INSTRUCTIONS FOR THE STUDENT

My Study Plan:

The book of Revelation reveals Jesus Christ and shows how God’s final Gospel Day is understood through spiritual prophecy. Preparing a Study Plan before starting this Study Guide will assist you in completing it within a designated timeframe. It also helps in developing the discipline required for studying God’s Word effectively.

Proverbs 16:3:

Commit thy works unto the LORD, and thy thoughts shall be established.

My Study Guide Journal

Keep a record as you progress through your Study Guide, including the “Personal Responses”, for each section for future reference and goal setting.

Content

• INTRODUCTION
• SALVATION – A NEW LIFE IN CHRIST
• YOU MUST BE BORN AGAIN
• EXCEPT THE FATHER DRAW YOU
• TRUE REPENTANCE
• CONFESSION
• EXCEPT YOU BELIEVE ON JESUS CHRIST
• EXCEPT YOU HOLD STEAD FAST
• EXCEPT YOU FORGIVE OTHERS
• EXCEPT YOU LOVE
• BE YE HOLY
• SUMMARY

Important Points:

• COGMA does not claim to be infallible or the authority.
• Infallibility and authority belong only to God and His Word.

COGMA therefore strongly advises that you prayerfully study the content of each Study Guide with the heart of a Berean: “Acts 17:10-12”.

Contact and Links

INTRODUCTION

In this module, “The Disciple’s Toolkit,” you will learn important principles to help you begin your new life in Christ effectively. By firmly holding onto these principles, you will also successfully complete your journey in faith.

The Apostle Paul emphasised these principles when he wrote:

2 Timothy 4:7 says:

I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith:

Paul compared the journey in Christ to a race that requires patience and determination. He stressed the importance of both starting well and finishing strong, with the intent to win and receive the prize.

An athlete knows that while starting well is crucial, winning the race depends on the performance between the start and finish lines. This module will assist you in this endeavour.

In the initial two modules, you gained an understanding of the significance of Bible study and learned about the origins and structure of the Bible. Following this module, subsequent modules will focus on the beliefs of the Church of God and how they differ from much of the contemporary teaching often mislabelled as “Christianity.”

The Revelation of Jesus Christ

The first verse in the book of Revelation states:

Revelation 1:1 says:

The Revelation of Jesus Christ, which God gave unto him, to shew unto his servants things which must shortly come to pass; and he sent and signified it by his angel unto his servant John:

The term “Revelation” denotes the revealing or uncovering of something already existing but hidden. It is essential to understand that the Bible is like a sealed book — God grants understanding to a specific group known as “servants.”

Paul identifies God’s servants in Romans 6:

Romans 6:22 says:

But now being made free from sin, and become servants to God, ye have your fruit unto holiness, and the end everlasting life.

God’s servants are those who have been born again and are living in holiness and righteousness before Him.

Understanding Biblical Salvation

In this module, you will develop a solid understanding of what salvation entails. You will also gain insight into valuable steps to help you reach the finish line and receive the prize.

As in any race, the prizes are given at the finish line:

Hebrews 3:14 says:

For we are made partakers of Christ, if we hold the beginning of our confidence stedfast unto the end:

To fully benefit from the subsequent modules, it is crucial not only to comprehend the concept of biblical salvation, but also to actively participate in and become a partaker of it.

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SALVATION — A NEW LIFE IN CHRIST

Jesus declared that one must be “born again” not only to enter the Kingdom of God, but also to see it. This new birth is a profound spiritual transformation, not merely an intellectual exercise.

Many have tried to decipher the Bible using human intellect and reasoning, but without success. This is because the Word of God is spiritual, and only God can grant true understanding.

Christianity: A Life, Not Just a Belief System

Christianity stands apart from other belief systems because it is not merely a system of beliefs. It cannot be reduced to a set of steps, methods, or formulas. Christianity is a life that you actively live.

As a disciple of Jesus Christ, you receive life in Him, and He leads and guides you through your earthly journey. Paul testified that the life he lived was one of submission to and by Jesus Christ:

Galatians 2:20 says:

I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me.

True Christianity is not merely a set of disciplines to train the body and mind; it is a profound transformation where you are reborn by the hand and power of God Almighty. Through this transformation, you become a new creature in Christ Jesus:

2 Corinthians 5:17 says:

Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.

