Waypoints for Disciples is a free six-week study to help you follow Jesus step by step. You can do on your own or with a friend—one short reading a day.

Waypoints  1   2   3   4   5    6 

WAYPOINT 1

PURPOSE: Why Am I Here?

LEADER TIPS

DAY 1

“It’s not about you.” 

That is the opening sentence of Rick Warren’s best-selling book, The Purpose Driven Life. Our culture constantly tells us that life is all about us, our wants and our desires.

It feels counter-intuitive, but the most freeing and reassuring thing we can know is that life never was, and is not ultimately about us but about God, and joining Him in what He is up to on earth--His plan.

Does God love you?  Absolutely!  Did Christ die for you?  Yes!  But that still does not make life about us.

So, what exactly is God’s purpose on earth?  What is He up to?  We don't have to guess. He tells us...

“…God was reconciling the world to himself in Christ, not counting people’s sins against them....." (2 Corinthians 5:19)

If you have already trusted Christ as your Savior then you know about this. We have forgiveness in Christ from the moment we put our faith in Him. We believe that He died on the cross in our place to pay for our sins, then rose from the dead three days later in victory over death.  By faith we receive Him as our Savior and are reconciled to God! But it goes on to "part two," which is our part in God's plan:

"...and He has committed to us the word of reconciliation” (2 Corinthians 5:19)

God's role for us is to take the "word of reconciliation," the Gospel message, to the world so others can also be reconciled to God through Christ if they too believe.

• Have you ever tried to reconcile things with someone? What were the initial barriers? What part was beyond your control? How is that like sharing your faith and the truth about Jesus with someone?

That word committed is also translated entrusted. God has entrusted us, placed in our hands, “the word of reconciliation” the message that can literally save the world!  Only the Good News about Jesus, the Gospel, is that word of reconciliation with God.  

If you’ve ever seen the old sci-fi movie, The Day the Earth Stood Still you probably remember the friendly but misunderstood (and arrested) alien telling a woman she must say three strange words to his robot (“klaatu barata nikto”) or in a few hours it will start destroying the world.  Thankfully she doesn’t blow it, or the world would have ended in 1951!  Click the link above to see a short, funny mash-up clip.

Just as the alien entrusted the words with the woman, so God has entrusted the Gospel to us to pass along. Someone observed, "The gospel came to you on it's way to someone else."

Disciples make disciples.  That's what this Waypoints study is really all about.  First, get solidly grounded and growing in your own life, then join God on the journey to help reproduce it in others. 

That's why this study is designed to be totally transferable, and accessible anywhere.  Once you go through it, you can share it with others, (click link for ideas)!

So how do we get prepared to pass along the message that can literally save the world?

“But in your hearts revere Christ as Lord.  Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have.  But do this with gentleness and respect”  (1 Peter 3:15).

• Of the underlined things Peter says to do, which of these do you feel you need the most work on?  Least?

Passing along that hope, that life, is why we are still here on earth.  It’s why God doesn’t just “beam us up” the moment we believe.

• Reflect:  Where would you say you are  on the “journey” with God described above?  Excited?  Terrified?  Confused?  Other?

• What is causing you to feel this way?

Memory Verse: “For by grace you have been saved through faith; and that not of yourselves, it is the gift of God; not as a result of works, so that no one may boast” --Ephesians 2:8-9.

DAY 2

Why does the world need to be "reconciled" to God? Let’s start at the very beginning.  In the beginning everything God created, including mankind, was “very good” (Genesis 1:31).  Adam and Eve had perfect fellowship with God.  Sin  had not entered the world.

So when Adam and Eve broke God's one command, to not eat the fruit of the Tree of the Knowledge of good and evil (Genesis 2:17), it had devastating consequences (Genesis 3).  Fellowship with God was broken, and both physical and spiritual death resulted not just for them, but for all their descendants.

So God embarked on the mission to restore mankind to a perfect relationship - a mission that would cost Him the life of His only Son.

Reconciliation through the gospel has been God’s plan from the beginning.  Here is what God said to Adam and Eve:

“And I will put enmity between you [the serpent] and the woman, and between your offspring and hers; he [Jesus] will crush your head, and you will strike his heel” (Genesis 3:15).

In Genesis 3 we see the Big Story of the Bible:  God’s redemption of mankind from sin through the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ.  That one big story that runs through of all of scripture from Genesis to Revelation.

Why were the consequences of their sin so devastating and the cure so costly?  To answer let’s look at God’s nature versus man’s nature:

God’s Nature:

“He is the Rock, his works are perfect, and all his ways are just.  A faithful God who does no wrong, upright and just is he” (Deuteronomy 32:4).

• What all do you learn about God’s nature from this one verse?

Human Nature: 

“But your iniquities [sins] have made a separation between you and your God…” (Isaiah 59:2)

• What can we learn about our nature and the result from this one verse?

Because God’s unchanging nature is perfect holiness, our sin separates us from Him.  Jesus said that even the smallest sin, calling your brother a fool, makes you guilty enough to go to the fires of hell (Matthew 5:22).  We could blow that on a single morning commute!  That's why we need forgiveness.

Couldn’t God just forgive them?

God did just that! But forgiveness is costly.  Adam and Eve didn’t just hurt God’s feelings. They disrupted the entire nature of creation.  Doing this caused damage and a debt that had to be paid by someone. 

If your house is damaged because your neighbor cuts down a tree that falls on your garage and crushes your car, eventually someone has to cover the cost of that damage.  You can force your neighbor to pay the cost, or you can forgive your neighbor and pay for the repairs yourself, but either way, damage was done and repairs must be made and paid for.

The damage Adam caused has spread throughout the entire human race, so each of us need someone to pay the penalty on our behalf, or we will be stuck with the bill.  Without Christ, all of us face condemnation. To make that point, Paul contrasts the sin of Adam to the sacrifice of Christ:

“Yes, Adam’s one sin brings condemnation for everyone, but Christ’s one act of righteousness brings a right relationship with God and new life for everyone” (Romans 5:18, NLT).

• In what ways are Adam and Christ similar in Romans 5:18?  In what ways different?

The condemnation from Adam we get by birth as a part of the human race.  However new life in Christ is not automatic.  It comes only by being “born again,” which happens when we place our faith in Jesus as our Savior,

“For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish, but have eternal life” (John 3:16).

• What was God's motive?  What did it cost God to solve our sin problem?

God’s word also teaches that we are sinful not only because of being Adam’s offspring, but also because of our own individual sinful choices:

“…death spread to all men, because all sinned”  (Romans 5:12).

 “For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God” (Romans 3:23).

“All” is a very inclusive word.  It includes all the good people we know.  We all fall short of God’s own perfection.

• Who is the godliest person you’ve ever known?  If you asked them, do you think they would say they were perfect and had never sinned?  Why?

Only one Person in history ever lived a perfect life without sinning, Jesus Christ!

“For God made Christ who never sinned to be the offering for our sin, so that we could be made right with God through Christ”  (2 Corinthians 5:21 NLT).

• Reflect:  How has knowing and believing this truth  changed the way you respond to life?

DAY 3

Born this way.

How do we start life?  Aren’t we born basically good? 

After all, what’s cuter than a little baby, right?  However, every parent knows that no one has to teach that cute little baby how to say no or be selfish when they turn two.  Here’s what God’s word says about our nature:

“As for you, you were dead in your transgressions and sins, in which you used to live when you followed the ways of this world and of the ruler of the kingdom of the air [Satan], the spirit who is now at work in those who are disobedient.

All of us also lived among them at one time, gratifying the cravings of our flesh and following its desires and thoughts. Like the rest, we were by nature deserving of wrath.” (Ephesians 2:1-3, emphasis added)

• According to the passage above, how do we start off life, what’s our “nature?”

• How are the truths from this passage similar or different from those that have influenced you (from family, culture, school, church, etc.)?

God’s provision: salvation as a free gift

Ephesians 2:1-3 is the “bad news.,” but thankfully, there is good news:

“But God, being rich in mercy, because of His great love with which He loved us, even when we were dead in our transgressions, made us alive together with Christ -by grace you have been saved.”  (Ephesians 2:4-5)

• What motivated God to provide the payment for sin?   What was our condition at the time? 

• How does that add to your understanding of that word, grace?

The moment we put our faith in Christ (v. 8) God forgave us all our sins and gave us eternal life as a free gift.  But notice what else it says God did,

“And God raised us up with Christ and seated us with him in the heavenly realms in Christ Jesus” (Ephesians 2:6).

• In God’s eyes where and with whom are you currently “seated” according to this verse?

Notice the past tense!  This is an accomplished fact for you now, not just when you die.

When God raised us up with Christ He just kept going, all the way to heaven.  In God’s eyes you are already sitting down with Jesus in the heavenly realm.  Remember that the next time you roll out of bed on a Monday morning!

• How does the truth of Ephesian 2:6 impact your confidence that God hears you when you pray?

Do we deserve this?  Not at all.  It’s 100% by God’s grace.  Ephesians 2:8-9 says,

“For by grace you have been saved through faith; and that not of yourselves, it is the gift of God; not as a result of works, so that no one may boast.”

Grace  means something given freely; a gift.  Salvation is God’s gracious gift.  We cannot earn or ever deserve it by any amount of good works.  When someone offers you a gift you reach out and receive it.  We receive God’s gift of salvation in Christ “by faith.”

Faith in what exactly?  1 Corinthians 15:3-4 summarizes the key points of the gospel message we must believe and share with others.  Paul wrote,

“For I delivered to you as of first importance what I also received, that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures, and that He was buried, and that He was raised on the third day according to the Scriptures.”

• Reflect:  From this passage, what are the essential elements of the gospel? Jot them below:

DAY 4

Faith is more than just intellectual agreement that Jesus is the Son of God and Savior (James 2:19).  We must place our trust in Him as Savior.  It is a matter of the heart, not just the head.

I might know an airplane could safely carry me across the country.  But until I board it I am not really trusting it.  Becoming a believer means saying to God, “Yes, I trust in what Jesus did on the cross, and that alone for my salvation.”  I'm on board, depending on it.

1 John 5:13 says,

“These things I have written to you who believe in the name of the Son of God, so that you may know that you have eternal life.” (emphasis added)

Notice the present tense, you have, not will have eternal life.

• Do you believe in Jesus Christ as the Son of God and your Savior? If so, when did you make that decision?

Is Jesus the Only Way?  Are we narrow minded?

If it were just a matter of viewpoints, or a set of moral principles, then perhaps.  But Christianity is not based on ideas.  It is based on an event in history: the death and resurrection of God’s only Son, Jesus Christ for the sins of the entire world.

Because there is only One without sin, and only One who is God’s Son, there is also only One who was qualified to pay for the sins of the world.  By His resurrection from the dead Jesus was declared to be that one Person (Romans 1:4).  Consequently, Jesus is also the only way of salvation for the human race,

“Jesus said to him, “I am the way, and the truth, and the life; no one comes to the Father but through Me” (John 14:6).

• On a scale of 0-100% how certain are you that you have eternal life?

What If I have Doubts, or Have Never Trusted Christ?  If it’s unclear, or if you have never trusted Christ as your Savior, we encourage you to do so right now.   The following is a prayer to help guide you as you "call" on the Lord  (Romans 10:13). 

Remember, the words of the prayer do not save you but your faith in Christ does.  (Just as you put “faith” in the chair you are sitting in to keep you from falling to the floor, you put faith in Jesus Christ to pay the penalty of your sin on your behalf and reconcile you back to God.)

