THE
CHURCH
OF
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APOSTLES
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FA L L
‘18
M I N I S T RY GUIDE
WE LCOM E Back in 1985 when the Lord began to burden my heart for the birthing of a new congregation in this area, three things from the Word of God were clearly revealed to me in regard to worship:
1 2 3
Unhurried praise and adoration of our Lord Jesus Christ as our Savior, Lord, and the Head of this church. This includes a regular time for breaking of bread at the Lord’s Table. Prayer and intercession as an expression of our utter dependence on our heavenly Father through Jesus Christ in all things. Bold proclamation that is relevant and instructive. Because we believe that the Bible is God’s self-revelation and therefore contains all the answers to all of man’s problems and needs, we preach it with all of its authority.
Michael Youssef, Ph.D. Founding Rector The Church of The Apostles
TABLE OF CONTENTS MINISTRIES AND BIBLE STUDIES 6
Children’s Ministry
8
Student Ministry
10
College Fellowship
10
20s and 30s
15
Small Groups
18
Women’s Ministry
21
Men’s Ministry
22
Adult Bible Classes
26
Congregational Care
31
Outreach Ministry
32
Evangelism Classes
WHO WE ARE The Church of The Apostles has never been just another church. God has guided and sustained this church through a vision that was made clear to the Rector even before the church began. We conclude from this that God has something unique in mind for this church body, and we operate our ministry according to a God-given core ideology. So, as you attend Apostles, what can you expect to experience in the life and ministry of this church?
OUR VISION Reaching the lost and equipping the saints for the work of ministry
CORE VALUES • We are here to lift up Jesus at all times in everything we do. The Bible says that Jesus came to the earth that He might have preeminence in all things, and that includes The Church of The Apostles. This ministry is not about us. • We are constantly searching for opportunities and ways to make God’s awesome message of salvation clear to as many people as possible. We want to ensure that people have the chance to hear the message and see the heart of Jesus in a true light that is compelling and clear. • We also strive to present every person complete in Christ. The highest purpose of life on earth is to make joyful progress in our spiritual formation, which is becoming like Jesus. Therefore, all of our ministry activity here at The Church of The Apostles converges on this focal point. • Apostles is a church that is busy with Holy Spirit-directed ministry activity that is executed with excellence. We firmly believe that excellence is Heaven’s first law, and, if we cannot do ministry with excellence to the glory of God, we simply don’t do it. • Finally, we speak the truth in love without compromise. Through the Bible, God reveals Himself as the fountain of truth and love. We declare His truth in love without compromise or apology.
SUNDAYS | 9:00 – 10:15 a.m.
SUNDAYS | 10:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
During this hour, we have Bible Classes (Sunday School), and we also have an early worship service in the chapel.
During this hour, we have our worship service in the main sanctuary. This is a time for celebration and communion, praise and prayer, evangelism and proclamation. Our heart’s desire is to lift up the resurrected Jesus in all of His saving power and glory.
The Bible classes are for our children, youth, and adults to meet for grounding, learning, connecting, and training in the wisdom and ways of the Lord. These classes center around Jesus, the living Word of God, and the Scripture, the written Word of God.
The sacrament of Baptism is practiced on the second Sunday of the month, and the sacrament of Communion is practiced on the first and third Sundays of the month.
WEDNESDAY NIGHTS Dinner | 5:00 – 6:15 p.m. Midweek Gatherings | 6:15 p.m. Before the Midweek Gatherings, we offer a family dinner at 5:00 p.m. No reservations are needed. Beginning at 6:15 p.m., we offer programs for everyone in your family. We have Midweek Gatherings for children, students, and adults. The Midweek Gathering for adults includes a time of worship and an extended time of prayer.
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C H I L DREN’S M I N I S T RY
In our fast-paced culture, many families are foregoing the opportunity for serious Bible teaching of young children. The idea that the Sabbath Day is set apart from all other days of the week is what we strive to honor. How we long for our next generation to one day have memories of solid Bible teaching during happy Sunday mornings in their beloved church! The 9:00 hour on Sunday morning is the place to be for families! One of the great blessings in our Children’s Ministry at The Church of The Apostles is the excellent opportunity for Bible study for all ages. The best of the best is offered during the 9:00 hour! It is our belief that we have a tremendous opportunity to reinforce solid truth when children are present from 9:00 until noon and not just for one hour. Our mission in Children’s Ministry is to intentionally reach out to children with the whole counsel of God— that they might know Him and love Him. Although children do not have the vocabulary to express it, they have hungry souls that yearn after God, so it is our desire that every experience a child has in our church includes God-centered programs and activities. We want to nurture faith in each child. We believe that spiritual foundations can be laid in even the youngest child in our nursery.
