BOOK 7: CHRIST-COMMITTED LIVING

2nd Edition
Copyright © 2015 by Global Leadership Center

All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be

reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted
in any form or by any means - electronic, mechanical,
photocopy, recording, or any other, without the prior
permission of GLC.

2
 TABLE OF CONTENTS
Introduction page 4

How to use this Workbook page 5

Session 1: Lordship of Christ page 7

Session 2: Living a Life Surrendered

to Christ’s Lordship page 31

Session 3: Walking in the Spirit page 51

Session 4: How to Walk in the Spirit page 63

What’s Next? page 79

Answer Key page 81

Book 7: CHRIST-COMMITTED LIVING

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 INTRODUCTION
A Christian is not just a believer, but must grow to be a committed follower
of Jesus Christ. A Christian then is a Christ-committed follower who is able
to live out a Christ-committed life. Christ-committed living is practicing
Christ-likeness daily. Here in CCF, we desire that every member will be
developed and equipped to become a Christ-committed follower. This
emphasis can be seen in CCF’s mission and vision.

It is quite clear from CCF’s mission and vision that we want every member
to become a Christ-committed follower who will experience a Christ-
committed life. But what does Christ-committed living looks like? What
characterizes a Christ-committed follower?

A Christ-committed follower makes Jesus Christ the Lord of his life and
practices walking in the Spirit. He surrenders to the Lordship of Christ in all
areas of life and is consistently dependent on the guidance and empowerment
of the Holy Spirit.

This module will help us understand and practice Christ-committed living

daily. We will also be given the necessary tools and resources that will help
every CCF member live a Christ-committed life.

Our prayer is that at the end of this module, you will learn the biblical
teachings of the Lordship of Christ and walking in the Spirit. It is our desire
that we will experience daily the victorious and abundant Christ-committed
life as we journey towards Christ-likeness.

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 HOW TO USE
THIS WORKBOOK
This workbook is for the GLC Essentials Book 7: Christ-Committed Living Bible
study for small groups. It can be used as a stand-alone Bible study guide for
small groups. There is also a video teaching resource that you can access and
watch for free at glc.ccf.org.ph then click Resources.
Please note that this workbook is the most updated version of Book 7: Christ-
Committed Living lessons and the video you will be watching may not show
a perfect correspondence with the fill-ins (answers for the blank spaces). For
better study and facilitation of this module, you may check what the fill-ins
are from the Suggested Answers section at the back of the workbook. You
are highly encouraged to do so only after you watch the video. Remember
that the learning process is much more than just knowing the right answers
to the blank spaces in this workbook. Obedience to God’s truth through life
application is more important. As we apply the lessons from Book 7: Christ-
Committed Living, we will experience greater intimacy with Jesus Christ and
more fruitfulness for His glory.
If you are a small group servant/facilitator, all you have to do is make sure
that you do a personal Bible study using this workbook and the video ahead
of your small group meeting. Encourage your group members to have their
own workbooks and to watch the video either before your meeting, or at your
meeting. Do not divert the teaching topic – stick to what is in the workbook.
The workbook includes the Bible lesson and individual and small group
learning activities to help you get the most out of your meetings. There are
four parts in each session: Explore, Examine, Express, and Experience.
• Explore — contains individual and small group activities that help
prepare you for the Bible study.
• Examine — this is where you go through the Bible lesson with your group.
• Express — this is where the members of the group get a chance to
express more of their insights, questions and thoughts about the
Bible lesson. They can do it in writing, doodling or drawing, and
sharing to the rest of the group.

Book 7: CHRIST-COMMITTED LIVING

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 • Experience — this section is accomplished outside the group
meeting time. There are suggested individual or group Life Apps that
will hopefully help you experience life transformation as you apply
God’s truth in practical ways.
As you begin, please remember that this workbook is just a tool designed for
us to make disciples. We need to depend on the Holy Spirit to teach us God’s
truth and transform our hearts and those of our disciples as we go through
the module.
 SESSION 1

LORDSHIP
OF CHRIST

7
 EXPLORE
Describe the top three best characteristics of your current and past boss/es.
If you are not working for a boss, think of your parents or teachers.

1.

2.

3.

How do these characteristics affect the way you relate to your boss/parent/
teacher? How do they affect the way you do your job or tasks assigned to
you?

LEARNING NUGGET

If you have been working for a few years, you probably had your share of
good bosses/employers and difficult ones. Good bosses can make even
a tough work week not feel like a burden because they create a work
environment that is relationally pleasant and conducive for creativity and
productivity. With this kind of a boss, you find yourself willingly submitting
to his or her authority, not because of the title, but because of the kind of
leader your boss is towards you.

Jesus is our ultimate “boss”. He created, owns and directs the universe
and even the invisible, created spiritual world. How do you find yourself
responding to His lordship in your life? Is He truly Lord of all as far as you
are concerned? In this lesson, we will investigate what the Lordship of
Jesus means, and how it ought to impact the way we relate to Him and the
way we go about the work He has assigned for us to do in His kingdom.

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 EXAMINE
I. Biblical Understanding of the Lordship of Christ
Scripture consistently affirms the lordship of Christ in every way. He is
called Lord (kurios in the Greek text) no less than 747 times in the New
Testament. The book of Acts alone refers to Him as Lord 92 times, while
calling Him Savior only twice. Clearly in the early church’s preaching,
the lordship of Christ was the heart of the Christian message. The
centrality of Jesus’ lordship to the gospel message is clear from the
way how Scripture presents Him to be.1

A. What the Lordship of Christ Is

1. He is ____________________.

Read 1 Corinthians 8:6

To say that Jesus is Lord is first of all to acknowledge that He is

almighty God, the Creator and Sustainer of all things. There is
little question that the Bible teaches that Jesus is God.

“And from true lordship it follows that the true God

is living, intelligent, and powerful; from the other
perfections, that He is supreme, or supremely perfect.
He is eternal and infinite, omnipotent and omniscient;
that is, He endures from eternity to eternity; and He is
present from infinity to infinity; He rules all things, and He
knows all things that happen or can happen.”
ISAAC NEWTON

1
The Gospel According to Jesus, John F. MacArthur Jr. Zondervan, Grand Rapids, Michigan 2008

Book 7: CHRIST-COMMITTED LIVING

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 Read Luke 2:11

This verse is an example of where “Lord” is used of Christ in

what can only be understood as referring to God Himself. The
word “Lord” here is quite striking in the word of the angel to the
shepherds of Bethlehem. We should realize that someone born
as a baby was the “Christ” (or “Messiah”), and, moreover, that
this One who was the Messiah was also “the Lord — that is, the
Lord God Himself. The angel’s statement means that the baby
Jesus is our Savior and Messiah, and who is also God Himself.”2

Ask yourself, “How has reading the Bible given you a

clearer understanding of Jesus Christ as the Almighty
God?” In your small group, share your life experience
on a verse that has struck you about His deity.

2. He has ____________ rule, authority, power and dominion.

Read Matthew 28:18

Jesus is our sovereign Lord. Sovereignty means the biblical

concept of God’s kingly, supreme rule and legal authority over
the entire universe.3

Read Ephesians 1:20—21

God has placed Christ in the position of authority, dominion,

and the right to command. A person living in rebellion against
Christ’s authority does not acknowledge Him as Lord who has
the supreme authority and dominion over all things.

2
SYSTEMATIC THEOLOGY An Introduction to Bible Doctrine, WAYNE GRUDEM Zondervan Publishing House, Grand
Rapids, Michigan, USA.
3
POCKET DICTIONARY OF THEOLOGICAL TERMS By Stanley J. Grenz David Guretzki Cherith Fee Nordling

10
 Ask yourself, “Why is it so important for a Christian
to understand that the Lordship of Jesus includes
supreme rule and authority over all?”

3. He is __________ Lord and Savior.

Read Acts 2:36

“To deny the lordship of Jesus Christ in the life of any

believer is to subvert the full work, power, and purpose of
His crucifixion and resurrection.”
JOHN MACARTHUR

Ask yourself, “What happens to a person who fails to

understand that Jesus is both Lord and Savior?”

4. He is the Lord of the _______________.

Read Hebrews 1:2, Colossians 1:16—17

All angelic and celestial powers in heaven and on earth are

subject to Christ. He is the Lord of all.4 He is not only the Creator
of the world but he is also its Sustainer. Because Christ is the
Sustainer of all life, nothing in creation is independent from him.
In him alone and by his word, we find the unifying principle of
all of life.5

“If God is the Creator of the entire universe, then it must

follow that He is the Lord of the whole universe. No part
of the world is outside of His lordship. That means that
no part of my life must be outside of His Lordship.”
R.C. SPROUL

5
LIFE APPLICATION BIBLE COMMENTARY HEBREWS By B.B. Barton, D. Veerman, L.K. Taylor Series Editor G. Osborne,
Editor P. Comfort, PARSONS CHURCH GROUP, INC. Omaha, Nebraska

Book 7: CHRIST-COMMITTED LIVING

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 Ask yourself, “How are scientists testifying of God’s
greatness?” In your small group, tell of one or two
things that scientists have discovered that show
evidence of the reality of Colossians 1:16—17.

5. He is the Lord of all ________________.

Read Acts 10:36, Romans 10:12

It is not a question of whether He is Lord but whether all the

people of the earth will surrender to His Lordship. Sadly, many
people choose to reject Christ’s lordship in their lives. In the final
judgment, every knee will bow and every tongue will confess
Christ as Lord, to the glory of God the Father (Philippians 2:11—
12). His sovereignty is limitless.6

“Jesus Christ will be Lord of all

or he will not be Lord at all.”
SAINT AUGUSTINE (354–430)

Ask yourself, “Since Christ is Lord of all, does my life

now reflect the lordship of Christ compared to when I
was still an unbeliever? Or does my life still show that I
am the one in control, and not Christ Jesus?”

6. He is the Lord of the ____________.

Read Colossians 1:18

The image of the body shows the church’s unity under the
lordship of Christ. God exalted Christ to the highest place,
raising Christ to his original position at the Father’s right hand,
where he will reign forever as Lord and Judge.7

6
The Gospel According to Jesus, John F. MacArthur Jr. Zondervan, Grand Rapids, Michigan 2008
7
Loc. cit.

12
 There are many different groups or denominations of the
Christian church, but we all are under only one Head – Jesus.
We all belong to the same spiritual and eternal family of God
through Christ and therefore must serve alongside each other
for the fulfillment of God’s purpose for the Church. For example,
CCF partners with other churches and Christian organizations
both locally and internationally for certain discipleship, missions
or even relief efforts.

Ask yourself, “What is one common misconception of

churches regarding the Lordship of Christ?” Share your
thoughts with your small group.

