Excerpted from the book New Beginnings by Dr. Stan DeKoven
Several years ago I met with a group of Christians, all of whom had been saved and nurtured within a local church. These people were from various denominational backgrounds and independent churches, all experiencing a sincere desire to develop a closer walk with God.
Our conversation revolved around our early experiences in the Lord. I asked this question: “If you could have had anything different, if anything could have been better for you in the beginning of your relationship with Jesus, what would it have been?”
Though the responses varied, all included the need for a systematic, loving, and consistent training or discipleship program presented by the local church. I found that many, if not a majority of Christians, begin their walk in an almost haphazard manner. There seems to be little vision within the local church for bringing the new Christian to maturity.
Over the ensuing years, I experimented with many materials designed to train new believers in the foundational truths. However, I did not find completeness in much of the material available, and the desire to develop a more comprehensive study began to burn within my heart.
In April 1987, while visiting some dear friends in Slidell, Louisiana, I had the privilege of meeting Dr. Orfilia, a pastor in Slidell. He was beginning a series of studies that he had effectively used in his local church. The material he developed and taught from, with modification, is the foundation for this book. I am most grateful for his permission to include his research material herein.
As you read and study this material, do so with prayer and an open heart. Complete the homework assignments in obedience to God and share your new insights with others.
This book is meant as a first step subsequent to salvation in your development of an understanding of the Word of God, enabling you to grow in your knowledge of Him.
If your pastor is teaching from this book, pray specifically that the Lord will anoint and empower him to share the word of truth clearly as you start your New Beginnings journey.