Sunday Mornings | 9:00 – 10:15 a.m.
Sunday Mornings | 10:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
Infant – Age 5 3rd Floor | Visitor Check-in at Kiosk
Infant – Age 5 3rd Floor | Visitor Check-in at Kiosk
First – Fourth Grade 5th Floor | Visitor Check-in at Kiosk Children gather at 9:00 a.m. for Sunday morning classes followed by an assembly, where they visit the land of “Apostlelot,” a drama depicting a hero of the faith.
First – Third Grade 4th Floor | Visitor Check-in at Kiosk Kid’s Connection is our children’s church for 1st – 3rd graders, where children have the opportunity for a time of worship and large-group teaching from 10:30 until noon.
Wednesday Nights | 6:00 – 7:15 p.m. Infant – Three-Year-Old 3rd Floor | Check-in Loving nursery care, stories, and activities Four-Year-Old – Kindergarten (Catechism Club) 3rd Floor | Check-in 1st – 4th Grade (Running Church) 4th Floor | Check-in Drop-off at Room 423 and pick-up in the STS Gym For more detailed information about our ministry and classes, please visit our website at apostles.org/children.
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ST U D ENT M I N I S T RY
STS or Student to Student is the ministry for 5th - 12th grade students at Apostles. We are passionate about middle and high school students loving God with their whole heart, reaching others with their whole lives, and making disciples with the whole gospel.
Through each of our Bible studies, small groups, worship services, teaching times, and service events, our desire is to minister to the hearts of students and see them transformed by Christ. We long to see them equipped to live as followers of Christ, as lights in the darkness, and to reach their own generation with the lifegiving truth of the gospel. SUNDAY MORNINGS 9:00 – 10:15 a.m. Our vision for STS Sunday mornings is to be a place where students develop and mature in their faith. We desire to see students know Jesus and make Him known and to be equipped to live for Him at home, on campus, and in everyday life. On Sunday mornings, this is typically accomplished through Small Group discussion. During the summer months, we meet as a large group (5th - 6th) and (7th - 12th) for a time of worship and teaching.
SPECIAL EVENTS AND TRIPS For information on upcoming gatherings (movie nights, grill-outs, etc.) and trips (retreats, conferences, mission and service opportunities, etc.), check out stsatlanta.org/events. Want to stay up to date on what’s going on in the Student Ministry? Visit our website at stsatlanta.org or call us at 404-591-2470. You can follow us on Facebook (STS Atlanta), Twitter (@stsatlanta), or Instagram (STSAtlanta). You can also sign up to receive text message updates: text “STS” to 24587.
MIDWEEK GATHERING Wednesday, 6:00 – 7:15 p.m. Through our Midweek Bible studies, our hope is that students will be equipped to love God more. Every week, during Midweek Gathering, large group and/or small group Bible studies are offered for every grade level.
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C O L L EGE
FELLOWSHIP We desire to be a place for college students to find encouragement, joy, rest, and strength in Jesus.
Apostles’ College Fellowship is a ministry for college and college-age students. We believe that the deepest possible joy and satisfaction in life can be found exclusively in knowing, loving, and trusting Jesus Christ. We desire to be a place for college students to find encouragement, joy, rest, and strength in Jesus. As a part of this, we want to find creative ways to embrace the full counsel of Scripture, as well as to be a community that provides an opportunity for discipleship.
We would love to meet you! If you are interested in getting involved in the college ministry at Apostles, please email us at college@apostles.org or call us at 404-591-2489. For current information on gatherings, places, and times, please visit apostles.org/students.
20s & 30s M I N I S T RY
The 20s and 30s Ministry at Apostles exists to encourage young adults to intentionally connect with each other each week and to explore the things in life that really matter. Within the ministry, there are lots of opportunities to gather with peers, develop meaningful relationships, and grow spiritually.
We seek to integrate the gospel into the daily lives of young adults in order that they might be transformed and become influencers in culture.
