A Deeper Life with God by Lifetogether Ministries

CONTENTS Foreword by Mike Ramsdell

Welcome 6 Using This Workbook (Read This First) Outline for Each Session

8 10

SESSIONS The Rhythm of Rest

The Practice of Presence

The Health of Our Soul

The Discipline of Devotion

The Direction of Our Lives

The Significance of Sacrifice

118

APPENDICES 138 Copyright © 2015 by David Alexander ALL RIGHTS RESERVED No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by any means—electronic, mechanical, photocopy, recording, or otherwise—except for brief quotations in printed reviews, without the prior written permission of the publisher. Copyright and use of the curriculum template is retained by Brett Eastman. Unless otherwise noted, all Scripture quotes are taken from the HOLY BIBLE, NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION®. Copyright 1973, 1978, 1984 and 2011 by Biblica, Inc.® Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide.

Frequently Asked Questions

139

Small Group Agreement

141

Small Group Calendar

143

Spiritual Partners’ Check-In

144

Memory Verse Cards (Clip and Review)

145

Prayer and Praise Report

147

SMALL GROUP LEADERS 148 Hosting an Open House

149

Leading for the First Time

150

ISBN: 978-1-940077-51-2

Leadership Training 101

151

Printed in the United States of America

Small Group Roster

154

FOREWORD I have known Pastor David Alexander most of his life and have worked closely with him for more than 10 years. As Senior Pastor of First Methodist Mansfield, one of the top 100 attended Methodist Churches in the Country, I have known David to have one overwhelming, consistent focus and even obsession, and that is discipleship, following Jesus Christ himself and encouraging and teaching others to participate in that same amazing, and as the Bible words it, abundant life. He lives it, teaches it, and believes that following Christ is not only the best life, but it is the life the bible clearly teaches us to live. In this Lifetogether group study you will have an opportunity to learn and experience the practices that can change your life and build a deeper experience with God that can benefit all the days, weeks, and years that will follow, influencing life, marriage, family, relationships, career, every moment of life in positive ways. Pastor David brings to us a lifetime of experience and study, knowledge gained from mentoring opportunities with Pastor Adam Hamilton, Pastor Michael Slaughter, Pastor Maxie Dunham and other long term lead pastors in the United Methodist Church and nation. He has much to offer you and me as he shares the basic practices for anyone who is invested in growing in relationship with God, with each other, and in the best life of a disciple of Jesus Christ. I fully expect you to not only enjoy this group study, but that it will change your life and your Church. Mike Ramsdell Senior Pastor (1995-2014) First United Methodist Church Mansfield, Texas

JESUS REPLIED, â&#x20AC;&#x153;ANYONE WHO DRINKS THIS WATER WILL SOON BECOME THIRSTY AGAIN. BUT THOSE WHO DRINK THE WATER I GIVE WILL NEVER BE THIRSTY AGAIN. IT BECOMES A FRESH, BUBBLING SPRING WITHIN THEM, GIVING THEM ETERNAL LIFE.â&#x20AC;? John 4:13-14 (NLT)

WELCOME! Have you ever wondered why doctors refer to their work as â&#x20AC;&#x153;practicing medicine?â&#x20AC;? As a patient, that language may make you feel a bit uncomfortable at first, but the phrase is not an indication of how much your doctor may or may not know. It is instead a recognition that doctors should constantly be seeking to improve and grow in their ability to care for their patients. This same idea applies to our life with God. No matter how long you have been living your life as a follower of Jesus, you are still practicing. There is always more to learn and areas where you might grow. This study was designed to help you on that journey. Small group experiences are often described as journeys. As we travel together over the six weeks of this study, I am going to ask you to think about dropping some baggage along the way. I am also going to encourage you to pick up some equipment you may not be used to carrying, and develop some new habits that will change the way you see your relationship with God. As a part of each session you will be invited to invest in some practices that may be brand new for you. Remember, that each of these is designed to help you. The goal is not learning to practice them perfectly, but to practice them faithfully. I am confident that God is going to do some amazing things in your life and in your group during this study and I hope that will be a catalyst for growth for the rest of your days. Thanks again for taking the time to be a part of this study. I am honored to have the chance to share it with you. Grace & Peace, Rev. David Alexander

1. Notice in the Table of Contents there are three sections: Sessions, Appendices, and Small Group Leaders. Familiarize yourself with the Appendices. Some of them will be used in the sessions themselves.

USING THIS WORKBOOK Tools to Help You Have a Great Small Group Experience!

2. If you are facilitating/leading or co-leading a small group, the section Small Group Leaders will give you some hard-learned experiences of others that will encourage you and help you avoid many common obstacles to effective small group leadership. 3. Use this workbook as a guide. If the group responds to the lesson in an unexpected but honest way, go with that. If you think of a better question than the next one in the lesson, ask it. Take to heart the insights included in the Frequently Asked Questions pages and the Small Group Leaders section. 4. Enjoy your small group experience. 5. Pray before each sessionâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;for your group members, for your time together, or wisdom and insights. 6. Read the Outline for Each Session on the next pages so that you understand how the sessions will flow.

OUTLINE OF EACH SESSION

A typical group session for the A Deeper Life with God study will include the following sections:

WEEKLY MEMORY VERSES.

Each session opens with a Memory Verse that emphasizes an important truth from the session. This is an optional exercise, but we believe that memorizing Scripture can be a vital part of filling our minds with God’s truth. We encourage you to give this important habit a try. The verses for our six sessions are also listed in the appendix.

INTRODUCTION.

Each lesson opens with a brief thought that will help you prepare for the session and get you thinking about the particular subject you will explore with your group. Make it a practice to read these before the session.

COME TOGETHER.

The foundation for spiritual growth is an intimate connection with God and God’s family. You build that connection by sharing your experience with a few people who really know you and who earn your trust. This is helpful preparation for being able to share what Christ has done in your life with anyone you meet— which is what a disciple is ready to do. This section includes some simple questions to get you talking—letting you share as much or as little of your story as you feel comfortable doing. Each session typically offers you two options. You can get to know your whole group by using the icebreaker question(s), or you can check in with one or two group members, your spiritual partner(s), for a deeper connection and encouragement in your spiritual journey.

GROW TOGETHER.

In this section, you’ll read the Bible and listen to teaching, in order to hear God’s story—and begin to see how His story aligns with your story. When the study directs you to you will start the video and watch a short teaching segment. You will then have an opportunity to read a passage of Scripture, and discuss both the teaching and the text. The focus of this time is not on accumulating information but on how you can go deeper in your life with God. We want to help you apply the insights from Scripture practically and creatively, from your heart as well as your head. At the end of the day, allowing the timeless truths from God’s Word to transform our lives in Christ should be your greatest aim.

STUDY NOTES.

This section provides additional commentary, background or insights on the passage you will study in the Learn Together section.

SERVE TOGETHER.

God wants you to be a part of God’s Kingdom—to weave your story into God’s story. That will mean change. It will require you to go His way rather than your own. This will not happen overnight, but it should happen steadily. By making small, simple choices, we can begin to change our direction. This is where the Bible’s instructions to “be doers of the Word, not just hearers” (James 1:22) comes into play. Many people skip over this aspect of the Christian life because it’s scary, relationally awkward, or simply too much work for their busy schedules. But Jesus wanted all of His disciples to know Him personally, carry out His commands, and help others connect with Him. This doesn’t necessarily mean preaching on street corners. It could mean welcoming newcomers, hosting a short-term group in your home, or walking through this study with a friend. In this study, you’ll have an opportunity to go beyond Bible study to biblical living.

PRACTICES OF THE WEEK.

Since we are introducing spiritual practices each week, this section will offer some practical direction geared to some next steps for you to consider. These should be reviewed by the group each week. The categories “beginner,” “intermediate,” and “advanced” apply more to skiing than spiritual pursuits, but it helps to recognize that with experience a greater capacity for these practices might be expected, though by no means guaranteed! Remember, there will always be more ahead to learn and experience. Rest in knowing God is also working to bring you along by His plans (Philippians 1:6).

SERVE AND WORSHIP TOGETHER.

This section will have a question or two that will challenge you to live out your faith by serving others, sharing your faith, and worshiping God. There will be suggestions for mini-celebrations of what God is doing among you and ways you can end the session in His presence.

FOR ADDITIONAL STUDY.

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. Your group may choose to read and prepare ahead of each meeting in order to cover more biblical material. If you prefer not to do study homework, this section will provide you with plenty to discuss within the group. These options allow individuals or the whole group to expand their study while still accommodating those who cannot do homework or are new to your group.

REFLECTIONS.

Each week on the Reflections pages we including Scriptures to read and reflect on between sessions. This provides you with a chance to slow down, read just a small portion of Scripture each day, and reflect and pray through it. You will then have a chance to journal your response to what you’ve read. Use this section to seek God on your own throughout the week. This time at home should begin and end with prayer. Try not to be in a hurry. Take enough time to hear God’s direction.

A DEEPER LIFE WITH GOD

the rhythm of rest

WELCOME TO A DEEPER LIFE WITH GOD.

MEMORY VERSE: John 10:10 (NIV2011) â&#x20AC;&#x153;The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.â&#x20AC;?

Enjoy the company around you on this journey over the next few weeks. By the end we will all realize that the kind of life with God we all long for is closer than we ever imagined. It is only a change away. It is our prayer that in the weeks to come you will begin to notice why God designed you a certain way, how he operates within your life, and what it means to be part of a larger Church family pursuing together a deeper life with God.

A DEEPER LIFE WITH GOD

the rhythm of rest

WATCH THE VIDEO TEACHING FOR THIS SESSION NOW.

COME TOGETHER 15 MIN.

Open your group with prayer. Rotate this duty from week to week with those who are comfortable praying out loud.

The videos for these sessions are https://vimeo.com/channels/deeperlife.

• Whether your group is new or ongoing, it’s always important to reflect on and review your values together. On pages 141–142 is a Small Group Agreement with the values we’ve found most useful in sustaining healthy, balanced groups. We recommend that you choose one or two values—ones you have not previously focused on or have room to grow in—to emphasize during this study. Choose ones that will take your group to the next stage of depth and spiritual health. • If your group is new, you may want to focus on welcoming newcomers or on sharing group ownership. Any group will quickly move from being the leader’s group to our group if everyone understands the goals of the group and shares a small role. See the Team Roles in the Appendix for help on how to do this well. • We recommend that you rotate host homes on a regular basis and let the hosts lead the meeting. We have come to realize that healthy groups rotate leadership. This helps to develop every member’s ability to shepherd a few people in a safe environment. Even Jesus gave others the opportunity to serve alongside him (Mark 6:30–44). Look at the FAQs in the Appendicies for additional information about hosting or leading the group.

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We have provided a space below for notes so you can record any key thoughts, questions, and things you want to remember or follow up on. After watching the video, have someone read the Scripture passage and the discussion questions in the Grow Together section and direct the discussion among the group. As you go through each of the subsequent sections, ask someone else to read the questions and direct the discussion.

