The book club read “The On-High Calling (volume 1)” by Theodore Austin-Sparks; below are questions for each chapter. Download the book: (Volume I): The On-High Calling (PDF line numbered version for ease of discussion) The On-High Calling (PDF non-line number version) The On-High Calling (Word non-line number version)

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Discussion Questions for Chapter 11

1. How did Malachi, the prophet, describe the spiritual condition of Judah when the Old Testament was about coming to end? (Line 15-16)
2. What would be the spiritual condition when the New Testament was coming to end?

(Line 21-24)

3. What has God been doing in the dispensation in which we are living? (Line 28-32)
4. If the vessels failed the purpose of God, what would be the reaction of God? (Line 28-37)
5. How did God constitute the marriage covenant with Old Israelites? (Line 47-53)
6. How did God show His love for Israel in O/T? Can you find 1 or 2 things even 3 things that God shew His love for Israel?   (Line 55-64)
7. What was God’s thought and intention in betrothing Israel unto Himself? （Line 66-76)
8. What was the purpose of God to raise up Israel? (Line 78-92)
9. Why are there so many marriages that failed today? (Line 94-99)
10. Why was Israel dead in the sight of the Lord? (Line 101-110)
11. What was God’s reaction with the dead Israel? (Line 107-110)
12. Who was the New Bride? (Line 112-123)
13. What is the basis of the relationship of wife (Israel) and husband (God) established on in O/T? How about in N/T (New Bride and Christ?   (Line 112-123, 142)
14. What is the meaning of a marriage and what is it for? (You can search the definition on google.)
15. What is the meaning of the Lord’s table, loaf and cup? (Line 125-137)
16. What is the meaning of Christian? (Line 139-140)
17. What is the purpose that God created us? (Eph. 1:5, Line 142-150) Apostle Paul asked the Lord three times to remove a thorn from his flesh, why didn’t the Lord answer his prayer?   (Line 157-172)
18. 1:24 “And they glorified God in me.” How did Paul glorify God through his personal experience?  (Line 164-172)
19. If the Lord has chosen those who will be saved, what is the point we still need to preach Gospel in season and out of season? (Line 174-183)
20. What is the supreme thing we are coming to when we are called by our Lord?

(Line 185-193)

22. Why is it very significant thing that the New Jerusalem is called “a bride”? (Line 195-203)

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Discussion Questions for Chapter 10

1. What is the supreme matter that Bro. Sparks mentions? (Line 14-15)
2. How has God come to us in all his fullness? (Lines 29-44)
3. Why is it wrong to call the Book of Acts “the Acts of the Apostles”? (Lines 46-50)
4. What is the Son identified as? (Lines 52-67)
5. What is the position and function of the Son? (Lines 69-89)
6. What does it mean for the Son to uphold “all things by the word of his power”? What are its implications for us? (Lines 95-104)
7. How does the Son’s greatness compare with the angels? (Lines 108-145)
8. What was Moses’ significance in history? (Lines 161-170)
9. On line 159, it is written that “the Son is greater than Moses”. How was the Son greater than Moses?
10. Why was the Son greater than Aaron and the high priests? (Lines 175-182, 193-195)
11. Why was the Son compared to Melchizedek in Hebrews 7:17? (Lines 184-191)
12. What was the significance of Moses and Aaron for Israel? (Lines 197-206)
13. What are the two wonderful pictures in the Letter? (Lines 212-219)

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Discussion Questions for Chapter 9

1. What kind of person wrote the Book of Hebrews? (Line 12-20)
2. What is the key to this letter? (Line 47-52)
3. For what reasons was this letter written? (Line 56-77)
4. Why is some Christians’ spiritual condition “as it was, so it is now”? (Line 62-65, also Jer. 48:11)
5. What is the method that God led the writer to use to help the Christians through the coming times of trouble? (Line 70-77)
6. What is the difficulty that Abraham experienced? (Line 79-83)
7. When Abraham encountered so many troubles, why did he still rejoice in the Lord? (Line 101-105)
8. When you had troubles, how did you handle yourself?
9. Can you give some examples of Moses’ troubles? How did he handle the problems that he encounter? (Line 113-124)
10. So the writer of this Letter is saying: ‘________________ was back there in __________. He was in the ____________. And it is the same __________________ that we know ________. And _____ will be the same _________________ forever. (Line 144-146)
11. Line 173: If we look at _____________ we will give up the race, and we shall do so if we look at _______ _________. Why?
12. What do we need to get through trouble and testing? (Line 161-181)
13. There is a little difference between “Looking unto Jesus” and “Looking Off unto Jesus”. What is this difference according to Bro. Sparks? ( Line 176-177)
14. How did Apostle Paul “Look off unto Jesus? (Line 194-206)
15. Can you give an example of when you had to take your eyes off of men and look to Jesus?
16. What is an example of when you were looking at yourself instead of Jesus?

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Discussion Questions for Chapter 8

The Abiding Vocation​​​​

The meaning of Vocation is regular employment, occupation, profession, job, career, work, trade.

The meaning of Abiding is in dwelling, hidden, enduring, long lasting, steadfast, permanent

 

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Discussion Questions for Chapter 7

1. Bro. Sparks talks about the line that goes from the beginning of time up to Christ. What is so significant about that line? (lines 5-8)
2. Lines 10-13: At a certain point in that movement of God, we find ourselves in the presence of His beginning with ­­­­_____. It has moved from __________ to the point where the ______ comes into view. Up to then the movement had been with ­­­­­­­­­­­__________ -____, _____, ____. Then, when it reached Abraham the ______ came on the horizon, that is, the ______ of history, of this earth.
3. What was the first movement toward the Old Israel and the New Israel? (lines 22-35)
4. Bro Sparks mentions in line 42 that “The very beginning of our history as God’s heavenly Israel is His intervention in our lives.” In the following paragraph, what are some ways Bro. Sparks uses Abraham as an example of this idea? How does he relate Abraham’s experience with God to ours?
5. What is the “glory of God” that Bro. Sparks is discussing in this chapter? If we were to replace the word “glory” in this section with Bro. Sparks definition, how would it change the message of this section, if at all? (line 56-68)
6. How did John behold the glory of the Lord Jesus? What are some examples? Find the Bible reference if possible. (lines 91-114)
7. Lines 112-114: You see, the _____ of God in ___________ related to what God could do that ______ else could do. It was the supernatural person and power of ______________.
8. Why does it sometimes take longer than we would like for people to be saved? What is God’s saying in these circumstances? How does this reveal God’s power and control? (lines 116-124)
9. What are some similarities between the journey to become a believer and the journey as a believer? (lines 126-136)
10. What is the second movement Bro. Sparks discusses between the old Israel and the new Israel? (lines 140-185)
11. Why would it have been difficult for Abraham to sacrifice Isaac? What does the Book of Hebrews tell us about Abraham’s faith that would have allowed him to go through with it anyways? (lines 140-152)
12. Based on the previous question, how does this parallel the faithful confidence Christians have in Jesus Christ?
13. John 1:12-13 (ESV): “But to all who did _______ him, who _______ in his name, he gave the right to become _____________, who were born, not of _____ nor of  ________________________ nor of _____________________, but of God.”
14. By who’s intervention are we made sons of God? (lines 167)
15. In lines 180-185, Bro Sparks references Exodus 4:21-23. What does God say about the nation of Israel? How is this comparable to those who are redeemed through Christ?

