Loving God Resources: Grace (Christian Basics)

Grace (Christian Basics): Having confidence that you have a relationship with God and that you will spend eternity with Him.

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The resources listed for this topic (the Bible) are quite extensive. To start with, we recommend one activity most: gaining an understanding & love for reading/studying the Bible. Understanding the Bible is absolutely central to growing as a Christ-follower! The spiritual practice of reading the Bible is something we do to better know God and experience life-change.
As an introduction to this vital concept, we recommend a Bible-Reading Plan. There are Bible Reading Plans for people at all levels -- if you've never read the Bible or if you know it well.

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Christianity 101

Author: Gilbert Bilezikian
© 1993 Zondervan ISBN 0310577012
Notes: Make sense of 8 basic doctrines of Christianity without having to go to seminary! Recommended most for seasoned Christians looking to build on their current understanding of these topics. New Christians or seekers should consider some of the other resources on this page instead. Still, this is a worthwhile read for growing Christ-followers looking to better understand doctrines about the Bible, God, Jesus, the Holy Spirit, Redemption, and more. (NOTE: This isn't an easy book to read -- the 101 in the title refers to a general overview.)
Resource Access: Leaders can access at the library or anyone can order online
Growth Level: Deepen

Letters From a Skeptic

Author: Gregory & Edward Boyd
© 1994 Cook Communications ISBN 1564762440
Notes: This easy-to-read book is mostly a conversation between a father and son about the father's questions about the Christian faith. You may not be interested in reading all chapters or reading them in order - read what interests you. This book has been read by dozens & dozens of people at Gateway and has helped many people better understand Christianity. Those in the Discover season may find it helpful with their own questions. Those in other seasons may find it helpful to understand basics of Christian faith.
Growth Level: Discover

Basic Christianity

Author: John R. Stott
© Numerous, including 1981 Wm. B. Eerdmans Publishing Company ISBN 0802811892
Notes: This book has been called "a modern classic" for helping people understand their personal faith. It's a short book, but contains four meaty sections about Christ's Person, Man's Need, Christ's Work, and Man's Response.
Resource Access: Purchase at a bookstore (including at Gateway) or order online
Growth Level: Develop

Know Why You Believe

Author: Paul Little
© Many Editions Various ISBN Various
Notes: Easy-to-follow book for individuals with common questions about faith. Read the chapters that interest you. Can be read in conjunction with "Know What You Believe" also by Paul Little. This volume addresses questions such as "Is Christianity Rational" and "Are the Bible Documents Reliable" in a readable, conversational format.
Resource Access: Purchase at a bookstore (including at Gateway) or order online
Growth Level: Discover (New Christ-Followers)

Know What You Believe

Author: Paul Little
© Many Editions Various ISBN Various
Notes: Easy-to-follow overview of Christian doctrines. A book suitable for individuals looking to understand what they already believe, or to consider the claims of Christianity. Can be read with "Know Why You Believe" also by Paul Little. You may not find that every chapter deals with your own personal questions, so feel free to read the chapters that do.
Resource Access: Purchase at a bookstore or order online
Growth Level: Discover (New Christ-Followers)

What's So Amazing About Grace

Author: Philip Yancey
© 2002 Zondervan ISBN 0310245656
Notes: worldwide atrocities and our own sin.
Resource Access: Purchase at a bookstore (including at Gateway) or order online
Growth Level: Develop

Handbook of Christian Apologetics

Author: Peter Kreeft & Ronald K. Tacelli
© 1994 InterVarsity Press ISBN 0830817743
Notes: Among all the many books on Apologetics (the "defense" of the Christian faith), this one stands out for it's clear approach, in-depth chapters, solid answers, and broad content. Kreeft & Tacelli are both very knowledgeable about Christianity and their knowledge comes out strong in this volume. Recommended for those who might call themselves "intellectuals" who are seeking to better understand what they already believe and to share that knowledge with others. Don't feel like you have to read the entire book -- skip to the sections that interest you first. Like other books on apologetics, this one covers all the basics (God's existence, miracles, Jesus' resurrection, etc.), but this book stands out for the very well-though-out logic, the treatment of opposing viewpoints, and clearly defined concepts.
Resource Access: Purchase at a bookstore (including at Gateway) or order online
Growth Level: Deepen

Mere Christianity

Author: C.S. Lewis
© Many Editions Harper San Francisco ISBN Various
Notes: C.S. Lewis's classic book about the Christian faith, presented in a logical and intellectual fashion. Recommended for those looking to better understand what they believe. Recommended highly for those who like to read and consider themselves strong readers -- this is a great book, but can be dense reading.
Resource Access: Purchase at a bookstore (including at Gateway) or order online
Growth Level: Deepen