• Let’s begin by brainstorming what you think of when you hear the word “rest.” What are some restful things to do? • Here’s a tougher one: What’s the main thing standing between you and rest?

also

A DEEPER LIFE WITH GOD

GROW TOGETHER 20 MIN.

Speaking of the rhythm of rest, your heart takes a little rest between every beat. By some estimates, your heart is resting about a quarter of the time, or about 6 hours every day, even though it never takes a rest beyond a few seconds at a time.

READ: PHILIPPIANS 3:12-14 (NIV2011) Not that I have already obtained all this, or have already arrived at my goal, but I press on to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of me. Brothers and sisters, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.

the rhythm of rest

• Look again at Philippians 3:1214. Twice Paul writes “I press on.” What does Paul say he is pursuing with passion?

• *One of the keywords in Pastor David’s teaching was rhythm. He mentioned God’s rhythm in creation that included rest, even though God, being God, wasn’t tired. Where can you see the importance of this rhythm?

• Pastor David began his teaching by quoting Jesus’ words, “I have come that they may have life and have life to the full.” He then shared some questions that invited us to consider our sense of discontentment. Which question connected with you?

• *Then he essentially said that a main reason we can’t pursue life to the full is because our lives are too full. How did that thought strike you?

• *He also said, “I believe that this sense of discontentment… is actually something that has been hardwired into our souls by the One who created each and every one of us.” What did you think he meant by that? What are some examples of times when discontentment might have a positive effect?

• At the start of this session we talked a little about rest. Let’s try again. What is real rest? Is it just not doing anything or is rest something else? And if so, what?

A DEEPER LIFE WITH GOD

STUDY NOTES

Here are some additional notes and insights on our scripture reading for today.

SERVE TOGETHER 15 MIN.

OBTAINED…ARRIVED. Paul is expressing his “holy craving” and “restless curiosity” about what Christ has planned for him. TAKE HOLD…TOOK HOLD. He wanted to grasp in every way possible everything God was offering. He knows there is more to do even though Christ has done His part completely. FORGETTING AND STRAINING…I PRESS ON. He knows where he is headed, and he wants to make progress though he is not there yet. He wants to cross the finish line speeding up.

the rhythm of rest

One significant aspect of rest is the idea that we do not have to do everything. The life of faith is a shared experience rather than an individualized one. We serve one another so that while we are doing, others are resting. But we are never going to make progress in learning to rest unless others help us. Here are some starting places:

Before we look at some suggested practices and commitments for this next week, let’s talk a little about Pastor David’s assertion that our lives are too full. What percentage of your next week would you say is already committed to something other than rest? (Put an X on the continuum below.) 0%

100%

A DEEPER LIFE WITH GOD

the rhythm of rest

• How much time would you say you are willing to commit at this point to invest in developing a deeper life with God this next week? ( hours) • Developing our ability to serve God according to the leading of the Holy Spirit takes time and persistence in getting to know God. We must take time in prayer, in God’s Word, and in meditation, to let God speak to us daily. Which of the following next steps are you willing to take for the next few weeks? • PRAYER. Commit to personal prayer and daily connection with God. You may find it helpful to write your prayers in a journal.

• REFLECTIONS. The Reflections provided in each session of this study are an opportunity for reading a short Bible passage five days a week during the course of this study. Write down your insights on what you read each day. On the sixth day summarize what God has shown you throughout the week.

• MEDITATION. Try meditation as a way of internalizing God’s Word more deeply. Copy a portion of Scripture on a card and tape it somewhere in your line of sight, such as your car’s dashboard or the kitchen table. Think about it when you sit at stop lights, or while you’re eating a meal. Reflect on what God is saying to you through these words. Several passages for meditation are suggested on the Reflections pages in each session.

COMMIT TO THE LORD WHATEVER YOU DO, AND HE WILL ESTABLISH YOUR PLANS. Proverbs 16:3 (NIV)

A DEEPER LIFE WITH GOD

PRACTICES OF THE WEEK

Take some time to review these suggested practices and at the end write down what you are committed to trying out this week.

We know it is tempting to try to “do everything” but the deeper life we’re exploring is more like thinking about and training for a marathon than deciding to try the 40-yard dash. The following suggestions are meant to help you gain traction not load you up with a thousand pounds of spiritual guilt. Have fun with this small step into the deeper life. Gladly assume you’re a beginner, even if you decide to try a more advanced set of practices.

the rhythm of rest

ADVANCED

•

Start figuring out who you can help experience some rest this week. Actually help three people this week.

•

Get eight hours of sleep each night this week.

•

Take as much time as you need on Friday or Saturday to be fully engaged and excited about the Sabbath.

FOCUS FOR WEEK 1: SABBATH/REST

BEGINNER

•

Make it a goal to get eight hours of sleep four out of seven nights. This will likely involve a decision to go to bed at a different time than you usually do.

•

Start a list of restful practices (even if you are not doing them yet). Ask others what they find restful and enjoy the conversations.

•

Change one thing about your weekly routine. If this group’s meeting is a new commitment for you, you have already succeeded at this one.

INTERMEDIATE

•

• Pursue an intentional restful practice you have been ignoring or avoiding recently. Aim at three times this week.

• Set aside half an hour on Friday or Saturday dedicated to prepare yourself for Sunday. Plan how you intend to make the Sabbath restful.

Make it a goal to get eight hours of sleep each night.

A DEEPER LIFE WITH GOD

the rhythm of rest

SHARE AND WORSHIP TOGETHER 10 MIN.

Group members may be excited or distracted by the practices we have suggested for this week. Pull them back together for this final segment (unless you have decided to use one or both of the Deeper Study passages for more time in Bible study).

• Have someone use their musical gifts to lead the group in a worship song. Try singing a cappella, using a worship CD, or have someone accompany your singing with a musical instrument. • Read a passage of Scripture together, making it a time of praise and worship as the words remind you of all God has done for you. Choose a psalm or other favorite verse. • Every believer should have a plan for spending time alone with God. At the end of each session we provide Reflections for you to use in your daily time with Him. • Encourage your group members to incorporate these in their pursuit of the practices this week. There are five daily Scripture readings with space to record your thoughts. On the sixth day there is space to record your summary of the five reflections. These will offer reinforcement of the principles we are learning, and develop or strengthen your habit of time alone with God throughout the week.

FOR DEEPER STUDY

A DEEPER LIFE WITH GOD

the rhythm of rest

• Describe the four points Jesus makes in His rebuttal.

Allowing time to discuss the following passages may answer some questions group members have about this teaching.

• How do verses 6 and 8 make the same claim?

READ: MATTHEW 12:1-14

These two incidents illustrate what a hot issue the Sabbath was in Jesus’ day. Note that the issue between Jesus and the Pharisees was not the importance of the Sabbath but what was the real purpose of the Sabbath. And the accusation hidden in the question of verse 10 begs a question in response: “What does it mean that you can’t heal no matter what day it is?”

• What things should or shouldn’t be done on a day of rest? Is that list what you grew up with or have you developed it on your own?

• How is Jesus’ response in the second incident different but parallel to the first?

• How were the Pharisees using the word “unlawful?”

• Make personal applications from Jesus’ use of the words “greater than the temple” (v.6), “mercy” (v.7), and “good” (v.12).

A DEEPER LIFE WITH GOD

the rhythm of rest

READ: ISAIAH 58:13-14 Most of Isaiah 58 concerns fasting, but the chapter closes with God’s concern for the Sabbath. Note again that the intent of keeping the Sabbath holy is not in specified details but in our relationship with God and the authentic rhythms of life.

• In light of the Matthew 12 passage above, how do Jesus’ words help you interpret this passage?

REFLECTIONS

• Based partly on this passage the Pharisees went to great pains to establish limits on the number of steps someone could take on the Sabbath. How does this seem to miss the target?

• Would you say “doing as you please” is more of a caution about a careless and ignorant approach to the Sabbath or urging an approach that insists on mind numbing drudgery as the appropriate way to honor the day?

• How would you respond to someone who insisted that anyone who watched football on Sunday is not a Sabbath keeper?

Each day, read the daily verses and give prayerful consideration to what you learn about God, God’s Spirit, and God’s place in your life. Then record your thoughts, insights, or prayer in the Reflect section below the verses you read. On the sixth day record a summary of what you have learned over the entire week through this study.

DAY 1. MARK 2:27-28 (NIV2011)

Then he said to them, “The Sabbath was made for man, not man for the Sabbath. So the Son of Man is Lord even of the Sabbath.”

REFLECT: In informing us that the Sabbath was made for us, not the other way around, what was Jesus expecting us to do?

ACTION PLAN…

DAY 2. JOHN 10:10 (NIV2011)

The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.

REFLECT: Think of two things that would fill your life with deeper things of God? How are you pursuing them? Have you asked Jesus to do for you what He said He came to do? Why or why not?

ACTION PLAN…

A DEEPER LIFE WITH GOD

DAY 3. LUKE 5:16 (NIV2011) But Jesus often withdrew to lonely places and prayed. REFLECT: How many reasons can you come up with that explain Jesus’ actions here? What would it take to build this pattern into your life? ACTION PLAN…

DAY 4. MARK 6:31 (NIV2011) Then, because so many people were coming and going that they did not even have a chance to eat, he said to them, “Come with me by yourselves to a quiet place and get some rest.” REFLECT: How would you illustrate from your life the value of disengaging after a time of hectic work to refresh and rest? ACTION PLAN…

the rhythm of rest

REFLECT: Consider the two phrases: “keeping it holy” and “you shall not do any work.” Have you ever found something that was very restful for you to do, even though for someone else it might be work? Would it be better to have God gradually teach you what it means to keep the Sabbath holy or to have someone lay down the law on what it means? ACTION PLAN…

DAY 6. Use the following space to write any thoughts God has put in your heart and mind about the things we have looked at in this session and during your Reflections time this week.

DAY 5. EXODUS 20:8-11 (NIV2011) “Remember the Sabbath day by keeping it holy. Six days you shall labor and do all your work, but the seventh day is a sabbath to the Lord your God. On it you shall not do any work, neither you, nor your son or daughter, nor your male or female servant, nor your animals, nor any foreigner residing in your towns. For in six days the Lord made the heavens and the earth, the sea, and all that is in them, but he rested on the seventh day. Therefore the Lord blessed the Sabbath day and made it holy.”

A DEEPER LIFE WITH GOD

The Practice of Presence

WELCOME BACK TO A DEEPER LIFE WITH GOD. We hope this past week’s taste of taking rest seriously was more fun than frustrating for you. This is not meant to be overwhelming, but to be a time when you can, in your own situation, experience God’s help to live in a way that takes us deeper in relationship with God. This is not ultimately about us all trying a lot harder; it is about us discovering just how much Christ will do for us what we cannot do for ourselves.

MEMORY VERSE: Matthew 18:20 (NIV2011) “For where two or three gather in my name, there am I with them.”

Let’s note here at the start that most of the places in the New Testament where the word you is used, the original language is plural. It would probably be good if we sometimes read certain verses differently. For example: “I pray that out of his glorious riches he [God] may strengthen y’all with power through his Spirit in y’all’s inner being, so that Christ may dwell in y’all’s hearts through faith” (Ephesians 3:16-17a).

