Biblical

A true follower of the Lord Jesus abides in His Word. “So Jesus was saying to those Jews who had believed Him, ‘If you continue in My word, then you are truly disciples of Mine; and you will know the truth, and the truth will make you free.’” (John 8:31-32, NASB) Thus, definitely the word “Biblical” was not inserted as an afterthought in our mission statement. (“Glorify God by Multiplying BIBLICAL, Committed and Loving Followers of Jesus Christ.” Emphasis added) When we crafted that mission statement, we spent much thought and prayer on it. Note that we purposely want to multiply “biblical… followers.” By that we mean people obedient to the word of God. I like how John 8:31-32 goes in The Message: “If you stick with this, living out what I tell you, you are my disciples for sure. Then you will experience for yourselves the truth, and the truth will free you.” We are to teach the Bible for transformation, not just information. Bible study is the means not the end. We are to live out the Word so we could experience it. God gave us His Word to change our lives, not just to increase our knowledge. “All Scripture is Godbreathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the man of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.” (2 Timothy 3:16, 17, NIV) The Bible is practical truth. It is a “how to” book on being ready for good works. When we listen to a message, for example, we are to focus not only on how the speaker has clearly brought out the meaning of his text but much more on how we can apply what we have heard. I want “obey-it-all” Christians, not just “know-it-all” ones. So, when I prepare messages, I ask, “How will it look like in the lives of each one of us?”

That’s why we are launching a new curriculum for the adult and youth Sunday school. The new curriculum is geared towards forming small groups and training its shepherds. The Sunday school will not just be where people get extra knowledge about the Bible but they will also get equipped for small groups. Then in the small groups, the discussions will center on how we can apply what we learn from the Word. It’s our consolidated effort to structure our church for spiritual and numerical growth.

Brethren, let us become Biblical followers.

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