The Church of The Apostles Fall 2020 Ministry Guide by The Church of The Apostles

THE CHURCH OF THE APOSTLES

MINISTRY GUIDE apostles.org

FALL 2020

Belong To Jesus. Belong Together.

JOIN US ONLINE OR IN PERSON

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WELCOME Dear Friend, elcome to The Church of The Apostles! We are honored that you have visited us today, and it is our prayer that you have been blessed by uniting with us in worship. As you may have already sensed, this church is unique in its devotion to true, biblical worship. 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 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.

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2 Prayer and intercession as an expression of our utter dependence on our heavenly Father through Jesus Christ in all things.

3 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.

OUR FOUNDING RECTOR ichael A. Youssef was born in Egypt in 1948. Dr. Youssef surrendered his life to the lordship of Jesus Christ at the age of 16. He was one of eight children with a family heritage rooted in the ancient New Testament church founded by the Apostle Mark.

n the pages that follow, you can learn more about specific ministries of our church, but most importantly, remember this: you are loved, and you belong at Apostles.

Again, on behalf of the leadership and members of this church, welcome to Apostles.

Dr. Youssef immigrated to Australia as a young man where he studied at Moore Theological College in Sydney, was ordained as a minister, and married his wife, Elizabeth. He then earned a master’s degree in theology from Fuller Theological Seminary in California and a doctorate in social anthropology from Emory University in Atlanta, Georgia. He became an American citizen in 1984. Dr. Youssef teaches with a fresh perspective as a result of his background and innate comprehension of biblical culture. He has a rich understanding of the Bible, its original languages, and biblical lands. Because of this, his messages are sprinkled with descriptive explanations of many of Scripture’s subtleties and nuances.

Table of Contents 04

You Belong Here

Who We Are

Our Mission

08 Worship

Midweek Gathering

Wednesday Night Dinner

Children’s Ministry

Student to Student (STS)

College Fellowship

20s & 30s Ministry

Small Groups

Women’s Ministry

Singles Life

Men’s Ministry

Ministry During A Pandemic

Adult Bible Classes

Congregational Care

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You Belong Here Although belonging together looks much different in 2020 due to the COVID-19 global pandemic, as a church, we desire to lead people to Jesus and a community where they matter and belong. We would love to walk through this journey with you either online or in person! There are several ways you can belong to Jesus and belong together through our Sunday morning services, weekly Bible classes, and more. We hope to be a blessing to you, and in turn, you have an opportunity to be a blessing to others. For more information about how you can get connected, please visit apostles.org.

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Seven Benefits of Belonging

Grow closer to God. MATTHEW 22:37-39; 1 CORINTHIANS 15:3-4 Inside a community of likeminded believers, you are encouraged to worship, pray, and learn.

For more information about how you can get connected, please visit apostles.org.

Build lasting friendships. PHILIPPIANS 2:1-2; HEBREWS 10:24-25

Our church is a family united by our shared love for Jesus. This commonality creates a bond that serves as a foundation for relationship building.

Be known and loved. GENESIS 1:27 No matter your story, you will be respected and embraced as someone made in the image of God.

Be equipped. EPHESIANS 4:11-16 We teach the truth of the Bible as the primary source for spiritual growth and daily living. This truth gives us the confidence to understand and live out godly values.

Receive support when you need it. GALATIANS 6:2 All of us experience difficult times. Having a pastor, small group, and church family there to encourage and pray for you is invaluable.

Discover your spiritual gifts.

Be a blessing to others. PHILIPPIANS 2:3-8 We all want to make a difference. Belonging to a community opens our eyes to the needs around us and allows us to work together to make an impact for Christ.

1 CORINTHIANS 12:4-7 Each of us was created uniquely by God with talents and abilities that can help others. Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll help you discover, develop, and deploy your spiritual gifts.

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WHO WE ARE Our deeply held beliefs and highest priorities are the fundamental forces that drive our actions. he 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 accordingly.

So as you attend Apostles, what can you expect to experience in the life and ministry of this church?

There are at least five realities which drive the ministry of Apostles: 1 Lifting up Jesus at all times in everything we do. 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.

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2 Searching for opportunities & ways to make the Gospel clear to every person. We are constantly searching for opportunities and ways to make Godâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;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.

3 Striving to present every person complete in Christ. 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.

4 Conducting all ministry with excellence to the glory of God. Apostles is a church that is busy with Holy Spirit-directed ministry activity that is executed with excellence. We firmly believe that if we cannot do ministry with excellence to the glory of God, we simply donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t do it.

5 Speaking the truth in love without compromise. 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.

OUR MISSION ur mission is accomplished by unconditionally surrendering to and seeking the leadership of God the Father, through Jesus, His only begotten Son, and by the power of the Holy Spirit. We know that the greatest impact we as a church can make is to reach out to others. God has called us as a church to act as a lighthouse for those truly seeking the truth of the Gospel, not only in the city of Atlanta, but also throughout the nation and to the farthest corners of the world. Our members reach out to others locally and around the world through continued involvement and support of missions and ministries.