A DEEPER LIFE WITH GOD

The Practice of Presence

WATCH THE VIDEO TEACHING FOR THIS SESSION NOW.

COME TOGETHER 15 MIN.

Open your group with prayer. • Let’s keep it light. Who had a humorous experience this week related to trying to eliminate hurry in your life? • On a slightly more serious note, what have you been thinking about this whole practice of rest as part of your spiritual life? • Most people want to live a healthy, balanced life. A regular medical check-up is a good way to measure health and spot potential problems. In the same way, a spiritual check-up is vital to your spiritual well-being. Pair up with another person (men with men/women with women) and briefly share one practice that is going well and one that needs a little work. Make a note on the Spiritual Partner’s CheckIn on page 144. You will touch base with this person each week.

The videos for these sessions are https://vimeo.com/channels/deeperlife.

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A DEEPER LIFE WITH GOD

GROW TOGETHER 20 MIN.

So, as Pastor David made it clear, this session is about relationships. Who knew relationships would fall into the category of practices? And yet, once we open our eyes, we realize we cannot begin to seriously follow Jesus without having other people in mind. The decision to follow Jesus is personal, but it always has more implications for our relationships than we can imagine. We are going to look at the teaching for this session and delve a little more into the main Scripture for the lesson.

READ: JOHN 17:20-23 “My prayer is not for them alone. I pray also for those who will believe in me through their message, that all of them may be one, Father, just as you are in me and I am in you. May they also be in us so that the world may believe that you have sent me. I have given them the glory that you gave me, that they may be one as we are one—I in them and you in me— so that they may be brought to complete unity. Then the world will know that you sent me and have loved them even as you have loved me.

• *In his teaching, Pastor David said, “I cannot separate my personal growth from those relationships that helped make that growth possible.” Any reservations about that statement? In what ways have you seen that to be true?

The Practice of Presence

• In Mark 3:13-14, Jesus chose 12 disciples. The reasons given were “that they might be with him and that he might send them out to preach.” How do these two reasons point to the significance of relationship between Jesus and those He chose?

• *Jesus had spent three years with the disciples and as Pastor David pointed out in his teaching they had also spent time with one another. What does this prayer reveal to us about how much Jesus valued the relationships the disciples had with one another?

• How many aspects of relationship can you find in those verses from Jesus’ prayer?

• As Pastor David pointed out, the final “they” (John 17:23) definitely includes those of us who identify as followers of Jesus. According to Jesus’ prayer, what’s the world going to know when Jesus’ prayer is fully answered?

A DEEPER LIFE WITH GOD

STUDY NOTES

Here are some additional notes and insights on our scripture reading for today.

JOHN 17:20-23. This prayer is part of the final moments of the Last Supper account that began in John 13. The core of Jesus’ teaching during the meal was about the ministry of the Holy Spirit. BELIEVE IN ME. This is the heart of the gospel, believing in and trusting Jesus to be all He said He was and do everything He said He would do. Our faith is about believing in a person, not a philosophy or code. THE WORLD MAY BELIEVE (V.21)… WILL KNOW (V.23). The first expression is the description of the spread of the Gospel, giving the world an opportunity to respond; the second is the event underscored by Philippians 2:10-11 when every knee will bow and every tongue will confess Jesus Christ is Lord—no more “may” then. MAY BE ONE… MAY BE BROUGHT TO COMPLETE UNITY. We have to move into unity, desire it, and allow God to create it among us, even though it may not be easy.

The Practice of Presence

SERVE TOGETHER 15 MIN.

A DEEPER LIFE WITH GOD

Again we are being reminded that the body of Christ is a shared experience rather than an individualized one. We serve one another so that others benefit, but we do too. A cell in the body makes its own contribution to the health of the organism even as it is relying on the rest of the organism to sustain it. One of the keys to healthy application is realizing that when God teaches us something, living out that lesson will almost always involve other people. Note how the following questions move you in that direction.

• How have you seen the importance of unity among Christians and the negative consequences that flow when that unity is absent?

• When was the last time you did something simply for the joy of serving others in the name of Christ?

• Pair up with someone in your group. (If possible have men partner with men and women with women.) This person will be your spiritual partner for the rest of this study. He or she does not have to be your best friend, but will simply encourage you to complete the goals you set for yourself during this study. Having accountability with someone else makes it easier to follow through on your resolution.

Tell your partner what practice you have chosen to work on this week. When you check in with your partner each week, give them an honest update on how you’re doing with the assignments and in general.

The Practice of Presence

TAKE A LOOK AT THE CIRCLES OF LIFE DIAGRAM BELOW AND WRITE THE NAMES OF TWO OR THREE PEOPLE YOU KNOW WHO MAY BENEFIT FROM A DEEPER RELATIONSHIP WITH GOD. COMMIT TO PRAYING FOR GOD’S GUIDANCE AND AN OPPORTUNITY TO SHARE WITH EACH OF THEM.

A DEEPER LIFE WITH GOD

The Practice of Presence

ADVANCED

PRACTICES OF THE WEEK

Take some time to review these suggested practices and at the end write down what you are committed to trying out this week.

•

• Take someone out for coffee with the intention of telling them specifically how much knowing them has meant to you.

Remember, it’s tempting to try to “do everything” but the deeper life we are exploring is more like thinking about and training for a marathon than deciding to try the 40 yard dash. The following suggestions are meant to help you gain traction in a new way to approach living. Have fun with this small step into the deeper life. Gladly assume you are a beginner, even if you decide to try a more advanced set of practices.

FOCUS FOR WEEK 2: PRACTICING RELATIONSHIPS

BEGINNER

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Send a card to say “Thank you” to a close friend with whom you share a meaningful relationship. Take time to pray each day for another member of the group. At the beginning of the next session, let them know you have been praying for them.

INTERMEDIATE

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If you have a significant relationship that is currently fractured, begin to ask God about what you might do to move toward healing.

•

Make a phone call to verbally express your appreciation for someone who has built into your life in a significant way.

If you know you need to make amends with someone meet with them or schedule that meeting before the week is over.

A DEEPER LIFE WITH GOD

The Practice of Presence

• 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 147.

SHARE AND WORSHIP TOGETHER 10 MIN.

• What kind of worship fits your group? Spend a few minutes worshiping God together. Here are two ideas:

• Have someone use their musical gifts to lead the group in a worship song. Try singing a cappella, using a worship CD, or have someone accompany your singing with a musical instrument.

• Read a passage of Scripture together, making it a time of praise and worship as the words remind you of all God has done for you. Choose a psalm or other favorite verse. • Ask a volunteer to close the meeting in prayer.

FOR DEEPER STUDY

A DEEPER LIFE WITH GOD

Allowing time to discuss the following passages may answer some questions group members have about this teaching. The importance of relationships in the body of Christ cannot be minimized. We may live in an individualistic society, but God has called us into a shared experience.

The Practice of Presence

• What did Jesus mean by “You are not far from the kingdom of heaven” (v.34)?

• Explain how the following statement is illustrated in this exchange with Jesus: “Knowing isn’t doing, and doing usually requires help.”

READ: MARK 12:28-34

This is one of the encounters between Jesus and someone who we would expect to oppose him. Yet Mark tells us the man was impressed with the way Jesus answered all the trick questions thrown at Him that he blurted out an honest one. He really did want to know what God expected. He wanted to know the bottom line. He wanted to know how to hit a home run.

READ: EPHESIANS 4:1-3

• Scan the passage again. Did Jesus and this man agree or disagree on the central commandment of life?

• Compare verses 30 and 33. How did the two versions of the Great Commandment differ slightly. Why might that have been?

In most of Paul’s letters there’s a clear transition in the middle between teaching and application. He seems to always turn the corner at a certain point and say something like, “If what I’ve written so far is true, it follows that you should….” This is that place in Ephesians. Time to get practical. • The original text translates literally “walk in a manner worthy” while the NIV interprets it to mean, “live a life worthy.” What is it about walking that makes it a good picture of living?

A DEEPER LIFE WITH GOD

• What kind of call or claim does Jesus make on our lives?

The Practice of Presence

• What five traits does Paul spell out that are characteristic of those who are following Jesus faithfully?

REFLECTIONS

• How many of these do you think you can work on without someone else being involved?

DAY 1. JOHN 10:10 (NIV2011)

The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.

REFLECT: How do healthy relationships make a life full?

• What does this tell you about the crucial nature of relationships within the body of Christ?

ACTION PLAN…

DAY 2. MATTHEW 18:20 (NIV2011) For where two or three gather in my name, there am I with them.” REFLECT: What does it mean to “gather in my name”? Is it just the stated purpose of a gathering, or is it something about the attitude and expectations of those gathered that causes Jesus to show up? ACTION PLAN…

A DEEPER LIFE WITH GOD

The Practice of Presence

DAY 3. MARK 12:29-31 (NIV2011)

DAY 5. EPHESIANS 4:1-3 (NIV2011)

“The most important one,” answered Jesus, “is this: ‘Hear, O Israel: The Lord our God, the Lord is one. Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength.’ The second is this: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’ There is no commandment greater than these.”

As a prisoner for the Lord, then, I urge you to live a life worthy of the calling you have received. Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love. Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace.

REFLECT: For the two categories, loving God with all your heart and all your soul, think of one action on your part that would express all your heart and one that would express all your soul.

REFLECT: Which of five relationship qualities in these verses would you most like God to help you grow into more deeply? ACTION PLAN…

ACTION PLAN…

DAY 6. DAY 4. MARK 12:29-31 (NIV2011) “The most important one,” answered Jesus, “is this: ‘Hear, O Israel: The Lord our God, the Lord is one. Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength.’ The second is this: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’ There is no commandment greater than these.” REFLECT: Today, think about mind and strength and how you would use those two capacities to express love for God. ACTION PLAN…

Use the following space to write any thoughts God has put in your heart and mind about the things we have looked at in this session and during your Reflections time this week.

A DEEPER LIFE WITH GOD

The Health of Our Soul

WELCOME BACK TO A DEEPER LIFE WITH GOD. Last week in his teaching, Pastor David mentioned a question John Wesley encouraged all early Methodists to ask each other frequently: “How it is with your soul?” They didn’t ask about work, sports, or the weather; they went right to the core of who we are and asked for a spiritual update. We also touched on the Great Commandment last time and invited you to think about the way your soul loves God.

MEMORY VERSE: Mark 8:36 (NIV2011) “What good is it for someone to gain the whole world, yet forfeit their soul?”

If your soul is feeling a little overwhelmed, time to take a breath. We’re sampling the common habits that Christians through the ages have found helpful in developing a deeper life with God, but most of us find resistance when we try to practice these habits ourselves. This is normal. We’re aiming for a rhythm of obedience to Christ that makes steady spiritual progress over time without losing sight of the truth that He is ultimately the one working on us.

A DEEPER LIFE WITH GOD

The Health of Our Soul

WATCH THE VIDEO TEACHING FOR THIS SESSION NOW.

