verse's underlying timeless principle? 3rd ask: Where or how could I practice that principle? Most applications will focus on one of three relationships: 1) with God, 2) with myself, 3) with other people
THE COMMITMENT TO PERSONAL DEVOTION
THE IMPORTANCE OF DAILY TIME WITH GOD 1. We were CREATED to have fellowship with God. (Genesis 1:27, 2:7, 3:8; Revelation 3:20) 2. Jesus DIED to make a relationship with Him possible. (1 Corinthians 1:9) 3. Personal time in prayer was Jesus’ SOURCE OF STRENGTH. (Mark 1:35, Luke 22:39, 5:16) 4. Every person who has been effective in SERVICE for God developed this habit. 5. You cannot be a HEALTHY Christian without it! (Matthew 4:4; Job 23:12; Psalm 119:9)
THE PURPOSE OF DAILY TIME WITH GOD 1. To give DEVOTION to God. (Psalm 29:2; 2 Chronicles 31:21) God deserves our devotion! (Revelation 4:11) God desires our devotion! (John 4:23) 2. To get ______from God. (Psalm 25:4) 3. To gain DELIGHT in God. (Psalm 37:4; Psalm 16:11) 4. To grow MORE like God. (2 Peter 1:4; Acts 4:13)
Page | 6 The First Pentecostal Church of Jackson
HOW TO BEGIN YOUR DAILY DEVOTION 1. Select a specific ______. How long should I pray? Guidelines: - Start with a set amount of time and let it grow. - Don't watch the clock! - Emphasize quality, not quantity! 2. Choose a special PLACE. (Luke 22:39) 3. Gather the RESOURCES you will need. (Bible, notebook and pen, other aids) 4. Begin with the right ______. Reverence (Ps 46:10); Expectancy (Ps 119:18); Obedience (Matt 6:33) 5. Follow a SIMPLE plan.
"FIFTEEN MINUTES WITH GOD" 1. RELAX. (1 Minute) Be still and quiet! 2. READ SCRIPTURE. (4 Minutes) Begin reading where you left off the day before. 3. REFLECT ON THE SCRIPTURE. (4 Minutes) 4. RECORD WHAT GOD SAID. (2 Minutes) 5. REQUEST. (4 Minutes)
"PRAYER" = Praise Repent Ask Yield Evangelize Repeat praise
HOW TO OVERCOME PROBLEMS IN YOUR TIME WITH GOD 1. The Problem of Discipline - Use self-control 2. The Problem of Distractions - Keep your mind from wandering 3. The Problem of Dryness - Never judge your time with God by feelings 4. The Problem of Diligence - Be consistent
.0 2
Axis
The First Pentecostal Church of Jackson Page | 7
LESSON 3 ~ The Commitments (Part 2)
MY COMMITMENT TO PRAYER James 5:16; Colossians 4:2
I. Approach Prayer with the right Attitude. (Matthew 6:5-8) • Be ______. (vs. 5) • Don’t try to impress God. • Don’t try to impress others. • Be ______. (vs. 6) • Be ______. (vs. 7-8)
II. Use the Model Jesus gave us. (Matthew 6:9-15)…THE 7 PARTS OF PRAYER
1. PRAISE: I begin by expressing ______to God. (v. 9) Two Kinds of Praise: • "ADORATION" - Praising God for who He is. • "THANKSGIVING"- Praising God for what He has done.
