It's a New Season by Carol Nash-Lester

Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a New Season

By Carol Nash Lester

It’s a New Season

Unless otherwise noted, all Scripture notations are from the King James Version of the Bible. Scripture notations marked AMP are taken from the AMPLIFIED BIBLE, Copyright © 1954, 1958, 1962, 1964, 1965, 1987 by The Lockman Foundation. All rights reserved. Used by permission. www.Lockman.org, Scripture notations marked NJKV are taken from The New King James Version. Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984 by the International Bible Society. Used by permission of Zondervan Publishing House. All rights reserved. Scripture notations marked NLT are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright © 1979, 1980, 1982, Thomas Nelson, Inc. Scripture notations marked MSG are taken from THE MESSAGE. Copyright © 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 2000, 2001, 2002. Used by permission of NavPress Publishing Group. Scripture quotations marked NIV are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®. Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984 by Biblica, Inc.™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide.

It’s a New Season Chapters: •

My Faith Story in a Nutshell

•

Get Your “God Time”

•

Get in Your Word…and Stay There

•

Prayer Changes Things

•

Going Down in the Water

•

Get Connected

Appendix •

Words of Affirmation from the Bible

•

Bethel Temple Doctrinal Statement

•

Reading plan on Gospel of St. John

•

Resources for growth

My Faith Journey in a Nutshell I confess, I’m a church baby. I come from a family of religious leaders and servants. Born and raised in the Wheeler Avenue Baptist Church of Houston, Texas, I was shaped to serve the Savior. Some of my fondest childhood memories surround worship and living in the church. Do remember the song that said “I was born with a drug problem; my mamma drug me to church every night and twice on Sunday?” That was me…..but I loved it. Ever since I can remember, I wanted to be right with God. I was first baptized at the age of seven and would have done it sooner, if I hadn’t been afraid of being submerged in water. I just wanted more of God. I never will forget the day I heard my pastor, Rev. Dr. William A. Lawson, explain in a message that God was not just our Father, but that He is Daddy and that we could talk to God just like we talked to Daddy. I sat straight up in my chair. You don’t understand. I’ve been a Daddy’s Girl since I was in the womb….always loved me some Willie Hiram Nash! I was my Daddy’s “road dog,” we could talk about anything, go anywhere; drive through the streets of Houston, talking about life. I had always revered God, but that day, I fell in love with Him. Before that day, I loved the things of God: worship, church, the people of God. That day, I fell in love with the God of things. I was in the 7th grade. In college, I had my period of trying to find my way through life. Still in church leading a brigade from the University of Denver to take 3 busses to church each week. Singing in the choir, doing my thing, but I found that I kept having to give my life back to God. Crying at the altar, you know what I mean. One day in the dorm, after serious reflection, I realized that while I knew the Word of God (Dr. Lawson is a teacher par excellence), and loved the God of the Word,

I didn’t have the power to keep my life in alignment with His Word. My life took a turn in my senior year of college, when, instead of revolving my life around church and the things of God, I submitted to God’s plan to allow (yes, allow) God to order my steps. What that meant, was that I slid over in the “car of my life” and surrendered the wheel to God. God ceased to be my “co-pilot;” He became my pilot. That meant a change in friendships, relationships, priority, church home and career; everything…… My world was truly rocked. A couple of years after that, a few of the young people from my home church in Denver attended the Pentecostal Explosion at Bishop Vanuel Little’s church in Oklahoma. Seeing people taking praise and worship to another level; hearing people’s lives changed by relevant ministry made me resolve that, if need be, I would move across the country to be in a ministry that could equip me to get out of me what God put into me, and that’s just what I did. In that move of leaving behind everything and everybody familiar to follow God’s plan for me, I realized that giving my life back to God; of having your time at the altar was not a sign of weakness; indeed, giving our life to God should be a daily discipline. Every time God gives us another day, our goal should be to commit it to God and to ask God to order our steps that day, for we are not our own; we’ve been bought with a price (1 Cor. 6:20), and that price was the blood of the Christ on Calvary’s cross. When I think of where I am today, the words of this song come to mind: “This is the air I breathe - Your holy presence living in me. This is my daily bread – Your very word spoken to me.” God is the source of my strength. He is the strength of my life…. for real. My prayer is that He is the same for you. Read on, to examine how God can be everything for you, to you, through you….