COME TOGETHER

Open your group with prayer. Ask someone who hasn’t prayed in the group yet.

15 MIN.

• Start by sharing with one another how it went following through on your plan for this past week. What struggles did you have? • Does anyone have a small victory to share, some moment when you intentionally tried to practice a spiritual action and something surprising happened? • Share with your spiritual partner. If your partner is absent or if you are new to the group, join with another pair or someone who does not yet have a partner. If you have not established your spiritual partnership yet, do it now. (Refer to the Serve Together section in Session Two on page 42.)

The videos for these sessions are https://vimeo.com/channels/deeperlife.

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A DEEPER LIFE WITH GOD

GROW TOGETHER 20 MIN.

Pastor David reminded us that one thing we share in common is a sense of holy discontentment. While we tend to see this sense of discontentment as a result of our external circumstances, the teachings of Jesus remind us that our discontentment is a reflection of the health of our souls.

The Health of Our Soul

• Although Jesus didn’t use the term “soul” in the passage above, how did Jesus describe the function of the soul in verse 35?

Now, let’s look closer at the passage of scripture that Pastor David shared to illustrate that Jesus believed that life is lived from the inside out.

READ: MATTHEW 12:33-35 (NIV2011) “Make a tree good and its fruit will be good, or make a tree bad and its fruit will be bad, for a tree is recognized by its fruit. You brood of vipers, how can you who are evil say anything good? For the mouth speaks what the heart is full of. A good man brings good things out of the good stored up in him, and an evil man brings evil things out of the evil stored up in him.”

• How do you understand the principle that Pastor David shared about life being lived from the inside out?

• Pastor David said, “Our souls are more than just how we feel about God... The soul is that part of you that is always seeking out this deeper connection with God, despite the ups and downs of your daily experience.” What does this mean to you? How would you define the soul?

• Take turns answering each of these questions with your spiritual partner, “what happened to me yesterday” and “what happened in me yesterday.” Spend about one minute apiece on each question. What observations did you make during that sharing?

A DEEPER LIFE WITH GOD

STUDY NOTES

Here are some additional notes and insights on our scripture reading for today.

TREE GOOD…FRUIT GOOD. We are often distracted by externals or symptoms rather than the causes. Jesus made this same point later in Matthew 15:11, “What goes into someone’s mouth does not defile them, but what comes out of their mouth, that is what defiles them.” When we allow God to work on our souls, the external takes care of itself. YOU BROOD OF VIPERS. Before we are offended that Jesus would treat the religious leaders with undue harshness, the context tells us they were blatantly charging Him with collusion with the Devil and doing miracles by satanic means. He was naming their connection with the original viper. THE GOOD STORED UP IN HIM. The food that nourishes the soul is the grace of God at work in our lives. Good grows in us as God’s grace grows in us. The good that Jesus is referring to here is not the accumulation of righteous activity but the grace we receive as we experience a deeper life with God.

The Health of Our Soul

SERVE TOGETHER 15 MIN.

A DEEPER LIFE WITH GOD

Human bodies are complex organisms that depend on the health of every cell to maintain overall health. The Bible doesn’t see us succeeding or sinning apart from everyone else. What we do affects others even when it isn’t immediately apparent. The health and vitality of each of our souls contributes to the vitality of the whole body of Christ. Before we look at the spiritual practices we will engage in this week, let’s talk about how we can encourage one another to persevere and to be patient with those who are struggling with this whole idea.

The Health of Our Soul

• If you had to explain that statement to someone who wasn’t here, what would you say? What examples would you use?

• Which of the spiritual practices we have sampled in the last two weeks did you find significant because it challenged a longheld habit or because you experienced a new freedom through it?

• How did you personally respond to Pastor David’s statement: “A deeper life with God actually has very little to do with what is going on around you and everything to do with the One who lives in you”?

• Much about the discovery and health of our souls is made in silence and solitude. What have you found helpful and healthy about spending some time “by yourself” (an interesting way of saying “next to your soul”) in silence for reflection, prayer, and meditation on God’s Word?

A DEEPER LIFE WITH GOD

The Health of Our Soul

INTERMEDIATE

PRACTICES OF THE WEEK

Take some time to review these suggested practices and at the end write down what you are committed to trying out this week.

Again, the lists and categories below are suggestions. Mix and match; combine ideas. Just like oceanic exploration is about going deeper and deeper into uncharted areas of the ocean, consider yourself an explorer in the deeper things of God. You’re never going to run out of things to discover about God! If you discover nothing more than the joy of getting started and the thrill of perseverance, you will have received a priceless gift from these sessions together. Have fun with this next small step into the deeper life where we are trying to consider our souls, and move toward a place where we know better how to monitor our inner being. Wouldn’t you love to be able to give a clear answer if someone asked you this week, “So, how is it with your soul?”

•

• Brainstorm two lists. One with the heading: THE THINGS I SAY TO MY SOUL THAT ARE NOT HELPFUL. The other: POSITIVE STATEMENTS I CAN MAKE TO MY SOUL. (For example: “Bless the Lord, O my soul” and “Hey soul, isn’t God faithful?”

ADVANCED

• Take several one hour periods during this week to engage your soul in silence and solitude. Find a place and time without distractions of any kind and tell God you will be still and know that He is God. Then do it.

FOCUS FOR WEEK 3: THE HEALTH OF YOUR SOUL

BEGINNER

•

Twice this week, take fifteen minutes at the end of the day (or first thing in the morning) and journal your answer(s) to this question: In the last 24 hours, how did your soul feel when you were focused on God? How did your soul feel when you may have lost your focus on God?

•

Ask God to speak to you about your soul, and spend ten minutes waiting in silence for God’s response.

•

Approach someone here in the group after the meeting or sometime this week and simply say, “Can I tell you how it is with my soul right now?”

Make it a point to ask at least one person who isn’t part of this group the question: How is it with your soul? Be ready for a gracious extended conversation.

A DEEPER LIFE WITH GOD

The Health of Our Soul

• In the last session we asked you to write some names in the Circles of Life diagram. Who did you identify as the people in your life who need to meet Jesus? Go back to the Circles of Life diagram on page 43 to help you think of the various people you come in contact with on a regular basis who might benefit from a deeper life with God. Consider the following ideas for action and make a plan to follow through on one of them this week. • This is a wonderful time to welcome a few friends into your group. Which of the people you listed could you invite? It’s possible that you may need to help your friend overcome obstacles to coming to a place where he or she can encounter Jesus. Does your friend need a ride to the group? Help with child care?

SHARE AND WORSHIP TOGETHER 10 MIN.

As group members are thinking about the practices they might pursue this week, pull them back together for this final segment (Unless you’ve decided to use one or both of the Deeper Study passages for more time in Bible study).

• Consider inviting a friend to attend a weekend service with you and possibly plan to enjoy a meal together afterward. This can be a great opportunity to talk with someone about your faith in Jesus. • Is there someone who may not be ready to participate in your group, but who would still benefit from you connecting with them? Would you be willing to have lunch or coffee with that person, catch up on life, and share something you’ve learned from this study? Jesus doesn’t call all of us to lead small groups, but he does call every disciple to spiritually multiply his or her life over time. • 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 147. • What kind of worship fits your group? Spend a few minutes worshiping God together. Here are two ideas:

•

Have someone use their musical gifts to lead the group in a worship song. Try singing a cappella, using a worship CD, or have someone accompany your singing with a musical instrument.

•

Read a passage of Scripture together, making it a time of praise and worship as the words remind you of all God has done for you. Choose a psalm or other favorite verse.

FOR DEEPER STUDY

A DEEPER LIFE WITH GOD

The Health of Our Soul

• Who is as interested in the health of your soul as you are? Why do you think that is?

Discussion of the following passages may answer some questions group members have about the teaching in this session and how it fits with the rest of Scripture.

READ: PSALM 23:1-6

Lost in the opening lines of Psalm 23 is a significant statement about the soul.

• What are the four things the shepherd does for us included in verses 1-3?

• What does it mean that God “refreshes” or “restores” my soul?

READ: LUKE 12:13-21 One of our obstacles to greater soul health is the extreme materialism of our surroundings. We are raised as consumers and even unthinkingly accept being labelled that negative description. In this passage, someone tries to draw Jesus into an argument over stuff. He responds with a parable that includes a man’s deadly conversation with his soul. NOTE: Where NIV says in v.19, “I’ll say to myself, ‘You have plenty…” the original Greek literally translates as, “I’ll say to my soul, ‘Soul, you have many goods…”

• What are Jesus’ two points: v.15 and v.21?

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A DEEPER LIFE WITH GOD

• What was the man’s mistake?

The Health of Our Soul

• How does Jesus parable help you understand the importance of the subject of this session?

REFLECTIONS

• Is Jesus against having things or is there something else He wants to focus on in this conversation?

DAY 1. MARK 8:36-37 (NIV2011) What good is it for someone to gain the whole world, yet forfeit their soul? Or what can anyone give in exchange for their soul? REFLECT: How do you know Jesus considers your soul priceless? ACTION PLAN…

• Based on v. 20, what kind of lifestyle might promote the best kind of soul health?

DAY 2. MATTHEW 12:35 (NIV2011)

A good man brings good things out of the good stored up in him, and an evil man brings evil things out of the evil stored up in him.

REFLECT: What have you intentionally stored in your soul today?

ACTION PLAN…

A DEEPER LIFE WITH GOD

The Health of Our Soul

DAY 3. GALATIANS 5:22-23 (NIV2011)

DAY 5. HEBREWS 6:19-20 (NIV2011)

But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law.

We have this hope as an anchor for the soul, firm and secure. It enters the inner sanctuary behind the curtain, where our forerunner, Jesus, has entered on our behalf. He has become a high priest forever, in the order of Melchizedek.

REFLECT: Fruit grows when the proper nutrients are present in the soil. How would you describe the nutrients you need in your life to see these fruits grow?

REFLECT: When do you think it would be most helpful for you to remember that Jesus is the anchor to your soul? Why?

ACTION PLAN…

DAY 4. COLOSSIANS 1:27 (NIV2011)

DAY 6.

To them God has chosen to make known among the Gentiles the glorious riches of this mystery, which is Christ in you, the hope of glory.

Use the following space to write any thoughts God has put in your heart and mind about the things we have looked at in this session and during your Reflections time this week.

REFLECT: Take ten minutes and sit quietly, breathing slowly, and saying, as led, “Christ in me, the hope of glory.” Each time you say it, pause to consider what that means and what difference it makes in the way you live.

ACTION PLAN…

A DEEPER LIFE WITH GOD

the disclipine of devotion

WELCOME BACK TO A DEEPER LIFE WITH GOD. We have passed the halfway point in our study and we trust you are experiencing a new level of awareness. Like any relationship, our relationship with God is continually expanding. It’s a lot easier to break rhythm with God’s plan than to maintain it. Healthy practices seem to vanish like a plucked rose while destructive patterns spring up like weeds.

MEMORY VERSE: Hebrews 12:11 (NIV2011) “No discipline seems pleasant at the time, but painful. Later on, however, it produces a harvest of righteousness and peace for those who have been trained by it.”