The words are not as important as the attitude of your heart:

“Lord Jesus, I need you. Nothing I can do in my own strength or power can heal the rift that is between me and God. Thank you for dying on the cross and paying the penalty for my sins. I believe that you have done all that is needed to restore me to a full relationship with God. I receive you as my Savior and Lord. Thank you for forgiving my sins and giving me eternal life.”

Did you put your faith in Christ just now?  If so, you can rest in God’s promise that you have eternal life.  Your salvation is secure because it depends totally on Christ’s finished work on the cross, not our effort or “good works.” 

If you did not yet put your faith in Christ, we encourage you to continue this study to learn more from God's word and what it means to be a believer and a follower of Christ. Our encouragement and prayer is that you will make the decision to trust Christ as your Savior very soon. Then you can begin the great adventure of faith you see laid out in the following pages!

DAY 5

Saved for a Purpose

You have been saved from an eternity separated from God.  That will never change because it’s based on God’s grace in Christ.

But, you have also been saved to God’s purpose and mission of making disciples. 

“For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.”  (Ephesians 2:10)

• God is handcrafting you in Christ, but for what purpose according to this passage?

God’s ambassadors:

Now we come full circle to where we started.  God has saved us, and now we're His ambassadors to the world!

Read 2 Corinthians 5:19-20:

“ … He has committed to us the word of reconciliation.  Therefore, we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God were making an appeal through us; we beg you on behalf of Christ, be reconciled to God.” (emphasis added)

• If you were writing a job description for an "ambassador" what would it include?  How does that apply to our mission?

• What in your life needs to change to for you to be a more effective ambassador?

As Christ’s representatives we love people where they are, and encourage them to begin a relationship with Jesus Christ.  It's their only hope.  And God has entrusted us with it!

• Who do you know who needs to hear this message? 

Pray for that person and how God can use you in their life.

Your Spiritual Growth Plan

We grow by taking a next step!

Below are some ways to apply what you’ve learned. 

Next Steps - Choose one of the areas below and then either a “walk,” “jog,” or “run” step.  The walk steps are beginning or short term steps, the jog steps intermediate, and the run steps more challenging.

Grounded in the Gospel

WALK

Write out the basic gospel message in 50 words or less.  Leave out anything that it not essential according to the Bible.  But also leave nothing out that is crucial.  Shorter is better.  Share it with a friend.

JOG

Begin reading the gospel of John, a chapter a day for the next 21 days.  Underline what seem to be important words or phrases.  Put a question mark in the margin by things you don’t understand.  Find someone at church, a pastor or a mature believer, who can help you understand.  Look for every occurrence of the word “believe” or similar words and underline them as you read.  There are over 80 of them!

RUN

Often we learn the best by teaching what we’ve learned to someone else.  Identify someone in your life you would like to lead through this Wayponts study and schedule some time in the coming weeks to study this together.

Parent Action Steps

Have kids? Choose one or more of  the Next Steps below based on the ages of your children.

ELEMENTARY

Does your child understand how you came to know Jesus?

In an age-appropriate way, SHARE YOUR STORY with them!

• Who were you before you started your relationship with Jesus?

• How has your life changed since you started your relationship with Him?

• Ask your child if they want to share their story (you obviously will know this story, but it will be a sweet opportunity to hear what they say).

STUDENTS

1. SHARE YOUR STORY with your student if you haven’t already done so (See Elementary).

2. Then, take it deeper by sharing some (age-appropriate) struggles you are currently experiencing. Maybe allow this to create a dialogue with them about their struggles as well.

3. Ask your student to pray for you or pray together.

Key Truths

• God’s creation was “very good” when He created it and was without sin (Gen. 1:31)

• Sin entered the world through Adam and Eve’s disobedience and separated mankind from God.

• God planned for redemption in Christ alone, even before He created anything (Rev. 13:8; Acts 2:23)

• Our purpose is to join God in His redemptive work through sharing the good news of Jesus Christ with the world.

Resources

The Purpose Driven Life - Rick Warren

The Case for Christ - Lee Strobels  (strong evidence for the resurrection and Deity of Christ)

FAQ’s and Hard Questions (click for articles)

Can I lose my salvation?

What about people in remote regions who have never heard the gospel?

What is the “unpardonable sin”?

Do people get a second chance if they die without faith in Christ?

How can a good God allow suffering and evil to exist?

What you have learned in this Waypoints Study we encourage you to pass along to others by taking them through this study!  You can access all the materials online free anytime, anywhere. 

 Waypoints  1   2   3   4   5    6 

WAYPOINT 2

Growing in Your Relationship with Jesus Christ

DAY 1

As believers, the Bible tells us we are “new creations in Christ,” (2 Corinthians 5:17) but we quickly find out that while that is true, it seems like plenty of our old ways try to cling to us. 

Have you ever driven out of the church parking lot with wonderful thoughts and resolutions to change filling your head, only to get cut off in traffic and blow it?  Why does that happen?  

Do you have an old habit you can’t break free of?  You tried promising God you would quit, but it didn’t work.  Why not?

Perhaps stress dominates your life, or you are under a cloud of guilt over something? Your life has so many spiritual highs and lows, it’s like a roller coaster.

God’s desire for us is found in John 10:10. Jesus said, “I came that they might have life, and have it abundantly.”

The Problem.

We know God desires the abundant life for us, but many believers live in frustration.  Inside, behind the Sunday morning smiles, there is a battle going on.  Too often, we sound like the man Paul describes in Romans 7:14-19, 24:

"For we know that the law is spiritual, but I am of the flesh, sold under sin.

For I do not understand my own actions. For I do not do what I want, but I do the very thing I hate.  Now if I do what I do not want, I agree with the law, that it is good.  So now it is no longer I who do it, but sin that dwells within me."

For I know that nothing good dwells in me, that is, in my flesh. For I have the desire to do what is right, but not the ability to carry it out.  For I do not do the good I want, but the evil I do not want is what I keep on doing….

Wretched man that I am! Who will deliver me from this body of death? (ESV)

• Have you ever felt like the person in this passage?  What's one area of your life you wish you could change?

Trying harder, willpower, checklists, promises….none of these things do any good.  That’s because all of these have one thing in common: they are all the efforts of our own flesh (our willpower, strength, resolve apart from Christ) to reform itself.  They are human effort.  

We need a different source of power for living the Christian life because, “nothing good dwells in me, that is, in my flesh.”

• Reflect:  Are there "power sources" you've relied on more than God?

Memory Verse:  "Remain in Me, and I in you. Just as a branch is unable to produce fruit by itself unless it remains on the vine, so neither can you unless you remain in Me. " (John 15:4)

DAY 2

What is the source we need?  Jesus gave a word picture and described it this way…

“I am the true vine, and My Father is the vineyard keeper…. Remain in Me, and I in you. Just as a branch is unable to produce fruit by itself unless it remains on the vine, so neither can you unless you remain in Me.

I am the vine; you are the branches. The one who remains in Me and I in him produces much fruit, because you can do nothing without Me."  (John 15:1, 4-5, HCSB, emphasis added)

• Since Jesus gave us a command to “remain” whose choice is it whether we “remain” or not?  

• A branch can't “produce fruit” unless it “remains” connected.  How is that like our relationship with Christ?  Is this freeing or frustrating to you?

Jesus said our daily relationship to God as believers is like branches growing out of the main part of a vine.  Those branches have everything they need.  The natural result is plump, ripe fruit.  

From Jesus’ illustration we can see two main principles:

• Closeness – branches need to stay intimately connected to the main Vine (“remain”) to stay healthy.

• Dependence – branches are totally dependent on the Vine for life and fruitfulness.  The branch is not the source.   Likewise, we  must become increasingly dependent on God to mature and bear fruit!

We remain in Christ as we follow Him in faith, depend on Him, and obey His word.   As we live in obedience to God,  the “abundant,” fruitful  life Jesus intends for us is the supernatural result.

• What activities help you feel more connected to God?  What happens when you miss doing them for awhile?

• What are some things that tend to distract you or make you feel less connected to God?

Stay Close! 

So, what happens if one of the branches in Jesus’ illustration got disconnected?  

Have you ever cut a vine that grows way up into a tree by severing it near its root?  At first it looks unchanged.  But you come back two days later and it’s all shriveled.   A month later it is totally dried up.  It’s has been cut off from its source of life. 

Jesus is saying, "Don't be that vine!  Stay close and depend on Me."

While Christ will never leave us (Hebrews 13:5) and our salvation is secure in Him—because it is based on what He accomplished on the Cross—nevertheless we can choose to live life depending on ourselves.  We can rebel.  We can say, “I’ll take over on this one, God.”  We do it the old way, the way our flesh (our old sinful self) wants to handle things. 

When we take back control of our life from God it’s as if we cut ourselves off from the vine.  We have grieved God’s Spirit (Ephesians 4:30).  

The fellowship, joy, and closeness with God is temporarily broken, just as with any relationship.  

Growing spiritually is moving from a me-centered life to a Christ-centered life.

• Reflect:  What are your top two or three ways that will help you stay "close and dependent" on Christ?

DAY 3

Walking in the Spirit.

What Jesus called “remaining” in Him, Paul called walking in the Spirit (Galatians 5:16),

“So I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not carry out the desires of the flesh.”

To walk means to live step-by-step, moment by moment depending on God’s Holy Spirit (click for more) who has taken up permanent residence inside you (John 7:39).  He will empower and guide you!  

Learning to depend on and follow the Spirit  is like walking.  If you stumble or trip, you don’t give up on walking.  You get up, dust yourself off, and keep going.  

Likewise as a believer if you sin, you repent and confess your sin to God by admitting it was wrong.  Then get back up and keep walking in the Spirit’s power.  If you’ve offended someone, you make it right with them too.

As you learn to live by faith, by following God’s Spirit and the teaching in His Word, you will begin to see God remake you from the inside out.  Galatians 5:22-23 says,

 “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control.  Against such things there is no law.”

You can be sure that whenever the impulse or thought is to return good for evil, or to be kind when in the past you would have been rude that it is the Holy Spirit working inside you.  Go with it!

By contrast, when the thought pops into your head to do it the old way, to lie, cheat, hate, take revenge, etc., you can be sure it is your flesh speaking.  Don’t listen!  Instead ask God to help you do the right thing, then do it.  Living the Christian life without the power of the Spirit is like trying to fly without an airplane.

Who's On the Throne?

The Bible says, “Be filled with the Spirit” (Ephesians 5:18).

This command is in the continuous tense, meaning to be constantly filled or empowered and controlled by the Spirit.  Spiritual growth means moving from a me-centered life to a Christ-centered life, with Him in control.

Confession

and Repentance

When we take over we see the sinful “deeds of the flesh” start to appear in our lives (Galatians 5:19-21), and it’s a mess.

• Where are areas of your life where Christ is seated firmly on the throne, in control?  

• What areas have been hard for you to “give up your seat?”

The Christ centered life is described in Galatians 2:20,

“I have been crucified with Christ; and it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me; and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself up for me.”

This verse is talking about a whole new mindset that now I live for Him and His purpose, not mine.  I’m no longer trying to live “my life.”   I have a new identity in Christ. 

When we live like Christ, people see a glimpse of Him in us.  We aren’t  perfect.  We are forgiven, reconciled to God through Christ.  In fact, the longer we seek to walk with God the more we will realize just how great His grace truly is.

• Reflect:  "(Fill in you name)______________, God is greatly and totally  delights in you as one reconciled to Him in Christ."  What was your reaction as you read that?  Doubt, wonder, awe, fear, skepticism?

DAY 4

How Do We Live the New Way?

