This website is intended for persons who desire to know more about God and themselves.All 58 topical Bible studies are written by a born-again Christian; and are free to read, download, translate, and share.These lessons may change your life for eternity!Click on each lesson graphic to access the Bible study.
Please write.IamgreatlyblessedwhenIreceivecommentsand questions.Didyoulearnsomethingnew?Didatopictouchyourheartand soul? Do you need prayer? I will only respond if asked. My e-mail address is:UniqueBibleStudies@Outlook.ComALL FOR HIS GLORY!Harold D. Thomas
Thought-provoking questions are included with each Bible study. The questions are intended for the reader, Bible study group leader, or church pastor.In various parts of the world Christian groups have adopted some of the lessons as part of their training programs.
The Mystery of God’s HeartThisBiblestudyisintendedforthosewhoaresearchingforGod.Thepurposeof thelessonistolearnmoreaboutGodbyexploringthemysteryofHisheart,and to change our perception of who He is.God’s love is a mystery because man misinterprets His intentions.
Spiritual ServanthoodThroughoutHisministryJesusdemonstratedandtaughtspiritualtruthstoallwho listened.However,thereisonespiritualtruthHerevealeddirectlytoHis disciples:servanthood.ThislessonisintendedforChristianswhoareseekinga deeperwalkwithJesusbyexploringthespiritualdefinitionofwhatitmeanstobe a servant.
Heavenly CrownsEvenifwedoalltherightthings—buthavethewrongintent—whatweaccomplish willnotbespirituallyrecognizedandrewarded.However,whenwedoeventhe smallestofcharitabledeeds—withtherightintent—itwillberecognizedand rewarded by the only One who really matters.Thislessonrevealstheimportanceoftakingtimetoconsiderandevaluatethe intent of our heart in we do for Jesus.
Signs The Holy Spirit Is Transformaing Us From WithinSanctificationisspirituallydefinedasatransformationalprocessofbeingfreed fromsin,madeholy,beingsetapart(fromtheworld)forGod’sspecialuseand purpose.However,itisimpossibleforustodothisonourown,andrequires spiritualinterventionbytheHolySpirittotransformawillingheart.Assuch,this lesson is about signs we can look for that reveal the workings of the Holy Spirit.
The Beatitudes: Indicators and Blessings of Spiritual TransformationJesusChristprovideduswithindicatorsofspiritualtransformationand sanctification—includingtheassociatedblessings(referredtoasthe Beatitudes)—duringHisSermonontheMount.Thisstudyexplainsthespiritual meaningofeachBeatitude,andhoweachBeatitudeisanindicatorofour spiritualtransformationaswearechangedfromwithintoreflectourSaviorand Lord.
Who Killed Jesus Christ?SomesayJewskilledJesus.OthersthinkitwastheRomans.AfewthinkSatan manipulatedeventstokillJesus.Althoughthereareexcellentargumentsto supporteachbelief,theseperceptionscangreatlybenefitfromenhanced spiritual understanding.Theanswertothisquestionwilltouchyourheart,andthetruthwillenlightenyour soul.ForHispunishmentanddeathwasoneofthemostpainfulmeansof execution ever devised by man.
Spiritual Attributes God Designed Within UsGoddesignedhumanswithuniquespiritualattributes(innatequalities, characteristics,traits,etc.)thatareuniquetoallanimalspecies.Thislessonwill enhanceyourspiritualunderstandingoftheintentofGod’sdesign,Hisdesirefor each of us, and how these attributes influence who we are and what we do.
Satan’s LiesEverywar,everybattle,everyskirmish,everymurder,everyargument,every sin,andeverycausticwordspoken—beganasalieandculminatedinspiritual death(separationfromGod)and/orphysicaldeath—becausethisistheintentofSatan’slies.Forthosewhoareabletospirituallysee,whatweare witnessingintheworldtodayaretheconsequencesoflies—whichare propagatedbySatanandhisminions(fallenangelsanddemons).Thisstudy will enhance your spiritual awareness, and is a must read for all Christians.
Judgment vs. Spiritual DiscernmentThislessonexploresourpropensitytojudgeothersviaourflesh(includingthe negativeconsequences).Italsoprovidesameansforself-analysis;andexplains how we can seek Holy-Spirit directed discernment.
WorthyThereisasignificantdifferencebetweenwhathumansdefineasworthy,andthe spiritualdefinitionofworthy—becauseoneisbaseduponlies,andtheotheris basedupontruth.Byfullyexploringthedifferentfacetsoftheword“worthy,”we willgainauniqueinsightintothevarioussubliminalinfluencesofhuman-defined worthinessinourlives,haveagreaterunderstandingwhywesometimesdowhat we do—and most important, it will create a greater appreciation of our salvation.
