Shadow Mountain - Dr. David Jeremiah - Generations (adult) - Print Curriculum by Lifetogether Ministries

for the

G E N E R AT I O N S adults

D R .

D A V I D youth

J E R E M I A H

CONTENTS

04 Welcome 06 Description Of Each Session 08 How To Use This Study Guide 09 Outline Of Each Session

Unless otherwise noted, all Scripture taken from the New King James Version®. Copyright © 1982 by Thomas Nelson. Used by permission. All rights reserved. ISBN: 978-1-940077-75-8 Printed in the United States of America

12 28 44 60 76 APPENDICES

SMALL GROUP LEADERS

SESSION 1 IT ALL BELONGS TO HIM

SESSION 2 THE SERMON ON THE AMOUNT

SESSION 3 GOD’S HARVEST LAW

SESSION 4 BUDGETS, BUILDINGS, AND BLESSINGS

SESSION 5 GOD’S BASIC CYCLE OF SUFFICIENCY

94 Faqs 97 Small Group Agreement 98 Small Group Calendar 99 Memory Verses 100 Prayer & Priase Reports 101 Small Group Roster

104 105 106

Hosting An Open House Leading For The First Time Leading For The First Time

For thirty-four years I have been privileged to be the lead pastor of the Shadow Mountain Community Church. I have had many mountain-top experiences during those years, and I have also spent a few days in the valley. I firmly believe that the book you hold in your hands is a roadmap to the top of the mountain. We are just a few days away from entering our new Generations Building—100,000 square feet of new and exciting ministry-space! But more exciting than this brick and mortar structure for which we have all prayed and sacrificed, is the building program that is going on in each of our lives. For the next five weeks many of us will be gathering in small groups to have a congregational discussion about our Generations Building and our generosity in supporting the ministry that is about to explode within its walls. How we invest ourselves in this study will literally determine what God will do in these next months of ministry. This is a priority for our church that rests solidly on the principles of Scripture. While we often avoid the subject of money in our discussions, the Bible does not: “The Bible contains more than five hundred references to prayer and almost five hundred references to faith, but there are more than two thousand references to money and possessions. Out of thirty-eight parables that Jesus told in the Gospels, sixteen deal with how we handle our money. Jesus said more about money and possessions than about heaven and hell combined. One out of every ten verses in the Gospels deals with money or possessions—288 verses in the four Gospels.” [Philip Yancey, Grace Notes: Daily Readings with a Fellow Pilgrim (Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan, 2009), 56.]

WELCOME 4

As we prepare to take possession of our new Generations Building, I urge you to pray daily for the Shadow Mountain people who are meeting together each week. I believe these small group gatherings could be the spark that ignites a spiritual revival among us. Let’s use this time in community to encourage one another . . . to strengthen our own faith. We dreamed a big dream when we envisioned the Generations Building, and God has honored our faith. Now let’s trust God for something even more eternal. Let’s build up one another spiritually. Let’s grow strong for this generation and for the generations to come!

DESCRIPTION OF THE LESSONS In Generosity for the Generations we are going to explore five building blocks for a godly and generous life. 1

All Belongs to Him. A steward is someone who manages the affairs of another. It Since everything we have comes from and belongs to God, our task as stewards is to manage our time, talent, and treasure in ways that glorify Him.

2 The Sermon on the Amount. God’s basic principle of giving is the tithe . . . giving the first ten percent of what we earn back to God. God used this principle in the Old Testament to refocus the attention of His people away from money and on to Him. That principle is still the foundation . . . the entry point of financial generosity. 3 God’s Harvest Law. God has some inexorable principles in His universe. One such principle is the “Principle of Sowing and Reaping”—whatever we sow, we reap. It is not the reaper but the sower who determines the harvest. This principle is true in all of life, but it is uniquely so in Christian stewardship. 4 Buildings, Budgets, and Blessings. Believe it or not, there are several building projects described in the Scriptures. When it was time to build the tabernacle, Moses took an offering. When it was time to build the temple, David took an offering. Their stories are ancient, but the principles behind the stories are still at work today. 5 God’s Basic Cycle of Sufficiency. In every biblical passage that deals with the subject of money, there is a reminder of the tremendous storehouse out of which God replenishes those who trust Him. When we give to Him, we are saying, “Lord, God, I am trusting You to be my provider!” And God never fails to meet the needs of His children.

HOW TO USE THIS STUDY GUIDE

OUTLINE OF EACH SESSION

Tools to Help You Have a Great LIFE Group Experience!

A typical group session for the Generosity for the Generations study will include the following sections. Read through this to get a clear idea of how each group meeting will be structured:

1 Notice in the Table of Contents there are three sections: (1) Sessions; (2) Appendices; and (3) Small Group Leaders. Familiarize yourself with the Appendices. Some of them will be used in the sessions themselves.

2 If you are facilitating/leading or co-leading a small group, the section Small Group Leaders will give you some 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, not a straitjacket. 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 community group experience and have fun together. 5

Pray before each session—for your group members, for your time together, for wisdom and insights.