First, as soon as we realize we have sinned and taken control back, we need to repent and confess our sin to Him. To repent simply means to turn around - to change direction. It involves a change of mind too.  Old ways I once thought were OK I now see as sin.  To confess is to agree with God that our sin is wrong. He already knows our sin but wants us to “own it,” and be completely honest and humble about it before Him, instead of excusing it, ignoring it or blaming others.  Check out David’s experience:

 “When I refused to confess my sin, my body wasted away, and I groaned all day long.
Day and night your hand of discipline was heavy on me….

Finally, I confessed all my sins to you and stopped trying to hide my guilt.

I said to myself, “I will confess my rebellion to the Lord.”  And you forgave me! All my guilt is gone.”  (Psalm 32:3-5, NLT)

• How does your experience compare to the David’s?  Are there things to confess?

Here is a promise to stand on:

 “If we confess our sins, He is faithful and righteous to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.” (1 John 1:9)

Second, yield control to God again.  That isn’t always easy.  You may wrestle with an old attitude or opinion.  Take it “captive” to what you learn from studying God’s word (2 Corinthians 10:5).

Third, pray specifically about what you face each day and each moment, trusting that God is at work.  That is putting Him in control and relying on him. It is a step of faith.

Jesus said to pray, “Give us this day our daily bread” (Matthew 6:11), meaning to pray even about the routine daily activity you must do to earn a living.  

Pray about that presentation, that deal, that co-worker you are in conflict with, for opportunities to share your faith, for wisdom and to be able to work heartily as unto the Lord for his glory:

“Cast all your cares upon Him, because He cares for you” (1 Peter 5:)

If you don’t bring it to God, you will be tempted to handle it in your own strength or the old way!

Jeremiah the prophet warned if we rely on our own strength we,

...will be like a bush in the desert
And will not see when prosperity comes,
But will live in stony wastes in the wilderness… (Jeremiah 17:5-6)

That bush doesn’t know when good times have come.  It’s in a desert! God is working all around them but, prayerless, they can’t see it.  

• Reflect:  Take some time now to list out at least two or three things you will face today and pray for God’s wisdom, guidance and help in them:

DAY 5

This all makes sense, so why don’t we always walk in the Spirit? 

It’s not automatic! 

God is not in the business of overriding our choices.  We must choose to walk by faith moment by moment, AND….

We have three enemies that try to prevent our remaining in Christ, our walking in the Spirit:

The World – not the people in the world (God loves them, John 3:16), but the prevailing system of thought, values, and culture around us that is opposed to God.  

“You used to live in sin, just like the rest of the world, obeying the devil—the commander of the powers in the unseen world. He is the spirit at work in the hearts of those who refuse to obey God” (Ephesians 2:2 NTL).

The Flesh - Though as believers we are forgiven, have a new nature, and are destined to become like Christ, for now we still live in fallen bodies in a fallen world.  

That means that a part of us—what the Bible calls the flesh—still tries to entice us to sin, and do things the old way.  And the flesh is also “weak” when it comes to doing anything positive for God (Romans 7:14-20).  Willpower is no substitute for the power of God’s Spirit in us to live for him and to transform us.  

The Devil - There is an intelligent, active supernatural being who is constantly devising ways to deceive, accuse, discourage and tempt us and everyone in the world to disobey God.  

He can’t make me sin, but he knows how to push just the right buttons!  Unfortunately, my old flesh is ready to respond.  But we can trust in this: God is infinitely greater than Satan.

“Be of sober spirit, be on the alert. Your adversary, the devil, prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour”  (1 Peter 5:8).

“Greater is He who is in you than he who is in the world” (1 John 4:4).

• What are some ways the world encourages us to live counter to what God commands?  

• We can err in our attitudes towards Satan by either ignoring his influence, or by giving him too much credit by blaming him for everything wrong we do.  Do you think you lean one way or another? How can you remain alert without constantly worrying?

Joy Despite Trials, Not a “Charmed” Life.  

Perhaps when you first came to Christ someone gave the impression that now you are “home,” and it would be all smooth sailing.  But our true home is in heaven, not here (Philippians 3:20).    

While here on earth, we are Christ’s ambassadors to share the gospel in the midst of a spiritual war.

James tells us that as believers we are not exempt from facing troubles.  In fact they can strengthen our faith as we depend on God (James 1:2-3).   Trials can cause us to “remain” in Him even more.  Jesus called that “pruning,”

“...every branch that bears fruit, He prunes it so that it may bear more fruit.” (John 15:2)

• Why would God be more concerned with your character becoming like Christ than your circumstances remaining comfortable?   

Where do you go from here?

In the next two units you will learn how to  grow strong spiritually through the habit of a regular time in God’s Word and prayer.   Nothing will make as much difference in your walk with God as these life long habits.

Your Spiritual Growth Plan

We grow by taking a next step!

Choose one of the two areas below and then either a “walk,” “jog,” or “run” step.

The walk steps are beginning or shot term steps, the jog steps intermediate, and the run steps more challenging.

If you are still working on steps from a previous week, don’t feel pressured to do any of these!  Or choose a “walk” step for now.  Perhaps mark one of these for future action if that’s the case.

SURRENDERING CONTROL TO GOD

WALK

Take an inventory of your life and note everything you have not surrendered to God. Share your results with a friend. How can you work on these things to surrender them to God?

JOG

Set up a plan for giving up one thing you have held back from God. You may need to ask a friend or spouse to help hold you accountable to do this.

RUN

Regularly fast from the things you have trouble surrendering to God. See the “Suggestions” on fasting at this link.

CONFESSING ANYTHING IN MY CHARACTER THAT DOES NOT LOOK LIKE CHRIST

WALK

Ask God to show you things you need to confess to Him.  Confess each to God, then read and believe the promise of 1 John 1:9.

JOG

Evaluate your character based on the fruits of the Spirit in Galatians 5:22-23.

RUN

Find a spiritual partner and establish a relationship of accountability.

Resources

• Victory Over the Darkness - Neil Anderson

• Experiencing God - Henry Blackaby

• The Purpose Driven Life - Rick Warren

• Discipleship Essentials - Greg Ogden

FAQ’s and "Hard Questions"

What if I have a habit I just can’t seem to break?

I have a hard time believing God has forgiven me for something thing I did.

Friends and Family I love don't understand my faith

What you have learned in this Waypoints Study we encourage you to pass along to others by taking them through this study!  You can access all the materials online free anytime, anywhere. 

 Waypoints  1   2   3   4   5    6 

WAYPOINT 3

Growing by God’s Word

DAY 1

The Bible is a unique and powerful book.

It can overwhelm us, and swell our heart with emotion when we see God’s plan, sacrifice and love for us.

Yet, the Bible can also be confusing.  (Read 2 Kings 2:23-24 if you disagree.)  It is filled with strange names and stories of life in cultures very different from ours.  And the thee’s and thou’s of older translations can make the confusion even worse.

Reading the Bible can be a bit like trying to unwrap one of those really tough plastic packages without a pair of scissors or a knife. (It is doubly frustrating when the package is holding a new pair of scissors or a knife!).  What you want is in there, you just can’t get to it.  After a while you may feel a bit silly and ask, “What’s wrong with me?”  Nothing! 

You just need the right tools. 

And in the case of the Bible, maybe you need someone to show you how to get started, or some “pro tips” if you are already well down the road in studying and growing by God's Word.  That’s what this unit is designed to do.

Questions we will address in this unit:

• What exactly is the Bible, and why should I read it?

• How do I understand something so vast?

• How can God’s Word help me grow in my faith?

• Can I really trust that what the Bible says is true?

• Why do Christians put so much value in what the Bible says? 

• What is it about the Bible that sets it apart from any other piece of literature?   (Also check out the FAQ's at the end.)

• Is a bonded leather cover really genuine ? (OK, we won't answer that one.)

Amazing Facts About the Bible

• It’s one book, but it consists of 66 books, from 40 different human authors spanning a time of 1500 years and 3 continents.  Yet there is one Divine Author behind each word.

• It speaks of God who had no beginning or end, and is infinite beyond our imagination in His power, wisdom, holiness, glory and love and yet desires fellowship with us to the extent that He was willing to sacrifice His one and only Son for us—even when we didn’t care about Him (Romans 5:8).

• It has been printed more than 5 billion times

• Translated into more than 1,200 languages.

• It is the single most shoplifted book in print - ironic!

• It ranks number 2 on the “Most Used Sunday School Answer” (Jesus is number 1)  

The Structure of the Bible

The Bible is divided into 2 sections.  The Old Testament and the New Testament.

There are 39 books in the Old Testament that tell of the time from creation until 400 years before the birth of Jesus.  

The New Testament consists of 27 books that record Jesus’ life, the early years of the church, as well as a number of letters written to various churches or individuals, and finally, the book of Revelation, which speaks of things to come (Revelation 4:1).

The Big Story of Scripture – in one sentence!

From Genesis to Revelation, the Bible tells a unified story about God the Creator’s love for us...humankind’s rebellion and separation from God...and the great lengths He has gone to in order to reconcile us to Himself in Christ.

The Inspiration of Scripture

Let's start with a question:

• How can a book, written thousands of years ago, be central to growing in our relationship with God today?  Read this verse then give your answer below.

“All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the servant of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work. (2 Timothy 3:16-17 NIV).

• Your answer to the above.... 

• How have you experienced the Bible reproving, rebuking, correcting, training you in righteousness and equipping you for good works?

God’s Word was not written to satisfy our curiosity.  Nor is it a self-help guide.  It reveals who He is and what He has done.

It also reveals who we are.  Hebrews 4:12 says it is able to "divide the thoughts and intentions" of our hearts, cutting through self-deceptions.  We don’t just read the Bible; it reads us!

• What are some ways God’s Word has made a difference in your life or changed your attitude or practices?

Memory Verse:  “All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the servant of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work" (2 Timothy 3:16-17 NIV).

DAY 2

The Uniqueness of the Bible

Christians put so much value on the Bible because, unlike any other book, it alone is “God-breathed” or inspired. 

This means that He personally intervened in its writing.   God wrote through human authors.   He even used their unique style and personality.  But when it came to the Scriptures, God made sure that what the authors wrote was truth without any error. 

Because God is the source, the Bible says exactly what He wanted it to say,

“For prophecy never had its origin in the human will, but prophets, though human, spoke from God as they were carried along by the Holy Spirit.” (2 Peter 1:21 NIV)

There are several other things we can conclude from the fact that Scripture has God as its Divine Author.

1. The Sufficiency of Scripture. 

Nothing else needs to be revealed.  We never have to go to some other book or source to find the “real” truth, or “new” truths.   What we need to know as servants of God is all in there! There are many helpful Christian books, but they aren’t scripture (Jude 1:3).

• What phrase in 2 Timothy 3:16-17 would tell you that the Bible is sufficient?

2. God intended it to be understood by us. 

It was not written in some cryptic, holy language or with secret codes buried in the text and hidden meanings.

• Look at 2 Timothy 3:16-17 again.  What words or phrases would let you know this is the case?

The Old Testament was written in the ordinary language of the day, which happened to be Hebrew. 

The New Testament likewise was written in the common everyday language of the known world, which was Greek.  God wanted people to understand it. 

Today there are modern English translations to once again put it in the everyday language of the reader, as it was originally intended.

3. It is Revelation.  

As God’s revelation it contains truths about Him we could not know in any other way such as by research or reason (Job 11:7). 

The Creator of the universe spoke through these authors so we could have a way to hear from Him directly, at any time.

• What are some truths about God that we can’t know apart from what the Bible reveals?  (Check out Colossians 1:16-17 for one example)

Let’s look at how the Bible helps us grow in our faith…

We Learn God’s Character and Heart from Reading His Word

While the Big Story of God’s redemption is simple, daily life is not. 