Shame & Grace

Author: Lewis Smedes
Harper San Francisco ISBN 0060675225
Notes: This book is recommended for people who have feelings of shame, or feelings that they "don't measure up." Shame takes many forms and comes from many sources, and this book talks about many of them (rejection, spiritual shame, shame from our parents, churches, and selves, etc.). The author talks about how grace and acceptance bring healing to the shame we experience.
Resource Access: Purchase at a bookstore (including at Gateway) or order online
Growth Level: Develop

Baptism @ Gateway Community Church

Event Organizer: Gateway Community Church
(NA) - Schedule: (NA)
Notes: Mark your commitment to follow Christ through baptism. Use the link below to view a statement about what Baptism is. Email baptism@gatewaychurch.com or call the church offices to get a personal study resource that can help you think about where you''re at and if baptism is the right step for you now.
Resource Access: Email baptism@gatewaychurch.com or view the baptism statement online.
Growth Level: Discover (New Christ-Followers)

What's So Amazing About Grace: Visual Edition

Author: Philip Yancey
© 2003 Zondervan ISBN 0310249473
Notes: The Visual Edition of What's So Amazing About Grace presents the text of the original with thought-provoking photography and illustrations. It's a beautifully-designed book either as a companion to the regular edition, or as a stand-alone. We classified this in the "Do" category because it's so much more than just something to read!
Resource Access: Purchase at a bookstore or order online
Growth Level: Develop

The Life - A Journey With God (DFD 2.1)

Author: NavPress
© 2004 NavPress ISBN 1576836363
Notes: Work through this personal study guide and think about who God is and what He is like. You'll look up lots of Scripture passages to help you understand what it means to live the Christian life. Great for anyone looking to initially understand (or to refresh their understanding) the basics of Christian faith.
Resource Access: Buy at a bookstore, including at Gateway order online
Growth Level: Discover (New Christ-Followers)

Media

There are currently no resources of this type in this category.

Group Study

Why Become a Christian?

Author / Series: Garry Poole / Tough Questions (Willow Creek)
© 1998 Zondervan ISBN 310222281
Bible Section: Topical Study
Notes: A book for groups (also potentially useful for individuals) dealing with common questions about Christianity. Covers topics such as "Who did Jesus claim to be?" and "What difference does Jesus make today?"
Resource Access: Leaders can access at the library or anyone can order online
Leader Notes: 6 sessions. Due to the content presented, this is recommended for leaders who are knowledgeable about the Christian faith. This series is great for investigative groups.
Growth Level: Discover (Spiritual Seekers)

What's So Amazing About Grace Study Guide

Author / Series: Philip Yancey & Brenda Quinn / Stand-Alone
© 1998 Zondervan ISBN 0310219043
Bible Section: Topical Study
Notes: This is the study guide to accompany Philip Yancey's book by the same title (see above).
Resource Access: Leaders can access at the library or anyone can order online
Leader Notes: 14 sessions. Recommended for groups who are willing to read from the book & study guide as homework. This book really hits at some great content, especially for growing Christ-followers.
Growth Level: Develop

John

Author / Series: Ron Blankley / Life Guide
© 2002 InterVarsity Press ISBN 0830830200
Bible Section: NT-1 John
Notes: At some point in their Christian lives, most of us have a desire to get back to the true essence of our faith. Considering the three letters of John helps us to do that. This study guide will lead you through some of these essentials of faith, including forgiveness, encouragement, faith, love, and truth.
Resource Access: Leaders can access at the library or anyone can order online
Leader Notes: 12 sessions. The Life Guide studies are usually easy to lead. Note the length of the study and how long it will take your small group to complete.
Growth Level: Deepen

Grace: An Invitation to a Way of Life

Author / Series: John Ortberg, Laurie Pederson, Judson Poling / Pursuing Spiritual Transformation
© 2000 Zondervan ISBN 0310220742
Bible Section: Topical Study
Notes: A group study book that tries to help the reader connect the intellectual concept of Grace with the reality of Grace in everyday life.
Resource Access: Purchase at a bookstore (including at Gateway) or order online
Leader Notes: 7 sessions. Recommended for experienced leaders. This series offers some good content, but often questions, activities, and application need to be re-worked.
Growth Level: Develop

How Could God Allow Suffering and Evil?

Author / Series: Gary Poole / Tough Questions (Willow Creek)
© 2003 Zondervan ISBN 0310245052
Bible Section: Topical Study
Notes: This edition of the Tough Questions small group series takes on the huge question of suffering and evil. Includes sessions on the devil, heaven and hell in addition to questions about suffering. Suitable for discussions with spiritual seekers.
Resource Access: Buy at a bookstore, including at Gateway online ordering
Leader Notes: 6 sessions. Suitable for seeker-oriented small groups, or for one-on-one talks with skeptics.
Growth Level: Discover (Spiritual Seekers)