6 Read the Outline for Each Session on the next pages so that you understand how the sessions will flow.

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 will for our lives. We encourage you to give this important habit a try. The verses for our five 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. You may want to have the group read them aloud. In addition, you’ll find two simple questions to help get people talking as the session begins. You can use these one of two ways—with the whole group, or with just one or two other members. GROWING TOGETHER WITH DVD TEACHING SEGMENT. This section features a teaching from Dr. Jeremiah as well as questions and comments from the town hall audience. Questions will guide you to process as a group the teaching you experienced. LEARNING TOGETHER. Here you’ll focus on a passage of Scripture related to the topic. You’ll look at what the Bible says about the topic, asking and answering questions to deepen your understanding. SHARING TOGETHER. How do we live out what we’ve learned? This section will guide you to apply the truth you are learning. You’ll apply the insights from Scripture practically, creatively, and from your heart as well as your head. FOR ADDITIONAL STUDY. If you have time and want to dig deeper into more Bible passages

about the topic at hand, we’ve provided an additional passage and questions, which you can use either during the meeting or as homework. Your group may choose to read and prepare before each meeting in order to cover more biblical material. Or, group members can use the additional study section during the week after the meeting. 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 can’t do homework or are new to your group. FOR PERSONAL REFLECTION. This section will allow you to prayerfully process what you’ve learned on your own. You may want to use a journal to record your thoughts as you consider how God is leading you to apply this truth to your life. PRAYING TOGETHER. This is a time to cement what you’ve learned and ask God for help in applying it as you move forward. If you’ve never prayed aloud in a group before, no one will put pressure on you. Instead, you’ll experience the support of others who are praying for you. DAILY DEVOTIONALS. Each week on the Daily Devotionals pages we provide Scriptures to read and reflect on between group meetings. We suggest you use this section to seek God on your own throughout the week. This time at home should begin and end with prayer. Don’t get in a hurry; take enough time to hear God’s direction.

1 IT ALL BELONGS TO

HIM 12

Yours, O Lord, is the greatness, The power and the glory, The victory and the majesty; For all that is in heaven and in earth is Yours; Yours is the kingdom, O Lord, And You are exalted as head over all.

1 CHRONICLES 29:11 13

When someone accumulates a number of assets or investments, or owns several properties, or simply wants to plan well for the future, it’s common to use a financial planner. Financial planners don’t own our money or our property, but they help us manage our wealth so it can do the greatest good. In a way, we are “financial planners” for God. This is certainly not because we are wiser or more insightful than God is about money, but because in His generosity He has given each one of us a portion of His own wealth for us to manage. The Bible calls this being a steward—taking care of God’s “assets” and using them to bring Him the greatest honor and glory. We begin this study by focusing on what it means to serve the God who owns everything.

Tell the group about one of your most prized possessions. Think of a few events currently headlining the news. How do they relate to money?

GROWING TOGETHER WATCH THE DVD for this session now.

Use the Notes space provided on page 16 to record key thoughts, questions, and insights you want to remember. After watching the DVD, have someone read the discussion questions on the next page 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.

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It should be of great comfort to every believer to know that the One who has all the wealth also has all the power.

Why is it more difficult to give when we have been blessed with more?

What can we learn from David’s response to not being able to build the temple himself?

What does it tell us about the character of God that He created the world and then “gave it away”?

How does understanding that God owns everything change the way you think about your money and your possessions? How could it change the way you pray? The way you trust God? The way you give?

What does it mean to be a steward? How is this different from being an owner?

Read 1 Chronicles 29:1-20.

LEARN

TOGETHER AFTER watching the DVD

teaching and discussing the previous questions, spend a few minutes studying this scripture passage that provides more insight into today’s topic.

Furthermore King David said to all the assembly: “My son Solomon, whom alone God has chosen, is young and inexperienced; and the work is great, because the temple is not for man but for the Lord God.2Now for the house of my God I have prepared with all my might: gold for things to be made of gold, silver forthings of silver, bronze for things of bronze, iron for things of iron, wood for things of wood, onyx stones, stones to be set, glistening stones of various colors, all kinds of precious stones, and marble slabs in abundance. 3 Moreover, because I have set my affection on the house of my God, I have given to the house of my God, over and above all that I have prepared for the holy house, my own special treasure of gold and silver: 4 three thousand talents of gold, of the gold of Ophir, and seven thousand talents of refined silver, to overlay the walls of the houses; 5 the gold for things of gold and the silver for things of silver, and for all kinds of work to be done by the hands of craftsmen. Who then is willing to consecrate himself this day to the Lord?” Then the leaders of the fathers’ houses, leaders of the tribes of Israel, the captains of thousands and of hundreds, with the officers over the king’s work, offered willingly. 7 They gave for the work of the house of God five thousand talents and ten thousand darics 6

of gold, ten thousand talents of silver, eighteen thousand talents of bronze, and one hundred thousand talents of iron. 8 And whoever had precious stones gave them to the treasury of the house of the Lord, into the hand of Jehiel the Gershonite. 9 Then the people rejoiced, for they had offered willingly, because with a loyal heart they had offered willingly to the Lord; and King David also rejoiced greatly. David’s Praise to God 10 Therefore David blessed the Lord before all the assembly; and David said: “Blessed are You, Lord God of Israel, our Father, forever and ever. 11 Yours, O Lord, is the greatness, The power and the glory, The victory and the majesty; For all that is in heaven and in earth is Yours; Yours is the kingdom, O Lord, And You are exalted as head over all. 12 Both riches and honor come from You, And You reign over all. In Your hand is power and might; In Your hand it is to make great And to give strength to all. 13 “Now therefore, our God, We thank You And praise Your glorious name. 14 But who am I, and who are my people, That we should be able to offer so willingly as this? For all things come from You, And of Your own we have given You. 15 For we are aliens and pilgrims before You, As were all our fathers; 19

Our days on earth are as a shadow, And without hope. 16 “O Lord our God, all this abundance that we have prepared to build You a house for Your holy name is from Your hand, and is all Your own. 17 I know also, my God, that You test the heart and have pleasure in uprightness. As for me, in the uprightness of my heart I have willingly offered all these things; and now with joy I have seen Your people, who are present here to offer willingly to You. 18 O Lord God of Abraham, Isaac, and Israel, our fathers, keep this forever in the intent of the thoughts of the heart of Your people, and fix their heart toward You. 19 And give my son Solomon a loyal heart to keep Your commandments and Your testimonies and Your statutes, to do all these things, and to build the temple for which I have made provision.” 20 Then David said to all the assembly, “Now bless the Lord your God.” So all the assembly blessed the Lord God of their fathers, and bowed their heads and prostrated themselves before the Lord and the king.