REACHING THE L ST AND EQUIPPING THE SAINTS FOR THE WORK OF MINISTRY.

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SUNDAYS J

oin us online or in person with limited seating to allow for social distancing. For more information on our offerings, visit apostles.org/COVID. 9:00 - 10:15 a.m.

10:30 a.m. â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 12:00 p.m.

Online or In-Person Opportunities

During this hour, we have Bible Classes (Sunday School), and we also have an early worship service in the Chapel. The Bible classes are 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.

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 heartâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s desire is to lift up the resurrected Jesus in all of His saving power and glory.

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WEDNESDAYS

Wednesday Night Dinner 5:00 - 6:00 p.m. Before the Midweek Gatherings, we offer dinner at 5:00 p.m. Please RSVP at apostles.org to join us for dinner.

Midweek Gathering 6:15 p.m. Beginning at 6:15 p.m., we gather for a time of worship, followed by an extended time of prayer. No RSVP required.

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CHILDREN’S MINISTRY ur 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 we desire that every experience a child has in our church includes God-centered programs and activities. We want to nurture faith in each child and believe that spiritual foundations can be laid even in the youngest child in our nursery.

Vacation Bible School Is Online Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, we are offering our Vacation Bible School content – called VBS Home2Home – online to all families and children! We hope you will join us from your living room as we dive into this special online version of “The Mystery of the Closed Case.” “We miss y’all so much! I was so thankful for VBS at home. It was the truth and encouragement we needed at a time when as parents we were feeling worn down. The fellowship and time with friends was as important as the lessons. The moms got as much or more than the kids out of it! Thank you for the materials to make it happen!” ~ A Thankful Apostles Parent To sign-up for fall opportunities and t0 register, email sjammal@apostles.org.

Stay Up To Date Website: apostles.org/children Phone: 404-842-0200 Facebook: The Church of The Apostles Children’s Ministry Instagram: @apostleschildrens

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Our ministry is driven by the hope and vision that our children will have one pure and holy passion to know and follow hard after God.

STUDENT TO STUDENT MINISTRY TS 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 hearts, reaching others with their whole lives, and making disciples with the whole gospel.

Through each of our Bible studies, small groups, 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, that they might reach their own generation with the life-giving truth of the gospel of Jesus Christ.

Sunday Mornings 9:00 – 10:15 a.m. Livestreamed or In Person 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 discussions.

Stay Up To Date Website: stsatlanta.org Phone: 404-591-2470 Instagram: @STSAtlanta Text Updates: Text “STS” to 24587

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COLLEGE FELLOWSHIP We desire to be a place for college students to find encouragement, joy, rest, and strength in Jesus. postlesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; 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. Therefore, 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 meet for lunch most Sundays following the 10:30 a.m. service, excluding holidays.

For more information and scheduling changes, please contact Mark Johnston at mjohnston@apostles.org or Leah Colvin at lcolvin@apostles.org.

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2Os & 3Os MINISTRY he 20s and 30s Ministry at Apostles exists to encourage young adults to intentionally connect with one another 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.

Thursday Evenings 7:00 p.m. | The Chapel Online or In Person Our 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 Godâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Word. There are also a variety of social activities that take place throughout the week, as well as yearly retreats.

Our goal is that the gospel of Jesus Christ will transform our people for the glory of God and the good of those around us.

For more details and up-to-date information, please visit apostles.org/20s30s or contact us at 20s30s@apostles.org.

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SMALL GROUPS

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ur 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.

At this time due to the current pandemic, Small Groups meet online and might potentially meet in homes every week or every other week. Groups feature lively, interactive discussions on God’s Word and practical ways to 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.

COME FIND A PLACE WHERE YOU CAN CONNECT WITH GOD AND OTHERS IN DEEPER WAYS. For more information, visit apostles.org/ smallgroups or contact T.J. Diamond at tjdiamond@apostles.org.

Groups Mixed Groups Men’s Women’s Young Families

Locations Atlanta Alpharetta Briarcliff Brookhaven Buckhead Canton College Park Cumming Douglas County East Cobb Grant Park Henry County Johns Creek

Kennesaw Lithonia Mableton Marietta North Druid Hills Roswell Sandy Springs Serenbe Smyrna Tucker Vinings West Cobb Woodstock

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WOMEN’S MINISTRY

After this I looked, and behold, a great multitude that no one could number, from every nation, from all tribes and peoples and languages, standing before the throne and before the Lamb, clothed in white robes, with palm branches in their hands, and crying out with a loud voice, “Salvation belongs to our God who sits on the throne, and to the Lamb!” ~ Revelation 7:9-10

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EQUIPPING THROUGH COMMUNITY

ll women are invited to join us for several unique offerings as we link arms with one another to explore the Word of God.

