simple

small group study

Robert J. Morgan

© 2013 by Robert J. Morganw

Published by Randall House Publications

114 Bush Road

Nashville, TN 37217

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 means—except for brief quotation in critical reviews, without the prior permission of the publisher.

Unless otherwise indicated, all Scripture quotations are from the NEW KING JAMES VERSION. © 1982 Thomas Nelson Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved. Other Scripture references are from The HOLY BIBLE, NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION®. NIV®. Copyright© 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica. Inc. . All rights reserved worldwide. Used by permission.

Printed in the United States of America

ISBN-13:978-0-89265-689-9

contents

Introduction

Week 1 Is Salvation Really Simple?

Week 2 Assurance: How Can I Know for Sure?

Week 3 Baptism: Why Should I Get Wet?

Week 4 Church: What’s It Got to Offer?

Week 5 Devotions: How Can I Stay Close to God?

Week 6 Evangelism: How Can I Share My Faith with Others?

introduction

Simplicity seems to be a rare commodity in this world full of complication and clutter. Many seem to feel that the Christian life adds to the complication. However, the basics of Christianity can be explained in simple terms. This six-week small group study is my effort to help new believers gain a clear picture of the Christian life. I also want to aid long-time believers who are interested in rediscovering the basics of their faith. So turn the pages to encounter basic Bible truths in understandable terms, using personal, everyday examples of the truths being explored. Numerous Bible passages will further clarify the ABC’s of Christianity—assurance, baptism, church, devotions, and evangelism.

May the Lord bless you with the simplicity of His grace as you study and grow in Christ!

Week 1

Is Salvation Really Simple?

Week 1 day 1

When Henry David Thoreau made his mark, simplicity was already en vogue. His basic rule for healthy living? “Simplify! Simplify!” Two hundred years later finds that mantra proliferated seemingly everywhere. The ideal of a simple life, a simple schedule, a simple diet, a simple relationship is ever set before the modern citizen. But what does simple really mean?

1. In your own words, define simple:

2. Now consult a dictionary and/or thesaurus; what are the “official” meanings of simple?

No doubt it is the messiness and complexities of sin that makes simplicity so appealing; yet many find a simpler schedule does not produce joy or peace or anything lasting. The true source for such is found—as you’ve discovered—in relationship with Jesus Christ, the Redeemer.

3. Yet, how many times have people (even you) protested that salvation is too complicated, the Christian life too demanding and complex? Are these valid points? Are these just excuses? What do you think?

The Christian life ...