Travis63

What is the role of the Word of God in molding disciples' lives? It provides the known Will of God, it provides the guideline to follow /live. The Word as received is REALLY the teacher, when received it nourish and nurture, it provides spiritual growth. Does it have a power of its own? He is ALL Power How does that seem to operate? Majestically, by way of the Holy Spirit What are the implications for disciplers of this powerful action of the Word? It is implied that the discipler is in agreement with the Word of God, as he/she is in agreement with the Word he/she will then be the sowerer or the waterer and God will provide the increase. If the discipler is not in agreement with The Word of God they will present a disorted view of the Lord and all that extends from the Lord. The latter is not good the discipler need to reassess, and repent, our actions, our acts have implications (spiritually, mentally, emotionally and physically). If we want to serve God, we are to do so that way that He wants us to. Anything outside of His Will is not His Will, it is a facet of our will, our spirit, and this could be adverse, a determent to potential disciples.

Why are "fatherly" roles so important to making disciples? They are important simply because they are needed. As someone is being developed there will always be opposition, obstacles and challenges, therefore encouraging, comforting and urging according to God's leading is needed so that the individual may earnestly live lives worthy of God, who calls you into His kingdom and glory. How effectively do you think women can adopt these traits? I think women can adopt these traits, not only can they but they have. There isn't a mention of Timothy's father, Pual speaks of his mother and grandmother. Regardless if his father was present or not the fact that the women are mentioned gives the impression that they were influential. The bottom line be it a woman or a man, either in the capacity of exhorting and encouraging and charging someone in Christ should adhere to the Holy Spirit's counsel.

Why are "motherly" nurturing qualities so important to growing disciples? Both fatherly and motherly qualities are extremely important, there are differences. Not that fatherly nurturing cannot not be compassionate, yet there is a difference, not that fatherly nurturing cannot be gentle yet there is a difference. Many versions render like a nursing mother, a nursing mother interest is not upon herself it is on the best interest of the child, she only looks to provide to the suckling. She cherishes the child it is of her and she wants the best for the child. How effectively can male disciplers adopt some of these traits? Paul express that he does, he's a male therefore a male can, and they can do so effectively. Paul willingly is submitting himself, as should the male discipler will have to if they are going to motherly nurture. The male must not have his own interest first, he must provide not only genuine concern but also tender concern. "Disciples are not best made through arms-length teaching, but by sharing life-to-life. That's how Jesus did it, and so did Paul." Dr. Ralph

Which of the character flaws mentioned in these verses is the greatest problem in the church? This is a difficult question to answer, I somewhat believe that if one of these heinous acts are present the others exist or they are lurking. They all are GREAT problems in the church house. All carry the connotation of works of the FLESH. Why do you say that? All of the actions mention focuses on "SELF", the actions facilitates the individuals will not God's and that's not only a GREAT problem but a sin especially doing so under the pretense of His Name, His Will. The Scriptures informs us that it is the Spirit that draws men, however overt works of the flesh has the capacity to turn people in directions contrary to God's Will. How can you prevent one of these character flaws from overtaking you? Adherence to the Holy Spirit, yielding to His leading, denying Self, not self denial, but denying Self through the grace of God. Repenting when I do not and when it is brought to my attention that I am slipping, remaining courageous in FAITH.