When things gets tough, we find the perspective, comfort, and encouragement we need in His word :

“For whatever was written in earlier times was written for our instruction, so that through perseverance and the encouragement of the Scriptures we might have hope.” (Romans 15:4)

Encouragement, hope, instruction, and perspective are all available in His Word as we see God’s dealings with His people in the past.

We see His patience with Moses when he was afraid to obey God’s call on his life (Exodus 3-4). We see God fighting for His people with Joshua (Deuteronomy 3-6), and Jesus reaching out with compassion to heal and forgive, just to name a few. 

We see a God who is faithful to the promises He made to His people, even when they weren’t faithful to Him. 

As we read the Bible we get to know God because we see Him in action, dealing with people who are very much like us!

• Share a time when you read a story or a teaching in the Bible that opened your eyes and gave you encouragement or insight you needed.

It takes time and attention

God wants a relationship with us.  As in any relationship, time and attention are required if the relationship will thrive. 

Couples celebrating their golden wedding anniversary complete each other's sentences.  They may even start to look alike.  Yet they started out as strangers. 

But they walked together through life.  By two years they discovered plenty of surprises!  In twenty-five years they can hardly remember not being married to each other.  By the time they celebrate their fiftieth anniversary, the depth of experience they share is undeniable.

That’s how it should be in our relationship with Jesus Christ.  Believing the gospel is the “I do,”  the wedding celebration, but knowing, believing, and living out God’s Word in the years and decades to follow is what make your relationship with Him strong.

• Do you know anyone who has been married for a long time?  How does their relationship compare to others who have only been together for a couple years?

• What is something you know about God’s character from reading it in His Word?  How does that affect the way you relate to God?

DAY 3

The Importance of Believing God’s Word

Knowing God’s word is important, yet it might surprise you to learn that even the devil knows the Scripture (Matthew 4:6). 

We must also be willing to obey it and believe it.  Sooner or later we will be tested in our faith.  Anyone can say they have faith, but what about when hard times hit and God seems a million miles away?  

James said, “the testing of our faith” produces endurance (James 1:3).

To put it simply: our faith in God grows by choosing to believe His promises and follow Him, especially when things look impossible.

Abraham’s Example

That was Abraham’s experience. 

He is called “the father of faith” (Romans 4:11) because when he was childless at age seventy, and his wife Sarah was sixty, he believed God’s promise that he would have a son and eventually be the father of not just one nation, but of many nations (Genesis 12:1-4; 15:1-6).

But he didn’t know it would actually take another thirty years for God to fulfill that promise!

Understandably, during those long years Abraham and Sarah struggled to continue to believe (Genesis 17 & 18). 

Yet, when Sarah was ninety, and far past her childbearing years, she gave birth to Isaac, the miracle child of the promise at last!

But the greatest test of Abraham’s faith came a few years later when Isaac was probably a young teenager.  God asked something that seemed to make no sense:

Some time later God tested Abraham. He said to him, “Abraham!” “Here I am,” he replied.  Then God said, “Take your son, your only son, whom you love—Isaac—and go to the region of Moriah.  Sacrifice him there as a burnt offering on a mountain I will show you.” (Genesis 22:1-2)

Abraham obeyed!  Of course God stopped Abraham at the last second and it ended well.  However…

• Look closely at the verse above.  Why would God ask such a thing of Abraham?

• How did Abraham’s forty plus years of experience with God help him to obey in this most difficult test?

• Are there parts of the Bible you struggle to believe, or that don’t make sense to you?  How does that affect your living obediently?

Abraham’s thinking about God had been transformed over the years!  He believed in a God who could do the impossible.  Even raise the dead (Hebrews 11:17-19).

As growing disciples, this same renewing needs continually take place in our minds if we are to walk in faith and obedience as Abraham did.  But how?

Renewing Your Mind

Coming to know God as Abraham did is the lifelong pursuit of a disciple.  Our thinking literally needs to be transformed because the path of following Christ may look unpromising at times from a human perspective, and often “out of step” with our culture:

Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will (Romans 12:2)

• According to this passage, where does our thinking start out by default?  What are some examples of that way of thinking?

• What does it say is the key to our “transformation?”

• From what you’ve learned, why and how is the Bible central to this renewing process?

• What would you say is the difference between “self-improvement” and transformation?

A mind renewed by the Word is essential to spiritual maturity (Hebrews 5:14).

DAY 4

Moving on From Infancy to Maturity by God’s Word

Peter says to long for the Word like a newborn baby longs for milk (1 Peter 2:2) “so that by it you may grow in respect to salvation.” But Peter isn't saying to be a spiritual baby, just have an appetite like one when it comes to the Word.

In fact, the writer of Hebrews cautions that God wants us to get beyond the “baby” stage and grow to full spiritual maturity.  He tells his readers,

 For though by this time you ought to be teachers, you need someone to teach you again the basic principles of the oracles of God. You need milk, not solid food, for everyone who lives on milk is unskilled in the word of righteousness, since he is a child  (Hebrews 5:12-13 ESV).

Think about it:  A new baby is always a joy.  And it’s great when they are potty trained.  But no parent wants the maturing to stop there!  Let’s get on to T-Ball, gymnastics, first day at school, first job, first date, first car, first apartment and more (Hebrews 6:1). Maturing believers own their own spiritual growth.

 We grow, by knowing and obeying His Word, from a crawling infant to an adult, who is ready to stand firm and even help others.

• Have you ever heard someone in church say they didn’t get “fed”?   As we mature, what role do you think we have in feeding ourselves spiritually?

• Would you consider yourself an infant, mature believer or somewhere in the middle?  Why?

How do I start growing by God’s Word?

Get a Plan

Important things we tend to plan for. 

We’re always glad when we board an airliner that the captain followed a plan to become a pilot, and that our surgeon followed a plan to become a doctor. 

Likewise, growing as a disciple of Jesus Christ is not without a plan.  Paul told Timothy,

Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a worker who does not need to be ashamed and who correctly handles the word of truth (2 Timothy 2:15).

Jesus had a plan.  Crowds swarmed around Jesus, “but Jesus often withdrew to lonely places and prayed” (Luke 5:16).

• Why do you think Jesus sought out “lonely places” to pray?

DAY 5

Daily Quiet Time

Sometimes this practice of a daily time to read and reflect on God’s word and to pray is called a quiet time. 

Think of it as the first and most important “appointment” of the day.  The goal of your quiet time is not to study about Christ, but to actually meet with Him.

We will go into more detail on having a daily devotional time with God in Unit 4.  But for now, if you don’t have a plan, begin by setting a time each day when you are at your best. 

For many this is early morning.  Tip:  You may have to set your alarm fifteen minutes earlier if time is an issue.  Find a private place and your Bible. 

Get Started.

Five days this coming week pray though one of these Psalms. That is, find them in your Bible, read the Scripture, Observe what it says, Apply what you learn to your life, and Pray about what you have learned, turning the Psalmist’s prayer into your own, praying it to God for yourself, applying it to your life and situation.  We’ve included a key thought from each to whet your appetite:

• Day One:  Psalm 139 “search me, O God, and know my heart”

• Day Two:  Psalm 51 “forgive me, O God”

• Day Three:  Psalm 103  “Bless the Lord, O my soul...who redeems your life from the pit”

• Day Four:  Psalm 91  “the Lord is my refuge’”

• Day Five:  Psalm 63 “my soul thirsts for You in a dry and weary land”

Remember, these Psalms were real prayers from real people trying to follow God in a less than perfect world.  Their experience was not much different from ours!

(If you are reading through John from Waypoint 1, continue that for now instead.)

1. Reading the Bible: A Long Term Resource

• There are many free online daily Bible reading and devotional apps.  Check out the YouVersion Bible app, available free in your favorite app store.  Reading plans range from a few days to a year.  And you can track your progress.

2.  Study:  This is when you dig into a passage for more detail and understanding.  When you study the Bible you take notes..  How?  There are three steps:

• Observe:  Start by observing what is actually written.  Our biggest challenge is to slow down.  Notice the details.  What was said (and not said).  What does the context, the verses before and after, add to my understanding?   Who are the people involved?  Where did it take place?  When?  Underline key words or ideas and notice thought development.

• Interpret:  After observing, continue by asking, “what does it mean?”  Our goal is to find the author’s intended meaning, not what we, or someone else, might think or wish it said.  Ask interpretive questions such as, What does this word mean or Why did Jesus do/say that?  Then seek answers that fit what you have observed in the text.

• Apply:  Finally, the goal of study is to apply it to our own life.  A passage only has one intended meaning, but can have many applications to my life from that one meaning.   Ask yourself: 1) "What is God saying to me from this passage?  2) Where am I falling short?  3) What am I going to do about it specifically?  

3.  Meditate:  In the Bible meditation does not mean emptying your mind, but actively reflecting on part of God’s word, and how it applies to your life.  We do this already.  If you’ve ever gotten a love letter or a notice from the IRS, you read it over and over and try to catch the exact nuance and of course, what to do about it! Meditating on God’s Word is like that, and essential to following God:

How happy is the man who does not walk in the counsel of the wicked or take the path of sinners or join a group of mockers, instead his delight is in the Lord’s instruction and he meditates on it day and night.  (Psalm 1)

4.  Memorize: Hiding God’s word in my heart by memorizing it helps me resist temptation (Psalm 119:11) and Satan's attacks.  It helps me make wise decisions (Psalm 119:105).  And it strengthens me when I am facing trouble (Psalm 119:49).   Why not start by memorizing 2 Timothy 3:16-17:

“All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness,  so that the servant of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.”

Check out free Bible memory apps such as this one.

Your Spiritual Growth Plan

We grow by taking a next step!

Choose one of the two areas below and then either a “walk,” “jog,” or “run” step.  

The walk steps are beginning or shot term steps, the jog steps intermediate, and the run steps more challenging.

If you are still working on steps from a previous week, don’t feel pressured to do any of these!  Or choose a “walk” step for now.  Perhaps mark one of these for future action if that’s the case.

MEDITATING ON GOD'S WORD

WALK

Meditate on a verse of Scripture on a daily basis. You may want to take some notes on what you have learned about God.

JOG

Set aside time to study God’s Word on a daily basis. Pray and ask God for insight into his Word and how it can apply to your daily life.

RUN

Memorize Scripture. Choose some scriptures from your daily reading to memorize. Make it a priority to hide God’s Word in your heart

ALLOW GOD'S WORD TO GUIDE MY THOUGHTS AND ACTIONS

WALK

Read one chapter of the Bible a day.  Start with John’s gospel or with the 5 Psalms in the “how to” section above..

JOG

Read the Bible straight through like a story or novel. Watch bibleproject.com video for each book before you start it.

RUN

Make a regular habit of studying the Bible in depth. You may want to get some tools to help you or take a class at church.

Resources

• How to Read the Bible for All Its Worth, Gordon D. Fee

• Bible Study Methods, Rick Warren

• Why Trust the Bible, Greg Gilbert - outstanding book for those wrestling with the Bible's reliability

FAQ’s and "Hard Questions"

If the Bible has been copied many times how do we know we have a reliable version today?

What Bible translation should I use?

Don’t science and the Bible contradict each other?

Isn’t the Bible full of contradictions?

Didn't a group of men just pick the New Testament books they like and suppressed the rest?

What you have learned in this Waypoints Study we encourage you to pass along to others by taking them through this study!  You can access all the materials online free anytime, anywhere. 

