Connect360: Dynamic Doctrines

  • Lesson Ten in the Connect360 unit “DiscipleMaking: Patterns of Discipleship and Evangelism for the Contemporary Church” focuses on 2 Thessalonians 2:13-17; Hebrews 5:11-13; Romans 16:17-18.

In 2 Thessalonians 2:13–17, the apostle Paul underscored the importance of foundational doctrines in the life of abeliever.

Paul wrote that “God chose you as the firstfruits to be saved through the sanctifying work of the Spirit and through belief in the truth” (2:13).

The truth of the gospel is central to salvation and sanctification. Believers are called to stand firm and hold fast tothe teachings they have received (2:15).

Teaching provides the foundation for spiritual growth. Through greater knowledge of God via sound doctrine, believers are sanctified, grow in holiness and are conformed to the image of Christ

In Hebrews 5:11–13, the author addressed the lack of spiritual maturity in the recipients of the letter.

The author lamented they should have progressed beyond basic teachings to deeper truths but were still in need ofelementary doctrine.

The author explained that “anyone who lives on milk, being still an infant, is not acquainted with the teaching aboutrighteousness” (5:13).

This highlights the necessity of progressing from foundational doctrines to more advanced understanding, which iscrucial for spiritual growth. To know God fully, believers must not only receive the basic tenets of the faith, but alsomature in their understanding of God’s will as revealed in Scripture.

Romans 16:17–18 warns believers against those who promote division and teach contrary to the doctrine that has been handed down.

The apostle Paul exhorted Christians to “watch out for those who cause divisions and put obstacles in your way that are contrary to the teaching you have learned” (16:17).

False teachers distort the gospel, and their influence can hinder spiritual growth.

It is essential believers be grounded in sound doctrine, so they can identify and reject teachings that are not in line with the truth of Scripture.

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Connect360: Get in the Habit! Spiritual Disciplines and Practices

  • Lesson Nine in the Connect360 unit “DiscipleMaking: Patterns of Discipleship and Evangelism for the Contemporary Church” focuses on John 15:6-10; Hebrews 12:10; Acts 13:2-3; Colossians 4:2-4.

Foundational Habits of Discipleship

Bible study serves as the bedrock of spiritual growth. Engaging with Scripture not only deepens one’sunderstanding of God’s nature, but also fosters a personal relationship with him.

Regular study of the Bible equips individuals with knowledge and wisdom, enabling them to navigate life’s challenges. Systematic study methods encourage believers to observe, interpret and apply biblical texts actively.

This practice cultivates critical thinking and allows individuals to discover personal insights, which can lead totransformative experiences in their spiritual lives.

Prayer is another foundational habit that profoundly influences spiritual development. It is through prayer thatindividuals communicate with God, express their thoughts and feelings, and seek guidance.

Philippians 4:6 states: “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, withthanksgiving, present your requests to God.”

Moreover, various forms of prayer—such as intercessory prayer, contemplative prayer and corporate prayer—enhance spiritual growth by encouraging individuals to engage with God and the community.

These practices not only strengthen one’s faith, but also foster a sense of belonging within the body of believers.

Worship is integral to spiritual disciplines, as it focuses on honoring and glorifying God. Engaging in corporate worship, as emphasized in Hebrews 10:24–25, encourages believers to “spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together.”

Worship creates a communal atmosphere where individuals can experience God’s presence collectively, reinforcing their faith. Personal worship through music, art or nature can lead to profound spiritual experiences.

Engaging in worship helps believers express gratitude, reflect on God’s goodness and realign their priorities,thereby facilitating deeper spiritual growth.

Serving others embodies the principle of love and is a crucial aspect of spiritual development. Jesus exemplifiedthis through his life, teaching that “whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant” (Matthew 20:26).

By serving, individuals not only obey Christ’s command, but also experience the joy of putting others beforethemselves. Acts of service can take many forms, from leading in the congregation to volunteering in local communities to participating in global missions.

Engaging in service cultivates empathy, humility and a sense of purpose, all of which are vital components ofspiritual maturity.

