steps 1-10 leader’s guide 10 basic...

leader’s guide

Leading an EffectiveBible Study

steps 1-10

billbright

10 Basic Steps Toward Christian Maturity

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ContentsAcknowledgments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7

A Personal Word . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8

What This Study Will Do for You . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10

How to Start a Bible Study Group . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12

How to Lead a Bible Study Group . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14

A Man Without Equal Video Presentation . . . . . . . . . . . . 22

INTRODUCTION: The Uniqueness of Jesus . . . . . . . . . . 271 ! Who Is Jesus Christ? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 292 ! The Earthly Life of Jesus Christ . . . . . . . . . . . . 343 ! The Death of Jesus Christ . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 434 ! The Resurrection of Jesus Christ . . . . . . . . . . . . 485 ! Jesus Christ Living in the Christian . . . . . . . . . . 556 ! The Church of Jesus Christ . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 607 ! Recap . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67

STEP 1: The Christian Adventure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 711 ! The Christian’s Certainty . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 732 ! The Christ-Controlled Life . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 803 ! Five Principles of Growth . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 874 ! The Christian’s Authority . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 985 ! Learning to Pray . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1046 ! The Importance of the Church . . . . . . . . . . . . 1107 ! Recap . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 117

STEP 2: The Christian and the Abundant Life . . . . . . . . . 1211 ! What Is the Christian Life? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1232 ! Appraising Your Spiritual Life . . . . . . . . . . . . . 129

3 ! Living Abundantly . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1344 ! The Abiding Life . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1415 ! The Cleansed Life . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1456 ! Victorious in Spiritual Warfare . . . . . . . . . . . . 1517 ! Attitude Makes the Difference . . . . . . . . . . . . 1578 ! Recap . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 162

STEP 3: The Christian and the Holy Spirit . . . . . . . . . . . 1651 ! Who Is the Holy Spirit and Why Did He Come? . . . 1672 ! The Holy Spirit’s Relationship With You . . . . . . . 1713 ! Why So Few Christians Are Filled

With the Holy Spirit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1744 ! How You Can Be Filled With the Holy Spirit . . . . . 1795 ! How You Can Know When You Are Filled

With the Holy Spirit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1836 ! How You Can Continue to Be Filled

With the Holy Spirit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1877 ! Recap . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 193

STEP 4: The Christian and Prayer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1971 ! Purpose of Prayer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1992 ! To Whom Should We Pray? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2043 ! A Guide to Effective Daily Prayer . . . . . . . . . . . 2114 ! How to Pray With Power . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2175 ! God’s Promises About Prayer . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2236 ! Planning Your Daily Devotional Time . . . . . . . . 2287 ! Recap . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 234

STEP 5: The Christian and the Bible . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2371 ! The Book of Books . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2392 ! The Central Person of the Bible . . . . . . . . . . . . 2473 ! Authority of the Old Testament . . . . . . . . . . . . 2544 ! Authority of the New Testament . . . . . . . . . . . 2605 ! The Power of God’s Word . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 266

4 Ten Basic Steps Leader’s Guide

6 ! The Need for God’s Word . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2707 ! Private Bible Study Methods . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2758 ! Recap . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 284

STEP 6: The Christian and Obedience . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2871 ! Obedience—The Key to Knowing God’s Will . . . . 2892 ! Insincere Obedience . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2933 ! Personal Purity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2984 ! No Matter What Others Think . . . . . . . . . . . . 3035 ! Taming the Tongue . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3086 ! The Key to Inner Security . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3137 ! Recap . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 318

STEP 7: The Christian and Witnessing . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3211 ! Why We Witness . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3232 ! Jesus Shows How to Witness . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3283 ! Qualifications for Witnessing . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3344 ! Witnessing and the Word of God . . . . . . . . . . . 3405 ! Witnessing and Prayer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3456 ! Witnessing and the Holy Spirit . . . . . . . . . . . . 3517 ! Recap . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 356

STEP 8: The Christian and Giving . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3591 ! God’s Ownership Over All . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3612 ! Examples of Perfect Giving . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3673 ! Stewardship of Our Time . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3724 ! Stewardship of Our Bodies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3775 ! Stewardship of Our Talents and Gifts . . . . . . . . 3866 ! Stewardship of Our Possessions . . . . . . . . . . . 3927 ! Trusting God for Our Finances . . . . . . . . . . . . 3978 ! Our Accountability to God . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4039 ! Recap . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 408

Contents 5

STEP 9: Exploring the Old Testament . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4111 ! The Drama Begins . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4132 ! Adam Through Abraham . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4183 ! Moses, the Passover, and the Exodus . . . . . . . . 4224 ! Law and Grace . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4285 ! Deliverance and Forgiveness . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4356 ! Elijah: The Power of a Spirit-Led Man . . . . . . . . 4417 ! Jeremiah: A Witness Who Stood Alone . . . . . . . . 4468 ! The Tabernacle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4519 ! Recap . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 459

STEP 10: Exploring the New Testament . . . . . . . . . . . . 4631 ! Matthew . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4652 ! Mark . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4713 ! Luke . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4774 ! John . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4845 ! The Acts of the Apostles . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4916 ! Romans, 1 and 2 Corinthians, Galatians . . . . . . . 4967 ! Prison Epistles, Thessalonians, Pastoral Epistles . . 5048 ! The General Epistles . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5149 ! The Revelation of Jesus Christ . . . . . . . . . . . . 525

10 ! Recap . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 529

How to Study the Bible . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 533

How to Share Christ With Others . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 535

How to Present the Four Spiritual Laws . . . . . . . . . . . . 538

Four Spiritual Laws . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 540

Resources to Help You Witness . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 547

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Acknowledgments

The Ten Basic Steps Toward Christian Maturity series was a prod-uct of necessity. As the ministry of Campus Crusade for Christ

expanded rapidly to scores of campuses across America, thousandsof students committed their lives to Christ—several hundred on asingle campus. Individual follow-up of all new believers soon becameimpossible. Who would help them grow in their new-found faith?

