NEXT

from here

to there

GREG SURRATT seacoast church

Copyright 2013 Copyright © for “NEXT: From Here to There” owned by Greg Surratt, Seacoast Church Unless otherwise noted, all Scripture quotes are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation®.

Copyright 1996, 2004, and 2007 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois, 60188. All rights reserved.

from here

to there

CONTENTS Foreword by Geoff Surratt Introduction to NEXT Using this Workbook Outline for Each Session Session 1: Where is Here?

Session 2: How Did We Get Here?

Session 3: Why Can’t We Stay Here?

Session 4: Where Are We Going?

Session 5: How Do We Get There?

6 8 10 11 13 21 29 37 45

APPENDIX

54 Frequently Asked Questions 57 Small Group Agreement 59 Small Group Calendar 60 Small Group Roster 61 Memory Verses 62 Prayer and Praise Report

SMALL GROUP LEADERS Hosting an Open House Leading for the First Time Small Group Leadership 101

63 64 65

ABOUT THE AUTHOR Pastor Greg Surratt

68

FOREWORD by geoff surratt What has been your favorite “here” in life, the time you wish you could stay in forever? For me it was when our kids were young. I loved teaching them to play catch, coaching them in recreational leagues, watching them learn and develop every day. I was content to stay “here.” Unfortunately, as much as I liked “here,” we had to go “there.” The kids grew up, moved out, and started lives of their own. I wish we could have stayed “here,” but there are very few twentysomethings still playing t-ball. What was your favorite “here?” When you went away to college? When you were first married? When you started your career? Do you remember a time you wished would last forever?

My favorite “here” at Seacoast was soon after I joined the staff in 1996. We packed everyone into three services in a 450-seat auditorium. The entire staff fit around a single folding table; we had one youth pastor, one children’s pastor, a handful of small group leaders. I liked it “here.” It was comfortable, it was familiar, and it was home.

But we couldn’t stay “here.” Services were packed, parking was a nightmare and the staff was stretched to the breaking point. We added another folding table to staff meetings, and then created a separate lead team. We began meeting on Sundays at the Shrine Temple because we didn’t want to do four weekend services, and then scampered back home happy to do five. Although “here” once again felt like home, rapid growth soon forced us to go “there:” opening new Seacoast campuses in West Ashley, Columbia, Summerville, and beyond.

I like “here.” “Here” feels comfortable, familiar, and safe. “There” is unknown and it always requires time, money, and sacrifice. Seeing the kids graduate from high school was hard, and sending them to college was expensive. We knew, however, that the sacrifice required to get “there” was worth it. As much as we like “here” we just couldn’t stay.

Now Seacoast is on the brink of a new “there,” and you are likely on the brink as well. God calls you to a new “there” relationally and spiritually. As much as you want to stay “here” it’s time to move on to what’s next. The Apostle Paul knew exactly how difficult it is to leave the familiar “here” for the unknown “there,” but he knew the importance of the journey: Brothers, I do not consider that I have made it my own. But one thing I do: forgetting what lies behind and straining forward to what lies ahead, I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus. (Philippians 3:13, 14 ESV) See you “there.”

Geoff Surratt

7

INTRODUCTION TO

Ground Breaking on Long Point Road Facility in 1990

Hey Gang, Welcome to NEXT! If this is your first small group experience, I want you to know that this is exactly where you need to be. I know some of you might be wondering if this small group thing is really for you, but I believe learning how to seek and hear from God together with others is one of the most important things a believer can do. If you stick with it, I think that you will be amazed at what God will do.

So what is NEXT? NEXT is about celebrating our “here” while asking God to show us our “there.” For some of you, there might not be much to celebrate about “here.” What we are going to discover, however, is that no matter where we are, God has a plan for us. For others of us, “here” is a great place to be – we’re pretty happy where we are! But we need to remember that God isn’t done with us and at some point we are going to have to move from “here” to “there.”

For the next five weeks, you and your group will be exploring Luke 5:1-11. In these verses, we see Jesus’s first encounter with Peter, the man who would become the leader of the apostles. Peter had a job and a life that he was used to, and was probably pretty comfortable. But Jesus showed up to call him to something different; Jesus came to show Peter what was next. In the same way, as your group studies this passage I hope that you will be encouraged to seek God and to find what he has next for each of you.

During NEXT, we are going to reflect on our “here.” We want to thank God for what he’s done in our past. We will remember that God is not done with us.

We will ask him where he wants us to go next, and we will examine what it will take to get there. NEXT is about remembering that God is always with us, directing and guiding us. It is about discovering the new adventure that God is calling us to chase after.

I believe God is going to speak to you and your group through NEXT. 2 Chronicles 15:2 tells us if we seek God, we will find him. I hope that over the next five weeks your group commits to seek God with everything you’ve got. God promises us when we do that, he will show up. And how many of you know that when God shows up, everything changes? Thanks again for joining us in this study – I hope you are excited for what’s next!

Greg Surratt

9

USING THIS WORKBOOK STUFF TO HELP YOU HAVE A GREAT SMALL GROUP EXPERIENCE 1

Notice in the Table of Contents there are three sections: (1) Sessions; (2) Appendix; and (3) Small Group Leaders. It will be helpful for you to get to know the Appendix sections. Some of them will be used in the sessions.

2 If you are leading or co-leading a small group, the section for Small Group Leaders will be very useful. Make sure you take some time to read through the material – it will be a great help in your preparation.

3 Use this workbook as a guide, but put the needs of the group first. If you think of a better question than the next one in the lesson, ask it. If you sense that the members of your group want to spend some extra time in a particular section, do it. Don’t measure success by how much material your group covers; instead, simply seek to connect with God and find out what he is saying to each one of you.

Now check out the Outline of Each Session on the next pages so that you understand how the sessions will flow.

10

OUTLINE OF EACH SESSION It can be easy for small groups to struggle with a very basic question: “What do we do when we meet?” That is why we have tried to provide more than enough content and questions for you. Inside this study guide you will find teaching, discussion, group exercises, and even some content for you to explore on your own during the week.

A typical group session for NEXT will include the following:

small talk.

