BCIC Persuasiveness Sample

Persuasiveness Guiding vital truths around another’s mental roadblocks

“And the servant of the Lord must not strive; but be gentle unto all men, apt to teach, patient.” II TIMOTHY 2:24

PHILIP GUIDES A TRAVELER TO JESUS “Then Philip opened his mouth, and began at the same scripture, and preached unto him Jesus.”

ACTS 8:35

SPIRITUAL GIFT:

BIBLICAL CHARACTER ILLUSTRATED CURRICULUM Illustrated in Scripture, Illustrated in Life

Prophet

CONTENTS

Biblical Character Illustrated Curriculum Illustrated in Scripture “The testimony of the Lord is sure, making

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wise the simple” (Psalm 19:7b). Biblical

Introduction

character is illustrated in this curriculum

2 How to Use This Curriculum

through both artwork and lessons from

3 Goals and Objectives

the lives of people in God’s Word. We most

4 Character Quality Overview

often benefit from the positive examples

5 Persuasiveness in Scripture

of faithful men and women. “For whatso-

6 Lesson 1: Point Others in the Right Direction 7 Bible Story: Philip Guides a Traveler to Jesus 8 Memory Verse: Hebrews 3:13 9 Activity: Riding ’Round the Roadblocks

10 Lesson 2:

Not Bend the Truth

written for our learning, that we through patience and comfort of the scriptures might have hope” (Romans 15:4). There were also people in the Bible who are representations of poor character, and we can learn from their lives as well. “Now these

11 Bible Story: The Scouting Report of the Spies

things were our examples, to the intent we

12 Memory Verse: Proverbs 12:22

should not lust after evil things, as they

13 Activity: Word Search

also lusted” (I Corinthians 10:6). We would

14 Lesson 3: Appeal to a Person’s Conscience 15 Bible Story: A Powerful Appeal and the Convicted Crowd

be wise to learn from the testimonies God has given us in Scripture.

Illustrated in Life “Faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by

16 Memory Verse: Acts 2:37

the word of God” (Romans 10:17). Hearing

17 Activity: Just the Right Questions

the Word of God causes us to grow in faith.

18 Lesson 4:

Not Argue

19 Bible Story: Paul Presents Truth to a King 20 Memory Verse: II Timothy 2:24 21 Activity: It’s All in the Presentation

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ever things were written aforetime were

Additional Resources

This curriculum offers many practical applications of God’s Word to everyday life. “But be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only” (James 1:22). As God enables us to act in faith, our lives as believers will illustrate His character to others.

22 Persuasiveness GEMs 23 Journal and GEM

Mine

24 Hymn Sheet Music: “Let Jesus Come into Your Heart” 25 H ymn History: “Let Jesus Come into Your Heart”

by Leila N. Morris 26 Explaining Salvation to a Child 27 Reproducible Coloring Pages 31 Recommended Resources

The character of God is illustrated in Scripture.

May it also be illustrated in our lives.

Character Quality Overview What Is Persuasiveness?

Read aloud and discuss what persuasiveness means and how it applies to life.

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he operational definition of persuasiveness is “guiding vital truths around another’s mental roadblocks.” Vital truths are those facts of life that we all need to know for our good. Sometimes, however, people can have false, deep-rooted ideas that keep them from accepting or acting on those important truths.

Such ideas are called “mental roadblocks.” Ignorance, fear, misunderstandings, and false beliefs can keep a person from seeing clearly what is true and right. To guide others around these obstacles, you must first understand the truth for yourself, identify the specific barrier, and discern how best to talk with them. Sometimes rewording the truth in a simpler way is helpful.

Other times more explanation, wise questions, or examples are needed. You can also point out either the good results of right actions or the consequences of wrong actions. Agree where you can, maybe saying, “That seems to make sense, doesn’t it?” before speaking the truth. Be sensitive to the Holy Spirit as you lovingly guide others toward Godly conclusions.

The opposite of persuasiveness is contentiousness. A contentious person is quick to argue in his attempt to persuade. He insists on debate, sometimes even elevating his opinions over the very truth he is trying to prove! Contention turns people away instead of

By using God’s Word to give light, a persuasive person helps others to see and avoid obstacles along life’s way.