Essential Christianity

Author / Series: Bill Hybels / InterActions (Willow Creek)
© 2005 (updated) Zondervan ISBN 0310266041
Bible Section: Topical Study
Notes: A group study exploring the basics of faith. What does it mean to really know Christ? What is spiritual growth all about? How can I follow Christ in a non-Christian world?
Resource Access: Buy at a bookstore, including at Gateway online ordering
Leader Notes: 6 sessions. Recommended for new leaders, especially.
Growth Level: Discover (New Christ-Followers)

Christian Beliefs

Author / Series: Stephen Eyre / Life Guide
© 2001 InterVarsity Press ISBN 0830830618
Bible Section: Topical Study
Notes: Knowing what you believe and why you believe it is truly important. This study guide covers topics about God, Jesus, the Holy Spirit, human nature, sin, salvation, holiness, the church, missions, revelation, and the last things.
Resource Access: Leaders can access at the library or anyone can order online
Leader Notes: 12 sessions. The Life Guide studies are usually easy to lead.
Growth Level: Develop

Basic Beliefs

Author / Series: Keith Hunt / Discipleship
© 1992 Zondervan ISBN 0310547016
Bible Section: Topical Study
Notes: This book talks about basic beliefs core to Christianity, including chapters on God's nature, human nature, eternity, and the church.
Resource Access: Leaders can access at the library or anyone can order online
Leader Notes: 6 sessions. This is a very standard small group study guide with questions for discussion and leader's notes.
Growth Level: Develop

Living the Questions in Mark

Author / Series: The Navigators / Living the Questions
© 2005 NavPress ISBN 1576838609
Bible Section: NT-Mark
Notes: A 10-week study guide about questions Jesus posed his followers, as recorded in Mark's gospel. Includes text from the Message. Suitable for those without much Bible knowledge and those who have read the texts before. The audience of this book is Christ-followers.
Resource Access: Buy at a bookstore online ordering
Leader Notes: 10 sessions.
Growth Level: Develop

Commitment: My Heart--Christ

Bible Section: Topical Study
Notes: This study guide covers six Scripture passages, organized into thinking of your life as a house -- chapters are the study, the dining room, the living room, the recreation room, the bedroom, and the hall closet. Based on Munger's pamphlet by the same title, this study explores some basics of how God sees us.
Resource Access: Leaders can access at the library or anyone can order online
Leader Notes: 6 sessions. Includes leaders notes; could also work for running partners.
Growth Level: Develop

Galatians: Why God Accepts Us

Bible Section: NT-Galatians
Notes: This study guide on the book of Galatians is all about how God accepts us -- about how God sees us through our acceptance in Christ. This is a great topic for anyone looking to understand grace better -- especially in light of the "ungrace" we experience from other people in daily life.
Resource Access: Leaders can access at the library or anyone can order online
Leader Notes: 11 sessions. The Life Guide studies are usually easy to lead.
Growth Level: Deepen

1 & 2 Thessalonians: How Can I Be Sure?

Bible Section: NT-1 Thessalonians
Notes: In this study, you'll think about your faith -- about your life -- about how God sees you. Paul's letters to the Thessalonians cover some big topics about faith - this study guide helps you make sense of what those letters mean. Questions include: How can I be sure of my beliefs? How can I be sure of God's approval? How can I be sure that I will go to heaven? And more.
Resource Access: Buy at a bookstore, including at Gateway online ordering
Leader Notes: 10 sessions. The Life Guide studies are usually easy to lead.
Growth Level: Deepen

Christ: Basic Christianity

Bible Section: Topical Study
Notes: This is a study guide about basic Christianity -- could be used in conjunction with John Stott's book "Basic Christianity" (see above).
Resource Access: Purchase at a bookstore or order online
Leader Notes: 6 sessions. Leaders notes included. Leaders strongly encouraged to have a copy of "Basic Christianity" by John Stott and other reference materials available.
Growth Level: Develop

Great Themes

Bible Section: Topical Study
Notes: By examining six large themes of the Bible, this guide helps the student understand both some essentials of the Christian faith, and how to better understand the Bible.
Resource Access: Order online thru Amazon.com
Leader Notes: 6 sessions. The Bible 101 series is most suitable for spiritual seekers and new believers.
Growth Level: Discover

God Are You There?

Bible Section: NT-John
Notes: This study through the Gospel of John is suitable for those who have limited or no Biblical knowledge.
Resource Access: Buy at a bookstore, including at Gateway online ordering
Leader Notes: 13 sessions. Includes study helps and a leader's guide.
Growth Level: Discover (New Christ-Followers)

Certainty: Know Why You Believe

Bible Section: Topical Study
Notes: This is a study guide about basic Christianity -- could be used in conjunction with Paul Little's book "Know Why You Believe" (see above). This guide involves discussion around issues central to Christian faith.
Resource Access: Purchase at a bookstore or order online
Leader Notes: 6 sessions. Leaders notes included. Leaders strongly encouraged to have a copy of "Know Why You Believe" by Paul Little available for person study and reference.
Growth Level: Develop