GRACE BIBLE CHURCH

SCHOOL OF LIFELONG LEARNING

INTRODUCTION AND PURPOSE

The School of Lifelong Learning at Grace Bible Church is a means of assisting the saints to “grow in grace and the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ” (2 Peter 3:18), and “equipping the saints for the work of ministry” (Ephesians 4:12).

STUDY GROUPS

These materials are designed to be used in small groups. Small groups may be as small as two persons, although in most cases they will number from three to six. Groups larger than this will not be able to enjoy the level of intimacy associated with small group ministry, and are therefore not advisable.

While there may some benefit in remaining with the same group for an extended period of time, studying many or all of the modules, this is not necessary. A group may gather to study only one module and disband if they so chose. Study groups may change personnel many times as the group studies different modules, although it is not advisable to add people once a particular module has begun.

Small groups may form whenever a small group decides to study together. Some groups will have a designated leader while others will be groups of students who are simply studying and learning together. Those wishing to form a small group to study these materials need only assemble themselves together, purchase the materials, and begin studying.

These materials may also be used by individuals for personal study, but the ideal is to study in small groups.

USING THESE MATERIALS

The study modules are divided into two sections: “Getting Started” (the 100 series) and “Moving On” (the 200 and 300 series). Following a specific sequence when studying through the series of modules is not mandatory. It is recommended, however, that students begin with the modules in the “Getting Started” section before studying the modules in the “Moving On” section.

When studying through the “Getting Started” section, it is strongly suggested that students follow the sequence of modules as they are presented in this catalog. This is especially important for students who are new to the Lord since these lessons establish a firm foundation for further growth in Christ.

The modules in the “Moving On” section is made up of the 200 series and the 300 series. The 200 series is based on books by various authors. The 300 series are all video courses by Dr. R.C. Sproul form Ligonier Ministries.

All books, DVDs, and videos are available for preview by contacting the church office at Grace Bible Church. DVDs and video series are available for loan from Grace Bible Church. All books and workbooks may be purchased either from Grace Bible Church or through the distributors listed in the course descriptions. If you have additional questions, please contact the church office of Grace Bible Church, (805) 529-5577, or via e-mail at office@gbcmpk.org.

Catalog of Study Modules

This catalog of study modules is arranged in two sections, “Getting Started” and “Moving On.” The study modules may be studied in any order, but it is highly recommended that those who are new to the faith or who have not had much experience in Bible study begin with the modules in the “Getting Started” section, as these will help lay an important foundation for further study. The most important modules in this section to get started with are “Call To Joy” and “Understanding the Gospel.” The rest of the modules in the “Getting Started” section may be studied in any order. All of the courses in this section are great for homeschoolers. The modules in the “Moving On” section may be studied in any order.

Some of the materials are included in this notebook. Other materials must be purchased separately by students. This catalog gives information on how to obtain and use the various materials presented in this course of study. If further questions arise, contact the church office at (805) 529-5577 or via e-mail at office@gbcmpk.org. All prices are subject to change.

 

“GETTING STARTED”

 

100 SERIES

 

100. Call To Joy: This is a basic introduction to the Christianity and some basic disciplines of the faith. The seven lessons in this book will lead you through the gospel, teach you how to read and study the Bible, how to take notes on sermons you hear preached, how to develop a daily devotional life, and some basics on sharing your faith with non-believers. This study has homework.

This study requires each student to have a Student Book, and each group to have a Leader’s Book, which contains the answers. Books may be obtained from the International Evangelism Association. Telephone orders may be placed by calling (800) 880-1350. Student Books cost about $15 and Leader’s books about $18.

 

101. Understanding the Gospel This workbook is written by Pastor Errol Hale. This study is a most important foundational study to help students understand the gospel of grace. It also includes a lesson on having a daily quiet time with the Lord.

Students complete the study material each week on their own and then meet to share their insights. An Answer Key / Discussion Guide is included. Each lesson has scripture memory verses for students to memorize.

This workbook is available from Grace Bible Church for $5, or via the internet through the following links:

 

102. The Balanced Christian Life This study, based on the Navigators’ “Wheel” diagram, encourages students to have a balanced Christian life with Christ as the center of everything, equal attention given to the Word of God, prayer, fellowship and evangelism. This study also has a lesson on dealing with temptation and confession of sin.

