In this first of a series of teachings on Laying the Foundation, Derek uses the picture of constructing a building to show how important laying a solid foundation is to building the Christian life. There is only one foundation for this structure, and we must be sure our lives are built on Jesus Himself.

Derek uses a dialogue between Jesus and Peter to give four phases we must all experience when we encounter Jesus: confrontation, revelation, acknowledgement, and public confession. Each of us at some point will come to a critical moment when we openly acknowledge or deny our faith in the Lord Jesus Christ.

In today’s program, Derek shares two ways in which we can wisely begin to build on our foundation. But first, there are issues in our lives to be dug out of the way—such as traditions and prejudices. No matter what culture you grow up in, there are things that need to be eliminated.

Derek continues providing three more issues that must be dealt with: preconceptions, unbelief, and rebellion. He then asks, “What is your attitude to the Bible?” Do you realize that Jesus and the Bible are both referred to as “the Word”? Your attitude toward one is your attitude toward the other.

Derek finishes this week’s teaching by summarizing what really makes a disciple. Jesus told His disciples that if they loved Him they would keep His words and that He and His Father would come to indwell them. Love is the motivation for obedience to Jesus, His Word, and the Father. Your obedience in love is what draws them.

Derek begins this new study by looking at who God is. Behind the entire universe there is a person, a Creator, who is also a Father. If we can embrace this, we will have a totally new perspective on ourselves, our lives, and everything that goes on around us. All things, including you, have their source and fulfillment in God.

Today Derek explains that God is behind and in control of the whole universe. He controls the stars, human history, the nations, and our individual lives. More important still, God has a plan for each one of our lives and He is working these out just as surely as He is controlling every other area of the universe.

Using Romans 8:29–30 as his text, Derek begins to look at the seven successive stages of God’s plan for those who love Him, who believe in Jesus Christ as their Savior, and who have become members of God’s family. The culmination of this plan is that we will share Christ’s glory and sit with Him on His throne throughout eternity.