⬛️ Chapter 1 : I Believe in the Bible
(By Men's Group Leader Thomas)

The book "I Believe" underscores the centrality of the Bible in the Christian faith, presenting it as the inspired Word of God, essential for salvation, spiritual growth, and understanding God's will. Through relatable anecdotes and scriptural references, the author emphasizes the transformative power of the Bible and its foundational role in the lives of believers.

Leaving a Legacy of Faith
The story of a grandfather creating annotated Bibles for his three grandsons serves as an inspiring example of passing down a legacy rooted in God's Word. By dedicating years to read and annotate journaling Bibles, this grandfather provides his grandsons with personalized commentaries and insights into Scripture. This act illustrates how the Bible, as a timeless and powerful gift, shapes lives and faith across generations.

The Bible as the Word of God
The book asserts that the Bible is unequivocally the Word of God, breathed by Him and containing absolute truth. Old Testament passages, such as Jeremiah 1:9, and New Testament affirmations, such as 2 Timothy 3:16, highlight its divine inspiration. The entirety of Scripture, from Genesis to Revelation, is seen as God's communication to humanity, offering guidance, correction, and truth.

The Inspiration of Scripture
The term "inspired" is examined as the breath of God ("theos pneustos" in Greek), signifying the divine origin of the Bible. Unlike general inspiration in art or creativity, biblical inspiration ensures every word is truthful and authoritative. Hebrews 4:12 describes Scripture as "alive and powerful," capable of exposing hearts and transforming lives. Daily engagement with the Bible leads to spiritual growth, deeper prayer lives, and a stronger commitment to Christ and the Church.

The Necessity of the Bible
The Bible is indispensable for knowing and experiencing God’s salvation and growing in faith. Romans 10:14-17 emphasizes the need for Scripture to proclaim the Good News. It not only leads individuals to Christ but also reveals God’s will and commandments, enabling believers to live in obedience and love. Without Scripture, individuals would lack the knowledge necessary for salvation and spiritual maturity.
 
How We Got the Bible
The book provides a concise overview of how the Bible was compiled, using the concept of "canon," or the standard of measure, to describe the inspired books. Early church councils did not create the Bible but recognized and affirmed the books already embraced by the faith community.

Old Testament Canon
Criteria for inclusion in the Old Testament included:
* Evidence of divine authorship or mediation through prophets.
* Historical accuracy and alignment with Jewish faith traditions.
* Acceptance by the Jewish community as inspired Scripture.

New Testament Canon
Similarly, the New Testament books were evaluated based on:
* Apostolic authorship or association with prophetic authority.
* Early recognition by the Christian faith community.
* Consistency with Christ’s teachings and early church doctrine.
* Spiritual and moral quality, reflecting the work of the Holy Spirit.
* Use in worship by early Christians, who depended on oral and public readings.

Affirmation of the Bible’s Authority
The sixty-six books of the Bible, affirmed through these criteria, are presented as the inspired Word of God. The Bible’s divine origin, authority, and necessity. They remain vital for salvation, spiritual growth, and understanding God’s plan for humanity. The book concludes with a resounding declaration: “I believe in the Bible.”

⬛️ Discussion Topics and Study Material
(By Pastor Joshua)

1. Discussion Topics

• The Authority of the Bible as God’s Word
  • Discussion Question: Why is the Bible believed to be the Word of God?
  • Key Verses: 2 Timothy 3:16, 2 Peter 1:20-21
• The Legacy of Faith: Passing It On
  • Discussion Question: Why is leaving a legacy of faith important in modern Christian living?
  • Key Verses: Deuteronomy 6:6-7, Psalm 78:4-6
• The Importance of Reading the Bible
  • Discussion Question: How can reading the Bible impact your life and faith?
  • Key Verses: Hebrews 4:12, John 8:31-32

2. Study Material (Including Fill-in-the-Blank Activities)

(A) The Inspiration and Authority of Scripture

• Key Verse:
  • "All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting, and training in righteousness." (2 Timothy 3:16, NIV)

Fill in the blanks:

1. All Scripture is _________ by God. (Hint: 2 Timothy 3:16)
2. Scripture is useful for _________, rebuking, _________, and training in righteousness.

Reflection Question:

• What does it mean to you that the Bible is "God-breathed"?

(B) Passing on the Legacy of Faith

• Key Verse:
  • "These commandments that I give you today are to be on your hearts. Impress them on your children…" (Deuteronomy 6:6-7, NIV)

Fill in the blanks:

1. Impress them _________ on your children.
2. These commandments are to be on your _________.

Reflection Question:

• What does sharing your faith with family or friends mean to you?