How to Praise God (Psalm 100:4): a. As you read your Bible, make a list of God's CHARACTER QUALITIES that you discover and then review them when you pray. (See Appendix 3 / Prayer Guide #1) b. Remind yourself and affirm the PROMISES God has made that are contained in the meaning of His names. (See Appendix 3 / Prayer Guide #2) c. Make a list of all the BLESSINGS that you are thankful for and review them when you pray. (See Appendix 3 / Prayer Guide #3)
2. PURPOSE: I commit myself to doing ______. (v. 10); Romans 12:2
3. PROVISION: I ask God to ______my daily needs. (v. 11) Philippians 4:19; Romans 8:32; James 4:2
Write down your requests, with a promise you are claiming from the Bible, and expect an answer! (See Appendix 3 / Prayer Guide #4) Philippians 4:6
4. PARDON: I ask God to ______my sins. (v. 12)
Page | 8 The First Pentecostal Church of Jackson
Four Steps to Forgiveness A. Ask the Holy Spirit to REVEAL every sin. (Psalm 139:23-24) B. Confess each sin SPECIFICALLY. (Proverbs 28:13) C. Make RESTITUTION to others when necessary. Matthew 5:23-24 D. By Faith, ACCEPT God’s forgiveness. 1 John 1:9
5. PEOPLE: I pray for ______. (v.12) 1 Timothy 2:1
Make a prayer list of people you want to pray for. You might pray for different people on different days of the week (missionaries, family, church leadership, unsaved friends, etc.). (See Appendix 3/ Prayer Guide #5).
6. PROTECTION: I ask for SPIRITUAL PROTECTION. (vs. 13) 1 John 4:4
7. PRAISE: I return to ______. Matthew 6:13b
MY COMMITMENT TO FASTING Matthew 6:17-18
Three Main Forms of Fasting: 1. The NORMAL Fast: involving the total abstinence of food. Luke 4:2 2. The ______Fast: Acts 9:9; Ezra 10:6; Esther 4:16 3. The ______Fast: Daniel 10:3
THE BIBLICAL REASONS BEHIND FASTING
I. Fasting is to be done as an act before God in the privacy of one's own pursuit of God. (Ex. 34:28; 1 Sam. 7:6; 1 Kings 19:8; Matthew 6:17-18)
II. Fasting is to be done with the object of seeking to know God in a deeper experience. (cf. Isaiah 58; Zech. 7:5). Isaiah 58:6-7
III. Fasting relates to a time of humbling and confession. Psalm 35:13; Psalm 69:10; I Samuel 7:6
IV. Fasting can be a time of seeking a deeper prayer experience and drawing near to
God in prevailing prayer. Ezra 8:21-23; Joel 2:12
.0 2 V. The early church often fasted in seeking God's will for leadership in the local church. Acts 13:2-3
Axis
The First Pentecostal Church of Jackson Page | 9
VI. Fasting was practiced by Paul and other Christians regularly. 2 Corinthians 11:27 NKJV) (cf. 2 Corinthians 6:5) 1 Corinthians 7:5
9 EXAMPLES OF BIBLICAL FASTS (Fasting for Spiritual Breakthrough E. L. Towns)
1) The Disciple's Fast Purpose: "To loose the bands of wickedness" (Isa. 58:6) Key Verse: Matthew 17:21
2) The Ezra Fast Purpose: To "undo the heavy burdens" (Isa. 58:6) Key Verse: Ezra 8:23
3) The Samuel Fast Purpose: "To let the oppressed (physically and spiritually) go free" (Isa. 58:6) Key Verse: 1 Samuel 7:6
4) The Elijah Fast Purpose: "To break every yoke" (Isa. 58:6) Key Verse: 1 Kings 19:4, 8
5) The Widow's Fast Purpose: "To share [our] bread with the hungry" (Isa. 58:7) Key Verse: 1 Kings 17:16
6) The Paul Fast Purpose: To allow God's "light [to] break forth like the morning" (Isa. 58:8) Key Verse: Acts 9:9
7) The Daniel Fast Purpose: So "your health shall spring forth" (Isa. 58:8) Key Verse: Daniel 1:8
8) The John the Baptist Fast Purpose: That "your righteousness shall go before you" (Isa. 58:8) Key Verse: Luke 1:15
9) The Esther Fast Purpose: That "the glory of the Lord" will protect us from the evil one (see Isa. 58:8) Key Verse: Esther 4:16; 5:2
Page | 10 The First Pentecostal Church of Jackson
MODIFIED FASTS Fasting can involve laying aside something other than food for a period of time such as amusements/entertainment [see 1 Corinthians 7:5].). Or it can involve eliminating certain foods from your diet like sweets, soft drinks, caffeine, etc.