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Discussion Questions for Chapter 6
Some Titles as Evidence of the Change

1. In the constituting of the spiritual Israel, God is following the same line as He took with the earthly Israel, but with one great difference, what is the difference? (3-5)
2. Brother Sparks refers to the book of Hebrews as what kind of document? (8-9)
3. In your own word, compare and contrast how the old and new Israel were constituted(created) based on Hebrews 12? (11-23)
4. What is the very first idea of God in the old Israel that is carried over spiritually to the new Israel? (96)
5. What is the most precious thing and the very hallmark of the heavenly Israel? Why is that so? (80-83)
6. Discuss briefly how the idea of God’s family transitioned from the old to the new Israel?
7. What is the difference between “God’s house” from the old to the new order? (107-109)
8. What is the definition of a household? (110-111)
9. As a member of God’s household, what should we do? (116)
10. What made a great change from the old order to the new order? How? (127-128)
11. In the earthly sense, Israel were to be God’s heirs. How did the Church became the heir of God and joint-heirs with Christ? (157-164)
12. What is the purpose of the book of Hebrews in using Israel to illustrate the lost of their sonship? (168-169)
13. Hebrews 3:6 & 14 are not talking about the loss of eternal life, but the purpose of salvation. What is the purpose of salvation? (171-179)
14. Why were the males Israelites had to go up to Jerusalem so many times every year? (187-188)
15. What is the difference between the earthly Jerusalem to that of the heavenly Jerusalem? (194-204)
16. What is the difference between the flock of God of the old Israel to that of the heavenly Israel? (209-223)
17. Why is Christianity today in such a poor state? (249-250)
18. What do you think is God’s great purpose in His Church through Christ Jesus?
19. What is the purpose of bro. Sparks in writing this chapter?

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Discussion Questions for Chapter 5
The Changed Position of the Companions

1. (Review Question) In the introduction paragraph (lines 3-8), the author indicated that Letter to the Hebrews is a summary of the whole of the New Testament – that God is seeking companions for His Son in a heavenly calling – and that in the previous chapters, we were presented with “a very large field of consideration”, as review, please talk about some of these considerations we have studied in the last 4 chapters. In other words answer these 4 questions in a sentence or two (each). a)What is the purpose of companions of Christ?  b)Who are the companions of Christ?  c) What does the Lord’s Table mean to companions of Christ? d)What is the true basis of life for companions?

2. The author talked about a “very serious” crisis that occurred shortly after the Letter of Hebrew was written; What event was this? Please explain briefly the biblical and the historical significance. (line 13-30)

3. As the coming of the Lord is nearer, what can we expect? (37-51)

4. All the earthly system is going to be shaken out of its place.  This Letter of Hebrew is full of that ‘better thing’, which had taken the place of the old (32-35).  And also in Hebrews 11:40, it talks about “God having provided some better thing” (53-56) What is this ‘better thing’?

5. ___ stands over the ___ content of this Letter. ___in it must be viewed from ___ standpoint, not from ___, or from the ___, or from the ___   ___. It is ___who is speaking, and all that is here is what ___ is saying. (66-69)

6. Line 73 says “the companions of heavenly way are those who are moving on with God” and lines 82-83 says “a true, living Christianity is a ‘going on’ Christianity. It will never stop going on, in this life or in eternity.” Please explain what does “moving on” or “going on” mean.

7. This letter to the Hebrews is God expressing Himself (86), He is God who speaks (89-90), He is a God who speaks with a purpose (91-93). How has God spoken through the prophets in the past? How is God’s final speech in Christ different? (95-113)

8. The Letter to the Hebrews presents God as a God of purpose and shows His purpose is centered and summed up in His Son.  This is set before us at the beginning of the Letter in three ways, please list those three ways. (124-139)

9. In Chapter 2 of Hebrews, God brings man into the picture.  This Letter has a wonderful message for man: that all that God has put in His Son is for man.  God speaks in this Letter of the finished work of Christ, the work which is made complete for man.  How is this accomplished?  Are there any obstacles?  How does God deal with the obstacles?  (141-159)

10. Explain what the “training of sons’ is referring to. What is the end result of this training? (189-215).

11. The chapter says “this Letter says that God loves His sons, and therefore He chastens them”, elsewhere it says “dealing” or “disciplines” and the author shares that “my experience is that no one really has spiritual knowledge without suffering”. Please share a time when God chastened, dealt or disciplined you.
12. What is the changed position of the companions?

 

Discussion Questions for Chapter 4
The True Basis of Life for the Companions

1. The two great words of the Christian life are Heavenly and Faith.  (Line 4)  Why does the author think these two words are very difficult for young Christians? (Line 30-36)
2. How is ‘heavenly’ and ‘faith’ one thing? (Line 38)
3. We are going right back to the Old Testament for an illustration, and I am going to use another big word. (Line 40-41)  What is that word?
4. Please summarize how God used Abraham. (Line 51-65)
5. Please describe God’s dealing with Jacob. (Line 69-82)
6. How did Joseph transition from the earthly to the heavenly, from the natural to the life of faith (Line 84-119, 115-116)
7. How did God bring Israel into the heavenly ground? (Line 121-141 , 129)
8. The author touches on the book of Joshua and takes an illustration from the book of Judges. (Line 149).  What is that illustration and how did God moved him to heavenly ground? (Line 149-163)
9. Are you beginning to see the meaning of what is heavenly and what is faith?  Faith is, ___________what no man or men can do.  Nothing is _______________to heaven in any circumstances or situation.  (Line 165-166)
10. What was the last event in the Old Testament that the author speaks of that God came in for them in a sovereign way. (Line 168-175, 173)
11. Who is all of Old Testament pointing to? (Line 177-178)
12. What is the natural idea of Messiah? (Line 182)  What is the heavenly idea of Messiah? (Line 184-197)
13. The author goes on to the Church (Line 199).  How is the whole history of the church a miracle? (Line 199-203)
14. The Letter to the Hebrews is written to ___________. It is written ________, and it says that we are _______________________________.  We are ____________________________, but God has put us on the same basis as that on which He always did put His people. (Line 206-209)  What is this “same basis”?
15. Does any brothers/sisters want to share an experience that the author is talking about, an impossible situation where God moved him/her from natural to heavenly ground and grew his/her faith?  (Line 211-221)
16. What is the meaning of faith according to the author? (Line 223)
17. What is the message of this Letter to the Hebrews? (Line 229)
18. What does it mean to live a heavenly life? (Line 230)