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drawing them to the truth. Proverbs 13:10 states that contention only comes by pride. In contrast, Galatians 5:22 says that walking in the Spirit brings the pleasant fruit of love, joy, peace, longsuffering, and gentleness. Instead of trying to force the truth on people, “salt the oats” by making others curious about what you have to say. “Let your speech be always with grace, seasoned with salt, that ye may know how ye ought to answer every man” (Colossians 4:6). As you learn to reason graciously with people, they will more readily accept the truth you share with them.

A contentious person seeks to force his opinion on others or “runs over” people Every day is filled in order to prove his point. with opportunities to be persuasive. Being an example by making your bed and putting away your pajamas can influence your brothers and sisters to do the same. You can motivate a struggling student by helping him understand his school work. If your friend grumbles that he doesn’t like his parents’ rules, ask him questions to help him picture what could happen without those guidelines.

When a foolish conversation begins, gently change the topic to one that is more edifying, such as God’s recent answer to prayer. If you see people wasting their time, invite them to join you in a project that is constructive and helpful. Make the most of the opportunities you have each day to persuade others to live by God’s Word.

Persuasiveness in Scripture A

s you read and study God’s Word, you will see Who He is! Be willing to be changed by Him so Christ can be seen through your life and others will glorify God.

PERSUASIVENESS KEY VERSE “And the servant of the Lord must not strive; but be gentle unto all men, apt to teach, patient.” II TIMOTHY 2:24

The Character of God

Persuasiveness in My Life

We see examples of persuasiveness in God’s character in the following ways:

Now let’s examine some ways God wants us to live out persuasiveness daily.

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God, using a simple question, spoke to Cain’s conscience, shining a light on his wrong actions.

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(See Genesis 4:9–10.)

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God uses His creation to present undeniable evidence of His truth and power.

(See Ezra 7:10, Titus 1:9.)

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(See Romans 1:19–20.)

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Jesus persuaded the disciples that He was the Son of God by revealing His authority over nature.

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Jesus often used parables and stories as illustrations so those with hearing hearts could better grasp spiritual truths.

(See Mark 4:30–34.)

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Jesus made application from the Law to show His adversaries that healing on the Sabbath was the right thing to do.

Jesus’ words brought conviction that motivated the crowd to change their plans.

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The Holy Spirit guides believers into all truth, and He gives wisdom for persuading others regarding the truth.

(See John 16:13, I Corinthians 2:3–5.)

What should be evident in my words, attitudes, and actions, as I boldly speak the truth?

(See Ephesians 4:14–15.)

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Have I stopped and considered the needs or goals of my audience above my own needs?

(See Philippians 2:4.)

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(See John 8:7–9.)

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Am I committed to handling the Word of God plainly and honestly as God leads, so that Scripture is able to speak to another’s conscience?

(See I Corinthians 14:24, II Corinthians 4:2.)

(See Luke 13:14–16.)

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Why is it important for me to learn how to clearly share the Gospel?

(See Ezekiel 3:18.)

(See Matthew 14:32–33.)

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Do I prepare my heart to seek and obey God’s Word so that I am better able to persuade others of the truth?

What can I do to make sure my beliefs are based on God’s Word and that I am ready to explain them to others?

(See II Timothy 2:15.)

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How can my example influence others to act?

(See Hebrews 10:24.)

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GOD ENABLES ME TO

Point Others in the Right Direction

INTRODUCTION

H

ave you ever been lost?

In order to find your

way back to familiar places, you need someone to give you directions. In a similar way, many have wandered away from the right path spiritually, and some have never been on it to begin with. Jesus said: “I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the

Father, but by me” (John 14:6).

By pointing others to Jesus, you help them to find the truth and the way of life.

Through sharing God’s Word, you give them answers for difficult situations and decisions. You can also guide others in the right direction by staying on the right path yourself. When they see you not only talking about memorizing Scripture but also doing it with joy and success, they will be encouraged to follow your example.

Philip Guides a Traveler to Jesus

PERSUASIVENESS Guiding vital truths around another’s mental roadblocks 6

BIBLE STORY

LESSON 1 Point Others in the Right Direction

Philip Guides a Traveler to Jesus

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tephen and Philip were two of the seven deacons appointed by the church in Jerusalem. These men

fulfilled the responsibility of serving tables and ministering to widows. The deacons were men of hospitality, patience, and self-control. God empowered Stephen to preach and perform miracles. When certain men of the synagogue heard his words, they were convicted.

