Wednesday, November 26, 2008

Doctrine:rooted part 2


Well in the mean time while I am waiting for my stove to come in I thought I would bring in some thoughts on true discipleship...


doc·trine
doc·trine [dóktrin]
(plural doc·trines)
n
What isa doctrine?
1. rule or principle: a rule or principle that forms the basis of a belief, theory, or policy
2. ideas taught as truth: a body of ideas, particularly in religion, taught to people as truthful or correct
As a Christian, why do you think that it is important to study the doctrine of our faith? (write down your answer)

Reasons why we should study doctrine
· Lack of theological conviction
· In days gone by, many believers were persecuted or burned at the stake because of their doctrinal convictions. People believed that one’s relationship with God was more important than all other considerations.
· Today many believers are so shallow in their convictions that as God’s sheep, they cant tell the difference between grass and Astroturf!
· Lack of Biblical Knowledge
· Today many Christians in America would rather be tolerant than have truth. Biblical and theological Accuracy are things that are left to scholars. This was not true in the past. Actually this is a new concept.
Biblical illiteracy is rampant
1. Half of Americans can’t name the first book of the Bible.
2. Only 1/3 know who delivered the Sermon on the Mount
3. 75% do not know what is celebrated at Easter.
4. 6 out of 10 can’t name half of the Ten Commandments
5. 12% of Christians think Noah’s Wife was Joan of Arc
6. 64% of Christians don’t read the Bible because they are too Busy
The Bible is the best-selling, least read and least understand book.
What does the word say????????????
Discussion
Colossians 2.6-8 (6) Therefore, as you received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk in him, (7) rooted and built up in him and established in the faith, just as you were taught, abounding in thanksgiving. (8) See to it that no one takes you captive by philosophy and empty deceit, according to human tradition, according to the elemental spirits of the world, and not according to Christ.

( The outline is given to help you understand the scripture. Use it if you want, or make up your own)
A Charge to Know the Truth
I. Walk in Christ (vs6)
a. Live (everything)
b. Life (found)
II. Root your Mind (vs7)
a. Word
b. Prayer
III. Protect your Life (vs8)
a. Knowing the truth
b. Knowing the lies



The following Questions are to help aply the scripture to your life.
Discussion Questions-
I. Walk in Christ (vs6)
What are ways we walk in Christ?
Is this something you think your generation does well?
II. Root your Mind (vs7)
How can we be rooted in the faith?
Why is this important?
III. Protect your Life (vs8)
How can Knowing the truth protect us?
Do you think that knowing the lies can help a Christian stay protected?
(Give examples of when the truth is needed and important, use personal examples if you want)


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