Welcome to your Caring, Faith Community

B1: The first part of the Discipleship Process of Accelerate Church and your first step in becoming an equipped disciple.

Contents

• Section 1: Salvation
• Section 2: Sin & Forgiveness
• Section 3: Water Baptism
• Section 4: Beginning your relationship with God
• Section 5: Building your relationship with your new family
• Section 6: Growing in God’s Word
• Section 7: Prayer - Your vital communication with God
• Section 8: Forgiving Others
• Section 9: The Lord’s Supper (Communion)
• Section 10: The Lordship of Christ
• Section 11: Our Statement of Faith
• Section 12: Conclusion and Verification of Completion

Introduction

When you receive the Lord Jesus Christ as your personal Saviour, you begin your new life. The Bible says in 2 Corinthians 5:17 “If anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things have passed away, behold all things have become new”.

What do you have to do to start your Faith Journey?

Remember that you cannot earn God’s salvation. It is by His grace that you are saved, through faith (Ephesians 2:8). This means that you acknowledge that Jesus died on the cross for your sins, and that God raised Him from the dead, and, because you have confessed Him as your Lord, you are saved.

Start by praying this prayer:

“According to Romans 10:9-10, I confess with my mouth that Jesus Christ is Lord, and believe in my heart that God has raised Him from the dead. It is written in Romans 10:13 that whoever calls upon the name of the Lord shall be saved. Lord Jesus, today I ask You to save me. I give my life to You, and I receive You as my Lord and Saviour. I admit that I have been a sinner. Please cleanse me from all my sins. Mark 11:25-26 says that as God forgives us we should forgive those who have hurt us. I therefore forgive [ mention the name(s) of anyone who comes to your mind ]. Help me to hear and follow Your Holy Spirit. Thank You, Lord Jesus Christ! Amen.”

The next step on your new journey

This book “Welcome to your Caring, Faith Community” is designed to help you begin your new life in Christ, and to understand your purpose as part of the Church. It is an important step of your equipping process.

To start with, there are 5 things that will help you as you begin your new life in Christ.

1. Get a Bible

Your Bible will become the most important book in your new life, because it is God’s Word. You need to get your own personal copy as soon as possible, as it is the handbook for your new life. This could be a physical or digital book. There are plenty of online or app versions of the Bible as well. We suggest that you ask your Pastor or Leader to recommend a version that may suit you. While some of the language used in various Bible versions may be different, the message is still the same! Take some time each day to read (or listen to, if it is audio) your Bible. While you do, expect God to speak to you through your thoughts and through what you are hearing or reading.

2. Attend Church and Join a Lifegroup and/or Generational Community

As you continue to attend Accelerate Church, one of the best things that you can do as a new believer is to join a Lifegroup and/or Generational Community. It will help you establish a basic foundation for your new life. In a Lifegroup and/or Generational Community you will meet other believers who can encourage you to grow spiritually. Hebrews 10:24-25 teaches us that we should not neglect gathering together to encourage one another in love and good works. A very important gathering is the Sunday Services where the Preacher shares what they have received from the Lord for the week, which we can then discuss in our Lifegroup and/or Generational Communities.

3. Meet your Discipler

As you begin your new life, you will find it helpful to have someone to guide you in your spiritual growth. The leader of your Lifegroup and/or Generational Community will introduce you to someone who could be your Discipler. He or she will meet with you regularly, to discuss what you have learnt during the week and to answer any questions you may have, and to pray with you.

4. Pray and listen to God

Listening to God is a vital part of your new life. You can begin now by taking time on a daily basis to talk with Him. Keep your prayers simple, just like talking to a friend. Talk to God about whatever is on your mind. He is always ready to listen to our requests. As with any good conversation, prayer should be a two-way thing. Allow time for God to speak to you. Recording your thoughts in a journal or diary can be very helpful. Don’t be concerned about the amount of time – any time spent with God is great! Often God will speak to you through your thoughts and circumstances. In Section 6 of this book, you will learn more about how to hear from God.

5. Study this book and engage in this process

“Welcome to your Caring, Faith Community” is divided into 12 sections. You could, for example, finish this book in four weeks by completing 3 sections per week, or complete it at your own pace. Once you have completed a section, we encourage you to take your booklet to your Discipler, who will discuss the completed section with you. Alternatively, if you want to work through it with someone, talk to your Discipler, or ask a leader to help connect you with a Discipler.

Section 1: Salvation

Congratulations! Your decision to follow the Lord Jesus Christ is the most important decision that you will ever make in your life.

What does this mean?

Your decision to follow Jesus has and will dramatically transform your life. Your relationship with God has changed. He has now become your Father and you have entered into a personal and intimate relationship with the Creator of the universe. This took place when you made the decision to accept Jesus as your Saviour. John 8:44 tells us that before we were saved (accepted Jesus as our Lord and Saviour), we (intentionally or unintentionally) served Satan, the father of lies. Romans 5:8 tells us that God demonstrated His love towards us by sending His Son to die for us and releasing us from spiritual darkness and bondage.

