The basics, or fundamentals, of any skill or art are never to be laid aside by those who know them, whether they be teachers, farmers, carpenters, actors, or members of any other profession or occupation. The word fundamental itself suggests something upon which to stand, having come from the Latin base fund, or found, meaning "bottom," or "foundation." Most people seem to recognize the need for basics in material matters.

Likewise, in the spiritual realm there are basics which one must never leave—no, not for a moment— for to do so would open the gate to legions of erroneous thoughts and practices. The Psalmist of long ago said, "Thy ____ is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path." (Psa. 119:105.) The careful student of the Word, whether he be a teacher, a preacher, or anyone else who loves the truth, must stay within its bounds, or soon he will be walking in forbidden paths—paths that are outside the realm of truth. Every student of the Word should heed John's warning: "Whosoever transgresseth and abideth not in the _______ of Christ, hath not God. He that abideth in the doctrine of Christ, he hath ____the Father and the Son." (11 John 9.)

It does not take a Solomon to see that in many churches a lulling spirit of indifference to basics is resulting in an outreach for something new and exciting, far beyond the limits of the pure truth. This new-found craving has caused many to ridicule the importance of the church for which Jesus died. It has likewise caused many to become careless about what composes a worship service. It has lured leaders of the young to put more emphasis upon fun and games than upon the power of the gospel, an indication that those leaders themselves are lacking in fundamentals. Let us be reminded that although one can be too dogmatic about fundamentals, he can never be too fundamental in observing the principles of Truth.

The author, in writing this workbook, hopes to strengthen the faith of the faithful and to rekindle a love for truth in those who may be losing their grip on it. Use the King James Version for this workbook.

Lesson Topics

Lesson 1:	A Firm Belief in the Inspired Word of God	1
Lesson 2:	A Regular and Serious Study of the Scriptures	13
Lesson 3:	A Willingness to Study and Apply the Truth Once It Is Learned	19
Lesson 4:	A Scripturally Qualified Leadership	25
Lesson 5:	A Godly Example by Those Who Profess to Be Christians	31
Lesson 6:	A Desire to Be Scripturally Sound in All We Do	36
Lesson 7:	A Constant Effort to Attain and Maintain Unity in Christ's Church	41
Lesson 8:	A Firm Belief in the Providence of God	46
Lesson 9:	A Serious Plea for a Return to "The Old Paths"	52
Lesson 10:	A Willingness to Sacrifice for the Lord's Work	57
Lesson 11:	A Genuine Love for the Souls of all People	63
Lesson 12:	A Readiness to Give Honor to Whom Honor Is Due	70