ANNUAL BIBLE CAMP 2017 THE CHURCH · ANNUAL BIBLE CAMP 2017 , THE CHURCH 1 ANNUAL BIBLE CAMP 2017 THE CHURCH 30th Sept 10:30 am to 2nd Oct 2.30 pm Don Bosco Youth Animation Centre

1 ANNUAL BIBLE CAMP 2017 , THE CHURCH

ANNUAL BIBLE CAMP 2017

THE CHURCH

30th Sept 10:30 am to 2nd Oct 2.30 pm

Don Bosco Youth Animation Centre

Ennore, Chennai.


ANNUAL BIBLE CAMP 2017

THE CHURCH

30th Sept 10:30 am to 2nd Oct 2.30 pm

Name: ___________________

Church: ___________________

Camp Group: ___________________

Organizing Churches:

Ambattur, Velachery, Wallajah

Don Bosco Youth Animation Centre, Ennore, Chennai.


INDEX Page No.

General Instructions 3

Schedule and Group Division 5

Songs 7

Topics and Notes

Session I CHURCH - Its Origin and Structure Br. K Joy David

Session II CHURCH - Its Purpose and Function Br.K Joy David

Session III CHURCH - Its role and responsibilities of the members and leaders Br.R Gnanaharan

Session IV CHURCH - Discovering spiritual gifts and flaming them to fire Br. Selvin Norman Jebraj

Session V CHURCH - Its Unity and Diversity Br. Selvin Norman Jebraj

Session VI CHURCH and the great commission Br. Breeze Mathew

Session VII CHURCH and Discipline Br. K Joy David

Session VIII How to evaluate my church? Br. Breeze Mathew

Session for youths - How to enjoy the church and how to find a niche in church Br. Breeze Mathew

Closing Message Br. R Gnanaharan

15

18

22

28

30

35

36

38

39

40

Group Study and discussion 42

Review and Reflections 43

GENERAL INSTRUCTIONS

Registration should be done at the registration desk soon after the arrival. Keep punctuality in the camp for the sessions, food, sleeping time etc. Be available for the

sessions 5 to 10 minutes before for the songs and prayer. Involve in the group activities along with your group members. Do not litter the campsite. Dispose the waste in the dustbin. Keep the keys of the rooms and safe dormitories and return them back to the people in charge

for accomodation when you leave the campsite. Keep away from going outside the campsite alone. There will be a general quiz on the camp at the end. There will be a talent show on Sunday night. Individuals or families can participate with

songs, skits etc. Books will be available for sale, contact the responsible people if needed.


SCHEDULE

START

END

TOPIC / PARTICULARS

SPEAKER / RESP

SEPTEMBER 30, 2017 SATURDAY 10.30

11.30

REGISTRATION AND SETTLING AT ROOMS

11.30

12.00

CAMP INTRODUCTION AND WORSHIP

TITUS / ROSHAN

12.00

01.00

SESSION I - CHURCH - ITS ORIGIN AND STRUCTURE

Br. K JOY DAVID

01.00

02.30

LUNCH BREAK

02.30

02.45

SONGS

02.45

03.45

SESSION II - CHURCH - ITS PURPOSE AND FUNCTIONS

Br. K JOY DAVID

03.45

04.00

BREAK

04.00

05.00

SESSION III - CHURCH - ROLE AND RESPONSIBILITY OF THE MEMBERS & LEADERS

Br. R GNANAHARAN

05.00 05.15

05.15 06.45

TEA BREAK GAMES

06.45

07.00

SONGS

07.00

08.00

SESSION IV - CHURCH - DISCOVERING SPIRITUAL GIFTS AND FLAMING THEM TO FIRE

Br.SELVIN NORMAN JEBRAJ

08.00

09.00

DINNER

09.00

10.00

PRAY FOR INDIA

Br.SUNNY JOHN / BR. UMAKANT

OCTOBER 01, 2017 SUNDAY 6.00

6.15

MORNING TEA

7.00

8.00

QUIET TIME

8.00

9.00

BREAKFAST

9.00

10.30

SUNDAY WORSHIP MEETING & LORD'S TABLE

Br.CHANDRASHEKAR

10.30

10.45

TEA BREAK

10.45

11.45

SESSION V - CHURCH - ITS UNITY AND DIVERSITY

Br.SELVIN NORMAN JEBRAJ

11.45

12.00

BREAK

12.00

01.00

SESSION VI - CHURCH AND GREAT COMMISSION

Br.BREEZE MATHEW

1.00

02.30

LUNCH BREAK

2.30

02.45

SONGS

2.45

04.00

ALUMNI TIME

Br.ANIL ABRAHAM

4.00

05.00

GROUP DISCUSSION

JOHN JOSEPH

5.00

05.30

TEA BREAK AND PHOTO SESSION

5.30

06.45

GAMES

6.45

07.00

SONGS


GROUP DIVISION

7.00

08.00

PANEL DISCUSSION - Q&A

Br.SURYA

8.00

09.00

DINNER

9.00

10.00

TALENT SHOW

OCTOBER 02, 2017 MONDAY 6.00

6.15

MORNING TEA

6.15

7.00

QUIET TIME

7.00

8.00

SESSION FOR YOUTHS - HOW TO ENJOY MY CHURCH/HOW TO FIND YOUR NICHE IN THE CHURCH

Br.BREEZE MATHEW

8.00

9.00

BREAKFAST

9.00

9.30

SONGS

9.30

10.30

SESSION VII - CHURCH AND DISCIPLINE

Br. K JOY DAVID

10.30

10.45

BREAK

10.45

11.45

SESSION VIII - HOW TO EVALUATE MY CHURCH?

Br. BREEZE MATHEW

11.45

12.30

CAMP QUIZ

12.30

01.00

CLOSING MESSAGE

Br, R GNANAHARAN

01.00

02.30

LUNCH AND GOOD BYE

EPHESUS SMYRNA PERGAMOS THYATIRA SARDIS PHILADELPHIA LAODICEA

K Joy David Selvin Jebraj Gnanaharan Breeze Mathew Jerry David Roy Raju Abraham

Vijith Rexlin Shanthi Jose Anu Jerry Suja Roy Lilly Raju Asha Nibu John Cijin Lilly Jose Vipin Bovaz Shyaam Sholy Amitha Linda Chandrashekar Jisma Sruthy Prathibha John Joseph Sunny John Babu Thomas Umakant James Raj Kumaravel Lydia John Binny Krishnaveni Leelamma Hannahrani Lilly James Jagadha Joshua Jijo Anil Abraham Titus Raju Sebastine Surya Teason M T

Vijayalakshmi Rajesh Naresh Grace Titus Sunu Irene Surya David Jebraj Joe Rocky Kuriakose Zion Abel Rajan Timothy Phil William Besalel Samba Suraj Roshan Blessy Jeremiah Panachy Vinay Kumar Allen Reji Silas Jedidah Kesiya Sruthy Solomon Lois Joseph Grace Sunny Sarah Lydia Jesiya Deanne Tesi Elsa Karthik Rita Julia Daniel Ashish Martina Aksa Jeremiah Jerry Nancy Charis

Dave Joshua Jaison Pravin

Jeshua Joanna Grace Amala

Gift Babu

Hannah Sreeram Christina

Mohanapriya

Deborah

John Raju Johanna Darshini Darami Priscilla Christy Jeremiah Joshua


ENGLISH SONGS

1.More about Jesus More about Jesus would I know,

More of His grace to others show;

More of His saving fullness see,

More of His love who died for me.

More, more about Jesus,

More, more about Jesus;

More of His saving fullness see,

More of His love who died for me.