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Connect360: Family First: The Context of Discipleship

  • Lesson Eight in the Connect360 unit “DiscipleMaking: Patterns of Discipleship and Evangelism for the Contemporary Church” focuses on Ephesians 5:21-6:4; Matthew 12:46-50; 19:27-30.

Discipleship is a lifelong journey that ideally begins in biological families and concludes with spiritual families. These two environments are not mutually exclusive, but interdependent, working together to shape the spiritual formation of believers.

The family—both biological and spiritual—plays an essential role in the faith development of individuals, especially as they seek to follow Christ.

Family dynamics dramatically impact our self-perception and our worldview. In the context of family we embrace values, clarify roles and responsibilities, and navigate life from childhood to adulthood.

Earthly and spiritual families provide the foundation for faith formation and contribute to spiritual growth throughout a believer’s life.

The importance of family in faith development is highlighted in Scripture, beginning with the commands given to Israel in the Old Testament.

In Deuteronomy 6:1–9, the Israelites are instructed to love the Lord with all their heart, soul and strength, and to teach God’s commands diligently to their children.

This directive underscores the family’s role in the spiritual formation of the next generation. Parents are entrustedwith the responsibility of passing on faith to their children by modeling it in their lives and teaching it in everyday moments.

The command to love and serve God is not just a personal pursuit but a communal and generational one, with faithpassed from parent to child, fostering spiritual growth from an early age.

In the New Testament, the concept of family expands to include the spiritual family of the church.

In Ephesians 5:21–6:4, Paul offered instructions to both husbands and wives, and parents and children, regarding their roles within the household.

The familial relationship is presented as a model of mutual submission and love, reflecting the relationship between Christ and the church.

This passage emphasizes the role of parents in nurturing their children in the Lord and highlights the importance of honoring one’s parents as a means of spiritual growth (Ephesians 6:1–3).

While earthly families play a crucial role in the initial stages of faith formation, it is important to recognize that all families are imperfect, and not all children are raised in homes where spiritual guidance is provided.

This is where the spiritual family, the church, becomes crucial for continued faith development.

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Connect360: The Path to Spiritual Maturity

  • Lesson Seven in the Connect360 unit “DiscipleMaking: Patterns of Discipleship and Evangelism for the Contemporary Church” focuses on Colossians 1:9-11; 28b-29; 4:2-4; Ephesians 4:11-16; James 1:2-4

Preparation for spiritual growth is addressed specifically in Ephesians 4:11–13, which highlights the notation thatleaders with a variety of roles are gifts to the church.

And, they are “to equip his people for works of service, so that the body of Christ may be built up until we all reach unity in the faith and in the knowledge of the Son of God and become mature, attaining to the whole measure of the fullness of Christ.”

This Scripture underscores the importance of members of the church being equipped for service and understandingone’s place of significant service within the body of Christ.

“Every member a minister” is more than a motto, it is a truism.

The task of the leaders is to equip individual members of the body to know and assume their position of service in thechurch.

The unique callings to specific ministry areas can be discerned by discovering spiritual gifts, areas of concern,previous experiences or supernatural desires.

Leaders should seek out followers and guide them to explore and embrace their “works of service.”

Followers should submit themselves for training and placement. Preparation encompasses both formal teaching, such as biblical or doctrinal studies, and informal learning through life experiences and mentoring.

Notice three outcomes of effective preparation: unity in the faith, knowledge of the Son of God and maturity in Christ.

Believers are built up and the church is strengthened when all are contributing to the kingdom enterprise of disciple making.

Serving one another provides opportunities for believers to develop their gifts, demonstrate love and grow in humility. In serving others, believers are shaped more into the likeness of Christ, who came to serve and not to be served (Mark 10:45).

Ministry also fosters a sense of accountability within the church community, which is essential for spiritual maturity.

Spiritual growth is a dynamic and multifaceted process influenced by a variety of experiences and environments.

While the ultimate source of growth is the Holy Spirit, certain experiences such as prayer, the hearing of the word,participation in ministry, and enduring trials all contribute to a believer’s maturation.