Fortunately for us, God is in this for the long haul. God is more patient than we can imagine and God’s commitment to us is a source of continual amazement if we will just consider it from time to time. Note that there is hope in this session’s memory verse. “Later on” is the space we need to let God’s training take hold. In the grand scheme, these six weeks are very short, but God can accomplish great things in us even in a short period of time. That’s why our theme for this session is on the very basics of spiritual discipline. There are some parts of our relationship with God that are like breathing—essential to life.

A DEEPER LIFE WITH GOD

COME TOGETHER 15 MIN.

Open your group with prayer. Make it a point to thank God for what He is doing in your group through the lives He is touching.

WATCH THE VIDEO TEACHING FOR THIS SESSION NOW. The videos for these sessions are https://vimeo.com/channels/deeperlife.

• Pick one or two of yours and tell a little about what have been the lasting effects of that training in your life today? • Now let’s take a few moments to check in with your spiritual partner(s), or with another partner if yours is absent. Share something God taught you during your time in His Word this week, or share how you did with your chosen practices for the past week. Be sure to write down your partner’s progress on page 144.

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• This session’s memory verse mentions training. What different examples of training experiences do we represent as a group? Athletic, military, career; what training processes have you been through?

the disclipine of devotion

A DEEPER LIFE WITH GOD

GROW TOGETHER 20 MIN.

Pastor David pointed out that much of what we have talked about and learned up to this point has been aimed at what might be eliminated or shifted in our lives. He reminded us that many have responded to his original call to rest and rhythm by claiming our lives are too full to add anything else. So we’ve been challenging our current patterns and rhythms; we’ve been looking at life in different ways. Now it’s time to think about our level of spiritual training.

READ: 2 TIMOTHY 3:12-17 In fact, everyone who wants to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted, while evildoers and impostors will go from bad to worse, deceiving and being deceived. But as for you, continue in what you have learned and have become convinced of, because you know those from whom you learned it, and how from infancy you have known the Holy Scriptures, which are able to make you wise for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus. All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the servant of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.

• In discussing again the background verse for this entire series, John 10:10, Pastor David reminded us that the full life Jesus came to deliver really can be ours, but it will not be easy. How have you experienced this dynamic in your life?

• Scan the passage from Paul to Timothy again. Where can you find items that relate to the significance of training?

• How does Paul describe the benefit that scripture offers us in verse 16?

• Just as running is a basic part of physical training, how would you make the case that time in prayer and time in God’s Word are the two most basic spiritual exercises or disciplines required for spiritual formation or development?

• After hearing about the training of world class athletes we were asked the question: Why would we think it would be any different when it comes to growing and maturing in our life with Christ? So, why do we think that way?

the disclipine of devotion

• Pastor David closed his teaching with this thought: “Keep in mind that discipline is not the goal. It is rather a means to an end. The goal is a full life with God.” How does time spent in prayer and time spent in God’s Word lead to a full life?

A DEEPER LIFE WITH GOD

STUDY NOTES

Here are some additional notes and insights on our scripture reading for today.

WANTS. This entire series is based on helping us clarify what we really want from God and realize what He longs to give to us. Much of what we fill our lives with actually mask or distort what God has wired us to want. GODLY LIFE IN CHRIST JESUS. This phrase represents the statement for which “full life” is a synonym. PERSECUTED. The world that we live in does not support the faith that we trust in. Even the slightest movement toward God on our part will be met with resistance. It may be internal or external. It may be ourselves, others, or environmental factors. We often do not realize the strength of the current flow in a fallen world until we decide to move in the opposite direction. CONTINUE. Keep going; don’t give up. Jesus began and ended Peter’s formal discipleship training course with the same words: “Follow me” (Mark. 4:17; John 21:19). TEACHING, REBUKING, CORRECTING AND TRAINING IN RIGHTEOUSNESS. The first three are aspects of training in righteousness: knowing truth (or doctrine); having falsehood exposed; accepting new direction. God’s Word does all of this as we spend time in it. THOROUGHLY EQUIPPED. This is the “later on” mentioned in our session’s memory verse. Equipping is never instant and benefits from continual refreshment. We don’t usually realize how thorough a job God does until we face something we’ve never faced before.

the disclipine of devotion

SERVE TOGETHER 15 MIN.

A DEEPER LIFE WITH GOD

The foundational spiritual disciplines of prayer and Bible study cannot be avoided if we want to live a full life. They are very much like breathing. Prayer comes from within us and opens us up to the life God is offering us. When we invest ourselves in the Scripture we not only breath in the truth of God’s word we also seek to let go of anything that might separate us from the full life God offers.

the disclipine of devotion

• Who can share how these basic disciplines, which have been part of everything we’ve done these weeks have already caused some shift or change in your life?

Both of these practices can be done in solitude and in community.

• What reasons can you think of why both group and private times of prayer and Bible study are essential to healthy spiritual growth?

• How have your relationships been impacted by your involvement in these training sessions? For example share how you have done with relating to or inviting the people you listed on the Circles of Life to church or your small group.

• What combinations of these two disciplines have you found helpful during this series? We’ve done Bible study alone and with each other; we’ve prayed alone, with a partner, and as a group— what rhythms have you noticed?

A DEEPER LIFE WITH GOD

the disclipine of devotion

INTERMEDIATE

PRACTICES OF THE WEEK

Take some time to review these suggested practices and at the end write down what you are committed to trying out this week.

Prayer and Bible study are as foundational and obvious as breathing, and yet we can spend a lifetime making them a deliberate and then delightful habit. It won’t always be fun (who has started jogging after a long time away from running?). But we have the witness of many, perhaps some in the group, who have made prayer and input from God’s Word their regular spiritual diet for many years and whose lives display spiritual health and vitality. Here’s the bottom line: your progress in experiencing the full life Jesus promised will always have a connection between time spent in the Word and time spent in prayer. The following practices will probably fit where you are right now. Hear Paul’s words to Timothy, “continue in what you have learned and have become convinced of,” and do likewise. Again, gladly assume you’re a beginner, even if you decide to try a more advanced set of practices.

FOCUS FOR WEEK 4: PERSONAL DEVOTION

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If you already have a regular habit of reading God’s Word, pick up the pace. That doesn’t mean read faster. It means slow down and apply what you’re reading. Ask God to give you a point of action every time you read His Word.

•

Have two of the four memory verses down cold by the end of the week. Demonstrate that you can explain briefly how each applies to your life (this is a result of basic meditation).

•

Choose a breath prayer for each day, and use it several times (see A Word on Breath Prayers on the next page).

ADVANCED

•

Faithfully continue what has contributed to spiritual growth in your life, but take an inventory of your ‘places of discontent,’ where a taste of the full life has left you yearning for more. Address one of those issues with God this week.

•

Make it a point to share with someone else what you have found helpful in the training process God has carried out in your life.

•

Add breath prayers to your options for regular prayer each day.

• Work on memorizing and meditating the four memory verses we’ve had thus far in the series.

BEGINNER

• Philippians has 4 chapters; James has 5; Ephesians has 6, read one of these letters through this week.

• Choose something you do almost every day at a certain time: fixing a meal, driving to or from work, a lunch break, brushing your teeth—any established routine, and expand it to include talking with God: before, after, or during. Try some breath prayers (see below)

•

Review the four memory verses we’ve had so far and make sure at least one of them is stuck in your brain this week. As you memorize, turn the verses into prayers.

A DEEPER LIFE WITH GOD

A WORD ON BREATH PRAYERS This form of praying, which was introduced last week, is a time-honored application of one of the shortest verses in the Bible: 1 Thessalonians 5:17, “Pray continuously” or “Pray without ceasing.” Breath praying uses powerful phrases from Scripture or brief heart-felt expressions to God repeated for emphasis, concentration, and meditation. A breath prayer is short enough to say in a single breath. Mindless repetition is not praying. Rattling off repetitions of the Lord’s Prayer does not accumulate spiritual favor. But the human mind handles many tasks at the same time. Fortunately, you don’t have to remember to tell your heart to beat. When we use breath prayers in a thoughtful and deliberate way, we eventually discover that they were “running in the background of our thinking” throughout the day, breaking through when they were needed. This isn’t automatic or immediate, but can become part of our experience of the full life. Here are some sample breath prayers:

Lord, I believe; help my unbelief.

When I am afraid, I will trust in you.

Jesus, I belong to you.

Come, Lord Jesus. Bring your Kingdom.

Not my will but your will Lord.

My help comes from the Lord.

Lord Jesus Christ, have mercy on me, a sinner.

the disclipine of devotion

A DEEPER LIFE WITH GOD

the disclipine of devotion

SHARE AND WORSHIP TOGETHER 10 MIN.

Group members may be excited or distracted by the practices we’ve suggested for this week. Pull them back together for this final segment (Unless you’ve decided to use one or both of the Deeper Study passages for more time in God’s Word).

• 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 147. • What kind of worship fits your group? Spend a few minutes worshiping God together. Here are two ideas: • Have someone use their musical gifts to lead the group in a worship song. Try singing a cappella, using a worship CD, or have someone accompany your singing with a musical instrument. • Read a passage of Scripture together, making it a time of praise and worship as the words remind you of all God has done for you. Choose a psalm or other favorite verse.

FOR DEEPER STUDY

A DEEPER LIFE WITH GOD

Allowing time to discuss the following passages may answer some questions group members have about this teaching. We can no more outgrow the need for prayer and exposure to God’s Word than we can outgrow the need to breathe.

the disclipine of devotion

• What do the sword of the Spirit and praying in the Spirit have in common that differs from the rest of the items in the armor?

READ: EPHESIANS 6:10-20 This passage includes the familiar verses on the armor of God, but there’s more. This is a picture of spiritual training using a military paradigm.

• How can we assume we will be able to use these two weapons effectively if we don’t practice with them regularly?

• Where exactly do we find our armory of truth, righteousness, the Gospel, faith, salvation?

READ: MATTHEW 4:1-11 • How does God’s word itself function in our armor?

Just before His ministry years began, Jesus spent 40 days in the wilderness alone. At the end of that time, Satan showed up for a showdown.

• What would you conclude about a soldier who showed up for training or a battle but left his sword at home?

• Why would Satan wait for 40 days to make his move?

A DEEPER LIFE WITH GOD

• Satan attacked Jesus’ purpose, His plan, His identity—in which order?

the disclipine of devotion

REFLECTIONS

• How did Jesus answer each time, even when Satan misquoted Scripture to Him?

DAY 1. 1 TIMOTHY 4:8 (NIV2011)

For physical training is of some value, but godliness has value for all things, holding promise for both the present life and the life to come.

REFLECT: What’s the parallel for “physical training” in this verse? List two or three “present” and “life to come” benefits from developing godliness.

• What insights about temptation and resistance can you draw from this episode in Jesus’ life?

ACTION PLAN…

DAY 2. JOHN 10:10 (NIV2011)

The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.

REFLECT: John calls Jesus “the Word” (1:1-2). How is knowing the Word of God (in person and in print) a personal exposure to the full life for you?

