Christian Character: Why It Matters, What It Looks Like, and How to Improve It
Ebook
This book covers twenty-six Christian character traits with narrower groupings for regeneration, the Ten Commandments, the Beatitudes, fruit of the Spirit, core traits, family and friends, romantic relationships, work ethics, struggles in life, and decision-making. Brainstorming sessions, hymn sings, intriguing insights, movie nights, nature studies, and other activities generate interest. A precise, multi-faceted definition of the trait sets the scope. Within each lesson, the first section addresses the question, "Why does character matter?" The specific answer unfolds through two key verses and two Bible characters. Section two responds to the question, "What does Christian character look like?" It examines the trait more closely and explores applications. The last section answers the question, "How can believers improve their character?" Mere self-effort does not produce godly results. Only the Holy Spirit's power can enable anyone to keep the moral law and, thus, cultivate Christian traits. Believers must seek to understand God's desire and then petition him for godly results. To encourage the latter, participants complete a "Heart Assessment, Reflection, and Petition" (HARP) chart to examine their lives and consider areas for change. The closing prayer acknowledges past failures and petitions the Spirit for divine strength to improve Christian character.
“The author’s acknowledged fallibility inspired this book, and the many faults of this reader were ample reason for the Holy Spirit’s sanctifying use of it in me. Larkins’ humility, Scriptural dependence, clear prose, and cogent observations are masterfully interwoven to help the reader graciously mature in Christ on this side of heaven. Take up and read, for we’re not just saved by Christ but in him as well!”
—Paul Gorman, ruling elder, Presbyterian Church in America
“Christian Character is a well-written, biblically instructional book with practical lessons for both individual and group study. This study provides real-life examples of how the kingdom of God should work its way into our lives and skillfully guides readers into a deeper understanding of self-control. Ernest Larkins challenges us to be more like Christ.”
—Danny Mays, health information management consultant
“Having sat under Ernie’s teaching in a men’s Bible study, I was eager to see how his gifts would be exercised in writing. I am not disappointed! This is a fine example of careful thought and study combined with humble reverence for God’s Word and the application of it to our everyday relationships with God and each other. I will be buying copies for all our grandchildren!”
—Bill Leuzinger, associate pastor of counseling and shepherding, Christ Community Church
“I found Ernest Larkins’ book, Christian Character, to be a delightful and encouraging read. With patience and clarity, the reader is walked through many aspects and perspectives of how the life of the Christian should reflect the life of his Savior. I am thankful for Larkins’ work and happy to recommend to others.”
—Ken Farmer, elder, Presbyterian Church in America
- Title: Christian Character: Why It Matters, What It Looks Like, and How to Improve It
- Author: Ernest R. Larkins
- Publisher: Resource Publications
- Print Publication Date: 2022
- Logos Release Date: 2022
- Language: English
- Resources: 1
- Format: Digital › Ebook
- ISBNs: 9781666797060, 9781666737523, 1666737526, 9781666797053, 1666797057, 1666797065
- Resource ID: LLS:9781666797060
- Resource Type: Monograph
- Metadata Last Updated: 2023-02-26T10:58:09Z
Ernest R. Larkins is professor emeritus at Georgia State University where he taught taxation courses at the undergraduate, master’s, and PhD levels. He also published two books and over a hundred articles in professional, legal, and scholarly journals. During his academic career, he received several teaching and research recognitions, including national or international awards from the Society of International Business Fellows, American Accounting Association, Academy of Educational Leadership, American Taxation Association, and Australian Taxation Studies Program.