B. What the Lordship of Christ Means to the Believer

1. Christ demands lordship in the believer’s ______________.

Read Philippians 2:9-11

The challenge for all of us is to respond positively to the

demands of Christ’s lordship over us.

“He is the Almighty God, the Matchless Cosmic

Sovereign, who as Creator and Redeemer has the right
and power to demand compliance and submission to His
imperial, veracious authority.”
MARC MUELLER

When we invite people to receive Christ as Savior, we ask them

to embrace the One who is Lord and was declared to be so by
God the Father. Salvation belongs to those who receive Him
(John 1:12), but they must receive Him for all that He is — “the
blessed and only Sovereign, the King of kings and Lord of lords
(1 Timothy. 6:15).”

Book 7: CHRIST-COMMITTED LIVING

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 “A kingdom man is a man who visibly demonstrates the
comprehensive rule of God underneath the Lordship of
Jesus Christ in every area of his life.”
TONY EVANS

Ask yourself, “What area in my life do I struggle in

demonstrating the Lordship of Christ today?”

2. Believers must receive Him as both ______ and Savior of

their lives.

Read Romans 10:9

Everyone who receives Him must surrender to His authority, for

to say we receive Christ when in fact we reject His right to reign
over us is utter absurdity.

“The gospel offer of Christ includes all his offices, and

gospel faith just so receives him; to submit to him, as well as
to be redeemed by him; to imitate him in the holiness of his
life, as well as to reap the purchases and fruits of his death.
It must be an entire receiving of the Lord Jesus Christ.”
JOHN FLAVEL

When we receive Jesus as our Lord, we are acknowledging

His supreme place in our lives. We are pledging our obedience
and worship; we are placing our life under His protection for
safekeeping.8

“Until the will and the affections are brought under the
authority of Christ, we have not begun to understand, let
alone to accept, His lordship.”
ELISABETH ELLIOT

8
LIFE APPLICATION BIBLE COMMENTARY ROMANS By Bruce B. Burton, D. Min. David R. Veerman, M. Div. Neil Wilson,
M.A.R. PARSONS CHURCH GROUP,INC. Omaha, Nebraska

14
 Ask yourself, “How would I explain to someone the
necessity of receiving Jesus Christ as both Lord and
Savior as a believer?” Share your thoughts in your
small group.

3. Believers must ___________ live out Christ’s lordship.

Colossians 1:10

Since Christ is our Lord and Master, believers must live a life
worthy of Him and seek to please Him by bearing fruit in every
good work.

Their lifestyles should be worthy of their high calling as God’s

children. Their behavior should reflect who Christ is in their
lives. Christians must live out their submission to Jesus day
by day, as they relate to different people and circumstances
around them.

J. Oswald Sanders, in his book In Pursuit of Maturity, wrote:

“The true index of Christian maturity is not the possession of

the gifts of the Spirit, but the production of the fruit of the Spirit
(Galatians 5:22—23). It is sadly true that not all spiritually gifted
believers act and react in a mature way.”

“The Lordship of Jesus Christ if it is taught as a theory

in the classroom is rarely applied to practical living.
The idea that the Man Christ Jesus has absolute final
authority over the whole church and over its members in
every detail of their lives is simply not now accepted as
true by the rank and file of evangelical Christians.”
A. W. TOZER

Ask yourself, “How can I be more intentional in living

out Christ’s Lordship in my life?”

Book 7: CHRIST-COMMITTED LIVING

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 A Life Lived Fully under Christ’s Lordship:
“No Reserve. No Retreat. No Regret.”

In the early 1900’s, 16-year-old William Whiting

Borden graduated from a Chicago high
school. He was an heir to the Borden fortune
(http://www.bordendairy.com/). Before Borden
began his Ivy League education at Yale University,
his parents sent him on a trip around the world for
his graduation present.

Earlier in Borden’s life, he had come to Christ

through the great ministry of D.L. Moody. While
on his trip around the world, something happened
that no one expected. As Borden traveled through
Asia, the Middle East, and Europe, he felt a growing
burden for the world’s hurting people.

When Borden left home to study at Yale University, he led other students in times
of prayer and Scripture reading. In fact, the movement spread so much that 1,000
out of Yale’s 1,300 students were meeting in similar groups by the time Borden
graduated. During these meetings, the students would plan how they could reach
all the students for Christ, and Borden was known to willingly take on the more
hostile students. He also led Yale’s student missionary conference.9

Throwing his life away

Borden wrote a letter to his parents and informed them that he wanted to spend the
remainder of his life being a missionary. Upon hearing the news, one of his friends
remarked that he would be “throwing his life away as a missionary.”

Upon his return, Borden went on to Yale University and graduated. He then studied
and graduated from Princeton Theological Seminary. When Borden finished his
elite Ivy League education, he boarded a ship for China to serve as a missionary.

Due to his passion to reach the Muslim people, he stopped in Egypt to learn the
Arabic language. While he was in Egypt, 25-year-old Borden contracted spinal
meningitis. Within a month, he was dead.

9
http://www.challies.com/writings/the-philanthropists. (Accessed on 11/3/15, 5:36 PM GMT +8)

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A wave of sorrow went around the world

When the news of Borden’s death was cabled back to the United States, nearly
every major American newspaper reported on it. As stated in his biography, “A
wave of sorrow went around the world… he not only gave up his fortune, but himself
to be a missionary.”

Borden had walked away from his wealth to take the Gospel of Jesus to the nations
of the world. Most regarded it as a tragedy; however, God took the tragedy and did
something far greater than Borden could ever do himself. When thousands of young
men and women read Borden’s story in the newspapers of America, it inspired them
to leave all they had and give their lives to reach the nations with the Gospel of
Jesus Christ.

Statements of conviction

When Borden’s parents were given his Bible, they found the following. Just after
he renounced his fortune to go to missions, he wrote the words, “No Reserve.” His
father told him he would always have a job in the company, then at a later point,
his father told him he would never let him work in the company again. At this time,
Borden wrote in his Bible, “No Retreat.” Then, they discovered in his Bible these
words, written shortly before his death in Egypt, “No Regret.”

Was his life a waste? Not from God’s perspective. God used his life and death to
call thousands and thousands of young men and women to leave all they had and
give their lives to reach the nations with the Gospel. God did greater things through
Borden’s story than He may have ever done with his life in China.10

10
op. cit. http://pastors.com/pastors-reserve-retreat-regret/

Book 7: CHRIST-COMMITTED LIVING

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 II. How We Live Out Christ’s Lordship in Our Lives
A. _______________ to Christ’s Lordship

Read Philippians 2:9–11

The signature of saving faith is surrender to the lordship of Jesus

Christ. The definitive test of whether a person belongs to Christ is a
willingness to bow to His divine authority.11

The biblical mandate is not to “make” Christ Lord, but rather to bow
to His lordship.12

1. We should have full ________________ and loyalty to Christ.

Read Matthew 10:38—39

Love of one’s own life is often the greatest hindrance to full

commitment and loyalty to Christ. The willingness to forsake
everything, including physical life if necessary, for the sake of
Christ indicates the spirit of true discipleship, and therefore the
spirit of a person who is destined for heaven and eternal life in
God’s presence.13

When followers of Christ indeed follow Him faithfully in their everyday,

ordinary lives, something beyond ordinary happens. In his book, How
Christianity Changed the World, author Alvin Schmidt writes:

“The early Christians did not set out to change the world. The world was
affected as a by-product of believers’ transformed lives. They rejected the
pagan gods and refused the immoral lifestyle of the Greco-Romans. They
knew that Jesus made no promises of an easy and pain-free life. On the
contrary, he had predicted that they would be hated and despised for their
belief in Him.

11
Loc.cit.
12
Loc.cit.
13
MACARTHUR’S NEW TESTAMENT COMMENTARY: MATTHEW 8-15 by John MacArthur, Jr. MOODY PRESS Chicago, IL

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 Believers continue to be transformed in the post-New Testament era:
for example, John Hus, Martin Luther, Johann Sebastian Bach, William
Wilberforce, David Livingstone, Dietrich Bonhoeffer, and C.S. Lewis. These
individuals made the world a more humane and civilized place because
they, like many Christians before them, lived their lives according to the
words of Jesus Christ: “Let your light shine before men that they may see
your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven (Matthew 5:15).”14 Look
up these men that have been enumerated above, and you will be inspired
and challenged to live a life of total commitment to Christ.

2. We should be good ______________ of our time,

talent and treasures.

Romans 14:8

Since He is the lord of our lives, it follows that all that we are and
have must be utilized for the accomplishment of His plan and
purposes.15

We are just good stewards of God’s resources entrusted to our

care.16

14
SCHMIDT, ALVIN HOW CHRISTIANITY CHANGED THE WORLD ZONDERVAN
15
MACARTHUR’S NEW TESTAMENT COMMENTARY: ROMANS 9-16 by John MacArthur, Jr. MOODY PRESS Chicago, IL
16
Loc. cit.

Book 7: CHRIST-COMMITTED LIVING

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 Johann Sebastian Bach: “The Fifth Evangelist”

When he was 48, Johann Sebastian Bach acquired

a copy of Luther’s three-volume translation of
the Bible. He pored over it as if it were a long-lost
treasure. He underlined passages, corrected errors
in the text and commentary, inserted missing words,
and made notes in the margins. Near 1 Chronicles
25 (a listing of Davidic musicians) he wrote, “This
chapter is the true foundation of all God-pleasing
music.” At 2 Chronicles 5:13 (which speaks of temple
musicians praising God), he noted, “At a reverent
performance of music, God is always at hand with
his gracious presence.”

As one scholar put it, Bach the musician was indeed “a Christian who lived with the
Bible.” Besides being the baroque era’s greatest organist and composer, and one
of the most productive geniuses in the history of Western music, Bach was also a
theologian who just happened to work with a keyboard.

In Leipzig he also composed his epic Mass in B Minor, The Passion of St. John and
The Passion of St. Matthew — all for use as worship services. The latter piece has
sometimes been called “the supreme cultural achievement of all Western civilization,”
and even the radical skeptic Friedrich Nietzsche (1844–1900) admitted upon hearing
it, “One who has completely forgotten Christianity truly hears it here as gospel.”

In terms of pure music, Bach has become known as one who could combine the
rhythm of French dances, the gracefulness of Italian song, and the intricacy of
German counterpoint — all in one composition. In addition, Bach could write musical
equivalents of verbal ideas, such as undulating a melody to represent the sea.

But music was never just music to Bach. Nearly three-fourths of his 1,000 compositions
were written for use in worship. Between his musical genius, his devotion to Christ,
and the effect of his music, he has come to be known in many circles as “the Fifth
Evangelist.”
Source:
http://www.christianitytoday.com/ch/131christians/musiciansartistsandwriters/bach.html.
Accessed on 11/3/2015 at 1:18 PM GMT +8

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William Wilberforce: Christ-Committed Freedom Fighter

William Wilberforce (1759–1833) was the English

politician and Christian philanthropist who led the
abolition of the British slave trade. Wilberforce was
Born in Yorkshire, England, but his father died when
William was just 8 years old… but because of the
wealth of his parents, he was able to live comfortably
even with minimal work.