More about Jesus let me learn,

More of His holy will discern;

Spirit of God my teacher be,

Showing the things of Christ to me.

More about Jesus; in His Word,

Holding communion with my Lord;

Hearing His voice in every line,

Making each faithful saying mine.

More about Jesus; on His throne,

Riches in glory all His own;

More of His kingdom’s sure increase;

More of His coming, Prince of Peace.

2.Once Again Jesus Christ, I think upon your sacrifice

You became nothing, poured out to death

Many times I've wondered at your gift of life

And I'm in that place once again

I'm in that place once again

And once again I look upon the cross where you died

I'm humbled by your mercy and I'm broken inside

Once again I thank you

Once again I pour out my life

Now you are exalted to the highest place

King of the heavens, where one day I'll bow

But for now I marvel at your saving grace

And I'm full of praise once again

Thank you for the cross,

Thank you for the cross

Thank you for the cross, my friend

3.Worthy is the lamb Thank you for the cross Lord

Thank you for the price You paid

Bearing all my sin and shame

In love You came

And gave amazing grace

Thank you for this love Lord

Thank you for the nail pierced hands

Washed me in Your cleansing flow

Now all I know

Your forgiveness and embrace

Worthy is the Lamb

Seated on the throne

We Crown You now with many crowns

You reign victorious

High and lifted up

Jesus Son of God

The Darling of Heaven crucified

Worthy is the Lamb

4.The church’s one foundation The church's one Foundation

is Jesus Christ her Lord;

she is His new creation,

by water and the Word;


from heav'n He came and sought her

to be His holy bride;

with His own blood He bought her,

and for her life He died.

Elect from ev'ry nation,

yet one o'er all the earth,

her charter of salvation,

one Lord, one faith, one birth;

one holy Name she blesses,

partakes one holy food,

and to one hope she presses,

with ev'ry grace endued.

'Mid toil and tribulation,

and tumult of her war,

she waits the consummation

of peace for evermore;

till with the vision glorious

her longing eyes are blest,

and the great church victorious

shall be the church at rest.

Yet she on earth hath union

with God the Three in One,

and mystic sweet communion

with those whose rest is won.

O happy ones and holy!

Lord, give us grace that we,

like them, the meek and lowly,

on high may dwell with Thee.

5.There is a candle There is a candle in every soul

Some brightly burning, some dark and cold

There is a Spirit who brings a fire

Ignites a candle and makes His home

Carry your candle, run to the darkness

Seek out the helpless, confused and torn

And hold out your candle for all to see it

Take your candle, and go light your world

Frustrated brother, see how he's tried to

Light his own candle some other way

See now your sister she's been robbd and lied to

Still holds a candle without a flame

'Cause we are a family whose hearts are blazing

So let's raise our candles and light up the sky

Praying to our Father, in the name of Jesus

Make us a beacon in darkest times

6.In Christ Alone In Christ alone my hope is found

He is my light, my strength, my song

This Cornerstone, this solid ground

Firm through the fiercest drought and storm

What heights of love, what depths of peace

When fears are stilled, when strivings cease

My Comforter, my All in All

Here in the love of Christ I stand

In Christ alone, who took on flesh

Fullness of God in helpless babe

This gift of love and righteousness

Scorned by the ones He came to save

'Til on that cross as Jesus died

The wrath of God was satisfied

For every sin on Him was laid

Here in the death of Christ I live, I live


There in the ground His body lay

Light of the world by darkness slain

Then bursting forth in glorious Day

Up from the grave He rose again

And as He stands in victory

Sin's curse has lost its grip on me

For I am His and He is mine

Bought with the precious blood of Christ

No guilt in life, no fear in death

This is the power of Christ in me

From life's first cry to final breath

Jesus commands my destiny

No power of hell, no scheme of man

Can ever pluck me from His hand

Till He returns or calls me home

Here in the power of Christ I'll stand

7.My Jesus, My Savior

My Jesus, My Saviour, Lord there is no one like you, All of my days, I want to praise

The wonders of Your mighty love.

My comfort, my shelter,

Tower of refuge and strength

Let every breath, all that I am

Never cease to worship You.

Shout to the Lord, all the earth let us sing,

Power and majesty, praise to the King!

Mountains bow down and the seas will roar,

At the sound of your name!

I sing for joy at the work of your hands,

Forever I'll love you, forever I'll stand

Nothing compares to the promise I have in You.

8.Come let us worship and bow down

Come, let us worship and bow down

And kneel before the Lord, our Maker

Come, let us worship and bow down

And kneel before the Lord, our Maker

He is our God, He is our God

We are the people of His pasture

He is our God, He is our God

We are the sheep of His hand

9.Shepherd of my soul Shepherd of my soul I give You full control

Wherever You may lead I will follow

I have made the choice to listen for Your voice

Wherever You may lead I will go

Shepherd of my soul I give You full control

Wherever You may lead I will follow

I have made the choice to listen for Your voice

Wherever You may lead I will go

Be it in a quiet pasture or by a gentle breeze

The shepherd of my soul is by my side

Should I face a mighty mountain or a valley dark and deep

The shepherd of my soul will be my guide

10. Mighty to save Everyone needs compassion

A love that's never failing

Let mercy fall on me

Everyone needs forgiveness

A kindness of a Savior

The hope of nations


Savior

He can move the mountains

My God is Mighty to save

He is Mighty to save

Forever

Author of salvation

He rose and conquered the grave

Jesus conquered the grave

So take me as You find me

All my fears and failures

Fill my life again

I give my life to follow

Everything I believe in

Now I surrender

Shine your light and let the whole world see

We're singing for the glory of the risen King Jesus

11.Make Me A Channel Of Your Peace

Make me a channel of your peace.

Where there is hatred let me bring your Love.

Where there is injury, your pardon, Lord

And where there's doubt, true faith in You.

Oh, Master grant that I may never seek

So much to be consoled as to console

To be understood as to understand

To be loved as to love with all my soul

Make me a channel of your peace

Where there's despair in life, let me bring Hope

Where there is darkness, only light

And where there's sadness, ever joy.

Make me a chaneel of Your peace

it is in pardonng that we are pardoned

In giving to all men that we receive;

And in dying that we are born to eternal life

12.Better is one day in your courts

How lovely is Your dwelling place

O Lord Almighty

For my soul longs and even faints for You

For here my heart is satisfied

Within Your presence

I sing beneath the shadow of Your wings

Better is one day in Your courts

Better is one day in Your house

Better is one day in Your courts

Than thousands elsewhere

One thing I ask and I would seek

To see Your beauty

To find You in the place Your glory

dwells

My heart and flesh

cry out For You, the living God

Your Spirit’s water to my soul

I’ve tasted and I’ve seen

Come once again to me

I will draw near to You

I will draw near to You

13.God's wonderful people

I love the thrill that I feel when I get together with

God’s wonderful people (2)

What a sight just to see all the happy faces


Praising God in heavenly places

What a thrill that I feel when I get together with

God’s wonderful people

Now it can be just anywhere

Two or three are gathered there

That the spirit of the Lord will be there too

There’s no fellowship so sweet

There’s no thrill that can compete

With the thrill I feel whenever God’s children meet

And on that great reunion day

When our Lord says, “Come away”

And the saints from every land stream through the gate

Joining loved ones round the throne

At last we’ll all be gathered home

That will be the greatest thrill we’ve ever known

HINDI SONGS

15.Aaj ka Din Yehova ne Banaya hai Aaj ka din yahovah ne banaya hai

Hum is mai aanandit ho, aanandit ho

Prabhu ko mahima mile,

chahe ho mera apmaan

Wo badhe mai ghatu,

Rahe usi ka dhyaan

Stuti Prashansa kare, Kyo

na kuch hota rahe

Usko hum bhate rahe,

chahe jaha bhi rahe

आज का दिन यहोवा ने बनाया है,

हम उसमें आनंदित हो आनंदित हो ं

प्रभु को मदहमा दमले, चाहे हो मेरा अपमान

वो बढे मैं घट ूँ, रहे उसी का ध्यान

आज का दिन...