Primary weekly gatherings are on Thursday nights at The Church of The Apostles. It is a relaxed time of fellowship, worship, and a message from God’s Word. The message is followed by table discussion of the biblical text and key takeaways from the message. There are also a variety of social activities that take place virtually every weekend, as well as yearly retreats.
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SM A L L GROUP S Come and find a place where you can connect with God and others in deeper ways.
Our Small Groups are a great environment to develop authentic relationships while discussing how God’s truth intersects life. They help us in our journey of becoming more like Christ… together.
Small Groups meet in homes every week or everyother week, featuring lively, interactive discussions on God’s Word and how we live it out. In a Small Group, you’ll share life’s challenges and joys. You’ll pray for one another and receive encouragement. Your Small Group will help you live out your faith while impacting others… together.
MULTIPLE LOCATIONS Atlanta • Brookhaven • Buckhead • Canton Cartersville • College Park • Cumming Douglas County • East Cobb • Grant Park Henry County • Kennesaw • Lithonia • Mableton Marietta • North Druid Hills • Paulding County Peachtree Corners • Roswell • Sandy Springs • Smyrna
GROUPS
Tucker • Vinings • West Cobb • Woodstock
Mixed Groups • Men’s • Women’s • Young Families For more information, visit apostles.org or contact T.J. Diamond at tjdiamond@apostles.org.
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WO M EN’S M I N I S T RY
Every heart changed by the gospel of Jesus Christ
Our desire in Women’s Ministry is to provide opportunities to learn, grow, serve, and share as we walk with Jesus Christ.
EQUIPPING THROUGH COMMUNITY All women are invited to join us for several unique offerings as link arms with one another to delve into the Word of God. Register at apostleswomen.com/bible-studies.
ISAIAH: THE LORD SAVES (BY KATHLEEN NIELSON) Leader: Lori Harris | Tuesdays, September 11 - November 6, 6:45 – 7:45 a.m | Room 242 Cost: $15 Sometimes called the “Romans of the Old Testament,” the book of Isaiah is a theological masterpiece. Not only does it deliver some of the most beautiful poetry in the Bible, but it also gives us a glimpse into God’s perspective on human history and His magnificent redemptive plan. Kathleen Nielson helps us apply this book to ourselves as the people of God and points us to our Savior, the promised Messiah. Living Word Bible Studies offer a guide into deeper study of God’s Word, one whole book at a time. Five days of questions in each lesson lead the way to careful textual study, with helpful context and commentary woven throughout. The aim is to read the Scriptures and to learn to read the Scriptures with ever increasing discernment, delight, and conviction.
A STUDY OF THE GOSPEL OF MATTHEW Leader: Vicki Gillespie | Tuesdays, September 11 - November 6, 9:30 - 11:30 a.m. | Room 237 Cost: $20 The Gospel according to Matthew is a bridge book linking the Old Testament with its longing and desire for the coming of the Messiah to the revelation of the Messiah’s kingly rule over the new people of God. Today, we too need to know that Jesus is truly God’s King, and our hearts need to hear His call to “follow Me.” Today, we need to hear His command to take the message of His death and resurrection to the world. Childcare is available for this study; children must be registered by August 28. We cannot accept walk-ins.
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COLOSSIANS AND PHILEMON - PRECEPT UPON PRECEPT Leader: Anne Hayes | Tuesdays, September 4 – November 13, 10:00 – 11:30 a.m. | Room 229 B, C Cost: $15 What does it mean to be “complete in Christ”? Is Christ your “all in all” - does He meet all your needs? Don’t let anyone delude you with man-made philosophies or traditions that contradict the Word of God. Colossians is filled with rich and abundant treasures of truth—treasures that will keep us from error if we give ourselves to diligent and careful study. Childcare is available for this study; children must be registered by August 28. We cannot accept walk-ins.
ENDING THE WAR WITH MYSELF: LOVING MYSELF AS GOD DOES Leader: Mickey Land | Tuesdays, September 11 - November 6, 10:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. | Room 244 Cost: $15 Taught by Micky Land, LPC. Understand how accepting yourself as God does advances your emotional and spiritual life. The class will be led in a small group format in Room 244. Micky’s book, Ending the War with Myself, will be included in the registration fee of $15.00. Space is limited; register at www.apostles.org/care.