In verse 5, David asks the people, “Now, who is willing to consecrate themselves to the Lord today?” To consecrate means to make something sacred or holy. How does this verse connect consecration to generosity?

SHARING TOGETHER Why is it so important to focus on God’s perspective on money?

What are some ways God has been generous with you? How should God’s generosity towards you prompt your own generosity? How does David’s example as a leader influence the response of the people? In what ways are you managing God’s property and resources well? In what areas do you need to become a better steward?

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When you give to God first, everything else starts to fall into place.

Where does our generosity ultimately come from? (verses 12-14) React to the idea that only human souls and the Word of God are eternal. How can we use temporary resources to invest in things that will last forever? What does David’s speech teach us about the importance of our attitude when giving to God?

FOR ADDITIONAL STUDY If you feel God is nudging you to go deeper, take some time between now and our next meeting to dig into His Word. Explore the Bible passages related to this session’s theme on your own, jotting your reflections in a journal or in this study guide. Want to go deeper? Select a few verses and try writing them in your own words. If you like, share them with the group the next time you meet.

Read Psalm 24

PERSONAL REFLECTION Consider what it means for you to be faithful in the following areas: • your possessions • your income • your investments • your property • your home • your abilities and skills • your time How is God calling you to be a better steward in these parts of your life? What is a next step you could take this coming week to begin managing these gifts from God in a way that honors Him?

Why does everything belong to God? (verse 2) Why is it significant that all the people on earth, and not only the world itself, belong to God? What does it mean to have clean hands? What does it mean to have a pure heart? The Bible notes that this is a Psalm of David. How do his words to God in this psalm complement his words and actions in 1 Chronicles 29?

PRAYING TOGETHER As a large group or in smaller teams of two or three, spend some time praying for each person: that they would hear from God what they need to hear during this study and that they would be open to what God has for them on this journey. Close with a prayer of thanks for each person. Invite group members to share other prayer requests, as well, and write them on your Prayer and Praise report on page 100.

Day 1

Day 3

Day 5

As he came from his mother’s womb, naked shall he return, To go as he came; And he shall take nothing from his labor which he may carry away in his hand.

Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and comes down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no variation or shadow of turning.

Then you say in your heart, ‘My power and the might of my hand have gained me this wealth.’ And you shall remember the Lord your God, for it is He who gives you power to get wealth, that He may establish His covenant which He swore to your fathers, as it is this day.

Read Ecclesiastes 5:15

DAILY DEVOTIONS Complete the Daily Devotions section. Each day, you’ll read just one portion of a passage of Scripture. Give prayerful consideration to what you learn about God, His Spirit, and His place in your life. Take your time! Listen to what God is telling you. Ponder and reflect. 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 through this study.

Reflect: No matter how God blesses you on earth, none of it will go with you into eternity. Ask God to help you use your money in ways that will outlive you.

Reflect: Why is it so important to recognize that everything good comes from God?

Day 4

Read Luke 16:10

Day 2

Read Matthew 6:19-21 Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal; but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also. Reflect: It’s not wrong to own things, but our hope and our heart should not be in our possessions. Where is your treasure? Are you storing it up or stewarding it?

Read James 1:17

He who is faithful in what is least is faithful also in much; and he who is unjust in what is least is unjust also in much. Reflect: God will only allow you to steward what He thinks you can handle. Ask him to help you grow in wisdom and maturity so you can be trusted with much.

Read Deuteronomy 8:17-18

Reflect: You have everything—not only your financial resources, but also your abilities and talents—because of God. Spend some time today simply thanking God for the many ways He blessed you and has given to you.

Day 6

Use the following space to write any thoughts God has put in your mind and heart during your devotions this week. Summary: Taking Action: What is one thing you will do as a result of what you’ve heard from God?

Moreover it is required in stewards that one be found faithful.

- 1 Corinthians 4:2

2 THE SERMON ON THE

AMOUNT 28

Honor the Lord with your possessions, And with the firstfruits of all your increase; So your barns will be filled with plenty, And your vats will overflow with new wine.

PROVERBS 3:9-10 29

People love to complain that “all the church talks about is money.” In most cases, that’s unfair criticism, but consider this—Jesus talked about money more than almost any other subject except the Kingdom of God. He knew that our income and our attitude about it is actually a spiritual issue, and he didn’t shy away from addressing it. And if Jesus thought it was this important to teach his followers about money, the church should certainly study what He said. Today we’re talking about the tithe, the biblical principle of giving a set percentage of our income back to God and His work. As we learn and share together, ask God to help you understand his Word and apply it to your life.

What is your favorite thing to spend money on? Shoes, tools, clothes, stuff for the house, travel, eating out?

GROWING TOGETHER WATCH THE DVD for this session now.

Have you ever given more than you thought you could afford? What was the result?

Use the Notes space provided on page 32 to record key thoughts, questions, and insights you want to remember. After watching the DVD, have someone read the discussion questions on the following page 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.

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Outward obedience is evidence of an inward commitment.

Respond to the idea that you can’t become a fully developed follower of Christ without becoming a fully developed steward of your resources.

How can regular giving to God help us “remember” Him and His love?

Why do you think the Israelites ignored God’s tithing plan?

Why would God invite us to test Him with the tithe? Why is it so difficult to trust Him in this area but not in others?

How does God’s provision sometimes include what He doesn’t give us?

Read Mark 12:41-44

Why do you think Jesus watched the people giving?