Students complete the study material each week on their own and then meet to share their insights. An Answer Key / Discussion Guide is included. Each lesson has scripture memory verses for students to memorize.

This workbook, written by Pastor Errol Hale, is available from Grace Bible Church for $5, or via the internet through the following links:

 

103. Getting A Grip On God’s Word This workbook, written by Pastor Errol Hale, is based on the Navigators’ “Hand” diagram. It instructs students how to hear, read, study, memorize and meditate on God’s Word.

Students complete the study material each week on their own and then meet to share their insights. An Answer Key / Discussion Guide is included. Each lesson has scripture memory verses for students to memorize.

This workbook is available from Grace Bible Church for $5, or via the internet through the following links:

 

104. Prayer This study leads students through many important aspects of prayer.

Students complete the study material each week on their own and then meet to share their insights. An Answer Key / Discussion Guide is included. Each lesson has scripture memory verses for students to memorize.

This workbook, written by Pastor Errol Hale, is available from Grace Bible Church for $5, or via the internet through the following links:

 

105. The Church of Jesus Christ This study by Pastor Errol Hale explains the importance of the Church, church membership, leadership in the church and serving in the church.

Students complete the study material each week on their own and then meet to share their insights. An Answer Key / Discussion Guide is included. Each lesson has scripture memory verses for students to memorize.

This workbook is available from Grace Bible Church for $5, or via the internet through the following links:

 

106. Evangelism and Missions This workbook is by Pastor Errol Hale. It explains the importance of evangelism and offers practical instruction on how believers can be involved in spreading the gospel locally and around the world.

Students complete the study material each week on their own and then meet to share their insights. An Answer Key / Discussion Guide is included. Each lesson has scripture memory verses for students to memorize.

This workbook is available from Grace Bible Church for $5, or via the internet through the following links:

 

“MOVING ON”

 

200 SERIES

 

201. Developing A Biblical World View Everyone has a worldview whether they know it or not. A worldview is the lens through which one views all of life. A biblical worldview looks at all of life through the lens of biblical truth. Sadly, while many Christians believe the Bible regarding religious matters, many have a difficult time seeing how the Bible speaks to every other area of life. This excellent course, that takes from ten to seventeen weeks, not only presents a biblical worldview, but compares and contrasts it with competing worldviews. Topics include, economics, politics, education, history, and of course, religion. The course includes a test taken at the beginning, which is sent to the Nehemiah institute for evaluation. At the conclusion of the course students can see how their worldview has changed. This course is great for homeschoolers.

This study requires each student to have a Student Book, and each group to have an Answer Key. Books may be obtained directly from the Nehemiah Institute. Telephone orders may be placed by calling (800) 948-3101 or via the internet at www.nehemiahinstitute.com. Student Books (Order code: DBW-01) cost about $35 and the Answer Key (Order code: DBW-02) about $12.

 

202. A Survey of Church History The book for this course is based on a research paper Pastor Errol Hale wrote while studying for his Master’s degree in Church History. Study / Discussion Questions for each chapter are included. This course, may be taken in one of two ways.

Option One: The “No Homework Method.” The group may read and discuss the material together, covering two or three of the short forty chapters each week.

Option Two: The “Homework Method.” The group may do the reading before meeting, coming together to discuss the material.

Both options require each student to have a copy of the book. Copies are available from Grace Bible Church for $20 each. This course is great for homeschoolers.

 

203. Church History Made Easy This book by Timothy P. Jones includes: key events and people every Christian should know; from the time of Jesus to today; how the Bible came to be; timelines, worksheets, websites, photos, maps, and illustrations; 13 lessons with Leader's Guide.

Each student will need a copy of the book (which includes a study guide), available from Christian Book Distributors. Telephone orders may be place by calling (800) 247-4748, or via the internet at www.christianbook.com. The book (CBD Stock Number: WW947105, ISBN: 1890947105) costs about $15.

 

204. What God Has to Say About Your Money This workbook was written by Errol Hale. This study explores concepts of Christian financial stewardship. It begins with a lesson about understanding money and then offers practical biblical principles of work, budgeting, and giving.

