A Compelling Testimony: Maintaining a Disciplined Walk, Christlike Character, and Godly Relationships as God's Servant

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A Compe l l i ng Tes t imony

important than what we do. The greatest asset we possess before others is the compelling nature of the testimony that we maintain and present before them. The goal of this workshop is to highlight the essential principles, perspectives, and practices necessary to maintain this kind of compelling testimony before others regarding our dedication and service to the Lord. We will first highlight the elements involved in maintaining a disciplined walk with the Lord, both personally and also in the context of the Body of Christ. We will discuss the role of the Holy Spirit in shaping the life and ministry of the person called of God, and highlight ways in which the filling of the Holy Spirit enables us to develop a Christlike character and conduct. Finally, we will consider maintaining a compelling tes timony within the web of relationships represented in one’s oikos , or one’s circle of contacts and associations. We will explore some of the critical dimensions and principles involved in presenting a clear and compelling witness of Christ and his Kingdom in the midst of and before the members of our home and marriage, in the church, with our extended family, friends and neighbors, our bosses and co workers, and even strangers and enemies. Our goal will be to help equip students with the vision to live out the Gospel with clarity and conviction, presenting those around us with undeniable evidence of the power and love of God. As a result of taking this course, each student should be able to: • Quote, interpret, and use effectively key Scriptures related to our privilege and responsibility to present a compelling testimony of Christ and his Kingdom throughout the contacts of our lives. • Trace the major elements surrounding the theme of dedication, leadership, and the discipline to become God’s person for others. • Identify and discuss the current key issues related to the nature of the spiritual disciplines of the Christian life, from both a personal and corporate perspective. • Outline the major principles and issues related to authentic spirituality as it connects to the person of the Holy Spirit in the life of the Christian leader. • Recite in an overview and in practical terms what is involved in developing a Christlike character in one’s speech, conduct, and lifestyle. • Reproduce the theme and principles related to a Christian leader’s oikos and how this concept helps us to understand