Now Jesus sat opposite the treasury and saw how the people put money into the treasury. And many who were rich put in much. 42 Then one poor widow came and threw in two mites, which make a quadrans. 43 So He called His disciples to Himself and said to them, “Assuredly, I say to you that this poor widow has put in more than all those who have given to the treasury; 44 for they all put in out of their abundance, but she out of her poverty put in all that she had, her whole livelihood.”

Surely the large amounts given by the rich temple-goers were used for ministry. It is not that they didn’t matter. But why is the widow’s gift more significant? What does this teach us about the kind of giving that pleases God?

LEARN

TOGETHER AFTER watching the DVD

teaching and discussing the previous questions, spend a few minutes studying this scripture passage that provides more insight into today’s topic.

Read a few verses before this passage, and note that right before it, Jesus is chastising the teachers of the law for wanting to look important and have power. Why do you think Mark followed that teaching with this story? What does the contrast teach us?

The widow had so little, yet she gave both coins, not just one. What can we learn from her example?

SHARING TOGETHER If you looked at your credit card bills or your checking account, what would it tell you about your priorities?

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I want to be all in.

How should our understanding of who God is affect our attitude toward giving?

What does it mean to give God the best, with excellence? What would it look like for you to give this way?

Read Luke 19:1-10 In the ancient Middle East, it was considered extremely undignified for a man to run. What does this tell you about Zacchaeus’ desire to see Jesus? Why do you think Jesus began the conversation by inviting himself to Zacchaeus’ house? Why did it bother the people so much that Jesus wanted to spend time with Zacchaeus? How did Zacchaeus demonstrate the connection between loving God and obeying Him?

PERSONAL REFLECTION Dr. Jeremiah mentions that the Israelite people stopped tithing because they lacked confidence in God and His willingness to provide for their needs. It is so tempting for us to fall into the same trap: to feel overwhelmed by our bills and our debts (not to mention our wants!) and to keep every penny we earn to make ends meet. The Israelites had been delivered from Egypt, led to the Promised Land, and then returned from exile. God had worked among them in mighty and miraculous ways for many years, but they ignored the past and focused on fear in the present. It’s easy to criticize them, but we do the same thing. How has God provided for you? In what ways has He graciously and powerfully moved in your life? What moments of His faithfulness stand out in your walk with Him? Can you trust Him to work in your life and in your finances today?

PRAYING TOGETHER As we’ve noted, money is a sensitive subject for people. How does this week’s topic make you feel—Guilty? Inspired? Angry? Motivated? As a group or in teams of two or three, spend some time praying for each other as we move forward in this study. Ask God to move in your hearts to hear His word and ask that each person have wisdom—and courage!—to follow it. Invite group members to share other prayer requests, as well, and write them on your Prayer and Praise report on page 100.

Day 1

Day 3

Day 5

Give to the Lord the glory due His name; Bring an offering, and come into His courts.

If you then, being evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to those who ask Him!

The generous soul will be made rich, And he who waters will also be watered himself.

Read Psalm 96:8

Reflect: This week we talked about God as our King who deserves our very best. Start this week’s devotions by praising God for His majesty, His goodness, and His glory.

Day 2

Read Ecclesiastes 5:10

Read Luke 11:13

Reflect: One of the many ways God has been generous to us is with the gift of His Spirit. How has this gift blessed or helped you?

Reflect: Often we think we’ll be happy with “just a little bit more.” What does this verse say is actually true? Do you think you’ll ever have “enough” money?

Reflect: Does it seem backwards to you that you prosper by being generous? How can you “water” yourself by watering others?

Day 6 Day 4

Read Philippians 4:12-13 He who loves silver will not be satisfied with silver; nor he who loves abundance, with increase. This also is vanity.

Read Proverbs 11:25

I know how to be abased, and I know how to abound. Everywhere and in all things I have learned both to be full and to be hungry, both to abound and to suffer need. 13 I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.

Reflect: We often hear verse quoted by itself, but it comes from a passage about being content in any circumstance. Do you need God’s strength to be satisfied with your current situation? Ask for His help today.

Honor theÂ LordÂ with your possessions, And with the firstfruits of all your increase; So your barns will be filled with plenty, And your vats will overflow with new wine. - Proverbs 3:9-10

3 GODâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S HARVEST

LAW 44

Most assuredly, I say to you, unless a grain of wheat falls into the ground and dies, it remains alone; but if it dies, it produces much grain.

JOHN 12:24 45

A pastor named Duane Vanderklerk once said, “God gave a Son and He reaped a family.” God gave us Jesus as the Savior who died for our sins to make us right with God. As a result, all of us who choose to follow God are part of God’s family, sisters and brothers with Christ. God made a choice to “sow” grace and love and generosity, and now He “reaps” a relationship with us. This principle of sowing and reaping is all through the Bible, and it’s foundational in our approach to generosity. God tells us that in every area of life, we will experience the consequences of sin and the blessings of obedience. This is God’s Harvest Law, and the focus of our study today.

Have you ever tried to start a garden? What did you learn about making things grow?

GROWING TOGETHER

How have you found the principle of sowing and reaping to be true in your own life?

WATCH THE DVD for this session now.

Use the Notes space provided on page 48 to record key thoughts, questions, and insights you want to remember. After watching the DVD, have someone read the discussion questions on the next page 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.

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When you hold your hand open to God, He can put into it anything He wants, and He can take out anything He wants.

Godâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s harvest law says that if we trust Him with our money, He will bless us. Why does God require us to step out in faith before giving His blessing?

How does God multiply what we sow?

God does not promise that our obedience in finances will always result in financial blessings. What are some other ways God might bless you for your generosity?

Why does God require us to wait before the harvest?

