Be Examples of the Gospel 

Scripture Reading: James 1:21-27.

Memory Verse: "Let no man despise thy youth; but be thou an example of the believers, in word, in conversation, in charity, in spirit, in faith, in purity" (1 Timothy 4:12).

INTRODUCTION: Two horrifying situations that occurred in 1999 are poignant reminders about what it means to be wholly dedicated to God. In Colorado, a gun was put to the head of a teenaged girl. She was asked, "Do you believe in God?" She replied, "Yes, I believe." The gunman pulled the trigger and she died secure in her love of the Lord.
  In Africa, guerilla fighters rounded up a schoolhouse full of children. While the older children watched, the younger children (4, 5 and 6 years old) were asked, one by one, "Do you love God?" As each child responded, "Yes," each was shot. All eighteen children were killed for their faith.
  What about our faith? Do we have such a great love of God that we'd be willing to die for our faith? Do we even show the world on a day-to-day basis that we walk by faith? Would anyone even know to ask the question of us, "Do you believe in God?"
  How we react to the pressures of life is one of our greatest witnesses to the unsaved world. By looking at our daily lives, those around us should be able to see that there's something different about us. We are living, breathing examples of a real, dynamic God. In fact it is said that we may be the only Bible some people ever read! So, then our challenge: to be examples of the gospel of Christ, in word and in deed, even unto death.

LESSON QUESTIONS:

1. Why is it important for us to prepare to reach out by having a strong relationship with the Lord? Matthew 5:14-16; Acts 3:6; 2 Corinthians 1:3-7.

2. Why is it important for us to grow in knowledge? 1 Corinthians 1:10; Ephesians 1:17-20.

3. Explain how trials and difficulties increase our faith. 2 Thessalonians 1:3,4; James 1:2-4; 1 Peter 1:6,7; Matthew 17:20; 13:31; Romans 1:17.

4. How is our love for others an outward, practical expression of our inner faith? James 2:15-18; 1 Thessalonians 3:12,13.

5. How does consistent fellowship in a local church help us in our ministry? Hebrews 10:25; 1 Peter 4:8-10; 1 Corinthians 12:6-11.

6. Why do we need to regularly read, study and listen to the Word of God? Titus 1:19; James 1:21; Romans 12:6,7; Ephesians 4:7-16; Proverbs 21:11.

7. Why is a teachable attitude important to reaching out to the unsaved? Proverbs 15:10; 16:1-3; Romans 12:2; Philippians 2:5,6.

8. What are two indispensable qualities for those who will be used by God to minister to others? 2 Timothy 2:2; Luke 16:10; Matthew 25:21.

9. What additional qualities does God desire in those who witness the good news? 1 Corinthians 15:18; Colossians 3:8-17; Galatians 5:13.

10. Why does God want followers who take initiative? 2 Timothy 2:15; 1 Timothy 4:15; Ecclesiastes 9:10; Colossians 3:17,23,24.