Why is personal courage such an important character trait for a disciple – and for a discipler? As persecution is constant it helps if you are courageous in faith. When what is thought would happen does not come to fruition, being courageous in faith helps. When opposition, and weapons are formed against a disciple being courageous in faith is helpful. How does lack of courage prevent evangelism? I would like to say lack of courage prevent effective evangelism as we perceive it should be. As we become weary we faint. I am reminded of a prophet who was used mightily on Mt. Carmel, as a weapon was formed against him he became weak, his vision became obscured, he lost sight of where his strength came from, yet that which was accomplished is remembered as well. We must remember that one may plant and never see the watering, one may water and never see the increase. He may use us and we may never see a miracle, yet miracles occurs. God simply wants us to reflect Him, we want to be like Him. Some want to evangelize just as Paul, Peter, Phillip or Stephen did, as if the ministry of others didn't exist. Each was used differently by God accordingly, He (God) will do what He wants thorough us as He desires. Believing in, of, and by Him is of utmost importance so that when He tell us to speak or act on His behalf we will have the courage to do so. We may evangelize without saying a word, we may do so with voice, through both when God is in it His purpose will manifest. How does lack of courage prevent a congregation from being healthy? Over time as the wrong view is being projected it can influence others. This influence has the propensity to allow something other than faith to be the catalyst. Without fait it is impossible to please God, without faith will The Holy Spirit endue with power. As the 120 moved from the upper room they walked in the strength given by God, they were healthy. A congregation without His Spirit, without adherence to His Spirit will be unhealthy. Whereby the message propagated will not align to the Spirit but unto our spirit. What is God calling you to do that will require courage on your part? Follow Him and not my flesh, to worship Him and not do as I want to do. Not becoming too B.U.S.Y. with service that I miss His whisper. Church house operations is fine, fasting and prayer is good, living, moving and having my being in Him as His light and salt is witnessing. It is possible to be so active in the service of Christ as to forget to love Him. P. T. Forsyth Loving Him is more than an activity.

What does verse 10 teach us about the Christian faith? It reemphasizes the foundational principle of the Christ and His purpose. The Christian faith is based upon Christ, the apostle also wrote 1 Corinthians 15:12-19 Which of these elements are most important? All are important, they all intertwine John 3:16 those that are his must believe (through belief they will wait); His resurrection 1 Corinthians 15:17-28 afford those whom are His to have the opportunity to enter in. I believe that all are intrinsically important, nevertheless through ignorance I'll say that belief that He is, that He was, and that He is to come is most important. Which are less important? I really cannot say, I believe each word of verse is important, so important that I cannot place a lesser value even thought I believe that believe is of the essence. Perhaps many believe that the wrath to come is less important. many believe that all will be spared because of grace, mercy and love. Which are underemphasized by the church in our day? Maybe the wrath to come. I agree with Dr. Ralph's assessment, " Our age has rejected the idea of accountability to God -- and even of the reality of sin"

How important is imitation in the formation of a new Christian's spiritual life? Extremely, Jesus is the best example that any of us can / should follow. After that new Christian, intermediate Christian, seasoned Christians should imitate examples that imitate Christ. The problem creeps in when doctrine(s) according to man is placed before the Word. A new Christians, a babe in Christ will naturally be inclined to imitate what they see, therefore it is important that those who are in the Walk present Christ. As mistakes come, if sin should beset we should do as the Word says, repent, and continue in the Walk. What kinds of ministry are most conducive to imitation? Ministries that imitate Christ's ministry, ministries that make God's priorities their priorities. When we act, think, and speak like God, we are manifesting His will in our presence. Why is the character of the mentor or leader so important to the health of the church? If the leader is perverted there lies the propensity for perversion. If the leader cannot see, there lies the propensity to lead blindly. If the mentor is of poor character their behavior can be infectious. More importantly when the mentor or leader is unhealthy there lies the propensity for people to miss God's voice, to not hear God's voice, to be out of the Will of God. How well do people grow in Christ who aren't part of a Christian community? Not well, varying dogma's foster, most are perverted and do not reflect Christ, In what way is your character important to your family and spiritual children? Extremely important, eyes are always upon me, 1 Peter 2:9, those close will look closer and will glean what they see that I view important. Often more is caught than what is taught, therefore my actions should be as close as possible to what I say. I fully realize that I do not draw anyone to Christ, it is the Spirit Himself that does. Nevertheless I understand the charge that I am to be light and salt. We I falter I make an effort to also show repentance and restoration through Christ.

