Basic Training Course Description
The Life of Christ series is a linear study of the gospel of Matthew. These programmed instruction books constitute a complete introduction to basic practical ministry skills, biblical geography, basic doctrines, and Bible study methods. It is a holistic approach to church leadership training, presenting things in an easy-to-remember form. Each of these courses is designed to be studied in three months. The following is a general overview of course content.
Book 1 Introduction and Infancy
The focus of this course is an inductive Bible study, and covers Matthew, chapters 1 and 2. Students will learn how to:
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Locate and describe key places on a map of Palestine.
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Discuss and teach the events surrounding Christ’s birth and early life.
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Give a basic outline of the gospel of Matthew and explain the theme of the book.
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Explain the divinity of Christ, using selected Scripture passages.
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Explain why God’s promises are not always fulfilled immediately.
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Use God’s promises to help people in need.
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Explain biblical doctrine concerning occult activities.
Book 2 The Year of Preparation
The focus of this course on chapters 3 and 4 of the gospel of Matthew. The students will learn how to:
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Discuss and teach the events surrounding Christ’s first year of ministry.
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Describe the steps of repentance.
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Explain the relationship between Christ’s baptism and His death.
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Explain how to overcome temptation.
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Give Biblical evidence of the Trinity and the inspiration of the Scriptures, and describe the attributes of God.
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Use the method of comparison to study parallel Scripture passages.
Book 3 The Year of Popularity
Course Three is a detailed study of Matthew 4 through 13. The student will learn how to:
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Discuss and teach the events surrounding Christ’s second year of ministry.
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Use the Bible study methods of analysis and synthesis.
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Prepare a Bible study for a small group.
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Explain how believers can face opposition.
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Share a short personal testimony.
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Interpret the parables of Jesus.
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Explain guidelines for doing house-to-house visitation, leading a home Bible study, and planting a church.
Book 4 The Year of Passion
This course focuses on Matthew 14 through 20 and deals with the doctrine of mankind. By studying this course, the student will learn how to:
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Discuss and teach the events surrounding Christ’s third year of ministry.
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Relate the history and importance of the Passover.
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Explain the image of God in man, the doctrine of sin, and the doctrine of angels and demons.
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Apply the steps given by Jesus for restoring unity among believers.
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Explain the purpose of discipline in the Christian family.
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Outline a plan for family worship.
Book 5 The Last Week
Course Five teaches through Matthew 21 through 27. In the study of this course the student will learn how to:
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Give a chronology of the events of the last week of Jesus’ earthly ministry.
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Identify on a map, the significant places associated with the last week of Jesus’ life.
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Explain the meaning of the Lord’s Supper.
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Discuss the principal events of the Second Coming.
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Explain the steps of consecration of the mind, emotions, and will.
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Explain the significance of Jesus’ crucifixion and His triumph over Satan and the demonic world.
Book 6 The Resurrected Life
Course Six is a study of Matthew 28 and the book of Acts. The student, through this course will learn how to:
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Give a chronology of the events surrounding Jesus’ resurrection and the beginning of the Church.
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Discuss how to be filled with the Holy Spirit as described in Scripture.
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Use Scripture to explain baptism, including who should be baptized and when.
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Describe the proper attitude and acts of encouragement which should be directed toward a new believer.
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State several principles of personal evangelism and how to give a gospel presentation.
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Analyze and outline the book of Acts.