सु्तदत प्रशंसा करें , क्ो ंना कुछ होता रहे

उसको हम भाते रहें, चाहे जहाूँ भी रहें

आज का दिन…

16.Tera Pyaar Hai mahaan Tera Pyaar Hai Mahan

Main Jo Pehle Murda Tha,

Tune Daali Mujhme Jaan

Kyun Na Bolu Phir mein Teri Jay jaykar

Jay jaykar, Jay Jaykar

Tune Mere Liye Kya Kuch na Kiya

Jay jaykar, Jay Jaykar

Tune Mere Liye Kya Kuch na Kiya

Meri Surat Bigdi Thi, Mera Dil bhi ThaKhaali

Tune Seencha Lahu Se, Taaki Aaye Hariyaali

Aayi Jeevan Mein Khushi, Aayi Abdi Zindagi

Tu Hai Zinda Shafiya, Tune Yeh Hai Kya Kiya

तेरा प्यार है महान, तेरा प्यार है जहाूँ,

मैं जो पहले मुिाा था, त ने डाली मुझमें जान

क्ो ंना बोल ूँ दिर मैं तेरी जय जयकार

जय जयकार, जय जयकार


त ने मेरे दलये क्ा कुछ न दकया

मेरी स रत दबगडी थी, मेरा दिल भी था खाली

त ने सीचंा था ख न से, तादक आये हररयाली

आई जीवन में खुशी, आई अब्दी द़िन्दगी

त है द़िन्दा शादिया, त ने यह है दकया

17.Mere jeevan ka maksad tu hei

Mere jeevan ka maksad tu hai

mere jeene ka kaaran tu hai

mei jeeyu ya maroon, wo tere liye hai

tu mera prabhu

pichhla sab bhool kar, mei aage dauda chalu

jo mere liye dhan hai, usko mai tyag doo

ki mai paao usse puraskar, dauda mai jaaon

mei jeeyu …

Mujh par hai kripa, bekar na jaane doo

jisne mujhe chuna, uski aur mei badhoo

dekhu teri salib par, khicha mei jaao

mei jeeyu

मेरे जीवन का मकसि त है

मेरे जीवन का मकसि त है

मेरे जीने का कारण त है

मैं जीय ूँ या मरूँ , वो तेरे दलये

त मेरा प्रभु

दपछला सब भ लकर

मैं आगे िौडा चल ूँ

जो मेरे दलये धन था

उसको मैं त्याग ि ूँ

दक मैं पाऊूँ उससे पुरस्कार

िौडा मैं जाऊूँ

मैं जीय ूँ...

मुझ पर है .पा

बेकार ना जाने ि ूँ

दजसने मुझे चुना

उसकी और मैं बढ ूँ

िेख ूँ तेरी सलीब पर

खखंचा मैं जाऊूँ

मैं जीय ूँ... MALAYALAM SONGS

18.Nayikuvan Yogyan

Nayikuvan yogyan viduvipan shakthan

Aarilum shreshtan yesuvathre

Paripalicheedum bhayamellam neekum

Samadhanamekum yesuparan

Than pinpe poyidam

Than vachanagal palikam(2)

Karthan varavin kalam vareyum

Vishudhiyil jeevikam(2)

Parvathathilkoode, Thazhvarayilkoode

Kai vidukileeshan namme ennume(2)

Kayil vahicheedum marvodanacheedum

Swarkasandosham tharum nalla rekshakan(2)

than pinpe

Vishwasathin nayakan Poorthi vruthunoon

Koodeyullapol iniyendhu bhayam(2)

Aakulangalilla ashankakalilla

Bhaviyellam karuthuna nallanayakan(2) than pinpe

19.Manasorukuka naam Manasorukuka naam oru puthukathinay

Karthan yesu sakshikalay(2)

Othuchernidam othupadidam


Karthan yesu mahathvathinay(2)

Kannuneeril naam orumichu vithachidukil

Aarpode koythedukum(2)

Athmashakthiyil adaradumpol

Avanay naam jayamedukum(2)

Neerthodukal thedunnna maanmedapol

Athidhahathode nammal(2)

Athmashakthikay prarthicheedumbol

Avan namme niracheedume(2)

Daivasnehathil naam othe valarnidumbol

Lokar yesuve ariyum(2)

Sabha ekamay oru dehamay

Prabha veeshnm ihathil(2)

TELUNGU SONGS

20.Ninne Preminthunnu

Ninne Preminthunu Yesu

Ninne Preminthunu… Ne Venudirugaa

Nee Sannidhilo Mokarinchi

Nee Maargamulo Saagedaa

Nirasinchaka Saagedaa

Ne Venudirugaa

Ninne Poojinthunu (2) Yesu, Ninne Poojinthunu

Ne Venudirugaa, Nee Sannidhilo ….

Ninne,Keerthinthunu(2)Yesu,Ninne Keerthinthunu


Ninne,Dhyaaninthunu(2)Yesu,Ninne Dhyaaninthunu


Ninne Aaraadinthun(2)Yesu,Ninne Aaraadinthun


TAMIL SONGS

21.Thirukkarathaal thaangi ennai

Thirusitham poal nadathidumae

Kuyavan kaiyil kaliman naan

Anudhinamum neer

vanaindhidumae

Um vasanam dhiyaanikkaiyil

Idhayamathil aarudhalae

Kaarirulil nadakkaiyilae

Theebamaaga vazhi

nadathum

Aazhkadalil alaigalinaal

Asaiyumpoadhu en padagil

Aathma nanbar yaesu undae

Saerndhiduvaen avar samoogam

Avar namakkaai jeevan thandhu

Alithanarae indha meetpu

Kangalinaal kaangiraenae

Inba kaanaan dhaesamadhai

22.Kuyavane kuyavane

Padaippin karanane

Kalimannana ennaiyume

Kannokki parttitume

Verumaiyaana paathiram


naan veruthu thallamale

nirambi valiyum

paathiramaai vilanga

ceyyume

vethathil kaanum

paathiram ellam yesuvai

porriduthey

ennaiyum avvitha

paathiramai vanainthu

Kollume

Vilaipokata paathiram

naan virumbuvaarillaye

Vilaiyilla um kirubaiyaal

ukanthatakkidume

thadaigal yaavum neekki

ennai thammaipol marridume

Udaithu ennai unthanuke

Udaimaiyakkidume

Mannacai naan mayangiye

meyvali vitangentren

Kanpona pookkai

pinpartinen kantenillai inbame

kanaamal pona paathiram

ennai, thedi vantha deivame..