A New Heart and Spirit

God bestows upon you a new heart and a new spirit, empowering you to walk in newness of life in obedience to Jesus Christ and His Word. However, God never intended to give you a new heart and then abandon you. He places His Spirit within you, guiding and empowering you along your journey:

Ezekiel 36:27 says:

And I will put my spirit within you, and cause you to walk in my statutes, and ye shall keep my judgments, and do them.

The prophetic word given through Ezekiel was fulfilled in the day of Salvation, known as the Gospel Day. This fulfilment is affirmed by the testimony of Paul:

Romans 5:5 says:

And hope maketh not ashamed; because the love of God is shed abroad in our hearts by the Holy Ghost which is given unto us.

God never intended for you, as a disciple, to walk alone; in fact, it is impossible to do so. He assists and keeps you through His Word. The prophet Jeremiah highlights that God created humanity with the incapacity to direct their own steps:

Jeremiah 10:23 says:

O LORD, I know that the way of man is not in himself: it is not in man that walketh to direct his steps.

The Fundamental Choice

As a human being, you have the choice to be led and guided either by Jesus Christ, or — by default — by the rulers of darkness in this world. This is the fundamental choice we make when salvation crosses our path:

John 14:6 says:

Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.

The choice we make on this side of Heaven is to whom we entrust our lives. If we do not choose God, then by default, we choose the devil.

As mentioned earlier, Christianity cannot be reduced to a set of steps, methods, and formulas. How a person experiences being born again varies depending on circumstances:

• Some are saved in a gospel meeting during an altar call.
• Others are saved simply through hearing the preaching of the Word of God, as Cornelius and his household were under Peter’s preaching.
• Yet others are saved under the stars or in their homes.

However, there is a common thread that all who are born again can testify to:

• Everyone who is saved can testify to a complete surrender of their lives to Jesus Christ through confession, repentance, and receiving God’s forgiveness.

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YOU MUST BE BORN AGAIN

Let us examine some of the foundational elements that comprise the experience we call “born again.” Without a doubt, to embark on the journey that leads to Heaven, you must be born again. Without this transformation, you are lost and without eternal hope.

When Nicodemus approached Jesus to inquire about the Kingdom of God and salvation, Jesus replied:

John 3:3 says:

Jesus answered and said unto him, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God.

In verse 5, Jesus further explains to Nicodemus that he must be “born again” to enter the Kingdom of God.

The New Birth: A Spiritual Transformation

The new birth, also known as spiritual birth, is brought about through one Person — Jesus Christ. Jesus is God, who sacrificed His life on Calvary’s Cross to give you a new life through this new birth.

Through this new birth, you are baptised into the body of Christ, which is the family of God:

1 Corinthians 12:13 says:

For by one Spirit are we all baptized into one body, whether we be Jews or Gentiles, whether we be bond or free; and have been all made to drink into one Spirit.

Jesus died for you so that, through this new birth, you become the actual and true son or daughter of God. This transformation is not a result of natural birth but of spiritual birth into the family of God:

1 John 3:2 says:

Beloved, now are we the sons of God, and it doth not yet appear what we shall be: but we know that, when he shall appear, we shall be like him; for we shall see him as he is.

Becoming a Child of God

Paul made this clear to the Galatians — being born again means becoming a child of God:

Galatians 3:26-28 says:

For ye are all the children of God by faith in Christ Jesus. For as many of you as have been baptized into Christ have put on Christ. There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither bond nor free, there is neither male nor female: for ye are all one in Christ Jesus.

And to the Ephesians, Paul wrote:

Ephesians 2:19 says:

Now therefore ye are no more strangers and foreigners, but fellowcitizens with the saints, and of the household of God;

When you are born again through conviction, confession, and repentance, you become a new creature in Christ. You are transformed into a new creation, living for Christ in holiness and righteousness:

2 Corinthians 5:17 says:

Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.

The Journey to Maturity

As a new creature in Christ, you begin as a “baby in Christ” and then progress towards maturity. This journey to maturity is an essential part of the race that must be endured to finish well.

The road to maturity involves discipline, which is the work of a disciple of Jesus Christ. It is often said that “discipline is the bridge between goals and accomplishment.” Your goal is eternity with Jesus Christ, but to achieve that goal, you must apply discipline.