A STUDY OF THE BOOK OF ESTHER: A TRIUMPH OVER THE ENEMY Leaders: Charlotte Travis and Meg Estes | Thursdays, September 13 - November 8, 9:30 – 11:30 a.m. | Room 201-203 Cost: $15 We will venture verse-by-verse through the book of Esther with a focus on spiritual warfare. The Jewish people were led by God from destruction to victory, while pride led their enemy to a great fall. Our living here and now is not an accident. We are here for such a time as this. We are at war, and praise is our mighty weapon. As believers, our lives are hidden in Christ, who is the author and finisher of our faith. It’s by seeking Him first and loving Him most that we find our true purpose. God’s Word builds our faith in the mighty victory Christ offers. As we study and soak up truth, Satan loses the hope of deceiving us and keeping us bound by lies. Through Christ, we are taken from destruction to victory. Glory to the King! Childcare is available for this study; children must be registered by August 30. We cannot accept walk-ins.
JUDGES AND RUTH (JOY OF LIVING BIBLE STUDIES) Leader: Denise Nyberg | Thursdays, September 13 - November 8, 9:30 – 11:30 a.m. | Room 231 Cost: $20 How does God handle His people when they insist upon diving headlong into self-destructive, self-indulgent darkness? Is the Old Testament still relevant to contemporary life (Was it ever?)? How does life generally play out when culture increasingly leans into placing the highest premium on individual immediate gratification over morality, or legality? Who cares anyway; is it worth the intellectual stretch to consider?
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JUDGES AND RUTH (CONT’D) We aren’t living amidst the first generation to push that envelope, but will we learn from our predecessors’ missteps? Using, by permission, the proven successful study method of Bible Study Fellowship, we will explore these challenging questions, apply the biblical truth to today (and to ourselves) through the narrative of Judges and Ruth. The study is easy, the fellowship is rich—you are welcome! Childcare is available for this study; children must be registered by August 30. We cannot accept walk-ins.
MOM TO MOM Leader: Connie Musselman | Thursdays, September 13 - November 8, 9:30 – 11:30 a.m. | The Commons Cost: $15 Our fall 2018 Mom to Mom will be a study of Instructing a Child’s Heart, by Tedd & Margy Tripp. This book is a companion to the classic, Shepherding a Child’s Heart, and will be taught along with emphasis on Scripture passages that anchor the book. In addition, the second hour of Mom to Mom each week will include small group table time with dedicated mentors with a love and calling to minister to young moms. This is a precious opportunity to share and interact with other mothers, developing lifelong relationships. Childcare is available for this study; children must be registered by August 30. We cannot accept walk-ins.
FAITH IN LIFE SERIES : ADVENT Leader: Jeanine Dungan | Saturdays, December 8 and 15, 9:30 – 11:30 a.m. | Room 237 Cost: $5 Let us slow down… and stop. Stop all the commotion and preparation of the holidays to focus on the true meaning of Christmas and spend some time together preparing for the coming of Jesus. Through a series of thoughtful themes and reflections, engaging questions, and meditative prayer – focused on a deeper dimension of the meaning of Emmanuel, “God with us” – we will stimulate a Christ-orientated anticipation of Christmas Day that is wrapped in the peace of Christ, which is not of this world.
GROW | Community Groups are forming around the Atlanta area, designed to build authentic community. Single Hearts for Christ is a community for single women age 40+. Widow’s Network provides encouragement for widows through monthly luncheons. SERVE | Women’s Ministry provides numerous opportunities to serve our church, our community, and those beyond the walls of our city. See apostleswomen.com for details.
SHARE | Visit apostleswomen.com for more information on upcoming events and gatherings. Facebook: @apostleswomensministry | Instagram & Twitter: @apostleswomen
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M EN’S
M I N I S T RY
THE HUB
MEN’S SMALL GROUPS
Tuesday Mornings 7:00 - 8:00 a.m. (6:45 a.m Breakfast) | The Commons
Weekday Mornings
As men, we all want to make a difference at home, at work, and in all areas of our life. The Hub is designed for men of all ages to be equipped, encouraged, and empowered for real change.
In today’s world, it’s tough to be who God has called us to be. How do we balance the demands at work with the responsibilities at home? How do we love our wives like Christ loved the Church?