Your condition before salvation

The Bible tells us that through sin (the word ‘sin’ means ‘falling short of God’s standards’), you have been separated from God and nothing you do can please God. Because of sin, you cannot enjoy the relationship with God that He desires for you. You are not alone, however. The Bible says in Romans 3:23 that all have sinned and fallen short of the glory of God. Sin can be placed in two categories - sins of commission (wrong things that we willfully do or commit), or sins of omission (not doing what is right and what we ought to do).

As a sinner you cannot please God

Romans 3:10 tells us that our righteousness (our efforts to be completely moral and meet God’s level of perfection) is unacceptable to God. Therefore, no matter how hard we try, our efforts and works cannot please God. Ephesians 2:8-9 tells us that we are saved by faith in Jesus and not by our own efforts. God now views us and receives us like He does Jesus.

You were dead in your sin

Even though God really loves you and desires to have a relationship with you, you were separated from Him as a result of sin. Because God is totally good and perfect, He cannot tolerate any form of sin near Him. The Bible calls this being “dead in sin” (Ephesians 2:1-3). Until you met Jesus, you could not enter God’s presence. Jesus opened the way into God’s presence by dying on the cross as payment for our sins. Now we can come into God’s presence and be in relationship with Him because of what Jesus did (Hebrews 10:19-20).

What does it mean to be saved (have salvation)?

This means that you now have a new personal relationship with God based on what Jesus did on the cross for you. You are now a child of God. This relationship was established when:

• God convicted you of your sins (John 16:8-11)
• You turned to God in repentance and placed your faith in the Lord Jesus Christ (Acts 20:21)
• You confessed Jesus as Lord and believe that God raised Him from the dead (Romans 10:9-10)
• You received Jesus through faith (John 1:12; Ephesians 2:8-9)

What happens at salvation?

• Redemption: The penalty of your sins is paid for and the power of sin is broken in your life (Ephesians 1:7).
• Cleansing: Your sins are washed away. From God’s perspective, it is like you never sinned (Titus 3:5).
• Regeneration: You are born again; you get to start a new relationship with God (John 3:5; 2 Corinthians 5:17).
• Justification: God sees you as if you never sinned before. Because of this, you have peace with God (Romans 5:1; 2 Corinthians 5:21).
• Adoption: You have become one of God’s children (Romans 8:15).
• Acceptance: You are fully accepted just as you are by God (Romans 15:7).
• Eternal life: You receive the gift of eternal life and the promise of heaven (John 5:24).

Questions

What did you do to become a Christian?