Important Please frequently refer to the church website for the latest information. Class availability and locations are subject to CDC, government, and church guidelines for COVID-19.

Sunday Women’s Community Class

Info

Leader(s)

Description

Major Biblical Themes

Sundays

Tonja Brice Laurie Graffo Sherrie Rodriguez

The Bible has 66 books and a wide range of genres – yet there is an overarching storyline. What are some of the themes through the Old and New Testaments, and what do they tell us about God, His people, and His plans? An examination of these themes throughout the Bible is a useful way of gaining a deeper appreciation of God’s revelation.

9:00 – 10:15 a.m. Sept. 13 – Dec. 20 Online or In Person

Weekday Community Classes Class

Info

Leader(s)

Description

Fruit of the Spirit

Tuesdays

Lori Harris

Do you yearn for a closer walk with God? For a greater understanding of what it means to let Him live through you? For the marks of His presence in your life?

6:45 – 7:45 a.m. Sept. 15 – Nov. 10

Discover… ... love, joy, and peace that changes hearts, families, and friendships; ... patience, kindness, and goodness that seeks the best for everyone; ... faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control that brings spiritual victory in life’s more challenging moments.

Room 242 Cost $15

A Study of Isaiah

Tuesdays 9:30 – 11:30 a.m. Sept. 15 – Nov. 10 Room 237 Cost $15

Vicki Gillespie

Isaiah prophesied one of the clearest expressions of the gospel in the Old Testament. As it was a warning for the Jews of 700 BC, it is a clarion call for this generation today. The first chapter opened with the people of God having turned away from God and failed to follow His laws. Yet God mercifully holds out hope to this hardhearted and unrepentant people, offering the cleansing of sins and the blessings that flow from faith and obedience in Him. Isaiah’s message is salvation lies only with God. The only question – then and now – is will we accept His offer? Whether you are a returning participant or a new student of Isaiah, you are welcome to join this continuing, timely study.

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Weekday Community Classes ...continued Class

Info

Leader(s)

Description

Covenant And Jude Precept Upon Precept

Tuesdays

Anne Hayes

Covenant: The Covenant Precept class, which was interrupted by the shelter-in-place orders, will finish the last three lessons in our study, beginning with a review. These important lessons will center on the “crown jewel” of Covenant: The New Covenant sealed by the blood of Jesus Christ. Our understanding of the New Covenant will give all true believers confidence and security in our walk with the God of the Covenant.

10:00 – 11:30 a.m. Sept. 15 – Nov. 10 Room 229 Cost $15 Online or In Person

Jonah, Jesus, and You – Joy of Living

Thursdays

Jude: The second part of this fall’s study will be the book of Jude beginning on October 13 with five lessons ending on November 10. Any new members registering for this study of Jude are invited to join us for the Covenant’s final lessons. Your registration fee will be for the Jude Precept Workbook.

Denise Nyberg

How well do you know Jonah? Is it a short, fishy anecdote or something more? Is it true? Or a literary, allegorical example for moral inducement – “behave or beware”!? Or maybe a philosophical, theological treatise for intellectual stretching? Join us for a fascinating re-acquaintance with arguably God’s most stubborn prophet as we segue into the holidays with a joyful reflection on three rich Psalms. This is an inductive, expository, nine-week study, including simple daily homework, group discussion, and teaching. Lunch and fellowship often follow. Y’all come!

Meg Estes and Charlotte Travis

Often, Christians who see the challenges to their faith find great value in guides that clearly point to God’s mighty arm and His work to overcome adversity in their daily lives. If you seek wisdom from God’s Word, confidence that He protects His people, and hope in the face of evil, then this study can provide you with the resources that offer these gifts. Fall will be the first semester of this year-long class. Registration fee covers the fall, winter, and spring sessions.

Carrie Burns

September 13

9:30 – 11:30 a.m. Sept. 17 – Nov. 12 Room 237 Cost $15 Online or In Person

A Study of Ezra and Nehemiah

Thursdays 9:30 – 11:30 a.m. Sept. 17 – Nov. 12 Room 201 Cost $25 Online or In Person

Hebrew Heartbeat Pop-Up Classes

2nd Sunday of the Month 12:15 – 1:30 p.m.

What Our Jewish Friends Remember About Us: A Look at Our History Together

Sept. – Dec.

October 11

Room 237

120 Days at Auschwitz, With All My Love: My Testimony with God in the Kingdom of Night

November 8 Christ and Our Jewish Friends – Why?