Join us for a complimentary light breakfast, challenging teaching from the book of James, and interactive discussion around the tables. You’ll leave different than when you came.
God did not intend for you to discover these answers by yourself but to journey with other men who are wrestling with the same issues. Our men’s small groups dive into Scripture, apply it to real life, and sharpen our focus on Christ.
MEN’S FRATERNITY
THE PATH: MEN’S MENTORING
Friday Mornings 6:00 - 7:00 a.m. | STS Gym Men’s Fraternity is a fellowship of men focused on developing their knowledge of Jesus Christ, enabling their walk in the Spirit, and encouraging one another in a fraternal kinship of life and purpose, seeking to grow in grace and knowledge, and seeking to reach a lost and dying world.
The Path facilitates mentoring relationships between men who desire to have accountability for their lives. Our primary source of guidance comes from the Bible and the Holy Spirit. As a reference for our mentors, we use “The Heart of Mentoring” by Dave Stoddard. For more information, contact Mike Slaughter at mslaughter@apostles.org.
God did not intend for you to discover the answer to important life questions by yourself. You were created to live in community with other men who are wrestling with the same issues.
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A D ULT
BIBLE CLASSES Classes run from June 3 - August 26 and meet Sundays at 9:00 a.m. for 10 weeks. First Step, though not a requirement for membership, is highly recommended for all those new to the church. The class will be led James Saxon, the Director of Outreach and Evangelism, with a team of lay leaders.
Progressive Bible Concepts Chris Kitchens Room 245
Grounding - Entry Level Classes First Look John Horton and Greg Smith Room 201-203 Our church family at Apostles is passionate about reaching the lost and equipping the Saints. We would love for you to join us on this mission! Our four-week First Look class is an opportunity to learn more about Apostles, learn about your spiritual gifts and discover the many growth, fellowship and ministry opportunities available to you. While not obligating you to join the church, please note: completion of First Look is required for church membership. The next First Look Class will begin Sunday, October 7, at 9:00 a.m. For information, contact Jo Fuller at 404-564-6673 or jfuller@apostles.org.
First Step James Saxon Room 201-203 (moving to Room 242 on October 7) In an attempt to assist all persons relatively new to The Church of The Apostles to move more deeply into the life and ministry of our church, we have organized a learning opportunity called First Step. This class is a sequel to the First Look Class, and it currently is designed to run
Have you ever asked, “What are basic Christian doctrines?” Or, “where are they located in the Bible?” The study will use Scripture to answer those questions. Adoption, Sanctification, The Trinity, Incarnation, and Election are some the topics we will be studying this fall. It will be an exciting study that will enrich your faith, whether you are a new or seasoned believer. Come and be transformed by God’s Word.
Connecting - Community or Life Stage Classes Breakthrough Living – 1 Corinthians James Pool Room 616 An extraordinary, lively group of maturing Christians that love the Lord and each other, and are growing together in our understanding of the Word. We will launch into 1 Corinthians with an emphasis on the application of wisdom in our Christian walk. James Pool leads a guided participatory discussion where all are welcome.
Family Foundations John Whitney Room 612 Family Foundations is comprised largely of married couples with children from preschool to high school. The group strives to build a faith-based foundation for
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the development and strengthening of our individual families and church family bonds through the study of God’s Word in a sharing and participatory environment.
Family Ministries Class Kevin Cuthbertson Room 620-623 The Family Ministries class is designed for families of every age, from newlyweds without kids to grandparents. Our hope for this time is that we will mature as husbands and wives, fathers and mothers, and that God would use those who have walked before to now walk beside. Breakfast will be provided at 8:45 a.m., and class will begin at 9:15 a.m. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact Kevin Cuthbertson at kcuthbertson@ apostles.org.
Mid-Singles Gathering (Late-30s and above) Mike Glass Room 607-610 Mid-Singles Gathering is a place to connect with others in your stage of life as you develop friendships and grow in grace through practical biblical teaching.
Thrive: A Mid-Singles Community (35 and above)
with God and where we really are. True life-change happens on this journey. This class will combine solid biblical teaching with authentic table discussions about how we live out God’s truth. We’ll explore the book of Hebrews, with time for honest, application-oriented conversation about the Scriptures, as well as the challenges and joys of the journey.