Living WaterJesussaid,"HewhobelievesinMe,asthescripturehassaid,outofhisheart willflowriversoflivingwater."(John7:38)Thisvideoexplainsanddepictshow this spiritual transformation occurs within our heart and soul.
Treasures in HeavenThiswritingisintendedforChristianswhoareservingJesusChristasSaviorand Lord(inanycapacityandviaanymeans).Thepurposeofthiswritingistoreveal theintentionsofourheart,thereasonswhyweserve,andthoseaspectsofour daily walk that may be improved.
How to Lead a Bible Study ThislessonisintendedforthosewhohaveadesiretoleadaBiblestudy,andfor those who desire to improve their skills in leading Bible studies.Whenthefleshstepsaside—andanopenhumbleheartyieldstotheguidanceof theHolySpirit—iswhenaBibleteacherwillseethepowerofGod’swordin action.What’smore,thisexperienceisanindescribableblessingwhenweare empoweredtoexplainGod’sWordandhowitrelatestothehearer’sheart,walk, life, and eternity.
How to Share the Gospel. Thereisanindescribablefeelingandjoyontheinsidewhenweareusedbythe HolySpirittosharetheGospel—especiallywhenwewitnessthe“harvest”of someonewhoisboundbysindiscoverthepowerofGod’sgraceandlove,and are radically changed. ThislessonprovidesguidanceinhowtoSharetheGospelofJesusChrist,what todoandnotdo,describestheconceptofplantingseeds,howtorespondto objections, and much more.
21SignsoftheLastDaysisaneasy-to-readandeasy-to-understand consolidationoflastdaysignsprophesiedintheBible.Eachsignissupported by(1)biblicalscripture,(2)referencednon-biasedsources,and(3)analysisof ongoing volatile changes that are occurring globally.
The Covenant (The beginning of the end.)OneofthemostimportantindicatorsoftheendtimesisfoundinDaniel 9:27—becauseitdefinestheeventthatwillinitiatetheTribulationandthelast7 years.Assuch,everypersononearthshouldknowthisscriptureandactively watch for the fulfillment of this prophecy.
The Great Tribulation and the Sovereignty of IsraelWhenJesusreturnsanddestroysIsrael’senemiesiswhenIsraelwillrealize JesusistheMessiah,andwillworshipHimasLord.However,toopentheeyes, influencetheminds,andchangetheheartsoftheIsraelitestowardsJesusChrist willrequireaseriesofunprecedentedeventsthatwillculminateinthe destructionofIsrael’ssovereignty.Israel’sdemiseisprophesizedintheBible, and will occur during the second half of the Tribulation: The Great Tribulation.
Revelation’sBlessingsisanexhaustiveverse-by-versein-depthstudyofthe Book of Revelation.“Blessedishewhoreadsandthosewhohearthewordsofthisprophecy,and keep those things which are written in it; for the time is near.” Revelation 1:3
Angels, Fallen Angels & DemonsTheintentofthiswritingistoreplaceourconceptualimagesofangels,fallen angelsanddemonswithdefinitivescripture-basedinformationthatsupportsa more accurate, deeper and broader understanding of spiritual beings.
Goddesignedourmindswithanabilitytostoreandretrieveinformationand experiencesviaourmemory.Ourdependenceuponthisfunctionismuchmore importantthanwerealize.Simplystated,itisrequiredforhumanexistence…like breathing.Whenyouthinkaboutit,weutilizeourmemorycontinuouslymoment-by-moment.Inaddition,ourmemoryisafoundationalcomponentofourabilityto learn, and facilitates decision making.Memoriesprovidesascripture-basedanswertothefollowingquestion:Doour memories go with us when we die?
Is Jesus Christ is the Messiah?Eachpersonmustdecide:IsJesusChristtheSonofGod,theMessiah,the AnointedOne,andLord—ornot?Makingachoiceisnotanoption;itwasnotHis intent; and each person’s decision has eternal consequences.
3 Types of Death 1 Source of LifeThisBiblestudyprovidesscripturalevidencetherearethreetypesofdeath: spiritual,physicaland2nddeath.Thosewhoarebornagainwillonlyexperience the first two. Those who are not born again will experience all three.This study should be completed prior to reading “What is a Born-Again Christian.”
What is a Born-Again Christian?ThisBiblestudyexplainswhywecannotearnourwaytoHeaven;expands biblicalunderstandingofwhatitmeanstobebornagain;facilitatesself-evaluation; and enhances spiritual growth and maturity in Christ. Note:Youshouldread“3TypesofDeath1SourceofLife”beforereading“What isaBorn-AgainChristian.”“3TypesofDeath1SourceofLife”providesa “broaderfoundation”forunderstandingspiritualdeathandwhyweneedtobe born again.
Foundationiscomprisedofbiblically-basedfoundationalprinciplesforChristian living.Butmoreimportant,Foundationprovidesthegroundworkforaneternal lifeinHeaven.Itiswritteninamannerthatisengagingandappropriateforall persons, including those who do not know Jesus Christ.