December 13 Beneath the Menorah: The Hebrews and This Miraculous Season of Light - Christmas and Chanukah

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Weekday Community Classes ...continued Class

Info

Leader(s)

Description

God of Creation - A Study of Genesis

Thursdays

Reatha Rivera

The opening chapters of Genesis teach us fundamental truths about God. We watch Him bring light after darkness, order after chaos, and rest after toil – all through the power of His Word. In this study, we will follow three critical stages of understanding: comprehension, interpretation, and application. We can only begin to understand ourselves after we first glimpse the character, attributes, and promises of our Creator.

Connie Musselman

Mom to Mom is an intergenerational discipling ministry intended to come alongside mothers desiring to grow in their knowledge of God’s Word, their ability to apply God’s Word to their lives, and their ability to apply God’s Word in their parenting. Our goal is for moms to be strengthened and equipped to glorify God in their primary area of ministry within the home and to emerge with passion and vision for their futures as wives, mothers, shapers of the next generation and keepers at home.

6:30 – 8:00 p.m. Sept. 17 – Nov. 19 Cost: $15 Online

Mom2Mom

Thursdays Sept. 24 – Nov. 19 Cost $15 Online (anytime)

Mom to Mom is intergenerational and includes largegroup teaching and small-group table time. During this time, women have the opportunity to learn from older mothers and be encouraged by their peers around the table. Due to COVID-19, fall 2020 will feature virtual large-group teaching. Small groups will also be virtual via Zoom with the direction of the small group leader.

Through nine lessons, we will study The Age of Opportunity. The Age of Opportunity is a breath of fresh air. It is a study that uncovers the heart issues affecting parents and their children. It is intended to prepare parents for the teenage years, but it is a book about living life as God intended for all ages and all times. While combining elements of hope, biblical advice, and practical guidance, Paul David Tripp challenges readers to see the teen years as a period of opportunity rather than one of survival. The principles in this study allow us to gain assurance of God’s provision for parenting success and discover ways to seize the countless opportunities to deepen communication, learn, and grow with our children. Bottom line: parenting is a privilege and a gift. This is an excellent opportunity for parents of young children and preteens to prepare for the teen years. Also, Paul Tripp is an author we need to know! His insight into our relationship with the Lord and with one another is being used in myriads of ways at this time in history with all ages. How great it is that we can begin to form the mindset together that each day is a day of opportunity!

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Congregational Care Women’s Classes Class

Info

Leader(s)

Description

Boundaries

Sundays

Ashley Wille

Come discover how boundaries can help you create space for healthy relationships with God, self, and others. This DVD study is facilitated by Ashley D. Wille, AACC. The class cost includes the book.

Ashley Wille

For inspiring, practical teaching and the support of your sisters in Christ to grow into spiritual maturity, please join us in this safe and confidential group. Together, we will grow in authenticity with God, ourselves, and others. Ashley D. Wille, AACC, leads this group.

12:30 – 2:00 p.m. Sept. 13 – Nov. 1 Online Cost: $15

Ending the War

Tuesdays 10:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m Sept. 8 – Nov. 10 Online Cost $15

Open Hearts

Thursdays 10:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m Aug. 27 – Oct. 15 Oct. 29 – Dec. 17 Online

To learn more about Divorce Care and Grief Share Groups, visit the Congregational Care website at www.apostles.org/care.

GROW

SERVE

Community Groups are forming around the Atlanta area, designed to build authentic community.

Women’s Ministry provides numerous opportunities to serve our church, our community, and those beyond the walls of our city.

Visit apostleswomen.com for more information on upcoming events and gatherings.

Genuine Wisdom provides perspective, encouragement and life-on-life interaction for women in their 20s and 30s. Single Hearts for Christ is a community for single women age 40 and over. Widow’s Network provides encouragement for Apostles widows through monthly luncheons.

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See apostleswomen.com for details.

Facebook: @apostleswomensministry Instagram & Twitter: @apostleswomen Contact Apostles Women: Phone: 404-842-0200 Email: bcooper@apostles.org

SINGLES LIFE t is the desire of The Church of The Apostles Singles Ministry to provide an authentic place within the larger church for single adults to build supportive friendships and grow in the gospel of grace. We strive to see those within our Singles community connect, grow, and serve together in the body of Christ.

Half the population of Atlanta is single, and The Church of the Apostles has been called to reach this community with the gospel. Often the church can feel like a place only for those who are married or building their families, but the church is diverse with so many in different stages of life. Whether you’re divorced, widowed, never been married, a single parent, or busy with your career, we have a place for you to grow spiritually within an authentic, grace-centered community. We hope that every Single person at Apostles will have their need for community met through our Singles ministry. Class

Info

Description

S.A.L.T. Single Adults Living In Truth (40+)

Mike Glass

Whether you’re new to Apostles or just looking to connect with our singles community, this gathering is for you. Join other mid-singles, ages 40 and above, to build friendships and grow in grace. As a single adult, it can be hard to find and build meaningful community within the church. We seek to build up our community as we look at key passages in the Bible to help us practically live out our faith together. We have round table interaction and practical biblical teaching to help us understand how to live out the gospel in our work, family, and friendships.

