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SEVEN NEW TESTAMENT PATTERNS FOR GODLY LIVING

Dr. Bob Abramson

A Study Guide/Workbook for Individuals or Small Groups

Unless otherwise specified, the following applies to all Scripture quotes. Scripture taken from the New King James Version (NKJV). Copyright ©1982 by Thomas Nelson, Inc. Used by permission. All rights reserved. Scripture quotations marked (NLT) are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright © 1996, 2004, 2007. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved. Scripture quotations marked (TPT) are taken from Romans: Grace and Glory, The Passion Translation, copyright © 2015. Used by permission of Broadstreet Publishing Group, LLC, Racine, Wisconsin, USA. All rights reserved. Scripture quotations are taken from THE MESSAGE (MSG), copyright © 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 2000, 2001, 2002 by Eugene H. Peterson. Used by permission of NavPress. All rights reserved. Represented by Tyndale House Publishers, Inc. Cover design by Ryan Stacey

© Copyright Robert Abramson 2019

All Rights Reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced without the written permission of Robert Abramson.

To contact Dr. Abramson: www.mentoringministry.com

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Table of Contents for the Study Guide/Workbook

Introduction and Instructions

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Our First Pattern

God’s Desire for You Philippians 1:9-11

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Our Second Pattern

Knowledge of His Will in Wisdom and Spiritual Understanding Colossians 1:7-12

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Our Third Pattern

Transformation: “Put On The New Man.” Colossians 3:12-17

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Our Fourth Pattern Tender Care, Patience and Prayer 1 Thessalonians 5:14-22

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Our Fifth Pattern

Share the Gospel! 1 Timothy 4:11-16

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Our Sixth Pattern Grace, Peace and Promises 2 Peter 1:2-8

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Our Seventh Pattern

“Continue Your Journey of Faith.” Colossians 2:6-7

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About Dr. Abramson

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Introduction

In the Bible, we find patterns of information for how people think and behave. They’re examples of choices for living. They’re also seen in the people you encounter every day. How they express these individual patterns for living will show what people are made of. These patterns are blueprints for life, whether righteous or not. They’ve been imprinted on everyone’s soul like tattoos. They’re never hidden for long and will eventually be seen. This is worth considering when choosing whom to associate with and whether to emulate their life’s patterns. This Study Guide/Workbook will explore New Testament patterns for godly living based on the writings of Paul and Peter. Paul met the Lord on the road to Damascus and it changed him forever. Peter walked with Christ for three and a half years. Christ gave both Paul and Peter the same heart for the lost and the same zealous concern for the church. Their words and prayers flow together as connecting parts of the thread of salvation in the New Testament. They give us patterns to a God-pleasing, difference-making way of living. You will have an opportunity to explore the patterns of your own life as you contemplate and answer the questions posed within each of the seven patterns.

Instructions for Using the Study Guide/Workbook

This Study Guide/Workbook can be used for individual study or group discussion. It can be an effective tool either way.

You will use the questions to address a particular verse or verses, as a means to unpack the scriptural lessons from which the individual and/or group can grow. For a group discussion, appoint a person as leader of the group. If possible, choose someone who has some experience in ministry and is known for wisdom and compassion. Also, choose a person with the ability to facilitate the group through the Study Guide/Workbook without personally dominating or allowing any one person to dominate the conversation. It’s extremely important that everyone has an opportunity to participate.

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Every question or comment is important and none is to be dismissed. Everyone in the Study Group should show grace and kindness to each other. This will allow each participant to help the entire group discover the valuable truths within the biblical passages you will be looking into. If you are part of a Study Group, be sure not to uncover, embarrass or criticize anyone in your discussions.

If you are in a Study Group, you are encouraged to spend adequate time with the study material before every session. It is vital that you place a priority on attending every session and keeping actively engaged, while having a teachable spirit. Being part of the Study Group is not by accident. God has appointed you to be part of what He’s giving the group to experience, as you walk together and grow in this journey of discovery.

May the Lord guide you as you begin. May He use you to bless each other in this great opportunity for fellowship and joy.

Dr. Bob Abramson

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Our First Pattern for Godly Living: Philippians 1:9-11

God’s Desire for You

Philippians 1:9-11 (NLT)

“I pray that your love will overflow more and more, and that you will keep on growing in knowledge and understanding. {10} For I want you to understand what really matters, so that you may live pure and blameless lives until the day of Christ’s return. {11} May you always be filled with the fruit of your salvation - the righteous character produced in your life by Jesus Christ - for this will bring much glory and praise to God.”

The Apostle Paul was writing to the Philippian Christians about what he’d petitioned God for on their behalf. His prayer, inspired by the Holy Spirit, is a timeless message to God’s church. It’s intended to encourage all of us who have inherited Paul’s legacy as Christ’s followers. The prayer is packed full of the Holy Spirit’s desires for us, as He moved through Paul, who set it to writing. It’s God’s desire for you and me! It’s a divinely drawn pattern for living “in Christ.” Let’s unpack it and discover the depths of God’s heart for His children.

Verse 9 (NLT)

“I pray that your love will overflow more and more, and that you will keep on growing in knowledge and understanding.”

Paul’s prayer informs us that it’s God’s heartfelt desire for our love to overflow in an ever-increasing fashion (“more and more”). This reminds us that there are no constraints or boundaries to His love. It can multiply and enlarge His love in and through us, without limits. What are typical limits people place on accepting God’s love in their personal lives? Have you encountered this in others? (If you want, share what limits you’ve placed on yourself. As a reminder, be sure not to uncover or criticize anyone.)

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Typical Limits for Accepting God’s

Love Typical Causes of These Limits

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This love Paul wrote about in Verse 9 is uniquely God’s kind of love (“agape”). It’s the reflection of God Himself. As 1 John 4:8 and 4:16 tell us, “God is love.” It’s love that’s particular to God and He’s placed it in the heart of every born-again believer. Whether it shines out of our hearts into this wicked generation is exclusively our choice. It’s a matter of lifestyle and softened hearts. It’s to be a display of light in a darkened generation.

We typically confuse lust (worldly desires) with love. What are two fundamental differences between lust and love that have corrupted our world?

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Paul’s prayer in Verse 9 expresses God’s will; and because it’s originated from within God’s heart for us, it’s perfect. This means it’s perfectly able to perform what the Lord desires. When it shines forth from you, it bathes somebody else in an eternity they may otherwise have never found.

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What would you say are three of the most important reasons that the power of God’s love is available to us?

1. 2. 3.

The first part of Paul’s pattern for godly living in (Verse 9: “that your love will overflow more and more”) is that we live in ways that multiply the love of God to the world around us. This only happens when His light shines through us. In Verse 10, Paul revealed an emotional side to why he wrote the prayer.

Verse 10 (NLT)

“For I want you to understand what really matters, so that you may live pure and blameless lives until the day of Christ’s return.”

Paul knew “what really matters.” He was aware of the dangers the Philippian pagan culture carried for those who lived in it. His Christian brothers and sisters could easily be polluted by sin and return to the lives they lived before knowing Christ. (Some things never change. We’re in the same dangers today.) Paul’s words in Verse 10 seem to shout off the page. He wanted the Philippians to understand the gravity of his words. He wrote of eternal consequences, not just of temporal things. “What really matters” was that their lives should be well pleasing to God (2 Corinthians 5:9). Paul knew this would result from overflowing with God’s love and continuing to grow (Philippians 1:9b). Paul was aware that so much of what motivated and drove their lives (and now ours) had no eternal value.

What are some of the most common patterns we see in our culture today that “really matter” to people, but may not “really matter” to God? (Chart on next page)

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What Matters to People

What “Really Matters” to God 1.

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The message to us is crystal clear. We’re to maintain lives of purity and righteousness, growing in strength and holiness until Christ returns. It “really matters” and will affect our eternities! As we work through the Scriptures in Philippians 1:9-11, this first pattern for godly living continues: (1) Our love is to grow to overflowing “in knowledge and understanding.” (2) We’re to add to this overflow “pure” and “blameless” living. It’s not perfect living, but in Christ, we’re to do our best to be pleasing to Him. Every place we fall short is covered by the substitutionary death of Christ on the cross. The Lord, by His sacrificial, death, has atoned for our sins and appeased God. He has paid for our inability to be sinless and perfect before Him. It’s a debt that’s paid in full!

Verse 11 (NLT)

“May you always be filled with the fruit of your salvation - the righteous character produced in your life by Jesus Christ - for this will bring much glory and praise to God.”

Verse 11 was not written or intended as a command. It’s one of Paul’s prayer wishes, his personal desire and petition to God for the Philippian church. It’s also God’s desire for us. It leaves room for our freewill choices. God did not force the Philippians, nor will He force us to bear fruit for His kingdom. The verse expresses God’s desire, voiced through Paul and originated in the heart of the Holy Spirit. Bearing “fruit” is a divine challenge to outwardly shine our lights to the world around us. The context of the prayer assumes we understand this. Paul prayed that the inward fruit of salvation would be our “righteous character.” This is a product

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of our relationship and service to Christ. It’s a lifelong process we call “progressive sanctification.” (Progressive sanctification may be defined as being “inwardly transformed… through a total reformation” of our thinking (Romans 12:2 - TPT). The process was true for the Philippian believers and it’s equally true for us.)

In everyday, conversational terms, how would you explain ”righteous character”? (Assume you’re speaking with a new Christian, or with someone who doesn’t know Christ, but is genuinely seeking answers.)

In every day conversational terms, how would you explain “progressive sanctification”? (Again, assume you’re speaking with a new Christian, or someone who doesn’t know Christ but is genuinely seeking answers.)