A Bible study series designed for new Christians was desperatelyneeded—a study that would stimulate individuals and groups toexplore the depths and the riches of God’s Word. Although severalexcellent studies were available, we felt the particular need of newmaterial for these college students.

In 1955, I asked several of my staff associates to assist me inpreparing Bible studies that would stimulate both evangelism andChristian growth in a new believer. The contribution by campus staffmembers was especially significant because of their constant con-tact with students in introducing them to Christ and meeting regu-larly with them to disciple them. Thus, the Ten Basic Steps TowardChristian Maturity was the fruit of our combined labor.

The popularity of this Bible study series soon revealed an addi-tional problem, the need for a leader’s guide. The Leader’s Guide forthe Ten Basic Steps developed quickly, with many members of thestaff contributing generously. On occasion, for example, I foundmyself involved in research and writing sessions with several of ourstaff—all seminary graduates, some with advanced degrees and onewith his doctorate in theology. More important, all were activelyengaged in “winning, building, and sending men” for Christ.

For this latest edition, I want to thank Don Tanner for his profes-sional assistance in revising, expanding, and editing the contents. Ialso want to thank Joette Whims and Jean Bryant for their extensivehelp and for joining Don and me in the editorial process.

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A PersonalWord

Drew was a sharp, dedicated high schoolsenior who provided leadership to the

youth group in his church. Through theinfluence of his parents and the church, hereceived Christ as a young boy. But, likemany young people who grow up in church,he experienced little spiritual growth.

One summer Drew rededicated his lifeto Christ, but he still felt something wasmissing . . .

Christine and Dale were both on theirsecond marriage. Christine had met Dalesoon after her divorce and married himbecause she was lonely. Then two childrencame along, and marital problems arose.

A friend introduced Dale to JesusChrist and he became anxious to grow inhis spiritual life. Christine, who had been aChristian for many years but had not beenliving a holy life, rededicated herself toserving the Lord. But Christine and Dalestill had many issues they needed to re-solve between them. They needed biblicalguidance and Christian fellowship . . .

How can people like Drew and Christineand Dale experience spiritual growth? Howwill they know how to tap into the greatresources of an almighty God? One of thebest ways I know is through a small groupBible study.

As a result of attending a Bible studylike that, Drew came to realize that livingthe Christian life is not simply difficult—it

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Strip in photo ofBill Bright;remove keyline.

is impossible. Only through the power of the Holy Spirit can wehave the strength to resist temptation and make the right choices.

“The message had never reached me that I must let the Lord, inthe form of the Holy Spirit, live the Christian life through me,” Drewsays. “I cannot express the joy I felt when I discovered that the ‘bur-den’ of living the Christian life is really no burden at all because theHoly Spirit will live it through me if I invite Him and trust Him to doso.” His discovery of the person and power of God’s Holy Spirit hastransformed him into a joyful Christian and a vibrant witness for Christ.

Joining a group Bible study also gave Christine and Dale theresources to enrich their marriage and find the peace with God thatthey desired.

Leading Bible studies using the Ten Basic Steps Toward ChristianMaturity will help you introduce others to this power source for theirlives. These studies will take you on an exciting journey through manyimportant scriptural concepts. You will deepen your understandingof vital truths and will help others experience the adventure of theChristian life. You and your group will learn how to apply what youlearn in your daily lives. You also will help them develop leadershipqualities that will enable them to influence others for Jesus Christ.

As I have seen many times over the years, leading a small groupcan benefit you even more than your group. The challenge of leader-ship will help you learn to delight in the Lord every day, even whencircumstances are not so delightful. Boredom will become excite-ment. Hopelessness will become hope. Your walk with God will takeon a new dimension of purpose and power because you are allowingthe Holy Spirit to do His work in and through your life.

My prayer is that this series of studies will bless and enrich yourlife and the lives of your group members in a dramatic, supernaturalway, that your leadership will help you toward full maturity in JesusChrist as you become more like Him, and that you will becomemore effective in your personal witness for Him. I guarantee thatleading this series of Bible studies will change your life forever. Youwill experience one of the deepest joys in life—seeing the Lorddevelop and mature others through you.

A Personal Word 9

What This StudyWill Do for You

The Ten Basic Steps is a time-tested studyseries designed to provide you and your

students with a sure foundation for yourfaith. It also will help your students discoverhow to enjoy what millions of other Christiansaround the world have experienced: theadventure of a full, purposeful, and fruitfullife in Christ.

