Overview
In 8 studies Douglas Connelly leads you through various metaphors for our responsibility to grow spiritually mature in Christ, including running a race, carrying a cross, constructing a building, fighting a battle, and more.
Introduction
Getting the Most Out of Following Jesus
This section introduces the topic, explains the structure followed in each study and offers tips for those approaching the study on their own as well as those participating in a group.
Session One
Carrying a Cross
What would be a modern-day example of how a Christian may be forced to "hate" his family or his own life in order to follow Jesus fully?
Luke 14:25-35
Session Two
Growing into Maturity
What is the "pure spiritual milk" that Peter urges us to crave? Where would you place yourself on the "craving scale" for God's truth if 10 represented "I can't go very long without it" and 1 represented "I can avoid if for weeks"?
1 Peter 1:22-2:3
Session Three
Keeping in Step with the Spirit
Why does Paul refer to the qualities in verses 22 and 23 as the "fruit" of the Spirit? What spiritual fruit is most obvious in your life—and which is least obvious?
Galatians 5:16-26
Session Four
Running the Race
What may be involved in the "strict training" of an athlete and how does that apply to the Christian race?
1 Corinthians 9:19-27
Session Five
Constructing a Building
What kind of "building" is Paul talking about in this passage? What does Paul mean when he talks about building with gold, silver or costly stones?
1 Corinthians 3:10-15
Session Six
Fighting the Battle
If the battle is a "spiritual" one, what does that tell you about the nature of the armor God provides? Which piece of armor do you need to "put on" more consistently in your life and why?
Ephesians 6:10-18
Session Seven
Becoming a Servant
Imagine what Jesus might say to you if he bent to wash your feet today. What words of affirmation and blessing might you hear? What words of evaluation or direction?
John 13:1-17
Session Eight
John 13:1-17
What indications can you glean from verses 14-17 about what it means "to be holy"? What effort do you make to live at peace with all?
Hebrews 12:14-29
Total number of pages—61 pages
Douglas Connelly (M.Div. and M.Th., Grace Theological Seminary) is senior pastor at Parkside Community Church in Sterling Heights, Michigan. He has written several books and Bible study guides, including the LifeGuide® Bible Studies Angels, Daniel, Elijah, Encountering Jesus, Forgiveness, Good & Evil, Heaven, Heroes of Faith, I Am, John, The Lord's Prayer, Meeting the Spirit/ and Miracles.