If your group doesn’t learn to talk to one another, you won’t be meeting for very long! That’s why each session will begin with a chance for your group to chat, share, and get everyone on the same page. This section typically offers you two options. You can get to know your whole group by using the icebreaker question(s), or you can provide an opportunity for one or two group members to share some of their thoughts or experiences.

teaching.

The NEXT video teachings serve as an important companion to the NEXT small group discussion book. This DVD contains brief teaching segments from Pastor Greg Surratt that accompany each week. Watching them with your group will prepare you for a time of meaningful discussion and growth.

reflect.

During the Reflect section, your group will begin to process the teaching you watched. We want your group to go beyond simply consuming the information presented and instead consider: “What is God saying to me?

What is he saying to us as a group?” We want to help you apply the insights from Scripture practically and creatively, to your heart as well as your head.

11

respond.

This section is about your group practically applying the lessons you are learning together. During Respond, we go beyond asking “What is God saying to me?” to another, equally important question: “What am I going to do about it?” We know that it is not simply enough to hear – we must take what we hear and make it a part of our everyday lives. But what does that look like? How can we do it? In this section, you’ll have an opportunity to go beyond Bible study to biblical living. Your group will consider questions that are designed to help you think through the implications of what you are learning. The group session will close with time for personal response to God and group prayer, seeking to keep this crucial commandment before us at all times.

going deeper.

If you have time and want to dig deeper into more Bible passages about the topic at hand, we’ve provided additional passages and questions. If your group finds itself finishing the material early each week, the Going Deeper section will provide you with plenty to discuss within the group. This section enables individuals or the whole group to expand their study, if they wish.

daily reflections.

Each week on the Daily Reflections pages we provide Scriptures to read and reflect on between group meetings. We suggest you use this section to seek God on your own throughout the week. This time at home should begin and end with prayer. Don’t rush; take enough time to hear God’s direction.

memory verses.

For each session of NEXT we have provided a memory verse from Luke 5:111 emphasizing an important truth from the session. Memorizing Scripture fills our minds with God’s words and we encourage you to give this discipline a try.

12

Prayer Circle at the North Charleston Dream Center to Kickoff a Day of Ministry

SESSION 1 where is here?

Welcome to NEXT! We hope that you and your group are excited to spend the next five weeks learning what it means to go from “here” to “there.” Have you ever heard someone talk about all of the things they are going to do “one day?” When a person talks like that, chances are that they are dissatisfied with where they are in life. On the other hand, maybe that person is happy with where they are but they have a nagging feeling they can’t stay there. That’s what NEXT is all about.

As long as we are alive, God has a “next” for us. He has a “there” that he wants us to chase after. But first, we need to answer five questions: “Where is here?” “How did we get here?” “Why can’t we stay here?” “Where are we going?” and “How do we get there?” When we reflect on these questions and consider how God wants us to respond, we move closer to what’s next.

During NEXT we will be looking at Peter’s story in Luke 5:1-11. This week is all about “here.” When Peter woke up that morning, he was not expecting his life to change. He had a “here,” and he was probably pretty happy with it. He could not have imagined the incredible plans God had in store for him. But for Peter to get “there,” he had to be “here” – right where God wanted him. This week, we are going to reflect on our “here.” Where has God placed us and what should our response be?

SMALL TALK During each session, we will begin with a question or brief activity designed to get everyone on the same page for the session. Since this is your first time together (at least for this new series), take a few minutes to make sure everyone knows each other’s names. You may want to review briefly the Small Group Agreement and Calendar from the Appendix.

1 As you begin, take time to pass around a copy of the Small Group Roster on page 60, and have everyone write down their contact information. Ask someone to make copies or type up a list with everyone’s information and email it to the group before the next session.

2 Whether your group is new or ongoing, it’s always important to reflect on and review your values together. On pages 57-58 is a Small Group Agreement which lists values that are important for sustaining healthy, balanced groups. We recommend that you choose one or two values—ones you haven’t previously focused on or ones that you have room to grow in—to emphasize during this study. Choose ones that will take your group to the next stage of spiritual health.

3 Today we are going to talk about understanding where we are and why God has us “here.” Share with the group about a time that you were hopelessly lost. How did you figure out where you were?

Teaching During each session in NEXT, we will be watching a teaching from Pastor Greg Surratt as he walks us through Luke 5:1-11. In this passage, Peter encounters Jesus and realizes that God has more in store for him than where he is. Their meeting might never have happened if Peter hadn’t been right where God wanted him. It can be easy for us to grow restless but this week we want to remind ourselves that God has us where we are for a reason.

14

SHOW DVD SESSION 1 Use the space below for notes, questions, or comments you want to bring up in the discussion later.

15

reflect In the questions that follow, your group will spend some time reflecting on the teaching you just experienced.

1

Reflect on where God has you right now. How would you describe your “here”?

2 At the beginning of the session, Greg reminded us that wherever we are, God has a plan for us. His first point was, “We are ‘here’ for a reason.” Do you believe that? What can make it hard for us to see meaning in our circumstances?

3 When we look at the story of Joseph, we see a man whose perspective went

beyond his present circumstances. He waited patiently for God to act. What can happen when we lose that perspective?

4 Greg said that “What happens here prepares us for what’s next.” Take a moment and reflect. What might God be trying to teach you right now through your circumstances?

16

Respond Now that we have spent some time reflecting on what God is saying to us, we want to consider some possible next steps.

1 You are “here” for a reason. What can you do to maintain that perspective?

Who else in your life needs to hear that reminder this week?

2 As a result of your own personal reflection and the group discussion, what next steps might God be asking you to take during the coming week?

3 Allow everyone to answer this question: “How can we pray for you this week?” Be sure to write prayer requests on your Prayer and Praise Report on page 62.

Close the session in prayer.

17

going DEEPER You can explore the following Bible passage as a group (if there is time) or on your own between sessions.

Read Esther 3:8-4:17. Esther is the story of a woman who found herself in circumstances she never expected, asked to take on a responsibility she never wanted. In this passage, we learn of a plot against Esther’s people that only she can stop. She did not choose her “here,” but she was right where God wanted her.

1

What stands out to you in this passage? Where is God drawing your attention?