The Christian who has been living inspiritual defeat, powerless and fruitless,wondering if there is any validity to theChristian life, will find hope in these pages.The study will emphasize:

1) The distinctiveness of Christianity.No religion makes provision for the breachbetween God and man that the Bible callssin. But Christianity does deal with it—notby what man can do for God, as taught inother religions, but through what God hasdone for man in sending His Son, JesusChrist, to die on the cross for our sins.

2) The distinctive claims of Christ. Manypeople believe Christ was only a good moralteacher. This study will make it clear thatHe claimed to be God in human form. Thosewho study this series will decide whetherHe is the true God or a liar and imposter.

3) The abundant life that God providesfor every Christian through the power of theHoly Spirit. The lives of many people havebeen utterly transformed through an under-standing of the abundant life God has forthem and of the doctrine of the filling of theHoly Spirit.

!You are about to begin one ofthe most life-changing Biblestudies ever developed.

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4) The importance of walking daily with God. This study givespractical suggestions on how to walk daily with God. At the end ofeach lesson, students are challenged to apply the principles theylearned. Because the studies build on each other, group memberswill find increasing commitment to live holy lives.

Certain basic spiritual truths, when understood and experiencedby faith, bring revolutionary spiritual benefits. The proven principlesin this study can help introduce non-Christians to the joyful adven-ture of a relationship with God.

In addition, this study is good for those who do not yet knowChrist as Savior because it:# Helps them understand the Bible# Presents the claims and person of Christ# Clearly shows them how to become Christians and gives them

an opportunity to receive Christ# Teaches them how to live the Christian life

The study will also benefit new Christians in the following ways:# Aid them in their spiritual growth as they apply the principles

they learn# Increase their familiarity with the Bible# Teach them the basic doctrines of the Christian faith# Help them find scriptural solutions for the problems of their lives# Inspire and equip them to share the gospel with others

Even the more mature Christians will benefit from this series.They will grow in their faith, and they will be challenged to affirmtheir commitment to our Lord. For them this study will do thefollowing:# Provide the tools needed to help another person find Christ or to

help a younger Christian grow in his faith# Help them establish a systematic devotional and study plan

A faithful study of the Ten Basic Steps Toward Christian Maturityand of the material in this Leader’s Guide will prepare you for amore comprehensive ministry. It will focus and strengthen your ownpurpose, your desire to help change the world (your neighborhood,workplace, school, and other places to which God leads you) forJesus Christ.

What This Study Will Do for You 11

How to Start aBible Study Group

Have you ever tried to follow a recipeor assemble a small appliance without

reading the directions thoroughly? Possiblyyou got all the way through your work anddiscovered that you had left out an essen-tial step, and the result was a disaster.

Personal preparation is a vital first stepto starting your Bible study group. Be surethat Christ is Lord of your life, and that youare filled with the Holy Spirit.

I encourage you to read these booklets:the Four Spiritual Laws and Have YouMade the Wonderful Discovery of the Spirit-Filled Life? They contain the basic principlesyou need to live that victorious Christianlife and be an effective leader of your group.You can obtain the booklets from your localChristian bookstore, mail-order distributor,or NewLife Publications.

Next, pray for God’s leading and bless-ing. If you are responsible for starting yourown group, invite your friends or announceyour plans for a Bible study to others atyour job or in your school or neighborhood.

Often those to whom you have witnessedbut who have not yet received Christ asSavior will be interested in participating ina Bible study group. You can also show thevideo A Man Without Equal to neighbors,friends, or relatives and encourage thosewho receive Christ or are interested ingrowing in their faith to participate in your

!Personal preparation is a vitalfirst step to starting your Biblestudy group.

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group. The video presentation on page 22 will show you how to usethe video.

New Christians and others who need follow-up are likely pros-pects for your group as well. Choose the ones you think would bemost interested, pray about them individually, then visit each onepersonally. After you make the contacts, select a meeting place andtime for your Bible study.

Keep your group small. With eight to twelve people, group mem-bers will feel freer to interact and discuss the lesson material. Youwill also be able to give them individual attention as they begin toapply biblical truths in their lives.

Be sure your meeting place is neat, attractive, and well-ventilated.Choose a place where you will be free from interruptions. If severaldays lapse between your initial contact and the first Bible study,remind those who have expressed interest. Make an announcement,speak to them personally, phone them, or send cards.

Avoid pressuring anyone to join your group. At the same time,do not have a negative or apologetic attitude. The best way to pro-mote interest and enthusiasm is to be interested and enthusiasticyourself. Let me suggest a couple of approaches:

“John, you’ve expressed an interest in knowing more aboutChristianity and the Bible. (Show him Lesson 1 of the IntroductoryStep.) This has been a tremendous help to me in learning about theBible in a short time. I think it could be a real help to both of us if westudied together.”

Or, “Mary, several of us are getting together to study the Bible.We believe that if we do it as a group, we will all benefit. Why don’tyou join us?”

As you pray and wait on God, He will lead you to those He haschosen for your study.

Your Bible study group may be made up of Christians at differ-ent levels of spiritual maturity and possibly some who have not yetreceived Christ as Savior. A few may already be familiar with someof the content while for others it will be completely new.

The informal nature of the Bible study is ideal for helping stu-dents learn from each other as well as from the things you say. YourLeader’s Guide is carefully designed to help you guide the group’sdiscovery of scriptural principles and to show how these truths canbe applied to their lives.