This first pattern for godly living from Philippians 1:9-11, carries a powerful message. If you’re in a group discussion, arrive at a consensus of the primary message it sends and write it below. (If you’re working alone, express what you gleaned from it as its primary message to you.)

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Our Second Pattern for Godly Living: Colossians 1:7-12

Knowledge of His Will in Wisdom and Spiritual Understanding Think of Colossians 1:7-12 as a message containing a prayer filled with extreme potential, carrying a prophetic quality to it. Paul wrote the words, inspired by the Holy Spirit, and Timothy (Paul’s spiritual son) joined him in agreement for the Colossian Church. (Colossians 1:1-2) It’s a message filled with boundless possibilities for Paul’s Colossian readers. They carry the same limitless potential for us today. Here’s the prayer.

Colossians 1:7-12 (NLT)

“You learned about the Good News from Epaphras, our beloved co-worker. He is Christ’s faithful servant, and he is helping us on your behalf. {8} He has told us about the love for others that the Holy Spirit has given you. {9} So we have not stopped praying for you since we first heard about you. We ask God to give you complete knowledge of his will and to give you spiritual wisdom and understanding. {10} Then the way you live will always honor and please the Lord, and your lives will produce every kind of good fruit. All the while, you will grow as you learn to know God better and better. {11} We also pray that you will be strengthened with all his glorious power so you will have all the endurance and patience you need. May you be filled with joy, {12} always thanking the Father. He has enabled you to share in the inheritance that belongs to his people, who live in the light.”

Paul described Epaphras as a “beloved co-worker” and a “faithful servant” of Christ. Epaphras was motivated by love. This enabled him to help the Colossians more clearly understand “the Good News” and its potential to impact their growth as Christians. “Beloved” and “faithful” were two qualities of Epaphras that were apparent to Paul and speak to us as readers of these Scriptures today. These qualities are keys to every Christian’s success in sharing the Gospel.

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How would you explain “the Good News.” to someone seeking to know more about Christianity?

From Verse 9 onward, Paul provided a list filled with potential that only the “Good News” (Verse 7) could lead the Colossian church to. Let’s look into these remaining verses and explore the scriptural pattern for godly living they present to us. In the New Living Translation (NLT), Verse 9 begins with the word, “So.” In the New King James Version (NKJV), it begins with the expression “For this cause...” In either translation, the beginning of Verse 9 looks back to Paul’s reference to Epaphras’ loving work to bring the Colossians “the Good News.” It then looks ahead to the specifics in the prayer that form patterns to help us increase in the things of God. Here again is Verse 9.

“So we have not stopped praying for you since we first heard about you. We ask God to give you complete knowledge of his will and to give you spiritual wisdom and understanding.”

Let’s continue to unpack this second pattern for godly living that Paul prayed for his Colossian brothers and sisters in the Lord. We’ll pull out a number of the key scriptural thoughts, verse by verse.

• “complete knowledge of his will” and “spiritual wisdom and understanding.” (Verse 9 - NLT)

There are two distinct issues Paul addressed here:

First, he wrote about the “knowledge of his [God’s] will.” Note that Paul preceded

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and enhanced the word, knowledge” with the word, “complete.” Paul desired that the Colossians had no gaps in their knowledge of Christ. Their “knowledge” was to be accurate and full from beginning to end! It’s the Holy Spirit’s desire for you!

Second, Paul prayed that the Colossians’ wisdom would be spiritually sourced, not taken from things earthly, natural or carnal. James 3:17 contains a complimentary scriptural pattern, revealing the importance of “complete” godly wisdom.

James 3:17 (NLT)

“But the wisdom from above is first of all pure. It is also peace loving, gentle at all times, and willing to yield to others. It is full of mercy and good deeds. It shows no favoritism and is always sincere.”

Concentrate on making a paraphrase James 3:17 in your own words. Be sure to spend one full sentence on each of the qualities James used to define “wisdom from above.” You should have at least six to eight short sentences. (If you are in a group study, you might consider producing your paraphrase first, and returning with it for the next meeting. Then, you can compare your thoughts with each other, producing a consensus paraphrase. If you do this, it will give the Study Group a powerful message to share with others.

Paraphrase of James 3:17

Let’s continue now with Colossians 1:9 and the verses following.

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Verse 9 (NLT)

“So we have not stopped praying for you since we first heard about you. We ask God to give you complete knowledge of his will and to give you spiritual wisdom and understanding.”

Connect these two distinct thoughts in Verse 9 so they become one: “Complete knowledge of his will… and to give you spiritual wisdom and understanding.” Then answer this question: What would prevent a Christian from acquiring “spiritual understanding”?

What would best motivate a Christian to acquire “spiritual understanding”? (Try not to give a “canned” Christian answer. Use easily understood language even a non-Christian would understand.)

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Verse 10 (NLT)

“Then the way you live will always honor and please the Lord, and your lives will produce every kind of good fruit. All the while, you will grow as you learn to know God better and better.”

In Verse 10, we’ll find the next keys in this pattern for godly living. As we unpack each of them, you’ll see they’re interconnected in ways that greatly enrich and enhance our potential to fulfill our destinies.

• “Then the way you live will always honor and please the Lord,” (Verse 10a - NLT)

• “That you may walk worthy of the Lord, fully pleasing Him,” (Verse. 10a - NKJV)

The New King James Version of this first part of Verse 10 gives us the results of having the completeness of the “knowledge of God” and “spiritual wisdom and understanding” we found in Verse 9. It’s that our walk with God (a way of saying our relationship with God throughout life) will “honor and please” Him. With this thought, Paul continued to add to the completeness of this scriptural pattern. The verse tells us we may live a complete righteous lifestyle without gaps or holes! Paul understood this as a sure way to “fully please Him.”

A “walk worthy of the Lord” can be a puzzling expression. How would you briefly explain a walk that’s “worthy of the Lord”?

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• “…and your lives will produce every kind of good fruit.” (Verse 10b - NLT)

The word “and” is a connector to the thought preceding it. Paul was saying that a pattern of wise living before the Lord would produce lasting results. These would make an eternal difference to those we touch with our lives. This difference comes from a selfless attitude of serving Jesus and others. As you can see, this connects to the first part of the verse.

Here are two questions for you to consider:

1. Why do you think Paul described “every kind of… fruit” as “good”?

2. Jesus’s words in John 15:16 underpin and confirm this command to “bear fruit.” Jesus then said, “Whatever you ask the Father in My name He may give you.” Why isn’t this an invitation to obtain anything you want?

• “All the while, you will grow as you learn to know God better and better.”

(Verse10c - NLT)

Paul wrote that in the process of honoring and pleasing God, while having a fruitful life, the Colossians (and therefore we too) would “grow and learn to know God

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better and better.” This is a statement of potential. It describes growing into power-enabled, Holy Spirit-filled people.

Give three very specific benefits of growing closer to God that will result in having the power of the Holy Spirit increasingly working in our lives.

1. 2. 3.

We’ll conclude our second pattern for godly living with two translations of Verses 11 and 12. Together, they will provide us with a look into Paul’s understanding of the power of God at work in a Christian’s life.

Colossians 1:11-12 (NLT)

“We also pray that you will be strengthened with all his glorious power so you will have all the endurance and patience you need. May you be filled with joy, {12} always thanking the Father. He has enabled you to share in the inheritance that belongs to his people, who live in the light.”

Colossians 1:11-12 (TPT)

“And we pray that you would be energized with all his explosive power from the realm of his magnificent glory, filling you with great hope. {12} Your hearts can soar with joyful gratitude when you think of how God made you worthy to receive the glorious inheritance freely given to us by living in the light.”

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As with Verse 10, we’ll divide these final two verses into individual parts. We’ll break down Verse 11 and the first part of Verse 12 into two distinct thoughts. Then we’ll finish with some comments on the results we gain from faithfully walking in the pattern Paul’s prayer gives us.

• “strengthened with all his ‘glorious power’ so you will have all the endurance and patience you need.” (Verse 11a - NLT)

• “’energized’ with all his ‘explosive’ power… filling you with great hope.” (Verse 11a - TPT)

These two translations agree concerning God’s ability to strengthen you. The New Living Translation (NLT) calls it “glorious power.” This is the unique power that emerges from the glorious presence of God. The Passion Translation (TPT) says we are “energized” and His power is “explosive.”

Verse 11a - Portions of the NLT and TPT Combined and Paraphrased

We pray you will have an explosion of God’s energizing power that has been delivered from His throne into your life.

What is God’s purpose in giving us this gift of energizing power? Paul answered this question with a threefold list of attributes with which God strengthens us: (1) “endurance,” (2) “patience” (3) “great hope.”

These are parts of a formula within this eleventh verse that enables us to be winners and champions for Jesus in the face of whatever life offers (good or not). • “May you be filled with joy, {12} always thanking the Father. He has enabled

you to share in the inheritance that belongs to his people, who live in the light.” (Verse 11b-12 NLT)

Paul’s words give us a definite, targeted prayer, connecting the Colossians’ joy with thanksgiving to the Father. Let’s ask ourselves, “How often do we thank God for the everyday things that bring us joy”? Try to answer this question from within your heart by reflecting on your own life. Be transparent and honest with your answer:

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How often do we remember to thank Him for the extraordinary things He does for us in times when His intervention is vital?”

What a gift it is that we can live in the light of “the Good News!”

• “Your hearts can soar with joyful gratitude when you think of how God made you worthy to receive the glorious inheritance freely given to us by living in the light.” (Verses 11b-12 TPT)

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This page is left blank. You may want to use it for additional notes on our first and second patterns.

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Our Third Pattern for Godly Living: Colossians 3:12-17

A Pattern of Transformation: “Put On The New Man.”

(It’s a divine blueprint for being clothed with new ways of living in Christ.)