Waypoints  1   2   3   4   5    6 

WAYPOINT 4

Growing By Prayer

DAY 1

1 prayer

noun, often attributive   |   \ˈprer\

Definition of prayer

1. a (1) :  an address (such as a petition) to God or a god in word or thought  ∙  ‘said a prayer for the success of the voyage’   (2) :  a set order of words used in praying

b :  an earnest request or wish

2. :  the act or practice of praying to God or a god  ∙  kneeling in prayer

3. :  a religious service consisting chiefly of prayers —often used in plural

4. :  something prayed for

5. :  a slight chance  ∙  haven't got a prayer

When you think of prayer, what comes to your mind? Rosary beads? Shawls and head coverings? Chanting? Bowing? Kneeling? 8lb. 6oz. newborn infant Jesus in golden fleece diapers?

Depending on our experience in churches and with other Christians, our experience of prayer may be vastly different: from rigid, recited prayers to charismatic weeping, wailing, and laying on of hands.  And depending on your view of God, your understanding of the nature and purpose of prayer will also vary greatly.

Some people use prayer as an ATM withdrawal or a rubbing a magical lamp.

Some may pray rarely, if at all, worried they might say the wrong thing or that their prayers aren’t “spiritual enough” to be answered by God.

• What has been your experience with prayer?

If we are going to have a right relationship with God and this world, we must have a right understanding of prayer.

So what exactly is prayer? And Why do it?

Prayer is still a fairly regular part of Western Society, but for many it’s limited to “saying grace” before dinner, which can be an awkward experience.

Even though, as Christians, we really do want to pray, if we’re honest, a lot of times it feels unnatural, formal, empty, or just plain weird (especially if you are praying next to a hand-holder—what’s with that?!)

And yet, the Bible is filled with commands and instructions to pray, so it must be important to God, right? However, when we start to think about prayer, we can end up with a lot of questions:

• How do I pray?

• Why didn't God answer my prayer?

• How do I know I’m doing it right? Do I have to have a special place, special words, or a certain posture?

• What should I pray for? In what situations should I pray?

• Do my prayers really matter, or is God going to do what He wants to anyway?

• How can I expect that God has time to listen to my prayers when there are millions of others around the world praying at the same time?

• Does praying make me a better Christian? If I don’t pray, will God be mad at me?

WHAT IS PRAYER ALL ABOUT?

A Relationship

Many people simplify prayer by saying, “It’s simply talking to God.” To the extent that this defuses the pressure of formality and frees you from feeling like you have to perform, this definition of prayer is helpful. But it isn’t enough; it’s an oversimplification.

Prayer isn’t just talking to God; prayer is developing and intimate trust relationship with God.

Jesus told His disciples, “ You are my friends if you do what I command.  I no longer call you servants because a servant does not know his master's business. Instead I have called you friends, for everything that I learned from my Father I have made known to you.”  (John 15:14-15)

• Jesus calls us His friends.  What’s the difference between a servant and a friend according to this passage?  

As followers of Christ, Jesus calls us friends.  Think of that!  A friend shares their thoughts and what is on their heart.  Friends get the inside story according to Jesus. 

Has it occurred to you that God actually doesn’t need us to do anything for Him?  He could do it all. 

But He invites us as friends, through prayer, to partner with Him—because friends do things together.

*****

• How does friendship with Jesus and partnering with God affect how you approach prayer? In what way does prayer actually matter?

• Do you feel comfortable sharing the same sort of issues with Jesus that you do with your friends? Why or why not?

Memory Verse:  "“If you remain in me and my words remain in you, you may ask for anything you want, and it will be granted" (John 15:7).

DAY 2

As we pray, we allow the Spirit and words of Christ to remain in us (Unit 2), and we align ourselves with Him and what we ought to be. Then what Jesus promised us in John 15:7 becomes true in our lives:

“If you remain in me and my words remain in you, you may ask for anything you want, and it will be granted!”

• What are the requirements Jesus gives for our prayer to be answered?

So prayer is not about:

• Form (special words or how we say it);

• Or even Passion (how much we “feel it”)

It’s primarily about developing a growing, trust relationship with our Father.

• How has prayer played a role in your relationship with God so far?

A Change in Perspective

God knows best for every person and every situation in the whole world.  So, when we are faced with struggles, we are not supposed to start by figuring out the solution then asking God to make it happen.

Instead, we are supposed to pray that the will of God be done, trusting in God’s character which includes: love, peace, goodness, self-sacrifice, wisdom, mercy, and more.

Does prayer change things?  Certainly.  But often prayer changes me first, then God leads me according to His will.

• What are some of the characteristics and desires of God that you know from the Bible?

• Now, think of a situation in your life or the life of someone you know.  Based on the above, and regardless of the way things have gone so far, what do you believe the will of God might be for that situation?

As we remain in Him, getting to know Him through His Word and by prayer, we start to align ourselves with Him and we become changed in the process.  Our character is formed to be like the character of Jesus Himself when we sit in His presence in prayer.  Psalm 37:4 says,

“Take delight in the Lord, and he will give you your heart’s desires.”

What that doesn’t mean is that God will give us everything we desire.  What God gives us is a new heart that desires the things of God!

• What desires have become different because of your relationship with God?

God often chooses not to act until His people pray in faith, because he wants us to be at a place in our heart and mind to partner with Him and depend on Him.

Yeah that sounds good, but does prayer work?

The Bible is overwhelmingly clear:  prayer matters and makes a real difference. 

Here are just a few of the key passages that instruct us on the importance of prayer for a disciple:

• God wants to answer our prayers –  Jesus tells us God desires to give us good things when we ask (Matt 7:7-11; John 14:13-16).

• We are warned not to forget to ask in prayer - James said that often we don’t have what we need because we don’t ask for it (James 4:2; 5:13-18)

• We are told to pray boldly – as we come before the throne of God (Heb. 4:16).

• We are told to pray about everything - And to pray without ceasing (Phil. 4:6-7; 1 Thess. 5:17).

So yes, according to Scripture, we can trust that our prayers are necessary, powerful, and real.

When The Answer Is Not What We Expected. 

While we love to see prayer answered, there will be times that we pray and either we don’t get the result we prayed for or it seems God doesn’t answer at all. 

At times like this, we need to remember that there is only one God, and we are not Him. God is good and He wants good for us.  We have this promise,

"And we know that God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose.….He who did not spare His own Son, but delivered Him over for us all, how will He not also with Him freely give us all things?" (Romans 8:28, 32)

This verse does not say all things are good, but that they “work together” for our good. 

Flour, sugar, raw eggs, salt, butter, and baking powder don’t taste good in themselves.  (OK, some of you would eat the sugar.)  But “worked together” by a master baker they make a great cake.  Imagine criticizing the baker halfway through the process.  That’s what we do sometimes. 

As God’s followers we have to decide, do we trust His character, wisdom, love, and goodness or not?

• When have you prayed and not seen the result you hoped for? How did you handle it?

• How can you maintain your faith in those moments when it seems you aren’t getting the answer you pray for?  What reassurance do the above verses give?

DAY 3

SO HOW DO YOU PRAY?

1. Pray in Faith

The Bible is very clear that we live by faith and that applies to our prayers as well:

"If you believe, you will receive whatever you ask for in prayer."  (Matthew 21:22)

Maybe you’re already thinking, “Whatever I ask?”  There are other passages that explain that God won’t  honor inappropriate desires (James 4:3) of course.  Also, God is going to answer according to His will:

"And this is the confidence that we have toward him, that if we ask anything according to his will he hears us.  And if we know that he hears us in whatever we ask, we know that we have the requests that we have asked of him." (1 John 5:14-15)

We might ask, “How can I pray in faith if I’m not sure what God’s will is?” 

There will be times when we don’t know God’s will in a matter.  We still need to pray in faith, realizing that our faith is in our all-wise God, not in our ability to suggest to Him a particular answer.   Even if we don’t know God’s will, we do know God!

• Can you think of a time when God answered your prayer in a different and better way that you imagined or asked (Eph. 3:20)?

2. Pray in Jesus’ name

Christians often end their prayers, “In Jesus name we pray. Amen.”  That isn’t just an convenient closer someone made up.  Jesus Himself told his disciples to pray and ask “in My name.”

“Whatever you ask in My name, that will I do, so that the Father may be glorified in the Son.”  (John 14:13)

“Until now you have asked for nothing in My name; ask and you will receive, so that your joy may be made full.”  (John 16:24)

What does it mean to pray in Jesus’ name?  It’s not a magic formula we tag on to make God do something.  It means to pray relying on the merit of Christ, His authority as the Son of God, not our own worthiness.  

Have you ever been given a note by a doctor to give your boss or your school to explain why you needed off? If so, you used their name and authority as the basis of your request, not your own merit.

• If we had to pray based on our worthiness, what would happen?

3. Pray persistently

It’s rare to pray about something just once and see God’s answer.   Jesus told us to keep asking, seeking, and knocking.

"Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you.  For everyone who asks receives; the one who seeks finds; and to the one who knocks, the door will be opened." (Matthew 7:7-8)

Each of these verbs (ask, knock, seek) is in the present tense, which in the original language meant to “keep on” doing it, keep on asking, knocking, seeking.

• What’s the relationship between asking (in prayer), then seeking, and knocking?

• How do they relate to being persistent in our prayers?

4. Listen to God

Prayer is communicating with God, not just talking to Him.  As a believer you have the Holy Spirit living inside of you.

"But when He, the Spirit of truth, comes, He will guide you into all the truth; for He will not speak on His own initiative, but whatever He hears, He will speak; and He will disclose to you what is to come."  (John 16:13)

• From this verse, what vital role does the Spirit play in prayer?

How do we know when God is speaking to us? 

Is it just our imagination?   Could we just be fooling ourselves? 

First, realize that God has already spoken to you in His Word, so ask whether what you think God is saying to you lines up with what He has already said in Scripture.  

God will never contradict Himself.  He will never lead you in a direction that is contrary to the Bible’s teaching.  He will never say, “OK, this time do get revenge, do fudge on your taxes. You deserve it!”  That would be the world, the flesh, or the devil.  Maybe all three.

The more you read, study, believe, and obey God’s Word the more you will also recognize His prompting in matters the Bible doesn’t directly address.   Jesus said that His sheep know His voice (John 10:4).  How?  From having followed the Shepherd! 

Second, God calls us to walk by faith.  At times “on paper” one direction may seem logical, but God’s Spirit leads us the other way  (Check out Acts 16:6-10 for a great example of this.).

• Share a time God changed your plans, but you now see it his plan was better.

Third, another way we hear from God is by the changes He makes in our heart.  

The natural inclination of our hearts used to be toward sin and self.  However, as we seek to remain in Him, God will tilt or incline our heart toward doing His will,

"Incline my heart to Your testimonies And not to dishonest gain" (Psalm 119:36). 

God’s Spirit is working inside you to make this so,

“for it is God who is at work in you, both to will and to work for His good pleasure. (Philippians 2:13)

It may even surprise us when it happens!  Suddenly we have the thought or feel the urge to be generous in a certain  situation where we used to be stingy.  Go with it!  The devil isn’t tempting you to be giving.  That’s God renewing your heart and mind. 

• Have you seen this in your life?  What are some examples?

DAY 4

Fourth, Listening to God may take gathering with other believers—especially in worship.

There are times we are overwhelmed with a situation—and God’s voice may seem a million miles away. We prayed but we seem to be unable to climb out of the pit we are in mentally. 

This happened to one of God’s closest followers, a man named Asaph, a spiritual leader who wrote twelve of the Psalms.