ACTION PLAN…

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the disclipine of devotion

DAY 3. HEBREWS 12:11 (NIV2011)

DAY 5. MATTHEW 7:13-14 (NIV2011)

No discipline seems pleasant at the time, but painful. Later on, however, it produces a harvest of righteousness and peace for those who have been trained by it.

“Enter through the narrow gate. For wide is the gate and broad is the road that leads to destruction, and many enter through it. But small is the gate and narrow the road that leads to life, and only a few find it.

REFLECT: How does the absence of righteousness and peace at times in your life create for you some of the discontent we’ve talked about in these sessions?

REFLECT: How would someone recognize that you have chosen the narrow way to live your life? Who have you invited recently to join you on the narrow way?

ACTION PLAN…

DAY 4. 2 TIMOTHY 3:16-17 (NIV2011)

DAY 6.

All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the servant of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.

Use the following space to write any thoughts God has put in your heart and mind about the things we have looked at in this session and during your Reflections time this week.

REFLECT: In what way has your understanding of scripture redirected your life towards a deeper life with God? ACTION PLAN…

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The Direction of Our Lives

WELCOME BACK TO A DEEPER LIFE WITH GOD.

MEMORY VERSE: John 4:23-24 (NIV2011) â&#x20AC;&#x153;Yet a time is coming and has now come when the true worshipers will worship the Father in the Spirit and in truth, for they are the kind of worshipers the Father seeks. God is spirit, and his worshipers must worship in the Spirit and in truth.â&#x20AC;?

As we begin this session, think for a moment about the last two words in the title: with God. The deeper life is a vapor and an illusion if it is not with God. God makes life deeper by drawing us into the bottomless, borderless depth that God is. That is part of the hard wired frustration that many of us feel as we move toward God; we no longer feel as isolated from God as we did, but at the same time we are stunned by how far we have to travel. In this session, our theme is worship. But Pastor David is going to encourage us to think about and approach worship in a way that may be new to many of us. We may just discover that worship will take more of us than we ever thought.

COME TOGETHER 15 MIN.

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Open your group with prayer. Perhaps, as part of a prayerreview from last session you can simply have a time of prayer and encourage anyone who has used breath prayers during the week to pray them on behalf of the group.

• Let’s have a check-in here. How did the last week go, working on the intentional disciplines of prayer and Bible study? • Now as a way of shifting gears into what Pastor David has for us today, what was a life-changing experience of worship that you could share with the rest of the group? • Check in with your spiritual partner, or with another partner if yours is absent. Talk about any challenges you are currently facing in reaching the goals you have set throughout this study. Tell your spiritual partner how he or she has helped you follow through with each step. Be sure to write down your partner’s progress on page 144.

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WATCH THE VIDEO TEACHING FOR THIS SESSION NOW. The videos for these sessions are https://vimeo.com/channels/deeperlife.

also

available

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GROW TOGETHER 20 MIN.

It is hard to have a “together” experience as one person. It is also hard to be “with” a huge crowd. That’s the power of small groups. It’s a setting where we can open up without feeling like we’re exposing ourselves to the whole world. Hopefully you have been discovering a new sense of freedom in sharing your thoughts and experiences from week to week in this small group. As great as certain aspects of worship can be in a huge space with many voices, there is something special about worship in a small group. And talking together about worship is a place to start.

READ: JOHN 4: 7-26 (For variety, have two people read the parts of Jesus and the woman) When a Samaritan woman came to draw water, Jesus said to her, “Will you give me a drink?” (His disciples had gone into the town to buy food.) The Samaritan woman said to him, “You are a Jew and I am a Samaritan woman. How can you ask me for a drink?” (For Jews do not associate with Samaritans.) Jesus answered her, “If you knew the gift of God and who it is that asks you for a drink, you would have asked him and he would have given you living water.” “Sir,” the woman said, “you have nothing to draw with and the well is deep. Where can you get this living water? Are you greater than our father Jacob, who gave us the well and drank from it himself, as did also his sons and his livestock?”

The Direction of Our Lives

Jesus answered, “Everyone who drinks this water will be thirsty again, but whoever drinks the water I give them will never thirst. Indeed, the water I give them will become in them a spring of water welling up to eternal life.” The woman said to him, “Sir, give me this water so that I won’t get thirsty and have to keep coming here to draw water.” He told her, “Go, call your husband and come back.” “I have no husband,” she replied. Jesus said to her, “You are right when you say you have no husband. The fact is, you have had five husbands, and the man you now have is not your husband. What you have just said is quite true.” “Sir,” the woman said, “I can see that you are a prophet. Our ancestors worshiped on this mountain, but you Jews claim that the place where we must worship is in Jerusalem.” “Woman,” Jesus replied, “believe me, a time is coming when you will worship the Father neither on this mountain nor in Jerusalem. You Samaritans worship what you do not know; we worship what we do know, for salvation is from the Jews. Yet a time is coming and has now come when the true worshipers will worship the Father in the Spirit and in truth, for they are the kind of worshipers the Father seeks. God is spirit, and his worshipers must worship in the Spirit and in truth.” The woman said, “I know that Messiah” (called Christ) “is coming. When he comes, he will explain everything to us.” Then Jesus declared, “I, the one speaking to you— I am he.”

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• *What commonalities can be found in Pastor David’s teaching on worship and this encounter between Jesus and the woman? Note that the conversation started as they talked about “being thirsty” and developed into a discussion about worship.

• *How did Jesus describe the essentials of true worship (v.23-24)?

• In the video we heard the statement: “Worship is who we are, which means that all of us, regardless of what we believe - all of us worship something. Each of us is giving ultimate allegiance and attention to someone or something in our lives, even if it’s just ourselves.” How would you apply this statement to the woman Jesus met?

The Direction of Our Lives

• *How did Pastor David use the Great Commandment to make the point that worship points us towards God and to one another? How does this challenge or enhance how you see worship?

• Unpack the tough truth of the statement: Your life was never meant to be about you.

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STUDY NOTES

Here are some additional notes and insights on our scripture reading for today.

WORSHIPED ON THIS MOUNTAIN…WORSHIP IN JERUSALEM. The Samaritans were mixed peoples whose partial heritage was the decimated Northern 10 tribes of Israel. Other groups had been relocated by the Babylonians into that area and the cultures had blended. Jacob was still revered, but the Samaritans were despised by the Jewish people. And both claimed ties with the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. WORSHIP THE FATHER. Typically, people in Jesus’ day did not talk of God as Father. Jesus used the term personally and encouraged others to recognize God’s caring nature. SALVATION IS FROM THE JEWS. The Jews had been chosen by God through no merit of their own. Though salvation was from the Jews (Jesus was Jewish), it was not for the Jews alone, but offered to all. WORSHIP THE FATHER IN THE SPIRIT AND IN TRUTH. Used twice by Jesus, this phrase can also be translated “in spirit and in truth.” Paul’s words in the book of Romans are helpful here to understand the meaning of this phrase. Paul writes in Romans 8:16 (NIV2011), “God’s spirit testifies with our spirit that we are children of God.” Understanding the truth of who God is and who we really are is a gift of God’s Spirit at work in our lives.

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The whole experience of worship is another confirmation that the body of Christ is a shared experience rather than an overly individualized one. At both levels (individually and with others) we have been training each week to understand the lessons and Scripture and make applications that we can live with here and apart. There is something special that happens when people begin to shift from being consumers or simply an audience in worship, to being participants who come in spirit and in truth to meet with God.

The Direction of Our Lives

• What is the difference between getting ready for church and preparing oneself to worship in spirit and truth?

• Have you ever been in a setting with other believers who were worshiping and you were drawn into God’s presence in a way you did not expect to be? How do you explain that? • How would you describe the difference between showing up at worship as a spectator and eagerly arriving to participate in worship with others who are doing the same?

• In order to fully live out the truth that “worship is who you are,” what changes might you have to make in your routine and attitude?

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PRACTICES OF THE WEEK

Take some time to review these suggested practices and at the end write down what you are committed to trying out this week.

Unless we are part of a praise team or actively leading a time of worship, we can sometimes slide by without really participating in worship at all. Yet one of the implications of our discussion in this session is that much of life can be worship. We can go about our daily tasks before God and with others in an attitude of awareness and response to God and others. While we remain in this fallen world our worship will come up short, but that does not mean we cannot do better or long for more in our worship. The question is: how will you deliberately seek God’s presence this week?

FOCUS FOR WEEK 5: WORSHIP

EVERYONE

• Make one change in your current routine when it comes to worship: arrive early, invite someone to come to church with you, conspire with your kids to anticipate going to church, or tell your family how the worship time affected your soul and then ask them how it affected theirs.

•

Pay attention during worship. Lean in. Take some notes. Participate in new ways: sing loud, smile at someone unexpectedly, nod and let the pastor know you are actively listening to the message. A day or two before worship, pray for those participants who will be leading. Ask God to display God’s glory in the choice of songs they make and the message God gives the pastor.

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•

Research a way you can help during a worship service on a regular basis. Where multiple services are offered, consider serving at a service other than the one in which you participate directly, making it easier for others to worship.

•

Start anticipating next week’s worship in the closing moments of this week. If you need a guide for preparation see the study questions on Colossians 3:12-17 in For Deeper Study. Ask God to show you something that will make next week’s worship an “I cannot wait to be there” experience.

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SHARE AND WORSHIP TOGETHER 10 MIN.

For the most part, the worship practices we have suggested for this week have the larger church in mind. In this final part of the session we want to come up with other ways of worship among ourselves. Let God guide your attention to God by allowing each other to suggest songs, silence, a certain kind of prayer, reflection and ways to say “Thank You” to God and one another for this journey together.

• 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 147. • What are some things we could do together right now in the spirit and truth of worship that would acknowledge God’s presence among us in a special way? [Give some silence for people to listen to the Spirit’s leading here.] • Our next session is the last in this study. It may be a good idea before you end this meeting to talk a little about your plans for that session and beyond. Will this group continue to meet and what will be the focus of your time together?

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READ: COLOSSIANS 3:12-17

FOR DEEPER STUDY

Allowing time to discuss the following passages may answer some questions group members have about this teaching. These two passages have the potential of transforming the way you and your group see and experience worship.

Too many of us give much thought to what we will wear to church clothing-wise, but little thought to the other ways we might “clothe ourselves.” Paul helps us here.

• What do you think he means by “clothe yourselves” in those character traits?

This amazing prayer by Paul for the Ephesians is worth reading together out loud. Use it as a prayer for your church and for your group.

• How many of these traits would require at least one other person in order to be effective?

• Why is love the top coat?

• What do we learn about the love of Christ in this prayer?

• How does he bring the Trinity (Father, Son and Holy Spirit) into his prayer?

READ: EPHESIANS 3:14-21

• Paul opens with “For this reason.” What reason is that? (see verses 10-13).

• Describe the important components of a worship gathering as Paul mentions them in verses 15-17.