“All things have become new” (2 Corinthians 5:17) for us as Christ’s followers. We’re to seek biblical instructions, below, for how we should live our new lives in Christ. They’re blueprints for empowering us.

Colossians 3:9-10 (NKJV)

“Do not lie to one another, since you have put off the old man with his deeds, {10} and have put on the new man who is renewed in knowledge according to the image of Him who created him,”


“Therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, put on tender mercies, kindness, humility, meekness, longsuffering; {13} bearing with one another, and forgiving one another, if anyone has a complaint against another; even as Christ forgave you, so you also must do. {14} But above all these things put on love, which is the bond of perfection. {15} And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to which also you were called in one body; and be thankful. {16} Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom, teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord. {17} And whatever you do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through Him.”

For this study I’ve chosen particular elements of this third pattern for godly living, given to us in Colossians, Chapter 3. We’re to emulate them in our walk with God. It’s important to note that Chapter 3 is not like a buffet from which we pick and choose. It’s a full feast of biblical imperatives! Its parts are interconnected, woven into a divinely designed pattern of wholeness. Paul makes it clear that we’re to “put

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on” and wear each part of the pattern as a visible sign of our transformation in Christ. We’ll unpack them, beginning with Verse 12 and then move ahead, verse by verse:

• “Tender mercies” and “kindness” (Verse 12 - NKJV)

The original Greek word for “tender mercies” is one that may be best understood as an inward heart of gentle compassion.1 “Kindness” may be understood as an expression of moral goodness and integrity that manifests as a kind act.2 “Tender mercies” goes beyond pity. It’s a heartfelt choice to be clothed with compassion and kindness. It comes with a tenderness of heart toward those who need our help and understanding. Can you see the difference between doing something for someone just because you think it’s right, and doing something for someone out of a heart that identifies with their circumstances and sees them as God’s special creation? Paul instructs us to “put on” comfort and peace where there has been none. It’s to behave toward someone in a way that provides the person with the security of knowing you really care and are willing to go out of your way to make a difference. It’s to treat someone with the same kind of tenderness with which a loving mother or father holds a newborn baby.

Why would “tender mercies” be incomplete without being paired with “kindness”? (If you disagree that it would be incomplete, explain.)

In Micah 6:8, the Prophet Micah asked, “What does the Lord require of you?” This should drill down into our hearts. Micah then spoke of “to love mercy” as one of these requirements. The Apostle Paul expanded on this by linking “mercy” with “kindness.” Paul clarified that God never intended “mercies” and “kindness” to be 1 Strong’s Concordance G3628. 2 Strong’s Concordance: G5544.

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anything but acts of tenderness, working together in love to change lives. They’re part of our walk with God as part of our “new man.” “Tender mercies” and “kindness” are a timeless and universal expression of Christ’s heart. They’re commanded to be on display in all of God’s people. Here’s Micah’s question along with the answer to it.

Micah 6:8 (NKJV)

“He has shown you, O man, what is good; And what does the Lord require of you But to do justly, To love mercy, And to walk humbly with your God?”

I have combined the remaining three elements of Colossians 3:12, “humility,” “meekness” and “longsuffering.” They work together as parts of the pattern. Combined, they express an attitude that pleases God and is worth exploring. Let’s look at the original Greek meanings of the three words:

1. “Humility” …and “meekness” (Verse 12b)

“Humility” and “meekness” form another complimentary, revealing combination of two thoughts - “humbleness of mind” put together with “a deep sense of modesty or lowliness.”3 This paints a picture of a person who is gentle, quiet and slow to react in anger. It’s someone who has control over his or her pride and arrogance. “Humility” and “meekness” describe the kind of person who has submitted to the lordship of Christ and the guidance of the Holy Spirit. It’s the same attitude Jesus had when He went to the cross to redeem us from sin. (Philippians 2:5-8) The Passion Translation (TPT) of Philippians 2:5 says, “And consider the example that Jesus, the Anointed One, has set before us. Let his mindset become your motivation.”

2. “Longsuffering”4 (Verse 12b)

Paul intended his use of this word to reflect his own walk as a “new man” in Christ. Even a casual reader of the Book of Acts and Paul’s epistles can readily see many of 3 Strong’s Numbers G5012 (“humility) and G4240 (“meekness”). 4 Strong’s Number G3115. (“longsuffering”)

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the things Paul patiently suffered in the service of the Lord. His own “longsuffering” “humility” and “meekness” formed a trio of strength with which Paul faced the world. It’s the same principle today as it was then. We also have a three-fold cord, seen in a humble, meek, and patient or “longsuffering” attitude, with which we can face the world. These three mutually support each other. When combined, “tender mercies,” “kindness,” and “longsuffering” are powerful and effective!

Explain why being patient and slow to react is of real value when it’s connected with “humbleness of mind” and “a deep sense of modesty.”

Colossians 3:9-12 (Paraphrased)

You are chosen by God to be His precious child and you are deeply loved by Him. Because of this (and what an incredible honor it is), exchange the old ways you used to live with His new ways. Let them be the hallmarks of your life. I’m speaking of having a quiet, gentle spirit and being under control. Let tenderness and mercy work together in you. They should be the rule of thumb for how you react to every situation. In all things be kind, maintaining a deep sense of modesty and lowliness, especially when your pride wants you to behave otherwise. Walk out this new life in Christ; and with all this operating for your good, exercise patience. For that’s where the power of God will show itself in you.

Explain in simple terms why “tender mercies, kindness, humility, meekness” and “longsuffering” have so much power to transform us and help us walk in success.

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How does it help us to be transformed and move into what will make a powerful difference in our ability to walk in success, worthy of God’s calling?

Let’s now turn to Verse 13 and unpack the key words.

Colossians 3:13 (NLT)

“Make allowance for each other’s faults, and forgive anyone who offends you. Remember, the Lord forgave you, so you must forgive others.”

Colossians 3:13 (NKJV)

“…bearing with one another, and forgiving one another, if anyone has a complaint against another; even as Christ forgave you, so you also must do.”

3. “…bearing with one another and forgiving one another,”5

(Verse 13 - NKJV)

Merriam Webster defines “bearing” or “forbearing” as “to control oneself when provoked: [to] be patient.” The authors of the New Living Translation (NLT) offer us perhaps the best understanding of this expression. They wrote that it is our allowances for each other’s faults. This attitude and the resulting actions clearly are God’s will for our lives. Forgiveness is the compassionate response Christ modeled for us. He did this in the most difficult situation anyone could ever

5 Strong’s Numbers G430 (To bear, endure, to hold one’s self firm) and G5483 (to freely forgive, to grant as a favor).

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experience - His crucifixion. Yet, Luke 23:34 recorded Jesus crying out through His deep suffering and pain, saying, “Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing.”

Why would Scripture require that we bear with one another in a pattern of loving forgiveness? (It is not just a suggestion!)

Was there an occasion you can share (without uncovering someone) that taught you something about forgiveness that has a very prominent place in your heart? What did it teach you?

Did your answers compare favorably with this statement? We’re not ignorant of why God commands us to forgive; nor are we ignorant of why Satan uses unforgiveness as a weapon for our destruction. God knows that unforgiveness is poison and needs to be released. You and I have “the mind of Christ.” (1 Corinthians 2:16) This means we can understand what His will is for us. We can make choices that align with the guidelines the Holy Spirit has given us through His Word and His inward witness.

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Colossians 3:13 (Paraphrased)

Never expect any of us to be perfect. Make allowances for each other’s faults because they’re no worse than your faults. When you’re offended, don’t complain. Don’t hold it against the person who has offended you, whether it was deliberate or they just didn’t realize it. Forgive them and release yourself from the poison of unforgiveness that wants to infest your heart. Never forget that God in Christ has forgiven you and fully expects and in fact, demands that you forgive others.

Explain when and why forgiveness might not require you to continue a relationship with someone. (Make your answer general and not necessarily an actual account, unless it is edifying to everyone involved.)

Now that we’ve unpacked Verses 12 and 13, let’s move ahead to Verses 14 and 15. You’ll see that Paul closely connected the two previous verses (12-13) with the next two by adding the most important element of Christian living - God’s love. I’ll quote the New King James Version (NKJV) first; and then The Passion Translation (TPT), which is so clearly expressive of God’s heart that it gives us a richer understanding for how important these two verses are to the Lord (and therefore, to us).


“But above all these things put on love, which is the bond of perfection. {15} And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to which also you were called in one body; and be thankful.”

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“For love is supreme and must flow through each of these virtues. Love becomes the mark of true maturity. {15} Let your heart be always guided by the peace of the Anointed One, who called you to peace as part of his one body. And always be thankful.”

4. “But above all these things put on love which is the bond of perfection.”

(Verse 14 - NKJV)

Our priority for living in the pattern of “the new man,” is to “put on” and demonstrate one God-revealing character trait above all the others. It’s the virtue of love (“agape”6). In particular, it’s God’s distinct kind of unselfish, other-centered, sacrificial love. To “put on” “agape” means to wear and prominently display it. It’s to allow God’s kind of love to be seen as the foremost sign of who we are in Christ. It must permeate or fill each of part of this pattern for godly behavior. God’s kind of love is the clear mark of our transformation from who we were to who we are today. It’s the door to our tomorrows in Christ. All the other parts of this third pattern for godly behavior will be tested, defined and held together by God’s “agape.” We’re to wear it as a “bond of perfection.” It’s the divinely sourced, spiritually enabled force that holds together our relationships with one another. God uses it to bring transformation to our thinking that changes our hearts. Putting on the “new man” results in taking us into unity and community through “the bond of perfection.” The Passion Translation (TPT) calls this “the mark of true maturity.” It’s a process for growing, while growing closer together, powered by “agape.” 5. “And let the peace of God rule in your hearts,” (Verse 15 - NKJV)

Love toward others is connected to peace within ourselves. It’s also apparent that the peace within us is to have rulership or authority over our hearts. Peace is the deciding factor. If you need to decide how to treat someone, ask the Holy Spirit what happens when you give God’s kind of love to that person. The Holy Spirit will answer with an abundance of recognizable peace in your heart. His peace will be the signal that your choice was correct. Nothing could be more confirming! It signals that you are a healthy, functioning, vital part of the Body of Christ. 6 Strong’s Number G26 (“agape” = love, also translated charity).