2 In Esther 4:14, Mordecai points out that whether Esther helps or not, God will deliver his people. In other words, we are a part of God’s plan, but his plans do not depend on us. Why is this an important perspective to have?

3 Mordecai also reminded Esther that God may have placed her where she

was for this very moment. What if we believed the same thing, that God has a purpose for each moment of our lives? How would that change us?

18

daily reflections These are daily reviews of some key Bible verses that will help you think about and apply the insights from this session. The questions are meant to help you reflect on truths related to each week’s topic.

Day 1 – Romans 8:28 God is at Work And we know that God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to his purpose for them. (NLT) God is always working things out for good – do you live with this perspective in mind?

Day 2 – John 9:3 For the Glory of God “It was not because of his sins or his parents’ sins,” Jesus answered. “He was born blind so the power of God could be seen in him.” (NLT) God will use even our pain to do wonderful things.

Day 3 – Psalm 40:1 Waiting on God I waited patiently for the Lord to help me, and he turned to me and heard my cry.

(NLT) When we wait patiently for God, we can be certain that he will come to us.

19

Day 4 – Romans 5:3 Learning to Rejoice We can rejoice, too, when we run into problems and trials, for we know that they are good for us – they help us learn to endure. (NLT) Do we see our problems as an opportunity to grow in endurance and trust?

Day 5 – Genesis 50:20 Good Intentions You intended to harm me, but God intended it all for good. He brought me to this position so I could save the lives of many people. (NLT) It doesn’t matter what people do to us – God will always use it for good.

memory verse One day as Jesus was preaching on the shore of the Sea of Galilee, great crowds pressed in on him to listen to the word of God. He noticed two empty boats at the water’s edge, for the fishermen had left them and were washing their nets.

—Luke 5:1-2 [NLT] 20

Easter Service at the Daniel Island Tennis Center

SESSION 2 how did we get here?

Welcome to week two of NEXT. Have you ever been driving and ended up in a place you did not expect? Of course, you weren’t lost (other people get lost – not you) but somehow you arrived somewhere surprising. When that happens, we usually ask ourselves, “How in the world did I get here?”

Or maybe you’ve been working at a job you never thought you’d have and one day, you look around and wonder the same thing: “How did I get here?” It’s a good and important question to ask. If we are at a place in life that is not where we want to be, asking “How did I get here?” can help us figure out what steps we need to take to make a change. Whether our present circumstances are good or bad, asking that question helps us to reflect on the goodness of God. When we explore our past, God’s work in our life becomes clearer. When we look back, we will begin to see the hand of God at work where we hadn’t noticed before. This week we want your group to take a moment, stop, and reflect on what God has done to bring us to this place.

SMALL TALK During each session, we will begin with a question or brief activity designed to get everyone on the same page for the session.

1 Since the theme of this session is “How Did We Get Here?” have your group members spend some time sharing about a trip they took that didn’t go quite as expected.

2 For those who might be willing to share: What from Session 1 stuck with you during the past week? Did anything from that session impact your life in a surprising way?

Teaching During each session in NEXT, we will be watching a teaching from Pastor Greg Surratt as he walks us through Luke 5:1-11. This week we want to reflect on how God has worked in our past to bring us to where we are today. It can be easy to become fixated on the future but we will never fully appreciate or understand “there” if we don’t know how we got “here.” Let’s move to the teaching portion of this section now.

SHOW DVD SESSION 2

22

Use the space below for notes, questions, or comments you want to bring up in the discussion later.

23

reflect In the questions that follow, your group will spend some time reflecting on the teaching you just experienced.

1

In Joshua 4:5-7, the Israelites are told to set up stones that would serve as reminders to their descendants of all the things God has done. Why is it important to remember our past?

2 Pastor Greg taught us that responding to God was the first thing that brought us “here.� What are some daily opportunities we have to respond to God?

3 Once we respond to God, he will ask us to push out deeper. Can you think of an example of this from your own life? How did you respond?

4 Embracing uncertainty will help us to trust God when he asks us to push out deeper. How else can we overcome our reluctance to respond to God in obedience?

24

Respond Now that we have spent some time reflecting on what God is saying to us, we want to consider some possible next steps.

1 We have chances every day to respond to God but we probably miss a lot of

them. What is keeping you from responding to God in certain situations? How can you begin to change that?

2 If you are aware of an area in your life where God is calling you to push out deeper, are there any steps you can take to follow him?

3 Spend some time on your own this week reflecting on this teaching. How

did you get “here”? Where can you see God’s role in guiding your life? Is there anything from your past that you have a better understanding of now that you are trying to see it from God’s perspective?

4

Allow everyone to answer this question: “How can we pray for you this week?” Be sure to write prayer requests on your Prayer and Praise Report on page 62.

Close the session in prayer.

25

going DEEPER You can explore the following Bible passage as a group (if there is time) or on your own between sessions.

Read Genesis 12:1-9. Abram was a man whom God would bless immeasurably. God chose to bless him because Abram responded to God. When God told Abram to pack up his household and move, he did. When God told him his descendants would be innumerable, Abram believed him.

Read this example of incredible faith and consider the questions below.

1

What stands out to you in this passage? Where is God drawing your attention?

2 Abram’s obedient response did not merely change his own life; everyone who lived with him or worked for him had to pick up their lives and move to a strange new land. How might our daily obedience to God affect the lives of those around us?

3 Aside from your decision to follow Christ, what is the most significant step of obedience to God that you have taken? How has it transformed your life?

26

daily reflections These are daily reviews of some key Bible verses that will help you think about and apply the insights from this session. The questions are meant to help you reflect on truths related to each week’s topic.

Day 1 – Mark 2:14 Get Up and Follow As he walked along, he saw Levi son of Alphaeus sitting at his tax collector’s booth. “Follow me and be my disciple,” Jesus said to him. So Levi got up and followed him. (NLT) God asks us to follow him every day. Are you prepared to respond in faith?

Day 2 – Joshua 14:12 Just as the Lord Said So give me the hill country that the LORD promised me. You will remember that as scouts we found the descendants of Anak living there in great, walled towns.

But if the LORD is with me, I will drive them out of the land, just as the LORD said.”

(NLT) When you respond to God, are you trusting in your own ability, or in his strength and his promises to you?