Being born again marks the beginning of the journey — a race toward everlasting life in Heaven. Though the experience occurs in a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, there are common building blocks that remain the same for all who are saved. These will be detailed as we continue.

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EXCEPT THE FATHER DRAW YOU

To experience true salvation, there must be a drawing from God, followed by conviction, confession, and repentance, which leads to forgiveness from God. Salvation is not something stumbled upon gradually or accidentally granted — it is a deliberate process initiated by God.

To receive salvation, there must be both a conviction working in the heart of a sinner and a drawing influence of the Holy Spirit:

John 6:44 says:

No man can come to me, except the Father which hath sent me draw him: and I will raise him up at the last day.

You must be called by the convicting and drawing power of God, who, by His Spirit, touches your heart:

1 Corinthians 1:9 says:

God is faithful, by whom ye were called unto the fellowship of his Son Jesus Christ our Lord.

The Promise of the Holy Spirit

During the Last Supper in John 14, Jesus promised that He would return on the day of Pentecost to bring salvation to whosoever would accept and believe in the Gospel:

John 14:16-18 says:

And I will pray the Father, and he shall give you another Comforter, that he may abide with you for ever; Even the Spirit of truth; whom the world cannot receive, because it seeth him not, neither knoweth him: but ye know him; for he dwelleth with you, and shall be in you. I will not leave you comfortless: I will come to you.

Jesus was not referring to a physical return during the Last Supper in John 14. Instead, Jesus was referring to His Spirit — the Holy Spirit.

Understanding Your Spiritual Identity

It is important to understand that you are a spirit dwelling in a physical body. Your body does not define who you are; it is your spirit that defines your identity. Your body serves as a vessel for your spirit.

In Ecclesiastes 12, Solomon tells us that our physical bodies return to the dust, but our spirits return to God who gave them. Similarly, the physical body of Jesus was not His essence — it was the Spirit that dwelt in His physical body that defined who Jesus is.

When Jesus promised to return in John 14, He did not say He would dwell with His disciples but that He would be in them. This promise was fulfilled on the day of Pentecost. Paul referred to this indwelling of Christ in believers as a great mystery:

Colossians 1:27 says:

To whom God would make known what is the riches of the glory of this mystery among the Gentiles; which is Christ in you, the hope of glory:

The Role of the Comforter

As Jesus continued to speak during the Last Supper, He told His disciples that the Spirit of Truth, the Comforter, would bring conviction to the world:

John 16:8 says:

And when he is come, he will reprove the world of sin, and of righteousness, and of judgment:

This conviction would make one feel the guilt and pain of transgressing and offending a righteous God. However, you would also experience that instead of condemnation, God’s goodness leads to repentance, as Paul testifies:

Romans 2:4 says:

Or despisest thou the riches of his goodness and forbearance and longsuffering; not knowing that the goodness of God leadeth thee to repentance?

It is crucial to remember that God does not draw you to Himself through the gospel to condemn you, but to bring you to a place of conviction and repentance. It is God’s will that none should perish:

2 Peter 3:9 says:

The Lord is not slack concerning his promise, as some men count slackness; but is longsuffering to us-ward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance.

The Drawing Power of God on the Day of Pentecost

The workings of God’s drawing power and conviction can be clearly understood from the events on the day of Pentecost. Peter, who had just been born again, began to preach the Gospel. As he exalted Jesus Christ, it brought conviction upon those who were listening. They felt the guilt of crucifying Jesus. It was God who had drawn them and pricked their hearts with conviction, causing them to cry out:

Acts 2:37 says:

Now when they heard this, they were pricked in their heart, and said unto Peter and to the rest of the apostles, Men and brethren, what shall we do?

To this, Peter replied that they needed to repent before they could be baptised into the body of Christ:

Acts 2:38 says:

Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost.

The Process of Salvation

Likewise, you should have experienced both the drawing of God that brought conviction and then the call to repentance. The gift of God — salvation through the indwelling Spirit of God — is not received any other way:

Ephesians 2:8-9 says:

For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast.

Salvation is Jesus in you; He completes you:

Colossians 2:10 says:

And ye are complete in him, which is the head of all principality and power:

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TRUE REPENTANCE

What is repentance, and what produces it? True repentance cannot exist without conviction. It is conviction — the feeling of guilt in your heart — that leads to repentance.