Women’s Group - Deuteronomy: Promised Grace for Rebel Hearts Linda McEntire and Muriel Cash Room 617 In this study, we will hear the living God’s words of appeal, calling us urgently to remember His faithfulness and to turn from our unfaithfulness. We will hear His words of promise spoken to rebel-hearted people like us. We will hear His words of instruction, pointing us to embrace the gospel of grace that shapes every aspect of our lives. We will hear His words of renewal, offering life through redemption in His Son.
Learning Study Classes with a Learning Emphasis The Book of Acts Monte Johnson Room 611
Danny Castellano/Brad Ost Room 613
An in-depth, verse-by-verse study, with application for today!
Thrive is a mid-singles class working through the Bible. Right now, we’re in Romans and sharing our lives in community. We’d love to have you come along with us as we seek to grow toward the Lord and each other in a warm and welcoming setting. Come and thrive in our community. We’d love to have you!
The Book of Ezekiel
The Journey – The Book of Hebrews Steve Peterson, Jordan Broggi, Kevin Selsor, and T.J. Diamond Room 614-615 We’re on a journey—a journey toward Christ-likeness, a journey that takes us through the gap. This gap is the differential between where we want to be in our walk
Roger Hill Room 237 A,B,C,D “By the rivers of Babylon, we sat down and wept,” said the Psalmist. BUT WAIT! At the same time, Ezekiel said, “The heavens opened and I saw visions of God!” What a contrast! As the prophet of the Holy Spirit and the shekinah Glory of the Lord, Ezekiel tells us why it left the Temple and when it will return even in the millennium. THIS is the warning we need in this country today to abide in the Glory of the Lord!
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The Gospel of John Jimmy Goolsby Room 229 B & C The Apostle John said... “but these are written so that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and that by believing you may have life in his name” (John 20:31). John’s Gospel is about the biggest need in our life, to see the Glory of God revealed through Jesus Christ. Join us for this in-depth study that will lead us to be in awe of Jesus Christ and worship Him—He is all we need!
The Psalms – All Praise to Christ Baker Smith Room 234 The Lord Jesus Christ quoted the Psalms more than any other Old Testament book, and the Psalms are cited 148 times in the New Testament in order to explain and advance the gospel. According to Luke, Jesus said that everything must be fulfilled that was written about Him in the Psalms. Because the Psalms illuminate the person and work of God the Son while summarizing God’s powerful hand in history, Martin Luther often referred to the Psalms as a little Bible. As we approach God in prayer, praise, and worship, the Psalms guides our hearts, words, and actions to glorify the Lord.
The Ways of the Lord Lee Holston Room 243 “And now, Israel, what does the Lord your God require of you, but to fear the Lord your God, to walk in all His ways and to love Him, to serve the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul, and to keep the commandments of the Lord and His statutes which I command you today for your good?” (Deuteronomy 10:12) You could probably rattle off many of the laws or statutes of the Lord, but how long of a list could you make of God’s ways? Moses charges the Israelites to walk in God’s ways. David instructs Solomon to “walk in His ways” in I Kings 2:3, and God repeats the charge to “walk in my ways” in the next chapter I Kings 3:14. We will begin to study and list some of God’s ways as we work our way through Joshua, Judges, the Samuels, and the Kings.
Training Classes - Developing Life Skills The Book of Isaiah Tom Taylor Room 244 We will study Isaiah, the evangelical prophet, the prophet most often quoted in the New Testament. We will not only see the Holy God, whose glory fills the earth, our loving Father who begs us to come to him, but we will see his Son, our Wonderful Counselor and the Prince of Peace. Hopefully, throughout, we will respond with “here am I, Send me.” “Come all of you who are thirsty, come to the waters and you who have no money; come, buy and eat. Come buy wine and milk without money and without cost.” (Isaiah 55:1)
Revival in America Today Bobby Mitchell, Sr. Room 239 This is a study about the decline of America today and what we, as Christians, can do about it. It is a story of our personal faith walk and how we can unite with others to make a difference. It builds on previous studies of knowing and doing God’s will and comparing 21st century America with Scripture. It focuses on revivals and whether or not they are occurring today, and if they are occurring, what can we do to maintain them. Does God call us today? Can we really walk with Him in the turmoil of America today? How can we make a difference? As always, Scripture and application are the foundation to this course.
