Posted by PS on June 27, 2005 at 12:44:58:
In Reply to: Re: The All In One Comment posted by cav on June 27, 2005 at 04:01:43:
: Hey, I've seen you around over the years and maybe even talked a little, but I don't really know you. Still I was impressed by your post. It showed a simple honesty that I can always connect with. Anyway, you said you don't know where to go from here, but don't worry about that. You don't have to know where to go, if you're willing and looking to God you'll end up there in spite of yourself.
: But there's a thing you might be interested in regarding your Bible study question. It's popular in evangelical churches but it runs far deeper and older. It's called discipleship, maybe you've heard of it. It's a simple process where someone who has made the same simple realization as you, can learn from an experienced and older Christian how to be a good Christian. For all the flack I may get from that statement, I think it is essential to build strong roots in our faith. So my advice is to check out such a program. Sometimes they are small group Bible studies or sometimes one on one kind of things. If you're interested in finding a good discipleship thing, email me at this address and I'll connect you with someone I know who has been doing that kind of thing for years and can help you get what you're looking for.
: And you don't have to be a new Christian to do it, anyone can. It's just about teaching from the Bible how to find answers when you doubt. Where to find the verses that back up what your heart told you was right. And how to study the Bible on your own. Even how to balance your spiritual life. It's not anyone's system, it's just right out of the Bible. It would take years of work on your own to find what can be taught quickly by a mentor.
That is good advice. I am of course unable now to fulfil that kind of role because of my commitments and time constraints. I also have no clue what is avilable up where you are living. Around Tampa, I have been most impressed by Tommy Kyllonen's church (Crossover) and their discipleship focus. Since he became the head pastor a few years ago, the church has just exploded. They have multicultural services Sunday at 9:30am and 11:15am, and a new one Saturday night at 7:30pm. The hip hop service is still Thursday nights. Of course, that is hardly a convenient location for you. I'm sure there is something available in your neck of the woods.