Day 3 – 1 Peter 2:21 In His Steps For God called you to do good, even if it means suffering, just as Christ suffered for you. He is your example, and you must follow in his steps. (NIV) Sometimes following Christ can be difficult. Are you willing to follow in his example of suffering?

27

Day 4 – Deuteronomy 29:29 Accountable The LORD our God has secrets known to no one. We are not accountable for them, but we and our children are accountable forever for all that he has revealed to us, so that we may obey all the terms of these instructions. (NLT) Even though we sometimes do not understand God, we are still expected to trust and follow him.

Day 5 – Proverbs 3:5-6 Trust Trust in the LORD with all your heart; do not depend on your own understanding.

Seek his will in all you do, and he will show you which path to take. (NLT) What uncertainty do you need to embrace this week?

memory verse Stepping into one of the boats, Jesus asked Simon, its owner, to push it out into the water. So he sat in the boat and taught the crowds from there. When he had finished speaking, he said to Simon, “Now go out where it is deeper, and let down your nets to catch some fish.” —Luke 5:3-4 [NLT] 28

Response Time at Seacoast Church

SESSION 3 why can’t we stay here?

Have you ever been on a vacation and said, “I wish I could stay here forever”? Probably most of us have had one of those moments before. One of the things that helps make a vacation relaxing is being able to disconnect yourself from your daily life back home. That is why staying there would actually end up ruining that vacation spot: it would become part of your normal life and you wouldn’t be able to disconnect anymore. Interestingly, when it comes to serving God it is almost the reverse. We are afraid to follow him if it means disconnecting ourselves from our comfortable routines. The very reason we love vacation (getting away from it all) becomes the reason we stop short of completely obeying God. Just like a vacation, though, we can’t stay where we are. We have to move forward because God is calling us into a new reality. Where you are now might be great but God is not done with you yet. Maybe you find yourself in a bad place and the thought of leaving “here” gives you hope. Take a moment and ask God to speak to you this week as we talk about why we can’t stay here.

SMALL TALK During each session, we will begin with a question or brief activity designed to get everyone on the same page for the session.

1 Have you ever had a moment – maybe regarding a job, or a place you lived, etc. – when you realized that you couldn’t stay where you were? If you are willing to share, tell the group about it.

2 One of the things we will hear about this week is that God’s plans for us are bigger than our own. Go around the group and have everyone share: When you were little, what were your big plans for your life when you grew up?

Teaching During each session in NEXT, we will be watching a teaching from Pastor Greg Surratt as he walks us through Luke 5:1-11. As we read this passage we know that Peter’s life is about to change. We know what God has in store for him and that is why we know that his time as a fisherman has an expiration date – he could not stay there. Have you considered that the same is true of your life? God has a plan for you; you cannot stay where you are. With that in mind, let’s begin Greg’s teaching for this session.

SHOW DVD SESSION 3

30

Use the space below for notes, questions, or comments you want to bring up in the discussion later.

31

reflect In the questions that follow, your group will spend some time reflecting on the teaching you just experienced.

1 Now that you’ve watched Pastor Greg’s teaching, take some time to reflect

in your group. Is there anyone who thinks they may be currently experiencing the call from God to leave “here” for “there?”

2 Jesus literally got into Peter’s boat, but what about us? Spend some time in your group discussing what it might look like in our lives when Jesus “gets in our boat.”

3 God’s plans for us are always bigger than our own plans for us. Have you ever known someone who had more confidence in you than you had in yourself?

How did that person or those people impact your life?

4 God’s kingdom is always on the move because God is always at work doing

new things and making sure that all his plans come to pass. But the fact that his kingdom is moving means that we need to make sure that we are paying attention to what God is asking us to do – the kingdom is not going to wait for us! How can you see the kingdom moving in your life? Where is God drawing your attention?

32

Respond Now that we have spent some time reflecting on what God is saying to us, we want to consider some possible next steps.

1

Spend some time in your group discussing these two questions: What is keeping you from stepping out in faith? What is keeping you “here”? Consider these questions throughout the coming week as well.

2 Where in your life do you need to dream bigger? What is keeping you from dreaming?

3 How can your group keep each other accountable for what you’ve learned

this week? How can you encourage one another to chase after God this week?

4 Allow everyone to answer this question: “How can we pray for you this week?” Be sure to write prayer requests on your Prayer and Praise Report on page 62.

Close the session in prayer.

33

going DEEPER You can explore the following Bible passage as a group (if there is time) or on your own between sessions.

Read Acts 9:1-19. Before he became a missionary and church planter, Paul hunted down Christians. He knew exactly what he wanted to do with his life and he was convinced that he was serving God. God had other plans for Paul and in this week’s Going Deeper we will be looking at the moment God confronts Paul and tells him that he can’t stay where he is.

1

What stands out to you in this passage? Where is God drawing your attention?

2 Most of us will not have a dramatic encounter with God like Paul did. Most of us will have small moments when we feel God prodding us. How has God prodded you in the past? How often do you spend time listening to the voice of God?

3 God used Ananias to encourage Paul during his transition. Who does God want you to encourage in a similar way this week?

34

daily reflections These are daily reviews of some key Bible verses that will help you think about and apply the insights from this session. The questions are meant to help you reflect on truths related to each week’s topic.

Day 1 – John 4:39-41 Jesus’s Arrival Changes Everything Many Samaritans from the village believed in Jesus because the woman had said, “He told me everything I ever did!” When they came out to see him, they begged him to stay in their village. So he stayed for two days, long enough for many more to hear his message and believe. (NLT) When Jesus shows up, we change. How is the presence of Jesus changing you today?

Day 2 – Isaiah 6:8 Who Will Go? Then I heard the Lord asking, “Whom should I send as a messenger to this people?

Who will go for us?” I said, “Here I am. Send me.” (NLT) Are you willing to respond to God’s call?

Day 3 – Matthew 3:2 The Kingdom is Near “Repent of your sins and turn to God, for the Kingdom of Heaven is near.” (NLT) Sometimes following Christ can be difficult. Are you willing to follow in his example of suffering?