Repentance should not be confused with mere feelings of sorrow or regret. Feeling sorry often stems from being caught, whereas repentance is a state brought about by the acknowledgement of guilt before a righteous God. The writer of Hebrews explains this concept well:

Hebrews 4:12-13 says:

For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any twoedged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart. Neither is there any creature that is not manifest in his sight: but all things are naked and opened unto the eyes of him with whom we have to do.

The Path to Conviction and Repentance

There is no single method by which people arrive at conviction and repentance:

• Some experience conviction and repentance during an evangelistic meeting under the anointed preaching of the gospel.
• Others encounter it through one-on-one conversations sharing the goodness of God and the testimony of a disciple of Jesus Christ.
• Still others undergo conviction on their own as they reflect on their circumstances and call out to God.

What is common among all these experiences is that we must believe in and call upon God to save us:

Romans 10:11-13 says:

For the scripture saith, Whosoever believeth on him shall not be ashamed. For there is no difference between the Jew and the Greek: for the same Lord over all is rich unto all that call upon him. For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved.

We must not forget that some may come under conviction and be led to repentance as they meditate and behold the creative works of God:

Romans 1:20 says:

For the invisible things of him from the creation of the world are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even his eternal power and Godhead; so that they are without excuse:

Understanding Repentance

In light of Jesus’ words in Luke 13, what is repentance?

Luke 13:3 says:

I tell you, Nay: but, except ye repent, ye shall all likewise perish.

The first important step to receiving the gift of salvation through biblical repentance can be understood from the book of Ezekiel:

Ezekiel 33:19 says:

But if the wicked turn from his wickedness, and do that which is lawful and right, he shall live thereby.

Repentance requires two actions:

• Turning from evil.
• Turning toward God — embracing that which is good and right.

When you come under godly conviction, guilt arises in your heart. But at the same time, God assures you of His love and mercy. It is this assurance that enables you to turn to Him and forsake your former life of worldliness and sin. Repentance can be likened to turning 180 degrees in the opposite direction. Paul wrote concerning godly repentance:

2 Corinthians 7:10 says:

For godly sorrow worketh repentance to salvation not to be repented of: but the sorrow of the world worketh death.

The Impact of True Repentance

True repentance does not merely make you feel sorry. It stems from a heart of brokenness, acknowledging that you have sinned and rebelled against a righteous God. Repentance involves turning away from evil without regret and embracing Jesus Christ and His Kingdom as the centre of your life going forward.

Godly sorrow causes you to detest sin and turn away from it. It fosters a sense of caution and carefulness. You clean up your conduct, embrace holiness, make restitution, and develop a godly fear of falling away.

Through repentance, you embrace your newfound freedom from guilt with a fervent desire to walk in the right way in the future. True repentance involves acknowledging both in word and action that the old life has died — it is buried and gone for good. At the same time, true repentance entails embracing your new life in Christ Jesus without regret.

Repentance is what sets you free and leads to confession and the forsaking of sin, ultimately placing your trust in the only Saviour, our Lord Jesus Christ.

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CONFESSION

Repentance and confession go hand-in-hand and lead to the forgiveness of your sins:

1 John 1:9 says:

If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.

John tells us that to have our sins forgiven, we must first confess them. However, it is highly unlikely that you can name and remember every sin you have committed. The focus of confession is acknowledging your guilt, disobedience, and rebellion against God. You ask for forgiveness for all your wrongs, knowing that God is faithful and just to forgive.

The Role of Faith in Confession

It is through faith that you know God is faithful and forgiving, which enables you to confess freely. To be cleansed from all unrighteousness means the removal of the guilt associated with your wrongdoing. The writer of Hebrews explains well how your guilt is cleansed and forgiven through the blood of Jesus Christ:

Hebrews 9:14 says:

How much more shall the blood of Christ, who through the eternal Spirit offered himself without spot to God, purge your conscience from dead works to serve the living God?

Repentance involves two aspects: forsaking our sinful lives to turn and draw near to God with a pure heart, embracing a life of holiness and righteousness:

Hebrews 10:21-22 says:

And having an high priest over the house of God; Let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith, having our hearts sprinkled from an evil conscience, and our bodies washed with pure water.