Get Your “God Time” With so many things going on in our world today, it is easy to lose perspective of those things which are most important. Every day, people, places, positions and possessions are competing for first place in our hearts and minds. If we’re not careful, we will live a life of stressing, rather than blessing. God’s Word gives us a remedy for handling pressing, competing priorities. Matthew 6:32-33 (in the New Living Translation) says to us, “Your heavenly Father already knows all your needs, and he will give you all you need from day to day if you live for him and make the Kingdom of God your primary concern.” What is the Kingdom of God? The word, kingdom, means the King’s domain; where the King lives; where His rule is the ruling order of the day. The Kingdom of God is not a geographical place, for God’s Word tells us that “In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth (Genesis 1:1).” There is no one, there is no place that doesn’t belong to God; however, we do know people and places where His rule is not acknowledged or obeyed, don’t we? The prime location for the Kingdom of God is within you. That means that it is God’s will for His people to acknowledge His Kingship in our lives by giving Him first priority in our attention, our attraction and our affections. One way to give God first place in our lives is by investing time with Him routinely. Some people refer to this is our “quiet time,” a time set aside to talk to and hear from God in prayer, in Bible Study, or in reflection. Some people prefer to “meet with” God in the morning, before their work and school obligations, so as to start the day out on a “good foot” and greet the world with clarity. We know from reading the Gospels (The books of Matthew, Mark, Luke and John), that Jesus rose early in the morning to pray.

Others may prefer to meet with God in the midday or even in the evening before they go to bed, while their house is quiet, thereby allowing them to reflect on what has transpired during the day and asking God to show them what they need to know. The Bible doesn’t command us to spend a specific hour of the day with God; in fact, we are told to “keep on praying (1 Thessalonians 5:17 NKJV).” This means that we spend time throughout our day with an awareness of the presence of God in our lives. The day is like a continuing conversation or “Instant Messages” throughout the day, offering prayer and praise to God for what you experience in your life and in the lives of those you know. The place for your quiet time may be in your kitchen, your bedroom or your car. It can be anywhere that you can have peace and quiet and not be interrupted by television or traffic running in your house or your mind. I have found that my private time with God is like medicine for me, in that God has used that time to show me things about myself, give me insight into situations I am in and insight into Who He is in my life. My quiet time with God is a lifeline that enables me to be the best I can be. In our times with God, we are able to grow, heal, learn and “move forward to further understanding” (Hebrews 6:3 NLT).

Get in the Word….. (and Stay There)

There are five commandments that God gives, regarding His Word: Seek, Read, Search, Learn, Study and Live: Seek ye out of the book of the LORD, and read… (Isa.34:16a)  Search the scriptures; for in them ye think ye have eternal life: and they are they which testify of me. (John 5:39) 

Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. (Mt. 11:29) 

Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth. (2 Tim. 2:15) 

And Jesus answered him, saying, It is written, That man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word of God. (Lk. 4:4) 

God said that His Word is profitable (meaning it pays) for: Doctrine (Teaching) – which tells us how we can get to know God and how to live for Him.  Rebuking - Gives us a mirror, enabling us to see ourselves and our need for the Savior. 

Correcting – Tells us how to keep aligned to the will



of God. Training in righteousness – Teaches us how to stay in right standing with God. 

In short, the bible is the roadmap for Christian living. In the Word of God, you can see where you’ve been, where you are and where you’re going. Isn’t God wonderful? In preparing for your study time: Schedule your Bible study time. Make that time is set aside specifically for studying the Word. This means that your routine (meaning systematic, a designed time or times in your week) study time should be different from your daily quiet time.  Keep a notebook to write down questions you want to ask God in your quiet time about what you’ve read. Use your notebook to make note of things that jump out at you in the text, things you want to revisit, things you will want to study later, questions you may have of your teacher or minister. 

If you’re a serious Bible student, invest in the proper Bible study tools. This would include: 



A good study bible (I’ll talk more about that later),



A bible study website, like www.crosswalk.com .

A bible dictionary and commentary, if you don’t “do” computers. 



Spend brief time in prayer before you study

More about Bible study tools: A study Bible. I like the Word in Life Study Bible, The John Maxwell Leadership Bible, the Transformation Bible, and several others. 1.

A good Bible translation. Choose one that is easy to understand, and yet faithful to the original text of the bible. 2.

There is a difference between a translation of the Bible and a bible paraphrase. Translations are a word-for-word translation in English of the scriptures in the original languages, including Hebrew and Greek. A paraphrase is a representation or interpretation of what a biblical scholar or group of scholars believes the original text says, or their contemporary interpretation of the KJV of the bible, rather than the original text. Both are good to have, but a translation could be more faithful to the original text, than a paraphrase. The Message is my favorite Bible paraphrase, and texts to “break the text down like a fraction;” expressing it in a way in which I can easily relate. Examples of good Bible translations include: NASB (New American Standard Bible) – is recognized as one of the most accurate translations faithful to the original languages •

AMP (Amplified Bible)– is a translation that includes different meanings of many words used in the text; seeks to provide the full implication of its usage •

NLT (New Living Translation) – is a dynamic approach to language similar to the NIV (New International Version). It is freer in its language than NIV, but is not a paraphrase •

TNIV (Today’s New International Version) – is one of the newest translations available. •

Here is an example of how one verse of the Bible (John 10:10) can vary, according to the translation you are using:

•

The thief cometh not, but for to steal, and to kill, and to destroy: I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly. (KJV) The thief does not come except to steal, and to kill, and to destroy. I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly. (NKJV) 

The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I came that they may have life, and have it abundantly. (NASB) 

•

The thief's purpose is to steal and kill and destroy. My purpose is to give life in all its fullness. (NLT)

•A thief is only there to steal and kill and destroy. I came so they can have real and eternal life, more and better life than they ever dreamed of. (MSG) Amazing, isn’t it? 3. Bible Commentaries: A scholarly collection of explanatory notes and interpretations on the text (a particular book or section). If you are not ready to be a serious bible scholar (yet), a good study bible will provide many of these same features: Detail the background / history / context of the Bible text you are studying.  Provide an introduction to each book of the Bible 

Explain grammar and syntax that can enlighten our understanding of the text. 

Explains the relationship of the book you are studying to the rest of the Bible 

There is no substitute for good bible study. If you take the time to learn Godâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Word, no one can ever confuse you about your relationship with God. You will have the tools to know God for yourself. Years ago, a friend of mine gave me a formula for daily bible study: Sunday:

Review the bible text that was preached that day.

Monday:

Do a study of a word or concept in the bible, like fasting, love, or prayer.

Tuesday:

Do a study on a bible character

Wednesday:

Review what was taught in Bible class

Thursday:

Read a particular book in the bible

Friday:

Prepare for Sunday School by reviewing the text of the day

Saturday:

Read a chapter from Proverbs (there is a chapter for every day of the month).

Let me know how your bible journey is progressing, by contacting me at pastornash@bethelat.org

Going Down in the Water At this point, letâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s examine the Word of God concerning the subject of the believer's baptism. Although there are many baptisms in the Bible, we are concerned here with water baptism as it relates to the born-again Christian. We will examine some important questions which arise concerning one of the first steps in the new Christian's walk with the Lord, believer's baptism. By "rightly dividing the word of truth" (II Tim. 2:15), we can find practical answers to these questions and understand God's purpose for believer's baptism.

I. WHAT IS BAPTISM? What then is believer's baptism? What is the purpose of it, since salvation is "by grace through faith" (Ephesians 2:8,9)? Water baptism is clearly a FIGURE or TYPE of something which has already taken place in the heart of the believer the moment he/she was saved (1 Pet. 3:21). Water baptism is the ordinance (ceremony) representing the identification of the Christian with the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. You are "crucified" (standing upright in water), you are "buried" (immersed into the water), and you are "resurrected into life" (raised out of the water). Water baptism then, is a picture of spiritual baptism as defined in Rom. 6:3-5 and 1 Corinthians 12:13. It is the outward testimony of the believer's inward faith. A sinner is saved the moment he places his faith in the Lord Jesus Christ. Baptism is a visible testimony to that faith. This is the SCRIPTURAL basis for water baptism. It PICTURES and PROCLAIMS four important things: 1. Scriptural baptism PICTURES and PROCLAIMS the believer's death, burial, and resurrection with Christ. "Buried with Him in baptism, wherein also ye are risen with Him, through the faith of the operation of God, who hath raised Him from the dead." Colossians 2:12 2. Scriptural baptism PICTURES and PROCLAIMS the death of our old life to sin, and our resurrection to walk in

newness of life. "As Christ was raised up from the dead, by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life." Romans 6:4 3. Scriptural baptism PICTURES and PROCLAIMS our faith in Jesus as Lord of our Lives. "Therefore let all the house of Israel know assuredly, that God hath made that same Jesus, whom ye have crucified, both Lord and Christ. Now when they heard this, they were pricked in their heart, and said unto Peter and to the rest of the apostles, Men and brethren, what shall we do? Then Peter said unto them, repent and be baptized in the name of Jesus, for the remission [removal] of our sins and you shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost.” Acts 2:36-38 4. Scriptural baptism PICTURES and PROCLAIMS our "putting on" of Christ. "For ye are all the children of God by faith in Christ Jesus. For as many of you as have been baptized into Christ have put on Christ.” Galatians 3:26,27 So then, water baptism is a picture of what took place when you placed your faith and trust in the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus Christ to save you from your sins (Romans 6:3-5). It does not atone for sin. Only the blood of Christ cleanses us from sin (I John 1:7; Colossians 1:14).

II. WHO SHOULD BE BAPTIZED? Next, let's consider WHO should be baptized. The Bible makes it clear that scriptural baptism is BELIEVER'S baptism. • • •

In Acts 2:41 we observe that they received the word, THEN they were baptized. In Acts 8:12:36-37 we find that they believed, THEN they were baptized. In Acts 10:43,44,47, it is plain to see that those who believed received the Holy Ghost, and THEN they were baptized. (Lost people do not receive the Holy Ghost).

