The family of God : a handbook for adult disciples of Jesus Christ / Douglas Beyer. [print]

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Welcome to the family -- Disciplines of the family -- Beliefs of the family -- Distinctives of the family -- Celebrations of the family -- Commitment to the family -- Outreach of the family.

Welcome to the family of God. Your new life in Christ opens doors of opportunity for growing in faith as part of God's extended family-your local American Baptist church. This handbook is designed to enrich your understanding of your very personal, loving relationship with your God and with your church family. If you are making a first-time commitment to Christ, you will be challenged by Douglas Beyer's clear, in-depth discussion of the privileges and responsibilities which are yours as a member of God's family. If you are renewing a commitment made long ago, you'll find your faith revitalized through specific guidelines for developing and strengthening the disciplines of Bible study, prayer, church attendance, and Christian service. "A Christian without a church is like a bee without a hive," writes Beyer in his study of the church-its basic Christian beliefs, beliefs which are distinctively Baptist, historical roots of Baptists, and organization of today's Baptist Church. Stressing that "discipleship training is not a six-week course-it is a lifetime of study, reflection, and learning," the chapters devoted to stewardship and mission outreach are essential study for all members of the Baptist family. To every person embarking upon a new life in Christ, Beyer says, "God offers you a purpose-filled life." Welcome to your local church where you will find spiritual support ot strengthen your commitment.