I have been privy to a lot of conversations recently, regarding the finding of solid, Bible study resources. In case the book that I published last year would be of any interest to anyone, I am sharing the outline here, and will follow up in a second posting with the introduction to my book. I hope that whatever study you are undertaking, will be profitable for your personal spiritual growth.
Breaking Free: From Demons to Discipleship, is designed for use as a six-week study, and is based on the healing of Legion. Each chapter includes discussion questions, prayers, psalms and hymns that compliment each week’s reading. It is reasonably priced, and is available for order from most any mainstream bookseller.
Breaking Free: From Demons To Discipleship
Chapter Overview:
Introduction: Begins to lay a foundation regarding good and evil, bondage and freedom—critical themes within the Scripture story.
Chapter 1: Solitary Confinement looks deeply into the main character’s inward and outward confinement. Draws the reader into similar present-day circumstances of isolation; encourages a better understanding of the unfolding drama within the Scripture, as well as, within the lives of those around us.
Chapter 2: Journey from Panic to Praise is a look back at the passage of Scripture immediately preceding the healing encounter between Jesus and Legion. The disciples encounter a storm out on the waters—perhaps in preparation for encountering storms within a human soul. The chapter also suggests the intentionality of Jesus’ journey, a specific purpose for the destination. This implicates the call of Christ upon our own involvement in outreach ministry.
Chapter 3: The Naked Truth involves the shocking initiation of the travelers with a madman known as Legion, and examines our evangelistic efforts—particularly with those who may appear “different” from us. It encompasses the truth of God’s healing Word, as Jesus commands the evil spirits to depart from Legion.
Chapter 4: Designer Clothing takes place after Legion is healed and highlights an additional blessing: the man who was naked is now clothed. Postulations abound as to the acquirement of the clothing. Greater still are the many other ways in which Jesus clothes him—and us—regardless of the outer garments.
Chapter 5: Fear Factor dispels the notion that the only demons in this story were those residing within Legion. There is an intense scrutiny of the reaction of the townspeople to the miracle of Legion’s healing. They were seized with great fear! Satan is using the tactics of terror to distance them from God. Offered for rumination are the many ways we ourselves might fall prey to similar distancing.
Chapter 6: The Long Goodbye is the “two hankie” climax of this entire healing encounter. After spending some very tender, intimate moments with Legion, the time has come for Jesus to leave. Filled with raw emotion , Legion begs to go with him. The outcome proves to hold one final blessing for Legion—and inspires the boundless possibilities for us!
Conclusion: Summation of the extraordinary lessons we learn from Legion. Reinforces the power Christ brings in breaking free from our sins.