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What would you say is the bottom-line importance of a pattern of peace in a person’s heart? Why is this so fundamental to success in life?

To keep our discussion in its proper perspective, I’m repeating Colossians 3:12-17 as a point of reference - a reminder. It’s a good time to review it to remind yourself of this entire pattern for godly living.


“Therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, put on tender mercies, kindness, humility, meekness, longsuffering; {13} bearing with one another, and forgiving one another, if anyone has a complaint against another; even as Christ forgave you, so you also must do. {14} But above all these things put on love, which is the bond of perfection. {15} And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to which also you were called in one body; and be thankful. {16} Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom, teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord. {17} And whatever you do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through Him.”

6. “And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to which also you were called in

one body; and be thankful.” (Verse 15 - NKJV)

As a Christian, you’re no longer alone, but are now part of something filled with eternity’s wonders, the Body of Christ. It’s one of the unique blessings of being a Christ-follower. It’s a door to peace, unavailable in anything else.

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God desires that you love His family, as it’s your own. This is to be one of your greatest, highest, and obvious priorities. It’s the missing link between those virtues already mentioned. You are called to bring a mature, settled sense of peace to those with whom you share your Christianity.

If you were to explain to an unbeliever the bond between love, unity in the Body of Christ, and peace, what would you say?

We have come to the final two verses in our study of this pattern for godly living (Verses 16 and 17). They speak to us about transformation. These verses finish this section of Colossians, Chapter 3. In it, Paul has given the Colossians (and us) instructions about God’s desire for all of us to “put on the new man.” If you backtrack to Colossians 3:2, you’ll see that Verses 12-15 in our study concisely explained the meaning of Verse 2, in which Paul wrote, “Set your mind on things above, not on things on the earth.” These final two verses (16 and 17) end this pattern for godly living with a word of encouragement. This pattern is one of many in the epistles that are guidelines for our success.


“Let the word of Christ dwell7 in you richly in all wisdom, teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord. {17} And whatever you do in word or

7 Strong’s Number G1774 (to inhabit or abide permanently and continually).

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deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through Him.”

Paul ends the pattern with a prayer that the Gospel message would be rich within his readers’ hearts; that it would fill their lives - and would be taught to and lived through each other. These final verses pray for us to have both an inward and outward focus. Paul wrote about the “word of Christ” dwelling within his readers. He was equally instructive that Christians are to take action (“whatever you do in word or deed”) in ways that glorify, give honor and thanksgiving “in the name of the Lord.” Paul finished this third pattern for godly living by encouraging the Colossians (and us) to specifically give thanks to the Father. Here’s my paraphrase:


I encourage you to let Christ’s words live permanently fixed in your hearts, always thanking God that you can walk in His wisdom, making a difference for others. Sing spiritual songs of thanksgiving to God the Father, for He’s given you His grace. It’s right there, abiding in your hearts. Make a difference for others, always thankful that God made a difference for you!

What three things would you want to say to a group of believers you were leading to encourage them to go deeper into their walk with God. (One sentence each)

1.

2. 3.

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The Complete Paraphrase of Colossians 3:12-17 You are chosen by God to be His precious child and deeply loved by Him. Because of this (and what an incredible honor it is), exchange the old ways you used to live with His new ways. Let them be the hallmarks of your life. I’m speaking of having a quiet, gentle spirit and being under control. Let tenderness and mercy work together in you. They should be the rule of thumb for how you react to every situation. In all things, be kind, maintaining a deep sense of modesty and lowliness, especially when your pride wants you to behave otherwise. Walk out this new life in Christ; and with all this operating for your good, exercise patience. For that’s where the power of God will show itself in you.

(Verse 13) Never expect any of us to be perfect. Make allowances for each other’s faults because they’re no worse than your faults. When you’re offended, don’t complain. Don’t hold it against the person who has offended you, whether it was deliberate or they just didn’t realize it. Forgive them and release yourself from the poison of unforgiveness that wants to infest your heart. Never forget that God in Christ has forgiven you and fully expects and in fact, demands that you forgive others.

(Verses 14-15) God desires that you love His family, as it’s your own. This is to be one of your greatest, highest, and obvious priorities. It’s the missing link between those virtues already mentioned. You are called to bring a mature, settled sense of peace to those with whom you share your Christianity.

(Verses 16-17) I encourage you to let Christ’s words live permanently fixed in your hearts, always thanking God that you can walk in His wisdom, making a difference for others. Sing spiritual songs of thanksgiving to God the Father, for He’s given you His grace. It’s right there, abiding in your hearts. Make a difference for others, always thankful that God made a difference for you!

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Please take this paraphrase of Colossians 3:12-17 into your quiet times and ask God to speak to you from within it. He has done this for me and I know He will do it for you. He’s forever faithful and loving. Bless His name forever.

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Our Fourth Pattern for Godly Living: 1 Thessalonians 5:14-22

Tender Care, Patience and Prayer The Apostle Paul wrote with great affection, as their spiritual parent, to the newly established church in Thessalonica. As we go through 1 Thessalonians 5:14-22, one verse at a time, you’ll see that Paul gave the Thessalonian Church solid, life changing instructions in Christian behavior. His attitudes, evidenced by the words he wrote to the Thessalonians, showed he wanted the best for them as his spiritual sons and daughters. Paul’s instructions were simple and concise. Today, they provide us with another scriptural pattern for godly living to compliment the ones we’ve already looked into.

1 Thessalonians 5:14-22 (NLT)

“And we urge you, brothers and sisters, warn those who are idle and disruptive, encourage the disheartened, help the weak, be patient with everyone. {15} Make sure that nobody pays back wrong for wrong, but always strive to do what is good for each other and for everyone else. {16} Rejoice always, {17} pray continually, {18} give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus. {19} Do not quench the Spirit. {20} Do not treat prophecies with contempt {21} but test them all; hold on to what is good, {22} reject every kind of evil.”

In Verse 14, Paul began laying out this particular pattern for godly living by issuing a warning. (He will end it with another warning in Verse 22.) Paul’s words would have instilled in and reminded his Thessalonian readers of basic Christian behavioral principles, as those in the church would have been relatively new believers.

• “And we urge you, brothers and sisters, warn those who are idle and disruptive,” (Verse 14 - NIV)

Paul put the responsibility on his readers to exercise their spiritual authority by warning those who are “idle and disruptive.” This responsibility most likely was

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given to those who were in church leadership. Paul was not explicit concerning why some people in the church were “idle” or “disruptive.” We may speculate what the problem was, but cannot know for sure. However, Paul made it clear that their laziness or unruly behavior had a number of people in the church ignoring the Christian fundamentals for godly living. The beginnings of Chapter 5 reveal a deeper motivation for Paul’s warning. In Verse 2 he wrote, “For you know quite well that the day of the Lord’s return will come unexpectedly, like a thief in the night.” In Verse 6, Paul’s words formed a metaphor for being watchful and living a careful life of honor and obedience, because nobody knows when Christ would suddenly appear. He warned, “So be on your guard, not asleep like the others. Stay alert and be clearheaded.” We can certainly link this to his instructions to “warn those who are lazy” or “unruly.” The lesson we can take from this warning is that we must be diligent to live in anticipation of Christ’s sudden return. It’s our responsibility to have holy, faithful, orderly ways of living among each other; and to lovingly encourage our Christian brothers and sisters to do the same.

Those who were “idle” or “disruptive” should have been diligent to live according to the eternal certainty of facing Christ on Judgment Day. Obviously they weren’t. Two thousand years later, we face the same issues in our churches.

1. What issue or issues do you think the leaders in our churches can concentrate on that might make a difference?

2. What do you think those of us who are not in leadership authority in our churches can concentrate on that might make a difference for the growth of our fellow Christians?

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• “Make sure that nobody pays back wrong for wrong, but always strive to do what

is good for each other and for everyone else.” (Verse 15 - NIV)

The responsibility was twofold:

First: There would have been times when correction was needed. There would have been issues of unforgiveness and anger… and perhaps gossip, envy and bitterness among God’s people in Thessalonica. This happens most anywhere Christians gather. It’s just human nature. God’s desire is that we intentionally move to change this. We’re to stop imitating the world around us. We’re to start being the people whom God has equipped us to be, transformed through “a total reformation” of our thinking. This will align us with God’s will for our lives.

Second: Redemptive, transformational Christian living had to be taught to the church. The cultural ways and norms of the Thessalonians, both then and also now with every current culture, need transformation to align with God’s ways.

Romans 12:2 (TPT)

“Stop imitating the ideals and opinions of the culture around you, but be inwardly transformed by the Holy Spirit through a total reformation of how you think. This will empower you to discern God’s will as you live a beautiful life, satisfying and perfect in his eyes.”

What follows can be a challenging exercise all of us. The challenge is to understand the will of the Lord; and then have the determination, skill (and sometimes even the courage) to stay focused. This will result in achieving a fruitful life that will enable you to mature and grow in Christ. On the following page is a chart for you to fill in. (This makes a great foundation for group discussion. Take your time, especially with explaining the reasons for the areas you selected.)

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What three areas do you think church leaders should preach and teach that will speak to later correction when needed? Why?

Areas to Concentrate On

Reasons

1.

2.

3.