</textarea></p><br /> <p><label>What caused you to realise that you needed Christ?</label></p><br /> <p><textarea style="width: 100%;" name="q1_2" rows="3"></textarea></p><br /> <p><label>How has your life changed since you met Christ?</label></p><br /> <p><textarea style="width: 100%;" name="q1_3" rows="3"></textarea></p><br /> <p><label>If you died right now, would you go to Heaven? Why?</label></p><br /> <p><textarea style="width: 100%;" name="q1_4" rows="3"></textarea></p><br /> </section><br /> <p><!-- Section 2: Sin & Forgiveness --></p><br /> <section id="section-2"><br /> <h2>Section 2: Sin & Forgiveness</h2><br /> <h3>What is sin?</h3><br /> <p>Sin is a condition or state that we are born into because of the sin of Adam. This is called ‘original sin’. Sin literally means ‘separation from God by falling short of His standards’. We reinforce this by our actions. Romans 3:23-24 says, “Since we’ve compiled this long and sorry record as sinners (both us and them) and proved that we are utterly incapable of living the glorious lives God wills for us, God did it for us. Out of sheer generosity, He put us in right standing with Himself. A pure gift. He got us out of the mess we’re in and restored us to where He always wanted us to be. And He did it by means of Jesus Christ.” As followers of Jesus, our sins are removed by His sacrifice.</p><br /> <p>There was no way that we could restore ourselves, so God had to send His Son, Jesus, to die for us. Through the shedding of His precious blood, we have been redeemed from the consequences of our sin (eternal death).</p><br /> <p>As Christians, sin can still be a big problem in our lives. Sin is what causes us to separate ourselves from God and can still prevent us from enjoying God’s presence if we do not walk in daily repentance. Repentance is when we say sorry to God and decide to live differently. Sin can hinder our growth and get in the way of a fruitful relationship with the Lord. The good news is that Jesus totally overcame sin on the cross. This is amazing grace!</p><br /> <p>You could think of it like this: judgement is getting what you do deserve. Mercy is when you don’t get what you do deserve. Grace is getting what you don’t deserve. Grace is, therefore, God’s remarkable compassion and undeserved favour drawing you to Christ. “God is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.” (1 John 1:9).</p><br /> <h3>Accepting God’s forgiveness</h3><br /> <p>Christ has totally defeated the problem of sin on the cross. This includes not only original sin and the sins we have committed in the past, but also all the sins we will commit in the future.</p><br /> <p>Hebrews 10:12 & 14 says: “But when this Priest had offered for all time one sacrifice for sins, He sat down at the right hand of God”, and “For by one sacrifice, He has made perfect forever those who are being made holy.”</p><br /> <p>And that’s not all! God not only forgives us, but also forgets that we have ever sinned in the first place. Romans 4:7-8 says “Fortunate those whose crimes are whisked away, whose sins are wiped clean from the slate. Fortunate the person against whom the Lord does not keep score.” And Psalm 103:8-12 says: “God is sheer mercy and grace; not easily angered, He’s rich in love. He doesn’t endlessly nag and scold, nor hold grudges forever. He doesn’t treat us as our sins deserve, nor pay us back in full for our wrongs. As high as heaven is over the earth, so strong is His love to those who fear Him. And as far as sunrise is from sunset, He has separated us from our sins.”</p><br /> <p>We call this ‘justification’. Being justified is God treating us “just as if we’d never sinned”. It can be difficult for us to accept that all our sins are paid for, especially those we have not yet committed, but this just shows how much God loves us.</p><br /> <p>However, until Jesus comes again, we will still wrestle with sin in this life. There are a number of things we can do about this:</p><br /> <ol><br /> <li>Accept that it is by Jesus’ sacrifice that we are forgiven, not by our actions.</li><br /> <li>Ask Jesus to help us overcome areas we battle with (1 Corinthians 10:13).</li><br /> <li>Remember it is God’s grace that releases us from the power of sin (Ephesians 2:8).</li><br /> <li>Learn how to be victorious over sin and the devil – read Ephesians 6:13-17 and James 4:7-10.</li><br /> <li>Spend time reading your Bible, talking to God every day, and having fellowship with other believers (Hebrews 10:25).</li><br /> <li>Ask your Discipler to pray with you about the things you battle with.</li><br /> </ol><br /> <h3>Now that I am forgiven, what do I do when I sin?</h3><br /> <p><strong>Ask</strong> – Ask God to show you where you have sinned. As you spend time praying, God will bring things to your attention to deal with. He does not do this to judge you (you are already forgiven). He does this to help set you free. Also, be honest! God already knows and still loves you.</p><br /> <p><strong>Confess</strong> – When God shows you something He wants you to deal with, confess it to Him (1 Timothy 2:5). To confess our sins means to view our sins as God views them. It is also important to recognize that when we sin, we sin against God (Psalm 51:4). To confess is to take personal responsibility for our sin without any excuses or blame shifting.</p><br /> <p><strong>Repent</strong> – This means to turn away from your sins. We do this by making the decision not to sin against God. If you ask God to help you with your temptation, He will help you to overcome sin (Hebrews 2:18).