Valnaalaam Umpatham

serum Pathaiyil Nadathidume

22.Magilvoom Magilvoom thinam agamagilvoom

Yesu raja nam sonthamaginaar

Intha paarthalathil

sonthakararavar enthan

ullathil sonthamanar

Ha aanathanmay paramanathamay

ithu maa perum bakkiyamay – intha

Chinnamcheruvayathil ennai kurithuvittar

Thuram poyenum kandukondar

Thamathu jeevana enakum alithu

Jeevan petrukkol endruraithar

Yentha sulnilaiyum avaar anbinindru

Ennai pirikaathu kathukolvar

Ennai nambiavar thantha

Poorupathanai Avar varum varai kathu

kollven

Avar varum nallilae ennai karam asaithu

anbaai kupituu seirthukolvar

Avar samugamathil angay aavarudanay

aadi paadiyay Magilthiduven


SESSION I:

CHURCH – ITS ORIGIN AND STRUCTURE

Br. K. Joy David

1. What is church?

Church is God’s people, the believers in Christ Jesus. They are:

1 Cor. 3:16: God’s temple;

1 Pet 2:5: a spiritual house;

Mt. 16:18: ekklesia of Jesus Christ, an assembly called out by Him;

1 Tim. 3:15: household of God;

1 Tim. 3:15: pillar and support of truth;

1 Pet. 2:5, Rev. 1:6: priesthood of God.

The baptized believers of a locality regularly meet together for studying the Word of God, praising God, prayer, breaking of the bread, and fellowship. They encourage each other, build each other up spiritually and serve each other. They are zealous in evangelism and in bringing people to the church meetings. The believers of a locality who do these things regularly are called the church at that locality.

2. Why is church the program of God and not a program of God?

3. Where and when did the church originate?

Eph. 3:4-6, 11; Col. 1:26: church is the mystery of God planned before time began. It is His eternal purpose in Christ (Eph. 3:9-11).

God the Father planned it; God the Son made it possible through His death and resurrection; and today God the Holy Spirit works in the believers to accomplish what God had planned.

Church is the program of God to make believers mature in Christ (Eph. 4:15; Col. 1:28). The program that Christ the Lord entrusted to believers to carry out till He comes back is making disciples through the churches (Mt. 28:18-20, Acts. 14: 21-23).

The church has its origin on the day of Pentecost at Jerusalem (Acts. 2:40-42).

4. Is there any OT relevance with respect to the concept of church?


The program of church was not revealed to the OT saints (Eph. 3:3-6). An OT illustration or parallel of the church may be Israel as the redeemed people of God – delivered from bondage, called to be God’s people and priests to Him, passed

through the waters, drinking from the rock that followed them, fed with manna from heaven, and settled in Canaan where God dwelt in their midst

(1 Cor. 10:1-4; 1 Pet. 2:5, 9; Ex. 19:5-6; Dt. 7:6, 10:15; Is. 43:21, 61:6).

5. How is the church related to Christ? How did Jesus love the church?

Christ loved the church, gave Himself for the church, and purchased her by His precious blood (Eph. 5:25; Acts. 20:28).

Church is His body (Eph. 5:23; Col. 1:18; 1 Cor. 12: 13, 27

His bride (Eph. 5:25-27; 2 Cor. 11:2-3; Rev. 19:7-8),

His sheep (John 10:4-29; Heb. 13:20),

His ekklessia (Mt. 16:18),

His fullness (Eph. 1:22-23).

Churches are gold lamp stands for the Lord (Rev. 1:12, 13, 20),

He walks among the churches watching them intimately (Rev. 1:13, 16, 20, 2:1-4; Mt. 18:20).

6. How is the church structured?

Jesus Christ is the corner stone (the main stone, chief stone, or binding stone) in the foundation, NT apostles and prophets are the foundation , believers like living stones are built up on this foundation as the church

(Eph. 2:20; Mt. 16:18; 1 Pet. 2:3-4; 1 Cor. 3:10-11).

7. What are the functions of the church?

Apostolic teaching (Acts. 2:42; 1 Tim. 4:13; 2 Tim. 4:1-3),

Praise and adoration (1 Pet. 2:9; Heb. 13:15; Col. 3:16),

Breaking of the bread (Acts. 2:42, 20:7),

Prayer (Acts. 2:42, 1 Tim. 2:1-6),

Fellowship and encouraging each other (Acts. 2:42; Heb. 10:24-25; 1 Cor. 14:26),

Evangelism and mission (1 Thess. 1:8; Acts. 11:19-20; 13:1-4),

Making disciples mature in Christ (Col. 1 :28; Acts. 14:21-23).


8. Who is a member of the church? How does one become a member of a church?

Believe in the Lord Jesus Christ and accept Him as Savior and Lord, get baptized, join a local biblical church, be accountable to the church, and participate in its activities with regularity and zeal. In this way one proves that he is a member there.

9. Can any gathering of believers be called a church?

According to the NT, church is the body of believers in Christ at a place, and there are meetings of the church where all the members of that church are supposed to gather, such as, meeting for apostolic teaching, prayer, breaking of the bread, fellowship, and the like. All these gatherings are called meetings of the church, since the church is gathering.

It is to be remembered that the church at that place exists all the time and all the days whether they gather together or not. When the church gathers together it is called a meeting or gathering of the church.

10. Can a believer be only part of the universal church?

The church (often called the universal church) is composed of all the local churches in the entire world from the day of Pentecost to the day of rapture. Hence, it is not practically possible to serve the church without being an active member of a local church. An active member of a local church can help other churches too in a limited way with the permission of his local church.

11. Can a believer be member of two local churches at the same time?

To be a member of a local church means that a believer is accountable to that church, is actively participating in all the meetings and activities of that church, and is also available to serve that church. With the permission and prayer support of his/her church, he/she can go and serve other churches occasionally. However, he cannot be member of more than one church at the same time. When one has to leave his church and go to a different place for purposes like visits, studies, jobs, etc., and joins a church at that place only for short time, he/she must be accountable to the church at the new location and also to the church from where he/she went. However, if the stay at the new location is for a longer period, he must become a member of the church at the new location and be accountable to it.

12. What will be the future of the church? Will the church be in eternity?


The church will be caught up to heaven and be with Christ forever as the Lord comes in the clouds to take the church (1 Thess. 4:16-17; John 14:3).

Afterwards, there will be the marriage of the Lamb (Rev. 19:7-9; 2 Cor. 11:2-3)

Reigning with Christ (2 Tim. 2:11-12; Rev. 2:26-27, 3:21).

The city of New Jerusalem established on the new earth will be inhabited by both the OT and NT saints (Heb. 11:10; Phil. 3:20; Rev. 3:12, 21:12-14).

Yet, the church will have her identity as church there also.


SESSION II:

CHURCH – ITS PURPOSE AND FUNCTIONS

Br. K Joy David

1.Why does the church exist? What is its purpose?

The church exists for the glory of God (Col. 1:16; Is. 43:7, 21,)

To the praise of His glorious grace (Eph. 1:6, 12).

The church is the venue designed by God to make disciples for the Lord and make them mature in Him (Mt. 28:18-20; Col. 1:24-28, 28-29; Eph. 4: 12-13).

2.Where should the church meet?

The church can meet in any convenient place in a locality. The first church met in the upper room of a house (Acts. Ch. 1-2).

In the NT time the churches met mainly in homes of believers (Rom. 16:5; Col. 4:15; Phile. 7).

Paul made use of a hall to teach the disciples at Ephesus (Acts. 19:9-10). Almost till the end of second century AD no separate building was ever built exclusively for church meetings.

3.What should be the pattern of worship? Can music be played in the church meeting?

A schedule for church meetings is not given in the NT. Therefore, we have the freedom to make a suitable schedule or program for the meetings. However, the NT names the activities expected to be carried out in the meetings of the church. Every activity must be worship to God. Every activity has to fulfill two purposes: one, to glorify God; and two: to build

the church up spiritually. The activities in the meetings of the church are:

Praise and adoration: We glorify God with our voices and hearts. We praise God for who He is (His excellencies and glorious attributes) and what He has done for us (1 Pet. 2:9, Rev. 5:12).