True Repentance and Confession

True repentance of the heart requires forsaking sin and returning to God, putting your full trust in Him, and allowing Him to work salvation in you:

Isaiah 55:7 says:

Let the wicked forsake his way, and the unrighteous man his thoughts: and let him return unto the LORD, and he will have mercy upon him; and to our God, for he will abundantly pardon.

The next point may seem obvious, but it is crucial: your confession is not to a man-made priesthood but to Jesus Christ Himself. There is no other name or person under heaven through whom you can be saved.

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EXCEPT YOU BELIEVE ON JESUS CHRIST

Believing on Jesus Christ fulfils the requirement for receiving Him and being saved:

John 3:36 says:

He that believeth on the Son hath everlasting life: and he that believeth not the Son shall not see life; but the wrath of God abideth on him.

To believe on Jesus Christ is to accept and place your full dependence and trust in His sacrifice and shed blood on Calvary to pay for your sins.

The Depth of True Belief

Believing on Jesus goes beyond merely acknowledging that He lived, died, and rose again. It is more than a mental acknowledgement that Jesus is good and the Son of God. True belief entails a heart change — it is a belief centred in your heart and unwavering:

John 3:16 says:

For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.

The writer of Hebrews emphasises the importance of belief and faith in obtaining the reward of salvation:

Hebrews 11:6 says:

But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him.

The Necessity of Faith in Jesus Christ

It is Jesus Christ whom you must seek and accept as your God and Saviour. Jesus said:

John 8:24 says:

I said therefore unto you, that ye shall die in your sins: for if ye believe not that I am he, ye shall die in your sins.

You will not progress far in the race that leads to Heaven unless you wholeheartedly believe in and give your life to Jesus Christ.

The Power of Belief

It is this belief that empowers you to overcome sin, self, and the devil, who is the god of this world:

1 John 5:5 says:

Who is he that overcometh the world, but he that believeth that Jesus is the Son of God?

When you reach that point of absolute surrender to Jesus Christ, you trust in His blood to cleanse you from all sin and give you His life. At this moment, repentance and faith are complete, and your soul is born again as a child of God.

God has promised to keep you from falling, but you must accept the condition — that what you genuinely and honestly believe, you will dedicate yourself to. It is not only necessary to have faith in God; you must also invest your life in Him.

It would be wonderful to be born again and immediately find yourself at the finish line, but that is not the reality. There is a race that must be run, requiring discipline and steadfastness to endure.

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EXCEPT YOU HOLD STEADFAST

In the race of faith, perseverance is crucial. Maintaining discipline while running is essential for reaching the finish line. Solomon cautioned against overlooking seemingly insignificant details, as they can lead to significant challenges later on:

Song of Songs 2:15 says:

Take us the foxes, the little foxes, that spoil the vines: for our vines have tender grapes.

It is said that people let little things cheat them out of big opportunities. This module aims to tackle those easily overlooked details, since neglecting them leads to failure. The writer of Hebrews issues a cautionary message:

Hebrews 3:14 says:

For we are made partakers of Christ, if we hold the beginning of our confidence stedfast unto the end;

The term “steadfast” embodies unwavering determination, firmly anchored in Jesus Christ and the ultimate goal — the finish line. It implies facing opposition and requires discipline to endure. God seeks individuals who have been tested and proven worthy for His divine plan.

The Reality of Persecution and Temptation

Despite claims by false prophets, God does not guarantee exemption from suffering or persecution:

2 Timothy 3:12 says:

Yea, and all that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution.

Despite persecution and temptation, it is vital to remember that God has the ability to preserve and deliver you, as Peter affirms:

2 Peter 2:9 says:

The Lord knoweth how to deliver the godly out of temptations, and to reserve the unjust unto the day of judgment to be punished:

Choosing to live a godly life and rejecting sin for Christ will inevitably draw opposition. Upon being born again, you enter a spiritual battlefield. It is not a physical conflict against human adversaries, but a spiritual warfare, as Paul reveals:

2 Corinthians 10:3-4 says:

For though we walk in the flesh, we do not war after the flesh: (For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal, but mighty through God to the pulling down of strong holds;)

Ephesians 6:12 says:

For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places.