Students complete the study material each week on their own and then meet to share their insights. An Answer Key / Discussion Guide is included. Each lesson has scripture memory verses for students to memorize.

This workbook is available from Grace Bible Church for $5, or via the internet through the following links:

 

205. Discovering God’s Way of Handling Money This is a video and workbook study produced by Crown Ministries. Students view the video curriculum and follow the lessons in a workbook. This study is more technical than “What God Has To Say About Your Money.”

The eight twenty-minute videos may be checked out from Grace Bible Church. Each group must obtain a Leader’s Guide and each student must obtain their own copy of the Student Book. Books may be obtained from Christian Book Distributors. Telephone orders may be placed by calling (800) 247-4748, or via the internet at www.christianbook.com. Guides and books cost about $8 each.

 

206. Creation Lectures: Answers in Genesis This video series features renowned creation scientist Ken Ham. In twelve fascinating thirty-minute messages Ham not only presents a case for creation, but demonstrates how the opening pages of Genesis is foundational to understanding the Bible and a biblical worldview regarding many social topics. This course is great for homeschoolers.

The videos for this course are available to borrow free of charge from Grace Bible Church. Study guides, which every student should have, are available to download on the internet free of charge at www.answersingenesis.org/cec/docs/vid_sg_intro.asp

 

207. World Religions and Cults 101: A Guide to Spiritual Beliefs In this course Bruce Bickel and Stan Jantz lead students in comparing Christianity with many other major world religions, including: Judaism, Islam, Hinduism, Buddhism, Mormonism, Jehovah’s Witnesses, New Age spiritualism, and others.

Each student will need a copy of the book (which includes a study guide), available from Christian Book Distributors. Telephone orders may be place by calling (800) 247-4748, or via the internet at www.christianbook.com. Books (CBD Stock Number: WW912630) cost about $10.

 

208a. Attributes of God Part I This course is based on the book and study guide by respected 20th century author, A.W. Tozer. Tozer leads students in a devotional meditation on the attributes of God. Part I of this two book series covers ten attributes of God in a twelve week study. Students will read a portion of the book and then come together to share their insights on the matter following the study/discussion guide. Further instructions on how to use this book in a small group is included in the study guide.

Each student needs a copy of the book and study guide, available from Christian Book Distributors. (CBD Stock No: WW99572X; ISBN: 0875099572)Telephone orders may be placed by calling (800) 247-4748, or via the internet at www.christianbook.com. Each book, including study guide, costs about $14.

 

208b. Attributes of God Part II This course is based on the book and study guide by respected 20th century author, A.W. Tozer. Tozer leads students in a devotional meditation on the attributes of God. Part II of this two book series covers ten more attributes of God in a twelve week study. Students will read a portion of the book and then come together to share their insights on the matter following the study/discussion guide. Further instructions on how to use this book in a small group are included in the study guide.

Each student needs a copy of the book and study guide, available from Christian Book Distributors. (CBD Stock No: WW99882X; ISBN: 0875099882)Telephone orders may be placed by calling (800) 247-4748, or via the internet at www.christianbook.com. Each book, including study guide, costs about $14.

 

209. Practice of Godliness This course is based on the book and study guide by popular author and speaker, Jerry Bridges. Bridges leads students to discover the meaning of godliness and how to become more godly. Students will read a portion of the book and answer some questions in the study guide on their own and then come together to share their insights on the matter.

Each student will need a copy of the book and study guide, available from Christian Book Distributors. Telephone orders may be placed by calling (800) 247-4748, or via the internet at www.christianbook.com. The book (CBD Stock No: WW9941X, ISBN: 0891099417) costs about $10 and the Study Guide (CBD Stock No: WW94989, ISBN: 0891094989) costs about $5.

 

210. Pursuit of Holiness This course is based on the book and study guide by popular author and speaker, Jerry Bridges. Bridges leads students to discover the meaning of holiness and how to become more holy. Students will read a portion of the book and answer some questions in the study guide on their own and then come together to share their insights on the matter.