Similarly, the church community and obedience to the leadership of the Holy Spirit provide environments in whichbelievers can grow in faith and continue to pursue maturity in our walk with him.

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Connect360: Grow Up! Becoming Mature in Christ

  • Lesson Six in the Connect360 unit “DiscipleMaking: Patterns of Discipleship and Evangelism for the Contemporary Church” focuses on 2 Thessalonians 1:3; 1 Peter 2:2; 2 Peter 3:18.

Spiritual growth is a natural and essential part of the Christian journey. From the moment a person is reborn in the Spirit, a supernatural process begins, leading the believer from spiritual infancy to full maturity in Christ.

This journey involves stages of growth—infancy, childhood and adulthood—shaped by the believer’s commitment to God, their surrounding environment, and their willingness to surrender to the process.

The consequences of stunted growth are significant, both for the individual and the body of Christ. Therefore,believers are called to grow in the grace and knowledge of Jesus Christ, continually striving toward maturity in him.

By understanding the stages of spiritual growth, the influence of external factors, and the need for intentionalsurrender, believers can cultivate the spiritual growth necessary to fulfill their calling in Christ and contribute to the flourishing of the church.

The goal of Christian ministry is to present every believer mature and complete in Christ, a transformation that takes place through the work of the Holy Spirit and the believer’s cooperation.

Spiritual maturity involves becoming more like Christ, reflecting his character, adopting his mindset, and engaging in his work of reconciliation. The destiny of every believer is to be conformed to the image of Christ, and this process requires intentional growth, learning and service.

As the church continues to fulfill its calling, the goal remains clear: to help each believer grow into their God-given purpose, reflecting the fullness of Christ in their lives.

While spiritual growth is a supernatural process, it is not without external influences.

The environment in which a believer grows plays a significant role in either nurturing or hindering theirdevelopment. The church community, mentors, spiritual leaders and even cultural influences all impact spiritualgrowth.

In the initial stages of spiritual growth, believers need strong spiritual leadership and sound teaching to help them navigate the stages of faith.

As 2 Thessalonians 1:3 suggests, faith and love grew in the Thessalonian church and was cultivated through constant prayer, encouragement and mutual support.

Similarly, the presence of a supportive Christian community can accelerate a believer’s growth, providing a safespace for questioning, learning and practicing the faith.

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Connect360: Baptism: The Spiritual Catalyst

  • Lesson Five in the Connect360 unit “DiscipleMaking: Patterns of Discipleship and Evangelism for the Contemporary Church” focuses on Mark 1:4-5, 9-11; Acts 8:9-13; 34-39.

Baptism is an act of obedience central to the believer’s identity as a follower of Jesus Christ.

In Matthew 28:19–20, Jesus commissions his disciples to “go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them inthe name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.”

Baptism, then, becomes the first step in discipleship, a public declaration of one’s allegiance to Christ and a sign of submission to his authority.

This obedience to the command of baptism signifies the believer’s decision to live according to God’s will and purpose.

As Paul wrote in Romans 6:3–4: “Or don’t you know that all of us who were baptized into Christ Jesus were baptizedinto his death?

“We were therefore buried with him through baptism into death in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead through the glory of the Father, we too may live a new life.”

Baptism is the believer’s declaration of having died to the old self and been raised to new life in Christ.

It is the first step in the journey of obedience to God, which includes living according to his word, bearing fruit of theSpirit, and engaging in ministry. Through baptism, believers publicly declare their allegiance to Jesus and their intention to follow him in all aspects of their lives.

A 73-year-old man recently was baptized. When asked about his decision to follow Christ and be baptized hereplied: “I was sprinkled as a child, received Jesus as my Savior at age 21, and been disobedient until now. I need to beobedient.”

Choosing to fully follow Christ in believer’s baptism was a significant moment in his life. What a day of celebrationit was for him and his family.

Just a word of caution on this point. An axiom of faith life is “disobedience leads to doubt.” When followers of Jesus fail to act obediently in the area of baptism, doubt in other areas can creep into their life.