When he was 21, Wilberforce won the seat in the

House of Commons in his hometown, Hull, because
of the money he was able to invest and because of
his great oratorical skills…Wilberforce was devoted
to the cause of abolishing the African Slave Trade for the rest of his life.

His Conversion
The aunt and uncle Wilberforce lived with were evangelical Christians. But concerned
that her son was “turning Methodist,” his mother sent him to a boarding school. While
there he lost interest in Christianity and cared more about being accepted by the
social elite. But when he was 25, Wilberforce connected with Isaac Milner, a friend
he met in grammar school who had since trusted in Christ. After talking with Milner at
length about his hostilities and objections against Christianity, Wilberforce professed
faith in Christ.

His conversion was not merely a private matter. Rather, his new faith led him to change
his own lifestyle and to care for those in need. One of Wilberforce’s biographers, John
Pollock, wrote, “He lacked time for half the good works in his mind.” But he believed
that such good works could come from a new heart that only God can give. Thus, he
was both doctrinal and pragmatic. He loved the truths of justification by faith alone,
the regenerating work of the Holy Spirit, and the substitutionary work of Jesus. But he
also loved pursuing justice for the poor, needy, and enslaved.

His Contributions
While Wilberforce is obviously most remembered for his arduous work against the
British slave trade, he also made numerous other vocational and financial contributions
to the work of Christ’s kingdom. He volunteered for dozens of societies…He also used
his wealth to help relieve the suffering of the manufacturing poor, French refugees
and other foreigners in distress. Beside all that, he was also active in numerous reform

Book 7: CHRIST-COMMITTED LIVING

21
 movements including hospital care, fever institutions, asylums, infirmaries, refugees,
and penitentiaries.

Finally, Wilberforce wrote a book called, A Practical View of Christianity, which had
five printings in six months and was translated into five foreign languages. In it, he
articulated the doctrines particular to Christianity which give rise to godly affections
(or emotions). He also supported other religious publications and education…After
ending the slave trade, Wilberforce spent the next 25 years seeking to end the
institution of slavery itself. Providentially, three days before he died, Wilberforce
heard that the House of Commons had passed a law emancipating all slaves in the
British Empire.
Source:
http://www.challies.com/articles/the-philanthropists-william-wilberforce.
Accessed 11/3/15 at 5:45PM GMT +8

22
 3. We should make Christ the __________ of our work/business.

Read Colossians 3:23

Christ’s lordship includes our work and business life.17

We should work and conduct our businesses that is pleasing and

honoring to the Lord, who we are ultimately accountable to.18

“Earn all you can. Save all you can. Give all you can.
Your wealth is evidence of a calling from God, so use
your abundance for the good of mankind.”
JOHN WESLEY

Many Christians today, and most of those who are not, are simply
ignorant of the fact that some of the world’s most enduring, multi-
national and multi-billion business conglomerates were founded
by Christ-committed followers. They personally practiced, and
reflected in their business endeavors, the work and financial
principles taught in the Bible.

To name a few, below are some of the more well-known Christ-

committed businessmen who made a positive economic impact
in the world, and an eternal difference for God’s kingdom.

1. John D. Rockefeller, Sr. (USA-Standard Oil)

2. J.C . Penney (USA-formerly Golden Rule stores, now
JC Penney stores)
3. Henry Parsons Crowell (USA-Quaker Oats)
4. Dr. Thomas Bramwell Welch (USA-Welch’s Grape Juice
Co.)
5. S. Truett Cathy (USA-Chick-Fil-A restaurants)
6. William S. Colgate (UK/USA-Colgate-Palmolive)
7. Cecil B. Day (USA-Days Inn Hotels)

17
Loc. cit.
18
Loc. cit.

Book 7: CHRIST-COMMITTED LIVING

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 “As I totally depend on Jesus Christ, I continue to grow
and feel the assurance of His presence in my life,
minute by minute, daily walking with Him,
growing in confidence to meet any and all of life’s challenges.
Such people know that laboring in the Lord is never in vain
(1 Corinthians 15:58).”
C EC I L B . DAY
Founder, Days Inn Hotel Chain

24
William S. Colgate: Christ-Committed, Generous Soap-Maker

Colgate helped his father manufacture soap and

candles, but it was after he moved to New York City
in 1804 that he became an apprentice to a soap-
maker and in this position learned the manufacturing
business. In 1806 he founded his own starch, soap
and candle business on Dutch Street in New York
City, and this small shop eventually grew into a
massive and thriving corporation. A skilled and
principled businessman, Colgate would in due time
become one of the wealthiest and most generous
men in New York City.

Beside serving the Bible societies, Colgate also supported Hamilton Literary and
Theological Institution (later Madison University and Theological Seminary). Likewise,
he regularly gave to the Baptist Missionary Union, and he even fully funded a foreign
missionary on his own. Colgate made financial provisions for his aging parents by
purchasing a farmhouse in a neighboring county, and he supported them financially
the rest of their lives. Because of his kind and generous personality (along with his
wife’s congenial spirit), his home was known as an especially pleasant and welcoming
place to be. Throughout his life, Colgate attributed his success in business and
ministry to the principles and truths taught in the Bible.
Source:
http://www.challies.com/articles/the-philanthropists-william-colgate
Accessed on 11/3/2015 12:08 PM GMT +8

Book 7: CHRIST-COMMITTED LIVING

25
 Henry Parsons Crowell: Christ-Committed Cereal Tycoon

Henry Parsons Crowell (1855–1943) was a Christian

philanthropist who founded Quaker Oats Company.
Born into a wealthy family (and having inherited a
large sum after his father’s death at age 36), Crowell
worked hard and honestly even though he probably
could have lived very well from what he had
inherited. He saw all that he had as a stewardship
from God and therefore sought to honor Him with
his wealth.

Despite much hard work, Quaker Mill was struggling.

Henry brought his business problems to the Lord,
something that was very unusual at that time in
Christianity. An idea came to him that was to change breakfast tables forever. Up to
that point, oats were presented for sale in big barrels or boxes, set on the floors of
grocery or general stores, attracting worms, insects and vermin. He envisioned his
oats on grocery store shelves in individual, sanitary, cardboard containers. The idea
worked. Demand soared.

Henry and Susan (his wife) were well known around Chicago due to their financial
prosperity, but they were also known for their religious convictions, sharing the
Gospel as the opportunity presented itself. Henry shared his faith within his business
circles and Susan within her social societies. Many corporate giants came to Christ as
a result of their association with Crowell. And the Henry Parsons and Susan Coleman
Crowell Trust donated to more than 100 Christian organizations, including the Moody
Bible Institute.

The more money Henry gave to Christian causes, the more he prospered. In 1901,
Standard Oil was accumulating large ponds of coal oil with no use for it. John D
Rockefeller (another Christian businessman) was introduced to the Perfection Stove
and immediately, John had 3,000 new sales people selling Henry and Frank’s lamp
stoves, bringing them astronomical sales. Much of the fortune Henry created from this
business went to fund church and missionary ventures.
Source:
http://www.challies.com/articles/the-philanthropists-henry-crowell
Accessed 11/3/2015 at 1:30 PM GMT +8

26
 4. We should make Christ the ______________ of our life,
family and other relationships

Read Colossians 3:4

If Christ is our lord, then He should be at the center of our

life, family and other relationships. The Bible describes Christ
as our life. The key to living the Christian life is to have a life
centered on Christ.19

If Christ is at the center of our relationships, we will experience

the spiritual benefits of making Him the lord of our lives.20

Ask yourself, “How am I able to surrender to Christ’s

Lordship in the following areas?
1. In times of trial or persecution
2. Your time, talent and treasure
3. Relationships (family, co-workers, neighbors etc.)

One important way that Christians can make Jesus the center
of their relationships is in the practice of sexual purity. If
sexual promiscuity and our highly sexualized world today is a
challenging setting for Christ-committed followers to live holy
lives, then we can take some needed inspiration from early
Christians.

“Early Christians stood against the immoral sexual activities of

the Greeks and Romans. Motivated by Christ’s words, ‘If you
love me, you will obey what I command’ (John 14:15), and God’s
commandment, ‘You shall not commit adultery,’ they absolutely
rejected the immoral behavior. Consequently, they were
despised and persecuted even more.

By rejecting Greco-Roman sexual decadence, whether it was

adultery, fornication, homosexuality, child molestation, or
bestiality, and by introducing God-pleasing sexual standards,

19
MACARTHUR’S NEW TESTAMENT COMMENTARY: COLOSSIANS & PHILEMON by John MacArthur, Jr. MOODY PRESS
Chicago, IL
20
Loc. cit.

Book 7: CHRIST-COMMITTED LIVING

27
 Christianity greatly elevated the world’s sexual morality. It
was one of its major contributions to civilization... too many
Christians today no longer seem to appreciate, much less
defend, as feverish efforts are underway to bring back the
sexual debauchery of ancient paganism.”21

B. Obedience and Submission to His Will

Read Luke 6:46, Matthew 7:21

When we say that Jesus is our Lord, it means that He is the highest
authority to whom we submit. We observed from Jesus’ words that
those who only verbally or intellectually admit the lordship of Christ
will be turned away from heaven because they do not do the will of
the Father in heaven. Obedience and submission to the Lord’s will is
the evidence that we are really living out Christ’s lordship in our lives.22

Edmund Chan in his book, A Certain Kind discusses five New

Testament marks of a disciple. He identifies the second mark as full
submission to the Lordship of Christ. He quotes A.W. Tozer in his
book Born After Midnight:

“Vacate the throne room of your heart and enthrone Jesus there.
Set Him in the focus of your heart’s attention and stop wanting to
be a hero. Make Him your all in all and try yourself to become less
and less. Dedicate your entire life to His honour alone and shift the
motives of your life from self to God… In all things let Him have the
pre-eminence.”23

That, in a nutshell, is what it means to be fully submitted to the

Lordship of Christ.

Ask yourself, “What are the consequences when a believer

refuses to obey and submit to the Lord’s will in his life?”
Share your experience to your small group.

21
op. cit. SCHIMDT
22
Op. cit. Barton, B. and Veerman, D.
23
Loc. cit.

28
 EXPERIENCE
Have you made a conscious choice to submit all of your being and every
aspect of your life to the Lordship of Jesus Christ?