When the Philippian jailer asked, "What must I do to be saved?" they said, "Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and thou shalt be saved...." (Acts 16:30-34). Paul did not tell him to be baptized to be saved. His baptism came AFTER his believing, which sets the scriptural standard.

Who then should be baptized? According to the established Bible pattern, only those who have trusted the Lord Jesus Christ as their personal Savior should be baptized. Water baptism then, is NOT salvation, but obedience to a command by God concerning discipleship.

III. WHEN AND WHERE SHOULD WE BE BAPTIZED? WHEN is the believer to be baptized? The Bible teaches that water baptism follows shortly after spiritual baptism (the new birth). Notice the example of Paul (Acts 9:18), Cornelius (Acts 10:4348), and the Philippian Jailer (Acts 16:33). You were placed into the body of Christ by spiritual baptism at the moment you were saved (Galatians 3:26-27). Now you follow the miracle of spiritual baptism with physical immersion into water, according to Acts 8:38; 10:47; 16:33. As to WHERE a believer is to be baptized, the obvious answer is in the presence of other believers, the local New Testament church. The Lord Jesus Christ gave the local church the ordinance (ceremony) of water baptism (Matthew 28:18-20). An ordinance is a ceremony appointed by Christ to be administered as a visible type of the sacrifice of Christ on Calvary.

IV. HOW SHOULD WE BE BAPTIZED? HOW is a believer to be baptized? Immersion in water is the only scriptural method of baptism. • • •

ln Matthew 3:13-16 and in Mark 1:9-10 we find that John the Baptist needed "much water" for baptism. In Acts 8:38-39 we are taught baptism by immersion. In Romans 6:3-6 we see that baptism must fulfill three types: death, burial and resurrection. It is also referred to as being "planted", and being raised. It is not difficult to see that the only mode of baptism which fulfills all these

pictures is the immersion of the believer in water. Furthermore, scriptural expressions such as "much water" (John 3:23), and "down both into the water" (Acts 8:38) are very conclusive evidence that water baptism is by immersion.

V. WHY SHOULD WE BE BAPTIZED? Spiritual baptism is the Christian's identification with Christ (Colossians 2:12). This is WHY we should submit to water baptism. Romans 6:3-5 teaches us that it is literally a picture of your death, burial and resurrection with Christ. It is your first act of obedience to God after salvation. WHY be baptized? Consider the following: 1. Scriptural baptism pleases the Lord. When Jesus was baptized, God the Father said, "This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased" (Matthew 3:17). When we follow the example of the Lord Jesus Christ, we certainly please the Father. 2. Scriptural baptism is a testimony to the world. Jesus said, "Whosoever therefore shall confess me before men, him will I confess also before my Father which is in heaven" (Matthew 10:32). Our baptism is a public testimony of our faith in the Lord Jesus: Christ, and the way in which we identify ourselves with Christ in His death, burial and resurrection.

IN CONCLUSION We understand and believe that we are not saved by baptism, but by faith in Jesus Christ and His blood..."cleanses us from all sin" (1 John 1:7). Baptism is the outward symbol of what has already taken place in the heart of the one who has trusted the Lord Jesus Christ for full salvation.

Prayer Changes Things A couple of years ago, I was fortunate to re-connect with a couple of my closest friends from childhood. After graduation from high school, we went to college in different parts of the country, went on to move to other states and eventually lost touch, as often happens. Through Facebook and (I believe) Divine Design, we discovered that we were going to be in the same city at the same time and decided to have a reunion. I was nervous about our re-connection, wondering how it would go, since we’re now “fully grown.” When they came to visit at Mamma’nem’s house, it took a little while to get the flow going, but before long, we were back together again, laughing, talking, enjoying each other’s company and reveling at the women we had become. Before long, we had gotten back to the place where we could “read” each other and feel what was on our sister’s heart, without saying a word. It was a powerful time of fellowship. After reflecting on that time together, and the subsequent times of fellowship we have had since then, I believe that it was just like prayer. Let me explain what I mean. I believe that prayer is an in intimate time of fellowship with The One who knows all about you and loves you unconditionally. The fellowship can be a monologue or a dialogue; it can be verbal or non-verbal. Sometimes prayer can be basking in the presence of The One you love and knowing that everything can be alright. Books abound with prayer strategies and technologies. I’m not knocking them; however, it is important to not be intimidated by them. Many times, I have heard people tell me that they have felt inferior to others, because they didn’t pray for hours at a time, or because their prayers didn’t sound flower-y or prolific like the next person’s prayer. There’s no need for intimidations or comparisons. Prayer is personal thing between you and a Personal God, who knows and loves the truth that you desire to spend uninterrupted