35

Day 4 – Luke 10:9 Heal and Tell Heal the sick, and tell them, ‘The Kingdom of God is near you now.’ (NLT) It is not enough to serve the people around us; we must tell them about the kingdom of God.

Day 5 – 1 Kings 19:15a Go Back Then the LORD told him, “Go back the same way you came, and travel to the wilderness of Damascus. (NLT) God told Elijah that he couldn’t stay where he was. Where is God asking you to go for him today?

memory verse “Master,” Simon replied, “we worked hard all last night and didn’t catch a thing. But if you say so, I’ll let the nets down again.” And this time their nets were so full of fish they began to tear! A shout for help brought their partners in the other boat, and soon both boats were filled with fish and on the verge of sinking. —Luke 5:5-7 [NLT] 36

SESSION 4 where are we going?

When we’re children, it sometimes seems like every adult asks the same question: What do you want to be when you grow up? It can be a fun question to think about and children are refreshingly candid and optimistic when it comes to their plans for their future. Somewhere along the line, however, we tend to get a bit cynical and jaded with age.

Some of us stop dreaming all together. What would happen if we tried thinking like children again? What if you saw your future with that same joyful confidence? In week four of NEXT, we want to ask ourselves, “Where are we going”? We have spent the first three weeks of this study taking about “here” and now we want to begin to dream about “there.” There is no cynicism allowed this week because we believe as long as you are alive, God has a “next” for you. We may not grow up to be an astronaut or a rock star but we have plenty of time to grow into the people God created us to be. Let’s spend some time dreaming this week and ask God: “Where are we going?”

Asheville Campus Grand Opening

SMALL TALK During each session, we will begin with a question or brief activity designed to get everyone on the same page for the session.

1 Have some fun discussing in your group: What did each of you want to be when you grew up?

2 What has God been teaching your group so far during this study?

What is each of you learning?

Teaching During each session in NEXT, we will be watching a teaching from Pastor Greg Surratt as he walks us through Luke 5:1-11. When Peter decided to follow Jesus, he must have asked himself, “Where am I going?” Following Jesus is an adventure. It can be uncertain and difficult but as long as we stay close to our Guide, we can have confidence that he is leading us to where we need to be. Let’s begin our teaching from Greg now.

SHOW DVD SESSION 4

38

Use the space below for notes, questions, or comments you want to bring up in the discussion later.

39

reflect In the questions that follow, your group will spend some time reflecting on the teaching you just experienced.

1 The first place that we are called to go is to the church. How can you serve

God in the church? If you are not involved already, what is standing in your way?

2 Second, we are all called to our communities. If you were to move to a new town tomorrow, would your neighbors know you were gone? What impact are you making on the people around you? What could our potential impact be if we practiced radical generosity?

3 Finally, we are all called to the world. Do you believe that your efforts can help change the world? Spend some time reflecting: How might God want to use you to change the lives of others?

4 This study is almost complete. Spend some time as a group discussing the future: Where are you going as a group? Is there interest in remaining together for another study?

40

Respond Now that we have spent some time reflecting on what God is saying to us, we want to consider some possible next steps.

1 Have you stopped dreaming about how God wants to use you? Set some

time aside this week, ask God to fire your imagination, and dream. Consider sharing the results of this with the group next week.

2

Has your group ever served the community together? Brainstorm some ideas for how your group can serve together in the near future. How can you demonstrate the limitless generosity of God to the people around you?

3

At the end of his time on earth, Jesus gave his disciples a job to do. In Matthew 28:18-20, he told them to go and make disciples. Making disciples is the primary way that our faith is passed from one person to the next. No matter where we are going, making disciples must be part of that journey. Are you actively engaged in discipling or being discipled? If not, ask God this week two questions: Who can I learn from? Who can I teach?

4

Allow everyone to answer this question: “How can we pray for you this week?� Be sure to write prayer requests on your Prayer and Praise Report on page 62.

Close the session in prayer.

41

going DEEPER You can explore the following Bible passage as a group (if there is time) or on your own between sessions.

Read Leviticus 19:9-18. Leviticus is all about learning to live together. God wanted the Israelites to know his expectations for worshipping him and living with one another. This week’s Going Deeper passage contains some of the most important of these rules, including one that Jesus would call the most important commandment of all.

1

What stands out to you in this passage? Where is God drawing your attention?

2 This passage is full of rules – do not steal, do not lie, do not oppress your neighbor, etc. – that most people today would agree are good and important.

Why do you think rules like these have stood the test of time?

3 Does reading this passage call attention to anything in your life that needs

to change? Perhaps an attitude or relationship that needs to be repaired?

What do you think God is asking you to do in response to this?

42

daily reflections These are daily reviews of some key Bible verses that will help you think about and apply the insights from this session. The questions are meant to help you reflect on truths related to each week’s topic.

Day 1 – John 13:34 A New Commandment So now I am giving you a new commandment: Love each other. Just as I have loved you, you should love each other. (NLT) God has commanded us to love one another. Who is God asking you to love today?

Day 2 – 1 Corinthians 12:12-13 The Body The human body has many parts, but the many parts make up one whole body.

So it is with the body of Christ. Some of us are Jews, some are Gentiles, some are slaves, and some are free. But we have all been baptized into one body by one Spirit, and we all share the same Spirit. (NLT) We are all part of one body – we share it with all Christians everywhere. Does this sense of unity characterize your relationships with other believers?

Day 3 – John 14:5 The Way “No, we don’t know, Lord,” Thomas said. “We have no idea where you are going, so how can we know the way?” (NLT) Sometimes God is silent when we ask him where we are going. Are you willing to follow him despite uncertainty?

43

Day 4 – Luke 9:1-2 Sent One day Jesus called together his twelve disciples and gave them power and authority to cast out all demons and to heal all diseases. Then he sent them out to tell everyone about the Kingdom of God and to heal the sick. (NLT) God does not just draw us to himself. He always sends his followers out into the world to serve and love it.

Day 5 – John 17:18 Into the World Just as you sent me into the world, I am sending them into the world. (NLT) We have been sent into the world. Are you willing to go where God calls?

memory verse When Simon Peter realized what had happened, he fell to his knees before Jesus and said, “Oh, Lord, please leave me—I’m too much of a sinner to be around you.” For he was awestruck by the number of fish they had caught, as were the others with him. His partners, James and John, the sons of Zebedee, were also amazed. Jesus replied to Simon, “Don’t be afraid!