Jesus’ emphasis on baptism as a marker of discipleship is not accidental, it is intentional. Guiding believers intobaptism contributes to greater confidence in their faith and followship.

Disciple makers should and must make baptism a priority.

To learn more about GC2 Press and the Connect360 Bible study series, or to order materials, click here.




Connect360: You Must Be Born Again

  • Lesson Four in the Connect360 unit “DiscipleMaking: Patterns of Discipleship and Evangelism for the Contemporary Church” focuses on John 3:1-9.

In verse 3, Jesus stated, “Very truly I tell you, no one can see the kingdom of God unless they are born again.”

The Greek word for “born again” (γεννᾶσθαι ἄνωθεν, genēsthai anōthen) can be translated as “born from above” or “born anew.”

It indicates a radical, supernatural transformation that occurs when the Holy Spirit works in the heart or spirit of an individual. This birth is not of human origin but is a divine work initiated by God, making it distinct from physical birth.

The question “Have I been born again?” is one that many believers must ask themselves as they seek assurance of their faith.

The Bible provides ways to discern whether someone has experienced spiritual rebirth. Just as physical birth is evidenced by a living, breathing child, spiritual birth is evidenced by a transformed life.

Jesus implied the evidence of being born again is the ability to see and enter the kingdom of God (John 3:3, 5). But what does this look like in practical terms? How can one know whether they truly have been born again?

John offered great assurance and an explanation in his letter. First John 5:13 says, “I write these things to you whobelieve in the name of the Son of God so that you may know that you have eternal life.”

Confidence in personally “knowing” our condition is critical for freedom to live in and for Jesus.

Historically, several Nigerian tribes would carve family insignias into their cheeks. The markings were distinct designs shaped by lacerating the face of young children.

The practice has multiple purposes. Some consider the markings a sign of position within the tribe or a form ofbeautification.

But most importantly, the markings identify the children as part of a particular family. The permanent markings connected the children to their tribe of origin.

What an interesting illustration or metaphor to explain the birthmarks of believers born into the family of God.

When we are reborn the Spirit “carves” at least four marks into our life that make us visibly identifiable as his childand part of his family.

John, in his first letter, provides further clarity on the evidence of spiritual birth.

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Connect360: Converts, Believers and Disciples

  • Lesson 3 in the Connect360 unit “DiscipleMaking: Patterns of Discipleship and Evangelism for the Contemporary Church focuses on 1 Corinthians 16:15-18 and Acts 18:1-8; 11:22-26.

While all disciples are believers, not all believers fully mature into disciples. A disciple is someone who not only believes in Christ but also follows him in daily life, seeks to grow in spiritual maturity, and participates actively inChrist’s mission.

The Greek word for disciple, mathētēs, means “learner” or “student.” Discipleship is about learning to become more like Jesus in character and mission.

First Corinthians 16:15–18 gives us a glimpse of what discipleship looks like in action. Paul mentioned thehousehold of Stephanas, who were among the first converts in Achaia, and says, “They have devoted themselves to theservice of the Lord’s people” (1 Corinthians 16:15). Stephanas and his household had moved beyond conversion andwere actively serving others in the body of Christ.

This devotion is a hallmark of discipleship—putting one’s faith into practice through love, service, and mission. Theword Paul used to describe the household of Stephanas is significant: they “devoted” themselves to the service of thesaints. Discipleship is not passive; it requires intentionality, commitment and action. Disciples are those who devotethemselves to the teachings of Christ, to the well-being of the church, and to the spread of the gospel.

In Acts 11:26, we see that it was in Antioch where the disciples first were called “Christians.” This is significant,because it shows discipleship is not just about personal spiritual growth but about identifying with Christ in such a waythat others recognize it. Discipleship means our lives are so aligned with Christ that we bear his name—not just in title, but in character and purpose.

Discipleship involves a process of growth, transformation and multiplication. Jesus’ final command to his followers was to “go and make disciples of all nations” (Matthew 28:19). This command highlights the responsibility of disciplesnot only to grow in their own faith, but also to help others grow in their own faith. Discipleship is not complete until it has been passed to others, forming a cycle of spiritual multiplication that expands the kingdom of God.

