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

Please take as much time as you have available to answer these and other questions that the video brought out. The Word that converts is the Gospel of Jesus, which leads us to repentance and faith, to salvation in Jesus Christ. To know and understand these concepts is critical for ministry and discipleship, especially the reformation ideas of sola gratia (by grace alone) and sola fides (by faith alone). Be clear and concise in your answers, and where possible, support with Scripture! 1. Why is it necessary for an unbeliever to experience new life within, and not merely an outward change of lifestyle in order to begin a relationship with God in Christ? 2. What is the relationship between the Word of God in the Gospel and the conversion of the new believer? Why is it necessary to believe the good news concerning Christ in order to be saved by God? 3. What is the biblical meaning of the term metanoia ? What are some of the main biblical components to the idea of biblical repentance? Is it possible to have saving faith that does not include the act of repentance within it? Explain your answer. 4. What is the meaning of the term sola gratia ? How does this term help us understand the nature of the Word that converts? 5. What is the definition given for sola fides ? How does the Reformation doctrine (“by grace through faith alone”) help us understand the way in which God converts the soul of the new believer by faith in Jesus Christ? 6. List out the specific items associated with the apostolic witness concerning Jesus Christ. How are we as believers to receive this witness that they give to the life, death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus Christ? 7. What are the three tenses associated with the redeeming and converting power of God in Jesus for the Christian? Can God save in one phase, and the believer be lost in another? Explain. 8. Why is it necessary to never conceive of repentance and faith as a work which the believer does to earn God’s favor and forgiveness?

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Student Questions and Response

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