We glorify the Lamb of God who was slain for us. We offer the fruit of our lips acknowledging His name (Heb. 13:15). All these can be done by extempore words of adoration, by singing or reading a psalm in praise to God, reading a Scripture passage describing the


majesty or work of God, by singing a hymn, or by singing a spiritual song (Col. 3:16; Eph. 5:19-21).

Everyone is free to participate (1 Cor. 14:26). None is to be inactive.

The praise and adoration should be audible to all the members of the church that all hear and get edified. All should join and say ‘Amen’

which indicates that the whole assembly joins in worship with the brother or sister who offers the praises.

Worship should be in Spirit and truth, and with joy and wonder at the greatness of God (John 4:23-24; Phil. 3:3; Ps. 84:1-2 ; Acts. 2:46-47).

Apostolic teaching (Acts. 2:42; 1 Tim. 4:13; 2 Tim. 4:1-2)

Breaking of the bread (Acts. 2:42; 20:7)

Prayer and intercession (1 Tim. 2:1-6; Acts. 2:42).

Reading of the Scriptures (1 Tim. 4:13).

Encouraging and strengthening one another (Heb. 10:24-25; 1 Cor. 14:26).

Offering of money (1 Cor. 9:9-10; 2 Cor. 9:6; Phil. 4:18).

The Psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs were set to music and sung. In the tabernacle or temple worship of Israel, there was a choir master and a choir, and instruments were used (1 Kings 10:12; 1 Chr. 15:28, 25:6; 2 Chr. 5:12).

The worship in heaven has music and musical instruments (Rev. 5:8, 14:2, 15:2).

The NT does not prohibit the use of musical instruments in praising God. When we look at God’s creation around us we find that our God Himself is musical! The sound of music must not be so loud as to hinder the hearers from singing from their hearts, that is, with understanding and love and reverential fear before God (Eph. 5:19; Heb. 12:28-29).

4.Who can/cannot take part in the Lord’s Supper?

Qualification for taking part in the Lord’s Supper:

A baptized believer (Acts. 2:40-42), who is a regular member of a biblical local church (1 Cor. 11:18),

Who has understood the meaning and significance of the breaking of the bread,


Who has discerned the body (Christ’s body that was crucified and now

represented by the bread, Christ’s body the church to which he has oneness) (1

Cor. 11:29),

Who has examined himself and, depending on the grace of God, who has clear conscience towards the Lord and towards the church in his relationship (1 Cor. 11:28).

5.Who can be allowed to share in the church?

Every member of the church has a part in sharing and encouraging each other in the church meetings and times of fellowship (1 Cor. 14:26, 31; Heb. 10:24-25, 1 Thess. 5:11, 14; 1 Pet. 4:10-11).

This can be in the form of prayer, singing, reading the Scriptures, giving personal testimonies about the help of God and encouragement received from the Scriptures and answers to prayer, personal talks during fellowship-meal, etc.

Teachings in the meetings of the church are given to brothers (and not sisters, 1 Tim. 2:12) who are able to teach and challenge the church with the application of the teaching and bring edification.


SESSION III:

CHURCH – ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES OF

ELDERS AND BELIEVERS

Br. R Gnanaharan

Structure of the church

Any institution or organization will have organizational structure. This will explain the line of authority and the line of communication in the structure.

Church also has structure. The Lord Jesus Christ is the head of the church (Eph 1:22). There is no other head for the church.

While the Lord is the invisible head of the universal church, He has established visible leadership in the local churches.

The leadership of a local church is normally referred as elders (Acts 20:17). As responsible for watching over the flock (Acts 20:28), they are also called as overseers (Phil 1:1; 1 Tim 3:1).

The leadership of a local church will include elders and deacons (Phil 1:1).

Qualifications of elders and deacons

Success of any organization will depend on the leadership. A local church requires biblically qualified elders.

The offices of elders and deacons are not honorary positions. Elders and deacons are to be servants.

The qualifications of elders are mentioned in 1Timothy 3:2-7; Titus 1:6-9 and 1 Peter 5:2-3. These include character qualities and abilities. The qualifications of deacons are listed in 1Timothy 3:8-13. They are basically character qualities.

One may be an eloquent speaker or an efficient organizer or a highly influential person but if he lacks character, he cannot be in the leadership. An elder should be above reproach (1 Tim 3:2) in personal life, family life and social life.

As “like people, like priest” (Hosea 4:9), believers will seldom rise above the

spiritual level of their elders. As someone has pointed out,

If the elders have a contentious spirit, the people will inevitably become contentious (1 Tim 3:3; Tit 1:7).


If the elders are inhospitable, the people will be unfriendly and cold (1 Tim 3:2; Tit 1:8).

If the elders love money, the people will become lovers of money (1 Tim 3:3).

If the elders are not sensible, balanced, and self-controlled, their judgment will be characterized by ugly extremes, which will cause the people to be extreme and unbalanced (1 Tim 3:1-2; Tit 1:8).

If the elders are not faithful, one-woman husbands, they will subtly encourage others to be unfaithful (1 Tim 3:2; Tit 1:6).

If the elders do not faithfully hold to the authority of the Word, the people will not hold to it (tit 1:9).

From the list of qualifications, we also see that elders must be able to teach and defend the faith (1 Tim 3:2; Tit 1:9), manage his household well (1 Tim 3:4-5; Tit 1:6) and provide a model of Christian living for others to follow (1 Pet 5:3).

Appointment of elders

It is the Holy Spirit who appoints elders (Acts 20:28) but He uses human agency to appoint them.

The first point to consider in appointing elders is the personal desire. The desire to be an elder is not sinful or self-promoting, if it is generated by the Holy Spirit.

Men with such desire should be tested first (1 Tim 3:10). As the prospective elder or deacon will serve the church, the believers in the church must have a voice in examining and approving their prospective elders and deacons.

The believers in the church should be taught the biblical qualifications for elders and are obligated to see that the prospective elders meet those qualifications.

As some believers may have information about a prospective elder that those responsible for appointing may not have, their input in the evaluation process is essential.

The believers in the church should be able to recognize such men (1 Thess 5:12).

Men who aspire to the office of overseer, morally qualified, and who do the work as de-facto elders should be appointed as de-jure elders.

Appointing may be preceded by fasting and prayer (Acts 14:23)


Functions of elders

The main task of elders is to bring the believers to maturity, that is, to become like the Lord, and not to entertain them, not to tell stories and experiences and not to just keep them happy.

We shall look at the functions of elders by considering the following:

What did the elders do during the apostolic time?

What did Paul instruct the elders to do?

What did Peter instruct the elders?

What does shepherding involve?

How to shepherd the flock?

How to take care of financial matters?

What did the elders do during the apostolic time?

They received and administered money (Acts 11:29-30).

They judged doctrinal issues alongTo work hard and help the week (Acts 20:33-35).


To shepherd the flock of God (1Pet 5:2)

of the believers to encourage, comfort, correct, challenge and to build them up.

Protecting: This involves protecting the flock from false teachers, cultists, those who cause divisions, from modern day problems, etc. Protecting also involves church discipline.

with the apostles (Acts 15:6).

They resolved conflicts (Acts 21:18).

What did Paul instruct the elders to do? What does shepherding involve?

Shepherding should result in bringing believers to maturity by feeding, leading, caring and protecting.

Feeding: Believers need balanced diet of doctrine and practice. Believers must be fed on the written word of God, rightly interpreted and applied in


life. This involves teaching the whole counsel of God (Acts 20:20, 27, 32) so that it produces discernment, convictions and obedience in believers.

Leading: Elders should lead by example (1 Cor 4:16; Phil 3:17), and by being a servant (Matt 20:28; Acts 20:34). Also, it involves equipping the believers for service (Eph 4) by helping the believers to identify and develop their gifts and providing opportunities to use the gifts for the common good of the church.

