Subject: Growing in God's Grace and Knowledge

Scripture Reading: John 15: 1 – 27

Memory Verse: 2 Peter 3: 18

Objective: To stimulate sustained growth in believers.

Introduction: The Christian’s conversion does not end with repentance and baptism. God calls on us to change, grow, abide in Him and overcome to become more like Him throughout our lives. Through the power of the Holy Spirit, we can become Christ-like.

1. Outline Peter’s description of Christian growth and development. 1 Peter 2: 1 – 5

2. State the advice given by Jesus about total growth in Him? Matthew 6: 33

Note: It is not enough for Christianity to just be a compartment of our lives. It is an all-encompassing way of life that must take first priority in our lives. During the time of the apostles, examples of believers who chose the Christian way of life were vividly on display.

3. Do we become perfect soon after baptism and the receiving of the Holy Spirit? Romans 7: 19, 24 & 25

Note: Paul described the constant struggle that he faced years after his baptism. In Romans 7 it seem depressing, but Paul was being realistic. However, the situation isn't hopeless. He ended with the solution, Jesus Christ and the Holy Spirit. Paul expounded on the power of the Holy Ghost in Romans 8 and in Philippians 4: 13 he also wrote, "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me."

4. After accepting the Lord, what is expected of all believers and how are they guided through this process? Ephesians 4: 14 – 16; Psalm 119: 105; 1 John 2: 6

Note: Conversion is a process of learning and growing. Spiritual progress is not just something we do before baptism; it is a lifelong process. We must not let our love grow cold (see Matthew 24: 12).

5. What are some important benefits to be gained from studying the scriptures? 2 Timothy 3: 15 – 17

Note: We must always keep studying the Bible to understand how God wants us to think and act. We should especially take note of how Jesus Christ lived, so we can follow His steps until "He Christ is formed in us" (see Galatians 4: 19).

6. Name the tools available to us and how the church can help in the growth process? Galatians 5: 22 – 26; Hebrews 10: 24 – 25

Note: God gave us the Church as our support and training ground. He commands us to worship together on His Sabbath and other times during the week. In addition to biblical instruction, the Church provides a place for sweet fellowship, soul stirring services and an excellent way of learning how to interact with each other. We also grow by participating in the Church's mission to preach the good news of the Kingdom of God to the world.

7. Having progressive growth, how should we be engaged as we move ever closer to the return of Jesus Christ? Luke 21: 36; Matthew 24: 13, 14 & 45 – 47