</p><br /> <p><strong>Accept</strong> – Accept God’s forgiveness and cleansing. He is faithful and will forgive all our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness. The Lord sincerely forgives when we confess our sins to Him. He has promised to do so and will not go back on His Word.</p><br /> <p><strong>Thank</strong> – Thank God for His forgiveness. Each time you ask for His forgiveness, thank Him for doing so. Never take His forgiveness for granted.</p><br /> </section><br /> <p><!-- Questions block (Section 2) --></p><br /> <section id="questions-section-2"><br /> <h3>Questions</h3><br /> <p><label>What is the definition of sin?</label></p><br /> <p><textarea style="width: 100%;" name="q2_1" rows="3"></textarea></p><br /> <p><label>How do we receive forgiveness for our sins?</label></p><br /> <p><textarea style="width: 100%;" name="q2_2" rows="3"></textarea></p><br /> </section><br /> <p><!-- Section 3: Water Baptism --></p><br /> <section id="section-3"><br /> <h2>Section 3: Water Baptism</h2><br /> <p>The most powerful way that you, a new believer, can identify yourself with Christ, is through water baptism. Water baptism is an act of obedience through which believers publicly express their faith and commitment to Christ.</p><br /> <h3>What does it mean?</h3><br /> <p>The word ‘baptism’ comes from the Greek word ‘baptizo’, which means “being fully immersed under water”. We have our example in Christ, who was baptised by John the Baptist in the Jordan River.</p><br /> <p>In baptism, the new believer, through immersion, identifies himself/herself with the death and resurrection of the Lord Jesus Christ. The water signifies a grave and is symbolic of the death of the old sin-nature and a resurrection into a new life and walk with Christ (Romans 6:1-6).</p><br /> <h3>Who should be baptised?</h3><br /> <p>Jesus said that it is very important for all believers to be baptised. In Mark 16:16 Jesus said, “Whoever believes and is baptised will be saved.” (also see Matthew 28:19). Baptism is preceded by conversion in the New Testament (Acts 2:38, 41; Acts 8:35-38; Acts 16:14-15, 33; Acts 18:8; Acts 19:5).</p><br /> <h3>Why be baptised?</h3><br /> <p>Baptism is the biblical and powerful way to demonstrate that we have died to our old life, and choose to live our lives for Christ. Just as when Jesus Himself was baptised, your baptism can be a powerful spiritual act that can radically change your life. When you get baptised, expect a miracle.</p><br /> <h3>Does baptism need to be done publicly?</h3><br /> <p>You can look at water baptism as the place where you publicly declare your faith in Christ. This public demonstration will always remind you and others that you began your new life with a clear conscience before God. 1 Peter 3:21 says that baptism is a picture of salvation and a clear conscience before God.</p><br /> <h3>When should you be baptised?</h3><br /> <p>Any time after you repent and turn away from your sin, and accept Jesus into your life.</p><br /> <h3>Who can be baptised?</h3><br /> <p>Any person who has given their life to Christ can be baptised. Accelerate Church has baptismal services on a regular basis. Speak to a leader or Pastor, and they will make the necessary arrangements.</p><br /> <h3>What are the requirements for baptism?</h3><br /> <ul><br /> <li>Repent – turn away from your sins and start following Jesus (Acts 2:38).</li><br /> <li>Believe in Jesus Christ (Mark 16:16; Acts 8:12, 37; Acts 16:31, 33).</li><br /> <li>Confess your faith – say you believe in Jesus (Romans 10:9-10).</li><br /> </ul><br /> </section><br /> <p><!-- Section 4: Beginning your relationship with God --></p><br /> <section id="section-4"><br /> <h2>Section 4: Beginning your relationship with God</h2><br /> <p>When you became a Christian you also became part of a huge family of believers. Your relationship with God and your relationship with your new family will change your life forever. These relationships will enable you to develop and grow in your Christian walk (1 John 1:3).</p><br /> <p>Your relationship with God will be reflected in your relationship with God’s family. God has created us to fellowship with Him as well as with one another. When you were born again, the love of God filled your heart, and now you have the responsibility to let that love flow out towards one another.</p><br /> <h3>When did this relationship with God begin?</h3><br /> <p>This relationship began when you accepted Jesus into your life.</p><br /> <blockquote><br /> <p>“But as many as received Him, to them He gave the right to become children of God, to those who believe in His name” (John 1:12).<br />“And this is the testimony: that God has given us eternal life, and this life is in His Son. He who has the Son has life; he who does not have the Son of God does not have life.” (1 John 5:11-12).</p><br /> </blockquote><br /> <p>When you accept Jesus, you receive the gift of eternal life, which means that you get to spend eternity in Heaven with Jesus. By accepting Him as your Lord and Saviour, you allow Him to come and live in and through you. You become an extension of His love to others around you. You belong to Him and will be led by His Spirit (1 Corinthians 6:19-20).</p><br /> <h3>It is a relationship of knowing God</h3><br /> <p>John 17:3 says “And this is eternal life, that they may know You, the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom You have sent”. Eternal life is the starting point of a relationship with a loving and personal Lord. Through prayerfully studying and obeying His Word, you will get to know Him, and He will reveal Himself to you in a very real and lasting way.