You Only Die Once Stan Carder Room 242 For many years, The Church of The Apostles has taught us how to live a godly life. Now, we need to be taught how to be prepared for our “final laps.” We have run the race well; now, we must finish well. This video-based class will offer practical information and guidance as we make preparations regarding our end-of-life issues, such as caring for our surviving family members, executing our wills, estate planning, and other areas that would need to be addressed.
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C O NG R EGATI ONA L CARE Congregational Care is designed to extend the love and compassion of the Rector to those in our congregation, providing eyes to see, a shoulder to lean on, hands to help, knees to pray, and feet to walk beside— the love of Christ incarnate through the compassion of others. It is to be the hands and feet of Jesus in meeting the needs of our community. We seek to purposefully fulfill this ministry by showing care to those in need and offering ministry classes to help those dealing with difficult situations such as divorce, grieving a family loss, facing financial difficulties, or restoring a broken life. We also provide personal counseling that is designed to provide wisdom and guidance to those who are going through challenging circumstances.
We seek to fulfill this ministry by showing compassion to those in need, providing classes to help those dealing with difficult situations such as divorce, grieving a family loss, facing financial difficulties, or restoring a broken life. COMPASSIO N MINISTRY We have several ministries designed to effectively serve our congregation. Our Stephen Ministry provides skilled laypersons who are available after each worship service for prayer and encouragement along one’s journey. Grace Touch Meals is for those in need of refreshment and encouragement, when life has temporarily overwhelmed. Our Prayer Ministry intercedes on behalf of the needs, offerings of praise, or difficult circumstances of our church family.
STEPHEN MINISTRY
LEGACY BUILDERS
Stephen Ministry is a unique, one-on-one, Christ-
What do we want to “hand down” to our children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren? Legacy Builders is a ministry that is focused on equipping those who are interested in preparing, presentings and preserving a godly legacy for their family. This legacy building process will be developed and enhanced through classes, ministry resources, and opportunities for service.
centered caring ministry. Trained lay ministers in our congregation are available to meet with, pray with, and walk alongside those who are experiencing struggles, hurts, or overwhelming circumstances, within a supportive caring relationship. Stephen Ministers meet regularly with an individual over a period of time to provide confidential, personalized care.
COUNSELING If your heart is heavy or your mind unsure, speaking with one of our counselors may help lighten your load and brighten your outlook. Personal counseling is available upon request by contacting our office at 404-564-3149 to schedule an appointment.
CLASSES - Fall Opportunities for Growth Living Waters: Restoring Relational Integrity 6 Months | Tuesday nights October 2 - March 26, 6:30 – 9:30 p.m. | STS Loft An in-depth ministry for any Christian seeking healing in any area of brokenness. Living Waters helps Christians resume the call to becoming whole gifts to each other
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through the body of Christ. This class meets on Tuesday evenings from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m., starting the first week in October until the end of March. Applications will be accepted beginning in August of 2018. Check out the video testimonies and more information at www.apostles.org/livingwaters.
CrossCurrent: Beyond Brokenness Tuesday nights, 6:30 – 9:00 p.m. August 14 – September 25 | STS Den This is a safe and confidential community to experience grace and find truth. No matter how broken or hopeless we may perceive ourselves, God upholds us with hope. In this Christ-centered community, God is restoring broken hearts, broken pasts, broken relationships, broken sexuality, and broken identity. Each week includes worship, teaching, a time of testimony, and same-gender small groups. Come and experience the hope and joy of overcoming strongholds, gaining healed relationships, and intimacy with God. This is a 7-week class. The registration fee of $10 includes the course book.
DivorceCare August 14 – November 13, 7:00 – 8:30 p.m. Room 617 Most people will tell you that separation and divorce are the most painful and stressful experiences they’ve ever faced. It’s a confusing time when you feel isolated and have lots of questions about issues you’ve never faced before. DivorceCare is a 13-week video and small group discussion course designed to assist, comfort, and support individuals as they go through this most difficult time. Class will meet on Tuesday evenings. The cost is $15.