The Importance of Vigilance and Faith

You must remain vigilant and not take this lightly. Temptation will always be present in this world, and yielding to it leads to loss. Relying on your own strength is insufficient; instead, resist in faith, trusting in God and His grace. Peter urges us to resist temptation, stay sober, and remain watchful at all times:

1 Peter 5:8-9 says:

Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour: Whom resist stedfast in the faith, knowing that the same afflictions are accomplished in your brethren that are in the world.

One crucial test you will face is your trust, belief, and application of God’s Word. Paul in Acts 20 and John in his epistles warned about numerous false prophets and teachers who have infiltrated the world. These deceivers, though posing as Christian ministers, propagate doctrines that hinder one’s life in Christ.

Therefore, the previous, current, and forthcoming modules are immensely significant as they urge you to personally study God’s Word — equipping you to discern and properly interpret it:

2 Timothy 2:15 says:

Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.

2 Timothy 2:16 says:

But shun profane and vain babblings: for they will increase unto more ungodliness.

The Power of God’s Grace

Never lose sight of the power and grace of God, and the purpose of salvation:

Titus 2:11-12 says:

For the grace of God that bringeth salvation hath appeared to all men, Teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly, in this present world;

Acknowledging that you are engaged in warfare is undeniable, yet victory is not achieved through earthly weapons. The weapons at your disposal are potent — powerful through God, capable of dismantling every stronghold — if you remain steadfast and endure until the end. This race is not a sprint but a test of endurance, where attending to the small details ensures success in the larger challenges ahead:

Ecclesiastes 9:11 says:

I returned, and saw under the sun, that the race is not to the swift, nor the battle to the strong, neither yet bread to the wise, nor yet riches to men of understanding, nor yet favour to men of skill; but time and chance happeneth to them all.

Keep in mind that the Holy Spirit, the Comforter, will provide guidance and lead you to triumph in this significant race. He will sustain you as long as you stay loyal and steadfast. Victory is assured and bestowed through His grace.

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EXCEPT YOU FORGIVE OTHERS

Forgiveness is crucial not only for beginning the race of faith but also for enduring in it. Many acknowledge the importance of forgiving others, yet some struggle with this concept. However, God’s forgiveness of your sins is contingent on your readiness to forgive those who may have wronged you.

If you hold onto unforgiveness, God cannot grant you forgiveness:

Matthew 6:15 says:

But if ye forgive not men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses.

The Conditional Nature of God’s Forgiveness

God’s forgiveness is conditional — He cannot forgive those who harbour hatred, seek revenge, or are consumed by bitterness. He can only instil His forgiveness in your heart if you are willing to emulate His character. God’s purpose in salvation is to transform you into His likeness, characterised by love, mercy, and forgiveness. If you resist this transformation, He cannot assist you.

Failure to forgive leaves you unforgiven, unsaved, and without hope of Heaven. Unforgiveness is clearly regarded as sin by God, and He can only help you if you are willing to surrender your heart to Him. Recognising the need for forgiveness and repentance through the conviction of the Holy Spirit will lead you to seek God and desire forgiveness.

Following Jesus’ Example of Forgiveness

When this becomes a reality in your life, you will be willing to forgive those who have wronged you, following Jesus’ example of forgiveness even amidst great injustice. Unforgiveness and vengeance cannot coexist with the love of God in the heart of a believer:

Romans 12:19-20 says:

Dearly beloved, avenge not yourselves, but rather give place unto wrath: for it is written, Vengeance is mine; I will repay, saith the Lord. Therefore if thine enemy hunger, feed him; if he thirst, give him drink: for in so doing thou shalt heap coals of fire on his head.

The correct interpretation of verse 19 is to refrain from seeking vengeance and to avoid giving in to wrath or anger, but to entrust yourself to God, who will act on your behalf. This is why we follow Jesus Christ — to exercise discipline in not seeking revenge and refraining from taking matters into our own hands.

The Importance of Forgiving as God Forgives

Always remind yourself that you are undeserving of God’s forgiveness. You deserved justice — the wages of sin is death — but instead, God granted you forgiveness. Jesus bestowed forgiveness upon you. Do likewise. You must forgive because you have received forgiveness.