Yet, unwilling to repent of their sin, they stirred up the people, brought Stephen before the council, and accused him of blasphemy. Refusing to hear or consider Stephen’s powerful testimony, they cast him out of the city and stoned him. After Stephen became the first Christian martyr, the Church encountered

1. Who spoke to Philip? What instructions was Philip given? While following those instructions, whom did Philip meet? What was the traveler doing? (See Acts 8:26–28.)

In what ways can God get your attention? When God prompts you to go out of your way to speak to someone about Christ, how do you respond?

2. What did the Holy Spirit prompt Philip to do next? How did Philip start a conversation with the traveler? (See Acts 8:29–30.)

What questions can you ask to help a friend or sibling think through their choices?

3. What specific Scripture was the eunuch reading while on his journey? What did he want to know about it? (See Acts 8:30, 32–34.)

How can you prepare for when someone may ask you a question about Jesus or the Bible?

4. What resource did Philip use to answer the traveler’s questions? Of Whom did Philip speak?

(See Acts 8:35.)

great persecution. The believers were scattered beyond Jerusalem and went everywhere, preaching the Gospel.

Philip traveled to the city of Samaria. As the Samaritans heard Philip speak and saw the miracles he performed, they believed on Christ. The city was filled with joy!

After Peter and John visited the new believers, Philip moved on to preach in other Samaritan villages.

Suddenly, he was directed to travel to a remote, desert location. Why was Philip sent there? Whom would he meet? Would Philip be sensitive to the traveler’s spiritual needs and point him in the right direction?

Let’s read the Bible story in Acts 8:26–40 and then discuss the following questions.

What Scripture can you use to point others in the right direction when they want to know how to be saved? When they are struggling with obeying their parents? When they are having trouble getting along with another person?

5. What did the eunuch want to do next?

(See Acts 8:36.)

If someone asks you about the meaning of baptism, what verses can you share with him?

(See Romans 6:3–4, Colossians 2:12–13.) What must a person do before being baptized? (See Acts 2:38.)

6. What was Philip’s wise answer? What did the eunuch do in response? (See Acts 8:37.)

When leading someone to the Lord, why should you take time to make sure that the person fully understands the decision he is making?

7. What happened after Philip baptized the eunuch?

What was an evidence of the eunuch’s conversion as he continued on his journey? (See Acts 8:39.)

Who has pointed you toward the Lord?

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Operational Definitions of Character Qualities ALERTNESS vs. Unawareness

ATTENTIVENESS vs. Unconcern

AVAILABILITY vs. Self-Centeredness

BOLDNESS vs. Fearfulness

CAUTIOUSNESS vs. Rashness

COMPASSION vs. Indifference

CONTENTMENT vs. Covetousness

Being aware of that which is taking place around me so that I can have the right response to it

Showing the worth of a person by giving undivided concentration to his words and emotions

Making my own schedule and priorities secondary to the wishes of those I am serving

Confidence that what I have to say or do is true and right and just in the sight of God

Knowing how important right timing is in accomplishing right actions

Investing whatever is necessary to heal the hurts of others

Realizing that God has provided everything I need for my present happiness

Mark 14:38

Hebrews 2:1

Acts 4:29

Proverbs 19:2

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M

Philippians 2:20–21

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P

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I John 3:17

M

I Timothy 6:8

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CREATIVITY vs. Underachievement

DECISIVENESS vs. Double-mindedness

DEFERENCE vs. Rudeness

DEPENDABILITY vs. Inconsistency

DETERMINATION vs. Faintheartedness

DILIGENCE vs. Slothfulness

DISCERNMENT vs. Judgment

Approaching a need, a task, or an idea from a new perspective

The ability to finalize difficult decisions based on the will and ways of God

Limiting my freedom in order not to offend the tastes of those God has called me to serve

Fulfilling what I consented to do even if it means unexpected sacrifice

Purposing to accomplish God’s goals in God’s time regardless of the opposition

The God-given ability to understand why things happen

James 1:5

Romans 14:21

Visualizing each task as a special assignment from the Lord and using all my energies to accomplish it

Romans 12:2

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O

M

Psalm 15:4

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O

II Timothy 4:7–8

Colossians 3:23

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I Samuel 16:7

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DISCRETION vs. Simplemindedness

ENDURANCE vs. Giving Up

ENTHUSIASM vs. Apathy

FAITH vs. Unbelief

FLEXIBILITY vs. Resistance

FORGIVENESS vs. Rejection

GENEROSITY vs. Stinginess

The ability to avoid words, actions, and attitudes that could result in undesirable consequences