“I did not think Living Waters was for me, but it was everything I needed. I was finally able to identify the
Financial Peace University September 5 – November 14, 6:00 – 7:30 p.m. Room 229ABC Do you really know where your hard-earned money goes each month or are you left wondering where it went? Do you run out of money before you run out of month? Tired of being stressed out over money? Dave Ramsey’s Financial Peace University is for you. This practical 10-week course covers all you need to know to achieve financial security in our uncertain world. Topics include savings, budgeting, debt elimination, investing, etc. We use Dave’s informative DVDs, case studies, group discussions, and other timely materials in a friendly group session atmosphere. Class will meet on Wednesday evenings. The cost is $95.00 per couple or individual.
GriefShare August 14 – November 13, 7:00 – 8:30 p.m. Room 613 Grieving the loss of a loved one, whether recently or in the past, is one of the most emotionally wrenching experiences one can go through. If one tries to deal with the varying waves of emotion on their own, the grief experience becomes even more distressing. GriefShare is a 13-week video and small group discussion course designed to assist, comfort, and support individuals as they go through this most difficult time. Class will meet on Tuesday evenings. The cost is $15.
Ending the War with Myself: Loving Myself as God Does Tuesdays mornings, 10:30 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. September 11 – November 6 | Room 244 Taught by Micky Land, LPC. Understand how accepting yourself as God does advances your emotional and spiritual life. The class will be led in a small group format in Room 244. Micky’s book, Ending the War with Myself, will be included in the registration fee of $15.00.
what’s, how’s and why’s of my wounds. This was a major key to opening up the door to my healing.”
Space is limited; register at www.apostles.org/care.
- Living Waters Participant Testimony
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O U T R E A CH M I N I S T RY
ADOPT A MINISTRY We are called to be the hands and feet of Christ in our communities. In that spirit, we are pleased to launch the “Adopt a Ministry” program, which will assist our members with making contact and actively engaging with one of our supported ministries. We believe a greater number of people, especially over the course of several years, will become acquainted and personally involved with the various Atlanta-area ministries that Apostles supports. Here’s how it works: A group or individual adopts a local Atlanta ministry for a period of one year. During that year, they commit to the the following: 1. 2.
3.
Get to know the adopted ministry. This may involve people from the adopted ministry coming and sharing details about the ministry, along with visits to the ministry. Plan up to three times to serve with the adopted ministry. The ways in which one can get personally involved with the adopted ministry will vary based on how the ministry functions, along with their specific needs. We suggest planning a time to serve once in the spring, summer, and fall. Commit to pray for the specific needs of the ministry throughout the year.
We want to help make your experience user-friendly for the group to get started. For more information, please visit ApostlesOutreach.org.
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E VA N G ELI S M CLASSES
FAITH TALKS Wednesday nights, September 5 – November 7 | Friday & Saturdays: September 14, 15 & October 26, 27 After years of wrestling with how to best equip believers to articulate their faith in these “politically correct” times, we have made significant progress in our efforts to crack the code on how to effectively bring the gospel to bear on the culture. This approach is called “Faith Talks” and is made up of 6 Core Values and 8 Action Steps which are taught together as parallel tracks. Once a person finishes both tracks, that person is fully trained to effectively share their faith out in their daily networks. You may register for these opportunities at apostles.org/registration.
CHRISTIANITY EXAMINED Saturdays, October 13 and November 17 Christianity Examined is a short course designed to clarify what it means to have a personal relationship with God and how to go about it. This is an introductory course to the Christian faith and is a prerequisite to an authentic experience of that faith. We cannot recommend it too strongly for those who are not clear on what it means to have a personal relationship with God, uncertain how to go about it, or if they are unconvinced that such a relationship even exists. It has also been a good tune-up for those whose relationship with the Lord has gone stale. Christianity Examined shares truth presentations about Jesus Christ, along with small group interaction, in a caring, non-judgmental atmosphere. For more information, please visit apostles.org/express
PROGRESSI VE BIBLE CONCEPTS Chris Kitchens Sundays beginning September 9, and Wednesdays beginning September 12 | Room 245 Progressive Bible Concepts is a bible study process that begins with the core fundamentals of the faith and progresses seamlessly through the whole counsel of God. The process interlaces deep bible study with apologetics, contrasting the biblical perspective with that of other world religions. PBC demonstrates the superiority of the scriptural world view in a rational, logical, and winsome manner. It moves progressively from the simple to the complex and is aimed at the heart, not just the head.
You may register for these opportunities at: apostles.org/registration. If you need more information, contact the office of James Saxon: 404-591-1988.
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