After over fifty years of following Christ, much of that time serving as a pastor and Bible teacher in a local church, I have put together in this book what I consider to be some essential teachings that are foundational for a follower of Christ, otherwise known as a disciple. This collection does not cover everything since that would be impossible. The Holy Spirit is our on-the-job instructor who continues to teach and train us for the rest of our days. My hope is that these chapters will assist you on your spiritual journey and transformation into Christ’s image. May our Lord enable us all to faithfully love and serve him as a true disciple, which he deserves. (John 8:31-32)

This series assumes that the reader has confidence in the reliability of the Bible as our source of truth and revelation about God. As the psalmist wrote:

Your word is a lamp to guide my feet and a light for my path. Psalm 119:105 (NLT)

It is commonly believed and accepted by those who follow Christ that the Bible, as it was originally written under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit, is the actual Word of God, is infallibly true, and has authority in our lives.

All Scripture is inspired by God and is useful to teach us what is true and to make us realize what is wrong in our lives. It corrects us when we are wrong and teaches us to do what is right. 17 God uses it to prepare and equip his people to do every good work. 2 Timothy 3:16-17 (NLT)

Jesus believed this to be the case, and so should we. In John 10:35, our Lord said that the scriptures cannot be broken or altered. He said in other places that every word of God is true. (Matthew 5:17-18) He told his followers that the Word of God controlled his destiny and had to be fulfilled. (Matthew 26:54, Luke 24:25-27, 46) The apostles preached that Jesus suffered, died, and rose again to fulfill the Scriptures. (1 Corinthians 15:3-4)

Nothing can be added or subtracted from the Scriptures. They are perfect as given to us by God.

Every word of God is purified; he is like a shield for those who take refuge in him. 6 Do not add to his words, lest he reprove you, and prove you to be a liar. Proverbs 30:5-6 (NET1)

Openness to authority and power of God’s Word will greatly influence the benefit we gain from these teachings.