Read Matthew 25:14-30 “For the kingdom of heaven is like a man traveling to a far country, who called his own servants and delivered his goods to them. 15 And to one he gave five talents, to another two, and to another one, to each according to his own ability; and immediately he went on a journey. 16 Then he who had received the five talents went and traded with them, and made another five talents. 17 And likewise he who had received two gained two more also. 18 But he who had received one went and dug in the ground, and hid his lord’s money.19 After a long time the lord of those servants came and settled accounts with them. 20 “So he who had received five talents came and brought five other talents, saying, ‘Lord, you delivered to me five talents; look, I have gained five more talents besides them.’ 21 His lord said to him, ‘Well done, good and faithful servant; you were faithful over a few things, I will make you ruler over many things. Enter into the joy of your lord.’ 22 He also who had received two talents came and said, ‘Lord, you delivered to me two talents; look, I have gained two more talents besides them.’ 23 His lord said to him, ‘Well done, good and faithful servant; you have been faithful over a few things, I will make you ruler over many things. Enter into the joy of your lord.’ 24 “Then he who had received the one talent came and said, ‘Lord, I knew you to be a hard man, reaping where you have not sown, and gathering 14

LEARN

TOGETHER AFTER watching the DVD

teaching and discussing the previous questions, spend a few minutes studying this scripture passage that provides more insight into today’s topic.

where you have not scattered seed. 25 And I was afraid, and went and hid your talent in the ground. Look, there you have what is yours.’ 26 “But his lord answered and said to him, ‘You wicked and lazy servant, you knew that I reap where I have not sown, and gather where I have not scattered seed. 27 So you ought to have deposited my money with the bankers, and at my coming I would have received back my own with interest. 28 Therefore take the talent from him, and give it to him who has ten talents. 29 ‘For to everyone who has, more will be given, and he will have abundance; but from him who does not have, even what he has will be taken away. 30 And cast the unprofitable servant into the outer darkness. There will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.’

Why do you think the master gave different amounts of gold to each person?

Why did the third servant bury the money instead of investing it?

How does verse 19 illustrate one of the principles we studied this week?

SHARING TOGETHER Why do we look for a harvest even though we haven’t sown anything for God?

What is the connection between our faithfulness and God’s blessing? Is there an area of your life where you have sown and are now waiting for a harvest? What is this wait teaching you?

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You can’t keep from being blessed when you follow this law.

How does giving lead to thanksgiving?

How does God’s example of giving His Son affect your understanding of generosity? How does it illustrate the law of sowing and reaping?

Read John 12:23-26

PERSONAL REFLECTION The obvious idea to consider this week is where you are sowing and what you are reaping. Certainly this is something to think about when it comes to your finances and your generosity with God. But you can also evaluate how God’s harvest law is playing out in other areas: your friendships, your marriage, your parenting, your work, your physical health, and your walk with God. Take some time to think about each of these areas. What are you sowing? Where do you need to be more intentional about sowing good things that will reap a good harvest? What are some ways you can begin to be a better sower this week?

What would have happened if Jesus had chosen not to go to the cross? How does the death of one seed produce many more seeds? What does it mean to “hate” your life? What are the rewards for those who follow God?

PRAYING TOGETHER Take time for each member of the group to briefly share one area of life in which he or she wants to begin sowing more intentionally for God. Have one member write down each person’s comment and then pray together for each other. During your prayer time next week, invite people to share how they have put this into action. Invite group members to share other prayer requests, as well, and write them on your Prayer and Praise report on page 100.

Day 1

Day 3

Day 5

So Jesus said to them, “Because of your unbelief; for assuredly, I say to you, if you have faith as a mustard seed, you will say to this mountain, ‘Move from here to there,’ and it will move; and nothing will be impossible for you.”

Give, and it will be given to you: good measure, pressed down, shaken together, and running over will be put into your bosom. For with the same measure that you use, it will be measured back to you.

So let each one give as he purposes in his heart, not grudgingly or of necessity; for God loves a cheerful giver.

Read Matthew 17:20

Read Luke 6:38

Reflect: Even the smallest seed can reap huge things if it’s sown for God. Ask God to grow your faith through this study!

Reflect: God delights in being generous with us! When we sow by giving, our harvest will be more than we can dream.

Day 2

Day 4

Even as I have seen, Those who plow iniquity And sow trouble reap the same.

Therefore, my beloved brethren, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that your labor is not in vain in the Lord.

Read Job 4:8

Reflect: God’s harvest law applies to the negative as well as the positive. Are there areas of life where you are sowing trouble?

Read 1 Corinthians 15:58

Read 2 Corinthians 9:7

Reflect: Do you give grudgingly or cheerfully? Ask God to help you “purpose in your heart” to give with joy.

Day 6

Reflect: It’s easy to grow discouraged when we don’t see quick results for our efforts. Ask God for patience as you wait to see how He will use your efforts for Him.

Most assuredly, I say to you, unless a grain of wheat falls into the ground and dies, it remains alone; but if it dies, it produces much grain. - John 12:24

BUDGETS, BUILDINGS, AND

BLESSINGS

So the wall was finished ... in fifty-two days. And ... when all our enemies heard of it ... they perceived that this work was done by our God. ďżź

NEHEMIAH 6:15-16

Even before the Israelites had entered the Promised Land, God gave them detailed instructions on how He was to be worshiped, with directions for everything from the materials to be used in construction to the types of clothing the priests should wear and the sacrifices they should offer. As we studied a few weeks ago, later in the story of the Israelites King David and King Solomon collected resources from the people and built a permanent temple for worship. The early church met in homes before eventually gathering enough money and manpower to construct churches, and today, all these thousands of years later, the Church is still using a portion of its resources to develop buildings where we can worship and grow. God’s people need places to worship Him, but the point really isn’t the bricks and mortar. Instead, the important thing is the attitude of worship that we bring to giving itself— what’s happening in our hearts and minds as we consider the opportunity to be generous. This week, we’ll study a powerful Old Testament example of how to please God in our giving.