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Connect360: Who is My Disciple?

  • Lesson Two in the Connect360 unit “DiscipleMaking: Patterns of Discipleship and Evangelism for the Contemporary Church” focuses on Luke 14:25-35.

A true disciple of Jesus Christ willingly denies self in pursuit of a deeper relationship with God. The call to deny self is presented in some of the most challenging words Jesus spoke, “If anyone comes to me and does not hate his fatherand mother, wife and children, brothers and sisters—yes, even their own life—such a person cannot be my disciple. Andwhoever does not carry their cross and follow me cannot be my disciple” (Luke 14:26-27).

The phrase “deny themselves” (Mark 8:34) requires putting aside one’s personal ambitions, desires and attachments, choosing instead a path of self-sacrifice. Denying self does not mean abandoning personal identity but rather placing Christ’s mission and values at the forefront of one’s life. Discipleship means rejecting the pursuit of self-centered goals and, instead, pursuing the purposes of God wholeheartedly. Our love and loyalty to Christ shouldsurpass all other relationships and commitments.

Radical self-denial requires an inner transformation and reorientation of priorities. Denying oneself is a countercultural act that requires daily effort. Jesus’ teaching on self-denial is closely tied to the notion of taking up one’s cross.

In the first century Roman context, the cross was a symbol of suffering, shame and death. To “take up their cross”is, therefore, to embrace a life that will include hardship, persecution and even the loss of worldly status or comfort forthe sake of the gospel.

Paul echoed this in Galatians 2:20 when he wrote: “I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christlives in me. The life I now live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me.”

Often, the cross is seen as a burden to bear or a person to endure. However, a better picture might be our crucifiedbody (self) nailed to a cross. We intentionally shoulder that cross with full understanding of our own death and Christalive in us!

In Luke 14:33, Jesus said, “those of you who do not give up everything you have cannot be my disciples.” That highlights the necessity of total surrender, where material possessions, relationships and other self-interest are submitted to the will of God.

Paradoxically, while denying oneself appears to be restrictive, it actually leads to true freedom. Jesus teaches that “whoever wants to save their life will lose it, but whoever loses their life for me will find it” (Matthew 16:25). Thisparadox underscores selfish pursuits are unfulfilling but surrendering control to God brings purpose, peace and joy.

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Connect360: Go Make Disciples!

  • Lesson One in the Connect360 unit “DiscipleMaking: Patterns of Discipleship and Evangelism for the Contemporary Church focuses on Matthew 28:16-20.

Jesus intentionally revealed himself on many occasions after his memorable death. The post-resurrectionencounters resulted in several positive outcomes.

Jesus validated his victory over death and the grave, increased knowledge and understanding about himself, and presented a call to extend his ministry.

Multiple passages from the Gospels recount the dialogue between Jesus and his disciples, especially his directive for sharing his message of forgiveness and restoration, the “Great Commission.”

The Great Commission is a familiar term used frequently by churches to describe the call of Jesus to spread thegospel, evangelize the world, and disciple converts. The term is used as a purposeful mandate, a point of emphasis and motivation for all followers of Jesus.

Despite the prevalence of the use of the term, and the vast familiarity with the idea of a great commission, thecontemporary American Christian church reflects a lack of zeal or effectiveness in fulfilling the mission.

For the purpose of this and the following lessons in this study of discipleship and evangelism, the dual practices are fused and labeled as disciple making. Disciple making best describes the comprehensive process of introducing hearers to the gospel message of Christ and guiding them to follow Jesus and his teachings.

Even though the Great Commission is such an integral part of church life and ministry, it is more of an idea derived from synthesis of multiple biblical texts.

In this lesson, the primary passages from which the mission is derived will be explored, accompanied by a focuson the ensuing actions. Three pairs of action words found in the texts cited in this lesson form a simple but profoundprocess of disciple making.

The Great Commission begins with the authoritative declaration of Jesus, who states, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me” (Matthew 28:18).

This declaration sets the stage for his command, emphasizing that his followers are not given a suggestion, but a mandate grounded in his sovereign power and position.