For people who have medical conditions that will not allow them to go on a full fast from food, they may still partake in fasting by perhaps joining in a partial fast where they omit certain foods from their diet or go on a schedule that includes limited eating. (See Appendix 4 / Fasting Helps)
PREPARING TO FAST How you begin and conduct your fast will largely determine your success.
1) Set your ______: Why are you fasting?
2) Make your ______: Jesus implied that all of His followers should fast (Matthew 6:16-18; 9:14-15). Before you fast, decide the following up front: o How long you will fast? o The type of fast God wants you to undertake o What physical or social activities you will restrict? o How much time you will devote each day to prayer and God’s Word?
3) Prepare yourself ______: o Confess every sin that the Holy Spirit calls to your remembrance (1 John 1:9) o Seek forgiveness from all whom you have offended, and forgive all who have hurt you (Mark 11:25; Luke 11:4, 17:3-4) o Make restitution as the Holy Spirit leads you. o Surrender your life fully to Jesus Christ as your Lord and Master; refuse to obey your worldly nature (Romans 12:12) o Meditate on the attributes of God, His love, sovereignty, power, wisdom, faithfulness, grace, compassion, others (Psalm 48:9-10; 103:1-8, 11-13) o Begin your time of praying/fasting with an expectant heart (Hebrews 11:6) o Do not underestimate spiritual opposition. Satan sometimes intensifies the natural battle between body and spirit (Galatians 5:16-17)
4) Prepare yourself ______: Consult your doctor first, especially if you take prescription medications or have a chronic ailment. o Prepare your body. Eat smaller meals before starting a fast. Avoid high- fat and sugary foods. .0
o Eat raw fruit and vegetables for two days before starting a fast. 2 o Limit your activity. o Exercise moderately. Axis
The First Pentecostal Church of Jackson Page | 11
o Prepare yourself for temporary mental discomforts, such as impatience, crankiness and anxiety. o Expect some physical discomforts, especially on the second day. You may have fleeting hunger pains, dizziness, or the “blahs.” Withdrawal from caffeine and sugar may cause headaches. Physical annoyances may also include weakness, tiredness or sleeplessness.
The first two or three days are usually the hardest. As you continue to fast, you will likely experience a sense of well-being both physically and spiritually. However, if you feel hunger pains, increase your liquid intake.
5) Put yourself on a ______: (See Appendix 4 / Sample Schedule and Tips on Juice Fasting)
6) End your fast ______: If you end your fast gradually, the beneficial physical and spiritual effects will result in good health. (See Appendix 4 / Suggestions on Breaking Your Fast Properly)
7) Expect ______: (John 14:21).
A single fast, however, is not a spiritual cure-all. Just as we need fresh infillings of the Holy Spirit daily, we also need new times of fasting before God. A 24 hour fast each week has been greatly rewarding for many Christians.
It takes time to build your fasting muscles. If you fail to make it through your first fast, do not be discouraged. You may have tried to fast too long the first time out, or you may need to strengthen your understanding and resolve. As soon as possible, undertake another fast until you do succeed. God will honor you for your faithfulness.