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Discussion Questions for Chapter 3

1. What is the Lord’s table and what does it signify?  (Reference bible verses)
2. The Lord’s Table is perhaps the most beautiful expression of ___________________.
3. What was Judas a representative of?  (Line 14-15)
4. Who do you think ‘companions’ in Line 16 and 19 refer to?
5. What is discovered when we look closely at the Passover in Exodus 12? (Line 27-36)
6. What are the nine judgments Sparks is referring to in Line 31? (Reference bible verses)
7. What are the three points Sparks makes in regards to the settlement between God and the gods of Egypt? (Line 27-66)
8. Who rightly partakes at the Table? (Line 53-54)
   1. What is the ‘church of the first born’? (Line 50-51) [Reference Hebrews 12:23]
9. Spark’s suggested revision of Exodus 12:22 is as follows: “You shall take a bunch of hyssop and dip it into the blood that is on the threshold” (Line 63-64). What was Spark’s reasoning behind this revision. Do you agree with Sparks? Why or why not?
10. What does the threshold signify? (Line 70) How did the Hebrews understand the meaning of threshold? (Line 80-81)
11. What is the sign? (Line 87-88) How is this the sign? (Line 86-93)
12. How is the Passover like a marriage ceremony? (Line 97-99)
13. If ever Israel had anything to do with other gods from that time it was called whoredom, fornication, adultery. It was a breach of the __________ (Line 101-102)
14. Line 116 says “We must apply all this to ourselves”. What does this mean? What does it look like for us to apply this to ourselves?
15. What did you learn from this chapter that helps you reflect as you approach the Lord’s table?
16. What is the main point of this chapter? What is the biggest takeaway from this chapter?
17. What do you learn about the character of God from this chapter?

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Discussion Questions for Chapter 2 – Who are the Companions?

1. What did Bro. Sparks mean when he said that Paul fought a losing battle for the Jewish people? Who was the loser and how?
2. What is the great conflict between Jews and Christians? Line 39-74
3. What happened to Israel, who rejected the heavenly calling?

Line 26-34

4. What does ‘shaking’ refer to?
5. What is the setting of the Letter to the Hebrews in New Testament times?

Line 41-42

6. Where is the statement of “Jesus became the stone upon which they fell and were broken to pieces” coming from in the New Testament? What does it mean?  (Matt. 21: 42-44)

Line 48-59

7. What is the first factor that caused the final division between Jews and Christians?
8. How do we test if anyone is the companion of Jesus?

Line 61-74

9. What is the 2nd factor that caused the final division between Jews and Christians?
10. What is the 3rd factor that caused the final division between Jews and Christians?
11. The companions of Christ are those who are constituted _________ on a __________ and __________basis.  They are the ones who are ____________ to a ___________ calling.
12. In our life, we have many points of the new transition. Are there any new transitions that affect your spiritual life?
13. When Adam was created, was he a perfect man? Why or why not?
14. Have you ever experienced ‘growing pains’ in your life? Did you learn lessons from your growing pains?
15. Through the refusing of Israel, God’s internal plan is revealed, what is God’s eternal plan? Line 113-114

Line 126-146

16. There are two lines of movement through four Gospels, what are these two lines?

Line 159-170

17. How did the author describe James, Peter, and Barnabas during the transition period?
18. If James, Peter, and Barnabas still kept their Old Israel tradition, what would have happened to them?

Line 172-178

19. What do all the Letters of Apostle Paul concern?

Line 180-193

20. The Letter to the Hebrews summarizes the whole meaning of the New Testament. What is this whole meaning in the Letters to the Hebrews, or what was the writer of this letter concerned about for the Hebrew Christians?
21. Who are the companions of Christ?
22. At the end of the chapter 2, what does Brother Sparks want us to realize?

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Discussion Questions for Chapter 1 – The Purpose of Companions

Line 18-44

1. What is the idea that runs right through the Bible as being the ultimate thought of God concerning man and man’s relationship to God? What is the deep meaning of this idea?  （Ruth 1:16-17）
2. What does “behind everything that is official in a relationship to the Lord, there is always a personal element” mean?
3. What examples did Bro. Sparks give to us in relation to the “friend of God”?

Line 32-37

4. What is the difference between “disciple” and “apostle”? On what basis were they chosen?
5. What is the difference between “servant” and “friend”? (John 15:14-15)
6. Why did Jesus no longer call them “servant,” and instead called them “friend”? (Luke 22:28)

Line 39-44

7. Church should not be some official, ecclesiastical institution. That is very ___________, very __________ and very ___________.  When the Lord speaks about His church it is always in terms of __________.
8. The deepest relationship of the church with Jesus is a __________ relationship – just to be His______________ in _________, in __________, in _________ and in __________.

Line 46-53

9. Sparks also mentions that the Old Testament is comprised of 3 main sections. The purpose of God also lies behind these 3 sections.  What are these 3 main sections?  Can you also give an example for each section in terms of God’s purpose?
10. Can you tell what the purpose of God is in choosing Abraham, Moses, David, the 12 disciples, and the church, in relation to the Son of God?

Line 59-65

11. What is the first point of the first two chapters of the Letter to Hebrews emphasizing?

Line 67-73

12. What is the second point the Letter to Hebrews emphasizing?

Line 75-79, 119

13. What is the third point the Letter to Hebrews emphasizing?

Line 81-103

14. The Bible is full of blessing things and judgement things. If God blesses or judges, He always does so with _________ __________in view.
15. If God blessed, it was because that thing stood right in line with ______ _____’s __________.
16. If we want the blessing of the Lord we must ______ ___________ of the Lord Jesus and be ___________ ___________ to Him. (95-96)
17. If God judged, it is because things then were __________ to His interests in His Son.
18. In what way do the little things become big things, and unimportant persons become important persons?