1. If you have, then take time this week to evaluate how you have been
doing in terms of obedience to His will for your life. Consider the
following areas of application for Christ’s Lordship:

• Loving/submission (to) my spouse

• Sexual purity in thoughts and actions
• Gospel sharing
• Making disciples
• Financial integrity
• Excellence in the workplace/business/academics
• Stewardship of health
• Child-rearing
• Service to others
• Fellowship with other believers
• Responding to authority (home, work, church, government)
• Others ___________________

Make the necessary adjustments in your behavior or changes in your

attitude (repentance) in the areas where you have not lived out Christ’s
Lordship in your life.

2. If you have not made a conscious decision to submit your whole being
and entire life to the Lordship or rule of Christ, take this moment to do
so. Go to Him by faith in prayer and express your decision to be in full
submission to the Lord Jesus Christ. He is totally worthy of giving our
total allegiance and service to!

Book 7: CHRIST-COMMITTED LIVING

29
 Prayer of Complete Surrender to God

O God,

I lay my life at Your feet,

And offer You all that I am.

May my feet follow Your leading.

May my mind be renewed with Your truth.

May my heart be full of Your grace.

May my words be full of Your wisdom.

May my mind be full of Your truth.

May my dreams be full of Your vision,

And my soul fill of Your peace.

I lay my life at Your feet

And offer You all that I am.

Amen.

30
 SESSION 2

LIVING A LIFE
SURRENDERED
TO CHRIST’S
LORDSHIP

31
 EXPLORE
Take turns reading one or two paragraphs each through this excerpt of
a summary of “The Prince and The Pauper” by Mark Twain. As you read
through it, think about how the main plot of the story illustrates your life as
someone who was saved by Christ and adopted as a child of God.
The Prince and the Pauper tells the tale of two boys who trade clothing one
afternoon and, as a result, they trade lives as well. After many adventures,
matters are set right again, with one of the boys resuming his rightful, royal
position and the other boy accepting a position that recognizes his innate
intelligence and good heartedness.

One of these boys is the long-awaited male heir to the throne of England,
Edward Tudor, son of Henry VIII. The other boy is Tom Canty, the unloved
son of a beggar and thief. Coincidentally, Tom Canty and Edward Tudor
were born in London on the same day.

Tom Canty’s life in Offal Court, off Pudding Lane, is a hard life in one of
London’s poorest neighborhoods. He is forced by his father to go out
begging daily, and he is beaten severely if he returns empty-handed.
Father Andrew, however, provides him some respite from this life by telling
him tales about the nobility, while instructing him in morality, reading,
writing, and Latin. Treasuring these tales, which tell of a considerably
better life, Tom Canty imaginatively relives them in his daydreams.

One day, Tom’s daydreaming leads him out of the city of London, past
the palaces of the rich, and finally to Westminster, where he actually sees
Edward Tudor at play on the other side of a fence. Simultaneously, the
prince notices Tom when he sees a soldier roughly pulling the young boy
away from the fence; the prince rebukes the soldier and invites Tom into
the palace. Each of the boys is fascinated by the other’s life — Tom, by the
luxury and the cleanliness that Edward has, and Edward, by the freedom
that Tom has. To get a “feeling” of the other’s life, they exchange clothing
and discover that they look very much alike.

(A palace) guard, believing that the prince is the pauper, immediately

puts him out of the gates, and thus the stage is set for Edward Tudor to
experience the life of a commoner and for Tom Canty to live the life of a
real-life prince.

32
In the meantime, young Tom Canty has been left in the prince’s royal
apartment in the palace. At first, he enjoys the luxury of his surroundings,
but he becomes increasingly apprehensive about what will happen to
him if he is discovered in the prince’s clothing. The Lady Jane Grey talks
with him and becomes very confused about Tom’s behavior; word quickly
spreads that the prince is mad.

After talking with his “son,” Henry VIII gives orders…he orders that all
persons in the court say nothing about the prince’s madness and that they
ignore any indications of it. Finally, he orders his “son” to say no more
about living in Offal Court and to try to regain his mental health.

The first ceremony that Tom must undergo is dinner. Although he blunders
frequently, his behavior is overlooked. Afterward, he finds a book dealing
with the etiquette of the English court, and he begins the process of
learning to cope in his new position. His next ordeal is a city dinner in
London, toward which he and his entourage move in great splendor along
the Thames River.

The scene then shifts momentarily to the Prince of Wales, who is now in the
clutches of John Canty. He is brought to the filthy room where the Cantys live
and is put on display to show the neighborhood his mad delusion that he is
the Prince of Wales; later, he is beaten because he brought no money home.

While Tom dines with the nobility and watches the pageantry of the dinner,
the real prince stands outside the Guildhall, trying to get in, asserting
that he is the true Prince of Wales. The mob jeers at him and would have
thoroughly beaten him if Miles Hendon had not suddenly appeared and
protected him.

The next two days are similar to the first, and Tom becomes more
accustomed to what he must do. On the fourth day, however, the noise
of a mob diverts Tom’s attention. Looking out the window, he asks what
the cause of this is and, after hearing about the trouble, he has the three
condemned people brought before him. Questioning them shrewdly and
disposing of their sentences decisively, he gains the admiration of all those
present; his court also begins to wonder about the so-called rumors of his
madness. With the new confidence that his actions have given him, Tom

Book 7: CHRIST-COMMITTED LIVING

33
 eats the state dinner, before all those who care to watch, without qualm,
and without error.

Once again, Hugo tries to make the Prince Participate in begging and
thieving; the prince however, steadfastly refuses to have anything to do
with such activities. Hugo therefore decides to put the prince into the
hands of the law, which he accomplishes by snatching a bundle, thrusting
it into the prince’s arms, and dashing away. The appearance of guilt is
enough for the crowd that gathers, and the burliest of them is about to
beat the prince when Miles Hendon once again appears. To appease the
crowd, Miles and the prince must go before the magistrate. The judge is
kindly, and the sentence is short. Hendon then manages to convince the
sheriff that the wisest course would be to free the boy, and the two leave…

Coincidentally, as the prince is returning to London, Tom Canty is rapidly

learning to be a king and is preparing for his coronation. On Coronation
Day, he rides in a grand procession through London. Riding past Offal
Court, he sees his mother, and he denies knowing her; immediately,
however, he is stricken with remorse.

The ceremony begins; then, suddenly, just as the Archbishop of Canterbury

is about to place the crown on Tom’s head, the real prince steps forward
and forbids it. Tom affirms the boy’s claim. Several inconclusive tests are
tried in order to determine the identity of the boys, and finally the location
of the Great Seal of England is suggested. With some prompting from Tom,
Edward Tudor tells the Lord St. John where the seal is to be found, thus
establishing his true right to the throne of England.

The last chapter ties up loose ends of the plot; Edward amply rewards
those who were land to him, punishes those who were not, and makes
reparations to those who suffered from the cruel injustice of English laws.
Throughout his short life and reign, Edward Tudor always remembers his
adventures and reigns more mercifully because of them.

34
LEARNING NUGGET

The story of the Prince and the Pauper reminds us of the awesome Biblical
truth that when we accepted Jesus as our Savior, we exchanged our identity
from that of a sinner separated from God (like the poor, abused pauper boy
Tom Canty) to that of a forgiven, child of the King of Kings who has a special
destiny to fulfill in His kingdom (like prince Edward). Furthermore, Jesus, the
Son of God, Prince of Peace, willingly exchanged His glory to be like us by
becoming man. As a result of His death and resurrection, we can be saved
from our spiritually-deprived condition, and become royal children of the
King of Kings! In the story we read, Tom Canty surrendered the throne to
the real prince, Edward, when he came back to reign as king. Similarly, we
must surrender the throne of our lives to Jesus, the one and only King of
Kings and Lord of Lords. In this lesson, we will examine what the Bible tells
us about a life surrendered to Jesus Christ.

Book 7: CHRIST-COMMITTED LIVING

35
 EXAMINE
A victorious Christian life is only possible if we surrender to Christ’s Lordship
and allow Him to live through us. We live and engage in many activities –
studies, finances, work, social life, home life, business, travel, etc. on our
own. When we receive Jesus Christ as both Lord and Savior, He must
assume His rightful place of authority on the throne of our lives.

I. Our Need to __________________

A. Our Lives___________ from Christ
Read John 15:4–5

B. Our _____________ Nature

Read Mark 7:21-23; Romans 7:18

What the Sinful Nature is

Although we received a new nature when we came to Christ, we
are encased in the same body with its physical needs and cravings.
Nor was our soul or personality (mind, emotions and will) instantly
transformed. Old attitudes, values, habits and actions were not
eradicated but continue to surface. Our mental, emotional and
volitional processes must gradually be brought into conformity with
the new nature we became in Christ, but this takes time, willingness
and the work of the Holy Spirit.24

Read Colossians 3:5

24
Kenneth Boa, Conformed to His Image, Zondervan Grand Rapids Michigan 2001

36
II. Characteristics of a Surrendered Life
A. Life is ____________________
Read Jeremiah 10:23

Read Proverbs 16:9

B. Does ______________
Read 1 Peter 3:13-15

C. _____________ God
Read Proverbs 3:5-6

Book 7: CHRIST-COMMITTED LIVING

37
 Heart in Hebrew refers to one’s emotions but more often to his
intellect (such as understanding, discernment, reflection, or will).
As a person trusts in the Lord and acknowledges Him (an intimate
knowledge of God) in all his ways, he finds that God makes his paths
straight. This means more than guidance; it means God removes
the obstacles, making a smooth path or way of life, or perhaps
better, bringing one to the appointed goal.25

D. ____________ in Christ
Read John 15:4-5

Abiding in Christ means…

1. Moment-by-moment ______________ to follow Him.

The Greek word for “abide” is spoken as a command. It also

has an ongoing emphasis; that is, the command to “abide” is
not fulfilled in a single act. Abiding means to make a constant,
moment-by-moment decision to follow Christ. And we must not
be passive, believers don’t just sit and “abide” until they die.
Instead, we must be active, we have a lot to do.26

2. __________________ in Christ’s Word.

Read John 15:7

Read 1 John 2:24

25
THE BIBLE KNOWLEDGE COMMENTARY by John F. Walvoord, Roy B. Zuck VICTOR BOOKS A Division of Scripture Press
Publications, Inc. USA Canada England
26
LIFE APPLICATION BIBLE COMMENTARY JOHN By Bruce B. Barton, D. Min. Philip W. Comfort, Ph.D. David R. Veerman, M.
Div. Neil Wilson, M.A.R.

38
 Jesus equated abiding in Him with abiding in His words. The
word abide implies intimate knowledge of what a person has
said. But it also implies that the words become a vital part of the
way a believer lives.

3. ________________ on Christ.

4. ________________ with Christ.

5. Relating in _____________ with the community of believers.

Read John 15:12–13

We must love each other sacrificially, as Jesus loved us, and He

loved us enough to give His life for us.