MY COMMITMENT TO PRAISE
Psalm 150
THE MODES OF PRAISE • Including the offering of sacrifices (Lev. 7:13) • Physical movement (2 Sam. 6:14) • Silence and meditation (Ps. 77:11-12) • Testimony (Ps. 66:16) • Prayer (Phil. 4:6) • A holy life (1 Pet. 1:3-9)
Page | 12 The First Pentecostal Church of Jackson
BIBLICAL WARNINGS ABOUT THE QUALITY OF PRAISE
• Praise is to originate in the ______and not become mere outward show. Matthew 15:8
• Corporate praise is to be carried on in an orderly manner. 1 Corinthians 14:40
• Praise is also firmly linked to an individual's EVERYDAY LIFE. Amos 5:21-24
CORPORATE PRAYER AND WORSHIP
When the church family is together, our personal prayer and worship styles need to be in subjection to leadership and flow with the moving of God’s Spirit, so that others may be ministered to during the service. No personal prayer or worship should ever be at odds with the rest of the Body, seek to override God-ordained leadership, or attract attention to the individual. (1 Corinthians 14:32-33)
• The great benefit of corporate PRAYER is the atmosphere of FAITH it creates. (Deuteronomy 32:30)
• The great benefit of corporate WORSHIP is the atmosphere of POWER it creates. (Psalm 22:3)
THE WAY WE WORSHIP John 4:23-24
• We pray together out loud (Acts 4:24) • We testify publicly (Psalm 22:22) • We sing with all our hearts (Psalm 98:4) • We lift our hands in praise (Psalm 134:2) • We play musical instruments (2 Samuel 6:5) • We clap and shout unto God (Psalm 47:1) • We dance in the spirit (Psalm 150:4) • We anoint with oil for divine healing (James 5:14-15) • We allow the operation of spiritual gifts (1 Corinthians 14:12, 39)
An unbeliever can merely RESPOND to an atmosphere of worship, but a believer can CREATE an atmosphere of worship! .0
2 Mature Christians are always WORSHIPPERS! Axis
The First Pentecostal Church of Jackson Page | 13
LESSON 4 ~ THE COMMITMENTS (Part 3) and MAINTENANCE
MY COMMITMENT TO GIVING
TIME, TREASURE AND TALENTS Ephesians 5:16; Proverbs 3:9; 1 Peter 4:10
Time: We have no problem giving time to what we deem important or significant. Talents: Another word for talent is a gift or special ability. Treasure: Our money, our wealth.
Key to giving: "...THEY FIRST GAVE THEMSELVES TO THE LORD ..." 2 Corinthians 8:5 (NAS)
GIVING REVEALS SPIRITUAL MATURITY 2 Corinthians 8:7
Did you know? • The Bible talks more about ______than it does about either Heaven or hell? • Over half of the parables Jesus told have to do with the subject of money? • There are more ______in the Bible related to giving than to any other subject? • Your giving is very important to God – and to your spiritual life?
7 BENEFITS OF GIVING
1. Giving makes me more like ______. (John 3:16)
2. Giving draws me closer to God. (Matthew 6:21)
3. Giving is the antidote to ______. (1Timothy 6:17-19)
4. Giving strengthens my faith. (Proverbs 3:5, 9; Luke 6:38)
5. Giving is an investment in ______. (1 Timothy 6:18-19)
6. Giving blesses me in return. (Proverbs 22:9; 11:25; Psalm 112:5)
7. Giving makes me ______. (Acts 20:35)
Page | 14 The First Pentecostal Church of Jackson
TITHING "Tithe" means "a ______part"
What is the difference between a “tithe” and an “offering”?
• A “tithe” is giving the ______of my income. (Gross vs. Net) • An “offering” is anything I give ABOVE my tithe.
WHY SHOULD I TITHE?