Have you ever visited any of the great cathedrals or churches? What did you think of these worship spaces?

GROWING TOGETHER WATCH THE DVD for this session now.

Use the Notes space provided on page 64 to record key thoughts, questions, and insights you want to remember. After watching the DVD, have someone read the discussion questions on the next page 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.

“

It isn’t how much we have, it’s whether or not God has us.

Why was it so important to God that His people participate in building the tabernacle?

What does it mean to have a â&#x20AC;&#x153;willing heartâ&#x20AC;?? Why did God specify that givers should have this kind of heart?

How does love motivate us to give? Why is love a better motivator than guilt or duty?

Why is leadership so important in modeling generosity?

What would have happened if the Israelites had wanted to keep for themselves all the gold they had taken out of Egypt?

Read 2 Corinthians 8: 1-12.

LEARN

TOGETHER AFTER watching the DVD

teaching and discussing the previous questions, spend a few minutes studying this scripture passage that provides more insight into today’s topic.

Moreover, brethren, we make known to you the grace of God bestowed on the churches of Macedonia: 2 that in a great trial of affliction the abundance of their joy and their deep poverty abounded in the riches of their liberality. 3 For I bear witness that according to their ability, yes, and beyond their ability, they were freely willing, 4 imploring us with much urgency that we would receive the gift and the fellowship of the ministering to the saints. 5 And not only as we had hoped, but they first gave themselves to the Lord, and then to us by the will of God. 6 So we urged Titus, that as he had begun, so he would also complete this grace in you as well. 7 But as you abound in everything—in faith, in speech, in knowledge, in all diligence, and in your love for us—see that you abound in this grace also. 8 I speak not by commandment, but I am testing the sincerity of your love by the diligence of others. 9 For you know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that though He was rich, yet for your sakes He became poor, that you through His poverty might become rich. 10 And in this I give advice: It is to your advantage not only to be doing what you began and were desiring to do a year ago; 11 but now you also must complete the doing of it; that as there was a readiness to desire it, so there also may be a completion out of what you have. 12 For if there is first a willing mind, it is accepted according to what one has, and not according to what he does not have. 67

In this passage, Paul is giving the Christians in Corinth an example of generosity by telling them about the Christians in Macedonia. What was his goal in giving them this example?

How is giving a “grace”? (verse 1, verse 6-7) How is it a service? (verse 4) How did the Macedonian Christians demonstrate these?

How does the sacrifice of Jesus’s entire life compare to the sacrifices we are called to make? How does the poverty of Christ make us rich?

Once again in verse 12 we read about a willing heart. Why is this so crucial?

SHARING TOGETHER What is the difference between wanting to give and having to give?

Respond to the idea that what we have determines what we give—that God only expects you to do what He has equipped you to do.

“

The ‘problem’ that causes an offering is from God.

Read Deuteronomy 16:9-17 In this passage we read God’s original instructions for how the people were to celebrate various festivals and special times of worship. Read the entire passage. What stands out to you about these instructions?

After Moses told the people what God was asking them to do to build the tabernacle, they left the gathering and thought about what he had said. The opportunity God was giving them to build the worship space, and the challenge to do something great together, led to their generous response. But it all began with careful, and possibly prayerful, consideration of the need. So this week, follow their example. Take some time to think about what you have heard, both from Dr. Jeremiah’s teaching and from the Word of God. What is our opportunity, and what is our challenge? What will be your response?

PRAYING TOGETHER

How do the commands in verses 10 and 17 reinforce the teaching you’ve heard in this week’s study?

This week Dr. Jeremiah asked a challenging question: What would the ministry impact look like if everyone responded to God’s principles of stewardship like you do?

How are rejoicing and giving thanks tied to generosity in this passage?

You don’t need to share the details of your giving with the other group members, but do take some time as a group to pray for what God is leading each one of you to do. Ask Him to give you and your group willing hearts, enthusiastic spirits, and the wisdom to discern how He wants you to participate.

Why is it important to remember God’s faithfulness to us in the past? (verse 12) 70

PERSONAL REFLECTION

Invite group members to share other prayer requests, as well, and write them on your Prayer and Praise report on page 100.

Day 1

Day 3

Day 5

But when the kindness and the love of God our Savior toward man appeared, not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to His mercy He saved us, through the washing of regeneration and renewing of the Holy Spirit, whom He poured out on us abundantly through Jesus Christ our Savior, that having been justified by His grace we should become heirs according to the hope of eternal life.

So Moses came and told the people all the words of the Lord and all the judgments. And all the people answered with one voice and said, “All the words which the Lord has said we will do.”

“Or who has first given to Him And it shall be repaid to him?” For of Him and through Him and to Him are all things, to whom be glory forever. Amen.

Read Titus 3:4-7

Reflect: God was generous with us in giving us salvation through Jesus Christ. How does God’s generosity prompt your generosity?

Read Exodus 24:3

Respond: What an amazing example of obedience! In what areas of life do you need to grow in obedience to God?

Day 4

Read Psalm 119:60 I made haste, and did not delay To keep Your commandments.

Day 2

Read Proverbs 11:24 There is one who scatters, yet increases more; And there is one who withholds more than is right, But it leads to poverty.

Reflect: Part of our heart attitude toward God should be not just a willingness but an eagerness to follow Him. Do you delay doing what you know God has called you to do?

Read Romans 11:35-36

Reflect: As we finish this week, spend some time simply praising God for who He is: His strength, His power, and His goodness to each one of us. Whatever we give to God is so small compared to what He has given us!