THRIVE A Mid-Singles Community (35+)

Brad Ost

Single Hearts for Christ Single, divorced, and widowed women (40+)

Jan Blakeslee

Sundays 9:00 a.m. Online or In Person

Sundays 9:00 a.m.

THRIVE is a mid-singles class working through the Bible and sharing our lives. We would love to have you come along with us as we seek to grow toward the Lord and each other in a warm and welcome setting. Come and “thrive” in our community.

Online or In Person

For up-to-date information, please contact Jan Blakeslee at jblakeslee@apostles.org.

Single Hearts for Christ is a women’s fellowship that brings single Christian women together to enjoy, enrich, and support one another. What better place to be than with a group where people know you, pray for you, and encourage you in your faith. As we see it, every single, divorced, and widowed woman has different needs, worries, hopes, and dreams; each one certainly offers a plethora of experiences, perspectives, challenges, and gifts. In Christ, we have all that we need for life and ministry. If you are 40 years old or beyond and looking to connect with other Christian women, we have an open invitation for you. Our goal is to provide a secure place for you to grow in Christ and establish friendships with other single women at Apostles.

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MEN’S MINISTRY For online and in-person class offerings, please visit our website at apostles.org/men.

“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.”

Class

Info

Description

The Hub

Tuesday 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. Join us for a challenging teaching from the Gospel of Luke and interactive discussion around the tables. You’ll leave different than when you came.

6:45 a.m. Light Breakfast 7:00 - 8:00 a.m. Online or In Person

Men’s Small Groups

Weekday Mornings

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 responsibilities at home? How do we love our wives like Christ loves the Church? God did not intend for you to discover these answers by yourself, but to journey with other men who wrestle with the same issues. Our men’s small groups dive into Scripture, apply it to real life, and sharpen our focus on Christ.

The Path: Men’s Mentoring

For more information, contact Mike Slaughter at mslaughter@apostles.org or 404-591-1971.

The Path facilitates mentoring relationships between men who desire to have accountability for their lives. Our primary source of guidance comes from the Bible being applied to our lives by the Holy Spirit. As a reference for our mentors, we use The Heart of Mentoring by Dave Stoddard and To the Heart and Back by Anson Ramsey.

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EVANGELISM

MINISTRY DURING A PANDEMIC By Dr. James Saxon, Director of Evangelism & Outreach

hroughout history, in times of pandemic, God’s people have risen to the occasion and represented the Kingdom of Jesus Christ in practical and faithful ways that won the widespread favor of the people of their day.

In 260 AD, during the Plague of Cyprian, which was claiming 5,000 lives a day in Rome, Bishop Alexandria said, “Other people would not think this a time for festival, but far from being a time of distress, it is a time of unimaginable joy.” Acknowledging the vast death rate, Dionysius noted that “though this terrified the pagans, Christians greeted the epidemic as merely ‘schooling and testing.’” They had the assurance that in life or death, their hope and eternal security was in Jesus. Even more, they loved their enemies and took care of them as much as their loved ones. Thus, Christianity offered comfort. Even more critical, Christian doctrine provided a prescription for action (Festival Letters, quoted by Eusebius, Ecclesiastical History 7.22, 1965 ed.).

Following this example, how then should we live as believers during COVID-19? Many factors set the year 2020 apart from others. Before modern hospitals, there was no specialized, professional healthcare. What’s more, previous generations ministered to the sick with little knowledge of how their diseases were transmitted. Caregivers can be carriers, even when asymptomatic. In such scenarios, self-isolation can be the most loving thing to do, rather than infecting the ones we seek to love. While the outworking of love may look different in different time periods, love must still be the aim—a love directed by the Holy Spirit, not our self-centered flesh. In the past, the people of God took care of sick people bodily (supplying food, bathing, medication) and spiritually (comfort for fear, anxiety, isolation). In our day, healthcare professionals are available to take care of physical needs, and the church is free to address the spiritual needs of sick people. Therefore, we should look for practical ways to address the needs of the heart. People need encouragement, assurance, hope, and connection. As we touch people’s heart needs, this often leans into the gospel conversations. Day-to-day interactions are purely situational, which means that we need to develop an ‘opportunity mindset.’ We can’t anticipate them, but we can be alert to them. When human needs present themselves, we need to be ready to address them with God’s resources. In addition to whatever actions we take, we should always pray with and for people, which points them to the goodness of the Lord, the only true source of hope. Reach out and lean into others’ needs, and may God get in your efforts in powerful and wondrous ways.

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ADULT BIBLE CLASSES Start September 13 Registration is required for online or in-person class participation. For information or to register, please visit apostles.org/ABC.