Line 121-135

19. Why did God give us the Book of Revelation, mentioned in Line 123?
20. Why does God always retain man in a place of responsibility? (line 125)
21. Which of the following Letter emphasizes man’s responsibility more than any other Letters?
    1. Letter to Ephesians
    2. Letter to Colossians
    3. Letter to Hebrews
    4. Letter to Corinthians

Line 137-164

22. If a vessel, individuals or corporate, fail(s) the purpose of God, or does not respond to God’s will, what will God do to this vessel? (also Rom. 9:21-22)
23. Sparks gives us two examples that did not respond to God’s calling. What are these two examples?   What happened to these vessels in these two examples?
24. If we want to understand “so great salvation”, what do we have to understand first? Why?
25. From line 166 to 180, how does this paragraph describe the true companion of Christ?

Line 182-211

26. After you finish reading this chapter, did you feel that our Lord Jesus is calling you to be His companion and work together with Christ to fulfill God’s purpose?

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The book club read “The God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob” by Watchman Nee; below are questions for each chapter. Download the book: “The God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob” by Watchman Nee

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Discussion Questions For Chapter 12:

The Constitution of the Spirit

1. What does the word “Constitution of the Spirit” mean according to Br. Nee (P. 171)
2. Partaking of God’s Holiness – For Christians, what is the purpose of life difficulties and trials? (Heb 12:9-10)(P. 172)
3. For King Hezekiah, which part of his natural life needed God’s discipline? (2 Kings 20, 2 Chronicles 32) (p.172)
4. Fruit of the Holy Spirit – (Gal 5:22-23) Are these fruits given to us by the Holy Spirit? If not, how do we receive them? (P. 173)
5. Christ being formed in us – (Gal 4:19) – What did we learn from Peter and Paul? (p. 174)
6. Forming of precious stones – What do Gold and Silver stand for? How are precious stones formed? What is the process? (1st Cor 3:12, 14) (P. 175)
7. Summary: God wants to make us His vessels : We must know that the God of

• • Abraham – _____   ____________ are of God
  • Isaac – Everything is for our _________________________and __________________
    • – Everything depends on our being ______    __________ and _______    _______ in us.
  • Jacob – God deals with our ____________   _________ and _____________________ Christ into our being through the  ________________.

Questions to conclude this book study – The God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob:

1. Which part of this book that you enjoy reading the most?
2. Which part of the experiences of Jacob that you can identify with yourself?
3. What is one thing new that you did not know before reading this book.
4. Do you agree with Br. Nee’s explanation about how the Holy Spirit forms our life to be like Christ through various life experiences, consider that this book was written 65 years ago. In another word, are they practical implementation in present day life. If not, why?

References from Br. Watchman Nee’s hymns and related hymns:

• Hymnary 156 Since long ago in Bethany (Luke 24:50)
• Hymnary 386 Olives that have known no pressure 
• Hymnary 417 The experience in Peniel (Gen 32:24-31) (In Chinese only)
• Hymnary 471 All the way my Savior leads me (Gen 48:15-16)
• Hymnary 584 Nearer my God to Thee (Gen 28:11-18)

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Discussion Questions For Chapter 11:

The Maturity of Jacob

1. What kind of life events did Jacob experience in each of the following places(p. 153-154)\
   • Shechem
   • Bethel
   • Ephrath
   • Edar
   • Hebron
2. What are the three stages of Jacob’s history we already completed study?(p.154)
3. What is the last stage of Jacob’s history we are studying in this chapter? (p.154-155)
4. Br. Nee gave a few examples of characters showing how they shine in their old age? Please name them and explain. (p. 155)
5. Quiet Jacob – How was Jacob changed from very active to be quiet? What does it mean to be quiet? Is it easy to remain quiet? Why? (156-157)
6. Compassionate Jacob – What event did it show Jacob’s compassion, his love and care for the young people? (Gen 37) (P. 158)
7. Tender Jacob – How did we know Jacob has become a loving, tender-hearted person? Which brother did Joseph want to see when they came back to buy more food? What was Jacob’s response to this request? (Gen 42-43)(P. 159)
8. Shining Jacob – What was Jacob’s first reaction to hear Joseph was still alive? How did Jacob prepare to go to Egypt to meet Joseph? Why did Jacob pray and ask God regarding the trip to Egypt? What was God’s answer to Jacob’s prayer? What does “Shining” mean? (p. 160-162)
9. Jacob kept his spiritual standing before Pharaoh – Describe when Jacob was introduced to pharaoh. Compared to Jacob’s formal dealings with his uncle, Laban, what kind of attitude changes did you see from Jacob? What kind of Spiritual Standing did Jacob show? (p. 162-163)
10. Shine more unto the perfect day – How old was Jacob when he first came to Egypt? How old was Jacob when he died? What did Jacob request his son, Joseph to do for his burial? What does “ leaning on the top of the staff “ mean?(Gen 47:31)(P. 165) When Jacob prayed for Joseph’s two sons, there was a “mix up” in order, same situation as the time when Isaac blessed his two sons. Please describe.(p. 166) How did Jacob pray for Simeon and Levi? Is there a change in Jacob’s understanding when compare to the time when these two sons revenged for their sister, Dinah? (Gen 49:5-7)(p. 167) One big significance after Jacob praying for his sons and passed, is the formation of 12 tribes of Israel.(V 28)
11. What did we learn about the maturity of Jacob?
12. What God did through _______________ typifies what God wants to do through the _____________. The commission of the  ______________is to accomplish the work of God’s ______________. The  _______________ is God’s vessel in His ________________ work. (p. 168)
13. To summarize the three aspects that God wants us to experience:

• • Abraham –
  • Isaac – 
  • Jacob – 

Discussion Questions For Chapter 12:

The Constitution of the Spirit

1. What does the word “Constitution of the Spirit” mean according to Br. Nee (P. 171)
2. Partaking of God’s Holiness – For Christians, what is the purpose of life difficulties and trials? (Heb 12:9-10)(P. 172)
3. For King Hezekiah, which part of his natural life needed God’s discipline? (2 Kings 20, 2 Chronicles 32) (p.172)
4. Fruit of the Holy Spirit – (Gal 5:22-23) Are these fruits given to us by the Holy Spirit? If not, how do we receive them? (P. 173)
5. Christ being formed in us – (Gal 4:19) – What did we learn from Peter and Paul? (p. 174)
6. Forming of precious stones – What do Gold and Silver stand for? How are precious stones formed? What is the process? (1st Cor 3:12, 14) (P. 175)
7. Summary: God wants to make us His vessels : We must know that the God of

• • Abraham – _____   ____________ are of God
  • Isaac – Everything is for our _________________________and __________________
    • – Everything depends on our being ______    __________ and _______    _______ in us.
  • Jacob – God deals with our ____________   _________ and _____________________ Christ into our being through the  ________________.