“IAmtheWay,theTruthandtheLife.NoonecomestotheFatherexcept through Me.”John14:6isoneofthemostimportant,powerfulandthought-provoking declarationsJesusChristmade.Butwhat’smore,Hedrewaspiritualandeternal “lineinthesand”thatseparatedHimselffromallotherattemptsbymantoreach God.ThisBiblestudyexploresHisproclamationbecauseitdefinesHisspiritual role between each of us and our Holy God
Truths Declared by Jesus ChristAllofmankindshouldknowandunderstandthewordsspokenbyJesus Christ—becauseHisdeclarationswerecomprisedofspiritualtruthsthat changes lives.
8 Steps to Spiritual MaturityThis lesson is intended for those who: Would like to learn more about Jesus Christ. Are born again. Desire spiritual growth in Christ. Seek a greater understanding of themselves.“Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall be filled.” Matthew 5:6
Body,Soul,HeartandSpiritiswrittenforthosewhoarestrugglingwiththeirsinful flesh;forthosewhoaretiredofthedarkness,andbondage,andpain;andforthose who desire a behavioral transformation from within. Gainingvictoryoverthefleshisfacilitatedbyunderstandingthedistinctfunctionsof thebody,soul,heart,andspirit;bygaininginsightintotheclandestineworksofthe flesh; and by a resolute heart.
God’s Grace and the Hardened Heart Thislessonexplainsthefunctions,characteristics,andconsequencesoftwo opposingconditionsofourheartdescribedintheBible:oneisahardenedheart, theotherisabrokenandcontriteheart.Theintentistoilluminatetheimportance ofbeingawareofthespiritualconditionofyourheart;torecognizewhywe(and others)dowhatwedo;andtowitnessthetransformationalinfluenceofGod’s grace upon a hardened heart.“Keepyourheartwithalldiligence,foroutofitspringtheissuesoflife.”Proverbs 4:23
The Power of ForgivenessForgivenessismorepowerfulthanwerealize.However,forgivenesscanbe difficultbecausethescarsinourheartandsoulcanbedeepandcalloused.This writingexplainsthemultiplebenefitsofforgiveness—andthenumerous consequencesofholdingontounforgiveness.Whenforgivenessisbasedupona sincereheartandbolsteredbytheHolySpirit,itwillbreakthechainsthatbind you,asitmeltsawaytheinappropriatethoughts,undesirableemotionsand harmful physical responses.
FreeWillGodgaveeachofustherighttomakepersonaldecisionsthatdirectlyimpact ourlives;includingwhatwedo,whatwesay,whatweconsume,whatwebelieve,and soforth.Thisstudyprovidesinsightintohowwemakedecisions;revealsreasonsfor pastdecisionmistakes;discusseshowtomakedecisionsinthefuture;andidentifies the ultimate consequences for our decisions. A free downloadable Decision Assistance Tool is also provided.
6 Stages of TemptationThisisintendedforChristianmen—allmalesintheirearlyteenstotheirlate yearsinlifewhostruggleagainsttheflesh—especiallysexuallust.Itisalso appropriateforwomeninthatitwillhelpinunderstandingwhatmengothrough.Butwhat’smore,thiswritingisreal,rawandrevealingbecauseitexploresthe areawherethe“rubbermeetstheroad,”andwheremen’sfaithinteractswith inappropriate thoughts and behavior.
Emotions Negativeemotionsofanger,fear,anxiety,andsadnesswilloccurmoreoftenas wedigressintothelastdays.Thisstudywillassistinidentification,management and minimization of the affects of negative emotions.
Temptations, Trials and TribulationsTheBibledescribesthreedifferenttypesofchallengesinlifeaChristianmay experience:temptations,trialsandtribulations.AllChristiansexperiencetemptations andtrials,andagrowingpercentageofChristiansareexperiencingtribulationsin variouspartsoftheworld.Unfortunately,somedonotclearlyunderstandthe differencebetweenatemptation,trialandtribulation.Assuch,theobjectiveofthis Biblestudyistodefineeachfromabiblicalperspective,compareandcontrastthe differences, and provide spiritual insight into how to persevere.
It’s not about me. Self-centerednessisanundesirablecomponentofourhumannature.“Me”isa fundamentalsourceofhumanmotivation;asubliminalinfluencerofwhatwe think,doandsay;responsibleformanyoflife’schallenges;andasourcefor instability in the world today.ForthosewhoseekJesusChrist…thislessonexplainshowwecanbecomemore like Him…and less like “me.”
PrideOurprideisa“slipperyslope”inthatitprovidesadeceitfulfeelingof pleasurederivedfromperceivedwisdom,strengths(attributes),and/orwealth (possessions).Thisstudywillassistintherealization(andheart’s transformation)inthatonlyJesusChristisworthyofglorybecauseofwhatHe has done for us.