We don’t know what happened, but it suddenly dawned on Asaph that there were many evil people around Jerusalem who were rich, healthy and carefree.  Meanwhile he wasn’t, despite having “kept my heart pure” (Psalm 73:13-14).  It was like Facebook envy!   

 He struggled with a bitter attitude:

"… I almost lost my footing….For I envied the proud when I saw them prosper despite their wickedness. They seem to live such painless lives; their bodies are so healthy and strong.  They don’t have troubles like other people.…

Did I keep my heart pure for nothing...If I had really spoken this way to others, I would have been a traitor to your people."  (Psalm 73:1-5, 13, 15 NLT)

As a spiritual leader he knew he couldn'’t just dump his bad attitude out there, but he can’t seem to shake it either.  Until one day he joined others in worship:

"Then I went into your sanctuary, O God, and I finally understood the destiny of the wicked. Truly you put them on a slippery path...in an instant they are destroyed…."

Then I realized that my heart was bitter...I was so foolish and ignorant— I must have seemed like a senseless animal to you. Yet I still belong to you; you hold my right hand. You guide me with your counsel.”  (Psalm 73:17, 19, 21-24 NLT, )

• What are some of the new perspectives Asaph mentions, once he "went into the sanctuary" to worship?

• What do you notice about Asaph's honesty as he talks with God?

When we worship, God lifts our view.  It's like taking off in cloudy weather then rising above the clouds where the sun was always shining.  As we "magnify God," He grows bigger in our eyes and troubles grow smaller. 

• Describe a time when you heard from God that way.  What was it like?  What did He say?  What were the circumstances surrounding that experience?

It's not magic

One final point that is important, especially in our day:  prayer is not magic.  

Magic is when we believe if we do something “just right,” or say certain words then God has to do what we say.  Magic puts us in control. If you can master the formula, you master the situation.

But there is no formula for working with God.  God is sovereign; He is not controlled by the methods humans cling to (see 2 Kings 5:10-11).

Here’s a few common examples of this type of “magical” thinking:  When we believe that God will answer our prayers if we really feel them passionately enough, or include certain words, phrases, or postures.  Also, when we believe that our prayer has nothing to do with our character or relationship with God.

• Have you been guilty of praying this way? In what circumstances are you most tempted to believe this about prayer?

DAY 5

What Jesus Taught on  Prayer

Don’t pray for the purpose of impressing others  (Matthew 6:5-6).  

Believe it or not, in Jesus’ day and world you could actually gain status by praying loudly on a street corner.  Things have certainly changed!  

Jesus isn’t saying don’t pray in public.  The Bible is full of positive examples of public prayer.  He is warning about praying merely to impress others.   When praying in a group, take your eyes off yourself and pray humbly, honestly, and simply from your heart as if it were just you and the Lord.

Don’t use empty repetition

Don't think that more words are better than a few.  Jesus tells us that God  already knows what you need.  So say it simply, in faith.  (Matthew 6:7-8).

Jesus’ Model Prayer

“Therefore, you should pray like this:

Our Father in heaven, Your name be honored as holy.

Your kingdom come. Your will be done on earth as it is in heaven.

Give us today our daily bread.

And forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors.

And do not bring us into temptation, but deliver us from the evil one.

For Yours is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever. Amen. (Matthew 6:9-13 HCSB)

• Why is it important to notice that Jesus didn’t say to pray this, but to pray “like” this?

• To see Jesus' outline, for each line above underline Your and our/us and the noun(s) that comes after them ("Your name," etc.).

A Daily Quiet Time of Prayer and God’s Word

One of the habits that can help us grow is a daily time of prayer and reading God’s Word. 

Now, the Bible is clear that there is nothing more we can do to win God’s favor. Jesus did it all for us.  But this daily time is a healthy spiritual habit, to stay strong, and ready.

Picture Rocky running through Philly in the early morning darkness--punching the cool morning air while the city slept.  There  was no law that said he had to run.  He did it because he wanted to be ready for the fight.

One thing that Jesus did consistently was go off on his own to pray. (Luke 5:16). He taught it too, saying,

“when you pray, go away by yourself, shut the door behind you, and pray to your Father in private.”  (Matt 6:6).

When we are alone, praying to God, there is no pressure. 

You can start by outlining your own prayer after Jesus’ model prayer above.  But realize the Psalmists often just started wherever their heart and mind happened to be, even if it was a complaint or a bad attitude they were struggling with.

God already knows where you are, so be honest!  But those Psalmists didn’t end there!  They openly processed things with God until their hope and faith revived.

Tips for a Daily Quiet Time (daily devotional time)

1. Find a time when you are at your best (for some it could be morning, but anytime that is your best time works!)

2. Start small and let it grow.  Better to start with 5-10 minutes than 30.

3. If you miss a day, just pick up where you left off.  This isn’t a check list.

4. Find a consistent private place, even if it’s in the parking lot at work a few minutes early

5. Don't speed read. Take time to reflect and pray.   

6. If you start something and find you’re not enjoying it, change it!  Make it something you look forward to.

7. Maybe you and a friend can encourage each other in this, and pray for each other.

• If you’ve had something like a Quiet Time or regular daily devotional, what have you  done that has been meaningful to you?  Share it with others and encourage them to start a daily time with God!

Your Spiritual Growth Plan

We grow by taking a Next Step!

Choose one of the areas below and then either a “walk,” “jog,” or “run” step.  

The walk steps are beginning or shot term steps, the jog steps intermediate, and the run steps more challenging.

If you are still working on steps from a previous week, don’t feel pressured to do any of these!  Or choose a “walk” step for now.  Perhaps mark one of these for future action if that’s the case.

BECOMING MORE INTENTIONAL IN MY PRAYERS

WALK

Pray a one sentence prayer from time to time throughout the day to bring God into your circumstances.

JOG

Spend some time praying through structured prayers on a regular basis - see the “Jesus’ Model Prayer” or praying through Scripture above (and in Unit 3), or see the “ACTS Model” in the “Resources” below.

RUN

Read Too Busy Not to Pray by Bill Hybels and begin a prayer/quiet time  journal.

ESTABLISHING A REGULAR QUIET TIME

WALK

Download the free YouVersion Bible and devotional app (iPhone and Android) and choose one of the devotional plans. 

JOG

Identify a place and time you can go to meet with God, pray, and read/meditate on His Word.  Make it a life habit to spend time in this place on a regular basis.  Use a Bible reading plan (see Resources)

RUN

Set aside some time to go on a spiritual retreat to be alone with God for the day.

Resources

• The YouVersion Bible free online reading and devotional plans app

• The ACTS Model for prayer

• Journaling

• Fasting

• Celebration of Discipline, Richard Foster

FAQs and "Hard Questions"

• What if I pray for the wrong thing?

• What about prosperity theology or “name it, claim it?”

• I was taught to say certain prayers over and over.  What does the Bible say?

• How does biblical prayer differ from other religions or views on prayer?

• Does God hear the prayer of someone who isn’t a believer in Jesus Christ?

What you have learned in this Waypoints Study we encourage you to pass along to others by taking them through this study!  You can access all the materials online free anytime, anywhere. 

 Waypoints  1   2   3   4   5    6 

WAYPOINT 5

Belong to His People

DAY 1

Have you ever thought about why people “go to church?” 

What is the purpose for everyone coming together and meeting in one place every weekend or Online?   If God is with me everywhere I am, why go to church?   Or maybe you've wondered why churches are so different, from Bach to rock?  (And what's up with snake handling?)

• Reflect:  What was your experience with church growing up? 

Mythbusters.

Let's start with some myth busting about church.  In fact, here are “Top Ten” myths people have about church:

• Myth:  The church is a building

• Myth:  The church building is God’s house

• Myth:  We go to church primarily to “experience God”

• Myth:  The local church is just a human organization; it’s not the real church

• Myth:  Church is optional

• Myth:  Local churches are like local stores where shoppers can pick up different “goods”

• Myth:  I can be a maturing believer without being an active part of a local church

• Myth:  Membership is not found in the Bible

• Myth:  I can just binge-watch sermons online

• Myth:  The church is just any gathering of a few believers

An eleventh one is, “There is a perfect church somewhere, and one day I’ll find it.”  This is an easy one to answer.  There is no perfect church because there are no perfect people or pastors.  One person quipped, “If you do find the perfect church don’t join it.  You’ll ruin it.”

The truth is, if the answer to “Why go to Church?” were just to “experience God” then we really wouldn’t have to go to church.  

We could experience God sitting by a beautiful lake, or as Nathaniel did, sitting under a tree (John 1:48).

Likewise, if it were just to get Bible teaching, we could just binge on sermons online.  

• So if all this is true, what reasons can you give for gathering physically or online interactively with fellow believers?

Memory Verse:  "So Christ himself gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the pastors and teachers, to equip his people for works of service, so that the body of Christ may be built up" (Ephesians 4:11-12).

DAY 2

Ironically, it was for a personal relationship with God that many of us stepped into a church building in the first place.  However, being a disciple is more than just our own personal relationship to Him.  God has called us to be in relationship other believers as well. 

When you became a believer you weren’t just placed “in Christ.”  You were also adopted into God’s family and connected with all other believers as your brothers and sisters:

“For you did not receive a spirit of slavery to fall back into fear, but you received the Spirit of adoption, by whom we cry out, “Abba, Father!”  (Romans 8:15 HCSB)

• How do you think being a member of God's family should affect the way we live?

Get this: unlike your earthly family, your spiritual family will go on forever and ever!  So it is important to start learning to love them now, warts and all. 

Christ calls us to love one-another,  build each other up in our faith and work together as His Body--His hands and feet--to reach the world. (Ephesians 4:16). 

The Christian life is not a solo.

Some Assembly Required.

The New Testament word for church (ekklesia) literally means “called out” to assemble.   God is calling us out to assemble with other believers.

The confusion about what the church is or why the church should meet starts when we think of the church as a place or a building.  But the church is literally the people!

 It is the gathering of those who have a relationship with God through Christ.   In fact, many churches around the world don’t even have a building (check out this short video)!  And there are churches that meet entirely online, encouaraging each other, praying for one another, serving one another and serving in their own physical community.

But why assemble?  What has God got in store for us together that God that we cannot find or accomplish alone?  Here's six reasons why we need to connect intentionally:

1. Together - We show that we are genuine disciples

Jesus said the proof that we were genuinely His disciples isn’t our bumper stickers, our buildings, it is our love for the other people in our church:

“By this the everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.” (John 13:35).

• Why would love for fellow believers be the main way to show the world we are Jesus' genuine disciples?

One-another means other believers.  Why start there?   Because we can't export what we don't first possess!  The world is desperately “searching for love in all the wrong places.” They need to find the genuine item working among us!   And when it does, we know we have something to share that they need! We can see if and feel it. We have good news! But it's not always easy to love the people at church, is it?

Real maturity plays out in relationships. 

It is easy in isolation to theoretically love our brothers and sisters in Christ. Theoretical people aren’t able to annoy us, have a different opinion, or inconvenience us with a need. They don’t exist!  However, God calls us to love real people. 

In fact, God says we can’t really love Him if we don’t love other believers too:

“No one has seen God at any time; if we love one another, God abides in us, and His love is perfected in us...the one who does not love his brother whom he has seen, cannot love God whom he has not seen.” (1 John 4:12, 20)

• Why is it a contradiction to say we love God without loving our fellow believers?

Love is not passive.   Giving generously is essential or it's just words .  John explains,

"If anyone has material possessions and sees a brother or sister in need but has no pity on them, how can the love of God be in that person?  Dear children, let us not love with words or speech but with actions and in truth."  (1 John 3:17-18)

If God's love is in us then  generousity should naturally flow out of us to meet needs.