We are God’s cherished children. Yes indeed, we are no longer our own, but belong to Him! This is a privileged and honored place to be. It provides us with the opportunity for “a total reformation” of how [we] think.” This empowers you with the ability “to discern God’s will.” Nothing is more relevant for your success than to discern God’s will for your life. • “Rejoice always, {17} pray continually, {18} give thanks in all circumstances; for

this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” (Verses 16-18 - NIV)

In his writings, Paul consistently mentioned joy, prayer and thanksgiving as

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cornerstones of our Christian attitudes. They function as both the “cause” and “effect” of successful living. Together they facilitate attitudes you will need to succeed. They result in a positive approach to the challenges of life, which Romans 8:28 says, “work together for our good” (a positive “effect”).

A pattern of negative emotions can be a reality. Constant joy doesn’t seem possible. Why could Paul expect people to “rejoice always” when it’s obvious life has its ups and downs? (Include Scripture in your answer.)

• “Do not quench the Spirit. {20} Do not treat prophecies with contempt {21} but

test them all; hold on to what is good, {22} reject every kind of evil.” (Verses 19-22 - NIV)

These final four verses in the pattern are strongly stated, clearly authoritative and commanding. They are as much warnings as instructions for successful godly living. Here’s my paraphrase of their message.

Do nothing to reject the Holy Spirit’s influence. Give respect to the warnings God’s Word and His authorized spiritual authorities give you. Use your knowledge of God’s instructions for godly living to test whatever is said that may try to sway you from obedience to the truth. Hold fast to what’s good and just stay away from what’s evil.

Have you ever grasped onto something so valuable to you that your grip was tight enough to ensure you wouldn’t lose it? That’s how holding fast to the good things God provides for life ought to be. It’s the opposite for evil. Just let it go!

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The Purpose Behind the Pattern

Readiness for the second coming of Christ is the purpose for this fourth pattern, with its warnings and instructions. Our readiness will depend on anticipation, determination, obedience and faith. These attributes of a Christ-follower are a picture of Paul’s intimate, personal knowledge of Jesus and his reaction to encountering the Lord. They defined his Christian commitment. We can have the same knowledge and understanding Paul had… and the same commitment. When Christ returns and takes us to our eternal place with Him, we’ll be able to stand before the Judgment Seat and hear the Lord say, “Welcome to My eternal place of glory. Enter into My rest and abide with Me forever.” As you read in the beginning of the Introduction, “Patterns are more than the knowledge of how to think and behave. They’re examples of choices for living. They’re seen in the people you encounter every day. These people may be either righteous or not. How they express their individual patterns for living will show what they’re made of. These patterns are blueprints for life, whether righteous or not! They have been imprinted on everyone’s souls like tattoos. They’re never hidden for long, but will always be seen. This is worth considering when choosing whom to associate with and whether to emulate their life’s patterns.”

Those Whose Lives Display a Righteous Pattern

Philippians 3:17 (NLT)

“Dear brothers and sisters, pattern your lives after mine, and learn from those who follow our example.”

Philippians 3:17 (NKJV)

“Brethren, follow my example, and note those who so walk, as you have us for a pattern.”

1 Corinthians 11:1 (NKJV)

“Imitate me just as I also imitate Christ.”

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Those Whose Lives Do Not Display a Righteous Pattern


“For I have told you often before, and I say it again with tears in my eyes, that there are many whose conduct shows they are really enemies of the cross of Christ. {19} They are headed for destruction. Their god is their appetite, they brag about shameful things, and they think only about this life here on earth.”

* * * * * * * * * * * *

A Comment from Dr. Abramson There are many examples of unrighteous patterns of behavior in both the Old and New Testaments. It’s not the purpose of this Study Guide/Workbook to look into those unrighteous behavioral patterns, as we are concentrating on the positive aspects of “Seven New Testament Patterns for Godly Living.” However, should you desire, you’ll find numerous patterns for unrighteous living in both Testaments. God’s Word has a great deal to say about behavior that’s offensive to God. You can begin in the four Gospels. It’s not very difficult to find unrighteous patterns of behavior in what Jesus had to contend with and chose to speak about. In Acts, the Epistles and in the first four chapters of Revelation there are many more examples that are rich in lessons to learn that can profitably be unpacked. Some of the most interesting and easily found examples of unrighteous patterns of living are in the Old Testament narratives. The Prophets’ writings are filled with God’s reaction to unrighteous living. My suggestion is that at some point you spend time looking into some of these unrighteous patterns, along with their New Testament biblical remedies.

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pattern.

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Our Fifth Pattern for Godly Living: 1 Timothy 4:11-16

Share the Gospel! Before unpacking this fifth pattern, it would be appropriate to acknowledge that Paul was giving Timothy instructions for how to function as a pastor and leader. These are vital for Christian leaders, but I’ve found they really pertain to every Christian. It’s the responsibility of all of us to walk in faith and integrity, encouraging our brothers and sisters, while sharing the Gospel with those who don’t know Christ. We’re responsible to view Paul’s words to Timothy as biblical commands to all of us. We’re to embrace and apply them as a lifestyle. With this in mind, let’s move to our fifth pattern for godly living.

1 Timothy 4:11-12, 15-16 (NLT)

“Teach these things and insist that everyone learn them. {12} Don’t let anyone think less of you because you are young. Be an example to all believers in what you say, in the way you live, in your love, your faith, and your purity… {15} Give your complete attention to these matters. Throw yourself into your tasks so that everyone will see your progress. {16} Keep a close watch on how you live and on your teaching. Stay true to what is right for the sake of your own salvation and the salvation of those who hear you.”

The previous four patterns contain vital parts of the divine blueprint for Christian living. Paul’s instructions to Timothy in this fifth pattern will add to our study. Paul had a specific task in mind. It applied to Timothy’s calling as a pastor and leader. For us, all these years later, the task goes on. It’s a task ordained for everyone in the Body of Christ, regardless of how removed we are from Paul and Timothy’s time or calling. It’s a set of instructions for presenting ourselves to the church and the world, as anointed and called messengers of The Great Commission.

Matthew 28:18-20 (NKJV) - The Great Commission

“And Jesus came and spoke to them, saying, “All authority has been given to

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Me in heaven and on earth. {19} Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, {20} teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age.” Amen.”

1 Timothy 4:11-16 helps prepare God’s people to be powerful witnesses to the world and effective voices for righteousness, wherever we are. The Lord’s command in Matthew 28:18-20 is certainly the most critical one among those given to us to be fulfilled here on earth. Without the same godly commitment and character Paul expected of Timothy, our witness would be ineffective. With it, we are world changers and champions for Christ.

1 Timothy 4:11 (NLT)

“Teach these things and insist that everyone learn them.” Two key phrases in Verse 11 stand out. First, we all have the responsibility to “teach these things.” Second, we are to assume an attitude in which we are insistent that as many as can, learn “these things.” What are “these things”? The context of this pattern provides a list of them. We will find them in the next five verses.


“Don’t let anyone think less of you because you are young. Be an example to all believers in what you say, in the way you live, in your love, your faith, and your purity.”

In verse 12, we are given five ways to be examples to our brothers and sisters in the Lord. For Christians, each of these is a guide to significant righteous living. These ways can also be examples to convince unbelievers that the Christian life will fill in the empty places in their hearts. Logically then, these ways apply to targeting unbelievers, as well as being instructions to edify the Body of Christ. Let’s unpack all five ways of being “an example” in this fifth pattern of godly living. • “…in what you say.”

(Verse 12b - NLT)

Paul had sound, timeless advice for Timothy, concerning the ways he should speak.

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Paul knew that words carry incredible power for good or evil. They will turn a situation one way or the other. Our words can be like weapons against the devil’s schemes, as he tries to bring division among God’s people. They can also be weapons in the fight against Satan’s efforts to keep unbelievers captive and on their way to hell. The Bible tells us “out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaks.” (Matthew 12:34 - NKJV) Our success in life is directly linked to what we have in our hearts, because it will dominate what we say. David understood this and his prayer in Psalm 141 expressed it perfectly.

Psalm 141:3-4a (NKJV)

“Set a guard, O Lord, over my mouth; Keep watch over the door of my lips.

{4a} Do not incline my heart to any evil thing, To practice wicked works With men who work iniquity;”

What motivated David to ask God to “set a guard” over his mouth; and “keep watch over the door of my lips”? How does God help us to watch what we say? If a new Christian or an unbeliever asked you this question, how would you respond? Be as specific as you can.

Let’s continue with the balance of Verse 12:

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• “…in the way you live.” (Verse 12c - NLT)

The way we live is going to be consistent with the words we speak. Together they form an accurate picture of who we are. If we’re to do our part for The Great Commission, and be an example to the Body of Christ, our lives must be open books, transparent presentations of our hearts.

If “the way you live” comes from your heart and joins with the words you speak, what must you do to keep your witness intact and effective? Can you give an answer that shows practical actions for doing this? Please don’t just use “religious jargon” to answer this. Be as simple, specific and practical as you can.

• “…in your love, faith and purity.”

(Verse 12d - NLT)

I’ll re-emphasize that the display of these final three elements of Verse 12 (“in your love, your faith, and your purity”) combine to become a powerful tool God has placed in you to touch both Christians’ and unbelievers’ hearts!

In a world filled with hatred, unfaithfulness and impurity, what do you think is the primary transformational effect on someone’s heart and their subsequent choices when they see “your love, faith and purity”? (Include Scripture in your answer.)

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In 1 Timothy 4:13-14, Paul gave Timothy specific instructions regarding what Timothy should give priority to as the pastor and leader of the church. We’ll skip Verses 13-14 and move ahead past them to Verse 15. There we’ll find three elements of the verse to add to this fifth pattern for godly living. (Paul’s words apply equally to all believers as well as to leaders.)