Day 6

Reflect: What principle of giving to God’s kingdom does this verse teach? Why do we so often “withhold unduly”?

And my God shall supply all your need according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus. - Philippians 4:19

5 GOD’S BASIC CYCLE OF

SUFFICIENCY

And my God shall supply all your need according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus.

PHILIPPIANS 4:19

As we began this study, we learned that everything belongs to God. As Psalm 50 says, every animal in the forest is God’s, as is “the cattle on a thousand hills.” Today we come full circle with the reminder that because God owns everything, He is more than able to meet all of our needs. Not only that, He is also a generous and loving God, so He wants to bless us and provide for us. God is good and God is generous—what a great combination! How will you respond?

What’s the most impactful thing you’ve learned during the last few weeks?

GROWING TOGETHER

Looking back at your life, how do you see God’s faithfulness?

WATCH THE DVD for this session now.

Use the Notes space provided on page 80 to record key thoughts, questions, and insights you want to remember. After watching the DVD, have someone read the discussion questions on the next page 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.

What does this say about your ability to trust Him with your future?

“

The grace of God is not something mere, it is something more.

Why does God sometimes test our faith in Him? Why did He test Abraham?

Why does God give more to those who are generous?

Second II Corinthians 9:7-8 promises that God will give back in five ways: all grace, always, all sufficiency, in all things, for every good work. Which of these is especially meaningful to you? Have you experienced any of these in the past?

How does the abundance of Godâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s grace give us an abundant ability to do His work?

Read John 6:1-14

LEARN

TOGETHER AFTER watching the DVD

teaching and discussing the previous questions, spend a few minutes studying this scripture passage that provides more insight into today’s topic.

After these things Jesus went over the Sea of Galilee, which is the Sea of Tiberias. 2 Then a great multitude followed Him, because they saw His signs which He performed on those who were diseased. 3 And Jesus went up on the mountain, and there He sat with His disciples. 4 Now the Passover, a feast of the Jews, was near. 5 Then Jesus lifted up His eyes, and seeing a great multitude coming toward Him, He said to Philip, “Where shall we buy bread, that these may eat?” 6 But this He said to test him, for He Himself knew what He would do. 7 Philip answered Him, “Two hundred denarii worth of bread is not sufficient for them, that every one of them may have a little.” 8 One of His disciples, Andrew, Simon Peter’s brother, said to Him, 9 “There is a lad here who has five barley loaves and two small fish, but what are they among so many?” 10 Then Jesus said, “Make the people sit down.” Now there was much grass in the place. So the men sat down, in number about five thousand. 11 And Jesus took the loaves, and when He had given thanks He distributed them to the disciples, and the disciples to those sitting down; and likewise of the fish, as much as they wanted. 12 So when they were filled, He said to His disciples, “Gather up the fragments that remain, so that nothing is lost.” 13 Therefore they gathered them up, and filled twelve baskets with the fragments of the

five barley loaves which were left over by those who had eaten. 14 Then those men, when they had seen the sign that Jesus did, said, “This is truly the Prophet who is to come into the world.”

Why did Jesus test Philip?

How did Jesus give abundantly to the people? (verse 11)

Why do you think Jesus gave so much more than the people could eat?

SHARING TOGETHER Have you ever had to step up in faith at a time when God seemed far away?

What are three things you learn about God as a provider from this passage? Are you convinced that God has the power to provide for you?

â&#x20AC;&#x153;

God never does anything halfway.

Dr. Jeremiah says that God will give us as much as we will use for His glory and His purposes. Have you found this to be true in your own life?

Why does God choose to use us as channels of blessing for others?

FOR ADDITIONAL STUDY If you feel God is nudging you to go deeper, take some time to dig into His Word. Explore the Bible passages related to this session’s theme on your own, jotting your reflections in a journal or in this study guide. Want to go deeper? Select a few verses and try writing them in your own words. If you like, share them with the group the next time you meet.

Read Ephesians 3:14-21 God gives us not only material goods, but spiritual benefits. What are some of the ways he blesses us through his “glorious riches”? Where does our power and ability to understand God’s love come from? (verse 17)

PERSONAL REFLECTION The opposite of faith is fear. Often, when we are unwilling to trust God with our finances, to give, or to try tithing, it is because in our hearts we are afraid that God will not keep His promises and provide for our needs. Other times, we are not concerned about basic needs but we are consumed by a variety of wants for more and better, and we fear that giving to God will mean not owning or experiencing everything we hope for. Take a few minutes and review the lessons we’ve studied together. Which stories or passages have especially spoken to you during these five weeks? What have they taught you? Taken together, consider what the Bible has to tell us about God’s character and His power to provide. What’s holding you back from giving back to God? Are you ready to let go of that fear?

PRAYING TOGETHER

How can we know a love that surpasses knowledge? What does it tell you about God that His love is so great that it’s beyond our comprehension?

Sometimes God acts directly to help meet our needs, but other times He uses His people to be His body and to help each other. Are there people in your group who have specific needs that you could meet? What about in our larger church family? How could your group or you as an individual meet the need of a brother or sister in Christ? Share your thoughts as a group and pray about some potential next steps.

God isn’t able just to do more than we can ask or imagine, but immeasurably more. What a generous, lavish, and powerful God we serve!

Invite group members to share other prayer requests, as well, and write them on your Prayer and Praise report on page 100.

Day 1

Day 3

Day 5

Grace and peace be multiplied to you in the knowledge of God and of Jesus our Lord, as His divine power has given to us all things that pertain to life and godliness, through the knowledge of Him who called us by glory and virtue.

But Jesus looked at them and said to them, “With men this is impossible, but with God all things are possible.”

Look at the birds of the air, for they neither sow nor reap nor gather into barns; yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not of more value than they?