Questions to conclude this book study – The God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob:

1. Which part of this book that you enjoy reading the most?
2. Which part of the experiences of Jacob that you can identify with yourself?
3. What is one thing new that you did not know before reading this book.
4. Do you agree with Br. Nee’s explanation about how the Holy Spirit forms our life to be like Christ through various life experiences, consider that this book was written 65 years ago. In another word, are they practical implementation in present day life. If not, why?

References from Br. Watchman Nee’s hymns and related hymns:

• Hymnary 156 Since long ago in Bethany (Luke 24:50)
• Hymnary 386 Olives that have known no pressure 
• Hymnary 417 The experience in Peniel (Gen 32:24-31) (In Chinese only)
• Hymnary 471 All the way my Savior leads me (Gen 48:15-16)
• Hymnary 584 Nearer my God to Thee (Gen 28:11-18)

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Discussion Questions For Chapter 10:

THE BREAKING OF JACOB’S NATURAL LIFE

1. Why was Jacob under God’s continuous discipline?

God Releasing Jacob Back to Canaan

1. Why didn’t Laban want to let Jacob go?
2. When Laban and Jacob made a covenant, upon whom did Laban swear upon? Upon whom did Jacob swear upon? Why?
3. What is the evidence that Jacob’s relationship with God had made some progress since Bethel?

Through Mahanaim

1. What does the name Mahanaim mean, and why did Jacob choose this name?

Scheming While Praying

1. What did Jacob do right after he met Laban? Why?
2. What was Jacob’s “master plan?”
3. What is different about his schemes this time, compared to the other times?
4. Was there a time where you both planned and prayed at the same time? What was the result?

THE EXPERIENCE OF PENIEL

1. What happened at Peniel, and what happened to Jacob?
2. Do you think that Peniel can happen to us?

God Wrestling with Jacob

1. Why did God come and wrestle with Jacob?
2. What does God being unable to prevail over Jacob mean?
3. Do you think that Jacob could have beaten God at this wrestling? If, not how would it end so that God and Jacob are not wrestling anymore?
4. Is it possible to not resist God as He deals with our natural life? Is wrestling with God inevitable, or can we surrender willingly? If we can surrender, how do we surrender?

God Touching the Hollow of Jacob’s Thigh

1. What is a sinew?
2. What is the significance of the hollow of the thigh being the strongest sinew of the body?
3. How can we be like Jacob when putting his best ability forward, knowing the sinew of the hollow of the thigh was exposed and revealed?
4. How do we know that God is exposing our weaknesses and is providing us the solution?

The Necessary Experience of a Christian

1. How can we identify our Hollow of the thigh?
2. What is the natural life of a Christian?
3. Give four examples that were given about how some christians find natural strength
4. How can we identify our natural strengths?
5. What is natural life?
6. How is natural life different from natural strength?

The Meaning of Peniel

1. Summarize the meaning of Peniel.
2. What is the seat of your natural strength? OR Give an example of natural strength.
3. Have you already passed through Peniel? What is your testimony?

No Pretense in Dealing with the Natural Life

1. Describe the word “pretense” in this context. Give an example of pretense.
2. How can we be humble when talking about Spiritual things?
3. Was there a time in your life where you had to pray because you were not sure what this other christian was going to say about spiritual things? If, so why did you have this feeling just to pray?
4. “Anything that comes from _____ counts, while anything that comes from ___ is worthless. Anything that comes from _________ only makes us someone we are not. Only that which comes from ____ will make us Israel.”

A Sign—Lameness

1. Summarize the meaning of Lameness
2. What are the signs of lameness?
3. Why is Lameness significant in natural life?
4. To what degree have you been touched by God?

Jacob Laying Hold of God

1. Interpret this in your own words “This shows that when the hollow of our thigh is touched, we hold on to God the strongest.”
2. To us, it seems impossible that we can do this, but this is a fact. When our______ is gone, we find ourselves ________ hold of God. The_________ that happens when our ________ is gone is the real ________. Those who _____ hold of God have no need of their own _________.
3. What does the name of Israel mean?
4. When we are _______by God, we have truly prevailed and truly lost ______ in ourselves. Whenever we find that we can no longer make it, that is the ______when we have overcome.

Not Knowing God’s Name

1. Jacob did not ____ the man. He did not ______ when He came and when He left. Jacob only _____ that his own name was to be _________ to Israel; he did not ______ who that person was.
2. Interpret this in your own words: “Therefore, we should not wait for such an experience to come. If our eyes are set on the experience, we may wait for a few years and still not get it. God does not allow our eyes to be set on our experience; He only allows us to set our eyes on Him. Those who seek for experience will not find it, but those who look to God will find the experience.”
3. How long did it take for Jacob to become Israel?

THE CONTINUATION OF THE OLD BEHAVIOR

1. Was Jacob continuing his plan a bad thing, a good thing, or a mix of both?
2. What changed about Jacob after God touched the hollow of his thigh?
3. Why did Jacob say that seeing Esau’s face was like seeing the face of God?
4. How do you face those you have wronged?

Remaining in Shechem

1. How did Jacob fail here? How did Jacob show signs of progression, despite his failings?
2. How did God drive Jacob out of Shechem?

Going to Bethel

1. What did Jacob do in Shechem before making the journey to Bethel?
2. What is the purpose of Shechem, and what is the significance of Bethel?
3. What happened in Bethel?

Dwelling in Hebron

1. If Bethel is where the experience of Peniel was completed, why did Jacob move to Hebron?
2. What is the importance of fellowship, and why must the flesh be dealt with first?
3. What does living in fellowship with the Lord and His children look like?