How to Start a Bible Study Group 13

How to Lead aBible Study Group

Carl Sharsmith, an 81-year-old tour guidein California’s Yosemite Park, had a

deep love for nature. He and his “SmokeyBear” hat with the cracked leather bandhad spent fifty years helping tourists dis-cover the wonders of the spectacular park.

Today, his sunburned nose was dottedwith flakes of white skin and his eyes werewatery. He looked discouraged. He hadheard once again the same old question hehad heard repeatedly during his manyyears as a guide. A female tourist hadrushed up to him and exclaimed, “I’ve gotonly an hour to spend at Yosemite. Whatshould I do? Where should I go?”

The old naturalist replied with a sigh,“Ah, lady, only an hour.” He paused andlooked at the grandiose landscape allaround them, then said, “I suppose that if Ihad only an hour to spend at Yosemite, I’djust walk over there by the river and sitdown and cry.”1

Maybe that’s how you feel when youconsider the content of the Bible and lead-ing a Bible study. Perhaps you’re thinking,Leading a Bible study group scares me. Howwill I start the discussion? Will I have enoughmaterial? How can I help my group applythe biblical principles they are learning to

1 Adapted from “Yosemite—Forever?” NationalGeographic Magazine, National Geographic Soci-ety, Washington, D. C., January 1985, vol. 167,no. 1, p. 55.

!To be effective as a leader, youshould work at putting into prac-tice yourself the principles youwill be teaching.

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their lives? How can I pass on to others the joy and excitement I feel inmy relationship with God?

The Ten Basic Steps Toward Christian Maturity Leader’s Guidewas designed to help you present basic biblical principles in a logicalway and to give your students a broad survey of the Christian faith.They will learn how to tap into the supernatural power of God forthose life situations that require more than will power.

As a leader, you will help your students grow and mature inChrist. To be more effective, you should work at putting into prac-tice yourself the principles you will be teaching. It is not necessaryto master each concept, or to feel that your performance in eacharea is perfect. It is essential, however, that you grow in your rela-tionship with Christ, in your walk in the Spirit, in the study of God’sWord, and in sharing your faith with others.

Remember, learning is accomplished only when lives are changed.Focus on the applications of the lessons, not just on memorizing thepoints. If your students are having problems in any particular area,concentrate on that, but let them discover for themselves how Godworks in their lives rather than relying on you for their learning.

Guidelines for LeadingBegin preparing for your group by thoroughly reading the followingsection of your Leader’s Guide. When leading the sessions, followthese guidelines:# Create an informal atmosphere so you and your group can get to

know each other. Address each person by name. Introduce newmembers before the discussion begins. Contact visitors duringthe week following their visit and invite them to return for thenext session.

# Pray daily for each person in your group.# Keep your Bible open at all times. If your students are unfamiliar

with the Bible, offer to help them find Scripture verses and allowtime for them to locate the passages in their own Bibles. If astudent does not have a Bible, help him obtain one. The lessonmaterial uses the New International Version. Bring extra Biblesand pencils for students to use during the study time.

# Be yourself. Depend on the Holy Spirit to work through the per-son you are, not through an artificial “spiritual leader” image thatyou would like to project.

How to Lead a Bible Study Group 15

# Don’t be bound to your notes. Maintain eye contact with yourgroup.

# Do not leave your group once the discussion has started. If youneed materials or extra chairs, ask someone else to get them.

# A group leader is a discussion guide, not a lecturer. Rather thandominating the discussion, draw out comments from your stu-dents. Be prepared to suggest ideas, give background material,and ask questions to keep the conversation lively and relevant. Ifa student is saying something productive and to the point, refrainfrom inserting your own thoughts. When he finishes, guide, clar-ify, and summarize. Keep the discussion centered on the principlepassages of Scripture. Encourage silent members of the group toget involved in the discussion.

# When you ask a question, allow time for students to think beforecontinuing. Then listen to their answers rather than mentallyplanning what you are going to say next. Remember, you areteaching people, not lessons.

# Make sure everyone understands the major points in the lesson. # Get involved in the lives of your group members. Communicat-

ing the basic truths of the Christian life is more than passing oninformation; it is sharing life experiences. Help them put intopractice the truths you are teaching. The way you model andmentor through your personal example will have a far greaterimpact on your group than any of the words you say in a meeting.

# Recognize that each group has its own personality. Some groupsare active, others are more subdued. Adapt your leadership styleto fit your group. Your most important quality as a leader is to beopen to the Holy Spirit’s guidance as you help your studentsapply the lessons they are learning.

How to Encourage ParticipationThe chief goal of your group is to help members mature in Christ.Your objective in all Bible studies is to encourage spiritual maturitythat leads to evangelism—introducing non-Christians to Christ. Yourmain activity should be studying the Scriptures, and any discussionshould follow the study outline in the lesson plan.

To encourage participation, sit in a circle. Ideally, no groupshould have more than twelve people to avoid losing a feeling of


intimacy. When your group exceeds that number, you may want todivide into two Bible studies.

Here are some suggestions for encouraging members to partici-pate and for making the discussion time interesting and practical:# Ask the group to read the Bible passage to be discussed, with

each person reading one verse aloud. Invite one member tosummarize the passage in his own words before asking anyquestions about it.

