Sadly, over the past several years, we have seen multitudes of discouraged disciples leaving the ranks of our movement. And joyously, many of them are returning, as they recognize the emptiness of a life apart from God.
Beginning with this installment, we will present a series of Bible studies to help our disheartened brothers and sisters return to the fold. We encourage you to consider using these guides to ease the transition as our people continue to heal from the wounds of the past.
This first study comes from John Oakes, a teacher in the San Diego Church:
Brothers, if someone is caught in a sin, you who are spiritual should restore him gently. But watch yourself, or you also may be tempted. (Gal 6:1)
So he got up and went to his father. “But while he was still a long way off, his father saw him and was filled with compassion for him; he ran to his son, threw his arms around him and kissed him. The son said to him, ‘Father, I have sinned against heaven and against you. I am no longer worthy to be called your son.” But the father said to his servants, ‘Quick! Bring the best robe and put it on him. Put a ring on his finger and sandals on his feet. Bring the fattened calf and kill it. Let’s have a feast and celebrate. For this son of mine was dead and is alive again; he was lost and is found.’ So they began to celebrate. (Luke 15:20-24)
Create in me a pure heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me.
Do not cast me from your presence or take your Holy Spirit from me.
Restore to me the joy of your salvation and grant me a willing spirit, to sustain me.
Then I will teach transgressors your ways, and sinners will turn back to you. (Ps 51:10-13)
Before You Begin:
It is important for you as the teacher to understand that it can be a difficult journey to come back to the church and that someone who has fallen once has a high risk of falling again. Therefore, be sure that you express your joy about their decision to return and an appreciation for their heart to once again study the Bible. Have a great thankful prayer for the pending victory. Ask for God’s mercy for the person who is studying, and that his great wisdom and power will do what is necessary to bring spiritual conviction, an open heart and ultimately restoration.
In a restoration, it is not so much teaching the person as it is helping them re-convict their own heart with the word and connect at a heart level with God. If they were initially “cut to the heart” by their sin due to ignorance and lack of understanding, how much more should they be “cut to the heart” having turned their back on their God knowing the price that was paid for their soul.
Great preliminary discussion:
