Porter Barrington
Systematic Theology
Studies taken from
The New American Standard “Open” Bible
© The Lockman Foundation 1960, 1962, 1963, 1968, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1975, 1977
Special Bible Study Aids
© Thomas Nelson Publishers 1978, 1979
Introduction: Master Study Outline
go to lesson index
Taken from The New American Standard (Open Bible), The Christian Life Study Outlines and Notes are the amplification of a ministry of over thirty-five years, both in the pastorate and in the field of teaching and evangelism. These lessons by Porter Barrington on the great doctrines of the Bible are simple, without being ordinary, short, without being shallow, brief, without being dwarfed, positive, without being stilted, and comprehensive, without being complicated. They were produced to fill a need in the life of the average Christian, to provide an incentive to know more of God’s Holy Word. If diligently studied, they will help to establish you in the faith and give you spiritual confidence.
It is suggested that you study the Master Outlines in the order given: one each day for fifteen days; at the end of fifteen days, you will know more about the New Testament than you ever thought possible in such a short time. This study is equal to an advanced college course in Systematic Theology. If you review these lessons often, you will continue to grow in the knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.
To begin your study of the Bible with the Christian Life Outlines and Notes, go to the Index of the Master Study Outline below. Here you will find the fifteen Master Outlines on the great doctrines of the New Testament. It is suggested that to get the most out of these studies, you follow them in the order given and take time to read each Scripture reference found in the notes.
To illustrate the Master Outline system, we begin with Master Outline Number One: “The Bible – The Word of God”. You will find the introduction followed by an index containing five points. After reading the introduction, begin your study with point number one as follows:
I. The Bible Claims To Be The Inspired Word Of God
Read: 2 Tim. 3:16,17
After reading 2 Timothy 3:16, 17, return to the study note outline and read an explanation of that Scripture under point number I. Following this explanation, you will be asked to read 1 Cor. 2:14-16, for point number II: “The Bible Is A Difficult Book”. Then, again, return to the study note outline for an explanation of that Scripture under point number II, etc. In this manner, each point is linked with the next reference of Scripture and the appropriate explanation until you conclude with the last point in Master Outline Number Fourteen ” God’s Plan of Salvation”.
Master Outline Number Fifteen should be studied as a guide to witnessing after the believer is grounded in the faith. As a Christian, do not neglect this important section so that when the opportunity arises you will be prepared to effectively share your faith.
Now, proceed to Master Study Outline #1 and begin your quest for the abundant Christian life!