Each student needs a copy of the book and study guide, available from Christian Book Distributors. Telephone orders may be placed by calling (800) 247-4748, or via the internet at www.christianbook.com. The book (CBD Stock No: WW99409, ISBN: 0891099409) costs about $9 and the Study Guide (CBD Stock No: WW90258, ISBN: 0891090258) costs about $5.

 

211. FOR WOMEN’S GROUPS!

Seeking Him: Experiencing the Joy of Personal Revival This course is based on a DVD series by popular speaker, Nancy Leigh DeMoss. There are twelve 15-minute DVD sessions that correspond to a beautiful 265 page workbook that leads students through daily devotions for the entire twelve-week course. Nancy encourages students to go deeper in their reading of scripture, personal reflection, and prayer. Excellent!

The DVDs are available for loan from Grace Bible Church. Each student will need a copy of the workbook, available from Revive Our Hearts. Telephone orders may be placed by calling (800) 569-5959, or via the internet at www.reviveourhearts.com. The work book (Stock No: 15987, ISBN: 0802413668) costs $19.

 

212. MARRIAGE!

More Than Best Friends This course is based on a DVD series by Pastor Errol Hale and his wife Frances. There are eight sessions on marriage, and a ninth bonus session especially for engaged couples and newly weds about dealing with the “adjustment period.”

Each person is encouraged to purchase a workbook to take notes in while watching the DVDs. Than couples can discuss their notes together.

This series can be done either in a group setting or by couples alone together.

The DVDs are available for loan from Grace Bible Church. Each student will need a copy of the workbook, available from Grace Bible Church. Each book costs $3, or two for a couple for only $5.

213 Advanced Bible Study Methods: “Grasping God’s Word” This course for advanced students is based on the book by Duvall and Hayes. It instructs students on how to study the Bible in an in-depth manner. Each student needs to have a copy of the book and the workbook, available from Christian Book Distributors. Telephone orders may be places by calling (800) 247-4748, or via the internet at www.christianbook.com. The book (CBD Stock No: WW28328 ISBN: 0310228328) costs around $29. The workbook (CBD Stock No: WW43048 ISBN: 0310243041) costs about $15.

 

300 SERIES

The following materials are video series by Dr. R.C. Sproul from Ligonier Ministries

 

301. The Holiness of God This is a video series featuring the acclaimed author and speaker, R.C. Sproul. In six video presentations, Dr. Sproul speaks compellingly about the holiness of God and what that means in the life of His people. Instructions on how to use these materials are included in the study guide. Your group may complete this series in either seven or fourteen weeks, depending on how the group chooses to use the materials.

The videos are available for loan from Grace Bible Church. Each student should obtain a copy of the study guide, available from Ligonier Ministries. Telephone orders may be place by calling (800) 435-4343, or via the internet at www.ligonier.org. Study Guides cost about $5 each.

 

302. Developing Christian Character (The Fruit of the Spirit) This is a video series featuring the much-admired author and speaker, R.C. Sproul. In twelve video presentations, Dr. Sproul speaks about the fruit of the Spirit and how they are manifested in the lives of believers. The group will view the videos together and discuss the messages. Further Bible study materials on each are provided in the study guides.

The videos are available for loan from Grace Bible Church. Each student should obtain a copy of the study guide, available from Ligonier Ministries. Telephone orders may be place by calling (800) 435-4343, or via the internet at www.ligonier.org. Study Guides cost about $6 each.

 

303. Foundations: An Overview of Systematic Theology Dr. R.C. Sproul from Ligonier Ministries presents an overview of systematic theology in sixty, twenty-three minute video messages. A companion Study Guide will assist students in applying the information. Students will view and discuss the videos together. There is no outside homework for this class. Groups may view one or two messages each session, depending on how much time they have.

Viewing all sixty messages is recommended. For those wanting an abbreviated version of this course, we recommend either a 48-, or 26-lesson version. For details on the entire course and on the two abbreviated versions, see Appendix One of this catalog.

The videos are available for loan from Grace Bible Church. Each student is encouraged to obtain a copy of the study guide, available from Grace Bible Church for $10 each.