# Break into teams of two or three to discuss certain parts of thelesson, then gather to share the answers with the entire group.This may be particularly helpful in areas that are more personal.

# When discussing the study questions, ask specific students toanswer, but avoid embarrassing anyone. When you ask a ques-tion of a member, be sure he answers it aptly. If he stumbles,help him along and make him feel that he did answer the ques-tion, at least in part. Compliment him on his response.

# If you sense confusion about a question you ask, restate it indifferent words or from another point of view.

# If possible, have several parallel passages planned for each studyScripture and question. If students don’t know how to answer aquestion, suggest that someone read one of the parallel passages.Ask the group, “What similarities do you see between this passageand the one we have been studying?” Then ask, “What light doesthis new passage throw upon the original question?”

# After one person has made a point, ask others if they agree.Invite them to state their reasons. Often a great deal can belearned by disagreeing over a passage. To keep the discussionfrom turning into an argument, remind everyone that you arestudying what the Bible says about a specific subject.

# Keep the discussion relevant and personal. Don’t let one persondominate the discussion. To redirect the discussion, restate thequestion or move on to the next question.

# If a person asks a question that is off the topic, tactfully explainthat it would be best not to take class time to discuss it. Offer tohelp answer the question after the study is over.

# Define all unusual words.# To stimulate discussion, ask such questions as, “What do you

think this passage means?” “What can this passage teach us


about God, Christ, ourselves, our responsibilities, our relation-ship with others?”

# Help the students apply the passage personally. Ask, “What sig-nificance does this have for us today?” “What does this mean toyou?” “How does this verse make you feel?” “How does (or will)it affect your life?”

# Keep the discussion moving. If you go through the material tooquickly, the study will be shallow; if you go too slowly, it willseem tedious and boring. Don’t spend too much time on any onesection, but be sure you cover each major point.

# At the end of the discussion, ask someone to summarize thepoints that have been made. It is usually wise for the leader toguide the final summary and application.

# Be punctual in beginning and ending the session.# Make the group time enjoyaable. Allow extra time after the study

for individual counseling, social interaction, and refreshments ifappropriate.

Techniques of Asking Good QuestionsAsking good questions can mean the difference between studentsreally thinking or giving rote answers. Formulate extra questionsthat apply to your group. Learning how to ask the right questionscan bring up problems that the students have been grappling withbut have been reluctant to mention. Also, good questions will facili-tate learning. Use the following suggestions as a guideline for devel-oping your leadership in this area:# Ask questions in an informal way, implying that the student is

able to answer.# Distribute questions so that all have an equal opportunity to

respond, but avoid using a purely mechanical method such asgoing alphabetically or in seating order.

# Strike a balance between letting volunteers answer and encourag-ing shy people to respond.

# Plan your questions so you can lead your group through thematerial in an organized way.

# If the question is not understood, restate it or ask for someone inthe group to explain what it means.


# When a person says he is not able to answer a question, assumethis is true. Don’t prod.

# Develop questions that apply to both the material and thegroup’s immediate situation.

# Avoid asking one-answer questions or questions with obviousanswers.

# If a question will be answered later in the lesson, don’t respondor agree with the answer at that time.

Objectives of the Study1. Be sure that each person knows how to become a

Christian. Although you may have new believers in yourgroup, you may also have worldly Christians (those who con-tinually allow self rather than the Holy Spirit to control theirlives) or non-Christians as well. In the Introductory Step,emphasize the difference between someone simply knowingabout the material studied and experiencing the principles inhis life.

2. Be sure that each believer knows he is a Christian.Many people are unsure of their relationship with God. At theend of the Introductory Step, each person in your class shouldbe able to clearly explain his personal commitment to Christand understand that his salvation is because of his trust inChrist and not in any works he may do (Ephesians 2:8,9).

3. Help each person to grow in his Christian life. Whilestudying these lessons, the members of your group will learnwho Jesus is, how to be sure of their salvation, how to experi-ence God’s love and forgiveness, how to be filled with theHoly Spirit and live a Spirit-filled life, and how to grow as aChristian.

4. Help each person understand his role in helping tofulfill the Great Commission. The main purpose of theBible study is to encourage Christian growth and to challengeChristians to reach others for Christ and, in turn, help thesenew believers reach still others for our Lord. As one of itschief goals, each group should plan to produce leaders forother groups .


How to Teach the LessonsTo teach this series of studies most effectively, read “How to UseThis Study” in the Handbook for Christian Maturity or in the individ-ual Ten Basic Steps booklets. Study each part of the lesson beforethe group session. There is no substitute for preparation. Studyingthe lesson thoroughly will enable you to lead the discussion withconfidence. If you take shortcuts in your preparation time, it will beobvious to your group.

Prepare yourself for each session by doing the following:# Pray for the individuals in the group. Keep a list of each person’s

special needs and refer to your list during your personal prayertime.

# Thank God for what He will teach all of you.# Read the objectives of the lesson.# Study the verses and answers to the questions in each lesson.

Since many of the answers are printed in your Leader’s Guide,you may be tempted to skip this step. However, familiarity withthe Scripture references and answers will help you during thegroup discussion.Most of the student material in the Handbook for Christian

Maturity and in the individual Ten Basic Steps Toward ChristianMaturity booklets is reproduced in the lesson for your convenience.Suggested answers appear after many of the questions. Use them asa guide for your discussion.