BackslidingThisinsightfullessonisforallborn-againChristianswhohavedecidedtowalk awayfromtheirfaithinJesusChrist;thosewhohaveinadvertentlylosttheirway andreturnedtotheirpreviouslifeinsin;andthosewhohaveaburdenfora backslidden Christian who needs help.
God’s 8 CovenantsItisprudenttonotplaceyourtrustinman’sword,andtocarefullyapproach promiseswithskepticismuntilprovenotherwise.However,fromaspiritual perspective,God’spromises(orcovenants)areabsoluteandtrustworthy.In addition,thefulfillmentofHiscovenantpromiseshasoccurred—andwill occur—asHehasdeclared.Thislessonisbaseduponthepastandpresent covenantsmadebyGodsothatwemayspirituallysee:(1)howHewillfulfillHis remainingpromisesthroughHisSon,JesusChrist;(2)intoHisheart,and(3)His desires for each of us.
RaptureAbiblicaleventwilloccurinthefuturethatwillhaveanunimaginableimpactupon earth—formanywilldisappearinaninstantoftime.Mostofthosewhoremainwill beinshock,manywillexperiencefear,andsomewillalsomournbecauseofwho they lost, and because of the grave challenges that are before them.TherearethreeabsolutesintheBibleregardingthiseventknownastherapture:it willoccurwhennooneexpects;itwilloccurinthetwinklingofaneye;andnoone knows when but God.Thisshortlessonisaboutthefourmostcommonbeliefsastowhenitwilloccur, andisrelevantforeverylivingpersonaswecontinuallymovetowards(andget closer to) the last days.
Satan’s PrisonThereisareasonandsourceforallofthechaosinourworld.Itiscausedbya delusionalandinfluentialangelicbeing—wholedaheavenlyinsurrectionto overthrowGodandtakeHisthrone—failed,andwascasttoearthasa punishmentforhiscrime.Assuch,manyarenotawarethatwearelivingwithin Satan’sprison—asheseekstodestroyasmanyaspossiblewhilehewaitsforhis final demise.
Unimaginable DarknessChristiansmustspirituallyprepareforunimaginabledarknessastheabilityofevil forcestoinfluenceandmanipulatedarkenedhumanmindsviadelusionallieswill increaseasweenterintothelastdays.Theglobalinfluenceofevilwillmagnify beyondlogicalcomprehensionasnewboundariesofinconceivablebehaviorare broken.Thatwhichseemsshockingtodaywillbecomecommonplaceas Satan—theabominationwhocausesdesolation—isgrantedincreasedpowerto deceive and destroy.
Spiritual WarfareWehavebeenpurchasedbythebloodoftheLambandareGod’sproperty.As such,Godhasprovideduswithpowerfulstrongholdstousewhenweengagein spiritualwarfare.TheobjectiveofthislessonisforChristianstorecognizeand use what God has given us to become victorious.
PrayerPrayer(orcommunicatingwithGod)isacriticalcomponentofspirituallife.However,manyChristiansarenotawareofthevariousaspectsofeffective prayer.This“foundational”lessondiscussesthewho,what,when,whereand why prayer is important for all believers. “Beanxiousfornothing,butineverythingbyprayerandsupplication,with thanksgiving,letyourrequestsbemadeknowntoGod;andthepeaceofGod, whichsurpassesallunderstanding,willguardyourheartsandmindsthrough Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:6-7
What is the Spiritual Status of Your Soul?Eachofushasasoulthatliveswithinourphysicalbodies.Oursouliswhereour mentalactivitiesoriginate.Oursoulincludesourspiritualheart.Oursoulis whereourmemoriesarestored.Oursouliswhereourfaithdwells.Oursoulis whereoursinfulnatureresides.Oursouliswhereourconscienceislocated.Our soulisthesourceofourwide-arrayofemotions.Oursoulencompassesour spirit.Oursoulisexpressedbyourpersonality.Andeachofthese components—whileseparate—aremysteriouslyintegratedasone.Buteven moreimportant…oursoulwillneverdieandwillliveforeternityineitherblissor torment.
Thepurposeofthislessonistofacilitateintrospection;learnmoreaboutourselves;identifyaspectsofoursoulthatare inalignmentwithGod’swill,anddetermineareaswhereoursoulcanimprovebybecominglesslikeourselvesand more like Jesus—via the lesson content and with the assistance of a self-analysis tool.
Overcoming Anxiety and Fear During the Last DaysAsweenterintothelastdays,wewillexperienceprogressivedegreesofanxiety andfearastheinstabilityandchaoswithintheworldincreases,asourfeelingsof security decreases, and as we grapple with future unknowns. Thislessondefinesthekeydifferencebetweenanxietyandfear,anddescribes different techniques to overcome our anxiety and fear.
“Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness.” Matthew 5:6Jesusdeclaredthosewhoseekrighteousnessareblessed—because(1)this desireisnotnormaltothecommonperson,and(2)itisdrivenbytheinfluenceof theHolySpirit.Thislessonrevealsthedynamicsthatoccurswhenwehunger andthirstforrighteousness,andexplainsthefoundationalrequirementfor attaining righteousness.
Signs and WondersToovercomeourskepticalnature,Godhasusedvarioussignsandwondersto providetangibleevidencethatconfirmsHisspiritualauthority,truthofwhatis spoken,andtomagnifyourbeliefinHim.However,Jesuswarnedthatduringthe lastdays,“Falsechristsandfalseprophetswillriseandshowgreatsignsand wonderstodeceive,ifpossible,eventheelect.”Matthew24:24Thesemiracles willfacilitatebelief,submission,andworshipofSatanandthebeast.Thislesson focusesuponsignsandwonders,andhowtoidentifyanddiscernthispowerful and unprecedented form of deception.
The BeastDuringthelastdays,adismalanddarkperiodoftime(knownasthe Tribulation) iswhentheworldwillbeinfluenced,dominated,anddestroyedbyaSatan-empoweredpersonknownastheBeast.Thislessonrevealswhathewilldo; explainswhyGodwouldallowtheBeasttoexist;describespossiblewayshe mayenterintopower;listslikelyaspectsofhispersona;andexaminesthedire andunprecedentedconsequencesofhissatanically-driveninfluenceuponthe earth—allwiththeintentofthoughtfullyconsideringwhatmayoccuraswe prepare for the inevitable.
Am I Good Enough To Get Into Heaven?Thislessonisintendedforthosewhothinkwecan“earn”ourwayintoheavenby goodbehavior.Forintruth,itisimpossibletoachievethestandardsGodsetfor ustoenterintoHeaven.However,thereisonepersonwhometHis requirements—whowasspotless,perfectandworthysacrifice—asanatonement forthosewhofallshortofGod’sexpectations.Butwhat’smore,it’snotaboutour works…but it’s about God’s grace and our faith in what He has done for us!
AswegrowinChrist,ourperceptionoftheworldarounduschangesasour awarenessoftheexistenceofspiritualdarknessisilluminated.Fromoutofthe obscureshadowswecanincreasinglyseetheinfluenceofSatan’sliesandthe multipleconsequencesofsin—asourempathy,andcompassion,andlovefor those who are lost is magnified—for this is the heart of Jesus.Ifyouhavebeenblessedbythiswebsite…pleaseshareitwithothers.Ihave createdshortvideosandpicturestohelpgenerateinterest.Clickthegraphicfor more information.
“You did not choose Me, but I CHOOSE YOU.”Godsearchesforheartstoredeem.ThosewhomHefindsHe(1)changesthe desiresoftheirheart,and(2)preparesthemtospendeternitywithHim.This lesson explains what happens to those whom God chooses.GiveGodglory,honor,andpraise—whosearchedourhearts;recognizedour potentialtoloveandserveHim;andchangedusfromdarknessintolight—forwe are chosen and blessed beyond measure.
Are You Missing a Piece of the Puzzle?Similartoself-sustaininganimalsandplants,Godcreatedhumanswithallofthe necessaryattributestofacilitatelifeandpopulationgrowthuponthisplanet.However,unlikeanimalsandplants,Hedesigneduswithamissingspiritual component:a“pieceofthepuzzle”thatonlyHecanplacewithinus.Thosewho realizesomethingismissingwithintheirheartandsoulareblessedbecauseit opens the door to eternal fulfillment.
If you do not have a Bible.BibleGatewayoffersdifferentversionsanddifferentlanguages.MypersonalpreferenceistheNewKingJames Version. https://www.biblegateway.com/MyfavoriteBibleteacherisChuckSmith.ChucklefthisphysicalbodytobewiththeLordin2013.Fortunatelyhis BibleteachingsfromGenesistoRevelation(word-by-word,verse-by-verse)wererecordedandmaybeheardby clicking here. Isuggeststartingwiththestudyof1John.IalsosuggestdisplayingthecorrespondingscripturefromBibleGateway on the screen as you listen to Chuck Smith teach. Here is the link to 1 John: click here
How to Study the BibleTheBibleisnotjustaphysicalbookwithacoverandprintedpages.ItisGod’s word;itisspiritual;itisaconduittoGod;anditisatransformativetoolusedby theHolySpirittoprepareChristiansforeternity.Assuch,itisimperativeforusto studyandinternalizescripture—fromGenesistoRevelation.Thislessonprovides an overview of how to study the Bible, and includes a listing of Bible study tools.