time with Him, as much as you are honored that He wants to feel your presence, too. Prayer is a love thing between the Essence of Love (God HimSelf) and the object of His love (you). Prayer is so important to our relationship with God, that Jesus gives us a pattern, a template, which is commonly called, The Lord’s Prayer. In actuality, it is really The Disciples’ Prayer, for it is the way that Jesus taught us to pray. Let’s take a look at Matthew 6:5 – 8 and vs. 9 – 13 in the New International Version of the Bible: 5 "And when you pray, do not be like the hypocrites, for they love to pray standing in the synagogues and on the street corners to be seen by men. I tell you the truth, they have received their reward in full. 6 But when you pray, go into your room, close the door and pray to your Father, who is unseen. Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you. 7 And when you pray, do not keep on babbling like pagans, for they think they will be heard because of their many words. 8 Do not be like them, for your Father knows what you need before you ask him. 9 "This, then, is how you should pray: " 'Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name, 10 your kingdom come, your will be done on earth as it is in heaven. 11 Give us today our daily bread. 12 Forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors. 13 And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from the evil one. ' What can we see from what Jesus has taught us about prayer, from this passage of scripture? • •

•

Don’t “show off” in prayer, trying to impress others. (v. 5) Know that even though you may have congregational or group prayer, that you need an intimate time with God. (v.6) Know that God will reward you openly when you pray privately (v.6)

•

Don’t try to impress God with long prayers. Say what’s on your heart, no matter how long or short your words. To God, heartfelt prayer is more powerful than prolific prayer that doesn’t come from the heart. (v.7)

•

Understand that God knows what you need before you ask Him. This lets us know that prayer is really for us, not so much for God. (v. 8). We need to hear from God; we need to talk to God. God desires to hear from and talk to us. There is a difference.

•

Know that, however close we feel to God, that God is always to be reverenced or respected. (v.9)

•

In our prayer time, we are to express our desire to know and do God’s will in our lives, as it is done in heaven (v. 10)

•

As we live in God and for God, we are to trust Him for our needs (v.11)

•

As children of God, we are forgiven in the same measure that we forgive others (v. 12). Prayer will help us forgive those who have wronged us.

•

In light of the fact that James 1:13 tells us that “God does not tempt anyone,” we are to ask God to deliver us from evil. The Message Bible says it like this, “Keep us safe from ourselves and the Devil. You're in charge! You can do anything you want! You're ablaze in beauty! Yes. Yes. Yes” (v. 13)

There is a “protocol” of prayer, however. Our time with God is not like sitting in Santa Claus’ lap, laying out what we want for Christmas, because we’ve been good all year. A few years ago, I have found a pattern that has served to be helpful and I share it with you, in hopes that it will bless you, as well….

According to this pattern, our prayers should begin with praise, which is expressing to God how you feel about who He is. This is different from Thanksgiving, which is expressing to God how you feel about what He has done. Intercession is where you pray for othersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; needs and concerns. Intercession can run the gamut from praying for government leaders, to people in foreign lands, to your own family and friends. Petition is where we talk to God about what and who is on our heart. You can fill in the blanks here. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s about being vulnerable in the presence of God, showing Him your innermost thoughts and desires.

Confession is where we lay everything on the line before God, refusing to “whitewash” our condition, or make ourselves look better than are. Confession is telling God what He already knows; the truth about who and where we are. You might ask why we would need to tell God anything, when He is everywhere and knows everything. The answer to that is simple; confession is not for God’s information, it is for our impartation. In other words, our confession is not about “tattling on ourselves.” God already knows what’s going on. Confession is for us, in that as we clear our slate with God, we receive power to become more like Him (1 John 1:9). Who would pass up an opportunity like that? Just like there is a protocol to prayer, there are things that can be helpful for us, as we “go before” God in prayer. •

•

Whenever it is possible, it will be helpful to take your bible with you, when you pray. This is because, there may be scripture that more clearly conveys what is on our hearts, meaning, that God’s Word sometimes better says what we want to say than our own words. There may be times when God will bring His Word to our minds, as an answer to prayer. It is helpful to have it close by to look up what you hear or what is impressed upon you, while you pray. Sometimes, we may have a designated place or space to pray. I discussed that earlier, in the “Get Your GodTime” section. It is possible that having a designated place of prayer will help settle your mind to pray, when you’re having an urgent need to talk to God. A notebook or journal is helpful. I find writing my prayers to be a great experience, for as I write, words begin to flow and prayer becomes easy. Another benefit is that I’m able to later look back and see where and God has answered my prayers. Sometimes in prayer, God may also bring some things to my mind that I want to write down, for later study. A link to “How to Keep a Spiritual Journal,” is included in the Appendix section of our book to help you get started, if you haven’t already.

While the title of this chapter is, Prayer Changes Things; in reality, prayer changes us. It is one way that God uses to show us His heart and to teach us how to become more like Him. At the end of the day, that’s why we’re here, isn’t?