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Discussion Questions For Chapter 9:

Chapter 9 Jacob’s Nature and The Discipline He Received

Discussion Questions

1. The personality and life experiences of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob are very different. Which character do you identify yourself with? Is it possible that we find resemblances of all three characters in our own life? 
2. What is the main theme of Chapter 9?
3. The history of God’s leading in the life of Jacob can be divided into four sections. What are the four sections?
4. Can you identify the places Jacob went to and their significance in the attached map?
5. What is Jacob’s nature? What kind of person was he? What is your general impression about Jacob?
6. Use the following incidents to describe Jacob’s nature:
   1. While he was in his mother’s womb (see Genesis 25)
   2. The moment when Jacob was born
   3. What does the name Jacob mean?
   4. Jacob bought Esau’s birthright.
7. Use the following incidents to describe the disciple Jacob received and what we can learn from them?
   1. Jacob fled home to Padan-aram as a result of stealing his brother Esau’s blessing.
   2. What do you discover about Jacob the night he spent in Bethel?
   3. The treatment Jacob received from Laban in Haran.
8. This chapter shows us that God accomplished His work in Jacob – how God disciplined him, dealt with his natural lids and weakened him, how God caused Christ to be formed in him through the constitution of the Holy Spirit, and how he bore the fruit of the Holy Spirit. Do you see yourself also being worked on just like Jacob?
   

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Discussion Questions For Chapter 8:

THE INHERITANCE GOD HAS PREPARED IN CHRIST

1. Define Biblical Grace
2. Define Watchman Nee’s definition of Grace
3. Why is it important for us to be saved by grace and not by the law?
4. Romans tell us that a  _______ __ ________ by  ________.
5. Galatians tells us that after a man is _______ by ______, he should go on in _____.
6. How can we apply these verses to ourselves since we are Christians?
7. Hence, a _________ should not ______ ____ _______  just for his beginning; he should depend on _________  ____________.
8. Why is it so important for us to understand that we need to depend on grace continually? What will happen if we haven’t done so? Will the grace disappear? What are the consequences if we don’t depend on grace continually?
9. What are the characteristics of Isaac?
10. Why is it important for us to know the characteristics of Isaac?

Two Aspects of Grace

1. What are the Two Aspects of inheritance that God has given us?
2. What are the other Two Aspects of God’s joining us to Christ?
3. Why is it important for us not to confuse the Two Aspects in which God has given us?
4. “Our being in Christ touches Christ’s work, while Christ being in us touches Christ’s life.” What does this mean to us?
5. “When we are in Christ, ___________that are in Christ become ours. When Christ is in us, ____________that is in Christ becomes ours. When we are in Christ, everything that Christ has ____________becomes ours. When Christ is in us, everything that Christ can accomplish becomes ours. When we are in Christ, we _______everything that Christ has accomplished. When Christ is in us, we receive everything that Christ is ______. When we are in Christ, all the works that Christ accomplished in the _____ become ours. When Christ is in us, all that Christ is and can do _____ becomes ours.”
6. What can we learn from this meaningful quote about Christ?
7. Define Theoretical.
8. Watchman Nee tells us that “If we only know that we are in Christ, but do not know that Christ is in us, we will be weak and empty, and everything will be theoretical.” Then tells us; “We will fail again and again.” Would you say our life has trials and errors in which we can relate to this quote?
9. What are the Two Aspects of Grace?
10. How does these Two Aspects of Grace relate to the Two Aspects of God’s joining and the Inheritance that God has given us?
11. In the book it states “ We have the Adamic life in us, and we are wicked.” What would the world be like if Adam had not eaten the fruit would we still have Adamic life in us and would we be wicked?
12. Define Conduct. 
13. “God’s Word says that we should die in which man’s sins be washed away and the man who sins be put to death. In addition to death, we need a new life. If we want to have a new start before God, we need a new life.” How can we start a new life? What do we need the most? Can we apply the Aspects given to us? Why or why not? 
14. “When we die, everything is ______. Therefore, we not only need to die, but we also need to _______. But we cannot stop at this point either. ____________ is not enough, and a ___ life is not enough. We still need a new ________. 
15.  We are sinners, what are the three greatest needs? 

We in Christ

1. What does the author mean to be ‘In Christ’? In which three aspects?
2. Can you give a Bible verse to support your answer?
3. Can you give an analogy to explain this truth (you may use your own experiences or the author’s  )
4. Therefore we are co-______,co_______ and  co_____with  Christ.
5. Our being in Christ is an inheritance:- All we have to do is to receive and enjoy it—just like Isaac—Please give some of your experience: the Power, divine nature and Son of God.

Conclusion: But after the one grain died, His all became our all!

Christ in Us

1. We had just mentioned “We in Christ”. Our past is terminated . What are the other part of our inheritance?
2. What is the purpose of “Christ is us”?
3. How can we overcome, be righteous, and holy?
4. God has given us Christ for only one purpose: Can you quote the Bible verse?

The Means and Not the Goal

1. Is Galatians 2:20 our Goal to achieve?
2. What is God’s means?
3. What’s the meaning of a Christian’s life? How should we live out this life and satisfy God? What’s the way?

A Law

1. What is the Christian life? What does it mean for Christ to live within us?
2. How does this law of life operates in us?

A Person          Christ Himself

1. How is Christ expressed as the Person in our life?
2. What makes a Christian so special?
3. How can God find fulfillment of His goal in a Christian”s life?

THE GOD OF ISAAC AND THE GOD OF JACOB

1. What is the difference in spiritual significance between the God of Isaac & the God of Jacob?
2. How does the God of Jacob works to complete the work of the God of Isaac in us?

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Discussion Questions For Chapter 7:

THE CHARACTERISTICS OF ISAAC

1. What is God after? (p.87)
2. What does God want us to be? (p. 87)
3. What is an important principle in the Bible? (p.88)

ISAAC BEING THE SON

1. How was Abraham a father as far as God’s recovery work is concerned? As far as God’s selection is concerned?  As far as his acts are concerned?
2. How does Isaac’s history depict the Lord Jesus as the Son?
3. What kind of experiences did Isaac have that typified the Son?
4. What is the meaning of God as the Son?
5. In Abraham we see God’s ________.  In Isaac, we see God’s _______.
6. What is the one basic problem of many Christians?

TWO THINGS IN ISAAC’S LIFE

Isaac’s Relationship with Abraham

1. What was Isaac’s relationship with Abraham? What is Isaac’s character?

Isaac’s Relationship with God

1. What was Isaac’s relationship with God?

EVERYTHING WITH ISAAC BEING RECEIVED

1. What were Isaac’s characteristics?
2. What does it mean to know the God of Isaac?
3. Why must we know the God of Isaac and why must we know the meaning of Isaac?
4. Romans 7:18 (NIV) says, “for I know that good itself does not dwell in me, that is, in my sinful nature. For I have the desire to do what is good, but I cannot carry it out.”  What’s his problem? and what’s the secret to victory?

OBTAINING VERSUS ATTAINING

1. What is the difference between obtain and attain?  How do we “get” salvation and victory?
2. What is the meaning of Isaac?
3. Since we are the ____, we are also the ____ and are qualified to ____ the possessions of the family.  Since we are ____, we can ____.