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CONNECTING: Community or Life Stage Classes Class

Leader + Room

Description

Breakthrough Living: The Gospel of Luke

James Pool

Breakthrough Living is an extraordinary group of maturing Christians who love the Lord, love His Word, and love each other. We continue to study the New Testament in the order it was likely written. We will deep dive into the Gospel of Luke. As a format, we have guided participatory discussion. All are welcome.

Family Foundations: The Book of James

John Whitney

S.A.L.T. (Single Adults Living in Truth 40 and above)

Mike Glass

Thrive: A Mid-Singles Community (35 and above)

Brad Ost

Women’s Group: Major Biblical Themes

Tonja Brice Laurie Graffo Sherrie Rodriguez

Online or In Person

Family Foundations is comprised largely of married couples with children of all ages. The group strives to build a faith-based foundation for 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. This fall, we will be studying the book of James. Whether you’re new to Apostles or just looking to connect with our Singles community, this gathering is for you. Join with other mid-singles, ages 40 and above, to build friendships and grow in grace. As a single adult, it can be hard to both find and build meaningful community within the church. Each week we seek to build up our community of singles as we look at key passages in the Bible to help us practically live out our faith together. Additionally, we have round table interaction along with practical biblical teaching to help everyone understand how to live out the gospel in our work, family, and friendships. Thrive is a mid-singles class working through the Bible. Right now, we’re in the Gospel of John 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.

LEARNING: Study Classes with a Learning Emphasis Class

Leader + Room

Description

Jesus Christ: The Promised One of God

Roger Hill

Every profession is noted for its way of thinking, its way of expressing, and its way to a desired outcome. An attorney thinks differently from an accountant, who uses a different vocabulary than a preacher. Medical doctors also have their unique thought processes, vocabularies, and desired outcomes. Luke, identified by Paul as the “beloved physician,” is no different. Through his unique voice, Luke has given us almost one-third of the New Testament in the Gospel of Luke and The Acts of the Apostles. Luke’s desired outcome is for us to see Jesus Christ, the Promised One of God, as the Perfect Man, the Son of Man, through whom salvation is available to both Jew and Gentile alike.

Online or In Person

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LEARNING ...continued Class

Leader + Room

Description

Christianity 3-D

Glenn Rivera

We encounter Bible words such as “resurrection,” “the Kingdom of God,” “Passover,” “antichrist,” or words seemingly as simple and straightforward as “believe,” “faith,” “salvation,” or even “marriage,” but how can we be most certain we are correctly understanding and applying biblical truth to our lives? There is one place to turn: the rest of the Scriptures. Yes, Scripture is its own best interpreter. “For with You is the fountain of life; in Your light do we see light.” Psalm 36:9

Online Only

We must examine what the Bible has to say as a whole, looking at the various genres in which Scripture is presented to us, including narrative, poetry, wisdom, prophecy, the gospels, the epistles, and apocalypse. The various genres of Scripture present God’s unified revelation; therefore, we must let Scripture interpret Scripture. So, in Christianity 3-D, we will encounter God’s Word in its various genres, allowing Scripture to interpret itself, teaching us to understand and apply it correctly. Hence, the purpose of Christianity 3-D: Doctrine – Learn it! Discernment – Understand it! Discipleship – Live it!

New Testament Survey

Lee Holston

The Book of Daniel: Christ’s Kingdom Stands Forever

Baker Smith

The Epistle of Colossians

Jimmy Goolsby

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Online or In Person

Through passages and lessons of New Testament Scripture, we will peek at the history, politics (local and international), geography, cultures, and archaeology that give richness and additional poignancy to the ministry of Jesus and the early church. God blessed Daniel with wisdom and understanding while making him a blessing to the kings of the Babylonian and Persian world empires. Through Daniel, God showed these powerful rulers as well as heavenly beings that God is in control of the events of history, and that history moves in accord with His purposes and in relationship to His people. God demonstrated His power in the lions’ den, in the fiery furnace, and in Nebuchadnezzar’s dream and other visions. As a result, the formerly pagan King Nebuchadnezzar fell on his face and said to Daniel, “Truly, your God is God of gods and Lord of kings.” With reference to Nebuchadnezzar’s dream, Jesus pointed to Himself as the stone that crushed all previous world empires. In another vision, Daniel revealed that the Son of Man, as Jesus frequently called Himself, would be given the world’s kingdoms, the power, and the glory forever. Join us for this exciting study, as you strengthen your confidence in and assurance of victory in Christ. Colossians—an in-depth, verse-by-verse study of Paul’s epistle that focuses on the Supremacy and Sufficiency of Jesus Christ, our Lord.