• Why else is it important to give generously to your church?  

DAY 3

2. Together - We build each other up as the body of Christ

Paul compares the local church to the human body, or more specifically, the body of Christ:

"So Christ himself gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the pastors and teachers, to equip his people for works of service, so that the body of Christ may be built up….

From him the whole body, joined and held together by every supporting ligament, grows and builds itself up in love, as each part does its work."   (Ephesians 4:11-12, 16)

• From this passage, what is the outcome when “each part does it’s work?"

• What is the role of pastors, teachers and the other church leaders?

God has an assignment for you within His church that fits who He made you to be. 

In the New Testament church every member had a ministry, just like every part in your body plays an important role. 

In fact the word “member” simply means a part of the body (see Romans 12:4-5).  Far from being a human invention, the local church is God’s plan. Paul says we are "members" of the Body and "members of one another."

Whether your name is on a church roster or not, what makes you a member in the biblical sense is that you are intentionally connected and doing your part.

Imagine if your liver said, “I don’t think I really need to be part of a local body,” and decided to go out on its own.  Gross!  It’s just plain creepy to see a body part, any body part, not connected to a body!   The whole body would suffer and the liver couldn’t do it’s thing without the other parts working together. 

3. Together - We fulfill the “one-another” commands

There are over thirty different “one another” commands in the New Testament directed toward believers, and not a single one can be done alone!  Here are a few:

• love one another (John 13:35)

• forgive one another (Ephesians 4:32)

• accept one another (Romans 15:7)

• submit to one another (Ephesians 5:21)

• pray for one another (James 5:16)

• encourage one another (1 Thessalonians 5:11)

• bear one another’s burdens (Galatians 6:2)

• be kind to one another (Ephesians 4:32)

• teach one another (Colossians 3:16)

• serve one another (Galatians 5:13)

• Which of these do you feel your are the strongest in?  How are you using it?

• Which the weakest in?  What can you do to grow in that area?

Practicing these one another’s is what the Bible means by fellowship (No, it’s not refreshments).  It’s connecting intentionally in community with other believers.

We're in this together!

No one gets to the top of Mt Everest without a large support team.  Nor can we climb the mountains in our lives alone.

God has purposely designed it that way so that we go from self-centered consumers to “all in” disciples, deeply involved in the lives of a local congregation. 

The writer of Ecclesiastes wisely observed,

"Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their labor:  If either of them falls down, one can help the other up.  But pity anyone who falls and has no one to help them up….A cord of three strands is not quickly broken"  (Ecclesiastes 4:9-10, 12).

One is the loneliest number.  And while two are great, three is even better!

• Who do you have at church that you regularly practice the “one anothers” with?

• If we hop from church to church as “consumers,” going here for this program, and there for that program, what are we in danger of missing?

DAY 4

4. Together - We Serve Selflessly using our unique spiritual gifts

The body of Christ needs you.  You are God’s handiwork (Ephesians 2:10) and He will use your unique heart, ability, and experiences (some good, some tough) to join with others and accomplish His will through the church, to make disciples of all the nations. 

In Christ's body we all play unique but important roles:

For just as each of us has one body with many members, and these members do not all have the same function, so in Christ we, though many, form one body, and each member belongs to all the others. We have different gifts…

If your gift is prophesying, then prophesy in accordance with your faith;

 if it is serving, then serve;

if it is teaching, then teach;

if it is to encourage, then give encouragement;

if it is giving, then give generously;

if it is to lead,  do it diligently;

if it is to show mercy, do it cheerfully.   (Romans 12:4-9, NIV)

• Who do we actually “belong to” according to this passage?  

• How does that change your understanding of the phrase, belonging to a church?

• Do you identify with one of these seven gifts above more than others?

• No gifts are said to be more valuable than others.  What can you conclude from that?

Spiritual Gifts

Spiritual gifts are God-given abilities for ministry. 

This isn’t an exhaustive list in Romans 12.  Paul’s point here is that we don’t all have the same gifts and abilities, but that what God has given us is needed by the body and will be missed if we aren’t present.

God can use all of you:  your gifts, your heart, your abilities, your talents, your experiences, your resources, your relationship and more. 

But people often ask, “That sounds great but how do I know what my spiritual gifts are?”  The truth is you won’t know until you jump in and start trying to serve in different ways.

Inventories and spiritual gift tests tend to narrowly define these gifts that the Bible never defines, and they are usually based on experience.  But if you haven’t started serving, you don’t have any experience.  So, get some by following the next point.

How do I start serving selflessly?  

The best way is to just start by trying something. Experiment!

Over time you, and others, will begin to recognize where your gifts, ability, and heart are.  Try several things until you begin to see a fit.  Then develop and grow your ability so your capacity to build up the body of Christ grows. 

Here are some suggestions to get started:

• What are you passionate about?  Is there a ministry area at your church that interests you?  Or maybe there is a need that the church leadership has highlighted and you think you could help meet.  Are there any areas you feel God may be prompting you to investigate? Those are good clues as to where to start.  The only way to know is to take the initiative to serve selflessly by volunteering. 

  • List possible passion areas here (click the link for ideas):

• Then find a role in that ministry that fits who you are.  Some of you were born to organize.  Others like to go with the flow and just help where needed.  Most ministry areas can use both types of people, and the following types:  Some of you are strong mercy people and others of you are better at accomplishing a task, and so on.  None of these are right or wrong.  It’s who God made you to be. 

A word of caution: there will be times in every church where we simply need to roll up our sleeves and serve in areas that are outside of our “comfort zone.”  Sometimes it is because that is where help is needed, in others, it can be the door to where God is leading us! 

• God's power shines in our weakness.  What areas of service would take you out of your comfort zone?

(For more information on spiritual gifts, see the FAQ at the end of this Unit.)

DAY 5

5. Together - We bring glory to God

Have you ever wondered why God came up with the church in the first place? 

We can be pretty difficult to work with.  Why not use angels to preach the gospel?  That would be impressive!  But the church serves an even greater purpose. 

Together we can do something that all of God’s angels cannot: 

"God’s purpose in all this was to use the church to display his wisdom in its rich variety to all the unseen rulers and authorities in the heavenly places.” (Ephesians 3:10 NLT)

The word translated “rich variety” is literally many-colored, or as one translation puts it, multi-faceted (HCSB version) like a jewel.  God’s wisdom is displayed in infinite variety through the life of the church.  

Your story is one facet, one side of the multi-faceted wisdom of God displayed through the church, and angels are tuning in to binge watch! 

You may be thinking, “Who, me?  I’ve got a long way to go!”  Perhaps, but it’s the last minute comeback that makes the highlights reel.  

And these “rulers and authorities” includes Satan and his demonic hordes as well.  Over and over they sit on the losing bench, watching what looked like our certain defeat turned to victory by God’s grace in Christ.  Not just once, but over and over as we continue to go from “grace to grace.”  It’s got to drive them crazy.  How could such losers win?  

Paul explained we are “jars of clay” containing a precious treasure:

"Now we have this treasure in clay jars, so that this extraordinary power may be from God and not from us." (2 Corinthians 4:7)

• From this verse, why would God use such imperfect “vessels” as us?  How is that a good thing?

• Look up the context (the verses before and after v. 7). What is the treasure?

The church is God’s vehicle for making His wisdom known to the entire universe.  It is central to His eternal purpose.  As His children, we have the privilege to be a part! 

All this time maybe we thought the church was all about us—meeting our needs; ensuring we like the music and the preacher.

Paul turns that perspective on its head and says it is about making known God’s wisdom and bringing Him glory.

• So how will you think differently about the church going forward? List at least five ways your thinking has been expanded.

6. Together - Represent Christ to the world

So what are we to accomplish as the church?  Peter answers that question:

"But you are the chosen race, the King's priests, the holy nation, God's own people, chosen to proclaim the wonderful acts of God, who called you out of darkness into his own marvelous light."  (1 Peter 2:9, GNT)

• What is our mission and message specifically according to Peter? 

• What are some of the “wonderful acts” of God we should proclaim?

Evangelism is the outgrowth of all the “togethers” we have looked at. 

God’s plan is that the church, working together, takes the gospel to the ends of the earth and makes disciples of all nations.  Individually and collectively our responsibility is to give repeated opportunities to those around us to see, hear, and respond to the gospel. 

In the next Unit, we will look at specific way you can personally share your faith and be part of fulfilling the Great Commission (Matthew 28:19-20).

Your Spiritual Growth Plan

We grow by taking a Next Step!

Choose one of the areas below and then either a “walk,” “jog,” or “run” step.  

The walk steps are beginning or shot term steps, the jog steps intermediate, and the run steps more challenging.

If you are still working on steps from a previous week, don’t feel pressured to do any of these!  Or choose a “walk” step for now.  Perhaps mark one of these for future action if that’s the case.

CONNECTING TO OTHERS IN MY CHURCH

WALK

Attend a small group weekly.

JOG

Invite others to your small group.

RUN

Lead a small group weekly.

SERVE USING MY GIFTS

WALK

Volunteer at your church on a one-time or short term opportunity.

JOG

Commit to serve in some kind of on-going ministry.

RUN

Lead a ministry team or small group.

GIVING

WALK

Begin percentage priority giving. Pick a percentage to start with and let it grow over time as your faith grows.

JOG

Give the first 10% of your income to your church on a regular basis.

RUN

Give from your abundance above the first 10%.

Resources:

Building Up One Another –Gene Getz

What's So Spiritual about Your Gifts? --Henry & Mel Blackaby

The Purpose Driven Church - Rick Warren

FAQs and "Hard Questions"

What are spiritual gifts?

Why are there so many denominations?

I was part of a church and had a bad experience….

Why are some churches so liturgical and formal and others like a rock concert?

What is baptism, and if I was baptized as a baby do I need to be baptized again as a believer?

What you have learned in this Waypoints Study we encourage you to pass along to others by taking them through this study!  You can access all the materials online free anytime, anywhere. 

 Waypoints  1   2   3   4   5    6 

WAYPOINT 6

How to Share My Faith

DAY 1

We hope you've grown by going through this study.  This is where we come full circle.  

We started with the gospel as our foundation in Unit 1.  Now, how can we share the good news with others and why should we?

Paul put it this way,

For I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God that brings salvation to everyone who believes... (Romans 1:16)

Nothing else can do this, bring salvation and forgiveness with God!

But let’s be honest.  It can be intimidating to share your faith with others.  What if they don’t want to hear?  What if I say the wrong thing? What if I get all tongue tied, dry mouthed, sweaty palmed?

Perhaps that’s why Jesus started by telling His disciples, “Follow Me, and I will make you fishers of men.” (Matthew 4:19)

• Do you always catch fish?  Why not?  What do you do if the line comes up empty?

• Look at Matthew 4:19 closely.  Do you see a cause and effect relationship? Why is this crucial?

Of course, people aren’t fish, but they have more in common than you might think. 

Everything your neighbor or coworker “swims” in to make a happy life, to feel secure, will one day evaporate. Hebrews 9:27 says, "it is appointed for people to die once and after this comes judgment."

Knowing this, out of love for them and for God who wants to spend eternity with them, we have really good news!  Paul said, “the love of Christ compels us” in our sharing the good news (2 Corinthians 5:14).  And that is our motive.

• Reflect:  Are there one or two people who come to mind that God is putting on your heart to share your faith with?

Memory Verse:  "For I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God that brings salvation to everyone who believes" (Romans 1:16).

DAY 2

Making Disciples

In Matthew 28:18-20, Jesus’ time with his disciples was coming to an end. 