Each lesson includes the following main parts:Leader’s Objective: This goal will help you keep the lesson on

track. To help your students meet it, keep the goal in mind as youprepare the lesson and guide the discussion. A helpful technique isto jot the goal in your Leader’s Guide where you want to emphasize it.

As you prepare your own objectives, also read the objectivesappearing in the introduction of each lesson in the student’s books.They will help you guide the students in establishing and reachingthe desired goals. As you lead the study, encourage your students tomemorize the verses listed in their manuals and review them regu-larly with your group to help them retain what they have learned.The suggested Bible reading should be done on the student’s owntime rather than in class.


Opening Prayer: The intent of the prayer is to focus on thetruth being studied.

Discussion Starter: Your opening remarks and the resultingdiscussion should stimulate thinking but not necessarily supplyanswers. Guide the discussion by interjecting questions, but do notcorrect wrong answers at this time.

Lesson Development: This section gives directions for leadingthe Bible Study. The ideas will help you vary your presentation,involve each person, and help group members understand each prin-ciple studied. Adapt the teaching suggestions to your group size andpersonalities and to your leadership style.

When reading Scripture passages, use different methods. Forexample:# Read the passage aloud while the group follows along.# Have everyone read it silently.# Ask a different person to read each paragraph or each verse.# Ask one member to read while others follow along.# Divide into groups of two or three and have each read the verses.

As you come to the questions from the students’ books, discusseach of them. Encourage members to get their answers either fromthe Scripture or from their own thinking. Share the answers sug-gested in this Leader’s Guide only if necessary.

Conclusion and Application: This section will challenge yourgroup to apply what they have learned. Lead your students to makepersonal decisions. Many of the Life Application questions shouldbe answered privately, silently, without discussion. Your role is toguide your students’ thinking, then lead them into the prayer time.Plan frequent opportunities for group members to make definitecommitments to the Lord.

Closing Prayer: These prayers should be worded to aid you inleading the students to a commitment to the Lord. Either you or oneof the members may lead in prayer. Or give your students a momentto personally, silently communicate with God. Again, motivation andcommitment to action are the main goals of this section.


A Man Without EqualVideo Presentation

One of the most effective ways to intro-duce Jesus to others and to assist

believers to grow and mature in their Chris-tian faith is to show the thirty-minute video,A Man Without Equal. Showing this videoin advance to different individuals andgroups can help you begin your study group.Schedule several showings and challengethose who respond to the message in thevideo to join your Bible study. Here aresome suggested ways you can use the video:# Have a video party in your dorm room

or student lounge.# Plan a showing to your fraternity or

sorority.# Present the video to an athletic team.# Show the video during your Sunday

school class or an evening church service.# Use it during a retreat.# Invite friends and neighbors into your

home for a special showing.# Present the video during the lunch hour

or another appropriate time at your job.# Arrange showings to service men or

women in your military unit.# Use it as part of your prison ministry.# Show the video to your civic group.# Give a video to individuals whom you

are seeking to introduce to Christ, andarrange a follow-up appointment.

!Showing this video can help youbegin your Bible study.

22

Prepare for your video showing by making a list of those youplan to invite. Pray for each one, asking God to prepare their hearts.

Choose the place for the meeting. You will need one to twohours, depending on whether you serve refreshments. Your homewould be an excellent informal setting. For a larger group, considerrenting a room in an apartment complex, piblic library, or other facili-ty. Perhaps your employer has a meeting room you can reserve.

Then decide if you will provide refreshments. They should besimple and easy to serve so you can concentrate on the presentation.You could ask a Christian friend to be host and arrange for the food.

Begin inviting people two or three weeks before the presenta-tion. If appropriate, send invitations. Those you contact are morelikely to remember and respond to a written invitation than word-of-mouth or a telephone call. Mention in the invitation that you areshowing a video about Jesus called A Man Without Equal. List thedate, time, and place of the meeting. Include your phone number sopeople can let you know whether they will attend, ask questionsabout the meeting, or leave your number with a babysitter. If youare serving refreshments, mention that too.

The number of guests you invite will vary with your situation. Ifyou know everyone on your prospective guest list quite well, sendabout twice as many invitations as you want guests at the presenta-tion. If you do not know your potential guests, you may need to sendsix times as many invitations.

Two to three days before the meeting, call each person on yourlist. This will dramatically increase attendance, and allow you toanswer any concerns or questions they may have about the event.

Prepare your materials in advance. You will need the following:# A television set# A VCR# A Man Without Equal video# The discussion card that comes with the video

# Blank 3×5 cards# Pens or pencils# A Four Spiritual Laws booklet for each person attending

The day of the video showing, arrange the meeting room so every-one will have a good view of the TV screen. Put your materials on

A Man Without Equal Video Presentation 23

the most centrally located table or chair so you can guide the discus-sion after the presentation. Greet your guests warmly as they arrive.Put them at ease and create a friendly atmosphere. Ask your guestsabout their families, jobs, schools, or other personal interests. Dis-cuss current events from the newspaper, radio, or TV, or talk abouta good book that you have read. Avoid discussing your church orChristian subjects that might make a non-Christian feel uncomfortable.