Forgiveness is inherent to God’s nature, and it becomes yours when you are born again. As Peter’s epistle states, you become a partaker of God’s nature when you are born again:

2 Peter 1:4 says:

Whereby are given unto us exceeding great and precious promises: that by these ye might be partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust.

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EXCEPT YOU LOVE

To run and finish well in this race, it is essential to love with the love of God. Love is absolutely central to salvation:

1 John 4:7-8 says:

Beloved, let us love one another: for love is of God; and every one that loveth is born of God, and knoweth God. He that loveth not knoweth not God; for God is love.

Love is the essence of God and the governing principle of His kingdom. As Jesus stated in John 13:

John 13:34-35 says:

A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another. By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another.

The Divine Nature of Love

No unsaved person possesses the ability to love as commanded, but this love — enabled and bestowed by God — was poured into your heart when you were born again:

Romans 5:5 says:

And hope maketh not ashamed; because the love of God is shed abroad in our hearts by the Holy Ghost which is given unto us.

This is the love that Jesus prayed His disciples would receive in John 17:

John 17:26 says:

And I have declared unto them thy name, and will declare it: that the love wherewith thou hast loved me may be in them, and I in them.

This love is the same love that compelled Jesus to go to Calvary and die for you, even when you were His enemy and a sinner. It is a divine love that enables you to love those who are the hardest to love. Those who are perceived as unlovely are the ones who need the love of God the most.

The Selfless Nature of God’s Love

The love poured into your heart is not selfish; it is a love that serves and gives without seeking self-promotion. God giving Himself as the Saviour of the world through the Cross of Calvary is the ultimate demonstration of true love:

John 3:16 says:

For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.

This love is so precious that it cannot be found on earth, nor can it be manufactured. It is the essence and embodiment of God Himself, which can only be received through new birth. Only those who are born again possess the love of God. John emphasises the advantage of perfect love, which is essential for running the race well:

1 John 4:18 says:

There is no fear in love; but perfect love casteth out fear: because fear hath torment. He that feareth is not made perfect in love.

The Power of Perfect Love

This fear is not about external threats such as facing wild animals or storms. It is about the inward and persistent fear experienced by unbelievers. The love of God brings a peace that surpasses understanding.

Today, God’s love is often evaluated based on its social and economic impact. There is a misconception that the Church’s role is primarily to uplift people’s current physical conditions. However, this is not the true purpose of the Church, as Jesus instructed His disciples:

Mark 16:15-16 says:

And he said unto them, Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature. He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved; but he that believeth not shall be damned.

The true purpose of the love of God is for the spiritual well-being of humanity:

Luke 19:10 says:

For the Son of man is come to seek and to save that which was lost.

While good works such as feeding the hungry, aiding those in trouble, and comforting the sorrowful are important, they should never overshadow the true purpose of God’s love in salvation. The primary goal of the Church is to meet the spiritual and eternal needs of humanity.

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BE YE HOLY

Righteousness and holiness are crucial for starting your race well, as emphasised by the writer of Hebrews:

Hebrews 12:14 says:

Follow peace with all men, and holiness, without which no man shall see the Lord:

Holiness is as integral to God’s character as His love. Peter urges us to pursue holiness:

1 Peter 1:15-16 says:

But as he which hath called you is holy, so be ye holy in all manner of conversation; Because it is written, Be ye holy; for I am holy.

The Nature of Holiness

Being holy is not merely a choice made by human will; it is the character of God that we receive through salvation. Holiness is demonstrated through our actions, displaying the nature and character of God. It is our obedience and conformity to Christ:

Titus 2:11-12 says:

For the grace of God that bringeth salvation hath appeared to all men, Teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly, in this present world;

From these verses, we understand that holiness involves living godly lives in the present world, displaying the nature and character of God. However, holiness should not be equated with freedom from mistakes. When mistakes occur, a godly person will strive to make corrections where possible.

As Jesus stated in the Gospel of Matthew:

Matthew 5:48 says:

Be ye therefore perfect, even as your Father which is in heaven is perfect.

Perfection and Holiness

This perfection pertains to sin, not to mere mistakes. A genuine disciple of Jesus Christ does not engage in sin. While everyone can make mistakes, sin involves not just actions but also wrong motives. James explains what sin entails:

James 4:17 says:

Therefore, to him that knoweth to do good, and doeth it not, to him it is sin.