From now on you’ll be fishing for people!”

—Luke 5:8-10 [NLT] 44

James Island Campus Bring a Friend Day

SESSION 5 how do we get there?

Have you noticed that everyone gives directions in different ways? Some people are like live versions of Google Maps – they know all the street names and exit numbers. Other people might know exactly how many turns to take but have no idea what any of the street names are. Still others prefer to rely on landmarks and other indicators. We know how to get there but conveying that information to another person can be a challenge, especially if they use directions differently than we do.

Asking someone “How do I get there?” can result in a myriad of responses, but that doesn’t change where “there” is. This is the final week of the NEXT study guide. We have talked about where we are and how we got there. We have acknowledged that we cannot stay where we are and we have considered where we are going. But knowing that we need to leave “here” is not enough. It isn’t even enough to know where “there” is, unless we know how to get there. This is final week of NEXT and it may just be the most important.

SMALL TALK During each session, we will begin with a question or brief activity designed to get everyone on the same page for the session.

1 Go around the group and have each person share: Which week has had the most impact for you? Where has God directed your attention in particular?

2 Spend some time in your group reflecting on the last four weeks.

What have you learned together? How has God been working in your group?

Teaching During each session in NEXT, we will be watching a teaching from Pastor Greg Surratt as he walks us through Luke 5:1-11. Peter’s entire experience in these verses came down to a final question: How would he respond to Jesus? Jesus was calling Peter to something new but in order for Peter to get “there,” he had to follow. Jesus presents each of us the same choice: Will we follow him, or not? Let’s prepare for our final teaching from Pastor Greg.

SHOW DVD SESSION 5

46

Use the space below for notes, questions, or comments you want to bring up in the discussion later.

47

reflect In the questions that follow, your group will spend some time reflecting on the teaching you just experienced.

1 Do you sense God speaking to you about a particular part of this teaching?

What do you think he is asking of you?

2 Fear can be paralyzing. It can keep us from moving forward at all. What is a source of fear for you? Is fear keeping you from practicing generosity? How might your life change if you surrendered this fear to God?

3 Luke 5:11 tells us that the disciples gave up whatever security they had in

possessions or employment to follow Jesus. For us, surrendering our security might not mean giving away everything we have but it does mean practicing radical generosity. What role does generosity currently play in your life? What might God be asking of you in this area?

4 Probably none of us would identify ourselves as prideful. But pride tends to creep in where we least expect it and take root. Spend some time reflecting: Where in your life should you be on guard against pride? What would it look like for you to drop this “net?�

48

Respond Now that we have spent some time reflecting on what God is saying to us, we want to consider some possible next steps.

1 Peter dropped his nets and followed Jesus. What “nets” do you need to drop

in your own life? What is preventing you from following Jesus completely?

2

Do you have a sense where “there” is for you? What are your next steps?

How can your group encourage you as you begin to move forward?

3 Why is generosity such an important part of our “there?” What steps can you take to begin to become a more generous person?

4 Before you leave, make sure that your group reaches a decision on whether

you will continue with a new study. What are your next steps as a group?

Close the session in prayer.

49

going DEEPER You can explore the following Bible passage as a group (if there is time) or on your own between sessions.

Read Luke 4:13-34. This passage contains a parable and Jesus’s explanation of the story. It addresses the topics of anxiety, security, and what it means to follow God with our whole hearts.

1

What stands out to you in this passage? Where is God drawing your attention?

2 In Jesus’s parable, he tells the story of a rich man who sought security in

his possessions. Where are you looking for security in your own life? Does it sometimes become a substitute for trusting in God?

3 Jesus said that we should not worry or be anxious about anything. What

are you worrying about today that you need to give up to God?

4 At the end of the passage Jesus says that wherever our treasure is, our heart will be. How can you see this truth illustrated in your own life?

50

daily reflections These are daily reviews of some key Bible verses that will help you think about and apply the insights from this session. The questions are meant to help you reflect on truths related to each week’s topic.

Day 1 – Mark 4:39-40 Why Are You Afraid?

When Jesus woke up, he rebuked the wind and said to the waves, “Silence! Be still!” Suddenly the wind stopped, and there was a great calm. Then he asked them, “Why are you afraid? Do you still have no faith?” (NLT) If Jesus is in our boat, why are we still afraid?

Day 2 – 1 Samuel 15:22b Obedience Listen! Obedience is better than sacrifice, and submission is better than offering the fat of rams. (NLT) Above all, God wants us to follow him. Are you trying to offer him anything else instead?

Day 3 – Hebrews 13:5 Be Satisfied Don’t love money; be satisfied with what you have. For God has said, “I will never fail you.

I will never abandon you.”

(NLT) When we drop our security, we can follow God with complete confidence and abandon.

51

Day 4 – Micah 6:8 What is Good No, O people, the LORD has told you what is good, and this is what he requires of you: to do what is right, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God. (NLT) Of the three things mentioned in this verse, what is God telling you to focus on today?

Day 5 – Mark 12:42-44 More Than All the Others Then a poor widow came and dropped in two small coins. Jesus called his disciples to him and said, “I tell you the truth, this poor widow has given more than all the others who are making contributions. For they gave a tiny part of their surplus, but she, poor as she is, has given everything she had to live on.”

(NLT) Radical generosity is not necessarily tied to the size of our gifts. How can you practice this sort of generosity?

memory verse And as soon as they landed, they left everything and followed Jesus. —Luke 5:11 [NLT]

52

APPENDIX

GREAT RESOURCES TO MAKE YOUR SMALL GROUP EVEN BETTER!

53

frequently asked questions What do we do on the first night of our group?

Whatever you want! A “get to know you” coffee, dinner, or dessert is a great way to launch a new study. It will also help people feel comfortable and welcome. You may want to review the Group Agreement (57-58) and share the names of a few friends you can invite to join. But most importantly, have fun before your study time begins.

Where do we find new members for our group?

