Lesson 3: Faith 43
aside a block of time in the next two days to spend evaluating their
spiritual lives and committing to one practical next step of faith in
their journey of surrender to God’s will.- Close with prayer for those who need to take the first step of faith
and for those who need to take their next step of faith.
Teaching Plan—Lecture and Questions
Connect with Life
- Begin by sharing a story about a time in your life when you chose
to trust your instincts rather than God’s direction. Share how your
lack of faith in God and your attempt at working on your own
proved to be the wrong approach. Include how you came to real-
ize how turning to God and trusting his plans was the only way
to resolve the situation. Conclude by saying, Today we are going to
look at maybe the most important habit of a highly effective disciple,
faith in Jesus Christ.
Guide Bible Study
- Read Proverbs 3:5–6. Ask, How difficult is it to refrain from leaning
on your own understanding? After the class has responded to this
question, ask, What does it take to become a disciple that seeks God’s
will and direction at all times and in every situation? Probe for prac-
tical ideas that members have implemented in their faith journey. - Ask, What is your understanding of salvation? What does it mean
to be saved? After several members have responded, introduce
Galatians 2:15–21 by telling of Paul’s encounter with Peter in
Galatians 2:11–14. Read Galatians 2:15–21. Using the informa-
tion in the Study Guide, explain why Paul was intent on clarifying
salvation. Center your explanation around his use of the word
“ just i f ied.” - Read Ephesians 2:8–9. Ask, How would you define grace? Allow sev-
eral members to respond and then explain how salvation is received