Get Connected God’s Word tells us that once we’ve been born into the family of God, we need to connect with those of similar mind and faith. “Without wavering, let us hold tightly to the hope we say we have, for God can be trusted to keep his promise. Think of ways to encourage one another to outbursts of love and good deeds. And let us not neglect our meeting together, as some people do, but encourage and warn each other, especially now that the day of his coming back again is drawing near.” Hebrews 10:23-25 MSG Hezekiah Walker, in a song, says it like this, “You are important to me. I need you to survive.”* God’s Word calls Christians the Body of Christ. Bodies have members or parts, which are connected. They, with different functions, work in concert toward the effective movement and well-being of the entire body. Christ is the head of the Body, and the Spirit of God is like the central nervous system that runs throughout the Body, directing the symphony of movement and ensuring that all members move according to the dictates of the head. Let’s see what 1 Corinthians 12 has to say about membership: “12 The human body has many parts, but the many parts make up only one body. So it is with the body of Christ. 13 Some of us are Jews, some are Gentiles, some are slaves, and some are free. But we have all been baptized into Christ's body by one Spirit, and we have all received the same Spirit. 14 Yes, the body has many different parts, not just one part. 15 If the foot says, "I am not a part of the body because I am not a hand," that does not make it any less a part of the body. 16 And if the ear says, "I am not part of the body because I am only an ear and not an eye," would that make it any less a part of the body? 17 Suppose the whole body were an eye -- then how would you hear? Or if your whole body were just one big ear, how could you smell anything? 18 But God made our bodies with many parts and he has put each part just where he wants it. [emphasis mine] 19 What a strange thing a body would be if it had only one part! 20 Yes, there are many parts, but only one body. 21 The eye can never say to the hand, "I don't need you." The head can't say to the feet, "I don't need you."

25 This makes for harmony among the members, so that all the members care for each other equally. 26 If one part suffers, all the parts suffer with it, and if one part is honored, all the parts are glad. 27 Now all of you together are Christ's body, and each one of you is a separate and necessary part of it.” In short, God has designed us to be part of a community of faith so that, together, we might accurately reflect who He is in the world and effectively accomplish His will on earth, as it is in heaven. Being connected to a church, or faith family, is not like membership in another organization. Membership in a church family is a covenant. A covenant is a divinely established solemn agreement between the members of a church to act together in harmony with other believers under His designated structure of authority in accordance with the revealed guidelines of Scripture. This means that membership, or being connected to a church family, is not a good idea; it is a God idea. Let’s look at the benefits of church membership: • If it is the place where God has led you, you have the opportunity to receive consistent, Bible-based teaching, to equip you to live a life that pleases God. •

You have the opportunity to fellowship with those of like mind and faith. You have a community where you know and are known, where you can have confidence that others will pray with and for you.

•

You receive an opportunity to develop your spiritual gifting, under the leadership of those who are committed to your well-being, growth and development in God.

•

You receive an opportunity to make an impact in a faith community and the community at large.

•

You can receive leadership and direction from one whom God has chosen to help shape you into the direction He has called you to take.

When God directs you to a house of worship, it’s not necessarily because it’s close to your house; it is not because they have an awesome choir, or because the building meets your

specifications. It’s because God is using that church to shape you, and using you to shape the church. It’s a reciprocal relationship, where we are all able to give and receive in a godly atmosphere. In a church family, you will be both comforted and challenged. The comfort comes from those who pledge to stand beside you and pray you through difficult times in life. The challenge comes with being called to come out of our comfort zone and be stretched, so that we can be the best we can be for God. When you become connected to a church home, you can expect the following: • Worship – In every Christian church, there is prayer and praise at the center of its existence. Worship is essential to our growth as a child of God. It should be our heart’s desire and sincere effort to take advantage of every worship opportunity that is given, throughout the week and on Sunday. • Fellowship – It is difficult to build relationship, if the only time we see each other is during the worship service. Fellowship means that, not only do we pray together, but we can serve together and get an opportunity to build a solid relationship, with the love of God as its foundation, along with unconditional acceptance. • Scholarship – God’s Word tells us in 2 Timothy 3:16 (MSG) that “Every part of Scripture is God-breathed and useful one way or another - showing us truth, exposing our rebellion, correcting our mistakes, training us to live God's way.” It is only useful to you, if you know what it says and apply it to your life. Scholarship includes weekly Bible classes and Sunday morning learning opportunities. Here is where we can find God’s plan for our lives, so that we may govern ourselves accordingly. • Discipleship – A disciple is a follower of someone. Discipleship, when it comes to a church family, means, learning how to be more like God and less like our former selves through being involved in the life of the church and being taught God’s will by studying God’s

Word. The goal of church membership is that we would be “changed from the inside out.” (Romans 12:2 MSG) •

Stewardship – Stewardship refers to managing that which belongs to another owner. Psalms 24:1 tell us that, “The earth is the LORD's, and everything in it. The world and all its people belong to him. (NLT)” That means that we don’t even belong to ourselves, we’re simply taking care of that which belongs to God. Effective stewardship that we effectively manage and give to God, our time, our talent and our treasure. This means that first part of our time and energies are to be for God, both in and out of the church. The first parts of our talents belong to God and should be shared both in the marketplace and in the place of worship. It also means that the first part of our finance should be given in the place where we are equipped to serve God, which is the local church.