We may not have to die for someone, but we can practice

sacrificial love in many other ways: listening, helping,
encouraging, giving, etc. Some people will be difficult to love,
but still we are commanded to act lovingly toward our fellow
believers.27

27
THE VICTOR BIBLE BACKGROUND COMMENTARY NEW TESTAMENT By Lawrence O. Richards VICTOR BOOKS A
Division Of Scripture Press Publications Inc. USA Canada England

Book 7: CHRIST-COMMITTED LIVING

39
 E. ______________ our eyes on Christ
Read Hebrews 12:1–2

We look to Jesus as the supreme model of persevering faith. He

set the course of faith, ran the race first, and now waits for us to join
Him at the end, encouraging us all the way.28

Jesus is the perfecter of our faith. “Perfecter” means finisher, the

one who brings us to our intended goal. Jesus is our perfecter, both
because He was made the perfect High Priest through suffering
and obedience and because He perfects us as we draw closer to
him.29

III. Spiritual Benefits of Surrendering to the Lordship of Christ

A. A ______________Life
Read John 10:10

Read Psalm 23:5-6

If we surrender our lives to His Lordship, we will experience a life

that is abundantly richer and fuller. It lasts forever, yet it begins
today. It is clearly not, however, a life that denies problems and
pain. Rather, it is a life that faces them and makes use of them.30
We must realize that the Lord’s goodness and love will go with us
everywhere through all our lives. God’s blessings on His people
remain with them no matter what their circumstance may be.31

28
LIFE APPLICATION BIBLE COMMENTARY HEBREWS By Bruce B. Barton, D. Min. Dave Veerman, M. Div. Linda K. Taylor
29
Ibid.
30
LIFE APPLICATION BIBLE COMMENTARY JOHN By Bruce B. Barton, D. Min. Philip W. Comfort, Ph.D. David R. Veerman, M.
Div. Neil Wilson, M.A.R. Series Editor Grant Osborne, Ph.D.

40
 B. ______________Prayers
Read John 15:7

C. Bearing ______________
Read John 15:8

1. Fruit of _____________
Read Romans 7:4

We will be transformed into Christ-likeness in speech, thoughts,

emotions & attitudes, behavior and actions as we submit to the
Lord’s will for our lives.

2. Fruit of ________________.
Read Colossians 1:10

31
THE BIBLE KNOWLEDGE COMMENTARY Old Testament by John F. Walvoord Roy B. Zuck VICTOR BOOKS Publications,
Inc. USA Canada England

Book 7: CHRIST-COMMITTED LIVING

41
 Good works is a proof of our salvation and having Christ as our
Lord and Savior. As we know by now, our salvation is a free
gift from God, purchased through Jesus’ death on the cross
as payment for our sins and out of gratitude for this free gift,
believers desire “to do good works” — to help and serve others
with kindness, love, gentleness, etc.. Christ’s lordship in our lives
will naturally result in acts of service done because we love God
and we want to show others how good God is.

3. Fruit of _________________________
Read Romans 1:13

As we surrender to the Lordship of Christ, we will grow into

a healthy disciple of Christ. A healthy disciple will eventually
produce healthy disciples as well. Nothing is more deeply
rewarding than the lasting joy of leading others to Christ or
discipling them to grow in the Lord towards Christ-likeness.32

D. Brings _______________ to God

Read John 15:8

Read Matthew 9:38

This farming analogy shows how God is glorified when we come

into a right relationship with Him and begin to “bear much fruit” in
our lives.33 The ultimate goal of our surrender to the Lordship of
Christ is to bring glory and honor to Him.

32
MACARTHUR’S NEW TESTAMENT COMMENTARY: ROMANS 1–8 by John MacArthur, Jr., MOODY PRESS Chicago, IL
33
LIFE APPLICATION BIBLE COMMENTARY JOHN By Bruce B. Barton, D. Min. Philip W. Comfort, Ph.D. David R. Veerman, M.
Div. Neil Wilson, M.A.R. Series Editor Grant Osborne, Ph.D.

42
A “Christ-Committed Couple”

When future historians write the history of

the Christian church in the 20th century,
one couple they cannot ignore is Bill and
Vonette Bright. God used this remarkable
couple to found and lead a worldwide
evangelism and discipleship movement
that has, thus far, exposed more than one
billion people to the gospel.

Today the influence of Campus Crusade for Christ can be seen in most countries
of the world. From its beginning at the campus of UCLA, Campus Crusade has
mushroomed into dozens of ministries...It has spread to more than 180 countries.
More than 20,000 people serve as full-time or associate staff members. It is no
exaggeration to say that billions of people have been exposed to the gospel through
Campus Crusade since 1951.

Before his death in 2003, Bill spoke many times of the vision that God gave him
to begin Campus Crusade. Many people, however, do not know the story of what
happened just before Bill received that vision. It’s the story of a young married
couple facing an early crisis in their relationship... and a decision that changed the
course of their lives.

Bill and Vonette faced some difficult adjustments after they married on December
30, 1948...he was running his business, attending seminary, and volunteering
countless hours at the church.

“The fact of the matter was that I was very selfish,” Bill recalled. “We seldom had an
evening home. I just kind of worked her into my schedule and I wasn’t very sensitive
about her thoughts. I find that a lot of businessmen and other laymen are guilty of
the same. We take our wives for granted. So, she had to fit into my plans. It never
occurred to me to fit into hers.”

it seemed to Vonette that she was somewhat of an unequal partner. Bill was more
mature in his faith, and their conversations about decisions seemed one-sided.

Vonette’s frustrations smoldered for over a year...until one Sunday afternoon after
church.

Book 7: CHRIST-COMMITTED LIVING

43
 “The Anchor of Our Marriage”

It began when Vonette couldn’t find her husband after Sunday school. Bill had
been asked to help in an emergency counseling situation, but had neglected to tell
Vonette what he was doing... When Bill finally did show up two hours later, he found
a frustrated and angry wife.

That conflict was settled fairly quickly, but it proved to be the catalyst for something
much more significant. Later that afternoon Bill sensed God telling him, “I want you
to make total, absolute surrender to My control.”

Bill and Vonette each took a sheet of paper and wrote a list of all the things they
wanted out of life. Looking at their lists, they could see how materialistic their desires
were. They had dreamed of owning beautiful cars, and a home in the upscale Bel-
Air district of Los Angeles. Now they were convicted by Scriptures such as Mark
8:36: “For what does it profit a man to gain the whole world, and forfeit his soul?”

They decided to draft and sign a contract, turning their lives and their marriage over
completely to the Lord Jesus Christ. It went something like this:

“From this day, Lord, we surrender and relinquish all of our past, present, and future
rights and material possessions to you. As an act of the will, by faith, we choose to
become Your bondslaves and do whatever You want us to do, go wherever You
want us to go, say whatever You want us to say, no matter what it costs, for the rest
of our lives. With Your help, we will never again seek the praise or applause of men
or the material wealth of the world.”

Bill called that contract “the anchor of our marriage. It’s the greatest decision that
we have ever made. It was a total, absolute, irrevocable commitment to the Lordship
of Christ.”

It also prepared their hearts for something truly supernatural.

“Lifted Onto a Spiritual Plane...”

A few nights later, Bill was up late, studying for a Greek exam at Fuller Theological
Seminary. Suddenly, Bill said, “God in a supernatural way seemed to open up my
mind, to give me a vision which embraced the whole world. It was so intoxicating
that I almost burst with joy. I wanted to shout the praises of God at the top of my
voice... God showed me the whole world and gave me the confidence that He would
use me and others in this generation to reach the multitudes of the world for whom
Christ died.”

44
In those few seconds, their lives changed forever. The next morning he told one
of his seminary professors, Dr. Wilbur Smith, about the vision, and was amazed to
see Smith pace back and forth excitedly. “This is of God, this is of God,” he said.
A day later he handed Bill a piece of paper and said, “God gave me the name for
your vision.” On the paper was written “CCC” and the name, “Campus Crusade for
Christ.”

Source: http://www.familylife.com/articles/topics/marriage/staying-married/
growing-spiritually/a-decision-that-changed-their-lives.
Accessed 3/28/2016 at 3:29PM GMT+8.

Book 7: CHRIST-COMMITTED LIVING

45
 EXPRESS
Take turns sharing your insights on the following points:

1. Which characteristics of a Christ-surrendered life are evident in

you? What are some of your life experiences that helped you grow
in these areas?

• Christ-centered life
• Doing good
• Trusting God
• Abiding in Christ
• Focusing on Jesus

2. Who were the specific people who mentored/discipled you on how

to live the Christ-surrendered life? What did you learn from these
mentors/disciplers on how to live a Christ-surrendered life?

(Note past/present mentor/discipler or through autobiographies

of Christians who lived years before us, or authors of books that
contributed to helping you live a Christ-surrendered life.)

3. How do you think does discipling others contribute or help you live
a Christ-surrendered life?

46
 EXPERIENCE
Read through the article below a few times. Go through it carefully and be
open to how God may want to speak to you through it.

OTHERS MAY, YOU CANNOT

G.D. Watson

If God has called you to be truly like Jesus in all your spirit, He will draw you into
a life of crucifixion and humility. He will put on you such demands of obedience
that you will not be allowed to follow other Christians. In many ways, He seems
to let other good people do things which He will not let you do.

Others who seem to be very religious and useful may push themselves, pull
wires, and scheme to carry out their plans, but you cannot. If you attempt
it, you will meet with such failure and rebuke from the Lord as to make you
sorely penitent.

Others can brag about themselves, their work, their successes, their writings,
but the Holy Spirit will not allow you to do any such thing. If you begin to do
so, He will lead you into some deep mortification that will make you despise
yourself and all your good works.

Others will be allowed to succeed in making great sums of money, or having

a legacy left to them, or in having luxuries, but God may supply you only on
a day-to-day basis, because He wants you to have something far better than
gold, a helpless dependence on Him and His unseen treasury.

The Lord may let others be honored and put forward while keeping you
hidden in obscurity because He wants to produce some choice, fragrant
fruit for His coming glory, which can only be produced in the shade.

God may let others be great, but keep you small. He will let others do a
work for Him and get the credit, but He will make you work and toil without
knowing how much you are doing. Then, to make your work still more
precious, He will let others get the credit for the work which you have done;
this to teach you the message of the Cross, humility, and something of the
value of being cloaked with His nature. The Holy Spirit will put a strict watch

Book 7: CHRIST-COMMITTED LIVING

47
 on you, and with a jealous love rebuke you for careless words and feelings,
or for wasting your time which other Christians never seem distressed over.