The inward strength to withstand stress to accomplish God’s best

Fervently expressing with my soul the joy of my spirit

Visualizing what God intends to do in a given situation and acting in harmony with it

Not setting my affections on ideas or plans that could be changed by God or others

Clearing the record of those who have wronged me and allowing God to love them through me

Realizing that all I have belongs to God and using it for His purposes

Hebrews 11:1

Colossians 3:2

Ephesians 4:32

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Proverbs 22:3

Galatians 6:9

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I Thessalonians 5:16, 19

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E

S

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II Corinthians 9:6

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GENTLENESS vs. Harshness

GRATEFULNESS vs. Unthankfulness

HOSPITALITY vs. Loneliness

HUMILITY vs. Pride

INITIATIVE vs. Unresponsiveness

JOYFULNESS vs. Self-Pity

JUSTICE vs. Corruption

Showing personal care and concern in meeting the needs of others

Making known to God and others in what ways they have benefited my life

Cheerfully sharing food, shelter, and spiritual refreshment with those God brings into my life

Recognizing and doing what needs to be done before I am asked to do it

Delighting in fellowship with the Lord regardless of my circumstances

Personal responsibility to uphold God’s unchanging laws

I Corinthians 4:7

Hebrews 13:2

Recognizing that without the help of God and others my achievements in life would not have been possible

Romans 12:21

Psalm 16:11

Micah 6:8

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I Thessalonians 2:7

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G

S

James 4:6

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M

LOVE vs. Selfishness

LOYALTY vs. Unfaithfulness

MEEKNESS vs. Anger

OBEDIENCE vs. Willfulness

ORDERLINESS vs. Disorganization

PATIENCE vs. Restlessness

PERSUASIVENESS vs. Contentiousness

Giving to others’ basic needs without having as my motive personal reward

Using difficult times to demonstrate my commitment to God and to those He has called me to serve

Yielding my personal rights and expectations to God

Eagerly yielding to God’s Word rather than following my own will

Preparing myself and my surroundings so I will achieve the greatest efficiency

Guiding vital truths around another’s mental roadblocks

Psalm 62:5

II Corinthians 10:5

I Corinthians 14:40

Accepting a difficult situation from God without giving Him a deadline to remove it

I Corinthians 13:3

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O

John 15:13

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P

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Romans 5:3–4

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II Timothy 2:24

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PUNCTUALITY vs. Tardiness

RESOURCEFULNESS vs. Wastefulness

RESPONSIBILITY vs. Unreliability

REVERENCE vs. Disrespect

SECURITY vs. Anxiety

SELF-CONTROL vs. Self-Indulgence

SENSITIVITY vs. Callousness

Showing high esteem for other people and their time

Wise use of that which others would normally overlook or discard

Knowing and doing what both God and others are expecting from me

Luke 16:10

Romans 14:12

Structuring my life around that which is eternal and cannot be destroyed or taken away

Instant obedience to the initial promptings of God’s Spirit

Ecclesiastes 3:1

Awareness of how God is working through the people and events in my life to produce the character of Christ in me

Exercising my senses so I can perceive the true spirit and emotions of those around me

Proverbs 23:17–18

John 6:27

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G

O

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Galatians 5:24–25

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Romans 12:15

SINCERITY vs. Hypocrisy

THOROUGHNESS vs. Incompleteness

THRIFTINESS vs. Extravagance

TOLERANCE vs. Prejudice

TRUTHFULNESS vs. Deception

VIRTUE vs. Impurity

WISDOM vs. Natural Inclinations

Eagerness to do what is right, with transparent motives

Knowing what factors will diminish the effectiveness of my work or words if neglected

Not letting myself or others spend that which is not necessary

Acceptance of others as unique expressions of specific character qualities in varying degrees of maturity

Earning future trust by accurately reporting past facts

The moral excellence and purity of spirit that radiate from my life as I obey God’s Word

Seeing and responding to life’s situations from God’s frame of reference

G Philippians 2:2

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I Peter 1:22

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T P— Prophet

Proverbs 18:15

S— Server

Luke 16:11

G T—Teacher

E— Exhorter

Ephesians 4:25

P G— Giver

II Peter 1:3–5

O— Organizer

E

Proverbs 9:10

M— Mercy

Revealing the character of Christ through the stories in His Word.

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