1. God’s Word commands it. (Leviticus 27:30)
2. Jesus commanded it. (Matthew 23:23)
3. Tithing demonstrates that God has ______place in my life. (Deuteronomy 14:23)
4. Tithing reminds me that ______I have was given to me by God. (Deuteronomy 8:18)
5. Tithing expresses my ______to God for what I have been given. (Psalm 116:12; Deuteronomy 16:17)
6. God says that refusing to tithe is ______from Him. (Malachi 3:8-10)
7. Tithing gives God a chance to prove that He exists and wants to bless. (Malachi 3:10)
8. Tithing proves that I really love God. (John 14:15; 2 Corinthians 8:7-8)
WHAT SHOULD I TITHE? The ______part of what I earn, not the left-overs. (Prov 3:9-10)
WHERE SHOULD I GIVE MY TITHE? Where I ______and get fed. (Malachi 3:10)
WHEN SHOULD I TITHE? When I go to ______. This may be weekly, bi-weekly, monthly depending upon when you get paid. (1 Corinthians 16:2) How to Remember:
• Keep a Ledger Book/Budget - Acct. #1: My Tithe .0
• 2 Use weekly envelopes • Teach your children to tithe IVING ITH THE IGHT TTITUDES G W R A Axis
The First Pentecostal Church of Jackson Page | 15
Give WILLINGLY. (2 Corinthians 8:12; 9:7)
Give ______. (2 Corinthians 9:7)
Give ______. (2 Corinthians 8:3-4)
Give EXPECTANTLY. (2 Corinthians 9:6)
MY COMMITMENT TO FELLOWSHIP
1. I ______in God's family with other believers. (Galatians 6:1; Ephesians 2:19; Romans 12:5)
2. I need encouragement to grow spiritually. (Hebrews 10:24; Ecclesiastes 4:9-10, 12)
3. I need ______to grow spiritually. (Proverbs 27:17; Hebrews 3:13; Galatians 6:1-2)
4. Christ is present when we fellowship together. (Matthew 18:20)
5. There is power when people pray together. (Matthew 18:19)
6. Fellowship is a witness to the world. (John 17:21)
7. I am ______to every Christian. (1 Peter 4:10; 1 Corinthians 122:5, 27)
The "One Another's" of Fellowship (Partial List) • Serve one another Galatians 5:13 • Accept one another Romans 15:7 • Forgive one another Colossians 3:13 • Greet one another Romans 16:16 • Bear one another's burdens Galatians 6:2 • Be devoted to one another Romans 12:10 • Honor one another Romans 12:10 • Teach one another Romans 15:14 • Submit to one another Ephesians 5:21 • Encourage one another 1 Thessalonians 5:11
Page | 16 The First Pentecostal Church of Jackson
LARGE CHURCHES AND CLOSE RELATIONSHIPS
Every member needs to not only be part of corporate worship but also be a part of a SMALL GROUP. (Acts 5:42)
Two Kinds of Church Meetings Large Group (Corporate Services): ______& Evangelism
Small Group (Class and/or Ministry Group): ______& Evangelism
At The Pentecostals, we believe our church must grow LARGER and SMALLER at the same time! The way to do this is through being involved in a small group within the church structure, ie. LINK groups, classes, or ministry groups.
Our ministry teams are not just departments for events or activities. They are also part of the disciple-making process providing fellowship, devotion, and the opportunity to reach others.
THE PURPOSE OF SMALL UNITS - ACTS 2:42-47
1. ______(v. 42)
2. ______(v. 42)
3. PRAYER (Matthew 6:9-13)
4. ______(v. 45; Philippians 4:15)
5. WORSHIP (v. 47)
6. ______(v. 47)
THE GOALS OF SMALL UNITS
• Grow in relationship ______
• Grow in relationship ______
• Grow in number, multiply then grow another group. .0 2
• Grow leaders who will grow new groups.
Axis
The First Pentecostal Church of Jackson Page | 17
BEGINNING AND MAINTAINING HABITS (Ecclesiastes 11:4)
STEP ONE: DESIRE.
STEP TWO: DECIDE.
STEP THREE: ______(Psalm 76:11)
STEP FOUR: DETERMINE. It takes _____ to ______repetitions to learn something!
STEP FIVE: ______
STEP SIX: ______Get a partner. (Hebrews 1:25; Eccl 4:9-10)
STEP SEVEN: DEPEND ON GOD. (2 Timothy 1:7; Philippians 2:13)
WHERE DO I GO FROM HERE?
Congratulations! You have completed the second Axis class. • Prayerfully review the notes and Scriptures from this class. Let God speak to your heart and lead you in developing a consistent lifestyle of Christian maturity.