</p><br /> <h3>It’s like a loving father/child relationship</h3><br /> <p>Our relationship with God can be seen as a father/child relationship (John 1:12). This may be difficult if you have not had a good relationship with your own father, but as you learn to trust God and develop a relationship with Him, it becomes easier.</p><br /> <p>God reveals Himself through the Holy Spirit as your counsellor, teacher, guide, helper, and comforter. He has given His Holy Spirit to lead you and teach you all things (Romans 8:14). You can approach Him for advice, love, acceptance, company, or whatever you need.</p><br /> <h3>Learning more about God</h3><br /> <p>A relationship between two people is built when you communicate with the other person. In your quiet times with the Lord, it is important to read the Bible, think deeply about it and sincerely ask God to reveal His purpose and plan for your life. Recording thoughts and scriptures in a journal can be very helpful.</p><br /> <h3>Prayer</h3><br /> <p>Prayer is one of the most important ways in which we communicate with God. Prayer is simply talking and listening to God. Recording answered prayers is a great way to see how God is working in your life.</p><br /> </section><br /> <p><!-- Questions block (Section 4) --></p><br /> <section id="questions-section-4"><br /> <h3>Questions</h3><br /> <p><label>Describe how you see your relationship with God.</label></p><br /> <p><textarea style="width: 100%;" name="q4_1" rows="4"></textarea></p><br /> <p><label>How can you improve your relationship with God?</label></p><br /> <p><textarea style="width: 100%;" name="q4_2" rows="4"></textarea></p><br /> </section><br /> <p><!-- Section 5: Building your relationship with your new family --></p><br /> <section id="section-5"><br /> <h2>Section 5: Building your relationship with your new family</h2><br /> <p>The Church is not a building, but a community of people that congregate in buildings and homes. One of the functions of the Church is to gather in smaller groups, called Lifegroups and Generational Communities (Acts 2:46-47).</p><br /> <h3>The New Testament Church was built on small groups & communities</h3><br /> <p>The New Testament shows many examples of churches meeting in homes (Philemon 1:2; Romans 16:5). There were larger meetings in synagogues and places of worship, but also a great emphasis on smaller groups and communities.</p><br /> <h3>What are Lifegroups & Generational Communities?</h3><br /> <p>Lifegroups and Generational Communities are how Accelerate Church fulfils its mission to be a ‘caring, faith community’. Lifegroups are like extended families that provide protection, acceptance and support. Generational Communities support specific demographics (women, men, kids, youth, young adults, etc.).</p><br /> <p>Larger celebrations are also important, because the Pastor shares God’s Word for the week and Lifegroups meet to discuss how the Word can be applied practically (James 1:22).</p><br /> <h3>What is the point of our groups & communities?</h3><br /> <p>God never intended that you be alone in your relationship with Him. He desires that each believer be connected to other believers in His body. This ensures that all parts of His body can support, help and encourage one another (Ephesians 4:16).</p><br /> <h3>So what is in it for you when you get involved?</h3><br /> <p>Groups and communities care for you, connect you with others, and challenge you to grow as a Christian. You discover your ministry and gifting and have the joy of receiving a blessing and being a blessing.</p><br /> <h3>You need close relationships</h3><br /> <p>“By this all will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another:” (John 13:35). Strong bonds formed in groups help during times of crisis and encourage growth and maturity.</p><br /> <h3>Your contribution to the group or community</h3><br /> <p>You are a valuable member and have a specific function to fulfil. The Holy Spirit will give you spiritual gifts to help you minister to others (1 Corinthians 12:7-12). You can also help in practical ways.</p><br /> <h3>God uses the groups & communities to evangelize</h3><br /> <p>God desires all to be saved (1 Timothy 2:4). Groups extend relationships to share the good news with others, starting with family, workplace and friends. Inviting others into your group is a key step in evangelism.</p><br /> </section><br /> <p><!-- Questions block (Section 5) --></p><br /> <section id="questions-section-5"><br /> <h3>Questions</h3><br /> <p><label>List three positive things about being a part of a Lifegroup or Generational Community.</label></p><br /> <p><textarea style="width: 100%;" name="q5_1" rows="4"></textarea></p><br /> <p><label>What appeals to you most about being part of a Lifegroup or Generational Community?</label></p><br /> <p><textarea style="width: 100%;" name="q5_2" rows="4"></textarea></p><br /> <p><label>How could you contribute more to your Lifegroup or Generational Community?</label></p><br /> <p><textarea style="width: 100%;" name="q5_3" rows="4"></textarea></p><br /> </section><br /> <p><!-- Section 6: Growing in God’s Word (shortened core) --></p><br /> <section id="section-6"><br /> <h2>Section 6: Growing in God’s Word</h2><br /> <p>God’s messages and instructions are found in the Bible (God’s Word). Throughout history, God’s Word has transformed lives and even nations.</p><br /> <h3>God’s Word transforms our thinking</h3><br /> <p>Romans 12:2 urges us not to be conformed to this world, but to be transformed by the renewing of our minds. Regular reading of God’s Word reprograms our thinking to align with His truth and values.