InstaStudy

A Study on Vibrant Church Life

This outline explores the essential elements of a thriving church community, focusing on foundational beliefs, personal transformation, corporate worship, and our collective mission.

1. The Foundation of Our Faith

1.1 The One True God

Verses: Deuteronomy 6:4; Isaiah 43:10-11; Colossians 2:9
  • God is one, not divided, and there is no God beside Him.
  • Jesus Christ is the fullness of the Godhead bodily, the manifestation of the one God.
  • All divine titles and attributes belong to Him, revealing Him as Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.

1.2 The New Birth Experience

Verses: Acts 2:38; John 3:5; Acts 19:5-6
  • Repentance from sin is the necessary first step towards God.
  • Water baptism by immersion in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins.
  • Receiving the gift of the Holy Spirit, with the initial evidence of speaking in other tongues.

1.3 The Authority of Scripture

Verses: 2 Timothy 3:16-17; Psalm 119:105; James 1:22
  • The Bible is the inspired, infallible, and authoritative Word of God.
  • It serves as our ultimate guide for faith, doctrine, and daily living.
  • We are called to diligently study and obey its precepts.

2. Living a Transformed Life

2.1 Consecration and Holiness

Verses: 1 Peter 1:15-16; Romans 12:1-2; Hebrews 12:14
  • We are called to be set apart from the world and unto God.
  • Living a life pleasing to God in thought, word, and deed.
  • Striving for purity and righteousness as a reflection of His character.

2.2 Spiritual Growth and Discipline

Verses: 1 Thessalonians 5:17; Joshua 1:8; Matthew 6:16-18
  • Cultivating a consistent prayer life and communion with God.
  • Engaging in regular and diligent study of the Word of God.
  • Practicing fasting as a means of spiritual discipline and seeking God.

2.3 Overcoming Temptation

Verses: James 1:13-15; 1 Corinthians 10:13; Ephesians 6:11-13
  • Recognizing the source and nature of temptation.
  • Relying on the power of the Holy Spirit to provide strength and a way of escape.
  • Fleeing from evil and actively resisting the devil's schemes.

3. Worship and Fellowship in the Body

3.1 Expressive Worship

Verses: John 4:24; Psalm 150:3-6; Ephesians 5:19
  • Worshipping God in spirit and in truth, with sincerity and devotion.
  • Engaging in joyful expressions such as singing, clapping, and lifting hands.
  • Allowing the Holy Spirit to move freely and inspire worship in services.

3.2 The Gifts of the Spirit

Verses: 1 Corinthians 12:4-11; 1 Corinthians 14:12; Romans 12:6-8
  • The Holy Spirit empowers believers with various spiritual gifts for ministry.
  • These gifts are for the edification, encouragement, and strengthening of the church.
  • We should earnestly desire and exercise these gifts in an orderly manner.

3.3 Community and Mutual Support

Verses: John 13:34-35; Galatians 6:2; Hebrews 10:24-25
  • Loving one another as Christ has loved us, demonstrating genuine care.
  • Bearing one another's burdens and offering practical assistance.
  • Encouraging and building each other up in faith and spiritual journey.

3.4 The Lord's Supper

Verses: 1 Corinthians 11:23-26; Matthew 26:26-28
  • A sacred memorial of Jesus' sacrifice, broken body, and shed blood.
  • A time for introspection, self-examination, and renewed communion with Him.
  • Observed regularly by believers as a testament to His enduring covenant.

4. Our Mission and Purpose

4.1 Spreading the Gospel

Verses: Matthew 28:19-20; Acts 1:8; Mark 16:15
  • Fulfilling the Great Commission to go and make disciples of all nations.
  • Sharing our personal testimony and the message of salvation with others.
  • Being a faithful witness for Jesus Christ in our daily lives and communities.

4.2 Serving Others

Verses: Matthew 25:35-40; Galatians 5:13; 1 Peter 4:10
  • Ministering to the practical and spiritual needs of those around us.
  • Demonstrating compassion, mercy, and kindness to all people.
  • Using our God-given talents and resources for His glory and the good of others.

4.3 Anticipating His Return

Verses: 1 Thessalonians 4:16-17; Revelation 22:12; Matthew 24:42-44
  • Living in eager expectation of Jesus' glorious second coming.
  • Being prepared and watchful, maintaining a state of readiness.
  • Encouraging one another with the blessed hope of His imminent return.