When we become connected to local church of God believers and become engaged in the life of the ministry through worship, fellowship, scholarship, discipleship and stewardship, we become strengthened and balanced; equipped to reflect the praise, power and provision of God. *From: http://www.elyrics.net/read/h/hezekiah-walkerlyrics/i-need-you-to-survive-lyrics.html

Appendix

Words of Affirmation from The Bible An affirmation is a statement or declaration that something is true. The Word of God is complete with scripture that declares what is true about God and what is true about you. Below, you will find many affirmations that are found in the Bible, regarding how to live a God-kind of life. Some of the scriptures have been turned in to prayers to God. Whenever you have a chance, commit them to memory, use them in your prayer time and watch your life turn around for the better, for your thoughts and ways will be informed by the thoughts and ways of God.

“Therefore I say to you, whatever things you ask when you pray, believe that you receive them, and you will have them [Mark 11:24 NKJV]” “Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.” [Philippians 4:8] “And whatever things you ask in prayer, believing, you will receive.” [Matthew 21:22 NKJV] “Jesus said to him, "If you can believe, all things are possible to him who believes.” [Mark 9:23 NKJV] “Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you:” [Matthew 7:7] “Judge not, that you be not judged. For with what judgment you judge, you will be judged; and with the measure you use, it will be measured back to you.” [Matthew 7:1-2 NKJV] I cast my cares on You Lord (right now!). [I Peter 5:7] I walk by faith, not by sight. [II Cor. 5:7]

I seek You first and You meet ALL my needs. [Matthew 6:33] I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me. [Philippians 4:13] In You, Lord I have peace, a future and a hope. [Jeremiah 1:4,5, 29:11; Zechariah 4:6b; Romans 8:31; I Corinthians 6:20; Philippians 1:6b] I think and speak positive. I focus on what is good. I refuse to fear or dwell on the negative. [Phil. 4:8; Eph. 3:20,21] I bring the tithe into the storehouse and You open the windows of Heaven to pour out such blessings that I cannot contain them and you rebuke the devourer for my sake. [Malachi 3:10,11] I am thankful and content today. [Psalm 136:1; Philippians 4:6,7,11] You give me success and favor with people. [Psalm 1:2,3; Proverbs 12:2] Your timing is perfect, Lord. [Psalm 37: 7] I do not fret, it only causes harm. [Ps. 37: 8] You help me to make wise decisions. [James 1:5] I am anxious for nothing, but in everything, by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving, I let my requests be known to You Lord; and the peace that surpasses all understanding guards my heart and mind through Christ Jesus. [Philippians 4:6,7] I seek You Lord and You hear me and deliver me from ALL my fears. [Ps. 34:4] I honor and revere You Lord and Your Angel encamps all around me [Ps. 34:7] and there is NO LACK of any good thing in my life! [Ps. 34: 9,10] I cry out to You Lord and You hear me and save me from ALL my troubles. [Ps. 34:17] I delight in You Lord and You give me the desires of my heart. [Ps. 37:5]

I commit my way to You and You bring my desires into reality and increase my righteousness and justice. [Ps. 37:6]

Bethel Temple doctrinal statement We believe in three dimensions of one God Matthew 28:19; I Timothy 3:16):

(I John 5:7;

We believe in one God, who is eternal in His existence and triune in His manifestation, being Father, Son and Holy Ghost. We believe that He is Sovereign and Absolute in His authority. We believe in the Father who is God Himself, Creator of the universe (Genesis 1:1; John 1:1). We believe that Jesus is God manifested in the flesh (I Tim.3:16). We believe He is the Son of God (Col. 2:9). He suffered, died and was buried. He rose from the dead for our total salvation (Luke 3:21-22; Philippians 2:5-11). We believe that Jesus is the Way, the Truth and the Life. No one comes to the Father, except through Him (John 3:36, John 3:31-32; John 14:6). We believe in the Holy Spirit (Holy Ghost), who is God indwelling, empowering and regenerating the believer. This Holy Spirit is called the Comforter, the Spirit of Truth (John 14:17; 14:26). We believe that the Bible is the true infallible Word of God, which cleanses our souls. It holds the words of eternal life and the keys of the Kingdom of God. The Bible shows us Godâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s principles and standards of living; and it is the food that sustains us in all circumstances (John 1:14; II Timothy 3:16-17; I John 2:5-6). We believe that we are to wash and renew our minds daily by the Word of God. We must learn His way and exchange our ways of thinking for His. We are to be conformed to the Kingdom of God by the molding and shaping of His Hands (Romans 12:1-2; Ephesians 4:23-29; Philippians 4:8 We believe in justification by faith. We believe that salvation is free and apart from any work of man, and is a result of a sovereign grace of God (Ephesians 2:8-9; Galatians 5:5;