Caring: This involves strengthening the weak, restoring the sick to health, mending the broken ones, bringing back the scattered ones and seeking the lost (Ezek 34:4, 16). Also, caring includes keeping watch over the souls (Heb 13:17). Pastoral visit plays a major part to minister to the needs

To pay careful attention to themselves and to all the flock (Acts 20:28).

To care for the church of God and protect the flock from false teachers (Acts 20:29-31). To work hard and help the week (Acts 20:33-35).


To shepherd the flock of God (1Pet 5:2)

What does shepherding involve?

Shepherding should result in bringing believers to maturity by feeding, leading, caring and protecting.

Feeding: Believers need balanced diet of doctrine and practice. Believers must be fed on the written word of God, rightly interpreted and applied in life. This involves teaching the whole counsel of God (Acts 20:20, 27, 32) so that it produces discernment, convictions and obedience in believers.

Leading: Elders should lead by example (1 Cor 4:16; Phil 3:17), and by being a servant (Matt 20:28; Acts 20:34). Also, it involves equipping the believers for service (Eph 4) by helping the believers to identify and develop their gifts and providing opportunities to use the gifts for the common good of the church.

Caring: This involves strengthening the weak, restoring the sick to health, mending the broken ones, bringing back the scattered ones and seeking the lost (Ezek 34:4, 16). Also, caring includes keeping watch over the souls (Heb 13:17). Pastoral visit plays a major part to minister to the needs of the believers to encourage, comfort, correct, challenge and to build them up.


Protecting: This involves protecting the flock from false teachers, cultists, those who cause divisions, from modern day problems, etc. Protecting also involves church discipline.

How to shepherd the flock?

Peter explains this in 1 Pet 5:2-3.

Not under compulsion, but willingly Not for shameful gain, but eagerly Not domineering over the flock, but being an example

How to take care of financial matters?

Deacons take care of the church offerings and manage the finances as per the guidance given by the elders. Financial accounts, records of property purchased, tax, electricity and water charges paid, etc. should be properly maintained. Funds collected for mission work and funds distributed should be brought to the notice of the believers periodically. When a property is purchased, care should be given how the document is written.

Hazards of the ministry

Any profession will have its own occupational hazards and church ministry is no exception. Some of the hazards faced by elders are:

Not maintaining a personal relationship with the Lord, Not maintaining a balance between family and ministry, Tempted to perform and to please people, rather than to minister, Faced with unresponsive believers.

These hazards could lead to discouragement, bitterness (about the bad things others have done to us) and resentment (about the good things which others should have done for us).

Responsibilities of believers to elders

The believers should

Give proper recognition to the elders (1 Thess 5:12; 1 Cor 16:15-18),

Esteem them very highly in love because of their work (1 Thess 5:12),


Consider the elders who rule well and especially those who labor in preaching and teaching worthy of double honor (1 Tim 5:17); in the context, it refers to financial support,

Protect the elders from malicious people and false accusations (1 Tim 5:19),

Help in assessing prospective elders (1 Tim 5:24-25)

Submit to the elders (1 Pet 5:5),

Call for the elders when sick (James 5:14),

Obey the elders and submit to them (Heb 5:17),

Make their work joy, not grief (Heb 5:17),

Help them by prayer (2 Cor 1:11),

Support them with substance (Gal 6:6)

Responsibilities of believers in the church

Believers are expected to be at peace among them (1 Thess 5:13) and to maintain the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace (Eph 4:3).

Believers have responsibility and accountability to one another. Commands like:

love one another, serve one another, be kind to one another, pray for one another, forgive one another, bear one another’s burden, receive one another, encourage

one another, exhort one another, comfort one another, build one another, live in harmony with one another, etc.

can be obeyed only in the context of a local church.

Dangers faced by believers in a church

Believers, if they are committed to church, may face problems like:

Opposition from family,

Ostracism from friends,

Persecution from society,

Misunderstanding from believers, etc.

Church should not become like a battle ground for believers, rather it should be a place where they are comforted, encouraged and built up.


SESSION IV

DISCOVERING SPIRITUAL GIFTS AND FLAMING

THEM TO FIRE

Br. Selvin Norman Jebraj

Spiritual gifts

What are the Spiritual gifts?

Spiritual gifts are the endowments that the Holy Spirit has given for the edification of the church. (I Cor. 12)

Spiritual gifts are the Divine ennoblements/endowments graciously given to every believer. (Eph. 4:7)

Persons given to equip the saints for the building up of the body of Christ (Eph. 4: 11-12)

Various Aspects of the Spiritual Gifts

1. Characterized and controlled by the Holy Spirit. (I Cor. 12:4-11)

2. Not carried away but lead by the Holy Spirit. (I Cor. 12:2)

3. Work of the Holy Spirit acknowledges the Lordship of Christ. (I Cor. 12:3) and

the gifts are exercised for the glory of God. (I Pet. 4:11)

4. The gift of Holy Spirit is given for the edification of the body of Christ. (I Cor.

12:7) and to serve one another. (I Pet. 4:10)

5. Unity in diversity. (I Cor. 12:12-13)

6. Every believer is endowed with at least one gift. (Eph. 4:7; I Pet. 4:10)

7. Gifts differ according to the grace. (Eph. 4:7; I Pet. 4:10) It is the gift of grace –

we don’t deserve; we can’t earn; unique.

8. The gifts are distributed according to His will. (Heb. 2:4)

9. Spiritual gifts should complement and not to compete. (Eph. 4:16)

10. Spiritual gifts are to be exercised in love. (I Cor. 13)


11. The gifts can be neglected. (I Tim 4:14)

12. The gifts can be practiced. (I Tim 4:15)

13. Natural talents are not Spiritual gifts.

What are the gifts/gifted men given to the Church?

Romans 12: 7 – 8 (1.Prophecy; 2. Service; 3. Teaching; 4. Exhortation; 5. Giving; 6. Leading; 7. Acts of mercy)

I Cor. 12: 8 – 11 (1. Utterance of wisdom; 2. Utterance of Knowledge; 3. Faith; 4. Gifts of healing; 5. Working of miracles; 6. Prophecy; 7. Ability to distinguish the spirits; 8. Various kinds of tongues; 9. Interpretation of tongues.)

Ephesians 4: 11 (1.The apostles; the prophets; 2.the evangelists and the shepherds and teachers)

I Peter 4: 11 (1.Speaking; 2.Serving)

Gifts can be classified as;

Miracle gifts and Non miracles gifts; Visible gifts and invisible gifts Foundational gifts and Building gifts Primary gifts and Secondary gifts

How to discover my Spiritual gifts and flame them to fire?

1. Study the Scripture

2. Pray about it

3. Get the opinion of the leaders

4. Don't wait. Start exercising the gifts.

5. Exercise them to serve one another; to build the body of Christ for the glory of God.


SESSION V:

CHURCH- ITS UNITY AND DIVERSITY

Br. Selvin Norman Jebraj

Unity in the Body of Christ

Ephesians 4:1-16

Fundamental Christian Unity Is to Be Preserved

(4:1-6)

This unity of which Paul wrote is not one which the Christian needs to create, but one which already exists and must be diligently preserved (vs. 3).

It is based upon our sharing life in one body, the universal church, the body of Christ (vs. 5, cf. 2:15, 16).

All Christians are sealed, possessed, and indwelt by the same Spirit and look forward to the same hope (vs. 5, cf. 1:18).

We possess one Lord, that is, one Supreme Commander, one common faith (one system of fundamental truth) held by all Christians, and one baptism (i.e. spirit baptism, cf. 1 Cor. 12:13).