When it is time to begin the meeting, ask your guests to beseated a seat. Thank your host and state the reason for the showing.Keep your comments to just a couple of minutes. Then explain thatyou will be handing out cards for each of them to write down theircomments after following the video.

Here is an example of what you could say:Before we see the video, I want to thank Brian for providing

refreshments. Both he and I are excited about what Jesus has beendoing in our lives. That is why we have asked all of you to see thisvideo. It shows who Jesus is and how He has changed the course ofhistory.

After we have seen the video, we’ll have a short discussion time.Then, I would like each of you to comment on the video and thisevening’s discussion. When we finish, we’ll have something to eat andspend time getting to know each other.

I’m going to start the video now. I’m sure you will find it challenging.

Dim the lights and start the video. At the conclusion of the video,discuss questions 1 through 5 from the “Questions for Reflectionand Discussion” that accompany the video. The following aresample responses to the questions:

1. What was Jesus’ greatest teaching? (Mark 16:16; John 3:16-18)That salvation is by faith, not works. According to Romans 3:23,all of us have sinned and do not measure up to God’s standards.Sin is going our way independent of God. Jesus died on the crossto pay the penalty for our sins. He came to reconcile us to God. Why was this teaching so unique? All other major religionsteach that we must work our way to God. What does this teaching mean in your life? It means that I canhave a relationship with God without first having to makemyself acceptable to Him.

2. Give several examples of how Jesus’ influence on people andnations has altered the course of history, your country, your


city, your neighborhood. Allow guests to discuss each of thesepoints freely.

3. What are people in your circle of influence saying about Je-sus? What are some of the doubts you have felt about Jesuseither in the past or in the present? Allow guests to give theiropinions on both of these questions. Be sensitive to those who arestill uncertain of what Jesus means to them.

4. What personal feelings about Jesus were confirmed as youwatched the video? Begin the discussion by giving your feelings.Then let others respond.

5. Jesus claimed to be the Son of God and the Savior of mankind.After viewing the video, who do you believe He is? Jesus is theSon of God and my Savior. How would you explain this to others? Let others give theirideas.

Next, pass out the 3×5 cards and pencils. Ask the viewers towrite their names, addresses, and telephone numbers on one side ofthe card. On the other side, ask them to:

1. Write brief answers to these questions:# Have you received Jesus as your Savior and Lord? When?# Are you interested in learning more about how Jesus can

change your life?Describe the Bible study that you will be starting. Explain thatyou will contact them later about the time and place for yourgroup meeting.

2. Write specific comments about the video and the discussion.If some in your group are Christians who are growing in their re-

lationship to Christ, challenge them with question 6 from “Questionsfor Reflection and Discussion.” If most are not believers or have justmade a decision to follow Christ, skip this question and invite allthose who have viewed the video to join your group.

Thank your guests for coming and explain that you will be avail-able for any questions during the refreshment time. Then dismissyour group with a prayer similar to this one:

Dear Jesus,Thank You for Your presence here in this meeting. Thank You for

dying on the cross and paying for each of our sins. Help each person

A Man Without Equal Video Presentation 25

make a decision to receive You into his or her life. Help us serve You.Amen.

Collect the cards and serve the refreshments. While others arechatting and eating, be available to talk to anyone who may want toreceive Christ as Savior or who has questions. If someone is unsureof how to receive Christ, go through the Four Spiritual Laws bookletwith him.

After your guests leave, look over the 3×5 cards and plan whenyou can contact each person. Prayerfully do so over the next fewdays, if at all possible. Encourage each one to come to your group.

Through your obedience and the power of the Holy Spirit, youcan help change your world for Christ through your study group. Inthe process, you will gain lifelong friendships and influence the livesof many people. And you will experience the joy and excitement thatChrist gives to those who earnestly desire to serve others in Hisname.


The Life & Teachings

of Jesus

Uniqueness Jesus

The

of

INTRODUCTION

L E S S O N 1

Who Is Jesus Christ?

Who Is Jesus Christ?Opening Prayer

Discussion Starter(In this opening session, introduceyourself, welcome everyone to thestudy, and be sure all the studentshave met each other. Then ask forbrief responses to these questions:)

◆? Who is Jesus Christ?

◆? Explain your answer.

Lesson Development(Ask the students to share insightsabout the paragraphs at the beginningof the lesson. When you get to thechart, you may use the following mate-rial to discuss the prophecies concern-ing Jesus:)

Following are some additionalfulfilled prophecies:

◆ Zechariah 11:12; Matthew 27:9,10—The exact amount paid for Jesus’betrayal.

◆ Isaiah 50:6; Matthew 26:67—Hewould be scourged and spit upon.

❖

Leader’s Objective: To presentJesus Christ as the Son of God, toacquaint group members with Hisclaims, and to enable them torecognize who He is

29

◆ Psalm 69:21; Matthew 27:34,48—He would be given gall and vinegar.

◆ Psalm 50:3–5; Ezekiel 21:27;Zechariah 14:1–7; Luke 1:31–33;Philippians 2:10,11 (all yet to be ful-filled)—He will come again in gloryto judge the nations.

Jesus Christ exists eternally (John8:56–58). To free men from condemna-tion for their sin, He took upon Him-self the form of man, becoming totallyhuman, yet totally divine (Philippians2:6,7).

◆ His humanity is illustrated by Hisbirth of a human mother, His natu-ral human growth and development(Luke 2:40), His emotions, Hisneed for sleep, His hunger, and Histhirst.

◆ His deity is pointed out by thename Immanuel (“God with us”)(Matthew 1:23), by the miracles Hedid (especially His resurrection),by His witness of Himself (John5:17–19; 10:30–33), and by the wit-ness of the New Testament writers.

Peter later states in Acts 4:12:Salvation is found in no one else,

for there is no other name underheaven given to men by which wemust be saved.

To prove His claims, Jesus preachedsermons that have never been equaled(Matthew 5—7) and performed mir-acles such as feeding 5,000 people withfive loaves of bread, walking on water,controlling the wind and other forcesof nature, healing the desperately sick,giving life to a man who had been dead

L E S S O N 1

Bible Study

Jesus’ Claims ConcerningWho He is 1. In your own words, write

the claims Christ madeconcerning Himself inthe following verses:Mark 14:61,62(I am the Christ.)

John 6:38; 8:42(God the Father sent me.)John 5:17,18(I do whatever God theFather does.)John 10:30(I and the Father are one.)What did those whoheard what Jesus saidthink He meant?John 14:7(We know God by knowingJesus.)

John 14:8,9(Anyone who has seenJesus has seen the Father.)

2. What did Jesus claim tod o i n t h e f o l l o wi ngverses?John 5:22 (Judge mankind.)

Matthew 9:6 (Forgive sins.)John 6:45–47 (Anyone who comes to Je-sus comes to the Fathertoo.)

3. What did Jesus predict inthe following verses?Mark 9:31 (His betrayal and death.)

30 Introduction: The Uniqueness of Jesus

four days, and finally rising from thedead Himself.

Following are some other conclu-sions about who Jesus is (note that atthe time these statements were made,none of these men were disciples—they were independent observers):

◆ Philip: “We have found the oneMoses wrote about in the Law, andabout whom the prophets alsowrote—Jesus of Nazareth, the sonof Joseph” (John 1:45).

◆ Nathaniel: “You are the Son ofGod; you are the King of Israel”(John 1:49).

◆ The centurion: “Surely he was theSon of God” (Matthew 27:54).

(Refer to the Trilemma diagramin the student’s book, and discuss italong with the questions.)

(Share your testimony about whoJesus is to you. Allow about two min-utes. In presenting your testimony,talk about how you have examined theevidence regarding Christ and howyou have invited Him into your life and

Luke 18:31–33 (He would be handedover, mocked, spit on,flogged, and killed.)John 14:1–3 (He would go to heaven toprepare a place for His fol-lowers, then come backagain.)

4. What characteristics ofJesus are attributes of anomnipotent God?John 2:24 (He knows all men.)Matthew 8:26,27 (He controlled nature.)John 11:43–45 (He raised the dead.)According to the abovepassages, Jesus claimedto be God. He made thekinds of claims that onlya person who presumedhe was God would make.Both His friends and Hisenemies called Him God,and He never attemptedto deny it. He even com-mended His followers forbelieving He was God.

The Importance of theTruth About His Identity1. Suppose Jesus Christ

were not God. If He knewHe was not God and thatnone of those claimswere true, what could weconclude about Him?(That He was a liar or animposter.)

2. Suppose Jesus were sin-cerely wrong. SupposeHe sincerely believed allthese fantastic claims,

LESSON 1 ◆ Who Is Jesus Christ? 31

have made Him your Lord and Master.If you have never asked Him to beyour Lord and Master, do so beforeclass.)

It is vital to consider Jesus’ claim tobe God, to be the author of a new wayof life. Wherever His message hasgone, new life, new hope, and purposefor living have resulted. If His claimswere false, a “lie” has accomplishedmore good than the “truth” ever has.

The Bible tells us “God so lovedthe world that he gave his one andonly Son, that whoever believes in himshall not perish but have eternal life”(John 3:16). In other words, the greatchasm between God and man cannotbe bridged by man’s effort but only byGod’s effort through His Son, JesusChrist.

Religion and philosophy have beendefined as man’s attempts to find God.

Christianity has been defined asGod’s only means of reaching man.

even though they werenot true. What could weconclude about Him?(He was crazy.)

3. Why is it important to in-vestigate His claims? (He claimed to be the onlyway to God. If that is true,His claims are essentialfor our future.)

What Others Said AboutWho He Was1. His followers:

John the Baptist (John1:29) (The Lamb of God whotakes away sin.)

Peter (Matthew 16:16)(The Son of the living God.)

How did Jesus respond towhat Peter said (verse17)? (God has revealed this tohim.)

Martha (John 11:27)(The Son of God.)Thomas (John 20:28) (My Lord and my God.)

How does Christ’s re-sponse to what Thomassaid (verse 29) apply toyou?(We are blessed becausewe believe even though wehaven’t seen Jesus.)

Paul (2 Corinthians 5:21;Titus 2:13) (He was made sin for us;He is God and Savior.)

2. His enemies:The Jews (John 10:33) (He blasphemed becauseHe claimed to be God.)

32 Introduction: The Uniqueness of Jesus

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