EMAIL Requests & ResponsesThislessonisacompilationofemailresponsestothosewhoaregoingthrough trials and tribulations, and those who had questions related to their spirituality.
The Great CommissionItisawonderfulexperiencetorestinGod’sgrace,HisforgivenessandHislove.ButthereismoretotheblessingsofChristianitythanbeingforgiven—forthese blessingsaremagnifiedbeyondcomprehensionwhenweareusedbyGodto touchthelivesofothers.Thislessonexplainsthenextstepbeyondsalvation.KnownastheGreatCommission,Jesusinstructedustomakedisciples,baptize and teach.
4 Spiritual Truths That Determine Where Your Soul Will Spend EternityTherearefourspiritualtruthswithintheBiblethatilluminatesourrelationshipwith God.Assuch,itisimportantforallpersonstounderstandeachofthesefour truths—becausehowwerespondtothemwilldefinewhereoursoulwillspend eternity.
Pleasewrite.IamgreatlyblessedwhenIreceive commentsandquestions.Did youlearnsomethingnew?Didatopictouchyourheart andsoul?Doyouneed prayer?Iwillonlyrespondif asked. My e-mail address is:
UniqueBibleStudies@Outlook.ComALL FOR HIS GLORY!Harold D. Thomas
This website is intended for persons who desire to know more about God and themselves.All 58 topical Bible studies are written by a born-again Christian; and are free to read, download, and share.These lessons may change your life for eternity!Click on each lesson graphic to read the Bible study.Thought-provoking questions are included with each Bible study. The questions are intended for the reader, Bible study group leader, or church pastor.In various parts of the world Christian groups haveadopted some lessons as part of their training programs.
If you do not have a Bible.BibleGatewayoffersdifferentversionsanddifferent languages.MypersonalpreferenceistheNewKing James Version. https://www.biblegateway.com/My favorite Bible teacher is Chuck Smith. Chuck left his physical body to be with the Lord in 2013. Fortunately his Bible teachings from Genesis to Revelation (word-by-word, verse-by-verse) were recorded and may be heard by clicking here. Isuggeststartingwiththestudyof1John.Ialso suggestdisplayingthecorrespondingscripturefrom BibleGatewayonthescreenasyoulistentoChuck Smith teach. Here is the link to 1 John: click here
Body,Soul,HeartandSpiritiswrittenforthosewhoare strugglingwiththeirsinfulflesh;forthose whoaretiredofthedarkness,and bondage,andpain;andforthose whodesireatransformationfrom within. Gainingvictoryoverthefleshis facilitatedbyunderstandingthe distinctfunctionsofthebody,soul,heart andspirit;bygaininginsightintotheclandestineworksof the flesh; and by a resolute heart.
Satan’s LiesEverywar,everybattle, everyskirmish,every murder,everyargument, everysin,andeverycaustic word spoken — began as a
lieandculminatedinspiritualdeath(separationfrom God)and/orphysicaldeath—becausethisistheintentof Satan’slies.Forthosewhoareabletospirituallysee, whatwearewitnessingintheworldtodayarethe consequencesoflies—whicharepropagatedbySatan and his minions (fallen angels and demons).
8 Steps to Spiritual MaturityThis lesson is for those who:•Wouldliketolearnmore about Jesus Christ.•Are born again.•Desire spiritual growth.•Seekagreaterunderstanding of themselves.
God’sGraceandtheHardened HeartThislessonexplainsthefunctions, characteristics,andconsequences oftwoopposingconditionsofour heartdescribedintheBible:oneis ahardenedheart,theotherisa broken and contrite heart.
Negativeemotionsofanger, fear,anxiety,andsadness willoccurmoreoftenaswe enterintothelastdays.This studyassistsinidentification andminimizationofthe affects of negative emotions.
Temptations,Trialsand TribulationsTheBibledescribesthree differenttypesofchallenges inlifeaChristianmay experience:temptations, trialsandtribulations.All Christiansexperience temptations and trials, and a
growingpercentageofChristiansareexperiencing tribulationsinvariouspartsoftheworld.ThisBiblestudy defineseachfromabiblicalperspective,comparesand contraststhedifferences,andprovidesspiritualinsight into how to persevere.
It’s not about me.Self-centerednessisanundesirable componentofourhumannature.“Me”isafundamentalsourceof humanmotivation;asubliminal influencerofwhatwethink,doand say;responsibleformanyoflife’s challenges;andasourcefor instability in the world today.
ForthosewhoseekJesusChrist…thislessonexplains how we can become more like Him…and less like “me.”
Thisstudywillassistintherealization(andheart’s transformation)inthatonlyJesusChristisworthyof glory because of what He has done for us.
TrustThislessonexplainsthe interdependenceand synergismbetweenfour uniquespiritualattributes thatseparateusfromall other living forms:
hope,belief,faith—andmostimportant—trust.Trustis thegreatestofthefourattributeswecangiveand receive.Butwhat’smore,trustisthebondthatenables deep and meaningful relationships.
