Christian Character: Why It Matters, What It Looks Like, and How to Improve It - Paperback

by Ernest R. Larkins (Author)

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.

Author Biography

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.