“Give your complete attention to these matters. Throw yourself into your tasks so that everyone will see your progress.”

1 Timothy 4:15 (TPT)

“Make all of this your constant meditation and make it real with your life so everyone can see that you are moving forward.”

As I reflected on The Passion Translation (TPT) of Verse 15, the expression, “make it real with your life” struck me. God wants us to get beyond what other people might think of our witness. It doesn’t take long for people to see through our fears or deceptions. Show them the reality of your life in Christ. Nothing will be more effective in becoming an agent of change for those around you. God will put you on display because He loves the world and His desire is that everyone knows Him and grows in Him. Paul wrote, “Give your complete attention to these matters” (NLT). The Passion Translation (TPT) says, “Make all of this your constant meditation.” Try paraphrasing 1 Timothy 4:15 in words that would be simple and significant for others to understand, and especially for fellow believers. Choose your words carefully for maximum effect. Your choice of words could make a difference, even to the point that others’ lives or well-being could depend on it!

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Paraphrase of 1 Timothy 4:15


“Keep a close watch on how you live and on your teaching. Stay true to what is right for the sake of your own salvation and the salvation of those who hear you.”

To finish this fifth pattern for godly living, I’ve chosen two final phrases to consider. They describe the efforts we should make to guard the integrity of our lives. They can become effective preventatives against temptation or slothfulness. • “Keep a close watch on how you live…”

(Verse 16a)

The New King James Version (NKJV) translates “Keep a close watch” as “Take heed to yourself…” The idea is to constantly keep an eye on the ways you live and how you present what you believe to anyone watching or listening. This is because integrity and wholeness will display themselves and are always worth guarding. Nothing is more crucial than the quality of your own character. Keep a close watch on how your Christianity is displayed. The choices of many around you, and the quality of their lives could very well depend on it.

It’s often hard to see ourselves as others see us. It’s helpful, therefore, to be accountable to wise, seasoned brothers or sisters, and leaders and pastors who can help us to know how others see us. What would you say is a primary reason Christians typically try to avoid accountability to others? What’s a good remedy for this?

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• “Stay true to what is right…”

(Verse 16b)

These power packed words are a fitting finish to our study of this fifth pattern for godly living. The New King James Version (NKJV) translates “Stay true” as “Continue in…” It’s a theme consistent with Paul’s teaching throughout the New Testament. We are to be consistent and predictable in our behavior to finish what we start in ways the Lord approves of. Paul was his own best witness. In his second and final letter to Timothy, just before he was executed, Paul wrote, “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, and I have remained faithful. And now the prize awaits me - the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will give me on the day of his return.” (2 Timothy 4:7-8 - NLT) Paul had the satisfaction of knowing he’d been true to his calling and to the Gospel, but especially to Christ. What an example to us!

How would you explain to someone unfamiliar with the Bible what it means to run your race, being “true to what is right”?

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Our Sixth Pattern for Godly Living: 2 Peter 1:2-8

Grace, Peace and Promises Now we have the opportunity to hear from Paul’s apostolic companion Peter. Both men intimately knew Jesus. Paul met the Lord on the road to Damascus and it changed him forever. Peter walked with Christ for three and a half years. Following his denial of the Lord, Peter experienced Christ’s resurrection and subsequently found restoration. All of this changed him forever. Christ gave both Peter and Paul the same heart for the lost and the same zealous concern for the church. Their words and prayers flow together as connecting parts of the thread of salvation in the New Testament. They give us guideposts to a God-pleasing, difference-making way of living. Let’s look to Peter’s prayer for God’s people who had been dispersed around the Roman Empire, as part of God’s plan to spread the Gospel.

2 Peter 1:2-8 (NLT)

“May God give you more and more grace and peace as you grow in your knowledge of God and Jesus our Lord. {3} By his divine power, God has given us everything we need for living a godly life. We have received all of this by coming to know him, the one who called us to himself by means of his marvelous glory and excellence. {4} And because of his glory and excellence, he has given us great and precious promises. These are the promises that enable you to share his divine nature and escape the world’s corruption caused by human desires. {5} In view of all this, make every effort to respond to God’s promises. Supplement your faith with a generous provision of moral excellence, and moral excellence with knowledge, {6} and knowledge with self-control, and self-control with patient endurance, and patient endurance with godliness, {7} and godliness with brotherly affection, and brotherly affection with love for everyone. {8} The more you grow like this, the more productive and useful you will be in your knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ.”

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Peter encouraged his readers to know God more intimately. He understood that it would bring opportunities to experience His “grace and peace.” What are two specific benefits of “grace and peace,” for overcoming life’s troubles? 1. 2.

What are two specific benefits of “grace and peace” as they pertain to embracing life’s opportunities? 1. 2.

Verse 2 (NLT)

“May God give you more and more grace and peace as you grow in your knowledge of God and Jesus our Lord.”

Verse 2 is a window into Peter’s heartfelt concern for his readers (and God’s concern for us today). The letter’s recipients were the same first century Christian “pilgrims” that he wrote to in his First Epistle (1 Peter 1:1), who had been dispersed around the Roman Empire due to persecution. Peter knew they would face it again

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and again. He prayed that God’s “grace and peace” would increase in their lives. Verse 2 in the New King James Version (NKJV) says, “Grace and peace be multiplied to you…” God can multiply His peace to his children because His grace is unlimited in its availability, abundance and effectual power. How would you express the way God multiplies His “grace and peace” in a believer’s life? If you have a personal testimony, include it in your answer. If you’re in a group discussion, see if you can provide a consensus definition of how God multiplies “grace and peace.” (Be sure that it’s more than just a picture of adding one thing to another. Peter’s words are specific, saying God “multiplies” “grace and peace.”)

Verses 3-4 (NLT)

“By his divine power, God has given us everything we need for living a godly life. We have received all of this by coming to know him, the one who called us to himself by means of his marvelous glory and excellence. {4} And because of his glory and excellence, he has given us great and precious promises. These are the promises that enable you to share his divine nature and escape the world’s corruption caused by human desires.”

These two verses bring to mind Philippians 4:19 (NKJV), which tells us, “And my God shall supply all your need according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus.” To properly understand 2 Peter 1:3-4, we should look to Philippians 4:19 as its companion verse. It affirms where our rich source of supply comes from. It’s divinely sourced from the hand of God! Philippians 4:19 works together with 2 Peter

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1:3-4 to affirm and declare God’s absolute dependability when we experience a need. These Scriptures don’t refer to what we might want or desire, though often there’s nothing wrong with that. The Apostle Peter wrote these inspired words concerning our “need” (singular). It may be for a moment or indeed, for the long run. What’s most encouraging is that when we have a “need,” God is immediately aware of it. He moves to keep His promise to supply the answer, whether its provision or emotional and spiritual assurance.

How would you express a biblically accurate definition of “need”? Be sure to back up your answer with Scriptures (other than those above) that will provide solid confirmation of what you are expressing.

“In view of all this,” Peter provided us with this sixth pattern for godly living.

Verses 5-7 (NLT)

“In view of all this, make every effort to respond to God’s promises. Supplement your faith with a generous provision of moral excellence, and moral excellence with knowledge, {6} and knowledge with self-control, and self-control with patient endurance, and patient endurance with godliness, {7} and godliness with brotherly affection, and brotherly affection with love for everyone.”

As Peter unfolded the specifics of this sixth pattern for godly living, he emphasized it required his readers to “make every effort to respond.” This was a call to faithful

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action. Once Peter established this requirement, he revealed the characteristic behaviors these efforts ought to have, in order “to respond to God’s promises.” As we go through Verses 5-7, and you’ll see that each characteristic marries to the previous ones. It’s not just a typical case of natural addition, one to the other. Together, they multiply the strength of the message. This happens because the Holy Spirit put them together in ways that magnify your potential for fruitful living many times over. The Holy Spirit used Paul’s words as a blueprint for living an increasingly power-filled life that’s well pleasing to God. Here are the parts of the blueprint or pattern: 1. “A generous provision of moral excellence with knowledge”

(Verse 5 - NLT)

The term “moral excellence” means “a virtuous course of thought, feeling and action.”8 The original Greek expression translates as, “enjoined as an essential quality in the exercise of faith.” Therefore, it appears certain that moral excellence and faith are securely tied to each other. “Knowledge,” which comes from the root Greek word, “gnosko,” means, “knowing spiritual truth with respect to God.”9 Here’s my paraphrase of, “Be a person of “Moral excellence with knowledge.”

Be sure to make a faith-filled, God pleasing, virtuous and excellent course of behavior as a pattern of your life. Tie it to a constantly growing and firm understanding of spiritual truth. It’s a great way to structure your path every day and in every way.

What three specific behaviors could you apply to this sixth pattern for godly living that would be biblically appropriate and serve to further enhance the paraphrase? Explain why you chose them.

First Behavior

8 Strong’s Numbers G703 (“a virtuous course of thought feeling and action). 9 Strong’s Number G1108 (“gnosis” - “knowledge. Especially of spiritual truth”).

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Second Behavior

Third Behavior

2. “And [compliment] knowledge with self control…”

(Verse 6 - NLT)

“Self Control” is perhaps the key to this pattern. Every success in life depends on our ability to control our emotions, allowing us to maintain “self control” over our actions. If our emotions are out of control (carnal and undisciplined in nature), the actions that follow will result in negative outcomes. Positive, spiritual control of “self” comes from surrender to the Holy Spirit and God’s Word. “Self control,” in its original Greek meaning is “the virtue of one who masters his desires and passions, especially his sensual attitudes.”10 We’re to be “temperate” or moderate in our approach to life’s circumstances. Here’s my paraphrase of this part of Verse 6.