Unity, although it cannot be created by the Christian, must be preserved by him. This is to be diligently pursued (vs. 3) by an attitude of humility (seeing ourselves as God does, unworthy recipients of His grace).

Our humble spirit should be demonstrated by gentleness and graciousness in our dealings with others. This gentleness should be longsuffering, patiently enduring prolonged irritation. The love which we have for one another should prompt us to put up with the eccentricities of our fellow-Christians. As Iron side put it, “lovingly putting up with all that is disagreeable in other people.”

Unity in Diversity

(4:7-11)

Unity does not imply uniformity. It does not mean that all Christians will think alike or perform identical ministries. It does imply a common purpose and interdependence within the body of Christ.


Diversity of Gifts Leads to Unity

(4:12-16)

Far from undermining the fundamental unity existing between individual Christians, the diversity of spiritual gifts enhances, even necessitates unity.

While in verses 1-6 the basis for Christian endeavor was fundamental unity, in verses 12-16 functional unity is the goal of Christian endeavor. We might call the unity of verses 1-6 positional and that of verses 12-16 practical.

The immediate goal for those gifted as Pastor-Teacher is equipping the saints to minister to the needs of the body and the ultimate goal of all ministry in the church is maturity.

1. The ultimate measure of maturity is the standard of our Lord Jesus Christ.(v. 13)

2. The second measure of maturity is that of stability.(v. 14)

3. The third measure of maturity is speaking the truth in love.(v. 15)

4. One final measure of maturity is unity(v. 13a)

Specific Applications

1. The function of the leaders is to equip people for the ministry.

The work of the ministry is in your hands, not in ‘the minister’s.’

2. The goal of our teaching should be maturity, growth and unity.

Christian Liberty

What is Christian Liberty?

Christian liberty is the freedom from the penalty of the law for an inability to keep its commandment that penalty being paid by Christ. (Gal. 5:1; John 8:36)

Christian liberty is the freedom to do the right thing. Christian liberty is neither unbridled abuse nor following a set of rules. (Ex 21: 1 - 6).

What is not the Christian freedom?

1. Christian freedom is not to indulge in the flesh. (Gal 5: 13). Not to express our sinfulness, that is, to exercise self-control. (Purity of life)

2. Christian freedom is not to injure others. (I Cor. 10: 23-33) (Loving others)


3. Christian liberty is not the freedom to ignore the law of God (Gal 5: 13-16) (Obeying the Word of God.)

All come into focus when you walk in the Spirit.

Corinthian church is an Antinomian church which abused the liberty whereas Galatian churches were legalistic

Approach to Christian Liberty

The question is not how far I can go near but without sinning and what is the limit of my extended boarder.

But…

1. Will it become a habit? Can I say no to it?( I Cor. 6:12)

2. Is it profitable in terms of eternity?(I Cor. 6:12)

3. If I do this will it build me and others spiritually?(I Cor. 8:8-13)

4. What can I do which serves as an example in righteousness and holiness? (I Tim 4:12) and will it produce integrity and faithfulness?

5. Will it conform me to Christ? Will it lead me to Godliness?

6. What can I do that brings honor to Christ?

The motivating factor is not liberty but the lordship of Christ Mark 14:32-36.

Conflict Resolution / Reconciliation

Conflict resolution is one of the life skills needed when we interact in the community. Both believers and non-believers need this skill for peaceful coexistence. But this is very essential for maintaining the body life in the church. In the Sermon on the Mount Jesus said, "Blessed are the peace makers, for they shall be called the sons of God. (Matthew 5:9)

Reasons for conflict resolution

1. Conflict blocks my fellowship with God. I John 4:20

2. It blocks my prayers. I Pet 3:7

3. The principle of sowing and reaping. James 3:18

Steps in Reconciliation

1. Make the first move. Reconciliation is more important than worship 05:23-24. Conflict resolution is not accidental. Time does not heal but makes it worse. The


only way is to face it. Fear is the reason why we fail to make reconciliation. But we need to talk. The Holy Spirit gives us the necessary courage. (2 Tim 1:7)

2: Ask for Wisdom (James 1:5). And approach the person when he is alone. (Matthew 18: 15-17)

3. Start with your problems not with the problem of others. Basically we are selfish and proud. (Proverbs 13:10)

4. Listen their hurt and their perspective. Try to listen with your eyes and ears. They are the love organs. Philippians 2:4-5. Look comes from the Greek word scopeo meaning focus. (James 1:19) Listen but don't infer more than intended.

Remember the Prayer of St. Francis of Assisi

“Lord, make me an instrument of your peace. Where there is hatred, let me

sow love; where there is injury, pardon; where there is doubt, faith; where there is despair, hope; where there is darkness, light; where there is sadness, joy.

O, Divine Master, grant that I may not so much seek to be consoled as to console; to be understood as to understand; to be loved as to love; For it is in giving that we receive; it is in pardoning that we are pardoned; it is in dying that we are born again to eternal life.”

5. Telling the truth in love is more important than telling the truth itself. Ephesians 4:15.

6. Stop fixing the blame fix the problem. Blame; Be lame. Col 3: 8.

7. Focus on reconciliation, not on resolution. If not, you can walk hand in hand without Seeing Eye to eye.

Learn from the Story of porcupine

“It was the coldest winter ever. Many animals died because of the cold. The

porcupines, realizing the situation, decided to group together to keep warm. This way they covered & protected themselves; but the quills of each one wounded their closest companions.

After a while, they decided to distance themselves one from the other & they began to die, alone & frozen.

So they had to make a choice.

Either accept the quills of their companions or disappear from the Earth. Wisely, they decided to go back to being together.


They learned to live with the little wounds caused by the close relationship with their companions in order to receive the warmth & heat that came from the others. This way they were able to survive.

The best group is not the one that brings together perfect people, but when each individual learns to live with the imperfections of others & can admire the other person's good qualities. Better to be surrounded by warm wounds than be frozen in solitude!!!!!!”


SESSION VI:

CHURCH AND THE GREAT COMMISSION

Br. Breeze Mathew

Introduction

1. What is the ‘Great Commission’?

A Common misunderstandings

a. Misunderstanding by the Jews b. Misunderstanding by the Disciples c. Misunderstanding by the church

B Scriptural understanding.

a. The end. b. The means. c. The target. d. The authority. e. The support.

2. Why ‘the church’?

a. The delegation.

b. The design.

c. The environment

Conclusion


SESSION VII:

CHURCH AND DISCIPLINE

Br. K Joy David

1.Does a church have the right to discipline its erring members?

The Lord has delegated authority to the local church to teach, correct, judge, and discipline its members (Mt. 18:17-18, 28:19-20; 1 Cor. 5:4-5, 11-13; 2 Cor. 2:6).

All these are to be done in a spirit of meekness and love with the intention of doing good to the members and restoring back the erring members (Gal. 6:1-2; Rom. 15:1-2; Jam. 5:19; 2 Cor. 2:6-8).

2.In what context does a church need to discipline its members?

If a member of the church does not heed to rebuke and warning, and persists in any of the following sins, appropriate disciplinary action can be taken by majority decision of the church (1 Cor. 5:4, 13; 2 Cor. 2:6):

Immorality, covetousness, idolatry, slander, drinking, swindling (1 Cor. 5:11, 13), Causing division in the church (Tit. 3:10),

Turning away from the Apostolic doctrine (Rom. 16:17; Rev. 2:14-16).

3.How to deal with/discipline an erring/sinning member of a church?

One mature person who knows about his sin may meet him personally and pray with him and convince him of his sin. If he does not heed to it, take another person also (preferably elders or senior members) and meet him. If he refuses to repent, bring the matter before the church.