This can be troubling, especially for new groups that have only a few people or for existing groups that lose a few people along the way. We encourage you to pray with your group and then brainstorm a list of people from work, church, your neighborhood, your children’s school, family, the gym, etc..

Then have each group member invite some of the people on his or her list.

No matter how you find members, try to stay on the lookout for new people to join your group. All groups tend to go through healthy attrition– the result of moves, releasing new leaders, ministry opportunities, and so forth–and if the group gets too small, it could be at risk of shutting down.

If you and your group stay open, you’ll be amazed at the people God sends your way. The next person just might become a friend for life. You never know!

54

How long will this group meet?

It’s totally up to the group. Most groups meet weekly, but every other week may work as well. We strongly recommend that the group meet for the first six months on a weekly basis if possible. This allows for continuity, and if people miss a meeting they aren’t gone for a whole month.

At the end of this study, each group member will decide if he or she wants to continue on for another study. Some groups launch relationships for years to come, and others are stepping-stones into another group experience. Either way, enjoy the journey.

Can we do this study on our own?

Absolutely! This may sound crazy but one of the best ways to do a study is not with a full house but with a few friends. You may choose to gather with one other couple who would enjoy going to the movies or having a quiet dinner and then walking through this study. Jesus will be with you even if there are only two of you (Matthew 18:20).

What if this group is not working for us?

You’re not alone! This could be the result of a personality conflict, life stage difference, geographical distance, level of spiritual maturity, or any number of things. Relax. Pray for God’s direction, and at the end of this five-week study, decide whether to continue with this group or find another. You don’t buy the first car you test drive or marry the first person you date, and the same goes with a group. Don’t bail out before the six weeks are up–God might have something to teach you. Also, don’t run from conflict or prejudge people before you have given them a chance. God is still working in you too!

55

Who is the leader?

Most groups have an official leader. We would encourage you to try rotating leadership of the meetings between different members of the group. We have discovered that healthy groups rotate hosts/leaders and homes on a regular basis. This model ensures that all members grow, give their unique contribution, and develop their gifts. Christ has promised to be in your midst as you gather, which means that ultimately, God is your leader each step of the way. That should give your group (and whoever may be leading each week) confidence.

How do we handle the childcare needs in our group?

Very carefully, as this can be a sensitive issue. We suggest that the group spend some time openly brainstorming solutions. You may try one option that works for a while and then adjust over time. Our favorite approach is for adults to meet in the living room or dining room, and to share the cost of a babysitter (or two) who can be with the kids in a different part of the house.

That way, parents don’t have to be away from their children all evening when they are too young to be left at home. A second option is to use one home for the kids and a second home (close by or a phone call away) for the adults. A third idea is to rotate the responsibility of providing a lesson or care for the children either in the same home or in another home nearby.

This can be an incredible blessing for kids. Finally, the most common idea is to make your own arrangements for childcare. No matter what decision the group makes, the best approach is to talk openly about both the problem and the solution.

56

small group agreement Our Purpose To provide a safe environment where participants experience authentic community and spiritual growth.

Our Values Group Attendance

To give priority to the group meeting. We will call or email if we will be late or absent. (Completing the Group Calendar on page 59 will minimize this issue.)

Safe Environment

To help create a safe place where people can be heard and feel loved. (Please, no quick answers, snap judgments, or simple fixes.)

Respect Differences

To be gentle and gracious toward people with different spiritual maturity, personal opinions, temperaments, or “imperfections� in fellow group members. We are all works in progress.

Confidentiality

To keep anything that is shared strictly confidential and within the group, and to avoid sharing improper information about those outside the group.

Encouragement for Growth

To be not just takers but givers of life. We want to spiritually multiply our life by serving others with our God-given gifts.

Shared Ownership

To remember that every member is a minister and to ensure that each attender will share a small team role or responsibility over time.

Rotating Hosts/ Leaders and Homes

To encourage different people to host the group in their homes, and to rotate the responsibility of facilitating each meeting. (See the Group Calendar on page 59.)

57

Our Times Together Refreshments/mealtimes be provided by The arrangement for childcare will be When we will meet (day of week) Where we will meet (place) We will begin at (time)

and end at

We will do our best to have some or all of us attend a worship service together.

Our primary worship service time will be Date of this agreement Date we will review this agreement again

58

group CALENDER Planning can help ensure the greatest participation at every meeting. At the end of each meeting, review this calendar. Be sure to include a regular rotation of host homes/leaders, and don’t forget birthdays, socials, church events, holidays, and mission/ministry projects.

Date

Session

Host Home

Dessert/ Meal

Leader

10/21

1

Steve and Laura’s

Joe

Bill

59

Name

Address

Phone

Email

Small Group roster

60

Our Plan

Memory verses Session 1

(Luke 5:1-2 NLT) One day as Jesus was preaching on the shore of the Sea of Galilee, great crowds pressed in on him to listen to the word of God. He noticed two empty boats at the water’s edge, for the fishermen had left them and were washing their nets.

Session 2

(Luke 5:3-4 NLT) Stepping into one of the boats, Jesus asked Simon, its owner, to push it out into the water. So he sat in the boat and taught the crowds from there. When he had finished speaking, he said to Simon, “Now go out where it is deeper, and let down your nets to catch some fish.”

Session 3

(Luke 5:5-7 NLT) “Master,” Simon replied, “we worked hard all last night and didn’t catch a thing. But if you say so, I’ll let the nets down again.” And this time their nets were so full of fish they began to tear! A shout for help brought their partners in the other boat, and soon both boats were filled with fish and on the verge of sinking.

Session 4

(Luke 5:8-10 NLT) When Simon Peter realized what had happened, he fell to his knees before Jesus and said, “Oh, Lord, please leave me—I’m too much of a sinner to be around you.” For he was awestruck by the number of fish they had caught, as were the others with him. His partners, James and John, the sons of Zebedee, were also amazed. Jesus replied to Simon, “Don’t be afraid! From now on you’ll be fishing for people!”

Session 5

(Luke 5:11 NLT) And as soon as they landed, they left everything and followed Jesus.

