[Q1. Christian Fellowship]

Q1. (1 John 1:3-4, 6-7) Why is our fellowship with fellow Christians so often just on a surface level? How can we have fellowship at a deeper level in Christ? What would it take in your Christian group or your relationships with other believers to deepen your level of fellowship so it is authentically Christian?

Seems sometimes Christians attend church, fellowship in churh among fellow Christians returning to their daily routine in the home or work place leaving behind their Christian fellowship until the next meeting. Not taking time to testify or share beliefs with other believers outside the church. More or less enjoying the comfort zone of fellowship inside the confines of the church. Prayer is always the answer to any situation, especially when it comes to having a closer relationship with Christ, and living "Christ-like." In my daily routine I pray "Father God share your spirit with me as you see fit and let me be a blessing to someone today" Get serious about your relationship with God and seek out fellow Christians outside the group for support and share testimonies and encourage others to be strong in Christ.

[Q2. Grace]

Q2. (1 Timothy 1:12-14) Why does Paul comment on his own life after a paragraph on the law (1:8-11)? Why does he share this with Timothy and the church that will read the letter? How might sharing this help get the church back on center?

Paul gave testimony of his life because he wanted the people to know that he was "all of the above". A blasphemer and a persecutor causing injury to many because of his unbelief. Paul wants Timothy to use his tetimony in the church to show even the "Chief of Sinners" (such as he) could gain grace and forgiveness from the terrible sins he committed in his past. The church can`t help but be blessed if it takes the teachings of Paul to heart and realize how great the love and forgiveness of our awesome God is. Paul knows he was a terrible person before God opened his eyes. On a personal note, the story of Saul`s conversion, on the road to Damascus, is my favorite story from the Bible. What a glorious sight and experience that must have been.

[Q1. False Doctrine]

Q1. (1 Timothy 1:3-7) What were some of the results of false doctrine in the church at Ephesus? How does doctrinal controversy hurt the spirit of a church? How does it prevent growth? How does it keep the church from its mission?

When false doctrines are practiced in the church it discourages true believers and tends to take away some of the peace and spirituality found serving God. Kind of like a bad apple in a barrel. If left alone soon all will be bad. In the church if such false teachings are practiced long enough, sooner or later the people will consider them over the right teachings.

[Welcome]

Hi, my name is Kimberly and I'm from Virginia. My husband, Edward, and I are going to participate in this Bible study together and look forward to starting. We have been Christians for many, many years (Pentecostal) and are leaders in our church (I lead praise and worship and Edward plays the bass/guitar). We love reading God's Word and continue to learn from Him more and more each and every day! Praise the Lord for He is worthy!

Hi Kimberly, my name is James, I too was raised in the Pentecostal church. Please pray for me as I try to use this study to get closer to Jesus and do his will. I recently redidicated my life to Christ. There are so many different beliefs in this world and it is so confusing sometimes to know what to, and not to believe. My belief is, if I pray he will reveal to me im my heart the way I should go. I know in my heart there is a God who loves me, and he is coming back soon. I want to be worthy and ready to go when he calls. God has answered so many of my prayers, and has really blessed me. I am going to ask my wife to join me in this study also. From Sunny Florida, God Bless You and your house.