Why is the Holy Spirit's working so necessary to effective ministry? The Holy Spirit is who draws, who strengthen, who educate / edifies, the entity that can heal and restore. What happens when the main power behind our ministry is will-power? The person would be placing their will before God's Will. Some seek to be seen of men more than striving to be obedient to God. The results that could be, would not come to fruition as pleasing unto God. As Self leads the Spirit doesn't, our ministry would then be just another religious belief. And those that continue in the ministry may fall into worshipping man instead of the True and Living God. It causes one's focus to change (mentally, emotionally and spiritually) It provide an invitation / foothold for Satan to enter. What is the role of miracles in Paul's evangelism? The same role as it were with Christ. Miracles ordained by God are a testimony unto Him. The miracles performed by Jesus identified that He was the Messiah who had been prophesied. The miracles by Paul attested to his following Christ, his being in the WIll of God and God appointing such a witness for such a time that was needed. What would happen if we saw miracles in evangelism in our day? Some people would be amazed, some would discount them, some would attempt to disprove them, some would accept them, some would attempt to duplicate them. What is hindering this? Being out of God's WIll, not being sensitive to His voice. FLESH I believe that miracles occurred after the New Testament, that they still occur daily. However every child of God needs to walk circumspectly, we are not to follow after miracles, they are to follow after the child of God. Satan too can perform wonders and miracles, those under his influence also have the ability (Revelations 13). Acts 13 and 18 provides two examples where men wanted to perform miracles outside of God's Will. Mark 13:22 - For false Christs and false prophets shall rise, and shall shew signs and wonders, to seduce, if it were possible, even the elect. Matthew 24:24, 2nd Thessalonians 2:9.

Why do you think there was so much strong opposition to Paul's ministry in Thessalonica? The opposition from the Jews was due to Paul's testimony of Jesus The Christ. It wasn't simply that Jesus was his lord, It was that Jesus is Lord. "This Jesus whom I am proclaiming to you is the Christ." Paul explained the prophecies and proved that the Messiah must suffer and rise from the dead. Paul would take the Scriptures and open up the truth to those in the synagogue concerning the person and work of Jesus Christ. The Jews (religious leaders) in ignorance did not believe likewise and considered those who promoted such as enemies and blasphemers. As the seed fell on good soil it had the potential to cause some who assembled in the synagogue to disassociate themselves. Paul was promoting Christ, the Gospel of Christ he was not promoting Judaism therefore he was a threat. Why do you think Paul keeps preaching the gospel, even though there is often a violent reaction against him? He believed, he had faith in, of, and through Christ. He received the strength that was given him even when he couldn't stand. He believed! Does a violent reaction to our ministry necessarily mean we should stop? No! Additionally we mustn't misinterpret when He lead with our own agenda. We mustn't attempt to use the Gospel at our own accord whereby we misrepresent the message of the Gospel. I could present countless example were passion was misplaced however there would not be room to write. Recently after a horrific and heinous act was carried out in Connecticut a group of said Christian traveled to the area to promote their own agenda. I cannot say they shed too much light or if they were too salty, in my opinion they were out of order, who was edified, who was lift up. Instead of people being drawn near, there were more onlooker filled with ill.

Why do you think David prepares for the temple, even after the Lord refuses to let him build it? It was what he desired, the motivating factors could have been many, nonetheless the desire remained How did David cooperate with the Holy Spirit in designing the temple and its worship? He is careful not to over step the counsel of the Lord, however with the talents, gifts, wisdom, and available resources afforded to David he positions in regards and with honor towards the Lord. How did David's example in giving motivate others to give? David put God before man, he placed the cause for devotion above his agenda. David's speech, the way he spoke of his doings influenced / persuaded the people, his speech touched their heart, 1 Chronicles 29:6, 9. David focus on doing what he could , he did not focus on what he could not do. He didn't give all that he had but he gave with "all his might," he gave from his personal treasury in addition to that of the state. David also "set my affection (his compassion, his love) to the house of my God." Basically when the people saw not only the projected cause but also the motive behind the cause along with the example David provided they also saw the value of the project. So they were inspired to give!