61

prayer and praise report

Session 5

Session 4

Session 3

Session 2

Session 1

Prayer Requests

62

Praise Reports

hosting an open house If you’re starting a new group, or if this is your first time leading a small group, you should consider planning an “open house” before your first formal group meeting. Even if you only have two to four core members, it’s a great way to break the ice and to consider prayerfully who else might be open to join you over the next few weeks. You can also use this kick-off meeting to hand out study guides, spend some time getting to know each other, discuss each person’s expectations for the group, and briefly pray for each other.

A simple meal or good desserts always make a kick-off meeting more fun.

After people introduce themselves and share how they ended up being at the meeting, have everyone respond to a few icebreaker questions, such as: “What is your favorite family vacation?” or “What is one thing you love about your church/our community?” or “What are three things about your life growing up that most people here don’t know?” Finally, ask everyone to tell what he or she hopes to get out of the study. You might want to review the Small Group Agreement and talk about each person’s expectations and priorities.

You can skip this kick-off meeting if your time is limited, but an open house can help set your group up for success.

63

leading for the first time 1 Sweaty palms are a healthy sign. The Bible says God is gracious to the humble. Remember who is in control. Those who are soft in heart (and sweaty palmed) are those whom God is sure to speak through. God wants to use you exactly as you are to lead your group this week.

2 Seek support. Ask your co-leader or a close friend to pray for you and prepare with you before the session. Walking through the study will help you anticipate potentially difficult questions and discussion topics.

3 Prepare. Prepare. Prepare. Go through the session several times

prior to meeting. If you are using the DVD, watch the teaching segment.

Consider writing in a journal or fasting for a day to prepare yourself for what God wants to do.

4 Ask for feedback so you can grow. Perhaps in an email or on cards

handed out at the study, have everyone write down three things you did well and one thing you could improve. Don’t get defensive; instead, show an openness to learn and grow.

5 Share with your group what God is doing in your heart. God is

searching for those whose hearts are fully his. Share your struggles and your victories. People will relate and your willingness to share will encourage them to do the same.

64

small group leadership 101 Thank you! You have responded to the call to help shepherd Jesus’ flock.

There are few other tasks in the family of God that are as challenging, rewarding, and humbling as this. As you prepare to lead – whether it is one session or the entire series – here are a few thoughts to keep in mind.

It might be helpful for you to read these and review them before each session.

1. Remember that you are not alone.

God knows everything about you, and he knew that you would be asked to lead your group. God promises, “Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you” (Hebrews 13:5). Whether you are leading for one evening or for the whole study, you will be blessed as you serve. It might be helpful to enlist a co-leader to help you lead the group. This is your chance to involve as many people as you can in building a healthy group. All you have to do is call and ask people to help; you’ll be surprised at the response.

2. Just be yourself.

Your group needs you to be you! God wants you to use your unique gifts and personality. Don’t try to do things exactly like another leader; do them in a way that fits you. Admit it when you don’t have an answer, and apologize when you make a mistake. Your group will love you for it, and you’ll sleep better at night!

65

3. Prepare for your meeting ahead of time.

Review the session along with the leader’s notes, and write down your responses to each question. Be sure you understand how an exercise works, and bring any necessary supplies (such as paper and pens) to your meeting.

If the exercise employs one of the items in the appendix, be sure to look over that item so you’ll be familiar with it. For encouragement, look up each of the five passages listed below. Read each one as a devotional exercise to help equip yourself with a shepherd’s heart. If you do this, you will be more than ready for each meeting.

Matthew 9:36 1 Peter 5:2-4 Psalm 23 Ezekiel 34:11-16 1 Thessalonians 2:7-8, 11-12

4. Pray for your group members by name.

Before you begin your session, go around the room in your mind and pray for each member by name. You may want to review the prayer list at least once a week. Ask God to use your time together to touch the heart of every person uniquely. Expect God to lead you to whomever he wants you to encourage or challenge in a special way. If you listen, God will surely lead!

5. Learn the rhythm of asking questions.

When guiding the discussion, always read aloud the transitional paragraphs and the questions. This will help the group to transition to a time of reflection and response. You can read them yourself, or you can ask for a volunteer, and then be patient until someone begins. Be sure to thank the person who reads aloud.

When you ask the group a question, be patient. Someone will eventually respond. Sometimes people need a moment or two of silence to think about the question, and if silence doesn’t bother you, it won’t bother anyone else.

After someone responds, thank them and then ask if anyone else would like to share. Be sensitive to new people or reluctant members who aren’t ready to say, pray or do anything. If you give them a safe setting, they will open up over time.

66

6. Be attentive to the needs of the group.

If your group has more than seven people, it might be a good idea to gather in discussion circles of three or four people during the REFLECT or RESPOND sections of the study. With a greater opportunity to talk in a small circle, people will connect more with the study. A small circle also encourages a quiet person to participate and tends to minimize the effects of a more vocal or dominant member. Small circles are also helpful during prayer time. People who are unaccustomed to praying aloud will feel more comfortable trying it with just two or three others. When you gather back with the whole group, you can have one person summarize the highlights and prayer requests from each circle.

7. Rotate leaders weekly.

At the end of each meeting, ask the group who should lead the following week.

Let the group help select your weekly facilitator. You may be perfectly capable of leading each time but you will help others grow in their faith and gifts if you give them opportunities to lead. If you and your group prefer, you can use the Small Group Calendar to fill in the names of all meeting leaders at once.

67

Greg Surratt Greg is the founding pastor of Seacoast Church, one of the early adopters of the multisite model, and author of Ir-Rev-Rend. Located in Mt. Pleasant, South Carolina, Seacoast has been recognized by various media as an innovative and influential thought leader in future strategies for church growth and development. Seacoast combines a unique approach to highly participatory worship with a heart for missional evangelism. Greg calls their weekends a “practical, spirit-filled, but non-spooky, yet kind of mystical worship experience, done in multiple locations, very inexpensively.” Seacoast currently has 41 worship experiences in 11 separate locations.

Greg is also the current president and a founding board member of the Association of Related Churches (ARC), a church planting network that has given birth to over 300 churches in the last 11 years. Greg is married to a very hip grandma, has 4 children, 13 grandchildren, and enjoys reading, photography, fishing, golfing, and rooting for lost causes… specifically the Cubs, Broncos, and Gamecocks.

68