So make up your mind that God is an infinite Sovereign and has a right to do
as He pleases with His own, and that He may not explain to you a thousand
things which may puzzle your reason in His dealings with you. God will take
you at your word; if you absolutely sell yourself to be His slave, He will wrap
you up in a jealous love and let other people say and do many things that
you cannot. Settle it forever; you are to deal directly with the Holy Spirit,
He is to have the privilege of tying your tongue or chaining your hand or
closing your eyes in ways which others are not dealt with. However, know
this great secret of the Kingdom: When you are so completely possessed
with the Living God that you are, in your secret heart, pleased and delighted
over this peculiar, personal, private, jealous guardianship and management
of the Holy Spirit over your life, you will have found the vestibule of heaven,
the high calling of God.
G.D.Watson (1845-1924) was a Wesleyan Methodist minister and evangelist based in Los
Angeles. His evangelistic campaigns took him to England, the West Indies, New Zealand,
Australia, Japan and Korea. He also wrote several books. Good News Publishers gave
permission for the article to be published in a magazine in 1992.

1. Write down your first reaction to what you read in the article. How did
you feel about what the author was saying?

2. What would you consider to be your most important learning about the
Christ-surrendered life from the article?

48
3. Is there something that you need to do or stop doing, someone or
something that you need to surrender, not because it is necessarily bad
or evil (it may even be something good), but because you know in your
heart that God wants you to? Specify who that person or thing (a desire,
a dream, a delightful pursuit, a desk job, etc.). Will you give that up and
surrender to the Lord’s will for your life?

4. If God has spoken to you about the Christ-surrendered life through this
lesson, write down your prayer of response to Him. Ask the Holy Spirit
to enable you to obey what God is directing you to do in surrender to
His will. Ask help from your accountability partner to follow through on
your response to God’s leading. You may want to use Bill and Vonette
Bright’s “contract of surrender” (page 44) as a pattern for your response
to God’s prompting.

Book 7: CHRIST-COMMITTED LIVING

49
50
 SESSION 3

WALKING IN
THE SPIRIT

51
 EXPLORE
Individually write down a definition of what it means to walk in the Spirit.
Keep what you have written down for discussion later in the class.

Walking in the Spirit means…

52
 EXAMINE
I. What Walking in the Spirit Means
Read Galatians 5:16

Walking in the Spirit means to conduct one’s life in accordance with

the Spirit’s workings. So walking in the Spirit emphasizes the moment-
by-moment contact with and guidance by the Holy Spirit for daily
decisions and activities.34

A. Living a life of ___________.

Read Galatians 2:20

An example of a life lived by faith is

Faraday that of Michael Faraday, the great
1791 – 1867 English physicist. He died in London,
aged 75, on August 25, 1867. He had
I would bow before Him
been a devout Christian all of his life.
who is Lord of all, ... and During his life, he had been offered
the great and precious burial in Westminster Abbey along
promises whereby
His people are made
with Britain’s kings and queens and
partakers of the Divine scientists of the stature of Isaac
nature. Newton. He turned this down, in
favor of a more modest end.35 When
he was dying, friends gathered at his bedside. As was often the case in the
nineteenth century, they sought some final words from the dying man. “What
are your speculations?” they asked. His answer was firm: “Speculations! I have
none. I am resting on certainties.”36 It is very remarkable for a man of science
to live a life of faith in God throughout his whole life.

34
LIFE APPLICATION BIBLE COMMENTARY GALATIANS By Bruce B. Barton, L. K. Taylor, Neil Wilson, Series Editor G.
Osborne, PARSONS CHURCH GROUP Omaha, Nebraska
35
“Michael Faraday.” Famous Scientists. famousscientists.org. 24 Nov 2014 Web 2/3/2016 <http://famousscientists.org/
michael-faraday/>
36
1000 WINDOWS: A SPEAKER’S SOURCEBOOK OF ILLUSTRATIONS By Robert C. Shannon

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 B. Living by the _____________

Galatians 5:25

“Unless the Spirit of God be upon us, we have no might

from within and no means from without to rely upon.
Wait upon the Lord, beloved, and seek strength from Him
alone. There cannot come out of you what has not been
put into you. You must receive and then give out.”
C. H. SPURGEON

1. Appreciate that the Holy Spirit is a ________.

Acts 1:4–5

“God commands us to be filled with the Spirit,

and if we are not filled, it is because we are
living beneath our privileges.”
D W I G H T LY M A N M O O DY

2. Receive the Holy Spirit by ____________.

Galatians 3:2,14

Sometimes we may feel that the Holy Spirit is not working in

and through us. When this happens, we must hold on to God’s
promise that His Spirit dwells in every one who has Jesus as
Savior and Lord.

“If you know Christ, you don’t need to beg for the
Holy Spirit to come into your life; He is already there –
whether you ‘feel’ His presence or not. Don’t confuse
the Holy Spirit with an emotional feeling or a
particular type of spiritual experience.”
B I L LY G R A H A M

54
 3. Setting the __________ on what the Spirit desires.

Read Romans 8:5

Phroneō, the verb behind “set their minds”: refers to the basic
orientation, bent, and thought patterns of the mind. It includes
a person’s affections and will as well as his reasoning. In
other words, those who belong to God are concerned about
godly things. Despite their many spiritual failures, their basic
orientation and innermost concerns have to do with the things
of the Spirit.37

4. Strengthened in the _______________by the Holy Spirit.

Ephesians 3:16

The great preacher Charles Spurgeon once

preached what in his judgment was one of
his poorest sermons. He stammered and
floundered and felt that his message was a
complete failure. He was greatly humiliated
and when he got home, he fell on his knees
and said, “Lord God, Thou canst do something
with nothing. Bless that poor sermon.” All
through the week he uttered that prayer. He
woke up in the night and prayed about it. He
determined the next Sunday he would redeem himself by preaching a great
sermon. Sure enough, his sermon the next Sunday went off beautifully. At
the close, the people crowded him and covered him with praise. Spurgeon
went home pleased with himself and that night he slept like a baby, but he
said to himself, “I’ll watch the results of those two sermons.” What were
they? From the one that had seemed a failure he was able to trace forty-
one conversions. From the magnificent sermon he was unable to discover
even a single soul that had been saved. Spurgeon’s explanation was that
the Spirit of God used the one and did not use the other.

37
MACARTHUR’S NEW TESTAMENT COMMENTARY: ROMANS 1-8 by John MacArthur, Jr. MOODY PRESS Chicago, IL

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 5. Utilize the Holy Spirit’s _________ for ministry.

1 Corinthians 12:4

Each believer is given at least one spiritual gift, and we are

accountable to Him for how we use or not use this in His service.
We must diligently and faithfully maximize our gifts for the glory
of God and in equipping the believers for the works of service.

In utilizing the Spirit’s gift for ministry, keep this in mind:

“Will God ever ask you to do something you are

not able to do? The answer is yes – all the time!
It must be that way, for God’s glory and kingdom.
If we function according to our ability alone, we get
the glory; if we function according to the power of
the Spirit within us, God gets the glory. He wants
to reveal Himself to a watching world.”
H EN RY T. B L ACK ABY

II. Results of Walking in the Spirit38

A. Manifests the ___________of the Spirit.

Galatians 5:22–23

“The fruit of the Spirit is a gift of God,

and only He can produce it...”
DIETRICH BONHOEFFER

As humans we have two great spiritual needs.

The first is forgiveness, which God has made possible
by sending His son into the world to die for our sins.
Our second need, however, is for goodness,
which God also made possible by sending
the Holy Spirit to dwell within us.
B I L LY G R A H A M

38
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B. Increasingly _________________ to the image of Christ.

2 Corinthians 3:18

The Holy Spirit works in breaking down the influence of sin in the
believer’s life and the creation of a positive likeness to Christ. More
and more each day, the believer’s moral and spiritual character is
being changed.

“The great idea is not that we are at work with God,

but that He is at work within us... that He is working out
a strong family likeness to His Son in us.”
OSWALD CHAMBERS

C. Study of God’s Word becomes more _______________.

Read John 14:26; 1 Corinthians 2:13

“The Spirit of God has the habit of taking the words of Jesus
out of their scriptural setting and putting them into the
setting of our personal lives.”
OSWALD CHAMBERS

“The great King, immortal, invisible, the divine person called

the Holy Spirit:... it is he that imparts efficacy to the Word
preached, or else it could never reach farther than the ear...”
CHARLES SPURGEON

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57
 “The Holy Spirit illuminates the minds of people, makes
us yearn for God, and takes spiritual truth and makes it
understandable to us.”
B I L LY G R A H A M

D. Becomes an ___________ witness for Christ.

Read Acts 1:8

“The baptism of the Holy Ghost makes us witnesses to

Jesus, not wonder-workers. The witness is not to what
Jesus does, but to what he is.”
OSWALD CHAMBERS

When missionary Ray Dibble and his wife left Nigeria at the
beginning of World War II, they had just finished translating
the New Testament into the Igala language. There were only
six typewritten copies of the New Testament and a handful of
Christians when they left. Returning after the war the Dibbles
found fifty congregations. Tribesmen had made at least one
hundred copies of the New Testament by hand. Some pages
were torn, so some tribesmen had committed whole gospels
to memory that they might not be lost. The believers were
persecuted by nonbelievers and called “The Word of God
People”. They never gave up, and they deserved the title!

In another part of the world, it is related that “an old peasant

in Northwest India learned by heart the first chapter of John’s
Gospel. After his harvest was over he would go out year by year
into the villages nearby and repeat what he had learned. It is
stated that in eight years he had brought some four hundred of
his countrymen to embrace Christianity and receive baptism.

(Quoted from Heartwarming Bible Illustrations, compiled and edited

by Richard A. Steele, Jr. and Evelyn Stoner)

58
 E. Have a faithful effective ________________.

Read James 5:16; Romans 8:26-27; Romans 12:12

Prayer should come first and not as a last resort. God is pleased
to use our prayers to accomplish His purposes and He delights in
answering our needs.39

“When we walk in the Spirit, we can see tangible results

in the lives of people. John Livingston, of Scotland,
once spent a whole night with a company of his brethren
in prayer for God’s blessing, all of them together besieging
the throne; and the next day, under his sermon,
five hundred souls were converted.”51
JOHN LIVINGSTON

F. Spirit-filled acts of _____________.

Romans 12:1

1. Worship is not just about singing songs during Sunday

services. True worship is our proper response to who God is
and to what He has done and will do in and for us.

Ephesians 5:18–19

Believers must sing and make music that comes from the
heart and offer it to the Lord. The singing should be a genuine
representation of one’s beliefs and feelings — the “heart”
referring to the whole being which should be controlled and
guided by the Spirit.

39
LIFE APPLICATION BIBLE COMMENTARY JAMES By Bruce B. Barton, D. Min. David R. Veerman, M. Div. Neil Wilson, M.A.R.
General Editor: Grant Osborne, Ph.D.