Why does David choose the punishment of a plague on the people rather than his other choices? "So Gad came to David, and told him, and said unto him, Shall seven years of famine come unto thee in thy land? or wilt thou flee three months before thine enemies, while they pursue thee? or that there be three days' pestilence in thy land? now advise, and see what answer I shall return to him that sent me" Truthfully I don't know, however seven or three years of famine would be extremely hard on everyone. Due to Saul's sin the people had already endured three years of famine (2 Samuel 21:1) I imagine David didn't want this on his conscious for that period of time. he believes strongly in the mercy of his God. Perhaps David being a man of war calculated while being pursued by the enemy there not only would the people face combat but there would be turmoil, hurtful harms caused by war and being displaced, perhaps even the loss of lives. He knew men of war could be vicious and absent of grace and mercy. With the latter choice, perhaps not the easiest choice, however as the lesson conveys, David knew that the Lord was merciful he hoped that the Lord would extend mercy and protection during the three days. David insists on paying Araunah for the threshing floor and the sacrifices. What principle drives this decision? In the likeness of a Guilt offering (‘asham, trespass in KJV). This is hard to distinguish from the sin offering (Leviticus 4-5). Leviticus 5:6-7, the guilt offering is called the sin offering. or a burnt offering, David had sinned and there was punishment because of his sin. Although God is merciful there is a cost. How should this principle guide our own giving to God? I don't see this passage relating to a free will offering, I don't know if that was the intent of the question, nor do I intend to infer that it does. David mentions burnt offering in the verse. Although salvation to all who come to Christ is by faith through grace there was a cost. Although there is no way we can earn salvation it is not free. There is a cost when we chose to believe that He is and allow Him to be Lord, there is a cost when we chose not to place Self first, there is a cost with sacrifice. Galatians 5:24 And they that are Christ's have crucified the flesh with the affections and lusts. Galatians 5:13 For, brethren, ye have been called unto liberty; only use not liberty for an occasion to the flesh, but by love serve one another. We should be repentant and not take His blood in vain. 2 Corinthians 6:1 you also that ye receive not the grace of God in vain. Galatians 2:21 Christ did not die in vain.

How does David describe himself in verse 1? "David the son of Jesse said, and the man who was raised up on high, the anointed of the God of Jacob, and the sweet psalmist of Israel" David describes himself as Jesse's son who was elevated / appointed / chosen, anointed and someone who worshipped, praised and lift God up before the people of Israel. In what sense was David a prophet? David's reign was not perfect, his life was not perfect yet he is a prophet in the sense that he spoke the Word of God and that he wrote the Word of God as God inspired him. He is not a prophet in the sense of a seer. Although there were times he spoke / wrote prophesied of things concerning Christ, perhaps without having complete understanding, yet being obedient to the Spirit's leading. What is the main message of verses 3-7? Although things happened, sin / flesh / carnality at times prevailed in within David's lineage God is Lord. The man that ruleth over men must be just ruling in the fear / reverence of God because God is wise and provides prudent counsel; God is the source if wisdom, inspiration, vitality life; God is yet faithful, God is yet sovereign, God is yet compassionate, God a loyal deliverer. How can this psalm guide government officials and elected leaders in our day? If adhered to the government official would govern as they were created to. Humanity was created in the image of God, therefore the rule would not reflect carnal precepts and hidden agenda, but the rule would reflect divine concepts and principles.

What do you find the most inspiring in the language of this psalm? Affirmation that God is WORTHY to be praise, that He is sovereign, that He's Almighty, that He is never distant humanity's view hold what He demonstrates in varying degrees based on where we are, based from the side of grace and mercy of the time present time. What encourages you the most? God is ALL at all times, unfortunately we may not see that He is until hindsight is keen. Write down all the various titles and metaphors used of God in this psalm. (an expansive list, yet not an exhaustive list) LORD!, Solid Rock, strength, perfect, light, deliverer, refuge {safe place / cover / protection}, stronghold, shield, salvation deliverance; worthy, vindicator, Love, faithful, All wise, Omniscience, Omnipresent, Omnipotence / Almighty.

