I HAVE DECIDED TO FOLLOW JESUS!
HOW DO I READ THE BIBLE?
We believe that the Bible is God’s Word and that it is accurate, authoritative and applicable to our everyday lives.
Whether we read it in book form, scroll through it on our mobiles, or even listen to it while sitting on a bus, the Bible is far more than an interesting historical document with a few wise thoughts thrown in.
It is the way in which God, the Creator of the world, has chosen to communicate with us and to tell us, not only who He is, but also who we are and what our purpose is.
The Bible may be an ancient book, but its message is timeless and is as relevant to us today as it was to its first hearers’ thousands of years ago. As we apply the truths found within its pages, it has the power to transform our lives.
You can download the Bible for free.
THE S.O.A.P METHOD OF BIBLE STUDY
Scripture, Observation, Application & Prayer – there are many different ways to study the Bible and we recognize that one size doesn’t fit all when it comes to getting the most out of your devotional time with God. The method we’ve chosen to highlight doesn’t require a great theological knowledge and is designed to open your eyes to the Bible in a deeper way.
WHAT YOU WILL NEED
HOW IT WORKS
1. SCRIPTURE
Write out a key verse that speaks to you from the passage you have just read.
For example – For this is how God loved the world: He gave his one and only Son, so that everyone who believes in him will not perish but have eternal life.” John 3:16 (NLT)
2. OBSERVATION
What stands out to you in what you have read? What do you see? Are there word patterns, repetitions? Are there lots of verbs or several characters or just one?
For example – God risked everything for us, He gave his only Son… even though people could and would reject His sacrifice for them. He loved, so He gave. He died so we may live.
3. APPLICATION
Ask yourself how you will respond to what God is saying to you today. How can you apply what you are hearing? Is there something you need to do?
For example – Today, what has leapt off the pages is the fact that ‘He loved, so He gave.’ What is my response to His love? I think it means to love others regardless of their story or opinion. Therefore today, in all my encounters with others, I choose to love first regardless of how I am received.
4. PRAYER
Praying at the conclusion of your time of study, seals what God has revealed to you through His Word. Thank God for His presence and His Word, and ask the Holy Spirit to enable you to outwork it as you go about your day.
For example – Father, thank you for speaking with me and showing me Jesus in your Word. Help me Holy Spirit to remember this deep, unconditional love today and help me to see others the way you see them. In Jesus’ Name I pray, Amen.
HOW DO I PRAY?
When we think about prayer it often seems to be a mysterious activity but it can be described most simply as a conversation with God. This conversation can take place anywhere and at any time. We speak to God and then we listen for what He has to say to us. We are unlikely to hear God’s response as an audible voice but, as we take the time to be still and listen, we may be reminded of a verse we have read in the Bible, or a sentence from the sermon we heard on Sunday that is relevant to our situation.
HOW IT WORKS
WHAT'S THE POINT?
Timothy Keller says that “prayer is continuing a conversation that God has started through his Word and his grace, which eventually becomes a full encounter with him.”
Prayer’s primary purpose is relationship with God. Through prayer, we’re able to know God more, enjoy Him deeply, and be transformed by His grace.
WHAT HAPPENS WHEN WE PRAY?
When we understand who God is, we can trust that He is good and present for us. God hears our prayers.
Keep asking, seeking, and knocking. While you wait on God’s answer, you can trust and lean on His promises in His Word.
WHAT SHOULD I PRAY FOR?
Nothing is off limits when it comes to prayer. In fact, we should pray about everything, with thanksgiving, and trust that God is working. Establishing this habit will help us for the rest of our lives.
WHAT DOES PRAYER LOOK LIKE?
There’s so many practical questions that surround prayer. Should I pray on my knees? Standing up? Out loud or silently in my head? prayer is a relationship, and that means it’s simply a conversation. It doesn’t have to be something complicated or weird.
WHAT IS BAPTISM?
1. Baptism is a biblical commandment for all followers of Jesus!
(Matthew28:19-20; Acts 2:38)
2. Baptism does NOT save us, only faith in Jesus can do that.
3. Baptism represents spiritual union with Jesus. (Romans 6:3-4)
4. Baptism is an outward demonstration of an inward reality.
5. The word baptism means to be submerged or immersed. Immersion in water represents being buried to our old self and made new in Jesus.
6. Baptism represents what we've been born into—family, freedom, and purpose.
HOW CAN I BE BAPTIZED?
WHAT NEXT FOR ME?
Find Your Community
At The Living Stone Church, we offer a number of community groups that anyone can plug into! Community groups allow people to develop relationships, do life with one another, and grow in Jesus together.
Find Your Purpose
There's a place of purpose for you at The Living Stone! We encourage everyone to serve on a volunteer team. From service setup to kids ministry to hospitality, there's a spot for you.
Join the Mission
You have a part to play in making Jesus known! Whether it be inviting a friend to church, serving on an outreach team, or living a life of daily being Jesus to others, you are called to join in the mission of God.
Meet the Pastors
If you would like to join the pastors and staff of The Living Stone to get to know us, other people, and our vision and mission as a church, sign up for Dinner with the Pastors!