</p><br /> <h3>Tools and aids to help you study the Bible</h3><br /> <p>There are many Bible translations, study tools and apps (such as Blue Letter Bible, Olive Tree, YouVersion, and E-Sword) that can help you understand Scripture and keep God’s Word with you wherever you go.</p><br /> <h3>God’s Word explained to you through your Pastors</h3><br /> <p>The early Christians devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching (Acts 2:42). God appoints leaders to teach His Word and equip believers (Ephesians 4:11-12), so it is important to participate fully in church and listen carefully to the sermons.</p><br /> <h3>How do I apply God’s Word?</h3><br /> <p>Joshua 1:8 teaches us to meditate on God’s Word day and night and to do what it says. Meditating means contemplating and speaking God’s Word over your life. Romans 10:17 says faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the Word of God.</p><br /> <h3>Align your speaking with God’s Word</h3><br /> <p>Proverbs 18:21 says the tongue has the power of life and death. The more you speak God’s Word, the more you will see its effect in your life.</p><br /> <h3>Obey God’s Word</h3><br /> <p>Jesus compares those who hear and do His words to a wise man building on rock (Matthew 7:24-27). James 1:22 tells us to be doers of the word, not hearers only.</p><br /> <h3>Summary</h3><br /> <p>Find out what God’s Word says about your situation, speak it continually, meditate on it and apply it daily. This lifestyle leads to fruitful and effective living.</p><br /> </section><br /> <p><!-- Questions block (Section 6) --></p><br /> <section id="questions-section-6"><br /> <h3>Questions</h3><br /> <p><label>What benefits does God’s Word have for you?</label></p><br /> <p><textarea style="width: 100%;" name="q6_1" rows="4"></textarea></p><br /> <p><label>How do you activate God’s Word in your life?</label></p><br /> <p><textarea style="width: 100%;" name="q6_2" rows="4"></textarea></p><br /> </section><br /> <p><!-- Section 7: Prayer - Your vital communication with God --></p><br /> <section id="section-7"><br /> <h2>Section 7: Prayer - Your vital communication with God</h2><br /> <p>God created you for relationship and fellowship with Him. This two-way communication is vital for your spiritual growth. Philippians 4:6 encourages us to present our requests to God with thanksgiving.</p><br /> <h3>How do I approach God in prayer?</h3><br /> <p>Approach God as your loving Heavenly Father. Talk to Him as you would talk to your best friend. You can talk to Him at any time, in any place.</p><br /> <h3>The P.A.R.T. principle</h3><br /> <ul><br /> <li><strong>P – Praise God at all times:</strong> Worship and thank Him for who He is and what He has done (Psalm 34:1).</li><br /> <li><strong>A – Admit your sins to God:</strong> Confess your sins honestly and receive His forgiveness (Psalm 66:18; 1 John 1:9).</li><br /> <li><strong>R – Request your needs from God:</strong> Present your needs in faith, trusting that He knows what is best (Matthew 6:8; 1 Kings 3:5-14).</li><br /> <li><strong>T – Thank God in all things:</strong> Give thanks in every situation, knowing that He works all things together for good (1 Thessalonians 5:18; Philippians 4:6).</li><br /> </ul><br /> <h3>Prayer language from the Holy Spirit</h3><br /> <p>God may give you a spiritual prayer language (speaking in tongues), which is the Holy Spirit praying through you (Acts 10:46; Romans 8:26-28; Jude 1:20).</p><br /> <h3>How do I know that God is speaking to me?</h3><br /> <p>God usually speaks to your spirit with a voice that sounds like your own thoughts. His voice will never contradict His Word or His character (John 10:27). He may speak through Scripture, thoughts, impressions, dreams, other people or circumstances.</p><br /> <h3>Joining the Prayer Shield</h3><br /> <p>Accelerate Church encourages a “Prayer Shield” where Pastors, leaders and members pray for one another regularly, building a spiritual shield around the church.</p><br /> </section><br /> <p><!-- Section 8: Forgiving Others (short core) --></p><br /> <section id="section-8"><br /> <h2>Section 8: Forgiving Others</h2><br /> <p>Jesus came to give us abundant life (John 10:10). One of the ways the enemy tries to steal that life is through unforgiveness.</p><br /> <h3>What does unforgiveness do?</h3><br /> <p>Unforgiveness harms our relationship with God and others (Matthew 6:14-15). It can lead to bitterness, resentment and anger, and can affect us spiritually, emotionally and physically.</p><br /> <h3>What is forgiveness?</h3><br /> <p>Forgiveness is a choice, not a feeling. It means releasing others from judgement and choosing not to hold a grudge, even if we still remember what happened. It does not mean allowing continued abuse; we should seek God’s wisdom and support from leaders when needed.</p><br /> <h3>A prayer of forgiveness</h3><br /> <blockquote><br /> <p>“Dear Heavenly Father, I forgive the following people who have wronged me (list their names). I forgive them and release them from my judgement. I ask You to bless them and their families with every good thing. Amen.”</p><br /> </blockquote><br /> <p>We forgive because God forgave us and we want to become more like Him (Colossians 3:13; Mark 11:25; Luke 23:34).</p><br /> </section><br /> <p><!-- Questions block (Section 8) --></p><br /> <section id="questions-section-8"><br /> <h3>Questions</h3><br /> <p><label>Why do we forgive people who hurt us?</label></p><br /> <p><textarea style="width: 100%;" name="q8_1" rows="4"></textarea></p><br /> <p><label>How can we forgive others like God forgave us?