SignsTheHolySpiritIs TransformingUsFrom WithinSanctificationisdefinedas a transformational process
ofbeingfreedfromsin,madeholy,beingsetapart(from theworld)forGod’sspecialuseandpurpose.However, itisimpossibleforustodothisonourown,andrequires spiritualinterventionbytheHolySpirittotransforma willingheart.Assuch,thislessonisaboutsignswecan look for that reveal the workings of the Holy Spirit.
The Beatitudes: Indicators and Blessings of Spiritual TransformationJesusgaveusindicatorsof spiritualtransformationand sanctification—includingthe blessings(Beatitudes)during His Sermon on the Mount.
Thisstudyexplainsthespiritualmeaningofeach Beatitude,andhoweachBeatitudeisanindicatorofour spiritualtransformationaswearechangedfromwithinto reflect our Savior and Lord.
The Mystery of God’s HeartThisBiblestudyisintended forthosewhoaresearching for God.
ThepurposeofthelessonistolearnmoreaboutGodby exploringthemysteryofHisheart,andtochangeour perception of who He is.God’sloveisamysterybecausemanmisinterpretsHis intentions.
Spiritual AttributesGoddesignedhumanswith uniquespiritualattributes.Thislessonwillenhance yourspiritualunderstanding oftheintentofGod’sdesign, Hisdesireforeachofus, andhowtheseattributes influencewhoweareand what we do.
ThislessonprovidesguidanceinhowtoSharethe GospelofJesusChrist,whattodoandnotdo,describes theconceptofplantingseeds,howtorespondto objections, and much more.
What is a Born-Again Christian?ThisBiblestudyexplainswhy wecannotearnourwayto Heaven,andexpands understandingofwhatit means to be born again.
Note:Youshouldread“3TypesofDeath1Sourceof Life”beforereading“WhatisaBorn-AgainChristian.”“3 TypesofDeath1SourceofLife”providesa“broader foundation”forunderstandingspiritualdeathandwhywe need to be born again.
Foundationiscomprisedof biblically-basedfoundational principlesforChristianliving, andprovidesthegroundwork foraneternallifeinHeaven.Itiswritteninamannerthatis appropriateforallpersons, includingthosewhodonot know Jesus Christ.
IAmtheWay,theTruth and the Life.Oneofthemostimportant, powerfulandthought-provokingdeclarations Jesus Christ made is when
Hesaid“Iamtheway,thetruth,andthelife.”Butwhat’s more,Hedrewaspiritualandeternal“lineinthesand” thatseparatedHimselffromallotherattemptsbymanto reachGodwhenHeadded,“NoonecomestotheFather except through Me.” John 14:6ThiswritingexploresHisproclamationbecauseitdefines His spiritual role between each of us and our Holy God
Truths Declared by Jesus ChristThedeclarationsmadeby Jesuswerecomprisedof spiritualtruthsthatchanges lives.
God’s 8 CovenantsThislessonisbasedupon thepastandpresent covenantsmadebyGodso thatwemayspirituallysee: (1)howHewillfulfillHis remainingpromisesthrough HisSon,JesusChrist;(2) intoHisheart,and(3)His desires for each of us.
RaptureAbiblicaleventwilloccurin thefuturethatwillhavean unimaginableimpactupon earth—becausemanywill disappearinaninstantof time. Thisshortlessonisaboutthe four most common beliefs as
towhenitwilloccur,andisrelevantforeveryliving personaswecontinuallymovetowards(andgetcloser to) the last days.
Satan’s PrisonThereisareasonand sourceforallofthechaosin ourworld.Itiscausedbya delusionalandinfluential angelicbeing—wholeda heavenlyinsurrectionto overthrowGodandtakeHis throne—failed,andwascast to earth as a punishment for
hiscrime.Assuch,manyarenotawarethatweareliving withinSatan’sprison—asheseekstodestroyasmanyas possible while he waits for his final demise.
Unimaginable DarknessChristiansmustspiritually prepareforunimaginable darknessastheabilityofevil forcestoinfluenceand manipulatedarkenedhuman mindsviadelusionallieswill increaseasweenterintothe lastdays.Theglobal influence of evil will magnify
beyondlogicalcomprehensionasnewboundariesof inconceivablebehaviorarebroken.Thatwhichseems shockingtodaywillbecomecommonplaceasSatan—the abominationwhocausesdesolation—isgranted increased power to deceive and destroy.
PrayerPrayer(orcommunicating withGod)isacritical componentofspirituallife.However,manyChristiansare notawareofthevarious aspectsofeffectiveprayer.This“foundational”lesson discussesthewho,what, when,whereandwhyprayer is important for all believers.