Let’s add the positive effect of having dominion over our carnal emotions and thinking. Let’s allow the Holy Spirit and God’s Word to guide us. He will offer us a power-packed pattern of God-pleasing responses to whatever we face.

10 Strong’s Number G1466 (synonymous with “temperance.”).

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2 Corinthians 10:3-6 tells us that surrendering our thinking to God is the only way to avoid capitulating to our own weak, sinful natures. The way to gain dominion over our rebellious souls is to choose “absolute” surrender. What do you think makes this so hard to do? (Include specific real-life circumstances in your answer.)

3. “And self-control with patient endurance…“And patient endurance with

godliness,”” (Again, Verse 6 - NLT)

In the Greek language, “patient endurance” originally meant “steadfastness.” It’s “the characteristic of a man who is not moved from his deliberate purpose and his loyalty to faith and piety by even the greatest trials and sufferings.” We could write a whole book on just this phrase. It describes the character of a follower of Christ. It speaks of unfailing determination to stay the course, enduring whatever it takes to fulfill the will of God. It’s not dependent on circumstances or fears for the future. It says, “I trust God and will not waiver!” “Patient endurance”11 (steadfastly growing under a trial through all it holds) applies to our running in an appointed race all the way to the end (Hebrews 12:1). In Verse 6, Peter added the words, “with godliness,” to bring fullness to the expression. Godliness means, “piety towards God.”12 It is reverence for the Lord. Here’s my paraphrase of “patient endurance.” It fits well with the previous terms.

“Patient endurance” never falls to the temptation to swerve from God’s deliberate purpose. It stays fixed on a person’s loyalty to a faithful, reverent and holy life in Christ. It does so in even the greatest trials and

11 Strong’s Number G5281 (enduring, patient continuance). 12 Strong’s Number G2150.

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sufferings. Therefore, demand of yourself that you never compromise your character. Be a person who will not be diverted from your God-given purpose. Stay loyal to Christ. Have faith and a sense of holiness, regardless of the pressures or pain you may experience, no matter how great they may be.

My paraphrase above asks you to “demand of yourself that you never compromise your character.” There will be some extreme situations that become too hard to bear because that’s just how life can be. However, even in these, we can hold fast to our character because Christ is holding fast to us. The pressure and pain may be great and perhaps even seem unbearable, but the question we always have to ask is, “Which way and to whom will I turn when things appear to be impossible?”

Do you think uncompromising character and turning to Jesus is possible 100% of the time? What specific issues do you think makes it extremely difficult for people to maintain uncompromising character and total reliance on Jesus?

4. “And godliness with brotherly affection, And brotherly affection with love for

everyone.” (Verse 7 - NLT)

In this final expression, Peter inserts the “love” of God into this pattern for attaining and displaying “more grace and peace.” It’s a fitting conclusion to this particular list of qualities for godly living. Loving one another is one of the two highest New Testament commands. We are to love each other as we love Him.13 Peter used the term “brotherly affection” twice in Verse 7. The original language meant “brotherly

13 Matthew 22:37-39, Mark 12:30-31 and Luke 10:27.

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kindness.”14 (In Greek, it’s “philadelphia”). It’s not to be mistaken for the use of “love” (“agape”15), with which Peter ends the pattern. Have you known someone (perhaps even yourself) who had limits on their love for Jesus? This happens when people have not surrendered some area of their lives to the Lord. They’ve found value in what should never be more valuable than a personal, intimate, loving relationship with Christ. It’s a tragedy to miss out on the “agape” relationship people can have with Him. The post-resurrection exchange between Jesus and Peter shows how God is so patient with us that He’ll endure having only a part of our hearts until He can have it all.

What typically stops Christians from going beyond having just “brotherly love” (“philadelphia”) for Jesus (or for each other) and making an “all in” commitment a pattern for their lives? Can you name three things and explain them? 1. 2. 3.

The remainder of Peter’s life proved it was no longer just “brotherly affection” or “kindness” that described his level of commitment to Christ and the Gospel. Peter took his love and faithfulness to Christ to a high level - even to the highest level.

14 Strong’s Number G5360 (“fraternal love of the brethren”) 15 Strong’s Number G26.

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Let’s now add this paraphrase of 2 Peter 1:7.

Godliness must be enriched with brotherly kindness, and expressed with genuine affection for your brothers and sisters in the Lord. Yet, that’s not enough! You’ve got to complete the picture by infusing this kindness and affection with authentic, godly love. This means that “agape” must rule the day! It must be honored, sincere and without favoring anyone. It’s for everyone.

Let’s combine all seven verses of 2 Peter 1:2-7 together. We’ll begin by quoting the first four verses directly from the text of the New Living Translation (NLT). Then, we’ll add in the paraphrases in place of the remaining text.

A Combined Recap of 2 Peter 1:2-7

(First, Directly Quoted from Scripture and then, the Paraphrases of Verses 5-7 Added)

2 Peter 1:2-4 (Quoted directly from the NLT)

“May God give you more and more grace and peace as you grow in your knowledge of God and Jesus our Lord. {3} By his divine power, God has given us everything we need for living a godly life. We have received all of this by coming to know him, the one who called us to himself by means of his marvelous glory and excellence. {4} And because of his glory and excellence, he has given us great and precious promises. These are the promises that enable you to share his divine nature and escape the world’s corruption caused by human desires.”

Continuing with 2 Peter 1:5-7 (Paraphrased, Not Quoted)

{5} Be sure to take a faith-filled, God pleasing, virtuous and excellent course of behavior as a pattern of your life. Tie it to a firm understanding of spiritual truth. It’s a great way to structure your path every day and in every way.

{6} “Patient endurance” never falls to the temptation to swerve from God’s deliberate purpose. It stays fixed on a person’s loyal commitment to a faithful, reverent and holy life in Christ. It does so in even the

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greatest trials and sufferings. Therefore, demand of yourself that you never compromise your character. Be a person who will not be diverted from your God-given purpose. Stay loyal to Christ. Have faith and a sense of holiness, regardless of the pressures or pain you may experience, no matter how great they may be.

{7} Godliness must be enriched with brotherly kindness, and expressed with genuine affection for your brothers and sisters in the Lord. Yet, that’s not enough! You’ve got to complete the picture by infusing this kindness and affection with authentic, godly love. This means that “agape” must rule the day! It must be honored, sincere and without favoring anyone. It’s for everyone.


Each of these elements of Peter’s pattern, giving “us everything we need for living a godly life,” work together with each other to reveal the fullness of the pattern. The first seven verses formulate a recipe for godly, successful living. In Verse 8 (below), Peter reflected on the picture his words had painted. Verse 8 was an expression of his purpose for writing this inspired list of godly attitudes and behaviors. It speaks both to our personal growth and of God’s ability to use us productively to bear lasting fruit for His kingdom.

2 Peter 1:8 (NLT)

“The more you grow like this, the more productive and useful you will be in your knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ.”

2 Peter 1:8 (NKJV)

“For if these things are yours and abound, you will be neither barren nor unfruitful in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ.”

We have finished our look into 2 Peter 1:1-8. Let’s now move ahead to our seventh pattern for godly living. It’s again from Paul’s Epistle to the Colossians.

* * * * * * * * * *

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This page is left blank. You may want to use it for additional notes on our sixth pattern.

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Our Seventh Pattern for Godly Living: Colossians 2:6-7

“Continue Your Journey of Faith.”

(A Fitting Finish to the Study Guide/Workbook) We’ll finish the Study Guide/Workbook with what should just be the beginning for us all. The appropriate question to ask, in light of all this study has held is, “will you “continue your journey of faith”?” The answer of course, is “absolutely.” My prayer for you, as you move through this final pattern for godly living, is that you will be so much more understanding, able, and aware of who you really are in Christ… and that you will see what possibilities await you, as you find yourself “progressing further into your union with him.”


“In the same way you received Jesus our Lord and Messiah by faith, continue your journey of faith, progressing further into your union with him! {7} Your spiritual roots go deeply into his life as you are continually infused with strength, encouraged in every way. For you are established in the faith you have absorbed and enriched by your devotion to him!”

Colossians 2:6-7 (MSG)

“My counsel for you is simple and straightforward: Just go ahead with what you’ve been given. You received Christ Jesus, the Master; now live him. {7} You’re deeply rooted in him. You’re well constructed upon him. You know your way around the faith. Now do what you’ve been taught. School’s out; quit studying the subject and start living it! And let your living spill over into thanksgiving.”

The Key Pieces from The Passion Translation (TPT) of this Seventh

Pattern for Godly Living 1. “Continue your journey” (Verse 6)

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2. “Progressing further into your union with him [Christ]!” (Verse 6)

3. Deepen “your spiritual roots… into his life” and be secure. (Verse 7)

4. “Continually infused with his strength, “encouraged in every way.” (Verse 7)

5. ”For you are established in the faith you have absorbed and enriched by your devotion to him.” (Verse 7)

We will unpack these pieces, one at a time. I’ll offer a paraphrase for each of them. At the end of the chapter, I’ll combine the paraphrases to deliver a fitting conclusion for the end of the Study Guide/Workbook. 1. “Continue your journey”

(Verse 6 - TPT)

The message is to keep going. This is possible, even when we meet obstacles, because it’s a “journey of faith.” Faith refuses to be denied by natural circumstances. Verse 6 in the Message Bible (MSG) says, “Just go ahead with what you’ve been given. You received Christ Jesus, the Master; now live him.” It’s a message of encouragement that holds great weight. Here’s its paraphrase:

You won’t have to take life’s journey empty handed. God has provided you with all you’ll need. Follow His instructions that you’ll find in “what you’ve been given,” and you won’t be alone. You’ll be living in union with Him all the way to the finish line.

