Conversion & Calling, Student Workbook, SW01

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C O N V E R S I O N A N D C A L L I N G

judge Israel and the nations, the Church, Satan and his angels, and all the wicked dead. Being intimately connected to God’s person through Jesus Christ, the Word of God produces conviction regarding the nature of truth, i.e., what is true concerning God, his work in the world, and the destiny and purpose of humankind. Jesus Christ himself is the master theme and the primary subject of the Scriptures, the fulfillment of the Old Testament sacrificial system, and the sole revealer of the invisible God’s triune glory. God’s kingdom plan is revealed in Scripture through God’s faithful covenant promise to Abraham, and its fulfillment in the person of Jesus Christ. God’s Word convicts us of the truth of his intent to save from among all the families of the earth a people for himself through Jesus Christ. The integrity of God’s Word is underpinned through the integrity of God’s chosen messengers, the prophets and the Apostles, who were given the task to represent and to speak of God’s person and plan. Now is the time for you to discuss with your fellow students your questions about the Word of God and its ability to convict of sin, righteousness, judgment, and the truth. Ministering in urban America demands the possession of this Word, which penetrates and works deeply in the heart of those who hear it to convince of its integrity and truth. In thinking upon the convicting power of the Word, what particular questions do you have in light of the material you have just studied? Maybe some of the questions below might help you form your own, more specific and critical questions. * Must the teacher or preacher believe the Word of God in order for it to convict others of sin, righteousness, judgment, and the truth? Explain your answer. * Does the Word of God produce the same level of conviction in the believer as the unbeliever? How so? Cite examples. * Does the Holy Spirit ever produce conviction of sin, righteousness, and judgment apart from the Word of God? Why or why not?

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Student Application and Implications