Romans 5:1). We believe in worshipping the Lord in spirit, song, dance and with the raising of our hands. We believe that we are to praise and worship Him with our whole being (Psalms 150:1-6; John 4:24). We believe that Godly living and the pursuit of a holy life should be the goal of every believer (Hebrews 12:14; Philippians 2:1114) We believe that believers should be water baptized by immersion for the circumcision of our hearts. It is through baptism that we publicly identify with the death, burial and resurrection of Jesus Christ and therefore baptize in the name and nature of Jesus (Romans 5:3-6, Colossians 2:11-14, Acts 2:38). We believe that all Christians need to partake of the Communion elements, which represent the Lord Jesus’ body and blood. It is by participating in the Lord’s Supper that we proclaim His death until His return (John 6:53-58; I Corinthians 11:23-30). We believe in the baptism of the Holy Spirit, and that the evidence of the Holy Spirit’s indwelling is a changed life. (Ephesians 5:18-21; Galatians 5:22-25) We believe in the manifestations of the gifts of the Holy Spirit. He ministers to His people through tongues, interpretation of tongues, prophecy, words of knowledge and wisdom, discerning of spirits, faith, working of miracles and healing. Each person has a ministry from God that no one else can fill. We are to instruct, teach, exhort and admonish believers in the way of God (Mark 16:15-18; Acts 5:16; II Corinthians 12:1-11). We believe that it is God’s will to heal and deliver His people today as He did in the days of the first Apostles. It is by the stripes of Jesus that we are healed, delivered and made whole. We have authority over sickness, disease, demons, curses and every circumstance in life (Luke 10:19; II Corinthians 10:4-5; I Peter 2:24). At Bethel Apostolic Temple, we hold these truths and many others to be precious and dear. Our purpose, however, in providing a doctrinal statement is not for endless doctrinal disputes, but to be a place of ministry and healing for those in need. Christians have always had diversity in their theology and will continue to do so until the great return of the Master Teacher HimSelf. In the meantime, we want to provide healing and encouragement to the Body of Christ. What we believe may

divide us, but in Whom we believe should unite us. 11/1/2000

Reading the Gospel of St. John in 40 Days Follow this schedule from the next Bible Class day (Wednesday) for the next forty days and will have read the Gospel of John. On Sundays, you may want to reread text that tugged at you or focus on the passages used in worship. If you don’t own a bible, let us know and we’ll make sure you get one.

□ □ □ □ □

Wed. 1:1-28 Thurs. 1:29-51 Fri. 2:1-23 Sat. 3:1-21 Sun. Rest

□ □ □ □ □ □ □

Mon. 3:22-36 Tues. 4:1-42 Wed. 4:43-54 Thurs. 5:1-29 Fri. 5:30-47 Sat. 6:1-21 Sun. Rest

□ □ □ □ □ □ □

Mon. 6:22-59 Tues. 6:60-71 Wed. 7:1-31 Thurs. 7:32-52 Fri. 8:1-30 Sat. 8:31-59 Sun. Rest

□ □ □ □ □ □ □

Mon. 9:1-41 Tues. 10:1-21 Wed. 10:22-42 Thurs. 11:1-27 Fri. 11:28-57 Sat. 12:1-26 Sun. Rest

□ □ □ □ □ □ □

Mon. 12:27-50 Tues. 13:1-20 Wed. 13:21-38 Thurs. 14:1-14 Fri. 14:15-31 Sat. 15:1-17 Sun. Rest

□ □ □ □ □ □ □

Mon. 15:18-27 Tues. 16:1-15 Wed. 16:16-33 Thurs. 17:1-26 Fri. 18:1-24 Sat. 18:25-40 Sun. Rest

Mon. 19:1-27 Tues. 19:28-42 Wed. 20:1-18 Thurs. 20:19-30 Fri. 21:1-14 Sat. 21:15-25 □ Sunday—Celebrate! □ □ □ □ □ □

Resources for Growth If you are computer savvy, you are free to take advantage of the links below, which will give you great support in your spiritual journey. The tools they give will help strengthen you and help you to live the life that God calls us to live.

o www.BibleGateway.com (to read the bible online) o

http://www.purposedrivenlife.com/enUS/FreeTools/FreeResources.htm

http://www.purposedrivenlife.com/enUS/FreeTools/How+You+Can+Know+God+Perso nally.htm

http://www.howtodothings.com/religionspirituality/how-to-keep-a-spiritual-journal