What does this passage teach us about David's character and faith? David's character, his temperament, his disposition, his spirit, his moral fiber, remains unchanged as it relates interactions with others. He exercises mercy, he extends grace, he exercise wisdom, kindness, and justice. It teaches us that David is a humble / meek man. Perhaps I am missing the question as it relates to his faith, however it could be interpreted that as he strive to be a just man, a man when the time arise to impose judgment whom exercises wisdom, mercy, and grace. Since he believes in God that these traits / characteristics conveys his faith as it relates to the Character of God. What does it reveal about Joab's character? In this instance one could say that jealous or insecurity was exposed as a facet of his character. He killed Amasa. Had Amasa' complete the task assigned he would have gain the favor of David, he justified David's removal of Joab. Joab kills Amasa', takes over the campaign and wins the hurt of the men on assignment. He is a leader, he can command men in / at war. Loyalty was another side of his character that was revealed, he did not seek to rebel, as he had did in past times all that he did, did as he deemed best for David. What kind of faith do you see in Joab? Joab's name means “The LORD is Father.” The Scriptures does not cover his entire life moment by moment, however it is ironic as the Scriptures reveal moments of his life we can see at times he failed to look to God for direction, fatherly guidance and wisdom. Joab knew of God, when he checked David as David mourned loudly he referenced God. He fought in many battles with David for the honor of God and His people, Joab knew of God. Many today are likewise, unfortunately there are some who say that they are of the Lord and that they KNOW Him, yet their actions, their behavior does not reflect that they do. Joab's faith, his belief, his trust in this instant was based on his wisdom, his ability, his strength alone. What does this passage teach us about the importance of friends? I do not get the connection as it relates to friendship, nevertheless I believe that friendship is a very necessary part of anyone's life. We were created to be relational beings, we need to have relationship both horizontal and vertical. Is Joab really David's friend? We know from the Scriptures that he was David's relative, we also know that he had leadership responsibilities while under David's charge. There isn't a mention of him being David's friend. having said that there are not many instances where a distinctions of who was or who wasn't David's friends are mentioned. In this life people have what is termed as good friends and there are some that are termed as bad friends. I don't know if Joab was a friend or not, what I can say is that he was someone that God and David allowed in David's life. What I can say is that Joab was at times a sounding board in David's life.

Why does David command mercy for Absalom in the battle? Regardless of all the calamities caused by Absalom he was David's son, and David loved him. I'm sure he did not love the sin(s) that Absalom committed but he loved Absalom. Similarly God loves humanity, He hates the sins that humanity commits. Why does Joab kill him against David's orders? They were in combat and Joab was a man of war, he saw Absalom as an enemy even though they were related. He knew of the things Absalom had done and he also had an idea of what he was capable of his life was spared. How does David's loud mourning threaten his kingdom? He in essence was demonstrating a lack of concern for those around him, and also toward those who valiantly lost their lives to ensure his safety. What does this say about his followers' loyalty? They were loyal! They were faithful! What does it say about David's faith? I don't understand the placement of this question. David's faith in God remains in tack! About his weaknesses? Nor do I understand the placement of this question. Perhaps as it relates the Absalom I do not see a weakness, I see compassion. Had Absalom live I'm not sure if he would have been imprisoned, if not David would have an enormous a GREAT problem at hand. God allowing Joab to do what he did prevented this probably dilemma. As it relates to Joab, sometimes a gut check is needed, I think Joab's counsel was timely. I think his killing Absalom was a reasonable act of war, I don't know his true motives. I don't agree with Joab killing him while he was in such a defensless state. This act could be seen as muder also, true people die in combat intentionally and accidentally nevertheless none of the deaths should be through acts of out right viciousness. Unfortunately killing is a part of war, killing Absalom was justifiable. However David didn't, his desire to place (2 Samuel 19:11 - 14) Amasa, as his captain of the host instead of Joab was a political move, however I do not believe it was politically motivated.