The instruction to “go” echoes throughout the Gospels, indicating the act of disciple making is active and involves intentional movement.

The reciprocal action to sending is going. With a full expectation of obedience, Jesus declared an unambiguous call tocontinue the ministry.

The disciples’ response was indeed to accept the call and go just as he commanded. The disciples exhibited uncertainty about the future and insecurity about their abilities to accomplish the task.

Both concerns would be nullified within days by an extraordinary and powerful demonstration of God’s movement among them on Pentecost.

The sending and going aspect of disciple making is not merely a physical act, but also a spiritual one, requiringreliance on the Holy Spirit to fulfill the commission.

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Connect360: Remember the Sabbath

  • Lesson Thirteen in the Connect360 unit “Kingdom Assignment: The Relentless Pursuit of Obedience” focuses on Nehemiah 13:15-22.

The fourth of the Ten Commandments was the longest and one of the two positive commandments. The commandment dealt with rest and reverence.

After working for six days, God’s people were instructed to rest on the seventh. This was part of the very creation of life: after six days of working/creating, God rested on the seventh.

Even before this commandment was given, while the Israelites were in the wilderness on the way from the Red Sea to Mount Sinai, God showed them the day of rest was a basic principle of life.

The people ran out of food, and God promised bread from heaven. Each day they gathered enough manna for that day, and on the sixth day, God provided a double portion allowing them to rest from gathering on the seventh.

The Sabbath was not only a time of rest but also a day of worship. Worship was just as important to the commandment as rest. God blessed the Sabbath day and made it holy.

Yet even after the restoration of the Temple and the wall, they still were neglecting the Sabbath. The day of worship and rest was commercialized being exploited for personal gain.

“In those days I saw in Judah some who were treading wine presses on the sabbath, and bringing in sacks of grain and loading them on donkeys, as well as wine, grapes, figs and all kinds of loads, and they brought them into Jerusalem on the sabbath day. So I admonished them on the day they sold food” (13:15).

Nehemiah reprimanded the nobles of Judah and said to them, “What is this evil thing you are doing, by profaning the sabbath day?” (13:17).

Nehemiah commanded that the gates of the city be locked at dark before the Sabbath and not opened until after the Sabbath. He commanded the Levites to purify themselves and come as keepers of the gates and sanctify the Sabbath day.

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Connect360: Time to Celebrate

Connect360: Time to Celebrate

  • Lesson Twelve in the Connect360 unit “Kingdom Assignment: The Relentless Pursuit of Obedience” focuses on Nehemiah 12:40-47.

The dedication of the new wall was punctuated with pure joy. The people real­ized God was instrumental in the wall’s completion and worthy of their praise and worship.

The dedication included hymns of thanksgiving and songs accompanied by cymbals, harps and lyres.

The priests and the Levites purified themselves and then the people, and even the gates and the walls.

Two great choirs circled the city on the top of the wall leading from the Valley Gate, one counterclockwise and the other in the opposite direction, both proceeding to the Temple.

They began where Nehemiah started his inspection of the walls just months earlier. The two choirs took their places in the house of God and were joined by Nehemiah and half of the officials.

Some of the priests celebrated with trumpets and others sang with Jezrahiah their leader.

“On that day they offered great sacrifices and rejoiced because God had given them great joy, even the women and children re­joiced, so that the joy of Jerusalem was heard from afar” (12:43).

The people performed worship to their God, services of purification and sang songs of praise and hymns of thanksgiving to God. Then they read aloud from the book of Moses (13:1).

This day was quite a contrast from the complacency of the people and deplorable conditions of the city as described by Ne­hemiah’s brother Hanani in chapter one.

God raised up an un­likely leader who was willing to obey—who resisted opposition from within and threats from outside—and who wouldn’t stop until the task was complete.

The project was so great, only God was praised.

The celebration in Nehemiah 12 was the culmination of prepa­ration and planning. The leaders purified themselves, others and even the walls and the gates. Would we dare seek to lead others in the presence of God while harboring impurity in our own lives?

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