• Make a personal commitment to Christian maturity by engaging in the disciplines of… o Personal Bible study o Personal prayer time o Incorporating praise and fasting into your lifestyle
• Make a public commitment to Christian maturity by engaging in the disciplines of… o Giving tithes and offerings o Corporate worship o Ministry to others through a ministry group
Page | 18 The First Pentecostal Church of Jackson
APPENDIX 1 SUGGESTED RESOURCES FOR BIBLE STUDY
BIBLES: Parallel Bibles: People’s Parallel Edition (KJV &NLT)- Tyndale Parallel Bible (KJV & AMP) – Zondervan Topical Study Bibles: Thompson Chain Reference Bible – Kirkbride The NIV Thematic Reference Bible – Zondervan Personal Application Bibles: Life Application Bible – Tyndale The Word In Life Study Bible – Nelson Background Study Bible: The NIV Study Bible – Zondervan
OTHER BOOKS: Doctrinal Studies The New Birth (Bernard) The Oneness of God (Bernard) The Oneness View of Jesus Christ (Bernard) Practical Studies In Search of Holiness (Bernard) Practical Holiness: A Second Look (Bernard)
STUDY HELPS: Bible Dictionary The New Unger’s Bible Dictionary - Moody Concordance Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance - Nelson Commentary Matthew Henry’s Commentary Adam Clarke’s Commentary Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Commentary
OTHER STUDY TOOLS: Various Bible Translations These help shed light on scriptures that are hard to understand – get as many as you can afford.
Computer Software This gives you a concordance, Bible dictionary, commentaries, multiple Bible translations and
other resources – all at the touch of a button!
.0 2
Make sure that the Bible is the #1 resource that you use above everything else. These other books are helps but cannot replace the Word of God Axis
The First Pentecostal Church of Jackson Page | 19
APPENDIX 2 BIBLE READING HELPS
SUGGESTIONS FOR BIBLE READING
• Read it systematically, not randomly. • Use a Bible without notes so God can speak to you. • Read it in different translations for understanding. • Read it aloud quietly to yourself. • Underline or color code key verses. • Choose a reading plan and stick with it.
A BIBLE READING PLAN - NT IN 30 DAYS
1. Matthew 1-9 12. John 8-13 23. Galatians - 2. Matthew 10-15 13. John 14-22 Ephesians 3. Matthew 16-22 14. Acts 1-7 24. Philippians - 4. Matthew 23-28 15. Acts 8-14 2 Thessalonians 5. Mark 1-8 16. Acts 15-21 25. 1 Timothy - 6. Mark 9-16 17. Acts 22-28 Philemon 7. Luke 1-6 18. Romans 1-8 26. Hebrews 8. Luke 7-11 19. Romans 9-16 27. James - 2 Peter 9. Luke 12-18 20. 1 Corinthians 1-9 28. 1 John - Jude 10. Luke 19-24 21. 1 Corinthians 10-16 29. Revelation 1-11 11. John 1-7 22. 2 Corinthians 1-13 30. Revelation 12-22
ONE BOOK AT A TIME
One of the best ways to read the Bible is to read a complete book at a time. Most of the books in this “inspired library” are short stories requiring less than an hour to read. Even the longest ones can easily be read in one afternoon. Try reading a book from beginning to end without interruption. The following list is an accurate record of the amount of time it takes the average reader to read each book of the Bible out loud at a moderately slow pace. Each estimate is rounded up to the nearest five-minute interval. Many people will read these books at a faster pace, requiring less time. You can do it – so just get started!
