NCT Part 1B Study Guide

New Covenant Theology: Part 1B — The Spirit & the Word

Part 1B of the New Covenant Theology Study Guide, The Spirit & the Word, shows that discipleship is not self‑improvement but Spirit‑dependence. Jesus has ascended, and the Spirit of Christ has come as the second Advocate—the Teacher who reveals, leads, and applies God’s Word to His people.

In this study, students will:

• Learn from Paul’s weakness that true ministry rests on the Spirit’s power, not human eloquence.
• Contrast the wisdom of this age with the hidden wisdom of God, revealed only by the Spirit.
• Discover that the Spirit searches the deep things of God and teaches what human reasoning cannot.
• See that no prophecy of Scripture is private interpretation, but Spirit‑given revelation.
• Confront the temptation to trust self rather than the Spirit, and practice Spirit‑controlled ministry and community.
• Grasp Paul’s warning that the gospel is not devised by man but revealed by the Spirit of Christ.

Each section includes Summaries, Doctrines, Faith Anchors, Word Studies, Spirit‑Led Prompts, and Activities. These tools help students not only understand but also practice Spirit‑dependence in daily life. The guide works for both personal and group study, with 🔑 Core elements for essentials and 🌿 Expanded elements for deeper reflection.

Part 1B closes with Paul’s piercing reminder in Galatians 3:1–4: “After starting your new lives in the Spirit, why are you now trying to become perfect by your own human effort?” This review anchors the study in the truth that the Spirit who began the work is the One who will complete it.

Utility for Students:
This guide is not just about learning theology—it is about living it. Students will learn to listen to the Spirit, yield to His leading, and bear fruit in their daily walk. By engaging with The Spirit & the Word, they will test their faith, discern the Spirit’s voice, and live in the freedom of the New Covenant.