LEARNING ...continued Class

Leader + Room

Description

The Epistle of 1 Corinthians

Monte Johnson

We are in a multi-year study of Acts and Paul’s various missionary journeys and the subsequent letters he wrote to the churches he started. We will periodically take a pause from Acts and study the letters Paul wrote while on each journey to the churches that he started. We are currently studying the letters associated with Paul’s second missionary journey, 1 and 2 Corinthians. When finished with those studies, we’ll head back to Acts chapter 19, and then follow Paul on his third missionary journey. Then, we will study the letters Paul wrote after his third trip, and follow him on to Rome to where he wrote the balance of his New Testament epistles, some of which we will study, as well!

The Epistle of Philippians

Andrew Bradley

Online or In Person

We will examine the portrait of Christ that Paul reveals to the church at Philippi. Our study will begin with the background of Philippians and how the church at Philippi was founded. This will be followed by an in-depth, verse-byverse study communicating the overarching themes, such as: 1. Thanksgiving in the midst of suffering; 2. Paul’s afflictions exalting the Lord; 3. Christ’s example of humility; 4. Knowing Christ as opposed to living for the flesh; 5. Peace in all circumstances. We will be inspired and encouraged as Paul exhorts the Philippian church to stand fast in the Lord.

TRAINING CLASSES: Developing Life Skills Class

Leader + Room

Description

Job, Jonah, and Justice: How Do We Live a Life Filled With Gratitude?

Tom Taylor

This class will look at the lives of Job and Jonah primarily and talk about the difficult topic of suffering. We will also look at how we can live lives filled with gratitude for what Jesus has done for us and is doing along with us each day.

Revival in America Today

Bobby Mitchell, Sr.

The Victory of Faith

Adam Mathes

Online or In Person

This is a study about the decline of America and its church today. Our class questions whether or not we as Christians can do anything to turn the tide. We will examine our personal faith walk and see how it runs headlong into the deterioration around us. Our class builds on previous studies of knowing and doing God’s will, revivals and awakenings, Paul’s missionary journeys, and epistles. We will compare the dramatic changes we face in 21st century America today with these biblical teachings. How can we overcome evil with boldness? Can we really make a difference? Where do we start? Join us for an exciting journey and find out. “But we are not of those who shrink back and are destroyed, but of those who believe and are saved” Hebrews 10:39, NIV. The struggles and turmoil we experience in the world today are not new. Our faithful ancestors experienced challenges equal to and greater than ours. Scripture shows us how ordinary people like us became heroes of faith. We will examine our ancestors’ lives and faith, beginning with Hebrew’s heroes (in Hebrews 11). It will lead each of us to renewed hope and the expectancy of victory that faith brings.

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CONGREGATIONAL CARE MINISTRY We seek to fulfill this ministry by showing compassion to those in need and providing classes to help those dealing with difficult situations such as grief, divorce, life transitions, or brokenness.

Opportunities for Growth The Congregational Care ministry offers areas of support for the person searching for hope and healing. Together, we invest in the sowing and harvesting of good seeds through biblical teaching and works of compassion. We hope that you will find your place to humbly co-labor with us in service to Jesus Christ, His church, and the community in which we live.

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Class

Learn More

Description

Compassion Ministry

Rand Eberhard Director of Congregational Care 404-591-2475 reberhard@apostles.org

The pastoral staff is available to provide support, encouragement, and direction. Our Stephen Ministry provides trained “Care Givers” who are available after each worship service for prayer and encouragement. “Grace Touch” ministry is available for those in need of a meal when unexpected circumstances arise. Also, our Prayer Ministry is available to intercede and seek the Lord on behalf of the needs you are facing.

Stephen Ministry

stephenministry@apostles.org

Stephen Ministry is a unique, one-to-one, Christ-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 have completed training to best support people and meet regularly with individuals to provide confidential, personalized care. This ministry is designed to journey with you as you begin to experience hope and healing in Christ.

Christian Guidance & Counseling

Brian Maxwell 404-591-1966 bmaxwell@apostles.org

Personal guidance is available upon request by contacting our office to schedule an appointment. Our team specializes in marriage guidance and premarital counseling as well as Christian guidance, life and spiritual coaching, with a support focus for women and/or men. Support for blended families counseling, substance addiction counseling, anger management, and resolution counseling is also available.

Individual Guidance and Counseling Appointments Men, Women, and Couples

Jeanine Dungan 404-564-3149 awitt@apostles.org Bruce Cerbone 404-842-0200 bcerbone@apostles.org

Share Prayer Requests, Hospital and Illness Updates, or Birth and Death Announcements Please use the form online to submit a prayer request; share information about hospitalization, home care, or an illness; or announce a birth or a death. To submit a request, visit apostles.org/care.

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Classes | Register online at www.apostles.org/care. Class

Info

Description

Open Hearts Women’s Support Group

Thursdays

If you want inspiring, practical teaching and the support of your sisters in Christ to grow into spiritual maturity, please join us in this safe and confidential group. Together, we will grow in authenticity with God, ourselves, and others. Ashley D. Wille, AACC, leads this group.

10:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. Aug. 27 – Oct. 15 Oct. 29 – Dec. 17 Online

Ending The War with Myself Women’s Class

Tuesdays 10:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. Sept. 8 – Nov. 10 Online Cost: $15

Boundaries

Sundays

Women’s Class

12:30 – 2:00 p.m. Sept. 13 – Nov. 1 Online Cost: $15

DivorceCare

Tuesdays 7:00 – 9:00 p.m. Aug. 18 – Nov. 17 Room 231 Cost: $15

GriefShare

Tuesdays 7:00 – 9:00 p.m. Aug. 18 – Nov. 17 Room 201 Cost: $15

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Take an upper journey with the Lord to learn all He has done for you. Take an inner journey with the Lord to discover true love in Christ. Facilitated by Ashley D. Wille, AACC, this interactive class will discuss the chapters and homework questions completed prior to each class. Micky Land’s book, Ending the War with Myself, will be included in the registration fee. Come discover how boundaries can help you create space for healthy relationships with God, self, and others. Boundaries define who we are and who we are not. They impact all areas of our lives – physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual. Boundaries help us discover God’s will for our lives. This DVD study is facilitated by Ashley D. Wille, AACC. The class cost includes the book. Bring a lunch and join us! 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 course designed to assist, comfort, and support individuals as they go through this most difficult time. Class will meet on Tuesday evenings with video, teaching, and small group discussion. 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 his or her own, the grief experience becomes even more distressing. GriefShare is a video and small group discussion course designed to assist, comfort, and support individuals as they go through this most difficult time.

Class

Info

Description

CrossCurrent: Beyond Brokenness

Tuesdays

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 samegender small groups. Come and experience the hope and joy of overcoming strongholds & addictions, gaining healed relationships and intimacy with God. The registration fee includes the course book.

6:30 – 9:00 p.m. Aug. 4 – Sept. 22 Chapel Cost: $10

Living Waters Restoring Relational Integrity

Tuesdays 6:30 – 9:30 p.m. Oct. 6 – Mar. 30 The Chapel Apply Aug. 1 – Sept. 4

This is an in-depth ministry for any Christian seeking healing in any area of relational or sexual brokenness. At each meeting, we gather for worship and teaching as well as a time of testimony. We then divide into small groups focused on confession and prayer. Living Waters helps Christians resume the call to becoming whole gifts to each other through the body of Christ. Check out the video testimonies at www.apostles.org/livingwaters. The cost of the series is $500. Applications will be accepted beginning in August of 2020. If you can’t join Living Waters, our mini–Living Waters class is CrossCurrent: Beyond Brokenness. The class description and registration information are above.

Hope and Healing

Visit us online at apostles.org/care for additional information.

If you are faced with life’s challenges and don’t know where to turn, we want to invite you to come forward and let us help you. We tend to struggle and suffer alone, but God desires that we be in relationship with Him and others. We would like to help you identify your unmet needs spiritually, emotionally, and relationally, and then offer support and teaching specific to Hope and Healing with the end goal of connecting you deeper into the life of the church as a “worker” of the gospel of peace. Our church mission is to Reach, Equip, and Work. We welcome you to join us in the process as we all attempt to live into the fullness of God’s plan for our lives.

Volunteer Ministry GraceTouch Meals

Share the grace and love of our Lord by providing a meal and a personal contact to those in our midst in need of refreshment, care, and encouragement. As a volunteer, you have the opportunity to: • Cook meals to be taken to families who have a need. • Deliver meals to families.

Prayer Ministry

Involves the expansion of God’s Kingdom through intercession for others. Intercessors may come to the church during the week and pray for the requests that have been received, or they may receive requests via email at home. Submit Prayer Requests: 404-591-2480 | prayer@apostles.org For more information, contact Brian Maxwell at bmaxwell@apostles.org.

Ushers

If you are a member of the church, we invite you to serve! Volunteers needed once a month during the 9:00 a.m. or 10:30 a.m. service. This includes passing out the bulletin, helping people get seated, and assisting with offering. For more information, please contact Rand Eberhard at 404-591-2475 or reberhard@apostles.org.

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HOW TO CONTACT US The Church of The Apostles 3585 Northside Parkway Atlanta, GA 30327 P: 404.842.0200 E: apostles@apostles.org W: apostles.org

WORSHIP SUNDAY The Gathering of the Body: 9:00 a.m. & 10:30 a.m. WEDNESDAY Midweek Dinner: 5:00 p.m. Midweek Prayer: 6:15 p.m.

DISCIPLESHIP Sunday: 9:00 a.m.

LEADING THE WAY with Dr. Michael Youssef PO Box 20100 | Atlanta, GA 30325 P: 404.841.0100 Order: 1.800.337.5323 W: LTW.org

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