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REFLECTIONS

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DAY 2. 1 JOHN 4:20 (NIV2011) Whoever claims to love God yet hates a brother or sister is a liar. For whoever does not love their brother and sister, whom they have seen, cannot love God, whom they have not seen. REFLECT: Describe a few ways you plan to incorporate loving God and loving neighbor in your approach to worship. ACTION PLAN…

DAY 1. JOHN 4:23-24 (NIV2011)

Yet a time is coming and has now come when the true worshipers will worship the Father in the Spirit and in truth, for they are the kind of worshipers the Father seeks.

God is spirit, and his worshipers must worship in the Spirit and in truth.”

DAY 3. MATTHEW 22:37-39 (NIV2011)

REFLECT: What has God been saying to you about worshiping God in spirit and in truth?

Jesus replied: “ ‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.’ This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’

ACTION PLAN…

REFLECT: How can you daily express your heart, your soul, and your mind in worship. ACTION PLAN…

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DAY 4. PHILIPPIANS 1:21 (NIV2011)

DAY 6.

For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain.

Use the following space to write any thoughts God has put in your heart and mind about the things we have looked at in this session and during your Reflections time this week.

REFLECT: How does this verse reflect the statement “Worship is who we are?” ACTION PLAN…

DAY 5. GALATIANS 2:20 (NIV2011) I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I now live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me. REFLECT: When Paul wrote these words to the Galatians about his experience with Christ, what do you think he expected them to do? What do you feel called to do? ACTION PLAN…

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The Significance of Sacrifice

WELCOME BACK TO THE FINAL SESSION OF A DEEPER LIFE WITH GOD. One of the points all the Gospels share is that Jesus’ life leads to sacrifice. Yet the story doesn’t end there. Resurrection puts a radically different spin on sacrifice. In the theme of sacrifice we begin by reminding ourselves that with Jesus Christ in the picture, every sacrifice is made with resurrection in mind. Jesus said, “Whoever loses his life for my sake will find it.”

MEMORY VERSE: 1 John 3:16 (NIV2011) “This is how we know what love is: Jesus Christ laid down his life for us. And we ought to lay down our lives for our brothers and sisters.”

Hopefully you have been challenged and encouraged in your pursuit of the full life in the company of fellow travelers throughout these sessions. But this is a short leg in a longer journey. The road continues. There is more to learn, and more miles to travel. The truth lies in this, “What no eye has seen, what no ear has heard, and what no human mind has conceived”— these are the things God has prepared for those who love him. (1 Corinthians 2:9 (NIV 2011) Enjoy this final time together and make plans for the next leg of the journey.

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WATCH THE VIDEO TEACHING FOR THIS SESSION NOW.

COME TOGETHER 15 MIN.

Open your group with prayer.

The videos for these sessions are https://vimeo.com/channels/deeperlife.

available

online

• What is the most fun trip you ever took? What made it so memorable?

also

• If this six-week study has been a journey, what are some of the highlights of this experience?

• Take time in this final session to connect with your spiritual partner. What has God been showing you through these sessions about the full life? Check in with each other about the progress you have made in your spiritual growth during this study. Make plans about whether you will continue in your mentoring relationship outside your Bible study group.

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GROW TOGETHER 20 MIN.

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Watching the video reminds us that we have come a long way in six weeks. Then again, maybe not that far. Most of us could start this series over and immediately have a whole new set of lessons to learn and experiences to cherish, while covering the same ground. The reason for that is that it is not the subjects or the practices that change, it is us who transform. No matter how often we return to the same deep truths that God reveals, there are still life-altering changes to discover.

READ: PHILIPPIANS 2:1-8 (NIV2011) Therefore if you have any encouragement from being united with Christ, if any comfort from his love, if any common sharing in the Spirit, if any tenderness and compassion, then make my joy complete by being like-minded, having the same love, being one in spirit and of one mind. Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others. In your relationships with one another, have the same mindset as Christ Jesus: Who, being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be used to his own advantage; rather, he made himself nothing by taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness. And being found in appearance as a man, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to death— even death on a cross! • What stood out for you in Pastor David’s review of the sessions?

The Significance of Sacrifice

• Now that we have been experimenting with these various disciplines and practices of the spiritual life, how do you understand the assertion that the disciplines themselves, or even pursuing them with lots of energy is not the goal? What is the goal?

• How did you respond to Pastor David’s personal expectation that spending a day with Jesus would produce amazement over Christ’s generosity? What do you think you would find most remarkable about Jesus? Why?

• How many examples of Christ’s generosity can you find in verses 6-8 above?

• How many “sacrifices” does Paul ask of his readers? What is the purpose of all his “if” statements in verse 1?

• That word “sacrifice” is not a popular term today. Most of us do not plan our days around sacrificial opportunities. Why do you think we resist sacrificing rights, stuff, personal preferences?

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STUDY NOTES

Here are some additional notes and insights on our scripture reading for today.

IF…IF…IF…IF…. Paul wants to confront his readers with the reality of all they have in Christ, in contrast to life without Christ. LIKE MINDED…ONE MIND. Paul asks the readers to come together, as one body, acting together for a greater purpose. ONE SPIRIT. Paul asks us to dig deeper here. It is not just about thinking the same way, but rather developing relationships with our fellow Christfollowers that allows the Spirit to move in the same direction together. IN VERY NATURE GOD. While this is difficult for us to understand, Jesus was both fully human and fully God. MADE HIMSELF NOTHING. Jesus sacrificed everything that would have prevented Him from being fully human and then humbled himself even to death on behalf of all other humans.

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When we depend on one another, sacrifices will be made. Schedules will be adjusted, priorities will shift, and a willingness to cooperate with Christ in the lives of others will grow. The quality of our life together might be measured by the number of us who are willing to sacrifice in small and large ways for the benefit of all. When we find ways to be generous with each other, bonds develop that are the true sign of “one spirit.” In this last application time, think together not only about the immediate practical aspects of this lesson, but also how it might make a difference for you a year or decade from now.

The Significance of Sacrifice

• Now move to a more personal territory. Finish each of these sentences and then share the results with the group as you feel comfortable to do.

This week in my home I’m going to practice generosity and sacrifice by…

This week at church I’m going to practice generosity and sacrifice by…

• Who are some of the memorable Christians in your life, noted for their generous or sacrificial living? How did they exercise that quality?

This week at work/school I’m going to practice generosity and sacrifice by…

• Focus on the three major settings of typical living: Home/Family, Church, and Work/School. For each one, brainstorm together: What are some general ways we can be more generous/sacrificial in these settings?

• Take a few minutes as a group and reflect on the time you’ve spent together. Open the floor for people to encourage one another by telling them: “During these times together I’ve seen you be generous by…” or “In the years I’ve known you, I’ve watched a sacrificial attitude in the way you’ve…”

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PRACTICES OF THE WEEK

The Significance of Sacrifice

ADVANCED

•

If the above suggestions are already implemented in your life, it is time to take a hard look this week at your discontentment. What are some areas where you have made significant spiritual progress but have plateaued or stalled? These would be places where you have experienced significant growth but you sense there is more. Ask yourself: have I stopped making progress here because I have avoided sacrifice or limited my generosity?

•

The answer to those two questions point to a way forward in the full life for you.

Take some time to review these suggested practices and at the end write down what you are committed to trying out this week.

The last two questions above may have given you plenty of ideas for practical ways to build more intentional sacrificial and generous actions in your life. Below we are encouraging you to think, not so much of specific opportunities but of patterns in your life that might be altered or replaced. As you have probably already discovered during this series, established habits (especially bad ones) resist change. But Jesus not only promised you a full life, He promised the power to change even those things that might seem impossible to change.

FOCUS FOR WEEK 6: SACRIFICE/GENEROSITY

BEGINNER

• This week, ask God to give you glimpses as you function in the three arenas (Home/Church/Work). Start creating a list: Ways/ Places God is showing me where I can be more generous/sacrificial with others.

• Work through the study questions on Romans 12:1-21 in the DEEPER STUDY section this week.

•

Practice one specific action in an area of generosity/sacrifice that God shows you.

INTERMEDIATE

• You are probably aware of some immediate needs or situations where you could step in with a gesture of generosity. Do it.

• Realize the key to this practice is not drawing attention to yourself or expecting others to notice. Practice this also this week.

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SHARE AND WORSHIP TOGETHER 10 MIN.

Come together for this final moment in this last session of the series.

A DEEPER LIFE WITH GOD

The Significance of Sacrifice

• Allow everyone to answer this question one last time: “How can we pray for you this week and into the future?” Be sure to write prayer requests on your Prayer and Praise Report on page 147. • What kind of worship has fit your group during this study? Maybe you’ve discovered a favorite worship chorus or hymn. This is the time to enjoy what’s really impacted the group in praise and worship together. Spend a few minutes worshiping God together. Here are several previous ideas:

•

Have an extended prayer time, emphasizing thanksgiving for what the group has been through and individuals expressing gratitude for what God has taught or given them through the group.

• Have someone use their musical gifts to lead the group in a worship song. Try singing a cappella, using a worship CD, or have someone accompany your singing with a musical instrument. • Read a passage of Scripture together, making it a time of praise and worship as the words remind you of all God has done for you. Choose a psalm or other favorite verse. • Before you close in prayer, make sure there is some sense of what is next. Either plan to meet next week to simply celebrate your sixweek experience, announce/remind everyone what the next study will be and when you will meet, or present a range of other opportunities. Be sure to thank everyone for sharing in the journey.

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Allowing time to discuss the following passages may answer some questions group members have about this teaching.

The Significance of Sacrifice

• Based on everything we have discussed in these sessions, what do you think “renewing your mind” is all about? What connection do you see between the full life Jesus promised and the way we think?

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• How many examples of sacrificial living can you identify in these 21 verses?

READ: ROMANS 12:1-21

• What does a living sacrifice actually do?

• Which ones have you not yet you tried?

• Based on last weeks’ session, what is the relationship (see verse 1) between worship and living sacrifice?

• How does the mind or thought pattern play into this whole matter of being a living sacrifice (v.2)?

READ: JOHN 13:1-17 This passage is the opening event in the Last Supper. Twelve boisterous, slightly confused disciples were gathering with their teacher for a Passover meal. Jesus was about to pull off the greatest sacrifice in history, but He decided to give His disciples a different taste of sacrificial attitude.

• Jesus did not have to get down and wash His disciples’ feet— but He did. Why do you think Jesus did this?

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• As Jesus served, there were basically two reactions by the disciples. What were they, and what do those responses tell us about what we might expect when we serve others?

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REFLECTIONS

• What was the specific lesson Jesus gave in v.14 that we can take to heart?

DAY 1. HEBREWS 10:24-25 (NIV2011)

And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching.

• What do you think Jesus would have said if one of the disciples had spoken, “Thank You, Lord?” If we do something generous/ sacrificial, how should we handle someone actually noticing or expressing gratitude?

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REFLECT: When there’s no meeting, there’s no “spurring” either. How many regular encounters do you have with people who are pursuing spiritual growth with you? ACTION PLAN…

• What is the promise of v.17?