Book 7: CHRIST-COMMITTED LIVING

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 Our songs for the Lord and about the Lord should not end
during worship services, or in our small group meetings. We
can sing songs of worship, praise, thanksgiving, and about
our every thought towards God. This song by Michael West
called “Motions” talks about giving it all for God, rather than
as a lackluster believer just going through the motions of the
Christian life (see first 2 verses and chorus below):
The Motions
by Matthew West

This might hurt

It’s not safe
But I know that I’ve gotta make a change
I don’t care If I break

At least I’ll be feeling something

‘Cause just ok
Is not enough
Help me fight through the nothingness of life

Chorus
I don’t wanna go through the motions
I don’t wanna go one more day
Without Your all consuming passion inside of me
I don’t wanna spend my whole life asking
What if I had given everything?
Instead of going through the motions

“There is a contrast between the music and arts of Christians,

done together in praise to God, and the music and arts of
unbelievers, done purely for entertainment or self-praise. The
primary focus of music, arts and in whatever we do as an act
of worship is to give thanks to God the Father in the name of
our Lord Jesus Christ.”40

60
 2. Worship in an attitude of thankfulness.

Read Ephesians 5:20

G. Maintaining __________ over the desires of the sinful nature.

Read Galatians 5:16

As we walk in the Spirit daily, we will remain victorious over the

desires of the sinful nature. Erwin Lutzer explains it well when he
said that “the Spirit’s control will replace sin’s control. His power is
greater than the power of all your sin.”

But it does not mean also that believers have no responsibility

in maintaining victory over their sinful nature. Believers are
accountable to God for how they deal with sin and nurture their
spiritual life. The great evangelist Billy Graham tells us that; “a life
touched by the Holy Spirit will tolerate sin no longer... if we feed our
spiritual lives and allow the Holy Spirit to empower us, He will have
rule over us. If we starve our spiritual natures and instead feed the
old, sinful nature, the flesh will dominate.”

40
LIFE APPLICATION BIBLE COMMENTARY EPHESIANS By Bruce B. Barton, D. Min. David R. Veerman, M. Div. Neil Wilson,
M.A.R. General Editor: Grant Osborne, Ph.D.

Book 7: CHRIST-COMMITTED LIVING

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 EXPRESS
Break out into groups of 3-5 people each and as a group, write down a
summary of what you learned about what it means to walk in the Spirit.

Go back to your definition that you individually wrote down at the beginning
of the class. What is the difference and the similarity between the two
definitions? Discuss this with your group.

What is your most important realization about walking in the Spirit as a

result of this lesson? Share your thoughts with your group. End in prayer
for one another that each one will walk in the Spirit moment by moment.

EXPERIENCE
What will you apply in your life from today’s lesson? Write down your specific
action point on walking in the Spirit, and start living it out consistently.
 SESSION 4

HOW TO WALK
IN THE SPIRIT

63
 EXPLORE
Give a one-word description of the way the following creatures “walk”:

1. Duck

2. Kangaroo

3. Sea lion

4. Earthworm

LEARNING NUGGET

The creatures above have a distinct way of “walking”, and their walk is a
part of their identifying characteristics. As followers of Christ, we too are to
be distinguished in the way we walk as we travel along life’s journey—we
are to “walk in the Spirit” (see Galatians 5:16, 25). In this lesson, we will
discover just how we can do that.

(Answer Key: duck: waddle; kangaroo: hop; sea lion: crawl; earthworm: slither)

64
 EXAMINE
I. Dealing with the ____________ to Walking in the Spirit.
A. Lack of __________________41
Read Ephesians 4:13

In this verse, Paul was not talking about salvation knowledge but
about the full knowledge that is correct and accurate through a
relationship with Christ that comes only from prayer and faithful
study of and obedience to God’s Word.42

Develop a love for God’s Word to overcome our lack of knowledge.

Read Psalm 119:97

“I am sorry for men who do not read the Bible every day.
I wonder why they deprive themselves of the strength
and the pleasure.”
WOODROW WILSON

B. __________________43
Read Proverbs 18:12

41
The Holy Spirit: The Key to Supernatural Living by Bill Bright Campus Crusade for Christ, Inc. San Bernardino, CA, USA
42
MACARTHUR’S NEW TESTAMENT COMMENTARY: EPHESIANS by John MacArthur, Jr. MOODY PRESS Chicago, IL
43
The Holy Spirit: The Key to Supernatural Living by Bill Bright Campus Crusade for Christ, Inc. San Bernardino, CA, USA

Book 7: CHRIST-COMMITTED LIVING

65
 “The essential vice, the utmost evil, is pride.
Unchastity, anger, greed, drunkenness, and all that, are
mere fleabites in comparison. It was through pride that the
devil became the devil. Pride leads to every other vice;
it is the complete anti-God state of mind.”
C. S. LEWIS

The Emperor Justinian built the Church of St. Sophia,

that gem of human architecture. He collected marble and
treasures from all over the world to make it beautiful. At
last the moment for dedication arrived. The words uttered
by Justinian seemed full of humility as he said that all had
been done for the glory of God. But as he allowed his
eyes to drink in the beauty of the building, he could hardly
contain himself. Someone heard him whisper, “Solomon, I
have surpassed thee.”44

Humble ourselves before the Lord to overcome pride.

Read James 4:10

The antidote to pride is humility. Humbling ourselves means

recognizing that our worth comes from God alone. It is recognizing
our desperate need for His help and submitting to His will for our
lives.

44
ILLUSTRATIONS OF BIBLE TRUTHS Compiled by Ruth Peters

66
 At the time of this writing, there is a rising young star in the NBA.
You probably have heard of Stephen Curry who plays point guard
for the Golden State Warriors.

TIME magazine did an interview on Curry in 2015. The magazine

gave the following glowing report on Steph: “He tops the NBA in
scoring, averaging 31.8 points per game, up from 23.8 in 2014-
2015. He led the defending champion Golden State Warriors to a
24-0 start — the best in NBA history. Curry’s team…could break the
record for most regular season wins, 72, which was set by Michael
Jordan’s Chicago Bulls during the 1995-1996 season.” (59)

Stephen Curry is a Christ-committed follower from all indications-

-from his own words, his work ethics, his family life, his general
demeanor and attitude towards popularity and fame. Take a look
at how he recognizes where his incredible talents and success
come from, and what they are for:

“God’s given me talents to play basketball for a living, but I still

have to work hard to improve every day. I know that in the grand
scheme of things, this is just a game that can be taken from me at
any moment. But I love that basketball gives me the opportunities
to do good things for people and to point them towards the Man
who died for our sins on the cross. I know I have a place in heaven
waiting for me because of Him, and that’s something no earthly
prize or trophy could ever top.45

There’s more to me than just this jersey I wear,

and that’s Christ living inside of me.”(60)
-Stephen Curry, NBA Golden State Warriors46

C. _______________-Mindedness47
Read 1 John 2:15–17

45
http://www.cnsnews.com/commentary/cnsnewscom-staff/golden-states-stephen-curry-i-gave-my-life-christ. Accessed
2/22/2016 4:49PM
46
http://time.com/4159715/stephen-curry-says-hes-the-best-player-in-world/. Accessed 2/22/2016 3:13 PM GMT+8
47
The Holy Spirit: The Key to Supernatural Living by Bill Bright Campus Crusade for Christ, Inc. San Bernardino, CA, USA

Book 7: CHRIST-COMMITTED LIVING

67
 The “world” mentioned here is the present evil system that is ruled
by Satan and opposed to God. “Worldly-Mindedness” does not
only include a set of explicit sinful behaviors but it also certainly
includes internal heart attitudes.

• Lust of the flesh – The desire to fulfill pleasures, physical desires.

• Lust of the eyes – The constant craving for more.
• The pride of life – The desire for power or possessions

“Worldliness is excluding God from our lives and, therefore,

consciously or unconsciously accepting the values of a
man-centered society. Worldliness is not only doing what is
forbidden but also wishing it were possible to do it. One of its
distinctives is mental slavery to illegitimate pleasure… If we
are not nourished by the Bread from heaven, we will satiate
ourselves with crumbs from the world.”
ERWIN LUTZER

Renew our mind by God’s Word to overcome

our desire for power or possessions.

Read Romans 12:2

Read Hebrews 4:12

Much of the work is done by God’s Spirit in us, and the tool most
frequently used is God’s Word. Our minds become first informed,
and then conformed to the pattern of God, the pattern for which we
were originally designed.63

68
 “We cannot effectively pursue holiness without the Word
of God stored up in our minds where it can be used
by the Holy Spirit to transform us.”
JERRY BRIDGES,
The Discipline of Grace, 180

In “Unbeaten Tracts in Japan,” Isabella L. Bird relates a

remarkable instance of the power of the Scriptures over
criminals. A portion of the New Testament, the only parts
then translated and printed in Japanese, was given to the
keeper of the prison at Otsu, a place in the interior of Japan,
beyond the reach of missionary instruction. The officer of
the prison gave it to a scholarly convict, incarcerated for
manslaughter. Time passed, and nothing was heard from
this precious gift. A fire finally broke out in the Otsu prison.
“Now is your opportunity,” would be the natural thought
to each of the hundred prisoners. But when all were
looking to see them attempt an escape, every one of the
prisoners helped to put out the flames, and voluntarily
remained to serve the rest of his sentence. Such honorable
conduct mystified the authorities, and led to a careful
investigation. This investigation developed the fact that
the man-slaughterer had become so impressed with the
truth of Christianity by studying the Scriptures which the
officer had given him, that he had embraced the life-giving
truth and then had devoted himself to teaching his fellow-
prisoners. The circumstances led to the release of the
man-slaughterer, but he preferred to remain in Otsu, that
he might teach more of the “new way” to the prisoners.48

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HEARTWARMING BIBLE ILLUSTRATIONS Compiled and Edited by Richard A. Steele, Jr. and Evelyn Stoner

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69
 D. Lack of ____________49
Read Hebrews 11:6

To overcome our lack of faith, we put our trust in God and in His
promises.

Read Hebrews 11:1

Faith starts with believing in the character of the Godhead (Father,

Son and Spirit), that He is who He says He is. Faith culminates with
believing in God’s promises that He will do what He says He will do.
When we believe that God will fulfill His promises (i.e. empowerment
and guidance of the Spirit) even though we don’t see any evidence
yet, we demonstrate true faith as shown in our obedience to His Word.

“Every time we say, “I believe in the Holy Spirit,” we mean

that we believe that there is a living God able and willing
to enter human personality and change it.”
J. B. PHILIPPS

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The Holy Spirit: The Key to Supernatural Living by Bill Bright Campus Crusade for Christ, Inc. San Bernardino, CA, USA

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E. Grieving the Spirit by _____________
Read Ephesians 4:30

Every time we sin, we grieve the Spirit. That is why Paul reminded
us to watch over our lives carefully.

We must practice confession and repentance when we sin.