</label></p><br /> <p><textarea style="width: 100%;" name="q8_2" rows="4"></textarea></p><br /> </section><br /> <p><!-- Section 9: The Lord’s Supper --></p><br /> <section id="section-9"><br /> <h2>Section 9: The Lord’s Supper (Communion)</h2><br /> <p>The Lord’s Supper (Communion) is the meal Jesus shared with His disciples before going to the cross. It fulfils the prophetic picture of the Passover lamb in Exodus 12:21-23 and points to His sacrifice for our sins (1 Corinthians 11:23–25; Luke 22:19-20).</p><br /> <h3>What does taking Communion together represent?</h3><br /> <p>Communion represents love, fellowship, sharing and unity. It is a family meal where believers remember what the Lord has done for them (Leviticus 24:5-9; Psalm 23:5; Revelation 3:20).</p><br /> <h3>What does the bread represent?</h3><br /> <p>The bread represents Christ’s body that was broken for us (Matthew 26:26; Isaiah 53:3-5; 1 Peter 2:24). We remember that He bore our sins and that by His stripes we are healed.</p><br /> <h3>What does the wine/grape juice represent?</h3><br /> <p>The wine or grape juice represents the blood of Jesus that was shed for our sins (Matthew 26:27; Hebrews 9:14; Mark 14:24).</p><br /> <h3>When and how do we take Communion?</h3><br /> <p>Communion can be taken whenever believers gather – in services, Lifegroups, homes or special occasions (Jude 1:12). Any true disciple can serve Communion, and believers who personally know Jesus can partake in faith, focusing on His sacrifice.</p><br /> <p>1 Corinthians 11:23-29 explains that we should “discern the Lord’s body” and focus on what He has done for us, examining ourselves so that we receive the full benefit of Communion.</p><br /> </section><br /> <p><!-- Questions block (Section 9) --></p><br /> <section id="questions-section-9"><br /> <h3>Questions</h3><br /> <p><label>Why do we have Communion?</label></p><br /> <p><textarea style="width: 100%;" name="q9_1" rows="4"></textarea></p><br /> </section><br /> <p><!-- Section 10: The Lordship of Christ --></p><br /> <section id="section-10"><br /> <h2>Section 10: The Lordship of Christ</h2><br /> <p>When the Bible talks about Jesus being Lord, it means He is in charge and has ultimate authority.</p><br /> <h3>There are two reasons for Jesus’ Lordship</h3><br /> <ol><br /> <li>Jesus has the right to be Lord because of who He is. He is Lord of all creation and the whole universe is subject to Him (Colossians 1:16-18; Philippians 2:9-11).</li><br /> <li>Jesus has the right to be Lord because of what He has done. He died on the cross and paid for all your sins with His blood (1 Corinthians 6:20).</li><br /> </ol><br /> <h3>How should you respond?</h3><br /> <p>By accepting Jesus as Lord, you accept the responsibility of living as a citizen of the Kingdom of God (2 Corinthians 5:15; Jeremiah 29:11). This means trusting His plans and submitting every area of your life to Him.</p><br /> <h3>Have you made the very important second decision?</h3><br /> <p>The first decision is accepting Jesus as Saviour. The second is choosing to serve Him daily. Jesus teaches that greatness in His kingdom comes through serving others (Mark 10:42-45). He calls us friends when we do what He commands (John 15:12-14).</p><br /> </section><br /> <p><!-- Questions block (Section 10) --></p><br /> <section id="questions-section-10"><br /> <h3>Questions</h3><br /> <p><label>What is the difference between accepting Jesus as Saviour and making Jesus Lord?</label></p><br /> <p><textarea style="width: 100%;" name="q10_1" rows="4"></textarea></p><br /> <p><label>What does it mean to become a servant of God?</label></p><br /> <p><textarea style="width: 100%;" name="q10_2" rows="4"></textarea></p><br /> </section><br /> <p><!-- Section 11: Our Statement of Faith --></p><br /> <section id="section-11"><br /> <h2>Section 11: Our Statement of Faith</h2><br /> <p>It is important to know the church’s statement of faith, as it describes the essentials of what we believe.</p><br /> <ul><br /> <li>We believe in the inspiration of the Bible as the Word of God and accept it as the final authority for faith and life.</li><br /> <li>We believe in one God eternally existing in three persons: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.</li><br /> <li>We believe that Jesus Christ is the only begotten Son of the Father, conceived of the Holy Spirit, and born of the Virgin Mary; that He is fully God and fully man.</li><br /> <li>We believe that Jesus lived sinlessly, was crucified, buried, and raised from the dead; that He ascended to heaven and is today at the right hand of the Father as our intercessor.</li><br /> <li>We believe that all have sinned and fallen short of the glory of God, and that repentance is required and necessary for forgiveness of sin.</li><br /> <li>We believe that God fully restores to His family those who believe, accept and confess Jesus Christ as Lord and Saviour, and that He bestows His grace and righteousness upon them.</li><br /> <li>We believe that justification and regeneration are through the new birth by faith in the cleansing blood of Jesus Christ.</li><br /> <li>We believe in sanctification through the new birth, through believing in the Word of God, through a real relationship with Jesus, and by the Holy Spirit.</li><br /> <li>We believe in the equipping of saints to become and make disciples, and to obey God fully.</li><br /> <li>We believe in water baptism of all believers by immersion in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit.</li><br /> <li>We believe in regular participation in the Lord’s Supper in remembrance of Him.