The motive behind an action gives it its true character. A child of God would not intentionally disobey Him.

When we consider the context of Jesus’ words in Matthew 5, He is addressing the challenge of loving our enemies, blessing those who curse us, and praying for those who mistreat and persecute us. While it may seem impossible in the natural, it becomes achievable with the love of God in our hearts.

The emphasis lies in the fact that obedience, holiness, and godliness are choices we make daily. Holiness is not just about avoiding sin — it is empowered by God to keep us from sinning. The distinction between mistakes and sin lies in the presence of guilt: mistakes may have consequences but lack the burden of guilt, while sin always brings guilt due to its wrongful motives and deliberate disobedience to God’s revealed will.

Righteousness and Holiness in Daily Life

Holiness and righteousness are intertwined. Righteousness is the choice and commitment to walk in the right way — the way of Jesus Christ:

John 14:6 says:

Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.

Paul reminded the Corinthians to awaken to righteousness:

1 Corinthians 15:34 says:

Awake to righteousness, and sin not; …

Jesus Christ is indeed our righteousness. When we choose to walk in the light as He is in the light, we are unable to knowingly sin against God:

1 Corinthians 1:30 says:

But of him are ye in Christ Jesus, who of God is made unto us wisdom, and righteousness, and sanctification, and redemption:

Paul instructed the Ephesians to put on the “new man”:

Ephesians 4:24 says:

And that ye put on the new man, which after God is created in righteousness and true holiness.

Daily Commitment to Righteousness and Holiness

Righteousness and true holiness are choices that must be made every single day — not by the will of the flesh, but in obedience to Christ who dwells within you:

2 Corinthians 5:21 says:

For he hath made him to be sin for us, who knew no sin; that we might be made the righteousness of God in him.

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SUMMARY

Overview of “The Disciple’s Toolkit”

“The Disciple’s Toolkit” is designed to equip new believers with foundational principles essential for starting their Christian journey effectively and finishing strong — much like running a race. The Apostle Paul’s analogy of a race underscores the need for perseverance and determination in the Christian faith, themes that are central to this Study Guide.

Understanding Revelation and Salvation

The concept of “Revelation,” as outlined in the book of Revelation, is emphasised as God’s way of disclosing hidden truths to His servants — those who have been born again and live in righteousness. This understanding lays the groundwork for a deeper exploration of salvation and the believer’s journey.

Salvation is portrayed not as an intellectual belief system but as a profound spiritual transformation. Jesus’ declaration that one must be “born again” to enter and see the Kingdom of God highlights the necessity of this new birth. This transformation marks the beginning of a new life in Christ, characterised by a new heart and spirit given by God. Believers are thus empowered to live in obedience to Christ, guided by the Holy Spirit.

Living as a Disciple of Christ

Christianity is not about rituals or formulas; it is an active, living relationship with Christ. The life of a disciple is one of submission to Christ, resulting in a new identity in Him. This identity is further solidified as believers become a “new creature” — where old ways are forsaken and a new life in Christ begins.

The Role of Repentance, Confession, and Forgiveness

This Study Guide establishes the necessity of true repentance and confession for salvation. True repentance, prompted by the Holy Spirit, involves a complete turnaround — a forsaking of sin and a turning toward God. Confession of sins is essential, leading to God’s forgiveness and the cleansing of one’s conscience, which enables the believer to walk in newness of life.

Forgiveness is highlighted not only as a prerequisite for receiving God’s forgiveness, but also as a critical aspect of enduring in the faith. Holding onto unforgiveness can hinder one’s relationship with God and impede spiritual growth.

The Power of Love

Love is portrayed as the essence of God’s nature and a fundamental aspect of living out the Christian faith. It is through divine love that believers are empowered to overcome fear and remain steadfast in their race toward eternal life. The love of God, poured into the hearts of believers through the Holy Spirit, enables them to love others — even those who are difficult to love.

Conclusion

This Study Guide serves as a crucial guide for new believers, providing the necessary tools to begin and sustain their journey in Christ. It emphasises the importance of a transformed life, the need for repentance and forgiveness, and the power of love in living out the Christian faith. “The Disciple’s Toolkit” offers foundational principles that are vital for starting well and enduring in the race of faith.

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SUBMISSION TO COGMA FOR APPRAISAL