 

304. The Intimate Marriage Are you searching for a way to put Got at the heart of your marriage? In this thoughtful series of videos (six 30-minute messages) Dr. Sproul teaches how to apply biblical principles to marriage. The group will view the videos together and discuss the messages.

The videos are available for loan from Grace Bible Church. A companion book and study outline are available from Ligonier Ministries. Telephone orders may be place by calling (800) 435-4343, or via the internet at www.ligonier.org. The book costs about $10 and the study outline about $2.

 

305. Knowing Scripture To help you understand the inerrant Word of God, R.C. Sproul details the basic tools for biblical interpretation and stimulates your personal involvement in the drama found in God’s Word. The group will view the videos together and discuss the messages.

The videos are available for loan from Grace Bible Church. A companion book and study outline are available from Ligonier Ministries. Telephone orders may be place by calling (800) 435-4343, or via the internet at www.ligonier.org. The book costs about $11 and the study outline about $3.

 

306. The Majesty of Christ Messiah. Logos. Son of God. Son of Man. Explore the different names of Christ and expand your own appreciation for the majesty of Christ. This series consists of six 30-minute messages. The group will view the videos together and discuss the messages. Further Bible study materials on each are provided in the study guides.

The videos are available for loan from Grace Bible Church. Each student should obtain a copy of the study guide, available from Ligonier Ministries. Telephone orders may be place by calling (800) 435-4343, or via the internet at www.ligonier.org. Study Guides cost about $6 each.

 

307. The Cross of Christ The universal symbol of Christianity is the foundation for all Christian teaching in the New Testament. Dr. Sproul vividly examines this crucial moment of eternal significance. The group will view the videos together and discuss the messages. Further Bible study materials on each are provided in the study guides.

The videos are available for loan from Grace Bible Church. Each student should obtain a copy of the study guide, available from Ligonier Ministries. Telephone orders may be place by calling 800-435-4343, or via the internet at www.ligonier.org. Study Guides cost about $6 each.

 

Appendix One

Foundations: An Overview of Systematic Theology with R.C. Sproul

There are sixty 23-minute messages in this series, divided into eleven categories. It is recommended that all sixty messages be viewed, but for those who desire an abbreviated version of this series, a group may view the forty-three messages that are bolded. For an even more abbreviated version, groups may view the twenty-six messages that are underlined.

  1. Introduction to Theology
    1. What is Theology?
    2. Scope and Purpose of Theology
    3. General Revelation and Natural Theology
    4. Special Revelation
  2. The Doctrine of Scripture (Bibliology)
    1. Inspiration and Authority of Scripture.
    2. Infallibility and Inerrancy
    3. Canonicity
    4. Scripture and Authority
  3. The Doctrine of God (Theology Proper)
    1. Knowledge of God
    2. One in Essence
    3. Three in Person
    4. Incommunicable Attributes
    5. Communicable Attributes
  4. The Doctrine of God’s Will and Works
    1. The Will of God
    2. Providence
    3. Creatio Ex Nihilo
  5. The Doctrine of Angels (Angelology)
    1. Angels and Demons
  6. The Doctrine of Man (Biblical Anthropology)
    1. Creation of Man
    2. The Nature of Sin
    3. Original Sin
    4. Transmission of Sin
    5. Covenants
  7. The Doctrine of Christ (Christology)
    1. The Christ of the Bible
    2. The Christ of the Creeds
    3. The Names of Christ
    4. The States of Christ
    5. The Offices of Christ
    6. Why Did Christ Die?
    7. The Substitutionary Atonement
    8. The Extent of the Atonement
  8. The Doctrine of the Holy Spirit (Pneumatology)
    1. The Holy Spirit in the Old Testament
    2. The Holy Spirit in the New Testament
    3. The Paraclete
    4. The Baptism of the Holy Spirit
    5. The Gifts of the Spirit
    6. The Fruit of the Spirit
    7. Are Miracles For Today?
  9. The Doctrine of Salvation (Soteriology)
    1. Common Grace
    2. Election and Reprobation
    3. Effectual Calling
    4. Justification By Faith Alone
    5. Saving Faith
    6. Adoption and Union With Christ
    7. Sanctification
    8. Perseverance of the Saints
  10. The Doctrine of the Church (Ecclesiology)
    1. Biblical Images of the Church
    2. The Church: One and Holy
    3. The Church: Catholic and Apostolic
    4. Worship in the Church
    5. The Sacraments of the Church
    6. Baptism (This message presents the infant baptism position that differs from the believer’s baptism view we believe at Grace Bible Church. It is valuable to understand this position even though we do not embrace it.)
    7. The Lord’s Supper
  11. The Doctrine of Last Things (Eschatology)
    1. Death and the Intermediate State
    2. The Resurrection
    3. The Kingdom of God
    4. The Millennium
    5. The Return of Christ
    6. The Final Judgment
    7. Eternal Punishment
    8. The Believer’s Final Rest