Read Psalm 32:5

Confession and repentance is necessary so that our intimacy with

God will be restored. We don’t keep on sinning, instead there
should be genuine repentance, that is turning away from sin in our
hearts and actions.

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 F. ___________________________ the Spirit
Read 1 Thessalonians 5:19

“The context here is ministry. When believers pour cold water on

the fire of ministry they quench the Spirit. The Spirit’s ministry is
not to be hindered; Christians also should not hinder others in their
ministry for God.”50

We must use our spiritual gifts for service.

Read 1 Corinthians 12:4,7

II. How We Can Walk in the Spirit

A. Be sure that you are filled with the Spirit, by _____________.70
Read Ephesians 5:18

(Note: This topic is discussed in detail in Book 6: Basic Doctrines,

The Spirit-filled Life)

B. Be led by the _______________ at all times.

Read Romans 8:14

50
ILLUSTRATIONS OF BIBLE TRUTHS Compiled by Ruth Peters
51
The Holy Spirit: The Key to Supernatural Living by Bill Bright Campus Crusade for Christ, Inc. San Bernardino, CA, USA

72
 When we say that we walk in the Spirit, it means that we are led by
the Spirit of God as evidenced in our lifestyle.

“Christians, day by day, week by week, and month by month,

are told to walk in the Spirit. Walking in the Spirit
means being led and directed by the Holy Spirit.
This comes as we progressively yield various areas
of our lives to the Spirit’s control…”
B I L LY G R A H A M

Be led by the Spirit thru the Scriptures.

Read John 16:13

“The Spirit and the Word must be combined. If I look to the

Spirit alone without the Word, I lay myself open to great
delusions also. If the Holy Ghost guides us at all, He will do it
according to the Scriptures and never contrary to them.”
GEORGE MUELLER

In 1937 the Dalai Lama, Tibet’s highest religious leader, died.

A search for his successor, his reincarnation, began. When
it was noted that the head of the corpse tilted eastward,
his followers began to look in that direction. That and other
hints from religious visions led them to a two-year-old boy
in a remote farmhouse, and today he is the Dalai Lama.
We Christians are not left with such vague and nebulous
guidance. We have the clear teaching of Scripture and the
guiding presence of the Holy Spirit.52

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 C. Be prepared for __________________________53

Read Ephesians 6:10-12

“The devil is a bully, but when we stand in the armor of God

he cannot harm us; if we tackle him in our own strength,
we are soon done for; but if we stand with the strength and
courage of God, he cannot gain one inch of way at all.”
OSWALD CHAMBERS

As Oswald Chambers reminds us to stand in the armor of God,

Ephesians 6:14-17 enumerates the armor of God that is available in
the believer’s arsenal. Below is an application of this armor in the
believer’s life.

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 GOD’S ARMOR FOR US54
PIECE OF
USE APPLICATION
ARMOR
Belt Truth Satan fights with lies, and sometimes
his lies sound like truth; but only
believers have God’s truth, which can
defeat Satan’s lies.
Breastplate Righteousness Satan often attacks our heart—the seat
of our emotions, self-worth, and trust.
God’s righteousness is the breastplate
that protects our heart and ensures his
approval. He approves of us because he
loves us and sent his Son to die for us.
Shoes Readiness to Satan wants us to think that telling
spread the others the Good News is a worthless
Good News and hopeless task—the size of the task
is too big and the negative responses
are too much to handle. But the
footgear God gives us enables us to
proclaim the true peace that is available
in God—news everyone needs to hear.
Shield Faith What we see are Satan’s attacks in
the form of insults, setbacks, and
temptations. But the shield of faith
protects us from Satan’s flaming
arrows. With God’s perspective, we
can see beyond our circumstances and
know that ultimate victory is ours.
Helmet Salvation Satan wants to make us doubt God,
Jesus, and our salvation. The helmet
protects our mind from doubting God’s
saving work for us.
Sword The Spirit, the There are times when we need to take
Word of God the offensive against Satan. When we
are tempted, we need to live in the
Spirit of God’s Word.
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LIFE APPLICATION BIBLE COMMENTARY EPHESIANS By Bruce B. Barton, D. Min. Philip Comfort, Ph.D. Kent Keller, M. Div.
Linda K. Taylor Dave Veerman, M. Div.

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 D. Know your _________________ as a child of God.55
Read Ephesians 1:3, John 1:12

We have “every spiritual blessing”—that is, every benefit of knowing

God and everything we need to grow spiritually. We need not ask
for these blessings but simply accept them and apply them to our
lives. We can enjoy these blessings now and will enjoy them for
eternity.56
OUR RESOURCES AS A CHILD OF GOD
(Who We Are in Christ)
Blessed with every spiritual blessing in Christ Ephesians 1:3
Forgiven (sins are taken away), holy, blameless, Ephesians 1:4; 1:7
& objects of God’s love
Adopted as God’s children and marked as be- Ephesians 1:5–6;
longing to Him by the Spirit 1:13
Members of Christ’s body (Church) and brought Ephesians 1:10–11;
under Christ’s headship 5:29–30
We have been raised up to sit with Christ in glory Ephesians 2:6
We are God’s work of art Ephesians 2:10
Brought near to God and can come into God’s Ephesians 2:13;
presence with freedom and confidence 3:12

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The Holy Spirit: The Key to Supernatural Living by Bill Bright Campus Crusade for Christ, Inc. San Bernardino, CA, USA
56
LIFE APPLICATION BIBLE COMMENTARY EPHESIANS By B. B. Barton, D. Veerman, L. K. Taylor Series Editor G. Osborne,
Editor Philip Comfort, PARSONS CHURCH GROUP, Omaha, Nebraska

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 EXPRESS
Share your thoughts and insights in your small group.

1. What did you discover to be your main hindrance/s in walking in the

Spirit? In what ways does that affect the way you behave?

• Lack of knowledge
• Pride
• Worldly-mindedness
• Lack of faith
• Grieving the Spirit by sinning
• Quenching the Spirit by not using spiritual gifts to serve

2. What would be your most immediate and specific action point from
this lesson on how to walk in the Spirit?

Book 7: CHRIST-COMMITTED LIVING

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 EXPERIENCE
1. Identify an area of your life that you have not been walking in according
to the Spirit. Write it down. Confess this to the Lord, claiming His
forgiveness by faith based on His promise in 1 John 1:9.

After you have confessed, cross out the sin/s you wrote down and
write 1 John 1:9 across the list, signifying that all your sins have been
forgiven through Christ’s death on the cross. Destroy the list and
discard it — symbolizing the fact that through Jesus, God has forgiven
all your sins. Offer a prayer of thanksgiving to the Lord for the complete
forgiveness He has given you!

2. How will you repent in this area? What are the specific actions that
you will take to show the Lord your sincere repentance on this matter?
Write this down and make this a guide for prayer in the next 10 days as
you take steps towards repentance.

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 WHAT’S NEXT?
BOOK 8: FAMILY LIFE

Congratulations! Praise God that you have completed this module! By now
you already knew what the Lordship of Christ is and what it means to us
His followers. You also learned the importance of walking in the Spirit and
how you can experience it daily in your lives. We are pretty sure that you
are blessed with your study and are applying the lessons that you have
learned from this module.

As you continue on with your discipleship journey towards Christ-likeness,

it would be great that you apply Christ-committed living in the context of
your own family. It is said that healthy families result in healthy churches
and nations. Thus, our next and last module in the GLC Essentials Series is
“Family Life”. In this module, you will discover God’s design for the family,
its importance and the role of its members. You will also learn how to have
good communication and restore strained or broken relationships within the
family. And in order to have a next generation of Christ-committed followers,
it is important that each one of us will leave a Godly legacy through our
biological and spiritual children.

So be ready to receive the blessings that God has in store for you and
your family, as you go through your next set of lessons in Book 8: Family
Life. Enjoy your time together and may our families become what God has
intended them to be for His glory!

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80
ANSWER KEY

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 SESSION 1: LORDSHIP OF CHRIST

I. Biblical Understanding of the Lordship of Christ

1. He is Almighty God.
2. He has supreme rule, authority, power and dominion.
3. He is both Lord and Savior.
4. He is the Lord of the Universe.
5. He is the Lord of all people.
6. He is the Lord of the Church

B. What the Lordship of Christ Means to the Believer

1. Christ demands Lordship in the believer’s whole life.
2. Believers must receive Him as both Lord and Savior of their lives.
3. Believers must daily live out Christ’s Lordship.

II. How We Live out Christ’s Lordship in Our Lives

A. Surrender to Christ’s Lordship.
1. We should have full commitment and loyalty to Christ.
2. We should be good stewards of our time, talent and treasures.
3. We should make Christ the boss of our work/business.
4. We should make Christ the center of our life, family and other
relationships.

SESSION 2:
LIVING A LIFE SURRENDERED TO CHRIST’S LORDSHIP

I. Our Need to Surrender

A. Our Lives Apart from Christ
B. Our Sinful Nature

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II. Characteristics of a Surrendered Life
A. Life is Christ-directed.
B. Does good.
C. Trusts God.

D. Abides in Christ
Abiding in Christ means...
1. Moment-by-moment decision to follow Him.
2. Remaining in Christ’s Word.
3. Dependence on Christ.
4. Intimacy with Christ.
5. Relating in love with the community of believers.

E. Fixing our eyes on Christ.

II. Spiritual Benefits of Surrendering to the Lordship of Christ

A. A Full Life
B. Answered Prayers
C. Bearing Fruit
1. Fruit of Being
2. Fruit of Service
3. Fruit of Spiritual Multiplication
D. Brings Glory to God

SESSION 3: WALKING IN THE SPIRIT

I. What Walking in the Spirit Means

A. Living a life of faith.
B. Living by the Spirit.

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 1. Appreciate that the Holy Spirit is a gift.
2. Receive the Holy Spirit by faith.
3. Setting the mind on what the Spirit desires.
4. Strengthened in the inner being by the Holy Spirit.
5. Utilize the Holy Spirit’s gifts for ministry.

II. Results of Walking in the Spirit

A. Manifests the fruit of the Spirit.
B. Increasingly conformed to the image of Christ.
C. Study of God’s word becomes more meaningful.
D. Becomes an active witness for Christ.
E. Have a faithful effective prayer life.
F. Spirit-filled acts of worship.
G. Maintaining victory over the desires of the sinful nature.

SESSION 4: HOW TO WALK IN THE SPIRIT

I. Dealing with the Hindrances to Walking in the Spirit.

A. Lack of Knowledge
B. Pride
C. Worldly-Mindedness
D. Lack of Faith
E. Grieving the Spirit by Sinning
F. Quenching the Spirit

II. How Can We Walk in the Spirit?

A. Be sure that you are filled with the Spirit, by faith.
B. Be led by the Spirit at all times.
C. Be prepared for spiritual conflict.
D. Know your resources as a child of God.

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