If you were talking with an unbeliever who is drawn toward becoming a Christian, how would you explain “your journey of faith” being dependent on “union” with Christ?

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2. “Progressing further into your union with him!” (Verse 6 - TPT)

Verse 6 continues with an inspiring word to progress “further” or deeper into the personal relationship you have with Christ. Jesus spoke at length about this. Here are just a couple things He said:

• “I am the sprouting vine and you’re my branches. As you live in union with me as your source, fruitfulness will stream from within you…” (John 15:5a - TPT)

• “And I ask not only for these disciples, but also for all those who will one day believe in me through their message. {21} I pray for them all to be joined together as one even as you and I, Father, are joined together as one. I pray for them to become one with us so that the world will recognize that you sent me.” (John 17:20-21 - TPT)

Here’s the paraphrase of “Progressing further into your union with him!”

Jesus is your source, but so much more. He, along with the Father and Holy Spirit, will live in complete union with you forever. Go ahead. Open your heart and experience this gift of ever-increasing closeness to God. The fullness of this experience will flow from you for the entire world to see.

Expand on your previous answer, explaining how ever-increasing closeness to Jesus can be a deeper experience and become richer communion. Again, relate it to someone seeking answers that will affect their eternity.

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3. Deepen “your spiritual roots… into His life” and be secure. (Verse 7 - TPT)

“You’re rooted deeply in him.” (Verse 7 - MSG)

Being rooted “deeply into his life” carries a significant impression of assurance for us. This is different than being rooted in many other things. Some of these other things are sinful. Others are meaningless in light of eternity, even if they’re not sinful. If we’re honest, we can say we’ve experienced these things ourselves. Nobody can be called “righteous” (“rooted deeply in him”) except through the substitutionary death of Christ on the cross. This was Jesus’s ultimate demonstration of God’s love (“agape”) toward us. It’s also the validating basis of His grace. His grace has not just rooted you into Christ; but it’s grace that holds you firmly in His grip! Nothing else can. It’s entirely a spiritual matter from God’s heart to yours.

Looking back, has there been a significant encounter with God that you can share that’s deepened your spiritual life?

Here’s the paraphrase of “Your spiritual roots go deeply into his life”:

As a Christ-follower, the divine nourishment you get from your deep commitment to Him joins with His deep commitment to you. This is the root of your life’s meaning. You’re firmly planted in Him. No power in hell, and no sinfully cultural expectation or demand by others can uproot you from His grip. You are “in Christ” and He is in you.

4. “Continually infused with strength, “encouraged in every way.”

(Verse 7 - TPT)

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“You’re well constructed upon Him.” (Verse 7 - MSG)

The Message Bible (MSG) used construction terms to describe how God infuses us with His strength. It’s another sign of the unfailing assurance in which we can walk as His children. The Lord has built strength into every born-again believer, using spiritual tools that human hands could never touch. He put spiritual reinforcement in the structure of your soul and spirit. It’s far stronger than the best steel would be in the construction of a stout reinforced concrete structure. Here’s another of Paul’s clear biblical references to this fact:

1 Corinthians 3:9-11, 16 (NKJV)

“For we are God’s fellow workers; you are God’s field, you are God’s building. {10} According to the grace of God which was given to me, as a wise master builder I have laid the foundation, and another builds on it. But let each one take heed how he builds on it. {11} For no other foundation can anyone lay than that which is laid, which is Jesus Christ… {16} Do you not know that you are the temple of God and that the Spirit of God dwells in you?”

We can only be strong if we’re like “God’s building,” and “infused with his strength.” What’s the basis of the pattern for living that makes this happen?

What’s in us that could stop it from happening?

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Here’s the paraphrase of “continually infused with strength, encouraged in every way.” (TPT)

Let God pour His anointing into you to give you spiritually sourced resolve and steadfastness. With His empowering presence at work in you, who could possibly stop you from your God-given destiny?

There comes a time when a good student has to transition to being an equally good or better teacher. What would you say is the defining attribute of someone who has absorbed the strength of his or her faith and makes this transition?

What’s the motivation that should be the driving force behind a mature believer’s testimony? Is it any different for a new believer?

5. “For you are established in the faith you have absorbed and enriched by your

devotion to him!” (Verse 7b - TPT)

“You know your way around the faith. Now do what you’ve been taught. School’s out; quit studying the subject and start living it! And let your living spill over into thanksgiving.” (Verse 7 - MSG)

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Here’s the paraphrase of Verse 7.

“School’s out!” Yes, it’s time to practice what you have learned about life in Christ. You’re fully prepared, not only to live according to what you’ve learned about this pattern for godly living, but to display it by your devotion to Christ for others to see, so they can learn and emulate it.

As we come to the conclusion of this seventh pattern for godly living, let’s put the paraphrases of this seventh pattern together and let them speak as one voice:

The Complete Paraphrase of Colossians 2:6-7

You won’t have to take life’s journey empty handed. God has provided you with all you’ll need. Follow His instructions that you’ll find in “what you’ve been given,” and you won’t be alone. You’ll be living “in union with him” all the way to the finish line.

Jesus is your source, but so much more. He, along with the Father and Holy Spirit, will live in complete union with you forever. Go ahead. Open your heart and experience this gift of ever-increasing closeness to God. The fullness of this experience will flow from you for the entire world to see.

{7} As a Christ-follower, the divine nourishment you get from your deep commitment to Him joins with His deep commitment to you. This is the root of your life’s meaning. You’re firmly planted in Him. No power in hell, and no sinfully cultural expectation or demand by others can uproot you from His grip. You are “in Christ” and He is in you.

Let God pour His anointing into you to give you spiritually sourced resolve and steadfastness. With His empowering presence at work in you, who could possibly stop you from your God-given destiny?

“School’s out!” Yes, it’s time to practice what you have learned about life in Christ. You’re fully prepared, not only to live according to what you’ve learned about this pattern for godly living, but to display it by your devotion to Christ for others to see so they can learn and emulate it.

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This seventh pattern’s purpose is found in the last paragraph of the paraphrase above. It’s simply to practice what you’ve learned, for others to see so they can emulate it. It’s The Great Commission in action!

* * * * * * * * * *

Final Thoughts on our Seven Patterns for Godly Living

Patterns are more than the knowledge of how to think and behave. Patterns are images of people (both righteous and not).

Those Whose Lives Display a Righteous Pattern

Philippians 3:17 (NLT)

“Dear brothers and sisters, pattern your lives after mine, and learn from those who follow our example.”

Those Whose Lives Do Not Display a Righteous Pattern


“For I have told you often before, and I say it again with tears in my eyes, that there are many whose conduct shows they are really enemies of the cross of Christ. {19} They are headed for destruction. Their god is their appetite, they brag about shameful things, and they think only about this life here on earth.”

My prayer is that God will richly bless you, as your life in Christ

demonstrates these seven scriptural patterns for godly living.

Dr. Bob Abramson

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About Dr. Abramson Dr. Abramson has many years of experience as a cross-cultural mentor and educator of those in the five-fold ministry. He and his wife Nancy have been pastors of international churches in New York City and the Fiji Islands in the South Pacific. He established or taught in Bible schools and ministry training centers in New Zealand, Fiji, Taiwan, Hong Kong, Malaysia, Europe and the United States. He provides free resources worldwide through his website, (www.mentoringministry.com). Dr. Abramson earned a Doctor of Ministry from Erskine Theological Seminary; a Masters in Religion from Liberty University, with additional post-graduate studies; and a Bachelor of Arts in the Bible with a minor in Systematic Theology from Southeastern University. He and his wife Nancy live in Lake Worth, Florida. They have five grown children and eight grandchildren.

Contact Dr. Abramson, at www.mentoringministry.com Dr. Abramson is the author of these books and many other resources, available on his Mentoring Ministry website: www.mentoringministry.com.

• “Just a Little Bit More - The Heart of a Mentor” (Book and Workbook)

• “The Leadership Puzzle” (Two Workbooks and “The Facilitator’s Manual”)

• “Growing Together, Marriage Enrichment for Every Culture.” (Book and Workbook)

• “Reflections - Spiritual Food for Thought,” Volumes One-Four” (This is a series of devotional journals.)

• “Reflections - One Year Daily Devotional” (An Inspirational Daily Devotional)

• “Stepping Stones” (100 Illustrated, Full Color Sermon Outlines)

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• “Moral Manhood - Swimming with the Sharks” • “Focus on the Father - The Lord’s Prayers” • “God’s Kind of Love - A Journey of the Heart” • “The Fullness of the Holy Spirit In You, For You and With You” • “A Kid in God’s Tree House - A Devotional Commentary on Psalm 91” • “A Kid in God’s Tree House - Study Guide” • “Beyond the Rubble - Healing from a Broken Relationship” • A Collection of Three “Proven Track” Books:

“The Proven Track of Success” “The Proven Track of Significance” “The Proven Track of Satisfaction”

• “Escaping Temptation” • “Mandates” - A Workbook for Pastors and Leaders” • “Count it All Junk.” • “Developing a Minister in the Service of the Gospel of Christ” • “Mustard Seeds to Mountains - Faith in Action” • “Mustard Seeds to Mountains and Beyond - Faith in Action” • “Maximum Potential - Fifteen Keys to Unlocking the Fullness of Your Destiny in

Christ” • “Fresh and Flourishing - A Contemplative Journey Through Psalm Ninety-two” • “Forged in Adversity - Tested and Tempered by Fire” • “Growing Towards Togetherness - Preparation for a Blessed Marriage” and the

accompanying Pre-Marriage Workbook • “Ten Principles of Integrity from the Life of Joseph” Look for additional books that will be published by Dr. Abramson on his website bookstore page: http://www.mentoringministry.com/bookstore. You will find links on them to Amazon Kindle for both printed and many e-book versions.

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