Ex-Baptist Church Worship Lecture Notes
Introduction
- Focus on accountability within the theme of discipleship.
- Aim to understand accountability as a blessing from God, not a restriction.
Opening Prayer
- Acknowledge God's great love and call to discipleship.
- Emphasize thanksgiving, praise, and receiving from God.
Importance of Accountability in Discipleship
- Accountability is crucial for effective discipleship.
- It is necessary for long-term discipleship success.
Key Areas of Accountability
- Importance across all areas of life, not just in church.
- Personal reflection on areas where accountability is needed.
Biblical Passages on Accountability
2 Samuel 11 & 12 (King David's Story)
- David's failure to lead in war led to temptation.
- His actions (adultery and murder) highlight the crisis from lack of accountability.
- Nathan confronts David; shows that God forgives but consequences remain.
2 Kings 5:19-27 (Elisha and Gehazi)
- Gehazi's greed and deception after Elisha's refusal of gifts.
- Gehazi uses lies to gain from Naaman, resulting in leprosy as punishment.
Lessons on Accountability
Why We Need Accountability
- Prone to Sin
- We all have secret weaknesses and must eventually be accountable to God.
- Accountability helps address sins like greed, laziness, dishonesty, etc.
- Safety Net
- God's safety net to prevent us from irreversible downfall.
- Accountability helps avoid and recover from sin.
- Keeps Us on Track
- Aligns us towards spiritual maturity and growth.
Who Needs Accountability?
- Those with Responsibilities
- Focus on how responsibilities are carried out, attitude, and integrity.
- Those with Authority
- Pastors, teachers, and parents need to be accountable due to their impact.
- Those Who Wish to Grow
- Participants in discipleship need accountability for spiritual growth.
True Meaning of Accountability
- Not just meetings, bonding, or confessions.
- True Accountability involves sharing failures truthfully and seeking proactive change.
- Based on James 5:16, involves confession and prayer for healing and redemption.
Conclusion
- Accountability prevents crises and facilitates reaching spiritual maturity.
- Requires voluntary offering, cannot be demanded.
- Accountability is an expression of God's love and care.
Final Prayer and Breakout Group Activity
- Reflect on the message and discuss questions in breakout groups.
- Volunteer to take notes and lead the group in prayer.
Reflect on the need for accountability and how it supports spiritual growth throughout the week.