Lesson 1: Foundations of Knowing God

 

                                   From Religion to Relationship: The True Walk with God

 

Introduction:

 

Many people grow up in church, hear the name of Jesus, and even see glimpses of God's power—but somehow still miss truly knowing Him. This lesson explores the difference between "having a form of godliness" and actually walking with the living God.---Key Scripture:2

 

Timothy 3:5 (ESV)  *"Having the appearance of godliness, but denying its power. Avoid such people."

 

Revelation 3:15-16 (ESV) — *"‘I know your works: you are neither cold nor hot. Would that you were either cold or hot! So, because you are lukewarm, and neither hot nor cold, I will spit you out of my mouth.

 

'"Matthew 15:8-9 (ESV) — *"‘This people honors me with their lips, but their heart is far from me; in vain do they worship me, teaching as doctrines the commandments of men.'"

 

Personal Story:

      From a young age, I experienced miracles firsthand and lived among faithful believers. I knew about God but didn't fully surrender to Him. I carried an independent spirit, thinking that giving my life fully to God would mean losing all joy and becoming pious and restricted. I didn't understand that true life is found in surrender.

     Despite attending church faithfully, I realize now I walked many years loving pleasure more than loving God—not in an outrageous, rebellious way, but in a "good person" way that lacked deep intimacy with Him.It wasn't until my heart and life were broken in a way I couldn't fix that I truly cried out to God—and found Him there, waiting, tender, and full of love.

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Religion isn't enough.

 

Knowing about God and seeing miracles isn't the same as loving Him personally.

 

Lukewarmness is dangerous.

 

God does not accept a half-hearted relationship.

 

The Holy Spirit brings the power of true godliness.

Without Him, we're just going through motions.Brokenness can be a doorway. Often, it takes coming to the end of ourselves to truly find the beginning of real life in Christ.

 

Reflection Questions:

 

1. Do I truly know God, or do I just know about Him?

 

2. In what ways might I be "lukewarm" in my faith?

 

3. Have I ever surrendered everything to Jesus?

 

4. How can I invite the Holy Spirit to bring real power into my walk with God?

 

 

Closing Prayer:"

Father, I don't want a form of godliness. I don't want to be lukewarm. I want to know You—deeply, truly, passionately. Fill me with Your Spirit. Teach me to walk closely with You. Burn away everything in me that resists full surrender. I want real life in You. In Jesus' name, Amen."

 

 

---Next Lesson Preview: Lesson 2: Meeting Each Member of the Trinity — Getting to Know Father, Son, and Holy Spirit Personally