WhatistheSpiritualStatus of Your Soul?Eachofushasasoulthat liveswithinourphysical bodies.Thepurposeofthis lessonistofacilitate introspectionofoursoul;learn more about ourselves;
identifyaspectsofoursoulthatareinalignmentwith God’swill,anddetermineareaswhereoursoulcan improvebybecominglesslikeourselvesandmorelike Jesus—viathelessoncontentandwiththeassistanceof a self-analysis tool.
OvercomingAnxietyand Fear During the Last DaysAsweenterintothelast days,wewillexperience progressivedegreesof anxietyandfearasthe instability and chaos within
theworldincreases,asourfeelingsofsecurity decreases, and as we grapple with future unknowns. Thislessondefinesthekeydifferencebetweenanxiety andfear,anddescribesdifferenttechniquestoovercome our anxiety and fear.
“Blessedarethosewho hungerandthirstfor righteousness.” Jesusdeclaredthosewho seekrighteousnessare blessed—because(1)this desireisnotnormaltothe commonperson,and(2)itis driven by the influence of the
Signs and WondersToovercomeourskeptical nature,Godhasusedvarious signsandwonderstoprovide tangibleevidencethat confirmsHisspiritual authority,truthofwhatis spoken,andtomagnifyour beliefinHim.However, Jesus warned that during the
lastdays,“Falsechristsandfalseprophetswillriseand showgreatsignsandwonderstodeceive,ifpossible, eventheelect.”Matthew24:24Thesemiracleswill facilitatebelief,submission,andworshipofSatanand thebeast.Thislessonfocusesuponsignsandwonders, andhowtoidentifyanddiscernthispowerfuland unprecedented form of deception.
The BeastDuringthelastdays,a dismalanddarkperiodof time(knownasthe Tribulation)iswhenthe worldwillbeinfluenced, dominated,anddestroyed byaSatan-empowered person known as the Beast.
Thislessonrevealswhathewilldo;explainswhyGod wouldallowtheBeasttoexist;describespossibleways hemayenterintopower;listslikelyaspectsofhis persona;andexaminesthedireandunprecedented consequencesofhissatanically-driveninfluenceupon theearth—allwiththeintentofthoughtfullyconsidering what may occur as we prepare for the inevitable.
ourperceptionsfromtheearthlyrealmandintothe spiritualrealmasourunderstandinganddiscernmentis illuminated by His truths.
Wisdom
Am I Good Enough To Get Into Heaven?Thislessonisforthosewho thinkwecan“earn”ourway intoheavenbygood behavior.However,the Bibledeclaresit’snotabout ourworks…butit’sabout God’sgraceandourfaithin what He has done for us!
Fromoutoftheobscure shadowswecanincreasingly seetheinfluenceofSatan’s liesandthemultiple consequencesofsin—asour empathy,andcompassion, andloveforthosewhoare lostismagnified—forthisis the heart of Jesus.
“YoudidnotchooseMe, but I CHOOSE YOU.”Godsearchesforheartsto redeem.ThosewhomHe findsHe(1)changesthe desiresoftheirheart,and(2) preparesthemtospend eternitywithHim.Thislesson explainswhathappensto those whom God chooses.
GiveGodglory,honor,andpraise—whosearchedour hearts;recognizedourpotentialtoloveandserveHim; andchangedusfromdarknessintolight—forweare chosen and blessed beyond measure.
Are You Missing a Piece of the Puzzle?Similartoself-sustaining animalsandplants,God createdhumanswithallof thenecessaryattributesto facilitatelifeandpopulation growthuponthisplanet.However,unlikeanimalsand plants, He designed us with a
missingspiritualcomponent:a“pieceofthepuzzle”that onlyHecanplacewithinus.Thosewhorealize somethingismissingwithintheirheartandsoulare blessed because it opens the door to eternal fulfillment.
How to Study the BibleTheBibleisnotjusta physicalbookwithacover andprintedpages.ItisGod’s word;itisspiritual;itisa conduittoGod;anditisa transformativetoolusedby theHolySpirittoprepare Christians for eternity.
Assuch,itisimperativeforustostudyandinternalize scripture—fromGenesistoRevelation.Thislesson providesanoverviewofhowtostudytheBible,and includes a listing of Bible study tools.
EMAIL Requests & ResponsesThislessonisacompilation ofemailresponsestothose whoaregoingthroughtrials andtribulations,andthose whohadquestionsrelatedto their spirituality.
The Great CommissionOurblessingsaregreatly magnifiedwhenweareused byGodtotouchthelivesof others.Thislessonexplains thenextstepbeyond salvation.Knownasthe GreatCommission,Jesus instructedustomake disciples, baptize and teach.
4SpiritualTruthsThat DetermineWhereYour Soul Will Spend EternityTherearefourspiritual truthswithintheBiblethat illuminatesourrelationship withGod.Assuch,itis important for all persons to