WORKING AND ENJOYING

1. What’s the wrong way of doing things? What’s the right way of doings?
2. Isaac’s character is to ___ God’s ____.

THREE SPECIFIC EXPERIENCES A CHRISTIAN SHOULD PURSUE

1. What does it mean to know the God of Isaac? (p. 96)
2. Why can’t we reach God’s goal by knowing the God of Abraham alone?
3. What is the work God is doing in Isaac and how is it different from His work in Jacob?
4. What are the three experiences a Christian should pursue?
5. How is each experience connected to either Abraham, Isaac or Jacob?

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Discussion Questions For Chapter 6:

ABRAHAM AND HIS SON (3)

The Day Ishmael Was Cast Out 

1.     Who did Ishmael Represent?
2.     Why was Ishmael cast out?
3.     What does being weaned mean?
4.     The life we have received is a ___ of freedom: we have been____ 

THE THIRD TEST – THE OFFERING OF ISAAC

Abraham Offering Isaac

1.     What was the test the Lord gave Abraham?
2.     Why was it such a big price for Abraham to offer Isaac?
3.     What was the intention of this test?

God Being the Father

1.     What did Abraham need to be reminded of, now that Isaac was born?
2.     God does not want us to have a _______ relationship with the things He has given us.
3.     What do Christians think that their “Isaac” will do?
4.     What is the difference between when our hands are empty vs. when they are full?
5.     What is the purpose of experiences?
6.     What else does Isaac represent?
7.     What is the lesson in sacrificing Isaac?
8.     God wants us to realize that we can sacrifice _____but we cannot sacrifice ___, because only ___ is the Father!

God Being the God of Resurrection

1.     Abraham did not see this as a ________, but rather as _______!
2.     What did Abraham’s maturity in spirit translate to? What did he relate himself to?

THE COMPLETION OF GOD’S VESSEL

1.     What is the difference between what is natural and what is of the resurrection?
2.     What is the greatest misunderstanding that we have about God’s workers?
3.     What did it take for Abraham to become a vessel?
4.     What service should we have in order to satisfy Him?

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Discussion Questions For Chapter 5:

ABRAHAM AND HIS SON (2)

Abraham’s Circumcision

God Making a Covenant with Abraham

The Meaning of Circumcision

Abraham’s Circumcision

God’s Friend

THE SECOND TEST – PRAYING FOR THE HOUSE OF ABIMELECH

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Discussion Questions For Chapter 4:

ABRAHAM AND HIS SON

1. Nee wrote” The matter of Canaan was settled for Abraham, but from Genesis 15, we see the matter of his son. This does not mean that Canaan is no longer an issue after chapter 15. It only means that the focus is no longer on Canaan, but on the seed.” (page 45) Please give a brief explanation of what he meant.
2. What principle can you draw from “only heir, and not just any people who reside in the same household can inherit the land.” (Page 47)
3. How verses 9 -11, 17 in Genesis 15 tell us about the way of the cross? (Page 48)
4. Nee wrote on page 49 “ You have not failed because you cannot speak, you are not powerful enough, or you are not familiar enough with the Scripture. You have failed because you are the wrong person.” Please explain the principle behind his statement and how it applies to God’s works.
5. Fill in the blank: “Just as Abraham became a vessel to bring in Isaac, so the __________ is a vessel to bring in the glorious Christ.” (Page.51)
6. What are the similarities between Abraham and the church (Page 51). Use question 5 as a reference.
7. What was Abraham’s first test concerning his son? Did he pass or fail? How did he do? (Page 53)
8. What is the principle we can learn from Abraham’s failure on his first test relating to how God works? (Page 53-56) (Hint: Nee wrote,” We may work in a certain place, labor diligently, and save many souls, but in the final analysis, the number of souls that are saved and the appearance of the work are not important. Whether we have done something by God or by ourselves is what is important” (page 54)).” Please spend more time on discussing this question.
9. Contrast Hagar/Ishmael and Sarah/Isaac in both Genesis and Galatians 4:21-31. (Page 56-59)
10. God counted/reckoned Abraham as righteous in Genesis 15:6 and Romans 4:22 (by inference). Are there any differences between the two declarations in relation to Abraham himself?

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Discussion Questions For Chapter 3:

ABRAHAM AND THE LAND OF CANAAN

1. Abraham’s history can be divided into three sections. What sections are they, and what part of his life do each of them cover?
2. What can blur our vision of God’s calling?
3. How do we retain the vision of God’s calling?

ABRAHAM BUILDING AN ALTAR

1. What are the three places that Abraham built altars in?
2. Why did God make Abraham do this?

Shechem (Shoulder)—the Place of Strength

• What aspect of Canaan is displayed in Shechem?
• What does genuine spiritual knowledge stemming from the power of Christ look like?
• How does spiritual knowledge change our lives?
• How do we share this spiritual knowledge with others?

Bethel (the House of God)—the Body of Christ

• What aspect of Canaan Is displayed in Bethel?
• What is God’s intention for His people? In other words, what does He hope for His people to create?
• Why is it important that we don’t have personal liberties? What does that look like?
• Why is our relationship with the body of Christ something we cannot learn?
• What does Ai mean? What is the juxtaposition of bethel and Ai supposed to teach us?

Hebron (Fellowship)—the Principle of Fellowship

• Where there is God’s house, there is fellowship
• How do we move from the house of God to the fellowship of God?
• What is something that can be found in fellowship?
• What happens when a person is able to see, understand, and live out the attributes of the three altars?
• What does this mean for meetings? What does that look like?

ABRAHAM BEING TRIED

The First Test–_________

1. What did God want to show Abraham through this trial?
2. Explain what happened during this test. What did Abraham do to cause God to test him?
3. Was there a time when God caused something to happen in your life to show that you disobeyed Him?
4. After his failure in Egypt, Abraham learned one lesson: He realized________________ __________ and knew _________________________________________.

The Second Test–___________________

1. What caused this second test?
2. On the one hand, Abraham had to fulfill God’s calling. On the other hand, what did God have to teach Abraham?
3. What can those who have been called to be the ministers not do?
4. We must learn the lesson of t_______ of G__ to p_______ that which He has p_______ us. There is no need for us to try to preserve it with e______ m_____ or f______ e_____.
5. How did Abraham overcome this test?
6. We have to learn to b_____________, t___________, and b_____________.