DAY 2. ROMANS 12:1-2 (NIV2011) Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship. Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will. REFLECT: How do these verses speak to you about the sacrificial aspects of the full life Jesus came to offer? ACTION PLAN…

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DAY 3. PHILIPPIANS 2:3-4 (NIV2011)

DAY 5. 1 JOHN 3:16 (NIV2011)

Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others.

This is how we know what love is: Jesus Christ laid down his life for us. And we ought to lay down our lives for our brothers and sisters.

REFLECT: When was the last time you intentionally looked out for the interests of another person, even though they did not know it? What was the result?

REFLECT: What are three different ways you could “lay down your life” for someone? Who in your life needs you to do that right now? ACTION PLAN…

ACTION PLAN…

DAY 6. DAY 4. PHILIPPIANS 2:5 (NIV2011) In your relationships with one another, have the same mindset as Christ Jesus: REFLECT: Some people make it easier to practice the mindset of Christ than others. Who is a “tough” case in your life, and what are you going to do about it next?

Use the following space to write any thoughts God has put in your heart and mind about the things we have looked at in this session and during your Reflections time this week.

ACTION PLAN…

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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS WHAT DO WE DO ON THE FIRST NIGHT OF OUR GROUP? Like all fun things in life–have a party! A “get to know you” coffee, dinner, or dessert is a great way to launch a new study. You may want to review the Group Agreement (pages 141-142) and share the names of a few friends you can invite to join you. But most importantly, have fun before your study time begins.

APPENDICES

Great resources to help make your small group experience even better!

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, and so forth. Then have each group member invite several of the people on his or her list. No matter how you find members, it is vital that you 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 will be amazed at the people God sends your way. The next person just might become a friend for life. You never know! HOW LONG WILL THIS GROUP MEET? It’s totally up to the group—once you come to the end of this 6-week study. Most groups meet weekly for at least their first 6 weeks, but every other week can work as well. We strongly recommend that the group meet for the first six months on a weekly basis if at all 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 may decide if he or she wants to continue on for another 6-week 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 this study is not with a full house but with a few friends. You may choose to gather with another couple who would enjoy some relational time (perhaps 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).

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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 6-week study, decide whether to continue with this group or find another. You do not typically buy the first car you look at or marry the first person you date, and the same goes with a group. However, don’t bail out before the 6 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 your life, too! WHO IS THE LEADER? Most groups have an official leader. But ideally, the group will mature and members will rotate the leadership of meetings. 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. This study guide and the Holy Spirit can keep things on track even when you rotate leaders. Christ has promised to be in your midst as you gather. Ultimately, God is your leader each step of the way. HOW DO WE HANDLE THE CHILDCARE NEEDS IN OUR GROUP? Very carefully. Seriously, this can be a sensitive issue. We suggest that you empower the group to openly brainstorm 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 watch the kids in a different part of the house. This way, parents don’t have to be away from their children all evening when their children 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 solution is to decide that you need to have a night to invest in your spiritual lives individually or as a couple and to make your own arrangements for childcare. No matter what decision the group makes, the best approach is to dialogue openly about both the problem and the solution.

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SMALL GROUP AGREEMENT OUR PURPOSE To provide an engaging 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 Small Group Calendar on page 143 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 to 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 participant 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 Small Group Calendar on page 143.)

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OUR EXPECTATIONS

SMALL GROUP CALENDAR

• Childcare

• When we will meet (day of week)

• Where we will meet (place)

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

• Who (other than the leader) will review this agreement at the end of this study

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Planning and calendaring 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 and leaders, and do not forget birthdays, socials, church events, holidays, and mission/ ministry projects.

• Refreshments/mealtimes

• We will begin at (time)

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SPIRITUAL PARTNERS’ CHECK-IN

MEMORY VERSE CARDS

Briefly check in each week and write down your personal plans and progress targets for the next week (or even for the next few weeks). This could be done before or after the meeting, on the phone, through an e-mail message, or even in person from time to time.

SESSION ONE John 10:10 (NIV2011) The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.

SESSION TWO Matthew 18:20 (NIV2011) For where two or three gather in my name, there am I with them.

SESSION THREE Mark 8:36 (NIV2011) What good is it for someone to gain the whole world, yet forfeit their soul?

SESSION FOUR Hebrews 12:11 (NIV2011) No discipline seems pleasant at the time, but painful. Later on, however, it produces a harvest of righteousness and peace for those who have been trained by it.

SESSION FIVE John 4:23-24 (NIV2011) Yet a time is coming and has now come when the true worshipers will worship the Father in the Spirit and in truth, for they are the kind of worshipers the Father seeks. God is spirit, and his worshipers must worship in the Spirit and in truth.”

SESSION SIX 1 John 3:16 (NIV2011) This is how we know what love is: Jesus Christ laid down his life for us. And we ought to lay down our lives for our brothers and sisters.

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PRAYER AND PRAISE REPORT

CLIP AND REVIEW THE MEMORY VERSES ON THE OTHER SIDE OF THIS PAGE.

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HOSTING AN OPEN HOUSE If you’re starting a new group, try planning an “open house” before your first formal group meeting. Even if you have only two to four core members, it is a great way to break the ice and to consider prayerfully who else might be open to joining 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 (you can play a game to see who has the wildest story!), have everyone respond to a few icebreaker questions: • What is your favorite family vacation? • What is one thing you love about your church/our community?

SMALL GROUP LEADERS Key resources to help your leadership experience be the best it can be.

• What are three things about your life growing up that most people here don’t know? Next, 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. Finally, set an open chair (maybe two) in the center of your group and explain that it represents someone who would enjoy or benefit from this group but who isn’t here yet. Ask people to pray about inviting someone to join the group over the next few weeks. Hand out postcards and have everyone write an invitation or two. Do not worry about ending up with too many people; you can always have one discussion circle in the living room and another in the dining room after you watch the lesson. Each group could then report prayer requests and progress at the end of the session. You can skip this kick-off meeting if your time is limited, but you’ll experience a huge benefit if you take the time to connect with each other in this way.

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LEADING FOR THE FIRST TIME

LEADERSHIP TRAINING 101

• Sweaty palms are a healthy sign. The Bible says God is gracious to the humble. Remember who is in control; the time to worry is when you are not worried. Those who are soft in heart (and sweaty palmed) are those whom God is sure to speak through.

Congratulations! You have responded to the call to help shepherd Jesus’ flock. There are few other tasks in the family of God that surpass the contribution you will be making. As you prepare to lead, whether it is one session or the entire series, here are a few thoughts to keep in mind. We encourage you to read these and review them with each new discussion leader before he or she leads.

Ten common leadership experiences. Welcome to life out in front!

• Seek support. Ask your leader, co-leader, or 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. • Bring your uniqueness to the study. Lean into who you are and how God wants you to uniquely lead the study. • Prepare. Prepare. Prepare. Go through the session several times. If you are using the video, listen to the teaching segment and Leadership Lifter. Consider writing in a journal or fasting for a day to prepare yourself for what God wants to do. Do not wait until the last minute to prepare. • 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 on. Do not get defensive. Instead, show an openness to learn and grow. • Prayerfully consider launching a new group. This does not need to happen overnight, but God’s heart is for this to take place over time. Not all Christians are called to be leaders or teachers, but we are all called to be “shepherds” of a few someday. • Share with your group what God is doing in your heart. God is searching for those whose hearts are fully his. Share your trials and victories. We promise that people will relate. • Prayerfully consider whom you would like to pass the baton to next week. It’s only fair. God is ready for the next member of your group to go on the faith journey you just traveled. Make it fun, and expect God to do the rest.

Top Ten Ideas for New Leaders

1. Remember that you are not alone. God knows everything about you, and He knew that you would be asked to lead your group. Remember that it is common for all good leaders to feel that they are not ready to lead. Moses, Solomon, Jeremiah and Timothy were all reluctant to lead. God promises, “Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you” (Hebrews 13:5). Whether you are leading for one evening, for several weeks, or for a lifetime, you will be blessed as you serve. 2. Do not try to do it alone. Pray right now for God to help you build a healthy leadership team. If you can enlist a co-leader to help you lead the group, you will find your experience to be much richer. 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 will probably be surprised at the response. 3. Just be yourself. If you won’t be you, who will? God wants you to use your unique gifts and temperament. Don’t try to do things exactly like another leader; do them in a way that fits you! Just admit it when you do not have an answer, and apologize when you make a mistake. Your group will love you for it, and you’ll sleep better at night! 4. Prepare for your meeting ahead of time. Review the session and the leader’s notes, and write down your responses to each question. Pay special attention to exercises that ask group members to do something other than engage in discussion.

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These exercises will help your group live what the Bible teaches, not just talk about it. 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 will know how it works. Finally, review Outline for Each Session so you will remember the purpose of each section in the study. 5. 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! 6. When you ask a question, be patient. Someone will eventually respond. Sometimes people need a moment or two of silence to think about the question. Keep in mind, if silence doesn’t bother you, it won’t bother anyone else. After someone responds, affirm the response with a simple “thanks” or “good job.” Then ask, “How about somebody else?” or “Would someone who hasn’t shared like to add anything?” 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 blossom over time. 7. Provide transitions between questions. When guiding the discussion, always read aloud the transitional paragraphs and the questions. Ask the group if anyone would like to read the paragraph or Bible passage. Don’t call on anyone, but ask for a volunteer, and then be patient until someone begins. Be sure to thank the person who reads aloud. 8. Break up into small groups each week or they won’t stay. If your group has more than seven people, we strongly encourage you to have the group gather sometimes in discussion circles of three or four people during the GROW TOGETHER or SERVE TOGETHER sections of the study. With a greater opportunity to talk in a small circle, people will connect more with the study, apply more quickly what they’re learning and ultimately get more out of it. A small circle also encourages a quiet person to participate and tends to minimize the effects of a more vocal or dominant member. It can also help people feel more loved in your group. When you gather again at the end of the section, you can have one person summarize the highlights from each circle. Small circles are also helpful during prayer time. People

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who are unaccustomed to praying aloud will feel more comfortable trying it with just two or three others. Also, prayer requests won’t take as much time, so circles will have more time to actually pray. When you gather back with the whole group, you can have one person from each circle briefly update everyone on the prayer requests. People are more willing to pray in small circles if they know that the whole group will hear all the prayer requests. 9. Rotate facilitators 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. You can use the Small Group Calendar to fill in the names of all meeting leaders at once if you prefer.

ONE FINAL CHALLENGE FOR NEW OR FIRST-TIME LEADERS: Before your first opportunity to lead, 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. Trust us on this one. If you do this, you will be more than ready for your first meeting. MATTHEW 9:36 1 PETER 5:2-4 PSALM 23 EZEKIEL 34:11-16 1 THESSALONIANS 2:7-8, 11-12

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NAME

PHONE

SMALL GROUP ROSTER

FOR THE LORD YOUR GOD HAS BLESSED YOU IN EVERYTHING YOU HAVE DONE. HE HAS WATCHED YOUR EVERY STEP THROUGH THIS GREAT WILDERNESS. ...THE LORD YOUR GOD HAS BEEN WITH YOU, AND YOU HAVE LACKED NOTHING. Deuteronomy 2:7 (NLT)

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