Page | 20 The First Pentecostal Church of Jackson
Old Testament (59h 15min) Isaiah 3h 10min Acts 2h 45min Genesis 3h 35min Jeremiah 3h 55min Romans 1h Exodus 3h 10min Lamentations 20min 1 Corinthians 1h Leviticus 2h 30min Ezekiel 2h 25min 2 Corinthians 40min Numbers 3h Daniel 1h 10min Galatians 20min Deuteronomy 2h 35min Hosea 35min Ephesians 20min Joshua 2h 10min Joel 15min Philippians 15min Judges 2h Amos 30min Colossians 15min Ruth 15min Obadiah 5min 1 Thessalonians 15min 1 Samuel 2h 15min Jonah 10min 2 Thessalonians 10min 2 Samuel 2h 10min Micah 20min 1 Timothy 15min 1 Kings 2h 40min Nahum 10min 2 Timothy 10min 2 Kings 2h 30min Habakkuk 10min Titus 10min 1 Chronicles 2h 35min Zephaniah 10min Philemon 5min 2 Chronicles 2h 10min Haggai 10min Hebrews 45min Ezra 40min Zechariah 35min James 15min Nehemiah 55min Malachi 15min 1 Peter 15min Esther 30min 2 Peter 10min Job 2h 10min New Test. (20h 25min) 1 John 15min Psalms 4h 40min Matthew 2h 30min 2 John 5min Proverbs 1h 35min Mark 1h 45min 3 John 5min Ecclesiastes 30min Luke 2h 55min Jude 5min Song of Solomon 15min John 2h 35min Revelation 1h 10min
Time to read the entire Bible: 79 h 40 m
ONLINE RESOURCE FOR BIBLE READING PLANS www.heartlight.org/devotionals/reading_plans/ These 5 different plans can be found on the above website.
Straight Through Read the entire Bible in one year, from Genesis to Revelation.
Different Topics Each day of the week, you'll be reading from a different section of the Bible.
New Testament and Old Testament Read the whole Bible, with something from both Testaments each day.
The Story of the Bible A chronologically arranged reading of the story of the Bible.
.0
New Testament, Psalms & Proverbs 2 Get the New Testament, Psalms and Proverbs in one year.
Axis The First Pentecostal Church of Jackson Page | 21
APPENDIX 3 PRAYER HELPS
PRAYER GUIDE 1: CHARACTERS TRAITS OF GOD
As you read your Bible, make a list of God’s Character Traits that you discover and then review them when you pray. The following are examples and will also give you a good head start as you continue to add to the list.
• God is faithful (2 Corinthians 1:20) • God is righteous (2 Timothy 4:8) • God is the light (John 8:12) • God is patient (Numbers 14:18) • God is merciful (Numbers 14:18) • God is forgiving (Numbers 14:18) • God is loving (1 John 4:8)
PRAYER GUIDE 2: THE NAMES OF GOD God is so magnificent that the Hebrew language uses compound names to describe the many aspects of His character. You can use each of these compound names to focus on what God is really like. Just think on the implications of these names and you’ll have plenty to praise God for!
8 HEBREW NAMES OF GOD DECLARE WHO GOD IS
Jehovah-Shammah: Jehovah-Tsidkenu: “God is Present with me” (Ezekiel 48:35). “God is my Righteousness” (Jeremiah 23:6) You are here! I am never alone! You accept me and forgive me because of Jesus!
Jehovah-Rohi: Jehovah-M’Kiddish: “God is my Shepherd” (Psalm 23:1). “God is my Sanctification” (Leviticus 20:8) You lead me, feed me, and protect me! You give me power to live holy and like Jesus!
Jehovah- Jireh: Jehovah-Shalom: “God is my Provider” (Genesis 22:14). “God is my Peace” (Judges 6:24) You see what I need before I even ask! You give me peace in spite of circumstances!
Jehovah-Rophe: Jehovah-Nissi: “God is my Healer” (Exodus 15:26). “God is my Banner” (Exodus 17:15) You can heal my body, emotions, and You are my victory in conflict and confrontation relationships!
And all of God’s attributes are summed up in the Name of Jesus! “Wherefore God also hath highly exalted him, and given him a name which is above every name: That at the name of Jesus every knee should bow…” (Philippians 2:9-10)
Page | 22 The First Pentecostal Church of Jackson
PRAYER GUIDE 3: THANKSGIVING LIST
Write down your requests, with a promise you are claiming from the Bible, and expect an answer!
