The next Bible study methods class for men will be 5 PM, Sunday, September 27, 2009 at the First Baptist Church of Perryville, MD. Even if you do not come to the study, you can learn and practice this method to grow and stay fresh in your study. Men can come without doing the assignment and still learn. But you will learn more if you take the time to study and practice this method. 

This month’s assignment is to study a theme through a book of the Bible. The theme will be: Evidences of Salvation.  The book will be: The First Epistle of John.

1. Read I John 5:13.  What does John say his purpose, or one of his purposes, is for writing this epistle?

2. Read through I John making a list of the many different ways salvation or eternal life is represented by John by words or phrases such as: knowing, being in the light, and children of God.  Can you get more than 10? Not counting repetition or very similar phrases, can you find more than 20?

3. Read I John carefully looking for verses that specifically talk about the description of those who have eternal life in Christ (the words or phrases you noted answering question #2 should all refer to those who have eternal life).  You are looking for the changes which God says will take place when people know Him by grace through faith. These are the evidences of salvation. Look for verses that specifically teach a connection between salvation and change. We are not looking for what you feel or pulling out any idea we want to.  The verse(s) must teach a connection between salvation and change.

4. Make a list of what you learn. Write down the reference and a short summary of what the verse teaches should be seen in those with eternal life.  For example:
     1:6- those with eternal life enjoy fellowship with God
     1:6- those with eternal life are growing in holiness (“do not walk in darkness”)

5. Pray daily that God’s transforming work will be obvious in you.  Pick one of the evidences you found answering question #4 as the change for which you are praying you or others will see in you.
The training and discussion will be led by Dr. Gauger, pastor at the First Baptist Church of Perryville, MD. The First Baptist Church is located in Cecil County, on Route 40, 1 1/2 miles east of Route 222. The church is across Route 40 from the new built Principio Health Center.

The Bible study will be held at the church in the back classroom on the second floor. Easiest access is to drive around the building to the back parking lot. Use the back door. The main entrance will also be open. Bring your Bible, a pen or pencil, and your notes or paper to take down what you learn. Dress is casual. The study will last about an hour, but the pastor will stay longer for any with additional questions.

Questions? Please call 410-642-6865.