</li><br /> <li>We believe in the holy sanctity of biblical marriage.</li><br /> <li>We believe in the comfort, help, leading, and empowerment of the Holy Spirit, and the accompanying supernatural gifts.</li><br /> <li>We believe in the divinely ordained offices of apostle, prophet, evangelist, pastor, and teacher for the equipping of all believers.</li><br /> <li>We believe in divine healing and miracles.</li><br /> <li>We believe in the second coming of Jesus: first to resurrect the righteous dead and catch away the living saints, and then to reign on the earth.</li><br /> <li>We believe in the bodily resurrection; eternal life for the righteous, and eternal punishment for the wicked.</li><br /> <li>We believe that all believers are responsible to share the Good News of God’s grace so that unbelievers can be saved.</li><br /> </ul><br /> </section><br /> <p><!-- Section 12: Conclusion and Verification --></p><br /> <section id="section-12"><br /> <h2>Section 12: Conclusion and Verification of Completion</h2><br /> <p>Congratulations! You have completed B1, the first part of the Southern Cross Discipleship Process of Accelerate Church. By completing this booklet, you have shown that you are serious about growing your faith and receiving everything that Christ has for you.</p><br /> <p>Be sure to get your Leader/Discipler to sign the verification of completion. They will update your equipping record to show that you have finished this step of the discipleship process. You will need to show this booklet when you attend the Spiritual Empowerment Encounter Weekend (E1).</p><br /> <h3>Spiritual Empowerment Encounter Weekend (E1)</h3><br /> <p>This encounter is an integral part of your discipleship process and introduces the basics of getting to know Christ and the Holy Spirit, and the importance of belonging to a Lifegroup. It is also an opportunity to make new friends and meet some of the leadership of your church.</p><br /> <h3>Sections Completed (for display on page)</h3><br /> <ul><br /> <li>Section 1: Salvation</li><br /> <li>Section 2: Sin & Forgiveness</li><br /> <li>Section 3: Water Baptism</li><br /> <li>Section 4: Beginning your relationship with God</li><br /> <li>Section 5: Building your relationship with your new family</li><br /> <li>Section 6: Growing in God’s Word</li><br /> <li>Section 7: Prayer - Your vital communication with God</li><br /> <li>Section 8: Forgiving Others</li><br /> <li>Section 9: The Lord’s Supper (Communion)</li><br /> <li>Section 10: The Lordship of Christ</li><br /> <li>Section 11: Our Statement of Faith</li><br /> <li>Section 12: Conclusion and Verification of Completion</li><br /> </ul><br /> <h3>Verification of Completion (form-style)</h3><br /> <form class="verification-form"><br /> <fieldset><br /> <legend>Participant/Disciple</legend><br /> <p>I <input style="width: 60%;" name="participant_name" type="text" /> confirm that I have, with the guidance of my Leader/Discipler, completed each section of this booklet (B1) - “Spiritual Awakening, Welcome to Your Caring, Faith Community”, and am committed to growing in my discipleship process by participating in next steps.</p><br /> <p>Signed: <input style="width: 40%;" name="participant_signature" type="text" /></p><br /> <p>Date: <input style="width: 40%;" name="participant_date" type="text" /></p><br /> </fieldset><br /> <fieldset><br /> <legend>Leader/Discipler</legend><br /> <p>I <input style="width: 60%;" name="leader_name" type="text" /> have acted as a Discipler as they worked through this book. I am convinced they are familiar with the content and are now ready for the Spiritual Empowerment Encounter Weekend (E1). I confirm that I have updated their progress in our Discipleship Process Flow.</p><br /> <p>Signed: <input style="width: 40%;" name="leader_signature" type="text" /></p><br /> <p>Date: <input style="width: 40%;" name="leader_date" type="text" /></p><br /> </fieldset><br /> </form><br /> </section><br /> <p><!-- Discipleship Process (text version) --></p><br /> <section id="discipleship-process"><br /> <h2>Our Discipleship Process</h2><br /> <ul><br /> <li><strong>Spiritual Awakening (B1):</strong> Growing IN – Welcome to your caring family.</li><br /> <li><strong>Spiritual Orientation (B2):</strong> Growing UP.</li><br /> <li><strong>Spiritual Obedience (B3):</strong> Growing OUT.</li><br /> <li><strong>Spiritual Response (B4):</strong> Growing STRONG.</li><br /> <li><strong>Spiritual Empowerment Encounter (E1)</strong></li><br /> <li><strong>Spiritual Breakthrough Encounter (E2)</strong></li><br /> <li><strong>Spiritual Effectiveness Encounter (E3)</strong></li><br /> <li><strong>Spiritual Ministry Encounter (E4)</strong></li><br /> <li><strong>Further Equipping:</strong> Bible College, Leadership Institute, Church Planting.</li><br /> </ul><br /> </section><br /> <p><!-- Credits / Contacts --></p><br /> <section id="credits"><strong>All rights reserved.</strong><br />Copyright © Accelerate Church</p><br /> <h3>Helpful Contacts</h3><br /> <p>Ps. Lourens & Lizaan Malan (Discipleship Process Coordinators)<br /><a href="mailto:lourensmalan@acceleratechurch.com">lourensmalan@acceleratechurch.com</a></p><br /> <p>Ps. Sheryll & Ray Pedroja (Locality Pastors - Accelerate Church, Narangba Campus)<br /><a href="mailto:sheryllpedroja@acceleratechurch.com">sheryllpedroja@acceleratechurch.com</a></p><br /> <h3>Acknowledgments</h3><br /> <p>All four Process Booklets and Manuals are the combined efforts of the Pastors of Accelerate Church under the supervision and oversight of the Senior Pastor, Slabbert Pretorius.</p><br /> </section><br /> </div><br /> </textarea></textarea>