He had spent many days with them after His resurrection, but would soon ascend to heaven.  Given the shortness of time remaining with these men His words here are very intentional. 

The disciples were leaning in closely to hear these marching orders from Jesus.  With that in mind, let’s pause to sit in on Jesus’ words:

Then Jesus came to them and said, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me.  

Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you.

And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.  (Matthew 28:18-20)

As disciples we are called to “make disciples,” to introduce others to Christ through sharing the gospel.

• What else does Jesus say we are to do for these disciples?

• The word authority also means power.  As we share our faith, why is it important to know Jesus has been given “all authority?

For now we are going to focus on the first part of what Jesus said to do, “Go into the world and make disciples.”

This is no simple task, but we can grow in our understanding of how to do it the longer we follow Him.

While you may not know fully what it means to make disciples, it is important you realize the minute you decided to follow Jesus, you became a part of His mission to reach the rest of the world.  You too became a fisher of men!

• What has been your experience sharing your faith with others? What would it take for you to feel more comfortable sharing the gospel?

Discipleship begins with people hearing the gospel then making the decision to believe and receive Christ as their Savior. 

• Reflect:  Who are some people you know that you could begin praying for and seeking an opportunity to share the gosepl with?  List them below by name.

DAY 3

HOW DO WE SHARE OUR FAITH?

Individually and collectively as the church it’s our responsibility  to give repeated opportunities to those around us to see, hear, and respond to the gospel.  How do you do it?

1. Loving People Where They Are.  Have you heard this famous quote? “People do not care how much you know until they know how much you care.”  It is famous for a reason. 

The truth is, most people won’t be interested in hearing from you until you have shown them you authentically care about them first.

This is unpacked in a book called, “The Art of Neighboring: Building Genuine Relationships Right Outside Your Door.”  If you are looking for tips on how to connect in an genuine way with the people you rub shoulders with every day, this is a great place to start.

When you think of “evangelism,” what comes to mind?  Knocking on doors?  Handing out leaflets?  Awkward conversations?  Hard questions you can’t answer?  Remember….

Evangelism is simply sharing the gospel with others
and trusting God with the outcome.

We can do that in a way that is natural, relational, appropriate and more importantly, effective.  It starts with caring for the other person as a person, not a project. 

Don’t worry about preparing a sermon.

You need to live life with them closely enough for them to see that Christ is really making a difference in your life.  Can they see evidence of the gospel in your life?

• When did you first see a person's life change because of their faith in Christ? How did it impact you?

2.  Know that God is already at work. 

God’s Spirit is constantly working on the hearts of people around us (John 16:7-11).  Think about your own life.  Most of us could probably look back and see how God used circumstances, people, and bits and pieces of the truth to bring us to the place where we realized our need for Christ as our Savior.  In some cases this took years.

God is doing the same with those around you who don’t yet know Christ.  You have the privilege to be part of that process.

Some people’s hearts may be like red apples, ripe and ready to respond.  But others may be more like unripe green apples and a long way from believing, or even wanting to talk about anything spiritual.  Love them where they are! 

Remember, you are a witness to what you have seen, but the Holy Spirit is the one who convicts the heart.  It is the Spirit who empowers us to be effective witnesses.  Jesus said,

But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.  (Acts 1:8)

God will give you the ability as you make yourself available.  Trust Him to work through you!

• If you are in a group, pass out some paper and have each take a minute to jot down the approximate date/year when they received Christ as their Savior and what setting it was in (church, retreat, camp, wherever). Now take time for each to share briefly with the group.

Congratulations! That's how easy it is to begin to share your story! Now we will work on refining it a bit.

3.  Share Your Story:

People can deny the gospel, but they cannot deny the power of a changed life.  When the Pharisees questioned the blind man whom Jesus had healed, and pressured him to disown Jesus as a sinner, he finally replied by using his own story of how Jesus changed him,

He replied, “Whether he is a sinner or not, I don’t know. One thing I do know. I was blind but now I see!”  (John 9:25)

He couldn’t counter every argument, so he set their argument aside and literally gave his eyewitness (no pun intended) account.  When they heard his story, they could not refute it.

• Describe a time when you heard someone share their experience and it changed your perspective.

We have the tendency to make sharing the gospel more complicated than it needs to be.  Sharing your faith requires two things:

• Love people where they are (that means accepting them, but does not mean approving all their choices)

• Share with them what Jesus has done in your life.

People who are uninterested in hearing the gospel now may eventually become open when you share the story of what Jesus has done for you.  God may use your story, even if it’s years later.

In either case, we should be prepared.  Read 1 Peter 3:15:

“But in your hearts revere Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect...”

• Unpack what it would look like to be "gentle" and "respectful" in sharing your faith?  Why is this important?

• Who in your life would you like to be able to share the gospel with?  What would be a next step?

Sharing your story doesn’t mean sharing your whole life story. 

What can you share in two to three minutes? We should be able to quickly and clearly explain how our life has been impacted by Christ.  In fact, it’s great to have the three minute version of what life was like before, then how you came to know Christ, and now the change it has made.

On Day 5, we have put some prompts and guidelines in place to help you to write out your story so you can share it with others.  Don’t skip this part!  Your story is your eyewitness testimony that the good news about Christ is true.

It’s good news!  If you knew the cure for cancer, and been cured yourself, would you share it? Absolutely! 

The people you know and love are lost apart from trusting Christ as Savior.  The only cure is the gospel, it is the power of God for salvation to all who believe! But God has placed you in their lives as an ambassador for Him!  

DAY 4

Prepare Your Story

As you get started, remember these tips...

First, Keep it Simple and Focused on Jesus. As we share our faith, it is important to stick to the basic facts of the gospel message. Don’t get sidetracked in issues of politics, church or other matters or trying to win an argument.  Focus on Jesus.  Notice what Paul told the Corinthians about his first coming to them,

“And when I came to you, brethren, I did not come with superiority of speech or of wisdom, proclaiming to you the testimony of God.  For I determined to know nothing among you except Jesus Christ, and Him crucified”  (1 Corinthians 2:1-2)

The Greeks loved to debate about all sorts of subjects.  They valued intellectual wisdom, but Paul knew they needed something greater.

• What did Paul say he “determined” to do?

• Why do you think Paul chose this method over complex theological arguments?  

That’s not to say we wouldn’t try to find answers for honest questions.  In fact, in the Resources section below there are several great books or tools you could give a friend who is skeptical.

But it is important to know that often people have never actually heard the simple gospel.  They may be rejecting a wrong understanding of the claims of Christ, or a bad experience in a church growing up.

Second, Keep it Brief and Make Christ the Hero

This is a case where less truly is more! If you can tell your story in three minutes or less, that means you could share it just about anywhere.  Your main point is to share, “the reason for the hope that you have.”   Here is a suggested starting outline:

a.  Before faith in Christ, what struggle did you face? (1 minute or less)

b.  How you came to know Christ as your Savior (what led you to that point, a sentence or two)

c.  Now, what does you new life look like?  How are you growing?

• If you are in a group study, use that same paper to have the members take a few minutes to write one or two sentences about How they came to Christ, that is, what led you to that point?  Each share with the group.

Finally, Keep Loving Them Where They Are

What if they are not open, or have questions and reservations?

That’s why it’s important to keep in mind you are an ambassador for Christ.  Think of how patient an ambassador has to be, even though they carry an important message!  Don’t get frustrated or argue. Remember that God is the one who opens eyes and hearts.  Always try to keep the door open and lead with love.  Keep praying for them and loving them where they are!

• Reflect:  Spend some time in prayer and reflecting on your Before, How, and Now in preparation for tomorrow when we write it out."

DAY 5

Today is all about writing out your story!

1.  In the Before section, tell a part or summary of your story in less than a minute.  For example: 

“I grew up going to church but didn’t pay much attention and quit when I left the house.  Out of college, my goal was to just be successful and have fun.  But after a while I knew something was missing.  I thought about checking out a church but never did.” (That’s actually about 20 seconds!)

• What do you notice about this example?  What details are left out?  Why could that be an advantage?

• Now, take time now to write out a short summary or bullet point “before” part of your own story.  It might be quite different from the example.  That’s OK.  It is your story and God will use it!  If you came to Christ very early in life that is also a great story; share some times of uncertainty or “growing pains” in your walk with God, but how He has been faithful. For example,

"God has been faithful even at times when I wasn't. You can trust him because He loves you."

2.  In the How you came to Christ section, transition quickly to the circumstances of how you came to faith in Christ.   Be conversational.  Leave pauses after key points, get their response.  If they are ready to hear, continue.  If not, don’t press.  The main idea is that they know Christ made the difference.  Here is an example of what the story side of the conversation might look:

“Then a friend invited me to a basketball league at his church.  They were just normal guys, but I could see that they had a deep contentment inside I knew I was missing.  Eventually I asked them about it….They explained  that God loves us and sent Jesus to die for us so we could be forgiven and have a relationship with God.   They encouraged me to trust Christ as my Savior, and I did.  And that has made a huge difference in my life…..

The “How” section can be this short and simple.  You aren’t necessarily sharing the details of the gospel at this point (you can do that later if your friend is interested and willing to know more and even use one of the RESOURCES at the end of this unit).  Just focus for now on the fact that you trusted Christ and that it has made a difference.

• Take time now to write our your own personal how you came to Christ.  It will probably be very different from our example.  Again, it is your unique story and Christ is the hero.

3.  In the Now portion you can briefly describe how Christ has made a difference in your life.

• Maybe start with, “That has made a huge difference in my life….”  It could look like this example:

“It has made a huge difference in my life.  I used to feel God was a million miles away, and guilty, like He was angry our even out to get me.  That “missing piece” of my life was suddenly there.  The guilt was gone and I felt a deep peace I’d never had before.   So that’s my story.  Have you ever thought about God/Christ?”

Your Spiritual Growth Plan

We grow by taking a Next Step!

We grow by taking a next step.  Choose either the  “walk,” “jog,” or “run” step in sharing your story.  For this unit, all the actions steps relate to writing and/or sharing your own faith story.

Nothing is more powerful than being able to share your story quickly and clearly as you have conversations with others where you live, learn work or play.  It can also serve as a great way for you to reflect and praise God for the work He has done in your life!

Note:  if you are still working on “walk,” “jog,” or “run” steps from previous units, don’t feel pressured to do any of these yet!  You can mark either the crawl, walk of run step below for future action.

Sharing Your Faith Story with Others….

WALK

 Write out your story (see above for the basic instructions).

JOG

 Write out your story (use the instructions below), then share it and get feedback from a friend on your story.  Refine it.

RUN

Make a list of those whom you believe God has placed in your life to share the gospel with ‘as you are going (Friends, family, neighbors, coworkers, etc.), pray and share your faith story and the gospel with one person in the next 30 days.

Resources to Equip You

• The Art of Neighboring - Jay Pathak & Dave Runyon

• Your Home a Lighthouse - Bob and Betty Jacks

• Questioning Evangelism - Randy Newman

• Explore God - great free online resource

Resources you can give someone

• How to Know God - Cru (free online)

• The Case for Faith - Lee Strobels

• The Case for Christ - Lee Strobels

• Explore God - great free online resource

FAQ’s and "Hard Questions"

What if I can’t memorize the gospel?

What if my friend has questions I can’t answer?

What if I’m very nervous about sharing my faith?

Won’t it be awkward suddenly starting a relationship with my neighbors?

I’m so far from perfect, how can I tell others about Christ?

What if my  family are from a very different religious background?

What you have learned in this Waypoints Study we encourage you to pass along to others by taking them through this study!  You can access all the materials online free anytime, anywhere.

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