 

Appendix Two

Tips for Success in Small Group Studies

COMMIT

It is important that group members commit themselves to the group for the time it takes to study a module. When people say they will be a part of the group, but then are inconsistent or drop out altogether, not only does that individual miss out, but the whole group suffers.

MEET

Successful groups meet weekly. Meeting inconsistently unravels the group dynamic and the consistency of the study. Every group member should consider their attendance as important as if they were taking a college course—miss too many of those and you fail the course!

PRAY

While these are study groups, not prayer groups, it is important to pray together. A helpful guide for group prayer is included in Appendix Three of this catalog. It is not the only way for group prayer to be successful, but it is a good and recommended way to make the most of group prayer.

SHARE

It need not take too much of your time together, but everyone will benefit from group members sharing highlights from their quiet times and weekly sermon notes. Work on scripture memory verses together as well. By sharing these things, not only will you grow closer to each other, you help one another be consistent in these important disciplines.

STUDY

The purpose of these groups is to study together, so see to it that studying together is the main ingredient in what you do. Most studies require a measure of outside homework, although some do not. In instances in which homework is required, share what you have learned in your individual study, and learn from each other. In the cases in which no outside homework is required, discover together. Remember Paul’s words to Timothy in 2 Timothy 2:15, “Study to show yourself approved to God, a worker who need not be ashamed…”

 

Appendix Three

A Guide For More Effective Group Prayer

Group prayer is a conversation with God. Many of the same rules of etiquette that govern good conversation apply also to group prayer:

PRAY TOPICALLY.

Conversation usually has a topical flow. A good conversationalist doesn't change the subject abruptly. Neither is it good to do so in prayer. Be aware of the topical flow of the prayer.

PRAY SEVERAL SHORT PRAYERS.

When people converse, they do not go around the circle, everyone saying everything they have to say, in order. Each person participates in the give and take of the conversation. Likewise in prayer, pray several short prayers rather than feeling you have to say it all when it is "your turn."

PRAY SO OTHERS CAN AGREE WITH YOU.

People feel awkward and left out when others in a conversation talk about people, places or events about which they have no knowledge. Generally speaking, prayer in groups should concern issues with which the whole group is familiar. If you are praying for someone that the others do not know, identify who the person is, rather than just calling out a name. God knows, but the other people need to be informed.

PRAY AUDIBLY AND CLEARLY.

Mumbling or speaking too softly isn't good for conversation. Neither is it for group prayer. Again, God knows what you are saying, but the others with whom you are praying do not unless you can be heard and understood.

DO NOT BE AFRAID OF SILENCE.

Sometimes when we are quiet, God will speak to our hearts. Try to discipline your mind to listen to God during those times in which no one is praying out loud.

FOLLOW THE ACTS ORDER OF PRAYER.

Each person needs a piece of paper. Write down the letters ACTS on the left margin of the paper. Next to A, write Adoration. Next to C, write Confession. Next to T, write Thanksgiving. Next to S, write Supplication.

Now next to adoration write down something you can worship God for because of who He is, not what He has done. Next to confession, write down something you need to confess to God that is appropriate in a group setting. Next to thanksgiving, write two things you can thank God for. Next to supplication write two things you want to ask God for — one for someone else, and one for yourself.

Now, as a group, pray topically through these lists, everyone getting a chance to chime in several times as the topics move along.

Do this several weeks in a row, and two things will happen: 1) Your group prayer time will be more effective, and 2) you will end up doing it naturally, making the lists on paper unnecessary after a while.

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