"Don't worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done." Philippians 4:6 (NLT)
PRAYER GUIDE 4: MY PERSONAL REQUESTS
PRAYER GUIDE 5: PEOPLE I'M PRAYING FOR
Family ______
Friends ______
Spiritual Leaders ______
Missionaries ______
Government Leaders ______
Others ______
.0 2
Axis
The First Pentecostal Church of Jackson Page | 23
APPENDIX 4 FASTING HELPS
SAMPLE FASTING SCHEDULE Morning • Begin your day with praise and worship • Read and meditate on God's Word • Invite the Holy Ghost to work in you to will and to do His good pleasure according to Philippians 2:13 • Invite God to use you. Ask Him to show you how to influence your world, your family, your church, your community, your country, and beyond. • Pray for His vision for your life and empowerment to do His will.
Noon • Return to prayer and God's Word. • Take a short prayer walk. • Spend time in intercessory prayer for your community's and nation's leaders, for the world's unreached millions, for your family or special needs.
Evening • Get alone for an unhurried time of "seeking His face." • If others are fasting with you, meet together for prayer. • Avoid television or any other distraction that may dampen your spiritual focus.
When possible, begin and end each day with your spouse for a brief time of praise and thanksgiving to God. Longer periods of time with our Lord in prayer and study of His Word are often better spent alone.
A dietary routine is vital as well. Dr. Julio C. Ruibal - a nutritionist, pastor, and specialist in fasting and prayer - suggests a daily schedule and list of juices you may find useful and satisfying. Modify this schedule and the drinks you take to suit your circumstances and tastes.
5 a.m. - 8 a.m. Fruit juices, preferably freshly squeezed or blended and diluted in 50% distilled water if the fruit is acid. Apple, pear, grapefruit, papaya, watermelon, or other fruit juices are generally preferred. If you cannot do your own juicing, buy juices without sugar or additives.
10:30 a.m. - noon Fresh vegetable juice made from lettuce, celery, and carrots in 3 equal parts.
2:30 p.m. - 4 p.m. Herb tea with a drop of honey. Avoid black tea or any tea with caffeine.
6 p.m. - 8:30 p.m. Broth made from boiling potatoes, celery, and carrots with no salt. After boiling about half an hour, pour the water into a container and drink it.
Page | 24 The First Pentecostal Church of Jackson
TIPS ON JUICE FASTING
• Drinking fruit juice will decrease your hunger pains and give you some natural sugar energy. The taste and lift will motivate and strengthen you to continue.
• The best juices are made from fresh watermelon, lemons, grapes, apples, cabbage, beets, carrots, celery, or leafy green vegetables. In cold weather, you may enjoy a warm vegetable broth.
• Mix acidic juices (orange and tomato) with water for your stomach's sake.
• Avoid caffeinated drinks. And avoid chewing gum or mints, even if your breath is bad. They stimulate digestive action in your stomach.
BREAKING YOUR FAST
When your designated time for fasting is finished, you will begin to eat again. But how you break your fast is extremely important for your physical and spiritual well-being. Begin eating gradually. Do not eat solid foods immediately after your fast. Suddenly reintroducing solid food to your stomach and digestive tract will likely have negative, even dangerous, consequences. Try several smaller meals or snacks each day. If you end your fast gradually, the beneficial physical and spiritual effects will result in continued good health.
Here are some suggestions to help you end your fast properly:
• Break an extended water fast with fruit such as watermelon. • While continuing to drink fruit or vegetable juices, add the following: First day: Add a raw salad. Second day: Add baked or boiled potato, no butter or seasoning. Third day: Add a steamed vegetable. Thereafter: Begin to reintroduce your normal diet. • Gradually return to regular eating with several small snacks during the first few days. Start with a little soup and fresh fruit such as watermelon and cantaloupe. Advance to a few tablespoons of solid foods such as raw fruits and vegetables or a raw salad and baked potato.
.0 2
Axis
The First Pentecostal Church of Jackson Page | 25