In a church meeting a teaching must be given about the sin and its biblical remedy. If he does not repent, he should be rebuked and reproved (2 Tim. 4:2).

If he does not repent still, he must be warned about the punishment (1 Thess. 5:14; Tit. 3:10).

If he does not repent still, he must be isolated from the fellowship of the church, and yet, allowed to attend the church meetings (2 Thess. 3:14-15).

If he is still unrepentant and is persisting in sin, appropriate disciplinary action must be taken in a church meeting by unanimous/majority decision and put him away from the church (1 Cor. 5:13; Mt. 18:17; Tit. 3:10).


Even after expelling him from the church, the elders can visit him and talk to him about the need of repentance. If he repents, permit him to come to the church meetings and attend them in silence.

The church can observe him for few weeks or months. If the church is convinced that there is true repentance, he can testify about his repentance in the church. Then the church can restore him back to fellowship.

4.What is the purpose of discipline in the church?

The purposes of discipline are:

1) If a person who persists in sin and is unrepentant is not disciplined, he may corrupt others too (1 Cor. 5:5-7). Therefore, the sinning person should be disciplined. Discipline brings fear of God in the church and members will be afraid to sin (Acts. 5:5, 11).

2) God is holy and His church is holy. The church is bound to keep and enforce holiness. Therefore, disciplining an unrepentant member is the duty of the church.

3) Discipline is required to convince a sinning person about the gravity of his sin and the holiness of the church. Once he truly repents, the disciplinary action can be called off, and Christ’s love can be extended

to him by welcoming him to the church. 4) How to encourage the members of a church for regular reading and

meditation of the Word of God, prayer, and church attendance? 5) Teach the church how these spiritual disciplines are vital for growth as

a disciple of Christ and for keeping one holy in the unholy world. 6) There should be regular teaching in the church about the grace of God,

power of the Holy Spirit, and practical measures to avoid unholy living. Bible classes should seek to convey not only textual knowledge to the brain, but practical ways to keep holy amidst the various lusts, trials, and temptations in the world.

7) Testimonies about the encouragement received from daily Scripture meditation can be shared in the church to encourage others.

8) It may be good to give the church a schedule of Bible reading and Scripture memorization to be followed by the whole church. The progress can be checked in the church occasionally. Gifts and incentives could be given for encouragement.

9) The leaders of the church should motivate the church by their life-example.


SESSION VIII

HOW TO EVALUATE MY CHURCH?

Br. Breeze Mathew

MARKS OF A HEALTHY CHURCH

Introduction

1. Expositional preaching.

2. Biblical Theology.

3. Biblical understanding of the Gospel.

4. Biblical understanding of conversion.

5. Biblical understanding of evangelism.

6. Biblical understanding of membership.

7. Biblical understanding of church discipline.

8. Biblical understanding of discipleship and growth.

9. Biblical understanding of church leadership.

10. True freedom in practice.

Conclusion.


SESSION FOR YOUTHS

ENJOYING YOUR CHURCH

Br. Breeze Mathew

Introduction

1. Why? -The necessity.

2. How? - The characteristics.

a. Convert genuinely. b. Commit to Christ. c. Listen progressively. d. Evaluate theologically. e. Saturate with the gospel. f. Seek discipline. g. Grow in discipleship.

Conclusion.


CAMP CLOSING MESSAGE

Br. R Gnanaharan

When we read through the Scriptures, from Genesis to Revelation, we see God’s

plan unfolded. We need to catch a glimpse of what God has planned before the foundation of the world.

Genesis 1 gives a short summary of God’s creation. After creating everything

needed for man, finally God created man on the sixth day. Man was the master piece of God’s creation. Unlike any other created things, man was created in

God’s own image and likeness. God’s plan was that man should subdue the earth

and have dominion over fish, birds and every living thing that moves on the earth.

In Genesis 3, we read how sin entered the world. The consequences that followed were unimaginable: image of God in man was marred; man lost the authority over the earth; man became a sinner.

In Genesis 12, we have the account of God calling Abraham and giving him a three-fold promise: personal, national and universal. This is the first indirect allusion to church in the Old Testament.

Church is God’s master piece to restore all what Adam lost because of sin. As in

the case of Adam, before the church could be brought forth, God prepared everything needed for the church. This is what we see in the Old Testament.

We have prophecies of a suffering Messiah and a ruling Messiah in the Old Testament. A suffering Messiah was needed before the church could be brought forth. To bring forth the Messiah, the nation of Israel was brought into existence. To bring forth the nation of Israel, God needed an Abraham.

The New Testament introduces the suffering Messiah who was prophesied in the Old Testament. The Lord Jesus Christ, through His death, burial, resurrection and ascension, has opened the way of salvation for a sinner to get saved from his sin. Through the church He has founded, He is transforming the sinner to conform to the image of God, what Adam lost because of sin.

To restore the dominion Adam lost because of sin, the Messiah will come back as King.

The Bible closes with a reference to the church. The book of Revelation gives the glimpse of the church, the Bride, the wife of the Lamb in the new Jerusalem in all glory (Rev 21:1-3, 9-11; 22:1-5). This shows how God restores everything that was lost is restored through the Church.


We should not forget that what is written in the book of Revelation (Rev 22:16) is meant for the church.

Church was a mystery in the Old Testament. But we have shadows of the church in the Old Testament. The tabernacle Moses built and the temple Solomon built were shadows of the church the Lord Jesus is building today. God gave strict warning to Moses that he should be careful to build the tabernacle exactly according to the pattern that was shown to him on the mountain (Exod 25:40). If God was so particular about the earthly tabernacle, how much more He would be jealous about the church He is building today. We cannot take His church lightly.

“Christ loved the church and gave Himself up for her” (Eph 5:25). He purchased

the church with His own precious blood (Acts 20:28). Today, He is building the church and sanctifying her. A day is coming when He will present the church to Himself in all splendor (Eph 5:27).

What is our response to the church? Do we love the church? Do we build the church?

What does the Lord expect from the glorious church? The local churches have many responsibilities to fulfill till the Lord comes to take the church to be with Him.

The local churches should

Be rooted and built up in Him and established in the faith (Col 2:7; 2 Pet 3:18)

Proclaim His excellencies (1 Pet 2:9)

Be holy in all conduct (1 Pet 1:14-16)

Contend for the faith Jude 1:3)

Make disciples (Matt 28:19-20)

Carry out discipline (Matt 18:17)

Maintain unity (1 Cor 1:9)

Manifest the manifold wisdom of God (Eph 3:10-11).

Glorify God (Eph 3:20-21; 1:12)

For those who have been believers for many years, the teachings you heard in the camp should challenge you and encourage you to build the church.

Those who are young believers, the teachings should help you to get a glimpse of the glorious church the Lord is building, and become an active part of the church.


GROUP DISCUSSION:

BRIDGING THE GENERATION GAP IN THE CHURCH


Reflections :

1. Topics

Topics that were useful to me:

a.

b.

c.

d.

My Decisions in the camp

a.

b.

c.

d.

2. Group Activities you liked

a. Songs

b. Games

c. Talent Show

d. Quiz

e. Fellowship

3. General Arrangements

a. Transportation

b. Food

c. Accommodation

d. Venue

4. Feedbacks and Suggestions


Documents

ANNUAL BIBLE CAMP 2017 THE CHURCH · ANNUAL BIBLE CAMP 2017 , THE CHURCH 1 ANNUAL BIBLE CAMP 2017 THE CHURCH 30th Sept 10:30 am to 2nd Oct 2.30 pm Don Bosco Youth Animation Centre