Read 2 Peter 1:3

Reflect: We get part of what we need to live a godly life by growing in our knowledge of God. How will you continue to grow in your faith after this study is over?

Reflect: It may seem impossible that you’ll ever get out of debt, or be able to tithe, or develop a generous spirit. Yet these are small matters for the great God of the universe. Ask for His help!

Day 4

Read Philippians 2:5-7

Day 2

Read 2 Timothy 1:12 For this reason I also suffer these things; nevertheless I am not ashamed, for I know whom I have believed and am persuaded that He is able to keep what I have committed to Him until that Day. Reflect: Our knowledge of who God is and what He does can give us security to trust him with everything, even our finances. Ask God for greater faith to know Him and believe in Him.

Read Matthew 19:26

Let this mind be in you which was also in Christ Jesus, who, being in the form of God, did not consider it robbery to be equal with God, but made Himself of no reputation, taking the form of a bondservant, and coming in the likeness of men.

Read Matthew 6:26

Reflect: If God takes care of the smallest birds, He will certainly care for you. Close this week by telling Him what you need, and thanking Him for His promises to be your provider.

Day 6

Reflect: Jesus became poor so that we could be spiritually rich. If He has done all of this, can we doubt that He will take care of us?

The thief does not come except to steal, and to kill, and to destroy. I have come that they may have life, and that they may haveÂ itÂ more abundantly. - John 10:10

APPENDICES

FAQs 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 (page 97) and share the names of a few friends you can invite to join you. But most importantly, have fun before your study time begins. Where do we find new members for our group? This can be troubling, especially for new groups that have only a few people or for existing groups that lose a few people along the way. We encourage you to pray with your group and then brainstorm a list of people from work, church, your neighborhood, your children’s school, family, the gym, and so forth. Then have each group member invite several of the people on his or her list. Another good strategy is to ask church leaders to make an announcement or allow a bulletin insert. No matter how you find members, it’s 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’ll 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? Groups meet weekly for five weeks. At the end of this study, each group member At the end of this study, each group member may decide if he or she wants to continue on for another study. Some groups launch relationships for years to come, and others are stepping-stones into another group experience. Either way, enjoy the journey. Can we do this study on our own? Absolutely! This may sound crazy, but one of the best ways to do 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).

What if this group is not working for us? You’re not alone! This could be the result of a personality conflict, life stage difference, geographical distance, level of spiritual maturity, or any number of things. Relax. Pray for God’s direction, and at the end of this five-week study, decide whether to continue with this group or find another. You don’t 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 five 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. 95

SMALL GROUP AGREEMENT To provide a predictable environment where participants experience authentic community and spiritual growth.

Group Attendance

Safe Environment

To give priority to the group meeting. We will call or email if we will be late or absent. (Completing the Group Calendar on page 98 will minimize this issue.) 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 â&#x20AC;&#x153;imperfectionsâ&#x20AC;? 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 Godgiven gifts.

Shared Ownership

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

Rotating Hosts/ Leaders and Homes

To encourage different people to host the group in their homes and to rotate the responsibility of facilitating each meeting. (See the Group Calendar on page 98.)

SMALL GROUP CALENDAR 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 don’t forget birthdays, socials, church events, holidays, and mission/ministry projects.

DATE

LESSON

HOST

REFRESHMENTS

HOST

Monday Jan 15

Bill

Joe

Bill

MEMORY VERSES SESSION 1 Yours, O Lord, is the greatness and the power and the glory and the victory and the majesty, for all that is in the heavens and in the earth is yours. Yours is the kingdom, O Lord, and you are exalted as head above all. I Chronicles 29:11 11 a

SESSION 2 Honor the Lord with your possessions, And with the firstfruits of all your increase; So your barns will be filled with plenty, And your vats will overflow with new wine. Proverbs 3:9-10

SESSION 3 Most assuredly, I say to you, unless a grain of wheat falls into the ground and dies, it remains alone; but if it dies, it produces much grain. John 12:24

SESSION 4 So the wall was finished ... in fifty-two days. And ... when all our enemies heard of it ... they perceived that this work was done by our God. Nehemiah 6:15-16

SESSION 5 And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:19

PRAYER & PRAISE REPORTS

SMALL GROUP ROSTER PRAYER request

Session 5

Session 4

Session 3

Session 2

Session 1

PRAYER request

100

101

SMALL GROUP LEADERS

102

103

HOSTING AN OPEN HOUSE

LEADING FOR THE FIRST TIME

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’s 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.

Sweaty palms are a healthy sign.

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? - 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. Don’t 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.

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

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 DVD, 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. Don’t 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. Don’t get defensive. Instead, show an openness to learn and grow.

Prayerfully consider launching a new group. This doesn’t 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.

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105

LEADERSHIP TRAINING 101 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. 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. Don’t 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’ll 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 don’t have an answer, and apologize when you make a mistake. Your group will love you for it, and you’ll sleep better at night!

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. 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’ll know how it works. Finally, review “Outline for Each Session” so you’ll 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!

106

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 Hear God’s Story or Change Your Story 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 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.

10. 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 yourself develop 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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GENEROSITY

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G E N E R AT I O N S

The Generosity for the Generations series will be studied altogether by our Adult congregation, Youth Ministry, Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Ministry and our Hispanic congregation.

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Adult Edition

GENEROSITY

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G ENERATIONS

From creating a beautiful world for us to enjoy to sending His Son to die in our place, the heart of God is generosity. He loves to bless us, and as people created in His image we, too, were designed to be generous. However, sometimes we struggle to have God’s perspective on our possessions. In this study, Dr. David Jeremiah shares God’s principles for managing the resources He’s given us and opening our lives to His blessing. Join Dr. Jeremiah and Shadow Mountain Community Church as together they explore Generosity for the Generations!