The Third Test- _____________________________

1. What did Abraham do after hearing about what happened to Lot? What does this show us?
2. Even if our brother has wronged us, we should still ________________________, and we should still p___________ and h____________________.
3. What happened after the successful rescue of Lot? How did Abraham respond?
4. What did Abraham show others?
5. Because a man stood on earth for God, M__________ was able to proclaim God as the p________ of h_____ and e____.

 

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Discussion Questions For Chapter 2:

Bible Reading: Heb. 11:8-10; Acts 7:2-5; Gal. 3:8; Gen. 11:31—12:3, 7a; 13:14-17; 14:21-23

THE CALLING OF ABRAHAM – God’s desire was that he would have a group of men called by His Name who are His people. It is not enough to by called by God’s name and outwardly be known as God’s people, unless they see that everything is received , that everything of the natural life has been dealt with and laid aside by God.

1. Can we be God’s people, a Christian, without receiving? Can we be God’s people without going through difficult things?

ABRAHAM BEING THE BEGINNING OF THE RECOVERY WORK OF GOD – Romans 4 tells us that Abraham is the father of all those who believe (v 17)

1. What is Adam beginning of and what is Abraham beginning of? Explain.  What about all the “good” people in between (ie: Abel, Enoch, Noah) and how is Abraham different from them?
2. How was God to accomplish the redemptive work through Abraham?

GOD’S PURPOSE IN CALLING ABRAHAM

1. God’s purpose in calling Abraham was to recover man from the sinful situation. (reminder of how and when this situation came about?)
2. In God’s calling of Abraham we see 3 things.
   a) God’s P______.
   b) God’s P____.
   c) God’s P_______________.
3. In Genesis 12:1, God called Abraham away from 3 things.
   a) His C______.
   b) His K______.
   c) His F_____’s H____.
4. In Genesis 12:2, God makes multiple promises to Abraham.
   a) I will make thee a G____ N_____.
   b) I will B____ T____.
   c) I will B____ T____ that B____ T____.
   d) But God’s ultimate goal of God’s selection of Abraham was that  I_ T___ S____ A__ F_______ O_ T__ E____ B_ B______.
5. These verses can be summarized into 3 parts.
   a) Bringing him into the land which God would show him
   b) Making him a great nation that would become God’s people, and
   c) Blessing all the families of the earth through him.

1. Abraham came from U_ of C______.
2. His father T____ was also there with him.
3. What was the general practice there and something that his father also practiced? (Josh. 24:2)
4. Calling Abraham out of that area positive and negative aspects to Abraham. What were 3 negatives? 2 positives?
5. What did God want to express in the land of Canaan?
6. God’s intention is for His people to bring His authority and His will to earth.   What are two ways we can accomplish this?
7. What are some idols in your life? Has God tried to call you away from these things?

“I Will Make of Thee a Great Nation”

1. God’s choosing of His people began with Abraham. Salvation would come forth from this one man.
2. God wanted a people unto Himself.  He will not tolerate any ______.
3. 2 Kings 18:34-35 What does this tell us about God and His people?
4. According to this section in the book, God wants to gain a group of people who will confess, “_ _____ __ ___ ___ _ __ ___ ___.”

“In Thee Shall All Families Of The Earth Be Blessed”

1. God does not bless the nations of the earth directly.  How does He do this?
2. God fully deposited His G____, P____, and A________ in this man. And through this man dispensed these to all men.
3. God chooses special specific people for His purpose.  Do you remember a time where God chose you and you obeyed? A time where God chose you and you didn’t obey?
4. There is a Sunday school song that says father Abraham had many sons, many sons had father Abraham.  What is this referring to? (Gal 3:7)
5. “All spiritual works are based on the principle of b________, not on the principle of p_________.  What is b_________?
6. Preaching doctrine alone does not beget sons.  Testifying of his s_________ and … others will touch something real.

GOD’S TWO CALLINGS OF ABRAHAM

1. What is the first lesson Abraham had to learn? (p.23)
2. From which passage does it recount God’s first calling of Abraham in Ur?  What happened after God called Abraham in Ur?
3. How is Abraham’s calling different from Noah’s? (p.25)
4. Describe the second calling of Abraham in Haran.
5. Name the significance of this calling.

SUMMARY:

Abraham was the beginning of God’s redemptive work, Jesus is the center and the accomplishment of redemption, and the consummation of redemption is at the end of the millennium at the commencement of the new Heaven and new Earth. God’s redemptive work began with Abraham with a clear calling or purpose. God selected Abraham to 1) bring him into the land which God would show him, 2) make him a great nation that would become God’s people, 3) bless the families of the earth through Abraham.

​Just as God called Abraham, he calls us to be His people. As His people, we will confess, “I belong to God, and I am for Him.” The principle of spiritual work is one of begetting (passing on). God called on Abraham twice, teaching us God speaks to us again and again. We get easily distracted, but He calls on us to remember His ministry and purpose.

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Discussion Questions For Chapter 1:

Preface – In the preface it talks about God doing a special work in Abraham, Isaac & Jacob.

1. Why should we learn about Abraham, Isaac & Jacob?
2. What type of experience/perspective did each one of the characters have?

Chapter 1

Section 1 – This section mentions that the Bible records the history of the Israelites in order to edify ourselves.

1. What is edify?
2. What must we acquire in order to become the people of God?

Section 2 – This section talks about two different beginnings in the bible.

1. What was the first beginning? 2^nd beginning?
2. How is it that A, I & J are the foundations of the nation of Israel?

Section 3 – This section talks about places in the Bible stating that our Lord is the god of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.

1. What is the significance of this?

Section 4 – This section talks about special experiences in the lives of A, I, & J that shaped the people of God.

1. God told Isaac, “I am the God of Abraham thy father… I am with thee, and will bless thee, and multiply thy seed for my servant Abraham’s sake. He also said I will bring you in unto the land sworn to A, I, & J; and I will give it to you for a heritage. Ex. 6:8. What does this mean regarding the inheritance of a) The Israelites? b) God’s people?

Section 5 – This section talks about Abraham, whose original name was Abram, which had a similar root Ab.

1. According to this section, what was Abraham’s important lesson that he passed on to us?
2. How does this important lesson shape our thinking of how to view God.

1. How does the book characterize Isaac and his life?
2. What is the lesson we learn from Isaac?  How is this lesson tied to the lesson we learn from Abraham?

1. What is the principle of Jacob?
2. What is the outstanding characteristic of Jacob’s natural constitution?
3. What is the lesson we learn form Jacob?
4. What happened at Peniel?
5. Why is the event significant?

1. What are some characteristics of someone whom God has dealt with?